::PluNgedINtoDaRknESs\\_ {OPEN}

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may live in peace

Dark and twisted colors swirled, entangled, and melted outside the small but elaborate chamber window. Heavy, nearly-tangible air seeped into the atmosphere quietly as night began to fall. It was the week of the Blood Moon and the evil in the air was palpable. An embargo had just been decreed by the royal family. In fact, it was more than an embargo. It was a complete blockade of the country. A self imposed blockade. No one and nothing was allowed to enter Daika's borders. Likewise, no one could leave either. What caused this complete stop in the international economy as well as travel? Well, it would be the fault of the Wolf. This cursed being roamed this land during this obscure week and threatened its people. Its fangs were feared and no one could escape its wrath if they were targeted. What made it worse was that the wolf could be any person around you and that there is little to no information about it. In fact, the very most that they knew about it was that it existed.

Drako stood alone in his chamber, giving the evil that danced beyond the window pane a menacing glare. This danger now threatened his kingdom and it was something that had to be rid of. Turning away from the window, the King strode over to his desk and pulled out a piece of parchment. Taking his quill fashioned from the plume of a basilisk, Drako scrawled a few words onto the note:

Capture or kill it.

Folding the note up crisply with a meticulous touch, the dragon King swung the small chamber window open and tossed the piece of parchment into the air. Almost immediate after the paper left his hands, a dark shadow-like figure flashed before the window and disappeared just as fast as it appeared, carrying the note away, down to the slums and into the hands of those who controlled the secret organizations in the alleyways of Daika. In those darker areas, these people were more efficient than the army. Being quite the manipulative leader, Drako kept several connections with those types of people. After all, if he wanted total control over his kingdom, he would need to be able to stretch his reach into the furthest nooks and crannies of the place.

Running a hand through his flowing silvery hair, Drako decided that he would go and show his face in the throne room. After all, the country was entering a state of panic. He would earn more trust and loyalty by appearing as support for his subordinates. It was just another strategy to become a bigger force in the lives of his people. Knocking the heavy wooden door of his chamber a few times sent a couple of servants into the room and they immediately began to dress the monarch formally for his semi-public appearance. They were swift and careful in their work and soon Drako was dressed in a majestic attire. Waving the two servants away, Drako walked over to his desk and pulled a dagger from his drawer. Shoving it under his cloak, Drako stalked out of the door and marched into the throne room, leading a small array of sentries behind. 

A silent but apparent wave of shock ruffled through the throne room as all the nobles noticed the arrival of their king. They then shirked back simultaneously as Drako tossed a deadly glare through the crowd, though not looking at anyone in particular. Taking long strides up to his exquisite throne, the King gave a grand sweep with his cloak before he sat down. The sentries following him hurriedly but neatly hustled to their places beside the throne. A squire stood behind and left to the throne struggled with beads of sweat running down his face as he held Drako's halberd at the ready if it was ever needed by the king. Maybe he was being overwhelmed by the weight of the weapon, or maybe he was nervous. After all, if he just happened to drop it, his head would be following seconds after.

There was a few polite rituals that the nobles ran through in order to welcome the king. Drako tapped the armrest of his golden seat with quite the bored look hanging on his face. This was after all, one of the reasons why he hated coming to court. The consuls then went through a quick head count of the nobles. All the nobles ranging from dukes, marquis, and earls to the viscounts, barons, and knights. It was a sight to see them all lined up, completely ready to act upon their leader's orders.

"Well. Let's begin."

Tags: Generally open. Be reasonable, though. No hobos in the palace. Nobles or other Daikan royals.
Word Count: 841

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

Reno wasn't pleased at all with how this was all going. One of her most unkind servants -- a lady in waiting by the name of Cecile -- had barged into the princess's room to find what was sure to screw the already shunned princess further into gossip. Personally, the princess herself saw nothing wrong with it. Yet the second Cecile spotted it, she let out a shriek of either horror of what she might be punished for or excitement of having a reason to mistreat the female blue blood. Then again, there was more then one reason.

The smallest detail was that the princess had been in a short dress that was a light color. Next the light color, seemingly pure to those who could imagine it clean. It had been ripped in many places and was covered in dirt. Not only were short dresses considered to be what common people called "slutty" to high ranking people. In fact, most dresses shouldn't even show any part of the leg, which not only Reno felt uncomfortable in but it also kept her from moving quickly.

The second thing was the fact was that the princess had had her daggers still attached to her wrists. She may have been able to duel still, but a weapon out of the arena? Cecile had yelled at her, snatching them from her. To most nobles, the servant would be beheaded for such an offense. But this was Reno. Cecile and all the other servants had been ordered to treat the princess however they saw fit. Cecile apparently saw it fit to take the daggers away from the princess and to call in some other servants to help ready the blue blood for her father's presence.

The final thing was actually the worst offense of all. Reno's hair had been the one thing envied by other nobles. The only thing that actually gave her a real connection to the blood running through her siblings and parents as well. And yet, the thing that had actually caused the shriek and over-acting of Cecile was Reno's hair. Where it had fallen to her waist or past even, waving in the strange color, it was now much different. The color stayed, white to grey before finally turning black at the ends.

But now the color didn't have much distance to travel.

Her hair had been crudely hacked off, layered unintentionally. It fluffed out ever so slightly, making it look very lovely. That is, if she hadn't been of her status. The color had moved from the lifeless strands and had shortened so all three colors were still on display for whoever looked to see. The cut had been done by the princess herself in a shop after she had snuck out last night. The dress? Well, she hadn't had a very smooth night.

Some bruises were on her pale skin, standing out on her arms and legs. Her hip was also killing her after she had been banged up against something while running from a shady group of people. In fact, she was just tired. But now she had been forced into a long black dress, plain with a corseted back with white ribbon. The skirt didn't stick out too far, but it wasn't completely flat either at the bottom. None of her servants bothered with her hair, though it was cleaned while her body had been too.

Cecile's grip found its tight way onto Reno's arm, pulling her along like a small child once again. Levi had peeked out from his room, though Reno wasn't sure if the only prince would intervene later or not. There were short sleeves to the dress, showing off the night old bruises that were in numerous places. The blue blood had had one of those nights where she had ended up banged up from running into a gang or two looking for people to mug or kill.

