[FONT=Palatino Linotype]Lexia…

Lexian Temple of the Nightsisters…

Saphire entered the Great Hall of the Lexian Temple of the Nightsisters where Ishara had summoned her to meet with her. As she walked into the dark hall, where the very essence of shadow magic emanated, Saphire slowly approached Ishara and knelt before her. There was a moment of silence where only the sounds of the crackling torches mounted on the pillars could be heard. The two large doors of the hall then echoed as they were shut by Allysha who then crossed her arms and stood guard by the doors.

“You summoned me My Sister?” Saphire respectfully asked in a very low voice.

“I did Saphire; there is an important mission I must send you on. This mission is of great importance which is why I chose you. Rise and sit” Ishara said as she waived her hand, signaling Saphire to sit next to her. “I have been in communication with someone whom I have come to have a great deal of respect for and even consider a fellow sister.” Ishara handed Saphire a data pad, “Have you heard of Celestia?”

“I have My Sister” Saphire replied as she looked over the data pad…

“You are to secretly go to the Celestine Palace to make contact with Akasha D'alaetos. She is expecting your visit…”

A great deal of time passed as Ishara continued to go over what was required of Saphire when she met with Akasha. Saphire’s skills spoke for themselves and Ishara had the utmost faith in her to complete this important mission.

Ishara rose, as did Saphire as Allysha opened the doors. “Now Saphire, Kyra is waiting for you outside. She will accompany you to the hangar and assign an interceptor to you. Success My Sister” Ishara said firmly. “Success My Sister” Saphire replied as she bowed. She then left the Great Hall and followed Kyra to the hangar.




Lexian Hangar…

Kyra assigned one of the black Eta-2NS interceptors to Saphire who quickly entered the cockpit of the ship. Days ago, Kyra had trained Saphire on its controls and she had mastered them quickly and with great skill.

“You destination has already been entered. Once you land, the interceptor has been preprogrammed to return” Kyra informed Saphire who nodded she understood.

The interceptor hovered for a moment before it shot out of the hangar and into orbit. The interceptor then coupled with a hyperdrive ring and the stars began to streak as the hyperdrive engines were engaged. Saphire would take this time to meditate and focus the energies of Shadow Magic within her for her mission.

She would do as she was so ordered...

...and she would indeed succeed.




Celestia…

Celestine Palace…

It was late evening after Saphire had managed to infiltrate the palace security. Normally it would not be easily managed, but her contact had specific instructions on how to do so and just where this prearranged meeting would take place.

As planned, Saphire's arrival went unnoticed...

The royal chambers were dimly lit as Saphire quietly hid behind some lavishly decorated curtains hanging high from the ceiling. It was a rather elegant suite, no doubt resembling the elegant woman she would soon meet.

The door to the chamber opened and voices could be heard, one of which was Akasha’s. After some time passed, the conversation ended and she heard that those who accompanied Akasha had been dismissed. Silently Saphire emerged from behind the thick cloth of the curtains and knelt behind Akasha.

“My Lady Akasha D'alaetos…” Saphire announced in a calm and low voice as she surprised Akasha who then spun around to look at her, dropping the glass she held in her hand which shattered when it hit the ground. “My name is Saphire; I have been sent by My Sister Ishara to contact you as agreed upon. I am yours to command My Lady... and Sister.”

As she knelt, Saphire looked up at Akasha to await her reply…[/FONT]

Celestine Palace, Hours Prior

Stunning...

Though the word hardly summed up the lavish beauty and regal spendor of the most glorious palace on the Relephon Moons, it fit nicely. The Palace itself was a massive superstructure built centuries ago by the former lords and ladies of House AlGray. Surrounded by lush and fertile gardens, the Palace stood as a monolithic triumph to the extraordinary wealth and political influence that the Relephon Moons held. Words alone could hardly describe the breath-taking beauty of the Celestine Palace.

