So you're my neighbor? (Clarissa)

[Aelodil]

Patrolling nearby the borders that Gil'ead shared with Uru'baen and the Spine, right next to Teirm, was the Lord of Gil'ead Aelodil. It had been an eventful month. His uncle was dead, his bloodline stumped with him the last one alive, and his relatives all moving in to claim their Lordship of each different Province that had once been ruled by his uncle. His eldest cousin, Reru, had taken Uru'baen just south of Gil'ead, Clarissa had taken Teirm just southwest, and Ragdar had taken Dras-Leona, just south of Teirm. Though he had few covetous thoughts, he didn't quite trust his relatives. For one, he had never talked to them outside of meetings for official business, and for another he knew just how ambitious his family was.

His first action after taking the mantle of Lord of Gil'ead had been to lower taxes. Taxes had originally been 20%, causing the middle class and lower class to struggle to pay for food, water, or shelter. In addition, those insanely high taxes weren't necessary. The government of the Province had enough money. The city needed no reconstruction, no major projects were in progress, so no money was needed save the money for maintenance. Lowering the taxes down to 11% had cost him much argument with the rest of the Cabinet. It disgusted him how greedy they were. Finally, however, he had managed it and he was rewarded by listening to the heart of the people.

Despite not being a covetous man, however, Aelodil was realistic enough to know his neighbors probably weren't. His first thoughts were to annex his smaller neighbor Yazuac when the time came and he was confident enough that Gil'ead could handle it. While he would have favored moving further into Du Weldenvarden he knew that angering the Elves would get him and Gil'ead nothing but trouble. He thought about further south. If the opportunity arose, he would also annex parts of northern Uru'baen from his elder cousin. Though they were related by blood, he harbored no love for his cousin. After all, he had never met him to judge him.

Thinking of Teirm, though, Aelodil thought he could manage something. Clarissa was reasonable after all, and she, just like himself and the rest of his family, wouldn't do anything that wouldn't benefit her while also doing everything she could that would benefit her. Perhaps he could talk to her about partitioning northern Uru'baen. The political steps behind such an action were major. For one, he would be certain to end up on Reru's bad side if he were to go through with it. On another hand, it would solidify a friendship between Teirm and Gil'ead. Though, there also was the worry of the other Provinces disliking such an aggressive show of force.

He shook his head. Politics.. it seemed to be a deadly game that his family excelled at. Feeling the familiar feeling of Oroku on his mind, he opened his mind to listen, "Perhaps you can start off with annexing Yazuac with a more peaceful approach. Deploy Trojan Horses throughout the Province. It's a small Province. While forcefully annexing part of a Province as large as Uru'baen would be less frowned on than normal, forcefully annexing a small Province would surely bring jeers to Gil'ead."

Sighing, Aelodil nodded. "I know. It's such a tangle of a mess. Hopefully Clarissa got my message." he responded to Oroku. He had had a messenger go to Teirm, bearing a message for Clarissa to meet him where he was currently. He had made sure that it was signed, "Sincerely, your cousin." hoping she would prefer that over using his actual name. Looking around, he was glad he chose this particular place. It was just at the edge of the borders between Gil'ead and Uru'baen, open plains everywhere. He had made sure that it was an open place so that she wouldn't be able to plan anything funny. Plus, being in Gil'ead gave him a slight advantage in many different ways. Sitting himself down on the ground, he stared towards the mountains, waiting. Like always, his Rider sword was in its sheath on his waist. Peaceful the times may be, but not so peaceful that he'd roam without his sword.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa, having taken the province of Teirm through underhanded threats and double edged words of birthright, had immediately began looking at neighboring provinces. She never thought a full assault on Urubaen would work since it held the eldest of her family members. Rerukusu would certainly take offense to that. Yet Dras Leona and Gilead were held by Ragdar and Aelodil respectively. The new Lady of Teirm was confident she could take them if necessary but she wanted to have Urubaen and the Spine more.

