Stolen ((For yaoifann))
 

In the time of yesterday. When noblemen and the wealthy rule the lands. There was a kingdom. Where the people were friendly and the crops were always in season. This kingdom was called Goldstones. Many come far and wide to the see the lands beauty and to see the king. Who know one ever saw, but heard that he was a kind hearten man. Only those with power were allowed to speak with him. Some question him, but others thought that as long as he was fair to his people. Then that's good enough for them. Since this kingdom was large. They broke it down into four different parts. Each with a unique name. North side was Purple hero. To the east was White angels. South was copper nail and west was called Black alley.

Many do not go to the west for that's were most thieves and bandits live. Not not all of them were bad. Some steal from those who steal from others while others were as bad as many people thought. Known to the king, the bandits actually formed a Guild. People hired them to steal or the gather info. The job spread to those who thought different. That part of town was also known as the the city's dump. For most of the people living there were poor. That was one of the main reasons for that they started the Guild.

From in it there was a top thief, no one knew his real name or where he came from, but There wasn't a job that he wouldn't take on. From getting info on other kingdoms to kidnapping. The name they have given him was Shadow Panther. Like the king the leader of the guild was unknown. Only the Black panther knew what he or she looked like. He also handed the jobs to the others if they were requested.

Right now he was at the palace. For he took on a job. It seems that the king had received a gift from of the neighboring kingdoms. One which the client wanted for themselves and was willing to hire the best to get it for him. It was a gem that it worth more then all of the noble families. He had sneak inside and took out a few guards on the way. Going to the lower parts of the castle. To the treasure room. He had to be quick for it was going to be displayed later that evening for a royal gathering.

In a blink of an eye. He had got in, grabbed the stone, put it in a sack and got out. By the time he got out. It was already to late. The guards went into panic and ran around like headless chickens. They an outside to spot anyone that might look out of the ordinary. One of them actually spotted Shadow panther and give out the order to follow him. They chased him around, but they him somewhere in the White angel section and give up the search.

Sighing with relief. The thief looked into his bag to see the gem. It shined even in the shadows of the alley way. It was a pink diamond. One of the biggest that he had ever seen. To think that this stone was worth a lot. He wanted to keep it to himself. For he needed it for his ow reason. But the client is willing to pay a lot so he will give to him instead. With that, sticking to the dark parts of the city, he makes his way back home.

Keanu sighed. The guards had created such an uproar during the heist. Nobles scattered about the court, the queen retreated to her guarded chamber, the king paced furiously before his dais. Keanu sat anxiously in the eastmost tower, gazing out upon White Angels, the prestigious, noble sector of his future kingdom.

Prince Keanu had ordered the heist. He was the mysterious client financing Shadow Panther's theft. And the Pink Diamond, the rarest, most beautiful gem of all, would be his. When he ruled, he would display the jewel proudly around his neck, willing all to gaze at his wealth and power which the Diamond would undoubtedly represent.

And that would be soon...

The assassination plot on his father and mother, king an queen, was already hatched. All he needed was the proper man. The correct assassin to carry out the deed. Surely Shadow Panther could do it? Keanu would ask him when next they met to exchange gold for Diamond...

Less the a half hour later. The Black panther had returned to Black alley. Since the request was a written one. He had never saw who he or she looked like. All he knew was that he had to steal the Pink Diamond for him and to meet him at Ware wolf pub. That's where he had always meets his clients. There was a room upstairs of the pub to do such business. Since the guild ran in the pub, but underground. He starts walking on the main streets. All calm, but still had his famous black fur cloak on. With the hood over his head such in case. It was warm, but also light. This was the reason why he was given the name.

Inside the pub, it was lively. Many of the people who lived here where sitting around. Getting drunk, yet laughing and smiling. Music was playing in the background. Some of the folk were dancing to the beat. Always a pair, thinking that they were in the upper class at some short of ball. He would never understand. They should be grateful for what they have or so he thinks. As he heads for the stairs. He tells the cook of the place. An old man who was bald on the top but was in pretty good shape. That he will be using the top floor and to make sure that no one bothers him. Also that he expects someone of high class to come and to send him on up if he asks for him. The cook nodded and went onto his business.

The top floor was rather nice. It had some nice wall hangings and some other goods that the guild bandits had stole in the past. Like a boars head staring at you the moment you reach the top of the stairs. The seating were nice and plush. Good to sit on after a good days job. It was a little dark in the room. Since the windows were shut by nailed boards. So he lit a few candles to make it brighter. Once he had a seat, he pulled his hood down. Reviling his smooth coco brown color skin. His silky onyx hair and his stunning sky blue eyes.

When the prince made his request he was told to met at the pub and ask for the thief's name. As Black Panther waited for him. He took the gem out from his sack to look at it one more time. It was 15 years ago when they discover this gem and know that they don't come by. This stone was the must have stone for royalty. Even they have a hard time getting their hands on it. With this stone being worth a lot and that any thief want it for their own. Why did he look so hurt and in pain when he looked at it?

Prince Keanu had some trouble slipping out of the palace unnoticed. His nearly constant detail of guards was quite challenging to get past. After several failed excuses, Keanu finally used his royal authority to dismiss them. It was getting close to nightfall and he was running out of time. After his command, they had no choice but to obey him. Finally, he thought, they're gone.

He dressed modestly; he was to be in modest company, no need to look overly fanciful. A simple white tunic and black riding pants as well as his riding boots. Throwing a thick, red cloak - he was forced to use red since it was the only cloak he had that didn't have the Royal Seal on it - he headed out to the stables. There, he belted on his sheathed rapier - he was going to a rather dangerous part of the kingdom after all - and had the groom saddle up his horse, Vixen.

With a slap of the reins, he was out. Galloping past the guards at the palace gates always gave him a sense of liberation, but instead of letting the wind blow in his face and hair like usual, he hid under the hood of his cloak. Discretion and secrecy were vital.

Entering Black Alley, he trotted quickly past everday thieves and beggars, people who looked and stared at him in wonderment. All of them had the same burning question: What was this man, obviously high in status, doing in Black Alley?

It wasn't long until he reached his destination: the dreaded pub. It was a squalid, dank affair, almost dilapidated. But it was nice for Black Alley standards. The normal riffraff floated in and out of the hovel and everyone smelled profusely of alcohol. Keanu dismounted and tied his steed to a nearby post. No one would dare steal such a fine creature for it would be such a stand out in Black Alley, detection would be immediate, and punishment...severe.

Prince Keanu entered the establishment, his hood still pulled up tight and the hem swirling ominously about his ankles. He was here for business. That apparent fact kept the drunkards at bay, they dared not intervene on his trip. As soon as his black riding boots clicked on the floor upon entrance, the bartender was at his side.

"Right this way, my Lord," the man spoke, guiding the Prince towards a staircase towards the back of the bar.

Keanu mumbled his thanks and passed the barkeep a quick pence for a tip. He began to slowly ascend the stairs...his boots thumping with every step...

Hearing the steps of the prince coming up. The thief pulled back his hood to hide his face, so he may never recognize by him if they were to ever meet up outside their contract. He also put the gem away into his sack once again. For when hiring him he always ask to be pay half of the fee first and pay for the second when it was over. It was the money first and the object second. Unlike most thieves in Black Alley, Black Panther was honest to his word. There wasn't one time that he broke his client's trust. Until hired for a job that involves them. Then he double cross. It his way for making this life work for him.

