A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Extreme =&gt; Extreme Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Wistful Dream on 28-05-2009, 22:32:49</h2>
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				Title: <strong>A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>28-05-2009, 22:32:49</strong>
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				It began with a dream. As most things to do with the Goddess do in modern times. <br><br>She touches less, for we have forgotten who we are, and what it means to be Tutha De Dana; but she does still reach for her people, her children. This dream went to the King of the Seelie and the Queen of the Seelie, lesser, more vague versions to all sidhe born. But there was to be one high ruler like in the days of old, that was the clear message.....<br><br><br><em>There was the hill, symbolic of the homes they had once had in Ireland, with the might tree above it, reaching upward and piercing the sky. Two cloaked figures stood there, holding hands, hands that changed with every second to pass. It was the Goddess, every woman and no woman, and the Consort, the Horned Lord, every man and no man. They were their people, the people who looked upon them now in dream as they had not in centuries.<br><br>"It is time for a High Rule, to bring back the hiarchy of old, our people must be revitalized." The Consort spoke then, slow, a deep voice, a light voice, accented, not, all of it changed. The Goddess stepped a touch more forward then.<br><br>"Two Princess heirs exist, let it be from them our high rule is decided. When the first babe of royal blood is born to them your fate as a people shall be clear." The Goddess lifted her hand before casting it out, with flower petals, to the ground below her. "I give you a neutral ground, a sithern loyal to myself alone, to my whims, outside that of the Princesses. At Betlane the courts shall meet in peace. So mote it be."</em><br><br>And the dream faded, faded from the minds of the people, but there was a new sithern, one that no one could control, that accepted no ruler as of yet. Betlane comes this very night, with a ball held for all the courts, Unseelie, Seelie, DemiFae, Slaugh, and Goblins alike. All are summoned by the Goddess and the Consort. <br><br><br>So mote it be.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>29-05-2009, 00:07:58</strong>
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				Dark violet fabrics were strewn about in every direction. The dressing room looked like a tornado had made its way through and left behind the devastating mess that was seen now. The room was well lit though still lined in darkness. The ebony marbled walls covered with veins of silver and red. The floor was plush in a violet color, a smidge darker than most of the garments that littered the carpet. <br><br>Bare feet slid into a pair of black patent leather stilettos. The three inch heels gave her more height than she had, which was why she had chosen them. She wasn’t short by any means but the added inches helped her to appear all the more regal to the people she would stand before tonight. A long flowing violet gown of gossamer silks layered onto darker silks decorated her slender form. The waist fit to her form leaving the lower layers to flow freely, and the bosom lifted to show her ample cleavage of ashen white. Her arms were bare as the slim inch wide straps of the gown spread over her shoulders and held the gown in place. A long dark lock was curled up and pinned into place with a tiny rose made of white gold. It was surrounded by many of the same; while the curls dangled delicately she stood to examine herself. <br><br>With lips painted like rubies and her long dark lashes curled, she smiled to herself and powdered her nose once before lifting up a perfume atomizer and sprayed once then again. The scent that could only be described as <em>“Aria”</em> filled the room and flowed over her in a light layer. The perfume was specially made to fit her, containing oils of lilacs and jasmine, bergamot, and a slight touch of light musk. It was a delicate scent but lingered as she walked by.&nbsp; <br><br>The woman looked over toward the doorway at the man who stood guard. She offered him a smile and tilted her head ever so slightly. She knew tonight was a mystery to them both, but her curiosity of it all kept her alert. Aria had heard she had a cousin who had returned from the lands outside of Faerie. How a princess became lost was beyond her but she was hoping to meet this lost princess tonight at the banquet. She had a good amount of curiosity in how her long lost cousin survived for so long amongst humans and away from the Sithen. She brushed her hair back into place once more before turning to her Captain of the Guard.<br><br><strong>“Are you and the others ready?”</strong><br><br>They were going to be late if they didn’t move quickly, at least late by Aria’s standards. She stepped toward her mirror and glanced back to him. Her dark eyes shone in the mirror as she concentrated and soon the reflection that was once there rippled and swirled before turning to a soft fog and she smiled. Aria had loved her ability to travel through reflections, and had done so since she was young, using such means to sneak out late at night and rush down to the Sluagh and Goblin courts. She learned many customs of the different courts by doing that and made a few acquaintances in the process. It was a shame this new place would not give her the ability to do so in a quickly fashion, that and the others would need to arrive in tow.&nbsp; The mirror blinked back to its original state and she turned to him with a slow smile.<br><br>Her silent footsteps led her across the room and to the doors, where she waited for them to be opened. The princess of the dark court stepped out into the hallway and toward the doorways to the Unseelie Court. Somewhere in between it was said to be. Somewhere in between. If Aria concentrated enough she could have the doors shift and change to send her exactly where she wanted to be in the Sithen.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Krule</strong> on <strong>29-05-2009, 00:30:08</strong>
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				Lord Cadrywn, Captain, or Sir Keith as he was commonly know as, watched as his charge, his princess, whom he stood guard over, and whom he had been Captain of the Guard for the last six years.&nbsp; The last years when his feelings toward her had begun to move from being protective, to aroused and interested in her as a woman.&nbsp; Though, age wise, she was still young, barely more then a child for one who had lived thousands of years, but she was fully mature now, no longer a child, but a woman, though there were still some endearing hints of the girl she had been remaining.<br><br>The fact she chosen for him to stand guard in her room, perhaps out of a sense of mischeviousness and a bit of chance to tease her captain, as she stripped to her skin, selecting one garment after another, and modeling them for him, while teasing him a bit, asking his opinion, was a sign of one of her more mischevious moments.&nbsp; She would be expecting him to get her back somehow, in due time.<br><br>"I am always ready, Princess, after all, as your Captain, if I wasn't, I'd be derelict in my duties."&nbsp; He reached out and offered her his hand as escort to the ball.&nbsp; <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>01-06-2009, 23:38:00</strong>
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				She was not looking forward to tonight, the blond ruefully admitted that to herself as she regarded herself in the mirror. Gowns were laid upon the bed, nine, nine exquisite, beautiful, other worldly gowns that were meant for her. And she didn't want to wear any of them, they were for the daughter her father wanted to have, not the one he actually got stuck with. Dawn pushed away from her vanity, having spent far too long eying the elaborate updo one of the 'handmaidens' had done to her curls. Even after three months of living in the courts, of knowing her true self she still found it hard to believe her hair wasn't just pale blond, but really the color of stars, a pure white gold, so pale it seemed to shine in any light. Or that her eyes were tri colored like the midnight sky. It was still hard to accept at moments that she was a sidhe. And a Princess of them at that. She sighed and moved away from the mirror.<br><br>It didn't take long for the tall female to cross to her rather large, ornate bed. There were gowns in several styles, the colors all royal ones meant to flatter her coloring, and scream "Hi I'm the Princess look at me" . A white one, with sapphires winking in more places then she could count, a pale gold one that would set off her hair with pearls scattered over it. A pale pink one with rose cut rubies, a pale frosty blue one with diamonds making star patterns. Her fingers brushed over each as she shook her head.<br><br>Then something caught her eye and she dragged it out, it was darker then the others, a deep intense navy blue, almost as dark as the outer most circle of her eyes. It had an empire waist line, set off by dark sapphires and pearls, in a pattern of Celtic knots. It was gaudy but simpler then the others. White chiffon floated over the bottom part of the gown, sheer and darkened by the blue, the dress was soft to touch, layers of tull and chiffon. The sleeves were off shoulder, edged with more white, thin ribbon and peeks of the white chiffon that looked almost like ruffles, just simple, classic like touches. This was the gown she would wear. Dawn slipped into it easily, zipping it up and going back to her vanity to pick up a simple pure white pearl necklace, earrings of sapphire droplets going in her ears. <br><br>A maid knocked and entered, seeing her gown and bobbing. "Good choice Mistress, now your tiara."<br><br>"Amelia is that really needed?" She asked the brownie who nodded and pulled out a white gold tiara, set with dark sapphires and winking diamonds, that mimicked the colors of her eyes and the dress she had chosen. She sighed but let the tiny female fit the tiara into her hair arrangement, at least this meant she could go see her guards now. The brownie moved slowly, doing light make up upon her eyes, playing up her eyes with a light smokey blue grey eye shadow, applying a simple gloss to her lips. <br><br>"You are as lovely as your Mother."<br><br>"My mother? The queen?" Dawn's eyes flew open but Amelia just shook her head and curtsied.<br><br>"You are ready Princess, you should go or you will be late."<br><br>And with that the tiny brown female vanished and Dawn realized once again she was sick of all the secrets of the court. Yet she stood and slipped on her shoes, simple dark navy flats, she had been a reporter, so she wasn't overly crazy about heels when on the job, or for court functions. She liked feeling how the ground felt. With one more glance at the mirror to see the 'vision' of the Seelie Princess she sighed and opened the door to where her guards waited in her sitting room. <br><br>"Well gentleman, shall we go to the gallows together?" She asked in her teasing, American cynical humor. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>02-06-2009, 04:33:32</strong>
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				<br>&nbsp;The Goblin Courts... a place of seeming infinite chaos... of perverse lusts, excessive violence, and maniacle actions. Goblins were looked down upon for a reason... because more often than not, they gave into their basic instincts... their minds usually unable to hold more than a single thought, which made it dangerous when their mind was set on a target. <br><br>&nbsp;Deep within the mound of the Goblin Courts, caverns and tunnels mazed through the soil, creating an intricate tunnel system that was merely accidental. Some goblins have come to the court, and never seen the sun again, simply for inability to find the exit. All through the tunnels there would be goblins beating other goblins, goblins having every type of perverse sex imaginable, and others drinking, eating, and sleeping. The goblins themselves were often ugly creatures, deformities a seeming qualification. Most had excessive limbs of some kind, only half of the goblins actually able to use these extra limbs. Some were hairy, dirty, reeking of death and bodily function... and yet others were covered in layers upon layers of fat covered with warts and moles. All in all, not a place most civilized people would go.<br><br>&nbsp;Most wouldn't know that this was simply how the goblins relaxed. The goblins were an Army... one that would be hard pressed to be matched. Which is why it was often worked that the goblins took care of things that others deemed unsightly, or perhaps unable to handle themselves. When such times came, that singular thinking could make a goblin a dangerous soldier. One moment thinking of nothing but fornication, the next of nothing but ripping the throat out of an enemy. To change thinking so quickly, and throw their entire being into that thought with vicious desire..... that is something that made goblins dangerous.<br><br>&nbsp;But the one who led them all was even more dangerous still. He had something that most goblins didn't. Something most goblins couldn't even consider or comprehend.<br><br>&nbsp;He had the ability to think... to plan... to scheme... to control.<br><br>&nbsp;And soon, the few who might not know of rumors of the current Goblin King would surely learn of the creature who ruled the Goblin mounds with an iron fist.<br><br>&nbsp;They would all learn of Fenris... either through fear, or reverance.<br><br>______________________________________________<br><br>&nbsp;Nothingness.<br><br>&nbsp;That is what it seemed like Fenris was falling through, surrounded by nothing... feeling nothing, hearing nothing, seeing nothing. As if he was caught in a perfect void, detached form any worldly senses. Darkness surrounding him in every way imaginable.<br><br>&nbsp;But slowly, through the darkness, a small ray of light would move to press onto Fenris' mind, and the words of the Goddess and her consort would transfer into his subconcious, and into the depths of his concious. The words were heard, taking within and remembered.<br><br>&nbsp;Almost as soon as the words of the Goddess were spoken, and the light disappeared, conciousness returned to Fenris, eyes slowly easing open, mere slits at first, but easing to full openness as he looked around.<br><br>&nbsp;The first thing he saw was the back of the large throne that he alone claimed, sitting up on a small dias. Surrounding it on most sides, save for the back side, were hundreds and hundreds of goblins, seeming covering every bit of the cave that seemed to go a hundred feet into the air, before the rough, sharp stallagmites hung, like razor sharp teeth, waiting for fall upon any prey foolish enough to stop.<br><br>&nbsp;Fenris would made a slight rumbling noise, and though slight, it seemed to gently shake the walls of the caves, causing all commotion in the cave to almost immediately cease, eyes turning to the throne.... and then the darkness behind it. And it was almost a trick of the mind. The cave behind the throne was cast into shadow... but it almost looked like there was something even darker than the shadow balled up there, though one would disbelieve it, considering how the darker shape seemed to take up easily half the height of the cave. But then the two spots of glowing white would be seen from the darker mass, and the goblins would have varying reactions. Some would show excitement that the King was awake... others would show fear... and some seeming indifference.<br><br>&nbsp;Slowly, the ball of darkness would ease up, rising from its laying position, and it seemed to climb... climb... climb... the top of the shadow almost seeming to brush the teeth of the cave ceiling, eyes far above the height of most goblins, and slowly, a growl would build into the depths of the creature.... slowly vibrating through his core, before monstrous jaws opened, and the sound was emitted as a roar to deafen those who listened, shaking the walls of the cave, and even a few of the teeth on the ceiling fell, smashing into the ground, somehow barely missing the goblins amassed in the court.<br><br>&nbsp;Almost every set of eyes within the court would watch in awe, horror, and fear... before roughly shutting, as if afraid to see what would happen. But then the roar cut out, gently echoing down the passages, and then.... silence. Perfect silence, cut only by the whimpering of several goblins. Slowly, each and every set of eyes would ease back open, finding only the natural darkness behind the throne. The large shape was gone. Instead, a figure, almost human-esque, stood almost all the way in the light, though the shadow hid the man from the shoulders up.<br><br>&nbsp;"... there is to be a ball... I will be attending it alone. Meanwhile, you all ensure that nothing happens to my domain... understand?"<br><br>&nbsp;Almost unanimously all the goblins present roared out acquiance... and the Goblin king would give a slight nod of his head. Likely as soon as he was gone they would begin acting up again, though it would likely be little worse than what he saw while here. But he knew the ones on duty would indeed do well to guard his courts and hill.<br><br>&nbsp;Giving one last look at all the goblins, he'd reach over, pulling a cloak off of the throne, draping it around his figure, hood cast up over his head, hiding his features, before turning, and almost as if by magic, the man was gone, leaving many of the goblins in shocked awe, despite them having seen the same over the last thousand years.... though none as of yet knew exactly what he did to accomplish such a thing... and he wasn't going to tell them.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>miss Hysteria</strong> on <strong>02-06-2009, 07:12:36</strong>
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				Lira waited patiently outside the Princess’ bedchamber.&nbsp; By her internal clock it had been at least an hour—though her clock hadn’t quite adjusted to sidhe time quite yet, so she could have been quite off.&nbsp; The inane chatter of the gathered courtiers, not to mention the other handmaidens, only served to drag each passing minute into an eternity.&nbsp; Court, with all its petty intrigues and gossip, did not suit her.&nbsp; She was one who did not one who talked of doing, a warrior to her very core and idle chatter made her more uncomfortable than battle.&nbsp; Being back in sidhe clothing, not to mention sidhe Court clothing only heightened the effect.<br><br>The gown was a rather simple affair by Seelie standards, made of red and yellow cloth that blended erratically around the middle.&nbsp; It had no adornments, and a simple cut that wrapped tightly around her figure, loosening as it passed her knees into an asymmetric flare.&nbsp; It was beautiful, in a way, but she found much preferred the mobility of the clothes she had had back in the mortal world.&nbsp; By the standards of her race, Lira was not exactly old, but standing here this night and waiting for the fabled Princess to emerge made her feel every one of her thousand-something years.<br><br>“Leera!” one of the other handmaidens, though Lira couldn’t quite recall her name at the moment.&nbsp; “My, don’t you look stunning!”&nbsp; Lira didn’t respond.&nbsp; “Yes… well, I was just talking with the Count of--”<br><br>“Yes, I noticed.”<br><br>“Ehem.&nbsp; Anyway, he was saying to me that…” Lira wasn’t listening.&nbsp; She didn’t really care, at the moment, what the Count of Whereeveritwas had said about anything.&nbsp; “And then she said ‘Oh, my wine!’…” Verri.&nbsp; Her name was Verri.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>“Verri.”&nbsp; The taller woman stopped her story.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>“Yes?”<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>“I know this must all be very exciting for you, but this is not our Ball.&nbsp; We are here to serve the Princess, and I suggest you not forget that.”&nbsp; The girl looked taken aback.<br><br>“But…”<br><br>“I’ll not hear it.&nbsp; You mind your duty or I’ll see to it you wish you had.”&nbsp; As Verri scurried off out of her sight, Lira thought it was no wonder she had no friends.&nbsp; Of course, she didn’t need them—to one like her they would only be an impediment.&nbsp; But still…<br><br>Whatever was to follow that thought was dramatically lost as the Princess finally emerged from her room.<br><br>"Well gentleman, shall we go to the gallows together?"<br><br>It was obviously meant as a joke, but Lira found it rather a fitting analogy.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>03-06-2009, 02:43:16</strong>
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				Connal sighed as he stood in wait for the princess.&nbsp; He had never been a patient man.&nbsp; The young sidhe heir would be out soon, of course.&nbsp; She had to be.&nbsp; Not that the evening would get any better at that point; soon they would all be subject to inane court banter for hours upon end.&nbsp; He truly couldn't decide which was more torturous.&nbsp; Sighing again, openly anxious and irritated, Connal resumed pacing in front of the door to the princess' chambers.<br><br>Connal cracked his knuckles as he walked.&nbsp; Nervous anticipation always made him eager for a fight.&nbsp; His hunger for battle, his passionate approach to taking lives, had made him a high-ranking soldier well before the arrival of the new heir.&nbsp; Now he was her Captain, her Keeper.&nbsp; It was a position he'd not have chosen before meeting her.&nbsp; Connal despised courtly life intensely, and having been "promoted" to Captain of the Princess' Guard had only made that worse.<br><br>Dawn was worth it, however.&nbsp; She was special; she was more than she had even been told.&nbsp; It was unfortunate that she had no recollection, but Connal knew that it would come to her soon.&nbsp; It was her destiny, after all; her spirit knew, even if her mind did not.<br><br>Connal's shoulders slumped noticeably as he was lost in thought, before clearing his mind of such things.&nbsp; He glanced over at Lira as she snapped at the younger handmaiden, and he suppressed the urge to roll his eyes.&nbsp; He had an immense respect for her; she was a terrifically gifted fighter, and devoted beyond measure to the princess.&nbsp; Still, she was somewhat lacking in the area of social skills, he mused.&nbsp; She was quite beautiful, though... there was no denying that.&nbsp; The colors she had chosen suited her temperament quite well.<br><br>With a click, the assembled parties fell silent, and Princess Dawn, in full formal dress, stepped out with a resigned look on her face.&nbsp; <br><br><em>"Well gentleman, shall we go to the gallows together?"</em><br><br>The room's attention was on her immediately, and Connal was no exception.&nbsp; Even as she spoke he moved to take her hand in his.&nbsp; He had forgone his gauntlets for the evening; after all, this ball was divinely ordained.&nbsp; Whoever struck against them here struck against the goddess herself.<br><br>Connal actually mustered a low laugh at her choice of words, sharing her resigned attitude and nodding.&nbsp; "Truly, you will be hanging on display for all to see.&nbsp; We will of course do our best to make it more bearable; still... "&nbsp; <br><br>He trailed off and looked away from her, unwilling to admit that there was very little he or any of the guards could do.&nbsp; This <em>was</em> an execution of sorts, after all.&nbsp; Every appearance was, as the Seelie Court forced Dawn to assume her new role and put away her old one.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Haley</strong> on <strong>03-06-2009, 06:34:35</strong>
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				Adhamhnan Gairden, or Adham, as Princess Aria knew him, grimaced as he stood outside the princess's chambers standing guard, his right hand on the two handed blade sheathed at his side, ready at a split-second's notice to bring death to all who opposed him.&nbsp; While looking down the halls, the tall, massive guard thought on how his life had played out.&nbsp; The events that occurred were not as he had expected or planned.<br><br>While growing up, he was constantly being trained by the then Captain Guard Maideth Maernlylth.&nbsp; During his time, Maideth was known as the best of swordmasters, and Adham absorbed all the elder taught, not only because Adham was very much intrigued by swordplay and magics, but also because the younger student borderline worshiped his mentor.&nbsp; However, the young one's life was not just filled with training.&nbsp; When free, he often escaped with the young Aria, spending countless hours on various escapades and adventures, all of which, her parents probably did not approve.<br><br>Adham continued to develop as a fierce fighter, to the point when he joined the guard, none in the courts or guard could best him, earning the nickname, "Death Incarnate."&nbsp; The fact his father was killed early on in the young one's life and his mother sent him away brought a cold, burning anger in his soul which was only fostered by the highly sexual, yet detached way the Unseelie treated one another.&nbsp; By the time he had fully developed, he had become cold and emotionless, except to two people.&nbsp; The first was Maideth, who he cared for like a son does a father.&nbsp; The second, Aria.&nbsp; As they had grown, the time they spent together did not wain, always finding one another.&nbsp; To him, Aria was one of the last he held out hope for bringing warmth and emotion to his soul.&nbsp; She was the one who caused his soul to burn with a hot, unquenchable desire.<br><br>Six years ago, Maideth disappeared, no one able to provide the young guard any answers.&nbsp; His absence only caused Adham to hide in his emotional shell even more, yet he held out hope to be named to the Captaincy.&nbsp; Unfortunately, this was not to be, as an unknown Lord Cadrywn was brought in to be captain.&nbsp; Early in the Captain's tenure, Adham knew they would not like one another.&nbsp; Keith, as he liked to be known, was a strict, tough disciplinarian who did not understand the ways of Aria.&nbsp; As Adham saw it, though she was a flirt, it was the guards' job to resist her temptations and retain their honor.&nbsp; To the young guard, the Captain had no honor, and Adham resented Keith due to it.<br><br>As Aria's door opened, the guard clad in azure-colored armor turned to face the Princess who would be exiting her chambers in seconds.&nbsp; The manner by which the dark-violet hues of her dress played upon her skin tone, hair color and eyes brought a smile to his face which he quickly banished once looking upon the Captain.&nbsp; Kneeling, he took her free hand.&nbsp; Summoning a thin layer of ice to his lips, he kissed upon her hand, then rose, still holding her hand.&nbsp; "Princess, the visage you present is most glorious, and it shall be an honor as always to accompany you to the ball," Adham said, allowing her to place her hand to his elbow, walking with her in stride to their destination.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>03-06-2009, 07:31:02</strong>
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				He was late. What seemed like a lifetime serving the Seelie court, and he had never been late to anything before in his life. His metal boots clanged loudly against the stone floor, the sound echoing inside of the long, tall hallway, creating a cacophony of metallic banging, clanging, and clanking. His gold armor glinted in the setting sun as he skidded around a sharp turn, nearly taking out a suit of armor. <br><br>"Honestly," he muttered, picking up speed yet again, "Who puts a suit of armor there?"<br><br>As he approached the sitting room, he stopped, checking his appearance in a mirror. "There," he said, running a hand through his short blonde hair. "Perfect." <br><br>Fionn slipped into the sitting room just as the queen opened the door, appearing directly behind Connal as she spoke. He laughed and bowed slightly, flashing a smile as she finished her joke. "It would be an honor to accompany you to the gallows, m'lady," he said, giving her the slightest wink. "At least you will go to your demise looking ravishing, if I may be so bold." He was not simply flirting; she looked positively radiant, more beautiful than he had ever seen her, if that were possible.<br><br>Fionn's armor seemed to glow more than usual; he had spent several hours polishing it. His sword glinted on his belt, the reflection of the runes on it's blade giving the wall to his left a mystical appearance. His eyes sparkled silver; he couldn't remember feeling this sort of anticipation and dread before. He knew the Unseelie court would also be in attendance, and had heard rumors that the Goblins might be there as well; he would have to be on his guard.