Deep behind the consecrated walls of the Palace, Lady Akasha D'alaetos sat in silence before a mirror as Alia, her handmaiden and trusted friend, delicately twisted her hair into neat flowing brown curls. Atop her head, one of two of the Royal Crowns of the Relephon Moons sat neatly nestled in her soft brown hair. Her blue and gold evening gown almost seemed to shimmer as the natural light outside grew dim, but did not fade. True night in the Hapes Cluster was impossible, and accounted for the greatest Hapan weakness and quite possibly there only flaw, night blindness.

"Do you think they'll come?" Alia's words seemed tense and uneasy.

"I don't know, Alia. I don't know..."

"I don't like this. I don't like it at all."

Akasha nodded her head slowly, but said nothing as she watched her stern face in the mirrored reflection before her. Her complection was flawless, her eyes deep and beautiful, and her overall structure perfect in almost every aspect, but it was easy for a woman to see herself as a hideous blob rather than the stunning beauty that she was which accounted for her overly vain obsession with beauty, another Hapan weakness and flaw.

"You realize that if the Commonwealth were to make another move like they did on Dreena, we'd be done for. Arranging holes in the Palace guard in perfect synchronization is dangerous, not to mention treasonous."

"The Prince," the words seemed to be venom on Akasha's tongue "is still recovering from the battle of Dreena and will never find out about this. Lord Delaeda has us well protected, Alia. Please relax! You're making me nervous!"

Alia bit her lip and continued carefully fingering each strand of hair into perfect order around the crown atop Akasha's head. She loved Akasha. Like a sister, or perhaps, even a mother. And that is why she would go through great pains to make sure she was safe and protected. Reaching down, Alia carefully fingered the dagger attached to her corset to make sure it was still there.

"Give it to me."

"What?!"

"The dagger, Alia. Give it to me."

"I don't know what you're talking about, my lady."

Akasha shifted her facial expression, and gave Alia a skeptical look in the mirror as she raised her eyebrow. Alia tried to hide a grin by biting her lip.

"Fine," Alia pulled the small dagger from the hidden pocket in her corset and handed it to Akasha. "But don't blame me if this Nightsister Witch turns out to be a Sith Priestess in disguise."

Akasha looked down as Alia continued to fix her hair and carefully ran her elegant fingers over the dagger.

Grand State Room, Hours Later

Late evening...

One could hardly tell a difference in the time as the two women quietly entered the large living space of the Palace known as the Great State room. Prince Lucian liked to make some of his most prominent impressions here with diplomatic meetings with the larger, more intergalactic factions (even though the idea to him was abominous). The room itself was perfect for the meeting. It was large and open so they could easily see someone coming, yet secluded enough to easily dismiss the guards without working up much suspicion. The two women spoke in hushed whispers as they entered the chamber and closed the immense double doors behind them.

"I spoke to Talon. He didn't hear any news of an intruder. All is quiet."

Akasha nodded her head. "Good. I wonder when she'll be here?"

"How do you know it's a she?"

"I don't. Maybe it's a he?"

"Maybe you shouldn't have taken my dagger." Alia said with a smile as the two quietly made there way deeper into the immense room.

"I'll be fine, Alia. Honestly. If I am to die here at the hands of an assassin, it will be better than dieing at the hands of one of my brothers assassins. It's only a matter of time before I die either way, so I have nothing to loose."

Alia's expression changed to one alot more serious and troubled as she nodded her heads and bowed deeply before her mistress. "Good evening, my lady. Be safe.... be well."

Alia embraced Akasha in a hug and caressed her cheek before quietly walking away, pushing open one of the immense doors, and carefully closing it behind her.

She was to be Akasha's lookout, and give two stern knocks on the door if she heard anyone coming.

Waiting in the silence of the room, Akasha walked over to one of the many small bar buggies, and poured herself a glass of fine wine. If tonight was to be her last night alive, at least she would go out in style.

Turning from the cart, she heard a soft females voice, and watched a figure emerge from the curtains only a few feet from her.

“My Lady Akasha D'alaetos…” The announcement was calm and soft, yet the unexpected intrusion startled her so much that she dropped her fresh glass of wine. As it shattered on the floor, a tremble of fear (or excitement she wasn't sure) trickled down her spine. “My name is Saphire; I have been sent by My Sister Ishara to contact you as agreed upon. I am yours to command My Lady... and Sister.”

