Raiha

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Lhrila UIren was very quiet as she drove along the Canadian highway. She knew she had a long time before she'd be required anywhere, and she knew that her family in Barrow wouldn't miss her much. Even so, she was glad for the solitude. It was esier to cope with her empathy when there was nothing to pick up from other people. The setting sun nearly made her eyes smart, but she turned away and focused her eyes on the fat moving pavement. A light snow began to fall, and she was thankful for the four wheel drive on the SUV...even if it wasn't full size, it was always better to have that, and mud and snow tires too. She shifted gears, letting her hands slide over the unresponsive equiptment. She was always happy with technology. It was quiet and calm, and it didn't have a mind to torment her with. Eventually she came through the forest and out onto an open, snow covered plain. Her body shifted and her hood fell back around her shoulders, revealling a pair of luminous eyes, soft white skin, and hair darker than ebony. Lrhila smiled to herself, then turned the radio on, knowing the signal would be stronger now. To her great surprise, there was someone on the road. He looked crazy, but then again, wasn't everyone? He wore no shirt, no shoes, just a pair of shorts. She pulled over and rolled down the window, feeling an intense wave of fear wash over her body.[/i] "Do you need a ride?" [i]He looked up at her, his eyes wide, hunted. She felt this time a splashing of hope caress her ears, and she willed herself to afford him with a smile. He looked relieved. His nod was accepted and she unlocked the passenger side of the car.[/i] "Get in, away from the cold." [i]He obeyed, and she rolled up the window and turned on the heater, taking off her jacket as she did. He sat down, shivering badly, and she handed her coat to him. It wasn't in her to let someone like him suffer. Besides that, she wasn't detecting any unkind or misleading behavior. She could feel his thankfulness, and his pleasure at the heater working.[/i] "What are you doing out here? Who's chasing you?" [/COLOR][/font]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid]Name: Lhrila Uhren Age: 19 Power: Empathy, and a faint ability to affect negatively the powers of mutants around her. Codename: Lull Appearence: Long dark hair, pale skin, luminous silver eyes, part of her mutation. She dresses darkly, in long and flowing dresses or skirts usually, although sometimes she wears pants as well. Her tell tale adornments are folds of fabric that cover her forearms and cloth chokers, which she is almost never seen without. Personality: Calm and serious, just what you'd expect from someone who can affect the people around her. She is sweet and kind to most, but when she uses her powers, she can sometimes be the exact opposite of calm; usually only if she forced to use a great deal of her power to suppress something. Bio: Lhrila always knew that she was a strange girl. When she was little, she noticed that she knew when people were sad or happy, and that her mother was often upset by her. This ability of hers grew over time, and now she has almost lost control of herself. She is often depressed, and often suffersso much that she doesn't leave her room. However, since she's learned about mutants, she's found some strange flicker of hope that they would be able to help her come to grips with this empathy that's nearly taken over her life. Because her ability isn't as flashy as setting things on fire or moving things with her mind, she's managed to avoid the typical knee jerk responses from people. The psychiatrist doesn't know how to help her, but he does know that her ability could be either a mutation, which he firmly denies, or simply a manifestation of the many psychic powers people have been known to have before mutations were ever discovered on a grand scale. He perscribes her pills, but she won't take them. Instead she spits them into her drawer, or acts to fool him. So far she's been successful. She knows when he believes her and when he doesn't. Unfortunately for her, things have been changing. He's begun to run tests on her, using her like a lab rat, and she's growing tired of it. Sadly, she's not learned how to manipulate people like she could. That would only come to her if she could find some way to better master her abilities.[/COLOR][/font]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][b]Name:[/b] Lhrila Uhren. [b]Age:[/b] 28 [b]Sex:[/b] Female [b]Appearance[/b]: A strange idiosyncracy is the fact that she insists on covering her head. This is not a religious obligation, but instead something she does almost automatically. She wears dark colors more often than not, sometimes jewelry, and often ethnic dress. This is either a front, or her personal preference. [b]Bio:[/b] Lhrila is a bounty hunter at best, and a murderer at worst. Her childhood was spent in school, and also on the street, working to stay afloat, trying to not notice her lack of emotional attachment to her family. In short, she's cold. Her family was not loving, but they were not cruel. This has shaped her into a very self reliant woman. This self reliance has led her to live a life in which she kills often, but only under contract. She doesn't like doing it that much, and she holds true to one law. No women and no children. This has made her perfect for the work she does now, which is typically the elimination of government officials and the like. The only exception she ever makes to the killing of women is when they attack her first, or have harmed her friends and acquaintances. Needless to say, this doesn't happen often. She doesn't make enough friends to really have any that could ever be in danger. [b]Personality:[/b] She is loyal to her friends, but to her enemies, she is a ruthless monster. Lhrila has learned to care deeply for those that are important to her survival, but to make no deep emotional bond. Because of this, she keeps her distance from many people, not letting them too close. The reason for this, besides her deep seated anti-social tendencies, is a past in which she was badly hurt. [b]Weapons:[/b] Two stilettos, short, easy to grasp, made of a rust resistant alloy. These are kept in sheaths on the arms, although sometimes she uses a spring loaded spine sheath. [b]Abilities:[/b] Cross Slash; Just what it sounds. She raise both blades, holding them back across her forearms, and makes what could easily pass for an "X" shape across the throat, chest, or face. Sleight; By obscenely fast reflex, she avoids an attack completely and ripostes almost immediately after. Impale; A deep thrusting motion into the body with one or two blades. This is nearly always fatal, as she aims for the heart, lungs, or jugular vein. (I don't know if these are acceptable, or if there are too many. I can easily edit.) [b]Post Quality Example:[/b] To be sent shortly. Final Questions: 1. Are you actually interested or just joining to join something? I think the plot is fascinating in the sense that it's not related to any specific manga, or at least none that I've heard of. 2. Did you find this sign-up difficult? If so, why? No, I've been in enough RPGs to know what to do almost automatically..[/COLOR][/FONT]

