Unless your name is in the title, DO NOT POST!

Name: Serenity Amelia Llewellyn
Sex: Female
Species: Human
Age: Twenty-three
Bio: Serenity grew up in a modest household and had everything a single child could ask for. If she ever wanted something, she could have it if it were in her parents' power, but she was always reminded of how spoiled she was. Being aware of her spoiled lifestyle kept her attitude from becoming as such. Instead, she got a job when she was sixteen and continued it during her high schools years to help out with college expenses. Now having a Bachelors in History, majoring in ancient mythology and minoring in art, she is pursuing her Masters to hopefully help in her endeavor to become an archeologist. She has basic self-defense skills and would be able to survive out in the wilderness if she ever found herself in such a predicament (At least that's what her survival class says; who knows if she's unprepared what would happen!).

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Name: Aleister Von Stein
Sex: Male
Speices: Dragon Demon
Age: Unknown.
Bio: Aleister has lived a long life. He is a very powerful demon, with a cursed affectioned for mortals. He had been trapped in a tower by a wizard who wanted to use him for his bidding. Aleister is now used by a King who wants to take over all of the lands near him. Aleister can only be controlled by a ruby ring that the king wears on his right index finger.

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Her first year of graduate school was over! Now that left her with having to find a job; her normal job as a waitress had been snatched up by a local who didn't have problems with pulling double shifts. Well, it could always be worse, but it was still disappointing to know that she had to put herself back on the job market. Maybe she could get a job at the local bookstore? It was a possibility and give her ample material to research in her major of history; if there was one thing she could get lost in, it was the history of past cultures, and it especially held true to the mythology each held. She loved to compare and contrast how each civilization used particular creatures and molded them differently into the stories.

Well, she could start on that tomorrow. It was Sunday and that meant that no one was going to be looking for job applicants. Instead, Serenity was in her parents' attic sifting through all the rubbish--er--treasures her family had collected over generations. It was amazing that the roof hadn't fallen on top of them with the amount of stuff they had up here, plus it was a place of death to allergy sufferers. This was probably why it was her, and not her father, coming in to do the labor; he'd be sneezing and wheezing within five minutes!

"Let's see...where to start?" She mused aloud, going through the carefully crafted walkways that made the attic into a real-life labyrinth. It had been a fun thing for her as a kid, but now she looked at it and wondered how she hadn't noticed how annoying it could get to smack her head against something. Oh wait, she had been a lot shorter then and the boxes stacked on one another had looked like mountains she could explore. Finally coming to the back of the attic, the room opened up into what had to be the most space in one place in the attic. A circular window filtered light into the room, glinting off the various particles of dust that hung in the air. There were a few boxes scattered about, some partially opened, and Serenity came to the assumption that her mother had tried and quickly failed to make any sense of the mess that was their attic. Kneeling down, she began to look through the various items and put them in piles: one for donating, one for throwing away, and one for keeping. After a couple hours of doing it, she knelt backwards and wiped the sweat off that had begun to form.

It was then that she noticed the rather large piece of fabric seemingly floating in the air. Getting up, she walked over to it and pulled at it. Down came the fabric, revealing its treasure of a standing mirror. It was quite a marvelous piece of craftsmanship, the metalwork being of the highest quality. She marveled at the hinges that looked like a dragon's head was clamping down on them with its teeth. There were even what looked like semi-precious stones! Either that or that was some beautiful colored glass they had used. Excitement filled her as her hands ran across it, finally coming across the smooth glass. Despite the fabric covering, it had a thin film of dust on it that she started to wipe away.

Serenity gave a gasp when the mirror seemed to glow, stepping quickly away. Wait, mirrors didn't glow! Looking towards the window, she saw light filtering through and came to the conclusion that it had only been a trick of the light. Moving forward to the mirror again, she began to wipe the mirror off again and came across another startling discover; it was rippling! The fabric she was holding to wipe the mirror fell to the ground as she stared in fascination. Just what was causing this? Reaching forward, she made the moves to touch the silvery pool...

And was promptly rewarded by being sucked into it. She didn't even have time to scream, her voice caught in her throat as she went spiraling through a roaring blackness.

In a land, there was a thunderstorm that suddenly cropped up. It was quite strange to the people because it had been clear only moments before. It could only mean one thing, that dark magic was at work, and the people feared it. They looked towards the source that seemed to concentrate over the forest. Thunder boomed and lightning flashed across the sky, bringing a torrent of rain.

Serenity, in the meantime, finally was seeing something other than darkness and hearing something other than a roaring, but it didn't make her feel any better. She was in midair and plummeting towards the ground. Her voice finally worked enough to give out a high-pitched shriek before she hit the ground, knocking her unconscious. The rain doused her before the sky suddenly cleared up, as if the storm had never happened. The sun peaked out from behind the clouds and shone on the still unconscious, and now wet, female. It took a few more minutes before she finally came to from the mixture of chilled skin and warm sunlight.

"Oww..." She moaned, getting into a sitting position and trying to figure out just where she was. Her skin began to erupt in goosebumps as her body tried to get warmer faster. Being only clad in a tank top and drawstring sweatpants was not the ideal clothing for this kind of weather, and especially not when she was wet. Darn it, she'd had to have taken off her shoes before all of this happened!

Maybe I'm just sleeping...yeah, the heat in the attic got to me. She thought, her heart thumping uncomfortably in her chest as she surveyed the forest clearing she was in. Pinching herself, she winced at the pain, Okay...that should have woken me up and I'm still here! Don't tell me this is actually real! Where in the heck did that stupid mirror take me!?

[[I promise they are not all like this! lol]]

Aleister stalked through the forest. King Albert had him go out to seduce and murder his rival's wife. Albert was a cruel man and ruler. Aleister ran a graceful and pale hand through his crimson hair, he was beautiful beyond humanly possible. It made sense, he was a demon after all. He hated being used as a tool, a mere killing machine. He never wanted death more than now, he cursed the wizard who captured him and bound him to a ruby ring. Now that ring was in the hands of a greedy and blood thirsty King. He moved slowly, this was the only time he was free. Well as free as he could be from his cursed, he liked being out in the opened, around all the humans who lived in the kingdom. Even though times were bad for them, they still had kind hearts, treating him like a prince when he stalked through the villages.

