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RP
9 years ago
This is a RPG me an 
lilmissjames are doing, we are going to continue it here in this journal.
I have posted what we have done so far below, feel free to take a read if you have time and enjoy.
if you want to leave a comment about it please reply to the the comment i will leave that says coments, so it doesnt get caught up in me and Jamies RP :3
~~~~~~
lilmissjames
Chanting. Screaming. Whooping. Cursing.
All these people were clamouring to make noise, to spur the gladiators into battle. Urging the competitors to fight, to entertain. Everyone had thier favorites, though in the coliseum most fighters didn't last long enough to gain much of a following. There were, however, a few who were strong enough, cunning enough, or lucky enough to last years and get themselves an infamous name.
Gathered here today were a few of those champions, put head to head in an all out battle royal. They were fighting for the rights to be bought into royal pockets. Though always slaves, gladiators purchased by royalty usually lived in better conditions and were allowed better treatment. If your gonna be someones dog, why not live in the lap of luxery? So was the thinking of most of the fighters here, it would be an honor for their handlers and masters for thier gladiators to win. A cash prize and prestige for anyone who had a champion strong enough to belong in the empire's collection.
Nik stood there silently, the roar of the crowd drowned out behind her, body relaxed, tail swishing idly, her heartbeat the only sound audibly pounding in her ears. She was focused, unphased by the stentch of human sweat and the obvious tension in the air. There were four others in the enormous arena with her, men of various sizes and walks of life. One greenhorn, who had lucked his way into easy battles and had made it here by sheer fortune.... the wolf doubted he would last long.... she would ignore him unless he came to her first. The rest of the men seemed.... formidable enough, though she was not going to be swayed. She was proud and knew her strengths, she hadn't come this far to lose.
Above, in the stands, in a section only acessible to those of noble birth stepped forth the emperor. He began his opening speech as the crowd quieted down to listen, and behind him in posh seating sat various memebers of high rank in the empire or visiting nationals. Today was a special for many people involved, today was the day the emporers son would propose to the princess of another nation. The whole purpose of this Battle was to welcome her with granduer and showcase the empires power to her, the maidens land, and her people were a varitable goldmine as far as resources go and an alliance between these two nations would be beneficial for both.
The emperors son, Ivan leaned casually in his chair, his head tilted in the direction of his future bride, his casanova grin flashing brilliantly in her direction. " My dear princess, all of this is for you. We hope, as a representative of your kingdom, that you will see today the full might of the Aldonian empire. For you, and your people we will be the stonewall that protects all you hold dear if only you'd let us.... let me."
Xizana-
Adeline sat in her chair with a cold smile on her face.
Who does this guy think he is? Sure he is handsome, but thats normal for a male brought up in the lap of luxury... but the fact he seriously thinks he can get me by coy words, what a fool. She smiled over and blinked at him again a wide attractive smile, a masculine body, his brown curles held back by a crown. Her eyes and thoughts stopped on the flashy jewelry on his head... the gold. Her father had promised her if she agreed to this wedding, she would no longer be in the shadow of her brothers and sisters, she herself would be the lime light.
She shook herself out of the thoughts of her past, and looked down into the pit where the fighters stood, and little did she know, down into her future.
She scoffed at the four standing there, two men who might be able to do a bit of damage, another who seems like he wondered in off the streets and to her surprise a girl...
"You allow women to fight your battles?" She asked more to herself shocked, "thats barbaric!"
"She is no woman," Ivan scarfed, "she is just a mutt, but a strong loyal bitch at that, my love."
"Oh! I see, teehee, this is all just so new to me, we have never had such acts of showmanship before in my home" she almost barfed acting like her father instructed.
"There are alot of things that will surprise you here," he smirked letting his eyes memorize her curves "Just like I am sure there are alot of things that you will surprise me with"
Again Adeline suppressed throwing up. She turned her attention to the arena once more. Who ever won this match would be appointed her bodyguard, her eyes glanced over the choices again, she had to hope the winner wouldn't be that bright.
lilmissjames-
Unbeknownst to the chatter going on above, Nik was preparing herself for bloodshed. Unlike most gladiator fights, this one had strange rules since it was no ordinary fight. To kill off all the crowd drawing fighters at once would be a horrible business faux pa. There would be no killing in this battle, no matter how heated it got, murder would be severely punished and be cause for forfeit even if the gladiator in question had won.
The fights were only one on one, so no double teaming on a single opponent to knock out fighters too fast. This battle was a show of skill, so they wanted each and every fighter to be able to showcase all they were made of. One on one would be the best way to do so. So she needed to pick her opponent wisely, and quickly.... she wanted to broadcast her power and to do that she needed to fight one of the two stronger men but.... they both seemed to be paying attention to only one another... perhaps thinking just the same way as she is and only wanting to battle who they thought was the strongest. Her lip curled in aggravation, and her ears pressed back. Fighting a stupid, incompetent male would do nothing for her status... the most she could do was knock him out quickly and then wait for her shot at one of the big wigs.
The crowd began to chant again and the wolf dropped down into a deep stance, palm to the ground and ready to spring forward. The emperor had finished his speech and had returned to his chair to watch the festivities in comfort, the gladiators braced themselves for the sound of trumpets. Their pulses raced, and eyes locked onto their targets, as it seemed the greenhorn had also locked his sights to her, obviously thinking a woman would be easy prey. He had little skill to take on a professional gladiator at full strength, so he wanted to take out someone easy and let the two big lugs tire each other out.
It would've been a good plan.
If only he knew how strong Nikula really was.
Suddenly a loud metallic trill echoed throughout the stadium and like a shot the wolf girl was off in the blink of an eye, clearing the distance between her and the measly male in the blink of an eye.
Xizana-
Honestly the fights boarded Adeline, some girls loved to gack at the half naked men sprawling all over each other, but not her. It never took her fancy, that is probably why her father chose an arranged marrage for her. Easiest way to ship off the odd ball in the family. She didnt care, once she was in power, she would only have to deal with her husband once and a great while. She had heard the rumors on the streets, she new his type. And she herself was personally fine with him not troubling her. She had her own plans to attend with. She let herself drift into a dream land where she is fed grapes off the vine and being fanned by huge palm leaves while the battle below roared on.
lilmissjames-
Ten seconds.
That was all it took to knock out a foolish human man. It was hardly a fight worth witnessing, and probably disappointed quite a few bystanders. Once she cleared the distance between him, his shock at her speed gave her more then enough leeway. And that was why he failed as a gladiator, he wasn't focused, he was so amazed by her speed he had forgotten to put up his guard. One moment she was a foot away, the next her heel connected with his chin and sent his head snapping upward with a tremendous, echoing crack. He faltered backward and collapsed, his world turning black before he even full hit the ground. She scoffed and placed her leg back down, kicking dust at him as she turned to watch the other two gladiators.
It was then that she noticed that one of the men had gotten distracted by her minute man match and he hadn't begun fighting, even as his opponent neared (( the stadium between them was MASSIVE, at a normal walk or jog it would take a good half minute to reach one another if they both met in the middle.)) She grinned, technically a fight between the two men hadn't started yet..... so she wouldn't be tag teaming anyone if she got to him first.
And it seemed like the man she set her sights on knew this as well, seeing how fast she was before he had a gut feeling that she would meet him before the other gladiator even got in range. he adjusted his stance and readied his fist toward her,'' Very well beast, make your move!" he taunted.
Nik let out an excited chuckle and bounded forth, leaping from here to there, her bare toes gripping the earth and kicking it loose as she sprung toward her target. She took one final, giant leap into the air, her shadow casting down on her prey below, the man stone faced and unafraid. However she heard somewhat of a whistling sound coming fast from just to her left and in mid air she threw up her arms to block her face. As she did she was met with a flying steel shield that crashed into her and knocked her sideways, rolling to the ground with a few thuds but managing in the end to find her way to her feet, huffing and puffing.
It was the other fighter, a large, bearded fellow covered in scars. He let out a deep sound of dissatisfication,''Wait your bloody turn you flea ridden bitch!''
He walked his heavy body over to his metal shield and picked it up once more, glaring over to nik who put up clawed hands defensively," know your place girl, let the men talk.''
And with that, her only two formidable foes started to fight.
She was beside herself with rage and began to pace, her forearms throbbing painfully, it felt as though one of them had been cracked for sure by the force of the steel that knocked her out of the air. Her tail was bristled as she circled the men hungrily, teeth bared, now having to wait her turn like a vulture and take the scraps that were left.
Xizana-
a gleam of sun that hit the shield as it flew through the air crashed Adelines day dream and brought her back to the disgusting reality of her situation. She was not lounging on a chase being fed ripe sweet grapes, no servant maids fanning her to keep her cool... no she was sitting in a golden chair, which was very pretty, but hurt her bum to sit in. Under a thin piece of cloth which was supposed to be admitting shade, which it was doing a poor job, at a top of a dirty stadium. She snarled as she wiped her finger on the side of the chair and looked at it, covered in suit... this was discussing, she found herself thinking.
