Jewell was prepared to play the role of the perfect hostess on the night of the charity event. At least she had done her best to look the part. Her outfit was a union between the classic black dress and an Indian sari; the latter being a variant on the style women usually wore on her own, acutely hot, home world. The outfit was actually made of two parts: a dress missing a strap over the right shoulder as well as having the left side and most of the back entirely cut out, and the actual sari wrapped over and around the dress. The black fabric of the dress felt as soft as flower petals against one?s skin and moved as fluidly as water against her form. The sari was the real work of art, though. It was pinned to the dress beneath it at her left shoulder; the pin resembled a small star resting there, refracting light in every direction when it hit it correctly. Starting from the star, a design had been woven into the sari?a trail of stardust made out of silver faerie dust. It trailed down her body, around her back, and to the floor. The sari was arranged about her frame in such a way that it left her entire right shoulder still bare, draped over her left shoulder and arm, and revealed a good portion of her exposed left side when she moved.

A star to match the one she wore on her sari rested in Jewell?s crown of blue curls. She did not wear a single other adornment, even her pointed ears were free of any sign of silver and gold. Her makeup was light and natural save for the silver dust over her lids that lent an extra sparkle to her grey eyes.

She had made sure that everything was in order before stepping into the lobby to await the arrival of her guests. The food was all ready or currently being prepared, the string quartet had been set up over an hour ago, the bar was well stocked, and the building looked spotless overall. Now it was only a matter of waiting patiently, her smile dimpling her cheeks, for the first arrival.

A team of four black horses pulled the totally black coach rapidly though the cold dark streets, approaching the waterfront from the south. The driver was guided to the proper entrance by the glow of the lights and the awning over the street, and he drew the coach to a halt at the entrance. Count Talomar Longden stepped out of the plush interior and looked over the establishment as the door shut behind him. He was dressed in a black tuxedo, a white silk shirt, and expensive black shoes with a mirror shine. A black sable overcoat covered him down to several inches above his ankles.

This was going to be interesting. Jewell Ravenlock Kidd had never been his favorite person, but since she had been his wife?s best friend, he set those differences aside. Her husband? Now, that?s a different story, but he?d let it pass for now. This was a charitable event and for a good cause, and this city was long overdue for something that was positive.

Talomar had other reasons for being here. He had already gathered together a considerable force of those who wanted to end the mindless violence and the stupidity of certain individuals who had nothing better to do with their worthless lives than blatantly accosting the young innocents of the city. He knew there were others in powerful positions who must be feeling the same concern for the city, and those people would likely be here this night.

He entered the building and turned to the left after sighting the coatroom. He removed the sable coat and handed it to the young elven lady and took his ticket. ?Thank you,? he said with a smile that promised a very nice tip if she was careful with the coat.

Talomar turned and noticed the hosts standing in the lobby as Sid and another very impressive woman were walking away. He made his way to the hosts with a pleasant smile upon his face. ?Jewell, you look absolutely ravishing,? he said with no little admiration upon his face, glancing at the bare right shoulder and the lovely neck. ?It looks like you?ve done a marvelous job putting all this together. I?m looking forward to the evening.? He turned to Stephen and nodded with a smile. ?Good evening, Stephen.?

He looked over to where Sid and her friend had gone, then turned back to Jewell and Stephen, ?Excuse me, please. I think I?ll go mingle with your guests.?

There was no need for a fancy arrival, no heralds announcing his presense nor any dramatic swirl of pomp and circumstance. His arrival just was. It happened, and he was now there.

Such is the life of the Baron. He strolled casually under the awning and through the silvery doors, removing his elaborate feathered hat as he made his way inside. Apparently it was to be a fancy high to do here on the Waterfront so he dressed for the occassion. It appeared more as a military dress uniform resembling something from the British Navy, only it was more designed in his style. No frills or tassels, just the suit and shiny gold buttons. Polished black leather boots and a gentlemans cane to complete the ensemble.

After he walked through the doors, he barely gave a glance toward the coat check girl before he took in the scene before him. His face gave a slightly impressed expression at the attention to detail regarding the lobby, even if it was a bit extra wet.