Personally, Reno thought as she was dragged by her wrist, the blue blood hated running. She had those daggers for a reason. But one against over five? Especially a gang? Even she wasn't reckless enough. But at least she had one streak of luck. At least she hadn't still been wearing her male disguise when Cecile had gotten in. Still, that was the only thing good about this whole thing.

Cecile knocked on a decorated door, a loyal servant opening it for them. Before the lady in waiting could change her mind about this, she pulled Reno into the room, who wasn't putting that much fight up about this anymore. In fact, she just tried to disappear into her shadows. But because of the fact no one besides those who had found out were supposed to know, Reno suppressed the urge.

It didn't help much though, that was for sure.

People burst into whispers and women looked at the princess, stricken with shock. No blue blood woman would ever cut her hair so short. The longest strands dangled right above her shoulders, moving ever so slightly from the movements of her being pulled. Reno's pinkish purple hues trained onto the ground below her feet, waiting to hear someone yell her given name, Akia. She did not even dare look up as Cecile bowed deeply and held up the daggers, safely tucked away in sheathes Reno had worn on her wrists, and the dress, leaving it all to the King's imagination.

Though surely the haircut was quite a hint.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may live in peace

Before the court session could begin, the crowd's attention was once again disrupted and they broke into a series of gasps and murmurs. Slightly irked, Drako looked over his shoulder to see the his eldest child stand at the doorway, and though dressed nicely, had a disheveled look. Her maidservant that stood behind her held sheathed daggers and a disapproving look was apparent on her face. Although the dress that the princess was wearing did a good job covering her up, the King's sharp eyes still spotted hints of bruises and other injuries. They were minor and tended, from what he could tell, so he did not worry much about them. Furthermore, however, the girl's hair had been chopped off and it was displayed in such a fashion that no one would guess that she was the princess of Daika. It was no wonder that the nobles of the court would be plunged into such an array of confusion.

Turning his gaze back onto the crowd, Drako raised a finger and shot his pugnacious glare back over the throng, silencing them within seconds. The only bit of movement left in the court was the uneasy shifting of the subordinate persons. Either they were uneasy because of their feared overlord's hard stare, or they were still uncomfortable with their princess's disarrayed look. Frankly, however, Drako had already a pretty good idea about what Akia had been up to, no matter how peculiar it was. A shame, shame that she had given up her position as the heir to the throne. Levi ,the prince, after all, did lack some particular aspects that his sister possessed. 

"Akia," The king began, not turning to face his daughter. "You are late. Have a seat." He gestured subtly to her designated seat that was placed upon the raised platform which put her above the other nobles like her father was. "Your appearance is quite… eccentric today, is it not?" He spoke with a cold firmness that sent a chill through the atmosphere, stirring the nobles below once again. They were afraid, disturbed, like a group of hens standing before a butcher. Almost too abrupt, Drako let off the tension in his voice and said, "Well, that is a matter for discussion some other time. There are other matters to attend to."

Standing up from his articulately carved seat, Drako clasped his hands together and began his speech. "Today, we gather because of an important matter. I am sure that you all have been informed of this serious case by the Queen. This beast, the Wolf, is a threat to our national security. I am sure that you are aware of our current affairs in border security in order to not only protect the citizens of our neighbors, but to also keep the Wolf within our country boundaries, which will make it easier to track. However," The king then looked around the room, sweeping the room with his eyes, scanning each corner and behind each pillar, as if looking for someone. "However, the whereabouts or in fact, any information about this beast is unknown. If anyone here today has any knowledge, even remotely, about the subject, then share it." Once again, Drako showered the room with his icy glare and brought the subordinates on edge. "There are also tactics to be decided and other strategies to both protect the people and hunt the beast." A rumble of soft mumbling swam through the crowd once again, stirring up action in the open hall. This was a heavy subject and everyone was uneasy. It, too, had been a long time since they had even seen the king, so the meeting in itself was nerve wrecking.

"Current orders are to capture this Wolf, dead or alive." Drako enumerated to the crowd bluntly before he nodded to a dark haired figure in the back of the room, bringing the attention of the congregation along. "I suppose that your men are aware, Sir Deveric." It sounded more like a statement than a question and the man in question only nodded curtly back at the king and answered, "Yes, your Majesty." before he returned to leaning almost too casually on a nearby pillar. 

Drako grunted in reply before he closed off with a last flutter of words and sat down, "Thus, may I ask for anyone with an opinion on the subject to speak up now or forever hold your peace."

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

Reno lifted her head, unwisely looking at her father in the eyes. She was in no state that a princess should be without a large reason. But, really, she had no reasons to give these people. Or at least not one that she actually wanted to share with them. After all, she didn't want to confirm that she wasn't here half the time. Then again, the princess had no idea if her parents knew or not. Either way, it couldn't have mattered that much. She wasn't in line to be heir any longer and past the age that they would marry her off. Of course, they could still do that.

She blinked, clearing her mind of the maybes and what ifs. Instead she straightened her posture, daring anyone to say something toward her as she moved toward her designated seat. Her father had seemed to freeze everyone in the room moments before, blue bloods nervous for their status and heads. Reno couldn't help but imagine them all as greedy little worms. After all, what else were they acting like? Her pale lips pressed against each other, eyes blank as her father mentioned her appearance.

The dress was beautiful, but sleeveless. Bruises were up and down her arms, though cared for and covered up. There was no doubt, though, that the King had and still could see them along with anyone who looked closely. And who wasn't? Those who weren't looking up at the King like worms were staring at the princess with a stuffy silence that fit like a heavy blanket on a summer night. They were silent though, eyes blinking owlishly out at the royalty present. Neither the Queen nor Reno's siblings were present, for good reasons though.

The Queen was probably planning or doing something else at the moment, or perhaps still sleeping. Reno wished she still was as well, seeing as she had crawled into bed only a few hours before all of this. Her lips stayed perfectly still as she sat down, hands folding in her lap and ankles naturally crossing, though right over left and not the proper way. A small act of rebellion even when she was probably in a lot of trouble already.

