On Wings of War | FULL ~ Started

Naerdiel Van Alstyne - Queen of Midir - Her chambers

Naerdiel winced in pain as one of her maids laced the corset on her navy-blue dress. She loved wearing those exclusive dresses the king had gifted her with for the sake of being pretty but with the beauty came the feeling of nearly suffocating which she did not welcome as much.

“Careful not to smear the lipstick!” Naerdiel warned one of the younger girls that was helping getting her ready for her first public appearance since the prince had disappeared. She had to look her very best and she had as many as four maids helping her. One was helping her with the dress, two of them fixed her make-up while the last one cared for the hair - there was also a little girl in her early teens that had been called in to help do the nails, both them and the lipstick in a deep, red, colour. The process was interrupted as someone knocked on the doors to her chambers, Naerdiel let one of the maids doing the make-up be excused and go see who was requesting her attention.

“My Queen!” The maid said and bowed gently before continuing to speak. “It’s the young mister, Maverick is the name I recall. He claims you will want to speak with him.” The maiden hesitated for a moment before finishing. “He insist it be now.” She looked a little frightened saying those last few words as if the boy’s way of demanding things would have Naerdiel go mad - she would probably have been right under most circumstances but when it came to Sage, Naerdiel seemed to have a soft spot and she didn’t mind his rudeness. The little girl doing her nails though had reacted with fright after hearing who was waiting and had run off to spy from one of the corners in the far end of the room.

“Let him in.” Naerdiel had barely finished speaking before the humming of a long lost lullaby reached her ears and soon Sage’s petite figure appeared in front of her. “Lord Adelfan” she greeted and allowed herself to faintly smile, a gesture that was met with a grin just as deceptive. “What brings you here, little Sage.” Naerdiel finished.

“I bring news Aunty!” Sage said, he’d straightened his posture and practically shined with pride as if he’d solved the worlds mysterious and had come to brag. His voice was drowned out by the loud sobs coming from the crying girl in the corner though and Naerdiel gave her a sour look before speaking her mind.

“Silence!” She began, eyeing the little girl once more. “You are all to be excused and may leave this room, I wish to speak with this young man in private.” The maids seemed paralyzed for a second before quickly coming to their senses and dropped what ever they were doing. They all gave each other meaning looks though, Naerdiel well aware that they couldn’t understand what she’d want with a little kid. Not that all was fooled by his innocent child’s play and many suspected him to be of sorceress blood but they were of lower ranks and their opinions didn’t matter.

When they’d all disappeared, one of them taking with them the little girl, Naerdiel turned to Sage again. He had settled down in a chair by the window and was looking quite absent and it didn’t at all appear as if though he was aware that he was sitting in the Queen of Midir’s chambers and he didn’t seem at all as eager to share his thoughts any longer.

“Sage? You claimed to have valuable news, would you care sharing?” Naerdiel’s words were quite demanding and annoyed but her tone was more amused than upset.

“Oh, right. Yes, I just thought you’d be interested to know that your husband has elected Ser Kaiyan to be the young princess’s lifeguard, that’s all.” Sage had gone from seeming to have news worthy a medal for into sounding completely nonchalant as if the information he’d brought was just some random gossip he’d picked up along the way. And at those words he jumped out of the chair and strolled out of the room, again humming on that strange lullaby. Naerdiel remained in the room, make-up half done, hair just partially curled and corset not completely tied as she tried to figure out what to do with the newly received information.

Medea Saeris | Close to the palace walls, Midir

As of recent, the palace had become a constant flow of activity and gossip. Some of the servants passing her often let out the latest news concerning the conflict between Midir and Saoirse; the newest was that the Midiran prince had disappeared. It appeared that nobody was sure where to begin to look, and some talked of foul play by the other side. The Vixen only knew this; the mutterings in the streets weren't idle threats, and neither was her own backing up of them.

Nobody had ever accused Medea Saeris of being filthy rich; she actually lived in a hovel just down the street from here; a long, long way down the street, of course. She had a rare and pretty face, but she was abrasive and unhelpful at the best of times, and often cold and threatening at her worst. Little Saeris was nothing like the mother Saeris; they were different creatues altogether. Where the mother had been loose and sensitive, with warm, quivering and full lips, the younger daughter had a taut line about her delicate mouth, always tense and practical.

That was, of course, the thoughts of anyone who didn't know her; the thoughts of all the world, to be honest, for who could gain access to this statue of a creature? Some called her a changeling, and yet others called her abnormal; but only Medea herself knew who she really was, perhaps, and exactly why of late she had been spending so much time lingering around the palace walls. She wanted information; information that might net her profit.