With a nod and expected smile, he turned on a heel to greet the host and her husband.

"My Dear Jewell," He smiled, bowing his head as he reached out a hand to greet her. "What an interesting place you've chosen for this charity function. I should have brought some swimming trunks." he chuckled.

He then turned and smiled politely to her husband, inclining his head in greeting. "You must be Stephen. The second best Pirate in the realm, according to your wife."

Grinning with a hand extended.

Talomar had his gaze upon the backs of Sid and the woman she was with; more precisely ? their backsides. He lifted an appreciative brow and walked toward them, waving off a server with a tray of drinks as he closed the distance.

It had been a while since he had a decent conversation with the Ancient One, Obsidian Shayd. He still remembered the night when he was seriously flirting with Sid, and a strange woman went ballistic on him ? a woman who was destined to become his wife. He often wondered what would have happen had not Tara been there in the Inn that night.

He came up behind the ladies and touched Sid lightly upon her upper arm, ?Such beauty is impossible for a poor man like myself to resist,? he said warmly with a sincerely smile. He placed a kiss on the corner of her mouth. ?Just seeing you again, Sid, makes this entire night a glorious affair.? He gave her a wink and a sincere smile, for he was truly glad to see her again.

Talomar then turned his smile to the woman who was with Sid. ?Good evening,? he said with a slight bow. ?I?m Count Talomar Longden.? He smiled into her beautiful green eyes, and sensed a certain power within her. In fact, the power that existed between these two women was quite extraordinary. Who was she?

He waited for Sid to introduce her.

Belial enjoys the beauty of the surroundings as she and Sid wend their way deeper inside the establishment. They find themselves pausing to speak to some of the most affluent of Rhy?Din?s residents. The Lord and Lady of Huntingdon Range stop to chat with the pair. This time it is Bel?s turn to offer up introductions.

Small talk has never been either Bel or Sid?s fort?, and sooner than later the couple continues on their leisurely stroll.

Sid gives Bel the ?look?. With a deep throaty chuckle Bel nods, she understands what her sister is wanting.

?Ahh, yes?? and in an intentionally quiet voice Bel adds, ?They hail from far north of the city, but their lands are well known for their lush textiles. You should see their sheep, sweets?? Bel doesn?t elaborate; she sees no need. ?The Bloods have been trading with them for years now. The Lord Huntingdon is often seen in Rhy?Din, however he tends to leave his wife at home in the country. Rumors are he has a mistress?? Not like that is news in Rhy?Din?

The quicksilver spark in periwinkle eyes was growing by the moment. Sid was quite impressed with the array of those on Jewell's guest list and at the often little known associations between them; the water Fae had chosen most well amongst Rhy'Din's social stratus and done her research thoroughly it seems. In fact, being tender at the Red Dragon afforded the Trueblood quite the trade in gossip and so with the introduction of the Lord and Lady Huntingdon she could not help the covert wink given to the gentleman as she shook his hand, the sly shift of her gaze across the room to where his lady friend waited in the greeting line.

Sid had not known of the Lord or his wife, nor their connection to the Bloods, but after Bel introduces the pair and then regales her with the extra tidbit of news Sid nudges her sibling to point out that rumored Mistress. "Tha' be the verra one, sweet. I ne'er knew the Lord, only certain bits o' who he mayhaps be. Constance, howe'er, be quite the prize amongst the elite ol' codgers in the realm. She be doin' quite well for herself, though it be seemin' tha' many o' the ol' coots dun continue on the livin' path verra lon' after attainin' her? services, so to speak."

Belial?s amusing laughter is kept private and quiet, just between her and her sister as she checks the lady Constance out with a casual seeming glance. She knows plenty about that one already. Constance has questionable character to say the least and can easily be bought. Bel had not known who the Lord of Huntingdon ?played? with, but is happy to file the information away. Perhaps she will find use for it in future business dealings with? perhaps the lord?s wife?

Sid had spotted Count Longden, G'nort, and Erinalle in line while eyeing it for the Lord's mistress. Seeing the wave from Erinalle, she returns it with enthusiasm and a bright smile, pointing the lass out to Belial before they continue to peruse the gorgeous setting of the lobby and beyond.

