Post by Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem on Sept 8, 2010 7:14:27 GMT -6
Love at the lips was touch as sweet as I could bear; And once that seemed too much; I lived on air. That crossed me from sweet things, the flow of-was it musk from hidden grapevine springs down hill at dusk? ~Robert Frost
Maahes:The hills had a mighty pull at the year of late, the harvest just on the rise and the barley to the chest of the Beast. Their was laughter of a soul set free as the older children ran from the night dawning then on the horizon. It was freedom, the life lived that had once held so much valor, and the cool calm collection of peace that kept him grounded. Maahes spent his days in the city, his nights back home. With a mighty fist he could command the battlefields from center ground, sending troops where need be. This was what made the Griffin so strong did it not? When other armies slept, his was like the undying flame that kept the winters warm, and the summers alive. When times were rough, or news too scarce to make call he would ride out to meet his men. In the evening, when the heat wasn't so the Valley was quiet, though work to be done still, he would help those of the land harvest the grain. His was a strong back, from a bloodline that built the pyramids, and hands that could ease the ache of any load too heavy. Did they know the General was carrying the weight not only of this world, but his own. It ached, an unforgiving drum that beat like the wilds of Africa, but it was a song of sorrow. He had not lost it all, and he would rise again. This was the Avarian in him.
Adelaide: Maahes could walk through the barley; it parted for him as the Red Sea had parted for the Israelites. Ada, however, prowled more like a cat in the underbrush. Eirian had taken mercy on the healer when she had come into the Valley of the Stars in search of fall collectibles, her baskets now brimming with herbs that must be dried and processed, and the best mushrooms available to those with sharp eyes and sharper noses that she would eventually turn into stews and jars of pickles. Ada, despite her peculiar eating habits, was a rather fantastic cook, but was it any wonder? She'd learned her trade from the master, and of the ingredients he had taught her to use, they had been only the best. Adelaide now sat with company as Genevieve went wild in the gardens, playing with the other children, but never too far from her mother's sight. Though Genna was as independent as Ada had been, Ada recalled what sort of trouble she had instigated at that age, and would not repeat her own mother's mistake of permissiveness. Meanwhile, her hands were busy processing her latest bounty, seeds, stems and leaves separated into different baskets, and she explained as she sorted what each might be used for.
Eirian: It was the time of riches unparalleled; many mourned the depressing sense of summer's end coming with the sure stroke of Autumn's hand through the leaves but who couldn't welcome the thought of another year's good turn, another year's harvest on the table, in the store houses? Mercy was the name of the Lady of the Valley while some called her by the same name as the child that scampered through the bending, gold stalks with the peasants who raised scythe to cut it, or machete: everything renewing, sleeping, reviving again was Hope. Like Ada she had been busy at the task of collecting the offerings of the end of summer and early fall for her dyes, inks, paints, and even the necessary items for the household. Like her ladies, she too had bent over until baskets were full. One could sing the glory of art or poetry all they wished but here, she thought, was always God's finest work on the best of any canvas. Bare feet walked over the grasses. Her skirts were hitched which one would find unusual for so pious a woman but country daughter's know the value of free motion! She bent down to smell the earth, crumbling it in her hands. "We must make sure the soil is well turned even after the harvest, it is good. Very good. Twill be so next year..mm..and the wild herb." Arm arrayed in a warm, buttery tan wool reached up to pull down some of the leaves. "This, my friends, this is goodness. ne'er forget that. We are blessed beyond all compare. Tell me how our first rounds of things turn out, our ciders, our beers.." The household Steward, his son, and others walked with her, talking as they worked.
Brother Diarmuid: There was little doubting that Eirian's opinion would be held by others, that the Skye lands in autumn held a beauty that was all their own. As Brother Diarmuid made his way along the country, his eyes too were drawn toward the fields of grain that were spread out as far as the eye could see. As it was, Brother Diarmuid was a good judge of terrain.... for he had trodden many a path. There had been military service in Cyprus and Rhodes, five years spent in the Holy Land, and his trek through Europe. Even now, he continued to walk the lands. His last port of call had been in England, before he was drawn into the politics and mystery that had surrounded the death of His Eminence, the Archbishop. Once that affair had concluded, the good brother had taken once more to the roads. Bound for the capital of the Celtic nations, Turas Lan.... For he had been entrusted with a letter of some significance that was to be delivered to the Lady St. Laurence.
Maahes: In the light of the setting sun a child born of it chased that of one born from the moon. Genevieve's father was unknown, her looks at time too wild to be of Aquitaine, but somewhere Maahes had wondered. "She is of your spirit." He spoke gently behind the woman as he made his way into the small gathering, and Rah came to laugh as he watched Genna. His eyes were the color of his mother's but at the moment they were fixed upon Genna's curls, and a hand came out to tug on it..just to watch it curl back again. "Habibi! No!" His father would boom, the voice carried through the valley in a quick burst and Rah would jump behind whatever was closest. In Arabic Maahes would correct his son, speaking of how you did not pull a child's hair, but the laughter was not far from his lips. "Kids. Like monkey." Rah moved off to follow again on the chase. His hands were covered in dirt, but this was a good feeling as it washed away with the company. "You tell your French, I will be in his debt forever." First Ealora, now Eirian. News of how he pulled his heart from the hell that was Oxford spread quickly, and his eyes went to where she would stand. "Eirian is precious moon, we are all grateful."
Adelaide: "Oh, it does not matter, do not yell. Sit, let us watch our children play together, mon ami." It did not matter who Genna's father was. Her spirit truly was her mother's, and Ada was wild enough to remove most doubt, nor even concern, over parentage. No longer so pale-skinned as the summer season wore on toward autumn, she was almost as olive as her mother. Their hair was wild and unruly, a true black that few outside of Asia possessed. Their faces were so similar, they might have been sisters, with full lips and doe-shaped eyes, where they finally varied -- where Ada's were as dark as night, Genna's were a twilight blue. They sparkled as mischievously as Ada's, though, particularly in the moment before Genna grabbed Rah's hand and yanked it after her as she ran off. The poor lad had no choice but to follow. Ada's daughter indeed. She patted an open area beside her and wiped her hands on her apron, looking up at Maahes with a warm smile. She missed the General and their sessions together in her candlelit shop. It had been too many long months without him and their slow-paced but never laborious conversations. "I will tell him just that."
Eirian: It was the heart that beat in Oxford that still mended from scars. The harvest was helping that cause greatly. Eirian little turned to Turas Lan without reason. There would be the commisions to assign among her journeymen, apprentices for she adored imparting lessons. On occasion she would even go to the Templar Hall for they beseech her teach the young women and men a perspective on religious history, philosophy, and manners. For all of those things though court was not a temptation. She was too old to care for new dresses or the talk of whom sought a marriage, little for deceit and less for pompous glory. She came 'round the bend to see Maahes and Ada at the end of the field. In them it would be seen what she cared for - living as family. Precious little was said of Oxford. In truth it had rendered Eirian near to being mute. She wondered, at times, if she was not afflicted with a trial by God to be a walking heretic. Fingertips grazed at the scars from Occam, hidden beneath the ebony main. "Hello, Maahes, and Adelaide!" Among the children where were her own? Why come from no where Hope did to pounce both Genna and Ra while Luke was causing the ladies all matter of hell by chasing after them with frogs and bugs.
Brother Diarmuid: It would not be trumpets that would announce the coming of the good brother, but the faint and gentle clanking of a bell. What would it be that would, in time, draw Brother Diarmuid's eyes toward by the gathering beneath the large trees and set so near the shade? Perhaps, if he were honest, it was the temptation of both a rest in the shade and cool water to soothe his throat had first drawn his eye. While he made he way through the fields, he was careful to follow the paths that the farmers and their field hands used through traversing the fields. (Trampling crops earned nothing but ill-will, after all, and that was something Brother Diarmuid could ill afford). As he drew nearer, he would see the others. He would smile well enough and call out, "Good day, m'lord! M'ladies!" It would be his attire, likely, that would mark him out as a man of the church. The man wore a habit of undyed and rough spun wool, at his throat was a Maltese cross made from the most humble of all metals: iron. That he was a wandering man of the cloth could be born out by the bed roll that he carried a talk, blackthorn shillelagh (both as a walking stick...and a fearsome weapon, if called upon.)
Maahes: There was much of him that changed, weight added where it was lost; his dreads cut away to reveal curls as black as her own that fell now just a bit past his shoulder, decorated with ribbon and a long eagle feather. Down the path, Komor the Valley's elephant made her appearance with a trumpeting sound, thankful to have survived one more winter. She was Anulia's pet, given by Genna' birthfather, but now lived within Red Wall until the return of her master. Would she sent the poor Brother into shock? Maahes would rise to give Eirian his seat, his manners beat into him from the tudor brave enough to teach, but by now they were second nature. Amber eyes burned like fire, a thousand desert suns rising behind them as they fell upon the new face in the crowd. It was indeed his attire that marked him a man of the church, but Maahes was a Muslim this always caused hair to rise, and nostrils to flare in defense. Komor just added to that threat did she not? It was hard to think her threatening with the children following behind in her wake.
Adelaide: "Eirian, you look wonderful. As usual." She greeted Eirian like she always greeted the woman who had become like a sister to her -- with a kiss to either cheek and a sparkling smile. Their children played well together, and Ada was particularly fond of Luke, who had almost come to expect the unexpected grab, snatch, and tickle -- which Ada initiated the next pass he took, running into the circle of ladies with his latest catch -- a cute little snake that squirmed in the boy's hand. "Do you know," Ada said, temporarily holding the boy upside down, "those snakes are very tasty when cooked for your dinner? They taste a little bit like chicken!" The other ladies were far too used to the slower pace of the countryside, if not particularly fond of snakes and frogs shoved in their faces, but a few protracted sounds of disgust were raised in the circle under the tree, and Ada and Luke both laughed conspiratorially. She planted him back on his feet and gave him a light smack on the backside, sending him off on his merry way to taunt the other children with this newfound information. Ada leaned back on her hands, tilting her face back to catch a bit of sunlight outside the shade of the tree, and when she opened her eyes again, they suddenly had company. "Good afternoon, Brother," she offered in her nearly impossible French accent. The occupants of this circle were nothing if not quirky. Ada's accent should be the least of his concerns, as enunciated by the elephant's greeting in the distance.
Eirian: "You are too kind!" She exclaimed, paying Adelaide back with a warm kiss and an embrace. Maahes offered her his chair to which Eirian beamed, "So kind, so gentlemanly of you my Lion, are you happy with the harvest of our lands purring perhaps?" She teased, taking the chair while Luke was snached up by Ada! He was impossible to contain, writhing, giggling before he settled with Ada to learn about how snakes were indeed food? "Oh thank you, I'ma tell them!" So the boy rejoined the chase. blue eyes turned out to the road with a soft smile. She could only imagine how the likes of Maahes looked on agents of the church, rich or humble. She should, with all her dealings, scorn them. It wasn't in her nature to turn away men of God, for to be unkind? It would be as if an angel came to knock on the door. Were that the world thought the same, "Good afternoon Brother has your road been long? Come, won't you sit?" As she said this Hope came bounding through the fields to leap into her mothers arms. The two whispered, embracing, before Hope gave her a crown of wheat like a harvest queen, running off to play
Brother Diarmuid: Indeed, the appearance of the animal would shock the good brother. Granted, it would be due more to seeing the beast in the flesh...than the illuminated manuscripts of Bartholomaeus Angelicus and Matthew Pairs. As Brother Diarmuid got him self clear of the beast, he would cant his head. Watching as the beast walked. ...despite the writings of Matthew Pairs, the elephant did indeed seem to have knees. There was a smile, as he turned his attention back toward his new-found companions. There was a smile, as he counted a Moor and a French woman amongst them. "The road has long become a place of solace for me, I think....there is something comforting in being able to view the world as I go." There was a smile, "Thank you, m'lady." And he would take only a moment to remove his bed roll (and the bell that had been tied to it), laying it against a tree. Remembering his manners, he demurely said, "Thank you, all, for allowing me to join in your gathering. I'm Brother Diarmuid, of the Knights Hospitaller...." Like as not, that could be the cause of upsetting his Moorish companion. For, of all the Crusading orders (and to Brother Diarmuid's knowledge), the Knights Hospitaller continued to hold lands in the Holy Land and did battle with the pirates that raided Christian shipping... and raided Muslim shipping as well.