As she knelt, Saphire looked up at Akasha to await her reply...

She stood in silence for a moment, her hands still trembling with the excitement and/or fear of the visitor standing before her. She seemed to be human in form, or something simular. Perhaps, Akasha even dared, even Hapan. She was a woman of immense beauty, and greatly resembled the figure of Alia, her trusted handmaiden. Perhaps one or all of these things set Akasha at ease as the figure before her remained in a graceful bow as if waiting to be recognized before arrising.

"Please," Akasha's voice trembled for a moment before she regained her diplomatic composure. She brought her voice back to a hushed whisper as she spoke, and the woman before her followed suit. "Call me Akasha."

Saphire arose from her bow and smiled. "Sorry if I startled you my la.. Akasha. My most sincere apologies."

Akasha shrugged her sholders and made her way to the window, readjusting the curtains and looking out over the Palace grounds making sure that the woman hadn't been spotted.

"I wouldn't worry too much about startling me, I'd worry more about my brothers guards. Or the Union. Or the Commonwealth. Or, forces help us, the Crown Prince Dakkon Darksword himself." Akasha's eyes grew wider as the list of enemies continued to spill almost out of control out of her mouth. "Or..." a twist of intricate fear twisted through her body, and a knot in her stomach tensed at the words she spoke next.

"The Sith Master Lupercus Darksword...."

[FONT=Palatino Linotype]Saphire had no more fear of the names mentioned by Akasha than the fear she felt of a common fly buzzing about her head. “Names mean very little to me though I’m sure each should be taken seriously. I have been sworn to protect you with my very life if necessary. That alone should put some of your concerns to rest.” Saphire’s words were stern and confident as they were intended to put faith in her abilities.

Saphire began to walk about the room, becoming more familiar with her surroundings. Akasha’s eyes were watching with great curiosity at her every move. As she walked passed a mirror, she paused. Saphire looked over her revealing black outfit, black boots, and lightsaber hanging from her belt. “I think a Nightsister, such as myself, will not blend in well here at the palace. I trust you have a plan in mind so I may remain close at your side for your protection?” Akasha’s head tilted, “I may have something in mind.”

Saphire turned as she sensed another presence in the room which seemed to emanate from Akasha herself. It soon became clear to her that Akasha was with child. Saphire’s eyes narrowed as she smiled, “May I also say I am honored to meet your future heir as well Akasha.” The surprise on Akasha’s face spoke many words but Saphire felt that a minor demonstration of her powers was a good idea.

Saphire moved her attention toward the double doors. “Your friend is quite agitated. Perhaps when she sees the Nightsister Witch is not a Sith Priestess, she will calm herself.” Saphire shared a small laugh with Akasha, and then her right eyebrow rose. “It is what is on her mind the most at the moment, as well as your safety”

Saphire moved to stand before Akasha and crossed her arms. “I have been told only some of the details of why I was sent here. My Sister Ishara said that you would tell me further details once I had made contact with you, but also to assure you she sent me with her utmost confidence.” Akasha nodded, “I shall, but there is something we must attend to first while I do.”

Akasha left Saphire alone for a brief moment before she returned holding a gown made of fine white silk. As she held it up to Saphire, she stopped her for a moment. “You cannot be serious?” Akasha only smiled as she handed it to her and, reluctantly, Saphire began to change into it.

Saphire was quite uncomfortable as the gown restricted much of her movements, but she was starting to understand why it was necessary. “You were about to tell m…” Akasha interrupted, “Now we need an alias.” Saphire sighed as the ordeal was becoming increasingly annoying.

“I don’t know, perhaps Allesandra? Lady Allesandra Saphire?”

Akasha nodded. “Agreed.”

Akasha began to smile and placed her hand on her chin as Saphire turned around and stood up straight. “Alia will fetch some shoes and perfume for you...” Akasha smiled, “She may even do your hair.”

Saphire sat uncomfortabley down in a chair...