Back to a subject which might, perhaps, net us some rather vital information. Even if nobody could accuse her of being filthy rich, it only meant just that; that no one could accuse her of being so. That didn't mean that she wasn't. She had a lot of money; enough to convince a few stragglers to put ideas into the head of the populace. She didn't particularly want the rebellion, though.

She just wanted the money.

Going up to one of the guards, she pressed a gold coin in his sweaty palm. "I'd like to get into the palace for a while," she murmured, close to his ear. "Would you mind?"

"N...not at all..." He grinned awkwardly, and Medea drew back, a small smirk on her face. Men. All too easy to manipulate, especially the young ones like these. She beamed at him and walked away through the gates, the other guard standing not even paying her any attention; he was dead-tired, and his eyes kept closing, kept closing; she had doubted he would, or even could pay her any attention.

Now where would she start?

Ser Kaiyan D' Veer, Soldier of Midir | Midiran Royal Palace:

Kaiyan watched the soldiers leave with a mixture of fear and trepidation. As the high doors to the audience chamber were shut with an echoing boom, he began wracking his brain in an attempt to work out why the king wanted to speak with him. Was he in trouble? After all, he had just returned from war - without the Crown-Prince - yes, but that was hardly his fault. He'd done everything in his power to try to find the kingdom's heir, he even offered to ride through Saoirse's most-feared forest when the other soldiers were too scared to do so.

"Oh, don't look so bloody terrified, boy," the king snapped, breaking Kaiyan from his thoughts. "I didn't keep you back because you're in trouble."

An overwhelming sense of relief washed through Kaiyan and he finally let out the breath he had been holding in all this time.

“I wanted to talk to you about my daughter."

Kaiyan eyed his king with polite curiosity. "What of her, Sire?"

"My son's disappearance did not come as a shock to me. As furious as I am, I suspected that such a thing could happen. We are at the brink of war, after all ..." He dropped heavily into his throne-like arm chair, rubbing one thumb and one finger together thoughtfully. "But, I tell you this here and now, I will not lose another child to this. I fear I will not be able to bear it. I need you, boy."

Kaiyan's curiosity quickly replaced itself with confusion. “I’m not quite sure I understand, Sire,” he admitted.

“It’s very simple. I am promoting you to the position of Royal Guard to Princess Blanche.”

Kaiyan raised his brow in shock. “Sire, surely there are others more qualified-"

“Your father was a great General," interrupted the king, "one of the best this kingdom had ever seen, in fact. He served me well. I have every bit of faith that you can do the same.”

Kaiyan could hardly believe what was happening. “I don’t know what to say, Sire …” he croaked.

“Say that you will accept.”

Kaiyan swallowed hard. “Of course, Sire,” he had to stifle a grin at the thought of such an elevation ... such an honour! It meant that the king trusted him, and him alone, with such an important responsibility. He quickly bowed to the king with an exaggerated show of humility. “I will not let you down, Sire.”

“I certainly hope not,” said the king. He turned his face towards the open window and frowned grimly into the distance, his hands resting on his belly. “My dear Blanche is all that I have left.” With that, he gave Kaiyan a stiff nod. “Off you go. I'm sure you have plenty to do.”

"Sire," Kaiyan bowed, before turning and striding out of the chamber. His mind was still getting to grips with what had just happened to him. He was now a Royal Guard. The thought terrified him and thrilled him all at once. He didn’t even know who he should report to first. He supposed he should start by seeking out some of his contacts in the lower towns. After all, who better to help him protect the Princess from any assassination attempts, than an actual Assassin?

And lucky for Kaiyan, he knew plenty.

Kacela

I dashed across the streets, picking apples off of the Midiran men selling them in the market. They yelled at me, thinking that I would actually come back and return the apple.

I was near the royal palace, though it was quite dangerous, because I was looking for an old childhood friend of mine. I needed something from him, and rumor was he'd be walking around outside of the palace today, guarding.

"Hey! Stop running, thief!," yelled the market man. He was rather fast, and he would catch up with me eventually. So I pulled out a very sharp piece of glass from my pocket, and threw it at him straight into his neck.

He dropped to the ground. I smiled to myself, as I'd never missed a shot. Not once, and it was so useful. I was probably the richest assassin in both Midir and Saoirse.

The castle quickly came into view, and I saw just who I was looking for pacing the grounds.

I hopped onto the top of a tree, and jumped from the thin branched on top, to a side of the wall of the castle directly above Kai's head.

For some reason I'd never called him Kaiyan, proably because I couldn't pronounce it when I was five.

When he was on the very back of the castle, and completely alone I dropped down right in front of him.

At first his expression was shock, because I had just jumped 30 feet down from a wall. Then he smiled, thank god too. For a second I thought I was going to get killed. "Kacela." He smiled and wrapped me in a giant hug, which he'd done about a year ago, when he'd seen me last. I wonder if he noticed when I didn't hug back. Best not to get attached to people when you might get hired to kill them.