So when sitting and lowering taxes that hurt her people, she was pleasantly surprised to get a message from Aelodil. He wished to speak to her but the location was outside of her land. With a sigh, the Lady had readied Vervada and soon set off to speak with her cousin. This would also provide the chance to scope out the Spine a bit.

When the dragon flew into range of where the meeting was supposed to be, Clarissa instantly withdrew her mind from the surroundings and gave Vervada the command to land nearby but stay calm. Clarissa walked toward her cousin and bowed her head slightly. She was in his land now so she would be respectful. Aelodil, I assume you know of our relatives holding Urubaen and Dras Leona? Both Rerukusu and Ragdar have been sent messages in case this is a trap.

Truthfully she hadn't sent them but the messenger was under orders to embark if she didn't return in two days time. So that comment had been to see how her cousin would react and if she needed to be ready for a fight. With a slight twitch of her fingers, Clarissa loosened the whip around her wrist so it would uncoil easily if she had need of a weapon.

[Aelodil]

Sitting down, one leg bent at the knee upwards resting on the ground, the other stretched out on the ground in front of him, Aelodil shaded his eyes as he looked up to spot Vervada. Standing up, his hair in a mess as usual, he let his arms dangle. For one, if he needed to fight his elder cousin, his hand would be nearer to his sword without alerting Clarissa to any dangers. After all, he didn't plan to fight her. When she neared him, he gave a bow from the waist and a courtesy gesture of the arm across his chest in respect to her. No matter how much he felt indifferent to her and Reru, they were his elder relatives and he'd give them the respect they were due.

Listening to his cousin as he raised himself back to his normal posture, Aelodil seemed to not give off any signs of caring about the message. He had nothing to worry about, considering this wasn't a trap. Rather, he smiled sweetly at his cousin, moved closer to her, grabbed her hand gently, lifted it to his lips and kissed her hand. "So it would seem. Don't fret, Clarissa, I'd not set up a trap. Rather, the only reason I asked for you to come here was so that it would be evident that there was no trap on either side. Look around you. The nearest trees and mountains are too far for any kind of ambush to be set up. Besides, you are my elder cousin. No matter what may happen, you have my utmost respect." he told her. While most times in politics he used sweet talk that was all complete lies, this time he was telling the truth.

Clearing his throat, Aelodil continued, "Before we continue, you must be tired. Here, have a seat." snapping his fingers in signal for a nearby servant to bring two chairs and a table. The servant was well built with muscles, though that was all he had going for him. He helped Clarissa into her seat before pouring tea for the both of them. In turn, he brought Vervada a large plate with a fully grown deer before he bowed to Clarissa and Aelodil then disappeared out of sight.

Knowing Clarissa might think the tea was poisoned, Aelodil took a sip from both cups, smiling at her. He rested one leg on the other beneath the table. It was then that Oroku decided to introduce himself, "Hello Clarissa, Vervada. It is a pleasure to meet the two of you." his voice rumbled throughout their minds.

Aelodil set his cup down, took a breath and began, "Speaking of my cousins, your brothers, that was chief among the reasons why I have asked for you to meet me. I've received word from Ragdar. He calls for a partition of Uru'baen between the three of us." he paused for effect before continuing, "Now, Clarissa, I ask that you make the wiser choice. Reru is already being targeted by major Riders with power beyond the two of us at their disposal. Make the wise choice here, my dear cousin. I do not wish to enter conflict with you." he waited for her response. His blonde tousled hair in a mess contrasted with his attire which was formal and completely black along with his charcoal eyes.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa had been through many meetings where the other party would use sweet words and a silken tone to try and ease her mind but she was raised by the most silver tongued liar in history. So when Aelodil spoke she was able to distinguish that he was sincere but a hint of respect meant nothing when a wise opponent respected the enemy they stabbed in the back. That was why she held off from drinking until Aelodil had already sipped from his glass and then, hers as well. Slowly she took a small mouthful of tea and swallowed with nervous motions that could barely be recognized.

