A ROYAL OUTING *** {A day as the son of Chadwick)

sø i'll find whαt liεs bεnεαth yøur sick twistεd smilε

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Swiftly Kael marched through the twisting streets of the market. His temper gradually fading as the air circulated through his lungs, creating a peacefulness to settle over him once more. Brilliant beams of sunlight peeked through the thick breaking clouds overhead, soaking into the black material and warming his icy skin.

Though the day was far from warm. The proof was in the white puffs of breath escaping from those around him, his own breath seemed to match the weather thus he did not create the same pattern. The market was coming to life and shop owners were decorating their stalls ready for customers as he passed them by.
His steps became slower as he passed through the gates and the guards once again this morning, only this time he entered the palace rather then waltzing off on his own accord. To his surprise his hand was immediately snatched into a small grubby one that tried to tug him down the hall.

Kael shook his head at Declan and rolled his eyes in amusement; inside he was happy to see the boy in high spirits. Of course his eyes darted about to make sure no one was watching his display of friendliness towards the child.

Following the young blonde boy, Kael smiled as he watched the kid bounce up and down with energy. One of the cooks had obviously spoiled him with rich sugary foods, it was the only time the boy became active like most children his age. Looking around, Kael checked that he and Declan were alone before he ruffled the boy’s hair in a brotherly manner and allowed the young boy to further tug him along the halls.

“I-it’s in h-here,” Declan managed with a wide smile as he pushed aside a large wooden door. Kael followed the boy inside the room where he was directed to a bath and a clean change of clothes. He hadn’t expected so much from the kid. Reaching into his vest, Kael withdrew a blue flower from within and held it out to the boy in offering. Declan eyed it for a moment, flowers were not often found where he tended to dwell. Greedily he snatched it and brought it to his nose, breathing in a deep breath he smiled up at Kael before darting off down the hall.

Time was ticking by, yet Kael still indulged himself and bathed. Changing into fresh clean clothes, yet again black in color. This time small amounts of deep green decorated his tunic with silver thread in which the family crest had been sewn.

Once Kael was dressed, he left the room to find his bow resting on a wooden chair outside the door. Well cared for and oiled, with sleek arrows accompanying it in their hold. Slinging the two objects over his shoulder, Kael sought after the King.

It wasn’t difficult to locate the hunting party; Kael simply had to follow the loud voices echoing through the halls as he neared. Surely enough he found the King amidst a small gathering of people, nobles of course, the King didn’t tend to lower himself to spend time with commoners like Kael and his daughter. Glancing about, there was only one person Kael noted whom was out of place in this gathering.

Cyrus.

Cyrus was Kael’s father, a man of noble birth and a member of the King’s council. Usually Cyrus didn’t attend these outings; instead he had forced Kael to attend in his place. Right now, Cyrus was all chummy with the King as they laughed with one another over a topic Kael was ignorant of. It wasn’t a sight he was accustomed to, both men were always more serious then not.

Grimacing, he sauntered forward to stand with Lord Faolin and Lord Brann. Within range of his father and the King but hidden enough so that he could be ignored.

“Kael son!” Cyrus called out. Kael’s shoulders stiffened at the way Cyrus addressed him, as if he were a proud father. The tone was completely foreign; his father had never truly been of that role to him. It was a name given of false pretence to lesson the attention. With a forced smile, Kael turned from the Lords and joined Cyrus at the King’s side.

Cyrus gazed at Kael with a glint of amusement twinkling deep in his brown eyes, it so happened Kael was the only child in their family to inherit the full golden gaze. His father’s were solid brown, while his mother, sister and brother shared flecks of the golden coloring, another freak trait to separate Kael from normality.

“The king wishes you to personally accompany him today son,” Cyrus practically beamed. If Kael had an ounce of human blood circulating his body then he would have gained rosy cheeks in that moment. Instead, his eyes done the trick, he was completely startled by where the conversation was leading. Had someone informed the King of today’s happenings? Burning at the stake was one of the most unpleasant ways a vampire could depart this earth.

The King again laughed. “Boy, you look mortified. It is not to much for your King to request is it?” It wasn’t really a question, and the hard underlying tone stated Kael was about to spend the morning walking on eggshells if not in the stocks.

Kael shook his head speechless before he thought better, “not at all your majesty. It would be an honour.” He answered with a sweeping bow. This seemed to please the King, resulting in a hard slap to Kael’s back. He was glad his face had been directed at the stone floor, the slap caused him to wince from the shear force. He was but a child in the presence of his father and the King, a mere fraction of their age and strength.

“We have much to discuss,” the King added. He should have staked himself at the markets; today was going to be a gruelling day.

The party moved out of the castle and into the lands behind, a few guards accompanied them. As Kael had been informed, he stood watching while the King split the apple atop a quivering soldiers head. The King’s spirits soared after that show, and the games of hunting progressed. Kael bore witness to the King shooting down the largest of the game, and congratulated the old vampire until his tongue felt fat in his mouth.

At long last they journeyed back to the castle, he was almost free once more, that was until the King slowed his pace and ordered the Lords to go on ahead. A few royal guards were all the company the King and Kael remained with.