Then he got the signal from the staff at the pub. From the far right corner was a sculpture of what looked like a black panther. Sitting on all fours looking proud From afar it looks pricey, but normal. However there was something else to it. For there was a pipe connected to it that lead tot he kitchen. When he was up here and someone was looking for him. They would light a fire and it will travel up. Making the panther's eyes glow a creepy yellow glow. Slow flickers meant that a client was on the way, fast flickers meant that the royal guards or somebody was looking for him and solid meant the boss was looking for him.

He stood up and waited for the Prince to come up. For even if he wanted to keep it for himself. He also wanted to get rid of it. Sure if he kept for awhile it might go up in value, but it left a bad taste in his mouth. For many people actually know the truth of how people acquired such a beauty. For those who did know, didn't care. Which it why he hate the higher class people. So it was actually hard for him to work for them, but there was something he needed to do and it costs a lot of money to do. If he could find another way, he would of. Yet luck was never on his side other then doing the jobs right. All to do now is wait.

A strong feeling entered Prince Keanu's body as he neared the top of the staircase. The feeling felt good; therefore, he judged it as a positive omen. When his boots reached the final stair, he exhaled sharply and thrust himself into the room with confidence.

It was the nicest room of the bar. Hand-me-down decor such as mounted animals and shabby wallhangings crowded the second-story abode. Furniture was sparse but what was there was nice; obviously this room was for the dealings of the infamous guild that ran this entire pub. It was fashioned to somewhat impress, to appease visually the visitor, the client.

Keanu smiled when he thought of how the guild favored themselves a secret. As if the Royal Court did not know of this place? Of this guild? No, most of the Court's dealings went on around here. Keanu's parents and relatives and fellow nobles and royals frequented the guild's prestigious handymen - the thieves-for-hire. The Royals let this place exist because it served them well. Jewels, treasure, deeds, and other such valuables were stolen by this guild and then bought by the Court. In fact, the King himself had achieved most of his riches by financing thefts for this guild and reaping the benefits. Needless to say, the Court was a corrupt and secretive business.

But regardless of the decor, of the furniture, of the apparent back-alley dealings that went on here, there was but one focus Keanu had: Black Panther.

The fabled Thief Lord was standing before him, the infamous cloak shrouded his face. Keanu could see the sack - and the Pink Diamond's obvious, heavy, blunt shape within it - and he stared at it greedily; his prize was so close. "So you succeeded?" he hissed questioningly.

The Black Panther watch the prince carefully. As he had reached the top step. Seeing him take a quick look around of the place. Knowing that it isn't the palace, but they make do with what they had. It's not like he lives here. It just a place of business. Like right now. He walked a little closer to him, but with still some space between them just in case the prince had any funny ideas. You could never trust the noblemen or so he thinks.

When asked he is was successful to his request. He grabbed the sack which was tied around his waist and gently place it in his hand. There was no doubt about it. It was the pink diamond from the royal family. However he only let out out for awhile for him to look before putting it back in the sack. "...It will be yours. When I get the rest of my fee. If you fail to pay, then this gem will become the guilds." he told him. His voice was different. For it sounded a little feminine for a guy, but the pitch was right to not mistake him for an actually girl.

Keanu kept his hood up - no need to reveal himself too quickly. He watched hungrily as the Pink Diamond was revealed to him and then once again shoved away in the sack. He wanted it desperately. The gold he'd brought along as the final payment felt weightless in the bag tied to his waist. It was nothing compared to the Pink Diamond.

So, he happily traded it over. The bag of gold swiftly left his hands and the sack containing the Pink Diamond entered his possession in mere seconds. It felt glorious...so distracted was the Prince that he failed to noticed that he'd kept hold of Black Panther's hand...

Seeing the bag of gold. He nodded his head and handed the pink diamond over to the prince. Still having no idea who he was. Since like him, he to was wearing a hood to cover his face. Something that was smart in this part of the kingdom. For if anyone knew who he really was, he would be in danger. Having the gold in his hand. Hie tied it to his waist with one hand. Something he learned from the boss. Now maybe...maybe he could use the money to good use. Use it for the reason that he started this job.

As he was about to put the other hand down. He notice that the prince hand it in a firm grip. This puzzled the thief. for he had the diamond, it wasn't fake or anything. He was one of the rare bandits who had some honor and kept his word. So why wasn't he letting go. "Sir. I can't assure you that that is the real pink diamond. I keep my word." he told him sounding clam, but he was still confused. Yet deep down the feel of the fellow's hand was warm. Something you don't feel here everyday. Then he notice that his heart was beating a little faster then normal. Thinking that it must be a sign that he was going to attack. "If you have no farther business here. Please let go and get out. You are not my only client." he said still clam, but a hint of nervous was in his voice.

"Apologies," Keanu immediately dropped the thief's hand. "I...I don't know what came over me. Of course this is the real Diamond; your reputation precedes you, Black Panther, I would never think it was a fake." The Prince's face reddened and he thanked the stars that his hood still shrouded his face in darkness. Prince Keanu swiftly redrew his hands into the billowy sleeves of his cloak, hiding them, too. Why did his heart suddenly beat with quickened paliptations? The deal was done; the Diamond was his. No need to worry any more.

"I'll be leaving now. Thank you kindly for your services. I'll contact you again for future jobs; I have many in mind for you." The Prince had suddenly decided to evacuate the building because he heard the nearby trumpets of Royal Guards. He could not be seen in such a place, his reputation and therefore word would be compromised. Besides, he had no doubts that the Guard were looking for the Diamond. His father would surely be on a rage now. His wrath would stretch to all ends of the kingdom. No one would be free of the vengeful punishment the King would dole out for the loss of his Diamond...

Keanu turned to leave the upper room, his heart still thundering...he wondered if the Black Panther had noticed his sudden anxiety.

As the Prince left his heart was feeling strange as well. He was beating tiny beats and at a fast rate. He placed his left hand over where his heart was and felt it pumping. He side and sat down for a moment. "It...it's just the gas." he quietly mumbled his breath. It didn't take long for him to calm down for his next client came to see him.

Days flown on by and the talk of the diamond was everywhere. Some were wondering where it went when others wonder why the king wasn't keeping a closer eye on it. In the end that all thought of the same, they wished they had their hand on the pink diamond. There was also other news going around the town. The tonight there was a part happening in the palace. For it was one of the lord's in the castle daughter's birthday. There was going to be a party in the grand ballroom. Anyone who was anyone was going to be there. It just so happens that the infamous Black Panther was going to be there was well.

Night time soon came and the party had started. Royal guards stood by the door in case something got out of hand. No one was allowed inside unless they had an invitation on them. Lords and lady from all over the land were hear. Even the king and queen. Who were still upset over the diamond hist. Many came to pay their respect for their misfortune. There also something else buzzing in the ball room. For a lovely lady had stepped in.

Many of the eyed the lady. For she was wearing the red silk red dress in the land. It was a shame that she was hiding her face behind a feathery fan. He eyes were purple and shine as they were carved from the finest amethyst. her wavy coco brown were in pigtails tied with black lace. Her skin was also dark but smooth. She was a fine beauty. To bad no one knew that she was the Thief that stole the diamond. For he was here for his next job.

The Prince had kept the Pink Diamond close as the weeks had flown by. Literally, he'd kept it close. The Diamond rested in a tight, leather pouch always around Keanu's neck, hidden under his tunic, always under his guarding eyes. He was not about to lose what he'd just risked his life to obtain. It wouldn't be hidden for long, however. Soon, his parents' lives would fall to a terrible "accident" and the Diamond would rest out in the open on Keanu's breast. Talk of the Diamond was everywhere, though, and speculation flew rampant, so Keanu kept low.

