Messages and Binding Ties

[Lady Eirian Gwenyth Apollius]

[Part 1 begins in Ravenscrest]

"I must find them.... Must fullfill missions. Only honor I have, given to me... by my Lord"-- Lee

"Bare with me. This is a great much for me to take in. I..should be accustomed to the past coming unto the present. Yet this is quite difficult" -- Eirian

Lee ::Ravencrest... the lands were beautiful, yet it was nothing like the home he was used too. He was now alone in the woods. Meditating atop of a log. It had been a week and half since he had arrived. Kaelyn had told him that any day they could expect word from the capital city of the place she called "Skye," His eyes were closed as he was breathing nice and slow. He spent only as much time as needed inside of the stone walls of the manor. He could not find Harmony and Focus inside of that place.. Too many whispers. Too many stares. Even as Kaelyn was now resting after their morning training in which he was trying to help her adjust to her eyes without sight. Any in the manor could have guided anyone seeking him out to the forest he had gone within.:: (D)

Beathag:The issues of Governance was one that fell upon the parliment more often than not at the Mo'r Triath's insistance, but there were those times that neither the democracy of their parlimentary structure nor the thoughts of the Mo'r Triath himself would do, and in those times was found his wife returning to the fore to offer what wisdom could be found of woman's insight. "Ah've come tae expect suprises," she spoke at length with her guardsmen Brom on the day of the meeting, "N' Ah'm anxious to see wot 'as been brought forth. E'en with a calm face, one may still be amazed underenath." The Norwegian couldn't help but smile as he steadied his breathing to accept the air surrounding the truth. Had not the Lord Guardian told him when he assumed the fullness of this place at his Lady's side, he would be as the same eyes, ears, and senses that fashioned the guardians, far different than any other knight, man-at-arms, soldier or weapon carrier in the retinue. Then, too, would come trusted women to care for the children and watch as the mistress passed from them to her place in the Great Hall, to sit on a chair that was not quite a thrown. "They may come now, iffn it pleases them. Ah be ready." She no longer weilded weapons, yet it was famed that her aim was still keen in practice, and on the fields of the court floors her words were just as deadly if necessary. (d)

Lee::Pagan had found Lee fast, and told him he had to come quickly to the Manor. To see Pagan in awe, was something that confused Lee. As he followed back, Bess would have only had to waited fifteen minutes at best. Before the door openned to a private sitting room and Lee entered. Black loose cotton woven pants, and a layered black top. On his left side tied by the multi-wrapped belt was his Kitanna blade. Soft brown eyes looking towards the only other figure in the room, he waited till she looked upon him before bowing low. His feet together, his hands resting at his side. Rising he still said nothing as he began to unty his sword from his waist. Leaving it at the door to show her with no words he had no intention of raising his blade against someoneeven Pagan, Phantom and the others paid homage too.:: (d)

Beathag: Beathag sat in the sitting area afforded her by the Lady of Rayvnscrest, though to be truthful the journey wasn't arduous for it was not many miles beyond the Fieldren Fields the lady kept her many, somewhere on the outskirts of Turas Lan and before the fabled Cullin Hills territory labled the Bant Chan Ser. The sweet smell of forests beyond the Fieldren soothed what ire might have been risen, filling the lungs with a balm should the air grow rife with tension. As the man approached, Brom remained alert. Given his posistion, he remained armed at all times. "Sae, Ah've been sent tae look n' speak with you, sir." The thick English would test his knowledge, that was for certain. Brogue broke the stream of fine language he may have been used to hearing, transfering it into something else entirely! "Come n' tell me yer story then." (d)

Lee::His head tilted a bit, he had not even seen the man till just then. As he moved towards the lady he heard her speak, and he spoke softly, his accented tones would seem familiar surely to the woman.:: Forgiveness... Your tongue... Not understand.. ::He spoke. He had learned much of the language Kaelyn had called English with her help. Sitting across from her, thinking she had been asking his name he placed his hand to his chest.:: Gao Lee... My name, is Gao Lee. (d)

Beathag:Poor Man. She challenged the patience of any native speaker, for despite her length of time using the lanaguage, she read and wrote it far better than it came out. To be in earnest, recent years were an improvement! Chuckling softly, she merely listened after that as he made introduction. The start was a fine one, to which she said, "Welcome, Gao Lee. I be Beathag Aberdeen." She tilted her head softly and asked, "Where are ye from?" (d)

Lee: Beathag... ::He spoke softly. His eyes turned to one of recognition as he pointed to her.:: Lemonade?! ::He asked, he was sure he had remembered the name right. Zahak having told him stories many a times.:: Bess? ::He asked again, those eyes in hers. Taking a moment he chuckled softly.:: Japan... :Motionning to himself.:: Exiled.... now.... of Kahnikan. (d)

Beathag: Brom took a firm stance at her right side when the pointing ensued, though arched a brow before turning his head over his shoulder with eyes plainly stating "What in the Gods' name is he speaking of." Beathag, too, was half baffled when he brought up the less casual monicher of Bess. Only those who were close to her use the affectionate name in remembrance of who they met her as, not knowing her real herald. Only those with leave used it, so with Brom hearing it utterly out of context, he was rather taken aback. Lemonade? She hadn't made it in years, having no real care for it, but recalled how much money was spent importing the sour fruit and island sugar it took to concoct the brew, using honey in her own recipes when sugar was unavailable. "Lemonade -n' Bess. Gentle, Brom. He knows 'nough tae have known be prior introduction..but Ah ne'er made lemon drinks for Kaelyn, Ah made them fer Sir Kushrenada, years agae.." Then came the mention of where he was from originally, versus where he had been before here. She leaned forward and beckoned him closer in fascination, letting Brom retire further back. "Is yer Lord Zahak Kushrenada? " (d)

Lee: ::At the mention of "Kushrenada", he bowed his head, and by her summons he moved to come closer. Pulling from his shirt, a rather familiar golden pendant that had once dawned the neck of someone Bess had once knew and cared for dearly long ago.:: Suzaku is Lord on High.. ::He smiled softly, as if tenderly correcting her. Even as he moved to sit at her side. His eyes shifting back to her own.:: Emperor Kushrenada Zahak... High Lord of Kahnikan, Suzaku's Hand on Earth, and Keeper of His Will.. Guided here by Zahak... have mission... have 3 missions. (d)

Beathag: "Ah then..."

