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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Jan 27, 2009 23:54:49 GMT -6
Shaden: At the back gate was a yapping howling sound.. on the other side of it the rag mop shivered pitifully.. indeed looking much like a mop.. it's silver and black hair matted darkly as it scratched upon the gate begging entrance... leaving behind bloodied paw prints as the howls got louder and more plaintive..
Ealora: She helped Galen to stand and turned to her husband, all anger melted away with that look in his eyes. Scooting across the ground, her arms wove around his neck as she drew him in against her. As much as her stomach would allow as her head turned to press her face against his neck and she let out a deep sigh. The baby was rolling and moving within her, agitated and she willed herself to calm down as she held onto him. "Maahes.."She spoke in a soft rushing whisper as she leaned back, cupping his face between her hands. "I am not scolding you, but your son is hurting..I know you're angry..I don't..fault you for that. If I was in your position I probably would be to and would need you to soothe that in order to see what I see because I am not in your shoes. I accept your son, I've only met him yesterday and in one second, he became my son too. I understand you want to protect him, I want to protect him too. You must put your anger aside, as difficult as it is..because he needs you to be his pillar right now. He wants only to be your pride and joy, for you to be proud of him and yes I know his deeds...are not something to be proud of..So help him, my love. Show him what it is to be a good man..a man worth being proud of. Teach him, to be a man like you..this is the man that I love...the man you are." Thumbs stroked at his cheek as she leaned in to press a soft kiss against his lips. Pulling back, her mouth opened, perhaps to say more but the howling around the side of the house gave her pause. Oh hell what was Shaden's dogs name..aha"London!"She called and gave a whistle. The dog came bounding around the side of the house and flopped into Ealora's lap, much as yes she hated the rag mop, she lifted the dog into her arms. "What's..."Her words stopped as she stared down at the bloody paw prints on her dress. "Maahes.."She breathed in a whisper as her eyes lifted scanning the surroundings for Shaden then down to the dog and then over at her husband as her face went ghostly white. London had been with Shaden this afternoon and now the dog was back at the yard, bloody and no Shaden. Her heart began to pound wildly within her chest..
Maahes: "It is more then anger." He whispered against her closing his eyes as she babied him. If they could take a moment and step back looking at their life, it was moments like this that held him together. He loved this woman with his all his heart, and it would only take a matter of seconds for her to wrap him around her finger. "What is it?" Her face paled and his heart stopped, once he saw the dog and quickly he would rise easily with her in his arms. "GALEN!" Sitting his wife down, upon the chair he quickly moved to where his top coat and sword had fallen. "Nora!" Quickly the keeper came flying, "Keep her safe, do not let her follow." Once again he turned to the stairs where his son had gone, as it was now time to finally work together. Come show daddy how much of a man you have become. Out into the snow he would rush, following the prints with ease, and going down the path Shaden had gone.
Galen: :Galen actually fell out of the bed at the sudden roar of his name. Flat against his back the youth grumbled before standing. He knew that the call of his name was not in a scolding nature, but one of urgency. Galen barely had time to place a shirt on his back, so instead grabbed his dusted coat and left it undone. He flew down the stairs and out the door, jumping over whatever objects were in his way. A spare sword had been found near his bed room, something Maahes must have left in hopes of Galen's return. The youth was quickly on his Father's heels, strong muscles bracing against bone as his legs and feet pushed off the ground. Golden strands danced wildly in the wind, the tender tips gracing against cheeks. The trail of blood was followed with his eyes, the scent of it causing his nostrils to flair. If there was a God, now was the only time he prayed things would be alright.:
Shaden: When she had left Ealora and Maahe's townhouse it had been without a clear head and a bruised heart.. tears had made her eyes burn and her throat hurt... as the corner of the street where she would have turned to head to the Lily.. instead she turned the opposite way.. two blocks down from the Lily and one block over.. she stood looking at the townhouse that was under renovation.. it was her secret.. it would not be ready for months.. till after the baby was born.. but with creative financing and selling all her jewels and replacing them with copies she had managed it... it was hers.. and Joy's new home... a place close enough to the Lily... and yet separate.. up the stairs she went, pressing the key into the lock.. and inside.. it would be a mistake.. perhaps a fatal one, that she lingered until after dark.. wandering the rooms thinking of what would be... Had she not been so devastated by Ealora's words, she would have told her sister that She knew well enough that Children didn't belong at the Lily.. and that she had already purchased a house... to raise Joy in... but Ealora's lack of faith.. and not even discussing it with her... had broken her heart... and spelled out entirely where she stood within the Family of the Assad Aziems.. and that was outside.. on the periphery at best... By the time she had let her anger and hurt play out in solitude night had fallen.. shivering as the cold set in she realized it.. as was about to head out toward home when she heard voices... what happened next... would in it's entirety never be know.. but pieces of evidence would be everywhere... blood spattered and ached over newly plastered walls... torn pieces of velvet cloak.. a flat slipper.. with dainty embroider following a bloody trail... and in the grass behind the house.. the bracelet Ealora had given her so long ago.. but no Shaden.
Ealora: One arm clasped his neck with the other held the dog as he lifted them both. Thank the Gods for she didn't think she could stand on her own. The next few seconds were a blurr, he was calling for Galen and she couldn't...do anything but listen to the thundering of her heart in her chest. Nora's presence made his words ring within her ears. Don't let her follow?! Was he kidding! This was her sister he was talking about. Still clutching London against her, she rose from her chair as Maahes then Galen flew out the door. "My Lady please!" Nora begged. "Think of the baby, please!" She begged and that still and rooted Ealora to the spot.
Stryker: "Ealora...Gerda said Shaden came over.."Nic's voice floated through the doorway, clearly confused as he had seen Maahes and...a young boy running from the house. Dark brows knitted together at the sight of Ealora, his belt with sword swinging lazily clinked against the ground as he moved towards her. "Ealora what happened?!" His voice rose in panic.
Ealora: "Shaden...I.." That was all she could say.
Stryker: She didn't have to say more and rightly so the old Knight didn't hear any more as he took off after Maahes and the boy.
Maahes: Rounding the path where the cloak would be he saw the footsteps, but knew they would circle in many places as to have whoever tracked behind become lost. In the end the right pair would lead back to the city, and Maahes quickly turned to his son reaching around his own neck and removing the crest of his tittle. "Take this to the barracks, you tell my men I want this city shut down. No one gets in or out." They would not question the son of the General. Not when he held the only thing that made his title official. "Nic, I need you to head to the Lily seal it. Do not let any of them leave,"
Galen: : Blood painted the ground and bits of cloth danced within the wind. This was not what he wanted to see, no not after finding his family again. Galen didn't hesitate as the crest was handed over to him. Weather worn digits held on tightly to the beautiful sign of honor. He ducked and weaved past people and buildings to get to the barracks. Galen actually knew where they were since he had taken a stroll around the forgotten lands earlier. He was out of breath but that didn't stop the words from leaving his lips.: " By Order of the General, you are to shut down the city. No one gets in or out. I will explain later but for now there is a life at stake." : The Warriors who pledged their loyalty to Maahes noded, and did not question Galen for he held the crest in his hands. They knew that their leader would never give up such a thing to anyone but family. Galen soon was off once more, to follow the trail back to his Father.: " it is done Father....": sweat beaded at his brow.:
Stryker: His feet slid against the cobble stone as he rounded the corner with Maahes and the boy. His chest heaved with the need of breath but no sign of Shaden and no sign of a sight, he raised his sword and guided it into its sheath at his side. "It's...all....ready...done" He managed between panting breaths till he could get his breath under control and explain but all ready he was moving past the General to survey the scene. Not only did he live in the shadows most of the time, it was a way to observe, to gather information. This was no different. "I had it locked down when Jack's ship blew up in the harbor. I haven't yet released those men from duty. So no one should be going in or leaving still by all accounts...General. "Silvery blue eyes cast towards the beast of a man, clearly the pain was etched on his face. Where was Shaden...Stepping over the boot prints of blood, he kneeled and caught a piece of flapping cloth as it floated on the wind. Gloved hand groaned as it held tight to the piece of cloth and brought it to his nose for a whiff. Scents could be imprinted on cloth, much like perfume scented the skin. He held tight to the cloth as he lifted back to his feet as he slowly followed the bloody prints to the grass and disappeared around the side of the house. By the time the boy returned, Nicholas was circling from the other side of the house. "Maahes...General.." He spoke as he held his outstretched hand to the man. The silver bracelet looked small and meek within his grasp. "Shaden's..."He managed with a heavy sigh, his knees buckling as he felt his heart let out a cry of anguish. "She never took it off. I don't know where it came from...but she never took it off.."
Maahes: "Those men are not yours to release from duty, soldier. They go no where until I say understood?" He spoke very plainly without a harsh tone, but wanted to correct the soldier very quickly that he was only a soldier and would have earn his men. This battle and country was important to him, and it was important that everyone was on the same page. He had his captains, and he had his soldiers. Nic would no doubt be there someday, but for now he would have to wait, "but it is fortunate you thought ahead." He spoke before turning to his son, "Galen, I need you to find the pirate." He took the boy's shoulder, "There was a battle down by his ship I have no doubt he is there. Do you feel safe to go alone, or should I send you Nic?" As a matter of fact, "Nic, go with him. Get the pirate, the pretty boy one with black hair." Taking the bracelet from Nic he closed it over his palm. "Crying about it will not help. Get up." This was the side of the General that kept him in his position, how he could mask all emotion and drive his men forward. "Go get that man, Galen you come with me." With that he set off, turning over his shoulder to speak to his son. "Now we return to the city, gather a group of men and set forth with a search." Trying to teach him? Yes.
Galen: : The scent of blood whirled around him as the wind picked up, tainting the inside of his nose and over powering the current smell of night. Fingers held tightly onto the hilt of his sword, years being trained by his Father no doubt would be put to use. The youth was ready to follow every order given to him but as the decision by his Father changed, Galen would halt his movements. His own heart ached as he saw's Nic's expression, was this the man Shaden loved? He drew his attention back to Maahes, his body already beginning to turn without thought. He kept up with his Father's speed, his head nodded in regards to his words.: " Yes, Father." : He spoke softly as his pace picked up.: " It will be an honor to work and fight beside you....." : This would be the first time Galen was able to fight along side his Father, his age had finally reached the proper digit.:
Shaden: The new townhouse that held the burden of evidence of the fight for her life.. held a story... there were three sets of booted tracks.. each slightly different.. carpenters tools had been used by and hand that fought furiously...instinctively with the fierceness of a lioness protecting her cub... a hammer bloodied on one end.. held traces of dark hair... and awl.. flung down in a small pool of blood... even a plane.. thrown and lodged into newly plastered walls.. it was obvious she had not gone easily ... even on the door jams her fingerprints smeared in blood as she held onto the opening to keep from being carted off.. and for a while.. a trail of belongings.. hair pins, the bracelet... a ring... anything she could leave as a trail... then nothing.. it was if they disappeared.. into the night.. no tracks.. no trails.. Cold .
Stryker: "For your information...General...those men aren't in the army, I hired them for extra security on the Lily as soon as I made the decision to join the army. I wouldn't presume to throw myself into a position I was not given, my past weighted or not. I'm merely a tool..."Hands spread, as if sarcastically displaying he was a no body in the army and that was just fine with him. Silvery blues turned to the boy at his return then back to the General. The pretty boy with black hair? He knew him, JC. Damn scoundrel. The bracelet was snatched from his fingers and instantly his face hardened. "Lets get one thing straight, General..You command me in the army, but don't...presume to tell me my duties with Shaden." Inwardly he was all ready kicking himself for leaving her behind while he tended the battle at the docks and the battle within the city but he was also seething because Shaden left the Lily without a guard, after he asked her specifically not to. "However, I'll do as you ask only because I need more eyes and ears to find her.."and beat her pretty little behind. He mused the latter in his head. True he would never lift a hand to her but right now, it sounded pretty damn good! Turning upon his heels, he went in the opposite direction of the General..catching the phrase father and he shook his head. Poor kid. "JC!!!" His voice called down the docks as he approached. Ah, one way to get the damn mans attention if he was truly here. "Shaden is in trouble!" He called again. Now to count the seconds before the man popped his head out of his behind and actually showed himself.
Maahes: "Let's get another thing straight. I don't give a flying f*ck." Boy Maahes sure did cuss a lot anymore..married life. "About you and Shaden. She is a grown woman, she can do as she wants. "And you will do as I command, because I said to. If you do not agree with me, then feel free to leave this army. The punishment for deserting your post is banishment, and I would be killing two birds with one stone." His eyes narrowed as the man was already gone and he set off for the city. "He will not last long, I'll kill him myself, or Bess will eat him alive." Upon meeting the streets he turned to Galen once again, "Go follow him, make sure he does as I command." His hand came to raise to his son's shoulder. "We can find her." Together. With that he set off.
Perry: Wrong person popped their head or so it seemed, as a grin spread his lips seeing the knight. "Nic! You'll wake the dead." Literally. Covered in oil and gun powder he brushed his hands seeing the panic in the man's eyes, "So tell me what trouble she has gotten in now. I knew I should have forced her to sleep in. She needed it; tossed and turned all night."
Galen: : Galen knew his Father's temper very well, even when he was away he would remember it. Strong hands braced against his shoulders and he nodded some, though truly he wanted to stay at Maahes side. Galen was not going to argue and so he would take off to follow Nic's footsteps. He held no ill will towards the man for talking back to his Father, love was a powerful thing. Soon enough he was at Nic's side, Skye blue hues falling onto the fellow who was covered in oil and gun powder.: " Now is not the time to joke, Perry...." : Was all Galen said as he turned his attention onto Nic. His hand was still tight upon the hilt of his sword, Nic was his only guide at the moment on who to trust, after all he had just returned and everything was new.:
Stryker: "I have a way of doing that it seems anyway Perry. Besides, I wasn't looking for you. I was looking for Jean Claude or did he just slip off? Couldn't hack the competition?"Thumbs lazily hooked in his belt as he rocked back and forth on his feet. If Perry's words had any effect on Nic, they didn't register on his face. His throat cleared as the boy appeared. So, the General didn't trust him to get the job done. Who cared...Nic could give a rats ass what the General thought. He had little respect for the man as he hadn't earned it. His title of General was just that, a title. The leather glove on his right hand groaned as his hand clutched tightly to his belt. "She's missing..parts of her clothing littered about, found her bracelet, that silver one, behind the house. Didn't get to check inside, but didn't need to...there's blood too. The General..."This he said with a roll of his eyes"Sent me for Jean Claude..So you going to tell me where I can find him or just sit there?"
Perry: The crew of rag tag men behind Peregrin started to laugh when the knight brought up the competition, and the sun's rays did a number on every soul there. "No, Sir perhaps he couldn't hack the competition." Taking hold of the railing he would jump from the ship to the dock and give a wink to Galen, "Look at you all ready to go, boy." His hand came to pat the boy's shoulder, "Now all you need is to start dreadlocking your hair, and tan you'll be the next person dying before you reach 30." Pressing past the two he turned a grin over his shoulder, "Or walk with a stick up your ass, and grunt. Come along. We've got a woman to track, Jean-Claude will join us soon enough."
Galen: : Galen was very tempted to ram the hilt of his sword right into the Back of Perry's skull as he walked away. If the man only knew how much hell he had put his son through over the years. Galen was not in the mood for his jokes. To make matters worse, Jean Claude was going to be into the picture. Galen couldn't help but remember when the man had placed him in a cage with the rest of the prisoners, taunting him and such. He gritted his teeth and gave a light nod towards Nic. The Youth began to treck back towards his Father and the place he was told to meet him at. Fingers dragged through his hair out of habit. His heart began to pound in his chest again, just the thought of having both Perry and Maahes in the same area was making him anxious. With the way things were going in his life, who knew if Galen was going to make it past 17.
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Jan 28, 2009 0:07:40 GMT -6
Ealora:Things did not settle down in the Asad Aziem household when Maahes and Galen ran out into the night. Nora had effectively gotten the dog away from Ealora and told Ealora to go change and perhaps get Eppie her bath. Strange that the older woman would be giving the orders but it was to keep Ealora from freaking out, from running out into the night herself to find her sister and it well enough worked but enough stress could do crazy things to a person. For Maahes, it was chest pains, for Galen, a rapid heartbeat. Lifting Eppie out of the bathtub, a towel was thrown around the little girl before Ealora let out a cry for Nora. Maahes roamed the streets to find her sister while Nora went out to find Avery. The hours passed, Avery came and left, leaving Ealora in bed with their little girl who, had seen enough stress for the day besides her mothers early labor pains. "Let me put her into bed My Lady.."Nora spoke from the doorway as Ealora's fingers brushed through the little girls hair. Celadon eyes lifted to the older woman and nodded. "Is...Maahes home yet?"She whispered as to not wake the little one up as nora lifted her up in her arms. "Not yet my lady, but I wouldn't keep it from you." Ealora nodded and settled back into the pillows, all ready she was itching to get out of bed. "Make sure dinner is set out for him and Galen, and each have a warm bath when they come home.."Ealora whispered. Nora turned by the door, peeking over the little girls head. "Yes Ma'am.." and the door shut behind her.
Maahes: Maahes had not slept for nearly three days. From the time the explosion hit until now he could only gather himself 4 hours of rest. by the second day he had locked himself in his office at the arena just to nap. However even that had been short lived. It was amazing what the body would go through to press forward. How a heart could force legs to walk, and the air into his lungs. Shaden meant the world to them all, and he kept his best men looking. However, Maahes was going to die if he did not rest. When he pressed open the door Nora was quick to come forward but could easily see this General would not be eating and would barely make it to the bedroom. "Would you want to fall upon the couch, M'lord?" She spoke softly removing his overcoat and undoing his belt. "No.." He muttered, "Where is Ealora?" Glazed eyes found the woman's as she motioned upstairs and he inwardly groaned about having to climb them. Yet, his love waited at the top..and that was all he needed to be pushed forward. It was not like him to sleep in his clothes, as he felt trapped and caged. Yet, Maahes could barely get his boots off before he was climbing in bed beside his wife. He was glad he had cleaned up before heading home, but could only imagine how the smell of smoke and gunpowder mixed with the scented oils from the burning lands. If she would protest he would go bath, but she may not get him back. He would not go under the covers knowing full and well she would kill him if he got them dirty, but eve overtop the quilt he would hold her. Fingers stained with blood would not come clean no matter how many times he washed them pressed back the russet curls from her shoulder, and he would wonder if she was still awake. "Ealora.." He whispered softly, and waited for his answer.
Ealora:She didn't know why she had asked if he was home before. She felt him as soon as he entered the house. Like a rush of warm desert wind. She heaved a sigh as her head rolled back upon the pillows and waited. She did not have to wait long, though it took him longer then usual to reach the bedroom. A small smile curled her lips as he fell upon the bed beside her. Her head turned on the pillows as her hand moved to brush the dreads of his hair out of his face. "I'm awake love.."Still her voice was in a gentle whisper though Eppie was no longer laying in the bed. Avery had said no stress. Celadon eyes found his own as he drew her into his arms and she let out a sigh. "You didn't find her yet.."She didn't need to him to answer to know that was the truth. If Shaden were fine, he would not be so tired, he would be bouncing up the stairs to tell her they found her. Her throat tightened in pain, remembering well the paw prints of blood on her dress. If anything happened to Shaden...without being able to..Ealora couldn't think of it as the tears began to slide down her cheeks. A hand lifted to quickly rub them away from her face. No stress. "You should get some rest. You look like you are ready to fall over.."
Maahes: "No..but I will." Instantly he felt weak for being so tired. He felt ashamed and tried very hard to get back up. However the sweet gentle sound of her voice, and the touch of her skin soothed him. "I have not slept..I must, but I be up soon." When he was tired, English was very hard as it came out sounding broken and distorted. His accent prevailed deeper over his voice rolling sounds together, and making them sound even more savage. "She is ok, Ealora. Jean-Claude and the pirate look for her now. They have one of the wolves in their command." He was not sure how JC had done it, but he had his suspicions, Closing his eyes he pressed his forehead against her own and took her hand. "The healer was here. What did she say?" Opening his eyes again he caught her own, wanting to the truth. Was his baby ok?
Ealora:"You can not be clear headed without rest. Sleep, I will make sure I wake you up in time." Her fingers curled with his own as his head leaned against her own and she let out a sigh. Perry secret was still save with her and yes, somehow she was comforted that the two of them were looking for Shaden still. It at least it gave Maahes a break. He needed it. Ah, so he knew about Avery visit but then, he was the General of Skye. "The baby is fine, Maahes. I had some early labor pains but my water didn't break and Avery got it under control, although, I've been ordered to bed rest again...for at least a week." Her fingers stroked at his cheek as she pressed a kiss against his temple. "The baby is fine.."
Maahes: "Labor pains?" He sat up then, swaying just a little but turned on his arm to face her. "What kind of pains? Does that not mean you are to have the baby? Ealora." He closed his lips letting his jaw clench, "What causes this? I'll kill whoever has done this to you. Maybe you should go see Aislin, she knows more." Though he didn't know that for a fact, he simply trusted Aislin more. She meant a lot to him, and has healed him many times. "You will stay on bedrest this time." He spoke with flattened lips, and though she maybe couldn't see him--it would be known.
Ealora: Her hands came up to grasp him as he swayed. Panic and swaying with a body ready to give out with lack of rest. "Maahes, calm down. Labor pains can cause a woman to give birth but Avery got it under control.."Her arms wrapped around drawing him back down to her and in his tired state, it likely was not difficult. "Stress caused it, so Avery said bed rest and no stress..If you want Aislin to have a look at me and the baby, I won't argue but calm down..." In truth she had been panicked when the pains had started but Avery had explained what Maahes always knew, the baby felt her, every part of her including her emotions and the stress had caused the baby to want to get away from the stress, hence the labor pains. Once Ealora was calmed and put in bed, the pains had stopped before any damage was done, before her water could break. "I promise you, I am not going anywhere, I'll not endanger the life of our child, but you must promise me you will get some sleep. Deal?"
Maahes: He would return with her, twisting his upper body to press his chest against her own, but holding himself up by an arm. Wouldn't want to squish her now would he? His arm curled around her neck fingers lacing through her hair lightly as his lips came to brush against her own. His beard had become too long as he had not the chance to trim it up, and he would make a note to clean up his face. However, in the moment he released all of his stress with the warm gentle rush of her kiss, and would hope she would do the same thing. Running his free hand down her front he stilled atop the mound of her stomach and brushed his fingers over the tightened skin. "You fall asleep first." He spoke as the kiss broke and the cool tip of his nose ran the line of her cheek.
Ealora: She let out a soft hum as his body turned with her own down into the comfort of the bed. Grasping his arm, she pushed with her legs so he laid back and didn't have to hold himself up above her as she rolled to her side to face him. Her chin tilted upward as his lips met her own. Fingers brushed against his cheek. He needed to shave but right now, she did not mind. Slowly, into that kiss she let her body and mind relax. She trusted him above all others. She knew he did not make a promise unless he truly meant to keep it. A soft hum of a laugh left her lips as his hand trailed down her stomach, telling her to fall asleep first. Her hand covered his own, fingers stroking against his own. "How about we fall asleep together?" She trusted he would get sleep but knew well that he would push is body to the breaking point and she didn't want him reaching that breaking point, not yet. "I'll tell you what, why don't we fall asleep together?" She did not fear much, but loosing her husband she feared the most. Loosing her family, she feared the most.
Maahes: Maahes would not argue with her wrapping her up tightly and would soon drift off to meet her in his dreams. His snores were heavy as he never did breathe right, the air here was much thicker then at home. His arms would fall limp around her, but were heavy enough to keep her still. As Ealora would fall asleep, her name would be whispered through the window outside..the winter called.
Perry: "Ealora.." A rock would hit the glass lightly, and in his frustration he started to simply climb on up. "Ealora." He prayed to the Lord Maahes did not wake up, but when his shadow covered the floor he quickly moved from the light.