Oroku spoke to both her and Vervada which Clarissa gave a small thought of acknowledgment towards. Yet her mind was upon the words coming forth from Aelodil's mouth. Speaking of taking Urubaen from Rerukusu made her bare her teeth in anger. That was her elder brother whom she had watched and looked up to for years, even admired for his determination. And now because Aelodil and Ragdar had no respect for him, they brought her forth to plan an uprising against her flesh and blood. Yet how was it any different than what they had done to Galbatorix himself? The only difference was she despised her father but loved her brother.

Even still, Clarissa was a bright mind and she knew of the forces moving against Reru even now. With another sip of tea, the woman uncoiled her whip and examined the bronze colored metals making up the end. You plan treachery against my blood and act as if I should join in your madness? Have you never been in the same room as Ragdar before? He is just as power hungry as Rerukusu and wouldn't hesitate for a second to turn on us if it suited his needs. I see much of my father in all three of you. The backstabbing and silver tongue spewing words made of honey. Galbatorix did the same thing back when he was young. So forgive me, baby cousin, but of all three of you I am more inclined to back Reru in his land than I am you or Ragdar. After all he was the one who protected me for so many years. I will give you one chance to persuade me otherwise but know that I am bloodthirsty like any of this family.

[Aelodil]

While most people would flinch at the venom lashed at them from Clarissa, Aelodil kept his sweet smile fixed on his face. This time, only, he leaned closer over the table to his cousin. "You misunderstand, cousin. I care not for power. In that aspect, I'm different than all of you. All I care for is the safety of GIl'ead and its residents. Tell me you do not see the logic in our plan. Reru will never be so vulnerable. Though we may never have met outside meetings, we know one another enough to know that you are a smart woman. Siding with Reru will get you nothing." he paused his speech for a second before continuing, "With the other ancient Riders and even the Guardians of some Branches moving against Reru, there is no hope for him. Siding with him will earn you nothing, in comparison to siding with us which will get you that land and power you relish." he stopped to sip his tea.

He sat back in his chair and continued, "Another mistake. I have no silver tongue. We both know that you've come to realize I've not uttered a single lie to you. Reru is of my blood as well, but emotions tend to get us no where. In comparison, if you listen to logic and reason, you will realize the benefits far overshadowing if you were to listen to your emotions." much as he wanted to let his emotions speak out then and there - the thought of having an older sister or older cousin was welcome to him. He had been a lone child ever since that incident long ago. But he didn't. Not in politics, no. Not in this deadly game he played with his cousins.

Aelodil eyed his older cousin and asked, "Is that not reason enough? The winning side and the losing side, they are both clear as day in everyone's eyes. The choice is yours, cousin. In addition.." he sipped his tea and put his cup down before leaning over the table again, "Whoever said I trust Ragdar? I trust him as far as our ambitions align. After that, he may as well be my enemy. The same for you. It would be disastrous if you had to worry about defending your new territory from both north and south. So join forces with me, cousin. I swear that I would not betray you." speaking the last bit in the Ancient Language. It was quite the deal that he offered her. Refusing it would be interesting to say the least.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa sighed and looked at Aelodil with contempt in her stone hardened gaze. Every fiber of her body was aching to kill him then and there but a part of her was still sure he spoke the truth. Whether or not her body gave warning, Clarissa reached out in a blur and yanked Aelodil to her face. Listen closely to my words. You may be blood and Ragdar is family but Rerukusu was my best friend and the only person who cared about me when we were still youths. I care not about being attacked for neither of you could take Reru without my help. If I so chose I would bring him to war with both of you and we would divide your provinces in a heart beat. But you speak true. He is targeted and already doomed so I will help. Just don't expect me to actually fight my brother. You have Teirm backing your quest. Now if you mean to be peaceful, once this is done then I will discuss a war with Ragdar. He is the one who planned this and I will gladly dethrone him.