Aleister paused as a sudden storm settled over him. Tilting his face up, he smiled against the rain, letting it soak him. It plastered his hair to his head, making him run both hands through it, slicking it back. "It's an odd storm...magical. A magic I have never felt before." He whispered aloud to himself. Aleister barely spoke, only did what he was ordered. His voice was thick and rough, yet it still held a sense of grace and made women fall for him every time. Not that he had interest in anything anymore. He watched as the storm passed, disappearing like it had never been there. He frowned at the sky, wondering what kind of magic had transpired and what was the outcome of it. Sensing nothing out of place, he continued through the woods, until he stumbled upon a young woman in a strange matter of dress. He stood behind some trees, watching her


Aleister grew curious about this female. She showed a lot of skin, villagers of this town did not do that. She also did not wear shoes on her feet. She was strange, different. Something in him woke, interest. [I"]Mmm... What is this woman? Human, by her smell, but different. She's not from this world."[/I] He thought to himself. The woods wasn't a safe place for someone who didn't belong here. He thought about stepping forward, to help her. However, he didn't want her to land in the hands of Albert. He stood in place for a long while, wondering what to do.

[[Hee hee! I don't mind at all!]]

Serenity finally found it in herself to stand up, her head swimming slightly as she adjusted to the new position. She wasn't sure how long she had been out, but it was enough that she felt woozy. Grabbing her head, she gave it a slight shake to try and clear it out and found that it worked somewhat, though not as much as she would've liked. Standing there for a few moments more, her eyes closed, she finally found her sense of balance before opening her eyes again.

"Okay..." She said quietly, though she was feeling quite on edge and wanted nothing more than to scream, "I just need to find a town and get an idea of where I am. Easier said than done, though."

Looking around, she found there was really no thinning of the trees to signify that a road or town laid anywhere near. Well, if she could find a stream, she could follow it down. Towns usually followed that route. As for now, she could only look up and track where the sun was; when in doubt, go north!

"Let's see, based on the angle I should go..." She raised an arm up, tracking the path of the sun before coming back down and pointing in one direction, "That way."

She began to move forward in that direction when she slowed to a stop again. She was hearing breaking of branches and voices, something that she should have been happy about, and yet was filled with a sense of dread. Instead of moving forward, she found herself moving backwards to increase the distance. When the people in question came into the clearing, she had to suppress a shudder. There were four men and they all held a type of sharp object; one held a knife, two held pitchforks, and the other held a scythe. Their manner of dress was another matter to look at, like they were out of the middle ages. Had she fallen near a Renaissance Festival? The way they were looking at her didn't sit well, either. She'd seen that kind of look before and it was those kinds of looks that had made her take self-defense courses.

The group stared at her and she stared back, keeping on the balls of her feet just in case she needed to make a break for it. The spell of shock wore off from the small group and the one holding the knife pointing it towards her.

"It's the witch that conjured the spell moments ago!" He exclaimed while taking a menacing step forward, "Look at her garb, she is surely a harlot bent on defiling the minds of our women into her whorish ways!"

Say what now!? Serenity thought, every nerve in her body screaming at her to start running, "N-n-no, I'm not what you think I am. I--eeek!"

She dropped to the ground as one of the pitchforks went sailing at her. With one terrified look at where it embedded in the ground, she shot up from her crouched position and took off into forest that was in the opposite direction. Hearing shouts behind her, she knew she was being followed, but she tried to focus on the objects in front of her. It was extremely hard to run, especially when various things kept cutting or bruising the soles of her feet. She tried to fight through the pain, but she finally fell to the ground when a particular rock stabbed into the heel of her left foot. A yelp of pain was elicted from her as she tried to make her fall into a roll. Coming to rest on her right foot, she found the rock and pulled it out, the pain nearly being unbearable as it sliced through her.

Unfortunately, it gave her pursuers time to catch up and she was stopped short as one jumped in front of her. Reflex guided her next action as she punched the man in the solar plexus, effectively knocking the wind out of him. She couldn't really celebrate the victory as her arms were yanked backwards and she was lifted off her feet.

"Let go!" She yelled, connecting her foot with another man's chin when they thought to come close. Serenity struggled, knowing that she was a dead woman if she didn't. The man who had grabbed her from behind let go of one arm and began to twist the other, "Ow, stop it! You're going to break my arm!"

The man didn't seem to hear her and continued to twist, making her yell in agony. Her arm was going to be torn completely from its socket!

"We'll teach you the consequences of casting your spells, witch." She vaguely heard.

"I'm not a witch! Please sto--arrrrrrgghhh! STOP!" She shrieked.

[[Okay. I just have a problem of rambling. ^////^]]

[[Okay. It's time for bed. I'll post tomorrow if you have anything up! I'm having fun already! :heart:]]

Aleister watched as the scared men came after the girl. He growled deeply in his chest, a sound he never made before. He followed them, trying to think of the best action. He didn't like how they reacted to what was different from them, it made him sad. He caught up to the group, seeing her punch one man in his gut. It was an impressive move on her part, it made him take even more interest in her.

Aleister had to interfere now, this was not how people should be treating her. "Excuse me sir, but you shouldn't be touching a lady in such manners." He said in his rough, quiet voice. He stepped from the trees, his saggy blood color hair dried wildly around his face. He stared at the men with his cold, golden eyes. They had stopped hurting the girl, they almost seemed to be in a trance when they looked upon him. His large leathery dragon wings were folded tightly against his back, his long red tail hover an inch from the ground. He was a sight to behold, the only one who was never entranced by him was Albert. He stood tall, much taller than the men, his body looked to be weak but it hid a powerful strength underneath his pale skin.

He moved closer to them, his hands carelessly handing at his sides, their nails long and sharp. "This is King Albert's forest and I am his Guardian. Please release the girl." He said softly, his voice calm. He didn't sound upset, angry or caring, he was just quiet. At his words, the men released her and stood staring upon him. He grew bored with them, waving his hand at them. "Go. Do not bother yourselves with witches any longer." He watched at they looked at each other confused, then over at the "witch" then back at him. After a moment, they took off into the woods, back to the village. Soon, Aleister was alone with the strange woman. He turned back to her, looking at her for a long moment with sad and cold golden eyes. "Where have you come from, child?" He asked, wanting to draw knew to her. He refrained from it, his affections for humans made him weak, he wouldn't risked her to Albert.

