Nakmarr Party: Meeting the Guests

[Kels]

First off there is a new image for the first floor of the manor house. This time the rooms are defined and furnished. The spiral staircase is an afterthought, I'll admit. I had forgotten to give servants a way to the top floor. There is probably another gate that servants and horses use that does not lead directly into the manor house. There are other buildings on this estate, but the guests will be limited to the manor house so only it is mapped out and shown.

Each square on the grid is five feet by five feet which is about 1.5 meters.
The map gets a lot bigger. If you open it on it's own page you can zoom in for details.



The voices of the others would be easy to hear once one was out of the door of the tailor, maybe even before then just a bit. The first floor of the manor doesn't have many actual doors to block it's doorways. The tailor has one for privacy as does the bath room and both privies. There's a door blocking the view of the kitchen storage room, but mostly out of respect to the guests rather than secrecy. Not even the bedroom that is on the first floor has doors, and it has two doorways. Sometimes guests like to put on shows for other guests but it's the sort of show that requires a bedroom and that no one talks about once the party is over. Directly across from the door to the tailor is a corer, presenting Ayden with the decision to go straight down the hallway or turn to her left. To her right are doors that lead back out into the garden, but this door is guarded by someone that stands right in front of the door and is armed, so obviously not a guest as weapons are not allowed. There is an open doorway just to her right, but there's a door to that same room fifteen feet down the hall in front of her. If she looks straight down the hall all the way all the other end is a door that leads to a spiral staircase that goes up. Servants and bags are making their way up these stairs from a side entrance, not having been permitted to enter through the main entrance. Myia is probably already upstairs and making sure their room is ready as she arrived with them some time ago. Sounds of a busy kitchen can be heard down the hall to her right. Next to the tailor is a large feast hall and a kitchen and kitchen storage beyond that.

Of course on the other side of the corner she's facing is the great hall with it's pretty blue tiled floor and that strange purple crystal table Arako seems to like to lean upon. The most voices come from in there and she has two options to enter, one to her right and one straight ahead. The great hall has four entrances, all of them very wide. Most the doors and hallways in this manor are large, but she'd find that is common in Serenity to make room for griffons and centaurs which make up a great deal of the population. If one were to say Serenity was mostly humans they'd be wrong. In fact if she thought about it, the only humans Ayden has seen at the party so far were the two servants that came to Arako's call. And Lola. But everyone else seems to have pointed ears of some sort.

Down the hall in front of her two guests walk from a side room back into the great hall. They are conversing among themselves and do not see Ayden. They are about fifteen meters away from her.

[Ambassador Lark]

As Ayden spills into the hallway after Trishea, her gaze traveled everywhere at once. The walls, where portraits hung, the floor and its unique tiling and other fixtures those were strange and fascinating to the young siren. She gathered a handful of her skirts as she followed after Trishea. She was curious as to where they were heading.

Soft voices could be heard beyond the walls to her left as they continued down the hall. More people had arrived. Ayden’s heart was set a flutter of the thought of being amongst so many people. Her body was all a buzz with the excitement that awaiting her. “Excuse me…. Trishea, is it? Where are we going?”

Ayden turned about in a complete circle as they passed a few people entering and exiting through one of the many entrances to the feast hall. Soft blonde curls bounce about her narrow shoulders as she tilts her head to the side. Her gown of pale blue set of the color of her eyes. Making them appear even bluer against her pale locks. Lark had opted for Ayden’s gown to color a good portion of her youthful form. Trishea had been sure to do as Lark bide, but made certain that Ayden looked more like a princess then a little girl.

Ayden’s gaze traveled to the front hall. So many people had arrived. “This is amazing.” She whispered under her breath. She could not wait to start mingling with folk. “I’ve no idea as to why Lark does not enjoy this. She can be so uptight.” Ayden stated, trying to find some confidence in Trishea.

[Trishea Lirya]

“Yes, well maybe we can teach her to live.” Trishea responds, confirming Ayden is correct in her actions and at the same time encouraging her to continue for the betterment of her sister as well as her own fun. Ayden is neither a little girl or a human in Trishea's eyes so she sees no reason Ayden should act like either. She should have fun like the siren princess she is. As they get near the north entrance to the great hall Trishea pauses just a moment and looks back down the hall toward the tailor, but it seems Lark hasn't noticed they were gone yet. Perhaps she thought they were behind the screen in the corner adjusting their clothing? Trishea wasn't sure and didn't really care. Ayden is more fun and she'd rather Lark not come get in their way. It's about to be too late anyway.

Trishea steps into the great hall and with a hand gently on the small of Ayden's back guides her to do the same. Once Ayden starts to step forward that hand will be removed. Trishea wouldn't want the boys to think that she and Ayden were an item. As soon as they step in a well dressed man steps from a column he was leaning on and puts himself nearly in front of the girls. He smiles warmly, but his eyes travel briefly to his favorite areas on both girls, mostly Trishea. “Trishea, it's lovely to see you as always.” He extends a hand toward her, palm up.

“Lord Jashen. So glad you could make it again this year.” Trishea responds as she puts her own hand in his and lets him kiss the back of her hand. Then she tilts her head with a wry smile and puts her cheek out for him as well. This puts her face pointing toward Ayden and she winks at the girl as Lord Jashen kisses the offered cheek, one hand on Trishea's waist to steady them both. Then she ignores Jashen to offer a little etiquette training to Ayden. “Only offer your cheek if you are familiar with the gentleman. You can offer the back of your hand to any.” She smiles to Lord Jashen once more so he won't feel left out and seeing the confused look on his face she feels the need to explain as to not be rude. “This is princess Ayden of Te'lis. This is Lord Jashen of Reist, Your Highness.”