A weaker woman would have been in tears at the thought of hurting her blood but Clarissa simply shoved Aelodil backward and laughed at him. Few people have the courage to blackmail me the way you just did. For your sake, an alliance between our provinces would be very beneficial. I still have allies and some new friends who would help me overthrow you if I made the request.

[Aelodil]

Aelodil noticed the sudden shift of body mass in Clarissa but didn't make a move to stop her or dodge the iron clutch that grabbed his collar to her. He couldn't help but acknowledge his cousin at a woman as he looked her in the eyes, face to face. Listening, he felt something melt inside him. He wished he had someone who cared for him like that. However, he didn't show it on the outside. No matter how hard it might be, when he played this deadly game of thrones he had to look to be chiseled out of stone. Though he would have argued that Ragdar and he could've taken Reru together, he decided not to. He nodded towards the end. "I understand." he said. For the first time since he had talked to Clarissa, he lied. He didn't understand. He didn't have anyone he cared for that much.

Fixing his tunic and sitting back down, Aelodil smiled at his cousin. "Blackmail? Whatever could you mean, dearest cousin?" he asked in mock surprise. If there was one thing he shared with his family it was that silver rapier tongue. Sipping his tea again, he set the empty cup down. "But of course, dearest cousin. Ragdar will be next, then. After all, I never promised him anything beyond tackling Reru together." he told her before he continued, "Oh? I'd be honored to have my dearest elder cousin look after me with all the resources at her disposal. I look forward to you taking care of me, dearest cousin." his voice thick on what seemed mock pleasure. Underneath the show, however, Aelodil was happy. Even though he knew Clarissa probably abhorred him to the point where she probably wouldn't bat an eye at killing him, he hoped they would get closer. Family was something he never really had had.

Raising an eyebrow at the latter comment, Aelodil decided it best not to further pursue the subject. After all, she was probably right. Hopefully, however, it wouldn't come to that. Though he cared not for Reru, he hated the idea of fighting someone of his own blood. Stepping out of politics, his shoulders sagged and he relaxed slightly before saying, "I'm sorry, dear cousin. Sorry that this is what we've been reduced to. Fighting our own blood. Human greed is a detestable thing. They say it is one of the Seven Deadly Sins that all beings have. I must concur." this time his voice had no mocking tone in it. He was showing Clarissa his true feelings. Though he harbored no love for Reru, he hated to fight his own blood.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa knew the second that Aeodil lied to her but it was well that he didn't try to argue the point any further. With a half hearted nod she ignored all of his mocking tones and finally spoke once more. Aelodil, you have no siblings and our family has never been one to accept cousins as important figures. Because of that you wouldn't know the pain I feel when I realize Rerukusu will be betrayed by me. Still...maybe, and this is speculation, it is better to not think of him as my brother. One day I will seek vengence against the mastermind behind this attack. I just hope we can develop a family bond before then. Now, what do you know of the lord of the Spine? I hear tale that he is a shade and rising up as a business leader but he stands in my way when I annex the province.

Clarissa had probably imagined it but she could have sworn the second Aelodil had been that close to her he had noticed her as more than just family. Odd as that was, it was strangely comforting to know that people saw more than just the daughter of Galbatorix when they looked at her.

[Aelodil]

Aelodil smiled at Clarissa. This time, though, it wasn't that silver sweet smile. It was a genuine smile. A heartfelt one. He appreciated the notion. "I just hope we can develop a family bond before then." Those simple words meant much to him and it showed in his body language. Finally, he got a hold of himself and turned back to the ice cold mindset. He thought her preposition through. Annexing the Spine. But really, the Spine held little to no value to them. The forests just north of Gil'ead supplied them with more than enough lumber, and lumber was the only use of the Spine. He frowned and asked, "But why bother with the Spine? It's more trouble than it's worth. Fighting an enemy in the mountain for some lumber? If it's lumber you need, Gil'ead has heaps of it with the forest just north of them." he paused for a second as his devious mind came up with a plan.