Her eyes followed the sides of the colosseum , across all the cheering fans, and finally ended up on the fight below. She instantly perked up in her seat... One of the men were already knocked out cold, and the two big ones were battling. The thing that shocked her was the fact that the female mutt was still up and very aggetated. The aggression in her stance was obvious. Adeline felt a cold shiver run down her back... This beast... it scared her...
lilmissjames-
The two men fought for what seemed like ages, one choosing to wield a sword ((quite skillfully)) and the other, the one of definitive larger size using only a shield and his size to fight back. They were loud, the clanking of steel to steel and rattling armor drove Nik up a wall. Perhaps it was because she was agitated and antsy, but the smell, the sound, and the fact that she was sitting idly by getting NOTHING done just made her get more and more angry. The man with the sword was slowing down, his breathing was haggered, blood was seeping from his arm and bruises were already beginning to swell above his eye. The bearded man was defeating the other just by sheer brute strength and blunt force trauma, he has no sharp weapons it was his shield and fist alone that were hitting hard enough to bust and tear the other fighters skin. But despite his exhaustion, the fighter with the sword refused to fall.
The wolfs eyes narrowed and she let out a loud snarl,"" Just END this already,'' she bellowed, unable to control her impulses any longer.
Such stupid new rules... don't kill, wait your turn. They were fighters, warriors! You cannot put a leash on such raw power! The man with the shield looked her way just as the wolf lept at his opponent and tackled him to the ground. Furious shouts erupted from the crowd as she pummeled the swordsmans face repeatedly until the light from his eyes faded away and he lost consciousness.
"Shes cheating!" She heard, along with various other protests, but she didn't care.
Her orange eyes were swelled with bloodlust, she had full intent to kill the feeble human before her, her legs straddled his body, her left had gripped at his throat as her right pounded his features into an unrecognizable state. It was only because she saw a shadow loom above her that she stopped, she regained her awareness of surroundings and quickly realized that her other opponent was upon her. She hastily rolled off to the side just as the bearded gladiator sent his shield crashing down in her direction but missing, successfully landing a blow dead center in the swordsmen's abdomen and most likely puncturing his lungs and turning his insides into something that would no longer function..... killing him.
Nik flipped backward a few yards and growled loudly,'' You ready now, old man!"
Xizana-
Adelines breaths began to hasten watching the fight below. She herself has known to have a tussle or two in her time, but being she grew up in the castle she had never seen such brutal vilance. The fact that the crowd was loving it, as their roars of sheer delight swelled up over and over with each attack. It was barbaric, She suddenly regretted agreeing to this marriage. She took a quick glance over at her suitor, and saw in shear terror he was watching each move with anticipation. The pupils of his eyes dilated to focus more on what was going on, to catch every movement, every attack.
She felt a cold sweat start to break out, as she leaned back and bit the nail on her thumb, a nervous habit she had had since childhood. "how am i going to pull this off... these are their slaves for gods sakes..." she murmured to herself quietly.
She watched as the savage wolf woman and the older man had at it, both in fear and shock. This wasn't what she expected when she walked into this land, but now the signs were so obvious... there were reasons they place was so beautiful, why it was so clean, no contrey in their right mind would every think of setting foot here...
And if the winner of this fight was to be her body guard she might have to actually go through with this wedding... the thought sent chills up her spine...
lilmissjames-
The crowd began chanting in what seemed like synchronization, it thunder out almost like a repetitive roar.
This caused Niks hair to stand on end in excitement and a grin spread wide across her face, tail swishing. It was not always the first move that determined the winner, not in her case at least, she LOVED doubling back on people and blasting them when they felt like they were the ones about to land a blow. So she watched, waited, lowering herself into a crouching stance, tail high, knees bent, palm to the ground while her other hand just barely rested against the earth. Her muscle were tense and tremored slightly in anticipation, the man was dumb in his lack of fear, or maybe he was just putting up a good front to that end.
He banged his shield three times against his chest and let out long, deep war cries, rallying the crowd, yet Nik didn't budge, her eyes were locked on that mans arm, the one holding the shield.... her mind was going over the countless ways she could sever it and render it and his only defense useless. Waiting silently for his display to end, the wolf finally uncorked all her bottled energy and took off toward him, dust flying into a cloud behind her. The bearded gladiator readied himself, pulling his shield close an tucked his enormous body behind the majority of the steel, but she was looking to attack just yet. She watched intently as she flew forward and he tried to time her impact with his shield forcing it oward in an attempt to blow her backward a few feet, but it didn't connect. She kicked off the shield and lept upward, grabbing onto his shoulder and doing a gymnastic flip, turning on him in an instant and landing behind with her clawed fingers still gripping his shoulder. He made an attempt to move once he realized she was behind but it all happened so fluidly and quickly that his brain was a few paces too slow.
She snaked her arms beneath his armpit and around his thick neck and pressed her almost bare body against his muscled back, her jaws opening wide and clamping down on the mans clavicle area, not quite his neck but where the tendons in his chiseled arm held on. Blood spurted out and upward, raining down on her and him both and she clamped down harder and harder, gripping into him with her nails and piercing his flesh all the while. He howled out in frustration and pain as he feel pain and numbness all at once flooding his arm. He used his free hand to reach over and grasp at her but her orange eyes saw his hand coming and she kicked off of him, causing him to stagger forward but not fall. He turned as fast as he could to face her, but as he did the shield in his hand fell and clamored in the dirt, his fingers too weak to grasp the heavy metal object any longer. "You witch..." he panted.
All she could do was smile, bloody faced and tail wagging.
Xizana-
Adeline coughed trying to figure out what to do.
the battle bellow was a bit shocking, by the looks of it the wolf girl was winning.
She shifted in her seat uncomfortably.
"One of these two will be your protector when I am not around my sweet," Ivan cooed , "i feel the man will be better then the mutt, but if the dog wins I;m sure we can clean her up to be something pretty for me-... for you to look at."
lilmissjames-
Nik licked her lips and then spat out the blood, in a display of disgust.
She readied herself once more but as she stepped to move foreward a trumpet sounded and she skidded to a halt, both fighters looking up in surprise as the emperor rose to his feet.
"The battle has been decided, Gallahad has forfeited his chances at winning by using brutal force against his opponent."
The crowd booed and the emperor waved his hands to silence them, ''Enough! He is unfit to battle any further, and I'm sure a continuance of this would lead to his demise as well...'' he shot Nik a glare and she stiffened reflexively....
It was true, her sword wielding opponent would most likely have died at her hands had not the bearded fighter finished him by accident. The emperor was no fool, he had seen her fight before and knew her bloodlust." This battle is over! I declare Nikula the champion of all. All four warriors fought bravely, but the tournament has been decided by technicality. Though unfortunate, the rules must be followed."
The crowd protested vehemently at the sudden end of what was meant to be an epic day. In their rage they began to throw stones and rocks in the wolf's direction, the wolf huffed and raised her arms to block the debris, making her way in bitter silence out of the coliseum and through the exit tunnel. After a short walk through the corridor the sound of aggression died down and she was left in a room full of bars and cages, various other men were there, some asleep, some suffering various injuries, and others giving her vicious glances as she passed. Her door was left open, she was free to pass through, but her ears perked up at the thunderous yell cast at her as Gallahad walked through his tunnel and into his locked cell," You stupid BEAST! I WILL KILL YOU FOR THIS!" He yowled, shoulder bashing the metal bars and sending them ringing throughout the room.
She grimaced at the high pitched noise, but thought little of his threat. Each participant in this battle had already had their paper handed over to a member of the royal guard, whoever won had to do little else then walk into a large, lavishly decorated meeting room and await their royal audience. After passing by two stern faced men in armor she entered a room with high vaulted ceilings and red draperies, such a waste of space as far as she was concerned. She could bet right now her old master was whooping it up and collecting his winnings, not thinking twice about leaving her behind. Not that she had any attachment to him, but the thought of being tossed about like merchandise did bother her. She clenched and unclenched her fists as she went to sit on a cold stone bench, relaxing her nerves and feeling the slight twinge of pain still from where the shield had bashed into her forearms. She thought idly to herself that it shouldn't take long to heal given the proper medical care.... and she wondered if the royals here one to provide such things.
Xizana-
The crowed were load. booing and hollering at the turn of the events. It gave her a headache. She didnt want to deal with this.
Suddenly there was a shadow that appeared before her, it was Ivan offering her his hand. "Come my sweet, lets go view your new pet. My countries, and my gift to you, my future bride." she took his hand, and allowed him to guide her down a secluded stairway behind a current.
The lower she was taken the more rancid the smell became. The smell of musk and body oder was almost nauseating, and there was a new smell, death. She had never dealt with death much in her life, besides when her mother died when she was 3. The concept really has never been something that has come up, but this new smell-...
She was guided, very quickly mind you, through a dirty room with humans in cages. Adeline could not see much of their stature, but the smell of iron in the air she new they werent all well. before she could get a better look, she was all but shoved into another room, and before her sitting on a stone bench sat the wolf girl. Ade gasped. The girl was covered in blood, weather it was hers or not was not apparent, but she seemed to be favoring an arm as she looked over at the newcomers in her territiory.
"Mutt," Ivan smirked "bow before your new masters," Ivan ordered as he took a step closer, he held a cropt in his hand a lightly smacked his palm with it creating a cracking noise that even made Ade jump. "I am your lord Ivan, and you are now going to be given the honor to be my lovely bride to be's Pet. Do you understand?" The hybrid didn't respond just staired at him coldly " this means you will only take orders from her, and myself. IS THAT CLEAR?" he talked loader and slower as though he thought she might understand him better. An ignorant misconception.
lilmissjames-
Nik got to her feet reflexively as the small group entered the room, her eyes scrolled over the figures coldly and when they stood before her she exhaled. Despite his words and commands, she was more then ready to bow, even if showing humans respect made her want to die a little on the inside. She dropped elegantly down to one knee and bowed her head, her ears pressed back submissively, acting as though an entirely different creature before her new masters. She posed like a knight before her king and queen, her tail down, one arm tucked behind her back while the other reached out for her new ladies hand. It was customary to kiss the finger of your liege, both male and female, so the wolf pulled the princess's slim fingers to her lips and kissed them politely,"Apologies for my appearance, " she murmured softly, though her heart was not in it.