As for the King's wrath? Oh it had been terrible. Widespread taxes were issued throughout the kingdom, crippling the peasants and working class of the kingdom. They were to remain in place until the culprit came forward. Meanwhile, the Royal Palace's treasury flowed with gold as the increased taxes produced amazing profits. With this new gold, the King financed wild bounty hunters and enormous amounts of Royal Guards to patrol the kingdom in search of the precious jewel. Suspects and others thought to be in cahoots with the original thief were thrown into dungeons, never to see daylight again. Widespread terror shrouded the kingdom as everyone feared they would be imprisoned or taxed into poverty.

However, the harsh conditions did not affect the nobles and royals of the kingdom and Royal Palace and Court. In honor of his favorite lord, the King was throwing a huge ball for the said lord's daughter. It was her birthday and in celebration all of the nobility and royalty had been invited. The Palace was flooded with the rich visitors who'd traveled from all across the land. Their hopes were fulfilled tonight as the ball commenced.

Beautiful decorations and sculptures lined the Grand Ballroom's walls as a full orchestra played delightful dance music. Wine and food was boundless and supplied by the Royals on long, wide tables that bent under the weight of the gorgeous, delicious food. The dance floor swirled with dazzling women in bright gowns and sparkling jewels; they were accompanied by their cloaked suitors who were gentlemen, nobles, and royals, all of which twirled a dainty woman on their gloved hands.

Prince Keanu was dressed to impress. A thick, dark, sparkling robe snaked around his body, clinging tightly to his waist which was adorned with a jeweled, obsidian belt. His shoulder had similar obsidian stones and dark, raven's feathers ornamenting the robe. The robe was priceless, tailored just days before by the kingdom's best designer. His normal, silver coronet graced Keanu's head. It, too, was studded with the telltale obsidian stones that were the Prince's regular jewels.

He danced wonderfully with his date, a visiting Princess from a neighboring kingdom. Princess Clarice was dressed just as wonderfully but all in white and pearls. So, white and black, Keanu and Clarice twirled skillfully in the middle of the dance floor, the envy of all...until...Keanu spied the woman in red...

Even though he was laughing out with the noblemen. Inside he was getting rather annoyed. For he was here on a mission, not to giggle like a girl with such pigs. He couldn't believe that they could get any lower. Oh how he wanted to but an end to it and soon he shall. Then he notice that the prince's eyes had fallen onto him. His first thought that he must be the most perverted noblemen of them all. For all he seen, the princes were nothing but over grown children and think that they could get away with anything they wanted. But with all the rage inside of him. He did not show it. Instead, he looked back and winked at him.

Then he was making way towards the King, queen and the lord. The Prince could not hear word he was saying to them, but the look on his father's face. It must be really big news. Soon all four of them left the ballroom and to the other side of the castle. The dumb thing about it was that no guards followed them. How did he trick them into following him you asked? Well he claimed that he 'saw' a strange figure holding a rather large gem. That looked a lot like the pink diamond. Of course the king was going to listen to her. After making the request to talk somewhere alone.

Time flew by and he came back, but only by himself. Walking up to the prince. He lightly tapped him on the shoulder. "Excuse me, your Highness?' he asked in a polite lady like tone. "I hope I am not bothering you, but I was wondering if I may have dance with you? I be most honored to dance with a fine gentlemen such as yourself." he said with a smile. Hiding with his fan. But not a smile of joy. But with a smile that this was going to be an easy job.

Keanu danced wildly, laughing with victory as his plan would soon be fruitful. His parents suspected nothing. Neither did his future queen, the Princess Clarice. It was already decided that they would marry soon, and their kingdoms would unite! Keanu would have it all: a vast kingdom, a gorgeous wife, riches beyond imagination, and the Pink Diamond. He was grinning from ear to ear as Clarice laughed with him. She was oblivious of his plans concerning the Pink Diamond and the assassinations but she was merely happy because Keanu was happy.

The Prince grinned even wider as he watched his parents be led away out of the ballroom. He noticed no guards went with them but he failed to notice who it was that led his
parents away. That person still remained swathed in mystery.

Minutes later, and the unknown lady in red arrived at his elbow. She asked for a dance.

"Go ahead!" Clarice allowed. "I must take respite. I need more wine!" She gushed heavily, pecked Keanu on the cheek, and departed from them, leaving the Prince to dance with the lady in red.

"It would by my pleasure," Keanu bowed deeply and began the dance of all dances with this complete stranger...

He told himself that things were going well. As the prince accept to dance with him. He pulled his fan to the side and smiled. "Thank you so much." he said sound most happy. With this disguise and make up. It would be really hard to tell who he really was. That and he was talking in a high voice that he sounded more female then male.

As the two of them dance. Surprisingly the thief danced like he has been doing it all his life. It was rather annoying but he needed to get close to the prince. "You are quite light on your feet. I guess the girl's wish that you were there's." he said and lightly giggled. "I'm guessing that that girl with you is the one fore you. I Sorry to but in, but I just wanted to dance with you once. So I tank you for granting me this wish." he told him.

Soon he finished dancing with him and went over talking over with Clarice asking for her to step outside for a moment with him. She agreed and so they did. after awhile she was the only one to came back she rushed over the the prince and he looked panicked. "Your highness! Something awful just happened. Princess Clarice had to much to drink and had fallen off the balcony!" he said in fear and dragged him outside.

Once out there. If the prince were to look down, he were had seen the lifeless body of his beloved. Laying on the grass with a glass of wine next to her hand. The ball room was up high and if you had fallen from the balcony. There was no way you live through something like that. Since one one knew was happening. He pulled a dagger from his thigh and was ready to stab the prince. Since he was standing from behind. He quietly charged him him. Aim the get to his heart.

They whirled round and round, the absolute thrill of the dancefloor; everyone else watched them in envy. "You are quite the dancer," Keanu remarked to his unknown partner as they continued to swirl about. He only wished he knew her name. Perhaps he could take her as his wife after he had Clarice finished off once their kingdoms were united in marriage.

When the dance finished, Keanu bowed deeply to his partner as the crowd cheered and clapped loudly, calling for an encore from the skillful dancers. But the Lady-in-Red denied a second dance with the Prince, insisting she had urgent business to attend. Keanu in turn left the dancefloor to search for Clarice, surely they could continue dancing together.

He wandered around the expansive ballroom for quite a while, dodging dignitaries and nobles he didn't wish to speak with, nodding and waving at friends and family, and sidestepping twirling couples that sparkled in delightful gowns and robes.

Then he saw her.

Not Clarice, but the Lady-in-Red. In fact, she was rushing towards Keanu.

"Show me at once!" Keanu demanded when the Lady uttered her terrible news: the Princess Clarice was dead.

To the balcony they went, Keanu and the Lady, alone. There was no use in ushering in guards or servants when Keanu had yet failed to see the body. Better handle this alone until the Lady's words were confirmed.

Keanu gasped when he looked down and saw the body. A dead Clarice with wine staining her bodess and a shattered glass at her side peered up at the pair as they looked at her from the balcony. The fall was too much; her spine or neck or head must've given way to Death's cold clutches.

Suddenly Keanu heard footsteps behind him, quick, sharp heels clicking against the stone tiles of the balcony. He whirled around just in time to catch the Lady's wrist and stop her from plunging a knife deep into his chest. They struggled for a moment, Keanu holding both of her wrists while the knife twitched in her grasp dangerously between them. He dare not let go.