[color=darkorchid][FONT=Times New Roman][i]Secretly, Nepenthe wasn't surprised that their work would involve the death of a great power. But either way, she knew it would mean a lot of trouble on her part, and perhaps even certain death. Even so, she didn't mind so much. It was her destiny, like her mentor was wont to remind her every time she gazed into a reflective surface for more than a few moments. It had taught her to avoid too many of those, unless of course it was a good idea to start a conversation with a corpreal being while others were around. Nepenthe walked back upstairs, leaving the courtyard as soon as Yuri had dismissed them. Mentally, she reviewed everything she wanted to bring with her. It wasn't much. Her stilettos were already in her sleeves, where they had been ever since she had gotten dressed that morning. Seeing as how they would probably travel in rain and cold weather, she entered her room and made a beeline for the closet where her garments were hanging. With sure hands, she removed her cloak. Long, dark, made of lilac purple cloth, and with a hood to match. It was heavy, as one might expect, but she carried it well, and easily enough on the frame of her body. From a small box, she withdrew a small vial hanging on a silver chain. This she slipped over her head and around her neck. Inside glinted a small amount of spider's blood. It was incredibly useful in dispelling magic; a secret only a select few ever knew, and one that Nepenthe had bought at great pain. Then she closed the box once more and put it away. From a drawer, she withdrew an extra change of clothing and folded it under her skirt, fastening it firmly at her belt. Finally, she walked over to the mirror mounted on the wall and checked her reflection. With a quick movement, she flipped her loose hanging hair behind her head, twisted it back and pinned it up with the enchanted silver pins that were her only birthright. Thus equipped, she returned downstairs, bidding the room she had made her home for several days goodbye.[/i][/FONT][/color]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Nepenthe laughed very softly, her voice barely brushing above a whisper.[/i] "I'm not royalty you know. Everyone seems to think I come from a house of high birth. That's silly though. Just because I work under royalty doesn't make me better than anyone else." "Nobody could tell by your manners." "Oh...those. Well I try to be as gentle as possible. And as for my profession, nobody knows about it besides the people I'll be working with now and Yuri of course." "Why the secrecy?" "It's hard to say. But I don't like to advertise it. Sometimes it makes people uncomfortable." [i]The enchantress raised her hand over her face slowly, then brought it back down again. Ciara looked slightly uncomfortable, so Nepenthe didn't laugh again. It was still very funny to her though. Everyone treated her like she was a precious commodity, but she wasn't really. At least not in her mind. Still. It behooved her to put the people around her at ease.[/i] "Just act as you normally would." "Are you sure?" "I'm your equal. Just don't forget that part." [i]Ciara blushed, but tried her best to relax.[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Nepenthe woke early, and walked over to the window, looking out at the brand new day. Her eyes closed half way as she took in the brilliance of the sunrise. She closed her eyes completely, rubbing her eyelids with her fingers. Then, refreshed, she made her way over to the vanity table and sat. She spread a towel over her lap, poured herself a fresh bowl of water from the pitcher and washed her face with lavender soap. Eventually she dried it, then folded the towel away. Looking in the mirror, she unbraided her tresses and began to run a brush through each bunch of long dark hair. She hummed to herself as she stroked, eventually rebraiding all of her hair back and up in the manner of most courtly ladies. Then she turned and changed her dress to a fresh one, then pulled on a dark purple dress, with gathered sleeves and a full skirt falling from the princess cut bodice. She selected silver earrings and inserted them into her ears slowly, clasping each carefully. When she was finished, she turned and looked at herself in the mirror. She felt, rather than heard, the voice of her mentor, counselling her to do well this day.[/i] "Do not do anything to shame me." "I never would Mistress." [i]The enchantress bowed to her mistress's wishes, and pulled on her shoes, walking outside into the hallway and raising her sleeves over her face automatically. Once she made it down, a functionary guided her into the main hall. Apparently she was the first awake. Not that she minded.[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]The conversation wanned and Nepenthe felt her body growing tired. At a break in the flow of words, she stood quietly and gave a deep curtsy to everyone still present.[/i] "It's been pleasant, but it's late and I am very tired." "Yes, goodnight Nepenthe." "Yes, sweet dreams." [i]Their voices called after her and she waved one sleeve as she headed upstairs. Nepenthe smiled and lifted her skirts with her left hand, her right resting against the cold stone walls, letting her feet carry themselves to her room. Either she was getting older or she was just very tired. Eventually, when she made her way back to her room, she found her door standing shut. With a wave of her hand, she undid the lock and went inside. Once there, she locked the door again and walked over to her bed. With steady movements, she untied her kirtle and slid into the sheets, dressed in her undergarments. Carefully, she raised the blankets up to her cheeks and turned to her left side. Her hair fanned out in a dark cloud on the white linen pillows and seemed to flare itself out without her arranging it. Her eyes closed and her lashes meshed together. Other people rested in the castle, but Nepenthe, for which she was named, dreamed quiet dreams... .....Dreams of calm quiet and forgetfulness. Nothing too strenuous. Just....dreams...[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Nepenthe quickly drew her sleeve up to her face blushing a little. It was Noah. The alchemist that had given her the rose before Yuri and everyoen else. She smiled at him a little, and nodded slowly, her voice caressing his ears.[/i] "You may." "Thank you...Nepenthe?" "Yes. You pronounced it right. Not many do." [i]He sat slowly, noticing the folds of her sleeves and the way one of them covered her face, leaving only dark eyes visible. Her voice was slightly muffled, but he didn't mind so much. After all, he figured it was part of her, something necessary in her life that she did without even thinking. He nodded slowly, looking out at the lush garden, taking in all the scents of the flora. He noticed the way the water fell across the moss covered rocks and the way the fish in the pond leapt and splashed and snapped at small water bugs. Nepenthe smiled slowly, as the wind bent a wisteria branch close to her body. With one hand, she reached out and pulled a blossom down.[/i] "I love flowers. Don't you Noah?" "Yes I do. Although I don't know much about them." [i]She smiled at him again, plasing the wisteria in his hand and bidding him to inhale. As he did, he noticed the extraordinary scent rising upwards. It was heady, almost lush, and it was so lovely, he nearly fell backwards.[/i] "So tell me Nepenthe, did you always live at the castle? I know you told me and the others about yourself, but I want to know a little more." "...well, I was born here, to one of the servant women and one of the knights. I was such a pretty baby, they raised me to serve the royalty. I heard someone remarking that I was royalty myself. ....but I'm not. I'm a commoner that's been raised up by the kindness of her Mistresses. Like the rest of us under Yuri perhaps." [i]Noah reflected quietly. It was difficult to understand, but he figured that she would probably marry higher than her birth.