"I was looking for you, I have a job for you." A job was exactly what I needed right now, I was still trying to talk myself out of what I needed to do, "What is it? Killing, torturing, stealing, selling?"

"Information," he replied, a little shocked. I didn't do information, at all. That was one thing I had over other people. But I did owe him, "Fine, but I need a map of Midir and Saoirse, and I know you have one."

He nodded, "I'll bring you it later tonight, at the tavern, I have 30 minutes on my own before I need to guard the princess."

I smiled, I guess I would have to do it anyway.

Blanche Van Alstyne (Princess of Midir) | Private Chamber(s)

Blanche sat in front of her one of her many gilded mirrors, a servant methodically piling her hair in an elaborate array of curls and ringlets on the top of her head. Every so often, Blanche would wince as fine hairs were pulled and her eyes seemed to shoot daggers at the poor servant. The moment Blanche approved of the updo, she waved the maid away and moved to a chaise longue. She sighed.

Blanche was very bored. The older she became, there seemed to be less and less for her to do besides fan herself and blush when a supposedly handsome suitor complimented her smooth hands or sleek hair. Now, when the King had cancelled her lessons and began talking marriage, Blanche was even more tired with the monotony of palace routine. She wanted excitement, adventure - something that she herself could play in a role in besides the damsel in distress.

Blanche was struck from her moody reverie by a sharp knock at her doors. Voice blase and uncaring, she summoned whoever it was inside. She was surprised to see the visitor was the King, her father.

"Father!" Blanche said, all too surprised. She sat upright.

"Blanche, my Princess, I have some news for you." The King took a seat across from his daughter, perching on the edge - perhaps he was too wide to fit?

Blanche's lips twitched but she kept her smile hidden. It was almost never that the King shared important information with her. He loved her and it was very clear, but she was a princess and Dalach a prince and the heir to the throne. Oftentimes, Blanche found herself jealous of her brother who seemed to have it all. The times when the King confided in her inspired an empowerment that she kept at bay most times. "Yes?" Her tone wavered with the spurt of excitement and joy.

"I have assigned you a personal guard due to... due to a recent event."

The princess's face fell. Was she now to lose her freedom of privacy, more than it was already? "Who is this guard?"

"He will be Ser Kaiyan. He is alarmingly skilled and you have nothing to worry: I would trust my life with him and so he shall be your guard." The King's lips were formed into a sad smile. Blanche's discontent was more than obvious; clearly he noticed it. Blanche opened her mouth to speak again but he stopped her: "I know what you're going to ask me but you mustn't know. I won't risk upsetting you."

With that, King Asardin stood up, kissed his daughter on the forehead and strode from the room as fast as his portly figure would allow. Blanche was left alone, feeling much neglected and ignored. She did not want a guard! She was perfectly capable of handling herself, thank you very much. And what did her father think he was doing? He knew she was curious; she never liked to be ordered around when there was not an apparent reason. What was the reason for the guard? It was clear something had happened. Something had happened that had inspired her father to assign her a guard.

Blanche would find out what this thing was and if that meant bullying Ser Kaiyan in giving up information, she would do it. She was not going to make it easy for this guard whatsoever.

(CelticaNoir: the 'imposter' is Medea Saeris - I hope that's okay?)

Ser Kaiyan D' Veer, Soldier of Midir | Southernmost Tower | Midiran Royal Palace:

Kaiyan descended down the circular stone stairwell of the southernmost tower. He had just left the Palace athanaem where he had taken out two scrolls of parchment depicting the latest and most up-to-date maps of Midir and Saoirse. As he continued down the stairwell, he glanced out of one of the many arched windows and checked the sun dial below. Half an hour had already passed and he knew that he would have to hurry if he was to meet Kacela on time.

Halfway down the steps, Kaiyan thought he heard the sound of light scuff of boots on stone. Curiously, he found himself stopping in order to listen more closely. Surely such lightness of feet could not belong to a soldier, or a man for that matter. It would have to belong to a woman. Kaiyan quietly placed both maps inside his cloak and slowly drew his sword. Women were forbidden from entering the Southernmost tower, it had been one of the first things the Palace Guard had told him during his first patrol, so that could only mean one thing:

The woman now lurking around this tower was almost certainly an imposter.

The first thought that crept into his mind was the Princess. Kaiyan knew that it was now his duty to help keep her safe and that meant he would have to go after this potential imposter. For all he knew, she may have been sent here to kill the Princess. With that troubling thought in mind, he steadily began to creep back up the stairwell, his sword poised and ready.