“Oh, another siren?” Lord Jashen offers his hand to Ayden in the same manner he had to Trishea, though he seems a little more reluctant. He is young for a lord, possibly the son of the ruling lord and not yet ruler himself. He is tall for a human and a little broad, though not too much so. It's the kind that seems natural, like his people just have wider bones. His hair is a light brown, almost a blonde and his eyes are a greenish brown.

Trishea looks past Jashen as he finishes the introductions to Ayden to see the other siren. There is a group of them near the entrance. Arako still leans on the table in the middle of the room, watching everyone else, though there are a few gathering around him as well. He's always popular at these parties. Trishea knows he's rather watch most the time, but the guests force him to get involved more directly. As long as they don't interfere with his bath hour, Trishea doesn't mind. Everyone is well dressed, but most are leaving their best attire for later and not for arriving in. It's the ball where they'll all show off. People will remember less what you wore the first day and remember more what you wore at the ball the last night.

[Ossires]

Near the entrance is a young woman with dark brown hair. She isn't nearly covering as much as Ayden is. There is something flowing about he garb, yet she still seems to have touched on the most important parts of Serenity high fashion. She has on a high collar, and her skirt drapes. It drapes over bare legs as she shows much of her form off. The material her skirt is made of is mostly sheer, though there are several layers and she has something for modesty under them. The colors mimic the ocean and seems to constantly change color in light and when she moves, like waves on her skirt. Her corset is a blue velvet and fits perfectly. Her necklace is a mixture of polished shells and pearls. She wears similar jewelry on her wrists, the upper parts of her arm, in her hair -which falls free down to her back and sweeps around her when she moves- and on her ankles and her little slippered feet. She laughs, her head tosses back and an arm waves out to motion about something she was saying. Even her movements are graceful, like a model. Not quite as graceful as a siren though.

Not far from the supposed siren girl and the men standing about her gawking, is another man. He too is wearing something that fits the basic description of Serenity style, but leaves a lot for the eye to look upon. He wears a light blue velvet sleeveless vest that has the high collar, but the vest is open in the front showing off a very well muscled chest that doesn't seem to have a strand of hair upon it. He wears loose fitting straight cut trousers as is popular and little ankle high boots that have just a bit of a raised heel on them. His hair is short brown and curls just a bit at the end but is all over the place as if it refuses to be kept. He leans on a column and watches the men with his 'siren' with amusement. They've told everyone that she is the siren and he is her thrall, just some random man she picked up somewhere and now he's completely taken with her. She talks like she's a siren and plays the part well. He wears a tight corded necklace that is almost tight enough to be a choker, but not yet there. It has little beads and shells strung through the twisting cords. This is his charm that keeps his allure in check so he can let everyone believe that he is the thrall and that the girl he's with is the siren. Really she's the thrall, but she believes she's a siren because he's told her to. A large shell hangs around his neck on a separate cord. He also has a corded piece tied around the upper parts of one of his left arm.

If they were not dressed as they were and one could not feel her magical fake allure or his real allure, they'd both be mistaken for elves. Her ears are a little longer than his, but his are still longer than Nick's, but shorter than Arako's.

As if sensing her arrival, his green eyes move toward the far side of the great hall, almost 20 meters (65 ft) away. From the angle he is at, he can see Ayden beyond Lord Jashen and knows instantly what she is. Drones seem to have an added magical benefit that lets them know a queen or a princess when they see one. It's part of their survival instincts, since for their race to survive queens have to find drones. For their race to prosper and spread, princesses have to find drones willing to go make a new city with them. He's not currently looking to go make any cities, but you never know what will happen with the right princess comes along.

[Ambassador Lark]

Ayden was distracted by the many of people that were coming and going through the doorways. She heard Trishea talking, “Yes well she is difficult at times. Like trying to get a dolphin to stop swimming, I think you are right about her needing….” She paused, turning to Trishea. Cheek flush at the thought of what Lark needed. “ a man…” Her gaze would lock with Trishea, only to follow the person that would pass behind her.

She would only turn when Trishea’s gaze turned to the doorway of the main hall. Feeling Trishea’s hand upon the small of her back as she is directed toward the doors herself. She is like a moth to a flame. Her gaze traveled to the center of the hall, which held many people already. As they cross the threshold of the hall a man steps before them. Ayden abruptly stops to regard the man as he greets Trishea. Her bright gaze lifting, as she curtseys out of habit before she is introduced. She takes note of the man’s wandering eye as he greets Trishea’s body.

~Lord Jashen.~ She heard Trishea acknowledge the man. She takes note of what Trishea shows her. The hand offered the moment of a greeting. She watches the extension of the greeting as she then offers a cheek. It is then that Trishea speak directly. She nods at Trishea’s teaching, blushing a little as it does center her out a little before Lord Jashen.

Upon begin introduced Ayden curtseys, her gaze dropping. Only to rise when she returns to a more natural position. “My lord.” She offers a greeting. She wants to seem as if she belongs, but does not force her hand, offering it only if Lord Jashen motions to do as he had to Trishea’s. She just offers a soft smile in return. When his hand is offered she extends her own to him. His words puzzling her, was he talking about her sister? “Have you met my sister?” She added, wondering if Lark had in fact beat them here. Her gaze lifted slightly to glance about the room, half expecting to see Lark glaring from a corner at her. Ayden’s attention is locked upon Lord Jashen for the time being. The room is a buzz with activity and has her totally enthralled so to speak, that she does not notice the Male Siren and his companion.

