Dragon's flame and Raven's wing

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe stood there helping the woman stand. As she finally stood up a voice popped up which startled him. Wait... A voice...?! "Lady Draconai!" As he heard those words he turned to face away from the source of the voice as fast as possible. A snarling came from his mouth as he did so. NOBODY is to know what I look like except her! His thoughts were angry at the intrusion from the servant but he did not say a word. It appeared the female was just as irritated as himself. As she left she spoke to him. "Stay put. I'll be back soon." She left the room following the servant so while alone, Zenithe decided to make himself at home. Walking around he browsed through a few of the books lying on shelves until he found one that caught his interest. With it in hand, he walked back to the couch which the woman had been laying on. At first he sat down on it, but then proceeded to lay down with his legs crossed at the ankles, and left arm crossed over his chest under his right arm holding the book. His large sword hung over the edge of the couch in its sheathe. He read a few pages and looked over the book for a moment when he heard footsteps outside the door but apparently it was only a servant walking by when nobody walked in. A few more pages were read when once again he heard footsteps outside the door. but instead of just walking by, they stopped just outside. When the doors opened, at first he thought someone else other than the woman he knew walked in but after looking at her eyes he knew it was her.

Zenithe sat up and looked over her again. This time however while looking at her, he felt his heart beat faster. She looked amazing in her new clothing compared to before. His crimson eyes widened a bit, with his mouth opening slightly with shock at the sight before him. He was in a daze and if it wasn't for her words he would have remained in that state. "I'm sorry I kept you waiting." The smile on her face reflected on his own now. "But I thought it might be a good idea to change into some different clothes..." With that statement he once again looked over her figure and without even noticing, the book that once occupied his hands had slipped out and fell to the ground while he was in his stupor. "You look...." His mind raced with thoughts trying to find the right word to describe her appearance. You're falling for her aren't you.... you fool. His mind thought. But once more his mothers voice came into his mind like a bell ringing clearly through the still air of a winter morning. Before the voice had only been pieces of what she had told him. But this time he remembered the full saying she had told him. "Having someone to live for... someone to love... gives us strength unmatched by any other force that exists. Knowing that person means more to you than even your own life and safety enables you to bring out protective instincts that cannot be rivaled. When you find this person you will know. Your mind will try to rationalize things. But love is everything BUT rational. Let your heart tell you what to do. Don't THINK about what to say. FEEL what you should say." After the few moments his mother's voice had filled his mind reminding him of the truth, his head lowered and his eyes closed. He knew what he had to do in order to truly allow things to progress. Something he had swore to himself to never do the remainder of his lifetime. The one thing, that a woman he met inside of an inn on bad terms with, was about to change his personality completely.

He tore down the walls he held so strongly most of his life holding all of his emotions back. Like a dam being broken, all the emotions he kept to himself and never showed, all the emotions he kept bottled inside, rushed forth like a raging river over him. He fought to control them so he did not become overwhelmed. Roughly a minute had passed by when he opened his eyes. When they turned to look into the violet eyes of the woman which so resembled glowing amethysts, for the first time since he was only five years old, there was emotion clearly visible in them. They were completely filled with the passion that he had developed so quickly for the female. His heart spoke clearly what his mind couldn't possibly think of. "There are no words in any language on this planet that can describe the beauty you hold with you." His heart was beating a mile a minute and with that statement he remembered something very vividly that had been forgotten in his memories. A memory of the ONE thing his father ever told him that he payed attention to. "I think...." He swallowed hard with his heart beating even faster than before. "You might be my soul mate. My father once told me long ago.... the kind of dragon that we are.... we can sense when the ones we are meant to be with for eternity are around. We develop a connection with them almost instantly allowing us to feel what they do as proof that we value them above all else. And that we would willingly share the pain they experience as a testament to our devotion. I don't think I felt your pain when you were first wounded because deep down I went into such a rage I ignored almost everything around me. I was barely able to hold myself back from slaughtering every soldier I layed my eyes upon. But when I looked at you.... that rage vanished and I left them unharmed.... for you." Standing up, Zenithe began to remove his good completely, folding it back and pulling his long jet black silky hair from it. It draped down to the back of his knees almost, bangs coming down just past his eyes. Had it not been for his voice, clothing and masculine face, one might have mistaken him for a girl. He pulled his bangs to the side revealing his eyes once again. "I don't know if you can forgive me for my previous ways but I can't change the past no more than anyone else. But what I can do is change my future." A smile came across his face as he continued to look into her eyes. "After letting my emotions free from the prison I held them in inside my heart, I found out something about my future that is very clear to me now." He walked towards the woman until he was right in front of her. "I want that future to be with you if you will allow it. Whether you realize it or not in the short while I've known you, you are the reason I have changed. And I believe the reason I'm so attracted towards you in particular is exactly what my father told me." He stood before her waiting for a reply to his sudden request.

[ulrica]

<sup>The dragoness had to fight a smirk at Zenithe's reaction. Though a blush might have brought a rose tint to her cheeks, such feelings were not easily expressed for Misae and she instantly pushed it away. The book he had been holding fell from his hands as he stared at her, searching for words. "You look...." He couldn't finish, the words wouldn't come to him for some reason. Had she done something wrong? Or had she done something incredibly right? Is this good...or bad...? She was unsure, but that wasn't what bothered her. His eyes closed then, his head turning down. Misae bit her lip, anxiety quickening her already racing heart. She was a fool. Why was she even still here? Why was she unable to leave? And why did the very thought of leaving make her sick? She hated it, hated feeling so helpless and vulnerable and hated knowing there was nothing she could do to make it stop. This has to end.... This has to end now... Yes, she would end it. Whatever there was between them, she would end it.