Jelenah: Jelenah and her company had been at the Estate at her attempting to pick up the pieces of a life long ago lost had started out decently. Rhona, her lady servant always went where the Lady Windsor travelled of course and like a shaodw, she'd been there behind her every step of the way, picking up the pieces to hold on to, to maybe later put together again. Since there had yet to be a male working at the estate, Rhona had taken it upon herself to see to the saefty of both her Lady and herself by hiring a man to accompany them out here. There meeting had been by happenstance, and when she heard he was in need of a earning a little extra coin, she had proposed the escort idea. At first, she wasn't sure if he seemed interested, but eventually they came to some sort of an agreement. With Jelenah on one horse, and Rhona on another, Both women would look to the man that was in charge of their safety... of thier life. Long golden honey hair was as usual, pulled back into a single plait and Rhona's vibrant red much the same. Each woman wearing garments far more simpler than expected. The road they traveled lead to Eirian's home to which Jelenah had insisted on visiting as soon as possible. The woman had a lot of catching up to do!
Ahmir: Ahmir had spent the last couple of months in Skye, exploring and travelling through the lands in more depth, creating maps and charts of where he'd gone and been. Eventually though, it came to be that he required a form of income, at least to show how he came to his coin. As the gods would grant it, he came across a woman who was in search of an escort for herself and her Lady to keep them safe. Once they came to the aggreement, the Egyptian arrived to the specified location at the correct time. Ahmir himself rode a smaller, light brownish colored horse that was bred for speed rather than as a warhorse. He had shifted his position around the women throughout their travels, and currently rode in front of the other two, while those light colored gray eyes searched the area around them, listening for anything out of the ordinary. Since he was actually working, he'd be wearing the dark brown, finely crafted leather armor. Two swords were strapped to his back, with various daggers hidden, and another blade's hilt at his hip, with a chain attached to the hilt, which disappeared into a small pouch next to it. A glance back to the women whose lives were in his care. "I believe we have arrived?" With a glance back out in front of them given.
Maahes: There had always been something comical in the way Komor had such an effect on people, a story often spoke about in the lands across the sea. Even England had whispered of the Valley of Stars that held a Lion of a man who kept the wild at his fingertips. Maahes, The Lord General, had walked this earth over again in a fit of renewal, and in his venture he had found the strength of his past forgiven only by the well known use of a blade. However, it had been in his time of trial did he revert back to the streets of Giza. A warrior is as good only as the hands that wield the weapon--disarm. Like mechanics, a modern marvel, these men had been born to raise and crush nations in their wake, and protect lands that were as Holy to one as it was the other. His eyes would move past the Brother to the riding trio, and took on the sight of the familiar faces. "It is good to see this land so rich, the blood we shed for it, she returns with strength to give. I heal here." So few knew of the life going on behind the Red Wall, but there was indeed turmoil. "I have prayed and prayed and prayed to Allah, for a sign..and he gives me this." He pointed to the Brother with a dark brow arched as the Holy Man came forward. Maahes would push past him, unwilling to hear of his sins once more, or how he was condemned to hell. It was of the trio of horses that caught him, the blonde particular. How many years have passed since he had ridden to her lands to check in the beloved wife of his brother in arms. It hurt him deeply to hear of their split, but in many ways it brought him great pleasure to see her riding so tall. She was a fighter, even if she often hid behind bodyguards.
Adelaide: "Who are they?" Ada asked softly of Maahes. The way the warrior reacted was fascinating to watch. He was not a man made of stone as many assumed, but one more fluid, and far more leonine. She could, and had, watch him for hours, no matter the social stigma on doing so. Ada, for one, had very little respect for such things. She said, laughingly, it was all a part of her charm. Her attention was then caught by the children at play, there being no weapons drawn among these strangers, Genevieve's sudden laughter was a pleasant sound ringing upon the late summer air. Ada picked a new seed pod from her basket and began shelling it. It was for no recipe of hers, but straight from Eirian's garden and meant for dinner. Her fingers were already fairly green-stained from its brethren, shelled unconsciously while she examined each face in their circle and reveled in the closeness of their gathering. It reminded her very much of her childhood, and watching her mother shell peas.
Galen:: These lands were never truly forgotten but the sights and smells were renewed by the sifting of the soil between calloused digits. Hard eyes, cold as steel almost softened under the glow of the sun and the hum of the insects.Galen had decided to simply wander about, letting his legs carry him the distance without so much thought as to where. The fields of wheat danced gracefully against the wind, the sound of water bubbling over rocks peaked his interest above all else. Those tender shells absorbed every wave of noise which was alive in the air. People were talking, children were giggling and horses were whinnying. His heart was alive as much as his senses, causing that beating organ to clench. He was nervous, faces new and old were bound to pop up and had to be ready! A man of the sea and no longer the Earth was nearly stopped in his tracks as the broad figure of a familiar fellow stole his attention. That tanned flesh, those dark locks of coarse hair and a voice which could move mountains. Was that Maahes? Galen's focus on his footing was nearly lost as he stumbled to a halt, staring like a fish out of water. A deep breathe was taken as he composed himself before speaking, golden curls falling into his gaze.: " The Gods have sent us both a sign, Father. The winds brought me back here...." : The female was noted but not a name to the face was placed.:
Eirian: "That is the Lady Windsor, Ada, though I can't speak of who is escorting her. Here we have a holy man that Maahes sees as a sign," she was not tart in tone but constant with a soft teasing, one that told the lion have a gentle care. Not all cross carriers carry genocide with them. "Of what, heaven only would know. Especially when so many monks and friars, now nuns within the Valley. There are holy people from here to Willinghamshire, Willinhamsire to Drynoch down to Luib and Torrin. Cisterians, Franciscans. Now we have another. I pray that god deliver a better sign for my lion today. What sort of sign do you want Ada, and you, Brother?" She put her basket on her lap and a knife from her belt to begin begin sifting through he rpieces of root and flower. Just as this was said she saw a boy speak who had once been ill her house, now a man. "Mm." She crossed herself, her heart beating in joy for the Lion "Now that, General, that is a sign by Allah or whatever name you may call the one God." Wry grin appeared as she looked at Ada to a sideways glance. "Now..if I were to ask for a sign, it would be that my husband only remain with his vegetable garden and archery, but that will not be so. It would be that my son not bury himself in a bosom, but that would be like asking the animal from Africa to become a house cat." Lord but she adored Ada! She had given Ada kindness, and in return the woman had no idea how much her presence meant to Eirian now or she might have seen nary a soul save her children (d)
Brother Diarmuid: If it was true that Brother Diarmuid had been shocked by the presence of the elephant, then could not the Lion be shocked by what he heard? Sense the Moor's intent, the man of God was already beginning to step out of the way when he was given that firm push by the Moor. As the Lion moved passed, words would drift to his ear. Words that were of Arabic make... and near marked by accent harkening of Jerusalem and its regions. "Why cannot it not be true, that Allah opens His hand to you," if the Moor would look, he would find the Christian speaking the Arabian tongue. "And reveals me? Perhaps the sign is that you have humility and tolerance left to learn." As Brother Diarmuid had learned, through five years in the Holy Land.... as a slave. Still, Brother Diarmuid looked a bit put off. But no more than any other man - Muslim or Christian - would at receiving some slight. There was a sigh, as he once more to a seat. There was a smile at the home coming, as he said softly, "A safe home coming of any kind is surely well-received." As for a sign? Brother Diarmuid remained quiet. Had his been revealed already? Or would he know it came? He simply shook his head, an enigmatic smile. There was a quiet bow of his head, a quiet prayer of thanks. Then he would cross himself. (D)
Jelenah: The scenery out here was always so beautiful and Jelenah could understand why Eirian loved it out here so much. It was not only beautiful, but the weather always seemed so perfect. Maybe she should sell Windsor estate and make for a home out here? That all would of course depend on how things turned out in other area's of Jelenah's life and the timing of it all. At the man's question Jelenah looked from the fields to him and nodded. "Yes... only a little further." she replied. "I have to thank you for accompanying me and my Lady this far out good Sir." There was a glance given to Rhona then, who had been silently scolded in the ever so soft way that only Jelenah could do. But now, now the blonde was most grateful. "Rhona... I believe I owe you an apology." she said with a look to match. "Nay MiLady... twas understandable. Ye just wish tae be tha independant sort is all." she replied with a flash of her grin.