“Kael.” The King spoke in what sounded much like a purr. “You’re father and I have come to an arrangement,” this was getting worse by the minute. Anything Cyrus was involved with was bad news; past memories flooded into Kael’s mind making his hand stretch up to lightly probe his scar. The flashing images made his skin crawl, not to mention a slight anxiety to build within, though once he dispelled the images the anxiety became non-existent once more.

“You are to marry my daughter, Adairia,” hearing those words left Kael’s mouth almost dragging across the grassy field leading up to the castle. He held back the protest building in his lungs like a violent storm. This had to be some sick joke. Marry her! Marry!

“What’s say you Kael son of Chadwick?” If it were not the King that he shared the company of, Kael would have protested until his dying day. The King was dead serious and Kael felt as though his innards were about to pour out his mouth. So much for not even eating breakfast, it seemed today he would vomit without food aiding him.

There was nothing more Kael could say, there was no choice in the matter, and this decision had already been made for the two of them. Adairia certainly had no wind of this, if she had, the market place would have turned out vastly different. “It would be my honour your majesty,” the words felt painful parting from his lips as again he swept into a bow and received the same painful clap on his back in the exact spot as before.

“Excellent. You will join our table for dinner tonight and a ball will follow suit upon the announcement night. Good day Kael,” with that the King left Kael to chew on his words. All Kael could think was that this was some terrible nightmare, but his gut told him this was reality.

Cyrus.

Kael darted off towards the castle seeking out his father, as he moved through the halls the scent of his father flourished. The path his scent led to informed Kael that his father was in the midst of returning home. With a speed he had not used in years, Kael threw himself out the door leading into the courtyard.

“You can’t do this!” He called out. “I will not be wed. You will fix this father!” Kael growled. Straightening up as he walked steadily closer to his father, he stopped when there was a good six feet between them.

“You should be pleased boy!” Cyrus’s voice boomed in the courtyard creating a scene. “It is beauty that we marry for, something you will never attain again. You’re lucky the King has accepted you. A life of solitude is no life at all, you should be on your knees thanking me.” Cyrus glared at his son with resentment. “You were supposed to be the son I was proud of,” he hissed. “Now, you’re nothing more then a pathetic excuse, snivelling about like a young maiden.” The two men stood still, glaring at each other and ready to tear one another apart at any given moment.

“Do you forget father why I am this way?!” Kael spat venomously. “It is your fault. They were your enemies! It should be you, not I who wears this shame.” Cyrus’s livid expression slowly morphed as he smirked and snorted with amusement.

“I should tear you apart, rid of my embarrassment, but you finally managed one thing right in your miserable life. You will accept the crowns offer; you will marry the Princess of Tuathal. That, or be sentenced to a life within the dungeons where you belong with all the other hideous creatures.” Kael drew his eyes away from his father. His jaw was taut, his fisted hands clenching and unclenching at his sides.

“Fine. I accept the crowns offer Cyrus.” Kael gazed up to see the flash of excitement pass through his father’s eyes. He watched as the older vampire crossed the courtyard and placed a steady hand upon his shoulder in a fatherly manner. Kael instantly threw it off, his hard golden gaze full of disgust, which buried the pain. He was once again the puppet, with no choice in the matter, he couldn’t very well turn down the King.

“I accept the crown and I disown you.” Kael spoke steadily devoid of emotion. “From this day forth, you are relieved of your title as my father. Leave sir before I have the guards escort you out.” Cyrus’s form grew as anger swelled inside the old vampire. The sound that followed resembled a clap of thunder as Cyrus’s hand met Kael’s cheek. Turning his sons head away from staring at him, blood pooled in Kael’s mouth and his cheek felt as though it was alight with flames.

His eyes squeezed closed as he calmed himself, his father had broken his jaw. It had been a long time since Kael’s last injury and the pain only seemed to blossom. No one moved from their posts to help, everyone simply watched Kael’s humiliation. It was as though he was reliving that day with the witches all over. Pain. Humiliation.

Cyrus straightened himself, adjusting the rich material of his clothes, “Don’t ever forget I own you, this is not the end of our conversation boy,” with that Cyrus stormed off. Shoving a guard aside like a ragdoll as he exited the courtyard. Kael stood unmoving for a moment longer before he too stalked off inside the castle seeking the one place he knew always lacked visitors. The library.

A ROYAL OUTING *** {A day as the son of Chadwick) Kael

now you turn the tide on me !
'CAUSE YOU'RE SO UNKIND

tagged: No one.
word count: 002053.
notes: This is not edited, I will edit it when I get back!
lyrics: what lies beneath - breaking benjamin
template: by meg, for ash.

A ROYAL OUTING *** {A day as the son of Chadwick) Pictop

There were way too many strong emotions just from this one stupid day and she needed a break. She needed a break. So, off Briana went to stew and work through the emotions that filled her. Her anger was still flaming, taking her over. She didn’t quite understand why the noble vampire’s words had bothered her so much that she’d been uncharacteristically angry and her words were… well, wicked— for her, anyway.

Of course, the verbal beating she’d gotten in return more than made up for what she said. She was so mad she could kill him. The next time she saw him, she would have to look around for a stake. If she could stake him through the heart, then she could, at least, be able to kill him with ease, as he would fall into a coma of sorts. She knew that it wouldn’t kill the vampire just by staking him through the heart and if it were to be removed, then he would be awake, fully functioning, and probably ready to drain her dry.