Misae opened her mouth to speak just as Zenithe opened his eyes and looked up at her again. With his gaze, her thoughts slammed into a brick wall. It didn't matter that she couldn't speak, it didn't matter that she couldn't muster the will to leave him. None of that mattered anymore because his voice was all that mattered then. "There are no words in any language on this planet that can describe the beauty you hold with you." The dragoness smiled shyly, looking down as she suddenly found his gaze too much to take. "You might be my soul mate..." Her heart stopped. "We develop a connection with them almost instantly allowing us to feel what they do as proof that we value them above all else. And that we would willingly share the pain they experience as a testament to our devotion..." Her breath was strangled in her constricting throat. "I don't think I felt your pain when you were first wounded because deep down I went into such a rage I ignored almost everything around me. I was barely able to hold myself back from slaughtering every soldier I layed my eyes upon. But when I looked at you.... that rage vanished and I left them unharmed.... for you." The world fell away until only they remained. Two souls floating unhindered in empty space.

Zenithe stood, removing his hood and pulling out a lengthy mass of silky black hair. Misae watched him silently, incapable of saying anything; incapable of doing anything. "I don't know if you can forgive me for my previous ways but I can't change the past no more than anyone else. But what I can do is change my future." He smiled making the woman's heart stutter. "After letting my emotions free from the prison I held them in inside my heart, I found out something about my future that is very clear to me now." Zenithe crossed the room to come and stand mere inches from the dragoness. "I want that future to be with you if you will allow it. Whether you realize it or not in the short while I've known you, you are the reason I have changed. And I believe the reason I'm so attracted towards you in particular is exactly what my father told me." He fell silent, waiting for a reply.

Her heart was racing, pounding against her chest as if at any second it would escape. No! No you fool, I am ten times your superior! To even think I would slightly consider allowing you anywhere near me is complete and utter insanity!! Her right hand reached up, brushing against his cheek then her arm snaking around the back of his neck if he wouldn't move away. Don't you ever touch me! Don't you ever, EVER touch me! You are nothing to me!! NOTHING!!! She would lean against him if he would let her, stretching up on her toes until her mouth would brush against his ear. "I dare you....prove it..." She breathed, her words more than a little seductive; more than a little teasing. It was obvious what the goddess-like creature wanted. His scent filled her nose and the feel of his clothes beneath her hand was comforting. "Kiss me Zenithe...... I dare you...." The request was almost timid, something new for the dragoness.

And the raging voice of her foster father in her head, was ignored completely.....</sup>

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe stood silent as he awaited her reply. His mind was racing with thoughts. You never should have done this. It's wrong. His mind told him. "You know this is the RIGHT thing to do. You know it FEELS right." his mother's voice interjected. You should leave now. Get out of h--- BE SILENT! He told himself, able to interrupt his own thoughts. Each second that passed by his heart seemed to race faster and faster. He was expecting her to just say something. But soon enough she didn't just say something, she acted too. Her right hand touched his left cheek, slowly working its way behind his neck. He started to become breathless as the contact with her became closer and closer. She leaned against him standing on her toes, as he allowed her, her mouth so close to his ear she spoke. "I dare you....prove it..." The tone used in her voice and the way she spoke now seemed so appealing to him with his emotions set free. And once more she spoke. "Kiss me Zenithe...... I dare you...." His eyes widened slightly as he heard her speak those words. His heart skipped a beat and he couldn't breathe. Such a response was what he had hoped for deep down but didn't expect to receive. With those words he looked deep into her eyes. His right hand reached up, placing it on her cheek as his thumb began to gently caress it. His voice was quiet with a slight tinge of nervousness. "You wish me to prove it and kiss you. Then so I shall." He leaned in towards her slowly until he could feel her breath. Closing the last small gap that existed between them, he closed his eyes leaning his head slightly to the right as his lips came into contact with hers. Breathing was impossible for him at this point experiencing something so new with someone such as the woman before him. Once more his mind raced with thoughts. But none of which this time were telling him this was wrong. Her lips... they're so soft. And her scent..... it's so wonderful With his left hand he reached up and placed it around her waist, bringing her even closer to him. During this time he was in a state of pure bliss. His passion was pouring itself into the way he kissed her. It was gentle with love yet firm. He slowly pulled away after a while and looked into her eyes smiling. "I never back down from a dare. And was that proof enough for you that I meant what I said?" His voice was still quiet but now it was teasing. He stood there now with both his arms around her waist holding her close as long as she would allow it.

[ulrica]

<sup>His hand touching her cheek sent a small trill of excitement through the dragoness's heart. How long had it been since someone had touched her in such a way? "You wish me to prove it and kiss you. Then so I shall." His voice was soft, and seemed unsure, but he still leaned in until his lips met hers. Time stopped with the contact. The world around them ceased to matter. Assyrian could have walked in then and she wouldn't have cared. All that mattered was him. His arms around her and pulling him closer, his lips moving so tenderly over hers that she couldn't think past them. Everything that mattered, that ever could matter was directly in front of her. It was as if the focal point of the entire world had shifted in a single moment, in a single touch.

How had she been able to survive without him for so long? Over eighty years and how had she been capable of living without him? How had the world seemed so wonderful? How had the sun risen in the morning and been able to light up the sky everyday? So many questions and she could only think of one answer: because some higher power had made it so. Some power had driven her forward even when it seemed as if the world could hold no hope or potential. That she had pushed on and lived in spite of her loneliness, in spite of her past, was due to the good grace of the gods.

He pulled away then and the dragoness was reduced to little more than a child with the way she whimpered and clung to him. "I never back down from a dare. And was that proof enough for you that I meant what I said?" He teased softly, strong arms still holding her close to him. "Well, you definitely have a way with words." She joked back, her voice little more than a shy whisper. Burying her head in his chest and wrapping her arms tightly around Zenithe's waist, the dragoness expanded her senses to take in every bit of him that she could. His scents, his feel, the taste of his mouth lingering on her lips. She trembled slightly with longing, pearly wings - which were left unhindered through the low dripping back of her dress - fluttered as a newly hatched butterfly's would. His care for her was so foreign, so unreal, it was as if she had been tossed into an entirely new world and naivety was all she knew. Misae's first instinct was to test her boundaries, but to do so would mean risking his anger. No, I'll never do anything to make him angry, to hurt him in any way. Never... She decided, closing her eyes and simply reveling in the nearness of him; in the warm comfort of his touch.