Cecile bowed once again before sweeping out of the room, taking the daggers and dirty dress with her. No doubt would Reno never see either again, though the dress she could do without. But her daggers? They were her key of protection, small enough to hide but large enough to actually do damage to others. Now what?

Instead of thinking about such depressing things, Reno listened as her father began to speak, purplish pink hues gazing straight forward. No doubt her siblings weren't here because of what the topic was. Probably something hideous. Well, Levi probably wasn't here merely because he had to stroll through the gardens to make all of their plants healthy for their mother. The gardener never did do a good job, after all. Wait, hadn't she just spotted him coming from his room in his night clothes? Well, that was peculiar. Usually the prince was up very early, much like Riatha.

Reno froze slightly when she heard her father say something of the "Wolf". Surely that notice she had seen posted up had been a joke? She swallowed, throat drying out and making her want to cough. Instead she swallowed a few more times, fixing the problem noiselessly. She listened carefully, wondering how no one could know about the Wolf. Such a violent creature would have tracks, correct? Maybe not.

A rushed silence fell over even the most loud people in that room when the King asked for any information. Everyone shifted uncomfortably, looking from side to side almost in a comic fashion. That is, if they hadn't been speaking of this very topic. The Wolf could be anyone, even someone in that very room. Even, Reno thought with slight amusement, her very father. Or perhaps her mother, who had put the notice out. Wouldn't it just be ironic?

Reno herself let her hues sweep the room, everyone turning their eyes from hers. She was a black sheep with no place in this. And yet she had been dragged here anyway. Her hip gave her a few moments of pain, not reacting except to the most trained eye. She didn't usually act so cold anymore but the princess couldn't help but returning to this state when in the presence of the man who wasn't sitting much farther from her.

Someone coughed to try to fill the silence that choked all of them, though it didn't work in the least. In fact, most of them just turned to look at the old nobleman that had coughed, ranging from angered to paranoid. Reno uncrossed her ankles, sitting with her legs plain. A group of women looked disapproving at her, probably also able to see the bruises that ran over her body. The princess's hues looked away from everyone at that point, wanting this to be over. Her eyes looked at the wall straight in front of her and wondered why anyone would want such a controlled life.

Someone cleared their throat, all gazes pointing back to the old man. He stood then, bowing his head before looking at the King. "Your Majesty, I suggest we search the peasant's houses. After all, surely no one of our stature could have such a horrid flaw." he said, smiling. Reno raised an eyebrow at the man's reasoning. Finally, her pale lips parted.

"I'm afraid you are quite wrong. The Wolf could be anyone in this room. Including the person next to you or even yourself. After all, who knows what the Wolf is capable of? That is.....unless you know something worth sharing. Well, feel free to." Reno said, leaving the unanswered question hanging in the air like a choking sensation. It was something that everyone had been thinking, but had had no bravery to actually say anything about it.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may live in peace

The word from the old nobleman caused Drako to stir ever so slightly. In fact, it was only the edge of his eyebrow that quirked by a smidgen while is cheek rested in his palm and his elbow upon the armrest of his throne. The hubris of a noble made them believe that they could stand above the rest. However, most were fat, wealthy cowards that even a lowly thief could smack down if not for those guards that protected them. Those guards, however, laid their final loyalty in their king. At least the nobles realized who could obliterate everyone in the room with a simple command. Deveric, the mysterious dark haired knight standing nonchalantly in the back of the room, was notorious for his ability in mass destruction and no one in the room was going to challenge the person who had command over such a destructive power. However, even without such a person at his whim, Drako was by all means capable of destroying his palace, and everyone in it, at his own pleasure. Of course, they didn't know that.

The King listened to Akia's rebut to the nobleman's suggestion and smiled proudly inside. He wouldn't expect anything less from one of his blood. Well, maybe except Levi. Akia's words, however harsh, were true. No one was free from the suspicion of being this monster. "Be assured," The King hissed with a sly grin on his face. "The peasants will have their houses raided and searched… as will yours." The nobleman immediately went pale and started stuttering and choking on his own words, "Surely though, Princess, your Highness and your Majesty, you do not accuse me of being such an unseemly beast." Tapping the arm of his throne slowly, Drako turned his eyes to this man and stared straight through his eyes, as if burning him straight into his core. "I, personally, do not accuse you. It was your words that beseeched you this dreaded suspicion. As for what Akia may be suggesting... I do not know." The foolish elder shuddered and averted his eyes only to meet the Princess's. Nodding swiftly at nothing in particular, he shirked back into the midst of the throng.

Once again, the nobles dropped back into an atmosphere of uneasiness that seemed to lay there like an untimely frost. People bit their lips and looked at one another and then back to their King. They were all quite the fools, Drako thought as he stared them down. A squabbling menagerie of sheep with wolves standing before them. They shuffled, bleated helplessly for concern of their position and their life. Perhaps this is why our country is in shambles. As a ruler from the shadows, Drako had not seen the members of his court for quite a while. In fact, there had not been a proper session held since the war. Since then, the court had been stuffed and replaced with cowards and gluttons who cared only for themselves. It was entertaining to watch them struggle and flail helplessly before their leader, but that wasn't going to get them anywhere. 

"Maybe we could coax it to come out."
"Could we bait and trap it?"
"I think we should hunt and kill every wolf in the country."
"Perhaps we could communicate with it and come to a compromise of sorts."

The room was suddenly filled with squabbles of ideas that seemed to come out of nowhere. The nobles whispered and chattered among each other and there were timely phrases that popped out about how to find it or what it liked. There were even skeptics who thought that the beast may have just been a myth. Still, no one was sure about what it was. Was it nocturnal? Did it appear humane or more canine? Was it attracted to blood? It could be a ghost! Perhaps it was sent from hell. Panic swarmed the hall once more, taking the reins of the direction of the conversation. "Silence!" The King barked and the clamor died down immediately. "Does anyone have anything constructive to say?" A wave of cold silence washed over the filled hall and touched the corners of the stony walls.