She concealed her shock behind intelligent, studious emerald eyes and a placid face that didn't waver. It had taken a long time to learn to put sleeve bound emotions back inside the vessel where they were born. A golden phoenix reminded her of a life that had passed away with the setting of a sun on a season that saw his depature but not his return. She questioned the promience of it, and would later remark to Brom the truck she had with firebirds be that Kahaknian Gold or Avarian Red. "M'pardon then. You serve on earth the Lord Kushrenada..n' he is alive then. We thought he had finally succumbed tae death. " She beckoned him up closer again, and insisted a chair be given him to sit in while they speaked, but remembering talk of a place that did not use them over much, she instructed her own be taken away and she sat instead on a lower cushioned stool to be closer to his countenance, thus his comfort level. She was an imposing woman, given she crested six feet with no trouble. "So tell me first yer missions, and then Ah will tell ye what I may know that can help you." (d)

Lee::He nodded his head.:: Emperor Kushrenada... He welcomed, and saved me from starvation. He remembered me from campaigns... our Lords had fought together. And he lives... Emperor... replaced Lord Hotohori, succeeded him on death bed. Lord Hotohori had no children. ::He thought again.:: Emperor now... sent me this way... Missive for his family... ::His hand back to his chest.:: Emperor wished family, friends, to know he alive, safe.... missing those he left behind.... Guided by Suzaku... Zahak's path now continues where Hotohori's ended. Missions are to find his family... ::Motioned to his necklace.::... Give daughter his necklace.. Tell wife and friends of his fate.. Last is to... learn, and study... and live as he did... to be Suzaku's Light in these lands. (D)

Beathag: "Emperor...mm." She said the first word slowly, and the second was the sound of her acceptance of merely teh first part of the information. While the tale continued, she studied Lee with a renewed sense of inquisitiveness rising. Question after question. His missions were to give word of Zahak to his family and friends, give word especially to family, and to study as the man himself had of Western things in order to be of use in his new world. "Ah will help yer mission by given ye some things tha' might also calm ye tae report, his wife, the Lady Eirian is alive n' well.. as is Princess Hope. She's a woman o' good repute n' is known fer her faith, piety, wisdom n' loved her fer strength n' good nature. A good section o' the island thrives because o' her patronage, n' she is one of the finest n' sought after Artisans, fer tha' is her chief occuapation. She's...remarried, since Zahak, n' tha' fairs as well. he would know the man. Talion Apollius, they called him Apollo. Ah wonder iffn Kaelyn 'as the thing about...somewhere..Brom, will ye ask in the household iffn the Lady Kaelyn still keeps some o' Eirian's handiwork, n' bring me the bound book o' paintings ah keep with me on m'paces.." Some things were better shown than explained, and if her English thickened she stood the chance of loosing him . In due time, at least the picture book was manifest, paintings from some of the Artisan hall's students and their master, to which upon flipping carefully she came across two pictures, one of Eirian in her court attire and the other in her daily dress, which seemed to have some Orient influence in the sleeves and robe like overdresses. In either image was a woman of alabaster skin, long dark hair, and intense blue eyes that seemed to glow even in the oil paintings. She was small, and in a third picture was an image of the child called Hope, perhaps four months of age at the time. She was going to have dark hair from both parents, had her father's slant eyes that were brown, with an interior blue star feature from her mother. The skin was pale, yes, but flushed with the health of living in the country. (d)

Lee: ::He listened intently, he showed releif at knowing of them being alive and in good health. As he was quickly relaxing around this woman who not only intemently knew the man that had given Lee his Patronage, but also his new found faith. His eyes looked over the pictures, and finally came to Eirian as he whispered something in his native tongue.:: Daimi.... ::He spoke... Looking back to her He bowed his head.:: Much forgiveness.... ummm... Great Beauty... As my Lord described her.... and.... and his daughter.... Tell them not of the great pain he suffers.. the emptiness within him... He made me swear... ::Looking back to Bess, praying she did not share with them what he could not share.:: I must find them.... Must fullfill missions. Only honor I have, given to me... by my Lord. (d)

Beathag: "Ah shan't say anythin, twould nay dae Eirian to hear it anyhow." Each of them had suffered enough, and what seperated their paths the woman figured must have been a destiny of the Gods that defied whatever they had shared. Each was alive and well, each could start again. This, perhaps, was the best gift to give. No, she could not see Eirian startled anymore than she may be to hear of such suffering. Zahak lived, and at least the child would know her birth father and culture intimately. Alexander O'Conner had also returned, but this was story for another day. Whatever Eirian heard, she bore it with grace. It was as much her namesake as how she'd been baptized. "She is beautiful, exceedingly sae. Sae is her daughter, in the Valley where they live, they call her a beauty beyond the stars. Ah will lead ye to them, personally. Ah owe them tha', I think." She passed him the book so he could look to it at his leisure, "Ye made a vera long journey." (d)

Lee:::Nodding his head, he pointed at young Hope.:: Princess.... ::thinking for a few moments, he looked ready to speak, stopping a couple times before he finally spoke.:: Heir to Kahnikan... When my Lord is called home... Princess will ascend to throne.. Hers by right. ::He looked to her, hoping what he said made sense. It was not something that he or Zahak even would force on Hope, or could have... But It was apart of what he had to deliver. His eyes looking back towards Bess as he closed the book, and nodded his head.:: Many boats... much walking... but ready now... ::Rising his hand offered towards Bess. A slight bow to his posture, very represenitive of the culture he was from even now.:: (D

Beathag: "Ye wish tae gae find her now? The journey is nay o'er long, nay as many miles as it took tae reach 'ere. But are ye certain you are ready?" She wrestled with the thought of writing Eirian to give her time to prepare, or calling her to Tura Lan -- neither idea seemed suitable. What cushion could be offered to pad the truth? It was folly. It was a nation built on connections, known or otherwise, "Tell m'cousin n' law Ah'll be back tae visit with her please," she said of one of the ladies who came to see if they needed food or drink. Cousin-in-law? Yes, through the marriage of Anwyn to adam's father, at least some link of family relation could be enjoyable. There would be time to visit, to laugh, to speak and perhaps to help Kaelyn in the long journey it would take to heal from loss. For now, it seemed Beathag was aid in a type of recovering of the pieces of self. The man wouldn't be complete until he'd fufilled his obligations. (d)