If she could smear the blood upon her face all over the royals before her and get away with it, she would laugh whole heartedly. She then let Adeline's fingers go and extended her hand to Ivan as well, though he did not respond or move to be greeted the same. Exhaling, the brunette looked up for the first time since bowing and her bright orange eyes met with the brilliant Green iris's of the visiting princess. Nik paused, observing her briefly and then standing back up to her feet, smiling slightly to herself. She could easily feed a little of pups with those things. Though amused, outwardly the wolf looked professional, her tail swaying as she watched the small group." I'm fine with being a .... Pet. But could I be so bold as to request that I still be able to participate in the coliseum?"
Ivan laughed mockingly and stepped forward, pressing the riding crop to the wolfs bloody chin and tipping it upward,'' You're right, that was TOO bold to ask. You have no right to request ANYTHING." With that he smacked her across the face and she grimaced but still stood tall.
The emperor's son exhaled and glanced over at his beautiful future bride," Worry not my sweet, though this one seems to thirst for blood, she will not harm you. Her kind are extraordinarily compliant," he teased,'' Even before that thing spoke, it was decided that she would still fight for the royal family's honor in the gladiatorial battles. She will be both your guard and our champion, until her last dying breath this dog belongs to us."
Niks fur bristled and she silenced a low growl, her eyes flashing dangerously in his direction, but she made no move to protest.... she had to stay calm, she needed to be here, in this position. The pieces were ever falling into place. Once calm, the girl bowed her head only and spoke bitterly,'' Yes sire."
Xizana-
Adeline was in such a state of shock seeing how Ivan treated something that was so close to a human was frightful.
"Yes sir is correct!" He laughed and started wapping the girl over and over again the cracked eckoing down the corador. Each smack made Ade wince just a little more.
To her suprise she heard herself cry out "Ivan STOP!" The room fell silant as all eyes turned to her. The pause while she tried to pull herself together was eirrie. This being this slave, Ivan could do whatever he wanted to her, she had no right to stop him. she had to think fast.
"My bride," Ivan said with a hint of irritation in his voice "Dont tell me you show sympahy for this beast, it is not human it has no emotions or feelings. It will forget everything that has happened within 24 hours."
"T-that is not it," Adeline struggled to find the words, the reason she called out. "She is my pet yes?... Shouldn't I be the one- the one to punish her?" She heard herself say. Ivans face changed from being displeaces to a nasty grimious.
"You are more then correct, you need to show this mutt respect" He walked over and handed the cropt to her. She looked at it, its black leather felt odd in her hands. She looked at the wolf girls emotionless expreshion, her eyes peircing into Adelines soul, but she had gotten herself into this mess. "well go on my love, Give her a few strikes to show her who is her master." His smile was disgusting.
Adeline took a step twards the girl and mouthed /Im so sorry/ not that she thought the girl would understand, and she hit her. She struck slightly hard at first but after the first strike realized that she could create almost the same cracking noise with 1/3 the strike. She tried to make the hits as light as she could, She didnt know much of the species before her, but she knew the beast had been through enough, she didnt want to make it worse. She felt tears well up in her eyes, and new there was a pained expression on her face every time she hit her. Like inflicting the pain was hurting her as much as the wolf. After about 4 light strikes she took a step back, Her breath was heavy and her eyes stung with tears.
lilmissjames-
This is why she never speaks. Well not specifically the only reason, by trying to talk to humans never ended well for her. Abuse like this was commonplace, the stinging leather cut into her face strike by strike, but she took her licks with dignity and did little more the wince or suck in her breath once or twice.
Stupid stupid girl, when will you learn? Still, being a gladiator has been what made her through this miserable life, fighting and killing humans give her purpose, fulfills her little story of vengeance. Is she didn't have an outlet for her rage and anger, she wouldn't be able to keep her cool in situations like this, she wouldn't be able to remain a "good little slave.'' There was a moment of quiet and a brief reprieve from the pain, Nik dared to open her eyes to watch the short scene play out between the two, her head tilted curiously as the new princess approach her. It wasn't hard to see the girl disliked what was going on, even as she took the weapon into her own hand the clear expression of remorse was easy to read.
I see you princess.Nik thought quietly, and then the beating resumed. Yet much more delicately then Ivan's smacks, she tried not to smile. The pain was bearable, it had always been, but for a human girl to show concern for her like this, it was nice. She wasn't blind, she had seen good people before.... and yet they were almost ALWAYS poor..... money had a way of twisting people into.....
Her orange eyes opened slowly as fresh blood seeped slowly from new cuts to her face, flaming eyes glancing casually in Ivan's direction. He was the epitome of everything gone wrong with power.... him, his father, his whole family. After a pain free moment went by the wolf suddenly noticed she was no longer being struck, her tail swayed curiously and she looked over to the princess. She bowed her curly head and expressed gratitude two the two monarchs before her,'' Very well. I thank you my queen. I know my place." she cooed, falling back into a false compliance, taking note to thank the young princess when they had a moment alone, if the situation called for it.
"What a mess." chided a royal attendant, tasking as he stepped up next to the prince,'' if my highness's would permit me to clean this wild dog up, I'd love the chance to present her to you more formally. This is no way to greet royalty,'' he reprimanded, to which nik fought the urge to roll her eyes, my bad.
Xizana-
Ivan walked up the the wolf girl grabbed her roughly by the chin and raised her gaze to his. Then spat in her face and threw her to the ground. "Yes this will be necessary, this mutt is not in the proper condition to be gifted to a beauty such as this" He gestered to adeline. "Have her cleaned up and ready by dinner. That way she can be at my womans side and help her eat."
Help me eat? The image of a mother bird and her baby crossed her mind and made her gag.
Ivan clapped his hands and jested for Ade to come along. She took one last look at the girl and latched onto Ivans arm and followed him.
She was thankful to get out of the colloseum... it was musky and dirty and not a place for her... while she was deffently more of a tom boy then her premadana sister, she did not like dirt. She followed Ivan to a white horse drawn carriage. The horses winned, as Ivan helped her into it and sat there stroking her hand as they drew near to the castle in the distance.
"You are very beautiful, you know that right?" he asked looking her up and down.
"I have been told that yes," Adeline remarked trying not to make eye contact with the man. There was a small amount of silence that filled the air for the rest of the ride to where Adeline would live the rest of her life.
The Carrage haulted and she was lead inside, and around twist and turns in the breath taking palace. After they had walked a short ways, the price stopped infront of a set of golden doors. He opened them "This will be your private corters, even after we wed this will be your escape if you everwanted to get away from the stresses of life. Only those who are permitted by you, and of course me " he smiled at this "may enter the room."
She didnt like the sound of the fact he could allow someone in there as well, but at least she had a place to get away form things, and feel safe from everything.
lilmissjames-
Nik sunk bitterly into waste deep luke warm bath water, picking up a large clay jug and dunking it into the water.
Ivan was just as bad as she had heard..... maybe worse. She had been treated badly before but that man knew how to make a lasting impression. She wolf snarled and cursed to herself, dumping the water over her bare, bronze frame. Her new wounds stung but not too bad to snap her out of her quiet fit of rage. She had been shoved into the servants bath area, which was not only outside, exposed to the night air, but dark with nothing but the pale moon as her source of light. As she tossed her head back and dumped more water of her unruly, thick, blood matted hair, Ivan's manservant walked back into to drop off a fresh set of clothing that was pristine white and beside that he sat a tray of glittering gold shackles and chains.
He paused and watched her with an eerie smile, obviously not intending to leave and give her privacy now that he saw she was nude. She glanced over her shoulder at him, her wet tail flicking water side to side as it swayed in agitation. She was not ugly, by any means, she had curves for days ((though breasts that couldn't hold a candle to Adeline's)), her skin was smooth and dark, though mottled with scars and her eyes dazzled in the moonlight. However to these people, they hardly ever saw her as a woman, she was a slave, a gladiator, a dog.... if it weren't for her breasts she was sure they wouldn't have classified her as female at all. Yet if they just took the time to look past all their racist upbringing, maybe they'd notice that she was beautiful in her own right. Although it was annoying to be watched so hungrily, it was just a teensy bit nice to be recognized. Not that her pride would ever allow her to admit it.
She scrubbed for a short while, washing her face free of blood very last, and then she turned to see Ivan's man still there, smirking as he extended his hand with her white toga." I wouldn't suggest putting this on right away, you'll get it soaked, especially with all that wet fur of yours." He sneered.
Nik huffed and stepped out of the water, the moon bouncing delicately off her or not so delicate self, water dripping along every curve and crevice,'' I have nothing to dry off with?" the wolf grumbled, unashamed of holding a conversation in her birthday suit.
"I guess not, air dry." the young man chuckled, taking a few steps toward her," why not jump around or take a little jog, that may help.'' his eyes gleamed.
What a perv....
Xizana-
The room was very lavished, golden edging on everything white marble floors and pillers. This was not what Ade was expecting. She stood there in sheer shock looking over this room which was to be hers, all hers. The flickering light of the candles made the gold shimmer and shine. There was a huge chase chair in the corner of the room next to an open window with a huge maroon colored cloth drapping down from the celing. the center of the room had a water fountion with was decored in fawns and a unicorn, inside the base of the fountion were golden fish darting here and there and beutiful flowering plants.