[Trishea Lirya]

Lord Jashen is kissing the back of Ayden's hand, lingering as much as he can while doing so. Trishea is sure he's starting to feel the tug of Ayden's allure. A siren can't exactly turn that off, though there are charms to keep it in check. Ayden will soon find that any creature that is sexually attracted to elf or human women will soon flock to her to vie for her attentions. The same will be said of her sister, though Trishea is sure her sister will just sing them all into going away again. That girl needs to loosen up and learn to have some fun.

“I have not met your sister. So there are three of you here?” Lord Jashen was saying.

“Four.” Trishea responds. “Though one is a servant.” She looks thoughtful for just a moment on that. The servant quarters are not set up for a siren, so perhaps they should make an concession for the princesses and let their siren hand maiden into their quarters with them. She'll speak to Arako about that later. This whole time she's speaking her eyes are on the other side of the room. “I think he meant her.” She gives one of those gentle nods with her head as the only point to gesturing toward the woman surrounded by men and laughing. Her eyes move to the man who leans alone against a column and just watches. She was told a siren was coming with her male thrall, but Trishea is not the elf she appears and can feel his allure past his charm. Her magic in seeking out the power of others is greater than his charm to block his power. She thinks to guard herself from it, but decides she doesn't care and that she's pretty sure she'd find him attractive even without the allure. In fact she's very sure of it, the allure only works if you're already interested in whatever type of creature has it. “He is gorgeous.” Her eyes then move to Ayden. “Let's go say hi.”

Trishea gives a nod of farewell to Lord Jashen and reaches out for Ayden's hand as Jashen drops it so she can guide Ayden over to the hot siren boy, not giving time for Ayden to respond to Jashen's question.

[Nykolas]

Nick, Lola, and Arako are all in a conversation in the center of the room, but their backs were to Jashen, Ayden, and Trishea so they don't see them coming. Well Nick seems to. He looks over at them. His back wasn't fully to them as he was standing where he could speak to Lola and Arako and still see what they were talking about. Nick looks a little bored, but that is his normal look. As the girls near they'll start hearing bits of the conversation.

“I'm just as pretty.” Lola was saying with a bit of a lament to her tone. “Where are my admirers?” Nick's ring glows first green, and then yellow.

Nick looks back toward Lola. “You look lovely today,” he informs her with not much sincerity behind it. Nick's ring glows green.

“That the best you can do?” She asks looking back up at him. The ring turns yellow.

“I like the way your face,” he motions with his hand toward her face as if trying to think of something to say, “sits above your shoulders.” He smiles slyly after saying it. She back hands him across his chest and glares at him, knowing he was being socially awkward on purpose that time. The ring turns green once more and then fades back to blue.

Oh that's lovely. You're such a charmer. Shade's voice comes into his head dripping with sarcasm. She doesn't even like sarcasm. But he can feel them all laughing and it lightens his mood even more.

By this time Tris and Ayden are about even with the purple crystal table. If Ayden knows anything about magic, she knows that is the crystal that focus items are made out of, which makes the table very expensive and possibly a weapon itself if Arako is a mage. Judging by the half robe he wears he probably knows a thing or two about magic. At least this is how Nick sees it, as a possible weapon. Ayden probably doesn't look for weapons everywhere her eyes lay like Nick does.

[Arako]

Arako chuckles at Nick's complement to his distressed boss. Right before the girls got near them they'd been conversing over whether or not Nick was Lola's date. Nick insisted he was not, but he also insists he's her tailor. Arako tried to say that tailors are servants and Nick would therefore need to go stay in the servant living quarters with the rest of them. Nick didn't seem to like this idea, and Arako knew he wouldn't. You don't dress that fancy and claim to be a servant. Well, unless you live in a palace maybe. Nick wouldn't say who he really was, and Lola didn't seem to know where he got his fancy Keloshian clothing either. Nick again said it was because he was a tailor, but his little ring glowed red every time he said it. Lola keeps looking at the ring so Arako didn't take long to notice it himself and now finds himself glancing at it a lot as well. In the end Arako won and Nick had to admit to being Lola's date. His ring seemed to disagree with this statement, but Arako knew he wasn't going to get either to admit Nick was Lola's assassin. When she called him her date, the ring said it was true. Arako found that even more interesting.

“I prefer them there as well.” He responds with a confirming nod to each as if to say that your face being above your shoulders is a good thing.

Then he gets almost serious. Well he's serious but others listening might not realize how serious he is. “I think you're both very good looking. When should I stop by your chambers tonight?” His mind instantly wonders to three of them without clothes and how much fun they could have exploring each other. His eyes move from Lola's breasts to Nick's form which he can imagine well under the tight fitting Keloshian vest, even if he can't see any of it.

[Ambassador Lark]

Ayden just smiled to Lord Jashen as he greetings her, and the returns his attention to Trishea. Her own gaze turned to the others now collecting within the main hall. All Dressed in their finest, but not their absolute finest. Ayden's gaze traveled in the direction that Trishea gestured toward the far side. A wave of energy washes over her, which then causes her entire form to shudder.

her hand had been withdrawn from Lord Jashen's hold, coming to rest against her stomach. Her breathing quickened, as did her heartbeat. Her pale gaze drifted over to what she felt was another siren in their mist. Trishea was already guiding them across the room to greet the pair. Ayden followed, leaving Lord Jashen widen eyed after them.