He would be damned if he was about to let anything happen to the Princess. Especially on his first day on the job.

(Sorry this is so late in coming - my new job has been insane.)

Demhara Queen of Saoirse/ inside her throne room:


The royal city of the Saoirsian kingdom, Vumon, stood on the shores of lake Vumansu. It had stood there as the house seat of the Yu'eh clan since the dawn of time and had been named royal city when I had taken the throne. The palace itself stood on a outjutting spur of the shoreline some hundred feet out into the lake, so on three sides my halls were protected by the lake- and my pets. The front of the palace faced the city, city of the horse lords, my people. The palace, or rather royal abode- for one couldn't call it a palace as men new the word. Several halls of wood and thatch, the beams wonderfully carved in a myeriad of fantastical shapes and scenes from my countries rich oral narrative. The halls were built upon a sort of raised area of ground, only reached my mounting seven wide steps to the throne rooms wide iron bound double doors.

It was herein I sat, so bored the light dancing through the cracks in the thatch was almost entertaining. Lounged sideways in the carved chair that served as my throne I swirled the last remnant of sweet wine around the cup, getting the rosy liquor as close to the rim as I could without spilling. Sighing heavily I looked about, nothing was stiring in the bright, warm, lazy afternoon sunshine. Even the flies seemed quiet although they adored the heat and heavy air.

One would think that with all my "projects" I had no right being so bored, one simply cannot be bored when toppling kingdoms some might claim..... I'd warrent those who spoke so foolishly never tried to topple a kingdom themselves.

This thought, silly as it was, amused me enough to drive away my leathergy. Turning to one of the servants who stood silently ranged about the hall I clapped my hands,

"Go find the marshal, give him my summons. I have need of him." The servant bowed low and left. I relaxed back into my chair, smiling wickedly- I had just had a brilliant idea.

(As always if something is amiss just PM me and I will gladly edit)

Marshall Gorlois – Training Yards
The men were complaining, but they had no right to do so. True, this was meant to be “just training”, but how were they meant to keep fit for battle if they slacked off in practice? So I circled the group, sparring with each of them in turn, pummelling them until they were forced to fight full out. They would not fail because I went easy on them.

The newest recruit seems to be enjoying himself at least. I’d knocked him into the dirt a couple of times at least and he kept coming at me. That was encouraging.

“Marshall?” I dodged my opponent as turned to see the servant trying to get my attention. “The queen has summoned you.”

The recruit nearly had a fit as I walked away, shouting at me to come back, or at least tell him where I was going. I just shrugged and marched away. Demhara wanted me.

Spoiler

Sorry I took so long!

Epona | Vumon | The Marketplace

"War?!"

The travelling merchant leered at her, baring teeth in varying states of decay. Despite herself, Epona recoiled.

"What do you mean war?" It was a rhetorical question, really. Epona full well knew what war meant, and she knew even better what it would mean for her.

"You know, swords and battles and whatnot." He mimed waving a sword.

"Yes, yes, but when did it break out?" In her mind, Epona was calculating furiously. Perhaps she could still get to the border before a blockade was put up... these things took time, after all.

"Oh... a while ago."

Epona gritted her teeth. "I need something more precise than that."

"Well, I dunno really. Don't keep track of time that well. Why're you bothering your head about it, anyway? Why not buy some fish?"

Epona shook her head furiously, and stalked away. War. Right when she needed it least. It would take her several weeks to get to the border, at least! And Epona seriously doubted that a Midiran would be welcome here.

She wandered around the market for several minutes more, then made her decision.

It was no use trying to get to the border now- by the time she got there, a blockade would already be raised, and there was no one this side of the border who could help her...

Epona's thoughts flickered briefly to Amleth, wondering if he might be able to take her home.

She cursed. Amleth! Oh, by the Gods, there was no knowing what he'd do if he found her here. Epona would have to avoid him. At all costs.

She'd find a horse, and ride south. Hopefully she could find passage across the Morkira Sound, and into Midir...

What could possibly go wrong?

Spoiler

Hope that's okay- if there are any issues, let me know and I'll edit them out.

Rosarie Brooks - Village surronding Saorise royal palace

Spoiler

Sorry this came so late, just wasn't sure how to fit in my character.

After a long hours of walking, Rose was awarded with a pair of blistering feet and the outline of the palace just in the horizon. Her heart soared a bit and she repeated to herself for the nth time that this was all worth it. Though she had to leave Kayla behind, Rose simply had to satisfy her need for answers.

Why does she have these powers? Are they even powers or just an indication of developing insanity? What should she do? Who is she?

For some reason, Rose felt that the palace could provide her with some answers. She needed to get to civilization to figure out just what was happening to her.