He smiled, that same silver smile, though hinted with some emotion as he said, "Business, you say. So I have a thought; rather than going through the hassle of annexing it and managing it afterwards, have him supply you with gold. You have little to nothing to benefit from annexing the Spine. I can supply you with all the lumber you may need. On the other hand, if you spare him, the pay off would be plenty of gold." he lightened up to the idea. It wasn't pity for the Shade that drove him to seek an alternative to annexing the Spine, but rather that he realized the Spine wasn't worth the trouble. For one, annexing a Province with little military power like that would surely attract unwanted attention. For another, to fight an enemy in the mountains would be too annoying.

He rose from his seat and laid back down on the grass, the sun shining on him. He gestured for Clarissa to do the same. It was a beautiful day with beautiful weather, after all. He rather preferred to continue the discussion laying down like this. It was both more comfortable and gratifying.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa wound her golden colored whip back around the thin right wrist it had been on before while she thought carefully about the Spine Province. Finally she unclipped both katanas and set them next to her hand as she laid down upon the ground where it would be more comfortable. Silently she thought an apology for her actions toward Rerukusu and Ragdar.

The Spine is mountainous and deadly if braved by the unprepared which was why my father avoided it for his long time as king. Because of that, I would like to have a stronghold in those very mountains where few would ever come after me. Although a more democratic approach might be beneficial. How about we do it this way. The three of us have Gilead, Teirm, and Dras Leona. On top of that we will be taking Urubaen soon enough. After that is our acquisition of Ragdar's land. During all of this we should focus on trying to either gain or make Yazuac Province an ally. Once that is done the two of us will speak with this shade and convince him to agree to peaceful terms. Basically he will be lord of the Province in title only. The true rulers would be us. Then not only do I reap the benefits but so do you. I might even go as far as to suggest we take Kuasta and its Province as well.

[Aelodil]

Aelodil nodded in agreement. He was fine with that prospect of the Spine. After all, if they were to fully annex the Spine the only people they would be able to rely on to do the job properly were themselves. The other soldiers simply didn't have the means or the training. He shook his head as he began to speak, "Do not worry. I've already gotten Yazuac under my hand. They've had some problems recently. I offered Gil'ead's protection to them if they were to join the Province. I'm awaiting their response, though I'm sure it will be favorable." though he was rather skeptical about invading Kuasta. After all, just south east of it was Belatona. He didn't fancy fighting ancient Riders, Dragon Spirits, and Fallen Angels or risking their anger.

"If were to annex Kuasta as well it would be quite troublesome. For one, it would anger those in Belatona and they aren't people to reckon with. For another, while we can easily support maintaining Provinces that we'll annex such as Yazuac and Uru'baen, Kuasta is very far off and would be difficult to reach. Another thing, I move that we do not completely partition Uru'baen." he paused his speech to put a hand up to stop any arguments as he continued, "No matter, it is still the Capital city. It would need to be a Province in its own. I say we be selective with what we take from them. For instance, if I cut off the river to the city of Uru'baen from the north and Ragdar from the south then we could imply taxes on the residents for a supply of fresh water between the three of us." he thought his plan was a little too devious. After all, he was no friend of suffering. He didn't want to make the people suffer, but then again, this was politics.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

((Fair warning, I had a really bad day at work so this may get a bit dark while I cool off.))

Clarissa,laying with her arms behind her head in a comfortable position, turned her head slightly to glance at Aelodil briefly. He was proposing not only to leave Kuasta alone but also to take only part of Urubaen during their scheme. With a half growl she spoke slowly. No matter how old an opponent or how strong, they all have weaknesses. Take the Fallen Angels for example. They are strong and have survived for millennia after taking part in a war. But they are still susceptible to a blade through any vital organs. Dragon spirits, just destroy nature and they fall easily. Riders get pretentious and lax in their old age so they pose little threat to a more agile and quick witted opponent. Don't act as if you think we can't beat them. It will just be more difficult.