Belial is quick to join in on waving to Erin. The lady looks spectacular tonight, Bel silently promises to mention it later to Erin, but for now her attention drifts to yet another she hasn?t met, G?nort. Belial has kept up on the race for Governor; she has familiarized herself with all the candidates and immediately recognizes him as one of them. She will need to make an opportunity to speak to the male? get a feeling for him.

It is at this moment that Count Longden first captures Bel?s attentions tonight. From assessing G?nort Bel?s gaze strays on to the Count and for a flicker of a second, she catches her breath. Of course, Bel knows who he is? although they have yet to actually meet. Just as quickly she looks away, not wanting to get caught gaping at the man, instead Bel turns her focus on Sid.

Bare feet fairly float over the floor, the points of multi-layered handkerchief hems trailing across the tops of them. Arms and neck bared by the sleeveless chemise Sid looks like a sliver of moonbeam wrapped in a midnight blue sky. It was not regularly that Sid and Bel got a respite like this one, and she was taking advantage, holding close to her sibling's arm and indulging in reckless gossip. Marc Franco would be so proud!

Feeling eyes upon them and looking over a bared shoulder, she tugs at Bel's hand lightly. It appears as if Count Longden is heading straight for them. For the smallest of moments the Ancient idly ponders a night not so long ago when she had thought herself and the Lord might make an interesting pairing. Truth to tell, she still thought that, but dearest Tara had taken the Count for herself exclusively and the Trueblood would have done nothing to interfere in that. However, time was always on her side.

Sid?s smile widens upon spying Count Talomar, fox light in her glamoured blue eyes. ?Ye mus' meet this one, Bel. I actually canna believe ye 'ave nae considerin' he be married to our Tara. But, seriously, the charm tha' oozes off this one. He definitely be dark an' delicious,? the chuckle honey-dark and velvet rich as she turns to greet the male's approach.

?Such beauty is impossible for a poor man like myself to resist.? Turning into that kiss and capturing Talomar's lips for a brief but sizzling press of flesh, she grins and long fingers squeeze his upper arm affectionately to show she appreciates being able to see him, as well. "There be two words in tha' sentence, Lord Longden, tha' dun necessarily apply to ye, aye? Poor bein' the first," that fox lit grin flashing once more with her teasing.

Bel?s green gaze once again rests on Talomar as it is he that?s caught Sid?s attention now too. Bel has heard much about him and has viewed him once or twice on image orbs collected by the Bloods from the inn. He is not a complete unknown, but nevertheless has suddenly become an intriguing mystery.

While he is busy greeting and flirting with Sid, Bel has plenty of time to assess him close up and somewhat personal. The first thing she notices is that he has far more charisma than could be captured by the image orbs, it fairly radiates off of him, just as Sid had mentioned only a moment ago. Not only is he devastatingly handsome but there is an air about him, an ambience that speaks of power and authority. Bel?s green gaze sweeps over his clothing and takes in his carriage, he strikes her as a man used to getting his way.

As the Count turns his attentions to her, Belial offers him her most beatific of smiles, as she extends her hand towards him in greeting. That green gaze lifts to meet Talomar?s intense black eyes. She feels an immediate attraction, which of course puts her as suddenly on the defense. She needs watch herself around this male? Bel learned long ago to be cautious of those who have such a powerful initial reaction? especially where she?s concerned. She has suffered much at the hands of the fickle Fates over such spontaneous allure.

"Count Talomar Longden, I be likin' to introduce ye to the Lady Belial, actin' head o' the Bloods o' House Onyx. Bel, this be Count Longden," moving out of their way so they might complete the introductions made.

?Ahh, Count Longden? Your reputation, sir, precedes you,? Bel quips teasingly with a wicked twinkle in playful green eyes as she waits for him to take her hand.

((Authors Note: The above was co-written by the players of Sid and Belial.))