She looked to the right of the room and was stunned to see a circler bed, with a yellow tinted canopy hanging above it. "There will be nights I will be away from you my sweet," Ivan whispered into her ear, the shock sent shivers down her spine "war or conferences in other countries will call me away, In which case It would be safer for you to stay here. Assains look to my room first you know"
Adeline new this was not the real reason but not dying was a good enough one for her right now.
"There is another room twords the back with a secret hiding place behind the clothing, if you press the opal gem in the wall "ivan continued to whisper, low enough that no one but them two could hear "you an I will be the only two who know about it, I had the builder put it in, then had him killed so no one would know. It is there to keep you safe" Or hide my body, Adeline mused. But the thought of a hiding if something were to happen did make her feel a bit better. Ivan may infarct truly be trying to keep her safe.. she had only known the man for a short period of time, it felt wrong of her to dismiss him like she had been.
lilmissjames-
Suffice it to say, Ivan's attendant, Broderick, was not the most gentlemanly of men. A few threats and teasing later and Nik had started jogging around the bath, her hair on end as it reacted to the cool night breeze. After a few laps her skin was no longer glistening and she settled in front of him again, panting only slightly and extending her slim, but scarred fingers, wiggle her hands in a "give it here" sort of gesture.
The brown eyed attendant couldn't have possibly smiled any wider as he passed her the white, sheer like garment. Nik took it with a sigh and turned her back to him, stretching the cloth around her body and clipping it into place at each shoulder. She turned to face him once more an grimaced as she saw him clicking open two gold shackles and a third larger golden collar already lay open beside him. They really were bound and determined to keep reminding her she was a dog. Her inner pride was going to be the end of her, it was perhaps her biggest struggle when it came to dealing with people. They had no clue who she really was, in her homeland, she was worth more to her people then these humans realize.
She snarled lightly, her fangs gleaming,'' This is ridiculous...."
Broderick tisked and lifted up her collar before her, cooing mockingly,'' Now now then, you should feel proud to be the empires personal guard dog. It's really an honor not many can achieve."
Nik clenched her teeth and then rose her hands to hold her hair up away from her neck, the other servant accepted her silent submission and clamped the sparkling gold shackle about her neck. It was lightweight, very, and the wolf thought that these thing MUST have been purely ornamental since gold was such a very fragile metal to use to restrain any sort of person, let a lone a beast such as her. She dropped her thick mane and extended her wrists forward, the man before her shook his head ,''No, they would only get in the way of your duties here, the chains would knock over too much. These are for you ankles,'' and with that he dropped to his knees and clamped each one with a clank around her legs.
The wolfs tail swayed in annoyance and she moved her foot forward, these too were ridiculously light. Ivan's man then came forward with the thinnest, almost comically light chain, three pronged and connected in the center by a small, almost pearl like stone. The wolfs eyes were locked to the strange gem, and she even turned her neck to try and see behind her as he clasped the chain to her ankles, running his hand eerily up the small of her tanned back and the brushed her hair aside with the swipe of his palm. He breathed against her neck and grinned,'' I hope you enjoy your time here.''
When he snapped the final clasp onto her collar it was like she felt a cosmic shift and an immense weight pressed down on her entire body. Unprepared she faltered downward but caught herself on her knees and resisted the pull of what seemed like intensified gravity. It took her just moments to find her way back into a stand and she looked at him with bewilderment,"?!"
He strolled casually in front of her again,'' Those chains are enchanted. Beautifully crafted by our woefully indebted sea witch. She made these for the royal family to use how they see fit, they are unbreakable and unnaturally heavy when activated. Perfect for use on the emperors dogs of war. Only the royalty here has the keys to set you free from your bonds, they felt it necessary to restrain you this way since you will now be audience to royal family and people of status on a daily basis. Should you act out in aggression while in chain you WILL be hurt by these gauntlets in ways that I cannot describe.... I've seen it before but I think only the person wearing them can describe the agony they are in. "
Broderick paused a moment to let that sink in, Nik's eyes were clearly filling to the brim with rage but she was trying her best to suppress it," Come on then, lets go and meet with our masters."
Xizana-
Adeline took a timid step into the glorious room letting the atmosphear sink in. It was nothing like she was use to being treated in her home land. Yes her countrey was rich, but they spent most of the riches on their people and to improve their cities. Whatever extra was spent on her siblings not her. She touched the silk fabric on her bed, or what she could only imagine being silk, it was so soft and smooth. The been looked so inviting and warm, nothing like the stern beds of her land. "Do you like it my love?"Ivan asked suddenly appearing behind her, his handcurved around her and pulled her to him, her back to his front. His other hand traced down the center or her neck down between her cleavage. she gasped slightly. "All this for you..." his mouth was right by her ear now, his hot breath licked at her ear lobe. "And in return i only ask for one thing," He suddenly pushed her on the bed, grabbed her forarm and twisted her around forcefully so she was looking at him. He gave her a cold excited smile. He loomed over her, Adelines breath quickened, this isnt how this should be happening. not now not like this. He licked the top half of his lip and then slithered onto the bed, ontop of her. "Only one simple thing-"
A-HEAM! Both Ivan and Ade looked over to see Broderick and Adelines new body guard. Thank god!
lilmissjames-
It was a long, silent stroll. Nik was fuming, her insides churning.... these chains put a BIG damper on things, but she'd be dammed if they'd stop her completely. She would just have to bide her time and figure things out. She was young still, all she has is time. The wolf's tail was bristled and hung low with contempt of the servant next to her, he was standing far too tall and too dang proud of himself. Broderick was Ivan's longest time friend, they grew up together and even though he was technically a servant he was treated much more nicely then all the rest. SO, in turn, he got away with a lot of mischief and enjoyed picking on the other servants and guards, and he did so with a toothy grin.
Broderick knocked lightly on a ridiculously ornamented door and waited for a response. After a few moments of silence the male servant tentatively pushed the door open and poked his head inside. He heard cloth rustling and a muffled thud in the direction of the bed and sighed, stepping in with Nik soon to follow. He nonchalantly strolled over to where the lovers were tumbling about and folded his arms behind him, eyebrow curling. "A-hem!" he cleared his throat.
Nik was appalled at the sight of the two, the shock and fear clearly written across the princess's poor face. The wolfs ears pressed back and she shook her head, poor girl.... men rule this world and it is a shame.
Broderick tsked a little,'' My liege, while our empire may not have many rules when it comes to intimacy, surely you must know that other places value virginity. Did you ever think that maybe the princess might be waiting until marriage? In most other countries it is, in fact, a sin to have relations before marriage.''
Rick smiled softly, and much to Niks surprise it seemed like he was trying to help Adeline out,'' We do respect our princess very much, don't we, and her country! And besides, we have an engagement banquet to get down to very soon. We must not keep the emperor waiting."
The wolf titled her head curiously in Broderick's direction, he cleared his throat once more and nudged Nik in the side, using his head to gesture silently in the princess's direction. The brunette huffed lightly and stepped forward, holding her hand out in the panicked redheads direction. The male servant then spoke," why don't you two ladies head over to the princesss wardrobe and get ready?"
lilmissjames are doing, we are going to continue it here in this journal. I have posted what we have done so far below, feel free to take a read if you have time and enjoy.
if you want to leave a comment about it please reply to the the comment i will leave that says coments, so it doesnt get caught up in me and Jamies RP :3
~~~~~~
lilmissjames
Chanting. Screaming. Whooping. Cursing.
All these people were clamouring to make noise, to spur the gladiators into battle. Urging the competitors to fight, to entertain. Everyone had thier favorites, though in the coliseum most fighters didn't last long enough to gain much of a following. There were, however, a few who were strong enough, cunning enough, or lucky enough to last years and get themselves an infamous name.
Gathered here today were a few of those champions, put head to head in an all out battle royal. They were fighting for the rights to be bought into royal pockets. Though always slaves, gladiators purchased by royalty usually lived in better conditions and were allowed better treatment. If your gonna be someones dog, why not live in the lap of luxery? So was the thinking of most of the fighters here, it would be an honor for their handlers and masters for thier gladiators to win. A cash prize and prestige for anyone who had a champion strong enough to belong in the empire's collection.
Nik stood there silently, the roar of the crowd drowned out behind her, body relaxed, tail swishing idly, her heartbeat the only sound audibly pounding in her ears. She was focused, unphased by the stentch of human sweat and the obvious tension in the air. There were four others in the enormous arena with her, men of various sizes and walks of life. One greenhorn, who had lucked his way into easy battles and had made it here by sheer fortune.... the wolf doubted he would last long.... she would ignore him unless he came to her first. The rest of the men seemed.... formidable enough, though she was not going to be swayed. She was proud and knew her strengths, she hadn't come this far to lose.
Above, in the stands, in a section only acessible to those of noble birth stepped forth the emperor. He began his opening speech as the crowd quieted down to listen, and behind him in posh seating sat various memebers of high rank in the empire or visiting nationals. Today was a special for many people involved, today was the day the emporers son would propose to the princess of another nation. The whole purpose of this Battle was to welcome her with granduer and showcase the empires power to her, the maidens land, and her people were a varitable goldmine as far as resources go and an alliance between these two nations would be beneficial for both.
The emperors son, Ivan leaned casually in his chair, his head tilted in the direction of his future bride, his casanova grin flashing brilliantly in her direction. " My dear princess, all of this is for you. We hope, as a representative of your kingdom, that you will see today the full might of the Aldonian empire. For you, and your people we will be the stonewall that protects all you hold dear if only you'd let us.... let me."
Xizana-
Adeline sat in her chair with a cold smile on her face.