"I suppose that it must be as intelligent as us, or even more so if it has escaped capture for so long." A small timid voice broke the silence in the room, quivering with nervousness. It had came from a young man, no, a boy, who stood at the edge of the crowd with his family. Drako recognized them to be the Zeiglers, a very pompous group of sloths. The only one of them worthy of this status would be the eldest of their youngest generation, Konrad. The King had recognized his military feats and the man often went to other countries for ambassador purposes as well as representing Daika in foreign parties. Konrad was charismatic and did the job well, but he never seemed to enjoy his status all that much (which may explain his absence from the scene). To this draconic King's surprise, it was not this esteemed heir of the family that spoke, but a boy much younger. He seemed like, and probably was, Konrad's younger sibling. Drako observed the kid, drawing his eye around the silver haired boy slowly as the youngster spoke again. "I mean, it has to be able to disguise itself somehow, considering that we don't have -." The boy was cut off by his father, who smacked him on the head and chastised him quietly, "Hush, Matthias. The court is not for child's play." Matthias nodded slightly and bowed his head down, shame slowly rising to his cheeks.

Drako looked at them with an odd interest and said, "Let him continue." Young Matthias looked up with a bewildered look as his father bowed an muttered his apologies. The boy stuttered a bit before continuing his statement. "W-well, um, we don't have any recorded sightings of this monster, only rumors. It must be able to disguise himself in order to prevent itself from being seen. Um, and also, if this is something caused by the blood moon, it is a possible conjecture that it may be a separate being in itself from it's host. That's really just my theory, though, um, Y-your Majesty." His voice trailed off as he seemingly began to lose confidence in himself. Staring out into the throng, Drako inquired the group as he made a mild gesture with his hands, "Well?"

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

Reno watched the man, waiting for him to contradict her. Though she was a shunned member of it, she still was a member of this man's very rulers. Her word was much stronger then his, and backed up by those had, whether they wanted to be or not, were pledged to the royal family, meaning her as well. The princess paid no mind to her father, having lost the need for him to proud of her at an early age. Instead, she continued to stare, a unnerving silence swallowing the room whole as most nobles also stared at the female blue blood.

It was rare for her to even be present during such events. Much less was it expected for her to actually speak or pay attention to the events unfolding when she ended up in one. She only really remembered that there was a crowd and her father there still when he began to talk, sounds like a threat more then something to assure him. The older man began to sputter, Reno already knowing he had something to hide. Maybe, or probably not to, not about the Wolf, but the man did have quite a few secrets.

The princess of Daika arched a brow once again, crossing one wrist over the other as the man finally managed to speak. She smiled lightly, eyes dark ad her father finally finished speaking as well. She didn't dare cut him off to state her opinion, knowing that it was just one of those instincts you do not ignore.

"My good sir, I haven't accused you of anything. If I had, you would already be on the stake, one of our servants lighting a fire." she stated simply, smile still shaping her lips. She looked away, as if done. "Unless..." She said, gaze lazily drifting back to the man, a smile like the famous Chesires she had seen before.

The princess quickly waved her hand a moment later, as if dismissing an idea. "No, no. Why would I even think of a nobleman hiding something from us?" she said, smiling sickly sweet once again at the man before he opened his mouth much like a fish out of the water for too long. He opened his mouth repeatedly, trying to come up with something response while looking from the princess to the King, as if trying to deny the obvious fact.

He then slowly nodded and managed to disappear between two groups of blue bloods. Then all chaos seemed to spill into the room, panicked people infecting others with the mass hysteria. Reno calmed leaned her head upon one hand, elbow on an arm of the throne designated for her. A small trickle of laughter demanded to come from her, though she held it back easily. It would only make matters worse, no matter who amusing that would be, and panic them further.

Her father quickly snapped them all out of, seeming to literally freeze them in place again as all of their orbs turned onto the King. Silence once again rang in the princess's eyes as she scanned the crowd, wriggling her nose up slightly at the fear she could practically smell in the form of panic. Before her, some people reacted differently. But in a whole, they were a whole group of useless, fatten up sheep ready for the slaughter.

She only perked up when a young man, a boy actually, came forward and began to speak. She straightened up, going from leaning over back to her proper posture. The female blue blood listened, carefully thinking this all over. People were silent, stricken by how such a young boy had reacted much better then they had. Most of them now looked uncomfortable and played with their clothes, head bowed as to not look at their King.

"Father." the short haired female said, not looking at him but instead the family. "I must agree with this boy. He speaks more wisely then I'm sure most can here and knows what he's saying. We have nothing but rumors and fairy tales but maybe they're worth a second glance. Well, not the ignorant rumors of some people, but maybe some of them are true." she said, smiling at the boy who had been brave enough to release his ideas.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

they say that I am
to be seen but not heard…

The Princess's words sent a wave of relief through Matthias as he nodded respectfully in thanks. He was glad that even she, one of the more eccentric of the royals, was in agreement with his reasoning. The hall was silent with both awe and surprise, with everyone on their toes to catch sight of this small, shy, but very intelligent boy. His father, who was beside him, only seemed to become more and more humiliated with the additional recognition Matthias was receiving. A faint, subtle had risen upon the King's lip, which was visible even at such a distance. It was, after all, nice to know that there was at least one sensible person in the court. 

"Thank you, your highness." The boy spoke in a voice that was nearly inaudible. Inside, he was shuddering with anxiety. This was his first time attending court and it just happened that the King would also be present. Matthias had never seen his King before, despite hearing about several rumors and seeing monuments. And here, when his brother had asked him to come in his stead, Matthias had not only stumbled upon such an important issue, but also in the presence of such a renown and feared figure. It was just as what the rumors said, the King possessed a presence that pushed down over every person in the room and his majestic grace was a combination of royal elegance and a monster's brutality, which seemed to waft off of him in a series of overwhelming vibrations. His ability to control and grasp the attentions of every single person in the room (except for maybe the Princess and the Captain of Knights, who was focusing on polishing his sword with the edge of his cape in the back corner) was incredible and no one seemed to even have the thought of defying him.