"Now Akasha, can you please elaborate the details of what you expect me to do or shall we continue to play dress up?"[/FONT]

“Names mean very little to me though I’m sure each should be taken seriously. I have been sworn to protect you with my very life if necessary. That alone should put some of your concerns to rest.”

Akasha nodded her head, but did not speak. The woman obviously had very little fear of anyone, let alone the enemies of a distant and foreign culture that she knew nothing about. Hapans were proud people; Noble people, but they were not feared people, and they certainly weren't very well known on the Galactic stage. Still, Akasha wondered in silence if the woman standing before her would quiver at the feet of Lupercus Darksword, Dakkon Darksword or her own brother, the Prince Lucian D'alaetos.

She observed in silence with great curiosity as the foreigner carefully observed the room as she walked around it. Hapan culture was rich and beautiful, and the room wreaked of it. Vast collections of antique artifacts dating back to the days before the Great Dionysus Dynasty decorated the walls and tables of the room. Cultural masterpieces from throughout the cluster adorned the richly colored walls, and were all accented with the spectacular architectural design of the Palace itself.

“I think a Nightsister, such as myself, will not blend in well here at the palace. I trust you have a plan in mind so I may remain close at your side for your protection?”

Akasha tilted her head and smiled at the stranger standing before her.

"I may have something in mind..."

As Saphire turned, her face grew distant in thought yet her cold stare remained fully focused on Akasha. She narrowed her eyes and smiled before Akasha could react.

“May I also say I am honored to meet your future heir as well Akasha.”

She couldn't help but be overwhelmed with suprise. No one, not even her most trusted and loyal subject Alia had been made aware of the fact that she was with child. Regaining her diplomatic composure, Akasha allowed the suprise to fade off of her face slowly, cloaked behind her warm smile and charm as she continued to observe the curious movements of the woman before her.

“Your friend is quite agitated. Perhaps when she sees the Nightsister Witch is not a Sith Priestess, she will calm herself.” Saphire shared a small laugh with Akasha, and then her right eyebrow rose. “It is what is on her mind the most at the moment, as well as your safety.”

Saphire moved to stand before Akasha and crossed her arms. “I have been told only some of the details of why I was sent here. My Sister Ishara said that you would tell me further details once I had made contact with you, but also to assure you she sent me with her utmost confidence.” Akasha nodded, “I shall, but there is something we must attend to first while I do.”

Akasha left Saphire alone for a brief moment before she returned holding a gown made of fine white silk. As she held it up to Saphire, she stopped her for a moment. “You cannot be serious?” Akasha only smiled as she handed it to her and, reluctantly, Saphire began to change into it.

“You were about to tell m…”

"Now, we need an Alias." Akasha interrupted her counterpart, and helped her zip the back of the dress and smooth out some of the wrinkles and folds. The dress itself was almost perfect, delicately and tightly fitting the curves of her hour-glass shaped body.

“I don’t know, perhaps Allesandra? Lady Allesandra Saphire?”

Akasha nodded. It was, infact a very Hapan sounding name. “Agreed."

Akasha began to smile and placed her hand on her chin as Saphire turned around and stood up straight. “Alia will fetch some shoes and perfume for you...” Akasha smiled, “She may even do your hair.”

Saphire sat uncomfortabley down in a chair. Akasha immediately made a mental note to have Alia teach her the proper manners of a Hapan lady. And how to fold her legs.

"Now Akasha, can you please elaborate the details of what you expect me to do or shall we continue to play dress up?"

Akasha poured two fresh glasses of wine and returned to the seating area, taking a seat across from Saphire and handing her a glass of wine as she took a seat. As Saphire sipped it, her face cringed.