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Amberghylles</strong> on <strong>04-06-2009, 00:17:14</strong>
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				He was in the corner of the sitting room, watching the others quietly.&nbsp; Unlike the other guards, Roarke wore no armor.&nbsp; Tall leather boots trimmed with silver that came to his knees, with black silken pants tucked into them, embroidered with a black on black patterned rosevines, visible in the way the light caught the differing textures.&nbsp; A long poet's shirt of equally black silk that fell to mid-thigh and gathered at his wrists and tied loosely enough to show a glimpse of his muscular chest.&nbsp; He carried no weapon, just a set of plain wooden pipes around his neck on a leather thong.&nbsp; <br><br>The half-satyr sat in a guided chair leaning back against the wall with his arms crossed in front of his chest motionless.&nbsp; One might have even thought he'd fallen asleep waiting there if not for how quickly he came to his feet at Dawn's arrival.&nbsp; He swept one sharp-nailed hand through his curly hair and brushed his fingers along his short horns as the others answered Dawn's comment.<br><br>His dark eyes moved over her dress and he swallowed hard and wet his lips before stepping forward to bow deeply from the waist.&nbsp; "My Princess," he said softly, "I am ready."
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				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Moth</strong> on <strong>04-06-2009, 08:58:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">The time was nearing, and Shar could feel the thrum of anticipation. How many of her Fae in were drooling over the possibility of the night before them? Intrigue, seduction, power, death. It was the gathering where even the Courts of Legend were in attendance, in all of their capricious charm. Goblins plotting while they stroked their daggers, nobles preparing to conquer their latest fixation, and so many others. All this she could imagine as she waited, sharing her space only with the chosen others who were selected to accompany the highest of noblewomen to her festivities.<br><br>Idly, she traced a tapered digit over the length of her thigh, distantly admiring the handiwork. The polished leather (of course) was held together at the seams by silver hooks. Suggestive and impractical, naturally, but that was suited for festivities. The hints of bare flesh revealed the tattoos that snaked along her flesh. Her whole outfit was hardly typical of a Fae noblewoman; more akin to a suit of particularly decorative armor. It was a far cry from a flowing ethereal gwon. But then, she lacked station sufficiently high enough to be dainty. The often vile bloods of every Seelie and Unseelie species would mix on this eve, and far be it from her to not come prepared. Such gatherings were often valuable opportunities for her. A place to meet clients, make connections, and observe the powerful at play. Observation was a talent of hers. Knowledge was power, after all.<br><br>Then, the Princess made her grand entrance. Of course she was beautiful - even the exacting standards of the Sidhe. But then, the Princess of the Court could be no less than a dazzling creature of supreme unreality. Her very appearance suggested both regal grace and alluring fragility, with porcelain flesh and lustrous locks. Shar had to wonder how many hours the charming aristocrat spent gazing into the mirror, painting her naturally lovely canvas into her own masterpiece. It certainly was effective. Her dark lips could only twist in amusement as she observed the reaction of the soldier who was struggling so hard to remain composed. For a mere second, actual emotion played on his features. Even he was not resistant to the charms of the aristocratic beauty. Hot blood pumping through the ever stoic Sir Adham's veins? She was not intimately familiar with the man, naturally. Those of her profession and the strong honorable sort generally did not tend to mingle. However, she knew of his reputation, as well as that of the Captain. It was her business to know, after all.<br><br>At last, she dipped into a deferential bow. Playing the role of a lady, she didn't allow her eyes to stray to the royal cleavage. "It is a pleasure, Princess Aria, to be in your escort. Should you require any diversion throughout the night, you have only to ask. It's my job to provide entertainment." She eyed the other two, smirking. "I extend the offer to my fellow employees, of course."</span> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>05-06-2009, 21:00:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn's eyes had taken in the sight of her people, her guards, her handmaidens. The first of her handmaidens she felt more of an attachment to then the others, Lira seemed to almost understand the world she had come from. She wanted, one day, to have more private time with the beauty. <br><br>Her attention was called away though, when Connal, the head of her guard moved forward to take her hand, he was the man she had spent over ten years dreaming about, and the man who insisted she was Caer, his long lost love who had died centuries ago. It made her uneasy, to have more expectations upon her, more she had to be, for him, for the Seelie, for the sidhe. But part of her heart was given to the man. His laugh made her breath catch and her eyes for a moment caught on his. They had a deep attachment, one that honestly scared her at moments. She was suppose to love him utterly and completely, but she didn't know if that was Caer who loved him now or Dawn. <br><br>"Don't worry so, I will be the Princess tonight, I will not fail you." she glanced around the room. "Any of you."<br><br>And she wouldn't. Her eyes lit upon Fionn as he moved from behind Connal with a laugh and at the wink a smile quirked her lips slightly, his compliment earning a soft laugh.<br><br>"Well, I shall do you all proud at least then no?" Fionn was the one who made her laugh most often, the most at ease with things it seemed, or at least the most able to make jokes that appealed to her humor. Though her own sense of wry wit seemed to leave some of her guards rather confused and flustered at times. She would use the fact that she had been raised by American's, outside the sidhe to her advantage though, she didn't have to observe quiet the same rules and could be a touch more blunt then them. She knew how to dance politics with the best of them and could have been the perfect sidhe lady in her way of speech. But why? She would only blend in more and her raising was what made her her.<br><br>Her thoughts were drawn from her as she caught sight of Roarke in the back. He was dressed in all black, with his pipes with him. She shivered slightly, remembering the power of his music, of his voice. She recognized the look in his eyes before he bowed to her and she smiled, he always seemed to call her Princess, she wanted to be more then that to him, but she sensed that was what he needed her to be. Dawn inclined her head to him and smiled to all of them. "Shall we go then?"<br><br>She offered up both of her hands, and gestured toward the door slightly with a smile. It was time to go. "Lets just hope I don't have to dance with the devil this night..." she murmured to herself, her thoughts going back to her first night in the court when her father had made her dance with him. She never wanted to feel his hands upon her flesh again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>06-06-2009, 03:52:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria looked to her Captain and gave him a nod and a smile.&nbsp; She did in fact tease him; she loved to see how he reacted to her body and the things that she enticed in his own. Her slender fingers slid into his larger hand with ease and she walked out of the room with him. Her tri-colored eyes stared out toward others that were present and she stopped with her gaze locked on Adham. She had become accustomed to his armor and knew he would look so different without it, though some days she wished he would discard it so that she could actually feel his skin rather than the metal of his armor. She gave him an adoring smile and watched as he took her hand and kissed it. A nod was awarded and she spoke softly.<br><br><strong>“You are too kind, Adham, and you look charming as ever this night.”</strong><br><br>She took his elbow as they started; it was then that she noticed Shar. The woman had been with Aria for some time but she still had not grown accustomed to how quiet she was and how easily she slipped in and out of view. She was partially unnerved by it and partially thankful. The help of Shar from time to time had been appreciated by many Sidhe of the Unseelie Courts. <br><br>Aria was glad to see the woman was not in any sort of armament. The swish of her skirts brought her closer toward the assassin and she gave her a slow respectful nod. She appreciated the woman’s dark lips and would make a point to say so. She did smile at the bow and gave a smaller one of her own.<br><strong><br>“It is always a pleasure, Shar. I will keep your entertainments in mind you can be sure. You look especially delectable this evening. I would like a kiss before the night is out.”<br></strong><br>She didn’t speak down to the woman but she did make it well known that she was the Princess here and those with her were to listen and obey. She didn’t think Shar would object to a kiss, there weren’t many who would object to anything Princess Ellaria NicArren would offer them. She was a kinder royal than most in her family but she was still Unseelie and there were just some things that never changed. Aria let her hand trail to the woman’s cheek then and her thumb brushed over those dark lips. She released her guard’s arms and looked at Shar tilting her head slightly.<br><br><strong>“Yes, I do want some time alone with you at some point.”</strong><br><br>A slow smile spread over her lips and she looked back to the men. She didn’t bother slipping her hand into their arms as she felt they needed to be free at a moments notice this evening. If that spare second freed from her arm would allow them to become better armed she was willing to give up the touch of their skin upon hers for the moment. She continued on to the waiting doorway and they entered the grand ballroom moments later, Aria let the Captain enter first to scope the area first for any sort of danger and then she would follow with Adham and Shar flanking her.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Krule</strong> on <strong>06-06-2009, 04:22:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Alone, to a degree, Aria, as the Captain of your guard, I'm going to have to insist that at least one of your guard be present at all times, my Princess, matters are becoming more heated up, and therefore, dangerous as well."&nbsp; He slide a finger over her shoulder, to her right cheek, before he turned back to the hall and began to walk down the hall, his eyes watchful, as he looked for any potential threats.&nbsp; <br><br>He knew that Adham didn't really approve of him, but he didn't really care, the other guard would do his job, and that was what mattered, to Keith at least, that was what mattered.&nbsp; Of course, he had his own code of honor, that the other guard didn't understand that.. was something he found slightly irritating.<br><br>He wondered too, about something else, had Aria really considered what was going to be required of her, here?&nbsp; The goddess had essentially promised the throne of all fairy, to the first of the two princesses to become pregnant, which had some rather personal ramifications for Aria.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>06-06-2009, 06:19:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;Fenris would slowly move towards the ballroom, the figure seeming larger than most humans or sidhe, though the cloak wrapped around him kept most of his features away. But there was no avoiding the two points in the top of the hood that spoke of horns... nor his size.... nor the air about him that caused most sidhe, regardless of gender or station to ease away from the man, as if Fenris needed three times the room he actually did.<br><br>&nbsp;Fenris would finally make his way to the ballroom, and would step into it, many an eye of sidhe falling on him... then almost instantly lifting away, as if afraid they would be caught looking. Fenris would definitely stand out in such a elegant place. Sturdy boots, semi-tight pants of fine purple silk, the cloak matching the material of the pants, though a good bit thicker and torn at the edges... no sign of a shirt was seen on the occasion that the front of the cloak swayed open, revealing rock hard muscles beneath.<br><br>&nbsp;For a moment, the figure would stand there, gaze shadowed by the hood of his cloak, though the soft glow of pure white still seen... but being devoid of pupils, it was hard to say exactly where the man was looking. But after a moment, they'd sweep the entirety of the ballroom.... at least as much as he was able. He saw the beauty that was Princess Dawn coming into the room.... and then Princess Aria. For a moment, the King of the Goblin's was slightly taken aback by the sheer beauty of each... and goblin habit almost made him make some sounds... but will forced himself to remain stoic.<br><br>&nbsp;With a last glance at the pair, plus their surrounding groups, Fenris would turn, and find his way towards one of the darker corners, if such were available. Honestly, he knew that it was unlikely many of the sidhe would care to speak with him.... and truth to be told, he cared little enough about any of them that he wouldn't care a conversation either. Honestly, he may very well have stayed at the Goblin Courts... save for the fact that the Goddess herself spoek in his dream.<br><br>&nbsp;Moving into the corner, he'd find a large, plush cushioned couch, and quite easily lifted it up, moving it over to the corner, and flopped down atop it, almost as if the couch was his new throne. It was set at an angle against the corner, so that maybe a person or two could fit back there.... if they could slip past the man's notice... otherwise, it'd be rather hard to sneak up on the man. This place may be under the protection of the goddess, but Fenris wasn't one to take chances... at least not ones that he could help.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Haley</strong> on <strong>06-06-2009, 08:43:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Adham's face remained unaffected, a nearly permanent slight frown, as Shar looked upon and mentioned him in conversation.&nbsp; The guard would be remiss to think he had not thought about her.&nbsp; Of course, she her face was pretty, and her curves enrapturing, but that was exactly what made her dangerous.&nbsp; The assassin hid her true skills behind them, and because Adham did not know her fully, there was a small amount of distrust between them.&nbsp; However, Princess Aria enjoyed and desired Shar's company, so he learned to coexist with her.<br><br>He agreed with the Captain's assessment.&nbsp; <strong>"Princess, one of us should be with you at all times,"</strong> he said, looking to her.&nbsp; Then eying the Keith, he volunteered his services, <strong>"Captain, I shall be her shadow tonight, as I am sure you desire to mingle with the rest of the Court."</strong>&nbsp; As Keith pressed glided his finger along Aria's face, Adham's soul burned with fury, and even though he did not show it at all, he knew Aria felt it.<br><br>As they walked across the room, Adham kept a careful eye, watching every movement, cataloging every suspicious character and their placement in the room.&nbsp; Nothing would would escape the notice of the guard in blue armor, the chest-plate having a large, silver dragon embossed in the center of it.&nbsp; Oh the various other pieces of his armor, such as the greaves, gauntlets, leg and arm pieces, smaller dragons are centered as well, leaving a somewhat 'icy' look, which only complimented his Hand of Ice.&nbsp; Tonight, he could leave Aria's side and still know her exact emotions due to something that had occurred only a couple of nights ago, the large raven burned into his side giving him that ability.&nbsp; <br><br>Adham eyed the Goblin King as he made his entrance.&nbsp; If there was someone the guards needed to watch, it was him.&nbsp; Goblins by nature are dishonorable and chaotic.&nbsp; As he watched the Goblin King, the guard saw in his peripheral vision the golden armor of Fionn Lorcan, of whom, Adham knew.&nbsp; Though they were of opposing Courts, he highly respected the Seelie Guard's second in command due to his exploits.&nbsp; At some point they might need to talk.<br><br>As all of this occurred, the guard tightened his grip on his large blade, which was sheathed at his side and shadowed Aria almost perfectly.&nbsp; He would be at the ready in a split second, defending her to the best of his abilities.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Moth</strong> on <strong>06-06-2009, 09:28:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">Aria's eyes locked on to her, and she couldn't help but to feel a delightful tingle rush up her spine. For a moment, it was almost as if she were young again, and the desire for ripe flesh overwhelming enough to bring color to her bloodless cheeks. Then, thought set in once more, cooling her. While her pleasure did not dissipate, she began to consider the possibilities for the night, eternally calculating how the situation could be turned to her advantage. The court was rife with potential playthings all vying to receive the Princess' famous attentions. Every eye was going to be on her, and the attention of every court focused. To be in her favor for such an event could potentially be an opportunity for Shar. Spread her reputation amongst the upper circles. Increase her demand. Naturally, a few lackeys would want to lick the temporary power from her boots, but such was aristocracy. Perhaps she could even - <br><br>But then the Princess was touching her, and once more, all the careful consideration melted away. The woman's scent was intoxicating; heady with all the debauchery of the Unseelie Court. The sensation of one sharpened nail tracing across her lower lip caused her eyelids to droop, heavy with obvious appreciation. A kiss, hm? Pleasure was often business in her line of work, but she naturally didn't begrudge this demand in the slightest. One side of her mouth lifted up slight amusement as she reached out in turn and slowly curled a single lock around her finger. Inhaling the scent for just a moment, her hand dropped, and she fell into place behind the noble and her other two...companions, she supposed. <br><br>The Captain's words almost made her break into laughter. She only barely managed to restrain herself, smirking instead as she watched the man imitate Aria's gesture. A touch possessive, was he? And Adham didn't seem all too pleased either. While his expression was carefully blank, his gaze was fixed avidly on the two, following every movement of his superior. Interesting how he hadn't been quite so observant when the Princess was making her desire for more feminine flesh known. Then, of course, he volunteered to be his mistress' private guard puppy for the evening. Useful information to be stored away. Not as if she bore either of them any particular ill will, but court life was dangerous, and if they became her eventual enemies - good to know they could be set against each other. Perhaps. Couldn't make assumptions yet. <br><br>"How kind of you two," she noted, thumb tracing over her belt. "That's right. The lovely Princess mustn't be left alone - especially when things are getting heated up and dangerous. In these kind of sweaty situations, she should always be under the close observance of her men. Always good to have a pair of sharp ready swords around." She took a few steps forward, still flanking the Princess protectively, but close enough to be heard. Her voice lowered to a murmur. "You shall have to tell me, Your Highness, how to maximize your entertainment. Do you prefer to come to me to receive my symbol of loyalty, or would you like me to surprise you?" A slightly mocking smile played on her lips as her dark eyes slid over to Adham. "Assuming, of course, your valiant defenders wouldn't chop my pretty head off if I tried to be imaginative..."</span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>07-06-2009, 07:42:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn's eyes darted to Rourke, and a small smirk played over his face. "Good evening, good Sir Rourke," he said, bowing slightly, which caused his armor to squeak. "I suppose the gang is all here; shall we depart? Unless, of course, this meeting was solely to collect her majesty's royal guard to assist in a daring escape, in which case I am more than happy to assist. It reminds me of my time with King Hrolf, of Denmark. When he was trapped at a feast or banquet that he did not wish to attend, he would call together his most trusted men and orchestrate a daring escape. I think I still have some of the old plans stored somewhere." Quirking an eyebrow, he happily took the princess' outstretched arm, and flashed a quick smirk to her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Amberghylles</strong> on <strong>09-06-2009, 03:08:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Roarke bowed back to Fionn and glanced over at Connor, expecting him to take Dawn's other hand.&nbsp; The half-satyr waited a moment and fell into step behind them, trailing behind the brightly clad princess like a shadow in his dark garb.<br><br>He started to speak but held his tongue.&nbsp; No doubt such a whimsical escape would be to Dawn's liking, but her father would see it come to a decidedly grim closure.&nbsp; And she needed this chance to see and interact with the Unseelie court... to seek those unaligned but important and feel their loyalties out.&nbsp; It was a very crucial evening for the potential Queen of all Fae.&nbsp; And she knew this, no need to remind her like a child.&nbsp; So he followed close and quiet and ready.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>09-06-2009, 19:44:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal smiled at the princess, a genuine gesture as he squeezed her hand faintly and led the way without another word.&nbsp; Not a one of them seemed eager to speak as they made their way towards the ballroom, he noted.&nbsp; Perhaps they were wondering what to expect when they entered.&nbsp; The entirety of the Fae were going to be represented.&nbsp; Would they be last to arrive?&nbsp; It would seem fitting, Connal decided with a smile.&nbsp; The future Queen entering and drawing every eye to her... How very dramatic and appropriate.<br><br>As they approached the entryway to the ballroom, Connal stopped and brought Dawn's hand to press a soft kiss to her skin.&nbsp; "Even I cannot find words to describe your beauty, Princess.&nbsp; You will leave them all breathless."&nbsp; His eyes had a longing, desperate quality, the rings of color seeming to beckon her deeper into them.&nbsp; He let go of her hand and stepped away with a sigh, entering the ballroom with his head high and his face inscrutable.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>11-06-2009, 01:30:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos watched the goblin enter, instinct drawing the attention of one predator to another. His lips quirked in a brief smile of amusement. <em>Likely he is about as welcome as I.</em> he thought, letting his gaze slowly travel around the room. <em>I am respected ... feared .. but welcomed? Heh. Seldom that. Even amongst the Unseelie, they seek my council as infrequently as they can. But now ...</em><br><br>His gaze travelled around the room again. <em>But now, with the Goddess herself telling them what must be, they will seek power, alliance ... more?</em> His hand rose, adjusting the golden torc that ringed his neck, musing. <em>I wonder if the Princesses will seek me out, or send handmaids to gain my favour instead.</em><br><br>He raised the goblet he held and took a drink. The wine inside was near as dark as the clothing he wore, green so dark it was almost black, well fitted trousers, and a cloak pinned at his shoulder, over a soft tunic. Knee high boots and an ornate buckled belt completed his garb.<br><br><em>Still, let us see what we shall see.</em> he thought, content for the moment to wait and see who would come to seek him out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>11-06-2009, 05:27:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>Focused on the woman in front of her the Unseelie Princess smiled. She didn’t enjoy many women in her company but Shar was an exception and one of the few reasons Aria had her at her side with the men. She knew the pleasures she could give the woman and her being half goblin left room for more than just sex but blood as well. Things the princess were not adverse to, things that she was willing to share to hold her alliances with the goblins and something she was going to put at a head immediately. Aria looked to her Captain and nodded knowingly. She pursed her lips a little and replied softly to him. She knew he meant well and that he was doing his job, though some may have seen his words as more than he actually meant. The brush of his finger over her shoulder and then her cheek caused a smile to creep up and she nodded again.<br><br><strong>“Yes, I realize I cannot truly be alone. However that was not exactly what I meant. It matters not now however.”</strong><br><br>She watched him moving to check for possible threats and then looked toward Adham. She could feel the burning desire to tell the Captain to not touch her but she was glad he was mature enough to withhold his personal opinions of Keith. She noted the entrance of the goblin king and she couldn’t help but give a brilliant lovely smile.&nbsp; Aria heard the female assassin next to her speaking to the other guards and then placed a hand on her arm without gazing to the woman.<br><br><strong>“Shar, I would love a surprise from you.”</strong><br><br>She glanced to her then and gave her a half smirked smile.<br><br><strong>“Yes a symbol of your loyalty filled with surprise and pleasure would be fine. The guards will leave us to do as we wish, even if one of them must be there to watch or trouble. However, I’ll call for you in two night’s time. I have other... obligations as of now.”</strong><br><br>The princess smiled then and turned to look toward Fenris. She made sure he knew she was watching him. She gave him a sweeping bow and then glanced upward through dark lashes and smiled. Her eyes showed her respectful to the man. She treated him as the King that he was and showed her appreciation of his title and appearance with each movement and gaze shifted his way. She knew most Sidhe did not treat the goblins the same, however she knew of this particular half Sidhe goblin and that he was strong in mind and body. She was willing to do whatever it took to show him she could be trusted and that she did in fact respect him and that his people were given proper credit for what they do and have done for Faerie. <br><br>She offered a nod to him as she glanced up into his eyes, unafraid with all the respect any should give to a King no matter what domain he is in. Then she smiled trying to be lighthearted even as she glanced and noticed King Cernunnos. Her eyes shifted over his form appreciating his garb of choice as well. It appeared the Princess had plenty to do tonight but all in good time. Her gaze shifted back to the Goblin King as he should not feel any less important than the next. Aria’s full lips curled into a beautiful smile that at that moment in time was beamed only for King Fenris. She would give him a more intimate hello soon enough, for now she continued into the room. She looked to her Captain and then to Shar.