Post by jelenahdvorak on Dec 1, 2008 19:27:00 GMT -6
General Maahes : Winter had come, and though the ground was frozen it was still lush and green but dying away slowly. The sky was overcast with clouds that promised the fall of snow, but would linger as long as possible. The hour seemed so much later with the shorter days, and that the lunch hour rolled into evening within the blink of an eye. Maahes found himself on the back of a horse, in slow careful strides over the dirt road that lead from Windsor Estate to City. He had been in the country visiting the woman who had been commissioned to sew a new winter cloak for his wife. She was new to the cold, having lived for so long on a ship who dared not sail the frozen waters North. It was a surprise, but one she would miss if he did not break from his thoughts and pay attention to the road. Still in his leather armor with the fur capelet across one shoulder Maahes fit the bill of a Roman General not that of Skye, but still did the duty just the same. It had been months since he had last seen Balian, and the last they met Maahes had ran the man through with the back of his sword...Could he hold harsh feelings? No. He knew better, not Balian. A smirk lifted his lips as the Estate came into view--seemed perfect for them; Like a painting he had seen too perfect to be real. At the edge of the road he lingered a moment wondering what Jelenah would think of him when such an animal came to visit without invitation or reason; what bad manners this one had. (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Jelenah could be found outside, surprising? Not for those that knew her passion and love of the earth. That was one thing she was able to carry on with her was the love for gardening she learned from her father. Knowing what to plant and when to plant them. What could survive the harsh cold months of fall and winter. Della and she were in the garden, Jelenah on her knees in her simpleton skirts. An apron that helped guard the homespun fabrics of her dress,her hair of golden blonde pulled back and plaited into a single braid. A few wispy strands framing the delicate face often mistaken for the Duchess herself. For even the Duke had mistaken her as his wife once. Hands were digging deep into the soil, loosening it with long slender fingers as wrists did push aside a few of the large green leafy vegetables she was currently working around. Della stood jus beside her with a basket ready for whatever could be harvested today. A thick cloak did shield the small woman from the cooler weather but it was beginning to become a nuisance. Her brow was wiped with the sleeve of her arm to brush aside a strand of hair as Della spoke up. "M'lady...someone comes." <d
General Maahes : The wind had infact been a nuisance as it cooled his frame Maahes wondered if he would ever feel the cold. Between Jadda the old woman who had adopted him as her own, and Anulia he was kept well covered as when his attire was put together in the morning many layers were first. He missed already the summer months when the rich fabrics of linen wrapped his hips and that would be all. Men like he were not meant to be covered, it held their motions in and slowed the battle. Waging with himself he finally gave in pressing from the back of the horse and of course getting his foot caught in the stirrup...horses were for horse lords..Balian..Eamonn. Clearly not for Beasts. He chuckled deeply as he found his back rushing the earth before detangling his foot. Figures he mused to himself and the luck that seemed to follow him. No one would see such a smile, for no one was around and as he pressed forward down the road he centered himself. He was known for his brash arrogant strength not such laughter and smiles. As the women's eyes were caught he gave a bow of his head "Jelenah." Hello or at least his version. Suddenly he found himself lost to all manners and rehearsed greetings he had put together and fell silent. Fingers tightened on the reins of the horse as he led her behind him, and he was about to flipping hide behind it! "Balian home?" A more of a Can Balian come out and play? (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : The Lady Windsor would move and shift to get her five foot five frame standing once again. Della took from her the last of the turnips, placing it in the basket and stepping back to allow her Lady to address the visitor. Jelenah began to brush the dirt from her hands by brushing palms together first before wiping them down her apron. It was the General... one of two men with dark skin whom she had been trying hard to better herself around comfortably. "G'day General Maahes... I'm afraid Balian is not home right now." She looked to Della and nodded, her silent request of asking her to go inside and give the two some privacy along with putting away the days harvest. "Might I relay a message to him for you?" She softly asked as she looked back to the large beast of a man. Lord was he huge... then again, so was Balian. "If... if you like, we could go in and warm up by the fire. Maybe get you some tea to help chase the chills away?" Just then Drest, the black dog of Balian, came barking around the corner, again chasing a few chickens. Jelenah began to scold him. "Drest! Come now.. stop this foolishness..please? You are scaring my chickens." She said in a slightly huffy manner. A couple steps taken towards the dog before he stopped, looked to his mistress and then canted his head to the side. She gave a soft scolding look and pointed to the porch. "To the porch with you... go on!." The Slavic woman added as she shooed him off before looking back to the General with a apologetic smile. "Forgive me General... he's much like his master... hard headed." <d
