Completed Rebirth

[Lenuta]

Come one, come all!
The Nocterose family would like to formally
invite you to the Rebirth Ceremony
of
Lenuta Nocterose.

The festivities will begin in the evening
Formal attire required.​

The gates were open, freely allowing any to cross the lush landscape and ornate fountain to approach the large mansion beyond. The towering mansion was composed of blackened brick with large windows that were alight with the amber warmth of lit candles within. Two attendants bordered opulent oaken doors, large and open wide, allowing view of the welcoming entryway. They greeted those that exited chariots, bowing deeply to guests who dressed in full regalia, the sounds of chatter and laughter escaping into the courtyard.

Wood floors had been waxed until they were almost glass-like, covered in lavish rugs and framed by elaborately carved hallways. Wait staff lead way to the adorned doorway of the ballroom. The luxury of the foyer was nothing in comparison to the grandiose of the ballroom. The ceilings were carved and delicately painted, crowned in gold and scarlet. Tables were blanketed by silken creme, embroidered in an aurous thread, plush chair in coordinating colors awaited tired or feasting guests. Large windows made up one of the walls, broken by glass-paned doors that lead out to incredibly well-kept gardens. Platters were held aloft dexterous digits as staff circled the guests, offering expensive drink and delectable bites on gilded trays.

The hour was almost at hand, the orchestra waiting patiently whilst the head of the Nocterose family stood at the base of a grand staircase, the glistening wooden steps crimson as if they were stained with blood before being sealed and glossed. A rather tall and handsome man, shoulders broad with black hair, long and tidily tied back with a red ribbon. His hands were clasped behind his back, chin held high as his sharp gaze looked upon the arriving guests with an air of royalty. This night, however, was not about him.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

Tzuriel was ready for a break.
After months of dealing with incompetent merchants, delayed shipments, and competitor companies. He was more than ready to unwind. And when one of his friends in the nobility circles passed along an invitation to him for a party, some sort of "rebirth" ceremony whatever that meant, he was glad to accept.
This friend who gave him the invitation was the one invited originally, but not feeling up for a party passed it on to Tzuriel to go in his place.

It was a formal affair with the fat promise of connections for trade and prosperity. And of course not without the allure of young noble beauties in attendance. It is a rare thing to see the daughter of a noble outside of her family estate, but when a party or feast is being hosted with many other nobles in attendance, the rich fathers feel free to parade their beautiful daughters in front of others in hopes of catching the eye of a wealthy noble son to make both their houses more profitable.

Being a merchant had its perks, connections mostly, but its often the case that a merchant family will be far more wealthy than even nobility. And so merchant families would often be invited to such parties so that the noble sons or daughters could marry into the incredible wealth of such families. The Alanthis family is one such family. Being nobles in every way but name, blood and title.
Tzuriel Alanthis would freely admit that he loves attending parties and other such festivities. He could always tell the prosperity of a noble by how desperate he is to have his son or daughter married off. And while he never courted the idea of marriage, he definitely appreciated the opportunity to see what beauties are being hidden away from the rest of the world.

He had never heard of a "Rebirth Ceremony", but he knew the name Nocterose, and the name Lenuta Nocterose was a sound he found particularly attractive as he read it.
When he arrived by carriage he was not disappointed by what he found. He knew Nocterose was a wealthy family, and he saw proof of this by the flair with which they turned out for their guests.
He was dressed to impress, of course. A party of this magnitude called for nothing less. He dressed in black silk finery with tall boots and a black cloak flowing behind him over his jacket. His hair was slicked back and well oiled. Overall he struck an impressive chord as he was admitted into the estate and allowed into the ballroom.

He wasn't the first to arrive, but he wasn't late either. Thankfully so. It seemed the festivities would wait till after the ceremony, but for now drinks were served and he accepted a glass after handing his cloak over to an attendant. The air in the room was quieting and it seemed the ceremony would start very soon.

 

[Lenuta]

Pristine fingers pressed at the deep scarlet skirt that encircled her, assuring there were no wrinkles on the satin cloth. Dark curls were pulled away from petite shoulders, working the tousles into practiced twists that exposed the neck. Few tendrils were left loose, framing her delicate features.

“Thank you, Natalia.” Lenuta’s voice was unusually quiet as she addressed the maiden attending to her hair. Her heart had been racing since she had begun to prepare, her hands shaking slightly with excitement as she donned gloves of black lace. She gazed upon her skirts once more, lifting from the chair she was perched in as Natalia finished applying the final touches to her hair.

A knock sounded softly at the oaken door, catching both girls attentions before Natalia rushed off to pry it open. A young man entered politely, giving a deep nod towards Lenuta.
“It is time.” He informed them, giving a final nod to Natalia before dismissing himself.

“You will do just fine!” Natalia assured Lenuta, grasping at the gloved hands of her friend for an encouraging squeeze.

Lenuta swallowed hard and nodded. She paused at the full-length mirror for a final look, ensuring that she was perfection. She was of average height, if not slightly taller than most human females, with a lithe feminine figure. Her waist was cinched with a corset beneath the layers of deep scarlet satin, ornate with black lace. The sleeves drooped over her shoulders, allowing her defined collarbone view with only a thin gold chain decorating her neck. Her face had been made with peach tones on her cheeks, giving them a glow, and red painted her lips. She held her head high, taking as deep a breath she could and letting it out slowly before finally exiting.

“Ladies and gentlemen! The lady of the hour! Lenuta Nocterose!”

Heeled feet carefully descended cherry-hued wood stairs, a hand carefully placed upon the polished banister as she entered the ballroom. Three large crystal chandeliers were fully lit, allowing plenty of light to set the grandiose room aglow. The flooring had been cleaned and polished so intensely, it reflected that light back. Luxurious drapery swept across the walls in gold and cream hues, adding to the ballroom’s magnificence. An orchestra was settled in the corner, playing soft music to greet the young woman, whilst the waitstaff paused in offering morsels of delicacy, allowing the guests to turn full attention towards Lenuta.