?Blasted collar.? Lucius grumbled softly as he tugged at collar of the black silk shirt for what was probably the tenth time since getting into the carriage fro the ride from Shadow Hold to the Waterfront Charity dinner. Beside him Fiona looked over and laughed softly, shaking her head in amusement at his protests. It was well known that he didn?t like being cooped up in a carriage, and even less having to go without his normal suit of plate armor.

But, tonight decorum dictated otherwise. However, form could benefit function also, thus the dark green evening vest he wore was made of well-tooled supple leather, matching the black bracers he wore this evening. Combined with the leather overcoat, he felt at least a little better, knowing he wore some kind of protection. But perhaps more noticeably absent was Drachmel, the greataxe simply too unwieldy for tonight?s charity dinner. But, there was no chance of Lucius being completely unarmed. The bracers were enchanted much like his battle-gauntlets, and a dagger was tucked along with his breeches into calf-high boots. Auburn hair flowed in waves across his shoulders, one of those rare times he wore it loose in public.

The invitation had been a bit of a surprise, as Jewell and Stephen Ravenlock-Kidd were friends of their children Cieara and Daniel. However, it seemed as though Jewell was starting a push to revitalize RhyDin City, an effort laudable in his opinion. Without doubt, there would be the usual politicking, but if luck held well, it would be at a minimum.

Squirming slightly in his seat, he again tugged at the restrictive collar, before he looked over to Fiona. ?The things I do??

Idly adjusting the velvet gloves upon long fingers she glanced over at Lucius, icy green eyes glittering with muted humor in the darkness of the carriage. ?Stop fussing M?Heart. Ye look dashing, but ye will ruin that effect with all ye fidgeting.?

Her own form was shrouded within the warmth of a elegant black velveteen cloak. Covering the equally rich cloth of her forest green gown. Dark hair was worn up this night. The long strands braided into a graceful style and within the midnight waves small delicate emeralds glimmered.

Fiona was far more relaxed in her garments then Luc, for she wasn?t unarmed. Hidden about her form were a variety of weapons. She had learned long ago just how to hide such things in a clever fashion. Including the myriad of hairpins and deadly stiletto heels adorning her feet.

Her words had the effect desired, and he quieted down for the rest of the ride, which was thankfully soon to end. One of the valets opened the door and extended a hand for Fiona to disembark from the carriage, with Lucius following. ?Impressive.? He muttered softly to her as they entered RhyDin House on the Waterfront and moved with the small crowd toward the greeting line.

(co-written by the players of Fiona and Lucius)

?I?m very sorry to hear that, Erin. I hope he gets well soon but I am glad you decided to come anyways,? her smile was sincere but it was not the open, easy-going one she often wore around the Inn; it was more tailored than that, as Jewell too was trying to play the role of the adult she actually was tonight. It was clear, though, that she was more pleased than her words let on at Erin?s compliment to the restaurant, ?Thank you! A lot of hard work went into it but I think it turned out well.?

After greeting a few more people, whose names and faces Jewell had spent the last few weeks memorizing, as they were wholly unfamiliar to her save in reputation, Fiona and Lucius DeAuster were before the Kidd couple. Jewell openly admired how well they looked together, the lady always cutting an admirably figure as did her husband. There were few people Jewell respected more in the entire city than Lord and Lady DeAuster. Jewell and Stephen were friendlier with the DeAuster children, Cieara and Daniel, than the parents, but Jewell had thought inviting Fiona and Lucius over their children a wiser choice; although they were not openly political in the city, she thought they had an active interest in RhyDin and could possibly be a source of support for her pet project. It was also always wise to be on good terms with the neighbors who played an important role in keeping the Northroad Community as safe as it was.

Jewell did not reach out for either the lord of the lady?s hand when it was their turn in line, choosing a more formal bow of her head to greet them both. ?My Lord and Lady DeAuster, we are both so pleased you could accept our invitation this evening. It seems that we seldom meet each other.? Even as Jewell greeted the DeAusters, she was keeping a sharp eye on the other goings-on of in the room: Talomar speaking with Sid and Belial, the Lord and Lady of Huntingdon Range speaking with another couple, Lady Constance who she knew only by name and reputation. It was not an easy task to keep track of all the guests while also welcoming those still coming in, especially since Jewell could not remember the last time she had to play hostess in such a situation, but she was still managing quite nicely.