At first, Matthias decided that he wouldn't participate in the discussion at all. He would only listen and take in possibly valuable information that would be good for analyzing and studying later on. However, it seemed like no one knew what they were doing, which poured a cold bucket of water over Matthias's interest. Fortunately, Matthias had seen and analyzed the notice that the Queen had put out before and so he did have a fairly good idea about the situation. Well, at least better than most others at the scene. Remembering his brother's constant encouragements, Matthias decided that he would disclose his ideas. It was a horribly nerve wrecking experience, but he was glad that it went over well. He smiled mildly to himself while his head was bowed and was glad because he knew that Konrad would be proud of him.

The boy's head shot up again when the King started to speak again, bringing the focal point of the room back upon the platform. "That was well said, son of the Zeiglers. Now, nobles of my dearest country, do you see what a bright future we have with such a talented person? So young, too. I'm sure that the court will be of so much more use when Levi is king." The nobles all shuffled as a whole as they looked down in shame from those words laced heavily with mockery. Even Matthias felt a tinge uncomfortable from those words and their submeanings. The situation was obviously not very bright for the flock of nobles.

"Well," The King clasped his palms together and wandered his eyes over the crowd. "I suppose that more information needs to be gathered. We need to gather and find evidence to back these theories that our bright friend there has come up with." Another nobleman suddenly stepped forth and challenged, saying, "Your Majesty, can we blindly follow these mere ideas that were conjured in the head of a boy? I think that we should consult the greater philosophers and wise men about the matter." There was an obvious air about this nobleman that said that he was defiant to the idea of following a boy's idea. Matthias felt horrible inside, being rebuked so openly, and lowered his head. Perhaps he shouldn't have spoken. This was an affair for the adults, anyways. If only Konrad was here, he would know what to do.

However, King's only response to the rebuttal was, "I wonder how much better they would be of help. After all, you would think someone here could have a better conjecture than this young man over there if he was only a normal boy." Of course, He then paused, leaned forward and gestured openly with his hand. "Unless you have a better idea yourself?"

…but their words are 
emptier than my silence.  

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

The Princess now definitely could remember why she never inquired about the Royal Court or went to any of the meetings. It was sad, really, how the people were worse then the gangs of the streets. At least those people had true loyalty to someone. And to prove it they were ready to beat anyone, even a female. Reno had certainly seen that already. But, this was much better then facing her father with no distractions. This way, perhaps, she could slip out unnoticed.

The short haired female rolled her eyes as the King spoke the court in the future. The only bright thing was the boy whom had spoken. The rest of the court would probably appear like their parents before the Princess at this very moment. But at least Levi would have someone to lean onto. He probably wouldn't be able to do anything alone, she had to admit. Her brother cared too much and would probably be the sole cause of a war. He wouldn't turn a blind eye to the Hunters, which she didn't know if they were connected to her father or not, and would lead the army to die against them.

Reno had heard rumors of the Hunters, an organization that hunted shapeshifters and other species that had a price on their heads. Perhaps, the Princess mused, even her head might be called into question if her powers were made public. Finally the black sheep of the Carlingtons was snapped from her thoughts when someone else thought to speak up as well. Her gaze easily found the man in the crowd easily, people making a small bubble around him as if they weren't sure to follow or flee from the blue blood.

Her facial expression turned stony, hiding her thoughts from the public. She bit her tongue, allowing the King to speak first. But at his unanswered question, her sharp tongue made an appearance. "Surely, if this boy didn't just speak one of the best ideas for this situation we've found ourselves in, you must have an idea as well, like my father just said? Well, out with it. After all, if this boy's idea isn't true and he is just a mere boy, a man such as yourself should be able to come up with a better idea then depending on others." Reno said, challenge in her words.

The man looked stricken, almost ill even, as he looked at the two members of the royal family. The Princess kept her eyes on the blue blood, as if patiently awaiting an answer. Moments later the room was still filled with silence. "Well, it seems that is that. No more ideas then?" she asked, sweeping her gaze around the room. No one dared meet her hues for even a moment, whether it was because of cowardice or because of who she was. The Princess was rebellion in a person's form really, along with quite a few other things.

Finally she stopped her eyes on the boy that had spoken up, probably the only clever one here. The son of the Zeiglers family, as her father had said before. "Do not worry, son of the Zeiglers. Your future is a bright one in this court. And, if you do not mind my saying this, I believe you to be one of the most intelligent at this meeting." the Princess said, smiling with a gleam in her eye.

Murmurs stretched across the room quickly and she shifted her eyes to the rest of the room, daring someone to comment on her words. "And I believe in this boy's future enough to help whomever shall be looking over the myths and rumors in my free time. Unless, of course, my subjects present still expect a better idea to just appear from thin air?" she said, murmurs growing louder.

The main reason of the quiet speech, Reno knew, was because of her presentation. No doubt everyone was struck by the fact that she was actually going to do one of her royal duties for once. The Princess was never one to involve herself, even at social gatherings such as this or at the Balls. The female herself though simply sat back at this point, fighting the urge to look over at her father to see how he had reacted to her words.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may have peace

The conversation was literally, over. The princess had chopped any possible ends of rebuttal off and the nobles stood silent, looking back and forth from each other nervously. Furthermore, they were all shocked at the princess's unexpected volunteer to help. Even the monarch raised an eyebrow in surprise at his daughter's action. After all, she was not one to participate in the usual responsibilities of the nobles. "Very well, then. Discussion is now closed." The King announced and a general consensus murmured itself through the crowd. Everyone seemed relieved that the stiffling conversation was now over and gathered themselves to leave. 

Drako, despite the movement that rustled beneath his raised platform, stayed seated in his throne, his blank eyes shooting their stare toward the back of the room. The dark haired knight was now standing at attention, returning a daring, cold stare that could match his superior's. The tension that froze between the two stopped everyone in their tracks. The King had not moved from his seat and neither had the knight from his position at the the door. A soft but sharp hiss escaped the demon's lips and echoed between the marble walls, instilling fear into the hearts of the men. "You have not been dismissed yet." All the time, the knight had not removed his gaze from the King, but the audience the statement had been directed to was obvious. The nobles shifted with unease before turning their half-turned selves back around to face their King.