Once the final stair was cleared, Lenuta paused, looking around at all the faces. None knew the true meaning of this day for her, save for the family and their attendants. A smile lit her face, keeping her secret as she grasped at her skirts and curtsied, greeting all those that had gathered just for her.

A large hand made its way into her view, the head of the Nocterose family smiling proudly down at her. Her first dance was promised to him. As soon as her touch met the chill of his flesh the music changed to a striking and formal waltz, the duo sweeping out onto the dance floor with practiced and fluid steps. They swept across the wooden floors as if they were gliding along ice, excitement evident on the maiden's face, whilst Nocterose's fierce gaze remained on her, his dignified features never cracking.

The crowds watched in awe, the dance they performed the same as every Rebirth Ceremony, unique to that of the Nocterose family. It was mesmerizing in its fluidity and precision, their forms taking advantage of the large dancefloor and discouraging others from even trying to join, as they would simply get in the way. It ended sharply, Lenuta's smile having grown to a full grin as she completed the movements without falter, causing her father's pride to swell. The duo bowed deeply, encouraging the crowd to applaud. A moment later the orchestra struck a song that was recognizable to the guests, encouraging them to once again mingle and dance themselves. Nocterose bowed deeply to Lenuta, kissing the back of her hand, whispered words only meant for her ears spoken before he stepped away to greet those who had been waiting for his time, and leaving her to enjoy her celebration.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

When the music started Tzuriel looked up to see... And what he saw was a breathtaking sight. A beautiful young woman with porcelain features, slim build, and a beautiful black crown of curls on her head. He caught himself with his mouth open and about to drop his glass so he quickly regained his composure, but he still could not remove his eyes from that beautiful woman. This celebration was for her, and he could see why.

He reflected with a slight smirk. Nobles... They groom the most beautiful flowers in the world and what do they do? Hide them away from the world. He watched as she danced, her fluid motions and unearthly grace. He found himself admiring everything she did, and then like a goddess she smiled and he found he had no words for it, it was the smile a pure happiness... The smile that he only knew common people to have when they are truly content.

When the dance was over he clapped too. The music changed and people began to mingle, some began to dance and he had trouble deciding what to do. Just by appearing this girl seemed to throw him completely off balance, and he found he even admired that about her. He found he actually felt inadequate in her presence, which never happened before. Never once in his many experiences with women had he ever felt that they were too good for him.

He shrugged to himself. He usually made it a point to never approach the daughter of the host of the celebration, mostly just to avoid the potential for bad blood between himself and powerful men. But in this case he knew he had to meet her. He didn't let himself wonder how he would do it, how he would go about getting her attention. He could already see the other young nobles gearing up with drinks for two and looking for their opportunity to approach the girl. If he wanted to save her from the wolves he had to move quickly, no planning, just go for it. But he also had to keep himself from becoming one of the wolves as well.

He approached her, moving through the crowd fluidly, not elbowing but also not allowing anyone to come between him and his goal. He was finally able to swim through the crowd and actually found himself face to face with Lenuta Nocterose. Before the situation could become awkward he introduced himself with a bow, "Pardon me, M'lady. I am Tzuriel Alanthis. And I apologize ahead of time for being too forward, but you are by far the most beautiful woman in the world and I would be truly honored if I could know you better."

For lack of a better plan he somehow decided brutal honesty was the way to go. He held the bow but didn't break eye contact with her. He didn't offer her his hand to shake because it was polite to allow the woman to initiate that greeting. He was doing his best and only hoping it was enough to keep her from walking away.

 

[Lenuta]

Prim and proper, tailored to the life of nobility. Lenuta had been raised in wealth with an air of superiority adopted from her father, and she wore it well. The heels of her shoes gave her a couple more inches in height, but even if they hadn't, she would still be looking down her nose at the others. Her usual arrogance was masked in excitement this night, with anxiety that fluttered in the pit of her stomach, impatient for the ceremony that would come at the end of the night.

Lenuta was not the only beauty to be attending that night as other noble families with ties to Nocterose had traveled from far lands to attend and show support, hoping their own family names would gain a higher standing; this night was solely about the young maiden, and they had assured that she would shine brighter than all others.

It was not only men that began to flock forth, but other young maidens as well, a certain charm began to emanate from Lenuta, her cinnamon-hued gaze directing towards those around her, as if searching for something. Or someone. She twirled around, eager to view the rest of the guests, but before the pierce of her gaze could land on any other, they were met by Tzuriel's azure. Her breath caught faintly in her throat as he addressed her, bowing deeply whilst assuring that her gaze did not leave his. His charming words brought warmth to her cheeks, though her noble demeanor was swiftly corrected. He was only human, after all.

"Tzuriel." His name was particularly sweet upon her plump, crimson lips, the gaze from beneath the thick of her ebony lashes softening slightly. "It is a pleasure to meet you." She did not bother introducing herself, as it was made well known to all who she was. Her gloved hand lifted delicately towards him, much to the disappointment of those around them. Tzuriel had won the race, and her eyes were now for him alone.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

When she spoke his name and offered her hand he was able to relax a little. It was odd for him to be tense in the first place, especially when speaking to a lady. But then again, so many times in the past this game of love was really only a game for him. Granted it was a game where he made sure nobody was hurt, but it was still a game and meant nothing to him.

The way this girl made him feel was evidence to him that this wasn't a game in his mind. She may be of noble stock, but even that could not explain away her otherworldly allure and why for once he was less than confident in his ability to speak.

He took her offered hand, ignoring the glares of those around him as he gently kissed it, never removing his eyes from hers. It was only a brief moment, but he felt her hand and even that spoke of perfection. To the touch it was dainty and un-calloused, perfectly shaped and smooth. Once he would have referred to it as "superior noble breeding". But he simply could not bring himself to reference this woman of alien beauty to that of a dog.