Who does this guy think he is? Sure he is handsome, but thats normal for a male brought up in the lap of luxury... but the fact he seriously thinks he can get me by coy words, what a fool. She smiled over and blinked at him again a wide attractive smile, a masculine body, his brown curles held back by a crown. Her eyes and thoughts stopped on the flashy jewelry on his head... the gold. Her father had promised her if she agreed to this wedding, she would no longer be in the shadow of her brothers and sisters, she herself would be the lime light.
She shook herself out of the thoughts of her past, and looked down into the pit where the fighters stood, and little did she know, down into her future.
She scoffed at the four standing there, two men who might be able to do a bit of damage, another who seems like he wondered in off the streets and to her surprise a girl...
"You allow women to fight your battles?" She asked more to herself shocked, "thats barbaric!"
"She is no woman," Ivan scarfed, "she is just a mutt, but a strong loyal bitch at that, my love."
"Oh! I see, teehee, this is all just so new to me, we have never had such acts of showmanship before in my home" she almost barfed acting like her father instructed.
"There are alot of things that will surprise you here," he smirked letting his eyes memorize her curves "Just like I am sure there are alot of things that you will surprise me with"
Again Adeline suppressed throwing up. She turned her attention to the arena once more. Who ever won this match would be appointed her bodyguard, her eyes glanced over the choices again, she had to hope the winner wouldn't be that bright.
lilmissjames-
Unbeknownst to the chatter going on above, Nik was preparing herself for bloodshed. Unlike most gladiator fights, this one had strange rules since it was no ordinary fight. To kill off all the crowd drawing fighters at once would be a horrible business faux pa. There would be no killing in this battle, no matter how heated it got, murder would be severely punished and be cause for forfeit even if the gladiator in question had won.
The fights were only one on one, so no double teaming on a single opponent to knock out fighters too fast. This battle was a show of skill, so they wanted each and every fighter to be able to showcase all they were made of. One on one would be the best way to do so. So she needed to pick her opponent wisely, and quickly.... she wanted to broadcast her power and to do that she needed to fight one of the two stronger men but.... they both seemed to be paying attention to only one another... perhaps thinking just the same way as she is and only wanting to battle who they thought was the strongest. Her lip curled in aggravation, and her ears pressed back. Fighting a stupid, incompetent male would do nothing for her status... the most she could do was knock him out quickly and then wait for her shot at one of the big wigs.
The crowd began to chant again and the wolf dropped down into a deep stance, palm to the ground and ready to spring forward. The emperor had finished his speech and had returned to his chair to watch the festivities in comfort, the gladiators braced themselves for the sound of trumpets. Their pulses raced, and eyes locked onto their targets, as it seemed the greenhorn had also locked his sights to her, obviously thinking a woman would be easy prey. He had little skill to take on a professional gladiator at full strength, so he wanted to take out someone easy and let the two big lugs tire each other out.
It would've been a good plan.
If only he knew how strong Nikula really was.
Suddenly a loud metallic trill echoed throughout the stadium and like a shot the wolf girl was off in the blink of an eye, clearing the distance between her and the measly male in the blink of an eye.
Xizana-
Honestly the fights boarded Adeline, some girls loved to gack at the half naked men sprawling all over each other, but not her. It never took her fancy, that is probably why her father chose an arranged marrage for her. Easiest way to ship off the odd ball in the family. She didnt care, once she was in power, she would only have to deal with her husband once and a great while. She had heard the rumors on the streets, she new his type. And she herself was personally fine with him not troubling her. She had her own plans to attend with. She let herself drift into a dream land where she is fed grapes off the vine and being fanned by huge palm leaves while the battle below roared on.
lilmissjames-
Ten seconds.
That was all it took to knock out a foolish human man. It was hardly a fight worth witnessing, and probably disappointed quite a few bystanders. Once she cleared the distance between him, his shock at her speed gave her more then enough leeway. And that was why he failed as a gladiator, he wasn't focused, he was so amazed by her speed he had forgotten to put up his guard. One moment she was a foot away, the next her heel connected with his chin and sent his head snapping upward with a tremendous, echoing crack. He faltered backward and collapsed, his world turning black before he even full hit the ground. She scoffed and placed her leg back down, kicking dust at him as she turned to watch the other two gladiators.
It was then that she noticed that one of the men had gotten distracted by her minute man match and he hadn't begun fighting, even as his opponent neared (( the stadium between them was MASSIVE, at a normal walk or jog it would take a good half minute to reach one another if they both met in the middle.)) She grinned, technically a fight between the two men hadn't started yet..... so she wouldn't be tag teaming anyone if she got to him first.
And it seemed like the man she set her sights on knew this as well, seeing how fast she was before he had a gut feeling that she would meet him before the other gladiator even got in range. he adjusted his stance and readied his fist toward her,'' Very well beast, make your move!" he taunted.
Nik let out an excited chuckle and bounded forth, leaping from here to there, her bare toes gripping the earth and kicking it loose as she sprung toward her target. She took one final, giant leap into the air, her shadow casting down on her prey below, the man stone faced and unafraid. However she heard somewhat of a whistling sound coming fast from just to her left and in mid air she threw up her arms to block her face. As she did she was met with a flying steel shield that crashed into her and knocked her sideways, rolling to the ground with a few thuds but managing in the end to find her way to her feet, huffing and puffing.
It was the other fighter, a large, bearded fellow covered in scars. He let out a deep sound of dissatisfication,''Wait your bloody turn you flea ridden bitch!''
He walked his heavy body over to his metal shield and picked it up once more, glaring over to nik who put up clawed hands defensively," know your place girl, let the men talk.''
And with that, her only two formidable foes started to fight.
She was beside herself with rage and began to pace, her forearms throbbing painfully, it felt as though one of them had been cracked for sure by the force of the steel that knocked her out of the air. Her tail was bristled as she circled the men hungrily, teeth bared, now having to wait her turn like a vulture and take the scraps that were left.
Xizana-
a gleam of sun that hit the shield as it flew through the air crashed Adelines day dream and brought her back to the disgusting reality of her situation. She was not lounging on a chase being fed ripe sweet grapes, no servant maids fanning her to keep her cool... no she was sitting in a golden chair, which was very pretty, but hurt her bum to sit in. Under a thin piece of cloth which was supposed to be admitting shade, which it was doing a poor job, at a top of a dirty stadium. She snarled as she wiped her finger on the side of the chair and looked at it, covered in suit... this was discussing, she found herself thinking.
Her eyes followed the sides of the colosseum , across all the cheering fans, and finally ended up on the fight below. She instantly perked up in her seat... One of the men were already knocked out cold, and the two big ones were battling. The thing that shocked her was the fact that the female mutt was still up and very aggetated. The aggression in her stance was obvious. Adeline felt a cold shiver run down her back... This beast... it scared her...
lilmissjames-
The two men fought for what seemed like ages, one choosing to wield a sword ((quite skillfully)) and the other, the one of definitive larger size using only a shield and his size to fight back. They were loud, the clanking of steel to steel and rattling armor drove Nik up a wall. Perhaps it was because she was agitated and antsy, but the smell, the sound, and the fact that she was sitting idly by getting NOTHING done just made her get more and more angry. The man with the sword was slowing down, his breathing was haggered, blood was seeping from his arm and bruises were already beginning to swell above his eye. The bearded man was defeating the other just by sheer brute strength and blunt force trauma, he has no sharp weapons it was his shield and fist alone that were hitting hard enough to bust and tear the other fighters skin. But despite his exhaustion, the fighter with the sword refused to fall.
The wolfs eyes narrowed and she let out a loud snarl,"" Just END this already,'' she bellowed, unable to control her impulses any longer.
Such stupid new rules... don't kill, wait your turn. They were fighters, warriors! You cannot put a leash on such raw power! The man with the shield looked her way just as the wolf lept at his opponent and tackled him to the ground. Furious shouts erupted from the crowd as she pummeled the swordsmans face repeatedly until the light from his eyes faded away and he lost consciousness.
"Shes cheating!" She heard, along with various other protests, but she didn't care.
Her orange eyes were swelled with bloodlust, she had full intent to kill the feeble human before her, her legs straddled his body, her left had gripped at his throat as her right pounded his features into an unrecognizable state. It was only because she saw a shadow loom above her that she stopped, she regained her awareness of surroundings and quickly realized that her other opponent was upon her. She hastily rolled off to the side just as the bearded gladiator sent his shield crashing down in her direction but missing, successfully landing a blow dead center in the swordsmen's abdomen and most likely puncturing his lungs and turning his insides into something that would no longer function..... killing him.
Nik flipped backward a few yards and growled loudly,'' You ready now, old man!"
Xizana-
Adelines breaths began to hasten watching the fight below. She herself has known to have a tussle or two in her time, but being she grew up in the castle she had never seen such brutal vilance. The fact that the crowd was loving it, as their roars of sheer delight swelled up over and over with each attack. It was barbaric, She suddenly regretted agreeing to this marriage. She took a quick glance over at her suitor, and saw in shear terror he was watching each move with anticipation. The pupils of his eyes dilated to focus more on what was going on, to catch every movement, every attack.
She felt a cold sweat start to break out, as she leaned back and bit the nail on her thumb, a nervous habit she had had since childhood. "how am i going to pull this off... these are their slaves for gods sakes..." she murmured to herself quietly.
She watched as the savage wolf woman and the older man had at it, both in fear and shock. This wasn't what she expected when she walked into this land, but now the signs were so obvious... there were reasons they place was so beautiful, why it was so clean, no contrey in their right mind would every think of setting foot here...