That idea didn’t appeal to Briana one bit. She’d much rather live, thank you very much. Take care, servant girl. Had he really said that? Servant girl— while that may describe her occupation, the way he said it was more as if it was a title, who she was and not what she was. Of course, his voice had been laced with venom, cruel. Something burned in the pit of the ‘servant girl’s’ stomach. Perhaps he had not fancied having his intelligence insulted.

You forgot your place, just because her highness chooses your company, it does not give you permission to address me in formal conversation. She hadn’t forgotten her place, really. She had been well aware that he was a noble vampire and was of a much higher class than she. However, that in no way meant that she would acknowledge this. She was still a person, someone sharing the face of this earth. Besides, it wasn’t very formal. They were in a dark alleyway, for heaven’s sake. How more informal could it get?

Perhaps she should’ve kept her mouth shut, but it had been so-so… liberating to lash out with her verbal sallies. It was as if she had, perhaps, been recovering from the abuse she had faced. Maybe she wasn’t completely damaged after all and still had some bite to her bark. Still, the way she had been overridden with fear at the sight of the werewolf was proof that she had not. Would she be damaged forever because of him?

The very thought had her stomach twisting. She certainly hoped not— she wasn’t sure if she could live with the residuals of his touch haunting her forever. Be thankful you’re not on your way to the stocks. That had been the moment when she’d wished she’d had a stake and a clear shot at his heart. Her anger still pulsated at that thought, her rage spiking as she made her way to the castle. Those kinds of threats, and that look of utter revulsion, were what she’d faced at home— and she despised him for it. What the hell did he know about her? Nothing. He didn’t know anything about her. She was sure he was just some heartless bastard.

He probably wouldn’t care if he knew the kind of things Briana had faced. He was probably just soulless, wicked, and deserved her hatred. That was what she thought as her steps pounded, taking her closer to her destination with each step. As for the matter of pretending. That was almost as irksome. No, she wasn’t pretending anything. She had channeled a Briana from another lifetime, it seemed, to say her bitter words to him and had not pretended at all, even if she was acting rather out of the character she’d built at the castle.

You claim to be intelligent, yet if that were true you would never ask such a childish game of me. It wasn’t a game. She’d been asking for him to treat as a creature that wasn’t to be disgusted for something she couldn’t change. Again, she truly believed he was a heartless bastard. A string of muttered curses came out under her breath, her anger that fierce. She quieted her steps as she neared the castle and slipped in the same way she’d slipped out.

When she reached the castle courtyard, she was surprised to see a figure throwing open the doors of the castle, storming out in a rage. When she realized that it was the noble vampire, she stood, rooted to the spot. “You can’t do this!” The vampire certainly seemed to be angered. “I will not be wed. You will fix this father!” Well, that would explain it. No one liked to be forced into an arranged marriage. Still, she could feel no sympathy for the man. Wasn’t this a trouble nobles faced?

The words that flooded out of the other vampire’s mouth— the nobleman’s father— were aggravating in her mind. You should be pleased, boy! Oh, how cruel! Just to imagine being forced into a marriage and hearing that they should be pleased— just who was this man to dictate what the nobleman should or should not feel? Still, she was yet to feel any pity. Again, all that crossed her mind was: well, wasn’t this what nobles do?

”You were supposed to be the son I was proud of,” the man hissed. “Now, you’re nothing more than a pathetic excuse, sniveling about like a young maiden.” Something burned in Briana’s stomach and she felt the first shreds of sympathy. His words weren’t just ignorant of the young man’s feelings, but just downright cruel. What shame did the nobleman wear, exactly?

Wait. Did he mean his scar? Briana personally found his scar a mark of beauty, of pain, of life. She found it to be a gift, a sign that he had lived, had lost, had felt— be it pain or whatever else. To her, it was something to be proud of. Although, apparently, others didn’t feel the same way as she did. What was it about appearance that caused it to rule over others’ lives? Anger burned, ruling her— not towards the nobleman, but his father. She understood his pain and she reveled in her anger, the sympathy collecting inside of her alongside the anger.

Marry the Princess of Tuathal? That blindsided her. While the anger and sympathy were still there, shock and anxiety made way inside her. Adairia would not be pleased with this— this was certain to be toxic and wicked. She felt for both the nobleman and her friend. However, since he was present and her friend was not, she reluctantly pushed the horrified thoughts away and tried to focus on her sympathy for the vampire that had been cruel to her and the vampire that had been cruel to him.

He was not hideous— he was attractive, alluring even. Was it not obvious? Did people really focus on one blemish, one beautiful, even if unattractive, blemish as opposed to an entire bloody gorgeous body? Life, in its nature, was a cruel thing and those who lived it even crueler. A small smile spread across her face when he stood up to his father. But with the smack— made with an old vampire’s strength, sure to be incredibly painful— her entire mood darkened and her sympathy and anger were fully blown.

“Don’t ever forget I own you, this is not the end of our conversation boy.” Briana’s anger, once again, soared. What was it with fathers deciding that they owned their children? She’d heard that before— but she was not her father’s property, anymore than the nobleman was this man’s. She was not a porcelain doll to be played with, hurt, tortured whenever he fancied. She was not a marionette on a string and neither was he.

