Lightening splinters through the crimson clouds above a dark and dreary pine forest. Thunder reverberates off of the ancient trunks of the towering trees as the wind howls hollowly down the faded paths, overgrown with various types of unpleasent shrubbery; particularly thorn bushes and wild rose vines. Rain comes and goes as it pleases, for it senses it is not needed here. The vegetation appears dead and yet still grows and flourishes, rain or not. Another web of celestial light erupts above the treeline and illuminates the peeks of a castle among the pines. A plaque rattles on the ornamental oak doors which reads: By fate or by find, you have come upon the Dark Oasis. There are two possible reasons why you may be here on peaceful terms; either by intention or with hope of refuge from the rather inclamate weather of this region. If you seek the latter, know that you will not find such hospitality here. If you have arrived by intention and know whom dwells within these walls, enter but be warned that a challenge awaits you. The statements upon this plaque are as clear as the carver intended them to be. This carver resides in the North tower, where her gaze may overlook her small but generally feared kingdom. She sits there now, feline eyes drifting from the text in he lap to the ongoing storm beyond her open window. Pale, thin fingers lightly clasp a fine glass containing a red liquid; whether it is wine or blood may only be determined by the drinker. Her lips are pulled back into a faint smile--more of a smirk, really--as if she finds some humour in the dancing flames of the hearth before her. Who is this bemused beauty? Why, she is Acayin, Queen of the Vampyres and Mistress of the Dark Oasis. Also your ruler, should she see fit.