And if the winner of this fight was to be her body guard she might have to actually go through with this wedding... the thought sent chills up her spine...
lilmissjames-
The crowd began chanting in what seemed like synchronization, it thunder out almost like a repetitive roar.
This caused Niks hair to stand on end in excitement and a grin spread wide across her face, tail swishing. It was not always the first move that determined the winner, not in her case at least, she LOVED doubling back on people and blasting them when they felt like they were the ones about to land a blow. So she watched, waited, lowering herself into a crouching stance, tail high, knees bent, palm to the ground while her other hand just barely rested against the earth. Her muscle were tense and tremored slightly in anticipation, the man was dumb in his lack of fear, or maybe he was just putting up a good front to that end.
He banged his shield three times against his chest and let out long, deep war cries, rallying the crowd, yet Nik didn't budge, her eyes were locked on that mans arm, the one holding the shield.... her mind was going over the countless ways she could sever it and render it and his only defense useless. Waiting silently for his display to end, the wolf finally uncorked all her bottled energy and took off toward him, dust flying into a cloud behind her. The bearded gladiator readied himself, pulling his shield close an tucked his enormous body behind the majority of the steel, but she was looking to attack just yet. She watched intently as she flew forward and he tried to time her impact with his shield forcing it oward in an attempt to blow her backward a few feet, but it didn't connect. She kicked off the shield and lept upward, grabbing onto his shoulder and doing a gymnastic flip, turning on him in an instant and landing behind with her clawed fingers still gripping his shoulder. He made an attempt to move once he realized she was behind but it all happened so fluidly and quickly that his brain was a few paces too slow.
She snaked her arms beneath his armpit and around his thick neck and pressed her almost bare body against his muscled back, her jaws opening wide and clamping down on the mans clavicle area, not quite his neck but where the tendons in his chiseled arm held on. Blood spurted out and upward, raining down on her and him both and she clamped down harder and harder, gripping into him with her nails and piercing his flesh all the while. He howled out in frustration and pain as he feel pain and numbness all at once flooding his arm. He used his free hand to reach over and grasp at her but her orange eyes saw his hand coming and she kicked off of him, causing him to stagger forward but not fall. He turned as fast as he could to face her, but as he did the shield in his hand fell and clamored in the dirt, his fingers too weak to grasp the heavy metal object any longer. "You witch..." he panted.
All she could do was smile, bloody faced and tail wagging.
Xizana-
Adeline coughed trying to figure out what to do.
the battle bellow was a bit shocking, by the looks of it the wolf girl was winning.
She shifted in her seat uncomfortably.
"One of these two will be your protector when I am not around my sweet," Ivan cooed , "i feel the man will be better then the mutt, but if the dog wins I;m sure we can clean her up to be something pretty for me-... for you to look at."
lilmissjames-
Nik licked her lips and then spat out the blood, in a display of disgust.
She readied herself once more but as she stepped to move foreward a trumpet sounded and she skidded to a halt, both fighters looking up in surprise as the emperor rose to his feet.
"The battle has been decided, Gallahad has forfeited his chances at winning by using brutal force against his opponent."
The crowd booed and the emperor waved his hands to silence them, ''Enough! He is unfit to battle any further, and I'm sure a continuance of this would lead to his demise as well...'' he shot Nik a glare and she stiffened reflexively....
It was true, her sword wielding opponent would most likely have died at her hands had not the bearded fighter finished him by accident. The emperor was no fool, he had seen her fight before and knew her bloodlust." This battle is over! I declare Nikula the champion of all. All four warriors fought bravely, but the tournament has been decided by technicality. Though unfortunate, the rules must be followed."
The crowd protested vehemently at the sudden end of what was meant to be an epic day. In their rage they began to throw stones and rocks in the wolf's direction, the wolf huffed and raised her arms to block the debris, making her way in bitter silence out of the coliseum and through the exit tunnel. After a short walk through the corridor the sound of aggression died down and she was left in a room full of bars and cages, various other men were there, some asleep, some suffering various injuries, and others giving her vicious glances as she passed. Her door was left open, she was free to pass through, but her ears perked up at the thunderous yell cast at her as Gallahad walked through his tunnel and into his locked cell," You stupid BEAST! I WILL KILL YOU FOR THIS!" He yowled, shoulder bashing the metal bars and sending them ringing throughout the room.
She grimaced at the high pitched noise, but thought little of his threat. Each participant in this battle had already had their paper handed over to a member of the royal guard, whoever won had to do little else then walk into a large, lavishly decorated meeting room and await their royal audience. After passing by two stern faced men in armor she entered a room with high vaulted ceilings and red draperies, such a waste of space as far as she was concerned. She could bet right now her old master was whooping it up and collecting his winnings, not thinking twice about leaving her behind. Not that she had any attachment to him, but the thought of being tossed about like merchandise did bother her. She clenched and unclenched her fists as she went to sit on a cold stone bench, relaxing her nerves and feeling the slight twinge of pain still from where the shield had bashed into her forearms. She thought idly to herself that it shouldn't take long to heal given the proper medical care.... and she wondered if the royals here one to provide such things.
Xizana-
The crowed were load. booing and hollering at the turn of the events. It gave her a headache. She didnt want to deal with this.
Suddenly there was a shadow that appeared before her, it was Ivan offering her his hand. "Come my sweet, lets go view your new pet. My countries, and my gift to you, my future bride." she took his hand, and allowed him to guide her down a secluded stairway behind a current.
The lower she was taken the more rancid the smell became. The smell of musk and body oder was almost nauseating, and there was a new smell, death. She had never dealt with death much in her life, besides when her mother died when she was 3. The concept really has never been something that has come up, but this new smell-...
She was guided, very quickly mind you, through a dirty room with humans in cages. Adeline could not see much of their stature, but the smell of iron in the air she new they werent all well. before she could get a better look, she was all but shoved into another room, and before her sitting on a stone bench sat the wolf girl. Ade gasped. The girl was covered in blood, weather it was hers or not was not apparent, but she seemed to be favoring an arm as she looked over at the newcomers in her territiory.
"Mutt," Ivan smirked "bow before your new masters," Ivan ordered as he took a step closer, he held a cropt in his hand a lightly smacked his palm with it creating a cracking noise that even made Ade jump. "I am your lord Ivan, and you are now going to be given the honor to be my lovely bride to be's Pet. Do you understand?" The hybrid didn't respond just staired at him coldly " this means you will only take orders from her, and myself. IS THAT CLEAR?" he talked loader and slower as though he thought she might understand him better. An ignorant misconception.
lilmissjames-
Nik got to her feet reflexively as the small group entered the room, her eyes scrolled over the figures coldly and when they stood before her she exhaled. Despite his words and commands, she was more then ready to bow, even if showing humans respect made her want to die a little on the inside. She dropped elegantly down to one knee and bowed her head, her ears pressed back submissively, acting as though an entirely different creature before her new masters. She posed like a knight before her king and queen, her tail down, one arm tucked behind her back while the other reached out for her new ladies hand. It was customary to kiss the finger of your liege, both male and female, so the wolf pulled the princess's slim fingers to her lips and kissed them politely,"Apologies for my appearance, " she murmured softly, though her heart was not in it.
If she could smear the blood upon her face all over the royals before her and get away with it, she would laugh whole heartedly. She then let Adeline's fingers go and extended her hand to Ivan as well, though he did not respond or move to be greeted the same. Exhaling, the brunette looked up for the first time since bowing and her bright orange eyes met with the brilliant Green iris's of the visiting princess. Nik paused, observing her briefly and then standing back up to her feet, smiling slightly to herself. She could easily feed a little of pups with those things. Though amused, outwardly the wolf looked professional, her tail swaying as she watched the small group." I'm fine with being a .... Pet. But could I be so bold as to request that I still be able to participate in the coliseum?"
Ivan laughed mockingly and stepped forward, pressing the riding crop to the wolfs bloody chin and tipping it upward,'' You're right, that was TOO bold to ask. You have no right to request ANYTHING." With that he smacked her across the face and she grimaced but still stood tall.
The emperor's son exhaled and glanced over at his beautiful future bride," Worry not my sweet, though this one seems to thirst for blood, she will not harm you. Her kind are extraordinarily compliant," he teased,'' Even before that thing spoke, it was decided that she would still fight for the royal family's honor in the gladiatorial battles. She will be both your guard and our champion, until her last dying breath this dog belongs to us."
Niks fur bristled and she silenced a low growl, her eyes flashing dangerously in his direction, but she made no move to protest.... she had to stay calm, she needed to be here, in this position. The pieces were ever falling into place. Once calm, the girl bowed her head only and spoke bitterly,'' Yes sire."
Xizana-
Adeline was in such a state of shock seeing how Ivan treated something that was so close to a human was frightful.
"Yes sir is correct!" He laughed and started wapping the girl over and over again the cracked eckoing down the corador. Each smack made Ade wince just a little more.
To her suprise she heard herself cry out "Ivan STOP!" The room fell silant as all eyes turned to her. The pause while she tried to pull herself together was eirrie. This being this slave, Ivan could do whatever he wanted to her, she had no right to stop him. she had to think fast.
"My bride," Ivan said with a hint of irritation in his voice "Dont tell me you show sympahy for this beast, it is not human it has no emotions or feelings. It will forget everything that has happened within 24 hours."
"T-that is not it," Adeline struggled to find the words, the reason she called out. "She is my pet yes?... Shouldn't I be the one- the one to punish her?" She heard herself say. Ivans face changed from being displeaces to a nasty grimious.