[/i] [/COLOR][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Eventually Nepenthe roused herself out of her stupor and dressed in a light garment. She had noticed eyes on her. They were probably wondering why she had made it into the final group, she and only five others. Mostly male. As far as she could tell, she wouldn't last against most of them, and besides that, her magic wouldn't be useful in a spar. She could kill them.[/i] "...I could kill them." [i]She shook her head slowly, clearing it again. Then, quietly, she padded across the floor. Her dress shifted slightly, white silk and satin brushing against themselves slowly. She sat at the window again, enjoying the moon, the clouds, and everything else. Her eyes opened slightly, then closed again. Her skin glimmered in the moonlight, but then returned to darkness as the clouds covered the brightness. Her body shivered in the wind, and she stepped down from the seat, and walked slowly towards the door. Her mind had rested enough, and her body would regenerate as she continued to avoid using magical energy. Gladly enough, her own aura fed off everything around her, albeit very mildly, and not enough to endanger lives or to cause any sort of noticeable weakness in anyone. She smiled to herself as she continued walking through the corridors and relaxing as she went. It had been a busy day to be sure, but she figured she would be fine. Eventually she made her way down to the garden and sat at a bench. Her skirt flared around her as she sat and gathered in her lap, almost as if it was planned. Her smile was soft and gentle, but to those watching, nobody would know why she smiled. Truth be told, she was merely happy. Happy to have survived thus far. And to be in a garden with flowers again instead of in the forest with murdereous animals or in the desert with crawling beasts.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]At Yuri's last pronouncement, Nepenthe curtsyed deeply and bowed her head, even as others around her walked away stiffly or angrily, many muttering curses or grumbling complaints. In her experience, to those with power, it was best to show a certain ammount of deep respect and decorum. This trait, almost inbred into Nepenthe's mind, was inescapable. In any other body, she would've felt awkward doing it, but in the one she inhabited, it was something as natural as the breathing and as natural as her tendency to raise her hand over her face, covering all but her eyes with a sleeve. As Yuri left, she followed as soon as she deemed it acceptable. After all, she lived in the castle too. And instead of going to the women's quarters where she nearly always ended up, she went to the room she'd been led to earlier. Once there, she undressed very slowly, moving almost as if in a dream, and she let the servants draw her a very hot bath. She ran a brush through her hair, counting the strokes until she surpassed one hundred exactly. Not only did it sooth her, it also gave her something mindless to do that aided in her health and general beauty. Then, quietly, she made her way, almost completely naked, to the bath. Once there she allowed another servant to tie up her hair and pin it back in a tight chingon. She sank into the tub quietly, almost as if in a dream. Once there, she closed her eyes, letting the steam rise around her. Almost unconsciously, she began to sing to herself, and the sound carried forward into the steam, parting it and changing it to suit Nepenthe's whims. To anyone watching, it surely would've been an enchantng sight. A beautiful woman reclining in a tub, lilting her voice softly, with the steam around her forming pictures of woods, streams, wildlife, and bright, vivid flowers. Eventually she opened her eyes, and the face of her mentor appeared before her, reflected in the water of her bath.[/i] "My child. Yuri has chosen you, and you will surely do your work..." "Yes Mistress, I will. It is his request, and to that I must adhere." "Do you grow weary of it?" "I do not Mistress. I thank you for your instruction. It has saved my life....surely it has." [i]The older woman smiled, then faded into nothingness, and Nepenthe was left alone. She scrubbed her body all over, then rose and wrapped herself in a towel and sat at the window seat. She was very tired, but she couldn't rest just yet.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Nepenthe smiled slowly and raised her arms, her sleeves falling down around her shoulders, exposing pale flesh. She closed her eyes and spoke softly, but as she did, she automatically felt a surge of energy. An enchantment cast on her aura long ago, that whenever a long spell of great power was required, she would draw on the auras of others around her. In time, she had modified this to draw from those whom it wouldn't hurt. In a way, she had become an aura tainter and absorber herself, but now wasn't the time to think of it. Instead, she focused her mind, and her body quickly followed suit. As she concentrated, she felt, rather than heard, the rushing of a thousand wings, in the air, bursting around her like a snowstorm. She wasn't aware of her companions, only the intense bursting sensation of pain in her chest, and the knowledge that if she stopped, she would most certainly die. In response to the agony, she clenched her fists, then opened them again, spreading her fingers wide open. The angina was nearly unbearable, but she knew it was necessary. Instead of fighting it, she tilted her head back, her eyes opening. Instantly, bursts of light registered on her retinas. With the rustling of feathers, she also heard the scratching and scraping of talons. Pain in her chest moved to pain down her exposed arms. Demons. Millions, clawing into her flesh, crushing her body into the ground. But it was all an illusion. Nepenthe felt a wave crashing over her. A wave of comfort. Whatever it was, it was warmth and comfort and compassion. Either way, it sustained her, it gave her hope, and she knew at once that the pain would eventually subside. She felt something rising in her throat, and there was nothing left for it but to let it escape her lips. It was a chant.[/i] "Bei Sie Mo Shuil, Chi-Rho." [i]At that, the pain vanished. She knew the spell was over. Automatically, her hands snapped down to her sides and she stumbled backwards, catching herself, and standing upright almost at once. She knew she couldn't faint. It wasn't in her to do it. Instead, almost right away, she rushed to Leonardo's side and placed his head in her lap.[/i] "Infinite One, holder of all things, grant Your son life." [i]As she spoke, she slowly passed one hand over his face, her aura flexing around his gently. At her last words, his eyes opened and he found himself staring into huge dark eyes. Nepenthe smiled slowly, and helped him rise.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[color=darkorchid][font=times new roman]"You think you could make it today Speedy? We have a schedule to keep." [i]Saturn?s eyes became slits, and her lips curved venomously as she watched Speedy look from face to face. Eventually, she looked down at her hands and mumbled an affirmative. Her voice was so low that not everyone heard it, but Saturn did, and her upper lip curled.[/i] ?Just so you know?Speedy? You?ll be running with the big dogs. And if you die, we split up your gear.? ?True enough. Those who fall behind stay that way.? [i]Vernacular grinned at the humor, and then paused. She had no real hope that this new girl would work out, but she might as well give her the bad news first and let the rest work itself out. Dust paused, but didn?t say anything. Saturn had been quiet throughout the ordeal, so he figured she might as well be the one to say a few choice words about the situation. Unfortunately, she didn?t say anything.