Ayden's head tilted to the side as she felt another strange energy rush forth. Her pale gaze finding Lord Arako and company about the purple hued table that she and her sister greetings him by earlier. She offered a soft bow of her head toward her host as she continued to follow Trishea. Though she allowed her gaze to linger for a moment upon Nick as they came pass the small group.

Meanwhile Lark had only now just gotten away from Reitori. Changed and looking better then upon her first appearance. She hoped to find her sister in fair company. though she had a few words for Trishea and their trickery. Leaving her to Reitori and her pinning and sewing, while she took Ayden and got into lord knows what mischief.

Her gown was made of soft flowing fabric, sheer and billowing from the waist down. A form fitting bodice of satin, with lacing in the front, gather just under her bosom. Her locks were gathered and pinned neatly about her head. Small ornate jems hung from a clasp in the back of her head, trailing down the nape of her neck.

She thought to enter the hall unannounced but it was seconds as her name was called forth. "Princess Larkea, Crowned heir to theTel'is Empire."

She paused only to bow to her host, knowing that Arako would be looking to see how she faired in her new attire. All the while her amethyst gaze darted about the room, looking for Ayden

[Nykolas]

Nick watches the girls as they near, though not in a way that can be considered staring, it's more like his eyes just happened to be pointed in that direction. Which is also true as he's turned to face the direction they are passing him on. Half the reason he's at this party is to help watch over the princesses and keep them safe. None of the Slayers were sure what happens in these parties and so they couldn't let Lark go in alone. It'd been last minute, as Lark only arrived yesterday and only received the invitation the same day. Ayden came later and so none of them have even laid eyes upon her yet, but Nick can tell he's looking at Princess Ayden and not the siren maid Myia.

Of course Ayden will get a good look at him now, whereas Lark before said she'd barely seen him. He's very tall. He's slender, though there is a power to him in the way he holds himself and just in general that creatures who can sense magic might notice. It isn't the type of power that feels outright magical, but perhaps a drone holding himself back. His eyes are a very light shade of jade, so light they almost seem to glow, but that is just an optical illusion that is heightened by the darkness of his hair in contrast. He is not terribly pale, but he's not dark enough to be considered tan either. His color is more natural than sun given.

He starts to give Ayden a nod of greeting, looking right at her as he does so. He is not smiling, but he's not frowning either. His greeting is halted by Arako's words and he looks at the elf instead. He's frowning slightly now. He has to fight the urge to look at his ring, though it's too late to see if Arako spoke the truth about finding him attractive. He's sure it's true by Arako's stance and tone. Not to mention those blue eyes which now seem to be trying to undress him. Nick sighs and turns away from them all. “I'm finding somewhere else to be.”

“You're just going to leave me stranded?” Lola calls after him without raising her voice too much. Nick responds by raising his right hand and giving his wrist a little flick away from himself in a dismissing wave.

What about the princess? Shade asks.

She can sleep with him. Nick responds.

That's not what I meant.

I don't think he was planning sleeping. Matt sends mental images of naughty things that in turn gets protests from everyone and mental links start getting shut down, Nick's included. He closes his eyes briefly as he leaves the great hall and hopes no one can see him blushing.

It is at this time that Lark is announced. Nick is already across the rest of the great hall and turning down the hall to his left. Only because that was the quickest path out of everyone's line of sight. He doesn't know where he's going yet.

[Trishea Lirya]

Trishea was almost distracted by the odd conversation and funny compliments of the group of people as they passed them, but it was Nick that stood out to her for some reason. She couldn't quite place it, but he seemed very familiar. She found herself wondering if he were truly a demari and how large his horns were. A thought probably fueled by her lord's voicing his desire to sleep with the couple. She has stopped progressing forward and stands regarding them. She has noticed Nick was looking at Ayden and didn't really seem to notice herself. She takes this to mean Nick is interested in the siren or can feel her allure and will encourage Ayden to pursue that later. Or maybe sooner.

Trishea found Keloshians to be interesting people. Her favorite music group was Keloshian. And then Nick is walking off and waving in that strange and cute way of his. Trishea is watching after him and voices her thoughts, “He waves like Nykolas.”

Lola looks at Trishea odd and gives a little shake of her head and a shrug of her shoulders. “That would make sense. Have you met him before?”

Then it all starts to sink in, the height, the green eyes, the black hair, the fine manner of dress and the way he moves. Trishea gasps and looks to Arako, an almost hopeful but disbelieving look in her eyes.

[Arako]

Arako was half joking. He wouldn't come barging into their room later, but if invited he'd be sure to show up and have some fun. He'd already guessed Nick was the shy type, he's just not sure what Nick's type is so he's not ruled himself out yet. That's not to say Nick his his main target in that regard at this party, but he takes his fun where he can find it. He actually prefers to take his fun with women, but sometimes enjoys the company of men as well. He winks to Lola as Nick takes his leave and turns to leave them. He does enjoy a good chase and he's intrigued by the garb Nick has arrived in and his reluctance to reveal his true nature. Trishea's interest only fuels his own.

When Trishea speaks he raises his eyebrows at her as if thinking the same thing that Lola is. That it is odd to point out Nick should wave like himself. Also he knows that Keloshian's sometimes backwards with nicknames and will use nicknames with those they barely know and often only speak full names out in intimate situations or among family. He's sure it all has something to do with the belief that names hold power, and in many ways they do in a magical sense. It takes him a small moment to see Trishea's thinking in all this, but by her reactions and excitement he guess what she is thinking. He looks briefly even more interested and looks off in the direction Nick left them as Nick turns the corner to his left. Arako smiles back to Trishea and glances at the other girls as he speaks as if they're all in on the same train of thought. “He's heading to the music. . .” his words trail off a bit as Lark's entrance is announced. Most will turn to look at the entrance of the manor, not realizing she's returning to them from the back. “room.” He finishes his previous thought with only the slight hesitation while Lark was announced, his words actually overlapped those of the herald. He smiles devilishly, not only because of his thoughts toward Nick, but also because people will assume Lark was already there and didn't arrive like the rest of them since she's coming from the back of the house. There will be talk and whispers.