General Maahes : "I..uh." He smirked at the dog a faint show of emotion other then the brooding always serious mask he wore all too well. "It is a good thing to be.." His words were quiet, a harsh raspy sound from deep inside the cavity of his chest Taking a deep breath he worked through the nerves, and though the cold was harsh he dare not enter their home without Balian. With all the rumors already passing the mouths of fools what would this start? "If you could tell him I came by." Ok now Maahes tuck your tail and run. As oddly as he came, he turned to move away but stilled; as the thoughts returned of the stab he did give her husband. "Uh.." Turning back to face her he ran his palm over the neck of the horse. "How's his side?" Did she even know that was him? (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Her sapphire eyes of blue watched as the large dark man began to speak again. She had made an attempt at joking... but thats all it was, an attempt.As Maahes declined the invitation, she looked down a moment and nodded before her eyes lifted towards him again. A slight show of disappointment? Perhaps... or was it shame she felt, knowing he declined due to the still awkward tension between them. Him not wanting to make her feel uncomfortable, she trying her best to look past his skin color and get to know the man for who he was. "I will... " She replied, watching him turn to leave, then pause and face her once more only to inquire of her husbands side. "Balian has healed nicely. The stitches I did came out with ease and he does well." She said as she answered his question. She seem to stare at him in hopes he would see she was trying to close that gap between them with the invitation in, but perhaps today was not meant to be the beginning of an understanding between two people that saw things so differntly.<d
General Maahes : Dark eyes turned from the horse to the woman and he gave a pull on the reins to turn him around. Maahes had been accused of having an affair on his wife, killing an entire island and drugging her sister..the last thing he was about to do was go into Jelenah's home without her husband. "Is he close?" Broken English never sounded so complete and perhaps it spoke of his desperation to get to the Marshal. "Oh.." Clearing his throat he let his hand swing to his side to correct his stance. "Thank you. For the gift. Ealora hung the curtains." The rest was put together well, but he was proud of his wife in her attempt at making a home. No the Pirate Queen was nothing in the sorts of Jelenah, and the last thing on Ealora's list was the home, it amused him to no end watching her. "Did you pick it out?" Yeap that's it, keep talking doing good Maahes ;pet: (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : The fair haired maiden stared as she watched the man fidget and maybe stutter as they continued to try and conversate. "He is close... should be home within the hour."She said in reply to his questioning of Balian's where abouts. He then gave thanks to the wedding gift she and Balian had sent to the Lord General and his new wife, having Jelenah smile. She then nodded and quietly answered him once again. "Yes I did... I hope i t is to your liking... yours and your new wife. I am sorry we were not able to attend." She would go on to add, thinking to herself that she was doing good. Perhaps with them talking for this amount of time was a good sign, at least she hoped. Roric came around the house then, looking between his Lady and the visitor. Jelenah nodded and Roric, an older gentleman would take a step closer toward Maahes. "M'lord General has come to visit the Lord Marshal..aye? Might I be tending to ye horse M'lord?" <d
General Maahes : "No." He quickly rose his hand to still the man's steps, "Thank you, but I need to head back." He smiled to the man and swung his shoulders lightly to Jelenah. "Do not worry, I do not remember much of the festival. I would not have even realized you were there had you been. I..uh." Shuffling his feet he kicked a stone out from under the horse's hooves. "Don't hold wine well." Light weight actually. Dark eyes passed over the garden and he smiled thinking of what his activity was yesterday. "Do you often work in the garden? Balian allows your hands to get dirty hmm?" (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Roric would take a step back and give a curt nod to the Lord General and smiled warmly. "As ye wish M'lord..." He backed away and looked to Jelenah. She nodded and smiled , only for Roric to return it and move off to see to a few other chores before the days end. The Lady Windsor looked back to Maahes and listened as he spoke on the festival as well as the wine. She smiled a lil at the mention of his not being able to handle it as well as some. That was something they had in common it seemed. Her hands came to clasp together at her waist as her eyes followed his toward the garden. She nodded and smiled a lil more at his question. "I do... its the one thing that keeps... well, that keeps my fathers memory alive." She looked down to the ground before looking back to him. "Balian knows its part of who I am... it allows me to be me." <d
General Maahes : "In my homeland we did not have such a past time. Not many gardens grew in the sand." He spoke as he returned his face to her, eyes amused to the fullest. "The Refugees from Aberdeen have helped me start a garden. The soil of Red Wall has not been used for over 20 years they say. It has become one of my favorite places. My hands bring life not destruction." Though of course when the corn stalks were to come down, the men were very happy to have such massive hands and a good strong back. "Did you do this on your own?" Granted the start of winter was never appealing in a garden, but he could see what once was. (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : "Your homeland? Where is your homeland?" Jelenah asked as she took a step closer, feeling the need to close the distance between them some. To maybe help her gain a lil courage and self respect and perhaps show him she wasn't AS afraid of him as she once was. "That is good... to have help, soil, and to enjoy it." Jelenah added as she nodded a lil. "I like the feel of the dirt in my hands...its a reminder of many things." She said as she then heard him ask his question. "I did... with a lil help of course from both Balian and Roric. The plowing is not for a woman to do. All else though.. I did." <d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : Well, Kaori had just about had enough of this nonsense! How was it possible two people could live in the same bloody city yet never encounter one another? Well, the Nihonnin scholar was going to put a stop to such ridiculousness. Quite determined ( or was it just stubborn..?), she had made way for the home of Lady Windsor, ready to chastise her for being so bloody scarce. Dressed casually that day, shying away from the castle and the responsibility that would plague her there, she had headed to her friend's home more than a little curious to see how "married life was treating her" (or something equally as droll), she started to make her way to the house, only to find two figures conversing in the yard. One was undoubtedly the friend she sought, the other undoubtedly not. She was in plain view but hesitated a moment before approaching. She didn't have that much time, after all, and didn't want to interrupt the two if they seemed to be talking on matters of great import. (d)