Drako tapped his fingers on his throne nonchalantly, still holding his staring contest with his subordinate, and said, "During my absence, it seems that we have lost more than a bit of etiquette, haven't we?" The constantly adverted gaze that was still and cold only put more unease into everyone's mind. "We have come to an idea, but now we need..." The King then looked at the crowd of shirking nobles and narrowed his eyes, "executive action." The crowd shuddered and shrunk back as a whole, not knowing where to look. Finally, someone stepped forth and said, "My lord, my scholars and I will investigate into this matter based on..." The noble paused and swallowed, as if finding his words difficult to say. "...the boy's theory." He then bowed his head as Drako nodded slightly.

Slowly, more of the group began volunteering their services, most choosing to provide funds and supplies for the investigation, but some like the first one decided to participate in active investigation. The Zeigler boy seemed more bewildered than anything, as if seeing a miracle. The fact that his idea was being used for such an important purpose was too great an honor than anything he had imagined. His continued recognition from both of the present royals made his flustered, but he was elated and felt more confidence in himself.

Here, Drako finally let out a subtle smile. At least this court session wasn't for naught. However, the fact that they took so long to reach something productive was still... depressing. He would need to address that after this issue was over. "Very well." The King announced, clasping his hands together. "See that you do what you must." The matter was now put in a stable manner both in court and out. The beast would no doubt be caught soon and be put into quarantine until the Week of the Blood Moon was over. After that, they would need to expel the monster. Ah, but he couldn't get ahead of himself. They still had to catch it first.

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

The Princess watched as the crowd turned uneasy and eager, though not to help really. They half turned, moving away from the royals with no grace at all, making Reno lift a simple brow once more. Things seemed to have changed since she had last been sucked into one of these meetings. It was almost like, if they could without being rude, they would all run at that very moment. Some people stuck back, looking at the others with horror on their faces. The now short haired female sat on her smaller version of the King's throne, waiting for the gutless sheep to realize their mistake.

The realization didn't happen until they were prompted, or more like threatened, by a knight by the door. The Princess's eyes looked at the man, wondering why she hadn't noticed him before. He wasn't human, which was obvious, meaning that the man was probably a demon. She removed her eyes moments before he could realize she had looked at him for a few moments. After all, it would probably just be seen as interest in something, which she didn't wish to show in front of her father.

Then again, hadn't she already? No, she had given her future help to prove a point. That one single boy, no matter what his age, was smarter then all the sheep in front of her. Levi was going to have some of the best advisers if his Court was to be anything like this one. After all, he would have let them be released without any graces to their King. Reno lifted a slim wrist, fingers brushing a few strands of her hair from her face.

Perhaps Levi would give up his place in the line of heirs as well? No, he was much too proud to do that. And Reno may care somewhat for the Kingdom, but not enough to sacrifice her freedom to save it from a helpless, too kind Crown Prince. Riatha would be fit to have the throne, but she was young. Very smart though, enough to match the boy who had spoken up or maybe even further.

The Princess looked on and only spoke once, clearly. "I shall also be helping, as I already said. When you are ready, please put together the times you'll be working on this little 'project'. I shall make sure to help out when I may." Reno said as the noble bowed. She had no idea what the man's name was or his position in the Court, though she doubted that it would be very adventurous to help the man and his team.

After a while of people saying of how they would help, Reno leaned over, elbow on one of the armrests and bent upward to cradle her cheek with her hand. It was dull business, nothing to argue. As the King finally finished speaking, telling the sheep to get to work in more polite words, the Princess sat up and got ready to leave. She scanned the crowd once more, grimacing slightly until her eyes dropped upon the boy. A subtle smile graced her lips for a few fond moments before her expression shifted to something more neutral.

"May I be excused, Father?" she asked, mentally rolling her eyes. Her voice though had been clear of sarcasm and she awaiting the answer, hoping to just be dismissed. Then again, when was anything simple on days like this? Surely, she thought, he wouldn't keep her back because of her latest rebellion including her daggers and hair.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may have peace

Looking around the hall, Drako decided there was nothing more to say to the crowd. At least, nothing more about the current subject. The other issues would be left for them to sort out among themselves later. Then, his attention was brought toward Akia with her sarcastic request. "I suppose." The King heaved darkly. "We will have a private discussion about you and your... activities later. Meanwhile, go get yourself checked up." Despite his doubts about anything serious, Drako was still aware of the possibility of tetanus and other diseases that his daughter could have caught in her wounds. She was defiant and peculiar, but Drako still had a significant amount of concern for her. After all, she is his eldest daughter. He wasn't going to make too big of an effort to keep her in the castle, however. That would probably just have the opposite effect. Having her used to the environment of the nation, both good and bad, was probably for the best. Of course, he couldn't tell her that he was willing to let her roam outside. She probably didn't want his permission anyway.

After a few more minutes of turmoil, Drako finally gave the signal for the rest of the crowd to leave and everyone poured out at once, not wanting to stay any longer. Watching the now nearly-empty throne room, Drako sighed and waved the dark-haired knight out of the room, who bowed and then strutted his way out. Getting out of his seat, the monarch paused briefly as the various sentries rushed into formation behind his before following outside the throne room.

Striding down the dimly lit corridor once more, Drako found his way back to his chamber. Dismissing the guards, he sat down in the leather chair behind his desk. Tapping his knuckles on the dark oak furniture, the King wondered a bit about what to do. He had just taken care, or at least started to take care of, a relatively major issue. The Queen, his wife, was probably still about her own business. Her disposition was never really outgoing, but she gave off a serene, calming presence. Well, she was a princess of Sanchu before she was married to Drako. It was a marriage of benefits and was proposed by himself in order to gain power. A dark smile crossed his face, remembering how his older siblings, three of them, were annihilated by different means. Luck, wits, and a touch of smooth talking was all it took for Drako to take the crown. All without getting his own hands dirty. Of course, that was well long ago and it didn't matter anymore.