Ealora: She kissed his cheek, humming against his ear the same lullaby she sang to Eppie. The one he had once fallen asleep to as well. Lids drew heavy and her humming stopped as his snoring overtook her voice. A small smile pulled at her lips as she wrapped her arms about the one that held her still. Lids began loose, sliding lower over her eyes went her name was called. With a deep inhaled breath, she jerked beneath her husband before curling her arms against him to still him from waking. Her face twisted as she wiggled beneath his arm and padded to the window, as she pushed the seal upward, she let out a gasp and covered her mouth at Perry right before it. She thought seriously of shoving him but well, he was to high up, she knew he wouldn't die but she didn't need any extra noise. "Perry"She hissed behind her hand and let out a groan as she maneuvered into the window seat. "What the hell are you doing here?" Whispered still.
Perry: "I need your help again." Duh. Why else would he be out here? "Your brother. The one biggie, killed on the Island. Where does his girl sleep at night?" Funny the Pirate was asking her, but then he did have to wonder if she even knew who the woman was. "Her name is Malice Campbell, I need you to keep your ears open..you go to the same events all the other women go to right?" Boy did he look the fool crouching in her window, "We think she has Shaden, and need all the information you can get." The wind moved the strands of honey blonde over his face and he turned to look down at his second who held what appeared to be a very large dog on the end of a rope. However, the silver fur could not be mistaken, and when the clouds moved from the moon it was clear it was one of the wolves. Returning his eyes to her he smiled lightly seeing her holding her stomach, and asked, "How's the baby?" Just like him to have normal conversation while clinging to the side of a building huh?
Ealora: She gave a roll of her eyes and heaved a sigh. She wasn't stupid, if he was there with Maahes only a few feet away, of course he needed her damn help. She just wanted to know what it was he needed. "Perry.."She groaned and shook her head. "My brother was trying to kill me..we didn't exactly get lovey dovey close enough for me to find out where he and whatever sadistic maniac of a woman he had on the side were staying..."The name didn't ring a bell, was that the woman she had seen across the square in Paradise Point? "I'll do what I can...but I can't promise anything other then to keep my ears open." Peeking past him, she looked down as he did seeing JC with a...wolf. Maahes had said something about that. While Maahes wasn't sure how he had gotten the animal or cured it, if it were indeed one of the sick, but Ealora...knowing the truth...had an idea. Rolling back onto the seat, her eyes found Perry's again. She was so used to cupping her belly now, she hadn't even realized she had been doing it. "The baby is fine..had some labor pains but everything is under control now..been ordered to bed rest for a week so I don't know what I can do for you till I am able to get out of bed, but I'm sure I can think of something."
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Jan 28, 2009 0:28:04 GMT -6
Perry: Hanging still to the frame of the window, some would call him a fool for instantly any eyes passing would think him courting a very happily married woman. A foolish man to dare think he would survive the beating he would be given, "I am glad he wants this baby more then I have ever seen him want of anything." Motioning with a nod of his head to the sleeping back of the Beast who was still turned to the wall where his wife would be. "Ealora..I know this will be hard, but I need one more favor." Turning then to look at the shadowy figure there where the wolf sat at his side--waiting patiently. "I need a list of everyone who has been affected by the wolves. I need a list of their name and their residency. Perhaps you can ask the healer who tends to you to get it." Reaching then to the back of his pocket he released a small bag of coins, "Give her this to speed her on." With that he would start to move out of the window but still and return, "I am not asking too much of you am I?" Spoken in a small voice, knowing he had put a lot on her shoulders in the past few weeks. He asked a lot of her, especially going behind Maahes and Shaden's back. With the baby and all she had done so good, and it was no wonder Maahes married her. "You do know everything will be ok right?" (
Ealora: Anyone who thought he was courting her, would be a fool. She didn't really call him a friend but he had once put trust in her which she had not asked for, but accepted, willingly and that secret still was kept safely tucked away in the darkness of her. That part of her that Maahes had just barely glimpsed and others knew nothing about. "As much as I want this child..."She spoke in a whisper but with a smile touching her face, the natural glow of pregnancy heightened by the glow of happiness for her family though there was a shadow of doubt within her eyes. With Shaden missing, her family felt torn, like a favorite shirt with a hole. Celadon eyes lifted to his face as he spoke of needing a favor, for a minute, she opened her mouth to protest. She didn't know those infected. Even as he asked her to ask the healer she knew. Ha, Avery? That prim and proper little thing? Still there was no harm in trying, the girl did work in the infirmary. Taking the bag of coins, she tucked it away with a nod. "I shall try... and yes I do know. Or I hope.." As he began to climb back down, she leaned out the window and hissed in a whisper"Perry wait.." Turning back to make sure Maahes hadn't woken up for a minute before she turned around once more. "There is a woman on my crew, her name is Scarlett..if you need help..in finding Shaden, she has a kin tracking sense. Seek her out. Tell her I will double her salary, if she refuses, tell her I will triple it...and be careful, both of you..".
Perry: Too far away to speak words for her to hear, he mouthed a thank you and soon met the ground. "
Jean-Claude:Did you tell her to make the list?"
Perry:Jean-Claude asked as his captain met his side and they started down the street, "Yes, of everyone affected. I also asked her to track the whereabouts of Malice. She does not know why, but she is going to keep tabs on her." Jean-Claude gave a nod.
Jean-Claude:"Good, because we must watch for those men and women touched by the lions. They have started to die slowly, especially now that we get closer to the full moon. I fear for their lives. This city needs not another tragedy. Not with war on the horizon."
Perry:It was a sight to watch them walk together, JC in all his state and grace stood a good foot taller then his companion who has always carried a..bounce in his step. Peregrin's eyes fell upon the wolf who still held the look of crazy inside it's glassy orbs, like it had been put to sleep to walk in it's dreams. His hand would come to brush through the silver fur but would pull away quickly as snarling teeth would instantly snap at his hand.
Jean-Claude:"Do not do that, she will mistake your hand for a mouse, Peregrin and eat it. What a shame that would be for you to live the rest of your life with only one hand..you would not be able to lift the skirts of the Courtesan very well."
Perry:Jean-Claude's voice was dry and laced thickly with a bitter tone, and as Peregrin rubbed over the place where the wolf had snapped his eyes shot to the stern cold face of his companion. He would say nothing, but lift his chin as they walked, until words could no longer be contained. "You think I'm the one keeping her from you Jean-Claude?" He spoke with little care in his voice, stepping on the other side of the wolf keeping his distance. They would walk in silence for a moment until coming to the edge of the forest. "You know.." Peregrin started as he lazily kicked around a block of melting ice, "The Irony of this entire thing is really amazing, while you and Nic are having a pissing match back and forth I move in and take the prize." He snorted hurt that JC would ever thing such a thing, "Though the real curse is while your life is spent underground healing these animals, Nic is getting all the glory..but..I guess it would mean she did not love him as much as she says if she's allowing me to share her bed at night hmm?" Before Peregrin could even think a blade was stuck to his chest, the tip touching where his heart beat perfectly below the silver.
Jean-Claude:"YOU keep your dirty hands OFF of her!"
Perry:There was a blind rage in the man then, one that Peregrin had never seen before.
Jean-Claude:"If she wishes to love Nic then so be it, but I will NOT watch you break her apart."
Perry:Looking down the perfect line of man and sword he followed JC's arm adorned in the finest lace, to meet the man's solid black eyes. No human eye could follow the lines of the fight then as within split second the blade had replaced hands, and Jean-Claude's perfectly straight hair fell around his face that was now inches deep in the snow. "LET me get one thing straight with you." Eyes of the most perfect blue swirled and came to life a black storm growing in the distance. "If you think I have forsaken you in anyway, then you are mistaken, child." The tip of the blade touched JC's cheek lightly, and the wolf at his side growled until Peregrin's eyes flashed towards it, and then it would lower it's body in a cower. "And if you think for one MOMENT of your life that you can kill me, you have another thing coming. Do NOT forget what and who you are dealing with, son." With that the back of his boot that held the man down lifted after he gave a final press, and the sword was tossed to his side. "I haven't touched her..and it's killed me. I've wanted to, trust me..but I haven't." Dusting off his tunic he closed the clasp of his cloak tighter. "Now get up..we have work to do."
Malice: First rule of thumb.. if you don't have to do it yourself.. you have others to sacrfice if they get caught.. usually Malice used people to gain her ends.. and this day's work had been no different.. She had sent four men into Turas Lan to capture the Pirate wench and her sniveling golden haired brat.. these were the intended victims she had longed for.. to watch from afar as the Dark Skinned General tore himself into tiny pieces with worry and frustration over heir loss... but instead.. when only two men had returned alive.. the other to perishing somewhere between Turas Lan.. and the Labyrinth.. she had been infuriated.. instead of the Wife of the General she got his whorish Sister in Law.. yes part of the family but not the part she had wanted.. She raged at the two remaining men.. ordering them to toss the remains of their comrades into the lion pits... forcing them to watch as the two dead mercenary's were ripped into bite sized morsels... ingested.. Hands cruelly twisted in their hair pressing their faces to the bars.. " You have failed me.. and you bring me this...?" she looked at the unconscious form of the Copper Haired whore.. prone on the floor.. with anger... " Offer your hands... " her tone was cold.. merciless.. the men looked back and forth between themselves a moment "But MiLady... tis rumored she may carry the Generals Child.. " excuses.. rumors .. none of this she wanted to hear.. " YOUR HANDS" she commanded.. as they each held out their left hand... with the swift accurate motion of a killer.. a sword was lifted high above her head.. and in one fell stroke.. both hands were cleaved at the wrist from their owners... thudding to the floor with a sickening squish, of flesh... each man fell to his knees in pain.. stanching the blood as best they could as she kicked their now severed hands toward them... "Feed them to the Lions... and thank god it was not your head " she turned watching the onlookers.. who blanched and paled in pure fear of her.... two steps and she was standing near the whore... " Take her to a cell..." once more she looked at the two men who now tossed their hands into the lion pit.. watching them be consumed , with a smile that would chill even the warmest of hearts.. she turned to the rest of the men... " I shall not be dissipointed again... shall I ?"
Scarlett: "My my...two men fighting in the street like dogs...and with a mutt no less. I must say, I'm rather beginning to like this place. Men in their proper place.." Scarlett grin was masked in the shadows she stood on the corner, with a decisive step forward, she moved off the building she leaned upon to head towards them. A cigar planted between her lips was pulled out as she blew the smoke into the wind. What she was doing here was anyone's guess. Hell the best action she had seen thus far was the explosion of some admirals ship. Damn man deserved it if he couldn't keep an eye out on his ship. The truth was she had been watching the asad aziem home. Why though still remained a mystery. "Tell me...boys..what was your purpose at the Asad Aziem home?" She spoke while sweeping the edge of her coat back to reveal the sword at her side.
Perry: "One could ask you the same thing.." Peregrin gave her his back until the anger in his eyes left, and Jean-Claude simply sat there resting his hands upon drawn knees.
Jean-Claude:"We were only checking on them, M'lady. Her sister has been kidnapped, and her husband we fear may become ill."
Perry:The smile on the man's face was sweet as always as he stood, brushing the snow from the fabric of his pants. "They have set a curfew..Are you not afraid of the war growing, M'lady? "
Scarlett: Lazily, her thumbs hooked within her belt as she strolled around the pair. Perhaps she was sizing them up. Two against one did not seem like good odds but then, she had always defeated better odds then that. Then again, she could be judging their answers and if she truly believed them. Still, didn't matter to her. A dark brow lifted as she was called M'lady. It was funny enough she let out a burst of laughter. "Afraid? Because they set a curfew...my dear boy please."She rolled her eyes from one to the other and continued to grin. "So, the little whore of a sister was kidnapped, the great giant of a beast, could become ill...tsk tsk...what a pity."Though her voice was anything but regretful for what befell the 'family'.
Shaden: It would be later... much later that Shaden awoke to find herself on a musty straw pallet... in a small stone cell.. seemingly carved from the earth it 'self.. a groan of piteous proportions left her lips.. as she sat up groggily pushing back her copper curls.. a caked dried scab of blood at her temple.. she scowled as the memory of the fight came back.. her hand sliding to her belly... inwardly panicking.. but like her mother the babe was strong.. and kicked rambunctiously against her hand.. as if in greeting.. " ok little one.. now... we need to find out how to get out of here " she whispered as she gained her feet moving to the bars.. and yes.. she tested the door.. firmly locked... then called out " Is anyone there..... anyone... where am I.... why... am I here "(d)
Perry:"OOooh, Whore is a great word to use! So Original, I'm very certain Shaden hasn't heard that before." Peregrin rolled his eyes as he sized the woman up. "I'm sorry dear, but you bore me and we have work to be done." He snorted, little chyt that he was.
Jean-Claude:A cold bare hand fell to his chest as endless night eyes fell towards the horizon, "She's alive." He whispered closing his eyes and feeling the empty cavity of his chest come alive with the slightest hope.
Perry:Peregrin would watch his friend and raise his hand to the man's shoulder, "Do you know these lands?" Peregrin turned over his shoulder to the woman. Winter was returning in full force the break in the weather over as the air became frozen and with ease he curled his cloak around him more.
Maahes: Inside the house Maahes felt the cold rush over his body as he did not cover and eyes parted to the world he had left. How long had he been asleep? Not long enough his body protested but already he felt better. A look over to his wife who slept soundly would be enough to push him forward as he came to rise from the bed. Standing to poke at the fire he brought it back to life, and shuffled lightly through his clothes wanting rid of the dirty ones on his body and with clean--trick his mind into thinking it was a new day
Shaden:There was only the sound of children.. whispering.. until one answered her.
Captured Children:" Quiet Lady... they'll com back fer us.. to feed the cats.. shhhhhhhhh " it was a young boys voice that reached her ears .
Shaden:" The cats... where are we.. who has put you here..?" she whispered.. quieting as the child bid her..pressing against the bars to look and see.. where the voices were coming from.. it was dark.. pitch black save for a few flickering torches at uneven intervals down the tunnel...
Captured Children:" The woman who controls the beast.. she's a witch... she steals away us children in the night to feed them... " as if on cue.. a rumbling roar split the silence of the night.. causing some of the children to scream softly in fear.. others begin to sob... " That's em... they sound like that when their hungry "
Scarlett: "Implying a name to the creature gives it worth and you mistake me for someone who actually cares..." Her shoulders rolled backward as she popped them out of their stiffness from a nights watch. "Of course she is alive. You didn't think all that blood was hers." She huffed a deep sigh as she rolled her eyes skyward then down again. "Probably better then people who have lived here all their lives...Why?" She honestly found it amusing to push their buttons. Best thing to happen all night. Her chin lifted, dark eyes caught the lights of street lamps lit for the evening. "Smells and sounds like the General is up..."
Perry:"He doesn't need as much rest as we thought. Good then he can deal with his men..they are already ruining the tracks." Inwardly the man sighed, a pirate worried of a whore..who knew. "We need all the help we can get to comb through the woods for any sign of what direction she could have gone..are you the tracker Ealora was talking about?" His bright blues found refuge in the night but then met the tall figure of the woman.
Maahes: A kiss planted to the cheek of the woman he loved it would not be long before he was out the door suited and ready. There was only a few more hours left in the night, and for this he was worried as he knew by morning he would need to return to the city. "Scarlett..Peregrin..what news?" Though he spoke to the rest he tipped his head to Jean-Claude and then eyed the wolf. "Have you found where they might have taken her?"
Scarlett: "Aww, does ruined tracks make you nervous?"She snorted with a laugh before giving a singular nod of her head. Well only Ealora would call her a tracker. Though before she could say more, the great breast himself was calling her name. Turning sharply upon her heels, her chin tipped up. The General was a tall one and she was only perhaps a head shorter then him. Tall girls always were creepy, so they said, she intensified it, seemed to enjoy it. "Well, seems the news of the whores disappearance has reached the docks. Taylor sent me off this way to see what I could pick up.. There is a lot of scents in the air right now...Besides, I don't work for free.."Shoulders rolled again, this time the pop within her shoulders louder. Damn stiffness.
Maahes: Maahes had just walked past her when she spoke, having still been half asleep he sat on the edge of sanity and reality. However the word 'whore' was his trigger as a massive fist clenched and soon broke loose across the bridge of Maahes had just walked past her when she spoke, having still been half asleep he sat on the edge of sanity and reality. However the word 'whore' was his trigger as a massive fist clenched and soon broke loose across the bridge of nose. The sound of his knuckles across her face was impressive and both Jean-Claude and Peregrin sat with wide eyes as the General struck the woman. "You don't call her a whore, and you'll be paid nothing." He barked in her direction. "That is my Ealora's sister you are speaking about, so you do it with respect, Pirate." He took a step back to allow her to retaliate if she wished, but lord he was fuming. Peregrin's brows rose with a grin, and suddenly he'd never been so proud of the man, and thankful he wasn't on the receiving end of that punch. Lord, Ealora would be so angry to know her husband just hit a woman, but he hardly considered this one..woman.
Shaden: She didn't know what to make of it.. children in some kind of dungeon... being fed to what sounded like lions.. Creatures she had seen only in the zoological parks of Venice.. royal feral wild beast ... who on earth had such things Skye.. and why... feed them children..? she eased to the ground.. sliding her hands thru the bars... and feeling along the wall... whispering " How many of there are you...? How long have you been here?" her hands reached the edge of the stone.. and a small hand grasp hers back.. tiny fingers.. clasping hers soflty...
Captured Children:"Twelve or so in this cell.. but the next two have more... we don't know how long.. there is no sun or moon to count the days..." the brave voice of the boy whispered... then the younger voice of a little girl.. " I want my mommy.... " sobs... as more begin to cry in the peptrual night...
Shaden:"Shhhhhhh shhhhhh it will be alright... shhhhhhh someone will come... to find us... someone will come " she hoped.. and prayed for this... silently... on into the night... as she held the little hand... in hers... she begin to sing.. and soon enough it was picked up by a few children... " Ferra Jacques..... Ferra Jaques... dor ma voux dor ma voux" over and over.. till the last little voice faded into sleep.... someone would come... it was then.. in the silence.. she prayed her most feverant prayer... let them be delivered from this evil place.. all of them..
Scarlett: She reeled back from the punch, one step back and then another before she caught her balance. A hand lifted to the streak of blood which now inched its way from her nose. Fingers dabbed the blood from her nose and brought it down to her view before a pink tongue snaked out and licked the blood from her fingertips before her hand was shoved into her belt once more. "Ah, so its ok for you to think so but no one else to speak it and that's fine by me, no pay, no service. Sure you got plenty of men to aid in the search for your precious courtesan." A smug little grin pressed past her lips "Your Ealora? I was under the impression she belonged to no one. Then again, the foolish succumb to the illusion of marriage, simply a means for men to procreate. I assume your men have searched the city though, no sign of her eh? Have fun with that...By the way, not that I care what you think of me, I'm not a pirate...I'm much worse." and to the latter, her grin grew across her lips, dark and evil.
Maahes: Poor Maahes didn't know what half of the words meant, but all the while as they argued in the streets the real pirates slipped off into the night. They no longer could watch what was going on here, and had far too much to be done. "Yes, MY Ealora you sick." Broken English never could come up with the right insults, it wasn't his way no? Drawing the blade at his side he started to circle her. "You have her." Of course meaning, Shaden. "You have her so that way you can use her to take my wife." Crazy huh? "I love her more then just her body if that is what you mean." To him there was noting worse then a pirate. "Get back to your ship woman, or die!" Lord he just needed to go back to bed.
Scarlett: A burst of a laugh left her lips. "Sick what? No words..figures.." Fingers gripped the sword at her side and drew it with a sickening scrap as she turned in circles to follow the General. "Your out of your mind. What the hell would I want with that pregnant wench anyway's? To get to your wife. You poor soul...so insecure. I could give a rats ass about your wife General. At least in the way you think. I don't have the little whore, but if I did. I surely wouldn't be standing here in the street with you pointing swords at each other." Her arm lifted, guiding the sword back into its sheath at her side. "I've lost my interest in you General..you're beginning to bore me really. Like I said, the right price and I'll...lets just say sniff out that little sister in law of yours out. But...since you don't want to pay me, I'll head back to the Shadow Storm and twiddle my thumbs." Sarcastic little bytch as she gestured with her hands, all the while, that smug little grin on her face.
Maahes: Before should would have time to move he was after her in seconds. All the fury and rage of the night before and the days that followed came with a rush of battle. He thirsted for the blood of this woman, like some crazed animal he wanted it spilt. SHE suddenly was the reason for Galen leaving, SHE was the reason they were going to war. SHE was the person who held Shaden, and SHE was after his wife; even though none of that was true. The sound of their blades quickly drew attention by the guards and they all gasped knowing that look in his eye. This was what won their battles, "If you have thumbs left ." He hissed, and continued with his assault upon her. Many of the men who gathered started to place their bets but..were unsure of who they thought would win.
Scarlett: In the dead of the night within the streets, the sword clanged and clashed. Scarlett was a woman who knew how to rub a person raw, to split them in two. Make them rage because she herself was no different. She had perhaps once been a good woman, though none were alive to tell the tale. She was by no means a murdering monster without a cause. Always the right payment made the kill worth it, meaning behind it be damned, she was still a monster, just not the same as lunatic ones. A laugh fell from her lips as the swords clashed and scrapped as she threw the General's advice off, circled and threw up her weapon again to still the attack. "Such animalistic rage General...I could all most admire that.." The sword rolled in her hand, making a wide loop as she lunged at the General and the sword swung downward. "If you fought with a better purpose..."She hissed.
Maahes: The tip of her blade was caught and swung like a dance of ribbons in the wind as he spun his own around her. However the rush of the battle would soon fall to an end as he stepped back, "You are impossible. A fool. Vile, and rude. You will be killed on this night." He lunged at her again, crossing the blade within her own to open her chest delivering the brute force of his body in hopes to send her backwards. A man from the dock's who had come to watch quickly took off towards the home where the pirate queen rest, and started to bang harshly upon the door. "Ealora! Ealora! It's Jeremy! Maahes and Scarlett are trying to kill each other! She'll kill him!" The crew knew very well of the woman's power, that even the Beast could not tame it.
Scarlett: "Aw, you noticed. I'm flattered." Such a sarcastic bytch she was. The swords hissed as they met. As if both pulled from hot coal and struck together. He lunged at her, brute force, ha! Swords met again but this time, she grabbed at him as he sought to knock her over, carrying him with her as she swung around only to release him and let his own weight throw him against the wall.
Ealora:Ealora jerked in bed as the banging resounded upstairs. With a groan, she pushed against the bed, a hand brought up to rub against her face. The banging continued but the voice was muffled. So much for staying in bed. Nora stood within the hall as she opened the door, the older woman's face stark white. It was then the mans words cut through her. Fraggle Rock! "My lady!" Nora screeched behind her but Ealora flew down the stairs as fast as her feet would carry her, all the while, gripping at her belly as the door to the street was flung open. Jeremy was knocked to the side as she ran, barefooted out into the street in yes, just a nightshirt that barely covered her bottom due to the girth of her belly. "Maahes! Scarlett! Stop!!"
Scarlett:The sword rolled in her hand and swung downward towards Maahes as he was flung against the wall. Clearly, she wasn't about to listen to Ealora.
Ealora:She was not as fast as she once was but she lunged for Scarlett as she swung, knocking herself and the woman to the ground, thankfully upon her side. Ealora rose as fast as she possibly could only to bring her fist down into the woman's face. This stunned Scarlett enough where the sword fell from her grasp. Lunging for the sword, the cobblestone made the sword sing as she pulled it up from the ground and pressed it against the woman's throat. "Don't...you ever...threaten my husband again.."Up to her knees. She pressed the sword tip against the woman's throat threatening. "You are relieved of your command on my ship Scarlett, pack your chyt and get the hell away from my crew and my family."