General Maahes : Of great importance indeed! So serious they were talking of gardens and flowers..dirt under their nails. Yet it was a miracle they were even speaking to begin with. "Ealora has not shown interest in the garden, but she is working the children and women from the camps. I have no doubt she will get the hang of it." Like you. He would dare not say out loud, as he would assume to many ears that he admired the woman to be his own, when in reality just admired her as a person..and frankly he had a thing for dark hair. "I'm.." Lord he was so damn shy. "From a Al Qahira." The Arabic word the only thing that ever sounded natural leaving the lips of a Beast. "In these lands they call it Cairo, capital of Egypt, and I am unaware if they grew such things along the river, but in the Arena they did not. Only sand." Spoken very matter-of-factly, but in his raspy deep voice. Ok proper manners would be to ask her something in return, but he just openly stared at her as if waiting for her to run again. (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : How nice was this... not one visitor but two for the Lady Windsor. First the Lord General, and now, now it was the Griffins own High Scholar. Long time friend since the days of Orkney. She could see Kaori Hotaro approaching, nodding and smiling as she gained ground. She looked back to Maahes then and listened as he spoke. When he mentioned the name of his home land, her head titled and she tried repeating it. It sounded terrible most likely, given the Slavic accent she had. "Al - Qa-hira , Hm... what a strange name." Strange because it was a language she had never heard before until Aman and now Maahes. Though, it was similar to those she had encountered in her past, giving her the reason to fear men of his color. "Only sand? But.. not much can survive off sand alone."She said, seeing just how different they truly were. When he stared, lips twisted in a odd fashion, thinking. "I am from.. Ukraine, it is much like here but colder, longer." She then look to see if Kaori would now be joining them. If so, she could do introductions.<d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : Kaori noticed that Jelenah noticed her, and since that didn't result in any negative response, the smile maintained and Kaori approached with a bit more resolve. Catching snippets of conversation, she had to suppress a giggle. She wondered what adjectives Engakuji would earn. As she approached, she realized she did recognize the stranger, but had never been given the pleasure of an introduction. "Good day, Lady Windsor! Either you've been avoiding me or I've been dreadfully unlucky. If it's not the latter, please feel free to lie," she said with a wink before going to embrace her friend and offer those girly little cheek kissies Westerners tended to use in greeting. She then turned Jelenah's friend to bob a small curtsey and asked, "How do you do?" extending her hand. She was sure Jelenah would take care of introductions, so refrained from offering her name immediately. (d)
General Maahes : "Mmm, you would be surprised." This one was bred from his father a great warrior in his time, and built like an ox, must have survived somehow right? As the new face emerged he felt himself draw inward by way of a deep breath. As always he was taken back by change, different something new, and a face that was remarkably flawless. What none of them, not even his wife knew of the man is that he had a great admiration of art and read each face like searching the pallet of a painting. Reasons like this kept him and Eirian close, and perhaps it was for this reason she had given permission for Bess to award him the land he was given in her valley. Dressed in the leather armor of his profession his hands were half covered and when she extended hers he felt he should do the same but would still in half's way. "They are dirty.." He spoke so very quiet, the natural shy nature often mistaken for being rude but perhaps given time she would understand. Running his palm on the underside of the fur capelet that wrapped his shoulders the Beast would make an attempt to clean them..or was he just nervous? Amber orbs burned with all the fires of sun, and what seemed to search her soul as he committed her face to memory. Never one to need names anyway, as he learned through visions not words. (d
Lady Jelenah : She listened as Maahes began to speak once more and nodded. She looked to Kaori then and smiled with a giggle to follow. "Kaori Hotaro... you should know that I could never avoid you even if I should like to try.And that will never come to be." She said as she returned the embrace. Once Kaori turned to Maahes, Jelenah would make introductions. "Lord General Maahes... I would like for you to meet a dear friend of mine. This is Lady Scholar Kaori Hotaro. She, myself, Bess and Lady Eirian all know each other well. For we all lived together in Orkney. Often time was spent at the tavern known as the Lions Mane." She looked to Kaori then. "Kaori, the Lord General Maahes. One of the many men Balian fights along side with." Her sapphire eyes would shift between the two faces, letting them get a feel for each other before she would speak again. Allowing each of them to take the chance to speak and address one another should they choose to.<d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : Her brows lifted when he refrained from taking her hand, but she grinned broadly with his words. "I have twins. You don't know dirty," she offered with a playful wink, that smile never faltering. Kaori was a very hard woman to offend, even when that was the intention, so she didn't find the gesture rude at all. On the contrary, she found it absolutely sweet. "Gads, Jelenah! With such a mouthful to repeat, no one would get past my title to say anything worth hearing," she gently chided. Looking to General Maahes, she said, "I insist on being called Kay, or at least Kaori. Though to my chagrin many insist on calling me Lady Hotaro," she said with a crinkle of her nose. "It doesn't really matter so long as it's not an insult, I suppose." Dear God, the scholar could speak! "Well, since Western traditions won't work for dirty hands, I'll go with that of my people." With a bow she said, "Hajimemachyte," smiling all the while up to her new acquaintance. Nothing like tall men to make her feel even more short.(d)