He straightened once the proper traditions were observed, but still he couldn't look away. For any other woman at this point he would have at least glanced around the room, gotten a drink, and carried on with the celebration with the girl at his elbow while he humored her with witticisms and entertaining stories.

Not so with Lenuta. This time he was worried about making mistakes. It could be a mistake to be just like any other horndog trying out pickup lines or regaling her with stories of his own exploits that speak of his own prowess. It could be a mistake to attempt to flatter or flirt with her. So really that only left him with the single option of openness, blunt truth, and maybe some endearing naivety.

"If I may ask... Would you prefer that I call you M'lady, or Miss Nocterose? Or may I speak freely? It doesn't seem appropriate that I simply use your name... Unless you would like me too."

He berated himself mentally, "Smooth, idiot. You are making this way more complicated than it should be. Just make an assumption and apologize if you get it wrong, like you always do. Now you sound like some virgin noble trying to get his chin hairs."
He seemed to ignore his inner voice. And to his own mental chagrin he wondered if it was a mistake to keep staring at her so much, but those beautiful cinnamon eyes just seemed to draw him in and leave his body somewhere in the dust.

 

[Lenuta]

His blue eyes refused to leave hers, blatantly taking her in with almost no regard as to how obvious it was. There was an unfamiliar tightness that formed in her chest as she held his gaze, her air of superiority slowly etching away with each second he gazed upon her. She never imagined that she would grow flustered from a mortal, silently reminding herself of her title.

He was handsome. He stood almost an entire foot taller than her when raised to his full height, hair as black as night with piercing eyes. His jaw was strong, his form adept, and his clothes fine. He blended in well with the rest of the higher class attendees, his mannerisms evidence of a higher upbringing. The families closest to Nocterose also carried an unnatural beauty, an attractiveness that had surrounded her for her entire life, yet this merchant was bringing a chill down her spine as his warm breath passed through the delicate threading that covered her hand.

Perhaps it was the attention or the way his touch lingered upon her hand even after he had straightened. Perhaps it was that she had been deemed entirely unreachable, pampered and kept as a precious stone. Only ever looked at but not touched. She was a young woman, and though she'd had girlish ideals of romance when she was younger, she had focused profusely on the path Nocterose had laid out for her and none of those ideals had come to fruition.

Another smile couldn't help but pull at her lips as he seemed to flounder faintly, juggling his words a bit.
"You may call me Lenuta." She assured him, the words leaving her mouth before her mind could process his question fully. She tersed for a faint moment, mentally berating herself. ".. Once we get better acquainted. M'lady is fine for now." She hastily added, adjusting her posture.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

He nodded and smiled, "Very well, M'lady. Again it is truly a pleasure."
Was she... Was she actually flustered? She caught herself and he could tell. But even the way she corrected her sentence told him that he had truly caught her attention and made an impression for the better. "Once we get better acquainted." Told him that she actually wanted to get to know him better as well.

He visibly relaxed this time and he finally managed to blink and glance away from her. He couldn't help but crack a smile, he was nervous and he knew she knew it.
He chuckled, "Forgive me, M'lady. I have honestly never been like this around anyone else. Would you allow me to fetch you a drink? Or do you care to dance? Or perhaps both? I must say that seeing you dance with Lord Nocterose was an incredible sight, and flawlessly performed I might add."

He was still loathed to take his eyes off of her, for fear that the second her turned away she would be swept off by another cunning noble. Or swarmed away by the innumerable chatty ladies that already managed to form cliques amid the crowd.

 

[Lenuta]

Laughter could be heard, feminine giggles and husky chuckles as jolly continued throughout the ballroom. Nothing more than static until his gaze finally drifted and seemed to break the spell he had cast on her. His confession was charming, suggesting that speaking with the opposite sex was something that he did often. Though with less blunder.

Her own eyes turned away, the young maiden observing her celebration.
"I do not want drink to cloud my mind this night." She responded vaguely. "Thank you.. And to be honest, I have never danced with anyone other than instructors or my father before." She wasn't sure why admitting this fact to him embarrassed her, as she had never thought her upbringing to be anything worth shame before, aside from her own mortality.

She returned her gaze to him, expectantly, the light smirk upon her lips and raise of one dark brow conveying that she was waiting for him to take lead.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

Tzuriel listened to the music for a moment. He recognized the tune and had danced to it on several other occasions, he could have even swore he recognized the maestro. He returned his gaze to Lenuta and again found her staring back. He gave a genuine smile that offset his normally piercing features.
"Well, M'lady. I cannot silence a crowd or clear a floor with my grace, but I am sure for your second dance of the night you will not find me disappointing."

He took a step toward the floor and gave her a slight bow as he offered her his left hand, his right arm tucked behind his back.
"If I may, M'lady?"
He seemed to have regained a little bit of his demeanor. He was actually a very accomplished dancer in many forms both formal and common. And it was his habit to downplay his skill in the dance when attempting to woo a lady, so that he could sometimes literally sweep them off their feet when they reached the dance floor. Of course he could tell from her dance earlier that she was accomplished herself. So he decided simply keeping pace with her would suffice for now.

At the corner of his eye he could see other men pairing up to dance when he made it obvious that they were going to dance now. And he took note especially of those couples that made no effort to hide their distaste of him. Perhaps he was in for some trouble on the dance floor.

 

[Lenuta]

"My Lord. There is word that members of the Sandu family are here."


This news was given in the faintest whisper, one that no other would be able to hear. It was tentative and carefully worded as the speaker, a fair woman dressed in ebony velvet, approached Nocterose.


"They would not dare." His response was bloated with confidence, though a small twitch at the side of his mouth, a hint of disgust, followed his absolute. Moira hesitated a moment, unwilling to argue with the head of the family.