[Aelodil]

Aelodil turned to his cousin as well and shook his head. Though he knew if they put their minds to it they could take Kuasta by force, he preferred not to. His cousin may have been brilliant at tactics for battle, but politics were another thing. Propping his head up with an arm, Aelodil began to explain his thoughts, "For one, I've already proposed to Camarat the official partition that will take place of Uru'baen. He seems to agree so long as we leave a decently large portion of Uru'baen. After all, it is the capital of what had once been a Kingdom. Plus, that's where the Grand Council are - they'd not take kindly to anyone trying to gain command over the city that was their headquarters." he paused to take a breath before continuing, "For Kuasta, though I'm confident if we put our minds to it we can deal with the people in Belatona, I also am confident that showing too much force already will end up in our demise."

Knowing his cousin, she was sure to object so he continued his explanation, "Please believe me, Clarissa. No offence meant but I've been through this politics game far longer. It's like war, just different. In wars there are no rules. In politics there are. The difference being that if you break the rules of politics you pay a steep price worse than war. We need to take this one annexation at a time. Start off with parts of Uru'baen, bode our time a little further, then we can start thinking of annexing other Provinces." he hoped Clarissa would listen to him. He was confident that he was more than capable of handling the political side of things.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa, being naturally inclined to violence, was unable to accept what Aelodil was saying. Yes it was the smart move and politics had always involved a more subtle approach but she wasn't able to avoid conflict easily enough. So when her cousin started speaking about waiting she was already preparing a rebuttal. Yet he was prepared for her to argue and was explaining his reasoning to her. With a half hearted nod she gave up.

Politics aren't my strong suit. You can handle that but wars are my area of expertise. If you and your silver tongue fail then I am going to step in and do what I think needs done heedless of the consequences we will face.

((Sorry, today isn't my day for posting. It took all day just to scrape this together. Maybe this weekend I can get more in depth posting done but only if I don't get ill.))

[Aelodil]

(It's alright. What's important is that you're fine and have the free time and motivation. You don't have to push yourself c: )

Giving a slight chuckle, Aelodil raised an eyebrow at Clarissa and said, "Well then my dear cousin, I'll take your word for it. As long as you keep in mind; the pen is mightier than the sword. Besides, I'm certain that soon enough they'll be monitoring us to make sure we don't gain too much power." he paused before continuing, "While we could deal with whatever they may send at us by killing it, why waste this opportunity to get on their good side? That way we should be able to get away with anything else without having to use much effort. You may call it being lazy on my side, but if anything I'd say it's just a real time saver."

"You two are quite something, you know. Gone from trying to get at each others throats one minute and the next casually flirting and talking about dominating the world. It's a strange world, that's for sure." he heard Oroku rumble out loud.

Almost flinching, Aelodil asked, "What do you mean flirting? Oroku, not sure if you recall, but we are related by blood. Besides, you have a very bad mood of telling the mood. You're miles off, I can tell you that much." hearing Oroku laugh set a sneer on his face. He figured it out now; Oroku was just trying to tease him. Little did Oroku know that Aelodil would be the one to weather the storm here in case Clarissa got mad.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa was opening her mouth to reply to Aelodil when she heard Oroku speak to them both. It was instantaneous that her mood went from cautious to blatantly defiant. Me flirt with this man? Ha! It has nothing to do with blood relations as far closer have married to carry on the family name. Aelodil is too attack from the shadows and lie to your face when it comes to conflict. I prefer my men a bit more...confident and brave. Sorry cousin but you aren't my type. With that she grinned and tossed her hair back while trying to come up with a way to get back at the dragon.

[Aelodil]

Aelodil stared in astonishment at Clarissa. Then that look of astonishment quickly changed to that of amusement and he gave out a hearty laugh. It wasn't until a few moments later that he finally composed himself. "I'm sorry to say, Clarissa, but.." he began before continuing, "If that is the kind of man you think I am then you are quite mistaken. Oh, that was quite hilarious. I'll tell you this: you've apparently not ever seen me in combat before. I much rather take my opponents head on rather than anything else. Like I said, though, politics is a different game than war. In politics if you decide to go for a frontal assault, there is no retreat, and you end up with more and more opponents. In other words, it's suicide. You've much to learn of politics." he got bold and decided to flick her ear.