Maahes: For a moment he was in shock..someone was actually beating him. Of course blaming it on being tired..worn he quickly let his eyes narrow upon the woman as she held him. All of those that watched instantly gasped seeing Ealora come to save the day. The full moon belly inside her would not stop the panther, and it was no doubt she kept such a man inline. "I started it!" He boomed to the back of his wife covering her hand with his own and curling around the hilt of the blade. Heavy breaths rose and fell inside his chest as he scanned the face of his wife, and eased into himself. "I started it." His voice was much softer now, seeing that crazed look he loved so dearly inside her eyes. "We were blowing steam, habibi." He lied..kinda. He released all the pent up rage from Galen, Shaden, and the War and poor Scarlett just got the wrong end. However, looking back upon that fight he was thankful..anyone else would be dead . She was as strong as she said, and for that he was impressed. "Baby.." He tried to ease her from her own anger..did she realize she didn't have any shoes on? "Ealora..let it go. Give me the sword."
Ealora:Heavy pants left her lips as the sword stayed trained upon the woman's neck. Celadon eyes were alight with fire, although usually it was Maahes who ignited her anger, it was not all trained on this woman she held pinned by sword point. Her eyes left Scarlett's face to find her husbands as his hand curled around hers upon the hilt of the sword. Slowly, she released the sword into his grasp and reached for his arm to help herself up. She could care less she was more then a little underdressed and no shoes on. "Very well.."She breathed in a sigh, willing herself to calm down but her eyes found Scarlett again. "I am going to spare your life but in return, you now owe me a favor...which I'm passing over to my husband. You WILL do as he says or I will give him the knowledge in which to kill you and with no qualms or regret over it. Now, if he doesn't need you, you'll get your ass back to the ship and not leave until I send command your to do so. You won't even wipe your ass unless I say so. Is that clear Scarlett?"
Scarlett: The second time she was hit in the face but this time, she stayed pressed to the ground, hands laying above her head as her nose continued to gush blood down her chin. Dark, near coal black eyes watched the face of the pirate queen. So there was the rage of the woman she had known. She was quite impressed. As Maahes ushered Ealora to give him the sword and it moved from her neck, she sat upward, wiping the blood away from her nose and chin as she scooted back and slowly rose to her feet. " Crystal Captain.." She answered in return. Though truly the beast sticking up for her...or rather taking the blame did surprise her. Didn't soften her one bit to the man. Idiot, taking the blame but hey, if he wanted to be the fool, she wouldn't stop him.
Maahes:She would not need to reach very far as he bent to curl her into his arms and lift her with ease from the cold ground. Never in his life had his heart swelled with such pride as it did then. Was this what it felt like every time a battle was won in her name? This must be how Bess would feel as an entire nation would rise to defend her. THIS was the reason he fell in love with her. He would take the blame not for the sake of saving Scarlett's skin, but to calm his wife. For the length of the walk he was silent, though holding back a smile that would only read of his pride in her. She would be mad at him too, he was sure of it as they said nothing to one another, but coming up to the porch of the house, he stilled at the gate, "Perhaps I should be the one home pregnant and you take my place hmm?" Pressing back the door he moved up the path with her. Nora was there with her worried eyes and hand over her heart thinking of how she would be in need of a very stiff drink before the night was over. She would close the door behind the couple as the bitter night's air would be their death if they kept this up.
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Post by Ursula Darling on Jan 28, 2009 0:38:46 GMT -6
Alendral:'The great Alendral's' life had not been kind in the last few days, and he found it increasingly harder to keep in good spirit. The buidling tension between Claramae and himself, the unnerving meeting between a mysterious woman, who spoke a name he no longer wished to hear. A past that neither party wished to endure now facing them.. and now this. He had received the news of Shaden's disappearance from a breathless assistant, and nearly recoiled in horror. It was impossible, he had eyes on the woman, men in place. Ulnor had been taken care of--how, how!? and maddeningly, the trail ended. The spy quickly realized that he would have to visit the Lily, to see to it and to glean what clues he could. He'd dressed in finery, all in the guise of a noble on another trip, silken vest and frilled clothes, but the expression of good-naturedness wore almost false on his face, too forceful, to 'on'. For all he knew, the place was in tatters. he'd made a few polite inquiries, naturally deferring to the woman who was to be his contact. Unfortunate that their second meeting would be in these circumstances, he mused. Every moment lost meant it would be that much harder to find, and he had hoped that Shaden's judgement had been aptly placed--that the woman would have something. if she hadn't, than... Than I failed her, despite my requests. Her and the unborn child. The concept chilled him, and he drew comfort behind the cover of the Entertainer.
Ursula:Life was never kind to the working class who had to push their way through life rather then be pampered and primped like some damnable peacoke left to dance within a garden that looked like it had been painted rather then real. Unfortunately for Alen and for people like Ursula, such circumstances, would never be afforded to them. Though they could waltz amongst such beauties, could either of them say they truly belonged? Of course not. Shaden had gone missing and at once the Lily did not seem the same and yes, the household went in an uproar. The guard Nicholas had locked the house down tight, no one came out of that house that was part of it. Strangely enough, the foundation did not crumble but all ready the stone structure looked just a little more dark then usual without the firey red head to brighten it to perfection. 'and from the ashes, a phoenix arose, born anew' The sentence seemed such a silly phrase but for the woman who rose to tend to business until Shaden was returned, it meant simply one thing. Business. Things needed tending to, the girls soothed, their lessons continued, the books to tend to, new clients to do a look over, Gerda, food. Who else could do it where their head would not be reeling but Ursula? She had the most knowledge amongst the girls, at least as far as keeping your head straight. It wasn't to be mean, it was simple fact. Though lord help her with the books. She could only pray Shaden was returned safe and sound...soon. Gerda was present to allow the 'Entertainer' entrance and lead him to the study where Ursula sat, learning the books, or at least trying to. The door swung open and a dark head lifted, chocolate eyes lifting from the ledger as she slowly rose from her seat "Mr. Sorschal, Ursula.."Gerda spoke as she ushered the man in before closing the door behind the two. "Alen.."she breathed in a sigh, clearly not who she was expecting but still, relieved? Yes.
Alendral:"Lady Darling." Alendral slipped in, looking all the part like he was simply here for a pleasant meeting, all smiles until the door closed and his expression dropped to more suit the situation--vaguely strained. He bowed in greeting. "Apologies that I had not seen to you sooner. Matters are... delicate." Which was putting it mildly, but there was truth in the sentiment. Point in fact, there was still the matter of Shaden's concern to be dealt with, but considering the circumstances, it would have to wait . Feeling no need for pretense, he asked. "...How are you holding up?" it was a strange sentiment for him to ask, but the weight on her shoulders, however well-hidden, was evident enough to keen eye. Nobody had prepared to the situation. From all he'd heard, Ursula was in some ways Shaden's pupil. To lose on in such abrupt fashion--well, he was familiar enough with it.
Ursula:A hand moved to her belly, if to balance her as she dipped into a rounded curtesy until the door closed and she let out another sigh, this one heavy with worry and fatigue. "No need for apologies, Master Sorschal, I am sure your duties keep you far and in between visits. Though as I understand it, should you ever need my assistance in an alibi it is forever yours. I am quite in debt to you...for saving my life." She ushered him to a chair as she slowly sank within her own. A hand pushed the ledger closed and to the side. "I am..doing just that. Holding up. You've heard the news then? Of course you have, else you wouldn't be here. I know it and you know it." A slight smile curled the edges of her lips into a grin. "Even though I am quite sure I know the answer. How are YOU holding up, Alen?"
Alendral: "Surviving. " he managed a tired smile which was the only answer he saw fit to give. She had her secrets, so did he. Under normal circumstances he'd make a show of reversing the apology, but given the circumstances, he'd let it slide--though technically, she sort of paid him back for that already considering the third lot. "So you're in charge then, till she gets back? That's... good, quite good. I believe Lady Aramoire..." there was a pause, just on the cusp of saying thought.. "thinks very highly of you. That's why she recommended you to me. It's in... Good Hands." he continued till he realized how foolished he sounded, breaking into a foolish grin and shaking his head. "But right, enough of that. Look, let's get right to it. if there is anything you might know of all of this, anything at all, it could be of great service to me. Did she say anything to you last you saw her? Anything at all? Did anyone see her? Any detail, no matter how trivial. The sooner I get on the trail, the better." at that he folded his hands and stared critically.
Ursula:"In truth, Mistress Aramoire has been teaching me her job for a while, in secret of course so none of the girls would feel...well put out. Perhaps since I once ran my own theater group, I was the most qualified though I had hoped I would never be needed. Sadly, those prayers were not answered." Her chin tipped down in silent thought then lifted as another grin broke across her lips. "You think to highly of me but I thank you for it." A small laugh left her lips before she cleared her throat. Right down to business, her business usually wasn't meetings, that was were the laugh originated. "Sorry.."she whispered before chocolate eyes rose to meet his face and the grin slid from her lips as full attention was given to him. "Well, she went to visit her sister. The General's wife, Ealora..um.."A hand rose, fingers pressed lightly against her lower lip as she rose from the chair and began to make a back and forth motion across the floor behind the desk in thought. "Nicholas came home, asked about her, left, came back later...told the guards they were not to leave under any circumstance..none of the girls allowed outside for any reason. Not unless the house was on fire. I overheard him talking to one of the men...about some townhouse where blood was found, and tatters of clothing...and some kind of bracelet. He was quite upset, said the General had it and he was an ass..and that his wife was a...well I don't want to repeat what he called her.. and then Nicholas left again and hasn't been back since.."
Alendral: That immedietely set the tone Nicholas. he was going to have to watch him. and the general, again. It was the second time he had heard them mentioned together. Whatever intrigue circled them, it seemed to involve the three of them. Which meant he still might be on the trail, which meant the lack of a third party. Strangely, the news comforted him. Despite it, he suppressed a curse. "Damn it. The woman knew she was being tracked. Why still travel alone?" she had disobeyed his advice in doing so. Damn it. he made a note, he was going to have words with the General later. For now he switched tacts. "...That's the second time I've heard his name in passing. What do you know about this Bodyguard.. Nicholas? Does he have some sort of personal problem with the General? Or his wife?" It was what he called them. Futher compounded was that someone who was rumored to be romantically involved with the Courtesan to call another woman, related to Shaden, no less, a whore. well... sufficed to say, for someone with a perchant for paranoia, it was hard to dimiss as coincidence.
Ursula:"Practically nothing.."She turned to face him, biting her lip between her teeth. Disgusting habits were hard to break. With a hum, she was back to thinking on what she could give him in answer to his questions. Not that she was lie but really, trying to give the right answers to help him, to help find the Mistress of the Lily. ""I heard the Mistress and her sister..Ealora, talking the other day, said Nic, I am assuming that is Nicholas, proposed marriage to her...Shaden I mean, twice. Though I think she denied him both times. I do know he loves her, all the girls do. He follows her around like some lost puppy. Though that is to say, perhaps his job but he has slacked off since joining the ranks for war. I heard them arguing one night. He asked her not to go out alone. I can't say why she would do so now. I don't know of any problem he would have with the General, everyone thinks the General is an ass but Shaden calls him and his wife family." Fingers rapped against her lips before her shoulders rose and fell in a shrug. "I heard Nicholas say before he left the other day and did not return, that he was going to have a talk with the General's wife..something about, hmm how did he say it, the bytches attitude and her ungratefulness to her sisters care and devotion. Muttering about the bytch, I assume Ealora, knowing better then to argue with her sister..or upset her. Something like that."
Alendral:Well that punched a neat hole in that theory. Darkly, he lamented what would otherwise be a simple explanation. Though still a possibility--a jilted lover, perhaps? still he'd been remiss in his duties. another thing to note, however important. All things, it would seem, pointed to Ealora and Maahes. an argument between them. Could it really...? no, his initial assessment stood, that seemed improbable. "Would you know anything of this disagreement? Between the Captain and Lady Aramoire?" worth a try, though he figured he'd have to be more direct. "Lady Aramoire was not unaware of the dangers. If her intent was to visit them, she must have considered it pressing to take such a risk." he drew out of his chair than, rubbing at his chin as tried to tie the varied threads into a cohesive direction. It all fit into his one prevailing theory, but he still had no motive.
Ursula:She turned, the sway of a dark violet gown swayed with her as she sank into the seat once more. Chocolate eyes were roaming left and right though with no intended position as she tried to remember details of an account she was not part of. Then again, it wasn't that difficult of her to stick her nose where it didn't belong, anything could become an interesting play later on. Sure she had ideas of returning to the theater or at least writing the plays that could take place later. "I know her sister means very much to her, so much so I assume she would see no danger in going to visit her by herself. Honestly though Alen, I doubt very seriously the General or his wife would hurt Shaden. They would more then likely kill whomever tried to hurt her. I've heard some pretty nasty stories of both of them, though I very much see them as loyal to those they love, so I could not assume in any case they would harm those they love." She leaned back into the seat, eyeing him intensely. Honestly, she was wondering what it would cost to live one day in his head. Was he truly considering what she was now putting down? "Alen...perhaps if you tell me what your thinking, I could help you more, rather then just continue answering questions."
Alendral: "Mmm. I believe everything you say. What I... think." It was hard to put to words. Claramae once called Alen a 'multi-faceted' mind. It was his gift, among others, to take many disparate factors and keep them organized, to put an order where there seemed chaos. It gave him the occasional brooding air, but it served him useful in a profession like this. At the exercise of putting thought to it, he let out a strained sigh and rather oddly braced hands on the edge of her desk, leaning at an angle and stretching out as if to wring out some of the tension in his body as he spoke. "I believe that the shreds of information I've gathered all point to a plot against the General and his family. I believe that the men who nearly killed you those nights ago were meant to Shaden. Shaden had two men hunting her when we last spoke. The first one is dead. I've seen to it myself... the second I believe tied to these wildman." He stood up again and rubbed at his eyes, uncertain of his next bit of speculation. "Let's assume that's the case. Let's assume the target is either Ealora or Maahes. They're both dangerous. Capable. Direct attacks are useless against them, because Ealora lived a life where paranoia is a way of living. The General would never unwind long enough to be caught off guard. Both are fiercely loyal. If I had... to draw them vulnerable, I would appeal to something that would make them take risks. If I knew they were so fiercely protective... than attacking their family is exactly how I would do it. Now, we also know that someone was sent to do just that. Attack the General, Ealora, and Shaden, specifically... but here' where it diverges." he suddenly tensed, went cold. This was exposing a part o f himself he didn't like exposing, particularly to a stranger. "I would also kidnap. Not murder. I would want them fretting. Uncertain, perhaps even hopeful. Not angry. I believe Shaden was abducted for this reason..." he sighed at the thought of it, not happy to bear this part of his soul--the part that could imagine the brutal kidnapping and possible murder of a woman, just to get at another. He felt exposed, and forced himself to draw back from her, to put some distance between the two. "They struck the moment Shaden exposed herself. So they were close. Or they had someone close. Someone she didn't suspect, because she only suspected one person. " And that's when he stared meaningfully. "Your client." There, it was out in the air now. She needed to know both Shaden--and Alen, were concerned about him.
Ursula: Some part of her was sorry for asking him to divulge his mind to her. It was a dizzying intellect but not one less then enjoyable. Where they not in a rather..sticky situation, she probably would of...no certaintly would of loved playing mind games with him, as it was though...She sat stock and quiet as he let loose the workings of his mind. If only a glimpse of it. "I gathered as much, at least about the family itself and those men who attacked me. Though I was remiss to admit it to anyone.."She mused as she sat up within the chair and turned her chin, watching him "The question though Alen. Why would you be suspect? Further more, if this person...or persons. Lets speak in a hypathetical stance here. I think it appropriate. If they saught to disarm the family at their vunerable and struck out at Shaden, knowing it would put both the General and his Captain wife in arms...the question remains? How do they intend to strike next? If we figure that out, we might have a chance in finding them and in a sense, finding Mistress Aramoire. If they put the General and his wife up in arms, then the question remains, is to think like them? How...do you attack from there? Knowing they will be on their guard? Or will they be? Do you think they will be to much into finding their beloved sister?"
Alendral: Whoops, he hadn't really considered that. He wondered if anyone else might have suspected it "No no not me! This friend of yours. She specifically asked that I deal with him, you know. " he sighed, trying to diffuse tension despite himself, his expression darkening as he followed her line of thinking. "Leave them wondering. Make them fret for a time, and than give them a trail. They won't look into it, not too closely, they'll be worrying the same thing I am--that the more time we waste, the better chance we have of finding a body as opposed to a woman." He shook his head to dismiss it. "Ealora is with child. Maahes will try and force her to stay out of this. It will anger her. It will divide them. Maybe she'll go against his wishes, maybe she won't. Either way, they'll separate. Divide. I pick one, throw all my resources at it. Whichever one I hit will drive the other over the edge. Picking them of then... well, that would be child's play." he rubbed his eyes again, knowing it was like to be on the other side. He could never force Maahes or Ealora to relent. they would walk right into the trap. "I'd probably pick Ealora first. Pirate or not, she's an easier target. " He looked back up to her again. "... I know all this Ursula. but I'll be damned if I know how to defend against it.
Ursula:Ka-blink. She seemed to start back in surprise. Rather that he knew she had other clients or that Shaden had asked him to look into one was anyone's cause. Specifically his. When he said friend, it seemed to fit and she gave a brisk nod of her head. Understanding finally. Would Jonathan...? Really, she couldn't put it past him. "Jonathan.."It was the first time she divulged the name to anyone besides the man himself...or Marke but Marke, was Jonathan's target and her the pray to lure the target in. Though in honesty, the woman that was Ursula, was growing a concious..Chocolate eyes lifted from the floor to follow his line of thinking. Back to the matter at hand. "This is what they think?" She hummed again in thought as she once more lifted from her chair but this time move from behind the desk and pace close to him. "Is this all they would think? I am not sure...Well lets look at them both, don't choose on the Captain so quickly. What do we know of the General? From what I have heard of the man, he angers easily, fights first, thinks later..What about Ealora? Once a pirate right? Pirates live on the sea, their main attack is either other ships or land. Each needs to be calculated before the strike..therefor, since she is alive at this point in her life. I would assume she thinks, then strikes...Question is, would she be to worried over following tracks to find her sister OR worried about who to trust and who not to trust..The General will follow tracks, its what he does..I don't doubt your theory, but the General and the pirate are one and the same, both loyal, both driven to satifisy the others happiness. I do not think they will divide in anger..but out of need to see things right. Of that I don't doubt you...of that I trust, they seek to divide, no matter the means. Anger or love."
Alendral: "Yes, Jonathan. I need an answer, Ursula. Is he a factor or is he not? I need an answer" he fixed her with a hard stare than, though he already knew the answer she might give. They both knew full well how Alen would 'deal' with such a factor. "...You may be right about Ealora and the Maahes. I have little to measure either save their reputation.. but I know Ealora to be of cunning nature. Pirates have to be, after all. Capable of thinking sideways when the situation permits. Maahes is a Soldier, and likely doesn't. Simplest solution. Sharpest axe, the like. So you mean to suggest that it may be Ealora who advises caution? then?" he frowned and dwelled on it, though he still partially found himself at the same conclusion. "Still. Even if she may be the more cautious, more aware.. she's with child. That means, should I be forced to physically dealt with her. She'll be hampered. And conservative. She won't risk her child. Mothers don't. " He frowned and fell back in his chair. Despite that, he found himself yet again impressed. She was displaying a keen mind, an insight into people. he knew Ursula was, partially, a woman in the background. but she held insight. She picked up details. Given what Clara and Alen discussed. Yes... yes, of them, Alen suspected Ursula may be the most promising. "I also believe your statement misses a key fact, Ursula. If what you say is true.. than Ealora is Maahes' compass. The one that may soothe him at his most impetous, that may be able to temper him, if only slightly. Remove that... and the man will fall into any trap I laid--... they laid for him." Too much fixation on how he'd do it, he realized he needed to back out. "But let's back up a moment. We keep talking about how we'd do it. What I wouldn't do is send these wildman, these... beserkers into the town, they're too blunt an instrument. They'd leave a trail, so there's something. We're missing the angle of our kidnapper here. Why would they take Shaden? Why would they target Maahes.. why would they be so damned elaborate!? " Feeling his frustration mount, he fell into his chair and, out of relentless, mounting energy with no outlet, slammed his hand down on the plush arm though the plush armature gave a disappointlgy soft thump in protest and left him looking for something a little more percussive. "Damn it! First these bloody enemies at the gate now this! "
Ursula:"In Shaden's capture...No. He is not smart enough for that...He is my trouble...Alen.."She spoke slowly in terms of Jonathan. While yes on one hand she wanted to be from beneath him in both a metaphorical and literal sense. He had been once upon a time her best friend and sole companion in life. How could she do that to him. "When it comes to Jonathan, I may...need your help, but for now. Put him from your mind. Lets focus on this.." She turned to way him as he spoke, back and forth they went with the theories until he fell into the chair and out of frustration, beat the armrests. Moving across the floor and without much thought to the action, she lay her hands upon his shoulders. Pressing firmly and yet in a gentle man to work the nerves of his shoulders out. No one thought well when tense right? "Perhaps...Shaden wasn't the target?" She offered, it was a theory. If they, the kidnappers and colperates were targeting Maahes and Ealora, then why not go for the source. Could not slip ups occur? The wrong person grabbed. Slowly she leaned down, against him, over his shoulder as her hands, fingers worked down his arms to still his beating fists. If only to stop him from hurting Shaden's furniture and in turn, her hurting him for it when she got back. "If they are targeting Maahes directly, then it must be something he did to them..its the only...logical conclusion. Do unto others what you would have done to you..or something like that. Perhaps they are twisting it around, Do unto him, what he did to them."
Alendral:Well that was unexpected. his expression slipped into slight comical confusion, but this was not exactly something he was going to object to, and so he sank into his chair and shut his eyes briefly, scarcearly aware that he was still practically clawing at the apolstery while he mused. The scarce break in tension (or at least the tension in his own frustration, as opposed to the slight, admittedly different sort that wasn't entirely unplesant) was enough to bring some insight into what she said. "...You're right. Lord, Ursula, you're absolutely right. That explains some of it... it's sloppy work in a few respects. The wild-men, Frequent attempts. I assumed it the work of an amatuer... but if it was the work of emotion... it might explain both the thought put into it... and the messy execution. " His hands relaxed under hers for a moment, passing her a I'm alright, look before he fixed his gaze forward and tried to contemplate it. "...I had been working off the assumption that the attack on Maahes was similar to the attack on the other leaders of Skye, an attempt to weaken them militarly, but this plan.. it's too elaborate compared to the others. It's personal. By god, Ursula, you're bloody right. It has to be... I'll need to speak to General Maahes, and Ealora at once..."
Ursula:At the silent look that he was all right, she let her hands slid up his arms, over his shoulders and off before she was moving around it to take a lean against the desk and before his chair. Beneath skirts a foot was slipping behind an ankle to get comfortable as fingers grasped the edge of the desk. A silent smile of triumph washed over her face, curling her lips into a grin that would not erase. It was the first time any man had ever admitted her right and she was enjoying it and would for a long time. "As are you Alen..I'm very impressed by your intellect, somewhat rather jealous to I am afraid. But I do agree, but if you need to speak with them both, might I make the suggestion that it is in some way secretive? Surely whomever took Shaden is still watching the pair..if you show up to meet with them...well it might throw things off, don't you think so?"
Alendral: "It will. The only advantage we might have is that they will not account for a third party. I will be circumspect in this manner..." He found it ironic that the woman spoke of jealousy, though he suspected part of it was what he was supposed to say, standing on old traditions. Courtesan were meant to look a part--and unfortunately, some of that meant making men feel superior in some way. "No. don't say that. You've brought an insight I otherwise would have missed, and there's no need for you to say anything less then that." It seemed as good a place to bring it up as any, and he slowly stood up. "... In fact... my associate and I were speaking of expanding our network. Skye needs eyes, Ursula. it needs keen minds, apt to move within social circles, to see what can't be seen. Shaden is... also involved. Your name was mentioned among the candidates. " He hesitated a moment. "I force nobody to it, but it would... please me, for you to consider it.. should you chose. It requires keen mind.. cleverness. But it is also... difficult work. Should you wish to speak of it, well, you should be able to find me." He admitted some embarrassment to this, but the respect was genuine. She had a knack for it, and he was sure Clara would agree with him, were she to see it here. "... In the mean time, I'm sure I need not tell you it imperative that the Lily remain business as usual. Stay the course, but be alert for discrepancies. Anything catches your eye, send for me. Just... say that you can't wait to see me again or some such nonsense. I'll be sure to move quickly." he smiled and stepped back again, lifted, slightly, despite the oppression. It was the only relief he had. A purpose, a goal. It would pass, but for now, he needed what he could get.