"This information comes from Doru." That sentence was all that was needed for Avram Nocterose to finally shift his blaring gaze at her. He did not respond, casting a final look towards Lenuta before stepping out of the ballroom, several attendants trailing after him.


Lenuta's hand found its way once more into Tzuriel's larger one. He led her back onto the polished floor, their bodies closing distance as she placed a hand upon his shoulder, her heart quickening as his own slid to her waist.


The dances played were slower and a bit more simple than the one the orchestra had played first, allowing even those of minor coordination to join, a benefit to the lady of the hour, as she seemed more nervous now than she had when she danced with her father. She did her best to maintain her composure, her chin lifted and back straight. She followed his lead, easily anticipating the movements he wished her to follow, the lights of the ballroom swirling around her peripheral.


Her lips parted, as if she were going to say something. She wanted to say something. It had never occurred to her that she had no previous experience talking to men.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

Tzuriel was nervous as well, but he did have trained reflex to fall back on when his conscious mind faltered. They stepped out onto the floor, her hand in his, and soon his hand rested on her waist while he felt the gentle weight of her hand on his shoulder. They were close now and it was fortunate they were both skilled dancers, he managed to avoid stepping on her feet or tripping her and she was able to follow his lead splendidly.

They moved in sway with the music, moving slow and steadily around the room. But something tugged at the corners of his eyes. In his peripherals he could see several young couples dancing closer to them, he recognized a few that glared at him every chance they got. He did his best not to alarm Lenuta, so he did not turn his head are avert his attention. His eyes once again deeply locked in hers.

But he worried that the other dancers may attempt to make a fool of him or make him look bad in front of her. Actually, he was all but certain this was about to happen. He thought quickly. He was a skilled dancer and his partner was about the same, if untested. So he hatched a plan to defend himself and Lenuta while on the dance floor.

He looked away and got the attention of the Maestro. It turned out wasn't the same elderly man he knew but that didn't matter. He signaled the maestro to bring the tune up a little faster, to warrant some smooth and agile footwork if need be.
As the music quickened slightly he could see one couple begin to dance dangerously close. As he predicted the male attempted to trip him up on a back step. Tzuriel wasn't caught off guard and did a quick weight shift to prevent the trip from being effective and from his rhythm from being put off.

He recovered seamlessly as if nothing happened, but the attention it took to attempt to trip him threw the other dancers step off and caused a slight curse when he stepped on his partners toes.

Tzuriel held Lenuta close, hoping she could follow the little faster pace. He was occupied with defending then both on the dance floor, but he also couldn't ignore the extreme pleasure it was to be dancing with the most beautiful woman in the world one wouldn't find anywhere else. He returned his gaze to her, besides her eyes her face was also the picture of perfection. Her makeup was spot on, applied by a master. Her lipstick seemed to match her eyes and her skin was without visible flaw. And the ivory of her neck and shoulders was all but irresistible.

She appeared to want to speak, but the words didn't come. She really was out of her element with him. She didn't know what to say or what to talk about... which he supposed would be worth mentioning if he could think of a damn thing to say either. But all the same... He thought it would be better if she initiated the dialog this time. He didn't want to be overbearing or controlling of conversation. Some ladies became bored with men who talk too much. SO he contented himself to simply dance with her while keeping an eye out for any who would interfere.

 

[Lenuta]

"You dance well." She complimented finally. The schemes of others around them were easily avoided, allowing Lenuta ignorance as her focus remained on her partner. She adjusted easily to the quickened tempo, his true reasons for signalling the conductor kept secret, and instead seemed impish and playful. Her response was mischievous smile, adding light offsteps to their motions to see if he could keep up.


Tzuriel was not the only one to notice the saboteurs, nor were his eyes alone trained on her. Many were the friends of the Nocterose family, their loyalties sworn to Avram, and thus Lenuta by extension. Those couplings that had formed just to ruin Tzuriel's chances found themselves swiftly approached by others, few words suggesting they no longer partook in dancing. Despite the jealousy and adamance the collaborators had previously shown, they were quick to agree and left the merchant king to enjoy his dance without further interruption.


"It would seem this is not your first time at an event like this." There was a low note to her soft tenor, a hint of envy as her mind began to flourish with assumptions of the man that held her in his capable arms, swirling her around the dance floor.


And those who had shared dances with him before her.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

Tzuriel noticed when the trouble makers were escorted off the dance floor and relaxed. He turned his full attention back to Lenuta. She seemed unaware of what had transpired so he simply continued the way he was. She even got playful with the dance which made him smile as he kept up.

She could have fun, that was good. It put him at ease. He gave her a twirl and brought them back together.
"Correct. I have been attending parties like this every chance I get. It's good to make connections with powerful men at every opportunity. I'm not a noble, I'm a merchant by trade. So attending parties like these are good for business... And it seems it's led me to meet the daughter of Lord Nocterose."

At an appropriate moment in the music he dipped her low with his hand on her back holding her up. When he brought her back up he twirled her again and then continued with the dance.

 

[Lenuta]

"You make it a habit of meeting Lord's daughters..?" Doubt rang through her tone.

Their dance came to a methodical end, though her form did not step back, her hand remaining on his shoulder, her touch idle against him as her touch moved towards his neck. A moment that wanted to linger, awaiting his answer, but would not.

"It is rude to keep the woman of the hour all to yourself." A masculine voice jested. Amber eyes reluctantly moving from Tzuriel, her clouded mind releasing to remind her of their surroundings, and all those around them. They landed on another. Tall, pale features and pale hair. His gaze was pure peridot, intense and intent on Lenuta.

"Especially when there are others that would like to take your hand." A sultry voice extended toward Tzuriel, feminine and breathy as the woman sidled up to the merchant.

There was no comparison in the beauty to flaxen hair angel that placed a gentle hand against Tzuriel's bicep. Eyes of honey were easy to fall into, her dress glimmering with stones under the many lights of the chandeliers above. The straps of her gown were thin, broadly stretching across her shoulders with a deep cut neckline that enhanced her ample bosom. Her cherry lips smiled just for him, encouraging his undivided attention.