Jelenah looked back up ahead and off in the distance she could see the gathered group. A few that looked familiar and others that did not but would be greeted just the same! It was nice to get out and mingle again. Soon, she'd be able to hug them all! Each step the horses took was quickly drawing them nearer. (d)
Maahes:In passing Maahes would turn his head over his shoulder to the man, "Careful..when you speak in that tongue, Brother, You speak to my God. Who holds true justice at the end of his hand." Through me. It was indeed a threat, but one that carried through his surprise. It was strange to hear it from another, but some what comforting to realize the power behind the meaning. Maahes would let his eyes raise to the heavens, the wind that moved then was of the mother who carried him, but the sun on his face--The Father. "Amber eyes came to fall upon the boy once lost then found only to be lost again, was indeed a sign. What change..did he notice it too in his Father? They were of not the same blood, but if Galen would look around she would see only one other who was. Maahes was a different man, one who knew defeat. The mother of his children had left him, and he did not follow. She died in the wake of the battle, and left him with their six children--four of his own blood. The locks of his hair had been cut away a true sign of his loss, but decorated with beads--feathers--sign of his recovery.Inches then came between he and the lost son who looked more and more like the pirate every time he saw him. "Boy." His voice rumbled in his chest, making its way like distant thunder from his lips, "You stink of the sea." (d
Adelaide: Adelaide did not know Jelenah, but she was grateful to Eirian for the introduction. She also sneaked in line for a hug from the woman, since they were so freely given. She emerged from the embrace with a grin on her face and a sparkle in her eyes, but was back in her seat beside Eirian within moments, gently clearing her throat as if nothing had gone amiss. She returned to shelling peas, humming a bit under her breath and tapping her foot. She glanced out over toward Maahes and the stranger. She worried about him. She always did. Her patients were like children, and while the curiosity in her that led to her lover's nickname demanded she know ever aspect of her patients' lives, relevant or no, there was genuine concern and affection for Maahes. Jean-Claude would disown any relationship with Ada if he overheard her next thought, but she truly believed Maahes had had the most wonderful hair of any man upon this isle. She grieved for its temporary loss. "Oh, I am not certain I would recognize a sign if it slapped me in the face. I am very ignorant of such things. I stumble through life, and am happy to do so. Old soul, I tend to recover fairly quickly, though I believe my old soul is rather .... Ah, how do I want to say without offending it?" Ada laughed, tossing more peas into the basket. "Genial. It does not care what trouble it finds. It knows it has hundreds more lives to live. As for Luke, he could have worse habits, and you must admit, he was trained upon a very lovely pair." More humming from Ada, though it was rather tuneless, her thoughts being elsewhere. Somewhere a bit lower than Eirian's chin. *
Galen: :The sign of a broken man was indeed plaguing his Father's Visage. He had never known Maahes to be in such a state, always the proud lion and never the fallen lamb. The Man of the cloth was eyed warily, if not suspicious. He had come into their conversation halfway and could very well have misinterpreted the talk of the Gods. Galen had grown up following Maahes teachings despite the difference in blood. Defeat had torn the man down into a former shell of himself, Bess was right. He needs you to love him. Her words rang clear in his mind and he gave a subtle dip of his head.: " 'Tis a hard stench to remove..." : He said almost in mild amusement. Those hard eyes shifted towards Ada and then Eirian. Ada was an unfamiliar face but he could not forget the others. Family was far deeper than blood ties for Galen, Pere's side of the genetics was often ignored. If he didn't look in a mirror, they would have been totally forgotten! Maahes voice no longer struck fear into him like it did as a child, but instead that deep and throaty contort of vocals was now a comfort. Galen was more like Pere everyday, he hated to admit it but coming to terms with such a thing was still in the works! Blond curls fell into his gaze as he heard the footsteps of another appoarching. Another bow of his head was given in respects. Women everywhere, perhaps he would leave a trail of hearts in his wake. Galen stepped forwards and closed the distance between Maahes and himself, why not hug the man that took you in? It had been years afterall.: " It is good to see you again, Father..." : Strong arms burnt by the sun encased the mountain of a man, no remorse or hesitation lingering in his gaze any longer.:
Eirian: "A fine pair? Oh my.." The Welshwoman turned bright red as she worked her knife hither and yon over bits of nature "You are so free as the wind with your words Adelaide, but I shall accept a compliment." There were those who certainly (Luke and Talion chiefly, followed by subsquent courtiers and men of the country, even women it seemed) who wouldn't disagree! She giggled, standing up to accept Jelenah in her arms "You are like the harvest, beautiful, golden and being taken in to arms. Don't you dare leave again, Jelenah, or I shall be forced from my little sanctuary. I shall call up the men of Wales saying the Queen has lost her lady, where did she go? Find her, quickly, and bring her to me so that I can spank her soundly." So it was the moon embraced the sun, drawing her over with her Lady Rhona so that rhona could be introduced, and women cavort! "I wonder if we should leave the brother with the giant, lest all crusades be settled in our wheat fields." She giggled, though her heart saw peace to see son and father reunite. "This is good.." She thought aloud, watching a little longer than some might think proper. It made her heart ache, that he should ache so. To think the children would have no mother, a broken father. To live with ghosts. Rumors of how the Lady went down at sea were filled with vigor and valor..but friends remember better. Eirian? Well, she remembered better than most. Past, present, and forever. "Will you see, good Steward that the father at least has something to drink..in fact...bring out our ales and ciders let us have a testing, and the bread from the wheat? I must know how we shall fair at market " (d)
Ahmir: He offered a slight nod of his head at the thanks that was offered from Jelenah for his accompanying of them to their location. As he gazed upon those gathered there, he would only recognize the sight of Maahes, though that also,had only been after he had gazed at him for a moment. He definitely looked a bit different without that hair now. The others he let his gaze shift over, and since that was where they were going to be heading, he wasn't too worried or concerned about that gathering. "It is no problem, My Lady." It had been rather uneventfull anyway.He would see to the women when they wished to return, and then his job would be done, but for now, after taking care of the horses, he would work to simply blend into the background for the time being. ~d~
Brother Diarmuid: Brother Diarmuid would smile softly, "I fear, m'lady, that while I have enjoyed your hospitality.... the road calls me once more." There would be a puase, "I am a stranger to your lands, m'lady, could you direct me toward Laurence Hall?" (D)
Jelenah: Jelenah and Rhona were soon dismounting from their horses, with or without the help of Ahmir. Though, even before they could get two solid feet on the ground, Jelenah had a line forming as to both give and recieve hugs! The first came from a woman that she did not know but that would soon be remedied! The embrace was returned to Ada before she was moving off and seeing about her peas. Eirian then came and well, it almost felt like coming home really when the two embraced. "I've missed you as well Eirian, and I don't think that will be a problem. I have no desire to leave again. I should not have left to begin with but well... I just couldn't come back to the estate and while I had only to visit Nevaeh and the others in Ireland a short time, it seemed time got away from me." As soon as the hugs were given, the Lady Windsor would turn to introduce Rhona to those she knew. "Eirian, I'd like for you and your friend to meet Rhona Brogain." Rhona would step up and give them both a smile and a nod. "A please tae be meet'n ye all." said the red head before stepping back. While Rhona then turned to locate Ahmir, Jelenah's attention turned to see Maahes and another young man as the holy man annonced he leave. She would smile to the man known as the Queen's Lion. He looked so much differnt than she remembered. Was he no longer the proud Lion of his pride? (d)
Maahes:Maahes would smile to the boy who perhaps stood before him a man, but was indeed very much still that child he knew many years ago. However, when Galen pulled him into a hug it was shocking, the small brush of affection was rare though he knew the son of the pirate to always be willing to give it. He held him tight as his eyes closed, hiding away the water that pooled in them. "Of Avarian shores, boy. At least you smell of Avaria." Maahes was a mess, simply a mess, but he held strong. He still won battles, moved the Army as it should to Straun..to Spain..to England..to Morocco. All walls had to fall sometimes, but was the story of how they were put back together no? A boy of the age 4 now, who would turn 5 in this winter come looked to his father who held another? He was a stout thing, the oldest, and the first born he had a place that hardly any other could take. His hair was black, curled around the end of his neck, and his skin was the color of his father. However, it would be Genevieve who would pull them both over babbling in French as Rah pretended to understand it. Happy to have new faces to play games with out in the tall grass. Genna was of the moon, her mother's wild black curls and pale skin, but even at the age of three she held something familiar to the name of Pirate--his eyes. She was only three. "This is my boy..Boy. Galen. Rahjad Nasir Iyaad, Rah, this is your brother Galen." Rah would hide behind his Father's leg and narrow his celadon eyes at him, but smile when he realized he meant no harm. "The girl belongs to Healer of the Mind, Ada. Uh..." Name. Name. Name. "Gen" (d
Adelaide: "This is my cue," she excused herself to the ladies with a bashful smile, seeing her daughter now grinning at the boys and introducing herself somewhat to the effect of, "Hi, I am *this* many," in a tongue two of them clearly did not understand, while holding three of her chubby (and quite dirty) fingers up. Genevieve would not allow herself to speak any language save that of her parents, no matter how often Jean-Claude and Ada spoke English in the home to encourage some interest in it. The disdain for the tongue must carry through, no matter how many smiles Ada offered, nor how fluently Jean-Claude spoke it. Ada was untalented in the way of learning spoken languages; she used it as she used her tools, though she had somewhat more grace with scalpel, mortar and pestle.One would hope, at least, as her English was abysmal, burdened as it was with her native French. "Bonjour," she offered the stranger, picking Genna up and balancing her girl on her hip, one arm wrapped around Genna's suddenly prone body. Mother and daughter bore more than striking resemblance. Save mother was a bit cleaner, but not by much. "I am Ada, and this is my daughter Genna, I hope she was not bothering you. Has Rah stopped pulling your hair, sweet?" she asked Genna then, seemingly without pausing for breath, with one thin dark brow arched. Genna grinned. Clearly, he had not. She felt like handing Genna off already, but her father was nowhere near. *
Galen: : Galen held his Father tightly, it was an embrace that he had long forgotten over the years at sea. The tensing of strong arms was felt against his own strain of tendons as he held on perhaps a tad longer than necessary.Brilliant blues became misted, a stormy sea raged on within his eyes for a moment as he blinked away the moisture. A sleeve was dragged across his face to hide the spilt liquid. A loud sniff was offered which was ultimately played off as congestion, a throat clearing to follow. Introductions were coming left and right and it would be wise to mind his manners, especially for ladies in waiting.: " I am Galen, tis a pleasure to meet you both..." : A low dip of his head was given to both Jelenah and Rhona. Both women were striking beauties and Galen couldn't help but offer a grin of his own, as faint as it was. He looked too much like Peregrine for his own good! The sweet sting of French hit his ears and he insticnly turned his head to the healer, that smile finding it's way back onto his lips.: " Bonjour Mademoiselle..." : Galen was by no means fluent in the tongue of the romantic but being out of sea forced him to pick up on the jargon. Couldn't do busy very well with the French when you were at a loss for words. Smiling stupidly gets you no where! Rah? Was that the child Maahes wife was pregnant with at the time of his first return? He looked inquisitively to the dark skinned boy before couching down to eye level.: " My Brother...." : He said light heartily: " Have you strong arms, Lad? " : He curled his own arm upwards for emphasis.: " You must, you are the first born son of a lion..." : Galen considered himself Maahes son by all means, but Rah had his blood. Ada then picked up her daughter and he peered upwards through a veil of gold.: " She is very beautiful...." : Spoken calmly. Boy was going to have a hard time remembering names!:
Eirian: "All of the children of the valley are beautiful, Galen. it is good to see you again, welcome home. I do not know if you remember, my children were not yet born on your last visit. Over there," she pointed to the wheat and flower weaving ebony haired girl " Is Hope, and here, so close to Ada's footsteps and mine, is my son Luke," Luke held Eirian's feature yes but he mostly favored his sire, Talion Apollius and his brother Saul with him. The boy was making up for lost time as friends did the same. How wonderful this day! The sun was dipping though heralding moonrise "For any who seek to partake of it, the first beers and ales, the first ciders and breads that have come of the first portions of the harvest will be coming, enjoy. How could we not?" She lited her arms and as though she were half of her age she began to spin, making her skirts pinwheel, her unbound hair spoke out like the same wheel before she breathed in the sweet air of home. She shut her eyes, lifting skirts then to walk a little further down to stand on a place where she could see the view. "By God...how could we not." (d)
Ahmir: Ahmir had a long history of being able to easilly remain in the backgound, be inconspicuous to those around him, even while he was probably the only one there literally bristling with weapons. He let his eyes shift around now and then, keeping an eye open, as well as an ear in case someone tried to get his attention. Otherwise though, he simply remained silent, leaning against a nearby surface. ~d~
Maahes:Maahes was a proud father to all his pride, "Eppie she is big, you remember her. Shaden has taught her to be a lady, she helps me take care of the young after their mother died. The three are three. Six all together, Seven now. A good number, but of the Valley? There are many." Rah was too big now to be perched on his father's arm, but Maahes would happily take Genna if she would come. "Do you eat lamb? Good." He said to the girl, his life long goal--peace to Skye, and big round bellies on children. He was a funny man when he was chatty, talking of the Valley, of children, of life it would not matter. "There are many wars, Son, but many soon ending. It will be a winter of peace you will see. My promise to this land." They needed it. "Are you hungry? You are always hungry. You need to sleep? Your Pirate sire will want to see you. You have a sister there too. Polly. Watch..Lady Inveryne.."Maahes's eyes grew wide as he shook his head, "She is a wicked wicked woman. Mean. Words like swords. I fear her walking stick." That was saying a lot, "She have him wrapped around it." (d
Adelaide:"Yes, take her, maybe you should raise her, I am obviously a terrible influence upon my daughter, since WHEN do you act like this, Genevieve? My goodness." Hands free, she felt like planting her face in them, but put them instead in the pockets of her apron. Her daughter was beautiful. Eirian was right -- all the children of this valley were. Ada had never met an ugly child on Skye. It must be something in the air, in the water -- rather mysterious, and perplexing to a healer such as herself."She grows up too fast. It is a problem with children, they grow. You feed them, they grow." She cleared her throat, temporary anguish abating into her general good humor, her eyes back to twinkling as she observed the two men, acting like father and son. The young man was familiar, and it did not take long to place him, having heard Peregrine's heart many times over the years, and those eyes an everyday sight for Ada, no matter how she had put distance between herself and the pirate. It was good for all of them that she did."Lady Inveryne is not so terrible. Though, maybe it is different for you, General, last I heard -- she had a warrant for your arrest, non? What did you do this time, eh?" She wondered if Maahes would build Inveryne another house. Not that the woman needed another house. If she had a house for every time she had been knocked out, she would be -- well, she would never particularly have to worry about having a bed to sleep in when in foreign territory. There would never be any foreign territory. *
Galen:: Galen watched his Father, brilliant blues catching sight of that proud look on his face. Maahes had changed over the years, being a Father must've softened him. He could remember when he was a child and Maahes had first found him nothing more than a nuisance. A scrawny little thief trying to steal his food. But soon a bond had formed and that hostility turned into love. Galen owed everything to Maahes and would try his best to repay his kindness. Though with Pere's blood in his veins he may just end up being a dissapointment. Well, dissapointment by Galen's standards, not Pere's or Maahes'.: " I am a bit hungry..." : Yeah, Galen was like a bottomless pit, ever since he was a kid he would stuff himself to the brink of being sick. Years of starvation did that to the youth, he still had a problem with controlling the urge to ration his meals out. A chuckle slipped past those lips, Maahes still knew him well.: " I always ate you out o' house an' home....": He mused though his smile soon faded into a fraction of his former grin.: " Peregrine...yes, I do suppose I have to say hello to him. Perhaps, I can wash the smell of the sea out o' my hair by then..." : A brow rose into an arch, a warning? Good Lord, who did he settle down with? A dictator?: " Then I would be wise to heed your warning, than Father..." : He looked to Eirian as she spoke, twirling about like a free spirit.: "They look just like their mother...." : Talion...he did remember that man. He was a brave warrior and a mentor to him: " Beautiful...." : Oh, the charm! Ada was studying him and he caught her gaze. He tilted his head to the side like a curious bird, a waterfall of curls falling forwards to shadow those bright eyes. He was silent for a moment, lost in thought.: " Let us hope my memory does not fail me, and I can remember everyone's names and faces.:
Eirian: "You will have time to learn Galen, everyone, please.." when she was done spining she saw the people approaching. Servants who were as kin in her house. She took from them one of the trays that held the choice cuts of young lamb, a plate of mutton from the cuts of ram or ewe too old to breed but good for their meat. Cups of goats milk would come, as well as the spirits. The most happy to serve was the most happy to appease rumbling bellies. On another tray waited fresh slices of bread, vegetables, and sliced apples. She winked, recalling Ada took neither meat nor spirits."Lady Inveryne is stern yet as all can be sweet if the mood is impressed on her," said she who could be friends with all while they could not all be friends, "What of you, Jelenah, will you eat, your lady, and your escort? It is not in our custom to let any go hungry. I fear in the valley we might bore a fighting man. We have had our battles but they are less and have been interspersed. If there are vagabond in a glen they run for fear of the Lion or the local watchmen. I'd dare say even farm wives and their pitch forks." Hard lot those! Hope offered up a plate off her mother's tray "Here, it is so good! The Steward's wife will cook at harvest, its so delicious you'll just..mmm...be..app appeased mumma, is that right?" Eirian chortled, "Pleased, my darling, he will be pleased. and a part of him may be appeased, but pleased is better. My little courtier, perfecting her vocabulary. Ever since she heard word that the royal children might pass by she seeks to be impressive." Her bare foot, wheat in hair baby. Luke wanted tales of war, always did! "I shall think this harvest, General, demands a proper celebration do you not agree?