The woman would have been content to simply stay in his arms forever. But there was a world outside the large doors of the small library, a world which would continue with or without them. Misae sighed sadly, a tired worn down sound that reflected in the sorrow of her eyes. "I bet the cooks are done preparing dinner by now. If you like, we can go eat and afterward I can show you around?" She offered, a small smile on her face as she pulled away only enough to look up into his eyes. Already, the succulent scents from the kitchen were drifting into the room and making her mouth water. From the amazing smell, they had definitely made something delicious. But the choice was completely up to Zenithe. She wanted his happiness more than anything, the food would help her wound to close faster as it would give her body more energy and thus her healing would increase, but food came in second to the man holding her now. He was what she cared about then, to please him was her greatest wish.</sup>

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe stood there with a smile across his face as he awaited to see the dragonesses response. Shyly she whispered, "Well, you definitely have a way with words." He chuckled slightly at this remark. She buried her head in his chest and wrapped her arms around him tightly. His arms already around her waist, Zenithe did the same, pulling her as close as he could holding on to her tightly. His giant wings towering high above both of them, slowly began to fold around them as if to cradle the two as he leaned his head down to rest it gently on hers lying on his chest. His heart still had not calmed down. Standing in the embrace of this magnificent dragoness before him he couldn't believe the moment was even real but merely a dream. Her scents... her warmth... the feel of her lips just moments ago however reassured his reality was not a dream. She is the one.... I wasn't entirely sure at first but now I know. She's the one I'm meant to be with. If she was any one else... ANYONE else.... I would still doubt it even now. How have I lived my life so ruthlessly without emotion... without her? His breathing was slow and deep through his nose as he took in the woman's scent to remember forever. Soon enough though the smell of food had started to roll into the room. Having not eaten anything all day he was famished. "I bet the cooks are done preparing dinner by now. If you like, we can go eat and afterward I can show you around?" Her voice broke his absent minded state as he listened to her offer. His wings still folded around them and his arms still around her waist, he answered. "That sounds like a great idea to me. I'm starving. But perhaps we should keep what just transpired a secret for just a little while? I hardly know that other guy and I'd hate to see how he would react if he found out about this little occurrence. And most importantly... I would love to spend more time with you. So maybe we could go slowly on the tour hmm?" Zenithe smiled while laughing thinking about the possible reactions from the man. "Oh yeah. Would you mind helping me with my hair..... it's rather annoying trying to put it back inside my cloak by myself. I'd rather you be the only one to have seen my true face. At least for now." He smiled looking back at the woman. "AND, you still haven't told me your name. Last I asked you was when the servant barged in so I don't believe you had a chance to answer."

[ulrica]

<sup>"That sounds like a great idea to me. I'm starving. But perhaps we should keep what just transpired a secret for just a little while? I hardly know that other guy and I'd hate to see how he would react if he found out about this little occurrence. And most importantly... I would love to spend more time with you. So maybe we could go slowly on the tour hmm?" Misae smirked, playfully rolling her eyes. "Assyrian is like my brother, he was there for me when I lost everything and I returned the favor. Our relationship is....complicated, but if this is what I want then he will support me at least in his head. And as for the tour...we can take as long as you like." She replied, brushing a hand over his cheek before pushing back a stray strand of hair which was threatening to fall over his forehead. "Oh yeah. Would you mind helping me with my hair..... it's rather annoying trying to put it back inside my cloak by myself. I'd rather you be the only one to have seen my true face. At least for now." Misae nodded once, instantly moving to help him. She didn't know why, but doing what he asked just felt right. Where once leadership had been her path, now she wanted more to simply stand back and let Zenithe show her what to do.

Once his hair was securely tucked away back under his hood and his mask again covered his face, Misae turned to lead him from the room. But his words stopped her. "AND, you still haven't told me your name. Last I asked you was when the servant barged in so I don't believe you had a chance to answer." Turning back, the woman smiled. Her violet eyes glinting with mirth. "Misae Drac- Just Misae.." The sentence fell and she turned quickly, not wanting Zenithe to see the sudden sorrow that darkened her eyes. How could she bear that name and not hate him for everything he had done, but love him just as much for what he had given her. Control yourself... Stopping the tears that were beginning to bead in her eyes, she pushed the thoughts of her foster father away. It only hurt when she thought of the past.

She lead Zenithe down the hallway a ways until they came to another set of large doors, each complete with their own intricate carvings that seemed to continue across the tiny gap between the doors while at the same time appearing entirely separate. The dragoness paused for a moment, running her hand briefly over her father's craftsmanship. However, now wasn't the time to think about him. Shaking her head of any unwanted memories, Misae continued into the great dining hall on the other side of the doors. Servants lined the walls, each with their noses upturned as if they were looking down on the world that controlled them. At the sound of the door opening, all ten of them - there were five on each side - turned and upon seeing who had just entered the room gave low bows. This was right, this was where she belonged. She was the ruler of this castle by birthright. These were her people, this was her estate, even if her mentor had watched over it while she had been too young to know her rights.

The smell of food broke her thoughts and she smiled. Striding forward over the plush carpeted floors, she led Zenithe to a large seat in the middle of the table. The wooden skeleton was a polished mahogany padded with soft red velvet, as were the other ten chairs along both lengths of the table. She pulled the seat out for him with a warm smile. "You have a seat and I'll go tell the cooks we're ready to eat." She told him before turning on her heel and heading toward the smaller, less decorated door which led into the kitchens. However, the entrance of a familiar figure through said door halted her advance.