Talomar?s silky smooth voice is not lost upon Belial; she rather appreciates the hypnotic and alluring tone. Green eyes remain steady upon his intense black gaze as she cants her head, watching the Count kiss her hand; perhaps her touch lingers in his a tad bit longer than necessary?

?Hmm, one could get lost in his eyes,? Bel can?t keep the thought away.

His words seem to fly effortlessly, indeed, an excellent display of his wit and cleverness. Belial allows him to speak without interruption finding his banter amusing and enjoyable. She is intrigued by his hint that he might be seeking something more than simply polite company. Belial smiles wider as her agenda lies in another direction as well.

"Borin', ye Count Longden? Perish the thought, dux. I believe the honor be ours at joinin' ye this night at the table." There be a dinner?' The thought, though, is fleeting. Sid's attentions are pulled this way and that, she is like a small child at a conservative Sunday service and bare feet are beginning to shuffle beneath the layered hem of her dress; glamoured eyes darting about their surroundings with a mixture of alertness and that glazed look that usually means the Ancient is about to check out.

Bel darts an apologetic glance at Sid, before linking to her mentally, ?Just a little business, then I promise I?ll behave?? No doubt Sid is already the wiser. Bel?s somewhat predictable in situations like these. Looking back to Talomar, she subtly repositions herself at his side, to infer a sense of equality. An overture of where she plans to lead him?

The link brings the Trueblood around, summer's blue eyes focusing on her sibling with a knowing twinkle in her gaze. 'Nae worries, sweet. I be expectin' ye to revel in ye business dealin's at a gatherin' such as this. Ye go an' 'ave a gran' time, luv. Enjoy yeself. Nae worry o' me.' She meant it, too, long fingers sliding a soft, reassuring brush along Belial's upper arm before eyes are looking to the front doors once again. 'Still nae Jack.' At this point she wasn't really anticipating her Ebon Knight to show, but one never did know and his presence would be most welcome.

Bel is the kind of female who enjoys taking advantage of opportunities and when such a ripe one falls in her lap she can?t help but shine with pure delight. She slips her arm through Talomar?s, offering an angelic smile up to him as she leans in towards him. The inference of intimacy is hard to miss. The spicy, cinnamon scent of her is like a warm embrace, a caress over bare skin, it beckons him ever closer.

?Count Talomar, I do hope you don?t find this forward of me, but I simply cannot let such an opportunity pass me by. We, Milord Lankyn and I, were just talking about you this past week. I was wondering if you would be interested in getting together, perhaps doing some business? I would very much like the chance to put our proposal before you?? Her whispered words trail away as Bel gives Talomar the opportunity to process her request. She?s not trying to be pushy or inconsiderate; therefore she applies no pressure.

A soft smile blooms on Sid?s pale lips, noting Erinalle fading into the background and Jewell's own uncharacteristic formality. Not for the first time, certainly not the last, the Ancient ponders on the nuances of feelings and propriety, manners and politeness. It is not as if she has never been subjected to such an atmosphere, nor carried on appropriately in the ways of courtly knowledge. The Maiden, however, was never one known to stay long at court or within its confines. There were more reasons than one for that. Still, despite being naked beneath her dress, no shoes upon her feet, she oft felt like these gentlemen she would see pulling and tugging at their collars when they think no one is watching. It is difficult caging Spring.

The sensations of the abundance of water are soothing and Sid is slowly drifting towards the waterfall. Spying Fiona and Lucius arriving she waves and smiles but continues aimlessly, angling slightly towards that background that Erinalle has found so inviting. It is unconscious, the mysterious smile, the dance of light in distant eyes, the turn of her head over bared shoulder to make the angels weep, quiet words flowing back to the Count and Bel. "I be goin' to mingle. ave gran' fun. Ye can be findin' me if'n ye needs," the scent of thunderstorms and newborn stars, heady wine and universes waft backwards in her wake. They would all meet later at the table.