Standing up, the serpent King made his way to the small window and looked outside. The aura of evil was still hefty and it swam in the air thickly. How deeply it had rooted itself in this kingdom of shadows, entwined with the very residents and haunted every life within the border. Drako looked into the distance, where he could see a faint silhouette of Obscur. There had yet to be a response from the shadows of the city. Looking down, the King could see the courtyard that spread far below his chamber, which was perched high upon the peak of the castle. The guards were taking their rounds and the occasional noble was seen hurrying through the area. In the far corner, there was a small figure leaning against the wall. Narrowing his eyes, Drako recognized the small bob of silver hair. It was the intelligent but awfully shy boy that was present at court. He seemed to be waiting for someone, but that wasn't the King's business and with that, he turned around, headed back to his desk, and started filing a search on a noble's mansion.

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

Reno rose as her father heaved somewhat heavily, dismissing her. She let her cold gaze fill the crowd before she looked to the King, curtsying to him. The Princess easily turned, stepping down and going through the crowd. They cleared a path for her, holding breathes as she passed. She kept her eyes ahead, ignoring the hues that stared at her as she passed within range of them. Some people could swear the feeling of familiarity that settled upon them was comfortable, even though most hadn't seen the Princess in a long while. Well, that was what they thought at least.

The short haired female finally exited the overly large room, breathing a short sigh of relief once out of hearing range of the sheep. So, she was stuck speaking to her father. Though, happily, it would not be a public affair as she had hoped it wouldn't be. No one had found out her male disguise save for Prince Yasunari and her brother, Crown Prince Levi. Yasu, as she preferred to call him, was the prince of Sanchu and had promised to never speak of the crossdressing. Levi, on the other hand, might let it spill accidentally.

If that happened, Gods forbid, the Carlington name would be endlessly shamed. Perhaps even to the point of her being married off, though Reno seriously doubted there were any nobles that actually knew of her that would wish to give their offspring up to marry her. The Princess in question had never even really thought of marriage, so she would simply avoid it. What came out of it? For her, nothing. Her father had gotten power. She would become overweight with a child, weakened and unable to actually do anything of importance.

Reno made it to her room quickly and looked in before walking in with grace and closing the door with a soft noise. She easily stripped off the dress, not needing a doctor or medic to look after the wounds. She had simple enough training to deal with easy things like the scrapes, cuts, and bruises she had at the moment. The Princess put a bandage over the largest wound, a near miss slash of a knife. It was thin, starting on the side of her waist and curving down to the top of a hip. It looked angry red though, probably from her not cleaning it earlier.

The female blue blood was done soon after, simply leaving the bruises to lay where they were. The scrapes had been cleaned and left uncovered to catch the air, which in turn would quicken their healing. She turned a grimace at the dress, instead pulling out training clothes from the chest under her bed. In there usually went her daggers and male clothing, which her shadows had safely delivered.

The training clothing consisted of trousers, which Reno was grateful for. They were tight shorts, going between her mid thigh and knee. They were black in color, like most of her clothing, as was the shirt. But the shorts also had a belted skirt that only was there for decoration. It was white in color and went a little past her pant's ending, hanging on one hip. The shirt was of her creation, a corset ripped from a dress really. It tied in the front and was black with small white trim at the tying point. It also, to most people's annoyance, showed her flat stomach to the air.

The shirt had one shoulder of a black, loose sleeve-like material, while the other shoulder had a shorter sleeve that mimicked the skirt. Finally, her less protected arm had a black wrap around it, protecting her weaker wrist from rolling unintentionally, and a metal glove. The glove itself was broken into pieces, letting her hand move freely without the metal falling apart. Reno blew her bangs from her eyes while putting on plain black training boots, wondering how the outfit would go over.

It was a traditional battle suit for her, one used in the duel arena and while training. And, shall one happen, she would wear it into war. She left her room in a hurry, not wanting to bump into Cecile once more today. The woman, she couldn't help but think, was a shrewd. Once the Princess started walking towards her father's quarters, though, she felt the urge to slow down. But if she hurried this, perhaps she could do other things, like challenging some of those idiotic knights to a duel.

Reno reached the King's quarters more quickly then she wished, but swallowed whatever may hold her back. Let him say whatever he wanted to say. After all, where else would the King be? The meeting had been dying when she had left and it had to be at least half of an hour since then. She knocked with her metal protected hand, the noise slightly louder then her other would have been.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may have peace

As Drako finished the document with a last scrawl, he heard a loud and rather sharp knock on his door. Putting the pen back into the inkwell, he bellowed, "Come in." It turned out to be Akia, dressed in a rather contrasting fashion than moments earlier. What was she doing? Preparing for war? The King suppressed a puzzled look as he stood up to face his daughter. She had always been different than everyone else in the family. Daring, bold, eccentric… He definitely did not raise her like this. But, being the king, he never interacted with his children much in the past and so their behavior did not have much influence from himself anyways. Still, her lack of interest in the crown was definitely something special.

"Well, Akia…" The King started calmly as he paced slowly out from behind his desk. "It seems like you went on a little excursion lately, hm?" He paused shortly before continuing, not giving enough time for an answer. He didn't need one and he probably wasn't going to get one anyways. "I won't prohibit it, but do your best to refrain from any actions that may bring shame to our family or country. Even if you do not care for your mother or I, remember your siblings." Drako turned away and looked out the window again, his hands crossed behind his back. Akia's reputation would certainly affect those of her younger siblings. They couldn't afford to have it damaged or they would run a risk of falling out of power. After all, they had no uncles or aunts or immediate cousins to continue the line if this branch were to fall. If anything, the closest family would be the Sanchu royals. Somehow, Drako knew that the citizens of Daika would not stand to be annexed into Sanchu. Perhaps a rebellion would be inevitable if anything should happen.

Drako sighed softly to himself as he looked across the land again. "Have your fun, but be considerate sometimes. We do not want your misstep to lead to our downfall." He would not want to be forced to remove her if she committed a shameful act. Make her less related to the royal line or even disowning her were possibilities if she did anything unforgivable. Of course, the fear of the Royal Family would indubitably be reduced if he ever needed to resort to those means.

Thinking to himself for a moment, the King then added, "Oh, and try to be safe every now and then."

[{{Roxï-kun-+]

"If I should tumble[/i][/font]

If I should fall..."