General Maahes : "Twins? That are of your own blood or do you foster?" Such a strange question, but Maahes wasn't like anyone else or a gentleman at any rate. "Kay." Kay it would be, as he was never one for titles unless someone questioned him about his or his place among the people as often it would happen when he tended at the Briar Rose. Many would think him just the Moor and were quickly surprised to learn he was head of military advance upon foot. His hand pressed to his chest and he gave a nod of his head, "Maahes." Against the dark of his eyes a light sparked when the mention of Eirian came to find the tender shell of his ear. "You know Eirian?" A haunted sadness behind a surprised joy that her name would even be brought up. "She is Queen to the lands I served before Skye. She has given me land in her valley. The temple with pointed roof and red walls." Probably the most he would ever say to her, and hell even he was surprised he was talking so freely. "She and I..uh.." Yeah ok stop there. "We had much time together while her husband was still in Avaria." (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Jelenah stood in silence, giving them the chance to get better aquainted. When Kaori spoke on the titles, in her own lil way, Jelenah smiled. The Lady Windsor had done her part on introductions, giving titles as it was customery. If either of them wanted the other to address them otherwise, well they would have to be the one to let the other know. Jelenah had done her part. All seem to be well... both were talking, sharing and Jelenah was unusually comfortable Perhaps not fully, but more so than she would have guessed by now. She looked between the two, flashing them a sweet innocent smile as they continued to talk. She was and would be content to stand and listen only if needed. <d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : "It's a pleasure, Maahes. And yes, I know Eirian well. She's been a dear friend of mine for many years." Her head canted as she considered the information given. "The next time I am in her territory I will seek out this temple. It sounds lovely." She laughed lightly. "Eirian and I knew each other when I was pregnant with my late husband's twins, aye. They are my own... Er, at least for now." Biting her lip she looked to Jelenah. "Which brings me why I stopped by with so little time." Holding up her ring finger she said, "That bully of a sea captain courting me has proposed," she said, though even with the joke she couldn't hide her elation. "I was hoping to borrow your expertise at some point in the near future for help with the wedding preparations..?" She grinned to Maahes and said, "Hopefully we'll get to talk about our mutual friends soon," she laughed, reaching out and taking a dirty hand unabashed and giving it a soft squeeze as she started to retreat. "Jelenah, I'll be in contact soon! I'm in dire need, you can't turn me away, I beg of you!" she said laughingly, walking backwards a few paces. "You both enjoy the rest of the evening. I have twins to return home to. Filthy ones!" And with that she was off, knowing Mary Beth would be wondering where the Hell she had been! (d)
General Maahes : "She should not be traveling these roads alone, Jelenah." He bent his neck to meet the eye of the woman before him a task he was very used to. "Tell your husband I'm ready for that hunting trip he promised." Darn Maahes was ready to be around another male that wasn't after his wife! Might even go and hang with Eamonn..O.O He started to extend his hand but stilled only to raise it to touch her shoulder lightly. "Thank you again for the gift." Awkward huh? No he would not catch up with Kay but be a few steps behind protective big brother and all to everyone or so it seems. With that he tugged again on the horse's reins which had been eating now her garden the entire time they had been talking. Darn horse! (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Jelenah watched as the conversation between Maahes and Kaori began to come to an end. It seemed the High Scholar was in a hurry and needed to take her leave. Attention was given to Kaori as she spoke of her reason behind the visit, her request of Jelenah's help for the special occasion and then bidding her a farewell. Jelenah would smile, happy tp see that her friend had now found happiness and hopefully for good this time. Jelenah nodded and chuckled at the request and began to wave as Kaori turned to leave. Once they were alone, attention was returned to the Lord General. It seemed that he to would be on his way as he began to extend his hand to Jelenah. She would have taken it, slowly and cautiously of course but none the less accepted. However,he would withdraw it and instead lightly touch her shoulder. She did stiffen jus a lil but not nearly as much as she normally would have under different circumstances. She and Maahes were now getting to know each other, looking past facial expressions, body language and skin color. Both trying on their part to be a better person around the other. A great deal of accomplishment for both in their own ways. "She is able to look after herself, though I would assume her Captain would think the same as you." She said with a soft smile. "And I will be sure to tell Balian of your visit as well as all else we spoke on such as your needing to speak with him and now this hunting trip you speak of." Jelenah looked to her shoulder where his hand had been and back to him. She nodded. "You are welcome and please say hello to your wife for me. I should like to meet her soon." The Lady Windsor said as she then watched Maahes turn to take his leave. Only after he had made it down the road some, did she look to her garden and see that the General's horse had helped himself. She sighed, shook her head and smiled before chuckling to herself. It was nothing that could not be fixed. She turned to go inside where she would clean-up, then clean and prepare supper while waiting for her beloved Balian.