Then without warning, he pulled her close. He raised her wrists up over their heads so the knife dangled harmlessly in the air while their bodies touched. "You think I don't know who you are?" Keanu hissed in their close proximity. "The Black Panther....I am not stupid," he continued to growl. "I hired you, you fool. I paid you to dispose of the Royal Family...However, myself, the prince, was never on the docket to be murdered. And neither was Clarice! You've betrayed me and gone and thrown my entire plan into disarray."

"You fool!" It was the last thing Keanu said before he began to lift the Panther over the banister to hurl him over the side like Clarice...but something stopped him...

The thief remained clam. Even as to when the Prince grabbed him by his wrist. But he did not once let go of the knife. For he still had a job to carry. He used all he had to move the blade to his chest. For he would not give up so easily. When their body touched as one. His felt his heart racing once again. Believing that it just the adrenaline pumping through his body. Yet he didn't expect for someone with royal blood like him to be able to make the move as to have his own parents killed. It was new to the Black Panther, even him knowing who he really is. "So you knew it was me all along. I guess their are some noblemen with actual brains. Never thought to see the day." he said in his normal voice. Glad to stop using the girly voice. It was so annoying.

When the Prince had him dangled over the edge, knowing that he was planning to let go go and let him fall. Just like the princess. He saw that he stopped. Now knowing the reason. "You are right." he said. "I was hired to end the king and queen's lives. However...I was given another job to prevent the two kingdoms coming together." he told him. With this being his only chance. He swag his legs back, then straight forward to Keanu. Hitting him hard on the chest and knocking him over. He might of gotten the upper hand, but he knows how to fight. He got on top of the Prince and raised the knife in the air. Ready to swing in down. When he heard the royal guards coming. "Damn." he cursed. Putting the knife away. "It looks like I would have to finish this job another time." he said standing up.

Pulling from under his dress. He reviled a rope with a hook. "I still expect for you to pay the other part for killing your mommy and daddy. If you don't, you'll be dead by next morning." he told him. "By the way. You're not so bad on your feet." those were the final words of the Black Panther. Before he leaped off the balcony and used to the rope to catch a tall tree branch. Swinging tree to tree. Until he was at the castle wall and leaped off from there. Then the guards came to the Princes side and asked if he was alright.

Keanu was pulled upwards by the guards as they raced to attend him. They'd been roused to the situation since during the fall Keanu had pulled down a large, standing torch with him and the coals had spilled into the ballroom. "My Lord!" the colonel bowed deeply as he stood before the Prince. "Are you alright?"

"After him!" Keanu screeched and pointed to the ground below the balcony. "Catch him! Catch him! Catch him!"

The guards were puzzled as to what the Prince was talking about.

Keanu in the meantime stormed into the ballroom. The music had stopped ever since the guards had rushed forward so the ballroom was silent as Keanu raged. "I want him found; captured; dragged here in chains! Bring him before my feet by the end of the week, dead or alive!" Guards rushed around, escorting worrisome guests out of the ballroom and quickly closing down the night's festivities. "Sound the alarm; rouse the cavalry; fetch the infantry from their barracks; get trackers on his trai; I want him here. Now!"

"My Lord," the colonel hastened to Keanu's side. "My Lord, what're you talking about?!"

"The BLACK PANTHER!" Keanu screeched, causing everyone in the ballroom to gasp and exhale. "He was here! He's killed everyone! The King, the Queen, Clarice!"

At his words, women and men alike fainted. Visiting dignitaries, relatives of Princess Clarice rushed toward Keanu, demanding answers. But most importantly, the palace sprung into action.

The kingdom was put on high alert as all gates into and out of the city were barred shut. The walls surrounding the humongous city were armed to the teeth with sentrymen and other guards. Infantry and cavalry alike flooded all boroughs of the city, searching for the Black Panther. Trackers found his trail at the foot of the balcony and began their search. The palace and the kingdom were both a hive of activity.

Meanwhile, black drapes, banners, standards, and curtains were hung all about as the kingdom entered a period of mourning for the deceased royals. The King and Queen's bodies were prepared and a funeral planned - the same went for Clarice. Now, Keanu sat at his new throne, thoroughly displeased at Court as nobles, royals, and Clarice's family bombarded him with questions and demands, advice and cautionary tales...it was a madhouse.

And as Keanu sat there, thinking darkly on his newly inherited throne that was encrusted with countless jewels and cushioned by extensive furs, he fumed at the thought that the Panther thought he was still getting paid...no way was he coughing up more treasure...

As they give chase to the infamous thief. Who would be by morning. Was coming down from the palace walls. When he saw that he was surrounded by the royal guards. Some who were hold ropes that were around the dogs neck. "Halt! You are here by arrested for committing the crime of killing the king queen and princess." one of the guards said in a metallic voice. For his face was well protected by the helmet on his head. Soon they came after him and one by one they fell. Two were killed and the other five were knock out cold. He turned around and leaped unto a pile of crates, which helped him reach the roof top. Making sure that they didn't follow him. He lit up a match and threw it on the crates. Setting them up in a blaze. They tried to follow him by ground, but they lost him in the copper nail district. Even the dogs lost track of the thief scent.

By morning, the word spread like the plague. Everyone was talking about it. That the royal family was slay and now the Prince had taken the throne. Some were crying for the loss of the king and queen and some pity the prince for he had lost not only his family, but his fiance as well. They were also talking about the Black Panther and all they had to say about him. Mostly rumors they once heard. This scared the others and thought of locking the doors. All expect in the Black alley.

They were proud for him, even if he didn't got the job done fully. Even the head of the guild was amazed by his skills. Yet he still punished him for not getting it done. The royal guards talk to the people, but nobody said a thing. There were even a few riots on the streets. Which sadly for the guards, they got their butts handed to them. The people of Black alley were not afraid of them and would gladly show them that.

Days flew by and there was no sign of the Black panther. The funeral passed and people were still said for that. For they thought that they were running a wonderful city. One of the guards came up to Keanu and bowed. "There is still no signs of the Black Panther, sir. I heard some rumors that he had already ran out of town and was heading east." he told him. When he was dismissed he bowed to the prince once more and ran off. For no one wanted to face the wrath of the prince.

When all hope of catching him were gone. That night at the palace. The alarm went off. "The Black Panther! The Black panther! He's here and robbed from the family treasure room! All guards capture him. Don't let him get away!" the captain yelled. Then there was an explosion in one of the many halls on the upper floor. For it was none other then the Black Panther. Wearing his well known black fur cloak and back into pants. Because he ditched the dress after what happened. He had made a hole in the floor to go down. Leaping down and landing on his feet. He heard some foot steps coming his way and went into the closest room. Closing the door behind him. The room he went into was the room of the late king and his wife.

Prince Keanu fumed. Day in and day out he strolled throughout his newly acquired palace in the long, black cloak that marked his mourning for his dead family. Servants and guards avoided him because of his severe temper. The Nobles and the Court stayed away, far away in their individual homes for they, too, feared the Prince. The murder of Clarice had angered him the most; he had lost an entire second kingdom. Her family had now refused him their second daughter, Marguerite, so there was no hope of uniting their kingdoms under his rule.

As for the Black Panther, Keanu still wanted him desperately within his grasp. He wanted the head of that vile thief to bounce and roll on the stones beneath the guillotine's cold steel blade. But his guards were idiots; they'd failed to capture the Panther. As such, Keanu had punished them with half-rations for a whole month! And as a result of the Black Alley's support of Panther, they would suffer. Riots had ensued at first, and the scum within the Alley had surely shown the guards a thing or two...But not for long.