Quickly, he gathered himself and jumped back to his feet, prepared to give flight if Clarissa decided to retaliate at his teasing flick. Last thing he wanted was to be on the receiving side of one of her blows. Plus, that whip didn't look exactly inviting. "Popular with the ladies, aren't we, Aelodil?" Oroku taunted Aelodil in the confines of their minds. In response, Aelodil gave a snort of laughter - not even bothering to talk in complete sentences.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

((Ha Oroku is a jerk right now. If only Clarissa had heard that last comment...))

Clarissa grinned and stood up, slowly walking toward her cousin with a faint glimmer in her eyes. He thought she knew nothing about the deceptive ways of politics? Well it was time to show she was more diversified than he would ever know about her. As she came within range, the woman pouted her lips and batted her eyes at him. Then with lightning fast reflexes she grabbed his arm and in a devastating blow swept his leg and took him to the ground. Hopefully she landed with him on his back and her straddling his chest.

Now dear cousin, what makes you think I am so violent and incapable of being a politician? After all... She leaned down and let her lips brush his forehead slightly before continuing. all it involves is twisting the words you say and making people think you offer them a good deal. Then you strike with quick decisive skill and let them know who is in charge. Women are so much better at that than men could ever be.

Vervada was watching intently when suddenly she caught the thoughts from her rider. Oh this would be interesting to watch. Or at least it would demonstrate just how Clarissa could find the weakness in anyone and exploit it.

[Aelodil]

If Clarissa expected him to be stunned by her beauty, she was in for a surprise. "It's a sign Aelodil. The fact that you are not stunned by such a beauty is quite a sign. What do you have to say for yourself?" commented Oroku, making sure that Clarissa would hear him too.

Aelodil snorted but his amusement didn't last long. He knew what was coming but didn't bother stopping it. He'd enjoy his time, perhaps. His amusement however quickly perked up again as he said, his voice coated in amusement, "I'm sorry dear cousin for underestimating you. You are quite right, in a nutshell. However I must say you're wrong about the last part. After all, a true politician wouldn't take the bait so easily. And besides.." he stopped quickly, pushing her off him and grabbing her wrists while positioning his lower body's force in a way to pin her, he said to her, "You are a woman, dear cousin. You should be a little more careful. I may have self control but some other people might end up a little less... pleasant, as it were." his voice soft and quiet, his messy blonde hair dangling. He stared her in the eyes with his charcoal gray eyes.

Oroku reached out to Vervada, and asked her, "Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you Vervada. The name's Oroku. Funny scene we've gotten into here, huh? Glad that it's well out of the way of people's sights. They might get the wrong idea, especially with these two going at it as they are." his voice very much amused.

When you die, your world ends. The world may go on, but in your eyes, the world ends with you.

-Carpe Diem

[Brenton]

Clarissa felt her throat tighten and a slight uncertainty entered her thoughts as she got nervous. No man had ever held her pinned like this and she wouldn't allow another to do it, so why was Aelodil looking more handsome by being able to resist her? With a shake of her head she looked up at her cousin and genuine tears coated her eyes to the point they glistened. Aelodil, please get off of me and let me up. Few people have noticed I am just as adept as they are and so I have a habit of finding their weaknesses. Yet...just please. I can't handle your eyes staring at me like that.

Her voice quavered as her lip began to tremble a split second before a hardened look of determination entered her. With a new calmness, Clarissa wriggled free just enough to wrap her arms around Aelodil and hold him close to her. She would have stopped but the sudden angle made her roll and soon she was pinning him again. Something inside the woman snapped and she instantly jumped up and moved away from the man quickly.

Vervada laughed and spoke to Oroku. That last move of Aelodil's made Clarissa feel uneasy. It doesn't surprise me she ran just now since I can see her thoughts so clearly.