The night was beautiful and Della hadn't minded a walk. The preparations for the Lord Draconai's birthday festival were almost finished and would definitely be ready by the next day. "Sir." Assyrian turned when a servant addressed him, his eyes a golden color to show his boredom. Luckily, this human was ignorant of the meaning to his many eye colors unlike Misae. "Yes?" He prompted when the man hesitated to continue. Shaking his head as if emerging from a deep thought, the servant hurried on at Assyrian's voice. "Right, sir, the kitchen staff was wondering if you would grace us with your assistance?" The shapeshifter's brow quirked with confusion, his eyes slowly fading into jade. "I'm sorry, but I'm probably not the one you should be asking to cook." The servant's eyes widened with horror as if Assyrian had just held a knife to his throat. "Oh no sir! We would never ask you or the lovely Lady Misae to cook, sir! The kitchens were only wanting your opinion on the tastes of a few of their dishes! Please forgive me for not making my question clearer, sir..." The human bowed repeatedly, bringing a spark of blue to his sharp eyes. "Calm yourself, man. I would be more than happy to receive a preview of all the foods you and your staff have prepared." Assyrian said kindly, dipping his head and motioning with his hand for the servant to lead him back to the kitchens.

The walk took about ten minutes, but when they arrived an array of mouthwatering scents hit Assyrian like a brick wall. He breathed in deeply, letting out his breath as a large sigh. "This smells simply wonderful..." The shifter said airily as cooks approached him from every direction holding out spoonfuls of sauces or chunks of meat spiked onto thick carving knives. After tasting and offering his opinion on each of the dishes, which was like eating a meal all on its own, the man turned to head into the dining hall. Pushing open the door, the first thing he saw was Misae. She was dressed to kill in a long gown similar to the color of her eyes, the material swayed and seemed to move with her body as if it were alive. His heart stuttered slightly. No, he did not love her as a man loves a woman, but she truly was beautiful and sometimes that fact hit him hard.

"Do you feel that...?" Della's voice sounded worried in Assyrian's mind when she spoke, causing him to look down at her with jade eyes. "Feel what?" He asked, confused. "She seems different doesn't she...? Something's...off...." "Della, love, you're imagining things." He brushed her off, striding toward Misae swiftly. "Darling you look absolutely beautiful. Fire cannot compare to your loveliness on this eve." Assyrian said dramatically, bowing and kissing the woman's hand which was quickly pulled away. Not deterred so easily, however, he swiftly positioned himself on her right side hooking an arm around her waist to act as an escort. He pulled out the dragoness's chair, pushing it in as she sat then sat down himself in the seat directly across from Zenithe. This had been done purposely, he wanted to make a point. This stranger couldn't just waltz in and expect to steal his Misae from him. It just wouldn't happen, not without a fight. "You would make her choose...?" Came Della's disappointed voice. "It's not making her choose when she knows she would rather be with me over anyone else. We're family Della and you don't go against that." He replied stubbornly. "Love, I think you're misjudging her feelings...." Assyrian's soulmate cautioned, but he wasn't paying attention. "So, are you staying the night then?" He asked Zenithe bluntly, the hint of a challenge clear in his voice. His eyes were a pinkish red as he held up the hand Della was currently coiling around to climb up and drape about his shoulders in the form of a snow white python. He was irritated with this man's presence and wary of the bond he felt quickly forming between Zenithe and Misae. I don't know how much longer I can take her playing hostess with this little stray...</sup>

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe stood waiting for her to reply and finally her voice broke the silence. "Assyrian is like my brother, he was there for me when I lost everything and I returned the favor. Our relationship is....complicated, but if this is what I want then he will support me at least in his head. And as for the tour...we can take as long as you like." The smile on his face remained as he listened intently to every word. So that's the relationship between them.... I had been wondering about that. I guess she won't feel the attraction to him that she shows towards at all then. He sat back as the woman had helped him place his long length of hair back inside his cloak as he pulled his hood over his head and mask back over his face. As they were about to leave the room to go eat he got the response form her he was looking for. "Misae Drac- Just Misae.." As she quickly turned away he confusion filled his eyes slightly. Misae drac..... Wait a minute.... that servant that barged in said lady Draconai..... why didn't she tell me her last na--. His thought was cut short as he felt his emotions shift a bit. Sorrow...? That's not my emoti--.... I see. Figuring his bond with her had grown stronger after having let his emotions free an saying so much he continued to think to himself. So not only does the bond allow me to feel physically what she does.... but emotionally too. I guess as it grows stronger I'll feel them more strongly and clearer so I can be better at helping her. Something about her last name that brings up painful memories I suppose. Bad move to push the subject so I'll just keep my mouth shut on this one. You want her to get closer to you not hate you for asking about painful things.