Jelenah: Jelenah seem to still have that all to quiet nature about her but she did not continue to hide behind others. In the last 3 to 4 yrs, she had come to have a bit more back bone to her now. And rightfully so with all that she had gone though in her life time. She was still ever the soft spoken five foot five Slavic, and with so many people to try and talk with all at once, for a moment it felt a bit over whelming as she had been out of the loop so long. With Eirian's question, Jelenah nodded and replied. "I will see to getting myself a little of everything, soon." she said before her blue hues turned to look to each person again both far and near. She looked to the small group of Ada, Galen and Maahes along with the children. Several steps carried her closer to them, standing aside for just a moment before stepping up and first greeting Galen, the young man. "It's a pleasure to meet you, I'm Jelenah Windsor."she offered and extended a hand. Attention then turned to the children as she smiled down at them and giving them each a little wink. Ada was also smiled to as well before blue eyes came to settle on Maahes. He looked like a completely different man, yet there was of course that familiarity about hm tha only he possessed. "It's good to see you again Maahes."
Rhona however had spied Ahmir moving off and to make sure he wasn't left out, whether he wanted to be or not, grabbed up several items being offered before heading over to him and allowing him to chose what he wanted first, keeping the rest for herself. She looked to where Jelenah now stood and watched, and then looked to Galen. The red head flashed him a smile before attention was returned to Ahmir. Her Lady was visiting and while the others tended to one another, she saw to the escort. (d)
Maahes:"It is tradition, Eirian. Name the day I will open the gates of Red Wall. It is Ramadan, Boy. Eat, be merry, I will have the servants make you a bed. Find you a woman to keep it warm." His eyes looked between Galen and Ada, and he nudged Galen's shoulder, with a silent No. She's taken. Maahes just swore his loyalty to Jean-Claude. Though, there was not a man on this Island that did not think themselves in love with Adelaide, she came with a very dark man behind her. Jelenah spoke up, and Maahes smiled--now this would be a good match. He had his children..time for grand-babies. Genna spoke to him in French and the Beast sneered but lowered his voice in a quiet manner that many would not think possible of the man, "I can not understand. Do you not wish to tell Lord General of your want Little Qamar, hmm?" She held up her three fingers, and he laughed shaking his head. "You tell me in English, I get it for you." He loved children, a soft spot that had been constant in his life..Galen being the first. How many years had it been since he gave the boy his meal, took him home and washed him, put him to bed? Many. He was a man now, and if not Maahes would make him so. "It would not matter in this world what side of right I stood on with her." He spoke of Rosalind, "Her husband killed many innocent people, let those wolves terrorize this country, and feeds the scum of the Underdark..with her I am always wrong." He settled Genna on his arm, (Baby on his hip and all) as he smiled to Jelenah, and went silent. She was something of pure beauty always had been, and he did miss her dearly. It was hard to hear the name she had taken, for he had loved her husband like a brother, but everything happened for a reason.With her he new better then to speak first, or make any sudden fast movements. She had always been afraid of him, and at one point in their relationship he would have been insulted by it. Now? He was honored she spoke at all. It would cause him to revert to the quiet stoic Beast, but he would bow his head lightly to her. Maahes really was just shy, and her light hair was enough to close up for fear of turning red. (d
Adelaide: "Ah, Jelenah, do join us, eh? Plenty of food that Genna and I do not eat, we are very -- I heard this word yesterday in the market, I like it very much. Persnickity." And they were. Ada grinned as she took the sweet Genna was pointing at, and indicating she wanted three of them -- one for each year of her life. Well, she would get one, split in half with her mother, to occupy the child's mouth while Ada went to make a small meal of food Genna would eat with relish. She had a hearty appetite, but simply no taste for animal products. When she was older, she would understand why, but the child was obviously never deprived. She had the cherubic glow of a well-fed youngster, chubby fingers and hands, and though she was not likely to ever grow into those eyes, she would end up as gracefully short as her mother no matter what she ate. But recognizing the need for proper nutrition, Ada made an exception for goat's milk. She gave the cup to Maahes to give to Genna, both hands then occupying themselves with the task of holding it. "This is a wonderful spread, Eirian, delightful! I must come here uninvited more often to steal more of your herbs and mushrooms," she teased, sliding up beside the lady of the house and laughing. "I do not know Inveryne very well, but she is rarely without motive. Rather like her husband. Words like 'good' and 'bad' do not describe people such as them, it hurts my head to make sense of it, and I consider myself an intelligent woman. Among my other assets." Ahem. "Forgive me, Eirian, I made use of a fireplace in drying out some herbs a bit more quickly for transport, I must check to see that they have not turned into dust." With a gentle squeeze of the lady's hand, she left Genna with Maahes, blowing kisses to the others as she sashayed into Eirian's home. *
Galen:Calloused digits hardened by the salt of the sea carefully took up those slender fingers. He held them gingerly in his own before he lowered his head. Lips brushed over the curve of her knuckles, each bone clad ridge tended to individually. A heat rose in his cheeks as he released her soft grasp and looked upwards, those pesky curls obstructing his vision.: " The pleasure, is all mine M'lady..." : There was a subtle clearing of his throat as he straightened his posture, letting his gaze fall back onto his Father. The first look was of an off limits one for Lady Ada and Galen was smart enough to heed that silent warning. But that second exchange of glances was more of a marked approval. Maahes was instructing him to eat and he never wanted to deny his Father's wishes! As Galen turned to face to Eirian another woman was glancing his way, a look of mirth in her eyes. He was up to his neck in beautiful women. These lands were blessed, indeed. The talk of Peregrine had his brows furrowing, he whole heartily agreed with Maahes. Peregrine was nothing more than a scoundrel and murdered. He too could never overlook those factors. If Galen could drain himself of all of his blood he would, but such a thing was not possible.: " Father, do you think it wise for me to see Peregrine?" : Last time they spoke he clocked the man in the jaw. Galen's stomach gave a growl to protest the thoughts of anger, it would ruin his appetite.: " In any case, Father. I have many tales to tell you tonight.....": It would be interesting to live with Maahes once more, hopefully the man wouldn't try to throw him over his shoulder, lest he try to throw his back out.: " Eirian, everything looks wonderful. I have missed yer cooking..." : He chuckled softly.:
Eirian:"Sweet boy," she mused aloud as she was giving her farewells to Adelaide. There would be promise of choice mushrooms, herbs, the last flowers and fresh goat milk whenever she should come to collect it. As the women went her way she looked at Galen again, "Miss it no longer. As I do not attend court hardly at all, I have much time to spend by the oven and hearth." The woman would feed the entire province if she could. She settled the tray down in reach of all, enjoying bread with lamb in it. If anything she was a small seeming woman but not one to stay away from the fruit of all their labors. "Jelenah you must stay the eve, you, your lady and guard. Perhaps I will hypnotize you with the gardens again, or your lady will fall madly in love with a shepard." What a spirited mood! She bit into the bread, rubbing absently through her hair. It was habit, the scars still itched on occasion. With nothing more to say at the time she turned her eyes up to capture the reflection for which she was famed in skin: the moon. Her hair held the weight of new stars, her eyes a constant frozen sapphire, the intensity of a winters day, frozen silver of a storm the glow. "I am going to devote myself entirely to weaving and spinning, and when all the wool and cloth is finished I will paint a picture just like this..of tonight." (d)
Jelenah:Jelenah nodded to Ada. "Thank you." came the soft reply. The greeting from Galen however was one most welcomed. He seemed to be a very well mannered young man and he was handsome too. Attention turned back to Maahes and the littlegirl he held within his arms. She was adorable... and then her gaze fell to Rah. He was definitelt going to grow up and be a handsome man himself. Though now, she was sure his father and other kin much preffered his cuteness for now as children already grew way to quickly. She looked back up to Maahes then. "Have you and I taken up each others ways? For I now speak and you grow quite." she said with a wide warm smile. He was still a huge man, even if everyone was and always would be mountians in comparison to her little petite frame. "I'm sure there is much for us to discuss. I have lots of catching up to do. Will you be one to share with me what has come to pass wih you and yours?" She then looked to Eirian as her name was called and with the threat the woman made, she had to laugh. "Eirian, I'd gladly stay. Especially if it means I am to enjoy more of the company with those here and your always delicious cooking!"