Keanu had entire armies at his disposal. He flooded the Alley with infantrymen and cavalry. Armed horsemen and guards were posted every ten yards of road in the Alley. Archers lined every rooftop, ready to slay any protestor with their barbed arrows. No one was allowed in or out of the kingdom's lone slum, Black Alley. Martial law was imposed and all throughout the disgusting district citizens were abducted, interrogated, tortured, and imprisoned for endless amounts of time in the dungeons. Also, the citizens of Black Alley faced new taxes, much higher than anywhere else in the kingdom. Perhaps economic squeezing would convince someone to break down and give information as to where the Panther was hiding.

The Panther, and the measly treasure he'd stolen from the palace. It was a meager amount he'd taken, nothing compared to the vast vaults of Keanu's royal family. Still, Keanu didn't like being robbed...

But, to escape the extreme stress, Keanu was now taking a break. The Prince had driven in his gilded, jewel-encrusted carriage all the way to the seaside. There, he owned another, smaller palace. It was a summer retreat for the family but now it was his entirely. He went there alone with only five small platoons of guards for company and some servants. He needed peace and quiet...He needed a distraction already from his new kingdom...

As the thief figures how to escape he found something that he thought he would never see. A piece of paper that began all of this. His reason why he hated the king and queen of this land, he anger, and his reason he chose this life style. Soon the guards came flooding into the room. Thinking that they had capture him. But at the last second he jumped out of the window. Now knowing his next step.

Many of the people in Black Alley were having their troubles with the taxes and many of them being capture. Some even lost their lives, in order to protect the where about of the Black Panther. Even the guards were losing in numbers. It was an never ending struggle between the two. Knowing the damage this would bring. the leader of the bandit guild had gather the women and children together and lead them out of the city through an underground path known as the path of the widows. For if you didn't know which way to go, you will never make it out alive. Before he left tough. He give one more order to his right hand man. Telling him to get the job right and slay the prince. Also telling him the info some gather as to where the prince was hiding. Before they split, the Black Panther handed the leader a piece of paper and told him of a plan that he thought of. Then they were off.

Night had fallen and the prince has been followed in the shadows by none other then the thief. For he was told that that he was fleeting the city to get away from what's been happening. "You may be able to flee the city, but you won't flee from me." he thought to himself. If the prince is thinking that he was going to have piece he was wrong. Getting later at night and all the servants slept in their quarters. Making sure that they asleep. He spread a sleeping powder in each room so that they would not wake up. As for the guards, they will never wake up. As his dagger blade was covered in blood.

It wasn't long before he made it to the Prince's chamber. He actually went to the room next door and saw the door opened to the balcony.He stepped out and saw that the Prince's door to the balcony was open as well. Thinking that this was his chance. He leaped over and hid. Looking inside from a small window. Keeping his head low. To see what he was up to inside.

The Summer Palace, or The Retreat as it was oficially titled, as a stupendous palace. Right on the seaside, it was perched precariously on a cliffside, overlooking the water, with a small beach to the right that sloped gently down to the water's edge. It was Keanu's favorite palace...in fact, the royal family owned five. One for each season and then the main, large palace in the city.

And as Keanu came to this new home, one he hadn't visited in over a year, he had to grow accustomed to it. It would take time for him to be fully comfortable in this retreat. So, growing restless at night, he'd gotten out of bed and taken a stroll about the dark, silent palace grounds. The halls were quiet and relaxing. The stones beneath his bare feet felt good as he strolled calmly. He knew the halls but couldn't sleep because it'd been a while since he'd visited them. Nevertheless, this practice would tire him and he'd return to bed in a matter of minutes.

After grabbing a quick sip of water and a bite of bread from the kitchens, he began to return to his bedchamber. He opened the large, wooden door just in time to see a dark, silhouetted figure leap onto his balcony.

"Fancy finding you here, Panther," Keanu smiled, already reaching for the small rapier he'd strapped to his side before leaving bed. It was dark but not pitch black. Keanu had left a single candle lit beside his bed. The tiny flame illuminated the room. The Panther, cloaked and in his usual garb and Keanu in his silken night clothes, they faced each other anxiously.

As they stood in front of one another. He stood up and got into the defense stance. With the hood over his head and the darkness of the night. It was hard to see his face. "You already know why I am here. Normally I would ask for you to just give up. But I know that won't happen." he said in a just a clam matter. After doing this for so long. It wasn't that big of a deal anymore. He saw the prince choice of weapon and knew that it will have it's advantages and disadvantages. "I know this is wasted breath, but I'll say it anyway. Give up now. As we speak, your kingdom will fall. The people in Black Alley had placed the spacial gad all over the city. You should know what I mean, prince." he told him.

Years ago. In a small by village. A local man found a new found gem while working in the mines. This gem would be known as the pink diamond. Both Goldstones and the neighboring kingdom talked to the chief leader agreed that they would pay them for whatever diamond they found or so they told the people. For that was actually a lie. The only people who knew the real truth was the late king of Goldstones and the neighboring king of Jaderivers. The truth was that they enslaved the people and used a new type a gas that melt the dirt more faster. However this had side effects. For they made many of the people sick and fallen ill. Many died from it and the only ones that remained left their home. The thought of that angered the Black panther.

"Soon your kingdom will fall and the people will perish. You properly don't care fr the people. Since you are nothing my scum. But don't think it's only there. We placed the gas also in the kingdom where late 'beloved' princess home. We made sure if they found the gas. The blame would be cast upon you. Unless you sign your life to me. So I may end it." he told him. Then he took a step back. Standing on the rail and leaped. Doing a flip in mid air and landed behind him. raising the dagger and swing it down and hard across the back of the prince. He knew if he stayed closed to the prince. He won't be able to use the rapier.

Keanu laughed. "Why do you think I've come here? The gas can't reach me here, far by the sea. And if it does, the strong Westerly winds will drive it away. Besides, you think a king actually cares about his people? Nay. The gas will kill many, this is true, but I care not. Goldstones needs a cleaning out anyway. Only peasants will die. I've alerted the nobles of the impending gas and they've all been safely evacuated. The peasants will suffer and when they come begging to me, their lovely king, for help, I'll be there to send in the army and aid, to relieve them of suffering by giving them free food and medical care that I've been able to purchase with the recently raised taxes. All is taken care of."

"And as for Jaderiver...I don't care what happens to them. They deserve to die after refusing to give me their tiny kingdom. And even if they don't all perish, they stand nary a chance against the might of Goldstones."

Keanu laughed again as the Panther leapt through the air and landed behind him. He felt the Panther closing in, the gleaming dagger doubtless clutched tightly in his measely hands. Keanu jutted backwards with the hilt of his rapier, catching the Panther a rough blow in the stomach with the hard metal. Keanu then raced forward, away from his foe, and turned on him, rapier outstretched and ready to stab. He stared at the blade, making sure the poison was properly dried all around the blade...yes, it was perfect. One slice and a lethal dose of wolf's bane would enter the bloodstream of this horrendous thief, ending his life once and for all.

"Shan't we try diplomacy, my friend? What is it you wish, what do you desire? I can give you anything...."

As soon as he was hit. Blood came splattering out of the thief's mouth. He didn't hard to make that happen. It was something else. The Panther was filled with rage,the prince could notice his fighting skills were weaker from the last time. So when the blade was almost close his skin. Covered with the poison that he planned to use the prince. He looked at him, remaining calm. Until he heard what the prince offered. "Diplomacy? From a man who cares nothing of his people?" he said in a questioning voice. Due to the life as a thief, the idea was temping. He them remembered the reason why he even choice this life to began with. But he had to much pride.