Ursula:"You think I say flattery things because of my profession. No I meant it Alen. I see things yes, but you put the puzzle pieces together when they have been scattered to the winds. You are truly a wonder. Don't mistake my truthfulness for flatter. We pretend you are my client, remember?" The tease twinkled unshed laughter within chocolate colored eyes as her chin lifted, her eyes meeting his. Though the somberness of his words did settle the laughter back. Her chin lifted but fell in a small nod. "I will consider it yes, you will of course understand I can not make this decision now. But we will speak of it more at a later time. I will send for you, should anything come to me. You can trust in me...Alen.." She lifted up from the desk. "Oh...before you go.." Reaching for his hand, she drew him close and pressed painted lips against his though slightly off to the side and for a moment, she held that kiss, tender and sweet like a woman bidding her true love goodbye as he went off to work...or to war. After a moment, she broke away, leaving behind a painted imprint of her lips against his, and yes slightly off to the side, visible. "For luck...and for looks. Never know who else see's detail as we do...might want to take off your coat as well..."That twinkling unshed laughter danced in chocolate eyes once more.
Alendral:He was about to leave then, apparently missing the important detail, but apparently she was ready to cover for that. Without much adieu on the subject he was whirled about, only to feel his lips pressed against hers, so completely taken off-guard he barely managed a muffled "Mmm!?" for a moment, all thought--all analyization of the moment stopped dead... and it took a seeming infinite to gain his thought back. It was a stage kiss. he was familiar enough with the process, at the least. Part of the image they were supposed to uphold. He suddenly felt like a bit of a rank amatuer, and when she broke away his face flushed slightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Right, right. bloody hell, in a thousand places except the one I need to be. " Absently he went about ruffling his clothes a bit, pulling off his jacket and tugging at his collar--trying to appear a bit more dishevled than how he came in. "Ah.. well than thank you Ursula, for the lovely evening." The last part of the comment was throwaway, but the first part was sincere. "We'll speak again." and he was out the door, running a hand through his hair and muttering a small curse under his breath. "Lord, what is wrong with me?"
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Post by Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem on Jan 28, 2009 21:56:28 GMT -6
<< This Scene started at the Briar Rose Inn, and was continued to be played there. However we saw it best it be put here as well>> Balian: Thundering hooves battered the cobblestone heralding the coming of the Pale cloaked Rider of Turas Lan. Tearing around the street corner at a hard charge the Marshall leaned low into the saddle, long locks of wheat whipping back behind him. Just before reaching the Briar Rose the reigns were drawn back slowing the piebald war stallion to circle it back. Icy blue eyes took a gleam in the failing moon light above while pearly whites bared chilled blue lips before the deep rumble of a snarl erupted from within the Knight. His left gloved hand reached back over his shoulder drawing the infamous black woven hilt of the nameless sword releasing the familiar melody of steel justice into the winter silence before the blade was spun forward in his palm and raised before his eyes. He stared back into the shade of the street in silence, waiting. [d] Wolven Men: Through the bright of the night, darkness fell into swallowing nightmares as silver fur stood up on the back's of their spine, and deep yellow eyes rested upon the horse with rider. I'm hungry the man's eyes said without words, as a crazed night always brought out the best..or so it seemed. Under the furs of a wolf a man's body lay twisted like a ghost waiting for his escape. "Going inside, Pretty boy?" His voice hissed under the hood of the cloak as he and three others circled the Lord Marshal. (d Balian: No more then a bat of an eye lash was granted from the disciplined knight while his gaze fell upon the soon to be dearly departed creature of the night. "Maybe when im finished." He rolled his shoulders back and tilt his head just a little while he became circled and flanked by the wolves. "You are making a grave mistake." His grip would tighten against the steel before the blade was spun backward once more before his heels snapped back into the flanks of the stallion, rearing the horse onto its hind legs before it lunged forward and the sword was brought down to collect the chest of the wolf to his left. [d] Wolven Men: The shrill cries of the wolf in the end of it's life echoed down the dark cobblestone sending chills upon the spines of those roused from their slumber. However where one cried of it's pain, the other would cry of it's rage pressing forward on it's attack and lunging at the man with all it's might--pressing from it's back legs to bite for the man's shoulder. All the while the one who sat upon two legs, human lurking behind a mask pulled a blade from it's hilt, and the sound would be his battle cry as steel came from leather. "ALL OF SKYE WILL DIE!" He cried like a fool in love, confessing his sins by twisted tongue. Lunging for the man he would counteract the wolves strike and barely give the man time to react if he would dodge with ease the wolf. (d Danae: Danae took up the tea Maahes had been nice enough to get for her and blew over the top of it before taking a sip. She began to set it down when her brows furrowed and she looked toward the door. She heard noise, noise that she didn't like. She set the tea down and looked to Ealora and Rosalind. "Excuse me... I need to go see about something." She slid off her stool and moved to the door, gathering her things on the way out. -d Balian: He spat into the passing air while the horse kept at its hard run, the long pale cloak dancing back in the wake behind him while he snapped his head around to watch the cleaved wolf smack the cobblestone. The roar of rage from the others only had the demeanor of the calmed Lord Marshall even more steady, though all men had their breaking point. The caged lion within the knight had yet to be roused from its slumber at the fall of the first body. The second Wolf diving onto him would find itself dragged by the horse in motion. Balians arm snapped back to bring an elbow up under its chin while his left arm was drawn back only to be sent forward sending the black hilted sword spiraling forward to impale into the chest of the next wolf. The third Wolf's blade sung true and slammed into the broadside of his chest plate causing Balian's weight to shift in the saddle with an audible grunt. "You have to come through ME FIRST!" His head snapped backward attempting to head butt the wolf still being dragged behind him from the running horse[d] Danae: As her fur and cloak were pulled around her, her eyes narrowed as she looked down one way and then the other as the moonlight began to caste shadows in a not so far distance. A rider surrounded by severel others on foot. A brow arched as she tried to make out what was going on and soon she had her answer. The tall woman moved as quickly as she could in the direction of the commotion. Already the woman's hands were moving to draw her weapons. First her bow and an arrow, quickly it was notched and sent flying to one of the offenders that was attacking the man on his horse,whom she did not yet know was Turas Lans own Lord Marshal. -d- Wolven Men: "We should not fight." One wolf spoke to the other, of course men behind images to provoke the knight before them. "We have the whore. That is all the bait we need." Whispers in the shadow from one to another, "No Malice wants all around the Moor's life to fall." Watching in the night as their fellow men fought around the White Lion a wicked grin escaped his lips. "We could take this one..Feed him to the beasts." "Going through you Knight will be fun." A voice hissed as he clung to the saddle for dear life having been close to knocked off. "You are strong, but you see....the more you fight the closer we get to your wife." A grin behind a mask as the man moved to capture Balian's neck in hopes to knock him from his horse and squeeze the air from his lungs, as now it was on. Too close to home, he had been..for what? A drink? Along side the horse the dogs snapped at the hooves goading it on forward to run faster, blocking ways it could turn..soon the city was left behind, and the woods would roll thickly; All the while one kept the knight busy while the the rest herded his horse in another direction. (d Balian: The warmth of spilled crimson all to familiar to the Pale cloaked Rider was felt under the cracked steel against his chest. His teeth ground together while he continued the fight with the wolf at his back. A closed leather bound fist was formed from his left before it was sent slamming into the jaw of the beast, over and over again. Fragments of the creature was captured in his sight line. Puzzled by the creatures origin or even existence he knew there was no placement to yield lest he became a meal or even worse, an innocent in his stead. The whistle of the Captains arrows caught his scope though he couldn't lay his attention on the shooter just yet. The final words of the wolf at his back had his eyes snap shut if only for a moment before the balance was broken and Balian twist in the saddle slapping his hand against the beasts throat before he threw both himself and the beast clear from the saddle, to smack the hard earth. The creature now had his own throat in hands squeezing back and causing Balian to gag and choke, his cheeks grew red and his jaw tightened to the point of causing his cheeks to twitch while he stared dead into the creatures eyes. His right hand freed just to slap down against his thigh ripping a knife free from its thigh sheath. "..Bring.. .. more ...friends .. in your.. next life." You can take the knight from the war but not the war from the Knight. The Knife was plunged straight into the wolfs eye socket and just as it was he forced himself back to his feet with a stumble before he would take a step back into his stance and draw the short sword from his hip spinning it forward before a line was drawn in the dirt and the sword now aimed at the next. [d] Wolven Men: Two down, one to go as no mortal man could ever possess enough strength to follow as this one had, but in fact he was the only who walked upon two legs. No, they were not some creatures from a nightmare, but very real and very alive Humans who had been started from birth, much like a soldier in an arena, bred over and over again for their strength and speed. Yet it was a trick of the eye that would cause them to move faster then what they had as one would start running, and half way become switch places with another who was fresh and ready. They worked as team, like a pack of wolves on the hunt, wanting to feed their tortured minds with the blood of another. They did not want it to survive but the irony smell of the blood that ran from the knight's shoulder was enough to make his face twist in an ugly wicked grin. "So have I reached a tender spot on you, boy? Perhaps we shall talk about the loss of your father.. the death of your mother?" Of coursing having no truth to back any of this up, but how many knights were brave enough to wear such a pure white cloak if they had no reason to redeem themselves...or walked from the path of right mind. "Do you wish to return to that estate, where the honey blond waits patiently for you? In her bed...alone. Would be too bad to not be able to find her waiting..hmm?" Crazy? Yeap. The thunder of another horse would come with a rush, but still had ways to go. (d Danae: She held firmly to the reigns at first, pushing Majesty to go faster. Her body leaning forward, head down some, eyes narrowing. Once she felt she was in close enough range by judging the distance and the light from the night sky that provided some aide in the visuals.. she knew she had to wait. Not yet, she still wasn;t quite close enough. She she lowered herself once more and pushed the black beast of hooves and muscle harder. "Faster Majesty!" She yelled out in her Greek tongue.-d- Balian: A mouthful of blood was spat to the cold hard soil while narrowed icy blues of the lion fell to the creature standing upon its hind legs. The wounds on the knight had taken there toll but none would no so much as Balian never broke his focuss, studying the beasts movements with each new one granted he learned something more of his advassary. "Lets talk of your four boyfriends.. Now patrons of the boatman." He would chuckle but not from humor, perhaps taunting the creature right back. "It takes a special man to threaten the life of an innocent women.. .. ..Why dont you come and threaten me beast.. and lets see where the blood falls." He took a step forward and then another now more guided by instinct then intelligence with the loss of blood. With that final step Balian spun to his left bringing the steel down toward the beast's skull while his weight shift enough to bring his free arm up to collect block should the beast made a counter. The Pale cloak battled to keep up with its master, coiling around his thigh when his footing was regained. [d] Wolven Men: "I do not threat, threats are the promise of what would happen, child." His voice hissed as the dark in his eyes seemed to escape all color, void of emotion, and clearly lost of all sanity. "To promise is to act in truth, with reason. I need no reason. I want no reason. I enjoy simply watching your soul fade away from your body..cold. That's how I'll return you to her. All of those of this Isle. I carry a message." When Balian moved to attack a blade returned to life singing songs of hell and the demons that it spawned from. Fighting then with the justice of the other he would return the man's attack, launch his own in perfect match. The yin to his yang, black against white, day against night; a typical story of good vs. evil. Even the trees so bare of their fruits, lone awaited spring just at their grasp seemed to curl back in the night as a heavy cold wind blew through the valley. This was their fate, as if Balian held the warmth of the summer they so longed for in the palm of his hand. Please win..please..Long finger like branches scraped across one another. It would not be until the near miss of an arrow would the wolf pull back , his void black eyes wide with the expression of defeat. Two against one; he knew the odds, and like very twisted soul--life was a gamble. Was he ready to end his. "You have not seen the last of me!" Of us, his retreating shadow seemed to say as into the dark of the forest he would make his escape. Leaving Rider with Knight, Ranger with Marshal..fate? Perhaps. (d Danae: Finally she reached a point where she could slow and then bring Majesty to an abrupt hault. Danae had already pulled out the bow and arrows again and sent a couple whistling through the night air with a heavy chill. Once she felt it was safe, she slide off with weapons in hand. Watching as the o ne retreated and quickly looking about for perhaps a surprise attack from others. She got to his side and asked. "Are you alright?" While icy hues of blue continued to survey the area around them. -d- Balian: Balian had fought, killed and survived many lifetimes over his fill of men but this one just seemed to want to watch the world they knew end without a reason more then to watch it die, that was a scarey thought though not enough to cause the knight to stray his oath."..Talk is cheap furball.. Evolution hasnt been kind to you.. ..I get it. ...Fact is.." There blades slammed together with a near defeaning clang of steel on steel. "I'm still standing.. between you and them.. .. Mother.. Fu.." His growled out the word just as the wolf backed away and started for his retreat Balian thrust the sword blindly into the dirt and slammed his fist against his heart before throwing it forward to point. "FINISH YOUR AFFAIRS.. .. IM GOING TO HUNT YOU TO THE END OF THE EARTH AND LOOK DOWN ON YOUR BODY AND SMILE!" He shift his weight and slammed his fist into a tree causing the tree to shuddder before he would exhale a calming breath under fallen locks of wheat before his head would bow settling his icy blues upon Danae. "Captain.. ....Aye.. still some life in mea.. ..Thank you." [d] Danae: As Danae offered her hand to him should he need it to steady himself or whatever other reason. She continued to gaze about before finally looking to the man. It had dawned on her moments ago who he was now, having got a better look. "Just Danae... I'm no longer a Commander... " She offered. Story was, she had defied a direct order from the steward in Avaria. Growing tired of his power trips and wanting her to do his dirty work. Danae would have nothing of it and ended up an outlaw before coming to Skye. To some, she would always be a Commander, to others, she was just another woman with a few skills. "We should go find your horse. We can both ride mine to find him." She offered. -d- Balian: He took her hand, his other slapped back to grip the hilt of the sword ripping it from the earth before it was sheathed back against his hip. Bloodied and battered he used Danae's support for balance while his own eyes went drifting against the landscape before finding her once more. "Just Danae?....This will not suffice....How are you with a horse?" His brow lift curiously toward her while he fought for a breath. It sounded as though he was recruiting and he made no attempt in hiding the fact this was now the second time her help in combat may have saved his life. "My horse.. .. never strays to far from me.." He nodded in the direction of the piebald stallion now trotting up through the thick of the woods toward them. "..Thank you.." [d] Danae: She let him hold fast to her hand for however long it was needed and nodded when he saw fit to release. At his questioning she nodded once more as she spoke to give her reply. "Yes, Danae... and with a horse? I'm good, just better with the ground and trees." She said with a smirk. "I ride well enough to survive and do whats needed of me." She let her eyes drift to the stalliion of the Lord Marshal. She chuckled and looked back to the large man. " So I see. Smart steeds these two are." She added as she looked to her own black stallion. He was a dark glossy Friesian steed, strong, fast, and loyal. -d- Balian: "Aries has been my ally through many dangers." His hands came to collect the stallion just as it muzzled into his chest. He leaned in laying his brow against the horses if only for a moment before he lift his head to peer back at Danae with a faint smile while his eyes moved to her own horse before he gave a nod of approval. "Aye, a fine animal your companion is.." He released the piebald only to bring his hand down to his shoulder, digging inside the break of his armor to feel at the wound. "What say you if I were to extend my invitation to you to become a Rider of Turas Lan heavy calvarly?" [d] Danae: Her bow and the quiver of arrows were once again strapped over her back. Her eyes watched as he released the reigns to the piebald and let hhis hand move to his wound. At his invitation, her head titled. " I'd say with all do respect Lord Marshal, I will have to decline. At least for awhile.... if the offer should stand for an amount of time, perhaps I can give a more educated and thought out answer." It wasn't that she was not grateful for such an offer but she had no clue just what was really going on back in Avaria. She couldn't accept something here when not knowing the fate of the Kingdom she swore her oath to. " I hope you understand.. I mean no disrepect to you or your men. It's just.. there seems to be a lot of changes for me at the moment and I wish to make sure I'm stable before I go giving myself to one Kingdom when another may await my return." -d- Balian: He smiled softly and bowed his head once more. "I understand Danae.... I am honored either way by your decision. It is honest." He withrew his hand from the wound giving a glance to his bloodied hand before he would pull himself into the saddle with an audible exhale and a nod once more toward her. "Of course, the offer stands.....And I take no offense by your answer... I know the conflict to well you face now." Having had to face that conflict himself before he swore his own oath to Skye. "Should you ever change your mind.. ..I would be honored to have you among us my friend." His heels lightly tapped back into the horse causing it to start to slowly walk while he tilt his head to look back over his shoulder at her. "I should see to this wound.. ..Thank you Danae.. and good night." [d] Danae: Danae nodded as she turned and mounted Majesty. She followed in behind him for a time until it came for them to go their separate ways. As he went his and she her own, she bid him a good night. "Safe journey Lord Marshal.. until next time." She would steer the black Friesain back toward that of the Briar Rose in. Now she hot, sweaty, and thirsty. Not to mention this was just getting her started. It would have been nice had it lasted a little longer. However she was sure this was just one of many matches to come. -d-
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Post by alendral on Jan 30, 2009 18:55:21 GMT -6
Rat face. That was Ulnor's name, from his days as a mere footpad to his initiate into the arts of the dagger in the dark. He was a thoroughly unpleasant man, with thin black hair in a receding hairline and a deeply elongated face. Beady eyes and a shifty demeanor seemed to all lend itself to the obvious distinction, but Ulnor still carried a distaste for it. He was, by nature, untrustworthy. But to dismiss Ulnor was a mere rat was how many a fool met their end.
It was Gottschalk who first saw the potential in Ulnor, the many layered mind, the insight into the human mind that seemed to penetrate even the most guarded man, and the sheer, unadulterated viciousness that permeated it. He recognized that, by nature, Ulnor himself would not excel in the craft he had so perfected, for no matter how sincere the words. It was simply a design. but Ulnor's destiny was not to be the master of his craft. Ulnor was a facilitator. Ulnor could arrange the fates. He found talent where none was to be found, crafted elaborate traps, and preyed on people--their fear, their desire. He was brilliant, and nearly every single one of his contracts met their end with little a hitch, as he accounted for every angle.
Until the Lady Aramoire. Until Gottschalk's first. The bastard. It was supposed to be simple. He knew the Lady Aramoire was clever. Knew of her history, of her skill set. It was planned. He had evaluated her and chose just the man to take her eye, arranged for just a meeting. Of course she would be suspicious--but she would fancy herself in control of the situation, too wonderful in the game. The bytch. She was the kind he delighted in failing. The kind that would never look his way. Entertaining the likes of fair nobility, playing her coy little games, all on the surface. He had prepared for every variable. The bastard guard, her own guile, anyone else. Then he showed up.
In hindsight he should have known. He'd heard rumors, of course, but when he saw him... He was certain. They had only met once, briefly, and it was long after Gottschalk's death. There was no recognition there--they met as simple associates and departed on neutral terms. He knew, of course, of his own distaste for his former masters art, but he cared little for it. His master's legacy, in the long run, meant nothing to Ulnor. But apparently it mattered to him. Alexander. Funny that they share the same name.
Soon after, Ulnor's plans fell apart. His accomplice lie dead, and he was forced to hide. He knew of Alexander--knew that him a match in any his facilitations. Knew that he was aware of Ulnor's operation--and more importantly knew his limits. Ulnor could never be direct, it was a weakness he could never address... but under the scrutiny of a man like Alexander, his usual tactics wouldn't work. To make matters worse, while this all happened... Aramoire disappeared! Another operative! How had he missed that? The bastard!
It had taken him a long time to decide to retreat, but retreat he must. It wasn't worth it. Not this. Let his record be tarnished. At least he would live to enjoy it. He had arranged passaged and now, swaddled in robes, hunched and at the height of paranoia, he waited. He was almost free, almost rid of this planet. His employer could go to hell. Whatever was happening in Skye wasn't worth the reward. A few hours, and he'd be gone. He ducked down alley, glad to finally be behind him, before Alexander--
"Hello Ulnor." The voice trickled along his spine, like ice-water. His entire body froze, paralyzed, before training took over. He spun, withdrew a hidden blade and lunged out against the source of the voice, but found only empty air. A flicker of cloth passed through the corner of his vision, and suddenly the world exploded around him. There was pain, sharp, in his abdomen, so sharp in its clarity he cried out, lifted bodily up and slammed against the wall. Panic seized his heart, his eyes flung wide, and he thought, deliriously. I'm going to die!
"I need answers Ulnor. I need answers and I'm going to get them. I'm going to get them with a minimum of fuss and without the usual games between spies. If I don't, then you are going to suffer, Rat-face. And believe me, I can ensure you take a very, very long time to die" Some strange part of Ulnor's training kicked in, and he dimly took aware of where the pain radiated from--no vital organs were pierced, it was an exact strike--a mere twist in either direction would find his heart or lung. Oh god, it would to take a mere twitch. Suddenly he felt the knife twist inside him, pain suddenly exploding around the damaged nerves. He groaned painfully, his body lifted again, so close...!
"Where is she Ulnor? Where is she!?" He asked, hooded in darkness. God, he looked so much like his old master. The eyes...
"I... I don't know!" Ulnor stammered, practically gibbered. The knife twisted again. He screamed and added, frantically. "I said I don't know! You... you killed my bait! I was forced to go into hiding, to facilitate another scenario, to account for you!"
"Who took her, Ulnor?" the voice asked, cold and merciless. He began to force Ulnor's body back downward--the only thing that was saving Ulnor's life.
"It's not one of mine! I swear it!" His plea went unanswered. He felt a sudden pressure and a blossom of pain, his frenzied bodies' warning of imminent danger. "Wait... wait wait! There was another. Another factor, another working agent! I recognized the signs in my initial assessment!" He drew back to the most clinical terms of his plot.
"Who?" he demanded, a shadow of his old master.
"I don't know, Alexander!"
"Don't. Don't ever call me that. Don't ever use that name. "
"They're not someone from my employers. Not even from the Church--you know there are agents of the Church here, right! I was in contact with them, but I was the only one set after the Whore..! Whoever was watching her. They were clever. They covered it well... I don't think... I don't think she even knew she was being watched! But they're deranged. Kept waiting. Opportunities presented themselves. I almost acted myself but I had my plan, so much work in my plan! I could make no sense of it. I think they were waiting for something... I believed I could take her before they would move. I almost did, but you... you destroyed everything! God, you're working for them now are you, I swear, if I knew you were I would have never!"
"Shut up."
"I thought you were done Alexander. That you were dead! That's what we all thought. Maubery killed you. T..This is about Gottschalk isn't it!? I swear to you, Alexander... we're not all that different! He was a bastard, a vicious, insane little bastard. I'm not like him, this doesn't have to be personal."
"When's the last time you killed, Ulnor?
He hesitated. "...Lady... Lady Attenborough. Italy. Some years ago."
"I heard about the death. Terrible sort. Rumored to have an affair, was supposedly killed in the heat of passion. Jealous lover. Messy death too. You always were messy, Rat-face."
"I... I know what you're thinking. I swear to you, I didn't..."
"Don't... lie to me Ulnor. I'm well aware of your tactics. Every one of Gottschalk's students, their deeds, their monstrosities, each one is burned into my eye. You're the most pathetic one of them all rat-face... and I'm well aware of the fates of the ones you ultimately kill. and I'm well aware of what happened to her, you disgusting little animal."
"No... No! " Alexander began to twist the knife, his voice cracking an octave, before a strange anger mingled with the unbridled terror. "And what of you, Alexander, Huh!? Who will hunt for you when this is over, hmm!? What... atrocities has Alexander Sorschal committed!? What did Gottschalk see in him!?"