<br><br><strong>“Shar, please inform King Fenris I would love a dance with him at some point this evening, if he should deem me fit enough to do so.”</strong><br><br>She didn’t wait for a reply from her as she knew the woman would do her job as she saw fit. Her footsteps moved toward the King of the Sluagh then. She stopped just short of him and offered a smile, a sweeping glance of appreciation, and then a bow of respect to his station.<br><br><strong>“Good evening, Cernunnos, King of the Sluagh, Master of the Wild Hunt.”</strong><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>13-06-2009, 20:09:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn couldn't help but laugh at Fionn's words, he had such a wonderful, clever sense of humor, and it was much needed sometimes.She could feel her stress leaving slightly, though a soft, wry smile touched her lips. "I wish we could escape, but the Goddess herself has called us here tonight." Her midnight eyes were thoughtful, considerate of what might come, her eyes taking in the details of how her guards interacted. It made her slightly sad that Roarke made no move to be forward in public, to be the possessive, passionate man she knew him to be beneath the court mask. But they all must play their parts. <br><br>"Tonight, I meet the Unseelie, lets all play nice and careful. Lira, you will stay close to me I hope." she flashed a warm smile to her friend and handmaiden before moving toward the door with Connal leading her on one hand and Fionn on the other. <br><br>Fae touched when they were nervous, though it was not a habit that she herself had picked up overly much, she did have those urges, which was why she wanted to hold hands right now. It was complicated, the fae urges and her human upbringing confusing her. When Connal pulled them up she glanced up at him, her cheeks touching with a faint pink at the earnestness in his gaze and words. He would protect her, and compliment her and support her. They would all support her. <br><br>And she would make them proud. <br><br>Cerridwyn withdrew her hands from Connal and Fionn, glancing behind her to Lira and Roarke, smiling to each of them. It was time to face the music. They were indeed the last to fully arrive and she went before the others, floating down the stairs like a dream in the dress that shifted around her so easily. Her starlight curls gleamed and glistened, with her pale skin and the dark dress and last ring of color on her eye she really did appear to be a creature of magic and wonder. Which was why she could hardly believe it was truly herself when she glanced in the mirrors. She paused at the bottom of the stairs, her eyes finding her cousin, the Princess of the Unseelie. Aria was beautiful, intense and darkly dramatic. Would she make a good Queen though? Dawn did not truly want to hate her cousin. She already hated her father, and being treated like the court broodmare was not improving her disposition toward him.&nbsp; <br><br>The jewels of her eyes flickered to the King of the Slaugh as Princess Aria approached him and then to the Goblin King. She would have to make alliance's tonight, she knew that. And her father would be announcing his plan tonight, with the queen of the Unseelie. There were whispers of it everywhere, but neither ruler had committed to it yet, to stepping down should either of the Princesses birth a child. And as if summoned by her thoughts her blond father moved forward through the crowd, at the side of the beautiful Unseelie Queen, a warrior goddess of a beauty. Both drew attention, how could they not, as they ascended the dais and turned to face the throng of all the fae in America.<br><br>"Our people..." Her father spoke.<br><br>"Our people..." The Queen spoke.<br><br>"We have great news to give you, as you have all felt the Dream, so to did we, the rulers of the courts."<br><br>"The Goddess has spoken to us, Danu giving us this place to meet in safety, under her eye." The Queen seemed more at ease with this then her Father. But then King Ap Mathoway did not have confidence that his mortal raised daughter would give way to the demands he placed on her. Aria must be somewhat more obedient and perhaps less of the wry, sassy sense of humor that so frustrated her father.&nbsp; <br><br>"We have among us two Princesses of the Blood. The Goddess decreed that when the royal daughters of the fae quicken with child a new rule shall begin. We shall have a High Queen and King, a High Court, to bring us back to what we were." her father's eyes had gone to her at the mention of a child.<br><br>"And we two shall support it. Princess Aria and Princess Cerridwyn, one of them shall be your future Queen. Make both welcome."<br><br>The fae turned their gazes upon the two Princesses then and Dawn had to stifle the urge to hide behind her guards. Well wasn't tonight going to be fun.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>14-06-2009, 02:10:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos turned as he noticed movement from the corner of his eyes, smiling at the approaching figure.<br><br><strong>“Good evening, Cernunnos, King of the Sluagh, Master of the Wild Hunt.”</strong><br><br>"And a good evening to you, Princess Ellaria NicArren." he replied, returning her courtesy with his own. "I see I have been lied to already." He paused for a moment, a faint smile on his lips. "The words I heard of your beauty are truly insufficient to their task."<br><br>Before he had a chance to compliment her further his eyes were drawn to figures mounting the dias.<br><br>His head cocked slightly to the side as he studied them, and listened to their words. <em>So ...</em> he thought, <em>It seems it is true after all.</em><br><br>When they finished speaking he returned his gaze to the Princess in front of him, raising his goblet to her. "Princess. Be welcome indeed then to this sithen. I am sure that you must find this ..." his free hand flicked out to encompass the room around them ... "all quite remarkable."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>16-06-2009, 20:43:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria smiled to Cernunnos, appreciating the compliments she smiled with a slight giggle. A giggle, yes that was what came out, was not something the Princess of Unseelie was known to do. She was seemingly surprised by herself in that and just as she was to reply to him her Aunt and Uncle approached the crowd. She knew a good number of Fae looked up to one or the other, but very few acknowledged both.&nbsp; He may have been a King, and given his titles respect but that was as far as that respect went usually with the Unseelie. She heard their words and nodded to herself. She had experienced the dreams, vague ones at that, but still dreams none the less. Something had been amiss, something was going to happen and here it was. <br><br>She let her attentions move back to the Sluagh King next to her and she gave him a smile full of charisma and beauty. A slight chuckle slipped at his words and she thought to herself,<em> “Remarkable, yes, unexpected, no, perhaps this evening would indeed prove to be entertaining.</em>”&nbsp; &nbsp;She looked idly for her guards placements before she replied accordingly, in the same sultry soft voice she always has.<br><strong><br>“Yes,&nbsp; very much so. The fact we are all in this newly made chamber is enough to cause that descriptor, let alone that the courts are joined in one room without killing and maiming one another.”</strong><br><br>She had purposefully left it at courts, as she did view all courts that were assembled, whether the others did or not. She tucked back an errant raven curled lock and wet her ruby painted lips. Her attentions were fully on the man before her, as she placed a hand upon his forearm lightly and spoke in a softer tone.<br><br><strong>“You look more than divine this evening, it would be a shame to let you get away without being seen with you on the dance floor. Would you care to dance, King Cernunnos?”</strong><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>17-06-2009, 18:20:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal's gaze was firmly fixed on Cerridwyn as she descended the steps ahead of him, gliding so very fluidly, as though she had done it a hundred times.&nbsp; He wanted nothing more than to take her, leave with her, be with her, show her that she was his, but this was not the time.&nbsp; There was no room for passion here, only false modesty and unqualified arrogance.&nbsp; It sickened him.<br><br>Connal sighed heavily, attempting to banish those thoughts from his mind.&nbsp; It wasn't going to make his task any easier, certainly, so it was best to let it go.&nbsp; For now, at least.&nbsp; He followed the princess to the foot of the steps, and she paused, drawing him to a halt behind her as he glanced at her curiously.&nbsp; He followed her eyes across the ballroom, his gaze falling on the other princess, Aria of the Unseelie.<br><br>It was not his first time seeing the young Sidhe, but it was the first in quite some time.&nbsp; She was undeniably beautiful, ethereal, moving with a fluid grace and confidence.&nbsp; Regardless of her split parentage, she was thoroughly Unseelie. Connal found that he was loathe to look away in spite of himself, and his brow wrinkled in thought as he watched her approach Cernunnos.&nbsp; She seemed totally and completely at ease, even as attentions were turned to her from all directions.&nbsp; <br><br><em>So comfortable in her role,</em> Connal thought to himself.&nbsp; <em>Will Cerridwyn be able to keep up?</em>&nbsp; He hoped so, for all their sakes.&nbsp; The assembled court likely had lingering doubts about her, having been raised by humans... She would have to work hard to dispel those doubts.&nbsp; Connal's expression was one of thoughtful concern as he moved closer to the princess, laying a hand gently on her back as the King and Queen began to speak.&nbsp; Such long-winded speeches bored him to tears, and he made no attempt at feigning interest.&nbsp; Instead, he looked around the ballroom, taking stock of those in attendance.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Haley</strong> on <strong>17-06-2009, 18:50:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Aria greeted and continued to flirt with the King of the Sluagh, he kept his hand on the blade, though backing off to gain a better perspective of those surrounding the Princess.&nbsp; Adham knew it better to be prepared for anything than to be caught off guard, and with the Sluagh and Goblins in attendance, anything indeed was possible.&nbsp; Finally, he pushed his emotions away, knowing they were useless now.&nbsp; Aria was the Princess, and she was required to be jovial and inviting to all, especially those the guard thought less of.<br><br>Watching the entire room, the Seelie caught the eye of Adham.&nbsp; Princess Cerridwyn looked as if she embodied purity, flowing from here to there, her smile infectious.&nbsp; He would have loved nothing more than to greet her, yet her affiliations caused his stomach to turn over, remembering the fate of his father, victim of a Seelie ambush.&nbsp; <br><br>Looking past the princess, Guard Connal caught his eyes, the expression on his face standing out.&nbsp; Had Connal allowed his emotions to get the best of him.&nbsp; Adham could see he was disgusted with something, and madly in love with the Seelie princess.&nbsp; So, the great Connal was finding himself in the same predicament the Unseelie guard was in.&nbsp; In a way, Adham felt a bit of vindication, knowing he was not the only who felt the way he had.<br><br>Looking back to Aria, he watched as she asked King Cernunnos to dance.&nbsp; Whatever the reason behind it, Adham would keep his emotions clear, not only for his sake, but so Aria would not be bothered by what he felt.&nbsp; The emotional bond they shared was a blessing and a curse.&nbsp; It gave Adham the ability to know if she was safe or in danger, and where, yet it also caused him to feel her other emotions, such as anger, happiness, hatred and love, even for those other than him, which caused his stomach to turn.&nbsp; Shaking those thoughts from his head, he continued to keep watch of the ballroom, making sure no danger came to the precious princess's head.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Amberghylles</strong> on <strong>17-06-2009, 19:33:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Roarke followed his Princess watching the way Connal watched her and settled so familiar and comfortable at her back as the King and Queen announced what they all knew already.&nbsp; The unseelie sighed under his breath.&nbsp; Connal was beautiful like her, and they stood, majestic and perfect together.&nbsp; <br><br>He slipped away as he reached the foot of the steps, sliding along the wall and mingling into the crowd.&nbsp; He was not really a warrior, any threat Connal and Fionn couldn't stop would sweep him aside like leaves before a hurricane.&nbsp; <br><br>No, his value to Cerridwyn lay elsewhere.&nbsp; He spied Aria with Cernunnos, already sweetly flirting with him no doubt.&nbsp; The half satyr brushed a hand through his wildly curly hair, rubbing the base of his small horns a moment and forcing himself to focus.&nbsp; As his hand dropped his eyes and smile both were lit with a wicked grin and full of promises of mischief.<br><br>Roarke turned then to saunter and mingle into the crowd, letting it's current carry him along and listening carefully to the conversations around him.<br><br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Moth</strong> on <strong>17-06-2009, 22:08:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">Shar's eyes narrowed just a little. There would be a difficulty in the dear Princess' plans that revealed their very core differences. Goblin blood rushed through her veins, mixing with the more mercurial influences of the Sidhe. Her kind preferred to dig their claws into what they deemed theirs, thoroughly owning and possessing. Hoarders' complex, as some referred to it. The lovely Aria, on the other hand, was a prancing about naturally expecting every denizen to suit her spoiled little wishes. Of course she was irresistible, and few creatures in the room could resist the pull of her charms. In fact, it seemed particularly suited to that arrangement; an entire room sporting all varieties of hot-blooded males with only a few prospective prey available. Doubtlessly, her fair ruler would attend to every one. <br><br>“Shar, please inform King Fenris I would love a dance with him at some point this evening, if he should deem me fit enough to do so.” Forcing her expression into a gracious smile, the mercenary bowed deeply. King Fenris, hm? Another who shared her own particular blend of bloods. Only he had managed to carve out a considerable position as the King of the Goblin Court. An interesting figure, no doubt. And an unmistakable one - he loomed over the other guests clad in a massive cloak that cast his face in shadows. And now he was sitting on his own makeshift throne, which had formerly been a mere couch. Nice to see was resourceful, if not very subtle. Her eyes slid over to Aria. She watched the beauty saunter over to what she recognized as the Sluagh King, who manhood might as well have been decorated in laurels and painted in gold for all he was showing it off. Well. Their engagement would just have to be exceptionally memorable, wouldn't it?<br><br>Sighing, she grabbed a glass of the dark elixir that possessed of an exceptionally high alcohol content from one of the passing attendants. Perhaps as a minor way to vent her frustration, she slid her sharply tapered nails over the back of her hand, ripping the pale flesh easily. Blood oozed from the gashes and dripped into the wine. As she came towards Goblin Kings' area, she sipped and relished the taste of her own venomous potency. "King Fenris, the Princess Aria humbly requests the pleasure of your superbly sculpted muscular form pressed up against her at some point tonight." She paused with a very faint smirk. "For a dance, of course. She hopes that you will so kind as to acquiesce to her desire." Her head inclined politely, but she kept her eyes up, watching the man's every moment with a sort of fascination. Tonight, she would have to watch him. Perhaps learn what it was about him that had allowed him to so ruthlessly conquer the odds and create his own domain. <br></span></span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>17-06-2009, 22:43:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her eyes noticed the byplay between the King of the Slaugh and the Princess of the Unseelie, to win alliances one had to barter and work. Slaugh would likely lean more toward the Unseelie, toward the court they had always allied with. The Goblins however would perhaps be more equal and she planned to try and play both fields, Dawn had been a political reporter and she knew one of her greatest assets at the moment was the fact that everyone would under estimate her. After all she had been raised by humans. <br><br>She knew the moment Roarke moved away, sighing inwardly. He thought so little of himself, of how she regarded him at moments she wanted to scream at him. At the whole court. This was America, land of equals, yet in the courts it was all about sucking up to whoever had more power. And yet, she and Aria had been named the biggest powers tonight. So people would be working to get into her favor and she planned to do something with that, she could dance the line with any of them and it was time to show the fae as the whole that the Seelie Princess didn't take backseat to anyone. Including her father. <br><br>Who was currently making his way over to her, she could feel his eyes on her and she had to fight the urge to turn and flee, simply kept moving through the crowd smiling softly here and there; hoping inwardly he would leave her alone. Of course he didn't though. <br><br>"Hello Daughter."<br><br>She dropped into a graceful curtsy, lifting up but keeping her eyes trained at his neck rather then his face, it helped that he was taller then her. "Hello Father King." she murmured back gracefully. <br><br>"You will not disappear tonight as you did at your first ball I hope."<br><br>Her lips curved in a smile as she laughed, reaching to touch Connal's hand and shake her head. "Ah, well I fear I was very distracted, as you meant me to be that night. I have no plans for such tonight."<br><br>"Good, I will expect to dance with you later."<br><br>"Oh, of course." <br><br>Her stomach fluttered in protest, but he turned away and left then, letting her inhale deeply, eyes fluttering shut just for a moment, as if she were considering something he had said. She was grateful for all the years of politics that made it possible for her to keep her face clear and serene even when she wanted to call him kinslayer. He was, she just didn't have any proof yet. Cerridwyn turned her head slightly, noting that one of Aria's handmaidens had gone already to the Goblin King, regardless, that did not mean she could not approach him. <br><br>Making small talk along the way she reached his dais finally and inclined her head with a slight smile. "Good evening King Fenris, I fear I have not yet had the pleasure to meet you in person, though the stories told of you are impressive indeed. I was wondering if you would do me the honor of the first dance, and perhaps, tell me a few of your war stories?" She tilted her head, the picture of innocent curiosity, it was something that had an undeniable appeal. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>17-06-2009, 23:52:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;In all honesty, by the time the King and Queen of both courts had approached to give their announcements, Fenris had settled into a comfortable position on the couch, almost to the point of napping. He was going to make little to no effort to approach anyone, given the populous' view on the Goblins... and the opinion of him was even worse, given that he was the King. Many of the rumors and stories floating around about him spoke of him being quite possibly the best King the Goblin's have ever had... though many of the rumors as to why that was were simply that... rumors. Given how most goblins were prone to blowing things up out of proportion, it was hard to say what rumors were true, and which were not. But that didn't make the man any less dangerous.<br><br>&nbsp;Eyes that had been fully closed would slowly open as a female's voice flowed to him, and it would be visible that his eyes opened, which glowed a brilliant white, though no iris was present (just like the pic). For a moment, they would rest upon the girl in front of him, and he'd slowly ease up into a sitting position, leaning towards the girl for a moment, as if studying her for a moment.<br><br>&nbsp;"Another half-breed hmmmm? Surprising... And you? Would you care to have my form pressed against yours?" -insert purposeful pause here- "... in a dance, of course."<br><br>&nbsp;It was a question to see how she reacted more than anything. But even as he waited for the words from her mouth, his head would shift just slightly to the side, gaze taking in the approach of the Seelie Princess. And indeed, she was breathtaking in her seemingly innocent beauty, though he doubted either of the princess' were truly unaware of their physical appeal.<br><br>&nbsp;"Good Evening to you as well, Princess Cerridwyn. A dance? I dunno... I would hate for the pureness of your image to be tainted by my simple presence, especially in such a close embrace... of dancing, I mean."<br><br>&nbsp;His words held innuendo, though truth be told, he had no designs on either princess. He knew that there would be plenty of suitors at this little ball that would do all they could to win over the princess'... and he would rather be approached than do the approaching, since he didn't want to give any leeway for what image there is of him to be dwindled further, despite rumors.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>18-06-2009, 00:45:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Dancing is not an art I have had very much call to keep in practice with." Cernunnos replied, a faint smile flitting across his lips. "Those of my court have .. different favoured entertainments. But I am sure that your grace will be sufficient to keep me from looking too bad if we step out onto the floor."<br><br>He extended his arm towards her, ready to escort her onto the dance floor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Moth</strong> on <strong>18-06-2009, 01:04:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">The Goblin King surveyed her briefly before replying quite easily, inquiring if she'd like to dance instead. Shar's mouth curved once more in sheer amusement, although she kept the rest of her expression carefully blank. The man might have just asked her if she'd fetch a glass of wine for him. Luckily for her, at that moment, the Seelie Princess arrived to intercede. Another impossibly lovely creature whose appearance suggested such alluring delicacy. King Fenris managed to once again rape subtlety with his request for a dance with Princess Cerrdwyn. Thus apparently forgetting that she existed. Dipping into another bow so she could hide her smile, she replied, "I fear a mere handmaiden's close exposure to such a virile hedonistic sex messiah would overwhelm my ladylike innocence. The orgiastic sex throes of pleasure would surely kill me. Good evening to you, Lady and King."<br><br>She returned to Aria's side. Or at least close by, around where Adham stood, keeping a close eye on the Princess. She was there to as part of her entertainment, after all. Eyes drifting over to the ever-vigilant guard, she watched his eyes and how intent they were on the form of the Seelie's flower, Cerridwyn. He was watching her very closely. "Would you like some wine, Sir Adham?" she politely interrupted. "It's my job to make sure all of Princess Aria's men are comfortable, after all. Can't have you getting too distracted by everything that sparkles and shines." Her gaze darted over to Cerridwyn before returning to his. </span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Haley</strong> on <strong>18-06-2009, 01:34:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Why thank you," Adham said, smiling to Shar, taking the goblet from her thin, oddly beautiful hand.&nbsp; "I am far from comfortable here, and will probably remain so until this event is over," he continued, sipping the red liquid from the cup he quickly chilled.&nbsp; Keeping his eyes on Aria, he pressed the conversation for reasons even unknown to him.&nbsp; "Are you enjoying yourself, here?&nbsp; Comfortable?&nbsp; Have you heard of anything that I might need to watch for?" he asked, his cool, piercing blue eyes fixing on Shar's for a brief instance.<br><br>Adham knew any information she gave him would have to be taken with a grain of salt.&nbsp; Shar's heritage was common knowledge, though as of late few took notice of it.&nbsp; Goblins are not to be trusted, and because half of her blood was the same, the guard avoided any truly confidential conversations with her.&nbsp; Yet, for a half-goblin, she was strangely beautiful, an exotic look which appealed to Adham a bit, and why, he never understood.&nbsp; Taking another sip, he extended the chilled goblet to Shar, "It is much better when cooled a bit."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>18-06-2009, 01:50:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal took Dawn's hand happily as her father addressed her, making no effort to suppress a smile as the King mentioned her hasty exit from her first ball.&nbsp; She truly hadn't stayed long, considering it had been her introduction to the Shining Court.&nbsp; The young, freshly minted royal had been eager to escape the throngs as they eyed her, apprasing her, sizing her up, and Connal had been equally uncomfortable... They had rescued each other, more or less.&nbsp; She seemed different tonight, however.&nbsp; It was a good sign; perhaps she was adjusting better than expected.<br><br>Connal started to walk along with her as she and the King parted ways, but he allowed her to go on alone when he saw that she intended to speak with Fenrir.&nbsp; The mere thought of her... <em>flirting...</em> with <em>him...</em> It was enough to make his skin crawl, even if the Goblin King wasn't a full-blooded goblin.&nbsp; Such behavior should have been left to the Unseelie, as far as Connal was concerned.<br><br>Careful to stay mindful of Cerridwyn, he stepped aside and let his eye wander.&nbsp; For a moment he thought he saw the Unseelie guard, Adham, looking at him, but he turned away as Connal glanced at him.&nbsp; He was an unusual one, Connal decided.&nbsp; Awfully dutiful-looking, a little out of place among the Unseelie.&nbsp; <br><br>Shrugging it off, he glanced around behind him, looking for the other guards.&nbsp; Fionn was there, but Roarke was... not?&nbsp; Hmm.&nbsp; He was surely making his way through the crowd somewhere.&nbsp; He was a crafty one, to be sure, but obviously devoted to his princess.&nbsp; Connal was still a little unsure of a half-breed Unseelie as Cerridwyn's guard, but everyone seemed comfortable with it, apparently even the Goddess herself.&nbsp; He would trust him until given reason otherwise.&nbsp; Confident that the situation was well enough under control, he relaxed somewhat and began to wander through the crowd as he kept an eye on Cerridwyn.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>20-06-2009, 01:23:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His words teased at the edge of propriety, lewd, suggestive and probably not even fully meant, just like politics back in the real world. Dawn kept her charming smile, if she had been a born and raised Seelie Princess perhaps by now she would have scampered away in fear, yet this was the time to make alliances, and she had to work at it just as Aria did. And just because she was Seelie was no reason to shy away from the dirty work, often digging around in the muck gave the best results. It was why the best authors and reports of the last centuries were called muckrakers after all. <br><br>The blond wondered for a moment if he was trying to scare her away, but her course was set and she wasn't backing down. Instead, she simply smiled sweetly. "Well then, if you object to the first dance perhaps another, later on will do? Dancing is the most delightful way to get to know someone new." <br><br>And with that she moved back, back toward her guards, sighing inwardly. Being Seelie closed doors on allies more then one would think, she mentally reviewed what knew of the courts, wishing that there was so way to make this all easier. It wasn't even like she wanted to do this, no, but everyone in the Seelie Court, at least openly, wanted her for their Princess, and would want a Seelie High Queen. Her eyes flickered across the ballroom, coming up in shock when she saw Roarke flirting with an Unseelie lady. Dawn barely controlled the flicker that wanted to lash over her skin, what was he doing? She wanted to march over to him and demand to know what the hell he thought he was doing. Not in public. Politics. She reminded herself and turned her head away, glancing up at Connal with a soft smile.<br><br>At least he would be steady, even if he expected more then she could give to him. "Since no one else seems to want to dance with me, will you do me the honor Connal?" There was a hint of worry in her voice, mostly masked, but it hurt a bit, to be dismissed by so many. To see Roarke flirting with others. She just wanted this night to be over. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>22-06-2009, 20:24:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal smiled widely as he watched the princess approach, and even laughed when she asked him to dance.&nbsp; "Oh, my princess... I don't know whether to be honored that you ask, or humbled that I seem to be your last resort."&nbsp; He take her hand softly and squeezed.&nbsp; "Regardless, I would love to."<br><br>He led them out and guided her close, leading them as they danced.&nbsp; Connal considered saying something, some words of encouragement, as he had seen how she had been turned away by the Goblin King... But in all honesty, he was happy for it, and he dared not speak for fear of betraying his true feelings on the matter.&nbsp; This was not the place for it.&nbsp; He only pulled her closer and continued dancing, leaning in to whisper a few words.&nbsp; "Doesn't this feel right, Dawn?&nbsp; Tell me you remember... "