"If you think I'm afraid of the poison, Then you are sadly mistaken. The thought of my untimely end does not frighten me. So how do I know that if I did agree for your diplomacy. You wouldn't stab me in the back. My people trusted you and look where we ended up. Many of my people had perish because of what your father did. He even killed my father. The Chief of the Driftsand tribe." he told him. Not sounding calm anymore. This time he was in rage.

The Diftsand tribe was a small village between Goldstones and Jaderivers. They were consider their own kingdom until the discovery of the curses pink diamond. The Black Panther was only 13 when it happened. Even if they didn't have a lot, they were still grateful for what they had. So when his people was vanishing in in front of his eyes, he was heart broken. "You are nothing but a heartless man. You only care for yourself and no one else. A ruler should watch over his people. You are nothing but a beast." he yelled and spit in the Prince's eye.

Keanu could feel a painful sting in the eye. For not only from his blood, but there was a lemon juice make into it. While that was taking effect. He moved to the side. Grabbed the rapier and got behind once again. Pressing the blade against his neck. "I'll show no mercy. Your life ends-" he stopped speaking and drops the rapier. Backing away from the prince. Covering his mouth with his hand. As he goes coughing violently. Dropping onto one knee. Knowing that this might be the end for him. With him in a state like this. The prince could end it here and now. Blood was starting to drip from his hand, forming a small puddle on the ground.

Keanu was taken by surprise. His eyes stung as the thief got the best of him, almost killing him. He. Keanu. The Prince. He had received years of training; he had been tutored by the best fighters in the land; he himself was rumored to be the kingdom's top swordsman. How had this meager peasant gotten the best of him?

Nevertheless, he cared not for that now since the Panther seemed incapacitated. He knelt before the Prince, coughing horrendously. Blood spurted from his mouth with each cough; he cupped his hands, catching the red, thick liquid. Keanu stared in wonderment. He was cruel, the Prince was, and he knew this...but he could not kill this man, a worthy opponent, in cold blood. He could not slay a man who was helpless to fight back.

Keanu picked up his rapier, keeping it between him and the Panther in case this was a trick, and knelt beside him. "What plagues you, Panther?" he whispered, sincerely curious. "Have you the Fever?"

This man, a thief, was his enemy...yet, Keanu respected him. Here was a man who'd stolen from the Royal Treasury...twice. Here was a man who'd managed to slay almost the entire Royal Family...and gotten away with it. Here was a man who'd earned Keanu's respect. The Prince's heart flew out to the dying man...

When he was asked by the prince what was wrong with him. He looked up at him. Moving his hand away. Revealing his blood stained hand and his mouth covered in red. "this is one of the effects of the gas your kingdom created." he told him standing up slowly. Panting like he just ran around the world. "I will be forever ill because of it. That's why I am not afraid to die. Because I know that the gas will kill me if nothing else." he explained to him in a calming tone. Looking up to the sky.

"I will admit this. You are a worthy rival. I haven't fought with a man with your skills in a long while. Most royals expect their guards to protect them." he said. Before couching more blood. Splattering onto the balcony floor. "If I go down then that's fine. However there's something I need to do before then." he babbled. Falling back to the ground. Coughing some more.

The hood to his cloak had fallen down. Showing his true face. His eyes were red where it should be whit, his cheeks were flushed and sweat came rolling down his forehead. "So I can't let you slay me yet, Prince." he told him. Breathing through the mouth hard. "I will slay you."

Keanu's heart shuddered as he witnessed the awful scene. The blood speckled his feet as the Panther coughed some more. A shiver ran down Keanu's spine as the man collapsed, sweaty and flushed. He was soon in a faint. The Prince hesitated...this was his enemy. This man had robbed him, killed his future wife, foiled his plans for an expansion of his kingdom, and tried to kill him multiple times. Every instinct shouted for Keanu to stab this man and chunk him off the balcony, into the sea. But he didn't...

Nay, instead, Keanu reached below his ill but definitely worthy opponent and picked him up. He wasn't all that heavy; the Prince chalked this up to his illness plus his apparent fitness. Slowly but surely he began to walk to the Ward, the medical wing of The Retreat. In the expansive, octagonal room, several beds lined the walls. Tall, narrow windows let in bright star and moonlight.

Immediately the Prince was attended by the nurse, Leisel. She ushered him towards a bed, the largest and finest of them all, reserved especially for the Royal Family. At first she'd tried to give the Prince a regular bed but he'd shook his head, insisting they use the Royal Bed for the Panther. "Take care of him in any way you can. And don't ever dare to tell anyone about this. Ever. Or your head will roll as the guillotine slices it from your body."

Leisel nodded silently and carefully tucked the Panther into the bed. She immediately set about cleaning him up. Fresh water and a clean towel were used to wipe away the blood staining the Panther's face; Leisel removed his clothes and placed him in a clean nightgown. She placed a cold towelet on his forehead, trying to bring down his sweaty fever. "Spare no medecines," Keanu murmured. "Use anything you've got."

Leisel obeyed without protest, quickly slipping several herbal pills down the unconscious thief's throat. "Care for him, I'll be back in five minutes."

It was still night so Keanu had to rouse his personal servant. "Send for fresh troops, the ones here are slain. Then, tell Doctor Ayori to start distributing the antidotes we've prepared immediately. I don't want the gas to set in and hurt anyone else. Also, bring added staff and have them haul in fresh supplies for the Palace. We'll be here a while. If any of the Nobles or military have any business with me, they'll have to come here."

Valencia, his servant, nodded and left for the stables immediately. He would ride all the way back to Goldstones and have the orders carried out as quick as possible. By daybreak, fresh guards would replace the ones that Keanu knew the Panther had slain. His bloody dagger had stood testament to the loyal guards' deaths.

Then, Keanu hastened back to the Ward. He plopped a chair down beside the Panther's bed and sat down. "Get better...my friend, my foe." Keanu gently, slowly, carefully picked up one of the Panther's scarred hands, battleworn and strong. He squeezed ever-so-lightly, "Get better," he murmured again...

The Black Panther was so out of it when the prince picked him. Thinking that he was descending to heaven. But thinking for a moment. He knew he would be going there with all the men he had slayed in his life. So then why was he feeling like this. His eye lids were falling down, but tried to keep them open. For he still had a job to do, he needed to assassinate the prince or he wouldn't get paid. He needed the money so badly.

As the Black Panther was out like a light. He had no idea what was going on in reality. That the prince was actually helping him. He remained unconscious as the nurse cleaned him up from the blood. When she removed his cloak and clothes. They could see that his body was pretty damaged. there were scars from all the odd jobs he had done for guild. Some were from knives, others from swords and there were even a few bites and claw marks. Likely from guard dogs. There was also a fresh wound on his back from the leader for failing to kill the prince. Lastly there were splotches all over that looked not only infected, but that the skin was was burned and melt off. Yet another effect from the gas.

Once he was all cleaned up, he looked a little better. He remained asleep. The only time he stirred was when Keanu grabbed onto his hand and squeezed. For he was very sensitive. He opened his eyes half way and looked at him. He smiled. "Just...wait...Egaiarasu...I save...you." he mumbled before closing his eyes. Sadly his mind was playing trick on the poor thief. Thinking that the prince was someone else. Soon the eyes closed once again.

By morning the thief was feeling much better. He groaned and opened his eyes. "When...when did I fell asleep?" he thought. Opening his eyes to the bright morning. In Black Alley. It was mostly covered in the shadow of the palace, so it wasn't bright in the morning. Even if it was. He lived the lower part the the housing and had no windows. So waking to the sun was bothersome. At first his vision was blurry and everything was white. But it cleared up. He rubbed his eyes and groaned again. "Where...am I?" he grumbled. Not really a morning person.