As they left the room Misae had guided him down the large hallway, his wings were still out as he had been to preoccupied to hide them. His gaze drifted across the doors and ceiling as they moved down towards the kitchen. He marveled at the craftsmanship and architecture of the building. So much detail in everything. It was when they arrived at a particular pair of doors that Misae had stopped for a moment before opening the doors. Managing to fit his wings through the doorway, Zenithe stepped into the dining area following Misae. He looked almost like a child in a fantasy world as he looked around at everything around him. Taking in every detail, all the while hardly able to take his eyes off the dragoness before him. Once they reached the middle of the table Misae stopped and pulled out a chair. "You have a seat and I'll go tell the cooks we're ready to eat." He bowed his head slightly before her as a thanks before sitting down pulling his chair up to the table, watching Misae as she strode off across the carpet. What did I do to deserve such a woman.... you're so kind yet I can feel immense power in you. I guess I'll never know that answer so I'll jus-. Once again his thoughts cut short as he watched the door open to the kitchen and Assyrian appeared before her. As he tried to elegantly compose himself before her one of Zenithe's brows raised as the other lowered. You know I'm here. You're doing that on purpose aren't you. He observed as Assyrian sat her down and walked over to the chair in front of him. So that's how you wanna play is it? I'm always down for a face-off challenge. She will be mine whether you approve or not. It's not your choice to make, it's hers. So... Bring. It. On. He listened as Assyrian spoke to him with an underlying challenging tone in his voice. "So, are you staying the night then?" He smiled behind his mask with his eyes unmoving. Looking straight into Assyrians. "Yes I am actually. Seeing as I have no place to be tonight, I see no reason I can't stay for a while." The tone in his voice was dominant. He was clearly showing he was challenging Assyrian back and wasn't going to play submissively or passively. Nothing was going to stand between him and Misae. I'll have to stand strong against him to show him I'm more than worthy of her... but I don't want to make him my enemy. That would make matters difficult for Misae. The one thing I would never want. I'll keep pushing him to show I wont back down but I won't push my boundaries. He turned his gaze to Misae. "Misae has offered to show me around after we have finished eating dinner...." He paused his sentence as he turned his eyes back to Assyrian. "...alone." His eyes narrowed slightly as he spoke that last word to let him know that at least he, if not Misae, didn't want interruptions or other company tagging along. "That IS alright with you isn't it?" His comment was almost snide but he knew Assyrian would keep challenging him back so he he did the same.

[ulrica]

<sup>"Mind your tongue fledgling...." Misae growled under her breath, her violet eyes narrowing with irritation. Assyrian ignored her, instead listening intently to Zenithe's reply. "Yes I am actually. Seeing as I have no place to be tonight, I see no reason I can't stay for a while." And it starts... She thought exasperatedly. Why did men have to be so possessive? "It'll calm down in a short while dear. Don't worry." Della tried to reassure her, though there was annoyance in her mental tones as well. "It's good to see I have at least one person on my side." The dragoness replied glumly, resting her chin on her palm as the men continued on in their verbal sparring. "Assyrian is on your side as well, even if he doesn't act like it. He just wants what is best for you..." Misae took a moment before answering. "He isn't my father...." Della's reply was instant. "Perhaps not, but he is the only family you have..." No, the shapeshifting creature was wrong. Zenithe was family as well, at least he was working towards it. Assyrian was just....Assyrian.

"Misae has offered to show me around after we have finished eating dinner...." The dragoness looked up, her eyes glancing frantically between Zenithe and Assyrian. Oh gods, they're going to end up killing each other before the night is done... "...alone." Oh great.... Her brow furrowed slightly and she searched the kitchen door for any sign of movement. There was none. "That IS alright with you isn't it?" Zenithe was blatantly goading Assyrian now and for a brief second Misae wondered which of them would win in a fight. Neither! I would stop them before it went too far... Or would she? It had been a while since any sort of amusement, and Assyrian was a good fighter... What am I thinking?! No, under not circumstances will I allow them to actually fight. She decided, still watching the kitchen door as the man beside her opened his mouth to reply.


"Well how wonderful! It'll be such a pleasure to have you!" "Dammit!! How dare she allow him to stay here the entire night?!" He raged silently, keeping his fury to a dull roar on the outside. "Well.... I hate to have to remind you, but it is her home. She can do whatever she wants. Besides, you're not her king nor are you her leiglord. You have no control over what she does and does not do." Was Della's blunt reply. "You know, just once can't you take my side?" Della laughed in his head at that, obviously amused by this whole situation. "Love, I will be on your side when you start thinking straight again. She's smart and she knows what she is doing. Trust her for once." Misae's attention shifted then and Assyrian turned to follow her gaze; the kitchen door. Well, it was obvious that she wasn't enjoying the conversation. Oh, well. She knew what to expect by allowing that man to stay. Now she'll just have to suffer the consequences.

Then Zenithe said something about being alone with Misae...at night...in the dark...alone...with Misae....alone.... What the hell Sae?! "Is that so? Of course it's fine with me for my little princess here to have some fun. It's been so long since there's been a man in the house..." He paused for a brief second, just long enough for a grim smile to lite upon his lips. "Well, I hope you two have a good evening then. Perhaps I'll drop by a couple times. You know, just to make sure you're enjoying yourself." He replied, making it clear that during their little "date" they would be anything but alone. He stood, stooping to kiss Misae's brow and breathe a few words of wisdom in her ear before straightening and turning back to Zenithe again. "Well, I bid you both good night. Perhaps I'll see you again, perhaps I won't. Who knows what the future has in store?" It was an open threat and Assyrian knew his rival would have to be an idiot not to catch it. However, he didn't stick around long enough to hear his reply. Spinning swiftly on his heel, the tall man treaded silently and quickly over the blood red carpet. Della dropped from his shoulders, shifting into the skin of a clouded leopard before she could reach the ground. Then she trotted along behind Assyrian, always faithfully at his heels.


As Misae stared after Assyrian's broad retreating shoulders, Della whispered a few last words. "Be strong dear, he means well." With that, the door closed behind them and the link was severed. Obviously embarrassed, Misae turned to stare down at her lap. I'm sorry about him. He usually isn't so....outspoken.." Liar... If there was one flaw to Assyrian it was his bluntness. He could tell a woman she disgusted him and then be hopelessly confused when she cried over his words. It was simply who he was. However, that doesn't mean he couldn't turn that off. Misae had seen it plenty of times when he wanted to bed some woman. That's when the charm came in, that's when the lies started. And the next day he would be gone...

There came a sudden bustle from her right and she looked up to the kitchen door just as it burst open. Chefs following their precious meals out to the table, carried in the arms of many serving boys. "Oh look... Food." Her voice almost sounded glum...