[/i] [i]The newest acquisition looked up at Saturn, taking in the deadpan expression, the cold eyes, and the black leather. She shivered unconsciously, and then took one more look into Saturn?s eyes. It proved to be a mistake. If Dust hadn?t put out his arm to catch her, she would?ve fallen face first into the ground at Saturn?s feet. As she stared into the eyes that were rapidly filling up her vision, she felt her emotions surging in all directions, out of control. The girl began to bawl, sobs wracking her body, making her shake like a leaf in Dust?s arms. Saturn shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly, completely heartless in the face of Speedy?s grief. Although, it was her pleasure to say that it was entirely her fault. Speedy managed to turn her tear filled eyes up to her tormenter. The older woman looked down and took a cigarette from behind her ear. Out of almost nowhere, a silver Zippo lighter appeared and she flicked it on, lit her cancer stick, and then flicked it shut with a lightning fast movement of her wrist. She inhaled slowly, still watching Speedy, still radiating the empathic energy that was making the little thief cry her eyes out. Then, she crouched down and picked Speedy up out of Dust?s arms. She exhaled into her face, then stood her up straight.[/i] ?Just so you know. And this is your only warning. As a Legionnaire, you don?t hurt your team mates. No more shuriken in people?s chests. I?m only doing this to you now, so you know what it?ll be like if you try to push your luck.? [i]Speedy?s mouth worked, but no words were coming out. Dust looked from the hysterically sobbing girl to Saturn, and then back. He waved his hand slightly and Saturn stopped pouring on the heat. Vernacular?s eyes shifted back and forth, mildly disturbed by the display, but she held her tongue, for a change. Dust looked quietly at Speedy, then gave a meaningful look to Vernacular. To her credit, she took the hint and gestured gently to Speedy, and she followed quickly, shooting a frightened glance towards Saturn. Saturn smiled out of the side of her mouth, then inhaled once more and exhaled the mix of poison and smoke.[/i] "You're a cold one Saturn." "The little whore nailed you one in the chest." 'Good point. But revenge isn't going to be productive here." "Well tough sh`it for her. She's probably learned her lesson now. And if she hasn't, I'll teach her again." [i]Dust chuckled quietly. Saturn had always been like that, even before he had known her like he did now. He plucked the cigarette from between her two fingers and took a drag. She snatched it back, took one last pull, then extinguished it between her finger and thumb. He didn't wince at the smell of burning flesh, but instead cupped her fingers in his hands and kissed them. She smiled up at him, her eyes showing a mild spark of life. The two stepped closer together, then kissed, their bodies melting into each other's, their eyes closing slowly.[/i][/font][/color]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Nepenthe stood and curtsied once more to the man who had been the cause of her recent deviation from her usual duties. As soon as she had dropped her curtsy, she raised her sleeve over her face decorously and spoke only slightly over a murmur, in a voice that everyone could recognize as that of a lady, a well bred functionary, and an exceptionally controlled woman. Yuri turned to her and nodded to her bow. As she spoke, she waved her right hand in the air, the free one, drawing up smoke and vapor from the ground, shaping it into the pictures that could easily illustrate her story. Each was deftly rendered by the movement of her fingers, and she balanced each image on her fingertip before blowing it softly into the air, surrounded by gently wafting breezes.[/i] ?My Lord, Yuri, I am Nepenthe Amatsu, a Lady in Waiting, a servant to the ladies of the court. I was born into this life, but also trained in things other than the ability to curtsy in fourteen ways, carry on polite and elegant conversation, and entertain.? [i]At this point, she illustrated her words with the image of her own self, dancing delicately in front of several royal ladies, turning and curtsying and gesturing with her sleeves, all the while singing a song that couldn?t be heard.[/i] ?I also spend time in the garden, admiring flowers, and it was there that I learned the art of the enchantress. A woman who prefers to remain unnamed, recognized my raw talent, and it bled quite easily into my other learned abilities. As an apprentice, I learned the subtle arts of the charm and the curse.? [i]When she spoke of flowers, the extraordinary scents of moonflower and rose filled the air, and the images of each began to overtake the earlier images. When she mentioned the arts she had acquired, she made new images, these filled with gently curling, almost sultry images, incapable of description, but still delightful.[/i] ?As I progressed, I was taught more complex skills, those that directly attacked the aura of a living being, those that penetrated it without detection, and the ability to show vivid and believable illusions. These skills gave me a strange presence, but I was ordered to mask it, and so I have until recently. The woman responsible for my training has since vanished from the garden, and I?ve been progressing naturally since then.? [i]She smiled slightly, then decided to show one final image. This was a stiletto, balanced on the tip of her finger, flashing brilliantly, infused with a light she hadn?t shown in any of her other pictures.[/i] ?Lastly, I learned the art of the blade. My dancing ability helped me master this art with little difficulty, and as to where I learned it, I?m afraid, like before, I must not say. But it?s proven a natural compliment and I hope to always have opportunity to use it. Thank you for your patience. Yuri.? [i]When the last words fell from her lips, she waved her hand once over her face, then clapped her hands three times, and each image vanished instantly, leaving behind only the scents that she had conjured up. Then, she sat once more, folding her skirts around her quietly, and covering her face demurely, once more. She watched Yuri?s reaction, and the reaction of the people around her.[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Kell'Niele's dream was of fire. Violence. Rage, and strangely reminiscent of the D.N.A. dream she had been given the night she had been changed, so long ago. She could call it what it was now, but back then, it was only the Dream of the Changing. Unlike her current dream, the dream she had enjoyed so thoroughly, as her body was restructured to conform to the standards of the ancient night creatures, was a dream of power and wonder, full of light, full of changing streams of energy. She could see her master, with her, changing her body with the blood of his body, the flesh of his flesh. And when her spine had gone through the sickening crack of the final change, her eyes had gone wide, and her dreams had become nothing more than a whisper. This dream was a memory. A memory a thousand times more magnified under the pressure of the vampires around her and the fear pressing on the minds of a select few. As she dreamed, she recalled the first time a Wakanda had been so bold as to threaten her with bodily harm. She wasn?t very young, as a matter of interest; she was actually only a few years younger than she was now. And they were still not a gigantic threat, but to her, they were an annoyance, and one to be smacked down with the power that only she and a few others had. It had slithered up to her, trying to be sneaky, but failing. And it had drawn on her. First mistake, it had assumed that she would be weak like all the others. Hah, funny. So, in stupidity, he drew the silver blade, one of the few that could actually penetrate her skin and burn. She was prepared, for a change, and she caught his wrist almost as soon as he had drawn and her eyes had caught the glint of metal. She laughed aloud, in his face, his eyes going wide as he caught the glint of red in her eyes. Within seconds, she had twisted his wrist back and slammed it against the wall. The dagger itself fell to the ground with all the force Kell?Niele had used, and it lodged itself into the concrete, nearly three inches up the blade. Her laughter was stunning to him, it grated on his ears and it nearly drove him up the wall. Unfortunately, he was already up the wall. She had him by the wrist, and now the throat, nails digging in.