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>23-06-2009, 17:57:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Princess Aria smiled at the Sluagh King and chuckled a little. Her arm slid into his with ease and comfort. She let her hand rest along his forearm as she moved toward the dance floor. Aria knew her guards were close and would continue to be so. Her eyes shifted back to them once to let them know she was fine and wanted them to keep their distance as she talked with the King. Adham was taking it well and she was happy to see Shar was there to keep him company. After giving one more glance around for her Captain's place, she leaned over close and whispered into the Sluagh's ear as they moved. <br><br><strong>"We all have different favoured entertainments, your grace. I am sure we could find and share many of those this night. We are all welcome here after all. Surely the Goddess, knows this and would expect as much. Culture helps one learn about those they do not know. We could give them a lesson in the Unseelie."</strong><br><br>Aria glanced back up to Cernunnos, her violet and stormy tricolored eyes fixated on his for the moment. She was willing to show him exactly what he wanted within reason. The princess knew he was a great ally of her court and hoped he would become much more to her. She was more than happy to give him the full attention he deserved and her hands lifted up to slip into place. Pressing her body closer against him than any of the more prudish Seelie would deem fit she smiled inwardly and wet her ruby painted lips.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Krule</strong> on <strong>25-06-2009, 06:54:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stepped back behing Aria to allow her to speak with the Slaugh King, though he was watchful, after all, all Sidhe were dangerous, he knew that not everyone would be completely resigned to the dream message, some would think.. perhaps the best way to get thier canadate forward, would be to take out the rival.&nbsp; He didn't think the Seelie princess was one, but he didn't trust the Seelie at all.<br><br>Still, the Slaugh were allies of the Unseelie, and one of thier more dangerous threats, it would suit the king of the Slaugh to seduce the princess, and end up king of both the Slaugh and the Unseelie.. but it wouldn't suit Keith.&nbsp; <br><br>"Princess, just remember, the last dance.. is mine."&nbsp; He winks as he says it though... 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Moth</strong> on <strong>26-06-2009, 20:30:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">One thin brow arched as the man took the goblet right out of her hand and drank from it. Well. She hadn't been expecting such trust from him. Nor such forwardness. After all, it wasn't her intent to poison him, yet he ended up swallowing the bloody mix of her wine. It had only been a few minutes again when she had dripped some in to enhance the flavor, so the potency hadn't been diluted. Perhaps he was immune to toxins. If he started coughing and doubling over, she supposed she would have to administer the antidote. Maybe on an ass cheek. For the sake of his health and safety, of course.<br><br>"I'm quite comfortable and entertained, thank you. Things you should watch out for? Good Sir Adham, you should be intently watching every guest and every thing they do at this little festivity. Our lovely princess oft has a rather trusting nature, after all." She smirked slightly in the direction of the royal comfortably flirting with the Sluagh King. Her unnaturally long and tapered fingers curled around the goblet, accepting it graciously. Meeting his eyes, she quite suddenly sank her teeth into her lower lip, causing blood to well up around the white bone. Bring the rim to her mouth, she pressed the metal into the cut until a thin stream of blood trickled into the wine. "My apologies for not serving it in perfection," she murmured, drawing back. "As a way of compensation, I invite you to enjoy this delicacy." Once more, she offered it, curious to see if he would unknowingly accept the antidote to her toxins or not. </span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>29-06-2009, 19:21:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn laughed in response, shaking her head, her bright starlight curls bouncing with the movement. "You are not a last resort, simply a second choice, one for comfort rather then political savy." She had never felt so alone she realized as she was led out onto the floor. The princess let him lead them, moving through the dance easily, her body's grace taking over as she all but glided. But that was something she had been born with, not something she had earned. <br><br>She knew what he was thinking as his eyes rested on her. His green eyes revealed that he was not as generous with sharing as the sidhe seemed to believe most should be. That he wanted to force her to remember what they had been, some part of her spirit did know him, had since she was sixteen. But just because he had literally been the man of her dreams did not mean that she wanted to give up who she was for who he thought she should be. That wasn't love. <br><br>The girl let him pull her closer, but her eyes flashed with a warning. "I remember my life, I remember myself. Caer may live inside me but she is a part of me, stop trying to make me something I'm not. If you loved me you would accept me as I am." Dawn looked, hiding the hurt in her gaze. Hiding the pain in her heart. Did no one in this god acursed new world of hers want her just for her? She was the Seelie Princess, and that prompted much of the attention she received, it was what had given her her guards. But Connal was focused only on his once upon a time love. Roarke was off flirting with others, the Goblin King had no wish to dance with her. <br><br><em>I wish I was still just a mortal girl....</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>30-06-2009, 01:04:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos gave a slow nod, almost a bow, lips curling into a smile. "I would not presume to know the mind of the Goddess, Princess." he said, "Though perhaps you and your ... cousin ... may be more fortunate in that regard. For myself, I am content to see what this night offers."<br><br><em>For I suspect it will offer much.</em> he added mentally, keeping a pleasent smile on his face. <em>The question is, who is willing to offer my court the most. I have no doubt that both of you would welcome me as ally. The Hunt still holds much of the old, wild magics, and would make a powerful foe.</em><br><br>His arms encircled the Princess, guiding her out onto the floor. His eyes remained on her, but his peripheral vision kept track of those who came close. It was hard to match the awareness of a true hunter, and he was without peer in that regard.<br><br><em>For all the darkness, the Unseelie are still Sidhe, with the Sidhe love of perfection, or at least the illusion of it.</em> His horns rose into the air above them as they danced. <em>Just how much are you willing to offer Princess? And how much are you willing to risk? Will your nobles stand if chance offers me a place on the throne beside you?</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Madalina</strong> on <strong>30-06-2009, 22:21:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The figure that entered into this elaborate venue at the moment that Dawn and Connal stepped out together into the sea of dancing partners was a tall one, though dominated by the tumble of auburn curls down across her shoulders and midway down her back. She moved inward a few more steps and the light revealed a porcelain complexion that was not marred by the usual freckles that so many red heads are plagued with. Her dress was chosen to blend in with the others and is no where near as grand as that which the royalty wore, though she carried herself just as regally as any princess or queen before her. Only Princess Cerridwyn and the rest of her guards would be aware this practiced gait that Kenzy was currently utilizing was a complete contradiction to the usual near sprint in which she normally walked.<br><br>Kenzy made her practiced progression down the stairs and instantly sought to make eye contact with Dawn. Once made, she allowed her diamond tinted gaze to sweep across the floor to take in the whereabouts of other important figures. Princess Aria was well occupied with the King of the Slaugh and the Goblin King seemed to be occupied, well with himself. <br><br>There is a moment where she does give a slight dip in curtsey to the parents of Cerridwyn. After all, her involvement with their daughter had been at the Queen’s request. Perhaps she had even been raised and trained to carry out the specific function of Cerridwyn’s handmaiden. However she had ended up here, she took her job very seriously and adored the Princess that she protected in a very sisterly affection.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>01-07-2009, 02:03:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal moved nearly as smoothly as Princess Cerridwyn, leading her easily through the steps of their dance as she jabbed back at him in turn.&nbsp; It was rather endearing to know that she had such fire within her, to give as well as she had gotten.&nbsp; Connal was amused.<br><br>That is, until she continued speaking.&nbsp; Dawn's words were serious, and he could feel the truth in them.&nbsp; She meant what she said.&nbsp; Connal had no reply for the first few moments after she fell silent, only moving through their dance by cold muscle memory.&nbsp; She didn't want to be his Caer, not really.&nbsp; She didn't seem to grasp that "Dawn" was no more than an amalgam of Cerridwyn and Caer, not some third person unfairly caught up in a strange world.&nbsp; This <em>was her world.</em>&nbsp; Connal's eyes were downcast as he took a deep breath, trying to find the words to answer her.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Of course, Princess.&nbsp; I apologize.&nbsp; I suppose we should get to know each other a bit better before I make such sweeping declarations of eternal love."<br><br>Connal did his best to sound sincere, but he had taken a hard blow to his pride.&nbsp; As the music drew to a momentary close, he leaned in to kiss her chastely on her cheek before breaking away.&nbsp; "The dance was lovely as always, and an honor.&nbsp; Still, I am already firmly loyal to you, Princess... You should focus your attentions on those that are more... questionable."<br><br>Connal bowed politely before backing a bit away, glancing around again to assess his surroundings.&nbsp; He noted that Kenzy had arrived... he had been wondering if she had been otherwise occupied.&nbsp; The handmaiden looked lovely, even by the considerable standards of the assembled parties, and she looked as though she were already in position and ready to serve the princess.&nbsp; Connal was mildly impressed.&nbsp; <br><br>He made his way through the dancing throng easily, but his brow furrowed as his eyes scanned the room.&nbsp; Roarke was still nowhere to be seen... And then Connal saw him, standing with the Unseelie, possibly flirting even.&nbsp; It was a bit uncalled for, he thought with some irritation.&nbsp; Someone of such questionable loyalty should have been going out of his way to establish himself, not cavorting with the opposition.&nbsp; Connal's expression was not a pleased one.<br><br>He approached Kenzy as she stopped to give a slight curtsy to the King, and he waited until she had finished her greetings before speaking to her.&nbsp; "It's good to see you, Kenzy.&nbsp; I was hoping you wouldn't miss the festivities."&nbsp; He chuckled and rolled his eyes a little at his own sarcasm, holding his hand out in a request for hers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>01-07-2009, 03:36:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria heard the words of her Captain and it made her perk a brow with a slight smirk inward. She looked at her dance partner hearing his words soon after and she chuckled a little smiling at him. The Unseelie Princess may have seemed to be flirting with disaster but she knew exactly what she was doing. She knew what powers the Sluagh retained, and she found the King more than adequate to entrench into an alliance, at any cost. <br><br><strong>"Of course not, your Highness. I would not think you would, nor do I or my long lost cousin have such favors blessed upon us, at least that I know of. We only listen to what we must and follow Danu to uphold all that is Faerie in its purest state."</strong><br><br>She leaned in closer to Cernunnos and whispered against his ear in the softest of voices. Close enough it would take super human senses to hear what she said from any distance. <br><br><strong>"This night many things can be offered to you, King Cernunnos, you but have to accept. Perhaps I may call upon you, to... discuss matters soon, yes? I would hate to ruin an evening of relaxation with talk of politics and such."</strong><br><br>Aria's hands lifted ever so gently to rest around his neck now, her form pressed closer for the slow dancing the music provided. At this angle it was more about the contact and closeness than just how well one could dance and she chose to take away any worries on left foot dancing and place his mind elsewhere. Place his mind on her and what she could offer. <br><br>The Unseelie were not afraid to show their sexuality nor their attractions, and on this night nothing would change just because the Seelie were about. The beautiful Sidhe Princess let her lips brush over his ear lightly before she pressed her cheek against his dancing close and whispering once again.<br><br><strong>"You move very fluidly for one who claims to not dance." </strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Haley</strong> on <strong>01-07-2009, 06:09:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The bitter aftertaste of the wine let Adham know what exactly Shar had done to him.&nbsp; Poison.&nbsp; Fortunately, Adham was somewhat resistant to the lethal substance, so when Shar offered the guard the antidote, he took a sip and placed the goblet back in her hand.&nbsp; Grasping her wrist with all his might, turned to her, his eyes sharpened and his voice lowered and softened into a firm, lethal whisper.&nbsp; Summoning the hand of ice, Adham chilled her wrist, speaking, <strong>"I have no idea why you would want to poison someone in the same court as you, unless...&nbsp; Regardless, let this be a lesson to you, Shar.&nbsp; Do you know what happens to appendages at this temperature?&nbsp; The nerves freeze, leaving them numb, and the slightest added pressure causes them to shatter.&nbsp; I'm not who you want to kill.&nbsp; Try again and I'll leave you begging for mercy."</strong><br><br>Adham quickly walked away, remaining on the outside perimeter of the ballroom, keeping his eye on Aria, who seemed bent on flirting with anything that had legs.&nbsp; Of course, Adham understood the reason for the ball.&nbsp; Making alliances with different courts would be necessary for their kind to survive, but he never agreed with the manner by which the forging of these iron-clad agreements was made, especially the Unseelie style.<br><br>As Aria pressed herself against King Cernunnos, Adham felt a quick flare of rage engulf him, though keeping himself from expressing his emotions in any way physically.&nbsp; Adham knew better.&nbsp; If he showed his emotions in any way, someone would notice it and realize just how to twist and turn their words to control the guard's actions.&nbsp; <em>What is she doing, making a fool of herself?&nbsp; Why the Slaugh King.&nbsp; They did not have our pure bloodline.</em>&nbsp; Adham would not be surprised if he turned around to see her next to the Goblin King, promising him a night with the Princess of the Unseelie.<br><br>It was times like these that Adham wished he had joined the Unseelie army rather than the guard.&nbsp; In the army, he would have spent his time in battle, emotionless.&nbsp; Life would have been decent, but as a guard, there were higher climaxes and deeper ravines, all due to being near the one he truly loved, the same one who promised her love to him.&nbsp; Princess Aria.&nbsp; Times like these reminded him how politics and money would always outbid the heart.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Moth</strong> on <strong>04-07-2009, 09:23:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">At the sudden grasp, her eyes widened, but not all too much from fear. Finally, something interesting was happening. <strong>"The nerves freeze, leaving them numb, and the slightest added pressure causes them to shatter. I'm not who you want to kill.&nbsp; Try again and I'll leave you begging for mercy."</strong> Oh, she knew more than that. She knew in detail the effects of vasoconstriction and the toll it took upon the brain. That ice could dull and intensity suffering at the same time. So vivid in her mind; veins growing thin and tight, the heart valves slowing. It was fascinating. It was exciting. Her smile was close to a grimace and endlessly demented. "Yes," she hissed beneath her breath, almost inaudibly. True, she didn't necessarily want to die, simply because there was so much left to do. But she couldn't deny that her goblin blood raced at the thought of agony - be it hers or someone else. Masochism was invaluable to the life of a court noble, after all. <br><br>Then, it was over, and he was sauntering away, apparently invigorated by his grope for power and control. "Temper, temper, Sir Adham," she called after him, taking a few steps in his path. "I had every intention of getting you a fresh glass. You chose to take the leap of faith, despite knowing what I am. If I were to kill someone tonight, I would hardly target such a charming and noble heart." But his attention was far from her and fixated upon the precious princess. Perhaps a good thing - he was touchy enough to challenge her regardless of Aria's attentions. Given his relative size and strength, he had a good chance to succeeding. Oh well. Her gaze and attention, too, were drawn to the lady. And even in her cold little chest, the stirring was undeniable. Oh, the girl was so beautiful. So aware of her charms, and yet so innocent of what she inflicted upon others. Pain unlike the bite of any blade or chains. As Aria wet lips the shade of arterial blood, her own grip tightened around the poisoned goblet so tight it shattered in her grasp. <br><br>She needed a distraction. A dance. Yes, it was a fucking dance, wasn't it? Her eyes searched the crowd for any potential partners, and fixated upon a most curious prospect. When she had only been a child scrummaging for her survival, she had heard tales of his kind. Lewd lecherous beings of old that brought chaos to even the gods. The modern satyrs were far more sophisticated, she had heard, but still blessed with incorrigible mischief. Tossing the broken pieces aside and holding her chilled hand limp, she descended into the crowd, sweeping past the happy couples to approach him. "Hello. You look interesting. Tell me - are those hooves suited for dancing? Or would my time be better spent going off and fucking myself?" Which she had to admit was a tempting alternative.</span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>04-07-2009, 17:59:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He wouldn't meet her eyes. Yet his words were the ones she had wanted him to believe and say for some time now. Dawn wanted him to know who she was beyond the fact that she was more then just what her past lives gave her. What about the experiences of her mortal life? What about her personality, his Caer struck her as someone who was always sweet and easy to please, who by his attitudes, went meekly with what he desired. Dawn wasn't like that, not really. She knew she was a bit of a smart ass, with a very American sense of humor and wit, a reporter who pieced together politics and read people. A girl who had grown up in the wilds of Maine, who had gone to the big city of New York by herself for college. A girl who had dreamed of him for over ten years; but didn't really know him. <br><br>All of this was confusing, but he, he was the most confusing of it all. Instead of feeling the comfort and safety she had when he had been in her dreams she was on edge, wary and frustrated. Part of the blond wanted to scream at the assembled mass of fae. They spoke of being free, of letting themselves be true to what they were born to be. But they weren't, they put on masks and danced to tunes that weren't true to themselves or the Goddess. <br><br>It was no wonder Danu wanted a high king and queen. She wanted her people back to what they were suppose to be. And it made Dawn sad that perhaps only a mortal raised female could see just how fake they were being about themselves as they tried to thrust her into their world. Her true world. <br><br>Her thoughts jerked when he kissed her cheek and then he pulled away, her eyes followed Connal, unable to keep the flash of pain as he bowed and left her. Alone, again. Unwanted, again. What was it about her that sent males fleeing away from her. The Unseelie handmaiden had approached Roarke, Connal was beside Kenzy. <br><br>Yet the break of her guard made it so that other males, Seelie and Unseelie alike moved forward to talk to her. She smiled and chatted, using her savy charm to enthrall those around her, but not really meaning to. All she wanted to do was leave. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>04-07-2009, 21:08:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;The Goblin King watched as the Seelie princess spoke a few words, and disengaged herself away from him, disappearing back towards the people who seemed to be her protectors. For a few moments, his pupil-less gaze would follow the form of the princess, the slightest of smiles curling one side of his mouth. He hadn't thought she'd give up so easily... but then again, she seemed much like a Seelie princess should be... polite and un-intrusive. Quite the polar opposite it seemed to the Unseelie princess, who was taking every length to make her desires known.<br><br>&nbsp;His eyes would actually slide to the side, looking at the Unseelie princess as she seemed to dance quite intimately with the Slaugh King. His gaze would remain there, interest only partially on the princess, and partially upon her dance partner. Of all the people here, the Slaugh King might be the one he came closest to respecting... then again, he only respected people the necessary amount to not send them into an angry rage... and no more.<br><br>&nbsp;Casting his eyes around once more, he'd let his gaze dance across the countless nobles, major and minor, all likely vying for the attentions of both royal females. A good handful sent looks of fear, disgust, or just plain disdain towards him... which were openly met with a toothy grin, revealing razor-sharp teeth. This was generally enough to make whoever was looking cough, and turn their gaze elsewhere.<br><br>&nbsp;Giving a slight chuckle, the King of Goblins would stand, abandoning his makeshift little throne, and would move his way along the wall towards one of the large open doorways that led to the balcony's, and he'd go out onto one, deciding to enjoy a bit of fresh air, away from the stuffiness of seelie nobility. And as&nbsp; he stood out there, he half contemplated the idea of simply leaving, doubting there were any true reason for him to be here. It was only because of the Goddess that he showed up at all, in a position to care little of what even the King and Queen thought... but he did show up, though there were no stipulations as to how long he had to be here.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>06-07-2009, 04:56:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn stood back from the crowd at first; he always observed and analyzed a social situation before entering it, particularly when the other Sidhe were involved. His eyes darted left and right, flashing in the candlelight. Walking to a nearby candle, he held his hand over the light giving flame, basking momentarily in it's cleansing warmth. As he moved through the crowd, his gaze fell upon his princess. She was going through the motions of being royalty quite well, but he could see something else in her eyes.<br><br>"I sense you wish to depart for a few moments, m'lady," he murmured almost silently in her ear as he appeared by her side. "I could help you to escape even if it is only for a few moments."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Amberghylles</strong> on <strong>09-07-2009, 01:14:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"Hello. You look interesting."</strong>&nbsp; Roarke turned to face the woman with a smile curling his lips.&nbsp; <br><br><strong>"Tell me - are those hooves suited for dancing? Or would my time be better spent going off and fucking myself?"</strong> The half-satyr's grin only grew broader, drawing back from bright white teeth before he chuckled and bowed slightly.<br><br>"Well m'lady," he answered as he reached for her hand and nodded toward the dance floor, "Why don't you give me a chance to show how well-suited they are?