Lee:::He bowed low, his eyes taken from her, a sign of homage to his people, a sign of trust, and submission to her will, as he spoke while still bowed.:: Please? ::He asked of her, it was not till she spoke of her cousin and returning later to visit did he rise, a smile to his lips. He was happy with her decision. His hand reaching out to take hers, he bowed low, kissing the back as he had seen a few men do to Kae.:: Many thanks... My Lady... Many thanks. ::Truth indeed was not too far from what Bess had imagined. He was given a mission, and his samurai code would not allow him any true rest until it was completed. That was why when Zahak ascended to the throne of Kohnan, and became ruler he sent Lee West, knowing he would not fail him, looking to the same lady.:: Tell Daimi... I will return... ::Those others in the manor had gotten used to his nickname for Kaelyn, her name too complicated for him right now.:: (D)

Beathag: It was made promise that both messages would be relayed to Kaelyn, and as quick as it could be breathed the carriage that carried her here would be left, instead she would ride to the lands, for it would be more favorable. Had Lee ever been within such a carriage? The ornamental pomp might prove his undoing, besides, she preferred liveliness to ornamentation. He would be given one of the carriage horses to ride upon that was strong in the legs and back, a horse of the West for certain, yet not of the largest size Caldonhan was. Caldonhan was a destrier, war horse by every sense of the imagination, but as retired to being her beast of good baring as she was to be the Lady atop him. Brom came along with them of course, and the Lady most suited to riding, Heather. To the amusement of the children, she left Aodhan to play with the resident children of Rayvencrest to be overseen by Aimlee, who also cared for her small daughter Davina. He would meet them on their return, but for now the road stretched beforethem, waiting. (d)

Lee: ::Moving to the horse she had her people unhook from her large carriage. IT was nothing like the Litters his people used as a sign of royalty. His eyes shifting to look over the beast, moving close he spoke to it in the soothing tones of his people. His words in Japanesse... after a few moments speaking... he mounted the horse, as if assured the::Moving to the horse she had her people unhook from her large carriage. IT was nothing like the Litters his people used as a sign of royalty. His eyes shifting to look over the beast, moving close he spoke to it in the soothing tones of his people. His words in Japanesse... after a few moments speaking... he mounted the horse, as if assured the beasts spirit would not reject him. Moving to slide his form to rest comfortably, taking the reigns, even those were strange to him. Yet he was as adapatble as the wind. Looking back towards Bess he nodded his ascent to beign ready. Once she took off he was fast on her heels. Brom with them... the man quiet and that both unnerved Lee and made him respect the man. Most of those he met here were overly pompous. Riding close at her side he was intend at keeping his eyes looking out for any sort of trouble. After all... it was for him she had braved thise trip without the safety of her whole retinue, so it was his job now by the samurais code to guard her life better then his own.:: (d)

Beathag: The retinue was far reduced: one lady-in-waiting for the good of stature, one guard, Lee, and one other that was earning the same stature as Brom that he once had with Kendrew in the honor of standing on either side of the Mo'r Triath's wife. There was such a formal custom now in her guardianship and who could advance near her or stand at coveted sides since the time their reign was younger than it was now, and after the battle of Trotternish the ones who were supposed to aid in her recovery were those nearly successful in killing her, doing so well a job at it the nation moruned for two days. Across the forests, they went up near the Cullin Mountains and gazed down into hills and valleys with evergreen trees and oaks reluctant to surrender to the coming Fall just yet. Sweet smells of tilled earth and harvested grains met with the pure water flow. A gentle mist blew away as the setting sun illuminated the purple in the Cullins. By the arrival of the first evening's star, they were coming down into the valley itself, finding the sleeping first settled homes not far from the manor bending a halo of silver. It was truly one of the most beautiful places in all of Skye, and Eirian had founded the cultivation of the rich lands, returning to a life she had sorely missed: the stillness of the country. "This is the Bant Chan Ser. In the Lady's Welsh, it means Valley o' Stars." (d)

Lee:::He stopped by her side, ignorant to her peoples customers, or the formality with which they traveled, he looked over the place, ever vigilant he seemed to be memorizing the entire lay of the land. He was speaking softly to himself.:: <wvs> Suzaku give your emmisary wisdom in this trial... ::For he could see it as nothing but. Even Zahak had prayed for two days with Lee that this, which was to be the hardest surely of his missions... that it be successful. It was now he prayed even quieter to his God, for his light was not as strong here... but he needed it now more then ever.:: I am ready... ::Looking back to Bess.:: (D)

Beathag: For the trial ahead would be in the knowledge of Zahak's fate bequeathed to those left behind. Beathag wondered now, in knowing this, did each of them pine as greatly for the lost? Had they railed against respective Gods, screamed at heaven? "Gods be with you, indeed," she remarked, and in nodding, allowed Brom to the front of her to acess the path and lead the way forward. Those out in the early evening would bow to them as they passed, some would merely watch with interest, recognizing one or the other of the party. No flags were with them, but it seemed some features were more poignant than banners. Golden hair, a Norseman. The large horse called Caldonhan. Soon they came through the outer manor settlement farmland and over toward the estate itself. She paused now, having never noted it in the light of the moon. Arianna Hymerodraeth was the name of the manor, she told him, and learned it meaned Silver Empire. How odd, considering Zahak lived in one of Gold. One was the sun, the other was the moon. The house featured archways to allow in the elements, a bridge over toward one of the main gates, for the house was craddled in between a valley, a waterfall behind it, moving down into the valley floor from above. Over toward the stables, where upon seeing the Lady's face the stablekeep went to fetch the Steward without fail! "Come wot may, Ah'm sure all will be well in the end," she offered to Lee as the reigns of the horse were taken, and Brom helped her to dismount. This was a relinquishing of ability, a sign of trust. The woman had never needed a man to aid her down from any high place, and had come to trust the many in her company. (d)


Lee: ::Moving as she did, he dismounted, as a stable boy came to take his horses. His head nodding towards Bess. His lips showed a soft smile, a silent thanks. He could see, almost feel she was hoping for his success?? Part of that indeed gave him strength as he waited, walking near Bess, not sure where he was supposed to be, he stood close to her, but just behind as he had seen Pagan and Phantom do so many times to Kaelyn. He kept his left hand resting at his belt near his sword, but not upon it. Not wanting anyone to think he was a threat. He was looking back towards them.:: <wvs> For you my Lord... ::He took a deep breath and ascended the stairs with Bess.:: (D)

Beathag: The stables of the Lady of the Valley kept several horses, some of them claimed by members of family, others as working steeds, other as gifts. From the stables they were led up stairs that seemed to naturally rise through the nature, not offend it. Beathag had been to Arianna, yet not taken the time to appreciate it fully, for she and Adam had sojourned here during a state of self and political unrest. Now, in peace? She found herself staring at times into the trees, the water, and the path of the risen moon. At the top of the stairwell the Steward met them, bowing low to find the household graced by the Mo'r Oukselo:

"The house be honored by your presence, m'lady. We didn't know to expect you.."