"A word to the wise.... Be careful who you trust... He's a killer by profession, don't forget that..." "You think that was too much? I just wanted to make her question herself you know?" Della was silent, only irritation leaking through their link. "Oh well. I surely made a point didn't I." He continued gloatingly as they headed back out to the festival grounds.</sup>

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe sat with a smug smile on his face, hidden by his mask, as he waited for Assyrians reply. "Is that so? Of course it's fine with me for my little princess here to have some fun. It's been so long since there's been a man in the house..." As he paused and a grim smile came over his face, Zenithe's eyes narrowed as he relished in the amusement he was getting from the game being played. "Well, I hope you two have a good evening then. Perhaps I'll drop by a couple times. You know, just to make sure you're enjoying yourself." Yea I'll bet you will you arrogant little sh-- Zenithe interrupted that thought quickly. Control yourself now. You let your emotions go not to long ago don't let them take control so easily. As he bent over to whisper to Misae, Zenithe watched him closely and listened as he spoke his final words before leaving. "Well, I bid you both good night. Perhaps I'll see you again, perhaps I won't. Who knows what the future has in store?" Yea right.... we both know what's in store at this rate. You don't like me and that's obvious to anyone with even half a brain. Seems to me you need to learn to trust others decisions a bit more though. It's almost like you're her overprotective guard dog or something. Zenithe laughed quietly at his last thought thinking of him as her guard dog with the way he acted. His laughing was halted as he heard her speak. "I'm sorry about him. He usually isn't so....outspoken.." It was then shortly after the food came but Misae didn't look to ecstatic to eat. As the food was being placed upon the table Zenithe began to speak freely to Misae since Assyrian was gone.

With a sigh Zenithe shook his head and began to speak. "No, it's fine Misae. I really don't mind it. And I can understand the way he feels in all honesty. You met me not to long ago, haven't had much time to get to know me, and then so quickly we start to form a special bond and he doesn't like it. Especially given my past and what my professions used to be. He doesn't trust me at all. I can't say I blame him for that." He paused for a moment as one of the servants placed some food in front of him before resuming. "I can promise you though no matter what it takes I'll eventually show him just how much you mean to me. Even if it means putting myself in harms way to prove it. Hell, if it comes down to it I'll even ask him how I can prove it to him." Watching as the servants went back into the kitchen he finished what he was saying. "Misae....." he turned his gaze to her and pulled his mask down. "I want to make this clear here and now. No matter what it takes or what happens, I will NEVER hurt you or let harm come to you in any way, shape or form. If for some reason it does however and I'm powerless to prevent it, I promise I will stay by your side until you're better." Zenithe began laughing a bit. "And if you REALLY want to hear outspoken, then I'll tell you right now with all honesty. I'm definitely falling in love with you." A smile came to his face as he looked in her eyes. Maybe the truth of that matter will brighten her mood a bit from her glum reaction before. "Now for this food I'm starving!!" Zenithe began to dig into his meal shoveling it into his mouth.

[ulrica]

<sup>"No, it's fine Misae. I really don't mind it. And I can understand the way he feels in all honesty. You met me not to long ago, haven't had much time to get to know me, and then so quickly we start to form a special bond and he doesn't like it. Especially given my past and what my professions used to be. He doesn't trust me at all. I can't say I blame him for that." Zenithe was saying while servants weighed down the table with all sorts of dishes, placing a plate covered in all sorts of spiced meats before her. The cooks new her kind and made sure they catered to her tastes. Among all the dishes would be the usual stews, soups, broths, sauces, roasted fowl, and other sorts of fine meats. If there were vegetables among the many platters, Misae was sure to never find them. As a serving boy placed a plate in front of the man, he paused in his explanation, continuing when the boy had gone. "I can promise you though no matter what it takes I'll eventually show him just how much you mean to me. Even if it means putting myself in harms way to prove it. Hell, if it comes down to it I'll even ask him how I can prove it to him." He spoke again, trying to convince her of his devotion. But she knew already he would do anything for her, she could feel it when he touched her; see it when he looked at her. No, you will never be hurt in my name... I won't let that happen...

"Leave us." Misae commanded sharply as a few of the waiters began to take their positions behind the two used chairs, decanters of a white wine in their hands should the diner's glasses ever run low. However, at their orders, each placed his decanter within the reach of the chair they stood by and quickly scurried out of the room. When the kitchen door closed again, they were alone. "Misae....." Zenithe took the opportunity to remove his mask, turning to look at the dragoness before him. "I want to make this clear here and now. No matter what it takes or what happens, I will NEVER hurt you or let harm come to you in any way, shape or form. If for some reason it does however and I'm powerless to prevent it, I promise I will stay by your side until you're better." The woman smiled at this, though she was confused as to why his words warranted laughing. "And if you REALLY want to hear outspoken, then I'll tell you right now with all honesty. I'm definitely falling in love with you." She blinked, thoroughly caught off guard. A rosy tint lit upon her cheeks as she looked down at her food shyly. This is where you run you fool... This hatchling would be destroyed in your world. It would chew him up and spit him out... If not for yourself, think of him.... But selfishness shoved the voice away, she wanted him to love her. She wanted him to stay at her side forever. His words broke her thoughts then, however, and she brought her eyes back up to him. "Now for this food I'm starving!!" Misae laughed quietly, a musical noise that filled the room and seemed to brighten it. Which in reality it did because with her good mood, the four fires around the room which gave warmth and light all roared up a bit more.