[/i] ?I sincerely hope that your kind aren?t as stupid as you. Or as ugly.? [i]She snarled at him, and he managed to croak a little as she let up on his throat. He inhaled just once, but had time for no more. Kell?Niele, Nosferatu, peeled him from the wall, then threw him against the other. He hit the wall, nearly went through, and then sank to the ground, a bloody heap. She laughed, then drew his dagger out of the ground and wrapped it in the remains of his shirt. She placed it in her purse, then sauntered down the street, completely at ease. Kell?Niele awoke around 8:00 in the evening. She stood of her own accord, and got dressed, then she opened her purse and took out the blade.[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[COLOR=DarkOrchid]Out of curiosity, how long do you think a post should be? To be an acceptable length for the Mission threads? I'm rather inquisitive, as sometimes, in the Red Mission thread, they're either too short or just not with enough depth. Second, would it be better to incorporate everyone and keep them in character, or should one's post have just one or two people interacting?[/COLOR]

[FONT=Times New Roman][color=darkorchid]The guard who knocked politely on her door was bidden to enter by a soft, femenine voice. Not knowing what to expect, he walked into the room, painfully aware of the tramping noises made by his boots. Then, he turned around to find Nepenthe, Lady in Waiting, standing at the window. She turned to face him, holding out a soft, white parcel. Folded in fine linen, were the five diamonds she had taken with varying degrees of violence, trickery, and all out assault. He bowed to her, then approached. Even if she served nobility like him, her rank remained the higher of the two. Her dazzling smile was afforded to him, and he bowed again as he took the diamonds from her hands. His fingers avoided hers by mere inches, and she laughed delicately, the sound brushing his ears like it had to the butler the day before. His voice stammerd slightly, and she did nothing to ease his discomfort. "My master bids that he know your name and by what skill you aquired the neccessary items." "Tell Yuri, your Lord, that my name is Nepenthe Amatsu. And tell him that I am an enchantress, capable of illusions, curses, and a master of the stiletto blade." He bowed at this, then, clutching his prize, made a hasty exit, close the door quickly behind him. Unfortunately, as flustered as he had been, he had forgotten to tell her when to approach. Realizing this as soon as he had delivered the diamonds downstairs, he fled back upstairs again, sighing to himself. Before he could knock, the door opened by itself and revealed Nepenthe standing where she had been moments ago. She tilted her head slightly in his direction and he babbled out the information then ran for it. There was something uncannily unnerving about a woman like her. "Courtyard, tomorrow morning, early. Thank you my Lady." [i]Thus edified, Nepenthe laid her body down, even though it was still daytime, and drifted into a deepening slumber. Her dreams were soft and sweet, even though her work had been hard, and full of different sorts of suffering. When she awoke the next morning, she dressed quickly, in something that complimented her figure and added to the charm she knew would always help her as long as she was in the castle. She stepped downstairs and waited patiently.[/i][/FONT][/color]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Her eyes slanted further upwards, and she turned around. Nepenthe rolled two diamonds down her arms and onto the tops of her hands. She caught both with dizzying speed of the hand, and then shoved them into her kirtle with the other two. She saw other people turning tail and running home, others being slaughtered where they stood. Nepenthe didn't mind so much, and decided to head back to the castle and see what would follow her back to humans. It didn't take much for them either.... The final monster, the only one she would need now, attacked with the same sort of speed she had used. Her magical energy was slowly depleting itself. She had already fought enough, used enough energy, and was running low on sleep. So, with a burning desire to end it quick, she used the last of her adrenaline, magic, and sleight of hand to make it a quick kill. As he leapt over her head, clawing downwards, her stiletto flashed out, magical silver, infused with the last of her magical essence, and slashed away all clawed apendeges.[/i] "Khyaaa!" [i]Its pain filled scream echoed orgasmically in her ears, and she relished the sight of the footless monster limping along on bloodied stupmps. It arched its back in agony and rolled over onto its stomach, only to find her standing over it, stabbing downwards with the shimmering blade. Her laughter was a bleeding gurgle, it had caught her on the cheek, in the same spot as before, but she didn't mind. It hadn't gotten her too badly, and she would heal easily enough. She gathered up her things. Five diamonds, her blade, her cloak, her sanity, and beat a path to the castle. Her speed picked up as she reached firmer sand, and the wind died down as she exited the plains. Once she was through the gates, she was ushered upstairs, and once there she took a much needed bath in relative solitude. As she bathed, she noticed that her scars were duller, and her magical energy was returning faster than anticipated. She shrugged, then opened the kirtle she had folded up and laid down, and withdrew the five diamonds she had taken from the monsters. They glistened wetly as she washed them off, and she shook her hair out of her eyes. Soon enough, she got out, dried herself off with a thick white towel, then dressed in a similar outfit, only a little more ornate. She folded up her diamonds and placed them in her fresh clothes, and parted her hair, braided it down, and pinned it back. Then, quietly, she returned to the courtyard and waited.