"You'll have to get used to Hapan wine so that you don't create suspicion, and I'll be sure to have Alia teach you the proper forms of social ettiquette and manners relevent to Hapan society. I plan to inform the Palace guard that I intend to hire a new Handmaiden by the name of Allesandra Saphire. That is where you come in." Akasha paused to take a sip of her wine and continued. "My brother isn't the only enemy. I fear that my blood connection to him will eventually lead to my downfall one way or another. Open war against the Crown Prince of Hapes is never a good idea, and Lucian has also ruffled a few feathers on an Intergalactic scale. Should he die, I would be left to command the Relephon Moons as sole heir to the D'alaetos fortune. It is because of that burden that I fear for my life. Lucian has many enemies, but he also has many allies, but a woman holding the D'alaetos name is a threat to him as well. You see," Akasha leaned back an rested one of her arms on the back of the couch "Hapan women have always been culturally dominant to men. We're sort of like an Amazonian society, if you've cared to read any of the fiction books on the market in Coruscant. Times are changing, Saphire. Men are once again fighting there wars and plotting at the feet of the women of the cluster."

Saphire attempted to bare another sip of the wine, and once again cringed involuntarily. Akasha smiled.

"With the help of the Nightsisters, perhaps I can ride this whole war out and survive for the sake of my family and for the sake of my unborn child. I never asked for a war against the Crown Prince. I never asked for the vast and powerful enemies that now seek to end my life, and it is because of those enemies that I require protection."

Saphire nodded her head, but still looked confused.

"The Nightsisters are not mercenaries, my lady. We..."

Akasha once again interrupted. "I know what and who you are. There are many other reasons why you're here, Saphire. Reasons that I cannot reveal even to you. I ask humbly for your help in keeping me and my child alive long enough for me to attempt to put an end to this war and restore peace. If you cannot do that, you are free to leave without resistance..."

[FONT=Palatino Linotype]Saphire nodded, “As I indicated earlier Akasha, I am yours to command. I also find your culture very comfortable as do my fellow sisters. We too can be called an Amazonian society which was why your proposal to Ishara was agreed upon.”

Saphire took another sip of wine. This time, she managed to control most of her reflex to wince at the bitter taste of it. “You mentioned your brother Lucian. You also said if something were to happen to him, you would assume power over the Relephon Moons.” Saphire’s eyebrow rose as a dark smirk came across her face. “Something then needs to happen to him.”

Slowly Saphire rose to her feet. “I suggest after Alia elaborates me on your Hapan etiquette and mannerisms that we arrange some way that I come into contact with Lucian.” Saphire smiled, “I trust he has a liking to women?”

Saphire seemed to now begin to acquire the taste for the Hapan wine as she took another sip, almost without reaction. “I can become very persuasive with him as I taunt him with my..." Saphire chuckled, "...womanly attributes. After some time, he’ll let down his guard and I will strike.” Saphire tilted her head. “Then you will assume power.”

The door then opened as Alia entered the room and locked the door behind her. Saphire shared a gaze with her as she walked passed her to take a place at Akasha’s side. No doubt Alia was a bit surprised at Saphire’s appearance.

Saphire smirked, “I hear you will be doing my hair.” Alia looked a bit surprised until Akasha nodded to her in agreement. “Then I suggest you get to it as time is of the essence.”

After Alia gathered what she needed, she stood behind Saphire and began tending to her hair. It was a new sensation for Saphire since she had never been pampered before in her life. This was in no way the manor a Nightsister would normally act, but if it would help her complete what was required of her, she would do what was necessary.

“I hope you are not concealing another dagger while you do my hair dear Alia.” Alia momentarily froze after Saphire made her comment. “Relax, I may be the last person here you will need it against after what Akasha has just told me.”

Saphire pulled two white stockings that Alia had placed near her onto each of her legs. She then pushed her feet into the two high heeled shoes which were laying on the floor just in front of her.

Alia then cautiously moved in front of Saphire and began applying perfume and makeup to her face. Alia was still quite nervous being so close to a Nightsister.

Taking another sip of wine, Saphire then returned her attention back to Akasha. “Now tell me Akasha, how can I get a chance to meet your brother Lucian?”
[/FONT]

"It won't be easy," Akasha stated bluntly as she finished off her glass of wine. Saphire seemed more accustomed to the wine with each drink. That would prove to be an invaluable asset at dinner tomorrow night. "Lucian was severely injured at the Battle of Dreena. He's been on bed rest for the last few days, and the Palace and Celestial guard has been more than doubled since his paranoia set in. He fears that it is only a matter of time before the Commonwealth and the Crown Prince Dakkon Darksword invade the Relephon Moons. I must admit that I, too, share the same fear. But I trust that you could safely evacuate us should that happen."