Before Rose could let all the insecurities get to her, she drew a deep breath and continued her hike towards the palace. She spent her whole life dwelling in and around the forest and finally realized on just how much she's been missing out. Self consciously, Rose patted down her thick jumble of a braid as she neared the village surrounding the palace. Everything was so pristine, neat and warm, she felt like she could stay here forever. Hopefully, she eventually would.

Rose slowed to a stop at the edge of the town. People bustled by, paying no attention to the thin, wide eyed girl standing alone in the open, clutching on to her traveling bag for dear life. All the previous confidence deserted her as she took in everything around her. There was just so many people and so many things happening at once. Bargaining merchants, food vendors and running children were all scattered around with the occasional commoner strolling around. The whole village was hustling, busy and full of life.

Abruptly, something...someone collided into her, almost forcing her down to her knees when a pair of hands grasped on to her shoulders, steadying her.

"Sorry about that, are you alright?"

Spoiler

Anyone feel free to be that someone Also, pm me and I'll be glad to edit anything

Spoiler

Oh, my freaking god. I'm sorry this took so long! I got caught up with Real Life, and Potterbook, and my novels...and completely forgot I was meant to post in this! So, here it is. Someone needs to stumble across this pair now. Also, there will be a Maverick/Sage post coming soon... When I find the sadistic little freak again, that is.

Dálach Van Alstyne, Prince of Midir | Forest - Somewhere in Saoirse:

Dálach peered at the girl from under his hood, frowning. She looked mad to see him, not that he knew why. He was lost, with no idea where he was. Or even the day or time, really. “Ah, hello,” he said calmly, moving to get up. He fell back with a wince and a mild groan. Oh, by the gods! His ribs hurt. What had that witch done to him?

“Sir?” the girl called warily, crouching down and lowering her bow. Dálach rubbed his ribs and looked towards her again. “Are you alight?” She seemed to be cautious and wary about approaching him, and he didn’t blame her. He tried to get up again and this time managed to get his feet up him, but had to lean against the tree for support.

“I’m fine,” he muttered, panting slightly. Gods, his ribs hurt so bad. He scowled at a nearby tree, breathing hard. How in all of Midir was he going to get home?


Aishe Daiyu | Forest - Somewhere in Saoirse:

“You don’t look fine, Sir,” Aishe said, shifting slight as she watched the stranger. “Where are you from? Who are you?” She frowned when he didn’t react. “Sir?”

“My name is Dálach, miss,” he suddenly said, making her jump and accidentally release her arrow. It flew across the clearing and embedded itself in the tree, right by the stranger’s head. He flinched and cursed. “Watch it, girl!”

“I’m sorry!” she yelped, rushing forwards. And then she hesitated.

Silence drew out, long and awkward, and then he spoke in a soft voice; “I hate to be a bother, but I think I’m lost... Where am I?”

Aishe took a deep breathe and closed her eyes. “You’re in Saoirse, Dálach,” she told him, keeping her voice low. “And deep in Lalen Forest.”

“Shit,” he muttered, making Aishe flinch.

I don't want this to die!


Ser Kaiyan D' Veer, Soldier of Midir | The Tavern| Midir:

What a waste of time...

Muttering to himself distastefully, Kaiyan pulled on the hood of his cloak and walked the steep slopes between the king's palace and the village below. With the two maps carefully tucked inside his cloak, he traversed towards the nearest tavern he could locate. From the outside the place looked absolutely awful, there were drunkards already laying about the entrance drooling over wenches who appeared more than happy to offer up their 'services' for the night. Normally, Kaiyan would have had such women arrested and sent to the palace cells, but tonight he had much bigger things playing on his mind. He recalled what had happened in the Southernmost Tower, and how convinced he had been that an intruder had found their way in, how he had followed the faint footsteps in order to find out, and how it had brought him to a completely dead end. As sure as he had been, he had failed to find any female sneaking around in the tower.

Heaving a deep sigh, Ryken removed the hood of his cloak and stepped inside the tavern. He looked around to see the usual hustle and bustle one would normally associate with a typical tavern. There were men, young and old slopping down mugs of ale, laughing, playing cards, arm-wrestling and dancing to folk music. One young man in particular was already pink in the face from the effects of the alcohol and Kaiyan found himself having to duck so as to avoid being clobbered in the head with it. After throwing the young man a disapproving glare, Kaiyan focused his attention towards the bar where a short, round, yellow haired woman was serving the remainder of the tavern's patrons. Feeling rather awkward and out of place, Kaiyan cleared his throat and walked over to her.

"Hello," he greeted her politely.

"Why, hello, handsome ..." she smiled, and Kaiyan found himself wince slightly. The woman had a terribly nasal voice, and when she smiled there were lipstick stains on her yellow teeth. "What can I get for you then, eh?" she asked, eying him up and down hungrily.