The pressure on her arm suddenly when another man came onto the scene, although when she got a good look at him, she realized he couldn't be called human. For one thing, there were the wings, and another was definitely a tail! She had always thought that her icy-blue eyes were a little different from the normal eye coloring, but his were a vibrant gold that took the cake as the most unusual she had seen. Much like the metal they took after, they seemed hard and cold as he stared at the five of them.

She felt her arm drop when the man let her completely gone, an opportunity she used to cradle her injured arm. Serenity didn't bother moving, as she took a quick glance at the four and noted how they all seemed to be completely entranced by the newcomer. Well, who wouldn't be!? She would have thought she was going crazy from pain if those four hadn't been there. What was in front of her was something that was only of myth in her world! He looked like a perfectly blended combination of dragon and human; there was no denying the two species of which he seemed to originate from. He spoke of a King Albert and the men visibly stiffened before they left under the orders of his Guardian.

When they had left, Serenity was completely lost as to what to do. Should she leave? But where would she go? What if there were others like those men who thought her a witch and wanted to harm her? She was certainly not at home, where people could impersonate a witch and not have to worry about getting their arm ripped off. This man, dragon, whatever he was, didn't seem intent on harming her, but looked more to be observing her. If anything, she was indebted to him for saving her life, but it wasn't as if she could thank him. All she had on her were the soggy clothes on her back and she certainly wasn't going to pay him with any "favor"; she wasn't that kind of girl.

When he spoke to her, she jumped slightly as she was brought out of her thoughts. Licking her lips slightly, she gave a light shrug with her non-injured shoulder, making sure to not jar the other one, "Well...definitely not from here, or even from this world for that matter, if my assumption is correct. Could you please tell me where I am? I'm afraid the welcoming party wasn't too keen on explaining that part."

Now getting a good look at her arm, she made a slight grimace when she saw the already purpling skin on her shoulder and the red mark of a hand on her wrist. This would definitely hurt a lot worse later on when the rest of her adrenaline wore off; what she wouldn't give for some Tylenol!

"Though, really, thank you very much." She said, looking back at him. Even if he wasn't human, he was definitely kinder than the ones she had met. Serenity couldn't say she actually trusted him, in fact she was still trying to process that the man in front of her was actually real, but she didn't distrust him, if that made any sense at all, "If you hadn't helped me, I'd probably have worse than a bruised arm."

Aleister watched as she jumped at his voice. It was a curious thing to him, the way his voice didn't sooth her as it did others, nor did she swoon like all other females he had been around. He could see she was in pain, it made him feel a an ache in his chest. He moved forward, towards her. "We are in the Kingdom of Aragon. This is the village of Faeron, a poor village with poor people." He explained, stopping in front of her. "Let me see your arm." He said slowly.

"Yes...you would have been burned or drowned by witch trial." He said, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He reached out to her hurt arm, running his fingers down it, sending warmth down her arm. "You should feel no pain soon enough." He said.

"Come, I will show you a safe place to rest until we can find you a way home." He said. He knew of a few people who were trustworthy. They did not care for the King much as Aleister did. They were also ones who were trying to find a way to get the ring from him and destory it to set him free. He started to turn from her, only to pause to look over at her. "No need to fret, I will not harm you." He said softly.

Vince Knight was a trusted friend to Aleister, he knew that the man will harm her nor turn over to Albert. It would be the safest place for her until they found a way to return her to her own world. He was a wild type of man, always wearing his heart on his sleeve. Aleister enjoyed the man, he was true and honest. Aleister had saved his life during the war where King Albert took rule of the lands. Vince fought for the old king and Aleister couldn't let him die.

When the man began to tell her where she was, she closed her eyes as if in resignation of what had happened. So it was true, that she was in another world, even if she hadn't wanted to truly believe it. There had been that faint glimmer than she would have figured out just where she was, but there was no kingdom called Aragon or village called Faeron in her world. Opening her eyes again, she noted that he had closed the distance between them so that they were quite close. It was a strange thing, really, that she wasn't trembling in fear at the proximity since he was something other than human. Rather, it felt like she was standing in front of another human, a human that she had become aquainted with through another friend and was getting to know.

When he asked to see her arm, she held it up slowly, biting on the inside of her lip when her muscles began to protest at the movement. She would definitely have to keep moving it or risk having it so stiff she couldn't have any use out of it for a week or two.

"I figured..." She grimaced when he told her the ultimate fate she would've had if those four men and taken her back to Faeron. Better yet, they could have half-drowned her and then burn her! She'd read about witch trials and had been sickened by the methods that they used to force a "confession" out of the witch. One witch had had stones laid on her until she was crushed! The thoughts left as quickly as they had come when the man ran his fingers down her arm and she felt a warmth envelope it. A sigh of evident relief came from her lips as the pain left her arm.

He then turned, speaking of taking her to a safe place where she could stay until they found out how to get her back to her world. He even promised he wouldn't hurt her, though she didn't think he would. After all, why heal her arm if he wanted to hurt her? The problem hadn't been that she was scared of him, far from it, but more because since the pain in her arm had been lifted, her attention to pain went to her cut up feet. They were throbbing at a steady tempo and she could feel the blood seeping into the ground. In all honesty, she didn't want to move, but she forced herself to walk as straight as possible.

As they walked, however, her intention to walk without indicated pain began to backfire. The longer they walked, the more noticeable she began to limp in her effort to keep up with the dragon-man.

Aleister had noticed the way she walked in pain. She was trying to be strong, it made his lips twitch slightly. He stopped walking and picked her up into his arms. "You feet are injuried badly, no?" He didn't really asked her, more stated it. She was quite light in his arms, he had not held a woman in such a way in such a long time he had forgotten how it felt. She felt so familiar, like a long lost friend or lover. He couldn't remember the last lover he had, but it was neither here nor there.

He held her close to his body, walking slowly through the woods to Vince's sceret hideout. He was a wanted man after all and the leader of the underground revolution against the cruel king. Aleister was trying to help them the best he could from the castle. However, once he returned to the King, he was bound and held in a tower. He liked being sent out to do the King's dirty work, it gave him time away from the castle. He hated the place more than anything, but he was bound to it.