Lenuta's gaze fell to the floor. She had not been the first daughter he meant to woo, and surely would not be the last. This night was meant to be hers alone, though she was suddenly feeling overwhelmed.
"Excuse me I.. I would like to get some air." She did not hesitate in turning from the group, her gaze purposefully avoiding Tzuriel's azure as she swept towards the glass-paned doors, open wide to allow party-goers to enjoy the gardens.

They were well kept and manicured. Her heels clicked faintly against the cobbled patio that greeted her as she reached for the stone wall that rimmed the area. To her left was an impressive mass of loved flora, their blooms flourishing in a myriad of colors. To her right, benches were placed, carved of ebony stone and bordering expertly chiseled fountains. Ahead, just below stone steps, lay an elaborate hedge maze. Lenuta paused, deep brows furrowing faintly as her head tilted, a soft whistle on the wind, beckoning her forth.

Her curiosity was insatiable, her steps that of a ghost as she moved towards the maze. She entered, leaving not even a whisper of her presence. Her legs moved as if given life of their own, laced hands grasping at satin skirts as she moved through the darkness with urgency. The sound was hypnotic, and it only grew stronger, resounding in her eardrums until it was the only thing she believed she could hear. She burst into the center of the maze, gasping faintly. She had not even realized that she had been running, her attention only on that sound and its source.

There, in the very center of the maze, stood a man. This secret area of the maze was especially cared for. Every bloom, petal, and blossom that grew here were entirely onyx in hue. Amidst the shadowed flora stood a striking man. His skin was that of the purest porcelain, eyes and hair the deepest black she had yet to see, and within his lithe digits lay a flute. It was he that had called her here, and upon her arrival, his haunting tune finally came to an end.

"Lenuta Eminescu. It is so good to finally make your acquaintance." His baritone was silken and smooth, pallid lips offering a sorrowful smile whilst a hand lifted for her to take. She found her digits reaching out for him without her true will, her mind clouded and taken by his mere presence.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

From her response he knew he had made a mistake in his wording. Perhaps honesty wasn't the best option to take at that moment. But he knew he couldn't get flustered or apologetic to correct this, otherwise it would appear as if he were attempting to lie, reaching for an excuse. He had to keep his face and good naturedly reassure her that is not what he meant. And it seemed she was willing to allow him to defend himself.

He smiled, "M'lady, Don't mistake me. You were not my goal when I came here. I am accustomed to this life so it was natural for me to come with other reasons in mind, until..."

He was interrupted by the newcomer who spoke in jest about his hoarding of Lenuta Nocterose. He was right of course, though Tzuriel didn't want to admit it.
Then he heard the feminine voice behind him begging his attention. What he saw was a beauty that was the opposite of Lenuta. Instead of dark hair with curls he was greeted with blond waves of hair, eyes like honey and an alluring smile. The woman did her best to hold his attention.

But before he could do anything he had seen Lenuta's downcast gaze, a look that spoke of disappointment, specifically of him. She turned, saying something about needing a breath of fresh air and left the ballroom into the garden.
Tzuriel was in shock... Things were perfect... He held a woman without any flaws, beautiful and fair. And with just a brief distraction and a fast move... She was walking away from him. He had let his guard down for once in his life and it proved nearly fatal.

The woman turned his attention again, and for a brief moment he hated her, even though her beauty was like the sun he had already been won over by the moon. And she came between them faster than the drop of a theater curtain. But before he could allow himself to cause a scene he forced a smile.
"Forgive me, miss. I don't believe we have met? I am Tzuriel Alanthis."

He spoke with the young woman but he kept glancing after Lenuta to see if she would look back before she vanished outside. He hoped she wouldn't because what she would see would surely prove his guilt in her mind. He wanted to get the pleasantries over with so that he could politely extract himself from the girl of the sun and pursue Lenuta. For now he could only hope that the little bit of the honest reply she heard was enough to save his image in her eyes.

 

[Lenuta]

Insecurity had seeded its way into the heart so suddenly and brutally, shaking her from the splendid reverie Tzuriel had danced her into. It was unnatural, a forced emotion from outside tampering.


Her steps were followed by the previously jesting male, his trailing unnoticed, her gaze unwilling to chance a glance back and reveal her inner turmoil. Oddy, he did not continue outdoors, his own stride pausing at the doorway. Any that made way towards the gardens were intercepted and engaged in conversation.


"Gwendolyn Strauss." The gilded woman exchanged, her hand lifting for him to take as her slender form shifted to place itself between Tzuriel and the fleeing Lenuta. "I would hope you would remember me if we had previously met. I would surely remember you."


Surrounded in charcoal flowers, Lenuta's eyes had glazed over, their spark dulling as she looked on the figure before her. Her hand lifted to his in a daze, his reach pulling her closer to better examine her face.

"You are far more beautiful than I could have imagined." He was truly taken by her, preconceived notions banished as his touch caressed her cheek.


She was full of potential, far more than Nocterose has deemed her worthy of. She could be much more than a simple pawn. More than the 'daughter' he had presented her to be. With Sandu's careful attention, she could be magnificent.


His eyes fell to the plump of blood-red lips, relaxed and inviting. This was not part of the plan, especially since she was still mortal, and yet he found himself leaning forth, uncaring for the blank stare that seemed to look beyond him, his lips eager for hers.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

He watched the other man follow Lenuta to the door and assumed that she would at least be looked out for, but before Gwendolyn drew his attention again he thought it was odd that he stopped on the threshold and didn't continue, but instead turned back into the crowd.

Gwendolyn Strauss. He didn't know that last name. If it was a family name it was minor enough to be unknown to him and that was the first hint he received. She offered her hand and he took it on reflex with a bow and a kiss, but his second hint came when she took a step between him and the door where Lenuta vanished. He had almost a second sense when it came to business, and it took a skilled individual to appear that such a move was not without purpose. Though of course that 'could' only mean that she was jealous for his attention.