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Jelenah could be found outside, surprising? Not for those that knew her passion and love of the earth. That was one thing she was able to carry on with her was the love for gardening she learned from her father. Knowing what to plant and when to plant them. What could survive the harsh cold months of fall and winter. Della and she were in the garden, Jelenah on her knees in her simpleton skirts. An apron that helped guard the homespun fabrics of her dress,her hair of golden blonde pulled back and plaited into a single braid. A few wispy strands framing the delicate face often mistaken for the Duchess herself. For even the Duke had mistaken her as his wife once. Hands were digging deep into the soil, loosening it with long slender fingers as wrists did push aside a few of the large green leafy vegetables she was currently working around. Della stood jus beside her with a basket ready for whatever could be harvested today. A thick cloak did shield the small woman from the cooler weather but it was beginning to become a nuisance. Her brow was wiped with the sleeve of her arm to brush aside a strand of hair as Della spoke up. "M'lady...someone comes." <d
General Maahes : The wind had infact been a nuisance as it cooled his frame Maahes wondered if he would ever feel the cold. Between Jadda the old woman who had adopted him as her own, and Anulia he was kept well covered as when his attire was put together in the morning many layers were first. He missed already the summer months when the rich fabrics of linen wrapped his hips and that would be all. Men like he were not meant to be covered, it held their motions in and slowed the battle. Waging with himself he finally gave in pressing from the back of the horse and of course getting his foot caught in the stirrup...horses were for horse lords..Balian..Eamonn. Clearly not for Beasts. He chuckled deeply as he found his back rushing the earth before detangling his foot. Figures he mused to himself and the luck that seemed to follow him. No one would see such a smile, for no one was around and as he pressed forward down the road he centered himself. He was known for his brash arrogant strength not such laughter and smiles. As the women's eyes were caught he gave a bow of his head "Jelenah." Hello or at least his version. Suddenly he found himself lost to all manners and rehearsed greetings he had put together and fell silent. Fingers tightened on the reins of the horse as he led her behind him, and he was about to flipping hide behind it! "Balian home?" A more of a Can Balian come out and play? (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : The Lady Windsor would move and shift to get her five foot five frame standing once again. Della took from her the last of the turnips, placing it in the basket and stepping back to allow her Lady to address the visitor. Jelenah began to brush the dirt from her hands by brushing palms together first before wiping them down her apron. It was the General... one of two men with dark skin whom she had been trying hard to better herself around comfortably. "G'day General Maahes... I'm afraid Balian is not home right now." She looked to Della and nodded, her silent request of asking her to go inside and give the two some privacy along with putting away the days harvest. "Might I relay a message to him for you?" She softly asked as she looked back to the large beast of a man. Lord was he huge... then again, so was Balian. "If... if you like, we could go in and warm up by the fire. Maybe get you some tea to help chase the chills away?" Just then Drest, the black dog of Balian, came barking around the corner, again chasing a few chickens. Jelenah began to scold him. "Drest! Come now.. stop this foolishness..please? You are scaring my chickens." She said in a slightly huffy manner. A couple steps taken towards the dog before he stopped, looked to his mistress and then canted his head to the side. She gave a soft scolding look and pointed to the porch. "To the porch with you... go on!." The Slavic woman added as she shooed him off before looking back to the General with a apologetic smile. "Forgive me General... he's much like his master... hard headed." <d
General Maahes : "I..uh." He smirked at the dog a faint show of emotion other then the brooding always serious mask he wore all too well. "It is a good thing to be.." His words were quiet, a harsh raspy sound from deep inside the cavity of his chest Taking a deep breath he worked through the nerves, and though the cold was harsh he dare not enter their home without Balian. With all the rumors already passing the mouths of fools what would this start? "If you could tell him I came by." Ok now Maahes tuck your tail and run. As oddly as he came, he turned to move away but stilled; as the thoughts returned of the stab he did give her husband. "Uh.." Turning back to face her he ran his palm over the neck of the horse. "How's his side?" Did she even know that was him? (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Her sapphire eyes of blue watched as the large dark man began to speak again. She had made an attempt at joking... but thats all it was, an attempt.As Maahes declined the invitation, she looked down a moment and nodded before her eyes lifted towards him again. A slight show of disappointment? Perhaps... or was it shame she felt, knowing he declined due to the still awkward tension between them. Him not wanting to make her feel uncomfortable, she trying her best to look past his skin color and get to know the man for who he was. "I will... " She replied, watching him turn to leave, then pause and face her once more only to inquire of her husbands side. "Balian has healed nicely. The stitches I did came out with ease and he does well." She said as she answered his question. She seem to stare at him in hopes he would see she was trying to close that gap between them with the invitation in, but perhaps today was not meant to be the beginning of an understanding between two people that saw things so differntly.<d