He turns to follow Nick out of the room. He is sure Trishea will follow him, and trusts that Ayden will come with her. He's not sure if Lola will or not. His back had been to Lark and the back entrance, but now he lifts a hand to his lips and blows her a kiss while winking on his way out of the great hall. It's very informal and many will say inappropriate, but who's to say that it's not all perfectly fine in the culture of the type of elf he is? This is his house and his party and he is almost never formal with any of the guests after the initial introductions. Some of the guests take longer than others to loosen up, but the sun is setting and the gates will soon lock.

[Kels]

This is about where everyone is at the end of this round. Some characters are moving so by the time your post is done they could be further along in their chosen path. The golden tokens with the green marks are servants. The ones that are blue with orange are quests and the ones with the red X's are guards. The main players are identified by the first two letters of their names. Ar=Arako, La=Lark and so on.

You can barely see Reitorie's Re back in the tailor which is in the upper left corner of the map.

and even though I haven't posted Tris starting to follow Arako yet, I moved her a bit that direction on this map.



Also the guest count may not be correct, because I haven't finished making them all. But it's close to correct depending on how many came alone and how many brought dates.

[Ambassador Lark]

Ayden stood just behind Tris, her gaze drifting over the woman's slender shoulder in the direction that she had thought that they were heading. Ossires had been their intended target, but now they seemed to be distracted. And with good reason. Ayden's attention had turned upon seeing that familar form, with that head of dark locks, and the soft green eyes.....~Him again~

Her heart skipped a beat for a moment as he acknowledge her. He looked directly at her, and bowed his regal head to her. She smiled, barely able to contain herself. But she was a princess and would demand that much of herself. She didn't wish to appear foolish before such a man. She bowed her head in return, a soft bend in her knee called for her to curtsey. She would then rise and look to Trishea with a questioning look.

Tris seemed to be at a lost for words. Lost in some spell of this man. She would ask her later then they were alone. Her gaze would the travel to Arako and Lola, as Nick left their company rather hastily. It seemed that they came in the mists of a rather interesting point in their conversation. Ayden simply stood silently, admiring those about her.


Meanwhile, Lark stood at the doorway raised up on her toes. Trying to get a look about those before her. Ayden was here somewhere. She was dressed, and hopefully to the liking of most present, namely Arako. She didn't wish two strikes against them. From what she read of human law, they regarded a first impression most highly. Not that where tehy came from it was any less. Just a little more serious upon land it seemed.

Her gaze danced from person to person. slowly moving into the room. her slender form moving amongst those present. A soft flicker of energy washe dover her, and she turned to find a man, tall and fair in his looks, along side him a young woman, or siren. The energy signatures that she picked up on expressed that they were both sirens....or was it just this room. It was possible that many sirens lingered within the manor. she would soon learn their true natures.

She would pass by Ossires and the woman, greet them with a bow and a soft smile, before looking for her sister once again. "Where is she?" the room was full, which only made it harder to see Ayden. But give it time, she would find her.~

[Nykolas]

Nick stands at the door of the music room, but doesn't enter. He stares at the north wall where a very large painting takes up almost the entire wall. It's a life sized painting of Trishea and Arako's favorite Keloshian music group. The funny thing about Keloshians and their music celebrities is that they always wear masks so that they can walk in public or serve in their day jobs and not be bothered. Humans don't see the point in it, but when you're immortal or long lived you don't want something you did a couple of centuries ago coming back to bother you when you're long over it. Nick doesn't consider himself a musician. He's an assassin. He stares at the very life like painting of a tall Keloshian with long black hair, as black as the deepest shadow and bright green eyes looking out from behind a mask. The mask doesn't cover his mouth and you can see the man is frowning at another who leans on him.

Sensing movement to his right Nick looks back over his shoulder and down the hall where the others are coming around the corner. He turns his mental link back on. Panic. Help? He can feel his face getting warm and knows if he can feel it, it must be bad because he doesn't normally.

[Trishea Lirya]

Trishea did not have to be asked to motioned to follow Arako, she does so automatically. Really she's a bigger fan than he is and it's her pursuit, her lord is just helping her with it. She turns to Ayden first and raises fists in front of herself about level with her collar bone and makes an excited squeal. She too trusts that Ayden will just follow, but if Ayden decides not to follow, but instead to continue on to the hot siren boy, Trishea will understand. She has her own target now and she's not sure if he's who she thinks he is. She's not sure what she'll do if he is, but she's sure she'll chase him anyway for just looking like her intended target. Trishea turns and follows Arako following Nick. Her eyes fall on Lola a she nears her, wondering if Lola knows if it's really him or not.

[Arako]

Arako frowns slightly when Lark doesn't notice his gestures toward her, but lets it go. There is plenty of time to break the ice and get to know each other. For now, he has to find out if one of his guests is hiding a large secret. Nick said he was a tailor. Arako thought he was an assassin. Trishea thinks he's a rock star. Arako wonders now how many of those things are true and if all might be. Then he remembers the ring having glowed red when Nick said he was Lola's tailor. Arako pretended not to notice, but Lola kept looking at the ring, which keeps bringing his eyes to it and it didn't take him long to figure out it was a turth sphere. Very clever to carry one around with you, but very expensive too. Tailors can't afford the type of enchantments Nick is wearing. Keloshian rock stars could.