He could let himself get distracted with Gwendolyn easily. She was beautiful like a ray of sun filtering through the fall leaves, and she appeared to already be enamored by him. She would dance with him and laugh at everything he had to say. The way she came on to him told him that much about her, that she would be easy. But another sense... A sense of business... Warned him that everything was off and this girl was a farce.

He knew a setup, a good merchant could smell a bad deal or a double-cross a mile away. A merchant who couldn't see through such things was a dead merchant. And he has been heralded the Merchant King from Elbion to Molthal. Ever since he inherited the fleets and wagons of the Alanthis family he turned their business into an empire and raised their family and status to even higher than nobility in all but name. But he started from the bottom up and knew the ins and outs of deals behind closed doors.

Gwendolyn moving in front of him was no accident. The man leaving Lenuta outside alone was no accident. He wondered if the dancing couples from earlier were even in on it.

He smiled at Gwendolyn, still polite as ever, but he didn't have to force the smile now. His eyes betrayed nothing as his usual demeanor and gaze was restored. He was in control of the situation once more. He caressed Gwendolyn's hand after he kissed it and let it slide up to her shoulder as he looked deep into her eyes with his intense stare.
"Forgive me, fair lady Strauss. You are right, I could never forget a radiant face like yours had we met. For the sun shines on you even on this starry night. But I shall be completely honest with you, M'lady. Tonight I am here on business. And his daughter is currently without an escort."
With almost perfect timing a waiter passed balancing a tray of drinks. He snatched one without breaking eye contact and placed it in her hands. Then he leaned in and whispered in her ear, "If this is not a farce, you have my sincerest apologies. But if it is, fear for your life."

With that he extracted himself from Gwendolyn and quickly made his way to the door just in time to look outside and see Lenuta enter the maze. She was walking very quickly, yet wasn't watching her feet or her path. He knew what a lady had to deal with when wearing a long flowing dress, but she let it drag through the leaves without care or concern before she vanished from his sight and disappeared into the maze. Something was definitely off, and not just with the distractions.

Baring any further distraction, he signaled to two guards of House Nocterose. When they walked up to him he asked them a question before they could ask what the problem is, "Do you know how to reach the center of that maze? There is a scheme afoot that may mean that Lady Nocterose is in danger at this very moment, and swift action is required to reach the center of that maze!"
He kept his voice even and low so as not to alarm the other guests. The guards nodded and one volunteered that he knew the way. All three began in haste and entered the maze. The guard indeed knew the way well as they followed the path Lenuta took.
On the way he saw that the guards had small batons on their belts besides their spears and whatever other weapons they carried. He wasn't sure they would need weapons, but he kept it in mind just in case. He didn't want to have to use the tiny knife he had hidden in his boot, so he took note of other options.

Before they reached the center of the maze Tzuriel stopped the guards when he heard the voice of a man up ahead. They advanced slowly until they rounded the last corner and looked into the center of the maze. Throughout the journey through the maze Tzuriel hardly noticed its beauty, but once they reached the center it finally hit him. This was a well kept and very beautiful garden. But it was marred when he saw Lenuta in the arms of a strange man, of almost the same alien beauty as her. He was leaning in to kiss Lenuta and that made his blood boil in that very instance. even in the dark he could see the mans eyes and they weren't on him or the guards at all yet, so focused on their prize.

There was only an instant to do something, and that was all Tzuriel needed. He drew a baton from its loop in the guards belt and threw it. Had his skill been any less than it was, he would have hit Lenuta with the blunted weapon and possibly killed her, but instead the club flew straight to its target delivering a solid blow to the side of the kidnappers head. Before the first club could hit the ground he had the second baton in his hand and walked into the clearing.
"Unhand Lady Nocterose. Your scheme has failed."

 

[Lenuta]

Honey orbs widened slightly at Tzuriel's quick wit. The lies he so easily saw through. He left Gwendolyn behind, her narrowed gaze following him for a moment before she turned on heel.

A fog had roiled into Lenuta's mind, distorting her reality. Every sense was dulled, the black garden surrounding her, the cosmos above; it all blurred together. The icy chill of touch on her cheek was barely registered, even as death-touched lips yearned for hers.

Just as it seemed that he could taste her his gaze was drawn away, a baton flying swiftly through the air towards him. So distracted was he with his need that he had not noticed the intruders.

"Tsk!" This was a sound of annoyance, his form jumping back even as the projectile skirted against his skull, lessening the impact. Sandu's black pools looked towards Tzuriel with a rage that was unequivical whilst Lenuta's form stumbled to the ground.

Her eyes squeezed tightly as perception returned, digits grasping at her muddled mind. It was then, with Lord Nocterose's daughter fallen, that blackened smoke began to sift into the gardens. It hung heavily to the ground, its depth a complete void that refused vision. It filled the maze, daunting and swollen with malice.

Sandu backed up further, his features strained as the smoke surrounded him, an attendant kneeling to the lowered maiden, assuring she wasn't injured before helping her to her feet. The smoke stirred for a moment longer before it began to condense and build upon itself, growing in height as it began to take shape and become corporeal.

"I knew you were idiotic but I did not truly think you so stupid that you would show that traitorous face a ceremony." Lord Nocterose's voice boomed as the smoke transformed into him, lips twitching in disgust as he looked upon a face that was very similar to his own. Sandu gave no response, his teeth gritting at his failed foil, sharp fangs glistening in the night. His own form began to grow transparent, steps carrying him back into the maze hedges, swallowed by the leaves.

As suddenly as he had come, he was gone, giving no other chance for him to be attacked. A snap of Nocterose's fingers and one of the attendants vanished just as the scoundrel did, intent on catching him. Avram finally turned towards his daughter, Tzuriel's presence entirely insignificant as his hand reached for Lenuta, pressing gently onto her shoulder.