Zenithe's eating reminded the dragoness of Assyrian's table manners. The way he seemed to inhale his food rather than swallowing it. She smirked at the thought, rolling her eyes a bit before starting on her own meal. Though she ate with more refinement, each bite was perhaps given two or three chews before being swallowed almost hole. Every once in a while the woman would take a drink of her wine, or pause to ladle a bit more sauce on a piece of meat, but for the most part she simply ate silently. When they had both finished Misae grinned wryly, getting up and hurrying to the door. "Come, come!" She encouraged, surprised by her own excitement. But for some reason, the dragoness wanted to share her home with Zenithe. She wanted him to like it. "There's so much to see, we'll start outside and work in alright. That way the beds will be much closer when were all done and tired."</sup>


((OOC: Argh >.< sorry for the crumminess of it. And yes, I am dropping Assyrian again haha.))

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe was gorging himself in the feast that lay before him. He hadn't eaten all day or the night before so he couldn't help himself but to enjoy and sample almost everything that was on the table. So many meats..... I'm in heaven!!! He thought to himself in sheer delight. Going back for seconds and even thirds he finally slowed down and finished. Misae however seemed to have much better table manners. "OOOOOH WOOOWW That was good!" He remarked while stretching his arms and wings out at the same time. The span of which was longer than the table. "Give my compliments to your cooks when you see them next. I wish I could eat such wonderful food EVERY day." Finishing off his last glass of wine he watched as Misae had hurried to the door and began to beckon him to follow. "Come, come!" Well it looks like her mood has brightened up. That's the way I hope I can see her all the time... He smiled as she continued trying to hurry him along. "There's so much to see, we'll start outside and work in alright. That way the beds will be much closer when were all done and tired." Standing up he walked over beside her. "That sounds great to me. Since we planned on taking it nice and slow I'm sure we'll be quite tired by the end of the tour. And I'm sure we'll enjoy every minute of it together. I'm looking forward to spending a lot of time with you and sharing the moments. And in the future perhaps more." He smiled while placing his right arm around her waist and gesturing to the door with his other hand for her to start. "I hope you don't mind walking like this do you?" His tail swayed back and forth, a sign of his happiness being close to her, across the carpet as he awaited her response and for her to lead them on the tour.

[ulrica]

<sup>She was glad he had liked the food, glad he seemed to be enjoying himself. "That sounds great to me. Since we planned on taking it nice and slow I'm sure we'll be quite tired by the end of the tour. And I'm sure we'll enjoy every minute of it together. I'm looking forward to spending a lot of time with you and sharing the moments. And in the future perhaps more." As he reached her, he wrapped his right arm around Misae's waist, pulling her close. "I hope you don't mind walking like this do you?" The dragoness smiled, stretching up to place a light kiss on his cheek before reaching her right arm across her body to cling to the lose fabric of his shirt. "Of course not, but you might want to put your mask back up. I don't know who we might run into out there." She waited for him to put up his mask if he was going to and then shouldered through the door.

Leading Zenithe down the grand hallway, they came to a large portrait which hung over the great doors that lead outside. Here Misae paused, her violet eyes turning up to the stern faced man which looked down at them who looked to be about in his mid-twenties maybe even younger. He had sharp features, a wide jaw, and lips pursed into tight straight line. His eyes were a piercing electric sapphire, cold as steel and distant. Neutral, and uncaring; almost seeming to peer down into one's very soul. The painter had been nowhere close to capturing how terrible they truly were. His hair was black, cut short though falling a small bit over his forehead in a straight line. ((AN: Kind of like a Roman style cut.)) He wore the clothes of someone at the peak of the aristocracy, and a magnificently made sword rested casually across his knees; the jeweled hilt sparkling. Though the man slumped sideways a bit in his throne-like chair, he still maintained a regal sense of authority that seemed to permeate his aura. Misae bit her lip, clinging a bit tighter to Zenithe. "My foster father.... He took me in after my family died... He's also the one who kept up this estate until I came of age." She paused for a moment as if unable to continue. Forcing a deep breath and pulling her strength together, she made herself say that name. "The high lord Tiberius Draconai..."

She simply stared for a moment, caught up in the familiarity of his hard gaze. Her violet eyes wide with something like pain. So many emotions were running through her then; fear, hate, love, adoration, curiosity, confusion. Stop, get a hold of yourself and push it away. He is gone. Shaking the unwanted memories from her head, she looked up to Zenithe with a smile. "Come on, I'll show you the sparring grounds!" She said tugging him along.</sup>

[Xenoxice]

"Of course not, but you might want to put your mask back up. I don't know who we might run into out there." Zenithe smiled at Misae knowing she was right. "Of course. I don't think I'll show anyone else just yet." As he pulled his mask back over his face, Misae had led him out into the hallway. Down the hallway they walked until they came across a grand portrait. Quite a large one compared to most of them that had hung on the walls. Taking in every detail of the man in the picture, Zenithe looked over it again and again. Something about him.... Just doesn't sit right. Involuntarily almost as if by instinct, Zenithe's right wing slowly began to fold around Misae as he felt her cling a bit tighter to him. "My foster father.... He took me in after my family died... He's also the one who kept up this estate until I came of age." So that's who this is... His thought was quick just as Misae had spoke his name. "The high lord Tiberius Draconai..." Tiberius..... I've heard of that name before from my parents once. They called him Tiberius D. or sometimes T.D for short.... I can't remember clearly since it was so long ago..... Did my parents know him well? Did they know about Misae too I wonder? Were they good friends? His mind started to spew out one question after another until Misae's words broke him from his trance. "Come on, I'll show you the sparring grounds!" He turned his gaze to her and smiled. "Sounds like a wonderful idea. I wouldn't mind going there sometime for some recreational fun." As he let Misae walk him to the sparring grounds, he turned his gaze to her, still holding her close with his arm. "You foster father.... You said his name was Tiberius right? I heard of that name before from my parents about one year before I left to travel on my own. I had never seen him before but I remember them calling him Tiberius D. or T.D for short. They didn't exactly speak of his name in a negative manner so I can't help but wonder if somehow my parents knew him or were possibly close in some way or form. How long ago did he take you in if you don't mind my asking or how old was he roughly if you know?" Zenithe eyes had a deep curiosity in them that was clear in his expression. "Of course if you don't want to talk about him I understand fully. I could tell from your reaction as you looked at his picture that there's some bad memories stored up. And earlier when you didn't want to speak your last name. I felt your sorrow. As my bond with you grows stronger, so too do the emotional and physical aspects of it."