"You are in the Ward, at The Retreat. My summer home," Keanu chirped brightly as the groggy thief stirred to consciousness. The Prince didn't remove his hand. It stayed warmly clasped around the Panther's. He wasn't exactly sure why...

"You passed out, sick, in the middle of our scuffle. I couldn't simply let you die, so I brought you here. You'll receive the best care, just ask Leisel for anything you need." Keanu then stood up. "I've got business to attend to, but rest up. Stay in bed. Get better. We can continue our vendetta later, when you're healed." Keanu threw him a slight grin and then sauntered off towards the exit of the Ward where his servant, Valencia, and four guards were waiting for him.

"I assume everything is in order now?" Keanu turned to Valencia.

"Of course, My Lord. The fresh troops have arrived; five hundred of them ready to fully man the palace. All of the servants have come, too, carrying fresh supplies. Your summer home is completely stocked with food, drink, supplies, and plenty of servants."

"As for Ayori?"

"The Doctor has begun the distribution process we planned out earlier. The field hospitals are being set up this morning in every corner of the kingdom; soon the antidote will be available to everyone."

"Good." Keanu nodded as they walked alone towards the Grand Hall. The four guards had remained in the Ward to...well, he was harboring a prisoner...the guards were necessary. "You've done well, my loyal companion. Go, rest, regain your sleep. I'll send food and drink to your chambers later."

"Thank you, My Lord. But be warned, General Ivory is here, waiting for you in the Grand Hall. He seeks your permission to go ahead with the plan concerning Jaderiver."

Keanu nodded and then dismissed Valencia and proceeded directly to the library. The General could wait. Keanu wanted to look up anything he could find on this 'Egaiarasu'.

As he was waking up. He could feel that one of the hands was warmer then the other. Looking down. He could see that the prince was holding his hand. This surprise the thief. What surprise him more was that he kept him alive. Hearing what happen at that night made the thief sigh. "I can't believe it. You actually spared my life. I won't be able to show my face in Black Alley again." he quietly muffled. Using his other hand to cover his eyes. Wishing he could turn off the sun.

He watch as Keanu stood up. Leaving to do the things that he needed to take care off. He remained in bed. Not even going after him. Even if he was the enemy, he was grateful to spare his life. But he was still going to go after him, but he knew that he was in no shape to carrying out that order. For now he'll just stay in the bed. Without letting his guard down. For he was still was the man trying to slay him and thought that he was still mad at him for the order of killing both him and the late princess.

Once he left, he closed his eyes. Focusing on what the prince was discussing with the servant outside. The drugs should wore off by now and the servants should be awake. He knew that he couldn't be all that suspicious. So it looked like he had just falling back to sleep. But his body tensed up as to what he heard. "They...they are working on a cure for the gas...I need to get my hands on it. It's the only way to-" he cut off his thoughts because he thought he was getting to emotional. He needed to remain calm. He turned to his side and curled up into a ball. "I will set things right...Egaiarasu" he said to himself. Remaining his acting on sleeping. But is ready to spring into action if needed.

Speaking of Egaiarasu. As the prince was looking him there wasn't much about him in the liberty. Until he moved a book and a little piece of paper was on it. Writting on it said 'Diftsand', in side would hold the key to what he was looking. For it had the names of the chief and the family. On top was the Chief's name, Kshaunish, with an X next to it. Meaning that he was taking care of. Then under that was his wife's Vanita, who also had an X next to it. Then there was Sabhya the first son of the chief with the number 25 written next to it. Along with another X. Then Geet, 24, X. Finally the name appeared, Egaiarasu. Age 21 with no X next to his. Meaning that then this wish was made. He wasn't killed off. However there was one more name on the list. That name was Ishayu age 13. He to didn't have a X to his name. Meaning that two of the chief's son were still alive in this world.

In the library, Keanu searched for a long while, finding nothing. His eyes scanned the tomes and novels, the scrolls and writings...Nothing. He soon abandoned the quest since he couldn't keep the General waiting too long. Nevertheless, the Prince assigned three of his literate servants to the task of combing the library for results. He was desperate for information.

In the Grand Hall, General Ivory practically assaulted him with his eager, wanting eyes. Keanu held up a single hand. "No." He said firmly. "Not yet. We cannot invade yet. First, we must rid our own kingdom of this gas, it is too terrible to try and go to war when our own people are dying in the streets."

The General, naturally, was furious. But he knew Keanu. He knew the Prince was a man who would not easily change his mind; it was pointless to argue. So, the angry General Ivory spun on his heel, his cloak whirling, and retreated out of the Hall. At the door, he turned back around. "May I reside at The Retreat, then, in hopes that you'll soon change your mind?" He looked hopefully. He was eager to invade Jaderiver. It had been quite a while since Gladstones had won a good war.

"Sure." Keanu allowed. "But I'm not making any promises." The General left, slightly more happy.

The Prince sped hastily back to the Ward; eager to see his patient. He arrived, dismissed the guards and Leisel, and sent off a servant to bring food and wine to Valencia's room, as promised. Once he was alone, he sat beside the thief who still seemed to be slumbering. He let the Panther lay still for a few more minutes as he stood and then closed the heavy curtains, cutting out the bright sunlight.

"You can wake up now," Keanu smirked, he knew the thief was faking. "The others are gone. We can talk."

The thief remained 'asleep'. Until he heard the footsteps of the guards leaving the room and the notice the room was getting less bright. Hearing the prince speaking to him. Knowing that he knew that it was an act. Starting to wonder if there was any chance that he may pull fast one on him. At least he was able to open his eyes again. Acting asleep was hard. Mostly just trying to keep his eyes shut. He sat up and crack his neck a few times.

When he was told by Keanu that they can talk. He looked at him. "What makes you think I have anything to say to you?" he asked. "Even though you spared by life and with that I thank you. But if you want to know something. It's going to cost you." he said remaining calm. Coughing a little and little blood splattered on his hand. A sign that he was getting better. Wiping the blood onto the nightgown. Not really caring it the stain sets into just nice fabric.

"Well, you'd better get to talking if you want me to help you. I've got many a thing that you need." Keanu almost laughed. How could this meager thief think to hold out on him, the Prince? "I've got money, treasure, jewels...you could certainly use those to help you buy just the basic necessities...clothes, for one. That old black cloak you're famous for surely must be getting holey. Not to mention you'd like a nicer home. Black Alley is so dilapidated; I'm sure you'd like somewhere more upscale."

"Also, you're infected. Obviously. With the ingenious gas my father created. It just so happens that, well, the father created the poison, the son created the cure. Myself and my scientists have found a treatment. A simple antidote, really, and you certainly need it. This thing is taking its toll on you."

Keanu was almost done. Almost. He was saving the best for last. "Am I mistaken or do you sorely wish to see your precious Black Alley, filled with the common folk, spared from the effects of the gas? You will comply with me; or I can simply give out the antidote to every region of the kingdom except Black Alley. It's your choice. Either you cooperate, or thousands of your little friends die." He glared at the thief, almost willing the Panther to refuse to bargain with him - and that would surely result in death of many...many in the Black Alley, that is.

"Oh. One more thing," he grinned wider than ever. "You killed my Clarice...That means you owe me a wife...or rather, someone, anyone to fill her place..."

Hearing his reason as to why he should given the chance to talk to him almost him the thief laugh. He didn't of course, but by the time he finished he smirked. "Those are your reason? Those are not very good ones. Sure you need money to thrive in your kingdom. But I waste them on silly things as to clothes. My cloak may be a little tattered from all the jobs I have token, but I just patch them up and be on my way. As the clothes themselves. You be amazed of the scarps of clothing people thrown out. Grab a thread and needle and you got yourself new clothes." he told him. Sounding pretty cocky.