To that, Alexander said nothing. He wrenched the blade sharply beneath the ribs of him, twisted violently, and thrusted upward. Ulnor's beady eyes bulged, his body tensed and shuddered violently, and finally pain overwhelmed him. He died, on the spot. The wold became as silent as the grave. There was a faint shuffling, and a shape dumped into the oceanside.
Alendral Sorschal stared at the murky water peering from over the edge of the docks, pulling the hood of his cloak down as he saw to the end of Ulnor. It had been a frustrating night, with no answers. Only one less path to walk. His hand, the same hand that had gripped the knife that ended his life refused to still, he flexed it tightly to try and keep it from shivering. He tried to tell himself that it was because of the frigid night air. Slipping away again, he told himself that it was all for a good cause. Ulnor was slime, and many families, had they known what Rat-face had done to them, would have felt a grand relief.
He tried to tell himself that it was a good and noble thing he did. His hand continued to shudder.
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Post by malicecampbell on Feb 1, 2009 13:02:46 GMT -6
AIendral: Living a dual life, when something was weighing on his mind the way it was, neglecting your cover was common. It was also a way to ruin everything. He'd shifted his time from observing Ealora closely, from making inquiries--poison makers, known thieves and footpads, all the same questions--a woman, who went by Malice. Was she here? Was she operating. A few unfortunates had even died in the process, petty thieves he felt the need to make examples out of to make the information flow a bit more freely. But so far it had been maddeningly inconclusive. Now he was out on a simple supply run for his act, picking up fabrics and the like and living the semblance of a normal life, though he had a hard time keeping his mind off the job. He was so close he could feel it, but there was just one crucial piece of the puzzle he was missing, some fragment creeping at the edge of his mind but refusing to coalesce. And knowing that with time of the essence, unable to make that last leap. It was infuriating! He balled up : all the tension and frustration and banished it to the corner of his mind, trying to focus on what would work well for concealing fabrics, what could be trimmed and shaped to fit for the act he needed... all matters of trivial behavior, while his mind, hidden, ran over all facts and clues he'd had so far, again, searching for some missing clue..
Malice: Living a double life was not alien to her at all.. in fact her cover of being in Turas Lan for the great gathering of Campbells was sufficiently convincing, she even attended several functions for the massive clan... Her chosen place of residence.. for the sake of her "normal" life was the Crown and Thistle Inne.. just off of market row.. in the sundries quarters where fabrics, leather goods, cobbler shops were plentiful.. it was after all important for her to be seen, as nothing more than a dis-possessed noble trying to reacquaint with her clan.. and not the cause of all the trouble in the land.. well.. most of it anyway... This day would find her tediously milling thru bolts of fabric, for and upcoming fete` the Campbells would be throwing to honor the new Tanist.. her cousin Kendrew... fingers played over the fabrics.. in an peacant blue shade.. then withdrew finding a more somber shade that was not so bold... more to her liking... Indigo eyes while focused on the task at hand seemed glassed over.. in deep thought.. it seemed that both parties had much in common.. and duel purposes for their little shopping spree.
AIendral: It was simple luck that he had seen her first. His reverie was shaken by the incessant request of the shopkeeper, and it was in that that he caught of Mary Alice. and despite himself, his blood ran hot. It was like an electric charge. Suddenly the phantom from a few days ago was there, right before him. And, like a man possessed, he began to move. He didn't even know what he was going to do or say. His body moved without his mind having any say in it. Suddenly he was right behind her, reaching out to grasp at her arm, firmly but not rough enough to leave a lasting mark, his expression grave, heavy, as he bored into her with it. to hell with masks and covers, he needed answers from her and he needed them now! But even as he meant to demand it, the words in his throat died at her face again, the fury and drive sucked out along with his breath. The expression only written onto his face. a vague you...
Malice: She turned... abruptly grabbed... dark lashed eyes widened with alarm.. innocence.. mirrored in them as lashes blinked up and down in shock... her mouth opening into a perfect 'O' a little intake of breath.. that mirrored his own you , then her gaze wandered down to where he grasp her harshly... as if he owned her... or had some claim.. her heart hammered for a moment, pulse leaping in the vein that showed above the collared gown she wore.. prim and proper.. not a hair out of place.. was Lady Campbell.. Dark Braids arranged in perfect composition in Gaelic fashion beneath the fashionable hat with a dark plume that bobbed and waved with the startled movements... " I.... You... are hurting me.. " she looked so small so fragile.. stiffened beneath his assault.. a perfect mockery of how a young noble woman would react at being so accosted.
AIendral: It was not a matter of having a claim on her, it was a matter of her having some claim to him. Knowing something, knowing a secret of his. His name. god, Alexander. Only a handful of people knew his real name, and only one was ever allowed to say it without having their life swiftly terminated. There was a grave look to him that suggested that he was no interested in playing a game--but then, could he really afford not to play it? With some degree of hesitation, he'd release his hand from the woman's fragile arm, though he still fixed her with a strangely dangerous expression. Heedless of the crowd around him, he said in clear, commanding tone, one that brooked no argument. "We need to talk. Now." The woman had pulled back the mask so many days ago, saw a flicker of the man behind the smiles, the magic tricks and games. But had she known what to look for to begin with? He felt the phantom of a man long past dead, and at the merest hint of him, Alen had changed. It was ironic that she would catch another glimpse of the man behind it as well. Conflicted, deeply troubled... and strangely... cold. Calculating. Scrutinizing her beneath his gaze.. it was almost predatory in its intent, sizing her up, gauging her threat to him. It was closer to the 'Real' Alen than most saw, all to the one woman.
Malice: She shuddered.. weather real emotion, or an act.. it was an effective feminine ploy... could he be wrong.. could she indeed be the fragile creature he saw before him... ? Her arm was pulled back toward her.. and cradled.. opposite hand rubbing the offended flesh thru the dark blue velvet she wore eyes flickering up to his face with total naivety it seemed.. but inside she was almost bursting with laughter.. ohhhh how cute he was when vexed.. it was a war to keep the corners of her lush lips from lifting in mirth.. but she managed , turning and nodding to the shop keeper... " Send my selections to the Crown and Thistle.. please... leave them with the Innkeeper.. I have left enough on my account to cover it " then she turned back to Alen, pulling on her gloves... " Where do you propose this conversation... somewhere public I think.. considering... my reputation is at stake.. should I be caught.. to be in private concourse with someone so forward as yourself ".. perfect offended noble act.. she should have been and actress
AIendral: Oh the clever witch knew more than she was letting on. Don't be alone with the spy, tie his hands. His suspicions grew deeper, and he glanced to the briefly before looking back to her. "As you wish, M'lady. Though I don't see why you're so concerned, considering how familiar you were with me when last he met." He waited to check for a reaction before turning his gaze forward again, indicating with his eyes the direction he intended for them to travel. "Walk with me." assuming she'd follow, he'd head deeper into the markets, waiting for the crowd to pick up around them, to drown out their conversation in noise before he chose to speak up again, his voice a low a murmur, for her ears--not for anyone else’s. "You left in such a hurry when last we met. Scarcely had time to say my own peace. You weren't being very honest with me when we first met, My lady." his eyes flickered to her again, watching for the slightest hint of betrayal of... something.
Malice: She matched his stride.. keeping up with him " When we first met I was addled and under the weather... I cannot be held responsible for my lapse, I beg your forgiveness if I offended you... " her voice was steady and calm.. " as for our familiarity I plead.. unfit to make.. proper decisions considering the circumstance " word games wrapped in polite conversation.. he must be seething beneath that cool indifferent cloak he wore about him... " I have told you the truth no lies " she stopped their progress threw the markets.. turning to him.. framed by the masses of humanity that moved like a tide thru the streets... yet here they were as much alone as if they had been in a closed room together.. so intently focused on each other they were... and she was looking hurt and offended.. " I offered you no untruths " she challenged him as if he had besmirched her honor .
AIendral: "You didn't lie. True, but that does not make you truthful." His voice grew razor edged and cold, stepping forward to her to drop his voice to a low rumble, eyes narrowed coldly as he stopped mere inches from her, steel eyes locking with hers. "...What is my name, Mary Alice? What did you call me as you were leaving? I want to hear it again. from your lips, Mary Alice." there was thick meaning behind that last phrase. He needed to know damn it. Alex. god help him. How could she have known it? Every possibility sent a chill down his spine. the name flashed through his mind again. Hell, there was one person, one woman in Skye who knew his true name. Everyone else had merely accepted his strange stage name at face value and asked nothing more of it. Yet this woman knew!
Malice: "Alen" she whispered softly... completely guiless look upon her features.. she seemed unaware of the import of his name.. " I called you Alen... was I wrong to use your given name " at this point it was unsure as to if he had misjudged her.. widened indigo eyes held the look of a young girl who had possibly mis-stepped in a social encounter and was shamed.. " I never though that using your given name would upset you.. it is my fault.. Master Sorschal.. " dark head dipped to hide her.. uncomfortable blush.. but in reality it hide the fact that she could not help but smirk.. ohhhh how easy.. easy she played the part... she had expected more of a challenge from him... the Priest Grenuie` had either given Alex much toooo much credit.. when he had warned her away from the magician... or not given her enough.. true she had watched him for weeks... learned more about him than most would even think... and in that time come to respect.. and perhaps envy the man.. before her... now her smirk hidden away she turned to gaze up to him once again.. a shamed blush and sweet shy smile decorating her flawless face...how could you.. think such angelic countenance.. evil or tainted .
AIendral: It was the bluff that was the mistake. Too on. too markedly different from the woman he had met earlier. Now she was wearing a mask and he saw it clear as day. His voice suddenly became razor edged, cold. Frigid. "...Now.. now you've lied to me, Mary Alice. " He contemplated his options--try to take her, in broad daylight? unlikely. Impossible in fact, it would attract too much attention and complicate matters entirely. He now knew, without a doubt, he was being played, but the question now was by whom, by someone who knew that game well--that knew full well the kind of man he had become. His eyes quickly scanned, left to right, darkly considering a place where he might drag her and get away with it. So that was it, Mary Alice had now become a suspect. an agent of Gottschalk, though not one herself, no doubt. And in a mere moment, he moved to slip into the frame. In many ways it might be a disaster. She had betrayed herself now! Alen was onto her! He fixed her with the way he had fixed so many that had run his path. had bored into her mercilessly, seemed to tear through her layers into the core within. He knew. that's what most thought when fixed with his gaze. Every secret was brought to light before him. If he left now... it would most certainly be as enemies. Worse, yet, she'd be among the people to hunt, to stalk... she hadn't known it, but she had very well set Alen on her trail now...
Malice: Nothing but confusion shown on her face, others might have capitulated at this point, finding his boorish stare consuming, yet she fed from it.. drawing strength to buffer her facade of innocence all the more.. " I know not what you speak of Alen " her hand moved to lay on his sleeve.. a tremulous touch.. " you accuse me of such wretched things.. have you no though of how you make me feel.. you know my embarrassment of being so.. forward with you... and now you treat me as lightly as a whore... accusing me of lying after one false step in offering myself to you.. in a haze of confusion.. ?" her hand broke from his sleeve as it was lifted to her lips.. as if she had confessed too much... her want of him.. an unladylike draw to him...all the while she muddied the water between them, casting aside his vehemence and directing it into chaos and confusion.. he likely was wondering what the hell she was speaking of.. as she misdirected.. the conversation.. acting like a innocent girl caught within and sexual offer a crush gone wrong.. and now placed under the harsh scrutiny of daylight.. " I am shamed enough you do not have to remind me my actions.. " she pulled away from him.. then.. turning to escape into the crush of the crowd.. he would have a fight to push threw to follow.. as the dark blue skirts flashed toward the alleyway heading over to the Crown and Thistle.
AIendral: All this and she still lied! He wanted to drag her away and rip the secrets from her lips. but he wouldn’t stop her. No, instead he moved to follow, deftly slipping through the crowd, his eyes narrowed. He knew she wanted him to, that was the purpose--he sensed the meaning behind the game. Glowering, he'd fall into deft step, unconsciously reaching for the stiletto concealed in one of the many voluminous pockets. Was he really meaning to defend himself from such a slip of a girl? It felt preposterous, but by the same token he felt his body tense at the mere thought of it. what was it about the woman that put him so ill at ease? Knowing Alexander was more than enough, but the fact that, despite the strange connection he felt, there was a sense of playfulness about all this. She was enjoying this. Enjoying toying with him. Suddenly, he realized that he was playing into a game as well, one quite possibly of her devising. And that to discover the animal, he'd have to follow her.
Malice: Kudos... he was not the dolt she thought him.. a flash of skirts had her heading down the long alleyway, dimmed by the shadow of the tall buildings it was quite.. solitary, intimate... it was here she stopped.. her hands shifting to cover her face. quietly sobbing.. or merely and act.. to draw out a tenderness in him..catch him off guard... it was then.. that she was caught off guard.. a figure stepped from the shadows.. clasping her in his grasp.. She screamed.. struggling as the rail thin man, wiry in strength overcame her.. a cloth pressed over her face.. the body of Mary Alice fell limp... into the arms of her attacker.. just as Alexander would turn the corner... now.... came the hard part... Knight in Shining Armor once again.. or apathetic bystander...
AIendral: To his credit, he was not a fool. Sobbing was an alley was an obvious ploy--draw him into something, question was what? but just as he was about to find out why.but all his plans seemed to be stop short as the mystery woman was, apparently to be abducted, turning the corner. Hell, the dilemma. In a twisted way this could very well take care one of his problems. Or perhaps his answers would disappear right along with it. Damn... decisions... but his body moved before he could properly decide them. He flitted quick into the alley, already on top of the attacker before he knew that someone was involved, one hand restraining the hand holding incapacitating cloth, his eyes murderous. He wrenched away sharply, pulling them both off balance and drew the stiletto, drawing a hand sharply over the poor wiry bastard' mouth. A shift of weight--suddenly he was supporting Mary Alice and a knife was plunging, concealed, into the man's back, into soft flesh, eye to eye with the would-be abductor, muffling any screams poor bastard might have. It was over as soon as it began, no struggle. He was dead... just like that. Assuming she didn't wake up immediately, he'd find herself in a strange parody of their last meet.. waking up again, in another room...
Malice: Again.. alone with him in a strange room.. this time however it would not be the soft sounds of cards shuffling that invaded her sleep.. "Grenuie`" she mumbled in her sleep.. a sound of pure fear.. as she whimpered , her head tossing back in forth as hellish nightmares claimed her.. she thrashed almost as if she seized.. and yet it was all in her mind... the terror and horror that lay dormant only loosed in the drugged haze... fingers curled into the bedclothes clutching.. and unclutching... behind her lids her eyes moved in rapid desperate movement.. like a cornered animal searching for and exit to the hunt... Childlike... voice pleading in whispers.. " nooooo not again Grenuie` You will not.... again " sweat beaded her brow.. and even in sleep she paled as demons of her past came back to haunt her.
AIendral: He'd stay by her side for the lot of it, gently wiping her brow with a towel as he prepared another fresh pot of tea, a strange piece falling into place. He recognized the name. Inquisitor Grenuie. One of the several men of old that he had worked for in days past. that explained at least the flicker of recognition, though it made her anything but safe. His eyes narrowing coolly as he listened to to the pleas of a trauma long since past. When she finally did came to, she'd find him at her side, his eyes distant, staring ahead at the wall as he spoke a simple name. "Inquisitor Grenuie." he'd wait for her to respond, coolly. "That explains a considerable amount. Guess you weren't being entirely honest with me after all." There was a long pause, meaningful as he waited, than he said. "...It's been a long time.. since I've heard someone call me by my old name. A very long time indeed..."
Malice: For once he saw the truth behind the mask.. all the mask ripped away.. as she woke.. with a start.. his words made her blanch pale.. " Grenuie` " she shuddered hands coming to warm her arms, sliding up and down them.. she flinched even when she said the name.. " he is a monster...we share in common.. " suddenly she was freezing.. the covers pulled tightly to her chest... it seemed as if all the walls had vanished... with that name... You see now matter how big a fish was in a small pond.. there was always a bigger fish.. every puppet had a puppeteer... and every puppeteer was a puppet.. and on and on infinitum... " He cleansed me... in Rome..." she spoke blankly... her voice cracking with emotion " Entirety... is something.. seen in perspective... Alexander "
AIendral: "Cleansed nothing. The word is torture. Cleansing implies a purity from a man with hands covered in blood." He almost snapped at the idea of it. He didn't even know the bastard was still alive. He glanced sidelong at the woman, now a different person from the one playing the game with him moments before. "Stop calling me that. I can't stand the name. " at the name he suppressed a shudder of his own, leaning back against a wall. "So now we know how it is we got the name. I don't doubt he's done horrible things to you, either. but the fact remains you know of it, so he must have said of what it was I did. Which means he saw fit to tell you. Why would he tell you of me, Mary Alice? What are you really doing in Skye?" these were the details he needed, after all, despite it. All the while in cold, distant voice. She was dragging him now into a past he wished not to face, and in doing so creating deeds he wished not to face. Part of him simply wanted to know what was going on and be done with it... he only hoped that what she said would not necessitate her murder at the end of it.
Malice: "He spoke of you once.. as his greatest ...accomplishment.. the only one who would stand up to him....the only one who.. could best him... I came here to find you.... because he is hunting me now.... and you are my only hope... to survive.. " truth.. volumes of it.. plain and simple... there was such a duelality to her.. in one aspect she was a monster.. the complete antithesis of good.. and in another she was another’s prey... the truth was She had been watching Alen.. because... she had hoped... he would be the instrument to use against Grenuie` " I know his secrets.. things he has done.. is doing... he wants to silence me ".. again truth.. the fact was Grenuie` was behind the plot to convert the Island to the Churches doctrine... Malice had been his instrument.. and now that his Conversion was mostly complete.. the instrument was no longer needed, disposable... he cared naught for her agenda.. as his was... finished
AIendral: To that, Alendral laughed, bitterly, the very idea causing him into almost fits of laughter. Was she even serious? The man took credit for him? Of course, the only man who might contradict him on that was long dead. "Is that what he said? Pathetic bastard. He would ride on the coat-tails of somebody else. Son of a bytch..." he shook his head bitterly and lowered his gaze, scrutinizing her carefully as she gave away some degree of honesty. Perhaps this was all just that--an elaborate plan to hire him. And as much as he didn't trust her.. a chance to dispose of him. "...Where is he now?" simple as that. If he was in Skye, he was a loose end he'd love to tie, it would just be a bonus to her that he'd do it. Folding one hand over the other, he steadfastly refused to look at her for more than a moment. He still felt wronged, felt lied to. The bond he thought there felt entirely forced, a game, and he was not fond of the game. Now she lured him with secrets of a history he'd rather nobody knew.
Malice: "I don't know... the man... in the alley.. he was one of his" she shivered softly.... oddly enough of all the terrible things she had done.. this man.. Grenuie.. petrified her.. rocked her to the core.. " You have no reason to trust me.. and I put you in danger just by being near you... I should go " she pushed back the covers and stood.. smoothing her skirts.. over her legs.. " Stay away from me Alen... I am nothing but misery to you " she moved past him toward the door.. so that was that.. now he Shaden Aramoire [8:18 P.M.]: knew how she knew who he was.. a common thread in their past...but there was so much more...
AIendral : She wasn't getting away that easily. He reached to grasp at her hand before she disappeared, fixing her with a cool expression. "No." he finally looked to her, his expression growing heavy as he paused. Time to let her know something, a common ground. "... I was brought into his services shortly after my apprenticeship ended. By then I was already a master of my craft. The Inquisitor doubted my purity. So he set me to a test. " He chuckled. "I was a mere child than. Barely old enough to notice the beauty of a woman. He nearly drowned me. Held me under water until I could draw no breath. Just to see. to banish any wayward demon. And he was convinced I was a force for good. I'm well aware of what kind of animal the man can be. I'm well aware of what he's capable of, and I'm aware of the kind of agent he employs. But more than anything, It'd be a distinct pleasure to pay him back for our previous encounter. Mary Alice... stay. Tell me what you know. Please. I'm asking you, as someone familiar with the sort of pain he inflicts." There was a vulnerability in Alen's voice--despite it all, he fell for it. Fell for the woman putting on.
Malice: Indigo eyes found the hand that held onto hers.. then followed it up the length to his face as he spoke.. delivered unto her his tortured past... opening a wound raw to her... for a moment... in time.. Malice ceased to exist.. and only Mary Alice remained.. was it possible for a child to fracture into so many pieces they did not even know.. if so.. that explained alot...where she was concerned... " He came to Skye... to convert.. the masses.. by any means... he uses fear.. and hysteria.. to accomplish this it is part of Rome’s plan.. to keep England and Scotland in turmoil.. until they can take over..." her eyes went back to his hand and she pulled away.. rubbing it as if she had been burned.. and stepped back toward the fireplace... " Because I know... this... I am a liability " .
AIendral : "So the old man has been growing more and more desperate ever since losing his favored, tool, has he? It would take a daft mine to allow this wolf nonsense, to think it a clever way to sow the seeds." He was achingly close, how ironic that he was lamenting the complexity of the plan to the mastermind behind it. Drawing to his feet slowly, he'd step by her side and let his eyes rest. "So he's in Skye than. Good. Than he can be dealt with. " It wouldn't end the plan, he knew, but it would eliminate the backing of it. Whatever his follow up plan is, it would end. "And he's a pious man, that means he wouldn't be far from the clergy. Good... good, I can handle that." he lowered his gaze, tensing subtly as he realized he was explaining himself to someone who didn't see him. See the real Alexander, in the, passionless light in which he dished out murder. He turned his gaze away to her. "... What's your part in this, than? in this Wolves mess..? Why did he confide this in you...?" he passed a look to her, and without emotion, he asked. "...Did he ask you to seek me out?"
Malice: "no.... he used me.. to... bring his ... cadre here... the Campbells hold land to the South... " misdirection as they really held land to the west.. but it would take a little dective work on his part to find that out... " a beachhead where his ships would not be noticed... " He used me... my fear of him..." partially true... he used her.. as she used him... both for their own means... " You speak.. of how he tortured you... he had me.. for a year.... her hands moved up to the collar of her dress.. in remembrance.. fingers fidgeting there.. what lay beneath that prim and proper cut of fabric.. what evidence of Grenuie` depravity made her show.. this pain..
AIendral: "I'm sorry. Grenuie is a genuine monster. He employs animals. He surrounds himself in them... and he... swallows up innocence." Too bad he wasn't heeding his own warning. His eyes closed and, suddenly heavy with the burden, he might understand, he reached to take her hand away from the nape of where old injuries lie, to try and keep the memories away from her as he confessed. "...I was his monster before. Hand trained by a monster without equal. I did... many acts in his name. Terrible things... True, I questioned him at every turn. Doubted him, had no fear of him. I think he tolerated because he was afraid.. not of me. By the man who raised me. Eventually I would leave his service at the behest of my old mentor, but he had always wanted me as a member of his cadre. " He paused than and squeezed her hand, reassuringly, his voice wracked with emotion. "...Thank you Mary... and you don't have to be afraid of him any longer. I'll see to it. I promise..."
Malice: Victory.. she had Grenuie's` executioner.. fait accompli` but even more.. she perhaps had an insight into Alen.. oddly she felt a kinship with him as he took her hand.. squeezing it softly... she turned.. so close.. her fingers splaying across his chest..eyes wide and trusting.... before she caught his hands... "I'm sorry Alen... for everything before... could I undo it an go back I would" was she talking about the first time they had been alone.. or something more....who knew everything she spoke from her soft full lips.. could be read so many ways... she was a puzzle box.. with to many ways to open it.. each puzzle different each time... Maddening
AIendral : "The past never can be undone. We just live with it." he met gaze with hers and didn't pull back. There was a need to ask something, to ask anything of the woman. It'd been so long. He'd been dying to ask the same question of one other woman--but he knew it could never be asked. So in that, this represented his last chance to ask. "... Mary. how do you see Alexander Sorschal? I wear no mask now. No more games, no more Alendral the great, worthy magician. If you came to me, it is because you know what you were seeking. So what was it you expected, then? " it was a strange request, but there was a subtle urgency in his question. He had to know. it had been too long since he'd seen himself, seen anyone react to him. Now was a woman who saw him with masked review, and what did she see? A monster? A killer? A villain? A force of nature? He could find no answer.