"Ah'm sorry tae come without word, sir, but tis a matter o' import, will ye tell yer Lady n' Lord tae come out?"

"The Lord attends business among the citizens, but the Lady will meet with you in the gardens, please, follow me.."

He hadn't seen many people with eyes like Hope. His only experience was the faint description of the Lady's former husband, given he had not met him at the inception of the house in the country, and the Lady Scholar, Kaori Hotaro. Now there was this man and with such eyes would come news, surely. He completed his tasks, leading them to a pavilion that saw the maids of the house along with his wife, the head of these women, lighting candles and the enclosed lamps. Did he notice in the ones that were slightly aged the influence of a distant place, something favoring a cherry tree? Upon the floor in the marble was a mosaic eight point star, for the insignia of the star was what she'd adopted as her standard when it was time to begin anew. Beathag stepped to the pavilion's edge, waiting, watching. She gave an assuring smile to Lee, as well as unspoken permission that he might stand where he did. --

Eirian:"The Lady Eirian.." Upon the Steward's return, he brought with him companion to receive the House's company. She was upon his arm, a protective, kind hand against her lower back as she was taken from the inside of the house to the outside. Her face was alight to see Beathag, and showing no indifference to the stranger, she smiled. Her life, unlike the Steward's, had been filled by people with almondine eyes to this day. There weren't many who understand the tradesmen of the Far East who had things such as printing press innovations or gunpowder advances. While men understood innovation or weaponry, she had served as translator more than once. "My Lady Mo'r Oukselo, Lady Beathag, you surprise me! I had not thought to expect you, we would have been more prepared if we knew you'd come now for your paces! But I am so glad all the same! Good evening, sir. " Both herself and the Steward bowed or curtised, but it was the lady's salutation Lee might take notice of. Women of any culture are trained in their land's idea of beauty, grace, and poise, but it seemed to come from within, and when translated without it was as if she were liquid silk. "You can go, my friend. I will be fine!" Reluctant but obdient, the Steward went with his wife to see to drinks and refreshment brought out, and othe rmatters of the household such as the guard, or other late business. (d)


Lee: As he heard the introduction, and even now, he looked at the moon he had been thinking of his beloved Nouhime... he wondered if the woman who had once so intimately known his Lord would see the great pain in Lee's own soul. As he turned to look towards her, he did not merely bow as he had to Bess but instead fell low to the ground before Eirian. His hands forming a diamond with his foreingers and thumbs. His head resting in its center as he rested there on the ground before Eirian. His voice soft as he rose slightly.:: My Lady Eirian-Sama... (d)

Beathag and Eirian:"Ah'm sorra Ah wasn't announced dear heart, but there was somethin' tae be done n' a message for you..."

"No matter the reason, it is good to have you hear. It is a sign of a good time in the land, when the family might finally move as it sees fit.. -- " Eirian hadn't expected the sudden ferver of deep reverance from a complete stranger. This set her eyes to blinking before turning from Beathag's embrace to go to the stranger, "Please, such is not necessary...please, rise. What is your name...Beathag did you wish me to translate soemthing, and he has something to tell me? Hmm. I wasn't aware the merchants knew I had returned..he seems not to be of the Eastern mainland, but Kaori may be better suited..." Little did she know that it was to her he'd indeed come, though recognizing what little of his language was used, it was Nihonian, and not Chinese. She had retained a small base of it, for in Kahakan the language exists side by side with the Chinese Dialect of the land. The reverance made her deeply uncomfortable, as she offered him leave to rise she hoped he'd take it. Honor bound he may be, what sort of repute had spread that made a man come to his knees? (d)

Lee:::Rising as she had bid, him to his feet, helping her to hers as well he spoke to her. His voice, strong. Confident, despite the butterflies he felt. His eyes looking deep towards hers even as she looked to Beathag.:: No, its you and your daughter I have come to see. My name... ::He spoke his hand going to his chest.:: Gao Lee, Vassal of Kahnikan, Emmisary of Suzaku. ::Waiting to allow his words to settle in for her to look back to him, before he continued.:: And I bring word.. from Imperial Highness, Emperor Kushrenada Zahak. (d)

Eirian:"What?"

The flush of red in her cheeks increased in a moment's anger before flushing away in shock, leaving the famed alabaster statue that had come to life by the grace of God through his son, Lord Jesus. To connect together the facts of Zahak's life being intact with the Imperial seat of a land to this day she still wrote to was at once infuriating as it was shocking that he sat now, the Emperor, and not Hotohori. Now it was she that came lower, settling onto a semi-circle bench in the pavilion. The looks of upset mingled with those of the good grace he'd heard of, settling so that she listened to his story while not yelling at him, nor dispelling him from her home as he might have anticipated. She put her hands in his lap and said, "Gao Lee, go on please." Using his last name before his first, it would give the visitor comfort in a custom he would not have anticipated in the West. She looked to Beathag, who stood at close but not too close. The presence of a friend was reassuring, though this was twice Beathag had brought the past to her present. At least this was not to validate an inquisition of truth or honesty. Alexander's had been nigh unbarable. (d)