The man stormed off, leaving his son standing there for a moment, before he too stalked off. After waiting a moment, she slipped away like a shadow, unnoticed, and followed him into the library. She quietly entered the room and noticed that they were both alone. When she saw him, trying not to stare at his scar, while still drawing comfort from it, she realized that she’d been holding her breath and exhaled, but then the words came out.

“I’m so sorry,” Briana began, “if I said anything that offended you in… out there.” She paused, sighed, and admitted that she had. “Well, I know I did. I’m sorry for what I said. You didn’t deserve what he said to you— or did to you. And for that, I am very, very sorry about what just happened out there. That… man,” she spat venomously, “shouldn’t have said such awful, untrue things, due to his own pigheaded bias. I’m so sorry.” I know what it feels like to be treated viciously by your father, she added silently. Then, she looked down at her feet, shuffling them, awkward.

She leaned to the side and rubbed the back of her neck, a nervous gesture. “So, um,” she piped up quietly, “please don’t kill me? It would be very much appreciated.”

A ROYAL OUTING *** {A day as the son of Chadwick) Bottomwords

TAGGED; Ash.
WORD COUNT; 001539.
LYRICS; world so cold - three days grace.
NOTES; YES- THE BEGINNING OF THEIR "FRIENDSHIP".
TEMPLATE; by meg, for alex.

sø i'll find whαt liεs bεnεαth yøur sick twistεd smilε

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

The library was quiet, and the large mahogany doors squeaked from disuse when pushed aside. Upon entering, the fragrance of old paper and worn leather met Kael’s senses like a soft kiss. The room smelled of sunlight, and fine layers of dust had begun to gather, no doubt the servants would sweep through it tomorrow. The castle was such vast grounds it was impossible to keep all rooms clean at one time, especially those that were often ignored.

Walking over to the window, Kael collected a book of herbs along his way. Plopping down on the soft red velvet upholstered seat half facing the window, he flipped open the old leather bound book and flicked through the yellowed pages to the last page he read. As he thumbed over to the next page, a new scent filled his nose. It was faintly familiar; his eyes paused on the page as he allowed his heightened senses to inform him of his possible company.

A female. One he was not acquainted with.

Luckily, the bone in his jaw had begun to knit itself together again. He could now speak, although it wouldn’t be a pleasant feeling until the fracture had fully mended.

“I’m so sorry.” This was the girl from the market, the one he had scolded. Yet, here she was apologising to him, should it not be the other way around? Though it was unheard of for a noble to apologise to a commoner, just as it was unheard of for the opposites to share company. Adairia’s words rung clear in his mind, another slap, though this time mental rather then physical.

Kael seemed incapable of not staring at her with wide eyes; right now he was proving her theory of his intelligence. “If I said anything that offended you in… out there.” She continued in her small voice. He had certainly misjudged her earlier, soft minded was certainly not the case. It appeared bravery was.

As she came to speak of his father, Kael’s eyes immediately dropped. Who else had witnessed his shame? Kael puffed a breath out of his nose in disbelief, though he was yet to speak a single word. He had not risen to his feet, nor did he look likely too – all which were good signs for her. Had he been angered he would have risen.

“It is only fair is it not?” He mumbled. Referring to his own rude words earlier. “So, um . . . please don’t kill me? It would be very much appreciated.” Kael’s lips twisted into a slight smile. He flipped the book closed on his hand after folding the corner of the page. It was a bad habit of his creating dog-ears in the books. Withdrawing his hand, he gently placed the book to his side on a small mahogany table.

“I have no plans to kill you,” he spoke carefully favouring his jaw as much as possible. “You have no need to apologise, after this mornings events, it should be I who is the one to apologise. That was likely the events of Karma you witnessed, though I wish it weren’t so.” He paused to examine his nails, another bad habit.

“This is . . . strange.” He admitted. “Also awkward.” He felt at a loss for words. “You seem to have found me in my worst today, though I shall hide behind no excuses and show bravery as you have. It is I who is sorry for my earlier behaviour, though I do not expect your forgiveness and I beg you not to pity me. Would you do me one favour?” He asked, lifting his gaze to meet her eyes. “Would you grant me a name that I may stop calling you ‘servant girl?’” His own words confused him. Now he felt he was being overly soft. He likely appeared to be a man with a split personality at this moment in time.

now you turn the tide on me !
'CAUSE YOU'RE SO UNKIND

tagged: ALEX.
word count: 000655.
notes: Kael has a kind side? Who knew!
lyrics: what lies beneath - breaking benjamin
template: by meg, for ash.

Briana noticed that the noble vampire was staring at her with wide eyes. Was it surprising that she apologized? She had found it as the right thing to do. She’d assumed he would still be angered, just as she had been. They’d both been sent into a rage— that was certainly true. “It is only fair is it not?” How was it only fair?

That confused her— he couldn’t think it was his fault that he was treated this way, was it? She let out a light, relieved laugh when he mentioned he had no plans to kill her. She found that she preferred not having a vampire ready to kill her when she was but a human. “Well, that’s a relief. I’d rather not be a target, as I am only human,” she said. She’d rather not be admitting that she realized it was a weakness, but it was simply a fact. If he wanted her dead, she’d be dead. Easy as that.