Her eyes pressed together one last time, shaking the last of the fog from her mind.
"I'm sorry father I.." She had been glamoured. The shame of it rest in her gut, even as her father comforted her.

"You should rest Lenuta. Moira, end the ceremony, assure everyo-"

"No!" Lenuta's voice interrupted his orders, her hand grasping tightly at his sleeve. "No.. I've waited all my life for tonight, father. Please." She pleaded. He paused, his jaw tensing before he gave a swift nod. This simple motion brought relief to her face.

"It must be done swiftly." He was a man of action, exiting the maze with little hesitance. His gaze met with Tzuriel's as he passed, not at all caring for what the merchant had witnessed.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

As soon as Lenuta fell he thought had a fight on his hands... A fight he suddenly was not so confident he could win when he realized that the eyes he could see in the dark were not human. He knew of vampires, they were no legend to him but a reality. One of his most trusted and capable partners turned out to be a vampire. But suddenly he was not alone in the garden. A black and ominous mist appeared, certainly not a natural mist and if not for the concern that spread across his opponents face he would have thought it was caused by the kidnapper.

As he brandished the baton he was shocked to see Lord Nocterose himself coalesce out of the mist and reprimand the vampire. He knew of dark magics and such, though he never dabbled in any magic outside of potions, scrolls, weapons or other enchanted goods. But this magic fit the descriptions he heard of that was distinctly vampiric.

Suddenly more people of House Nocterose appeared as if from nowhere and the kidnapper suddenly faded and vanished from sight, soon followed by one of the attendants. He watched the exchange between father and daughter. And as Lord Nocterose walked past him and their eyes met he wondered what he got himself into. This was the last thing he thought would happen when he agreed to the invitation in place of his friend.

He didn't know if the attendant would leave, but that was far from any of his concern. He returned the baton to the guard before he ventured to approach Lenuta. Now that he had seen what he had seen he couldn't help but wonder about her.
"M'lady?"
He queried first, even though he wanted to put a hand on her and make sure she was alright. But he didn't want to frighten her more.
"Lady Nocterose?"

 

[Lenuta]

Now more than ever it was obvious just how fragile she was. How weak. How mortal. Her jaw tightened just as her father's had, her fists gripping. Even though her assailant had gone, her legs were still faintly numb, her breath shallow. A familiar voice called her out of inner scolding, free of the charm and wit that had coated his tone throughout the night. Now it was wrought with concern, even his touch hesitant in case it upset her further.

Hints of confusion stared up at him, looking around faintly to remember where she was before she shook her head for the final time.
"I.. I'm fine, Tzuriel." She insisted, her hands patting away any wrinkles that might have developed on her skirts before she finally looked up. But it wasn't at him, instead it was at the moon.

Amid inky blackness shone galactic cosmos, flickering lights drifting through space. Entangled with them all floated the moon. It was close this night, bloated and large.

Blood red.

She pulled at her gloves, leaving the lace amidst the flowers as her bare hand found his own, entwining her fingers with his.
"Come. There's something I want to show you."

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

Tzuriels mind was flooding with questions. What was House Nocterose really? What was Lenuta really?
The last question was at once the most important, and also the least important. Was she a vampire? He didn't know and couldn't tell. Did it matter? To him... It didn't matter in the least.

She seemed disoriented, like she didn't remember coming to this garden. He had heard of a vampires hypnotic abilities, so he was able to reason that out in his own mind... But did she still think ill of him? That he simply came to woo noble daughters?
He cringed internally... That is exactly why he came, really. And it sounds cliché even to him, but that changed when he saw her.

She locked her fingers with his after getting her bearings and discarding her gloves for some reason, then she said she wanted to show him something. Her fingers were just as soft as their smoothness suggested and he could feel her warmth, even though her encounter may have left her cold from stress.

He followed her where she led. Even if she was a vampire he decided he would trust her. He was beginning to see more than her beauty, and so far was impressed.

 

[Lenuta]

House Nocterose was centuries old, rumored to be as old as the earth itself. Many were the allies, and few were the enemies, all who stood against the family easily vanishing into history and forgotten in time. Their house had been built strategically. Where Nocterose ruled, there were no vacant vampires, no wayward bloodsuckers terrorizing the landscape. Their selection process was methodical and thorough. Certain measures were always taken, and specific ruled followed.

Lenuta lead Tzuriel back through the maze, through the ballroom, and down stone corridors. Her hand never left his as the turned down the final hallway. Scarlet decorated the walkway, their shoes sinking into plush carpeting as they approached a marbled alabaster door.

She paused for a moment, swallowed as she turned to Tzuriel. His eyes were sharp enough to see the confliction in her gaze, the guilt that shouldn't have been there. A hand reached for his cheek, caressing his jawline as a gentle smile gradually grew.

"I'm sorry." Why was she offering her condolences? She did not intend to fail this challenge, and even if she did, he was only human. His life shouldn't hold weight for her, but she knew it did.

She lifted towards him, her lips pressing delicately against his cheek.
"..You are mine."

More than words, she cast a spell, encasing his mind almost as hers had been encased merely moments before. The doors were opened as it sensed this ancient magic, the crimson carpet continuing into a dark room line with candelabras and vampires. At the center a pedestal carved of the same stone as the door, upon it stood Avram Nocterose, awaiting his daughter.

No longer was her hand in his as she walked down the predetermined path for him to follow. Nerves riled, knotting in her stomach more with each step until she climbed the stairs. The doors behind them had closed as soon as they cleared the doorway, locking out all sound. The silence was deafening as she looked to her father.