Rhona continued to keep Ahmir company but when Galen looked to her, she grinned again. Eyes then settled on her Lady and she felt her heart swell. It was good to see the Lady Windsor like this. This was how she had always pictured the woman. Even when she had first arrived and remained in such a sad state of mind and heart. (d)
Maahes:There was a sadness as the sun finally came to touch the horizon, and the conversation drifted like the river that winded through it. He would heave a heavy sigh that would have Genna put her chubby little dirty hands on either side of his face in concern. This would cause him to smile gently, she was precious, but he would put her down. He had not meant to miss their words, or miss what was directed at him. However, his heart ached when he knew his God called. This was part of the healing was it not? "It will all work out Galen." He put his hand on the boy, telling this to his son or reminding himself? His eyes would rise to Jelenah only to nod, as you wish, Genna would pull on his shirt offering him part of her snack, and he would smile. "I need to get home." He would need to say his evening prayers, and check on the rest of the children."You will stay tonight, Boy." With that the Beast would turn towards Red Wall, and make his way home. (d
Maahes:The hills had a mighty pull at the year of late, the harvest just on the rise and the barley to the chest of the Beast. Their was laughter of a soul set free as the older children ran from the night dawning then on the horizon. It was freedom, the life lived that had once held so much valor, and the cool calm collection of peace that kept him grounded. Maahes spent his days in the city, his nights back home. With a mighty fist he could command the battlefields from center ground, sending troops where need be. This was what made the Griffin so strong did it not? When other armies slept, his was like the undying flame that kept the winters warm, and the summers alive. When times were rough, or news too scarce to make call he would ride out to meet his men. In the evening, when the heat wasn't so the Valley was quiet, though work to be done still, he would help those of the land harvest the grain. His was a strong back, from a bloodline that built the pyramids, and hands that could ease the ache of any load too heavy. Did they know the General was carrying the weight not only of this world, but his own. It ached, an unforgiving drum that beat like the wilds of Africa, but it was a song of sorrow. He had not lost it all, and he would rise again. This was the Avarian in him.
Adelaide: Maahes could walk through the barley; it parted for him as the Red Sea had parted for the Israelites. Ada, however, prowled more like a cat in the underbrush. Eirian had taken mercy on the healer when she had come into the Valley of the Stars in search of fall collectibles, her baskets now brimming with herbs that must be dried and processed, and the best mushrooms available to those with sharp eyes and sharper noses that she would eventually turn into stews and jars of pickles. Ada, despite her peculiar eating habits, was a rather fantastic cook, but was it any wonder? She'd learned her trade from the master, and of the ingredients he had taught her to use, they had been only the best. Adelaide now sat with company as Genevieve went wild in the gardens, playing with the other children, but never too far from her mother's sight. Though Genna was as independent as Ada had been, Ada recalled what sort of trouble she had instigated at that age, and would not repeat her own mother's mistake of permissiveness. Meanwhile, her hands were busy processing her latest bounty, seeds, stems and leaves separated into different baskets, and she explained as she sorted what each might be used for.
Eirian: It was the time of riches unparalleled; many mourned the depressing sense of summer's end coming with the sure stroke of Autumn's hand through the leaves but who couldn't welcome the thought of another year's good turn, another year's harvest on the table, in the store houses? Mercy was the name of the Lady of the Valley while some called her by the same name as the child that scampered through the bending, gold stalks with the peasants who raised scythe to cut it, or machete: everything renewing, sleeping, reviving again was Hope. Like Ada she had been busy at the task of collecting the offerings of the end of summer and early fall for her dyes, inks, paints, and even the necessary items for the household. Like her ladies, she too had bent over until baskets were full. One could sing the glory of art or poetry all they wished but here, she thought, was always God's finest work on the best of any canvas. Bare feet walked over the grasses. Her skirts were hitched which one would find unusual for so pious a woman but country daughter's know the value of free motion! She bent down to smell the earth, crumbling it in her hands. "We must make sure the soil is well turned even after the harvest, it is good. Very good. Twill be so next year..mm..and the wild herb." Arm arrayed in a warm, buttery tan wool reached up to pull down some of the leaves. "This, my friends, this is goodness. ne'er forget that. We are blessed beyond all compare. Tell me how our first rounds of things turn out, our ciders, our beers.." The household Steward, his son, and others walked with her, talking as they worked.
Brother Diarmuid: There was little doubting that Eirian's opinion would be held by others, that the Skye lands in autumn held a beauty that was all their own. As Brother Diarmuid made his way along the country, his eyes too were drawn toward the fields of grain that were spread out as far as the eye could see. As it was, Brother Diarmuid was a good judge of terrain.... for he had trodden many a path. There had been military service in Cyprus and Rhodes, five years spent in the Holy Land, and his trek through Europe. Even now, he continued to walk the lands. His last port of call had been in England, before he was drawn into the politics and mystery that had surrounded the death of His Eminence, the Archbishop. Once that affair had concluded, the good brother had taken once more to the roads. Bound for the capital of the Celtic nations, Turas Lan.... For he had been entrusted with a letter of some significance that was to be delivered to the Lady St. Laurence.
Maahes: In the light of the setting sun a child born of it chased that of one born from the moon. Genevieve's father was unknown, her looks at time too wild to be of Aquitaine, but somewhere Maahes had wondered. "She is of your spirit." He spoke gently behind the woman as he made his way into the small gathering, and Rah came to laugh as he watched Genna. His eyes were the color of his mother's but at the moment they were fixed upon Genna's curls, and a hand came out to tug on it..just to watch it curl back again. "Habibi! No!" His father would boom, the voice carried through the valley in a quick burst and Rah would jump behind whatever was closest. In Arabic Maahes would correct his son, speaking of how you did not pull a child's hair, but the laughter was not far from his lips. "Kids. Like monkey." Rah moved off to follow again on the chase. His hands were covered in dirt, but this was a good feeling as it washed away with the company. "You tell your French, I will be in his debt forever." First Ealora, now Eirian. News of how he pulled his heart from the hell that was Oxford spread quickly, and his eyes went to where she would stand. "Eirian is precious moon, we are all grateful."
Adelaide: "Oh, it does not matter, do not yell. Sit, let us watch our children play together, mon ami." It did not matter who Genna's father was. Her spirit truly was her mother's, and Ada was wild enough to remove most doubt, nor even concern, over parentage. No longer so pale-skinned as the summer season wore on toward autumn, she was almost as olive as her mother. Their hair was wild and unruly, a true black that few outside of Asia possessed. Their faces were so similar, they might have been sisters, with full lips and doe-shaped eyes, where they finally varied -- where Ada's were as dark as night, Genna's were a twilight blue. They sparkled as mischievously as Ada's, though, particularly in the moment before Genna grabbed Rah's hand and yanked it after her as she ran off. The poor lad had no choice but to follow. Ada's daughter indeed. She patted an open area beside her and wiped her hands on her apron, looking up at Maahes with a warm smile. She missed the General and their sessions together in her candlelit shop. It had been too many long months without him and their slow-paced but never laborious conversations. "I will tell him just that."
Eirian: It was the heart that beat in Oxford that still mended from scars. The harvest was helping that cause greatly. Eirian little turned to Turas Lan without reason. There would be the commisions to assign among her journeymen, apprentices for she adored imparting lessons. On occasion she would even go to the Templar Hall for they beseech her teach the young women and men a perspective on religious history, philosophy, and manners. For all of those things though court was not a temptation. She was too old to care for new dresses or the talk of whom sought a marriage, little for deceit and less for pompous glory. She came 'round the bend to see Maahes and Ada at the end of the field. In them it would be seen what she cared for - living as family. Precious little was said of Oxford. In truth it had rendered Eirian near to being mute. She wondered, at times, if she was not afflicted with a trial by God to be a walking heretic. Fingertips grazed at the scars from Occam, hidden beneath the ebony main. "Hello, Maahes, and Adelaide!" Among the children where were her own? Why come from no where Hope did to pounce both Genna and Ra while Luke was causing the ladies all matter of hell by chasing after them with frogs and bugs.
Brother Diarmuid: It would not be trumpets that would announce the coming of the good brother, but the faint and gentle clanking of a bell. What would it be that would, in time, draw Brother Diarmuid's eyes toward by the gathering beneath the large trees and set so near the shade? Perhaps, if he were honest, it was the temptation of both a rest in the shade and cool water to soothe his throat had first drawn his eye. While he made he way through the fields, he was careful to follow the paths that the farmers and their field hands used through traversing the fields. (Trampling crops earned nothing but ill-will, after all, and that was something Brother Diarmuid could ill afford). As he drew nearer, he would see the others. He would smile well enough and call out, "Good day, m'lord! M'ladies!" It would be his attire, likely, that would mark him out as a man of the church. The man wore a habit of undyed and rough spun wool, at his throat was a Maltese cross made from the most humble of all metals: iron. That he was a wandering man of the cloth could be born out by the bed roll that he carried a talk, blackthorn shillelagh (both as a walking stick...and a fearsome weapon, if called upon.)
Maahes: There was much of him that changed, weight added where it was lost; his dreads cut away to reveal curls as black as her own that fell now just a bit past his shoulder, decorated with ribbon and a long eagle feather. Down the path, Komor the Valley's elephant made her appearance with a trumpeting sound, thankful to have survived one more winter. She was Anulia's pet, given by Genna' birthfather, but now lived within Red Wall until the return of her master. Would she sent the poor Brother into shock? Maahes would rise to give Eirian his seat, his manners beat into him from the tudor brave enough to teach, but by now they were second nature. Amber eyes burned like fire, a thousand desert suns rising behind them as they fell upon the new face in the crowd. It was indeed his attire that marked him a man of the church, but Maahes was a Muslim this always caused hair to rise, and nostrils to flare in defense. Komor just added to that threat did she not? It was hard to think her threatening with the children following behind in her wake.
Adelaide: "Eirian, you look wonderful. As usual." She greeted Eirian like she always greeted the woman who had become like a sister to her -- with a kiss to either cheek and a sparkling smile. Their children played well together, and Ada was particularly fond of Luke, who had almost come to expect the unexpected grab, snatch, and tickle -- which Ada initiated the next pass he took, running into the circle of ladies with his latest catch -- a cute little snake that squirmed in the boy's hand. "Do you know," Ada said, temporarily holding the boy upside down, "those snakes are very tasty when cooked for your dinner? They taste a little bit like chicken!" The other ladies were far too used to the slower pace of the countryside, if not particularly fond of snakes and frogs shoved in their faces, but a few protracted sounds of disgust were raised in the circle under the tree, and Ada and Luke both laughed conspiratorially. She planted him back on his feet and gave him a light smack on the backside, sending him off on his merry way to taunt the other children with this newfound information. Ada leaned back on her hands, tilting her face back to catch a bit of sunlight outside the shade of the tree, and when she opened her eyes again, they suddenly had company. "Good afternoon, Brother," she offered in her nearly impossible French accent. The occupants of this circle were nothing if not quirky. Ada's accent should be the least of his concerns, as enunciated by the elephant's greeting in the distance.
Eirian: "You are too kind!" She exclaimed, paying Adelaide back with a warm kiss and an embrace. Maahes offered her his chair to which Eirian beamed, "So kind, so gentlemanly of you my Lion, are you happy with the harvest of our lands purring perhaps?" She teased, taking the chair while Luke was snached up by Ada! He was impossible to contain, writhing, giggling before he settled with Ada to learn about how snakes were indeed food? "Oh thank you, I'ma tell them!" So the boy rejoined the chase. blue eyes turned out to the road with a soft smile. She could only imagine how the likes of Maahes looked on agents of the church, rich or humble. She should, with all her dealings, scorn them. It wasn't in her nature to turn away men of God, for to be unkind? It would be as if an angel came to knock on the door. Were that the world thought the same, "Good afternoon Brother has your road been long? Come, won't you sit?" As she said this Hope came bounding through the fields to leap into her mothers arms. The two whispered, embracing, before Hope gave her a crown of wheat like a harvest queen, running off to play
Brother Diarmuid: Indeed, the appearance of the animal would shock the good brother. Granted, it would be due more to seeing the beast in the flesh...than the illuminated manuscripts of Bartholomaeus Angelicus and Matthew Pairs. As Brother Diarmuid got him self clear of the beast, he would cant his head. Watching as the beast walked. ...despite the writings of Matthew Pairs, the elephant did indeed seem to have knees. There was a smile, as he turned his attention back toward his new-found companions. There was a smile, as he counted a Moor and a French woman amongst them. "The road has long become a place of solace for me, I think....there is something comforting in being able to view the world as I go." There was a smile, "Thank you, m'lady." And he would take only a moment to remove his bed roll (and the bell that had been tied to it), laying it against a tree. Remembering his manners, he demurely said, "Thank you, all, for allowing me to join in your gathering. I'm Brother Diarmuid, of the Knights Hospitaller...." Like as not, that could be the cause of upsetting his Moorish companion. For, of all the Crusading orders (and to Brother Diarmuid's knowledge), the Knights Hospitaller continued to hold lands in the Holy Land and did battle with the pirates that raided Christian shipping... and raided Muslim shipping as well.