“Oh, you’re forgiven,” Briana said with a shrug. “You were, in fact, forgiven in the courtyard. I admire your bravery, as a matter of fact, in facing your father out there.” She lowered her eyes to the ground. “I could not be that brave, as you have been.” She never had been capable of such a thing. Absently, she brushed her hand through her hair. She had no qualms when she was to touch her hair.

It was only when another did that it panicked her— as even a gentle stroke could easily become a fist, using her hair as a way to force or throw her. “In fact,” she admitted, unsure as to why she was being so… open and honest. “I know for sure I could not— bravery isn’t usually one of my characteristics. In fact, I don’t know how I managed to talk to you at all.” She paused, looking a little confused at her own behavior. “Today has been… a strange day, yes.”

Then, Briana lifted her gaze to see him, tilting her head. “Although, I do not regret meeting you.” She wasn’t sure exactly why she said that and what she meant by it, so, instead of determining what it was and working through it, she chose to ignore it instead. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to explore the meaning behind her own words. They had simply slipped out and she had been unable to stop them.

“Would you do me one favor?” She glanced at him curiosity, wondering what it was, exactly, he was asking for. What would he want? In the friendly atmosphere, she assumed he wouldn’t be bossing her around as a noble would a servant. “Would you grant me a name that I may stop calling you ‘servant girl?’” Her eyes shined with a glint of happiness and she flashed him a brilliant smile.

Her reaction was a bit strange for her, but rather than reflect on it, she chose to relish in this. She’d seen a kind side of a man who she’d earlier thought had none. Perhaps today was becoming a rather good day, after all. “Well, I would be honored, actually. My name is Briana.” She paused before adding, “Briana Daegan.”

She looked at him for another moment and then added, “And is there a name that goes with that face? I’d love to know it so that I can stop thinking of you as ‘that noble vampire guy.’ It would, perhaps, be much easier.”

TAGGED; ASH.
WORD COUNT; 000582.
LYRICS; world so cold - three days grace.
NOTES; Aw, I’m so loving this already.
TEMPLATE; by meg, for alex.

sø i'll find whαt liεs bεnεαth yøur sick twistεd smilε

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

The way she spoke told Kael that -- how his father treated him was not all to far from how hers must have treated her. Obviously she wouldn’t have spoken up to her father like she did to him today in the market, she truly was a strange creature. He understood his anger towards Adairia; she had belittled her guard in his eyes, comparing him in such a way. Though, his words had been much too harsh and uncalled for towards this girl. He knew, what he had witnessed in the market today from the servant girl was likely a rare occasion, especially seeing how she was right this moment.

As much as he didn’t want to admit he was wrong, that was certainly what he was.

“Although, I do not regret meeting you.” Her soft voice spoke. It seemed she was suffering the same case he was. Although, she was likely more kind hearted on a regular basis unlike him. He did prefer his distanced side, things were that much simpler when he ignored the presence of everything and everyone.

“Nor I you,” Kael agreed in a mere whisper so soft it would be a miracle if she managed to here it.

Upon his mention of her name her features lit up with a brilliant smile, Kael was taken aback. It was the smile he would expect from royalty, she really was something. Again he tasted the air through his senses, the last thing he needed was a witch for company, though she appeared completely human, as he had believed. Curiosity bubbled in the pit of his stomach; he couldn’t help but cock his head to the side and stare at the human girl.

What was this confusion she enveloped him in. He was almost two hundred years old, never had someone baffled him as much as she did.

“Well, I would be honoured, actually. My name is Briana . . . Briana Daegan.” Kael straightened his head and bobbed it in a nod of acknowledgement. “Briana.” He repeated, trying the name out while storing it in his memory. He turned his face to gaze out the window at his side; the clouds were thick in the sky, allowing small beams of light to filter through miniscule gaps. It was a beautiful sight, seeing it, he couldn’t help but think of his new commitment. Would he be forever more a prisoner behind these walls? If the King were to pass, one of his children would take his place. If he were to marry her . . . Kael buried his face in his hands.

“And is there a name that goes with that face? I’d love to know it so that I can stop thinking of you as ‘that noble vampire guy.’ It would, perhaps, be much easier.” To this, Kael chuckled. The sound was deep and musical, he shut his golden eyes a moment and breathed in a deep breath before returning his gaze to her face.

“What if I prefer ‘that noble vampire guy?’” He asked with an amused grin. A low sigh escaped his lips as he leaned back in the tall backed chair, resting his arms on either side of the chair on the armrests. “Briana, my name is Kael Chadwick; son of Cyrus and Aislinn Chadwick, the family of the twin dragon crest. Long winded I know.” He finished.

now you turn the tide on me !
'CAUSE YOU'RE SO UNKIND

tagged: Alex.
word count: 000565.
notes: Sorry it is short, good thing is, Kael is intrigued by her!
lyrics: what lies beneath - breaking benjamin
template: by meg, for ash.

Briana could not say what it was that was making her so open. It was rather unsettling, really. Usually, she was just quiet, in the shadows, kind to those who spoke to her but otherwise silent. It had been instilled in her from a very young age that it was best to be silent. Or rather, it was worse to speak up. She examined the noble vampire carefully, as if trying to figure out exactly why she was discussing anything with him.