General Maahes : Dark eyes turned from the horse to the woman and he gave a pull on the reins to turn him around. Maahes had been accused of having an affair on his wife, killing an entire island and drugging her sister..the last thing he was about to do was go into Jelenah's home without her husband. "Is he close?" Broken English never sounded so complete and perhaps it spoke of his desperation to get to the Marshal. "Oh.." Clearing his throat he let his hand swing to his side to correct his stance. "Thank you. For the gift. Ealora hung the curtains." The rest was put together well, but he was proud of his wife in her attempt at making a home. No the Pirate Queen was nothing in the sorts of Jelenah, and the last thing on Ealora's list was the home, it amused him to no end watching her. "Did you pick it out?" Yeap that's it, keep talking doing good Maahes ;pet: (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : The fair haired maiden stared as she watched the man fidget and maybe stutter as they continued to try and conversate. "He is close... should be home within the hour."She said in reply to his questioning of Balian's where abouts. He then gave thanks to the wedding gift she and Balian had sent to the Lord General and his new wife, having Jelenah smile. She then nodded and quietly answered him once again. "Yes I did... I hope i t is to your liking... yours and your new wife. I am sorry we were not able to attend." She would go on to add, thinking to herself that she was doing good. Perhaps with them talking for this amount of time was a good sign, at least she hoped. Roric came around the house then, looking between his Lady and the visitor. Jelenah nodded and Roric, an older gentleman would take a step closer toward Maahes. "M'lord General has come to visit the Lord Marshal..aye? Might I be tending to ye horse M'lord?" <d
General Maahes : "No." He quickly rose his hand to still the man's steps, "Thank you, but I need to head back." He smiled to the man and swung his shoulders lightly to Jelenah. "Do not worry, I do not remember much of the festival. I would not have even realized you were there had you been. I..uh." Shuffling his feet he kicked a stone out from under the horse's hooves. "Don't hold wine well." Light weight actually. Dark eyes passed over the garden and he smiled thinking of what his activity was yesterday. "Do you often work in the garden? Balian allows your hands to get dirty hmm?" (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Roric would take a step back and give a curt nod to the Lord General and smiled warmly. "As ye wish M'lord..." He backed away and looked to Jelenah. She nodded and smiled , only for Roric to return it and move off to see to a few other chores before the days end. The Lady Windsor looked back to Maahes and listened as he spoke on the festival as well as the wine. She smiled a lil at the mention of his not being able to handle it as well as some. That was something they had in common it seemed. Her hands came to clasp together at her waist as her eyes followed his toward the garden. She nodded and smiled a lil more at his question. "I do... its the one thing that keeps... well, that keeps my fathers memory alive." She looked down to the ground before looking back to him. "Balian knows its part of who I am... it allows me to be me." <d
General Maahes : "In my homeland we did not have such a past time. Not many gardens grew in the sand." He spoke as he returned his face to her, eyes amused to the fullest. "The Refugees from Aberdeen have helped me start a garden. The soil of Red Wall has not been used for over 20 years they say. It has become one of my favorite places. My hands bring life not destruction." Though of course when the corn stalks were to come down, the men were very happy to have such massive hands and a good strong back. "Did you do this on your own?" Granted the start of winter was never appealing in a garden, but he could see what once was. (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : "Your homeland? Where is your homeland?" Jelenah asked as she took a step closer, feeling the need to close the distance between them some. To maybe help her gain a lil courage and self respect and perhaps show him she wasn't AS afraid of him as she once was. "That is good... to have help, soil, and to enjoy it." Jelenah added as she nodded a lil. "I like the feel of the dirt in my hands...its a reminder of many things." She said as she then heard him ask his question. "I did... with a lil help of course from both Balian and Roric. The plowing is not for a woman to do. All else though.. I did." <d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : Well, Kaori had just about had enough of this nonsense! How was it possible two people could live in the same bloody city yet never encounter one another? Well, the Nihonnin scholar was going to put a stop to such ridiculousness. Quite determined ( or was it just stubborn..?), she had made way for the home of Lady Windsor, ready to chastise her for being so bloody scarce. Dressed casually that day, shying away from the castle and the responsibility that would plague her there, she had headed to her friend's home more than a little curious to see how "married life was treating her" (or something equally as droll), she started to make her way to the house, only to find two figures conversing in the yard. One was undoubtedly the friend she sought, the other undoubtedly not. She was in plain view but hesitated a moment before approaching. She didn't have that much time, after all, and didn't want to interrupt the two if they seemed to be talking on matters of great import. (d)