Arako turns the corner out of the great hall and can't help but smile slyly at the view of Nick standing there looking worried. Arako can tell the other man is looking at the painting. It's the original too. Cost him a pretty penny. Or it would have if he'd bought it, he'll let others think that. He took it from someone that owned him. Which in a way still cost him, he didn't get what was owed to him, he got the painting instead. He can't help but offer a triumphant grin back into the great hall to Trishea.

[Ossires]

Ossires is watching everyone else, but doesn't move from his post he leans against. His interest is peaked by the entrance of another siren princess. He looks over at his decoy thrall surrounded by her admirers, but she doesn't notice the princesses. He knew she wouldn't, the charm she wears gives her a bit of allure and helps pass her off as a siren to anyone that isn't, but real sirens can tell she's a fake. Ossires' charm passes him off as an elf, but sirens can tell that's a fake too and that he's really one of them. When the host chases off Nick and then follows him, Oss watches what happens there. Then Arako blows a kiss to Lark and his eyes move back to her. She looks lost, as if searching for someone. He can guess she's looking for the other siren which is between them in the middle of the hall. Oss thinks about moving to help guide the lost princess, but she's on the other side of the great hall from him, and it's a long way. Half way across he's sure she'll see her sister and run off leaving him standing alone in the middle of the room for everyone to notice and stare at. Normally that wouldn't bother him, but he's tracking a siren killer and that killer could be in this room. He doesn't want to reveal his hand too soon. He remains where he is for now.

[Kels]

Given Lark's response, I have moved some guests to be between her and the view of her sister.



Map Legend:
La=Lark
Ar=Arako
Ay=Ayden
Ni=Nick
Ja=Jashen
Lo=Lola
Os=Ossires
Tr=Trishea
Servant
Guest
House Guard

[Ambassador Lark]

Ayden stood just behind Tris, who seemed beyond excited for some reason. Had she missed something? She tilted her head to the side and gave Tris and questioning look. Was she to follow after her? Where? Where they following the dark haired man? If so, why? The night would be long; in fact they had several days and nights together. What could possibly be so intensely exciting that it called for their immediate attention. Ayden shrugged and gathered a handful of skirts so that she could follow after Tris.

She was becoming ever so curious about this man the longer she remained in Tris’ company. She would not be aware of Nick’s past like the others seemed to think. Ayden was just curious if she would get to dance with him, or even stand in the same company as him. Her stomach tightened as he followed the others out of the main hall and headed toward the music hall.

Lark stood at the backdoor of the main hall for a moment, her gaze just catching Arako’s frown. She had missed something. She tilted her head and watched as one by one they seemed to leave the hall. And there in tow was Ayden. She could not mistake her sister’s fair locks. Gathering her skirts she started to make her way into the hall. The crowd that had gather made it a trying feat, nonetheless. She stopped, furrowing her brow as she thought against making a scene. She could speak with Ayden later about her behavior, in the confines of their room. Not airing their argument, which it was bound to be, in front of all to see.

She came to a halt when she reached Ossires’ side. Her amethyst gaze traveled across his form before resting upon his face. He was indeed a handsome man. She tilted her head to the side, as if to sniff the air. She smirked, looking to his thrall then back to him. “Greetings….Sir….Lord….” she would give pause so that he might answer her. “Lovely place that Lord Arako has here.” She would then state. Her gaze drifted over the crowd. A servant arrived to hand them drinks of whatever Arako felt to lavish over his guest. She would gingerly take up a glass, gesturing for Ossires to join her.

[Nykolas]

Nick had shut his friends out, and they in turn had shut him out, but if he tries hard enough he can get them back on the line. The problem is it's very hard to have him and not Matt at the same time given that his connection to Matt is the strongest. Matt won't be any help here, he loves fame and would just tell Nick to live it up and sleep with a groupie. No one answers, but Nick also isn't really trying that hard, he has a stronger desire to not be seen and it interferes with his mental link to his friends. When he sees Arako he at first just stands there looking back, but then the others start to come as well and Nick once again turns from them. This time he heads for the door. The ambassador can watch her own back, I'm out of here!

He turns another corner, this time leading out the double doors from the manor house and then out the gates into the city. It's chaos, corruption, and crime out there, but Nick feels safer out there than in here right now. The next problem arises when dusk sets in fully. The sun sets and the gates close. The gates more than just close however and Nick stops dead in his tracks at the rush of magic. Someone lets out a small gasp and he looks around to see who before realizing it was him. Arako's security is better than he'd thought. The gates aren't just closed to the city, the entire complex is removed from the city. He's not sure right away if they're out of sync or removed to a pocket dimension. The manor house can always be seen in the city, but no one ever sees anyone moving around it except for a few servants. That would be easy to pull off. Nick has to stop himself from being impressed. Everyone knows the doors lock and do not open again for three days. That's three days stuck in here now with that painting in there in that other room. Alright, don't panic. There has to be a million people who fit my description. Nick remains where he stopped when the gates closed and waits for Arako to catch up with him.

[Arako]

Arako continues to follow Nick, though he doesn't run after the other man or anything. He saw that look on Nick's face and knows he had to have been looking at the painting. Though that voice of reason tells him not to fly off the handle yet and assume. Maybe Nick was staring horrified at the harpsichord. Could have a strange phobia of musical instruments. Arako has run across many strange phobias in his day, mostly because he seeks them out. He's interested in the study of behavior. Nick's behavior now intrigues him. Why doesn't he just stand his ground and deny it? Doesn't he realize he's only fueling Trishea?