"What is you name, young one?" He asked her softly, out of the blue. It had just occured to him that he should asked for her name. He didn't introduced himself either. He would wait until he got her name before telling her his. Power lay in one's name, espeically with demon names. It made the bond with Albert stronger than normal. Aleister had mistakenly given his full name to the man when he released him from the ring. Now all Albert had to do was say his full name and Aleister would be his slave. Albert would give Aleister a few days of freedom outside the castle when he didn't resist him, Aleister had given up on fighting the man for quite some time now.

Serenity could have cheered when the man stopped walking, thinking that perhaps they were at the safe place and she could sit down to check just how badly her feet had been cut up. Looking around, she was slightly confused since this part of the forest looked the same as the rest. Was the place underground? Was there some sort of signal they had to give before going further? Imagine her surprise when she suddenly found herself lifted up into the air, her arms immediately going to loop around the man's neck in a moment of panic. Once it subsided, she could only nod when he talked about her feet being injured, a blush forming on her face from both her behavior and the close contact.

His were truly golden, without a speck of another color to flaw it, and his hair was as red as living blood. However, above all else, she noted how warm he felt; it wasn't stifling at all, but rather a warmth that you just wanted to snuggle into. Serenity definitely refrained from doing that! No way in the world was she going to snuggle a complete stranger. He looked a little older than her, but the way he spoke made her think that he far surpassed her age by a few decades, if not centuries.

"I'm sorry, that was rude of me." She said, when he asked for her name; normally upon meeting someone, you gave your name, right? Well, considering the circumstances, she was sure she could be forgiven, "My name is Serenity. What is yours? And...if you don't mind me asking, are you a demon? Where I come from, they're only myths."

She was sure the last part made her sound like an idiot; really, hadn't she majored in mythology? She shouldn't be asking if that was what he exactly was, she should know, but even she had to admit her mind was still trying to come to grips with what had happened. It was a wonder that she was even able to speak normally; maybe the shock hadn't worn off?

"And where exactly are we going?" She asked, the grip around his neck loosening as she began to become more comfortable being carried. This was her first time being carried in such a manner, after all, so it took some getting used to.

Aleister almost smiled at her name. It was a lovely name, it filled him with peace at hearing it. He chuckles slightly at her when she called his kind a myth. "We were long believed to be a myth here as well. However, demons have been around for a long time." He said thoughtfullly. "I am known as Aleister." He looked at her with his golden eyes again. She was rather striking, none like her in the land. She would be trouble, men would be wanting her for their own.

"We are going to a friend. He is a good man, one who wants to put an end to the cruel rule of King Albert and release me from the man's control." He explained. Soon they had reached a crumbling old castle. There were men stand guard all around, heavy wooden doors were covered with rusty spikes and chains. The guards all waved at Aleister as he drew near, they all liked him for whatever reason.

"Aleister! Friend!" Came a loud and robust voice. Aleister nodded towards the man, he was wild in his appearence, his shaggy brown hair a mess around his head. He wore his armor, a large sword strapped to his back. He broad shouldered man came to him, his arms open. "What have you brought to me this time, friend?" He said, laughter in his voice and bright blue eyes. He was so warm and inviting, much different than Aleister could be. He wanted to be like the man, but he couldn't. He looked at Serenity, then back to Vince. "Vince, my friend. I have brought a woman. She needs our help." He said as he and Vince took her inside the castle.

Vince looked at the girl. She was strange and rather beautiful. Her feet were badly injuried and she wore a strange matter of clothing. He looked at Aleister, the dragon demon was a strange on indeed. He was far to kind to people. He struck fear in the hearts of many, yet many loved him dearly, much as Vince did himself. He saw him like a brother, ever since the war. He would do anything for him, help him in any way he could. "Of course, we will help her. " Vince said smiling at Aleister and Serenity.

"It's really nice to meet you, Aleister." She smiled, happy that she could place a name to the face now. Now, however, it got her to thinking if there were demons in her world as well, but that no one had been lucky enough to find them. Demons were always portrayed as the harbringers of destruction and death, yet Aleister didn't seem to have an evil bone in his body. There was a sadness in his eyes, however, that she couldn't place. Where there only a few demons remaining? Had he had a family of which had been lost to him? It was all of mystery, something that was beginning to stir up her blood; she loved mysteries, one of the other reasons she was going into archeology. How fantastic could it be to discover the answers to mysteries that had stumped others for hundreds, if not thousands, of years?

Her blood was further stirred up, though, even after the mystery was solved to her just moments later. Aleister was being held against his will by this king he had spoken of? How could anyone do that? It was inhumane! Oh yes, he was king, and so all that he desired was suppose to come to him on a silver platter. There were good kings, kind kings, the kings you wanted to serve, but all too often people only remembered the tyrannical ones, the ones that seemed to think that all the world should fall at their feet. What a shame that this King Albert was one of these that everyone reviled.

Serenity couldn't ask the one question that was burning in her mind, however, before they approached the place Aleister had spoken of. Even in its current state, Serenity could only look on it in wonder. Just think of how it must have looked while in its prime! Such a find in her world would have the media buzzing with activity if anything of considerable importance was found, but would definitely have the archeologists in a buzz long after the mass population had gone on to look at the next newest thing. A low whistle escaped her lips, her eyes becoming slightly wider as if to take in more of what was in front of her. Various people were waving at them, bringing further proof to Aleister's claims that this was a safe place for her to be.

Her attention was brought back to the immediate area when a wild-looking man came forward, heralding Aleister as a friend. Serenity was sure that if he wanted, the man could make even the toughest of opponents begin to cry for their mothers, but at the moment, all she could relate him to was a teddy bear. He was so inviting, a smile across his face that reached his sparkling eyes, that Serenity immediately felt at ease. She listened quietly, learning that the man in front of her was named Vince, and discovering that even if she were standing completely straight, she'd have to tilt her head slightly (or at least lift her eyes) to look at him.

When Aleister explained the situation (albeit in not so many words), and Vince agreed to help, she gave a smile of her own, "Thank you very much. My name is Serenity."