Saphire half smiled and took another wholesome sip of her wine, finishing the glass off and setting it aside as Alia carefully applied eyeliner and blush. Akasha observed in silence for a moment before she continued. "Prince D'alaetos doesn't trust anyone, and I'm afraid that not many are to be trusted in the Royal court. Betrayal, deciet, and deception are commonplace here, so getting close to him may take some time." Akasha readjusted a small necklace around her neck and listened for a moment to make sure they were still undisturbed.

"While killing Lucian might be the best answer to all of our problems, I'm not sure I can bring myself to order his execution. He is still my brother afterall, and I fear that his death would lead to a further civil war... a civil war amongst the Relephon moons and the Royal Houses of Relephon." Saphire nodded her head and listened as Alia continued her makeover.

"Do you honestly think the death of Lucian D'alaetos will solve all of our problems, Ms. Saphire?"

[FONT=Palatino Linotype]Saphire smiled, “I was sent here for a reason Akasha. You know of the sisterhood and of how we feel toward men. Without a thought I would then say you should sit in the throne and prove you are the better ruler to your people. If your brother would kill you, then the same feeling should be returned to him.” Saphire stopped Alia for a moment and leaned in toward Akasha. “I would only hope you would strike first.”

Saphire leaned back and Alia continued to tend to her. “The Nightsisters will stand by you Akasha. You already know what we ask in return.”

Saphire’s eyes winced. “As for your brother, I agree that taking things slowly will be the best course of action. At first, I will show no interest in him.” Saphire smiled, “Men just hate when we do that to them.” Akasha shared the smile at the comment. “Afterwards, I think some chance encounters around the palace would work. I can make sure he notices me without him thinking I even know he is there.” Saphire smirked, “I can be rather clever with that.”

As Alia finished, Saphire rose to her feet and began to elegantly walk around the room. She was quite impressive as she seemed to almost play her new role perfectly. She passed the mirror and paused at it once again. Saphire then stared at her new appearance for a moment. “Rather amazing.” She turned and smiled at Akasha. “The Queen of Lexia I suppose!”

Saphire walked back to where Akasha and Alia stood. “Well, I can think of no better time to be shown around the palace.”

Saphire then got into character…

“Would you like to go for a walk outside My Lady?” Saphire asked as she bowed to Akasha and smiled.[/FONT]

Celestine Palace
Two Weeks Later

"She's here?!" Akasha stumbled as she stood from her bed and quickly pulled on her bathrobe. Alia quickly pulled a dress from Akasha's wardrobe and started pieceing together an outfit for the occasion. "I can't believe no one told me she was coming!"

"No one knew!" Alia's words were dround out by Akasha's frantic tossing of clothes in all directions. "Please, calm down m'lady! Her shuttle has only just landed. It will take her some time to get into the Palace." Akasha glared at Alia, but only for a moment as she threw the bathrobe off of her sholders and onto the bed, fitting her corset tightly around her body. Alia began to tie the strings.

"You don't know my cousin very well, Alia. If I know her as well as I think I do, she's outside the door right now laughing at us both!"

Alia tried to hide a smirk. She'd never seen Akasha quite so worked up before. Could her cousin be that bad? Her question seemed to be answered as the double doors of Akasha's bedroom suite opened, and she nearly jumped out of her skin as she turned.

Lady Saphire stood with her armes crossed and her sholder resting on the door frame. Her elegant dress danced at her sides as she came to rest and her diplomatic smile illuminated across her face. "I figured you could use some help."

Akasha fumbled around a bit more, jumping on one foot as she desperately tried to pull a shoe onto the wrong foot. Alia's arms bounced with Akasha in unison as she continued to tie the corset. Saphire casually stepped forward and took the shoe out of Akasha's hand, slipping it onto the right one.

"You really don't have to be so worried about things, M'Lady." Alia's words were jittered as she tried to keep up with Akasha, why by this point was franticly running around the room looking for jewelry, purfume, and makeup.