He smiles and glances back over his shoulder to see her movement, but would have to stop and turn around to lay eyes fully on her so he does not go that far. She is his favorite of all time. Best follower he's ever had. And still he has never told her who he really is. Not that he's anyone all that special. She knows he has his hands in many things. She doesn't know how powerful his family is. He is pleased Ayden follows Trishea. He was worried he'd done something to offend her. He hadn't thought of it at the time of their meeting, but after she'd left he started to wonder if he'd set the siren princesses off from himself. He is interested in their futures and what actions they may take or spark here on the shore so far from their home.

Dusk arrives and the gates shut. Arako gets just a glimpse of some of those he's invited trying to rush for the gates before it's too late, but they do not make it in time. He doesn't shut the gates himself. He's set them up on a magical timer, a timer that will not go off again until the party is over and then the gates will open for all those that wish to leave. He could in theory keep anyone here he wishes, but there are a lot of witnesses and many of them will bond over the next three days. Many of them will make new enemies. Arako will stir the pot and see what happens. He raises a hand and looks to those guests urgently, to rush them though he knows they won't make it, and then the gates shut. He sighs a bit, having really have wanted them in. He suspected they work for Hilda (or whatever aliases he knows her by,) who is his strongest competitor on many fronts. He's not sure what all she has her hands into, but is sure it's more than it seems and he knows he's given her that impression of himself over the last year as well. He doubts she knows he runs a black market brothel or the local assassins guild. It's the brothel that drew their attention to each other as she has one as well.

His mind quickly looks back to Nick and he smiles. “You weren't thinking of leaving, where you?” He motions over for Ayden to take those last few steps to catch up to them, “because Princess Ayden wanted to meet you.” As much as he likes to watch people and study behavior, he'd missed that Ayden really did want to meet Nick and doesn't realize he's putting her on the spot as much as he is at first. Not a problem he can't quickly fix in a moment.

[Ossires]

Oss remains leaning with his back against the post and watches Lark come toward him. Many drones might get a little flustered in the presence of a princess. Some might even run like that other guy did. Oss looks a little thoughtful and looks almost toward the direction that Nick had fled from trying to remember and if memory is correct, the tall elf took off when the siren princess came to him. And then they all chased him. Odd bunch.

His eyes trail over Lark even as hers do him. Of course she's dressed more to the style of the humans of the city and for the fall season that has set in. The ocean is cold and so Oss doesn't feel it like humans do. His chest is almost fully shown under his open vest. Though he has a mop of almost curls on his head, there is little to no hair to be seen anywhere else on his form. Hair slows you down in the water. His legs have more than his arms and his chest has none. But his legs don't really get wet as they turn into a tail of scales, so it doesn't matter how much hair they have.

“Just Oss.” He says in reply to her fishing for a title. He didn't think anything of it at first and then wonders if she was searching to see if he'd already tied himself to a princess or a queen. He had once, but it's a long story and doesn't currently have an ending. He nods to her statement about how lovely the manor house is. It's a very large manor house. Oss can't imagine why he needs so much room, and all the rooms down here seem to be pointless and for entertainment. He takes a glass as well and raises it to match Lark and offers a small toast. “Here's hoping we don't die here.” Then after pointing the glass toward her first he takes a drink without explaining his odd blessing.

[Kels]

Map Legend:
La=Lark
Ar=Arako
Ay=Ayden
Ni=Nick
Ja=Jashen
Lo=Lola
Os=Ossires
Tr=Trishea
Servant
Guest
House Guard

[Ambassador Lark]

There was hardly anywhere for Ayden to go then further along the hallway toward the others. Her bright eyes take in her surroundings as Arako watches Nick, as well as, Trishea. what was so fascinating about this man that all where enthralled by him. Ayden almost felt left out as they all stood staring at the man. She could not help but start to feel sorry for him. he looked to be in some sort of discomfort at the moment. Lark had often told her it was impolite to stare. Not that Siren often had reason to, usually they were stared at. Which made her understand that Nick was possibly not in the best of spirits. She lowered her gaze to allow him a little peace, even if Arako and Trishea were still staring at him.

But when Arako brings up that she wished to meet Nick. She can feel her face grow increasing warmer by the second. Her voice even failed her. And siren's were known for their voices. She cleared her throat, gathered her wits and looked over Trishea's shoulder. Being reduced to a meek woman at the moment, as she was put on the spot. She stepped to Trishea's side. "Tis' fine Lord Arako, we can be introduced later..." she said, biting her bottom lip.


Meanwhile Lark stood sipping from her glass looking about the room. Her attention does come back to Oss, as he stated that he wished to be called. "How is that?" she asked, looking at him with wide amethyst orbs. she almost choked on her drink. Her attention fully upon Oss now. What was he on about....killed? who why when were? For what reason? she was curius to learn more. that was if Oss had more to offer. "DO explain?"

