Jadis had changed naught, or little in her absence from the world. She was still mildly pleasing to the eyes, with blond hair streaming behind her, pulled back by an array of white furs. Her eyes were dead cold, black portals of endless voids, and her expression was as calm as snow, though it could easily become a storm if provoked.,She was perched on a throne of ice and rock, her frozen scepter clutched in her hand.

"Well now," she mused. "You are either very brave or very foolish."

Her eyes narrowed. "Dumas...I wasn't to be disturbed."

"He was instant, my lady." Dumas knelt by the witch's side, and brushed his lips over her outstretched hand. "He's a missive from-"

"I know.." The corners of her mouth turned upright. "A fish in a school unlike his own. Tell me, how does it feel to eat scraps from the sharks? Maybe you are here for something more...delectable, my aquatic prince?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The prince was not the only one who would be given an eyeful. The distance between them was not even a hair's width, and allowed her to gaze directly into his warm, and soothing brown eyes.She knew the years had been kind to her dark-skinned friend...and yet, she did not know how kind until she was nearly nose to nose with him. 

And then, he leaned forward. In that moment, Celine felt her pulse quicken beyond it's threshold ([i]It's beating so fast...can...he tell?[/i]). Her nerves spiked, but her body reacted on instinct. As her eyes fluttered shut, she let the blade fall from his neck, and back at her side. Their lips met, warm and inviting, and Celine couldn't stop herself from kissing him back, free hand cupping the back of his neck. He tasted like exotic spices, and the princess felt her legs become quite week.

[i]So warm....[/i]

"My Liege! My lady!"

The shock forced her eyes open, and she pulled back. A centaur skidded to a stop, looking grim.

"Unknown enemy approaching the castle..." he said.