"You are more then correct, you need to show this mutt respect" He walked over and handed the cropt to her. She looked at it, its black leather felt odd in her hands. She looked at the wolf girls emotionless expreshion, her eyes peircing into Adelines soul, but she had gotten herself into this mess. "well go on my love, Give her a few strikes to show her who is her master." His smile was disgusting.
Adeline took a step twards the girl and mouthed /Im so sorry/ not that she thought the girl would understand, and she hit her. She struck slightly hard at first but after the first strike realized that she could create almost the same cracking noise with 1/3 the strike. She tried to make the hits as light as she could, She didnt know much of the species before her, but she knew the beast had been through enough, she didnt want to make it worse. She felt tears well up in her eyes, and new there was a pained expression on her face every time she hit her. Like inflicting the pain was hurting her as much as the wolf. After about 4 light strikes she took a step back, Her breath was heavy and her eyes stung with tears.
lilmissjames-
This is why she never speaks. Well not specifically the only reason, by trying to talk to humans never ended well for her. Abuse like this was commonplace, the stinging leather cut into her face strike by strike, but she took her licks with dignity and did little more the wince or suck in her breath once or twice.
Stupid stupid girl, when will you learn? Still, being a gladiator has been what made her through this miserable life, fighting and killing humans give her purpose, fulfills her little story of vengeance. Is she didn't have an outlet for her rage and anger, she wouldn't be able to keep her cool in situations like this, she wouldn't be able to remain a "good little slave.'' There was a moment of quiet and a brief reprieve from the pain, Nik dared to open her eyes to watch the short scene play out between the two, her head tilted curiously as the new princess approach her. It wasn't hard to see the girl disliked what was going on, even as she took the weapon into her own hand the clear expression of remorse was easy to read.
I see you princess.Nik thought quietly, and then the beating resumed. Yet much more delicately then Ivan's smacks, she tried not to smile. The pain was bearable, it had always been, but for a human girl to show concern for her like this, it was nice. She wasn't blind, she had seen good people before.... and yet they were almost ALWAYS poor..... money had a way of twisting people into.....
Her orange eyes opened slowly as fresh blood seeped slowly from new cuts to her face, flaming eyes glancing casually in Ivan's direction. He was the epitome of everything gone wrong with power.... him, his father, his whole family. After a pain free moment went by the wolf suddenly noticed she was no longer being struck, her tail swayed curiously and she looked over to the princess. She bowed her curly head and expressed gratitude two the two monarchs before her,'' Very well. I thank you my queen. I know my place." she cooed, falling back into a false compliance, taking note to thank the young princess when they had a moment alone, if the situation called for it.
"What a mess." chided a royal attendant, tasking as he stepped up next to the prince,'' if my highness's would permit me to clean this wild dog up, I'd love the chance to present her to you more formally. This is no way to greet royalty,'' he reprimanded, to which nik fought the urge to roll her eyes, my bad.
Xizana-
Ivan walked up the the wolf girl grabbed her roughly by the chin and raised her gaze to his. Then spat in her face and threw her to the ground. "Yes this will be necessary, this mutt is not in the proper condition to be gifted to a beauty such as this" He gestered to adeline. "Have her cleaned up and ready by dinner. That way she can be at my womans side and help her eat."
Help me eat? The image of a mother bird and her baby crossed her mind and made her gag.
Ivan clapped his hands and jested for Ade to come along. She took one last look at the girl and latched onto Ivans arm and followed him.
She was thankful to get out of the colloseum... it was musky and dirty and not a place for her... while she was deffently more of a tom boy then her premadana sister, she did not like dirt. She followed Ivan to a white horse drawn carriage. The horses winned, as Ivan helped her into it and sat there stroking her hand as they drew near to the castle in the distance.
"You are very beautiful, you know that right?" he asked looking her up and down.
"I have been told that yes," Adeline remarked trying not to make eye contact with the man. There was a small amount of silence that filled the air for the rest of the ride to where Adeline would live the rest of her life.
The Carrage haulted and she was lead inside, and around twist and turns in the breath taking palace. After they had walked a short ways, the price stopped infront of a set of golden doors. He opened them "This will be your private corters, even after we wed this will be your escape if you everwanted to get away from the stresses of life. Only those who are permitted by you, and of course me " he smiled at this "may enter the room."
She didnt like the sound of the fact he could allow someone in there as well, but at least she had a place to get away form things, and feel safe from everything.
lilmissjames-
Nik sunk bitterly into waste deep luke warm bath water, picking up a large clay jug and dunking it into the water.
Ivan was just as bad as she had heard..... maybe worse. She had been treated badly before but that man knew how to make a lasting impression. She wolf snarled and cursed to herself, dumping the water over her bare, bronze frame. Her new wounds stung but not too bad to snap her out of her quiet fit of rage. She had been shoved into the servants bath area, which was not only outside, exposed to the night air, but dark with nothing but the pale moon as her source of light. As she tossed her head back and dumped more water of her unruly, thick, blood matted hair, Ivan's manservant walked back into to drop off a fresh set of clothing that was pristine white and beside that he sat a tray of glittering gold shackles and chains.
He paused and watched her with an eerie smile, obviously not intending to leave and give her privacy now that he saw she was nude. She glanced over her shoulder at him, her wet tail flicking water side to side as it swayed in agitation. She was not ugly, by any means, she had curves for days ((though breasts that couldn't hold a candle to Adeline's)), her skin was smooth and dark, though mottled with scars and her eyes dazzled in the moonlight. However to these people, they hardly ever saw her as a woman, she was a slave, a gladiator, a dog.... if it weren't for her breasts she was sure they wouldn't have classified her as female at all. Yet if they just took the time to look past all their racist upbringing, maybe they'd notice that she was beautiful in her own right. Although it was annoying to be watched so hungrily, it was just a teensy bit nice to be recognized. Not that her pride would ever allow her to admit it.
She scrubbed for a short while, washing her face free of blood very last, and then she turned to see Ivan's man still there, smirking as he extended his hand with her white toga." I wouldn't suggest putting this on right away, you'll get it soaked, especially with all that wet fur of yours." He sneered.
Nik huffed and stepped out of the water, the moon bouncing delicately off her or not so delicate self, water dripping along every curve and crevice,'' I have nothing to dry off with?" the wolf grumbled, unashamed of holding a conversation in her birthday suit.
"I guess not, air dry." the young man chuckled, taking a few steps toward her," why not jump around or take a little jog, that may help.'' his eyes gleamed.
What a perv....
Xizana-
The room was very lavished, golden edging on everything white marble floors and pillers. This was not what Ade was expecting. She stood there in sheer shock looking over this room which was to be hers, all hers. The flickering light of the candles made the gold shimmer and shine. There was a huge chase chair in the corner of the room next to an open window with a huge maroon colored cloth drapping down from the celing. the center of the room had a water fountion with was decored in fawns and a unicorn, inside the base of the fountion were golden fish darting here and there and beutiful flowering plants.
She looked to the right of the room and was stunned to see a circler bed, with a yellow tinted canopy hanging above it. "There will be nights I will be away from you my sweet," Ivan whispered into her ear, the shock sent shivers down her spine "war or conferences in other countries will call me away, In which case It would be safer for you to stay here. Assains look to my room first you know"
Adeline new this was not the real reason but not dying was a good enough one for her right now.
"There is another room twords the back with a secret hiding place behind the clothing, if you press the opal gem in the wall "ivan continued to whisper, low enough that no one but them two could hear "you an I will be the only two who know about it, I had the builder put it in, then had him killed so no one would know. It is there to keep you safe" Or hide my body, Adeline mused. But the thought of a hiding if something were to happen did make her feel a bit better. Ivan may infarct truly be trying to keep her safe.. she had only known the man for a short period of time, it felt wrong of her to dismiss him like she had been.
lilmissjames-
Suffice it to say, Ivan's attendant, Broderick, was not the most gentlemanly of men. A few threats and teasing later and Nik had started jogging around the bath, her hair on end as it reacted to the cool night breeze. After a few laps her skin was no longer glistening and she settled in front of him again, panting only slightly and extending her slim, but scarred fingers, wiggle her hands in a "give it here" sort of gesture.
The brown eyed attendant couldn't have possibly smiled any wider as he passed her the white, sheer like garment. Nik took it with a sigh and turned her back to him, stretching the cloth around her body and clipping it into place at each shoulder. She turned to face him once more an grimaced as she saw him clicking open two gold shackles and a third larger golden collar already lay open beside him. They really were bound and determined to keep reminding her she was a dog. Her inner pride was going to be the end of her, it was perhaps her biggest struggle when it came to dealing with people. They had no clue who she really was, in her homeland, she was worth more to her people then these humans realize.
She snarled lightly, her fangs gleaming,'' This is ridiculous...."
Broderick tisked and lifted up her collar before her, cooing mockingly,'' Now now then, you should feel proud to be the empires personal guard dog. It's really an honor not many can achieve."
Nik clenched her teeth and then rose her hands to hold her hair up away from her neck, the other servant accepted her silent submission and clamped the sparkling gold shackle about her neck. It was lightweight, very, and the wolf thought that these thing MUST have been purely ornamental since gold was such a very fragile metal to use to restrain any sort of person, let a lone a beast such as her. She dropped her thick mane and extended her wrists forward, the man before her shook his head ,''No, they would only get in the way of your duties here, the chains would knock over too much. These are for you ankles,'' and with that he dropped to his knees and clamped each one with a clank around her legs.
