Thread: Playing the Game [ Chai & Razgriz ]

RE Playing the Game Ariamella Razgriz Ric gave a small start as she knocked the bottle out of his hand, the sharp bang resonating in his eardrums. Shit, whatever was in that wine knocked him out cold he wasn't the type to fall asleep drunk that easily. She wouldn't know this, but there were few that could out-drink him, his history saw to that. But clearly this was no ordinary wine he should have figured that much from the overly smooth taste of it and utterly perfect blend of flavors. He then winced as her lighted palm shone brightly in his eye, muttering a nearly-inaudible profanity as he was forced awake. Really, he should have figured that she would find some way to get pissed at him, even if it was just food. And besides, despite some flaws, these were some damn good wards around the house. Although, he really should be more vigilant in his duty though one could argue it was hard to care about someone who didn't give two flying figs about you. He knew, she knew it They were an inconvenience to each other. She, a high-and-mighty princess of perfect royal lineage. And he a lowly Dreg, who should have spent his endless days rotting in prison, released and assigned to make sure she stayed alive and well until she might marry the man of her dreams and ascend to the throne. Ironically, it was that fact of mutual assured avoidance that made it blindingly apparent she wouldn't call her daddy on him. True, he could just save himself the trouble and off her...Though it meant offing himself too through their contract, and he wasn't fond of dying. Not yet, and certainly not like that. He could also take her hostage, use her as a meat shield...Endless possibilities really. But he wasn't familiar enough with light-based magic to fully understand its capabilities, and it would be a lot of work to subdue someone with any degree of arcane competence. More than he was willing to put in to have the end result be every House hunting him down again. Not worth it. Giving a weak smile, he just sat up and stretched his back, letting out a muted yawn before stating Yeah, was never much of a socialite, even before Periculosis. Prison didn't exactly teach us how to act like fancy folks, you know. Spent nearly every hour locked in chains and wards only way to keep sane was to have my own version of fun. Probably why Alexei was such a scrooge all the time, but if he'd just gotten me a downy pillow like I asked, I would have been much more cooperative. Sitting up a little straighter, he then added And as for you dying, I'm sure you don't have a thing to worry about. Daddy's probably got someone outside this house right now, every minute of every day. Or maybe he doesn't, because he - unlike you - has faith in my capability. Besides, the warding here is just fine. Ric then turned to face her as she asked about the lasagna, an innocent smile turning up the corner of his lips, Oooh, going out are we? I don't know about you, but I'm hankering for some Tuscan...Oh, sorry. He knew he was being cheeky, but honestly, if this girl thought she was going to boss him around just because he was contractually tied to her safety, then she better take a hard look at the situation. Of course, the same could be said for him. The contract was in fact very clear on the consequences of slacking, and even more so for failure. And it was this thought that did seem to slam some sense into him, but how much would be a matter of perspective. Giving a slight cough, he decided to focus on an issue he just mentioned Protection. But...If we can get serious for a moment. The wards around this house are good. That being said, there are more than a few holes. Ones that an experienced mage - like myself - can easily exploit, and then you're well and truly fucked. Luckily... He paused to give himself a few taps on the skull, You just happen to have someone that can seal those weak points. This head of mine has more than just dirty thoughts of you, young lady. It's got some serious secrets, a practical treasure trove of delicious tidbits...And if you play nice, I might just choose to share them with you. She might think she was hot stuff now, but as skilled as she was, it was obvious she needed more... skillful ...guidance. Light magic, referred to some as the 'luminous art', wasn't a common gift after all. And though he had some experience with it, this girl's whole aura revolved around it. If she could truly harness her magic, she might even be able to match him...Or at the very least get closer than anyone before ever had. And if the legends he heard had even a hint of truth, this woman could be a very valuable tool for anyone else who knew of its potential. Giving a tilt of his head, he then asked, So...Lady Durante, what say you? Give this house a warding touch-up, then grab some Chinese? I've got a craving for hot and sour soup...Oh, and egg rolls. Love me some egg rolls.