Malice: She looked thoughtful for a moment.. before her eyes dragged back up to his.. locking intently... " I expected.... a killer.. a cold instrument.. honed and sharpened for one purpose... known only to him... a creation. Left to list... unfettered and without..guidence.. perhaps... rouge...now... but instead I have found something far different... I see a man.. who lives with his past.. like a weight upon his shoulders, knowing he will always carry that burden... but who endeavors to scale the mountains under that weight.. to bring balance.. for his crimes... in some way... a man who seeks atonement..." her voice was soft.. full of insight...eerily so...for in some ways she was looking into a mirror.. fast coming to the conclusion that no matter what vengeance she took.. it would not.. unbreak.. her heart...
AIendral: He stared meaningfully as she seemed to cut to the heart of it. Atonement. that was always the part he wasn’t' so sure about. Wasn't sure could even be achieved. Breaking the gaze, he turned a gaze to the fire. "...Once. Atonement. maybe. But you can't really achieve atonement for the kind of things I've done. There are families that will never forgive me for the horrors I've visited. Families who would see me dead for what I've done, no matter the reasons I did it. There is no atonement for people like me." Again, the irony was so sadly lost on him. "The only thing I seek is to bury it. " He let out a long, strained sigh and released her hands again. "Seems fate conspires against me. There's worse I could do than to see the instruments of my atrocities dead before they can ruin somebody else." And like so many other times, being judged by another, seeing the real Alexander terrified him ore than anything. Now, made vulnerable, judged before a woman who, far as he knew, was only guilty of being manipulated, he couldn't bear the assessment of his character. Shaking now, he tried to put some distance between them.
Malice: It was her turn to stop him.. her hands grasp his forearms... stepping into him.. they moved up to cup his face softly... " Alex... each of us has our demons... to overcome... you will overcome yours... I have no doubt... it is only the shadow of the monster that you still hold.. the light within you dims it more each day... once you right the balance.. bring about... and equilibrium... you will be able.. to understand... the reason for being... it is not always to live happily ever after " she was so close.. understanding.. open... more so than anyone had ever been to him... because they were kindred spirits.. each fighting their own demons.. seeking equilibrium... in their own ways..
AIendral "...The Shadow is all I have for my company now. " He smiled weakly at her then, peering down at her gaze, feeling it again, a strange pull to the woman he didn't entirely understand. he reached up then, drew close to her and placed a hand on her face. There was an experience there, an understanding he hadn't felt in a long time. To bring voice to it... safely, to be able to address his past in such open air. Why was it this woman? What was it about this one? It wasn't simply the name of the Inquisitor, damn his hide, it was something beneath the surface. He only break the center of it. "Mary... Jesus. I've never admitted this to anyone. The only one who even knows this anymore is my as-...my friend. And she wishes as badly to forget about all this as I do. " He admitted, openly. He hovered, indecisive, and practically whispered. "What of you, Mary? You've seen me now.. yet I confess, as I look at you, I see someone who has.. suffered under the weight of something terrible. You go along, wearing masks , same as I have... but you...? The real you? why do I feel like I still haven't seen it yet. That I've only seen... fragments. Pieces. What has happened to you, Mary...? What... what created this puzzle I'm looking at now? The kind that would seek a killer as her only salvation? I.... I wish to know."
Malice: "Do you truly wish to see?" her hands covered his as he touched her face... eyes that seemed to burn into his.. revealing the inner self that no one had seen.. no one touched... not even Caleb... she stepped back.. from him.. her hands lingering over his until they parted so... that the fingertips left each other.. turning to face the fire... she reached behind her... the buttons of her dress... quickly undone by nimble fingers.. the bodice pushed over pale shoulders to her waist.. there.. above the top of the corset...no doubt beneath it... and upward to the nap of her neck.. was the ravaged skin of inquisition... it looked like layers of quilted flesh, burned by fire, acid.. whip and blade.. pieced back together with the welts of scarring... " A year.. of cleansing.. for the "fits" the "possession " that overtakes me... she turned looking at him with eyes that still held the very pain in memory as sharp and harsh as the moment it happened... " My father... thought I would benefit...from the graces of the church’s blessing .
AIendral : "Good Lord..." his eyes flicked to her as she revealed a part of herself, presumably one few ever saw, hesitantly drawing up to her again, raising a hand and hesitantly trailing a hand over one of the more profuse scarrings, letting his eyes wander down to the flesh beneath. It was not the first time he saw some horror committed in the name. "You've endured it for years. Some of these... some of these are relatively fresh..." he studied them with a keen eye, an eye for damage among many other talents. Looking back up to her again.. he ventured a guess. "You're a woman accustomed to the judgment of something evil... powerless against accusations. God... to have endured it so long. " he swallowed, carefully. ".. You've worn masks, both to hide your affliction and your judgments... and to end them. To play to expectations. You've probably worn them long enough..." he trailed off then and met gaze with hers again, uncertain of what to even say--what could you say? Would a mere apology take back years of torment? Of agony? he wanted to meet the gaze of the woman and confirm that, despite all judgments to the contrary, there was no monster to the woman. Wanted to see a flicker that confirmed what he wanted badly to believe, that there was no monster beneath... despite all that she suffered... and despite all that they would try to make her.
Malice: in that moment.. his tenderness.. his acceptance.. his understanding the woman before him gazed back up with no hint of the monster that claimed her most of the time.. in this moment.. she was.. infact.. all that he said... the core of Mary Alice... the hidden venerable being that had endured.. and erected Malice... as a shield... Her head bowed.. "you have great insight...more than I am willing to face... I too have things I can never atone for... things that I should never be loose of... much like you" her hands grasp at the fabric of her bodice shielding her chest from him.. there too above the fabric was the pinkened scars of torture...one had to wonder what lay beneath the rest... She shuddered... looking away ashamed.. " I don't... I have...never.. told anyone these things.. explained..."
AIendral: "Stop. " he replied softly enough. What he did next was the very definition of impulsive, but there was not thought in it. He merely acted. he brought up a hand to lift her chin and pressed lips to hers, lingering there, letting the emotions mingle, pain and vulnerability and weakness, before withdrawing, a mere breath away. "Leave it there. For both of us. No darkness. Not tonight." a strange, tiny part of his mind said something dark. That he was making a mistake. That his judgment was clouded. It went well ignored. she was too much a product of the creatures that had made him, and like him, she lived heavily under the burden. For just one night, he didn't want to live under it... and neither did she. "No masks. Mary Alice. Alexander Sorschal. "
Malice: "No mask... just Mary and Alex.. " she nodded softly.. against his lips... as she returned the soft kiss... lingering.. giving into him.. this thing between them.. as worried as he was about the darkness.. so was she.. slipping... allowing him in.. to see.. beneath the facade so elegantly erected to shield her.. there was no Malice... in her this night.. something else entirely took over.. call it saving grace.. one last chance at humanity.. whatever it was something extraordinary passed between them.. her hands clasping his.. she lifted them to her chest.. above the corset... allowing him to feel... the pain.. the torture... allowing him to touch her.. in more ways than one.. to touch her soul.... she gasp softly at the admission... she did have a soul... "Please... Alex.. I need.. to feel alive.... make me feel " she begged against his lips...
AIendral : The voice gave one last protest, before finally silenced. He said nothing, matched eyes to her, settling a hand over her beating heart as he moved mere inches between her, till, finally, at last, he gave into her request. He opened his mouth subtly, pressed lips to her and gave in completely. He'd open up his heart, if only for a moment and reveal it in truth to the woman, and share something with her entirely. And when the hours passed, when the light of the fires had long flickered away.. Alendral... and Alexander were gone. and the man, Inquisitor Lord Grenuie`, would die. Of this there was no doubt. but in doing so, when he eventually well... the last words that would pass from his lips would set things in motion that, at the time, Alendral could have never believed...
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Feb 1, 2009 14:40:09 GMT -6
Alen: The next few days saw the Magician as a man possessed. Hurled into his own work, he had spent his time ruthlessly exterminating what he considered to be 'variables' --unwanted distractions that currently divided his attentions. Grim and bloody work, but it was putting off another important factor--namely, the man he believed to be the target. Per Ursula's advice--a clever observation that had no doubt placed her more firmly as a candidate in his mind, he couldn't simply show up--The Magician 'Alendral' had limited relationship with either the general or the Pirate Captain, and thus would raise alarms had lead to a bit of a stranger appearance--having traded his usual finery for the ragged clothing of a commoner, layered and hooded, ratted and worn, with a heavy basket slung under one arm. Someone attempting to sell wares, maybe--various goods of dubious worth, to which his arrival was marked by incessent pounding at the door--not the most dignfied way to meet the two of them, but it did the job, at least.
Ealora: The days since Shaden's capture had been a whirlwind. Both through emotions and activity. She wasn't allowed to do the search herself, to far along with child, to much walking, to much everything. Course that didn't stop her from disobeying Maahes to go to the docks. At least there she could admit she was wrong but the tension in the house mounted. Was Maahes mad at her or the man to call her whore? Both probably however, this time Ealora would not be seen loosing her temper. Funny that, but she could freely admit she was wrong. Tucking the covers around Eppie for her nap, Ealora grinned and leaned down. "Love you little girl..snuggle kiss.."and together the two rubbed noses before Ealora let out a hum of a laugh and slowly lifted off the bed and shut the door behind her. Stairs, damn the stairs she groaned as a hand pressed to her backside and slowly she wobbled down just as the incessent knocking began. Leaving the banaster behind, her hand pressed against the housekeepers back as they moved down the hall "I've got it Nora.." and the housekeeper turned in one fluid motion and returned to the kitchens as waddled her way to the door to pull the lock free and open it just a crack so her face stuck out. Slender brows knotted downward. Not recognizing the magician underneath. "Can I help you?"
Alen: "Cloths and goods for the lady! Cloths and good for lady 'n child!" the voice didn't lend much to it either, deliberately strained with an emphasis on a rough accent. The pushy little bundle of cloth tried to nudge his way through the doorway, presumeably to keep her from slamming it, but upon slipping inward he'd raise a hand delicately to life up just the edge of his cowl, revealing the slightly familiar face that shot her with a grim expression. Assuming that she'd at least let him get away with it afterward, he'd all too happily shed the hood entirely and shake out his hair, drawing to full height again and letting out an errant sigh of relief. "Oh thank god. Swear if I've had it my way I'd never have to disguise myself in rags like this again. Ugh!" the basket was tossed aside, revealing what was no doubt the cheapest cuts and produce he could manage. "We need to speak." right to business. IT hadn't occured to him that Ealora might not exactly know of Alendral's current profession, and might find this all very strange. Unfortunatly, he didn't really have much time to waste here.
Maahes: He had been in the kitchen sitting with the cook helping with dinner, but in fact was enjoying the peace of being home without anyone knowing he was home. Strict instructions to Nora and the crew he wanted no one to know he was home. In fact he and his wife were not speaking at the moment, but for the sake of their children he wanted to keep that little bit of information private. However the voice of a man had pressed into him, and ran his spine with anger. Was it another man to court his very pregnant wife? The Beast rose from his chair filling the space quickly with burning orbs of amber, and the heat would fall upon the man. "So speak it quickly." Magic man, the illusionist from the ball, was as far as Maahes knew of the man. However, Avaria was a very tender subject under a broad chest, and his heart beat for any who helped the nation. Yet, what did a magician really do to end a reign of terror in a fallen nation? No rabbits that could be pulled from hats would ever win a war. It was very apparent Maahes had a great distaste for the man simply being there, but now to barge into his home?
Ealora: He was lucky to reveal himself as he pushed his way in. Ealora was two seconds away from kicking his ass when that face was revealed to her. A perfectly rounded o formed onto her mouth as she shut the door behind him and turned, slender brows rose in question. Seemingly asking if he was nuts without ever speaking the words. Her mouth closed as hands folded over her swollen belly as he spoke of needing to speak, to her? This was odd. Maahes approach was only met with upturned celadon eyes in his direction then back to Alen before a hand left her belly to wave into the sitting room before she herself lead the way and closed the curtains in the process. Hell, seemed like a good idea since he came in diguise, though this...still baffled her. "You have our attention Mister Sorcshal...you opened up the floor. We need to speak, so speak.." She turned from pulling the last curtain over the window and folded her arms over her belly once more.
Alen: He had expected a somber air. Everyone had bore their budens, but even he was forced to admit he was surprised at the atmosphere inside the house. Tense, almost oppressive, ready to ignite with the smallest spark. With the giant of a man staring daggers into him. The electricity in their momentary glance shared... precisely the sort of thing he was afraid of, and precisely the sort of thing that, in another position, he'd use. All he feared and worse. He took a deep breath to steady himself, glancing at the woman cooly before settling his eyes on the General, dropping all pretenses--the smile died on his lips. "Fair enough. I'll make it as brief as I can. You know Lady Aramoire is missing, the matter of which I've been tending to myself. I don't have the who yet. But I'm fairly certain I have the why. I'm here to find the who. So you're going to answer my questions, and then I am going to find her. Brief enough for you, General?" he turned from him and fixed his gaze on Ealora, seeming to scrutinize her for a moment, trying to match something to a mental image.
Maahes: Perhaps in one of his finer days Maahes would have been a little more understanding about how mysterious this man seemed to appear, but with the given month he took no chances. Coming to stand between Alendral and his wife he would cut off that gaze that he knew very well had reason to study his wife so much. In the same moment he gave his back to Ealora blocking her as always from what could be harm, and shutting her in. Healthy for their relationship huh? "I have as many men as I can spare, but you have to understand Master Sorchel there are matters that pull me in every direction. So forgive my behavior, it is hard to have the fate of a nation, and the heart of a beloved sister in my hands." Not to mention a pregnant wife who COULDN'T stop getting into trouble, but perhaps the empty ring finger on his hand would force her to think twice next time. High and mighty came with ease to a man who had started his entire life in the heat of a battle and rose to overcome all odds. However, even he knew how overbearing it could be. "You will get any answer you wish so long as you bring her home safe." Massive arms then would come to fold over his chest as he squared his feet with his shoulders.
Ealora: Direct and to the point. That she could respect, however, overbearing and snobbish would get you a fist in the face. Either Ealora or Maahes didn't matter. Respect must be earned but down right snobbery, well that deserved a little lesson right? The were both of the same Storm, it why they weathed their fights and their happiness all in one fell swoop where others would break down. Silently she stood by while Alen's eyes shifted from her to Maahes and spoke to him. Well if that didn't raise her ire a little. What the hell was she a wall hanging? "We were in fact the first to know. What were you the last?" A bit snippish but she wasn't in the mood for any games. He thought he knew Shaden better then she did? Not a chance. Maahes back blocked her view from the Magician from her. While one side of her knew it was in protection, how she wanted to slap him on the head. She was pregnant, not immoblized. Didn't she prove that when she kicked Scarlett's ass? Still, Maahes himself was direct to the point and she knew he cared about Shaden as much as she did. "You have questions, then ask them.."She spoke as she moved from behind Maahes back to stand near him, even if he was mad at her. Even if she was a little ticked that by opening up to him he was also trying to punish her by taking off his wedding band, her hand moved over his arm. He was right about the Docks but she wasn't going to let it break her. She wouldn't let something as trivial as that come between her and him. They were both fighters weren't they?
Alen: At least the man didn't see fit to play games of dominance, a trait most soldiers played for his folk. He didn't even question such matters, and he preferred it that way, for the most part. Between the protective husband and the professional jab from the Pirate, he resolved that it was going to be a very long, painful conversation indeed. Despite himself, a tone of irritation crept into his voice. "If I was last, it was because I was busy in pursuit of another interested party. Former associate, went by the name of Ulnor. Apparently he was working for some Maubery's old folk, though damned if I know why--I took care of that, by the way. Unfortunatly I was unaware that other parties were interested in her as well. She didn't deign to tell me. " He crossed arms over his chest and let his tone go flat, letting his gaze settle on both of them. "Listen. You're afraid for her life. I get that. I barely now the woman and every passing moment fills with me dread, so I've only a taste of what weighs on you. So no games. Here's what I know. This is what I know. Her assailants have several interests. She was one, and you two were another. Wild men, I can't place their nationality. Aggressive, stupid, possibly linked to this business with the Wolves. This, too, I'm sure you've all at least pieced together. I've killed two, captured one, but interrogation has been entirely useless. So I've been following whatever scraps I can find. and in my investigations I've come to one conclusion. Whoever is committing these crimes--whoever kidnapped Lady Aramoire did it because of you, General. And that's my question. I believe this all a plot to strike at you, General, but so help me, I can't fathom why."
Maahes: "I have many enemies, magician. Where will I begin?" He narrowed his gaze upon the man. "I have killed countless of political figures both here and in Avaria. I have both men and women who would love to see my head upon their sword.My wife has made many more enemies for me both here and where she was held captive. If you want names, I have stopped collecting them..but if I had my suspicions then I would think it be one of the many men she entertains behind her doors." Poor closed minded Maahes, no matter how many times he and Shaden fought to only make up, he would forever see her as a whore. "However I can easily narrow it down. No one from Avaria would have been that sloppy to leave the dog alive, even to make a point. It would have been weeks before we would have found trace of her, had it been any from that cursed place." His voice continued, "You should as the pirate who sniffs around her, he would do anything to get between her legs, and I would not put it past him to go so low."
Ealora: "You don't seem to understand Mister Sorschal, it is my fault that got to her in the first place. If we hadn't of fought, she wouldn't of left upset and without a guard..and if these, people, or men who took her have a grudge against my husband and they stand to reason to hurt him through my family. They will not live long enough to regret it.."Lips sealed shut then as she stared past him before a chin pointed up and she stared at Maahes. Lord how she wanted to jab the hell out of him. "Shaden, has not taken a man to her bed in some time.."She hissed in a whisper up at him. She hated seeing them fighting, or Maahes view of their beloved sister. Shaden profession was her choice, just as his....while not his choice in the beginning, it was his now but Shaden did not sit there calling him a murderer. Her gaze slipped from Maahes back to Alen. "Why do you believe this has to do because of my husband?" Shaden was the less likely one to kidnap in her mind, wasn't...well not to toot her own horn, but she was the General's wife, wouldn't it make more sense to, well for them to kidnap her? "Why kidnap Shaden?"
Alen: "General. with respect." Said in a tone like try and keep up you bloody twit. "Leave the speculation on matters of subterfuge to the expert and I'll defer on the finer points of bludgeoning a man to death with a very large club." Noting that the man had managed to completely dodge his question in the process. Letting out a suddenly exhausted sigh, he rubbed at his eyes and glanced at Ealora. "Captain, don't waste energy blaming yourself for matters out of your control. But to better answer your question, allow me to present these facts. First, was the conversation I overheard. The wildmen I spoke of were explicitly discussing you three. Your name was mentioned, General. So we've established you three the target. That was the first clue. But why you three? Specifically, why target only you three? Second is the connection to these wolf attacks. Have you heard about the survivor? I have. I even spoke to her. She paints a vivid picture. " He met Maahes gaze then, practically pinning him to a wall with it. "She describes something interesting. A tall, rugged man, matching your description, at the wolves head. Believe me, the details are quite specific. The third observation I have is a mere hunch. I was observing you earlier, in the lack of light. I don't believe Shaden was the intended target at all, at least... not the primary one. You know in the dark, all robed and readied for clandestine movement? I'm not sure I could tell either of you apart. We know that they're targeting people... close to the general. And I believe these... animal attacks are meant to be placed with Maahes as their source. Which is all very interesting. So let me narrow it down for you general. I believe the one responsible doesn't just want you dead. I don't believe they were sloppy at all. You were meant to find it, you see, and chase after it, and find a corpse. We're talking about someone who is a master of poison craft, and perhaps of the art of subterfuge itself. Someone so single-handedly devout in their hatred of you that they would move heaven and earth, destroy an entire Kingdom to destroy you. They are smarter than you, smarter than me. A great deal more cunning then most people I've met, and they hate you with a passion bordering on derangement. Is there anyone, general, Anyone at all that matches that description? Because I need a name. I need something. Because they will kill her, and they will make her suffer for every last second of it."
Maahes: His words struck a cord in the man that would have brought him to his knees. Was this the reason they had been around Red Wall for so long? After a good moment that pain started in his chest and he turned slightly to his wife, "You see. This. Is why I want you to stay here. You see how important you obeying is?" His temper flared as he was close to switching off his English and starting in his Arabic prayers to God asking ONCE again for his mercy. However, turning back to the man his entire face fell. He inwardly fell, and gave a heavy worn sigh to the man, "I do not know anyone who would hate me as much to try and kill those around me, but if it helps. This entire thing started once returned from returning my wife home from her last sail, from that Island where I brought her home from." His knees felt week, and soon the arm of the chair would find his rest as the palm of his hands supported his weight by his knees. Why did this always have to happen now? Damn it. "That woman was crazed into thinking it was me, I would dare not ever harm one of my men. Not like that." His fists clenched as always when thinking of the men who followed him home from the Island, "That pirate, bastard father of my son. This started when he came to Skye. You would be wise to question him just as you are us, Muse. I have no doubt in my mind he and his pretty boy are not somewhere in the middle of this."
Gerda: There was another knock at the door, this time the iron grey haired matornly housekeeper stood there cloaked and shivering on the doorstep.. a sealed letter in hand.. the scrawl spidery and feminine on the outside.. obvioulsy Shaden's a wax seal in amber.. the signet of the Lily pressed into it.. it was addressed Simpley.. EALORA... When the doors would be opened it would be offered to the woman Shaden called family above all others... " She said if anything was to happen to her.. to give this to ye.. the soilicitor drew it up.. right and legal... and it falls to you as her family to see it done.. " the old womans voice cracked... a tear sliding down a worn porceline cheek.. eyes red rimmed and darkened by sleepless nights.. She thought of Shaden as a daughter... and now... she was gone..
Ealora: Her hand on Maahes arm tightened as Alen spoke, both out of ire and concern over her sister and husband. The Magician as she knew him, was about to get a royal ass kicking. "First of all, MISTER Sorschal, do not speak to my husband that manner, he has done nothing to warrant that tone. I understand your frustrated but you can not expect him or me to remember details of EVERYONE who hates us at the drop of a hat." Her lips sealed shut once more as Maahes turned his attention to her. "Yes, I do. You're right.."Quick someone stop time, record it down, day too! She was admitting he was right. Her hand slid up his arm to his shoulder as he sank against the armrest of the chair. At once her heart began to hammer in her chest. All started when they returned home? The island, her brother.."Oh God..."She breathed and a hand curved against the round of her belly. "My last sail, the island...Maahes my brother...that woman." Her fingers tightened against his shoulder. What had Perry said the woman's name was. "The island we came from..my brother was trying to kill me."Her head lifted to find Alen, her eyes boring into his. She wasn't going to name the whole situation, it wasn't needed, at least not by Alen. "My brother died on that island, there was a woman, across the square, she screamed my brothers name when he was killed. Someone said they thought she was his lover but he never mentioned her..I didn't connect it at the time. Not till now..."The knock at the door had her head turning.
Nora: Nora held up a hand in passing as she moved to open the door. A frown marred the woman's lips as she took the envelop Gerda before ushering her inside and closing the door. "Come in Gerda.."True Nora was younger then the old woman but even Nora cared about Shaden. As all the family did. "Come...let me get you some tea, its freezing outside. The Lord and Lady are in a meeting, but save this.."She slipped the envelop back in the woman's hands. "Give it to them when they are done. I know Ealora would want to see you.." Taking the older woman's arm, she moved down the hall, pausing to slide the sitting room doors closed to give the three of them privacy till Gerda could talk to them before leading the old woman into the kitchen.