[ulrica]

<sup>How long had it been since she had looked upon that face? How long had it been since she had walked those halls and the grounds which surrounded them? How long...? How long..? How long..? Not long enough... "You foster father.... You said his name was Tiberius right? I heard of that name before from my parents about one year before I left to travel on my own. I had never seen him before but I remember them calling him Tiberius D. or T.D for short. They didn't exactly speak of his name in a negative manner so I can't help but wonder if somehow my parents knew him or were possibly close in some way or form. How long ago did he take you in if you don't mind my asking or how old was he roughly if you know?" Misae blinked and looked up at Zenithe as if surprised to hear him start talking. It took her a moment to register his words and then another moment to actually answer. In that time, the man spoke again. "Of course if you don't want to talk about him I understand fully. I could tell from your reaction as you looked at his picture that there's some bad memories stored up. And earlier when you didn't want to speak your last name. I felt your sorrow. As my bond with you grows stronger, so too do the emotional and physical aspects of it." She shook her head, smiling apologetically. "No, it's fine. It just took me a moment to gather myself. He took me in when my parents died... It's been so long I can't remember the exact date, but around eighty-five years ago give or take?" She rubbed her temple, closing her eyes deep in thought. "He was a very powerful man and he had many correspondents. Not all of them holding the most honest professions... But it worked for him and he now holds a very high position in the aristocracy though I can't remember it precisely..."

She opened her eyes and walked a bit closer to Zenithe as if needing the support. He had said he was able to feel her torment, and she knew that had concerned him. I have to learn to control my emotions better... The sparring grounds were empty as they approached them, for once Assyrian not surrounded by ten men armed to the teeth and already knowing they wouldn't stand a chance against him. "My father was a good businessman, and an even better politician. He had power, wealth, and a prospective future, and people respected him for that. I'm not surprised your parents would have known him, many people do." She smiled and though it was meant to be a happy gesture, there was a hint of sadness that lingered on her visage. "Anyway, these are the sparing grounds. This is where Assyrian and I usually train when we aren't out working."

The dragoness pointed out a building that stood a few yards behind the sparring field. "Those are the stables. If you don't mind, I'd like to go check on Suntaria and make sure she was rubbed down correctly." Looking back up to the man beside her, she smiled again. This time, she didn't seem haunted by a past that refused to be forgotten. Instead she looked like a child excited to show off her toys to a friend. She looked truly happy.

Even if it is just a mask...</sup>

[Xenoxice]

Zenithe listened as Misae explained a little more about her foster father. Picking up on details trying to piece together the relationship between his parents, and her foster father. "My father was a good businessman, and an even better politician. He had power, wealth, and a prospective future, and people respected him for that. I'm not surprised your parents would have known him, many people do." This last statement rung a bell in his head but he waited to respond as he listened to her last sentence. "Those are the stables. If you don't mind, I'd like to go check on Suntaria and make sure she was rubbed down correctly." He looked at the smile across her face and nodded his head in agreement to follow. He began speaking as they traveled to the stables.

"I figured out how my parents knew him. Before I was born, both of my parents had been politicians. But around the time of my birth, my mother quit and tried to convince my father to do so as well. Needless to say he was headstrong and stubborn. He didn't want to give up so easily but he eventually came around. I always wondered why my father kept trying to push me into the political field. He always told me I could be wealthy, famous, powerful and respected by many if I did, just like T.D. That was the first time I had heard those initials. He had held quite a few personal meetings with him at my house if I remember correctly when I was just a few years old, as my father never completely gave up on politics. I want to say they knew each other quite well seeing as they were always happy to see him. He always wanted to get updates on how things were going or if he could help in any way. I never stayed inside during the meetings though. So I never got to see him much. But I know there were still quite a few times I was in the room while they were and listened. He constantly wanted me to become just like him.... My father could never understand that I had no interest whatsoever in politics though. Most politicians, I admit a few are good, are nothing more than sneaky, blackmailing backstabbers who would do anything, even sell out their best friends with false accusations, to worm their way up past others. Power hungry is what they are. I however had an interest in other fields of profession. The professions of the honest, hardworking, albeit under-appreciated, workers. Blacksmiths, Stable keepers, Gardeners, Servants... you name it. They are the ones who truly make a difference in the world. By the blacksmith's hands are made the weapons and gates that protect others. By the Gardeners hands are made the beautiful arrays of flora which we admire so much. By the Stable Keepers hands are the horses and animals others keep inside, kept clean, safe and healthy. By the Servants hand are others needs met and satisfied." He paused looking up at the sky which was now starting to get quite dark. "And how are these people treated? Like scum. Inferior beings. Given low payment and half hearted thanks yous for their service. They are the people I wanted to be like. People who make a difference for the better for others no matter how small." He stopped and gently swung Misae around to face him now holding both his arms around her waist before they entered the stables. "Before I forget to tell you, I don't want you to ever try to hide your emotions or feelings from me okay? I want to be able to know what you're feeling. Yes if you're sad it may concern me. If you're hurt or hurting I want to know. If you hide them from me it will just make me even more concerned and feel that you don't trust me enough to be able to help you through it. Hiding them will make me feel bad in the fact that I won't know what's wrong so I can be there for you." With his right hand he reached up and cradled her head against his chest, holding her close and dearly. "I want you to be open with me and not be afraid to show those emotions to me." He stood there for a few moments with his eyes closed just holding her in his embrace before letting her go back to the position by his side like she was before. "Now lets go in." A smile covered his face, hidden by the mask, but seen in his eyes.