Bel feels Luc and Fio arrive, as her niece and nephew Bel always has a mental link open with them. Since the Count currently distracts her, she will greet them later. Instead, that green gaze remains on those fathomless black eyes as she awaits his response.

Although she struggles to remain focused strictly on business, she?s finding the Count?s charm hard to resist. ?Bet a lot of women find him just as irresistible,? Bel forces herself to reflect, followed quickly by a silent but firm chastisement not to get involved with Talomar. Bel is fully aware of his nature and it glaringly puts her bad habit in a harsh spotlight. A bad habit she seriously needs to break!

((Authors Note: The above was co-written by the players of Sid and Belial.))

These functions were more Koyliak's specialty than his; he'd learned, over the past few years, to make a serviceable escort but he couldn't ever seem to match the elf's excitement and vigor at a chance to get dressed up (not that Koy ever dressed down) and rub elbows at these things. He quite approved of her latest dress design, though, and glad that she was taking it out for a spin.

He was also happy to attend this event; not only did it seem worthwhile, his palate was more than delighted to try out the restaurant?s food offerings. He wasn?t overly familiar with Jewell aside from some brief encounters in the Outback and Arena and was curious to see what she had in store for the evening. As the pair moved through the door and Koy switched into charm-and-grace mode, he did his best to match.

?Count Talomar, I do hope you don?t find this forward of me, but I simply cannot let such an opportunity pass me by. We, Milord Lankyn and I, were just talking about you this past week. I was wondering if you would be interested in getting together, perhaps doing some business? I would very much like the chance to put our proposal before you??

Talomar looked down into those beautiful green eyes and did not try to hide his admiration of the woman he finally had the pleasure to meet. Her arm had slipped through his and he laid his hand upon hers. "You and Lord Lankyn were speaking of me this week? I'm indeed flattered," he replied with a smile while he lightly stroked her hand. "I would love to get together; either with you, m'lady, or the both of you." He smiled and nodded to Sid as she excused herself to go wandering about the reception area. Talomar turned his eyes back to Bel's, "Would you like to take a walk before we go to our table?"

Belial smiled warmly into those mysterious black eyes. The Count was a marvelous specimen, a tasty tidbit to be sure and she felt the rise of another energy inside her, stirring a desire none too pure. The only display of her internal shift was the darkening to that sea-green gaze, not even a flicker of muscles twitch on the smooth perfection of pale features. Bel placed her hand over his on her arm, and leaned in to brush her body lightly against his as she granted him a slow nod.

?Walking would be a pleasure? although Luc and Fio, my niece and nephew will be joining us soon?? Belial didn?t need a second sense to know this; she knew she would do the same were she arriving. ?And yes? Milord Lankyn and I have spoken? If you wish to speak with Milord Lankyn, that can be arranged, Count? however? If you are willing, I shall be your liaison.? A cant of her head in a respectful manner, hoping he will be amiable with the idea.

Her last words brought a broad grin to his handsome face. "I can think of no other liaison I'd rather have, m'lady. The only danger is that our need for meetings could go on a very long time." He gave Bel a wink to indicate his statement was definitely a flirting tease as he led her over to the fountain area. His voice was soft as he continued, "I've desired to meet you for quite some time. My former wife had mentioned you often, although I was never quite sure exactly what the relationship was."

Bel chuckled softly and nodded to Talomar?s comment about Tara. ?You are not alone, Count. I do confess to loving and adoring our one and only Lady Tara? however? My relationship with her changed with the winds of her imagination? Although? I would be proud for her to always consider me her ?Aunt?? as do Cie and Danny.?

Belial was not immune to the Count?s flirtation, but she was also a keen business woman. She remained easy-going yet professional? ?Business before pleasure?? Of course, this brought Bel?s thoughts upon the potentials of the pleasure.

The Count is delectable? his energy, his power; he wears it with charismatic ease as if it has always been and always shall be his right. There is about him a nuance that screams of the primal, that tempts with little more than a hint in his smile, a light in the darkest depths of those fathomless black eyes and in the cadence of his hypnotic and mesmerizing voice. Oh, yes, he is utterly scrumptious!