"Now to you. Black Alley might seem nothing to you but a place for rats, but it's home. Not everything it made of gold or silk, but the people there are wonderful. They remind me so much of my people. With little, they try their best with things they have and try everything they got to gain what they desire. But that's something that was born with a silver spoon in the mouth. Other then the Driftsand. I wouldn't trade it for somewhere else." said said. Knowing that due to the gas. Nothing will grow in the fields. The solid are to poisoned to be useful. The trees would be dead by now. It's nothing but a waste land now.

As the prince talked about the gas he looked up at the ceiling and sighed. Fro he was glad to hear that they were making a cure for the mistake they make. He looked down at his lap. "While I agree with you on that. I will not take it any cure from you." he told. Glaring him in the eyes. "I will live with this effect as a price for failing to protect my homeland. Besides. I would I know if what you made would make things worse or even kill?" he asked sounding very serious.

The Black Panther coughed once again. Less blood on his hand from before. This was the last of the cough. That's how it worked for him. He might very sick one minute but then he be fine the next day. However he was surprise he recovered so quickly. Not knowing that he was given pill to help him heal.

Thinking that there was nothing he could do to brake him. His eyes showed signs of fear and defeat when Keanu told him his threat. True they had spread the gas. Luckily most people made it out, but there were poperly some who stayed behind in Black Alley. For he knew that some of the people were stubborn. So to hear that he give out the cure expect people in his part of the town. Unless he works with him. His breathing became hard and quick. Thinking that he was a demon in human skin. He had never met a man this heartless before. Seeing no other choice. He sighed. "Fine...I'll work for you. But you better keep you deal and give the cure to the people in the Aleey or your head will roll. I promise you that." he told him trying to remain calm. But the prince could hear that he was angry.

Thinking that there wasn't anymore that he can want. When he brought his late wife up. He looked at him rather confused. "Sorry to bust your little bubble, but I don't know many females. I'm mostly around males. If you looking for that type then I know some great guys your type. Besides, one, I was hired to kill her and you. And two, you didn't even loved her. She was nothing but a pawn in your plan. Wasn't she?" he asked. "Well if you are serious. I know one woman. About a year younger then you. She curses a lot, has a short temper, and three of her teeth are real. That and she a full figure woman. Hope you have a ton a food. For she loves to eat." he told him with a smirk. "If you are still interested. Then I'll be glad to show you her."

Keanu sighed. "You are completely ungrateful. I just saved your life. You think you can go on forever like this? No. Leisel and the other doctors who attended you whilst you were unconscious all agreed that you will die within the month without the antidote. You would've died last night had we not forcefed your medicine. You're taking the antidote if you wish to live to see your next birthday."

The Prince stood up now, exasperated. "Besides, I need you. I've got jobs that need to be pulled off in this kingdom of mine. The Court and the Nobles need a few lessons taught to them; they think they're still in my father's Court. They're not. And I need you alive for the jobs, so you'll be taking the medicine if I have to have it forcefully injected into you. Don't worry, the Black Alley will get the same medicine so I'll keep my end of the bargain."

"And as for your fat wench...I'll pass."

The thief thought it was funny to hear the prince speak in such a way. He was grateful for him saving his life, but in his line of work. You just can't everyone you met. A smirk made it's way to his face and he got out of bed. "Do you even hear the way you speak? You sound like an old nursemaid. A prince shouldn't talk with that kind of tongue." he said. As he bends his back over to stretch it out. It felt like he had been in bed forever.

He watches as Keanu as he stood up as well. Hearing him that he still needed him for jobs. He crossed his arms. Looking at him right in the eyes. "So because they are not listening to you're going to throw a tantrum? Are you sure you don't want to meet up with the lady I mention? You sound like you would get along with her." he said. With a sigh. he starts looking for his clothes. "Alright, now where did you put my clothes?" he asked. Looking through a drawer. Pulling it out from the small dresser. Flipping it upside down, dumping all the contents from inside to the floor.

"I don't give a damn how I sound; and you shouldn't either. The only thing that matters is that you owe me for saving your life. Get over it." Keanu watched as the thief began to upend dresser drawers and search through the room for his effects. "They're not here." He sighed, "Follow me."

They left the Ward and as they closed the door to the infirmary, a detail of eight guards immediately began to accompany them. It was standard procedure. "And," Keanu turned over his shoulder to glare at the thief, "The Nobles are listening to me; and I'm not throwing a tantrum; I simply don't like some of them. They need to be disposed of."

"I think I was better off dying then being saved by the likes of you." he said to himself. As he continued to looked around. Until the prince told him that they weren't in the room. He starting to wonder where else they could be. Hoping that he didn't throw them away. Fearing that they might carry some disease. When told to follow. He didn't move at first. After all, it could be a trap, but he didn't really want to stay in this nightgown for much longer. So he left everything where he left them and leaves with Keanu.

It felt so weird to have they guards follow then and without then attacking the Black Panther. Without his weapon, he didn't really have a chance. This made the thief most uncomfortable, but still kept a straight face on. He snapped back to reality when he felt the glare coming from the prince. Listening to him as he speaks more about the nobles and how he just didn't like them. "I take back what I said. About you sounding like a nursemaid. You are more of a brat." he told him. Not holding back on his thoughts about the prince.

But then the memories of them shaking each others hand and the dance. Made his heart miss a beat and felt a little warm. Thinking that it was the gas and nothing else. Sure when he first signed up to be in the guild of Black Alley. He didn't meet up with a lot of women and not to kill them. He was mostly around males. He once heard in the pub that there were a way for two males to have sex. But idea of that was not bad for him. It was the idea of doing something like that with a jerk like Keanu. It made his cheeks turn red. But the thought soon quickly vanished.

"Anyway. You want me to wipe out some of the nobles. It that with their families to?" he asked. Because some people would go that far when it came to whacking someone off.

They walked quiet a long way. It was far from the Ward to the Royal Wing where the bedrooms and private chambers and halls for the Royals were safely separated and guarded. The detail of guards followed them the entire way. Keanu almost laughed when the Panther called him a brat.

"I'm a prince. What did you expect? My parents were the King and Queen, with gold and jewels and endless riches at their disposal. I can't help it if they spoiled me." He grinned maliciously. The poor simply did not know how to live.

This made the Prince think of the ball just the other night. That was probably the poor thief's first ball, his first taste of the rich life. Yet that night had been Keanu's first taste of...of well...a man? Certainly he'd thought the thief to be a woman at the time, but that had turned out to be just a disguise. So really, he'd danced with a man. He almost shuddered at the thought.

But hadn't he enjoyed it at the time? Then perhaps it wasn't all so wrong...

Keanu shook his head to get rid of those thoughts. They weren't normal.

"Yes. Their entire families should be slaughtered. I'll give you a list later, in the meantime, we've arrived." They entered Keanu's very personal chambers.

It was the largest room in the palace - excluding the Entrance and Dining Halls - and was quite ornate. Huge white panels made of the rarest teak lined the walls; plush carpets imported from faraway kingdoms covered the marble floors; tall, marble columns supported the ceiling; amazing tapestries and portraits of the Royal Family made up empty wallspace; numerous couches, sofas, chairs, and tables provided endless room for relaxation and socializing. And then there was the bed. It was huge, able to sleep multiple people. It had long, billowy curtains surrounding it and numerous feather pillows as well as a thick, white comforter. It was gorgeous.