General Maahes : Of great importance indeed! So serious they were talking of gardens and flowers..dirt under their nails. Yet it was a miracle they were even speaking to begin with. "Ealora has not shown interest in the garden, but she is working the children and women from the camps. I have no doubt she will get the hang of it." Like you. He would dare not say out loud, as he would assume to many ears that he admired the woman to be his own, when in reality just admired her as a person..and frankly he had a thing for dark hair. "I'm.." Lord he was so damn shy. "From a Al Qahira." The Arabic word the only thing that ever sounded natural leaving the lips of a Beast. "In these lands they call it Cairo, capital of Egypt, and I am unaware if they grew such things along the river, but in the Arena they did not. Only sand." Spoken very matter-of-factly, but in his raspy deep voice. Ok proper manners would be to ask her something in return, but he just openly stared at her as if waiting for her to run again. (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : How nice was this... not one visitor but two for the Lady Windsor. First the Lord General, and now, now it was the Griffins own High Scholar. Long time friend since the days of Orkney. She could see Kaori Hotaro approaching, nodding and smiling as she gained ground. She looked back to Maahes then and listened as he spoke. When he mentioned the name of his home land, her head titled and she tried repeating it. It sounded terrible most likely, given the Slavic accent she had. "Al - Qa-hira , Hm... what a strange name." Strange because it was a language she had never heard before until Aman and now Maahes. Though, it was similar to those she had encountered in her past, giving her the reason to fear men of his color. "Only sand? But.. not much can survive off sand alone."She said, seeing just how different they truly were. When he stared, lips twisted in a odd fashion, thinking. "I am from.. Ukraine, it is much like here but colder, longer." She then look to see if Kaori would now be joining them. If so, she could do introductions.<d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : Kaori noticed that Jelenah noticed her, and since that didn't result in any negative response, the smile maintained and Kaori approached with a bit more resolve. Catching snippets of conversation, she had to suppress a giggle. She wondered what adjectives Engakuji would earn. As she approached, she realized she did recognize the stranger, but had never been given the pleasure of an introduction. "Good day, Lady Windsor! Either you've been avoiding me or I've been dreadfully unlucky. If it's not the latter, please feel free to lie," she said with a wink before going to embrace her friend and offer those girly little cheek kissies Westerners tended to use in greeting. She then turned Jelenah's friend to bob a small curtsey and asked, "How do you do?" extending her hand. She was sure Jelenah would take care of introductions, so refrained from offering her name immediately. (d)
General Maahes : "Mmm, you would be surprised." This one was bred from his father a great warrior in his time, and built like an ox, must have survived somehow right? As the new face emerged he felt himself draw inward by way of a deep breath. As always he was taken back by change, different something new, and a face that was remarkably flawless. What none of them, not even his wife knew of the man is that he had a great admiration of art and read each face like searching the pallet of a painting. Reasons like this kept him and Eirian close, and perhaps it was for this reason she had given permission for Bess to award him the land he was given in her valley. Dressed in the leather armor of his profession his hands were half covered and when she extended hers he felt he should do the same but would still in half's way. "They are dirty.." He spoke so very quiet, the natural shy nature often mistaken for being rude but perhaps given time she would understand. Running his palm on the underside of the fur capelet that wrapped his shoulders the Beast would make an attempt to clean them..or was he just nervous? Amber orbs burned with all the fires of sun, and what seemed to search her soul as he committed her face to memory. Never one to need names anyway, as he learned through visions not words. (d
Lady Jelenah : She listened as Maahes began to speak once more and nodded. She looked to Kaori then and smiled with a giggle to follow. "Kaori Hotaro... you should know that I could never avoid you even if I should like to try.And that will never come to be." She said as she returned the embrace. Once Kaori turned to Maahes, Jelenah would make introductions. "Lord General Maahes... I would like for you to meet a dear friend of mine. This is Lady Scholar Kaori Hotaro. She, myself, Bess and Lady Eirian all know each other well. For we all lived together in Orkney. Often time was spent at the tavern known as the Lions Mane." She looked to Kaori then. "Kaori, the Lord General Maahes. One of the many men Balian fights along side with." Her sapphire eyes would shift between the two faces, letting them get a feel for each other before she would speak again. Allowing each of them to take the chance to speak and address one another should they choose to.<d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : Her brows lifted when he refrained from taking her hand, but she grinned broadly with his words. "I have twins. You don't know dirty," she offered with a playful wink, that smile never faltering. Kaori was a very hard woman to offend, even when that was the intention, so she didn't find the gesture rude at all. On the contrary, she found it absolutely sweet. "Gads, Jelenah! With such a mouthful to repeat, no one would get past my title to say anything worth hearing," she gently chided. Looking to General Maahes, she said, "I insist on being called Kay, or at least Kaori. Though to my chagrin many insist on calling me Lady Hotaro," she said with a crinkle of her nose. "It doesn't really matter so long as it's not an insult, I suppose." Dear God, the scholar could speak! "Well, since Western traditions won't work for dirty hands, I'll go with that of my people." With a bow she said, "Hajimemachyte," smiling all the while up to her new acquaintance. Nothing like tall men to make her feel even more short.(d)