She was sort of nervous, all of a sudden. She couldn’t quite put a finger on why— she just was. Perhaps it was because it had been so long since she’d had a conversation with anyone but Adairia— one peaceful and pleasant. It had been… her mother, actually, before her death. Briana recalled how she’d clung to the memories of her mother all of her life. It was a rare comfort for her to remember how nice things had once been.

Of course, at the time, it was also hard for her because it forced her to face what she’d lost. She thought that she heard him speak and strained to hear his words, but couldn’t pick anything up. She couldn’t help but be curious about what he’d said, but then she decidedly dismissed it. She probably hadn’t heard anything. When she smiled, he’d tilted his head and stared at her. It couldn’t possibly be all that baffling that she’d smiled.

Of course, she wasn’t one to smile often, particularly not as brilliantly. She’d just… appreciated that he’d cared enough to ask. Perhaps it was proof that she wasn’t merely a servant girl, but another person on this planet, someone significant in his eyes. That was worthy of a smile, was it not? When she introduced herself, he’d straightened his head and nodded in acknowledgement.

“Briana,” the noble vampire repeated, presumably to either try out the name or to remember it. He then turned to look out the window to see the beautiful landscape before him. Well, until he buried his face in his hands. Briana was instantly concerned and sympathetic, despite not knowing what the problem was. She was odd like that, feeling sympathy for any creature in distress.

Well, aside from werewolves, because she was too afraid of them to even notice if they were in distress, and those who had angered or upset her— for to do either was a rare feat and anyone who could do so was rarely one that deserved her pity and kindness. Before she could ask him what was wrong, he chuckled at her request for his name. The sound was deep and harmonious. She could certainly appreciate someone with a chuckle like that.

“What if I prefer ‘that noble vampire guy?’” That noble vampire guy asked with a grin, revealing his amusement. Briana smiled, amused herself.

“Well, That Noble Vampire Guy, that would be quite exhausting, even so. I gave you my name; don’t I get one in return?”She kept her voice light. He sighed and leaned back in his chair, resting his arms on the armrests.

“Briana, my name is Kael Chadwick; son of Cyrus and Aislinn Chadwick, the family of the twin dragon crest. Long winded I know.” So, his father’s name was Cyrus? Noted— the bastard was Cyrus Chadwick. Kael. It was a good name, she thought. It was simple and it flowed.

“Kael,” she repeated. “I like it,” she voiced her approval, glancing at him curiously. She was still standing there, awkwardly, as she brushed her hair behind her hair. Why was it that hair was the easiest thing to play with in awkward situations?

TAGGED; Ash.
WORD COUNT; 000611.
LYRICS; world so cold - three days grace.
NOTES; Sorry, it’s pretty short. I’m glad Kael is intrigued by her. c:
TEMPLATE; by meg, for alex.

Posts : 11 Join date : 2011-12-27

You must remember to never mention my existence. In fact, I am not real, and should you be under scrutiny, I am but a simple figment of your imagination. Now, let us go over once more your task at hand… Your family is safe with me, and of course, safe with you as long as you remain the intelligent girl I know you are capable of… A dark mark, violently grotesque and corrupting… They will not suspect you… Kill him… Kill him… Do not make an effort to contact me once you are there… Kill him!

Micaela awoke with a jolt that returned her to the present, back from the uncomfortable bumpy-ride-induced nap where the gnarly fingers and threatening dulcet tones plagued her dreams, and wondered briefly the possibility that her body will never grow accustomed to the fatigue and tremendous burden of traveling by carriage. If only she could fly, then Brion wouldn’t seem so far and distant, and she could love even the monotonous part of her job unconditionally. Her left hand gently patted around her head, ensuring not a single strand of hair escaped from the tight braid she had so painstakingly perfected prior to taking off. She had made sure to clip along the braid hair ornaments, each displaying a small gemstone that was only a quarter genuine, at best. “Ma’am, we have arrived.” The carriage driver – an old man in his sixties and a witch from what she could gather during their brief conversation before she dozed off – informed her in a hollowed and distant professionalism. Micaela hopped off the carriage gingerly, making sure the beautiful wooden chest was safely stowed in her worn leather bag, and pushed three copper coins into the witch’s hand. “Many thanks for your service.” She smiled at him sweetly as he climbed onto the driver’s seat and prompted the two elderly horses down the road.

It was the first time she had been sent to the Chadwick Family Palace to make a delivery, and an important if not curiously unfathomable one at that. The magnificently crafted wooden box was no larger than a witch’s spell book and depicted details of a vampire family in their luxurious lifestyles. The box itself emitted a light, earthy fragrance that seemed to tease the holder’s senses and seduce an innocent individual to view its contents. But Micaela had been given strict instructions to never indulge herself in that curiousity, and her image as the model apprentice outweighed any desire to take even one peek. She gazed up wonderingly at the heavy, looming, and proud gates that guarded the palace and its inhabitants, its wealth, and a completely different world within. Gates are designed and built to keep those inside safe, but to Micaela, it was like an amiable warning for those on the outside to stay far away; from what she knew, the Chadwick family was extremely powerful, held a high status in the royal court, and the head vampire was said to be voraciously dangerous. She nervously smoothed out the wrinkles that had formed near the collar of her tunic, put on a slight smile and masked courage enough to aid the confidence of her appearance, and stepped toward one of the two guards that stood stoically by the gates.