&nbsp; And if I prove to be a waste of your time, I will just have to find some means of making it up to you won't I?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>10-07-2009, 01:33:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos let a slight smile play across his lips as he felt the Unseelie princess press closer. She hadn't quite moulded her body to his ... yet ... but she was coming close to it.<br><br><strong>"This night many things can be offered to you, King Cernunnos, you but have to accept. Perhaps I may call upon you, to... discuss matters soon, yes? I would hate to ruin an evening of relaxation with talk of politics and such."</strong><br><br>As Aria pressed her cheek against Cernunnos he felt another smile forming. <br><br><strong>"You move very fluidly for one who claims to not dance." </strong> she said, before he had a chance to reply.<br><br>"There are many things that call for a limber body, Princess." he said quietly. "As well as stamina ... strength ... speed. It does not take too much effort to turn ones gifts from one avenue of expression to another."<br><br>He leaned closer, almost breathing into her ear. "And while I would no doubt enjoy the pleasure of your company, I suspect there will be a great deal of politics discussed tonight. Regretfully a King must place duty before pleasure ... unless of course, the two are entwined."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>11-07-2009, 02:28:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria heard his words loud and clear. She knew what he was getting at and she was fully aware of what it would take to forge such an alliance between them. She stepped closer still and pressed her hips up against his, her chest pressing into his and her hands roamed down his back then back up again. The thin fabric of her gown let him feel the heat of her skin if he so chose and her warm lips pressing against his neck surely would not go unnoticed. <br><br>A few gasps of surprise from the Seelie nobles in disgust that such a royal figure would be so close against a half breed King like Cernunnos was heard resounding through the room. Aria had heard it all before and didn't really care what the stuck up court of Light thought. She smiled and continued to move so gracefully with the Sluagh King that her steps were not hindered by the length of her gown.&nbsp; Her mouth against his skin, her warm breath along the ridge below his ear, and the soft words that followed were all she needed to say. <br><br><strong>"Cernunnos, King of the Sluagh, I would like to make you a proposition. I do want to forge a treaty with you and your people, more than you could imagine and I am willing to give you a place amongst my Consorts for such an alliance. Would it please, his grace, to receive such a place in agreement to ally your forces with my own?"</strong><br><br>Aria moved back slightly to look upward to his face, into his eyes to show her seriousness of the matter. She was not joking nor making light of the situation. He was an attractive man and she could find no fault in sharing her body with him in return for his trust and protective service. <br><br>The princess felt Adham's discomfort and knew he was upset with the situation but nothing could be done. She would have to speak with him later. Her guards would have to understand what was at stake and that alliances were needed, were necessary to survive in this situation.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>11-07-2009, 05:29:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When Fionn appeared at her side she smiled slightly to her guard, he was the one who so often made her laugh, eased her heart when Connal had her upset or Roarke did something she couldn't understand. There was something to be said for being able to be at ease and not having demands placed upon one. It was part of the appeal Roarke had for her, that he never wanted her to be anything other then herself, for him that was more then good enough; yet he was of the Dark Court and placed himself beneath her, thought too low of himself. She would probably turn blue in the face if she went over the reasons why she disagreed. <br><br>So with a smile she turned toward Fionn, one hand going out to lightly touch one of his as her midnight eyes sparkled slightly for him. "Thank you my friend. You speak the truth, about that wish, I'm use to being on the sidelines reporting the news, not being the front page." her wry humor traced through her words, directed at herself a bit this time. Her third guard to touch her that night was as handsome as the other two, merely in different ways, ways that appealed her just as the others did. Dawn glanced around the ballroom, noticing that her cousin was aptly dancing and flirting with the King of the Slaugh and that the King of Goblins had vanished. <br><br>"I hope the King of the Demifey appears this evening, otherwise we might find ourselves with no allies." A weary sigh parted her lips then and she managed another, slightly wan smile. "I could use that escape now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Madalina</strong> on <strong>13-07-2009, 18:12:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her head tilts slightly to the side as she watches Conal’s approach. When he reaches her side, she stands beside him comfortably. She preferred Conal’s presence. It was an easy interaction for her. His affections existed only for the Princess. He would never lust after another. And he was male, she had been raised in a more male oriented way than was good for her, so she always felt more at ease in the company of men. It was easier. Women tended to smile even as they spoke waspish words at each other.&nbsp; Men said what they thought and acted as they felt. Unless it was an act of strategic deception, for which she was always game. Perhaps there was not much difference in the games of males and females, but the games of the men made more sense in Kenzy’s head. What was the use in using such skills of deceit to simply belittle another woman’s choice of apparel or to judge their frequency of quantity of sexual escapades? <br><br>“If only I could miss it.” She replies in a slightly grouchy tone. It was not the duty that she despised. She would do all that was required of her to protect Cerridwyn and wouldn’t think anything of it. It was the wearing a proper gown and minding her manners that she minded.<br><br>When Fionn came up and addressed Cerridwyn, she studied their body language and became aware of a change in intent with her Princess. She had been going about her business before, but whatever Fionn had said and relaxed her. Her diamond gaze locked onto her Princess’ face and would remain there even as she continues to speak with Conal.<br><br>“I do not see any faces I do not recognize. No unknown guests that you have seen?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>14-07-2009, 06:32:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn grinned mischeviously and hooked his arm in that of the princess. "Follow me," he whispered, as he gently pulled her through the crowd. After a few moments, they arrived at a small wooden door, hidden in the shadows of a large statue of a rather obese creature.<br><br>Upon entry to the small door, they found themselves in the gardens, just outside the great hall. "We don't have long," he said, eyes sparkling. "I thought you might need a minute. I think that door was built for just such an escape."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>17-07-2009, 01:34:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos gave a small nod to himself at the words of the Unseelie Princess. "That is quite an offer, Princess." he said gravely. "And one which I think I must give proper consideration to. I know that in my place you would not choose to bind yourself so to another court without giving the proposal the carefull consideration that it deserves." A faint smile tugged at his lips. "Though I am sure we will be able to discuss the matter at some length, when there are not so many other eyes and ears around, hmm?"<br><br><em>You should know that this dance has many steps.</em> he thought, looking at her. <em>And you should not be making such an offer so quickly. It speaks of desperation, and weakness. And the last thing you wish to do, my dear, is show weakness to a predator like myself.</em> His lips twitched in another slight smile, the faintest slash of white teeth showing, as he drew her scent in.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>17-07-2009, 18:51:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><strong>"Your grace, I would not expect such an answer this soon. Just some food for thought if you will. I do realize this is sudden, however your work and you - as a person - never went unnoticed. The position I have been placed into, requires finesse and quick action I am afraid. However, I would not offer such things, if I did not believe in your abilities. But alas, this should be discussed more in a less crowded atmosphere as you said."</strong><br><br>She offered a smile upwards and parted her lips slightly before continuing with the dance. Her hands slid around his neck into his hair, pressing her body up against his in a sensual motion, while resting her cheek close to his taking in the warmth of his body. Princess Aria had noticed her cousin and the men who spread out around the room. She gave a quick glance toward Roarke and Shar and smiled a little. She knew she'd miss the court entertainer well, but he had things he had to do, unfortunately.<br><br>As the dance continued and the music slowed to a stop, she looked back upward taking a small step back yet kept her hands upon his chest lightly. Her stormy colored eyes shifted to stare up into Cernunnos' and she spoke softly.<br><br><strong>"Thank you for the dance. You are better on your feet than you give yourself credit for, King Cernunnos."</strong><br><br>She stepped up on her tiptoes and laid a soft kiss against his cheek, allowing it to brush over the corner of his lips. Only then, did she move away from him and gave a polite curtsy. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>19-07-2009, 15:07:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos returned the courtesy in equal measure as the dance ended. <em>Well, one dance ended, and the first steps of another begun.</em> he thought to himself. "Perhaps, Princess." he replied, "But I prefer to speak only of my skills that I am certain of." <br><br>With one last polite bow he took his leave of the dance floor, moving to one of the refreshment tables, and walking along it, inspecting the feast that had been laid out for the guests.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>20-07-2009, 23:33:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal laughed easily at Kenzy's reply to his sarcasm, giving a lopsided smile and nodding.&nbsp; "I thought as much.&nbsp; This is no place for us, I'd say, but our duties demand much.&nbsp; Cerridwyn..." Connal began to speak, only to trail off, feeling the awkwardness of the name as he spoke it.&nbsp; It didn't seem to fit the young royal, not truly.&nbsp; "...The princess seems to be doing well enough, or as well as can be expected."<br><br>The guard captain's eyes swept across the ballroom once again as Kenzy questioned him about the guests.&nbsp; It was well to know she was taking her responsibilities as seriously as ever.&nbsp; "Mm... No.&nbsp; Not many new faces, and they all seem to be together," Connal said thoughtfully, his eyes sharp and focused.&nbsp; "I find it much easier to watch them that way."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Krule</strong> on <strong>28-07-2009, 00:47:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria was left on the dancing floor alone a moment, and Keith watched her for several moments, his eyes on her movements, she hadn't done anything he would disapprove of.. in fact, he approved of her seeking allies, though he thought she might want to slow down a bit.&nbsp; Of course, Keith was quite willing to support her when she needed it, and at the moment, willing to take advantage of her being left alone.<br><br>Gesturing to one of the tables, he drew on his power over the air, and a wine glass came to him, he might not have the power he once had, but he still had great power, he was someone to be reckoned with in either court.&nbsp; As the wine glass floated to his hand, he fell into step beside his princess, and offered her the glass with a slight bow.&nbsp; "Is this dance taken, your Highness?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>30-07-2009, 00:51:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: arial;" class="bbc_font"> "Indeed." <br><br>Shar gave him a slight smirk with a nod. She let him take her hand and lead her onward to the dance floor. She didn't move as elegantly as the Sidhe here but she was not really here for show or to impress was she. Her stepped well taken, showing her skill in dexterity, and her ability to move without too much attention drawn. Her chilled hand, free from his, slowly thawed out as she squeezed her fingers into a tight fist before releasing them again. She had started to regain feeling once more, though the tingling pain of the digits revitalizing would have made many wince she sucked in a little and felt the arousal of it all deep within her. Pain could be used in many ways, most of all it reminded one of their continued life in existence.<br><br>Hearing the click clack of his hooves on the floor sent her eyes downward for a slit second. His differences may have been frowned upon by the elite but she found them fascinating and knew those hooves could be put to good use. She stepped in close to the Satyr and put one hand up around his neck. She was nearly pressed up against him as they began their dance. Her fingers close to his hairline as she let her nails scrape over the skin there, ever so slightly. Dark blue eyes shifted back to his face as she watched the man curiously. She wondered what made such a creature as he want to guard a Sidhe half breed noble and leave his birth court. Shar was well versed in etiquette and therefore did not voice such concerns but they lingered still. It was true, she was a little curious as to what he could do behind closed doors. After all, the Princess had him entertain her many nights in her chamber, and there was no telling what she had called up on him for. Oh, to have been a moth, near that flame. The two of them could have truly shown Princess Aria what gifts could be bestowed upon those willing to ask. She gave him a slow smile and spoke quietly in that same tone. She had hoped the light had not poisoned him, or if it had, she could suck it from his body.<br><br>"So far, so good... perhaps I should stumble to see if you hold true to your words."</span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>30-07-2009, 02:19:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn glided along easily with her guard, her arm laid lightly upon his own as she did just what he said, following him as he led her through the crowd. Of course that involved making smiles and slight conversation, a Princess must always be proper and polite, Cerridywn could not afford to be anything but, tonight was all about making allies, gaining people to her cause. Even if she was royally pissed at two of her own private guard now. Inwardly she sighed, outwardly she smiled. Such was the life of a royal.<br><br>She blinked in surprise as he opened a door within a statue's shadow. She would have never guessed escaped would be in such a hidden place. But a smile touched her lips, it was almost like sneaking about back when she had been a reporter, the wicked thrill of it made her eyes gleam faintly as they slipped through the door and into the gardens. She sighed happily as the cool night air surrounded her, and in her gown she almost seemed like spirit, fitting perfectly into the night gardens. "I do...did need a moment..the Goddess must have known that a Princess would, to make sure a door." She flashed him a smile and leaned to press a soft kiss to his cheek.<br><br>"Thank you for being observant enough to notice it and offer the escape to me. I fear the fae as a whole prefer my cousin to me." <br><br>She sighed outloud then, her eyes worried and a slight frown marring her brow. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>30-07-2009, 04:45:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;The Goblin King would be stnding upon one of the balconies that overlooked the garden, taking in the night air, feeling a subtle breeze blow across his flesh, making the edge of his somewhat worn cloak dance teasingly along the backs of his legs. Large hands would rest against the railing, gripping slightly as his eyes roamed over the gardens below in idle contemplation. Though as his eyes roamed it, something seemed to catch his attention through the leaves... something like the movement of a person, piquing his interest slightly.<br><br>&nbsp;Shifting his footing slightly, a single hand bracing against the railing, he'd suddenly jump over it, and fall the good distance to land in the gardens in a crouch, staying crouched as he got a better view of the people ahead, seeing the almost ethereal beauty of the Sidhe princess, and what was likely either a guard or one of the numerous admirers perhaps hoping a few moments with one of the royal girls.<br><br>&nbsp;Slowly straightening, he'd move forward, steps surprisingly light for the size of the man, and as he approached, he'd only catch the last half of the girl's statement to the man, and would give the slightest shake of his head.<br><br>&nbsp;"... your doubt weakens you... Your cousin seems preferred because many people here are thinking with a head that isn't upon their shoulders, and because she's aggressive enough to do anything necessary to ensure she is heard. And of course, being a princess, the first things they'll notice is the beauty of her nobility and flesh... same for you. Simply because she's easier doesn't mean she's better..."<br><br>&nbsp;The words were spoken from the depths of the hood the Goblin King wore, the figure standing in the shadow of a tree, making even his coloring hard to see, giving him the appearance of a stranger, though his voice might be recognized, if the princess had a good ear. But he'd still make no move to leave the shadow of the tree, simply watching the pair for a few moments, waitig to see how they react.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>30-07-2009, 05:47:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn whirled at the sound of a voice that was not Fionn's in the garden, her eyes going wide as she mentally cursed herself. She should not have spoken that outloud, or at least made sure that she had wards around her before she spoke. It was yet another sign that regardless of a few months to adjust to this world she was still not fully acclimated to. Goddess, she would rather be at the White House handling a scandal, or covering the dead beats of a rookie reporter then here in this garden in a fae sithern. She had to keep up with the politics, the customs, things that had been ingrained in all others here from birth. <br><br>Yes and it sucked. But that was life and she better measure up. Steel flashed into her eyes, midnight sky jewels as she offered a smile to the Goblin King, inclining her head. "I thank you for your words Your Majesty." she offered softly, a smile touching her lips. She may not have been raised from the cradle to this life but she could easily don some of the necessaries. <br><br>"And I see that you speak the truth as you see it, yet she snagged a King in her dance at first try" she flashed him a teasing, sweet smile, even though there was some bit of sass to her words "I however, did not. This a game, and if I can't win the right pieces..." she lifted her shoulders and shrugged elegantly, alluding to what could happen. "So...will you dance with me tonight King?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>30-07-2009, 07:47:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn's eyes flashed dangerously as he whipped around, his right fist clenched. His mind became immediately focused, and the fist began to glow faintly. <br><br>"Fenris," he said, practically spitting the word from his mouth. He did not trust goblins of any kind, and Fenris was one of the least trustworthy of all of the creatures. He had gained his power through less than admirable means, and Fionn had no reason to believe his presence was a simple good evening. He had encountered the Goblin King during his numerous travels, and the two had not been cordial then. Time had not cooled the Seelie guard's distaste for him. "I would advise you to show yourself, Sire; I almost killed you." His mind remained focused, his hand continued to glow. <br><br>When the Princess spoke, it was all Fionn could do to keep his jaw from hitting the dirt path. The Princess voluntarily trusting this... this... animal? He leaned over, so that his lips were mere millimeters from her ear. "M'lady," he whispered, in a tone discernable only to her ear, "You cannot trust Fenris; he has betrayed and killed countless of his own, what's to stop him from betraying your trust as well?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>30-07-2009, 14:46:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;Fenris would look at Fionn for a moment... honestly, he didn't fully remember the man, though a faint tingle of dislike was felt in the back of his head... but the king of goblins would simply lean against the tree, a slight little smirk passing onto the man's lips.<br><br>&nbsp;"You almost -tried- to kill me..."<br><br>&nbsp;His eyes would travel back to rest on the Seelie princess, and would give the slightest nod of his head as he watched her. He would watch as the man would lean in, and likely say something about how he should not be trusted or some other... nothing he wasn't used to already.<br><br>&nbsp;"... I'd have given you a dance when you first asked, had you simply stayed to show desire for it, rather than assume defeat and retreat..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>02-08-2009, 22:57:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I can assure you," he said, a cold smirk flashing over his face, "I would not have merely tried to kill you." The glow on his hand began to spread slowly up his arm, engulfing it and beginning to cover his torso as well.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>03-08-2009, 19:17:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;The Goblin King's eyes would drift away from the princess for a moment as her guard started to glow, what had once only been his hand moving through his arm, and starting to creep across his torso, and the man would lift a hand of his own, and make a dismissive gesture.<br><br>&nbsp;"So, you have all the power of a glowworm? Amazing... bet it comes in handy when you have to go pee in the middle of the night."<br><br>&nbsp;Obviously, the Goblin wasn't too scared of whatever the man was doing. Did he even realize what it meant? Nobody knows... then again, considering what he had to do to attain Kingship, he wasn't likely to be a man easily intimidated.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>03-08-2009, 19:53:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn watched the by play between the two men, curious of what the hostilities could mean, had they fought against each other before. Fionn was normally the most easy going of her guard, for him to be so angry said something. But at the same time she was in no hurry to dismiss a King. When Fionn called for his magic she stepped between the two men.<br><br>"Fin, I can handle myself, thank you. And we can not fight here, do you not remember the Goddess's words? Would you cause my death so easily? For what you do, is as if I did." Her midnight eyes were fixed on him, steady and reassuring. She did care for him as a friend but she could not let his actions seem to direct hers, nor his wishes to take place over what she knew had to be done. <br><br>"He is fae, as we all are, and if he gives his word he will follow it. You know we can not lie." Dawn turned her back to the red haired guard then, looking at the King of Goblins, her gaze steady. "I would thank you to not insult my people, and you have the same power King, if you are truly half sidhe then your flesh will glow as well should the circumstances be right."<br><br>There was a will of steel and a mind of a reporter inside her and she would not back down from the politics she found herself thrust into. "I would like that dance if you please though, I fear I tarried too long in the garden already, will you escort me back?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>03-08-2009, 20:14:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;The Goblin King would watch as the small women stepped between them, and then would listen to the words she spoke. Momentarily, his eyes would slip towards the guard for a moment. But then eyes would travel back down towards the princess standing before him, and he'd go so far as to flourish a bow, cloak flapping in the air.<br><br>&nbsp;"I would be honored, dearest princess."<br><br>&nbsp;He'd straighten, and offer one of his arms to the Seelie princess, waiting for her to take it, before he would work on taking her back towards the ballroom, not giving Fionn a second glance.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>03-08-2009, 23:42:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos stood on the balcony, half leaning against the railing as he watched the drama unfold below, and sipped from the horn he held. <em>Foolish.</em> he thought, giving his head a small shake. <em>Foolish for anyone, but very foolish for a guard. Breaking the laws of hospitality would be bad enough, but challenging the King of another Court. I suppose the only way he could have been more foolish would be if he had actually struck. He should realise how his actions will reflect on his Princess ... and if he doesn't, she certainly will.</em><br><br><em>At least she shows a better awareness of how things stand.</em> he took another sip from the horn, watching the Princess do her best to diffuse the situation, and nodded in approval. <em>Better.</em> he thought, <em>Much better.</em><br><br>As the small group began to move back out of the garden he raised his horn in a small salute, perhaps unnoticed, and then returned to the main hall to see what else was happening.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 07:32:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the pair walked away, Fionn could feel his anger recede. He had behaved rashly, he had been out of line and he knew it. The glow that had begun to engulf him slowly receded quickly, before disappearing altogether. He slumped onto a bench and sighed heavily, giving a weak wave to the figure on the balcony. <br><br>"Great," he muttered, kicking gravel off the path under his feet, "Now what?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>09-08-2009, 21:30:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Princess Aria smiled as she felt her Captain's eyes on her. She knew he watched her, she knew they all watched her. She could only hope they understood her. She wasn't entirely new to the royal political arena, but she was new to making treaties and such. She could only hope her decisions were seen as for the good of all, and that they were not for naught. She stood there for the moment thinking of what she had to do. Her eyes scanning the room, watching those who mingled and moved. She saw Adham moving away from them all and Roarke and Shar so close together. A small smirk crossed her lips, knowing that you could take the man out of the dark but could never take the dark from the man. <br><br>When Keith stepped up next to her and bowed she awarded him a shimmering smile with a small curtsy in return.