Jelenah: Jelenah and her company had been at the Estate at her attempting to pick up the pieces of a life long ago lost had started out decently. Rhona, her lady servant always went where the Lady Windsor travelled of course and like a shaodw, she'd been there behind her every step of the way, picking up the pieces to hold on to, to maybe later put together again. Since there had yet to be a male working at the estate, Rhona had taken it upon herself to see to the saefty of both her Lady and herself by hiring a man to accompany them out here. There meeting had been by happenstance, and when she heard he was in need of a earning a little extra coin, she had proposed the escort idea. At first, she wasn't sure if he seemed interested, but eventually they came to some sort of an agreement. With Jelenah on one horse, and Rhona on another, Both women would look to the man that was in charge of their safety... of thier life. Long golden honey hair was as usual, pulled back into a single plait and Rhona's vibrant red much the same. Each woman wearing garments far more simpler than expected. The road they traveled lead to Eirian's home to which Jelenah had insisted on visiting as soon as possible. The woman had a lot of catching up to do!
Ahmir: Ahmir had spent the last couple of months in Skye, exploring and travelling through the lands in more depth, creating maps and charts of where he'd gone and been. Eventually though, it came to be that he required a form of income, at least to show how he came to his coin. As the gods would grant it, he came across a woman who was in search of an escort for herself and her Lady to keep them safe. Once they came to the aggreement, the Egyptian arrived to the specified location at the correct time. Ahmir himself rode a smaller, light brownish colored horse that was bred for speed rather than as a warhorse. He had shifted his position around the women throughout their travels, and currently rode in front of the other two, while those light colored gray eyes searched the area around them, listening for anything out of the ordinary. Since he was actually working, he'd be wearing the dark brown, finely crafted leather armor. Two swords were strapped to his back, with various daggers hidden, and another blade's hilt at his hip, with a chain attached to the hilt, which disappeared into a small pouch next to it. A glance back to the women whose lives were in his care. "I believe we have arrived?" With a glance back out in front of them given.
Maahes: There had always been something comical in the way Komor had such an effect on people, a story often spoke about in the lands across the sea. Even England had whispered of the Valley of Stars that held a Lion of a man who kept the wild at his fingertips. Maahes, The Lord General, had walked this earth over again in a fit of renewal, and in his venture he had found the strength of his past forgiven only by the well known use of a blade. However, it had been in his time of trial did he revert back to the streets of Giza. A warrior is as good only as the hands that wield the weapon--disarm. Like mechanics, a modern marvel, these men had been born to raise and crush nations in their wake, and protect lands that were as Holy to one as it was the other. His eyes would move past the Brother to the riding trio, and took on the sight of the familiar faces. "It is good to see this land so rich, the blood we shed for it, she returns with strength to give. I heal here." So few knew of the life going on behind the Red Wall, but there was indeed turmoil. "I have prayed and prayed and prayed to Allah, for a sign..and he gives me this." He pointed to the Brother with a dark brow arched as the Holy Man came forward. Maahes would push past him, unwilling to hear of his sins once more, or how he was condemned to hell. It was of the trio of horses that caught him, the blonde particular. How many years have passed since he had ridden to her lands to check in the beloved wife of his brother in arms. It hurt him deeply to hear of their split, but in many ways it brought him great pleasure to see her riding so tall. She was a fighter, even if she often hid behind bodyguards.
Adelaide: "Who are they?" Ada asked softly of Maahes. The way the warrior reacted was fascinating to watch. He was not a man made of stone as many assumed, but one more fluid, and far more leonine. She could, and had, watch him for hours, no matter the social stigma on doing so. Ada, for one, had very little respect for such things. She said, laughingly, it was all a part of her charm. Her attention was then caught by the children at play, there being no weapons drawn among these strangers, Genevieve's sudden laughter was a pleasant sound ringing upon the late summer air. Ada picked a new seed pod from her basket and began shelling it. It was for no recipe of hers, but straight from Eirian's garden and meant for dinner. Her fingers were already fairly green-stained from its brethren, shelled unconsciously while she examined each face in their circle and reveled in the closeness of their gathering. It reminded her very much of her childhood, and watching her mother shell peas.
Galen:: These lands were never truly forgotten but the sights and smells were renewed by the sifting of the soil between calloused digits. Hard eyes, cold as steel almost softened under the glow of the sun and the hum of the insects.Galen had decided to simply wander about, letting his legs carry him the distance without so much thought as to where. The fields of wheat danced gracefully against the wind, the sound of water bubbling over rocks peaked his interest above all else. Those tender shells absorbed every wave of noise which was alive in the air. People were talking, children were giggling and horses were whinnying. His heart was alive as much as his senses, causing that beating organ to clench. He was nervous, faces new and old were bound to pop up and had to be ready! A man of the sea and no longer the Earth was nearly stopped in his tracks as the broad figure of a familiar fellow stole his attention. That tanned flesh, those dark locks of coarse hair and a voice which could move mountains. Was that Maahes? Galen's focus on his footing was nearly lost as he stumbled to a halt, staring like a fish out of water. A deep breathe was taken as he composed himself before speaking, golden curls falling into his gaze.: " The Gods have sent us both a sign, Father. The winds brought me back here...." : The female was noted but not a name to the face was placed.:
Eirian: "That is the Lady Windsor, Ada, though I can't speak of who is escorting her. Here we have a holy man that Maahes sees as a sign," she was not tart in tone but constant with a soft teasing, one that told the lion have a gentle care. Not all cross carriers carry genocide with them. "Of what, heaven only would know. Especially when so many monks and friars, now nuns within the Valley. There are holy people from here to Willinghamshire, Willinhamsire to Drynoch down to Luib and Torrin. Cisterians, Franciscans. Now we have another. I pray that god deliver a better sign for my lion today. What sort of sign do you want Ada, and you, Brother?" She put her basket on her lap and a knife from her belt to begin begin sifting through he rpieces of root and flower. Just as this was said she saw a boy speak who had once been ill her house, now a man. "Mm." She crossed herself, her heart beating in joy for the Lion "Now that, General, that is a sign by Allah or whatever name you may call the one God." Wry grin appeared as she looked at Ada to a sideways glance. "Now..if I were to ask for a sign, it would be that my husband only remain with his vegetable garden and archery, but that will not be so. It would be that my son not bury himself in a bosom, but that would be like asking the animal from Africa to become a house cat." Lord but she adored Ada! She had given Ada kindness, and in return the woman had no idea how much her presence meant to Eirian now or she might have seen nary a soul save her children (d)
Brother Diarmuid: If it was true that Brother Diarmuid had been shocked by the presence of the elephant, then could not the Lion be shocked by what he heard? Sense the Moor's intent, the man of God was already beginning to step out of the way when he was given that firm push by the Moor. As the Lion moved passed, words would drift to his ear. Words that were of Arabic make... and near marked by accent harkening of Jerusalem and its regions. "Why cannot it not be true, that Allah opens His hand to you," if the Moor would look, he would find the Christian speaking the Arabian tongue. "And reveals me? Perhaps the sign is that you have humility and tolerance left to learn." As Brother Diarmuid had learned, through five years in the Holy Land.... as a slave. Still, Brother Diarmuid looked a bit put off. But no more than any other man - Muslim or Christian - would at receiving some slight. There was a sigh, as he once more to a seat. There was a smile at the home coming, as he said softly, "A safe home coming of any kind is surely well-received." As for a sign? Brother Diarmuid remained quiet. Had his been revealed already? Or would he know it came? He simply shook his head, an enigmatic smile. There was a quiet bow of his head, a quiet prayer of thanks. Then he would cross himself. (D)
Jelenah: The scenery out here was always so beautiful and Jelenah could understand why Eirian loved it out here so much. It was not only beautiful, but the weather always seemed so perfect. Maybe she should sell Windsor estate and make for a home out here? That all would of course depend on how things turned out in other area's of Jelenah's life and the timing of it all. At the man's question Jelenah looked from the fields to him and nodded. "Yes... only a little further." she replied. "I have to thank you for accompanying me and my Lady this far out good Sir." There was a glance given to Rhona then, who had been silently scolded in the ever so soft way that only Jelenah could do. But now, now the blonde was most grateful. "Rhona... I believe I owe you an apology." she said with a look to match. "Nay MiLady... twas understandable. Ye just wish tae be tha independant sort is all." she replied with a flash of her grin.