The wolfs tail swayed in annoyance and she moved her foot forward, these too were ridiculously light. Ivan's man then came forward with the thinnest, almost comically light chain, three pronged and connected in the center by a small, almost pearl like stone. The wolfs eyes were locked to the strange gem, and she even turned her neck to try and see behind her as he clasped the chain to her ankles, running his hand eerily up the small of her tanned back and the brushed her hair aside with the swipe of his palm. He breathed against her neck and grinned,'' I hope you enjoy your time here.''
When he snapped the final clasp onto her collar it was like she felt a cosmic shift and an immense weight pressed down on her entire body. Unprepared she faltered downward but caught herself on her knees and resisted the pull of what seemed like intensified gravity. It took her just moments to find her way back into a stand and she looked at him with bewilderment,"?!"
He strolled casually in front of her again,'' Those chains are enchanted. Beautifully crafted by our woefully indebted sea witch. She made these for the royal family to use how they see fit, they are unbreakable and unnaturally heavy when activated. Perfect for use on the emperors dogs of war. Only the royalty here has the keys to set you free from your bonds, they felt it necessary to restrain you this way since you will now be audience to royal family and people of status on a daily basis. Should you act out in aggression while in chain you WILL be hurt by these gauntlets in ways that I cannot describe.... I've seen it before but I think only the person wearing them can describe the agony they are in. "
Broderick paused a moment to let that sink in, Nik's eyes were clearly filling to the brim with rage but she was trying her best to suppress it," Come on then, lets go and meet with our masters."
Xizana-
Adeline took a timid step into the glorious room letting the atmosphear sink in. It was nothing like she was use to being treated in her home land. Yes her countrey was rich, but they spent most of the riches on their people and to improve their cities. Whatever extra was spent on her siblings not her. She touched the silk fabric on her bed, or what she could only imagine being silk, it was so soft and smooth. The been looked so inviting and warm, nothing like the stern beds of her land. "Do you like it my love?"Ivan asked suddenly appearing behind her, his handcurved around her and pulled her to him, her back to his front. His other hand traced down the center or her neck down between her cleavage. she gasped slightly. "All this for you..." his mouth was right by her ear now, his hot breath licked at her ear lobe. "And in return i only ask for one thing," He suddenly pushed her on the bed, grabbed her forarm and twisted her around forcefully so she was looking at him. He gave her a cold excited smile. He loomed over her, Adelines breath quickened, this isnt how this should be happening. not now not like this. He licked the top half of his lip and then slithered onto the bed, ontop of her. "Only one simple thing-"
A-HEAM! Both Ivan and Ade looked over to see Broderick and Adelines new body guard. Thank god!
lilmissjames-
It was a long, silent stroll. Nik was fuming, her insides churning.... these chains put a BIG damper on things, but she'd be dammed if they'd stop her completely. She would just have to bide her time and figure things out. She was young still, all she has is time. The wolf's tail was bristled and hung low with contempt of the servant next to her, he was standing far too tall and too dang proud of himself. Broderick was Ivan's longest time friend, they grew up together and even though he was technically a servant he was treated much more nicely then all the rest. SO, in turn, he got away with a lot of mischief and enjoyed picking on the other servants and guards, and he did so with a toothy grin.
Broderick knocked lightly on a ridiculously ornamented door and waited for a response. After a few moments of silence the male servant tentatively pushed the door open and poked his head inside. He heard cloth rustling and a muffled thud in the direction of the bed and sighed, stepping in with Nik soon to follow. He nonchalantly strolled over to where the lovers were tumbling about and folded his arms behind him, eyebrow curling. "A-hem!" he cleared his throat.
Nik was appalled at the sight of the two, the shock and fear clearly written across the princess's poor face. The wolfs ears pressed back and she shook her head, poor girl.... men rule this world and it is a shame.
Broderick tsked a little,'' My liege, while our empire may not have many rules when it comes to intimacy, surely you must know that other places value virginity. Did you ever think that maybe the princess might be waiting until marriage? In most other countries it is, in fact, a sin to have relations before marriage.''
Rick smiled softly, and much to Niks surprise it seemed like he was trying to help Adeline out,'' We do respect our princess very much, don't we, and her country! And besides, we have an engagement banquet to get down to very soon. We must not keep the emperor waiting."
The wolf titled her head curiously in Broderick's direction, he cleared his throat once more and nudged Nik in the side, using his head to gesture silently in the princess's direction. The brunette huffed lightly and stepped forward, holding her hand out in the panicked redheads direction. The male servant then spoke," why don't you two ladies head over to the princesss wardrobe and get ready?"
I shall read this later.
I'm SO excited <3
Ivan took a step away from the bed and turned to look at her “I will now be leaving you with your new pet, don’t fear she cannot hurt you. I will return for you when it comes time for our banquet.” He then left the room followed closely by the servant who brought the winner of the gladiator battle. The girl stared at her with cold eyes.
Adeline laid back into the bed and inhaled strongly. She let out a large sigh. This fear was making her uneasy, and something she was not use to… The look in that man’s eyes, it wasn’t purely that of lust… but she wasn’t sure what the other emotion emitting for Ivan was. All she knew was that she didn’t like it. It meant that plan “B” was looking more and more appealing though it would mean a drastic change in her life.
She laud there contemplating her options, she finally sat up and realized one way or another she had to keep playing this role maybe things… would get better? She had a dreading feeling it wouldn’t.
After a while Adeline finally scooted off the bed and looked around the room again. Its once memorizing feathers that had amazed her not ten minutes ago seemed to look like a cage without bars… she glanced over to the girl who was still just standing there staring. She too gave Adeline an uneasy feeling. She mustered up whatever pride and strength she had left and stood up. She had to continue forwards. She agreed to this.
She stepped towards her wardrobe and opened the doors and was amazed at the vast assortment of garments from across the lands… and the jewelry…
She changed into a pure white dress, with golden thread liners, and clasped the shoulder with a golden crescent moon pendant. A simple but elegant pair of sandals which tied up her legs to her knees with golden twine. Golden leatrals on her head, (her country’s custom) and golden bracelets. She looked at herself in the reflection in the fountain… she wished she could put on more items… there was so much in there to choose from. And then something caught her eyes on the shelf. A classic over the forehead tiara. She wished she could wear it, but the golden leafs symbolized royalty in her land. She turned to the girl who was still coldly watching her.
“uhm…” she realized she didn’t know the girls name, “would you… like to wear this? I think it would look great agenst your skin and really bring out your eyes” Adeline gave her what she was sure was an awkward smile.
(sorry for any grammar errors... I typed this while listening to my teacher in class today lol so I was a bit distracted)
Idly the wolf wondered if she'd get in trouble for not getting her ready. As adeline undressed and began to put herself together the brunette could only observe, the way the princess moved was very elegant, even in small moments like this. She wondered if motions like that and poise as well as turning a phrase were all a part of a royal upbringing. Most nobles were so snooty but knew how to speak well and move as if every moment was purposeful.
Adeline finished and was still looking about, as if searching for something, only to present the wolf girl with a gorgeous headpiece. Niks ears perked up as she tilted her head, not at all sure of the procedure in this situation. Would it be rude to refuse, or would she get in trouble for wearing something like this? " I um....." ultimately, she decided it'd probably be better to accept the gift then leave a poor impression on her new master. " yes m'lady."
She took the tiara delicately and placed it atop her wiley man of hair, she had to shimmy it down a bit, causing her brown locks to puff up around the base of the tiara. With a dutiful bow, she bent over,'' thank you very much princess Adeline, I will take great care with it."
"When we are alone you don't need to bow to me like this." Adeline said with a rush of unexplained embarrassment. "And you can just call me Adeline, at least when it's just us."
Nik stood back up tall when the princess spoke, her orange eyes staring intently at the girl before her. She wasn't so sure that's how things worked.... all her life she was beaten into submission, titles meant EVERYTHING to these people.... for all she knew this could be a trick. Although Adeline did seem like a sweet girl, the wolf had a general mistrust of humans, for obvious reasons. She offered and apologetic smile and shook her head,'' I'm sorry if I make you feel awkward Princess, but I must insist.'' she explained,'' if someone where to overhear me....''
The wolf struggled to find a way to put it so as not to insult her,'' Or rather, if I get into the habit of calling you informally, I may forget myself in the presence of others, and that would not end well for me, you see."
Her shackles clinked as she moved her feet restlessly," I mean no disrespect, and if my lady persists in this I will do as you wish,'' she added, things for Nik were not so easy, she wasn't a normal servant, she was LOWER then dirt to these people, she had no leeway what so ever in most things and she learned that rather quickly.
(( slave mentality :p ))
she didnt know what else to say, things were so different in this land, and not in a good way.
"Do you know anything about this dinner party?" She attempted to change the subject shifting her weight to her other food. "Im not from here, where I am from they dont have engagement dinners, so I have no idea what I am about to get myself into."
The wolf extended her hand to Adeline in an attempt to lead her to the water fountain so they could sit on the ledge and chat, it was not only a bid to be polite but also her entire body was aching from the battle barely an hour ago, and with the weight of these chains she was feeling like perhaps her legs would give out. She really wanted to sit down, but if adeline insisted on standing then she would as well.... tonight was going to be a long one if she didn't have a moment to rest though. " These are mainly exhibitions I think. Meant to give the nobles a chance to meet the new Queen, build ties and create allies. Your from somewhere I've never heard of before... perhaps your homeland is a big deal. These sort of things are mostly... political."
Nik paused after her long spiel, it wasn't often she spoke to humans more then a word or two, she really didn't like them much. It was an odd realization.