Lee ::As she sat, and guided him mucht o the same, he took her hands, as she laid hers in his lap and spoke softly, doing his best despite his obvious disadvantage of still learning the langauge.:: My Lord, returned home to war... Following his freedom from the English... He had received word of your happiness... Came home to the warriors of Kotouthose devils from the north laying Seige to Kohnan... Our last bastion of hope... When my Lord arrived, the fleeting bombarded the Kotou army from the sea... and he and the the other Warriors of Suzaku, Taski, and Chichiri fought their way to the Castle, and met with the others of Suzaku's chosen... ::Looking into Eirians eyes he recounted the tale.:: It... was... a fight of Legends... Suzaku's seven chosen, against Seiryuu's seven chosen! ::His tones growing sad, as he spoke.:: Hotohori sacrificed himself on Nakago's sword... Beheaded the Light Haired Demon of Seiryuu before the battle ended... The Seiryuu Seven all slain... but Emperor Hotohori could not be healed... On his deathbed... my Lord was proclaimed Emperor, chosen by Hotohori,, Bid me west he did as soon as Kahnikan was secured. Our lands safe. ::Letting what he said so far be sunk in. Zahak had told him, that Hotohori was dear to Eirian and she would be most upset about his death.:: (D)


Eirian "Bare with me. This is a great much for me to take in. I..should be accustomed to the past coming unto the present. Yet this is quite difficult." Even so much as being touched had made her go stiff, though it was too subtle to notice. Her sigh reached out into the wind and seemed to make the trees carry the sound all around them. She withdrew her hands back, trying to ingest the story of a war on the Imperial city and state, triumph, and loss. In that he lived was hard for she once his death, and another his absence. In touching Lee's hands she could see what had been of upset was as pre-ordained as her current, beloved marriage to Talion. Some people come together for reasons they do not know, and only when they look upon what was could they understand what now is. It did not mean that heaven did not challenge extreme forebarence. "You are not originally of Kahakan, but the land has known many immigrants of Nihon. Are you fluent in the State's dialect of Chinese?" It indeed borrowed some of Nihon's words and custom, so perhaps speaking some of that would be easier than English. He could tell that her gentility remained intact, but there was a strength that was fabled of spirit and mind that seemed to catch her body now. He had been told, certainly, that she might have fainted or caused him worry - yet this woman - the baring at which she took it in body as well as the strength of heart were something to behold. (d)

[Lady Eirian Gwenyth Apollius]

We make our choices

Lee: ::Lee listened to her, digesing her words he suddenly smiled his words coming out happily in the chinese dialect used in Kahnikan.:: ~Thank you, and many Blessings of Suzaku upon you for this curtesy you show me Empress...~ ::Still holding her hands in his softly, caringly, not sqeezing them.:: (D)

Eirian: " Pardon me, Beathag, I will speak between the two tongues.." Once given leave, she reverted back to the Chinese that would perhaps serve as his second language, far more comfortable than English by far. If the story was long and her replies to be longer, it was better to employ a common ground. "Gao Lee, is it fitting to refer to me as the Empress -- on this I am not sure. You're Lord and I have not been together for some time." To an outsider, the language was contained of vowels rounded out and full, dipthongs and a quickness, but not as thick as the Celt's dialects of Gaelic. Between the pair of them it flowed smooth and easy. This time she did not take her hands from him, using the touch to read the emotions to accompany his personal truth: nervousness, fear, relief, astonishment all combining when seeing what words had so long described. He wasn't lying to her, that much was assured, and like those who had come to believe in gifts beyond measure, perhaps he could feel that the eyes she used to look at him were holding more than his reflection. Some called them spirit mirrors, parting through dispelled emotions and thoughts, to the ceter of things. She sighed, softly, "I do not think it is fair for me to retain such a title of hollow and revered reverance if I am here, and he is there. But I know it will be as that way, won't it." She smiled a little at the irony, in some small beginning of acceptance. Despite things, she'd given birth apparently to a very cherished heir, very venerated. Her stature would thus be as venerated. (d)

Lee ::His head nodded as if to assure her, what she had silently assumed was correct. He sighed softly, feeling he could not hide from her the entirety of the truth that his Lord now lived.:: ~He cherishes you to this day, and has not taken another.. To our people.. you are the Empress.. Those same people who remember your wonderful time there not too long ago. I remember you.. I remember the Temple of Suzaku, and the sad ceremony, the burning pyres for his mother.. I attended as you did. The people remember and love you as he does. Suzaku's path for him took his body away, but not his love for you, or the Princess Hope, who will ascend to the Throne upon his death. Zahak has named her his heir. Only your refusal, or hers... will keep her from the destiny that is hers for the takingEmpress.. The Silver Kingdom is your home... The Golden Kingdom his... But if this unworthy vassal may say... It seems you both to this day walk side by side in many ways.~ (d)

Beathag and Eirian: "Lady iffn ye please?" Beathag was more that curious. Her face wore a great deal of concern, as it would for any of those she considered family. Skye seemed a nation founded on its connections, and while many turned sweet with time it was the building of them off what was unknown that hurt worst of all. -

Eirian was listening to Lee go on of his memories. Memories were part of these bridges spanning years and many thousands of miles, many weeks of travel between then and now. They still recalled her with the same fondness that to this day she reserved for the people of whom she said had begun the process of 'setting her free'. In spite of her self she smiled at their love, their intent to love despite consequence. Perhaps they understood then that the moon did not live with the sun, but circumvented one another. It was as etched into her as the Nightingale was on her shoulder. No, she did not mourn for the loss of what wasn't anymore, or cry in the night for the old to be again. She understood fate a little better now than most For all of the heartache of seperation, the union with Talion brought her peace. It strengthened in ways that she would not even stand up to before, and made the completed woman that sat with Lee now. She was giving him the gift of shared life between them now, just as even in his absence Zahak had given her the greatest gift of ending her childless exsistence and making her a mother at long last. Hope was a child who was true to her namesake. To be so loved as she was! " He says that I am still beloved of Zahak, and the people of Kahakan. Suzaku, the patron God there, may have taken him away, but not his affections for all he has left behind. The people are as equally tied and devoted. Only my refusal or Hope's will change what is rightfully hers. She is Zahak's named heir now."