Jelenah looked back up ahead and off in the distance she could see the gathered group. A few that looked familiar and others that did not but would be greeted just the same! It was nice to get out and mingle again. Soon, she'd be able to hug them all! Each step the horses took was quickly drawing them nearer. (d)
Maahes:In passing Maahes would turn his head over his shoulder to the man, "Careful..when you speak in that tongue, Brother, You speak to my God. Who holds true justice at the end of his hand." Through me. It was indeed a threat, but one that carried through his surprise. It was strange to hear it from another, but some what comforting to realize the power behind the meaning. Maahes would let his eyes raise to the heavens, the wind that moved then was of the mother who carried him, but the sun on his face--The Father. "Amber eyes came to fall upon the boy once lost then found only to be lost again, was indeed a sign. What change..did he notice it too in his Father? They were of not the same blood, but if Galen would look around she would see only one other who was. Maahes was a different man, one who knew defeat. The mother of his children had left him, and he did not follow. She died in the wake of the battle, and left him with their six children--four of his own blood. The locks of his hair had been cut away a true sign of his loss, but decorated with beads--feathers--sign of his recovery.Inches then came between he and the lost son who looked more and more like the pirate every time he saw him. "Boy." His voice rumbled in his chest, making its way like distant thunder from his lips, "You stink of the sea." (d
Adelaide: Adelaide did not know Jelenah, but she was grateful to Eirian for the introduction. She also sneaked in line for a hug from the woman, since they were so freely given. She emerged from the embrace with a grin on her face and a sparkle in her eyes, but was back in her seat beside Eirian within moments, gently clearing her throat as if nothing had gone amiss. She returned to shelling peas, humming a bit under her breath and tapping her foot. She glanced out over toward Maahes and the stranger. She worried about him. She always did. Her patients were like children, and while the curiosity in her that led to her lover's nickname demanded she know ever aspect of her patients' lives, relevant or no, there was genuine concern and affection for Maahes. Jean-Claude would disown any relationship with Ada if he overheard her next thought, but she truly believed Maahes had had the most wonderful hair of any man upon this isle. She grieved for its temporary loss. "Oh, I am not certain I would recognize a sign if it slapped me in the face. I am very ignorant of such things. I stumble through life, and am happy to do so. Old soul, I tend to recover fairly quickly, though I believe my old soul is rather .... Ah, how do I want to say without offending it?" Ada laughed, tossing more peas into the basket. "Genial. It does not care what trouble it finds. It knows it has hundreds more lives to live. As for Luke, he could have worse habits, and you must admit, he was trained upon a very lovely pair." More humming from Ada, though it was rather tuneless, her thoughts being elsewhere. Somewhere a bit lower than Eirian's chin. *
Galen: :The sign of a broken man was indeed plaguing his Father's Visage. He had never known Maahes to be in such a state, always the proud lion and never the fallen lamb. The Man of the cloth was eyed warily, if not suspicious. He had come into their conversation halfway and could very well have misinterpreted the talk of the Gods. Galen had grown up following Maahes teachings despite the difference in blood. Defeat had torn the man down into a former shell of himself, Bess was right. He needs you to love him. Her words rang clear in his mind and he gave a subtle dip of his head.: " 'Tis a hard stench to remove..." : He said almost in mild amusement. Those hard eyes shifted towards Ada and then Eirian. Ada was an unfamiliar face but he could not forget the others. Family was far deeper than blood ties for Galen, Pere's side of the genetics was often ignored. If he didn't look in a mirror, they would have been totally forgotten! Maahes voice no longer struck fear into him like it did as a child, but instead that deep and throaty contort of vocals was now a comfort. Galen was more like Pere everyday, he hated to admit it but coming to terms with such a thing was still in the works! Blond curls fell into his gaze as he heard the footsteps of another appoarching. Another bow of his head was given in respects. Women everywhere, perhaps he would leave a trail of hearts in his wake. Galen stepped forwards and closed the distance between Maahes and himself, why not hug the man that took you in? It had been years afterall.: " It is good to see you again, Father..." : Strong arms burnt by the sun encased the mountain of a man, no remorse or hesitation lingering in his gaze any longer.:
Eirian: "A fine pair? Oh my.." The Welshwoman turned bright red as she worked her knife hither and yon over bits of nature "You are so free as the wind with your words Adelaide, but I shall accept a compliment." There were those who certainly (Luke and Talion chiefly, followed by subsquent courtiers and men of the country, even women it seemed) who wouldn't disagree! She giggled, standing up to accept Jelenah in her arms "You are like the harvest, beautiful, golden and being taken in to arms. Don't you dare leave again, Jelenah, or I shall be forced from my little sanctuary. I shall call up the men of Wales saying the Queen has lost her lady, where did she go? Find her, quickly, and bring her to me so that I can spank her soundly." So it was the moon embraced the sun, drawing her over with her Lady Rhona so that rhona could be introduced, and women cavort! "I wonder if we should leave the brother with the giant, lest all crusades be settled in our wheat fields." She giggled, though her heart saw peace to see son and father reunite. "This is good.." She thought aloud, watching a little longer than some might think proper. It made her heart ache, that he should ache so. To think the children would have no mother, a broken father. To live with ghosts. Rumors of how the Lady went down at sea were filled with vigor and valor..but friends remember better. Eirian? Well, she remembered better than most. Past, present, and forever. "Will you see, good Steward that the father at least has something to drink..in fact...bring out our ales and ciders let us have a testing, and the bread from the wheat? I must know how we shall fair at market " (d)
Ahmir: He offered a slight nod of his head at the thanks that was offered from Jelenah for his accompanying of them to their location. As he gazed upon those gathered there, he would only recognize the sight of Maahes, though that also,had only been after he had gazed at him for a moment. He definitely looked a bit different without that hair now. The others he let his gaze shift over, and since that was where they were going to be heading, he wasn't too worried or concerned about that gathering. "It is no problem, My Lady." It had been rather uneventfull anyway.He would see to the women when they wished to return, and then his job would be done, but for now, after taking care of the horses, he would work to simply blend into the background for the time being. ~d~
Brother Diarmuid: Brother Diarmuid would smile softly, "I fear, m'lady, that while I have enjoyed your hospitality.... the road calls me once more." There would be a puase, "I am a stranger to your lands, m'lady, could you direct me toward Laurence Hall?" (D)
Jelenah: Jelenah and Rhona were soon dismounting from their horses, with or without the help of Ahmir. Though, even before they could get two solid feet on the ground, Jelenah had a line forming as to both give and recieve hugs! The first came from a woman that she did not know but that would soon be remedied! The embrace was returned to Ada before she was moving off and seeing about her peas. Eirian then came and well, it almost felt like coming home really when the two embraced. "I've missed you as well Eirian, and I don't think that will be a problem. I have no desire to leave again. I should not have left to begin with but well... I just couldn't come back to the estate and while I had only to visit Nevaeh and the others in Ireland a short time, it seemed time got away from me." As soon as the hugs were given, the Lady Windsor would turn to introduce Rhona to those she knew. "Eirian, I'd like for you and your friend to meet Rhona Brogain." Rhona would step up and give them both a smile and a nod. "A please tae be meet'n ye all." said the red head before stepping back. While Rhona then turned to locate Ahmir, Jelenah's attention turned to see Maahes and another young man as the holy man annonced he leave. She would smile to the man known as the Queen's Lion. He looked so much differnt than she remembered. Was he no longer the proud Lion of his pride? (d)
Maahes:Maahes would smile to the boy who perhaps stood before him a man, but was indeed very much still that child he knew many years ago. However, when Galen pulled him into a hug it was shocking, the small brush of affection was rare though he knew the son of the pirate to always be willing to give it. He held him tight as his eyes closed, hiding away the water that pooled in them. "Of Avarian shores, boy. At least you smell of Avaria." Maahes was a mess, simply a mess, but he held strong. He still won battles, moved the Army as it should to Straun..to Spain..to England..to Morocco. All walls had to fall sometimes, but was the story of how they were put back together no? A boy of the age 4 now, who would turn 5 in this winter come looked to his father who held another? He was a stout thing, the oldest, and the first born he had a place that hardly any other could take. His hair was black, curled around the end of his neck, and his skin was the color of his father. However, it would be Genevieve who would pull them both over babbling in French as Rah pretended to understand it. Happy to have new faces to play games with out in the tall grass. Genna was of the moon, her mother's wild black curls and pale skin, but even at the age of three she held something familiar to the name of Pirate--his eyes. She was only three. "This is my boy..Boy. Galen. Rahjad Nasir Iyaad, Rah, this is your brother Galen." Rah would hide behind his Father's leg and narrow his celadon eyes at him, but smile when he realized he meant no harm. "The girl belongs to Healer of the Mind, Ada. Uh..." Name. Name. Name. "Gen" (d
Adelaide: "This is my cue," she excused herself to the ladies with a bashful smile, seeing her daughter now grinning at the boys and introducing herself somewhat to the effect of, "Hi, I am *this* many," in a tongue two of them clearly did not understand, while holding three of her chubby (and quite dirty) fingers up. Genevieve would not allow herself to speak any language save that of her parents, no matter how often Jean-Claude and Ada spoke English in the home to encourage some interest in it. The disdain for the tongue must carry through, no matter how many smiles Ada offered, nor how fluently Jean-Claude spoke it. Ada was untalented in the way of learning spoken languages; she used it as she used her tools, though she had somewhat more grace with scalpel, mortar and pestle.One would hope, at least, as her English was abysmal, burdened as it was with her native French. "Bonjour," she offered the stranger, picking Genna up and balancing her girl on her hip, one arm wrapped around Genna's suddenly prone body. Mother and daughter bore more than striking resemblance. Save mother was a bit cleaner, but not by much. "I am Ada, and this is my daughter Genna, I hope she was not bothering you. Has Rah stopped pulling your hair, sweet?" she asked Genna then, seemingly without pausing for breath, with one thin dark brow arched. Genna grinned. Clearly, he had not. She felt like handing Genna off already, but her father was nowhere near. *
Galen: : Galen held his Father tightly, it was an embrace that he had long forgotten over the years at sea. The tensing of strong arms was felt against his own strain of tendons as he held on perhaps a tad longer than necessary.Brilliant blues became misted, a stormy sea raged on within his eyes for a moment as he blinked away the moisture. A sleeve was dragged across his face to hide the spilt liquid. A loud sniff was offered which was ultimately played off as congestion, a throat clearing to follow. Introductions were coming left and right and it would be wise to mind his manners, especially for ladies in waiting.: " I am Galen, tis a pleasure to meet you both..." : A low dip of his head was given to both Jelenah and Rhona. Both women were striking beauties and Galen couldn't help but offer a grin of his own, as faint as it was. He looked too much like Peregrine for his own good! The sweet sting of French hit his ears and he insticnly turned his head to the healer, that smile finding it's way back onto his lips.: " Bonjour Mademoiselle..." : Galen was by no means fluent in the tongue of the romantic but being out of sea forced him to pick up on the jargon. Couldn't do busy very well with the French when you were at a loss for words. Smiling stupidly gets you no where! Rah? Was that the child Maahes wife was pregnant with at the time of his first return? He looked inquisitively to the dark skinned boy before couching down to eye level.: " My Brother...." : He said light heartily: " Have you strong arms, Lad? " : He curled his own arm upwards for emphasis.: " You must, you are the first born son of a lion..." : Galen considered himself Maahes son by all means, but Rah had his blood. Ada then picked up her daughter and he peered upwards through a veil of gold.: " She is very beautiful...." : Spoken calmly. Boy was going to have a hard time remembering names!:
Eirian: "All of the children of the valley are beautiful, Galen. it is good to see you again, welcome home. I do not know if you remember, my children were not yet born on your last visit. Over there," she pointed to the wheat and flower weaving ebony haired girl " Is Hope, and here, so close to Ada's footsteps and mine, is my son Luke," Luke held Eirian's feature yes but he mostly favored his sire, Talion Apollius and his brother Saul with him. The boy was making up for lost time as friends did the same. How wonderful this day! The sun was dipping though heralding moonrise "For any who seek to partake of it, the first beers and ales, the first ciders and breads that have come of the first portions of the harvest will be coming, enjoy. How could we not?" She lited her arms and as though she were half of her age she began to spin, making her skirts pinwheel, her unbound hair spoke out like the same wheel before she breathed in the sweet air of home. She shut her eyes, lifting skirts then to walk a little further down to stand on a place where she could see the view. "By God...how could we not." (d)
Ahmir: Ahmir had a long history of being able to easilly remain in the backgound, be inconspicuous to those around him, even while he was probably the only one there literally bristling with weapons. He let his eyes shift around now and then, keeping an eye open, as well as an ear in case someone tried to get his attention. Otherwise though, he simply remained silent, leaning against a nearby surface. ~d~
Maahes:Maahes was a proud father to all his pride, "Eppie she is big, you remember her. Shaden has taught her to be a lady, she helps me take care of the young after their mother died. The three are three. Six all together, Seven now. A good number, but of the Valley? There are many." Rah was too big now to be perched on his father's arm, but Maahes would happily take Genna if she would come. "Do you eat lamb? Good." He said to the girl, his life long goal--peace to Skye, and big round bellies on children. He was a funny man when he was chatty, talking of the Valley, of children, of life it would not matter. "There are many wars, Son, but many soon ending. It will be a winter of peace you will see. My promise to this land." They needed it. "Are you hungry? You are always hungry. You need to sleep? Your Pirate sire will want to see you. You have a sister there too. Polly. Watch..Lady Inveryne.."Maahes's eyes grew wide as he shook his head, "She is a wicked wicked woman. Mean. Words like swords. I fear her walking stick." That was saying a lot, "She have him wrapped around it." (d
Adelaide:"Yes, take her, maybe you should raise her, I am obviously a terrible influence upon my daughter, since WHEN do you act like this, Genevieve? My goodness." Hands free, she felt like planting her face in them, but put them instead in the pockets of her apron. Her daughter was beautiful. Eirian was right -- all the children of this valley were. Ada had never met an ugly child on Skye. It must be something in the air, in the water -- rather mysterious, and perplexing to a healer such as herself."She grows up too fast. It is a problem with children, they grow. You feed them, they grow." She cleared her throat, temporary anguish abating into her general good humor, her eyes back to twinkling as she observed the two men, acting like father and son. The young man was familiar, and it did not take long to place him, having heard Peregrine's heart many times over the years, and those eyes an everyday sight for Ada, no matter how she had put distance between herself and the pirate. It was good for all of them that she did."Lady Inveryne is not so terrible. Though, maybe it is different for you, General, last I heard -- she had a warrant for your arrest, non? What did you do this time, eh?" She wondered if Maahes would build Inveryne another house. Not that the woman needed another house. If she had a house for every time she had been knocked out, she would be -- well, she would never particularly have to worry about having a bed to sleep in when in foreign territory. There would never be any foreign territory. *
Galen:: Galen watched his Father, brilliant blues catching sight of that proud look on his face. Maahes had changed over the years, being a Father must've softened him. He could remember when he was a child and Maahes had first found him nothing more than a nuisance. A scrawny little thief trying to steal his food. But soon a bond had formed and that hostility turned into love. Galen owed everything to Maahes and would try his best to repay his kindness. Though with Pere's blood in his veins he may just end up being a dissapointment. Well, dissapointment by Galen's standards, not Pere's or Maahes'.: " I am a bit hungry..." : Yeah, Galen was like a bottomless pit, ever since he was a kid he would stuff himself to the brink of being sick. Years of starvation did that to the youth, he still had a problem with controlling the urge to ration his meals out. A chuckle slipped past those lips, Maahes still knew him well.: " I always ate you out o' house an' home....": He mused though his smile soon faded into a fraction of his former grin.: " Peregrine...yes, I do suppose I have to say hello to him. Perhaps, I can wash the smell of the sea out o' my hair by then..." : A brow rose into an arch, a warning? Good Lord, who did he settle down with? A dictator?: " Then I would be wise to heed your warning, than Father..." : He looked to Eirian as she spoke, twirling about like a free spirit.: "They look just like their mother...." : Talion...he did remember that man. He was a brave warrior and a mentor to him: " Beautiful...." : Oh, the charm! Ada was studying him and he caught her gaze. He tilted his head to the side like a curious bird, a waterfall of curls falling forwards to shadow those bright eyes. He was silent for a moment, lost in thought.: " Let us hope my memory does not fail me, and I can remember everyone's names and faces.:
Eirian: "You will have time to learn Galen, everyone, please.." when she was done spining she saw the people approaching. Servants who were as kin in her house. She took from them one of the trays that held the choice cuts of young lamb, a plate of mutton from the cuts of ram or ewe too old to breed but good for their meat. Cups of goats milk would come, as well as the spirits. The most happy to serve was the most happy to appease rumbling bellies. On another tray waited fresh slices of bread, vegetables, and sliced apples. She winked, recalling Ada took neither meat nor spirits."Lady Inveryne is stern yet as all can be sweet if the mood is impressed on her," said she who could be friends with all while they could not all be friends, "What of you, Jelenah, will you eat, your lady, and your escort? It is not in our custom to let any go hungry. I fear in the valley we might bore a fighting man. We have had our battles but they are less and have been interspersed. If there are vagabond in a glen they run for fear of the Lion or the local watchmen. I'd dare say even farm wives and their pitch forks." Hard lot those! Hope offered up a plate off her mother's tray "Here, it is so good! The Steward's wife will cook at harvest, its so delicious you'll just..mmm...be..app appeased mumma, is that right?" Eirian chortled, "Pleased, my darling, he will be pleased. and a part of him may be appeased, but pleased is better. My little courtier, perfecting her vocabulary. Ever since she heard word that the royal children might pass by she seeks to be impressive." Her bare foot, wheat in hair baby. Luke wanted tales of war, always did! "I shall think this harvest, General, demands a proper celebration do you not agree?