With a teasing deliberation that was meant to infer she was as interested in him as he had expressed himself to be with her, she pressed gently against him and whispered low, for his ears alone. ?Long meetings do not daunt me, Count? nor do late nights? I would be happy for the honor and privilege of working with you? However, you have yet to learn what it is we seek. Perhaps it is this we should discuss first? before we skip into more entertaining and? pleasurable pastures??

The Count had not felt this attracted to someone in quite some time. Surprisingly, it was as much for her business attitude as it was for her obviously beauty and sensuality. He loved strong women, especially strong women with intelligence, and Belial easily qualified in both attributes.

He turned and faced her as they stood near the fountain. It was not by accident that he led her there. The flow of the water would cover their conversation from prying ears. ?There is something rather important and urgent that I also need to discuss with you, Lady Belial.? He would not yet be informal when addressing her. He looked deep into her eyes and spoke in that deep, silky voice. ?But you go first. Tell me what you seek.?

Talomar?s voice was like a feeling? It harkened back to days when romance was subtle and words held the power to win one?s love. Silky, smooth, a dream on the ears that painted images of him in decadent splendor sprawled atop the rumbled bed. And those intense black eyes seemed to beckon one to enter, to abandon oneself in all the wonder he had to offer. Yes, delicious indeed? It was a struggle for Belial to bring herself back to the moment and out of her wicked thoughts, but again? business first.

If she could but read his mind, she would find their thoughts running even closer along the same lines than she suspected, but for now she contented herself with the obvious. The Count had made no pretense to hide his attraction to her.

Belial also noted the interesting choice in his positioning of them. She too would have picked this area, where the white noise of the running water would make eavesdropping on them difficult. Talomar continued to impress her with more than his wit and charm.

The small, seemingly fragile hand of hers glided gracefully over his slender fingers in a brushing caress before it lifted to push stray curls from her eyes. She kept her gaze locked to his as she spoke in soft, intentionally low tones.

?Our business with you is two-fold Count. On one hand we seek to ally our Houses? On the other, is it not time to change the way things are done here in Rhy?Din? Too long have we dealt with the rising crime; the constant assaults on our citizens and properties. We feel it is time we make a stand against it. We are considering the possibility of a Citizens Council? And seek to hear what you might offer in advice towards such a cause??

Belial was fishing? although it may not have been obvious, that was indeed what she was up to. The Bloods realized that once Kitty left the Governor?s office, chaos could easily ensue unless the next Governor had the backing to get things done. That meant they needed to choose which of the candidates would be worthy for the job? Bel wanted to know who Talomar thought to be the best choice.

He listened to what she had to say, and it was only his control over his emotions and his natural calm manor that kept his surprise from surfacing. It was as if she had been reading his mail, or perhaps talking with someone who was at his gathering. Yet, that was impossible. The only possibility left was the one that was most attractive to him ? he and the Bloods had a similar vision and mission while in Rhy?Din.

?I?ve always had the highest respect for your House, the way you do business, the professionalism, and the loyalty. I strongly suspect that an alliance our Houses could be a very rewarding endeavor for both of us.? He looked about the room, quickly noticing others who had entered and seeing that they were still quite safe to speak frankly.

?Regarding the situation in Rhy?Din, you and I couldn?t agree more. If something is not done, I shall find it most unpleasant to continue to do business from here; and the truth is, I?ve grown rather fond of this place. You ask for my advice. You might remember that last year I ran for governor and lost. In part, because of the stuffing of ballot boxes, but I?m not making excuses. I think it turned out for the best. However, I have come to understand that the one who is in the governor?s position is not inconsequential. It?s important. I believe that any ?Citizen?s Council? should be quite concerned who is the next person to sit in the governor?s seat.?

He was not about to say everything on his mind ? not just yet. He was feeling her out, just as he suspected she was doing to him. Her words had him excited, but he didn?t want to get too optimistic before he heard more.

Belial?s smile widened as her hand fell atop the Count?s once more. A slow nod as she strove not to show the surge of excitement his words had inspired. It is almost as if he is in fact reading her thoughts. ?Yes, exactly? we in the Bloods are very interested in who will become our next Governor??