This night had been soiled, poisoned by the intrusion. It had been meant to be the fruition of her work, but it was dampened and felt more necessary. Still, Nocterose looked on Lenuta proudly, his hand lifted towards her. Moments passed as she stared at that arm, her heart beating faster and faster, knowing that everyone could hear its quickened pace. She placed her wrist in his care, refusing to look away as her exposed wrist was lifted towards Avram's mouth, impossible sharp fangs lengthening and protruding from behind his upper lip.

 

[Tzuriel Alanthis]

She led him through the mansion. Down hallways he was certain guests weren't supposed to be wandering. For a confused moment he thought she was taking him to her room, but then they began going down into the depths of the mansion.
He was confused and Lenuta didn't offer any explanation as she led him to an ornate door. Alarm bells rang in his mind, telling him he was about to be set up again. But he silenced his mind, choosing to let whatever happened to happen. And if she betrayed him, then he could escape and retrace his steps to leave... He thought he was confident enough in his skills to do that much.

She turned to him at the door, and yes, he could see her conflict. He wanted to ask her what was going on, why she said nothing, as if she didn't know the look of disappointment she left imprinted on his mind as she walked away from him. He had so many questions.
She touched him... caressed his face and... apologized? For what he had seen?... He was about to face retribution for seeing a dark secret of House Nocterose?
She rose up on her toes and kissed him on the cheek. Her lips were warm and soft, like a light drop of dew. He was about to ask what that was for when she said, "You are mine."

Instantly the spell took effect. His will was subverted completely and all he could do was watch as his body obeyed her every unspoken order. The door opened and he followed her inside, his eyes locked on her as they walked down the candle lit hall with people lining the way. Her father stood at the end and he watched as the ceremony commenced.

He finally understood what the rebirthing celebration meant... Nocterose was an ancient house of vampires and Lenuta was about to join them.
And he, a mortal, was caught in the middle.
He watched as Lord Nocterose brought her wrist to his mouth where fangs extended.
Tzuriel was mentally in conflict, unable to break free of the spell his body stood motionless and watching while his mind kept asking her, "Why M'lady? What is the purpose of all of this?"

When he thought about it he didn't really have any objections. He knew a vampire for a very long time and he wasn't evil... And he could even understand the allure for immortality if the legends were true.
But what was more... He wondered what role he was now to play.

 

[Lenuta]

Pearlescent fangs sank deep into her soft flesh, so sharp and quick, her flinch was late. Blood spilled onto the heavenly stone, staining it with her blood as it dripped and splattered. It was a moment, necessary, and quickly over. Gingerly the stoic Nocterose wrapped the wound in white cloth, the color slowly becoming ruined by the flow of crimson that soaked into it.

Next, the goblet. It stood on a podium, coupled with an ornate knife. The blade was grasped in Avrams's capable hand, the steel well cared for, the handle regularly oiled. No matter the craftsmanship, the blade was still not as sharp as the fangs that had bitten her. It was not Lenuta that would be harmed this time, the dagger dragging across Nocterose's own veins. The blood that frothed was too deep, too dark. Still crimson, yet blackened and unholy as it leaked into the goblet. He kept the blade inserted, no hints of anguish or discomfort, assuring there was plenty of liquid before he finally removed the weapon from his skin. The second the steel was relieved, the wound closed. Not even a scar was left in its wake.

Now was the time. Lenuta took the goblet in both her hands, staring down into the blood as she steeled herself for what was to come. She didn't dare hesitate a moment more. The goblet was brought to her lips, his blood poured down her throat. She continued until she had the goblet was completely upright, ensuring she missed none of it. With a clatter it fell harsh upon the marble. Lenuta grasped at the podium, heaving as a chill began to run through her veins. They bulged and grew dark, warmth draining from flesh, the scelra of her eyes bloodied.

She did not resemble any of those around her, gasping for air as the beat of her heart began to slow, and a hunger filled her very being. Her cry of pain echoed within the secluded room, canines pushing out, making way for piercing fangs. She was so.. hungry. She ached.

That's when she heard it. Rushing and flowing. A beat resounded in her ears. Her monstrous gaze wildly looked towards the source, seeking out that intoxicating sound. She stepped down from the stage carefully, her body moving unusually, as if she were not used to her own limbs. Heinous eyes trained on Tzuriel, and a moment later she was against him, her mouth at his neck, her fangs forced into his flesh with a brutality that would surely knock him from her spell.

Warm blood filled her mouth, sweeter and tastier than anything she had ever tasted before. She wanted it all. To drain everything from within the husk she held with a deadly grip. The others watched in silence. Waiting to see what Lenuta would do. There were intricacies to becoming a vampire that most of the world was unaware of, the transformation hushed and secret. It required a bite, the vampiric toxins entering the blood stream, and then supplemented with the blood of the same vampire. This was common knowledge to those versed in vampiric happenings, but there was more to the curse. There were two kinds of vampire. Monsters, who drained their first victim entirely, killing them, creating an unbearable hunger that was never sated. Or they maintained control, their first victim left alive. Would she drain him entirely, turning her into a monster? Or would she refrain, maintain her intelligence, and become a higher being?

A small voice in the back of her mind nagged at her, urging her to stop, that she'd had enough. A flash of azure interupted her thoughts. But it was so good. Crimson dripped down her own neck, her bite sloppy. No more. No more.

No more.

She flung herself away, a hand grasping at her mouth to stop her from launching on him again, body convulsing once more. She remained like that for several moments, and once it was obvious that she would not be reaching for Tzuriel once again, an attendant stepped towards him. A salve coating his wound, stopping the bleeding and enhancing his body's healing capabilities.

Lenuta's face lifted upwards as she took a great breath, the last she would ever need. Her veins returned to normal, sinking beneath flesh that became truly flawless. Deathly pale, her hair growing a shade darker, glossed as if it were strung from silk. Her lashes parted, vibrant eyes looking upon the world anew. Her fingers stretched and grasped, feeling the strength that now flowed in her. A satisfied laugh, breathy and faint, escaped her lips as a smile dawned her bloodied face.

She had done it.