"Er ..." Kaiyan struggled for a moment, "a horn of ale, please, and a table for two."

"Sure thing, sweetheart. Take a seat."

Kaiyan forced himself to nod in thanks before walking over to his allocated table. As soon as he took a seat, he regretted asking Kacela to meet him here. This tavern was no place for a respectable soldier of Midir to be seen in, nor for the Princess's new guard! What the hell had he been thinking? If the king were to see him now, the man would eat him alive!

He looked desperately over his shoulder before glancing up at the sun-dial just above his table. Kacela should have been here by now. Truthfully, a part of him was hardly surprised by her lateness. Punctuality had never been one of Kacela's strongest qualities, even when they were children.

His thoughts suddenly brought him back to his childhood back home in Norrill. He and Kacela had grown up together in the same village. Both their mother's had been good friends, and both had died from the same sickness. Though Kaiyan had been fortunate enough to have been scooped up by his famous father, Kacela had been forced to remain in Norrill as a lost orphan. Although she wouldn't dare admit it, Kaiyan knew that Kacela had never forgiven him for abandoning her all those years ago. He often wondered what might have happened if he hadn't gone to live with his father. Could he have looked after her better? Could he have made a real difference? Perhaps if he had done his duty as a friend she would be living a better life now, the kind of life that a normal young woman should have, instead of running around Midir as an up-for-hire Assassin.

Kaiyan immediately shook such thoughts from his mind. It was too late to dwell on the past and think of what might have been. Kacela may have strayed from the right path but there was no denying that her experiences had shaped her into the now fierce, independent and capable young woman that she was. Kaiyan knew all too well that she was more than capable of looking after herself, and, during times like these, that was more than enough.

As if on cue, Kacela's familiar voice filled his ears.

"Of all the taverns in the city, you pick this one?" Kaiyan looked up to see Kacela walk over to him, tutting in mock dissaproval. "Honestly, Kai, I thought you had better taste ..."

Kaiyan rolled his eyes at her teasing and gestured her to the stool opposite. At that moment the yellow haired barwoman approached them and placed a goblet on the table in front of Kaiyan.

"Here we are, one horn of ale ..."

Kacela's eyes widened in protest. "Hey, where's mine?"

Kaiyan raised an amused brow. "You're intolerable at the best of times, under the influence of alcohol you're ten times worse." He took a sip of his drink and smirked. "I need you sober for this job."

Spoiler

((And you thought I'd forgotten about this....))

Maverick/Sage Adelfan | Midiran Royal Palace:

Little Maverick. Little Sage. The boy scoffed and went skipping along the street. He’d long since ‘vanished’ into the shadows, uncaring of whether he’d been seen or not. It didn’t matter; whoever had been watching would not find him again unless he wanted them to. As to the situation in Midir. He snickered, slipping into an alley to laugh his rotten little heart out.

And then he felt the flare of magic.

Sage raised his head and looked back towards the palace. He frowned, pushing away from the wall he’d been leaning against to wander back towards the street and then the palace. Who was that? There weren’t that many magic users around... Sage shook his head, then smirked. He had the time.

With a small smile and a little skip to his step, he headed back towards the palace. Perhaps he’d find something more...pleasing to do? Something decidedly nasty yet fun? Yes, yes. He would make sure to do so.

Several Minutes Later - Throne Room

Sage skipped into the Throne Room, frowning. He’d lost that sense of magic long before he’d returned to the palace, and so decided it might be more fun to go and see what the Midiran King was up to. Asardin Van Alstyne was pacing again. He looked concerned too. Sage reappeared in the doorway and strode into the room. “Evening, Majesty,” he announced, coming to a stop before the now-frozen King.

“Ah, Lord Adelfan,” Asardin murmured, turning towards the boy. “Is there a problem, my young friend?” Sage sighed, moving sit on the throne. He ignored the way the king’s eyebrow twitched at his actions and put his head on his hand and his elbow on the arm of the throne.

“You could say that,” he murmured, peering at the King while he spoke. “I’ve had some...problems...with the other boys and girls. Apparently they don’t like me.” Here, he grimaced, as if he felt rejected and lonely. Which was most certainly not the case. “And I’ve been hearing rumours, my lord.”

Asardin stared at him, eyes wide. Good, he had the old king’s attention now. “Rumours, Sage?” the king asked, pacing towards him but pausing before he got too close. Sage nodded. “What rumours?”

Aaahhh, Sage though. Even better. He put on the pouting child act for a little longer before he abruptly stood, stalking past the king. He failed to react to the shock plastering the king’s face. This was going to make him look suspicious.... But hell, if it wasn’t worth it.

“Sage?”