Beathag sucked in a great deal of air on heairing this but Eirian continued as the shock settled into accepted knowledge. " I am considered as the Empress. Lee believes that there are still a great many similiarities between Zahak and I, and that we walk together even now." It was a translation the Mo'r Oukselo's mind would have. For her part she shook her head, "No, you are not unworthy. You braved a great many miles and perils to come this way to tell me these things, and upon a greater pain that I would neither acccept them or refuse you from my home. You were right. I was -- heavily tempted -- and my first thought was to move into prayer before hearing anymore. But it is not bad, and perhaps it gives a sense of closure to one portion of life and opens up another. I will accept these words and leave the decision to Hope when she is of a proper age to make such decisions for herself. Some things are certain, others are images that change and bend, as we do. I had always planned to take her hence with me to that place, and now I am relieved that one day soon, she will be able to walk beside blood there as she does here. I will tell you, and perhaps one day you will tell it to the Emperor for I will write him myself now, and say that she wants for nothing here. She understands the language we speak now, and she will learn the ways of the country as they were taught unto me years ago. She is a child with two fathers, and Talion was there for her birth, and most of each day after. You may tell him my solitude gave me strength to reclaim my name, my talents, and further myself, and that a union gave me peace in that it is with an old friend. Hope and I wear Talion's name, and she does bare A Chinese name as well. Morning Jasmine. Xiao Li . She is, I believe, a true child of not only two, but three cultures, for she has two fathers, one who loves her in blood and miles, and another whom loves her in spirit and flesh, and a mother now tied to both of them. I harbor no ill will towards him anymore. My heart is too filled with good things. Still, you must understand this is all...a great deal for me to take on. I had never expected to hear from Kahakan this way." (d)

Lee:::His head bowed a great sadness in his eyes.:: ~I... know what the pain of loss is... I... Nouhime... Poisoned with her family.... died in my arms and I wa shelpless to stop her.... You and My Lord have both suffered greatly... He does not, and has never blamed you from moving on. He spoke of returning from his English capture to find you already happy and taken with another.. he saw you, and Hope.. both happy.. I blame myself, as you should for the man not returning that day... The day we arrived at the ports to find him, was the day of his return. He needed you.... his daughter... But he knew, as I did... Kahnikan needed him more. Blame him not, blame me.. for Lord Hotohori had bade me to get him back to our people at all costs. He put his faith in Suzaku's wisdom as we all must. Knowing he was not worthy.. But it was just as it must have been.. He held no ill against you, and cherishes you now as he always did. Hope is known to us.. for he has never hidden her. He proudly proclaims his daughter to be learning of life and love from the better of her two parents.~ ::He smiled softly.:: (D)

Eirian and Beathag: "We make our choices. There were times I had wished for his return if only to see her face. I could not be married to him after his second leaving I could not do twice what I had done once. It was too painful. I had to relinquish that name to spare my own. I hope you and he understand that. Still, would that he have looked on his daughter's face." It was not so much as blame as for rising above the wants of many for one simple need. At the very least, he would have held her before he left, but she understood what it was to be duty bound. Not so long ago, a small woman and a band of loose cousins went with monks to liberate a war-torn Wales. Not so long ago, she went to liberate a young man she considered her son and a country with it. She understood all too well the nature of promises and how a place puts you above others, veneration comes with respondsibility. "I will not also lie that I lived in some mild worry that if his brothers should manifest one day they'd beg to take her with them at a young age, and I couldn't bare it. That fear still lingers now, true or not. So you must give me time before I present you to my daughter. I hope you understand." She knew he came on a mission and at least this much so far was complete. " I told him Beathag about Hope, and Talion, my marriage, and how we are all tied together now, of what she will know and has grown to know, and how beloved she is by her family. I understand of choices and why they are made, and wish but one might have been different, that he would have seen her face for himself, close enough to hold her, before his departure. That our marriage was done in these lands and that it had to be. This is a great many things to accept and I need more time before I show him Hope.."

"Aye."

The Mo'r Oukselo understood and agreed with that. It took the importance of the message for her to even present Eirian without forewarning.

"High Lady, will you please stay with him awhile. I need my moments..." She let go of Lee's hands and bowed to her visitor from afar, begging his pardon in the language favored between them, "Give me leave, I need...a few moments to let this settle. Tis strange, of all the things I have seen I did not see you coming." But that was easy, for her mind swam not in the future or past but settled in the present for the time being as all things were being mended. As she left down the pavilion steps, as she put out a hand to move a willow curtain, it seemed to move on its own accord first, a figment of imagination. (d)

Lee ::He rose as she did, bowing low to her, his eyes leaving her and they closed. He understood her trepidations, and knew it was because of a motherly fear and love. Not knowing if she could trust him. IT was something he expected.:: ~Of course, I understand completely, but please.. forgive me for the pain and confusion my words have caused you..~ ::As she left, he looked back towards Bess, and he sighed softly. He obviously could not tell if the meeting was a success or not.:: (D)

Eirian and Beathag: Before the tree leaves could veil her, she ceased the progression of them to gravity to look over her shoulder at the poor traveler. "There is no wrong to forgive. Be at peace with that." Smiling, she continued on her progress to a place where she could think, if not pray. --

"Dun worry sae. Ah'm sure it will be alright. Did it not gae better than ye expected?" She offered consolation and a trace of logic to follow. He was neither thrown out of her house nor banished, for he worded everything in a gentle fashion. Had it been too zealous, she would have indeed feared for her daughter and sent him forthwith away. "Eirian is a seer. If she says ye speak the truth than ye speak the truth." (d)

LeeI... not lie.... forbidden... Samurai Code.. ::He still lived by it, despite the fact he was banished. After all... when one was raised by the code. Sung it in his crib, learning it since he could read, reciting it since he could remember it... training to it... he was his life. He nodded his head.:: Better.. Sweet woman.. deserves better then Fate's hand. She's... like Nouhime.. (d)

Beathag: "Aye. Better than many, sweeter than many more. Ah concur with tha'. Ah'm sorra fer the loss o' yer love, Lee. Maybe ye'll heal here as ye find yer new life." Of all the things to come to them, the first was cider for beathag and a pot of sweet tea for Lee. Were she in a better state she would have even poured for him, but as it was she direly needed to reflect. Beathag studied the tea service. Cups with no handles, painted with flowers she had only seen in her trading travels. "At least with the kindness o' Kaelyn n' a few good linguists, ye'll feel more at home." (d)

Lee: With hope... Daimi has... blessing of Suzaku to.. me. ::Patting his chest he joined her, his hands together he prayed for the tea, and then proceeded to pour for the two of them. One offered to her first, the bottom of the cup resting in his left hand, his right hands fingers wrapped around the bottom.:: (d)