Notice? Bel doesn?t address the ballot box stuffing the Count had mentioned. Although the Bloods were not behind the affair, it didn?t bother them in the least. Kitty is one of them and having her in the position had suited the Famil just fine?

?Actually, Count, I was hoping that you and I might sit down and go over the candidates sometime soon? Perhaps in a less? ah? Populated arena??

The warm spicy scent of her seemed to wend about him, silently tempting as she pressed his hand with surprisingly strong fingers. ?We know there are ears and eyes everywhere? save for our personal domiciles? Perhaps you would be willing to drop by the House? Or? if it would suit you better, Count, I would be happy to call upon you at your castle? of course, as your schedule permits.?

Belial was finding Talomar more and more tantalizing. His touch was like a constant electrical current, zinging with such alluring dark promise. If she wasn?t careful she could easily trip down his path... and right this moment, the thought was very appealing?

Green eyes to black, Belial pulled slightly away, leaving the lingering warmth of her behind, and perhaps an inch of cleared space. It was much needed if she was to keep a clear head. She had not expected the Count to be this impressive or enticing. Her smile remained ready, however Talomar?s nature would tell him how quickly her heart beats and how fast her pulse races.

?I must say, Count, I had not expected you to be so hard to resist? I must watch myself around you, yes?? These last words were whispered and flirtatious, meant to lead his thoughts as waywardly as her own.

His thoughts hardly needed any encouragement from her wonderfully flirtatious words. If he had his way, he would be taking her away this very instant and make love all night long. He leaned forward and closed that small distance that she had created, his lips moving against her hair that covered her ear while he found her fragrance to be quite intoxicating. ?I think it is I who must watch myself around you, my dear Lady Belial. Resisting you has become an exercise that I?m ill equipped to handle.?

His lips brushed her temple as he slowly pulled back away from her. He looked into her eyes with his hands upon her upper arms, but his face was close enough to hers so that his whispers would be quite intimate between the two. ?If it would not be an inconvenience, I would love to come to your House.? He leaned still closer so that his breath could be felt upon her cheek. ?I would love to come to your House, soon. It needs to be very soon. We must decide who must be our next governor. It must be someone. . .? he paused to say this just right, ? . . . someone who will, . . . listen.?

Talomar?s repositioning put him directly in front of her. Belial looked up at the handsome, chiseled features, feeling the press of his palms even through the velvet of her dress sleeves, and she had to fight to keep her breath from catching.

Belial was not a giddy young girl; she can?t easily be swept off her feet. Indeed, most often she is left untouched by those who seek her attentions. But tonight? there is a fire building within? a hunger she has denied for decades but known for centuries? ignited by the sheer magnetism of the Count. Business could easily slip away in a haze of growing desire but Belial did not allow herself to discard it just yet? She was too close to her ultimate goal and she felt the press of urgency the same as Talomar.

Ahh, but the touch of him, the smell of him, even the sound of his silky smooth voice was distracting?

?Yes, I feel we should talk as soon as possible as well, Count? If tomorrow is not too soon for you? perhaps then??

And with the inherent senses of her race, she turned from Count Talomar with fluid grace to greet Luc and Fio as the pair joined them. ?Ahh, Niece, Nephew, I had hoped to see you both here? I was just discussing a little business with the Count? I assume you all know one another, yes??

It is more than likely that both Fio and Luc are easily able to read Belial?s temperature. However, only those closest to her would know the true impact that Talomar is having. Otherwise, Bel looked cool, collected and utterly at ease,

What Belial was doing to him was something he had not experienced in quiet some time. She was brilliant in every way. He was just about to suggest something when she turned to Luc and Fio. Talomar had felt them approach but was not ready to release Bel?s attention, yet now he had no choice. He looked to the couple and smiled. He had always been quite fond of them, and that had not changed with the disappearance of his wife.

?Lord Lucius, Lady Fiona, it so good to see you both again. I was just telling Lady Belial that I would be over at the House tomorrow to discuss some business.?

((Authors Note: Post co-written by the players of Belial and Talomar.))