<br><br><strong> "Not at all, my Captain."<br></strong><br>She took the wine and then offered a free hand to him in turn. She knew he moved with such fluidity that dancing with him would be like dancing on, well air. Which was befitting of the guard. After all, he was the holder of such a gift.<br><br>Aria could not help but wonder about the others and think that she had little time to give her attentions to everyone, mayhaps the Goddess would extend their night to allow for such introductions and revelry. She stepped into Keith's dance space and waited for him to lead. Her mind was fluttering every which direction leaving her unfocused on the man before her, and moreso on everyone else. Through it all she retained her look of nobility and regal grace, ever the beautiful Princess, ever full of grace and perfection, or as close to it as she could fake.&nbsp; It was a hard job, but someone had to do it. Her cousin seemed to be falling apart left, right, and center and part of her felt bad for the young Princess, but another part of her was glad of it. It made her lead in the game that much easier.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>22-08-2009, 00:45:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos moved gracefully around the glittering throng, exchanging pleasantries with those he knew. Other, lesser gentry had approached him, given Aria's choice of dancing with him first. Whether they sought to flattery their princess through imitation, or to seek avenues to power, he did not know. The novelty was amusing though, given that in the past they would have avoided him more readily than seek him out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>22-08-2009, 01:42:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She hadn't expected the flourishing bow but Dawn inclined her head in return, a soft, polite smile on her lips as she accepted his arm, laying her hand softly upon it. She felt back for Fionn, and she wanted to reassure him, to sooth down his temper, but she didn't have the time to do so. She had to look in control and smooth, yet she had managed to anger her two most loyal guards, and her third was flirting freely with others. Tonight was not going at all as she had planned. <br><br>The Goblin King was quiet a bit taller then her but she was use to people who were and she simply kept stride with him, all while appearing to guide. Journalism, meeting at the White House, all those functions now served a double reason and she was grateful for learning them. To think she was now equivalent to the President's daughter, or perhaps even the First Lady with the way things were going. The blond sidhe was certainly learning that all was not as it seemed among the fey and that one had to work hard and maintain control over oneself at all times. It was frustrating to see her cousin glide through this all flawless. <br><br>Her midnight eyes picked out the graceful, black clad figure of Aria, and Dawn wondered if she had any objection to being used like a brood mare. Perhaps that was unfair, to the people who had grown up in this life it must be normal, but she hadn't, and she had little use for those who thought of her as only a sex object. Keen wit, intelligence and at times annoyance flashed in the depths of her eyes, her normally cynical and sassy attitude was out of place as a Princess of the Seelie. To her everything was out of place. Yet still, the music was striking up for another song and she sank gracefully in a curtsy to the man before her, arranging herself for the dance to start. At least she had made one forward step tonight, gaining a dance with the Goblin King, and even if it meant bartering her body she would have a alliance before the night was over. After all, Aria could not fuck them all. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>07-09-2009, 21:39:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sighing heavily, Fionn trudged slowly back into the ball, although he was certainly not enjoying himself nearly as much as he had been earlier in the evening. He managed to put on a good face, fighting the urge to cut down the Goblin King where he stood. "Glow worm?" he thought, as he smiled and schmoozed with the various lower gentry, "We'll see who thinks who is weak when this glow worm kills him."<br><br>Settling into his chair at the Seelie Royal table, he watched the scene before him with some disdain. The truth was, he hated royal functions such as these, much preferring his quests and adventures and even day to day life in the court to these overly formal gatherings. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Amberghylles</strong> on <strong>08-09-2009, 17:40:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Roarke's eyes met Shar's as she drew close and let him lead her out onto the dance floor.&nbsp; The Sidhe, light and dark alike, gave them a slightly larger circle of space than most couples as they moved across the floor, but that was too be expected of them.&nbsp; The eloquent and intricate steps of formal dance were not what Roarke would have preferred, and he could only imagine that Shar would have likewise taken quite readily to a more lively dance.&nbsp; But this was a formal ball and that was not how proper Sidhe behaved.&nbsp; <br><br>"So far, so good... perhaps I should stumble to see if you hold true to your words."<br><br>His lips quirked at her words.&nbsp; "Now, now... you say that as if I would find it an arduous task to <em>properly</em> entertain a lady of your grace and beauty," he answered with a light chuckle.&nbsp; Then they turned and he dipped her with as much flair as one might be allowed in a formal dance before bringing her back up and briefly close enough that he could have kissed her if he wished.&nbsp; And as they were so close, he added in a low whisper, "I believe in a court where such as we would not be avoided by those who think themselves better and will do whatever I must to see it made reality."<br><br>She had not asked, but he had no doubt that she wondered why he'd placed his oath and support behind the Seelie princess rather than Aria.&nbsp; And despite his feelings for Dawn, at the moment he was suddenly very acutely aware of how close Shar was to him, and of every contour of her body that touched upon his own in that moment of nearness.&nbsp; Beads of sweat glistened upon his forehead that had nothing to do with the temperature of the room and a stirring low in his belly and between his thighs came unbidden and suddenly upon him.&nbsp; And the span of a heatbeat that he should have held her before moving back came and went with her still drawn against him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>25-10-2009, 05:08:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Once the dance was complete and the music had slowed to a halt Aria smiled to Keith before she curtsied, politely excusing herself. Her eyes shifted to glance toward those left in the room. She noted the absence of her cousin and a couple others, including the goblin king. With a few strides off the dance floor, smiling to those she passed, she stopped to speak with a few. She talked of small things, the passing years, the growth of children and such. It was very light hearted and seemed natural of a reunion of sorts.<br><br>As she passed the Seelie Captain of the Guard,&nbsp; she paused a moment. Her tri-colored gaze shifted over his form with an admiration and approval held firm and true. Aria was never one to hide such things. It was their way of life. In fact, an insult not to let others know you enjoyed looking at them or found them sexually enticing.&nbsp; Though, he was Seelie and that alone was nearly enough to cause a quick look away. <br><br><em> Play nice, Aria. Keep your enemies close. </em><br><br>She smiled warmly to Connal and stepped toward him. She gave a polite nod to the girl next to him and then she stepped in closer. Her voice rang out in a soft, quiet tone.<br><br><strong> “It is too beautiful a night for a handsome Sidhe like yourself to be alone. The ball is on sacred ground where no harm will come to your Princess, lest those who do such wish the wrath of the Goddess upon them. If… that is what you worry over.&nbsp; Perhaps, I can offer you a drink? Or a dance, if I could be so honored?"</strong><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>25-10-2009, 05:25:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span style="font-family: arial;" class="bbc_font">As they danced and Roarke’s body pressed closer, Shar felt the stirring between his legs and she raised a slender brow with a slight smirk. She had no idea she could cause such affects so quickly and her lips pressed close to his ear. The warm breath flowed freely against his lobe, a slight flicker of her tongue allowed a taste of his salty skin and she almost groaned at that. She wanted to bite, she wanted to feel his flesh between her lips, her teeth. It was more of an instinctual desire than anything, but she so did love that feeling, that taste. Maybe it was her heritage talking or just the intense desire to feel the pain of another through the rush of their blood and tense muscles. <br><em><br><strong>“Is it getting hot in here or is it just me?”</strong></em><br><br>Without another word she brushed her lips along his, her fingers slid up along his shoulders and around his neck. The brush of each slender digit found its way up&nbsp; into his hair almost roughly. She tugged at his hair and kissed him a little more forcefully. It didn’t matter at that moment who saw or where they were. Shar felt a deep desire spreading through her body and wasn’t shy about letting him feel the affects of it either. Her lips parted in a heated gasp and she pulled him toward a wall to the side, roughly pushing and pulling at his clothing along the way.</span><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>29-10-2009, 21:58:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After several minutes and a pair of drained mead steins, Fionn had calmed down from his earlier state of annoyance. A slight smirk played over his lips as he rose from his chair, the alcoholic beverages providing him with a renewed energy to mingle with the surrounding nobles. And mingle he did, flirting coyly with various maidens, giving the fat nobles hearty claps on the back, when his eyes fell upon Aria, the Unseelie princess. He smirked confidently, and moved to within earshot of her conversation with Connal.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>29-10-2009, 23:28:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal stood his ground as the Unseelie princess stepped into him, and he eyed her carefully.&nbsp; She had a way with words, to be sure, and he couldn't help but smile.&nbsp; Until she mentioned Dawn, that is.&nbsp; She was bold to imply what she had, regardless of how accurate it may have been.&nbsp; Connal was certainly not pleased to see his princess chatting and cavorting with such lesser creatures, but such was the way of things.&nbsp; He did not have to like it, but he did have to abide it.<br><br>The tension was faint in his features, but visible to a discerning eye; Connal had never been good at hiding his feelings.&nbsp; "As you say, princess, there is nothing to be worried over.&nbsp; I expect everything to go quite smoothly."&nbsp; Connal glanced sidelong to see Kenzy slipping out of sight, and he wondered at her momentarily.&nbsp; Turning his eye back to Aria, he found himself wondering even more.&nbsp; She was lovely, by any standards, but she was Unseelie to the bone.&nbsp; Dark and manipulative, she was certainly planning something even now.&nbsp; What could she expect from him?&nbsp; Leaning in just a hair closer, he regained his polite smile and spoke softly.&nbsp; "I suspect it would be an exhilarating experience to be entrenched in your devious machinations, my comely Aria, but I will not be a part of such improper behavior this evening."&nbsp; Glancing over her head, he turned a rueful eye on the pair dancing so closely.&nbsp; "Perhaps you should speak with Roarke.&nbsp; He seems exceedingly amenable to such things.&nbsp; You'll have to wait your turn, of course."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>29-10-2009, 23:37:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was remarkable really, how she could be surrounded by people, even ones like her guards who were sworn to serve her, and yet be so incredibly alone at the same time. Connal assumed too much, Roarke...well he was nearly making love on the dance floor with another woman, Dawn could feel the magic of his, the same that had touched her so briefly before, within the ballroom, and Fionn had pushed her to trying to save face before the Goblin King. Yes, just a wonderful night. <br><br>The dance with the Goblin ruler did not take long, she floated in his arms, as elegant and graceful as her cousin, and perhaps more so, for she stepped so lightly to avoid being too close to anyone, to only give the tease. Aria could lay out all her charms to everyone for all she cared, Dawn would go about this in a slightly different manner, tempting with what was not freely offered, holding it closer. Though, she thought ruefully as she curtsied to the Goblin King after the end of their dance, that in the end she might crave the bedding she agreed to as the price for an ally. Certainly she had no plans to lay with any of her guards that night. <br><br>She swept away, moving through the ballroom, head held high and regal, alone for once without guards to flank her. No, she did not need the men that had vowed to protect her, for they seemed only to injure her more. She wanted to leave, but the politics of the night were not done yet. Instead she swept her gaze around the ballroom, picking out the Slaugh King and approaching him slowly, weaving her way through the crowd before smiling as she dropped a slight curtsy to the towering male. "My lord, we have not yet met I do not believe."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>30-10-2009, 20:05:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sighing heavily, Fionn turned his back on the conversation. "Can't Connal have a good conversation?" he mumbled as he moved back through the crowd. "Wasting my perfectly good eavesdropping skills on that..." Walking back to the table, he leaned against it and surveyed the crowd once again, this time filling his wine glass. <br><br>In Fionn's mind, he knew that his place was here, with Dawn, but he still found the life of a court-bound guard to be rather dull. There were only so many things to do that didn't involve gossip, and he had no interest in participating in that particular aspect of this life. That was part of his attraction to Dawn; he felt as though she had little interest in the small talk that permeated every aspect of court, about matters so trivial only the most trivial minds were interested in them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>30-10-2009, 20:22:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos turned his attention fully to the Seelie Princess as she moved within arms reach of him. He'd watched her approach from the corners of his eyes, but it would be rude of him to not properly attend to her now.<br><br><strong>"Not formally, my Lady."</strong> he replied, with a hint of a smile curving his lips, <strong>"But all here know you. Indeed, I would be quite surprised if there were were any powers amongst our peoples that did not know of this night, and those whom the Goddess would seek to favour."</strong><br><br>His eyes flicked across the room to seek out her guard before settling back on the Princess. He lowered his head to speak quietly into her head, letting her head shield his lips from the crowd, his voice low and in a tone that seemed to hold promises of another time. <strong>"I trust your Guard has been counselled properly since the garden. Blood that runs that hot will burn, and it would be a pity to see your lovely skin so marked."</strong> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Amberghylles</strong> on <strong>30-10-2009, 20:41:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was flicker of resistance and hesitation in his eyes as she held close and kissed him, but the grip in his hair and the harder kiss that followed was answered.&nbsp; His own fingers moving to the back of her neck and gripping it hard, showing the great strength in his form as he kissed her back hard before she drew away to gasp and draw them toward the wall.&nbsp; <br><br>His clothing was tight to flatter his physique and had the overly elaborate fastenings and closures of most formal wear.&nbsp; And at her efforts his own hand moved to drag down the front of her, from neck down along her curves before coming back up to the neckline of her dress and pulling.&nbsp; He'd learned long ago that fumbling with a woman's clothes only let her fire cool, while tearing them always served to inflame her more.&nbsp; And in his suddenly needful haze he had no patience to wait anyway to bare her to his eyes and hands and hunger.<br><br>He felt his shoulder collide with someone, but simply shoved past as he jerked at her dress again, pulling hard and seeking to tear that annoying barrier to his lust aside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>30-10-2009, 21:32:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was handsome, this lord of the Slaugh, of the darkest that the sidhe could hold. And she could not help but find her lips touching slightly with a true smile at the soft one upon his lips. He played politics well, as well as any of the senators she had covered back when she had been a mere human. At his words she shrugged a shoulder, as if she could care less about the importance that had been thrust upon her, as if it were only a trifle. Inwardly she wanted to shriek at fate, to find a way free of a life she didn't want. Even the wonder of the fae did not appear able to weigh out what she had lost, her family, her own life and purpose, she had been happy before the Seelie had plucked her from her mortal life. And her true parents, her human ones, gone forever, mother dead, father missing. No, it was not an equal price. <br><br>Her eyes moved with his, looking out at the ballroom for a moment, her body angled to stand close to him, allowing for the intimacy of when he lower his head to hers. In truth the woman in her was very appreciative of the handsome, tall body he had, and she held none of the attitudes that kept others from enjoying the Host Lord's company. To her he was just one more of the fae, not any better or any worse then most. And he was better then her father to be certain. <br><br>"I have spoken to him, but men do not often heed the warnings women give. However it is my will that will hold out in the end, for I am the princess and he only a lord." her words held an iron will to it, the fierce spirit that her all American upbringing had instilled in her. It had not affected her too badly, being raised among humans, she was different but then all fae were different. At the words of marks upon her skin she had to hold back a shiver, thoughts coming where they shouldn't about the pleasure each of her guards had showed her. They all held back, left her yearning for more, for what was left behind, fearing her mortal raising had affected her pure sidhe blood. <br><br>Her eyes moved to the crowd, halting upon the sight of Roarke, so handsome in his dark clothing. He was all but tearing his dancing partners clothing from her form and Dawn had to admit her heart skipped a beat, her breath caught and she forced herself to turn from the sight that sent a lance of pain to her heart. Of all of her guards he knew best what she must do and respected it, he knew Dawn and cherished her....and yet he would fall to the wiles and favors of another woman. The sidhe loved too freely at times it seemed. But tonight was not about her guards, she would take them well in hand later, for now it was about alliances. And if her guards were so set to frustrate and annoy her she could well find pleasure elsewhere. <br><br>The blond lifted a smiling face to look up at Cernunnos, inclining her head. "Indeed, my Lord, you speak truly. However there is some pleasure to be had with the hotness of blood and lust upon the body." She thought of his voice, dark and laden with promise of what could be, perhaps what none of her guards would give her. If she had to sell her body for power at least this would be an honest bargain and not pain her heart with the actions of her lovers. "I wonder my Lord, if I may have your favor of a dance and mayhap more." she smiled warmly, her sky eyes gleaming like gems. "You hold to the Horned Lord do you not? The marks of the Consort from what I know, I would be honored if you would lead me upon the floor..." and in her words held her own hints of more to come, of pleasures yet sought. She could play this game as well as any sidhe.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>01-11-2009, 07:10:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;The Goblin King moved easily with the Seelie princess upon the floor. He wasn't quite used to moving in a dance, more used to the quick steps of avoiding some type of danger. But he was able to match his movements with her graceful ones easily enough. It was obvious he was no grand courtier, but he did suitably enough, given what most considered him... just a simple despicable goblin.<br><br>&nbsp;But soon the dance was done, and with her curtsy to him, he'd even go so far as to make a bow back to her, his eyes watching the grace of her figure, before she rose up and went to ease through the crowds to see about making more face to the nobles of the both courts.<br><br>&nbsp;Now he was left to his own devices, and his eyes would roam over the room. Of all the people there, a few stood out to his eyes. Of course, he easily recognized the Lord of the slaugh... after all, indeed predators could easily sense those of kindred spirits. But there were others of power that were there... likely guards, though for which court, he couldn't quite say. It mattered little, ultimately. For all his standing in the world, none save the two princesses seemed to care for his company at all... and even then, their interest was purely selfish, despite any face they put upon it. Idly, he pondered leaving again, but gave a slight shake of his head, and turned, smoothly moving his way back through the crowd, towards the couch that he'd forced into the corner, and flopped down upon it, reclining, hood shifted forward on its own to completely shadow his face. But despite his features hidden, his eyes glowed&nbsp; an eerie white color, marking his gaze, which slid out, watching the on-goings.<br><br>&nbsp;Many avoided him, but regardless of what people thought, the Goblin King was always watching... 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>05-11-2009, 02:06:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos smiled and extended his arm to the Princess, leading her out onto the dance floor. His arms easily encircled her lithe form, and she could feel the strength of muscle that lay just below their surface. His eyes and lips held amusement, a wry half smile that indicated some joke that appealed perhaps to him alone.<br><br><em>Yes, little Princess, there are pleasures to be had when the blood runs hot, but those are best kept for another time. And I wonder how you would react if I asked you to my bed. As a Princess, do you enjoy being the one to make the decisions? And would you bow that swan like neck and do whatever I bid of you in an attempt to win my support?</em><br><br>A momentary image of inviting both Princesses together flashed through his mind, and he chuckled silently. <em>That would likely be an experience never to be repeated.</em> he thought, letting his feet carry him through the steps of the dance, his eyes moving around them on instinct. <em>I wonder just how much they would be will to do in such a competition for my alliance .. or more.</em><br><br><em>Probably just alliance.</em> he concluded after a moments thought. <em>I lack the perfection of the sidhe, so a consorts chair is unlikely.</em><br><br>He looked into his dance partners eyes, and smiled slightly. <strong>"My apologies Princess. I was considering what you said, and my mind wandered into somewhat intriguing lines of thought. I'm sure we can discuss them at a later time though." </strong><em>When there are less ears to hear, naturally.</em> he added silently.<br><br>His eyes sought out her guard, then returned to her. <strong>"And while I am sure your guard is devoted to you, his fire will land him in trouble, sooner or later. I would be carefull you are not burned by it. Intemperate words may yet cost you what you seek."</strong> His voice dropped to a low whisper, his head near hers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>05-11-2009, 22:12:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				From the opposite end of the great hall, Fionn could make out Dawn, the princess he was sworn to protect, dancing with the king of the Slaugh! His hand tightened around the wine glass he held ever so slightly, but he stood his ground. He had learned from his earlier transgression; tonight was not the night for old prejudices to come to light. It was then that he took note of Roarke, who appeared to have managed to strip an unseelie handmaiden to her unmentionables, and in that moment, all of the frustrations, all of the anger he had felt previously that evening dissipated immediately, as the second in command of the Seelie guard let out a laugh, then another, then clapped a hand to his mouth and turned his back to the crowd, doubling over with silent peals of laughter. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>07-11-2009, 21:57:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She accepted his arm, moving with the King of the Slaugh out onto the dance floor, hoping that this dance, out of all of them so far, at least when well tonight. She needed something to go well and yet there was a soft of soothing quality to be held in the arms of a man who had so much strength both in body and magic. She could feel it, could see it in his gaze and the quirk of his lips and it appealed to some part of her that she hardly knew. But perhaps that was the part of her that was needed by the sidhe. <br><br>They moved easily together, graceful, and she held her tongue, waiting for him to speak first, she did not want to press nor annoy, no she would let him guide the conversation and this contact, simply responding when she thought best. Again to tease at future, at more, rather then laying it out all at once. "I would hope to hear your thoughts when you think best my lord King, however I understand the need to wait." Her smile was soft, her eyes understanding. He wanted away from the crowd, the press at the ball. But his speaking of a later time was encouraging. <br><br>She could use that time later to tempt him into an alliance, and as she danced with him, aware of the powerful masculine energy that radiated from him, she did not think she would mind the price to pay for it. At least, not if it was merely her body. She turned her body, leaning into him more as he lowered his head to speak to her more closely, letting the line of her body brush intimately with his and a smile that was purely female curved upon her kissable lips, though her eyes held a sad knowledge in them. "I know all too well, however I will not address it here. Let them think I set him to it, that it was my order that bid it rather then his own desires. I will not so shame myself before the courts, I am too new to risk such." <br><br>The midnight sky of her eyes shone as she looked at him and they were inviting. "For now my lord King, I would rather focus on words of fire and passion that you speak, then on the fire that is already burning at my heart by the actions of those I command."