Beathag: While Eirian had furnished the cider for a fabled little tea drinker, with Davina's conception she had developed a liking for a couple of brews. So why not try another? It was so gracefully offered that she canted her head, accepting it gingerly so as not to risk ruining the cup. Were it Eirian, she'd know how to accept it in the traditional manner, but all Bess could do was be nice! "Ah'm sure tha' blessin' is yours. You shouldn't worry sae much." Bringing the brew to her lips, she nodded in approval. "Wonderful.." Lee could denote it came from her store of jasmine influenced tea, so as to not make him feel so far from home in the strangeness of the land. (d)

Lee: ::Having poured his he sipped slowly at the tea, smiling, he took in a long scent of the drink.:: Hmmm wonderful.. ::He spoke again of the tea, its scent. Returning it to the table, he looked back towards Bess.:: She is... ::Was all he would or could really say. He did see Kaelyn as a blessing unto him. It was something he had not been prepared for. Then again... with the last of his bruises having faded faded away a day or two back he did not have anything to show for the cruelty that this land could offer... that all worlds could.:: She is... ::He repeated once more softly.:: (d)

Beathag: "...a vera grand n' brave woman. Vera kind. Ah think yer journey will mend many things, Lee. Tis good fer her tae have company at Rayvenscrest." Beathag was no fool to a woman's way of mourning if one was accostomed to utter solitude.What was once a simple trait became a harsh, hostile way of living after being tempted to believe forever could be the laughter of children, the love of a husband. It was good for her cousin. How she knew they were cousins came from the simple fact of having learned the relation Kaelyn bore to Anwen during Maubrey's earlier sojourns, not knowing that Kaelyn had secrets to tell her even now. Tales for another day, as the saying so readily went. "Kaelyn is good. Eirian is good. Many people here are good. Ye will see tha', sae I pray." (d)

Lee: Not all... ::Was all he would say for not, as he had seen both the good, and the bad... the best this land of Bess's had to offer, and its worst. Sipping from his tea once more, he let out a soft sigh and nodded his head to her.:: You one... words true... pray you are right. (d)

Beathag: "Ah hope sae too. Look, there she is," Beathag pointed as she saw the woman curving along a trail. Her eyes respectfully lowered as she saw her friend kneeling before a statue of a patron saint for an intercession with God. "The Lady is vera pious, it seems tae make her more steady." She was of an old way, but did not talk to her Gods any less because of what someone said. Why, she'd even expressed her heathenism to the Pope and wasn't burned, in fact, their posistion was sanctioned by the dead King Bruce and the Papacy. Bravery can elect to change many things. Drinking on the tea again she wondered what it would be like to hear such news for herself. It had been a hard road with Eamonn when they discovered their relation through a father who had forgotten Beathag and for a man whom Eamonn idealized, having to accept he had a family before him, who was thought to be his only son. She learned of her kinship through marriage to the Island she now reigned, but in time these things of hurt become things of merit. "Ah have but one edict of you. Let nae harm come to Kaelyn, both seen or unseen, of the form and mind, and be gentle with Eirian..indeed be gentle with them both." As she noticed Eirian rising, she would do them the service of leaving them both alone to speak. "Thank ye for pourin' m'tea taenight. M'thinks tis time fer me tae rest now." (d)

Lee:::His head nodded, he rose, bowing to her.:: You have my word... ::He spoke softly, letting her continue as she had chosen, his eyes turning to see Eirian had risen and surely would soon be heading back. He had wished now.. he had not left Kaelyn as he had... it would have preferred her strength with him now.. He could nto cause her home. His eyes shifting to look back towards the tea and he remained standing, as Bess retired, leaving him now alone for when Eirian would return.:: (d)

Eirian:Beathag would be given a fine suite of rooms without fail to house herself, her pair of guardians, and the lady-in-waiting for their night's retirement. While others would shut their eyes to wait for the day to talk of times like these, the night found two people still very much awake. The Steward hadn't drifted far, seeing from one of the halls his Lady in the gardens praying. He was beginning to detest outside news! Change came with it, but that was how they thrived. On the winds of change. In time, Eirian rose, winding her rosary around her wist to tuck up against it, hidden by the long sleeves of her dress as she ascended the stairway. Her composure was settled, her mind more at ease, for she'd given her anger, burdens, fears, and inquiries over to the saints to give to God. In time to bid Beathag goodnight, she curtsied to her friend and sovereign before turning toward Lee. The pot of tea was no where near empty, and in silence she gave thanks for it before pouring herself a cup, even holding the upper portion of her sleeve over the handle to conceal her hand while the other sleeve was held back from the stream. Nodding to him, she motioned to refill his cup if he so wished. Some gestures of assurance and peace are very simple, very small. (d)

Lee:~Please My Lady... ~ ::He spoke to Eirian softly as he returned to sit as she did. His eyes looking back into her own. He did not have feaar, having done his own silent praying, only Suzaku knew what would come this, of their future... he had to trust the God who had guided him thus far without fail.:: ~Thank you...~ ::Once it was full, he bowed his head to her, and raised his cup to her in toast. A sign of good will, and hope for good future.:: (D)


Eirian: If anything were an omen of good will, Eirian could accept the nature of good tea. - You're welcome - She bowed her head, lifted her cup, and proceeded to drink. There was silence between them with only the waterfall and wind to fill it before she ventured to speak again. - I have been praying. Unburdening as well as seeking guidance, patience, and peace. - (d)
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Eirian:~And has Suzaku... Forgive me... ~ ::Remembering she knew of the Bird God of Kahnikan, but she held her own god so much closer to her heart.:: ~.. your God... has he shown you any of the peace you so rightfully diserve my Lady?~ (d)

Eirian:"Suzaku has forgiven you, and my God has granted me peace. I should be accustomed to this by now." She grinned softly, sipping the tea in her hand before looking to the hands that held it. "I am sorry, if I gave you cause to be afraid, Lee. " (d)

Lee: ~Never fearful for myself, I walk the path my Lord once followed, and put my faith in Suzaku to ensure I am once more lead into the Light from the darkness...~ ::He sipped a bit more of his tea, and offered her a soft smile.:: ~I fear failing in my Missions... I fear... you will not forgive me for coming upon and burdening you once more with the troubles of a land that is both yours and not.. I fear that my Lord might pass into the next life before having a chance to see his daughter, and hold her, and for her to see the love he has for her. I fear many things... but not for myself my Lady.~ (d)