“Excuse me, I am from the Domhnall Luxury Trading and Bartering Company. Master Owenicke, the humble founder, instructed the delivery of this parcel to a Lord Kael Chadwick.” As she spoke slowly and in a steady voice, Micaela tried to coax her mind away from the prospect of having her blood sucked dry, albeit the highly reinforced prohibition of doing so. The guard studied her for a minute in slight surprise; they clearly were not anticipating her arrival. He took the box from her hand, examined it carefully (or perhaps, in mocked pretense), then announced in a bored voice, “I shall see to it that the Lordship receives… this here.”

“No!” She exclaimed, then angrily kicked herself in mental fury; the first rule she had ever learned from Master Owenicke was to never lose her cool. “I meant, that I cannot allow." Micaela allowed a pause to fill in the gap as she carefully considered what she could say to savage her life and be granted entry into the palace; feeling the guard's animosity, she plowed on, "I was specifically told to deliver this to Lord Kael Chadwick in person. Of course, my life wouldn’t be worth anything if I fail to do so, but how should you explain it to your Lord when he questions the purpose of this item? I should imagine you are completely knowledgeable or you would value your post and yourself more?” Micaela held her breath and looked the guard right in the eye, her muscles tense and her legs ready to sprint. The guard considered for a moment, and then it seemed as if her words had made sense to him. He returned the wooden box to her and motioned for her to follow him through the gates, after giving her one last quizzical look which she returned with a smile. She let out a short sigh of relief; it would have gotten ugly if she had been denied entry, or worse, dispatched of in humiliation.

The guard led her into the palace in complete and orderly silence, which suited Micaela just perfectly as she took the liberty to admire every inch of its royal décor and majestic ambiance along the way. The tall ceiling was littered with expensive chandeliers and the floor was carpeted in rich, soft material that hugged at her feet. But as breathtaking as the inner walls of the palace were, there was something disturbingly oppressive about it, as if life and joy had been ordered execution and never replaced by any other vibrancy. It was only minutes walking through a lavishly lit (considering the time of the day) corridor before they reached a set of tall mahogany doors. “The Lord is inside; you may enter once I alert him of your arrival.” The guard informed her and strutted through the doors to the far side by the large window. From where she was standing, Micaela could see two shadowy figures, engulfed completely in the bright sunlight and created the illusion of a painted masterpiece; there was a man, seated in a luxurious velvety chair, and there was a woman who stood before him. The two appeared to be deep in conversation until the guard approached and spoke to the male. The two figures turned to look in her direction and the male muttered something to the guard, who nodded and strutted back to Micaela. “You may come in, now.”

“Why thank you, good sir.” She said sarcastically, though not too mindful of whether or not the guard perceived it as such, and walked toward the man and woman. She kept her gaze on the two individuals, but out of the corner of her eyes she saw the rows and rows of leather bound books; Micaela couldn’t help but drown in admiration for the vast collections of text and all the information that must be contained within. She was not taught the art of reading and writing as a child, much like the other children of her stature, but Master Owenicke had taken to his own hands the matter of teaching her the basics. Ever since, Micaela had jumped at every chance to read, be it a simple shipping order or a complex description of a product.

As she neared the male and the female, she had a better view of their appearances. The woman looked to be about her own age – dark brown hair, soft eyes, and a pleasant femininity that Micaela immediately took a liking to. She looked humble, indicating that she was not a royalty and possessed no immense wealth. The male, whom she assumed was Lord Kael Chadwick, was the complete opposite. He appeared to be a young man in his twenties, but his eyes had with them a glint of wisdom that could only be explained by the passage of time. She casually noted his physical attractiveness, reminding herself that he was as all vampires were – beautiful; even seated, Micaela could tell he was tall and incredibly lean. From his expression and overall demeanor, she would transcribe his sour arrogance, his confidence, his wealthy upbringing, and a good natured smile that played about his lips. Micaela quickly hid the expression of confusion from her face; he was clearly a man of status and prowess, so why was a woman of servant stature conversing so comfortably in his study?

“Good day, Lord Chadwick.” she addressed him cordially as required by her trade and followed it with a moment of hesitation, then she turned and gave the woman a small nod, unsure whether she should address her as an equal or if she should address her at all. Making up her mind, Micaela continued, “May I take a moment to introduce myself as Micaela Perth, and very pleased for this encounter? I was instructed by Master Owenicke, the humble owner of Dohmnall Luxury Trading and Bartering Company, to deliver this parcel to you, as requested by another customer. Here is a letter that should inform you of all you need to know. Please sign here to indicate I have performed my service to your satisfaction.” From within her sleeve, she produced a neatly rolled letter addressed to the vampire before her and a tattered parchment entitled "Acknowledgement of Receipt", and held both items respectfully in her hands. She waited patiently for his response, taking the time to study the man before her in more detail. Her gaze immediately found his feet and traced the form of his body, taking in his clothes, his fingers, his neck…

There it was – the mark that she was told to identify. Just as described, the disfigurement stained his otherwise marble-like perfection, and the more she looked, the more she couldn’t tear herself away. She drew in a deep breath of air – it tasted rusty and bitter – and tread cautiously, “I don’t mean to be intrusive, but that mark, I don’t suppose it’s the work of witchcraft?” She held her breath, unable to look away from him although her senses and logic roared in unison for her to do exactly that, and listened to the accelerating beat of her heart against her rib cages. Don’t say yes, please don’t say yes, don’t say yes.

▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬ ▬

TAGGED* Ash & Alex
WORD COUNT* 1705.
NOTE* Oh sweet intrusion! This girl means serious business! :3 And I'll get a better font soon~

sø i'll find whαt liεs bεnεαth yøur sick twistεd smilε

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Silence hung heavy in the air between the two, for Kael it was a simple loss of words. Something that hadn’t claimed him since his childhood days, it was an odd feeling to relive the past. His eyes roamed the walls, covered with ceiling high bookshelves – every shelf was occupied with age-old leather bound books. The aroma of old paper and dust thickly clung to the air bringing with it a relaxing sensation.

Footsteps echoed along the hall, drawing Kael’s golden orbs towards the door. Only to pause on Briana as his eyes swept over her. The footsteps were gradually decreasing in speed; there was no time to warn her that this was the destination the two out there sought. Would he have offended her if he told her to hide? It sounded as though he didn’t want to be caught sharing her company. He’d already wronged her once this day, to do it again was out of the question.

Before he could utter a single word the doors swung open, revealing one of the castle guards. Kael held back his inner growl at the rude interruption. Half rising from his chair he paused only to drop back down. The guard had lowered his head and rolled his eyes behind, gently nodding his head to the door where another person was waiting.

The guard lowered his mouth near Kael and told him of the problems she was causing at the gate.

“Thank you. You are dismissed,” Kael spoke in an almost regal tone. His eyes roamed over the new girl a fair distance away half hidden behind the large door. Without further delay, Kael motioned to the guard, who as he exited he also invited the female in. Kael felt suspicious. He hadn’t ordered anything, yet here she was saying that he had. Glancing down at her hands, he eyed the box she held, the hairs on the back of his neck slowly stood on end.

“Miss Daegan,” Kael spoke. Addressing Briana by her last name as was the only right thing to do. “If you would please give us one moment, there are many books . . . perhaps you would care to choose one?” He offered. He wasn’t ready to say goodbye, he knew that things would likely return to the awkward muttered conversation if he was even lucky enough to locate her another time. Though one glance in her direction told him her wish to bolt out the door.

He could feel the new girls gaze upon him, humans could not help themselves in the presence of the aged. His skin prickled when he found her to be staring at his scar. Anger bubbled in the pit of his stomach, he’d rather not relive the morning events all over, so instead, he managed a tight lipped smile. Along with a quiet murmur; “staring is rude.”

“Good day, Lord Chadwick.” Her tone was that of business as she went about explaining her reasons of intrusion. Kael took the parchment and with a flick of his hand, the quill scratched across the paper in one fluid motion, leaving behind a beautifully elegant signature. He was intrigued to see what he had apparently ordered.

Kael took hold of the box, his skin itching as he flipped the lid over. His eyebrow arched and he snorted in a manner much unlike the usual Lords and Ladies behaviour. This had to be a joke or perhaps he was not the one it was supposed to be delivered to. This was likely a product of his sister’s interest. Did he look feminine? This human girl needed her sight checked; yet the receipt stated it was for him. Man jewellery? What was this world coming to?

“I don’t mean to be intrusive, but that mark, I don’t suppose it’s the work of witchcraft?” She had all the reason in the kingdoms to use a cautious tone, but it would have been better not to ask at all. Kael’s golden eyes blazed like liquid gold flames, ready to devour her. His posture seemed to grow as he took a menacing step forward to stand over her. He stood but mere inches away from her, his woodland scent rolling off with the waves of anger.

“Do you not have an ounce of respect? Or perhaps it is a functioning mind you lack?” he spat. His hands were drawn into fists at his side and the faint smell of blood made itself known. He had cut into his palms trying to divert his anger out another way. Briana didn’t need to see him rip apart a human; he’d never wanted to damage someone so much before now. Asides from them, the witches . . .

“Who sent you here?!” Kael demanded. It was obvious in his reaction that she was spot on with her observation. His eyes not only held anger, but if one was to look careful enough, there was vulnerability too. Suddenly Kael shoved the book back into Micaela’s hands, the lid still open for her to view. Inside was a silver feminine bracelet, it was thick and to be worn by slipping over ones hand. It was decorated with twin dragons and flowers, the only sign that it was meant for a Chadwick was the twin dragons of course, but it was not a male item.

“I refuse to accept this item.” Kael announced. Taking the paper from her hands he tore it into pieces making his signature useless. “You have some nerve,” he hissed. First an arranged marriage, then his father, and now this?

now you turn the tide on me !
'CAUSE YOU'RE SO UNKIND

tagged: Alex & Mari!
word count: 000967.
notes: I don’t really like it but meh, I seem unable to fix it. =/
lyrics: what lies beneath - breaking benjamin
template: by meg, for ash.

» KAEL CHADWICK ☠ ☠