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>08-11-2009, 01:03:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A slender dark brow rose and then she smiled charmingly to him. His soft spoken words did ruffle her feathers a little, even if it didn't show. Her fingers smoothed back a stray lock of raven hair and she looked him over before speaking quietly.<br><br><strong> "I did not realize dancing at a ball would be considered such an improper behavior, m'Lord. If so then, many of those here must be heathen sinners of distasteful behavior, your princess included."</strong><br><br>The dark Princess let her gaze shift over her cousin as she danced with the King of the Sluagh. When the Seelie guard mentioned her courts former entertainer she chuckled out loud and nodded. Her voice held a sultry heat to its tone. With her lips pressed together and then she looked back to Connal once more.<br><br><strong>"It is true. Roarke is quite the talented one. You know he was quite the stallion during his court performances. I'm sure many ladies of my court will be sad to know of his extended absence. Though, If you are truly interested in his exceeding talents of such things, you could, ask Princess Ceredwyn."</strong><br><br>She stepped an inch closer, if it were possible, and whispered against his ear.<br><br><strong>"I'm quite sure she knows just how wild that stallion is, why else would he be guarding a Seelie Princess, instead of with the Unseelie where he belongs ."</strong><br><br>With those last words she let a hand brush the arm of his tunic before she continued past him with a wink. Her eyes shifted over the room and she moved toward the dining area where she would find some refreshment for her drink.<br><br><br><div align="center">*&nbsp; &nbsp;*&nbsp; &nbsp; *&nbsp; &nbsp; *&nbsp; &nbsp; *&nbsp; &nbsp; *&nbsp; &nbsp;*</div><br><span style="font-family: arial;" class="bbc_font">The rushed tugging and heat of his body against hers, made Shar's insistence on them disappearing behind the curtain all the more urgent. She had plans for him, for them, for this unbridled desire. Many of those desires would be considered harmful by many but she'd seen Roarke in the court, she knew what limits there were and she wanted to push each one hard. The dark half goblin stumbled back pulling him along with her and moaned out loud pushing her lips against his almost too forcefully, biting at his lower one until the blood trickled out. Her tongue lapped and she moaned audibly, tasting the coppery flavor of his half Sidhe blood rush to her palate. Her goblin heritage begging for more and her Sidhe heritage causing a slight glow to fill her features. The rise of heat flowing at full force, soon, the pair disappeared around a corner with sounds of pleasure and pain to follow.</span><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>08-11-2009, 02:44:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria's reply was sharp, but Connal could not find the nerve to be offended.&nbsp; Perhaps he had been overly cold to her.&nbsp; Perhaps he didn't trust himself enough to dance with the sultry young sidhe.&nbsp; He had upset Dawn thoroughly already, and now Roarke was off cavorting with one of the Unseelie creatures.&nbsp; At least one of her guards needed to show some restraint, Connal decided.<br><br>But as the darkly alluring princess continued, Connal felt his ire bubbling.&nbsp; He followed Aria's eyes with his own as she spoke, and he seethed to see Dawn pressed flush against the body of Cernunnos.&nbsp; Connal's expression tightened, and he clasped his hands in front of him as he tried to remain nonchalant.&nbsp; Aria's words about Ceridwyn being acquainted with Roarke's beastly ways poked and prodded at him.&nbsp; He knew that she had been intimate with him; it was not hard to discern.&nbsp; However, being reminded of it, and seeing the closeness and familiarity they displayed in public, did rankle him.&nbsp; It was something he would rather ignore, certain that his princess' fancy for the creature would fade with time.<br><br>Aria did not seem eager to allow him to forget, however, and Connal found himself too angry to move as she leaned in to whisper breathily.&nbsp; For a moment, the tight press of their bodies distracted him, and he inhaled deeply, resting a hand instinctively on her waist...<br><br><em>"I'm quite sure she knows just how wild that stallion is, why else would he be guarding a Seelie Princess, instead of with the Unseelie where he belongs ."</em><br><br>Connal's stomach dropped, and he grimaced.&nbsp; She was right, of course.&nbsp; Somehow hearing it whispered from another woman's lips made it strike him all the harder.&nbsp; He gritted his teeth and squeezed her waist.&nbsp; "She is only toying with him!&nbsp; She will toss him aside eventually, like the waste he is.&nbsp; She knows who holds her heart, I swear it!"&nbsp; His eyes raged, the concentric green seeming to darken as his brow furrowed.&nbsp; Finally he released her waist and pushed her away, which only ended up putting them a few inches apart.&nbsp; <br><br>"You will see.&nbsp; Everyone will see.&nbsp; She will not tolerate her toy affronting her so."&nbsp; Connal said in a tight voice, glancing toward Roarke and Shar as they moved away from the floor and nearly out of sight.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>11-11-2009, 04:45:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria felt his hand upon her waist squeezing tightly. At that moment she could have done more. She could have prompted more from the handsome guard, however she knew what she did say already had a profound affect on his thoughts. She smiled inwardly as he shoved her away and moved away from everyone. <br><br><em>Yes, everyone will see that she is no different than I. The Seelie are no better than the Unseelie, nor are the Unseelie better. They would all see we were equals. They would find out through whatever means it took. The Goddess and Consort knew it and she knew it was up to her and Dawn to prove it to the others.</em><br><br>She glanced back toward Connal and offered him a slow but genuine smile before she turned to see the Goblin King nor far from her. She took in a deep inward breath and started to approach. The young Sidhe Princess had grew up around the Goblins and such, so she did not find them distasteful or alarming however their methods of negotiation did leave much to be desired. This alone would be a test for herself and for her loyalty to what must be done. For Faerie, for Danu. Her gaze shifted over King Fenris giving him his due appraisal and appreciation of appearance. <br><br><strong>“Good Evening, Fenris, King of the Goblins.”</strong><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>11-11-2009, 18:37:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn saw that the Unseelie queen was leaving Connal's side, and seized the opportnunity, moving swiftly to the Captain's side.<br><br>&nbsp;"This has been a most miserable night for both of us," he muttered, glancing at the tense expression on Connal's face. "These Goblins and Slaugh are most a most untrustworthy lot; seeing Cerridwyn with them is enough to make my blood boil. She is angry with me, for warning her of the dangers of Fenris, but I was simply trying to warn her that he was not to be trusted."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>11-11-2009, 18:51:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Connal stood very still as Aria left him, and nearly gave no acknowledgment to Fionn as he approached.&nbsp; He listened, however, his eyes darting between Dawn and Roarke as Fionn spoke.&nbsp; He did not turn to look at the other guardman, only nodding faintly in answer.&nbsp; <br><br>"Our comments and warnings are likely better made in private, but... Yes.&nbsp; You will get no debate from me.&nbsp; Our Princess is going to bed who she wills, that much is clear..."&nbsp; Connal swallowed hard.&nbsp; "And the Goddess wills it."&nbsp; Connal's teeth ground at the sour taste of the words on his tongue.&nbsp; "But I would sooner have guards oversee their <em>copulation</em> than put my faith in such creatures.&nbsp; Let us hope that these liaisons amount to something."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>12-11-2009, 00:47:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The king of the Slaugh gave a low, rich chuckle. "Dangerous words, Princess." His comment could have been directed to either of her statements. "Do I speak words of fire and passion? I see fires in the eyes of those who would follow you. I do not think that they care for me so close to you."<br><br>He leaned in against her, letting his body brush against hers as they moved through the ritual steps of the dance. His head dipped low again, his breath warm on her neck, voice barely above a whisper. "If your followers lose their tempers, it is your reputation that suffers. One poor choice may be considered a harbinger of others." <br><br>He raised his head up again, gazing into her eyes. "But perhaps we can discuss such things later, in private."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>13-11-2009, 04:06:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn gave a elegant shrug at the mention of people being upset about her dancing with the Lord of the Host, her guards had lost whatever right they had to anger through shaming and infuriating her in turn through out the night. Let them know her anger, that they had fallen from grace, her more subtle rebukes had worked on none of them, nor had pleading, not even on Roarke. Luckily Cernunnos leaned closer then, and her body had a purely fae response, flaring to life and awareness as they moved so closely together.<br><br>His breath whispering over her neck made her shiver slightly, a response she tried to hide from being too much, though she clearly let him feel her fingers tremble in his hold. Let him know his effect upon, maybe he would do something about it, unlike the others. Her eyes lifted to his, realizing that he was the first one to so freely offer advice with no real hedging around to spare or coddle her. It was utterly refreshing. Dawn smiled to him, a true, bright, female smile and her midnight sky eyes were bright as they gazed at him. <br><br>"Yes, in private. Later, I shall look forward to your advice...." her smile deepened, one of tempting promise "and anything else my Lord chooses to share."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>13-11-2009, 20:52:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yes," Fionn said, distracted, "Let's." His eyes were fixed squarely on those of Dawn, which looked into those of the Sluagh King. "I can't believe I came back for this," he muttered, to no one in particular, although Connal was sure to hear him. His fists clenched.<br><br>&nbsp;"She's so new," he said softly, "She doesn't know what he's capable of..." Slowly, a glow began to pulse gently in the tips of his fingers, dimly at first, but progressively brighter. Unlike his run-in with the Goblin King, Fionn had no knowledge his fingers had begun to glow, not that he would have used his powers in the great hall to begin with. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>18-11-2009, 09:09:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;The hood was forward enough to cast a shadow over the majority of the Goblin's face, darkness being all that was visible. But when he heard his room, two points of light seemed to appear in the depths of the darkness, likely a bit of light reflecting from the pupils of the Goblin King.<br><br>&nbsp;"... hello, princess Aria. Having a pleasant evening teasing the men of the courts, I see."<br><br>&nbsp;She may have grown up around goblins, but it was unlikely she'd ever dealt with one such as Fenris. He was a goblin in blood, even if only by half of his parentage... but the powers and intelligence he had were far above the average goblin, making him far more dangerous. How else would he become king?<br><br>&nbsp;"And is there anything in particular that I owe this visit to?"<br><br>&nbsp;The question was asked, but Aria would have to be a fool to think he didn't already know what she wanted... and what she'd do to get it. He had watched her with the Slaugh king, and he was far from a fool. But he was going to leave it up to her to approach the subject. Honestly, he held no true affinity for either of the court... His goblins did work for both, despite who was in charge. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>22-11-2009, 20:39:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Of course, Lyranna was running late.&nbsp; The duty of a handmaiden was never finished as she was stuck doing menial tasks back home.&nbsp; She had hoped the other servants would have helped, but that was no such luck as the Ball was taking up most of their time as well.&nbsp; In fact, Lyranna was happy to escape when she was able too.&nbsp; She had to be by the Princess' side as this was the most important night of her young life.&nbsp; Lyranna had to be there to help her and make sure that all went smoothly.<br><br>Lyranna's gown fluttered in the night like a sparkling unicorn as she ran as fast as her little legs could carry her.&nbsp; The sparkling white lace gown wafted in the wind with each soft step that she made on the fertile land.&nbsp; Her bright red hair was mostly covered by the headdress that she wore as indication of her servant like status.&nbsp; Yes, handmaidens should hardly be seen nor heard by the class of people at the Ball.&nbsp; In fact, Lyranna basically had to sneak into the Ball and was only allowed inside the walls when she indicated that she was the Princess' personal handmaiden.<br><br>Once inside, the small red color inside of her eyes began to sparkle as she searched for the Princess.&nbsp; Moving between couples and any other useless body before her, Lyranna desperately searched for the only person that had ever accepted her.&nbsp; Dawn was almost like a sister to her and Lyranna would do anything in her power to seek out her safety.&nbsp; Hiding in one corner, Lyranna closed her eyes and began to search for Dawn with her mind.<br><br>She sent off comforting and familiar waves to the Princess.&nbsp; A small and subtle affirmation that the handmaiden had arrived and the Princess was no longer alone.&nbsp; Hiding in the corner, Lyranna stayed away from prying eyes as she watched over all participants ready for any of the Princess' wants and needs at anytime.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>23-11-2009, 19:11:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn glanced down at his hand, and his eyes widened. Backing up slowly, he clasped right hand firmly with his left, before retreating to a corner away from prying eyes; the same corner, in fact, where Lyranna was presently hiding. When his back bumped against her side, he jumped, whirling around, eyes still wide. <br><br>"Oh!" he exclaimed, "I'm...I'm terribly sorry. I didn't see you there." His eyes traveled up and down her slender physique, and he smiled. <br><br>"Although, I'm certainly glad that I did. I don't believe we've met; my name is Fionn, I'm second-in-command of the Seelie Guard. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, miss..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>24-11-2009, 00:49:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"<strong>We shall have to wait and see what the Goddess and God have in store for us all tonight then.</strong>" replied Cernunnos. "<strong>I have no doubts that it shall be a most ... unique ... evening for all and sundry.</strong>"<br><br>As he turned with her through the steps of the dance he caught the look her bodyguard directed at him, and saw the telltale indications of his burgeoning hand of power. By the time the steps of the dance brought him around once more, the guard was moving away from the dance floor. Cernunnos gave a mental shake of his head as he returned his attention to the woman in his arms. <br><br><em>You need to choose your guard better, little Princess.</em> he thought, smiling at her. <em>That one is going to be trouble before the night is out. Be carefull he does not drag you down with him, and end this competition before I have had a chance to see what you wish to offer to secure alliance.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>28-11-2009, 19:43:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"As my lord wishes" She assented, ready to wait as he should chose, to let him decree when and where. After all that was the power he had, to set the terms, but once the alliance was made it would be her who directed it mostly, at least if she was wise. She could always try to be polite and respectful, not just because the man commanded the Host, the nightmares of the sidhe, but also because she felt a genuine like for Cernunnos. The music for this dance was drawing to an end and so she glanced up at him with a soft smile.<br><br>"I ask two things King Cernunnos, first that you will not forget me nor our dance and second, I crave a boon..." her smiled turned playful, impish, she would set all her men firmly in place, enjoy herself and hopefully lure the King closer to her. "Would you gift me with a kiss?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>05-12-2009, 00:12:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria looked at the Goblin King and nodded with a sweet smile. Her intentions with him may have held much in the way of assumptions but many in the courts thought things of the Unseelie Princess that were not true. Only a small handful knew the truths of it all. She knew the Seelie Court did not prefer the company of his kind, many Sidhe didn't prefer it either, however her Court was kinder to his, and he must have taken that into account at some point. Her eyes shifted around wondering silently where her guards had gone off to but did not feel threatened by their lack of visibility. She spoke in her usual soft almost sultry tone when she replied to the male before her.<br><br><strong>"Teasing? I assure you no teasing is being done by myself."</strong><br><br>She looked around at the dancing members of the Faerie World and then heard his question. She almost scoffed at it but held back politely. She looked to him and sipped her drink. <br><br><strong> "Owe to this visit? Is this not an event to mingle and converse with the courts? I merely came over to refresh my drink, as you are standing by the buffet table. If I should have a reason for speaking to you, King Fenris of the Goblins, I would ask you to dance if I knew you would be obliging in such frivolities, however I believe you have other assumptions in mind."</strong><br><br>She felt an urge to turn from him then and walk away but she knew the need for his alliance would be strong if the courts should ever go to war. The dark Sidhe smiled charmingly and sipped from her glass watching those who pass, nodding to each who look her way, and noting just what her cousin's guards were each doing as well as herself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>05-12-2009, 06:16:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;Fenris would simply watch Aria for a few moments, sitting on his little&nbsp; couch-made-throne, giving the slightest shake of his head after a moment. It was true that the Unseelie court had been a bit more kind to the Goblins, though both courts used the power of the goblins, whether for war power, or simple cheap labor. At some point, both courts would need the goblins, regardless of who had the alliance... and as things stood, he should likely lean more towards the Unseelie court, just on past kindnesses. <br><br>&nbsp;But Fenris was the king... and he would decide what would be best for himself and his court, unsavory as it might be.<br><br>&nbsp;"Ah, well, how silly of me to dare to try and know the mind of a woman..." <br><br>&nbsp;Fenris heard her words, yet he wasn't fooled. But if the princess wished to play these little games, he'd do such as well. <br><br>&nbsp;"Well, your cousin asked for a dance... though of course you'd likely know that. But since you haven't done such a thing, should I take that to mean you feel there is nothing of importance to discuss with me? Understandable... after all, the only person who seems to find true worth in my court is myself. At least, judging from the reactions of all your fellow fae."<br><br>&nbsp;And indeed, it was far from a look of welcome that the majority of the court was giving him. It mattered little if they were noble or servant, men and women of the fae courts alike looked at the King of the Goblins with looks of disgust, fear, or simply contempt. And in actuality, it was easy to find the man, since even given how packed the ballroom was, there was easily a wide aura around the man, easily 20 feet of clearance between the King and the edge of the crowd, as if they feared catching something if they came closer... and many seemed a little shocked that the Unseelie princess was so close to him, given the monstrosity that he was.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>06-12-2009, 01:12:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"<strong>Believe me, Princess</strong>," Cerunnos replied, "<strong>I doubt that anyone will forget any part of this night.</strong>" His lips were formed into a curl of amusement, his tone not quite mocking, but well aware of just how unique this night was. <strong>"And I do not think I will be forgetting you any time soon. After all, we will be seeing more of each other before the dawn, will we not?"</strong><br><br>As the music came to an end he took her hand in his, raising it to his lips, and brushing them across it, keeping his eyes fixed on hers, and letting a little spill of his power dance across the connection between them. He straightened back up, smiling still. "<strong>I hope you enjoy the rest of your dancing this evening Princess.</strong>" There was an almost undetectable pause before 'dancing'. "<strong>Until later then.</strong>"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>06-12-2009, 02:06:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He seemed wry, almost as if he believed she wasn't being truthful in her offer and interest in him. Of course other sidhe would disdain him, he wasn't full blood, she knew that, but she wasn't like them. It was time the courts realized that, for better or worse she had been raised among humans, she was their Princess but she was not like them. "I certainly hope we do see each other, you have been my best dance partner this evening."<br><br>She smiled as he merely kissed her hand, their eyes fixed on each other, and she let her eyes shine in response to the power she felt from him, though she tsked, wry herself now. "I had not expected you to be so tame my lord, though I doubt I shall find another partner so enjoyable as you. I'll await your word." She dipped a curtsy, elegantly and then turned, gliding off. She had laid herself out before him, extended the offer, and he had accepted; now it was merely time to wait. <br><br>Her eyes found Lyra, and she sped toward her, nodding her head coolly at Fionn, not quiet over her displeasure with him trying to tell her what to do in the gardens. "Lyra...I have need of you my friend.."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>08-12-2009, 21:36:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyranna had been spotted.&nbsp; She had thought that her hiding spot would be enough to keep her out of view for most of the patrons at the Ball.&nbsp; Who would care or be interested in stealing glances at such a low class servant?&nbsp; She had nothing to offer any perspective partners.&nbsp; She had no title, no land nor any money to her name.&nbsp; Lyranna only had her menial duties as the Princesses' official handmaiden.&nbsp; It was her life and all that she knew.<br><br>Lyranna couldn't say a word to the knight who had bumped into her.&nbsp; Thankfully, the lace of her white headdress covered most of her face as it hid the bright red that had suddenly appeared on her cheeks.&nbsp; Looking around, her soft voice that was hardly above a whisper stammered and stuttered her response to his words.&nbsp; She was here to help the Princess and nothing more.&nbsp; She wasn't educated in the art of men nor the fine intricacies of interactions.&nbsp; Swallowing, the lump in her throat, she desperately tried to think of a response to his words.<br><br>"Sir.....No......Um.....I......I'm Sorry....."<br><br>It was at that moment that Lyranna saw the Princess fleeing towards her.&nbsp; Breathing a sigh of relief, Lyranna could tell she was in need of attention.&nbsp; When the young royalty approached her, Lyranna lowered her head to the floor as she lowered herself in a diminutive curtsy.&nbsp; Keeping her eyes to the floor, the handmaiden was still nervous from all the attention and activity of the Ball.&nbsp; Maybe taking away the Princess to some place secluded come help clear her head and heart.<br><br>"Yes, Princess.&nbsp; Would it be prudent to escape to a refuge away from such prying eyes?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>08-12-2009, 22:32:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn watched the young woman before him dart off and smiled. "Handmaidens," he said with a laugh, "I don't know what I do to make them so darned nervous." Having nothing better to do, he followed the girl onto the dance floor, stopping to grab a rose from a vase on a table on his way. <br><br>"We already tried that once," he said softly, appearing beside Dawn with a bow as he offered her the rose. "Please take this as a humble apology for my behavior in the garden. It will not happen again." He smiled hopefully at her. <br><br>"Now, as for an escape," he said glancing around as though the nobility around him was full of spies, "We can't go to the garden, too visible. We could try going out through the kitchen, or perhaps we could head to her majesty's chambers."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Josietta</strong> on <strong>11-12-2009, 00:49:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aria stood there quietly listening to the Goblin King speak as some modern mortals would describe as an emo tone. <em>No one finds my true worth, no one thinks I'm important, wah wah.</em> She nearly rolled her eyes and instead gave him a brief smile. One delicate hand reached out to brush over his arm lightly as she spoke softly next to him.<br><br><strong>"You are worth more to many people, King Fenris. You should realize this and know that others do indeed know your worth. However undermining those who wish to prove such to others is not exactly a wise thing for a ruler to do. As I am sure you know and would be careful of in a different setting. However, we are here and I'm afraid I must be going. This evening is drawing to a close and I have much to do. It was nice to see you again. Perhaps the next time will be under business terms, yes?" </strong><br><br>As she stepped up on her tiptoes, Aria kissed his cheek lightly before whispering into his ear, the sweet smell of her skin close to his face.<br><br><strong>"Have a good night, your grace. May we meet again soon, Fenris, King of the Goblins."</strong><br><br>With the simple words spoken she sat her now empty glass down and turned to exit the room. She paused a moment to glance out over the crowd once and then continued on with polite nods to those who looked her way. The Unseelie Princess awarded smiles to all and walked through the exit surrounded by her guards and entourage.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>17-12-2009, 03:02:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos retrieved another glass from a passing servant and moved across the room, into the line of sight of the Goblin King before approaching him. At a little more than arms reach he stopped, and gave a slow nod, the gesture of one ruler to another. <strong>"Hail Fenris, Goblin King."