"You don't know Elizabeth, Alia!" Akasha snapped as she spreayed a few good squirts of purfume onto her neck. "She can be a monster, or a saint. It depends on how she feels about you. Frankly, I'm suprised she accepted my invitation to the dinner at all. She might bare the D'alaetos name, but she certainly doesn't see eye to eye with most of us."

Alia nodded and finished up tieing the corset. Saphire managed to find the other shoe and pulled it out from under Akasha's bed, carefully slipping it onto her other foot. Alia started on Akasha's hair.

"She makes me so crazy! You never know how she's going to act toward you. It's almost like she's bipolar or something!"

"Calm down! Everything is going to be fine!" Saphire reassured Akasha and selected a few pieces of matching jewelry from across the room. "Besides, you look absolutely fantastic!"

Akasha smiled, with smeered lipstick, a run in her panty-hose, and hair that looked like a rats nest. She looked like a freighter wreck.

Saphire smirked.

"Now, let's get to work..."

Celestine Rose Gardens

"Their she is!" Akasha turned her back against the cold stone walls of the palace. "I can't do this... I can't. She's insane!"

"She's not insane! She looks like she's in a good mood! Look at that smile..." Alia reassured Akasha, and carefully fixed a rogue strand of hair that had ventured down across her forhead. Akasha took another peek, and again put he rback to the stone walls of the palace. "I just can't do it. I can't. I can't. I cant."

"You have to! And you will!" Saphire interjected, pulling her arm and jerking her around the corner. Akasha stumbled for a moment, and regained her composure

Smoothing the wrinkles out of her dress, she walked forward.

The stunning figure of Akasha D'alaetos appeared under the white arched trellis. Crisp red roses grew up each side, carefully and intricately weaved into the design. The morning sun shone high above them, and the figure of the Relephon Moons hanging closely in the sky accented the lush colors of the garden. Flanked on either side by Alia and Saphire, Akasha made her way forward to Elizabeth D'alaetos and her entourage. Offering her most stately curtsey, Akasha smiled and welcomed Elizabeth.

"My dear Cousin, Welcome to Celestia. Lucian should be joining us shortly. I trust your trip was a pleasant one?"

Elizabeth slowly walked around the Celestine Rose Gardens and began to look at the familiar surroundings. Some of the memories were good, others not so good. Familiar faces greeted her as former acquaintances stopped her along the way.

Elizabeth then turned and narrowed her eyes while remaining silent as she looked over her cousin Akasha who had just appeared before her.

"My dear Cousin, Welcome to Celestia. Lucian should be joining us shortly. I trust your trip was a pleasant one?"

Elizabeth put on her best smile. “My dearest cousin Akasha, I indeed had a wonderful trip and I thank you for your warm welcome.” Elizabeth looked at the others who were around her. “My friends, I must speak to my cousin alone.” Everyone left to leave the two to their conversation.

Elizabeth leaned toward Akasha and lowered her voice. “You bothersome little traitorous bitch; how dare you summon me all the way here to Celestia! Did you bring me here to take part in the endless squabbling between you and Lucian?”

Elizabeth’s expression equaled the rage that began to course through her veins. They may share the D'alaetos name, but Elizabeth had very little love for Akasha. The two had not gotten along since they were in their early teens.

There seemed to be something different in Akasha’s face. A serious look that was also disappointed in her response to her greeting. Normally Akasha would yell back and the two would walk away from each other. It was at this moment that Elizabeth knew the situation between Akasha and Lucian had become very much worse.

But why would she support Akasha? She had no reason to side against Lucian and had also been able to stay clear of their quarrel. Then another question had come to her mind. Why would Akasha go out of her way and summon her here?

Elizabeth looked around to see if anyone was watching. “I am assuming the situation between you and Lucian has become gravely serious. Why did you summon me here Akasha?”

Just as Akasha was about to speak, it had become clear by the way she stopped that Lucian had arrived.

Elizabeth bowed. “My beloved Cousin Lucian, it has been too long. I bid you my most humble greetings.”