Looking back at the castle, she could see where there had been various additions and patches, some newer than others. She could also hear the constant drone of people's voices from within, with an occasional laugh breaking through. It made her wonder just how long they had exactly been here. Well, perhaps she could ask later, but her feet were starting to throb again. Serenity wanted to get them treated before they became infected and she'd have to start learning how to get around on her hands.

"May I please have some bandages and hot water for my feet? I'll pay you back...somehow...maybe some odd jobs you have lying around?" She asked. If she was going to stay here for awhile, she might as well make herself useful.

Vince smiled at the girl in Aleister's arms. He never helped humans in this fashion before, normally he'd lend them whatever assistance they needed then be on his merry way. However, this one had peeked the demon's interest in a way that Vince had not seen in quite some time. Vince ushered them into the crumbing castle that used to be his King's home. It was now their base of operations for the revolution. He watched as Serenity seemed to be impressed with the castle. "Like Castles, do you?" He asked her. He had no idea who or what she was, but if Aleister liked her, she was a good person.

Vince watched Aleister with Serenity, seeing something in the demon that he hadn't seen since he saved him from certain death. He motioned for one of the girls to bring over some hot water and some cloths so Aleister can clean the girl's feet. He knew that Aleister wouldn't let anyone else touch her at the moment. He was strange that way.

Aleister listened to the girl whistle under her breath as they entered the crumbling castle. The corners of his mouth twitched again, being around this human made him want to smile. He couldn't remember the last time he actually smiled naturally. He shook his head clear of those types of thoughts as Vice lead them to their medical wing. There were beds, many fill with men who were missing body parts here and there, women taking care of them. The scene filled him with sadness, he had cuased many of those injuries, all because of his bond to Albert. He sighed inwardly as he headed to an empty bed, away from most of the people.

He set her down gently, kneeling in front of her. He lifted her feet to his face, looking them over. "My..you've done quite a job on your feet." He said quietly. He nodded in thanks to the mousy girl who brought him a bowl of hot water and some clean cloths. He dipped the cloth in the water and held it up to her foot. "This may sting a bit." He said, looking up at her for a moment, his golden eyes flashing something for a second, then disappearing behind a cold wall. He began to dab away the dirt and blood that covered her feet, trying to be as gentle as he could.

What am I doing? I have never gone to such lengths for anyone before. Why am I treating this human differently? I am kind to Vince and those in the revloution, mainly because I feel guilty at being the tool that destroyed their lives. But why am I being so kind to this strange girl? Perhaps she reminds me of me, I am a strange creature bound to mortals.

Aleister continued cleaning her feet, being as gentle as he could. He looked up at her every now and again, to make sure he wasn't hurting her. "I am not hurting you, am I?" He asked her. He held her foot, the warming sensation from before spreading through her foot. His tail swished from side to side gently, his large red wings dripping down from his shoulder slightly, movements that showed he was relaxed and calm.

"I do." Serenity said, the excitement underlying in her voice showing just how much she enjoyed castles. Castles were a testament, just like the Pyramids or Pantheon, to how ingenious man could be. Nowadays, people needed high-tech machinery to get the same building that their ancestors could do with some pulleys and rope, "And I'm sure this castle was a beauty when she was first built."

As they were lead inside, Serenity tried to look at everything at once; it was so much more to actually be living it than it was to only read or speculate! Her attention was brought to where they were going, however, when the smell of blood hit her nose. It positively reeked and she expected to see pools of it lying everywhere. Instead, she was carried into a room that held various men lying on cots, missing some sort of ligament or wounded on their body. The area was clean, nearly immaculate, but there had been so many that had passed through its walls that the smell remained. There were many women in the area, tending to the wounded men, running here and there as they tried to keep up with the moans and groans each of the men gave. It broke her heart, watching the sight in front of her, and she wondered just what battle they had gone through to get such grievous injuries inflicted on them.

She was finally set upon one of the cots that was slightly apart from the others. Had he noted her change in demeanor around so many people that were in danger of dying from even a cough from one of their caretakers? Serenity couldn't really tell. He was like one of those brain games where you had to disconnect the rings from one another; he was difficult to figure out. When he lifted her foot to examine it, she wasn't sure if she really wanted to find out just how bad they were. She knew for sure her left foot would be a mess, having had to rip out a rock that had stabbed into her heel, but she'd have to if she wanted her feet clean.

"I think it's a small price to pay to not be burned as a witch." She tried to say in a joking manner to ease the tension. Aleister didn't seem to find it at all humorous, however, as he then warned her about how it would sting. Something changed in his eyes for a brief second, but she wasn't able to place it before it went behind a cold exterior again, "Oh, you don't have--!"

Oh yeah, it stung, and she had to bit her bottom lip before a yelp of pain came through. She only had cut up feet while the people around her could be missing an arm or leg. They had reason to cry out in pain, she didn't! Serenity had been about to tell Aleister that he didn't need to clean her feet, but now she was kind of glad he was; she didn't know if she could continue cleaning her feet after that little wake-up call. She had her hands placed on either side of her and then continually gripped into the fabric when the pain shot a little too far up her leg.

"N-no...you're not hurting me." She said, which she didn't think was lying. He was being extraordinarily gentle, something that didn't seem to fit with what one might think of as an intimidating creature. He even looked completely at ease while he worked, something that she could fully appreciate when she felt the familiar warm feeling that had helped her arm. Her shoulders lost their tension, and fingers gripped the fabric less, as she didn't have to worry about the cloth touching her feet, "How are you doing that, Aleister? It really helped with my arm earlier...and it feels so warm."

Looking at him, the relaxing look on her face suddenly had a look of concern, "I don't understand, though, how such a kind person like you is under the control of this king. How is he able to do that? Does he have a family member of yours prisoner?"

She averted her eyes after asking, feeling a little ashamed for asking that when he looked so much at peace, but she wanted to know why. It had been burning in her mind ever since he had spoken of being under King Albert's control. He was a powerful dragon demon! Just how was it that a mortal man was able to control him? There must be someone or something that was keeping Aleister from rebelling. There was also the matter of Vince and his army trying to attack the king and break Aleister free; why would they do so if Aleister wasn't a wonderful friend?