Jelenah: Jelenah seem to still have that all to quiet nature about her but she did not continue to hide behind others. In the last 3 to 4 yrs, she had come to have a bit more back bone to her now. And rightfully so with all that she had gone though in her life time. She was still ever the soft spoken five foot five Slavic, and with so many people to try and talk with all at once, for a moment it felt a bit over whelming as she had been out of the loop so long. With Eirian's question, Jelenah nodded and replied. "I will see to getting myself a little of everything, soon." she said before her blue hues turned to look to each person again both far and near. She looked to the small group of Ada, Galen and Maahes along with the children. Several steps carried her closer to them, standing aside for just a moment before stepping up and first greeting Galen, the young man. "It's a pleasure to meet you, I'm Jelenah Windsor."she offered and extended a hand. Attention then turned to the children as she smiled down at them and giving them each a little wink. Ada was also smiled to as well before blue eyes came to settle on Maahes. He looked like a completely different man, yet there was of course that familiarity about hm tha only he possessed. "It's good to see you again Maahes."
Rhona however had spied Ahmir moving off and to make sure he wasn't left out, whether he wanted to be or not, grabbed up several items being offered before heading over to him and allowing him to chose what he wanted first, keeping the rest for herself. She looked to where Jelenah now stood and watched, and then looked to Galen. The red head flashed him a smile before attention was returned to Ahmir. Her Lady was visiting and while the others tended to one another, she saw to the escort. (d)
Maahes:"It is tradition, Eirian. Name the day I will open the gates of Red Wall. It is Ramadan, Boy. Eat, be merry, I will have the servants make you a bed. Find you a woman to keep it warm." His eyes looked between Galen and Ada, and he nudged Galen's shoulder, with a silent No. She's taken. Maahes just swore his loyalty to Jean-Claude. Though, there was not a man on this Island that did not think themselves in love with Adelaide, she came with a very dark man behind her. Jelenah spoke up, and Maahes smiled--now this would be a good match. He had his children..time for grand-babies. Genna spoke to him in French and the Beast sneered but lowered his voice in a quiet manner that many would not think possible of the man, "I can not understand. Do you not wish to tell Lord General of your want Little Qamar, hmm?" She held up her three fingers, and he laughed shaking his head. "You tell me in English, I get it for you." He loved children, a soft spot that had been constant in his life..Galen being the first. How many years had it been since he gave the boy his meal, took him home and washed him, put him to bed? Many. He was a man now, and if not Maahes would make him so. "It would not matter in this world what side of right I stood on with her." He spoke of Rosalind, "Her husband killed many innocent people, let those wolves terrorize this country, and feeds the scum of the Underdark..with her I am always wrong." He settled Genna on his arm, (Baby on his hip and all) as he smiled to Jelenah, and went silent. She was something of pure beauty always had been, and he did miss her dearly. It was hard to hear the name she had taken, for he had loved her husband like a brother, but everything happened for a reason.With her he new better then to speak first, or make any sudden fast movements. She had always been afraid of him, and at one point in their relationship he would have been insulted by it. Now? He was honored she spoke at all. It would cause him to revert to the quiet stoic Beast, but he would bow his head lightly to her. Maahes really was just shy, and her light hair was enough to close up for fear of turning red. (d
Adelaide: "Ah, Jelenah, do join us, eh? Plenty of food that Genna and I do not eat, we are very -- I heard this word yesterday in the market, I like it very much. Persnickity." And they were. Ada grinned as she took the sweet Genna was pointing at, and indicating she wanted three of them -- one for each year of her life. Well, she would get one, split in half with her mother, to occupy the child's mouth while Ada went to make a small meal of food Genna would eat with relish. She had a hearty appetite, but simply no taste for animal products. When she was older, she would understand why, but the child was obviously never deprived. She had the cherubic glow of a well-fed youngster, chubby fingers and hands, and though she was not likely to ever grow into those eyes, she would end up as gracefully short as her mother no matter what she ate. But recognizing the need for proper nutrition, Ada made an exception for goat's milk. She gave the cup to Maahes to give to Genna, both hands then occupying themselves with the task of holding it. "This is a wonderful spread, Eirian, delightful! I must come here uninvited more often to steal more of your herbs and mushrooms," she teased, sliding up beside the lady of the house and laughing. "I do not know Inveryne very well, but she is rarely without motive. Rather like her husband. Words like 'good' and 'bad' do not describe people such as them, it hurts my head to make sense of it, and I consider myself an intelligent woman. Among my other assets." Ahem. "Forgive me, Eirian, I made use of a fireplace in drying out some herbs a bit more quickly for transport, I must check to see that they have not turned into dust." With a gentle squeeze of the lady's hand, she left Genna with Maahes, blowing kisses to the others as she sashayed into Eirian's home. *
Galen:Calloused digits hardened by the salt of the sea carefully took up those slender fingers. He held them gingerly in his own before he lowered his head. Lips brushed over the curve of her knuckles, each bone clad ridge tended to individually. A heat rose in his cheeks as he released her soft grasp and looked upwards, those pesky curls obstructing his vision.: " The pleasure, is all mine M'lady..." : There was a subtle clearing of his throat as he straightened his posture, letting his gaze fall back onto his Father. The first look was of an off limits one for Lady Ada and Galen was smart enough to heed that silent warning. But that second exchange of glances was more of a marked approval. Maahes was instructing him to eat and he never wanted to deny his Father's wishes! As Galen turned to face to Eirian another woman was glancing his way, a look of mirth in her eyes. He was up to his neck in beautiful women. These lands were blessed, indeed. The talk of Peregrine had his brows furrowing, he whole heartily agreed with Maahes. Peregrine was nothing more than a scoundrel and murdered. He too could never overlook those factors. If Galen could drain himself of all of his blood he would, but such a thing was not possible.: " Father, do you think it wise for me to see Peregrine?" : Last time they spoke he clocked the man in the jaw. Galen's stomach gave a growl to protest the thoughts of anger, it would ruin his appetite.: " In any case, Father. I have many tales to tell you tonight.....": It would be interesting to live with Maahes once more, hopefully the man wouldn't try to throw him over his shoulder, lest he try to throw his back out.: " Eirian, everything looks wonderful. I have missed yer cooking..." : He chuckled softly.:
Eirian:"Sweet boy," she mused aloud as she was giving her farewells to Adelaide. There would be promise of choice mushrooms, herbs, the last flowers and fresh goat milk whenever she should come to collect it. As the women went her way she looked at Galen again, "Miss it no longer. As I do not attend court hardly at all, I have much time to spend by the oven and hearth." The woman would feed the entire province if she could. She settled the tray down in reach of all, enjoying bread with lamb in it. If anything she was a small seeming woman but not one to stay away from the fruit of all their labors. "Jelenah you must stay the eve, you, your lady and guard. Perhaps I will hypnotize you with the gardens again, or your lady will fall madly in love with a shepard." What a spirited mood! She bit into the bread, rubbing absently through her hair. It was habit, the scars still itched on occasion. With nothing more to say at the time she turned her eyes up to capture the reflection for which she was famed in skin: the moon. Her hair held the weight of new stars, her eyes a constant frozen sapphire, the intensity of a winters day, frozen silver of a storm the glow. "I am going to devote myself entirely to weaving and spinning, and when all the wool and cloth is finished I will paint a picture just like this..of tonight." (d)
Jelenah:Jelenah nodded to Ada. "Thank you." came the soft reply. The greeting from Galen however was one most welcomed. He seemed to be a very well mannered young man and he was handsome too. Attention turned back to Maahes and the littlegirl he held within his arms. She was adorable... and then her gaze fell to Rah. He was definitelt going to grow up and be a handsome man himself. Though now, she was sure his father and other kin much preffered his cuteness for now as children already grew way to quickly. She looked back up to Maahes then. "Have you and I taken up each others ways? For I now speak and you grow quite." she said with a wide warm smile. He was still a huge man, even if everyone was and always would be mountians in comparison to her little petite frame. "I'm sure there is much for us to discuss. I have lots of catching up to do. Will you be one to share with me what has come to pass wih you and yours?" She then looked to Eirian as her name was called and with the threat the woman made, she had to laugh. "Eirian, I'd gladly stay. Especially if it means I am to enjoy more of the company with those here and your always delicious cooking!"
Rhona continued to keep Ahmir company but when Galen looked to her, she grinned again. Eyes then settled on her Lady and she felt her heart swell. It was good to see the Lady Windsor like this. This was how she had always pictured the woman. Even when she had first arrived and remained in such a sad state of mind and heart. (d)
Maahes:There was a sadness as the sun finally came to touch the horizon, and the conversation drifted like the river that winded through it. He would heave a heavy sigh that would have Genna put her chubby little dirty hands on either side of his face in concern. This would cause him to smile gently, she was precious, but he would put her down. He had not meant to miss their words, or miss what was directed at him. However, his heart ached when he knew his God called. This was part of the healing was it not? "It will all work out Galen." He put his hand on the boy, telling this to his son or reminding himself? His eyes would rise to Jelenah only to nod, as you wish, Genna would pull on his shirt offering him part of her snack, and he would smile. "I need to get home." He would need to say his evening prayers, and check on the rest of the children."You will stay tonight, Boy." With that the Beast would turn towards Red Wall, and make his way home. (d