“Hm?” The boy glanced back to see the King frowning at him, and sighed. “They’re about the Prince. People say he’s turned on Midir. That he’s helping the Queen of Saoirse.” He tilted his head to one side, trying to look as humbled and innocent as possible. “He’s not, though, is he? He’s just missing, right? I hope he’s alright. I’ve heard rumours about their Queen.” He shuddered, still putting on the act. “I worry for him; are you sure he’s not helping her?”

The king, looking positively stunned, opened his mouth to answer Sage and then swiftly closed it. He didn’t know what to say, and as Maverick watched, he saw the doubt in the king’s eyes. And he smiled sadly before skipping out of the room and vanishing as soon as he was out of sight of the king. Ah, and the seed of doubt is planted, he thought smugly, his laughter echoing off the walls of the hall and causing several maids to scream and run away--something about the hallway being haunted. It only made him laugh harder.

Spoiler

((Ah, what a manipulative little child he is. And that first bit, about sensing magic, was indeed him sensing Medea. Enjoy~))

Queen Nae - Her Chambers

Spoiler

Sorry for taking so long but there hasn't been much for Nae to do

Queen Nae wasn't pleased. She felt neglected and forgotten, two things that caused her greats discomfort and lit a lethal fire within her. Running into Naerdiel the best of days would be frightening but when she was upset it was like trying to put out a fire using fuel. It had been many days since the discovery of the Prince's disappearance yet the King hadn't come to see her - nor had he delivered the news about the Princess's new life-guard that Sage had leaked to her. She hadn't heard anything new from Demhara and nobody had bothered her with anything interesting at all. Naerdiel was feeling bored, betrayed and was running mad with fury.

"That's enough!" She groaned out loud, calling everyone's attention. The maids had their faces turned towards her but their gazes were locked at the floor. Nobody dared to look, all fearing they were the one's who had caused the Queen's outburst.

"Everybody leave, all but you!" Naeridiel demanded, pointing at the girl who'd burst into tears earlier on. Her skin was still a bit red and swollen under her eyes and now the tears filled up in the corner of her eyes again.

"Mmm...my lady?" She stuttered and kneeled before her Queen. The rest of the girls had quickly gathered there belongings and escaped the room.

"Arise, I am not about to lecture you - even though you could need some to treat those weeping eyes. I need you to go to the King and ask him to visit me in my chambers." Naerdiel explained. The girl, who was still on the floor, looking shyly up at Nae nodded and then excused herself before hurrying out the door.

Naerdiel remained in her room. She walked up to the mirror and admired her reflection. The maids had finally finished and the person in the mirror was most magnificent. A pale face, decorated with sparkling eyes framed by dark eye-linings and full lips, painted red, looked back on her. She wore a black, simple but luxurous, satin dress and her dark hair had been sorted out and fixed so that her hair hung in perfect curls down her back.

If the King wouldn't come to her willingly with his secrets anymore she would have to seduce them out of him. Who knew what more he had been hiding from her.

Spoiler

Sorry this is so long - I thought I'd make up for not posting in a while

Ser Kaiyan D' Veer, Soldier of Midir | Knights Barracks| Midiran Royal Palace:

Kaiyan was up early the next morning. He had had trouble sleeping the night before in anticipation of what was to happen today. For today, he was going to be presented to Princess Blanche for the first time as her new Royal Guard.

Fully dressed and ready, he removed the top button of his collar in an attempt to relieve the pressure now building in his throat, though it hardly helped.

“How ridiculous,” he said to himself out loud, as he removed a few more buttons. He hadn’t felt this nervous even during those nights when he'd risked his life in battling barbarious Saoirites running at him with poisoned swords!

"Well, if it isn't the Princess's new Personal Guard ..." A familiar voice sneered from behind.

Kaiyan turned towards the door just in time to see the tall and muscular figure of Captain Balkar enter his chambers. Armour clanking, the Captain slowly approached Kaiyan, the bottom of his longsword scraping against the wooden floor.

Kaiyan acknowledged him with a respectful head bow. "Captain. How can I help you?"

“Well, I wanted to be the first to congratulate you on your ... elevation,” Captain Balkar replied, though there was no sign or hint of warmth in his voice.

Kaiyan responded nonetheless. “Thank you, Ser.”

"You've become the talk of the entire army ...," Captain Balkar continued. He folded his large arms and eyed Kaiyan with open mistrust.. "The young outcast rewarded by the king ..."

Kaiyan could sense the resentment in the Captain's voice and found that he could hardly blame him. After all, it wasn't too long ago that the Captain had him sent to the stocks for disobedience. Now he was being forced to treat Kaiyan as an equal.