Alen: "It's a start." he replied plainly enough, his voice carefully neutral. It seemed cold, but he knew that sounding sorry for him would only result in making him withdraw. Better to respect the man's trials in that. He was about to bite back at Ealora--remind her that lives were at stake and he was trying to get him to chase after some damn duplictious pirate, force him to run in circles, but as it happened it was unnecessary. They hit on a common thread, however, and that piqued his interest. Seeing as how Ealora went swiftly away, he was left to perss the information from what was left of the big man. wonderful. "That's a start. General, I need to know everything you can remember about the woman and the man. Any detail you could remember, a name, a face. Anything. What did she think you've done to this man? Why do you believe her capable of this? Give me something, General. Give me something and I swear to you, I will unravel this, and if I can't bring the woman back, I'll see them brought to their crimes. But I can do nothing with what I have. I need something, General.."
Maahes: "I do not remember a woman at all, but the man I killed in plain sight, with my bare hands." Was that a threat? Never. "He was Ealora's brother, and for the past year had tormented her. He had caused to be kidnapped, beaten' and though she has never admitted it.." His jaw clenched and it was clear he could not continue, but the gist was caught correct? His head rose from the floor to meet the man's eye. "That would be reason enough to want revenge, however I hate to admit, Sir I have nothing beyond that. I did not see or hear the woman." Passing his eyes then to Ealora it would take a few moments to return them to Alen. "You have anything that I can offer at your command, and will be paid very much for your time." Was that a thank-you? Yes. In Maahes way at least it was.
Alen: It was something. it meant that the assailant was female, and that narrowed it down. Barely, but it did. as much as he wanted to question Ealora, she already said that he hadn't mentioned her. As for his reasons, Alen passed no judgement and didn't press the issue, crossing arms over his chest as he mulled over the data. So it was revenge, then, and a woman's no less. It was helpful, but at the same time it fell short. "...That won't be necessary General . My loyalty is to the Duchess in matters as these, as her servent and order of the Black Talon." he'd wait to see if the phrase meant anything to him--if he knew the meaning behind it, he would say nothing more on the matter of just why the Magician took an interest in this. "Though I may require use of your men, for a time. In the meantime... a piece of advice. This ... woman, if it is indeed her, is of no desire to approach you directly. It may be that she, to an extent, fears you as much as hates you. She'll seek to divide you from your loved ones, isolate them, and attack them. When you're at more strained, only then will she apply the finishing blow..." he sighed. "Do not wish to get involved in personal matters, but in this case I would advise that Ealora never travel alone... and nor should you. We may be able to force her hand. She may grow impatient.. and even if she isn't such a fool, it will give me time to look into the matter personally... and, with respect. Any distance between the two of you right now only provides opportunity. That's merely my assessment. Take it as you will. I appreciate your assistance, give my appreciation to the Captain as well. One way or another, we'll see an end to this. Now excuse me general..." and at that he started to reclaim his diguise and make his leave of the place. The business was concluded... with only one more piece of the puzzle. Close, and yet miles away...
Gerda: She followed Nora into the kitchen accepting a cup of tea.. the letter tapping nervously on the table.. as she waited " I can't be long.. away from the Lily... if she comes home I want to be there " the tea cup rattled against the saucer briefly before the saucer was.. set back on the table... her eyes searching Nora's " Why would she go off without her gaurds.. I don't understand.. she's so close to the babe's birth.." it was more of letting her feelings out than real question " That child has had enough misery in her life.. and now.. when she finally found happiness......... " her throat tightened up and she swallowed harshly not able to go on..
Ealora: Her attention turned back to the men as Nora slid the doors closed but even she wanted to shove Alen out of the door so she could talk to Gerda. It was not supposed to be mean, but only because he had information to work with, then get to work right! Neither of them could offer more then that. At least the had an idea of who was behind this all. Oh lord, guard for herself and him? Maahes wasn't easily overpowered, then again neither was she...well before pregnancy but with Alen's warning, she had a feeling she would be LOCKED up within the house. Her hand traveled to Maahes shoulder again as he choked up on being able to talk about what happened. It was a comfort grip. It was in the past and none of them could change it, but it was also a grip that meant she did not blame nor hold it against him for her brothers death. He had snapped her brothers neck like a twig but then Caleb never would of given up had Maahes not done so. Now with everything happening, it was a reminder, another trial to deal with and she meant that squeeze as she would stand beside him. I love you..always. Unspoken words but no doubt he would hear them, feel them. Her head inclined to Alen and then he was gone. Inhaling a heavy breath, she held it for a moment before releasing it.
Nora: Nora's hand slid across the kitchen table to give the womans hand a squeeze. "They will find her..Give them time but they will find her.." She didn't want to give away the details of her mistress and her sisters fight. It was none of her business. The door shut and she patted the womans hand. "Everything will be fine mu dear, come now. Lets tell the Lord and Lady you are here.."
Maahes: "Alendral.." He stood to catch the man moving from the room where his wife sat, and would follow him upon the porch. The cold air was stiff inside his lungs and he would reach out to catch the man by the arm lightly. "Do not take my advise to question the pirate lightly, he was there upon that Isle as well." Once the door closed behind them the endless night seemed to open. Had it gotten so late already? "These wolves..I have fought them, and I must warn that had the lady of the Valley not been..." He paused wondering if Alen even knew Eirian had returned, "I would be dead. Their marks have left my skin to burn, and even one month later they still ache. You would be wise to be careful as well." Moving in a bit closer to the man his face would be drawn down upon the man to whisper lightly against his ear..at best he could, "And save me a thousand nights of dispair and never mention the Black Talon before my wife again." His tone was light almost begging, had he enough pride to do so. She would of course wonder over time where so many of his masks came from. However in that same right his hand closed over the man's shoulder in a much deeper respect then a mere magician would have earned. With that he would let the man go and would very well watch his retreat perhaps like a father would his child; wanting to see to it he returned safely home, but more importantly like a good General did to his country as all were family here.
Gerda: She rose with Nora following her to see the Lord and Lady, parchment in hand.. her nerves shot as she waited her turn for an audience.. seemed the Couple was practically royalty having to schedule appointments.
Nora: "My Lady...Gerda has come to see you.."Nora spoke as she opened the door from the dining room into the sitting room and stepped back to allow Gerda to go into the room. A warm smile was offered to the woman in comfort before she shut the door after her.
Ealora: Ealora turned from watching the two men go and heaved a sigh as a hand raked through russet curls. Forcing a smile onto her lips, she waddled to Gerda and offered her a brief hug before a hand fell to the woman's back to usher her in. "Gerda, I'm glad to see you..come in, sit down. What is it? Are the Lilies all right?"
Alen: "I shall question him as you ask general. " not that he relished it. Everything he heard about the man was unpleasant. "See to the healer at your earliest possibility. The wolves have bred into them a toxin, one of which we've recently found an antidote." At the need for something more confident, he leaned in to better hear the man privately, and only nodded in response. "As you wish, General. " the murmuring response. The last gesture, despite the man's standoffish nature, he had to admit came as some surprise, a strange puzzlement blossoming on his expression before dropping back into inscrutable mask. He'd nod once and move to slip away, disappearing into the night. Despite his bluster, he had hoped the Pirate would provide him with the final piece of the puzzle--if the selfish bastard yielded nothing of worth.. he feared that he'd fail his promise after all. All he had left was this woman. His only chance of unraveling this...
Maahes: He would heave a heavy sigh, his hands touching each hip as he watched the man, but once he was out of sight Maahes turned on the porch of his home and moved back inside. Seeing Ealora talking to Gerda he would move to stand just at her side, "She will be found, do not worry." Knowing that had to be the reason for the woman's being here, she looked a mess, and he wondered if perhaps she could use a hand. Perhaps he would send Nora over for a few hours each day to help.
Perry: The moon was high in the sky against the darkest black, that only winter could bring. It's silver gaze lit up the snow adding that extra celestial beauty to an already perfect night. With a babbling woman on one arm, the look upon his eyes was vacant listening with his face, but of course not his ears. She would question him every few steps seeing his mind wonder, "Oh yes of course." Seemed to be the right answer every time, and she would go right back to her story of...shoes..and ships..sealing wax--cabbages and kings. Lord he needed a new pick up line.
Gerda: The Lily's are fine Milady " she eased into the seat, old bones creaking in the cold, and lack of sleep and too much worry showing plainly on the old matron... " I came to bring you this.. it's a legal matter.. and as her sister you be the one.. the only family she had to see it done.. drawn up by a solicitor.. and given to me in trust.. for you should the time come.. if she were missing or.. or.... dead " her voice cracked and went silent over the last word.. as she handed her the parchment.. with Elaora's name upon it. When opened she would find a simply written letter.. seal and witnessed at the bottom. Ealora, If you are reading this.. then things have come to pass that I am no longer able to see to my affairs.. I am trusting you with my life.. such as it is.. to tend it when I cannot... In the matter of the Lilly... in my absence it shall be run jointly by Gerda and Ursuala... unless my absence is more than a month.. at which time I must asked you seek Audience with the Duke and apprise him of the situation.. if it is my death that brings us to this juncture.. then.. he must be notified immediaatly.. for the Lily is his in right.. The monies in the accounts are to be given each girl in turn with their earnings.. the rest saved for Joy's Upbrining. Nicholas is to be given the amount that is held for him.. and he is to be treated with all the respect you would give a greiving husband.. He is to help if it is his wish to Raise Joy.. as his daughter.. no better father would I ask for her, as he loves her as his own. You my dear sister are entrusted with my most precious treasure.. Joy... I would have you raise her as your own... for no better mother could I wish for her than you.. Maahes will be a steady hand in her life and keep her safe.. for this.. I know you will not deny me.. Love her.. as you loved me.. without..bounds.. as your own family. As I love you.. and yours. Shaden Aramoire it was signed, and sealed..with an official scribes notary.
Ealora: Slowly she sank into a seat by Gerda and reached for the woman's hand, holding it in her own. Her head turned briefly to behold Maahes before turning back to Gerda. "That's right, we'll find her. I promise." Though she released the woman's hand to take the envelop. A slender brow rose in question even as Gerda explained. "Gerda...we'll find her.."Yet she was all ready breaking the seal and pulling the documents from within. For a moment she was silent, her eyes scanning over the letter and each word seemed to cause her throat to tighten even more. "Oh Shaden.." All ready tears began to slide down her cheeks as she hiccupped as she pulled in a breath but unable to contain it, she began to sob as she brought the letter to her lap in one hand, the other raising to her mouth to keep the sobs back, least she be heard by the rest of the house and scare Eppie to death. It took a few more minutes before she could pull herself together and wipe the tears away from her cheeks before stuffing the letter back into the envelop. "Gerda we're going to find her, there is never going to be a need for me to fulfill this will...Do you understand? I am not going to let this be the end of it. You keep hope, keep praying and I promise you, we will find her, alive and bring her home."
Alen: "Hello Captain." one thing was certain. The Captain was going to require a different tact. He knew the man was at his heart, somewhat self absorbed. Appealing to his heart or his comrades would do nothing. So he was going to try a more direct approach, even if it meant ruining his night. The peasant clothes long shed for tight cloth the shade of night, the figure slipped from a side alley, an vicious smile that seemed to resemble a serpent's on his expression. It's severity silenced even the woman at his side--one of Alendral's particular talents, after all. "You're going to have to come with me. You're suspected of the Disappearance of Lady Aramoire as well as the murder of several... other women found to be in your company." That ought to get rid of the woman at his side, which was of course the point--the rest of it was a bold-faced lie.
Perry: The woman was quick to slip with wide eyes from under his arm, and quickly rush away..though her hungry eyes did in fact sweep over the new face. Had she seen him before? Peregrin was quick to still his steps his strut stopping with hands over his hips and with a bend in them he squared his eyes upon the magician. "Would it come as surprise little Claramae that you actually did me a favor?" Dark blues matched well with the other, as two artists sat across from one another. "You of all people would accuse me of murder?" Now he found that a riot, and it clearly showed upon his defiant little cokey smirk that was in fact his signature.
Gerda: She nodded softly wiping away tears that had sprung anew with Ealora's... " She thought the world of you.. as her very own.. I know what's in the letter.. she wrote it only a few weeks past.. when she though she was being watched. he knew that the Bruce.. was after her... She hoped to keep Joy from him... but I fear for her.. that he has her now.. and the babe.. but there are other matters to attend to as well.. with the Lily.. and all " the woman seemed defeated... as she stood.. " I should be getting back.. just in case she comes home I want to be there.. "
Ealora: She rose with Gerda, one hand pushing on the chair as the other rested on her belly. "I had hoped the Bruce would never find out..although we don't think he is the culprit at this point Gerda. Do not worry. Pray for her safe return but I promise you, we will bring her home. Blood has nothing to do with it, Shaden is my sister, my dearheart and I will see her home and I will see those responsible for her capture, punished." She pulled Gerda not a hug and kissed the old woman's cheek. "You just keep the Lily running, give her something to come home to..Don't want her coming home to a dirty house or girls running wild. Keep them in line hmm.." She offered the woman a smile but reached up to stroke a new tear away from her cheek. "Oh. I have London here, Eli got Eppie a little lab puppy. I will watch over her till Shaden gets back. Do not worry over that."
Alen: "Not Claramae, friend." he replied flatly. "Though I do appreciate the flattery on the implication of my girlish figure." he quipped, despite the severity of his accusations. Stepping from the shadows, the man smiled, grimly, a slender stiletto in hand despite himself. All a bit theatrical, no doubt, but it had the effect he was looking for. Let the man respond with swaggering arrogance. It signaled, to Alen, that he was on the defensive. "And I'm afraid we can claim no friendship either. But you're right. It's a stretch. I've only the limited facts to go on, of course. Lady Aramoire disappeared... you were one of the last men to be seen with her. The trouble in Skye coincided with your arrival... and of course, very few people speak kindly of you. So, given my evidence to the matter, all signs point to the lovely Captain as being the source of all Skye's miserably. Of course." He chuckled "I'm not convinced, but I have to show my superiors something. So, tell me. You wouldn't' happen to have much light to shed on all these woes, would you? I'm not strictly interested seeing an innocent man hung to death for all this, but I am dreadfully short on options..."
Perry: Oh how their would be laughter to rise from the Pirate then, the deep from the heart laughter. "So if you know me last with Shaden, then you as well know that I helped her clean up the 4 men she had dead in her cellar then too hmm? " His eyes would widen in mock shock, had Alen known in fact that the very pregnant little redhead was just as deadly. "And I do love how you say last man to be seen with her..keep the imagination fresh that she may perhaps entertain the ladies as well. "She was hunted by the Bruce, for the child inside her. I stayed to keep her safe, I killed a man the night before her disappearance. And..you insult me.." Slow careful yet aggressive steps would start to circle the man as the alley cat studied perhaps his competition much like his prey. "You think I would have to kidnap her to get her to run away with me, Pssh." Over the shoulder of the magician he inhaled deeply, and a whisper would soon follow, "Mmm, you smell like a wild animal, child." His spoke behind closed eyes then opened them as he stepped back around to face the Magician. "This isn't about me kidnapping her is it? You are after the wolves no?" A light chuckle then behind closed lips as he crossed his arms over his chest, "Let me assure you, you are barking up the wrong tree."
Ealora: As Gerda left, Ealora stood within the sitting room tapping the envelop against her palm. For a few minutes, she was silent but finally she turned to turn her gaze to Maahes. "You were right, and I was wrong. I'm not going to deny that. I should not of been at the docks but I hope you trust me enough not to be mad I went to lunch with Atlas. I hope you trust enough that I had and have no interest him but to simply tell him of you, of my devotion to you and whatever he thought he was gaining by coming here, was...not going to happen. You hurt me..taking off your wedding ring, saying when I am ready to be a wife to let you know. I am a...good wife to you Maahes. I can not help what has happened, nor the haunting's of my past, or yours coming back to us but I promise you this. I am going to weather everything, each heart breaking, painful moment, each happy and overjoyed experience because I love you." She turned completely towards him, offering his wedding ring out to him from her palm. "That is the promise I made to you in our vows.."
Alen: "Two of them, when I counted. Though I suppose you added to the count. Those were mine, in fact." He smiled, serpent like as he began to match the man, step for step, his eyes never leaving his, poised like a hunter in a moment before he struck. "And I'm aware of the Bruce. I appreciate saving me the handiwork, but that's long resolved. The associate the Bruce hired is currently resting in the bottom of the sea. I can be very efficient in dealing with these matters." And despite it, Peregine unraveled his little game right at the start, smiling thinly as he cut right to the heart of the matter. Say what you will about him, he wasn't dumb. but he still had a bit of a part to kingdom... all these feints, and double feints! Such elaborate work all in the name of one man? It sounds preposterous. And it leads nowhere. I have name, no possible master pulling the strings. It's all so distinctly personal...and why go after Shaden, hmm? Come now, this isn't the act of a mere jilted suitor, you and I both know it... I'm just doing what I have to do to get my payment. Certainly a mercenary can undestand that." He met the mans gaze with mirthful expression, as that was ultimately the game he was playing. Appeal to the mans sense of being a mercenary.
Perry: "No..it is not an act of an ill..suitor. In fact Shaden is merely a pawn in the entire plot." Crossing his arms over his chest he took a deep breath, "I had not expected it to last as long as it has..nor go as far as it did. She is cousin to Kendrew, and goes by the name Malice. I should warn you though..she is ruthless. I have been tracking her for weeks, and have come up short more then I wish to. I have to admit that even I am at my wits end with it. She is as well taking children to feed to her beasts, so I have been keeping watch all night these city streets. Ealora is composing a list for me of all that have been touched by the wolves, we fear that the poison is much worse as I am sure you have noticed the pattern. They are marking men and even women..but for what?" A light little smirk dusted his lips as the realization hit him, that this was the most fun he has had tracking someone in his entire state of being. She works in league with the Roman Church of God..so there again I warn you, but.." Dark eyes rose to the man pure hell laced with mischief, "I do not need to tell you that hmm."
Maahes: "Keep it with you, it will keep you safe as it has me..I was a fool to think that I could keep you from doing as you please. But perhaps I was a fool more so to think you would have done what was best for our child." His voice was quiet as he made his way back in, closing the door and locking, "And for what it is worth..Atlas knows very well who I am now. In fact he may have a reminder for the rest of his life embedded in his face." A very pleased little lion he was. He turned his back upon her moving to return to the kitchen. "Eppie needs her bath..and are you not supposed to be in bed?" Calling back over his shoulder.
Alen: "Malice? interesting name." a flicker of recognition passed, but it wasn't enough to connect the final pattern. "Aye. I already gathered that she was merely a pawn. And I believe Maahes to be the gambit. Whatever he has done, it has slighted this woman terribly. I gather that this association with the Roman Church is a convenient excuse to destroy him. As to the pattern on the attacks I can not name. We've synthesized an antidote, or so we believe, but it's particularly masterful in its creation. Merely breaking it down was dangerous, our mutual acquaintance put herself in considerable risk." He locked gaze with him again and darkened subtly, before the viper smile found its way to his expression again. "So tell me Captain, have you any insight into the subject of why a woman that would actually go by the name of Malice would want so badly to see the General dead that he would execute what is frankly the plan of the truly deranged?"
Ealora: "And what would keep you safe then?" She caught his hand as he moved passed her, turning his back on her and lay the ring within his palm and closed his fingers over it. "Let it continue to keep you safe.." She released him then as if he had burned her. In truth, he might of been speaking what he saw as true, what might of been truth, but lord did he seem to cause her more hurt. "You can't catch wind and expect it to stay in your hand Maahes. I forgot about the docks until I got there an if anyone was listening that would want to harm the Captains of Skye they had no idea it was me. I made sure of that. I would never, put myself in harms way knowingly. You should know that by now. Everything I have done thus far, has been for the good of our family. I would never put our child in harms way." She fell silent hearing him speak of Atlas. "I figured you would. But you once told me to let you in, I have done that Maahes and I sought to tell you the truth, I didn't intend to hide this form you. So try to punish me, but I have admitted my wrong in this..." She let him walk away, curling a hand under her belly. Lord how she wanted to cry but she pursed her lips closed, forcing her throat to loosen from its strain. "I'll skip dinner tonight, I had a big lunch and I'm not hungry. I'll go give Eppie her bath and go to bed...my lord.."Oh how sarcastic the last was but he had hurt her and despite the dignity of her retreat, she wobbled that little pregnancy wobble as she headed out of the sitting room and upstairs.
Perry: "Mmm, Mon seigneur..Amour naturellement.."He grinned, "Brute killed her lover, what else would drive a woman crazy?" He spoke over his shoulder as he moved to walk away. "If there would be anything else, you will find me in the tavern. How you say? Commencez de nouveau où vous m'avez laissé?" Meaning in fact pick up where Alendral had left him.