"I'm sorry, I know I'm being nosy and I ask too many question. It's just...I'd really like to help you. You've certainly helped me; you saved my life and are even tending to my injuries. You could have just as easily ignored me."

Aleister watched her feet for a moment, seeing them begin to heal slowly. He wrapped them tightly. His tail went still as she asked her question about why he worked for someone he did not care for. He sighed slightly, standing up. His wings tucked close to his body, his arms loose at his sides. "It's a long story. I..." He trailed off as Vince came up to them. He had clothing for her as well as some sturdy boots. Vince smiled at him, knowing that the story of Aleister's imprisonment was a touchy subject for him.

Vince smiled at the girl, holding the extra clothing and footwear out to her. "Here, your clothing looks.. a bit cold." He said with a warm smile. "There's a room for you to change in, Marie will show you the way. After you change we can speak of ... Aleister's imprisonment." He said after glancing to the demon.

A thin, golden haired girl who looked around seventeen come to the bedside, a shy smile on her face as she looked to Vince. "Marie, take Serenity to the changing room." He said, not taking his blue eyes off of Serenity. The girl nodded and looked at Serenity. "Right this way, Miss." She said in a soft musical voice.

Aleister watched at Vince handed Serenity clothing and shoes, his eyes never leaving her face. Aleister sighed, moving back a little. Vince was drawn to the girl, which was only natural, she was lovely and they were both human. Aleister shook his head, Vince always fell in love quickly, and always with the prettiest of ladies.

Aleister thought of his imprisonment, he had been summoned by a powerful wizard who had bound him to a ring. The spell he used ended up killing the wizard, it took the rest of his life force. His scrawny apprentice, Albert, picked up the ring and wore it. It was then that the small child showed his true colors. Aleister had been tied to him ever since. The ring allowed Albert to hurt Aleister and keep Aleister from laying one harmful finger upon Albert. It also made it so any verbal command, Aleister had to do no matter what. It basically made Aleister a weapon. He turned away, looking out the window for a moment, trying to remember what it was like to be free.

Serenity was starting to wish that she had kept her big mouth shut. The sudden change over Aleister made her want to beg for his forgiveness; how could she be so insensitivie? She barely even knew him and yet she wanted him to give her his life story, a story full of pain and despair from the look on his face. She'd even run her feet raw again if it meant that she could stop that look from coming over his face again. However, he seemed to want to speak on the matter, making her lean forward slightly so he knew he had a captive audience, but then Vince and a young girl came walking in. Vince was carrying some boots and clothing in his arms, something she knew was for her without him even saying a word.

She remembered being called a harlot by the village men when she had first arrived, and she had to admit that she probably did look like one, even if everyone here was too polite to admit it. Her tank top and drawstring pants might pass in her world, but here they were a scandal. Serenity looked at the golden-haired girl, noting how she wore a dress that came to rest just an inch above her feet and her sleeves covered from her shoulders down to her elbows.

"Thank you, Vince." She smiled, giving Marie an equally warm smile in greeting. Her smile only dimmed slightly when she looked at Aleister, noting how he had stepped away. Had her question really bothered him that much? If he didn't want to speak about it, then she wouldn't push the matter, "I would like to hear it, but only if you're comfortable with it, Aleister. I'm sorry, I should have known better than to ask about something like that.

"Lead the way, Miss Marie." Serenity said after she put the boots on and turned back to the other woman. She could almost feel her feet healing from beneath the bandages and she didn't want to screw the process up by stepping onto a fallen needle or nail. Once the two women came to the room that Vince had spoken about, Serenity began to look through the articles of clothing. Once was white cotten dress, definitely the first article to put on, while the other was a blue overcoat that laced up the front with black thread.

"How long have you all been here, if you don't mind me asking." She asked to Marie, who had turned away so Serenity could dress in relative privacy.

"I can't really remember; I've lost count, since it's been so long." Marie answered, "What village do you come from, Miss Serenity? I've never seen such a make of clothing for women before."

"You just call me Serenity." Serenity replied as she tried putting on the white cotton dress. She really wasn't one for dresses, only using them for special occassions, and this one had so many strings! Finally getting her head through, her arms came quickly after. At least she didn't have to worry about taking off her boots; they were very comfy and felt good for her torn feet, "And I'm not surprised you haven't seen this kind of clothing before. I don't know how it happened, but I was brought from my world to yours...could you help me with these strings, please?"

"What? What kind of sorcery did you use?" Marie sounded a little fearful, but approached anyhow to help with the strings that helped keep the sleeves in place and the ones laced down the back.

"I didn't use anything, really." Serenity explained, hoping she hadn't frightened her too badly, "I just was in my attic cleaning it out, and the next thing I knew, I was here. I want to know just as badly as you do how I got here...and how I'm going to get back."

The overcoat came next, something that Serenity had no problems with. It was sleeveless, lacing from the waist up so that a little of the white dress below peeked through.

"I am surprised, though you must be a good person for Aleister to bring you here." Marie said, "He doesn't normally bring people here and it's just as rare that he's stayed so long to make sure of your well-being."

"I'm very thankful to him." Serenity said, smiling warmly, "If it hadn't been for him, I'd probably be dead right now."

Marie listened to Serenity as she told about her arrival here, taking out a brush to comb the woman's hair and finding that it was too short to really do anything to it. It was also in many layers instead of one.

"What happened to your hair?" Marie asked, finally having to admit that Serenity's hair would just have to stay as it was.

"Oh," Serenity said, remembering that all the women she saw had had long hair, "In my world, it's alright to cut your hair short. It's also a lot easier to take care of."

"I see." Marie said, though she couldn't see how that would help if it got really hectic. Having hair in the way when trying to help with a wounded man or cooking or cleaning for many people could be a pain.

"Yeah, it's a lot different." Serenity admitted, "I just hope I don't get in the way while I'm here, but I'm a quick learner, so hopefully that will make up for what I lack...so should we wait for Aleister and Vince here?"

"Let's go meet them half-way." Marie said, and the two of them left the room to find the two men. Serenity had to restrain herself from taking big strides in her new attire; it wouldn't be much fun for her to fall face-first because her feet got tangled up in the fabric. She did have to admit, though, that it was a lot warmer than what she had come in.