“A grand promotion for a boy so young," Captain Balkar continued, his sneering becoming ever so obvious by the second, "… so inexperienced …”

“His Majesty deems me sufficiently trained," Kaiyan replied, evenly.

Captain Balkar responded with a grunt. "You have no idea what you're getting yourself in to, do you, boy? You think the King has done you a kindness by giving you this position?"

Kaiyan glared at him, "Whatever His Majesty's reasons, I have accepted. Now, if you'll excuse me, Captain." He fastened his broadsword through the clasp on his belt, took a deep breath and then walked towards the Princess’s personal quarters. Doors were opened for him as he strode through the many hallways, but Kaiyan hardly noticed. He was still fuming over Captain Balkar's words, wondering when the time would come where people in this palace started treating him as more than just a boy of low birth.

He tried to shake such thoughts from his mind, and instead focused on the task at hand; the Princess.

Don't let her be too annoying, Kaiyan kept thinking as he slowly approached the door to the Princess's quarters. He raised his fist and was just about to knock, when he suddenly heard raised voices coming from inside.

" ... a personal guard!" came what Kaiyan could only guess to be the muffled voice of Princess Blanche herself. "What does father think I am, a child?"

"His Majesty is only doing this to protect you, my lady." Kaiyan recognised the second voice to be that of General Ranzley - the head of the King's Guard.

"I can damn well protect myself in case he hasn't already realised!"

Kaiyan lifted his head to the heavens. It appeared as though Captain Balkar had been right about one thing. The King may not have done him an act of kindness at all.

Heaving a deep sigh, He raised his fist once more and knocked three times. The voices stopped almost immediately, and Kaiyan stood and waited, heart thumping in his chest.

The latch of the doors suddenly clicked and Kaiyan cleared his throat. The doors opened and a tall, long-faced and severe-looking soldier stared at him from the doorway. The fine scarlet tunic he wore emphasised the high rank of his position in the Royal Army.

“Ser Kaiyan.” The General opened the door far enough for Kaiyan to step through into the wide hallway. He closed the door behind him and then called for one of the maidservants. "Mara, get out here!"

Almost immediately, a short, thin young girl emerged from the hallway. "Yes, Ser?" she asked General Ranzley.

"Call the Princess. Tell her that Ser Kaiyan has arrived."

The maid nodded, and her gaze instantly fell on Kaiyan. She threw him a curious look, and even seemed to smile when Kaiyan caught her gaze. He watched her scurry off with a confused frown. It was as if she knew something amusing that he didn't.

"Before the Princess gets here, there is something you should know," said General Ranzley, breaking Kaiyan from his thoughts. "The Princess is not aware that her brother is missing, nor does she know the true circumstances behind why you have been assigned to protect her in the first place. His Majesty has made it very clear that he prefers to keep it that way."

Kaiyan understood. "Yes, Ser."

General Ranzley, however, didn't seem convinced. "She is not going to give up, that I can promise you. She will badger you, yell at you, even threaten you. She will try everying in her power to get you into telling her, but you must not yield. Is that understood?"

Kaiyan gulped. "Yes, Ser."

"Good." General Ranzley folded his arms and eyed him with a calculated stare. "Nervous?" he asked.

Kaiyan cleared his throat, “No, Ser.”

“Huh,” General Ranzley snorted, clearly unimpressed. "Then you're an even bigger fool than people say."

Rather rude. Before Kaiyan could react, the princesses' chamber doors suddenly swung wide open.

Princess Blanche Van Alstyne stood in the doorway, the bright light from the hall beyond glowing in her fair hair. She was just as beautiful as the rumours had suggested - even more beautiful if that were possible. The richness of her clothes and jewels marked her as a royal, and even her demeanour spoke of years of grace and nobility.

She eyed Kaiyan curiously, more curiously than her maid before her. It was the kind of look Claw had whenever Kaiyan would offer him strips of raw meat: the look that pondered whether it should eat the strips one at a time or gobble them up all in one go.

Either way, Kaiyan decided he had better introduce himself.

"My lady, I-"

“You’re late,” she interrupted him, her lips pursed and her hands folded across her chest defiantly.

Kaiyan opened his mouth to say something, but nothing seemed to come out. When he finally managed to snap himself out of it, he asked, “I beg your pardon?”

“My father informed me that you would arrive at first light. It is now three bells past ... Ser,” she seemed to sneer that last part.

“Er ...," Kaiyan paused, still struggling for words. "Forgive me, my lady, but I wasn’t aware –”

“Not my concern,” she retorted. “Nor am I in the mood for your excuses.”

Kaiyan glanced awkwardly at General Ranzley, who just frowned back as if to say 'I told you so.' Kaiyan had to agree. He was starting to think that perhaps he had - at least on this occassion - bitten off more than he could chew.