Eirian: - Do not fear, for you did not fail. Zahak will not pass without seeing his child a great many times. I can not bare her hence now, for I am with child. But we may at least establish contact again, and as God wields my hand as good as my eyes, I can render images of her to send across the sea. Between our words, he will know peace. Will this give you peace, Lee?" He knew Eirian would not put Hope on a boat without her, despite whom she could trust. They were as irrevocably connected as earth and sky. Why, even leaving her with the General Maahes and his wife Ealora, she could hear her daughters the few hours over the sea seperating sky and Avaria. They spoke, they missed one another. Lord knew how they would fret and pine over a thousand miles and more. A mother's love and protection wouldn't allow her to do it. But she was not one to alienate her promises to the land, let alone those made to a mother who loved her as much as she had her own son, promising she would bring her grandaughter to the land one day. All believed the first would be a girl, as prophecied. She poured more tea and spoke at length , - I must also speak with my husband, for it would not do to make such decisions in solitude. But your mission did not fail, only there is more to it than you might have expected. - She grasped the rosary's cross in her closed hand. ' Nothing, my friend, is ever as simple as we'd like it to be. If it were always simple we'd not appreciate what truly was eased.' - (d)

Lee ::Shaking his head he spoke softly.:: ~The... travels for you and her to my homeland... are not... apart of my Missions..~ ::Raising his hand to the necklace that thus far had been hidden he pulled out the necklace and showed it to Eirian. Like a ghost from the past surely... for it was the one Zahak himself had always worn. The ruby eyed, golden phoenix effigy representing Suzaku.:: ~My missions... the ones for my Lord... Were to first... tell you and his friends of his fate. That he loved, and you are all welcomed any time in Kahnikan with as much love and joy as you have brought to him. Second.... to present this...~ ::Offering it to her so she could confirm it was the same one.::.. ~To Princess Hope. For she it is the sign to the world, our people, who the heir to the Throne is.. the Crowned Princess.. But more so... it is.. my Lords wish, that she knows her father wore this every day for years... And he hopes with it about her neck, she might feel his presence every day and know she is in his heart.... Lastly my final mission was to... Live and learn in these western lands as he did. He... He felt Suzaku had sent him here... gave you to him, to remind him of life and love.... To give him the strength to assume the role thrust upon him. Knowing.. the loss I suffered... he hopes that it might do the same for me.~ (d)

Eirian:She had many ghosts from the past that were spiteful, but this one was not unfriendly. She took it in her hands, smiling gently. "I will hang it above her bed until she is old enough to wear it with great care. Intuitive as she is, she is still a little child who would sooner lose it than revere it just yet. But she will grow to know. You know, my friend, life moves in very precise circles. Have you noticed yon banner there? That is the red phoenix of my husband's land, Avaria. It has known many names, the land, but always the sigil is the same. My daughter sleeps under lotus flowers, evergreens, and firebirds already. Both ends of her life are bound by things rising stronger than their last incarnations. As are yours, now. About sigils of patience, strength, and rebirth. We are all given another chance. It may not seem so now - She put down the tea cup and reached over to the bowl that held slice fruit in it, clearing some of it away to the center where on painted were the unification of firebirds and stars. She considered symbols and signs, and was very philosophical. She could have been a reverend mother if she wished, or a temple maiden all her days. "But things join together when you least expect it. You are welcome in the Valley of Stars, and at Arianna, whenever you would wish it. We will have much to talk on, you and I." (d)
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Lee: ::He nodded his head to her softly chuckling.:: ~Please forgive me.. it is a custom ingrained into me so deeply from near birth. I will do my best to still show you the reverence you are due, and not overly embaress you...~ ::He winked a bit playfully..and smiled to her, he was becoming a bit more relaxed.:: ~I will gladely be your vessel for the painting. I will flow with as much description as I can, I only pray it is enough to do my Lord, and you my Lady justice. As far as who might or might not be coming in the future I pray I do not know. My Lord did say he hopes to visit... Under the banner of setting up a diplomatic alliance... and union.... he hopes to spend time with his daughter. As for when I am afraid I do not know.~ (d)

Eirian:"There is no baring nor need to mention time. What shall be, Lee, will be. There is much to think and pray upon for all involved. The elements do not rush, they move precisely as time dictates. So should we. I realize it is a hard custom to relinquish. In the West, men do bow, were merely do not prostrate ourselves before our sovereigns. You may bow so much as it comforts you, only do not prostrate yourself before me for I am neither Suzaku nor God. I do realize my posistion with you will always be venerated, and I hope a love and friendship will grow well between us. Perhaps you will ride with me to the capital city soon, and I might show you about, should it please you? I am still able to ride for agreat many months before my condition does not enable me the pleasure." Some women did not, but the midwife cautioned as long as she rode her fitting horse, properly aged and well adjusted to her, and so long as her balance was steady that it would be fine. No modality of travel was perfect, and the exercise allowed her a good birth last time, because the muscles were strong. "If you are not at want for sleep now, it will be dawn soon, and we can walk the gardens if you would like to see them." (d)

Lee:~I would be honored to get to know about you my Lady Eirian.. ~ ::Using her name for the first time was an oddity to his tongue, as their time together in Kahnikan had been limited tot he ceremonies, before Lee's duties took him away from Kohnan. Still as he rose and moved closer to her, his arm given in ofference, as he had done many time for his Kaelyn.:: ~And to tell you of my travels here, about me, anything you wished to know. I will not and cannot lie to you. my Samurai Code forbides it.~ (d)

Eirian:-" There is no lie within you. Your code forbids it and the essence of untruth is not impressed upon you. "- Now it seemed she and Kaelyn would enjoy another thread of connection between them, but one more binding the tapestry of many lives. She accepted the arm devoid of tension or strain this time. "- I should very much like to hear everything that you would tell me, Lee, for it has been a long time since I have heard of things farther than Damascus and Arabia. Tell me.."- The tea service would be left where it was as she lead him through a place that was called Eden on Earth, and one had but to look to see why. It was a place of such pastoral beauty that every home and building seemed to have already been placed there. Along the paths the trees grew, old and steadfast. (d)