</strong> he said, raising the glass first in salute, then to his lips to sip from.<br><br><strong>"An interesting night, is it not?"</strong> He glanced around at the throngs of sidhe nobility. <strong>"I do not think too many would have believed if they had been told in advance what the night would hold."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>22-12-2009, 23:32:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When Dawn reached Lyranna she had to withhold a sigh, she still had yet to convince Lyra that she didn't have to curtsy so low, or at all to her. And for the ball, perhaps it was a good idea that she did, but she wanted Lyra to be her friend, to be as much an equal as she could, Dawn was already sickly aware of how she was a Princess and that there was no escape from that. Instead the blond summoned a smile to her lips for the handmaiden, reaching to twine their arms together, taking a very fae comfort from the shared touch.&nbsp; <br><br>"I think it would be prudent to retire for the night honestly Lyra, I've done as much as I can do tonight, and Aria left already..." she trailed off as Fionn approached them, her eyes wary, she didn't want to have to give another public rebuke to anyone.<br><br>When the guard offered her the rose she accepted it, lifting the white rose to her nose to inhale the soft scent. Roses were lovely, though orchids and lilies were favored by her above them, and she gave him a soft smile as he apologized, she did not want bad blood between them. "Thank you Fionn, I hope you realize I was only acting as I must, as your Princess, as the Seelie Princess."<br><br>And how entrapped within that was she? Too much so, horribly so. She wanted free, but that would never happen. "My chambers, yes, that was what I was thinking. Princess Aria has retired, and I have a promise of an audience of sorts with the Slaugh King later, I would retire and prepare. Would you find Connal and the others?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>25-12-2009, 01:22:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;Even if he hadn't been watching the man when he approached, he would have known the Slaugh King was coming just by the feeling of the air changing. The feel of the air was different around people like him and Cernnunos. Danger almost like a faint scent in the air. But a slight nod of his head would be given to the King. He was likely one of the only people the Goblin King had any real respect for.<br><br>&nbsp;"Interesting? I suppose so. I really don't know why I bothered showing up though. To watch the princesses try to outdo each other and try to secure their place by playing to us?" shakes His head slightly. "I honestly could care less who wins..." His eyes would glance towards the man momentarily. "... though you seem to have gotten well enough into the game their playing." Quite the opposite of Fenris, really.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>28-12-2009, 01:06:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos gave a soft chuckle. "<strong>I suspect that politics tend to be somewhat more direct amongst your subjects.</strong>" He took a sip from his glass before continuing. "<strong>Though no less bloody, when the dust settles.</strong>" He glanced around, but the combination of the Kings of the Goblins and Sluagh in one place ensured a degree of privacy that would be unmatched anywhere else.<br><br>"<strong>Still, I suspect you have more of an interest in how things play out than you pretend. After all, if our support is required, then we are in a position of rare strength, are we not?</strong>"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>28-12-2009, 19:47:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn nodded, biting his tongue silently so as not to alert the princess to his feelings regarding Cernunos, and quickly departed, still fighting the urge to say something, anything in protest of her decision. "As you wish, m'lady," he said, bowing before departing coldly to find Connal.<br><br>"What is she thinking?" he muttered, pushing roughly through the crowd, eyes flashing, "If she'd listen to us, she'd know that he's NOT to be trusted." Finding Connal, he grabbed him by the shoulder and whipped him around. <br><br>"C'mon," he grunted, "She wants us, I'll fill you in on the way."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 08:02:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;Fenris would momentarily turn His gaze towards the Slaugh Kings eyes, and study him momentarily, and then would lean back upon His couch a little more. The hood somehow shifted forward on its own, to shadow more of his features, but the glow of His eyes was impossible to miss.<br><br>&nbsp;"Only for as long as the game is played. And while its somewhat amusing, picturing the princesses dancing to the tune of someone else for once, in the end, its only until they take full control. Then things pretty much return to how they've been, since the power they'll have needed will be of little matter anymore."<br><br>&nbsp;Fenris obviously put the worse scenario into his mind. Some might consider it pessimistic, or perhaps realistic. If nothing else, it helped prepare him for the worse case scenario. Of course, things rarely played out as badly as one thought they would. But it never hurt to be prepared.<br><br>&nbsp;"And regardless, what would you hope to attain from it? Either princess could offer you plenty from their court... so ultimately it boils down to whether your more fond of the dark Unseelie or the light Seelie."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>29-12-2009, 15:24:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cernunnos listened as the Goblin King spoke, nodding in places. "<strong>Your words have a degree of merit to them, but I believe you are thinking of this situation as you would dealing with other Goblins. Any promise made by the Princess that succeeds will be just as binding on her while she sits on the throne as it does the moment it leaves her lips. If your strength is required to help her take the throne, then that allows you to set the price of that help. Or you can wait and see what offers they make you. I cannot say what it is you, or your court, might benefit the most from receiving.</strong>"<br><br>He gave a small shrug, then took a sip from the goblet he held. "<strong>Of course, you have the option of not playing the game at all. Though I suppose that is still playing the game, in it's own way.</strong>"<br><br>He turned slightly, looking out of the crowd, before returning his gaze to the Goblin King. "<strong>I cannot say I know either Princess that well.</strong>" <em>Though I suspect that may change before the dawn.</em> he added, mentally. <strong>"Regardless of my own feelings, I must also consider what is best for my court and people. Our ... association ... to the Unseelie court is known to all, but I do not think the Unseelie Princess foolish enough to count on my support automatically. Perhaps she feels it gives her an edge though, one her cousin will have to work to overcome."</strong> He gave another small shrug.<br><br><strong>"We shall simply have to see what happens."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 00:39:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyranna was observant of Aria departing the ball so soon and the young handmaiden knew that Dawn would not be far along.&nbsp; It was growing late into the night and it would not be best for the ladies to tire themselves out so quickly.&nbsp; With a nod of her head, Lyranna entangled her arm along with Dawn as she began to lead the Princess to her chambers.<br><br>"If that is the Princess' wishes..."<br><br>Lyra made sure to give the Princess the warmest of touches and to help ease any of her pain.&nbsp; Her soft touch was used to help the royal lady ease any tension or confusion that may have occurred throughout the evening.&nbsp; If the Princess needed a shoulder to lean on or even a ear to listen, the handmaiden was more than willing to help her as much as she could.&nbsp; Lyra was the friendly face and gentle smile that was needed to help quell any doubt inside of her crowded head.<br><br>Once further away from the crowds, Lyra finally began to crack under the formal guard.&nbsp; It is not her right to question the Princess' decisions, but Lyra had know Dawn for far too long.&nbsp; She was not a young handmaiden with fresh and wide eyes.&nbsp; Lyra knew Dawn as well as a sister or the closest of friends.&nbsp; However, she could not help the shaking lips and the fearful words as they dripped from her lips.&nbsp; She was worried and scared for what the Princess had told her personal knights.<br><br>"Princess, is it wise to promise an audience with the...Slaugh King?&nbsp; Is that the...wisest decision, my lady?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wistful Dream</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 02:39:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was a relief to leave the ball, and she thought a statement of her trust in her guards that she had left them behind to follow as they would. Dawn didn't need a large group of people dancing in attendance upon her, but she was glad to have Lyranna with her, and to have a moment alone with her friend for once. "It is, to be in a quiet place, at least for a little while..." she confessed, letting some of the strain from the ball show in her midnight sky eyes as she and her friend made their way to the suite of rooms provided for her and her people in the new sithern. <br><br>At the question from Lyra the blond sighed and shrugged her shoulders, happy they were nearly to her rooms already, in that magical way a sithern had of rearranging itself to be helpful, most of the time anyway. "Honestly, yes, it is wise politically, savy even. Everyone will expect the Slaugh and the Goblins to give their support to Aria for High Queen; after all the Unseelie have held their loyalties for so long."<br><br>A rueful smile touched her lips, she was revealing just how much she had learned about politics both in the human world and in the fey one. "Fionn likely lost me any good chance at the Goblins, at least for the moment with the little show he put on in the garden, sadly. Fennris isn't likely to respect me much or believe I can back my words or promises of a alliance if one of my own guards acts so badly. So that leaves the Host, the Slaugh, even more fearsome then the Goblins in some ways." Dawn tilted her head, one hand going up to brush her curls over a shoulder, and then she smiled, when she realized they had reached her rooms already, the door opening in welcome as she and her handmaiden glided in and headed for her bedroom, a female sanctuary. <br><br>"But...I think it is wise also for my own reasons. It will show the guards that I am in charge, that I must be, a few of them seem to have forgotten that and I do not...dislike Cernunnos, he was a lovely dance partner and very polite. I expect to enjoy my evening and perhaps do something productive." She smiled and leaned over to softly peck her friends cheek. "Does that make you feel more at ease now?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Will</strong> on <strong>03-01-2010, 04:38:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"What is she thinking?"</em><br><br>Connal only frowned at Fionn's question, eyeing Dawn as she departed for the night.&nbsp; "I could hazard a guess, Fionn... that she is not very pleased with us this evening.&nbsp; She is willful.&nbsp; I hope she uses it to her advantage."&nbsp; The guard captain clasped his hands and cracked his knuckles, his brow furrowed in serious thought.&nbsp; She was leaving; he and the rest of her guards should have been with her.&nbsp; That was what his mind told him.&nbsp; She was safe within the sithern, however... No one would risk the wrath of the Goddess.&nbsp; They had become irrelevant.<br><br>Connal watched the princess closely until she passed from sight with her handmaiden, and then turned to nod at Fionn.&nbsp; "Certainly.&nbsp; Let us be on with it," he said tersely, and headed towards the doors where the princess had left moments before.<br><br>Irrelevant... That was not entirely true, of course.&nbsp; They had other duties now, to Dawn, and to the Seelie.&nbsp; The first princess to produce an heir, it had been said, would rule the sidhe uncontested.&nbsp; Connal had no doubt that the Unseelie would be copulating like animals even had there not been a practical reason, so he and the other guards would have much to do.&nbsp; Undoubtedly that was why the princess wanted him and Fionn.&nbsp; Perhaps Roarke had fallen too far from her favor; Connal couldn't help but smile a little at the thought.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sir Wolfgang</strong> on <strong>06-01-2010, 19:38:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fionn walked with Connal towards the door Danw had used to make her hasty exit. He noticed Connal's gait was quicker than usual, a sign he was a little worried about the young woman. <br><br>"Apparently," he said quietly, "Our dear princess has decided that the best way to make allies amongst the others is by... meeting with them... alone." His fist clenched again as the thoughts of those...hands touching her hit him again. "I don't like this one bit, but what choice do we have? I have seen the way the Slaugh and Goblins operate many times in my life; they cannot be trusted." The more thoughts about what was to come filled his head, the faster his pace became. Once the pair hit the stairway, Fionn was practically sprinting. Within mere moments, he had reached the top of the stairs, and paused for a moment, to regain his composure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Krule</strong> on <strong>07-01-2010, 01:32:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=37968.msg2537579#msg2537579">Quote from: Josietta on 11-12-2009, 00:49:22</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">Aria stood there quietly listening to the Goblin King speak as some modern mortals would describe as an emo tone. <em>No one finds my true worth, no one thinks I'm important, wah wah.</em> She nearly rolled her eyes and instead gave him a brief smile. One delicate hand reached out to brush over his arm lightly as she spoke softly next to him.<br><br><strong>"You are worth more to many people, King Fenris. You should realize this and know that others do indeed know your worth. However undermining those who wish to prove such to others is not exactly a wise thing for a ruler to do. As I am sure you know and would be careful of in a different setting. However, we are here and I'm afraid I must be going. This evening is drawing to a close and I have much to do. It was nice to see you again. Perhaps the next time will be under business terms, yes?" </strong><br><br>As she stepped up on her tiptoes, Aria kissed his cheek lightly before whispering into his ear, the sweet smell of her skin close to his face.<br><br><strong>"Have a good night, your grace. May we meet again soon, Fenris, King of the Goblins."</strong><br><br>With the simple words spoken she sat her now empty glass down and turned to exit the room. She paused a moment to glance out over the crowd once and then continued on with polite nods to those who looked her way. The Unseelie Princess awarded smiles to all and walked through the exit surrounded by her guards and entourage.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>For Keith, after thier dance he fell back to allow the princess time to interact with others, to let her try her wings, so to speak, though he listened to what the goblin king had to say in response, as the air itself whispered it's secrets to him.&nbsp; &nbsp;The goblin king was borderline insulting to his princess, and that did bother him, considerably, though he didn't show any of it on his face, instead, he waited, to see how the princess would deal with the matter.&nbsp; And he wasn't disappointed, she chose to be polite and diplomatic, though perhaps it was waisted on the goblin king.<br><br>When she stepped out he fell into step with her, with perfect grace and skill, putting his hand on her shoulder, he whispered in her ear a moment, using the air around him to make certain the whisper was not overheard.&nbsp; "A graceful and diplomatic exit, your highness."&nbsp; He then took his place at her side and escorted her out of the ball, to the more private locations she appeared to desire at the moment.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>17-01-2010, 20:43:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Taking the Goblin Kings grunt as a sign he no longer wished conversation, Cernunnos moved on, bidding his counterpart farewell. Few of the remaining guests seemed to wish to seek him out, and he moved through the hall out onto the balcony overlooking the gardens. Finishing his glass he set it down and vaulted the rail onto the grass below.<br><br>He drew in a deep breath of the fragrant air, his keen senses picking up the traces of those who had been there earlier in the evening. Cernunnos moved deeper into the gardens, enjoying the play of the wind on his skin, and the soft noises of the night. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Antone</strong> on <strong>24-01-2010, 09:32:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>&nbsp;For a few moments, Fenris would simply sit in the corner, upon the couch that he had claimed, no words spoken. He'd watch as the Slaugh King left, which was all well and good, since he really had little to say at this point. Eyes would look around the ballroom, watching as all the figures of real interest would make their way out of the ball. And soon it was simply the Goblin King and the countless minor nobles of either court. <br><br>&nbsp;For a moment, the drum of the music, the sound of the whispering nobles... all of it seemed to slowly disappear, until the only thing in his awareness was himself.<br><br>&nbsp;<em>Why did I even bother to show up to this? I could care less which of those spoiled little bitches wins this... as long as the goblins are left alone to do as we have, what else could I care for?</em><br><br>&nbsp;For a moment, something would tug at the back of his mind, and he'd jerk his head up, awareness of the ball snapping back into focus almost harshly. And a very slight growl would come from the man's lips... loud enough that the closest of the nobles paled, and suddenly found a reason to go anywhere but where they currently were.<br><br>&nbsp;"... fucking sheep..."<br><br>&nbsp;The Goblin King would slowly stand, and somehow, it seemed his figure was even larger and more imposing than it had been before... but surely was just a trick of the mind, right? Another harsh growl would come from his lips, and almost as soon as it was released, the Goblin King somehow just... vanished.<br><br>&nbsp;Away from the ball, and the courts... to who knew where.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>26-02-2010, 18:23:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The soft sound of her heels walking along the floor echoed in the nearly empty floor.&nbsp; Lyra noticed that the ball had decreased in attendance rather quickly since the Princess had decided to retire for the evening.&nbsp; Opening the door, the handmaiden felt the few eyes look directly towards her only to return to their normal activities.&nbsp; Nobody would stare at a handmaiden for so long as she was unimportant enough to even deserve a bit of an attention.&nbsp; Moving along the floor, she moved with a quick pace as she desperately went searching for the Slaugh King.<br><br>Not finding him inside, she opened the doors and began to walk through the gardens.&nbsp; Lyra's white silk of her gown extremely contrasted against the dark of the night.&nbsp; Walking along like an angel who had come down to Earth, Lyra squinted through the darkness as she searched for her fears.&nbsp; Slowing her pace, she focused on the pitch black night in all of the corners as the terrified handmaiden walked along the path as if it were filled with broken glass.&nbsp; She could feel that she was not alone and she knew that she must be getting close to him.<br><br>Him or the darkness that seemed to surround her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>01-03-2010, 00:45:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"The peace of the Courts should hold yet."</strong> The deep voice seemed to come from about an inch from Lyra's ear, resonant with unsuppressed humour. <strong>"Neither was I planning to eat you, so you need not be so afraid." </strong><br><br>The darkness seemed to almost congeal into the towering form of the Sluagh King as he stepped up beside the young handmaid. His teeth gleamed from the shadows that shrouded his face, reflecting the light of the ballroom a short distance away. He leaned towards her, and drew in a deep breath through his nose.<br><br><strong>"The scent of your mistress clings to you. Do you come bearing her words? Or do you seek the Horned Lord for reasons of your own, little handmaiden?"</strong> His lips parted again in a grin, and it was quite obvious he was being amused in toying with her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>03-03-2010, 21:32:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The shimmering lace of Lyra's shroud flickered in the darkness as it quickly whipped around in a quick motion.&nbsp; The warm breath against her ear caused the scared handmaiden to almost jump out of her skin as she began to back away from him.&nbsp; His form was so intimidating that she felt paralyzed for the briefest of moments.&nbsp; It was as if time slowed as each second felt like it lasted for hours at time.<br><br>Slowly, the handmaiden got the wits about her and she was able to return to her normal form.&nbsp; Peeling her swirling eyes away from him, she dropped them to the floor along with a curtsy before him.&nbsp; Holding it longer than normal, she slowly rose to a standing attention with her eyes on the floor before her as she was unable to look at him.<br><br>"Sir....The Princess......She is........She is......ready to see you now....."<br><br>Lyra's words were so soft and weak that a gust of wind could take them away from her or that they could be taken away without ever being heard.&nbsp; The young handmaiden trembled before him and truly hoped that he would remain cordial or at least positive with her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>07-03-2010, 20:01:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The darkness rumbled with a soft chuckle that seemed to run icy fingers along Lyra's spine. <strong>"Is she now?"</strong> Lyra's eyes could see as the Sluagh king began to move, circling round here with a slow, steady pace. <strong>"And what words did she bid you bring me, little handmaid? What words exactly did she tell you to speak, that would flutter from that frantically heaving breast?"</strong><br><br>His feet passed once more into her vision, and her chin was tipped back a single long finger that raised her eyes to his. His eyes closed as he drew a deep breath in through his nose, then opened to fix intently on her. A dull rumble echoed from his throat ... it could have been satisfaction, recognition, anticipation, or something more primal yet that&nbsp; reflected in the gleam of his eye. The noise of a predator that has prey trapped, and is trying to decide just how hungry it is.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>11-03-2010, 23:32:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lyra desperately tried to focus specifically on the Slaugh King, but he seemed to be everywhere at once.&nbsp; His presence took over around her and seemed to captivate every ounce of the young handmaiden.&nbsp; It was when she focused on his feet that she knew his intimidating figure was standing before her.&nbsp; Still not be able to get a good glimpse of him, her vision was ripped from the floor as she was forced to stare into the darkness of his eyes.&nbsp; For a moment, the scared girl wondered if she could speak a word.&nbsp; Her mind went completely blank along with every single world being stripped from her mind.&nbsp; Staring deep into the darkness, her years of experience took over and she spoke exactly what Princess Dawn had said to her.<br><br>"...That she is ready to see you and she would like to know the location of your meeting..."<br><br>Her soft and gentle words were ready to be stolen from her.&nbsp; Shaking in his presence, she desperately prayed that her answer would be enough and that she could escape from his clutches.&nbsp; The longer that she stayed with him, the more the fear began to take over her entire being.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>13-03-2010, 00:31:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>"But of course."</strong> The spill of power that came along with his words brushed against Lyra's skin, carrying the sensation of eyes in the darkness and hot breath just on the edge of hearing. <strong>"Return to your Princess, little handmaiden, and inform her that I will receive her in the suite that has been created for me."</strong><br><br>His fingers took her chin, and gently turned it to the left. <strong>"There. Where the gardens are at their darkest and most natural, there she may find the entrance to my suite."</strong> He lowered his head to hers, sinking his teeth into her flesh where neck met shoulder, not enough to draw blood, but enough to leave her marked. His power flowed out in that moment, clinging to Lyra's frame.<br><br>He lifted his head so his lips were a hair's breadth from her ear, and spoke softly. <strong>"And there you have your key. When you and your Mistress return, enter the shadows, speak my name, and my power shall bring you to me."</strong><br><br>He stood upright again and smiled down at her for a long moment before stepping into the shadows from whence he had come, disappearing from her sight.<br><br><strong>"I will be waiting."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: A Queen to Rule Them All [IC - The Betlane Ball]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lady Annabelle</strong> on <strong>17-03-2010, 21:14:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Immediately, the handmaiden's spine felt a cold shiver go down its entire length as her imagination ran wild.&nbsp; She was getting increasingly worried for her true friend as she would be going to his suite.&nbsp; She would be entering his domain and she hoped that Dawn understood what she was doing.&nbsp; She truly would be going to the belly of the beast with no protection at all.<br><br>Lyra's body felt like she had no weight to it as her face moved easily with his touch.&nbsp; She peered over to the dark of the forest to see where he had indicated only to feel that knot in her stomach grow.&nbsp; The foreboding nature of his suite was palpable as the fear of its depths wanted to escape and grasp her by her ankles.&nbsp; A sudden gasp came from the little handmaiden as his teeth sank into her purest skin.&nbsp; A growing red and distinctive mark was clearly shown on her alabaster skin.&nbsp; Lyra felt like her little heart would jump through her throat as the fear grew into something much sweeter.&nbsp; The innocent handmaiden had felt nothing like his teeth as new and strange feelings began to stir inside of her.<br><br>Without even saying a word, Lyra ran with all of her might.&nbsp; Her lace shimmered in the night sky as she whirled past any eyes to fall upon her.&nbsp; Lyra had to leave the gardens and return to the sanctity of her suite.&nbsp; She had done her duty and it was now time to inform the Princess of the King's intentions.&nbsp; Lyra desperately had to warn her of what would happen if she were to go willing into his clutches.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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