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[font=times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]She felt the sand shift underneath her feet, and in accordance, Nepenthe spread her toes out, giving her better purchase. Then her eyes became slits and she went very still. Her body changed once more, going from the sweet, yet guarded female into the sort of enchantress one only dreams of. With a slow, stealthy movement, she drew her hand into the folds of her kirtle and removed a silver stiletto, the kind that pierce and leave only a very small wound. She smiled once more, and if anyone had been observing her...they would've noticed that she was like anyone else. She smiled whenever she was happy. Sadly, that happiness came when she drew closer to her goals. And this time, the goal she had before her, would certainly be one worth pursuing. Camouflaged by sand, but not hidden well enough for Nepenthe's second sight, lay coiled, a monstrous serpent, with hinged jaws, mercifully calm at the moment. Showing, once more, her ability to blend in to her surroundings, Nepenthe began the relatively simple task of masking, then sealing her own aura. The beauty of such an easy ward was that once she had done it, she would appear as lifeless as sand to the serpent, aura sucker or not. The diamond was glistening in its forehead, and the scent of fresh blood was everywhere. A corpse lay underneath the beasts head, its face horrifically warped out of shape by what could only be neurotoxin. The toxin was obviously deadly, but what was worse was that in the sleep of the beast, it covered its slightly open mouth, and coated the ground before it. Nepenthe, moving like a wraith, decided that this would be the best time to use a magic of illusion. Thus commissioned, she sealed, then dipped two of her fingers, those coated with her own blood earlier, in the flesh of the deceased. Using the essence of the unfortunate one, she passed them over her face slowly, then pointed them to the east, just over her left shoulder. A single breath from her lips animated the illusion bursting from her fingertips, and it rose from the sand, even as she gave it life. The monster's jade eyes snapped open and with a sibilant hiss, it hurled its whole body forward like a whiplash. The distraction worked, clearly, and not only that, as it rushed forward, jaws open and dripping venom, Nepenthe sunk her stiletto down into the monster's forehead, piercing the flesh around the diamond and popping it out with a sickening squish. As soon as the jewel was free from the skull, she leapt backwards and let the monster writhe in the throes of death. The blood. It was everywhere, but not on Nepenthe. Like the monster's toxin, it too was deadly, and the seal from earlier kept her free. Unfortunately it also took energy.[/I] "You would think....that a monster like that would be a little more intelligent, and less susceptible to simple illusions." [I]Nepenthe sighed and concealed the gem slowly. With luck, her next prey would be smaller, less bloody, and certainly less poisonous. [/i][/COLOR][/font]

[font= times new roman][COLOR=darkOrchid][i]Thus commissioned, Nepenthe moved silently out to the fields, her body conforming to the land that she would have to travel over. Knowing that something like this would've happened, she had changed her dress to something tight that kept sands away, all hidden underneath her cloak. Aware that too much fabric would slow her down, she drew the folds of her wrap up and threw them over her shoulders. Remembering a lesson, she stepped sideways as she climbed a dune. Although she couldn't move like greased lightning over the shifting terrain, she knew it was better than to stumble forwards blindly. People might not have known it, but there was a very good reason she kept herself in gardens and outside. What better way to learn? As she walked she hummed and sang softly to herself at random intervals, then pausing and listening.[/i] "Mmmm, sunlight sweeping cold shadows, far from this place, kiss the earth, stoop to kill, banish the darkness..." [i]She stooped for a moment, hearing other footsteps through the sand, those she identified immediately as those of her counterparts, other hunters that were required to capture the same prizes. She pushed her hood backwards, baring her ears, giving her better coverage. Unfortunately, that also meant that moonlight would glisten on her hair and the skin of her face. A slithering sound alerted her to an incoming monster. Completely inhuman, she knew that raw magic would be a bigger aid than anything else. She backed up slightly, focusing her mind as well as the rest of her body. Reflexes were good, poise was good, but body awareness...knowing where your body was in relation to everything else, was perhaps the best thing going for her next to pure charms and curses. As she slipped into her second sight, she saw the aura of a diseased beast burst from the sands, spreading it everywhere. Nepenthe rolled away, in mid air, drawing her sleeve to her face to block the attack. It proved successful. The beast charged and she swiftly identified it as a aura poisoner. It had tentacles, it moved quickly, but like Yuri had told them, it fed on energy from the diamond imbedded in its stomach. She hissed at it and it hissed back. A change swept over Nepenthe's face. From peaceful and gentle, she let the energy gather in her body, and it sensed the alter in her being. She roared and her hair flew out behind her, cloak following suit. It leapt forwards, propelled by its own mad energy. Her eyes half shut, she tilted her head to one side and let it attack. Its tentacle whipped her across her exposed cheek, cutting the skin ever so slightly. A slight flesh wound, a single drop of blood welled up. Thus encouraged, the monster attacked again, only to discover Nepenthe's magic focusing into two of her fingers. Her voice was a horrific shriek, piercing the ears of anyone nearby, and to the monster, it was agonizing pain.[/i] "Blood of my body, take revenge on the aura of that which has wounded me." [i]With one movement, she touched the two fingers to her bloodied cheek, then swept them forward in one whiplash movement. Bright, seamless, and searing, the curse shattered the aura of the monster, and surrounded the diamond that contained its life. The curse jerked the diamond free and up into the air. Nepenthe swept out her skirt, turned in a half circle, and caught it in an instant. Then she placed her foot over its writhing body and completed the circle. With a scream that echoed hers, the monster died. Nepenthe picked up the diamond and placed it in her kirtle. She smiled and turned away.[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[font= times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]The motorcade rolled along, security, cars, more security, and masses of flowers and streamers. The Mistresses, flanked on either side by honor guards, stepped forward, waving their hands at the huge audience. Slightly aside, their servants remained close by, watching as their ladies absorbed all the attention being lavished upon them. As per orders, the servants smiled and waved as well, knowing that it was better to smile than to frown and get a rehash later when the tapes were played back on the evening news. Oima had pinned a flower into Sahrai's hair before she left for Tokyo. As they moved down the street, slowly of course, the floats ahead and behind them glistened with roses and sparkles. Beautiful girls, from all ethnicities, dressed in their traditional garb, danced along the streets, waving streamers, banners, and carrying patriotic signs. Sahrai absorbed everything as well, noticing how mostly everyone was female, with some males there to cheer as well, knowing it was a good idea to show support rather than to be dragged in front of the courts later for not supporting the Mistress's rule. A servant sitting next to Sahrai smiled and spoke without moving her lips.[/i] "Loud isn't it?" "Very. It's comforting to see how many people like the Mistress's rule." [i]Sahrai's answer was programmed, and flew out of her lips before she knew it. She was smiling happily, falsely happily, but nobody could know, not even the Mistress's Inquisitors. The parade continued, with the Mistress' standing, waving, then sitting down again at regular intervals. Sahrai watched her lady, Livingston, happily moving along, taking in all of the praise happily, not even thinking of the males that weren't happy with the matriarchal rule. Sahrai quickly banished the thought. It would affect her smile, although it did seem to be plastered permanently on her face. Voices raised in song, cheering the Mistress' rule, a choir that came behind the servant's car, were heard by everyone.