After the girls left, Vince stood and went to Aleister. The demon was brooding again, he always got that way when he thought of the past. It wasn't anyone's fault really, there was no use in blaming oneself for not being able to help him. It was strange that he, a powerful demon, was so kind. Vince stood next to him, placing his hand on Aleister's shoulder. "Friend, tell me what's bothering you." He said to him, already knowing what was wrong. He watched as the demon pulled away from him, shaking his head. He pulled his hand back, putting them on his hips. "Well, anyways, that girl..she's glorious. I wish to have her as my own." He said to him. He was attracted to Serenity a great deal, he had no idea that she would be difficult to obtain. She wasn't like any other woman he has had before.

Aleister turned away from Vince, knowing that the man's lustful nature would cause him to desire Serenity in that way. Aleister felt a new emotion hit him, he thought about it. It what humans called jealousy. He shook his head at the thought. He didn't like that Vince wanted to make Serenity his, she wasn't the kind of girl he should be interested in.

"No. She doesn't belong here. No sense in trying to love someone who is only going to leave." He said, sparing a glance at the man. He could see that Vince wasn't going to listen to him. Vince asked him if he was attracted to her, Aleister thought about it for a moment. He wasn't sure what that meant, he liked Serenity, she was pleasant to be around. Before he could answer the girls returned. Aleister didn't want her to think he was mad at her for asking him about something that troubled him, so he tried to give her a smile. It wasn't so much a smile like Vince's, but it was something of one. He hoped it didn't scare her away too much. "Welcome back, Serenity and Marie." He said, testing her name out. He did like the sound of it, it filled him with a calming sense of peace.

He watched as she walked in her new clothing, noticed the careful way she stepped. She was not use to clothing of that style, she really was from another time and place. He knew she had no magic of her own, she was like everyone else here but so different. He continued to watch her as she walked towards them.

Vince was waiting for Aleister to answer him. If the demon was in love with the girl or even liked her in that way, Vince would not advance on her. He wasn't the type to fall in love, he just like having a good time with them. He turned when the girls returned. He smiled at them, Serenity looking even more lovely than before in her strange clothing. "Ah, much better." He said, smiling wide.

Serenity had been asking Marie about what her day was normally like inside the castle walls, wanting to get a feel of how her life was going to be life until she could find a way back, when Aleister and Vince came into view. The conversation died down, though neither of the girls found it odd in any way. Their attention was for the two men in front of them, though Serenity's was more for Aleister than Vince and Marie was vice versa.

Serenity gave an answering smile back when she saw Aleister's, though she had to stop herself from giggling. Aleister's smile wasn't like Vince's, it wasn't all-out. In fact, it looked a little subdued, as if he weren't used to it or didn't want to scare them. Well, with those canines in his mouth, definitely ones you wouldn't find in a human mouth, maybe that was his reason behind it. It made her wonder what he looked like when he was truly happy and had no inhibitions. No doubt his smile was gorgeous.

"Sorry it took so long." Serenity said, "I'm not used to this kind of clothing. I'm really thankful that Marie was there to help me."

"Oh, you weren't too bad. At least you were able to get your head through the right opening." Marie smiled.

"At least I saved myself that blunder." Serenity agreed, turning to face Vince when he spoke. A mischevious glitter went through her eyes when he said her clothing was much better, "You didn't like my choice of clothing beforehand? I thought it was on the cutting edge of fashion."

"Is it where you come from?" Marie asked, curious if all women wore pants like men and wore such revealing tops.

"No." Serenity giggled, "I actually wear a lot more clothing than that. Those were really just clothes that I didn't mind getting dirty when moving things around."

[[So I was thinking about the mirror she came through. Later on, when she reveals better how she got there, how about her explanation makes Aleister remember that a mirror of the same description is in King Albert's castle? :3]]

Vince pretty much ignored Marie, his attention more on Serenity than anything else. "Well, I didn't mind myself. However, it will make the others see you for the person you really are." He said, moving in a little closer. Aleister never said he liked Serenity in that way, so in his mind, she was fair game. He didn't notice Marie's feelings for him at all. He never really saw Marie for the young and beautiful woman she was becoming. No, Vince never saw the love that filled the girl's eyes when she looked at him, nor the pain that filled them when he was with other women. Vince was an honorable man and kind, but he had faults. He could be selfish and self absorbed at times.

Aleister wanted to return Serenity's smile but held back. He enjoyed the way she spoke with Marie, so easily and like she belongs here among them. He listened to their conversation, picking up little details about her. "Well, shall we discuss how you got here?" He asked. He liked Vince and all, but he couldn't allow Serenity to fall victim to his advances. He hadn't spent all that much time with her, but he knew somehow that she wouldn't like being hit on by him nor would she fall for him. That thought made him hope a little. Hope was a feeling he hadn't felt in such a long time.

Aleister nodded to them and to Vince, leading them away from the rest of the group. He lead them to Vince's war room, the room where all important matters were discussed. The room was large and round, with a large round table in the center. Tattered maps laid across the massive wooden table, mugs were left scattered around as well. Aleister waited for them to enter before shutting the heavy wooden door behind them.


[That sounds good to me! Maybe it could even be in Aleister's tower. O:]

"Hmm...well, it definitely doesn't make me stand out anymore." Serenity said, not minding that Vince drew closer, and completely missing the point of what he had been saying. In her world, it wasn't unheard of for two friends to stand just inches from one another, even if they were of the opposite sex. This seemed normal to her, though if she had had a look into either Marie or Aleister's mind, she'd now that such "intimacy" was normally reserved only for lovers or those flirting.

"Yes, I would like to hear more about how you got here." Marie said, trying to make their current distance become farther apart from one another. She knew that Vince had no idea about her feelings, but it didn't stop her from trying to convey them. Sometimes she wondered why her heart continued to plague her with such feelings, but then a few kind words or smile from Vince would make her heart race in way it did not do for any other man.

"That is fine with me." Serenity said, turning her head away from Vince to speak with Marie. Following after Aleister as he lead the way, her head kept turning to look at something that flickered in her peripheral vision or a sound that signalled activity of some sort. It was amazing just how much went on within a castle and Serenity found herself making mental notes as to how accurate their current take on medieval culture was.