Reno stepped into the King's chambers with a dry mouth but neutral expression. She wasn't going to show the slight nervousness that made her body temperature a bit higher then normal. Nor was she going to show how irritated she was from seeing the Royal Court, all of which were forever remembered by her now as mindless and gutless sheep. Well, with a few exceptions. Reno saw a flash of puzzlement or something similar to it on her father's face for a moment before it was gone, like the slight of a hand.

She remembered why after a moment of her own. Her parents may have people looking out for her, or perhaps not, they never came to her training or duels themselves. Neither her mother nor father had ever seen this uniform, though she had put it together a good year ago. "My outfit is merely for training and duels Father." the Princess said, stopping a few feet from the King. Neither of them, she concurred, really wanted their space invaded. Well, she guessed more then knew on her father's side.

Though they were her parents, Reno couldn't say many things about the Queen and King of Daika. At least, she couldn't say many things that she had found out herself really. Close to everything she knew about them were from things heard from other's mouths. But was that trully a terrible thing? The Princess had no idea how much or little her parents knew of her, though she knew it was probably more then she thought they did. Or was it? After all, how many people could two people have watching someone?

She threw the question from her head easily, stuffing it elsewhere. Her neat eyebrows lifted at her father's first question, pale lips not opening to give an answer. Moments later he was speaking again anyway, knowing her well enough to at least not expect an answer to such a question. Her expression stayed neutral, or at least she believed it to, as he continued.

Her siblings were years younger, years more innocent, then Reno herself. She didn't know much of them either, but much more then she knew of her parents. No, they did not deserve her as a sister. But still, she argued to herself mentally, she didn't deserve to be stuck behind such walls as the Palace's. Maybe, she mused, Reno had done something in another life to merit this. The short haired female also tossed this thought from her head in a quarter of a moment.

As her father turned to see the view outside the window, part of Reno felt the urge to just leave at that point. Her right foot even twitched slightly, though she stayed in place. The Princess chose to not fill the silence between the King's words, instead looking past him into the landscape beyond the window's thick glass. The silence itself wasn't uncomfortable to her, though it was sticky and slow like honey from it's container.

The Princess actually did roll her eyes as the King spoke once more, telling her to be careful with her 'fun'. Yes, because apparently being run down by a gang due to her walking in the wrong place at the wrong time was definitely fun to her. In truth, it had been worth it though. The gang had been threatening two young girls, twins. Ilia and Aili, Reno remembered, who worked at a circus somewhere in the Kingdom. What was Reno supposed to do? Allow it and move along?

After the King's last sentence, Reno opened her mouth to speak. But what was she to say? "Last night's events couldn't have been ignored. My mere wounds were worth two young girls' lives." the Princess said, daring the King to turn. She hadn't the slightest of thought to of how he would react to what she had done, though she wasn't really interested at this point.

"Besides," she began once more, "it wasn't as if I think it fun to be chased by thieves and murderers. Though, I suppose, you would rather me leave two innocents to die while I walk past hurriedly?" Reno finished, eyes now on her father. For now she did wonder how he would react to her words, whether she would admit it or not.

"...Would anyone hear me
---screaming behind these Castle Walls?"

[Leaf]

we make war so that
we may have peace

Drako scratched his hollow cheek calmly as he listened to his daughter's rebuke. At least the reasons for her wounds were explained now. Even though her explanation was legit, the King couldn't help but think that he might still be a bit naive. Being a good samaritan wasn't a problem, but ultimately, not everyone could be protected. How odd it was that she would take such interest to these commoners but have absolutely none for the nation. Then again, she was an odd person. And stubborn. Incredibly in-manipulatable. Solid as steel in her own thoughts, no matter how far-fetched they were. "You might say that they aren't fun, per sè, but I'm sure that you do find more entertainment doing such than being caged here, yes?" The King turned around and stared at his estranged daughter, who was stoic in every aspect. The Carlington blood line was special. Although they were allegedly human, each descendent had their own unique power. Drako's himself was quite a brutal one. Being always shut away, doing his own thing, he didn't even know what his children's powers were.

The king shut his eyes for a moment, then opened them and continued with his lecture. "It is fine that you are being a good citizen, but do not aspire to become a martyr. After all, as much as one may try, there is a limit to how much you should sacrifice for others." It was the harsh truth. Yes, Akia was probably aware already and might just let these words go in one ear and out the other, however, Levi, the crown prince, would have to truly get this concept knocked into his head if he was to be the next in line for the throne. "Anyway, I do not think your actions are wrong. Your life is still important, though. You can be cleaned up if you are lucky enough to only be wounded, but your soul cannot be returned once it tears away." The king spoke solemnly. Putting her life on the line for two others was reckless of herself, but Drako could not deny the reason behind the action. Still, if she could think before she acted...

As much as Drako did not care much for the individual citizens, he still wanted Akia to do whatever she wanted. But, her safety still had to be put first. The gang that she had mentioned... Drako made a mental note to investigate it later. If it was a small group of thugs, he would make sure they would mysteriously disappear off the streets. If it was a giant mob, well then, chances are that he was on good terms with their boss. While having a good relation with relatively shady organizations was important, he also had to keep them in check. They could not be attacking random citizens and travelers, now could they? That would discourage trade and other travelers and the economy would end up suffering. Also, if they happened to whip up chaos with foreigners, they might offend the respective country and lead to a potential war. Yes, he had to start cracking down on those foolish thugs. Just because where they lived was run down did not mean that they were completely away from the law. Of course, not everything was for the public good. By showing his power to these organizations, he would be exemplifying his power to the lower-class commoners, which in the right amount, would draw power to the crown. 

These were some semi-complex issues that the monarch was considering at the moment. In fact, he was so deep into them that he almost forgot about who he was dealing with at the moment. Snapping out of his planning mode, he looked at his daughter in the eye and said, "Well, unless you have anything else to say, you are free to leave. Also, until you acquire another weapon again, I advise you to stay inside the palace." He had seen the daggers in her handmaiden's hands, so he assumed that she was currently weaponless. Chances are that she would be wound in a fight if she left and Drako did not want her out there empty-handed. As much as she was combat-trained, you never knew what those thugs had up their sleeves.