[/i] "Mistress rule, bright and strong, Lead us forward, forever long, To you we owe our happiness, Only under you could we be so blessed." [i]Sahrai winced inwardly. It was hokey at best, but it was exactly what everyone wanted to hear. Everyone that was a Mistress anyway.[/i][/COLOR][/font]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Kell'Niele smiled sweetly at the dark eyed Alec, her body language speaking for her. Thus reassured, he took her hand as she offered it, her skin soft and smooth, caressing his own.[/i] "Nothing would please me more, good sir." [i]At his gentle pull, she rose gracefully to her feet, her limbs moving as if they were being run through a mold. He stepped back slightly, giving her room, listening to the rustle of her dress against her legs. She smiled once more, and took the arm he proffered. Once at his side, they turned, watching the other guests either mill about or beat a path to the door. She exchanged a glance with him. Many of the vampires in attendance were younger, perhaps only a few hundred years old. She was older than almost every other vampire in the room....and that was the trouble with calling meetings these days. Most of the very old were either bonded to something in another land, or slumbering deeply beneath stone or ice or darkness knew what. The little witches could frolic without any sort of threat, some dancing right over the tombs of various elder vampires. It would take a very strong psychic cry to awaken any Nosferatu as old or older than Kell'Niele. Lost in her thoughts, she wasn't even aware of Alec leading her out the arched double doors and down the courtyard and up a wide flight of stairs. Their footsteps echoed slightly on the marble floors, despite the fact that she tread as quietly as any other. It was a sign that she was among good company, that she didn't wear softer shoes, or perhaps, no shoes at all. Kell'Niele smiled again, inwardly, then turned to Alec as they reached the landing. They paused, stepping to one side, and she leaned over the railing slightly, watching her brethren and sistren climb other staircases, enter other rooms, and disappear from view.[/i] "Shall we?" [i]Kell'Niele turned at the sound of Alec's voice, her silver earrings brushing against themselves gently. She nodded and let him lead her to a door far down the hall. Malik, ever the clever one, had put her into a very quiet chamber, one without acoustics, one where she could take her rest in complete silence and darkness. Unlike the other, younger vampires, she slept the deepest. As she grew older, it became completely impossible to resist the dark dreams that impressed themselves her mind. On the other hand, she grew stronger, and swifter. But still, she needed her rest, and hoped dearly that Alec would understand it. Already the night was growing old, and she would have to rest or suffer badly for it. She surveyed the room quietly, and then turned to Alec. Politely enough, he had waited at the door. She looked around once more then gave him a gentle, lady-like curtsy.[/i] "As much as I would enjoy your company, I'm afraid I must spend this day alone." "Was I as awful as all that?" "Oh certainly not... But when I rest, I must rest alone. Perhaps tomorrow evening, we may talk...more." "Of course. Until then, Kell'Niele. Sleep well." "Yes," [i]Her voice was breathless, soft, almost a whisper.[/i] "Sleep well Alec." [i]He turned and she shut the door behind him. Alone at last, she removed her shoes and dress and placed them down next to her other belongings. Then she stepped over to the wide bed, and sat down on the edge. She drew the drapes around it, even though there were no windows at all, then pulled the silken sheets up to her chest, folded her hands across them, and closed her eyes.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Nepenthe Amatsu walked, willowy, through the courtyard and to the gates where she knew she would be admitted. More often than not, she stayed in the women's quarters, those where the ladies of high birth took their repose. And it was there that she had made her home, resting at the feet of one of the many that she was in the service of. A lady in waiting, a servant of the noble, and a beautiful creature in her own right, Nepenthe knew she was only as useful as she was a charming companion. Her hips swayed with the movement of fabric over her body, the dark green broadcloth a perfect compliment to her thick brown hair and soft black eyes. The guards at the gate stiffened at her approach, the only thing letting them know she was coming the soft footfalls. She automatically raised a sleeve over her face, leaving her eyes and hair visible, then paused at the iron wrought gates. The male guards from the other side watched her warily, then recognized the gentle shimmer in her eyes and let her pass. She lowered her sleeve as she passed them, the heavy fabric pulling her arm back down to her side. Once she was through, she focused immediately on the task at hand. She remembered her mistress waking her this morning, which was unusual at best. The worthy woman pressed a summons into her hands. They were from a man everyone had heard of. Yuri. An odd name, definitely foreign to them, but still, if the whispers were true, it would be worth her while. Her reputation had clearly remained a secret to most, and from the strange look on her lady?s face, she knew that her identity as an Enchantress was still largely unknown. Blessed with that knowledge, she rose at once, bathed, and then dressed in the flesh concealing garments she had always worn. [/i] ?Be careful Nepenthe. Even if it is only for a little while.? [i]For her Mistress to take concern with her was touching. And she was grateful. She bowed her head dutifully, smiling pleasantly all the while. She wasn?t worried in the least, but it was comforting to know that someone would mind if she was harmed. The woman made her way through the halls and into the courtyard where she was instantly greeted by name. The man, Maliki, bowed to her at once, showing deference that surprised her. After all, her name was known within the castle, and the women of high standing spoke well of her. She supposed that there would be many more arriving after her anyway.[/i] ?You must be Nepenthe Amatsu, no?? ?That I am.? [i]Maliki let her voice wash over him, her clear, gentle voice washing over his ears like a gentle shower of warm water. He nodded slowly, then beckoned her with one hand. She followed Maliki quietly, her skirts rustling when she raised them with her left hand as she climbed stone steps. They were going to a part of the castle she was never required to visit, one that was usually reserved for guests of high standing. She smiled ever so slightly, raising her sleeve every time they passed a guard, which was not too often. Eventually they came to a corridor with many doors on both sides. He directed her to a room on the right, unlocking it with a very old looking key. The room they entered was dark, until a female servant that had joined them earlier drew aside the drapes, allowing sunlight to flood the room. The furnishings were of soft furs and cloth, covering the floor and walls.[/i] ?This is where you may rest until this evening, when you?ll receive more instruction. Please make yourself comfortable my lady.? ?Yes, thank you Maliki. You are too kind.? [i]He bowed himself out, shutting the heavy door behind him. Nepenthe gazed around the room slowly, then allowed herself to slip into her second sight. No magical enhancements in the room, no strange aural movements, and no spy holes. Thus reassured, she gazed down from the window, which gave her an excellent view of the courtyard. She smiled again and sat down at the window seat, her hands folded in her lap.