[Nykolas]

Nick stands there frowning. He doesn't move and not much crosses his features, but his mind is reeling with many possibilities. He's thinking of trying to push through Arako's spell and leave anyway, possibly leaving a whole in the fabric that separates this place from the outside world and he's not sure if that would be better or worse for the ambassador. He's still struggling with his duty to protect her and his desire not to care. It's not really his duty after all, he works for Kelosh, not Moonshade. He's thinking he could either break the magic with his own, break through with his shadow abilities or maybe use a little trinket he has that will banish him from this place and back into the 'real' world but that would all depend on if this is truly a pocket dimension or not and he's not sure yet. Also he's sure that trinket would take him to the one who gave it to him and he doesn't want to go there. He looks over at Ayden still frowning when Arako calls her out, but then his features softens and his frown alters slightly. Arako is making her uncomfortable as well. Nick isn't sure if she is acting or if she's really as sweet as she seems. He has a hard time imaging a siren that isn't all you expect them to be. He regards her briefly, but doesn't bother to look at the ring. It will tell him if she's telling the truth, but not what she thinks about what she's saying. The words sound honest, it's their motive he doubts. So now he's torn between not trusting a siren given her nature and instincts and with wanting to help a damsel in distress. Poor Ayden has no way of knowing he'd have more respect for the siren over the damsel.

He starts to introduce himself and realizes an alternative motive behind Arako's words. Well, so he thinks at first and then he realizes Arako can't expect him to give his real name and title to this siren princess when he won't give it to anyone else. Nick is his real name and that seems to be coming back to hurt him. I told you we needed aliases back then. No one responds, but it's habit for him to speak to his friends in his head.

He doesn't reach out a hand for Ayden to shake, doesn't offer to kiss the back of hers and doesn't wave his hand in front of himself like Arako did. “You can call me Nick.”

[Arako]

Arako looks interested and hopeful when Ayden steps forward and speaks. He casts her a comforting look, but like Nick wonders if she's playing a game or if she's really that far from what you'd expect a siren to be. He knows it's possible, every so often you get a creature from some race that doesn't act like most the others of his or her race. He often takes interest in those creatures. Drazio for example is one, not the typical netherelf male. He looks back over his shoulder behind himself as two guests that entered while he was chasing Nick are announced. He decides they can continue harassing the Keloshian later and with a slight bow to both Nick and Ayden he bids them farewell for now and turns to go greet his other guests.

[Ossires]

Ossires wouldn't normally explain anything, but he wouldn't normally make the toast he made either. He almost wishes he'd known she was going to be there sooner and he'd have warned her to take her sister and leave. The gates are shut now and there is no leaving, not until the three days are over. He only tells her as much as he does because she's a princess. He's sure he wouldn't tell a lesser siren as much but would let her find out on her own if there were danger. His manner doesn't change and he continues to look around at others while glancing at Lark occasionally as he talks and even smiles and nods greetings to others despite his words. He obviously doesn't want to draw too much attention to himself. “I'm tracking the people who destroyed my city. I believe one is here.” It's very hard to destroy a siren city. A queen wields the power of all those who live or have lived in her city so when one is destroyed it tends to be a young one. Oss realizes it's insane to hunt people who can hunt you, but he can't just sit back and do nothing. He'll never feel right joining any other city until his is avenged and the core is taken back. Cores can be stolen and will go for fortune on the black market.

[Ambassador Lark]

Ayden could not help feeling even more uneasy as Nick and Arako look at her with appraising gazes. Where they trying to figure her out? Did she have something on her face? Was she not dressed appropriate for the festivities? What was it that it causes such discomfort in her? A flick of heat rose within her cheeks. A slender hand held stead moved to tuck a strand of hair that had yet to fall back behind a delicate yet small pointed ear. Her pale locks curled neatly over her shoulder and down her back, like a waterfall. Soft flecks of beading shimmered when light touched her. Lark’s idea to make Ayden feel less homesick, or an attempt at helping her not feel homesick.

Ayden acknowledged Nick as he spoke, offering a soft smile. Only to then return to standing in the center of the hallway. She was about to say something but gave pause when Arako bide them a farewell and departed their company. Her gaze traveled after the man, lingering for a time before returning to Nick. Now what to say? She glanced to Tris, who was still with them, unless she departed with Arako, and then she would just look to Nick. “So…where do you hail from, Nick.’ She spoke, and then paused… “I mean Lord, Sir…Nick.” What was his title if any?


In the hall Lark stood looking at Ossires for a long lingering moment as he spoke of avenging his home. Well, not in so many words, but the look upon his face as he darted his gaze about to those surrounding them, as well as, those entering and exiting the hall, that told her that he was very serious. Panic seemed to tear through her. ~Ayden~ She whispered to herself, her own gaze darting about looking for a snowy crop of hair. She did not wish to draw attention to herself, but Oss had just incited her survival instinct in her now. She had thought to leave the hall and continue to seek out her sister, but that would just make matters worst by drawing attention to her, and Oss.

Her amethyst gaze locked upon Oss. “Are you serious?” ~ Of course he’s serious, who would say such a thing and only be joking. “I mean, are we all in danger?” She wanted to leave here, flee and go back home, not even back to Serenity just home. She did not like the fact that there might be a killer about. Her hands curled tightly into fists, and then quickly, she tucked them under her arms. “Destroyed?” she had not heard of a city being destroyed. “what city is this? How was it destroyed?”

[Trishea Lirya]

Trishea did not follow Arako. She has no need to greet the guests and has no greeted any of them as they entered the manor house. She remains by Ayden's side, still finding her the most interesting person there. Well, possible friend wise anyway. The tall elfish man in front of her catches her interest as well. She wonders if that slight point to his ears is because he's fae or demari perhaps. She hopes it's not just elf. Plain elf can be boring, she wants something interesting to compliment her new siren friend. Arako likes their behavior, Tris likes their power. “Yes, Lord Nikolas. Please tell us from where do you hail?” She says it very conversationally. She can see his Keloshian garb, but she'd like to hear him say it, as if that would confirm he is the same one as in the painting in the music room.