When they entered into the war room, Serenity found herself getting giddy when she caught sight of the maps. Walking to the table, she fingered the edge of a map lightly as she looked over it, noting the various dashes and dots that had been made on the map. The door closing made her look up from her observations and see that the others were taking a seat. Sitting down herself, she launched into her account of how she had gotten here.

"Well, I was in my parents' attic, cleaning it out and I came across something that was covered by a sheet. When I pulled back the sheet, it turned out to be a large standing mirror. The craftsmanship was remarkable!" Serenity exclaimed, her eyes starting to go wide from excitement as she remembered it, "The metalwork was one-of-a-kind, but what really stood out to me what how the mirror was held to its stand by dragons. The hinges were worked very delicately so it looked the dragon was holding it in its teeth. There were also semi-precious stones decorating it, some of them worked into the dragons to make them look more alive. So I started cleaning it and it suddenly started to glow. Yet, at the time, I thought it was just a trick of the light. Then it flickered, and when I put my hand to it...well, here I am. It was like I was sucked into a dark space and then spat out."

She waited for a little bit, allowing them to let the account sink in, before she asked, "So...do you have any idea what happened?"

"...Powerful sorcery is all I can think of." Marie said, her skin slightly paled as the story brought her imagination to life. Was Serenity truly a witch? Did not only those who knew craft have the ability to bring such things about? The golden-haired girl looked at the most magical being that was in room, Aleister, thinking that really only he could shed some light onto this.

[[Oooo, cool! That'll make it even more exciting as they try to get to it!]]

Vince smiled at Serenity's obvious enjoyment of the war room. He sat in his large tattered throne. It's once golden glory tattered and tarnished. He didn't want to use it, but everyone insisted on it. They all told him he were to be king if they defeat Albert. Vince never let it go to his head, he never wanted to be one of those kings. His people will rule along side him. "So a mirror sucked you in and brought you here?" He asked, his cheek resting against his hand as he watched.


Aleister smiled slightly at her. His smile soon disappeared as she told her tale of how she got here. "Mother's mirror..." He whispered, his eyes wide. "You have Mother's mirror? How is that possible?" He pondered, so many thoughts going through his head. He paced the room, thinking. There was only one way for her to get back if the mirror brought her here. She would have to go back through the mirror. There was only one problem with that. The mirror was in his tower, the tower that Albert kept him in. There was only one way in and out of there as well. The tower was attached to Albert's personal chambers. Albert was a smart man, he kept Aleister close to him. "I know that mirror." He said softly.

"Yes." Serenity said in response to Vince's question, "Though I don't know how. All I was doing was cleaning it."

"Did you cut yourself? Perhaps get some blood on it?" Marie asked, "My grandmother used to talk of spells that only work through the use of blood. She used it to keep us from becoming unruly."

Serenity shook her head, "No. I was very careful and there really weren't any sharp points on it."

A whisper from Aleister made Serenity turn her attention towards him, and she noted that he looked as if someone had revealed an unhappy future to him. His eyes were wide and he was in total shock. It unnerved her; just what had she said to make him react like this? It all became clear soon enough.

"Your mother's mirror?" She repeated, dumbstruck. That was not possible! How could a mirror of one world be in another world? And not only that, at the same time!? That couldn't be right...it wasn't possible! Yet, things she thought were impossible had become possible, such as being in a completely different world via mirror. Though there seemed to be a silver lining, since Aleister knew the origin of the mirror and so would be able to get her home.

"Well...that's good, right?" Serenity said, though it was becoming increasingly apparent that it wasn't, "It's your mother's, so she wouldn't mind if I used it, would she?"

Serenity chewed on her bottom lip in nervousness. She was really really hoping that Aleister would say it would be no problem. Was his mother very protective of her mirror? She had read in many myths about dragons that they were extremely protective of their treasure horde. Would she have to sneak into his mother's home and hope she didn't get burned alive for trespassing?

Vince watched the scene before him, his mind turning. He knew of the mirror as well. He never liked it much. He chuckled at Serenity as she spoke of Aleister's mother. That she demon had been slain for quite some time now. He looked to Aleister for the first time since Serenity returned from changing. The demon was tensed, something else worried him about the mirror.

Aleister began to pace again, stopping in front of Serenity for a second to look at her, then paced away from her. He couldn't take her to the tower, Albert would surely take her from him. Or worse yet order him to kill her. For whatever reason, Albert could see when Aleister cared for something or someone. He always order him to destroy those things he held dear. His mother's mirror was intact because it tormented Aleister with memories of the past. His mother wasn't a kind one, she tormented him as a young child. She would also let other demons have their way with him. He shuddered, his cold shield unable to protect him from what lay within his own mind.

"Mother is not the problem. She has long been dead." Aleister said, his voice a whisper. "The mirror is in my possession. However, it is in my prison. The tower attached to King's Albert's personal chambers." He said, turning to look at her. He wanted to help her. However he could allow her to be hurt by him or Albert.

Serenity hadn't really known just how much she had been hoping that he would say everything would be alright until he said that it wouldn't. It was like she had been hit by a truck; the color drained from her now crestfallen face, her posture drooping as she seemed to suddenly find great interest in her hands. They were on her lap, the knuckles becoming white from the pressure she was exerting on them.

"O-oh...I see." She managed to choke out, her eyes burning as she struggled to keep herself from crying. It was all crashing down on her now. She was stuck in a world that was not her own, had nearly been killed the moment she had come through that blasted mirror, met a man that should have only been in myth, and was now being told that her only way of getting home was denied. Life wasn't fair, Serenity knew that, but she couldn't stop herself from saying it over in her head that it wasn't fair! Why had this happened to her? Why had that stupid mirror been in her attic in the first place!?

Marie had tentatively placed a hand on her clenched ones, but had shot it back when she felt the hands jerk from the touch. Serenity's eyes had screwed shut in her attempt to keep from crying, but a few traitors managed to sneak out and splash onto the ground.

"S-sorry...I know I shouldn't cr--" She sniffed, burying her face in her hands as she choked back a sob. This had to be the worst day of her life. Even though there were three other people in the room, people she knew she could trust even though she had only just met them, Serenity felt completely alone. The thought of never being able to go home, back to her way of life and back to the family she had left behind, filled her with despair.