[/i][/COLOR] [/FONT]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=darkorchid][b]Name:[/b] Nepenthe Amatu [b]Age:[/b] 21 [b]Sex:[/b] Female [b]Trade:[/b] Enchantress, that is to say, she knows spells and curses, but relies mainly on her charms to sway the hearts of her prey. These spells and curses will eventually include but are not limited to: [i]Allure:[/i] A curse that involves physical intimacy and horrific death...and I'd tell you more, but it's not exactly kosher. [i]Silver Kiss:[/i] A delightful move that lets her suck the life essence out of the mouths of those she kisses. [i]Sin Bind:[/i] Another curse, but unlike horrible death, this involves the suffering of any man who is of loose morality and uncaring heart. This suffering involves the loss of memory and feeling, and leaves the victim an empty shell of what he once was. [b]Appearance:[/b] See attachment; Dark hair, pale skin, slender figure, luscious lips, what's not to love? Typically, she wears long flowing dresses with off the shoulder lines and princess cut bodices. [b]Personality:[/b] Gentle and sweet, and heartbreakingly enchanting. Nepenthe knows she's nigh on irresistible but doesn't mind a bit. To her friends, she's slightly mysterious, a bit distant, but still kind hearted. On the other hand, when she finds someone she singularly dislikes, she is warm and open and completely charming, if only to watch that person crash and burn later, to her singularly wicked pleasure. [b]Still Life:[/b] [i]Nepenthe Amatu passed through the stone arches, and out into the garden. Her lightly shod feet pased over the flagstones easily, her dress barely brushing the ground. She leaned forward to bury her nose in the blossoms of the wisteria, smiling with pleasure. This one loved gardens with a joy some might find alarming, but it was harmless enough. She spent a great deal of time outside, mostly at dusk and in the evening, enjoying the heady scent of roses, wisteria, lily, and ginger. Eventually, if anyone cared to look out the window of the palace and into the courtyard, one would find the lady of the court standing on the little bridge overlooking the small waterfall, with the moss covered rocks, brilliantly colored fish, and beautiful stone statues. Some touched their hands to their foreheads and shook them slightly as if to say:[/i] "Poor Nepenthe, all that beauty... ....but no way to share it..." [i]If the woman had known, she wouldn't have minded at all. She knew people found her habbits odd, but to her they were normal. Her days were spent waiting on the nobles of the court, seeing to their needs, sitting with them for meals, and in the quiet tranquility of the dusktime, she escaped to the palace gardens, to enjoy the beauty once more. It was also a way to escape from the eyes of the noblemen that passed her by so often. Poor dear, it wasn't her fault though. Gifted with the dark alluring eyes, the soft clear skin, and the long dark hair, it was little wonder. She didn't mind that as much either, but often drew her sleeves up over her face when it became a bother. People knew that showed her modesty, and looked on approvingly. But what they didn't know, was how much she desired to teach those prying men a lesson. Noble or not, she disliked their bold stares. Perhaps that would explain why, in the darkness of the garden, she met with an older woman, one who knew the art of the enchantress, and sat with her under the willow trees, to learn her skills. The gift came to her naturally, but as could be expected, remained her secret.[/i][/COLOR][/FONT]

[font= times new roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][b]Name:[/b] Grace Livingston [b]Nickname:[/b] Gracie [b]Gender:[/b] Female [b]Age:[/b] 20 [b]Appearance:[/b] When on the stage, exactly what you see below. Leather chaps, leather lingerie, holsters, belt, lasso, and hat. Generally, she's a lovely figured girl, with brown eyes, hair, and tanned skin. [b]Personality:[/b] Sweet and gentle, but also able of being completely ruthless to men that try to molest her. She's dazzling and flamboyant on stage, as she should be, but when she's no longer in the spotlight, she's shy and reserved, but still captivating. [b]Occupation:[/b] Star of the Show [b]Hobbies:[/b] Taming horses, practicing with the tools of her trade, drinking, and singing. [b]Weapons/Possessions:[/b] Six shooters [two], lasso [one], and of course her wardrobe. [b]Other Information:[/b] She might be a showgirl, but she's not a babe in the woods when it comes to fighting. She's seen her share of barfights, and she's not too proud to draw both pistols and pump people full of lead.[/COLOR][/font]

[FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=DarkOrchid][i]Saturn was angry, feeling the rage of the children around her mingling with a deep undercurrent of intense psychic fear. Instead of letting them stab her, throw things at her, and generally mutilate her body, she turned and watched several children approach her. Her head raised itself up, as if on its own, and she delicately flicked an eyelash at the leader. The male child, holding a knife, suddenly went rigid, his entire body seizing up. Saturn silently bid the boy to impale himself and perform the service he would?ve done to her, on himself. Slide the knife into the chest, then up, down, and across, then repeated until his hands dropped to his sides and he slid to the floor. The other children looked at each other, then back at Saturn. She narrowed both her eyes at them and took a step forward. They, horrified beyond reason, turned tail and ran as far away as they could successfully manage without falling over the other dead. Saturn passed over the dead body, took about three steps, and then fell through the floor and landed in a cat-like crouch, her hair acting as the catch all for the various chunks of dust and drywall that came with falling downwards. She straightened up and looked from Dust to Vernacular. They looked back at her as she brushed the various debris from her body, noting with intense displeasure, the way the white powder stuck to her black clothing. She gave them a quiet look, noting their own emotions as they viewed her. From Dust she felt a sort of quiet approval. From Vernacular she got a bit more of a horrified sense, coupled with complete distaste. Saturn smiled slightly, but without mirth behind it. Instead she turned and looked at the empty hall.[/i] ?Are we waiting for something?? [i]Her voice was utterly devoid of emotion, and that seemed to irk Vernacular even more.[/i] ?We were waiting for you. Before we met up with Speedy.? [i]Dust spoke in the same calm voice she had, only with more feeling. Vernacular looked slightly put out but held her tongue mercifully. Saturn adjusted her radio, built into her earring, and then tossed her hair out of her eyes. She placed a hand on her hip and looked to Dust.[/i] ?Where is she then? I think we should get this over with as quickly as possible.? ?Can you sense her?? ?Not her directly. Everyone?s afraid. The children here are being manipulated only slightly less effectively than by me. Their emotions seem horribly forced. ?but of course, not too difficult to override.? ?So you killed them then. Innocent children, without their own free wills to guide them.? [i]Vernacular spat out her words, furious and disgusted.[/i] ?Not with my own hands. I?ve never killed anyone with my own hands.? [i]Saturn raised an eyebrow at Vernacular coolly, then turned her gaze back down the hall. Dust walked towards the door at the end, and the women followed.[/i] [/COLOR][/FONT]