General Maahes : "Twins? That are of your own blood or do you foster?" Such a strange question, but Maahes wasn't like anyone else or a gentleman at any rate. "Kay." Kay it would be, as he was never one for titles unless someone questioned him about his or his place among the people as often it would happen when he tended at the Briar Rose. Many would think him just the Moor and were quickly surprised to learn he was head of military advance upon foot. His hand pressed to his chest and he gave a nod of his head, "Maahes." Against the dark of his eyes a light sparked when the mention of Eirian came to find the tender shell of his ear. "You know Eirian?" A haunted sadness behind a surprised joy that her name would even be brought up. "She is Queen to the lands I served before Skye. She has given me land in her valley. The temple with pointed roof and red walls." Probably the most he would ever say to her, and hell even he was surprised he was talking so freely. "She and I..uh.." Yeah ok stop there. "We had much time together while her husband was still in Avaria." (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Jelenah stood in silence, giving them the chance to get better aquainted. When Kaori spoke on the titles, in her own lil way, Jelenah smiled. The Lady Windsor had done her part on introductions, giving titles as it was customery. If either of them wanted the other to address them otherwise, well they would have to be the one to let the other know. Jelenah had done her part. All seem to be well... both were talking, sharing and Jelenah was unusually comfortable Perhaps not fully, but more so than she would have guessed by now. She looked between the two, flashing them a sweet innocent smile as they continued to talk. She was and would be content to stand and listen only if needed. <d
Lady Kaori Hotaro : "It's a pleasure, Maahes. And yes, I know Eirian well. She's been a dear friend of mine for many years." Her head canted as she considered the information given. "The next time I am in her territory I will seek out this temple. It sounds lovely." She laughed lightly. "Eirian and I knew each other when I was pregnant with my late husband's twins, aye. They are my own... Er, at least for now." Biting her lip she looked to Jelenah. "Which brings me why I stopped by with so little time." Holding up her ring finger she said, "That bully of a sea captain courting me has proposed," she said, though even with the joke she couldn't hide her elation. "I was hoping to borrow your expertise at some point in the near future for help with the wedding preparations..?" She grinned to Maahes and said, "Hopefully we'll get to talk about our mutual friends soon," she laughed, reaching out and taking a dirty hand unabashed and giving it a soft squeeze as she started to retreat. "Jelenah, I'll be in contact soon! I'm in dire need, you can't turn me away, I beg of you!" she said laughingly, walking backwards a few paces. "You both enjoy the rest of the evening. I have twins to return home to. Filthy ones!" And with that she was off, knowing Mary Beth would be wondering where the Hell she had been! (d)
General Maahes : "She should not be traveling these roads alone, Jelenah." He bent his neck to meet the eye of the woman before him a task he was very used to. "Tell your husband I'm ready for that hunting trip he promised." Darn Maahes was ready to be around another male that wasn't after his wife! Might even go and hang with Eamonn..O.O He started to extend his hand but stilled only to raise it to touch her shoulder lightly. "Thank you again for the gift." Awkward huh? No he would not catch up with Kay but be a few steps behind protective big brother and all to everyone or so it seems. With that he tugged again on the horse's reins which had been eating now her garden the entire time they had been talking. Darn horse! (d
Lady Jelenah Windsor : Jelenah watched as the conversation between Maahes and Kaori began to come to an end. It seemed the High Scholar was in a hurry and needed to take her leave. Attention was given to Kaori as she spoke of her reason behind the visit, her request of Jelenah's help for the special occasion and then bidding her a farewell. Jelenah would smile, happy tp see that her friend had now found happiness and hopefully for good this time. Jelenah nodded and chuckled at the request and began to wave as Kaori turned to leave. Once they were alone, attention was returned to the Lord General. It seemed that he to would be on his way as he began to extend his hand to Jelenah. She would have taken it, slowly and cautiously of course but none the less accepted. However,he would withdraw it and instead lightly touch her shoulder. She did stiffen jus a lil but not nearly as much as she normally would have under different circumstances. She and Maahes were now getting to know each other, looking past facial expressions, body language and skin color. Both trying on their part to be a better person around the other. A great deal of accomplishment for both in their own ways. "She is able to look after herself, though I would assume her Captain would think the same as you." She said with a soft smile. "And I will be sure to tell Balian of your visit as well as all else we spoke on such as your needing to speak with him and now this hunting trip you speak of." Jelenah looked to her shoulder where his hand had been and back to him. She nodded. "You are welcome and please say hello to your wife for me. I should like to meet her soon." The Lady Windsor said as she then watched Maahes turn to take his leave. Only after he had made it down the road some, did she look to her garden and see that the General's horse had helped himself. She sighed, shook her head and smiled before chuckling to herself. It was nothing that could not be fixed. She turned to go inside where she would clean-up, then clean and prepare supper while waiting for her beloved Balian.