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Post by Sir Nicholas Stryker on Feb 1, 2009 14:41:11 GMT -6
Theodren: Leaving Moira to herself for the time being, Ren decided to make his way out of her room and down the stairs. He was after a bottle of wine and a couple of glasses. Things seemed to be running smoothly now, but well, moments ago...not so much. The large Greek male reached the bottom step and took the few strides he needed to close the distance between himself and the bar. He was at least six foot three inches tall and approximately around two hundred and fifty pounds. His skin was dark in tone, copper colored even. His hair long and dark, partially gathered and a few braids within it. His eyes dark and his facial structure well defined. He wore simple black breeches, a cream colored or off white tunic. Black boots of soft leather along with the usual black fur cloak were worn as needed. His weapons were the curved blade of the scimitar and the small but deadly daggers for close range fights. His others weapons were put elsewhere for the time being as a bow and arrows were not needed daily. He stood quietly while awaiting the tender to retrieve his requested items of wine and glasses. -d-
Nic: While other guards had been placed at the Lily while he joined the search for Shaden, there was once and a while he visited his place of residence, to change, to eat or check up on things. Still the place seemed to scream of Shaden, whispering memories of a time spent alone holding her in his arms, dancing with her in the light of the hearth, kissing her under the mistletoe. Doing...unsavory things behind the couch and just spending time with her in the Library being a general mushy hearted fool over her and her baby. The door closed quietly behind the aging Knight, his clothing tattered and torn from a long night searching through the outskirts of the woods for any signs, any clues. He was dirty albeit smelling roughly of dirt and leaves and his five oclock shadow was more then just a shadow. "Mr. Stryker..some man dragged Moira upstairs.." Heather, she was always the tattletail, batting her eyelashes at Nic. Silvery blue eyes roamed over the woman, more in annoyance then anything lustful. "What man.."He growled low. It wasn't that he didn't want to deal with the problem, he didn't have time for it. Heather's hand lay against his chest as she patted her eyelashes "I don't know but he scares me, looks like a barbarian." Clasping the girls wrist, he pulled it off his chest and leaned in low. "I'm a barbarian...or will be if you touch me again.." She humphed and stomped from the room. His head dropped, fingers pinched at the bridge of his nose but the murmuring voice upstairs was enough to tell him that two people were screaming at each other. Dropping his belt and sword by the door, he moved towards the sitting room, eyes passing to the bar, seriously considering a drink and then waving off the thought without a second more to it. Now all he had to do was bide his time and wait. Time slipped by and Heather's 'Barbarian' made himself known. Shifting in his chair, he slowly rose from it, turning away from the hearth to face the man. "Am I...going to have a problem with you?" He asked quietly and with a quiet calm most people found annoying.*
Theodren: As a man approached him, Theodren thought him speaking to someone else close by at first. However, he realized that the question was directed to him and Theodren lifted his chin. "That all depends." He answered back. " I only become a problem for others after I've been provoked." The man's arms crossed over his broad chest as his brow arched in questioning. Wondering who this man was and why he felt Theodren was a problem. This man always seem to get people talking when there was nothing else worth talking about. His looks making him stand out like no other. The fact he wore leathers and furs, had tattoos and an ear-ring and that his skin looked dirty simply because of its color always attracted attention, whether it was wanted or not. The man's face was stoic, expressionless and he gave no indication on showing anything at the moment. -d-
Nic: "Good answer. However I am hearing of a problem with one of the girls." He moved slowly and with purpose till he was before the other. Nicholas himself was no puny male. At the same height and perhaps ten pounds less then the other, even men knew that simply weight and height didn't determine the outcome of a battle, should it come to that. "Allow me to introduce myself. Nicholas Stryker, Guard over the Lily and its Lilies and Mistress." His arms folded slowly over his chest and silvery blue eyes rose from the mans feet to his face. "So you understand that even if provoked by one of the Lilies...So you see, manhandling, the Lilies, does not sit well with me. You understand, my job and my care goes with them. My Promise to the Lady Aramoire." Though Nicholas was never one to tell his business or Shaden's to anyone, he explained. "Shaden is missing, kidnapped and I have enough on my plate trying to find her...so I am asking this question of you, in the hopes that it was a simple misunderstanding and you are not going to make me break my promise to Shaden."*
Theodren: Theodrens lips twisted in a humored curl when the man gave his reply. "A problem?" He asked. "I'm afraid there's been some mistake or misunderstanding. There's no problem with myself or the woman I'm with, not anymore. We have ..settled our differences." He added a moment later. He watched as Nicholas Stryker sized him up. All men did it, regardless. Though the man did look smaller in size, Theodren knew better than to judge a man by appearance alone. That size mattered not when it came to intelligence, skill, or common sense. The large Greek male nodded and smiled. "Of course I do. And I am sorry to hear of the Mistresses' disappearance. The one time I dealt with her, recently of course she seemed to be a very pleasant person. She was the one I spoke with when it came to the contract. Though... Ursula was whom I had to speak with last due to their Mistresses' absence." Theodren had yet to let his arms fall to his sides just yet. Though, seeing the man was only doing his duties, the dark copper skinned male would now make the effort in introducing himself. As arms unfolded and lowered, a hand was extended in greeting. "Theodren Galanos... and should you need to know just whom it is I am with if you would like to speak with her, that would be Moira." -d-
Nic: "Good. I am glad to hear of it. Most of the men I throw out are rather less stocky then you and I'd hate to see what throwing you out would be like." A ghost of a smile passed his lips then faded. "Shaden is, an amazing woman..Any words I use will hardly do her justice."The ghost of a smile was back. Damn it but he loved that woman and he didn't care who knew it. "I will find her...but I appreciate it if that information was kept secret from all parties, especially the girls. For all they know, Shaden is on a business trip. Ursula..there is a pill for you." He grumbled low as he turned and took a lean against one of the barstools. Damn old knees. At Theodren outstretched hand, his own rose and clasped at the mans wrist, as if brothers in arms. "There is no need to know the Lily you are with, just as long as she does not come to me with complaints on you. I am perfectly fine. But a bit of advice, no matter how much any of the lilies annoy you...try to avoid man handling them. Shaden does not like it and I...get the brunt of HER attack if there are marks on her lilies. I'd rather be on her good graces then on her bad ones.." Releasing the mans hand, he let out a heavy sigh and a singular gloved right hand rose and rubbed down his face in weariness.*
Theodren: "Of course."He said in reply as he slowly let a lop sided smile creep across his lips with Nic's bit of humor. Though, dark brows did furrow when he spoke of Shaden needing to be found. When Nic took his wrist, Theodren did the same. The grip was firm, strong, but no over powering or disrespectful. ""Anyone can be found if you follow the signs, it's the signs that are the hardest to spot and not the thing you seek." Nic's hand was released simultaneously with his own. "And not a word will be spoken.. its not my place to speak it." He said as he too was now leaning against the bar. Theodren was thirty and fours winters of age, what some considered an old man. How wrong had some been proven when the Greek male showed them that even the old can still kick ass. "As far as man-handling... nothing that leaves marks. I only get rough when whom I am with wants it like that." Theodren smirked, a little jesting between men if you will. The dark male watched though as Nic showed just how concerned he was for this woman's well being. "Have you a hunter? A tracker of any sorts in this city? " Asked with a curious gaze. "Make use of the resources around you if they able to be had. " -d-
Nic: "I've followed all available signs. There is something I am missing though. Some...puzzle piece that is apart from the rest. If you get my meaning." His head lifted, a nod of respect as the man agreed to...well keep his mouth closed as it was. Two old men talking. Ren was perhaps only a few years younger then Nicholas but they both had seen better days perhaps? Both having to prove that even old men could still...ride the barrel. Wasn't that the saying of today? Damn youth, sword shy lads who knew less about bloody battles and more about tom foolery and half assed courting women. The old days were gone. At least the days he had lived in where men of action were heroes and respected. That ghost of a smile returned at the teasing gesture of the man. Hell even he couldn't get mad at that, nor could he deny it. "I can track with the best of the hunters here. Besides, winter season and all, more of the nobles and rich society need the furs the hunters can offer. None are available at this time." Gloved hand groaned as he worked the leather bound fingers over his forehead. "You wouldn't happen to be a tracker or hunter now would you?"It was more in jest then anything else.*
Theodren: "That's the key my friend... got to look for the ones that are not available." He said. "And yes, even the best can lose sight of what's right before them." Theodren had indeed seen better days, but, those days had come and gone and so now he was making do with what he had. He might not be as limber as he once was and might not be as quick as he once was, but he could still give others hell when it came time. Theodren had to chuckle slightly as the two of them seem to know exactly what he had said was true. There were those type women that liked things... differntly. As Nic spoke on being among the best and how the best were currently not available, Theodren seem to frown. Maybe this city was in need of more like those and himself. At Nic's jesting inquiry, Theodren nodded and smiled with quite a bit of pride and maybe a little hint of a sarcastic sense. "As a matter of fact... I am. An old ranger if you will. Tracker, hunter, pathfinder... I do it all." He said as he held that smile. -d-
Nic: "That's very much the way it is. You understand, I was dead when I came to the Lily, well as dead as a man could be. Never thought I would feel the warmth of love again but the answer was right in front of me. Shaden...I got the job as her guard and the guard of the lilies, long before I came to care for her. I...asked her to marry me...twice."His head lifted from his hand as he spoke. "I would be willing to hire you..for any amount, it will be paid..and you would be doing me a great service, I will owe you a favor, make a request of me and bound by my oath as a Knight, I will repay it."*
Theodren: "Indeed... and then there are those that see it as it is right before them and simply refuse to.. accept it." That very comment could be said for a lot of people, maybe even himself included and it could cover a wide range of subjects... past or present. Theodren listened as Nic explained how he had came to be at the Lily and shared a little of the more intimate details in a respective sense. Theodren's eyes narrowed as he saw just how deeply the man's feelings for this woman went. "Hire me then... though no amount of coin can ever be placed on a life. I will help... and as far as the payment is concerned, we'll discuss that later. " He said as he straightened his massive form. "Tell me what you know or have found so far. I'll need maps... old and new of the city and its surroundings. Anything else that can give me detail of what I will be working with and for how long." -d-
Nic: "Very true.."He agreed about seeing and not accepting. At the mans acceptance of his offer, he clasped the man on the shoulder in a pat"Good! I appreciate it. Indeed, no price can match a life...especially my Shaden's, but we will discuss payment later, perhaps..a job here as an extra guard at the Lily, if your interested...if your good.."The last partly a jest as the ghost of a smile pulled at his lips again. "Come with me..I'll explain everything in more private quarters.." He pushed off the bar and lead the way into the study where the door was shut behind them. Taking a roll of long paper, he moved to a desk and unraveled the paper. A map of the city. "This is what I know..here.. is the General's home..and the home of my wife's sister..She was last seen here now this.."And his finger moved to point at another home plotted on the map"Is where blood was found..and a bracelet Shaden wore. I don't know of the bracelets origins but only that she NEVER took it off but yet it was found here, along with the blood. The General has the bracelet, else I would show it to you..but the bracelet itself is of little importance, at least where Shaden's disappearance is concerned. The General has all ready searched the city and no trace of her thus far..so my guess, or my assumption, is she is not IN the city but still somewhere on the island itself." He shifted to lean against the desk.*
Theodren: Theodren nodded, smiling and this one was warm. It was true, there was no price that could equal the amount of a life. Though when Nic asked for him to follow, Ren pushed off and did just that. He followed Nic into the private quarters, a slight smile on his face with Nic's jesting on whether he was good enough or not should a job be offered. Though once the doors were closed he moved over to the desk leaned over the parchment that was produced. Dark eyes watched carefully where the man pointed as he spoke. Theodren nodded, taking everything he said to memory as well as the pictures and positions of each crucial piece of information that had been pointed out. "No signs of say tracks? Human, animal, carts, carriages? Nothing?" Hmm.. if that were the case... this was going to be a little tougher than he had anticipated. He nodded though when Nic made his assumptions know that the woman was not in the city, but close by perhaps." A hand lifted to stroke at his goat - tee. "I'll need to go to these places myself...not saying any that are already involved have missed something, but.. perhaps there is a pattern. I've often found when things want to hide... there's a pattern involved somewhere. They go places they know well, places that are well hidden, sometimes even in the wide open just to throw you off strategically. Make you think that such an obvious choice would be over looked." -d-
Nic: "No, no tracks. Bits of fabric on the street...blood. Bloody footprints but those die off and go cold..seems to lead in the wrong direction. Perhaps to throw us off." He lifted off the desk to collect another rolled parchment and lay it over the first, unraveling it as he spoke"Now this..is a map of Red Wall, the true home of the General and his pirate wife..Here is where I see a connection, though try to follow me here. It seems a bit screwy, unless of course you knew the family."Silvery blue eyes rolled skyward, the General and his wife seemed to get in loads of trouble, he marveled at the fact they remained whole. "Here is the temple, this patch here around the home is the woods and this is where the animal attacks began. Sick wolves, some kind of...rabies or...really I heard rumors they were intentionally infected. Now it might seem crazy to assume Shaden kidnapping has anything to do with the wolves BUT, the wolves started it all, then came men who well..quite frankly, acted like a pack of wolves. Attacks have been kept hushed as to not alarm the city but women were found stripped, whore carved into their flesh and their bodies maimed..in the city and in the woods..Now you see, Red Wall itself and the land it sits on is pretty wide and run from the temple, through the woods up to the city. It started with the wolves but ever since the General and his wife moved into the city, the attacks have been localized in the city and the attacks themselves have been growing farther apart, as if tappering off up until Shaden's kidnapping."He pressed the map of Red Wall away. "Now Shaden went to visit her sister on the day she was kidnapped. She took four guards with her, guards I have not seen since then..but you see the two houses..are but a block from each other and only perhaps two blocks away from the Lily. Gerda did not see Shaden since her depature to see her sister. I assume, the attack happened there. at the vacant townhouse as no possible connection was found between the two houses to suggest any struggle took place from one to the other." He paused to inhale a breath and let it out. "Its rumored Shaden was at the vacant townhouse for a while before being apprehended, the question is why...why did they wait if she was alone the minute she left the Asad Aziem home.."*
Theodren: "Right... the usual ..." His hand lowered and he stood as he stared at the parchment before him from a short distance. His dark gaze lifted and drifted to Nic as the man was now producing another map. Brows arched curiously but eyes drifted from the man to the parchment. Again, his gaze followed Nic's finger, nodding occasionally and being careful to remember all of this. When Nic spoke on how things he thought connected, Theodren nodded and though it seemed odd, it fit. Then again, this could be one of those strategic moves. Make the obvious be overlooked, only it had not been and things had come together regardless. At Nic's last question... Theodren looked to him. "Sounds like someone or something made a move out of desperation. It wasn't planned... " The mans eyes narrowed. "Maybe...maybe there is more going on here than what anyone has come to realize." -d-
Nic: "That's what is suspected. There are several pieces of the puzzle missing..of that I am certain. Why the wolves were unleashed on Red Wall territory, the attacks in the city..While it might be a small connected, it is a connected." He shifted to lean against the desk once more. "I don't know how long you have been here, but there are rumors that have been kept hushed. The wolves...have yet to be destroyed but there is a new evil lurking in the woods. It attacked Sir Kendrew...and then another attack was brought to light, again hushed but of a family, one survivor, a girl who's face was half mauled off but she said a beast, not of normal animal traits, attacked her family and that this beast, was lead by someone, it was called off of her. She...described the General as its master. Whatever the plot Theodren, it centers around the family. As Shaden is Ealora's sister..not by blood but a bond stronger then blood. I see it as a means to hurt the family, draw them unawares but Shaden is not just a ploy..she is also a target..as evidence by her kidnapping. Perhaps out of desperation but I know of no one close to figuring out who is causing these attacks, though the General was implicated..I think the WHY is coming to light and that's why they struck out at Shaden. Frankly, the who and why are not my concern, though I know they should be. I only want Shaden back, once she is safe, THEN I will worry about the who and carve their heart from their chest.."Deathly serious, the calm exterior was still there which made his threat very erie in deed, but anyone who threatened the woman he loved and the child within her whom he also loved. Got no calm exterior, just the mad exterior of a man willing to go against God to punish those responsible.*
Theodren: "I agree... and what I am thinking is, Shaden is not the real intended target... someone else is. They are simply using her as a tool to get to the real target. Shaden herself though... as she maybe a target... means, there is more than one one evil as you put it at work." Theodren took a couple idle steps as he storked his chin again. "What if...there are in fact two at work here. They are working together not only to accomplish the same goal, but to divert attention from the other. This back and forth game is a way to distract the focus from being on one or the other to long a time." He looked to Nic and his head titled. "I agree, the who and why is not nearly as important right now, her life is." Everything Nic had told him already had the gears in his head turning. There were many possibilities...not just those that didn't like Shaden and the family but perhaps friends...or whom they had thought as friends. -d
Nic: "Glad to know we are on the same page. Study the maps as long as you need..I have a few leads to check on myself. They might not be of importance, else I would tell you about them. Lets say...you check out the Asad Aziem home, though I wouldn't advise directing with the family directly right now and check out the townhouse while I check on my leads. Say we meet back here...hmmm close to dawn?" His head tilted back in forth in thought before offering the frame of mind. That gave the man at least several hours to do his own investigation of the homes and make his assessments before the two could compare notes again and go from there. "If I'm not back by then, Theodren..then one of my leads will have gone in the wrong direction...as far as the enemy is concerned. I can...trust you to continue without me? Hopefully it will not go that route but you may well be saving my ass in the end."*
Theodren: The large Greek male nodded to Nic when it was known they were indeed on the same track of thought. "I will.. I'll return these to you soon enough though." He said as he rolled up both maps and tucked them under his arm. "I understand. Every man has something they must see to themselves at least once if not more." He nodded once more. "The home.. right and avoid direct contact with family. Noted. I'll see to the townhouse as well and dawn it will be. I'm pretty sure that will not be the case for you though... something tells me you are a very capable man when it comes to seeing things through." He said with a smirk only for it to fade and a slightly more serious expression was made. "You can.. I'll do all that I can to help you and the others in this for however long its needed." He moved over toward Nic, his hand clasped the man's shoulder and he nodded with firmness. "We'll find her and get to the bottom of all this." -d-
Nic: He gave a nod of his head and the ghost a smile returned to his lips as the man clasped him on the shoulder. His hand moved, in offer to Theodren once more. "Glad to have you aboard Theodren, it'll be a pleasure and an honor to work with. The offer will stand, despite the outcome of what happens. I could use a man like you around here to help guard the Lilies. You don't have to answer now..just think it over. When everything is said and done. You can say yes or no and I won't be inclined to feel hurt if you decline, I can't say I won't be disappointed but we'll leave that till the time is right.."*
Theodren: Theodren nodded and as he released Nic's shoulder, he took up the mans now offered hand. He clasped it just as he had before and nodded while giving a reply. "Glad to be aboard...and a pleasure it is indeed as well as an honor." He held the man's hand for the duration of the conversation. " Thank you... I'm sure in time I'll have an answer ready. And, this offer wouldn't be because I'm intimidating looking..is it?" He asked with a smirk as he released Nic's hand. "I mean... after all... I do tend to keep people staring... assuming.. and that can be useful." He said with a grin. -d-
Nic: He let out a laugh, despite the situation and the weariness he felt at Shaden's disappearance, a hand raised to pat Theodren on the shoulder with the jest. "Why else? We men must be intimidating over the men that come here, make them think twice about hurting the girls, and the perk is throwing their asses out into the snow. That in itself is quite rewarding." He clasped wrists with the man, gave a firm respecting squeeze before releasing his hand. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'll pick up my leads and see you later with the dawn." He moved to open the study door and move out, back to his effects by the door which were lifted, the belt opened and settled about his waist before being clasped closed. "Oh Theodren.."He called down the hall, waiting till the man appeared. "If something should happen to me..if Shaden is found and I am no longer...living. Let her know I love her..and if you would do me the honor, if it agrees with you, take over my position as head of the guard of the Lily. Watch over my girls..Shaden and our daughter within her, Joy..and the Lilies..Your the only one thus far I have come to trust in a short time, that is no easy feat. I'd trust the job to no other.." He shifted the sword within its sheath to the right position on his hip.*
Theodren: Theodren had to chuckle as he nodded. "A very good point. One that I like the sound of very much." When all physical bonds were broken, Theodren followed Nic out of the room. "Of course." He said in reply, knowing the man was eager to get back to the task at hand. He was now standing at the bar, ready to make claim to that request of wine and glasses until he heard Nic call to him once more. He looked to him, over his shoulder at first with raised brows and slowly turned to face him fully. As Nic made his wishes known, Theodren nodded firmly with his spoken reply. "It is I that am honored and I will do all that was asked."He meet the gaze of the man and in that alone, it seem the two would come to that silent understanding that spoke so clearly on all of this. -d-
Nic: He gave a solitary nod of his. All ready his heart at ease with the confirmation from his new...well friend that his wishes would be seen to. His girls taken care of, protected. "Oh an even if you avoid the family at best, you might meet the Pirate Queen herself, just...be careful."He let out a laugh. At least letting one more hearty moment pass between the two. If they survived this, or he rather..he saw a good friendship with the Greek hunter...tracker Theodren Galanos. He shifted his boot up to the chair beside the door and slipped a dagger into it. "See you with the dawn, my friend.." He spoke as he straightened himself once more and turned to pull the front door open and slip out into the waiting night.*
Theodren: The tall dark male would laugh himself shortly after Nic, the more warnings he got about these people, he had to wonder just what sort of people they were. Theodren nodded and then watched as Nic made his exit. He let his eyes linger on the door a moment longer, as a thought came to mind but then he turned his attention back to the tender who was ready with his request from earlier in the evening. All were taken in hand as well as the maps tucked under his arm and he moved back up the stairs in no time as he took two at a time. He returned to Moira's room, intending to finish out the evening with her as planned. -d-
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Post by Sir Nicholas Stryker on Feb 1, 2009 14:42:37 GMT -6
Nic: Honestly the man was a mess. Since Shaden's disappearance he had not been back to the Lily. Trusting the extra guard he had placed at home would do their job or feel the broad end of his sword. It was the only time the man ever looked truly threatening and now with having been out, trying to pick up a trial, he hadn't shaved nor changed. All ready his face was beginning to beard up and his clothing, had seen better days. The door to the Lily slammed closed behind him. He was merely there to catch a quick bath, change, maybe shave if he felt he had the time and he would be back out the door. "Gerda!" He called as he lay his things back the door and heavy boots thudded as he made his way to the stairs. "Can I get some hot water please.” He called as he headed upstairs taking them two at a time. Gerda: Soon enough Gerda would arrive at the door of his bedroom followed by several maids carrying pails of water.. her eyes rimmed red and hands wringing with worry " No news....?" her disappointment was acute... heartbreaking... " I went to Her sisters today.. and they have no news either.. it's like she disappeared.. from the earth... without a trace " Nic: "Not yet.."Even his voice was dark and gruff as he pulled the soiled shirt over his head and threw it to the floor. He was rather ticked off, first at no sign of her, then more her for disobeying him. He told her to watch herself, not to go out without guard, she had promised. Hobbling around on one foot, he worked one boot off and then other. "Her sister...ha!" Though it was no joking voice. "I'm going back to that vacant townhouse..it all starts there, I just can't seem to piece it all together. What she was doing there..the clues..bits and pieces of her things...like she was leaving bread crumbs and then it all ends...but why. It all starts there." He was speaking more to himself then Gerda as the tub was filled with the steaming water. "Oh, thank you Gerda.." He had begun to loosen his pants then stopped to turn to the old woman. Ok he was NOT undressing and getting into the tub with her there! Gerda: " It was going to be a surprise... she forbid me to tell anyone... She bought the townhouse.. was having it renovated.. for after Joy was born... as a home... that is likely why she was there... checking on things.. she wanted to make a real home.. for the baby... and you. " the old woman rung her hands even more... " She left going to Ealora's with guards.. I don't know why she.. left there without them... I cannot fathom it.. after... Perry..." her voice trailed off then as if she had said to much.. she turned.. " I'll leave you to your bath " Nic: He stood stock and silent as the woman spoke. It was perhaps Shaden's saving grace as the anger melted away for a moment at the woman’s admission. "You don't have to go, just turn around.." He spoke and waited till the woman was turned around to remove his pants and nearly hop into the bath and settle down. Any other time he would of relaxed but right now? No, not till Shaden was home. How odd it was to be back within that room. He hadn't really occupied it for some time. "They had a fight...I don't know all the details but that bytch of a pirate hurt her..Perry said he warned her about moving around without guard. But damn it, even upset she should not of left without guards." He wiggled the glove from his hand and tossed it at the bed before dunking down beneath the water to wetten up before he was scrubbing furiously at his body, no time to waste. He'd relax when he was dead...or till he found Shaden. Whichever came first. Gerda: Gerda was a font of Knowledge.. Shaden trusted her with everything it seemed... " I know after Perry killed the man that was stalking her two nights before she disappeared.. that she was on guard.. didn't go anywhere even outside without two guards.. she left with four.. going to Ealora's... she was serious about.. protecting that child... she would have never put the babe in danger on purpose.. She was finally happy... and looking forward to her life... " she turned back to him then... " You bring my girl home.. to me... You opened her heart.. that can't be for nothing " then the woman was out the door in a sobbing fit.. Nic: Silvery blue eyes turned to the woman as he spoke. He didn't know the details of the fight but it had to of been bad for Shaden to forget her guards behind. Especially when someone had been stalking her, stalking her baby. No he knew Shaden to well to know that baby was her life. "It won't be Gerda, I swear it...maybe this time I'll cart her ass straight to the church and marry her before she can protest.." He spoke as he lathered his head with the soap and dunked under just as the woman disappeared in a sobbing mess. It was only a few minutes later when his door slammed shut and his boots hit heavily against the ground as he walked as fast as his legs would carry him down the long hall, boots continued to thud as he took the stairs and turned to move to the kitchen. His hair still wet and dripping against a blue vest as he did up the sleeves of the shirt, his glove bitten between his lips. With sleeves done, he wiggled the glove on, locked it into place, grabbed two muffins from the tray, kissed Gerda cheek to soothe the woman then was out the door once more, muffins in one hand, his belt and sword in the other. One muffin was tossed to a guard posted outside the door. "Look sharp. None of the Lilies go out tonight alone. That's an order." The man nodded as the muffin was caught and Nicholas own muffin was shoved into his mouth as the belt was wrapped around his waist and looped into a close. He'd start back at the townhouse Shaden had purchased. There was something there he was sure he was missing. That one piece that would lead him to her. The house sit there cold and silent witness to the things that happened within it's wall.. if walls could talk it would be a harrowing tale they told.. of a lioness fending off attackers to save her most precious treasure.. only to fall... fail.. in the end, the odds to great.. to overcome. inside there were clues..to the happening.. fingerprints in blood both large and male.. and a smaller set here and there , marks from oiled leather boots.. staining the dusty floor... four sets of footprints... four guards... coincidence? had anyone questioned the guards that had been with her.. had they been seen at all.. since that day... no... an elaborate scheme to either take Shaden.. or get invited into Ealora and Maahes home.. with Shaden.. so many possibilities... it was in the story these clues told he could see the valiant effort his beloved had fought against all odds.. out the back steps.. into the tree line he could follow the path marked by bits of fabric.. heading to the west... toward RedWall. He was tempted to pass the house up, for some reason that dwelling just held an ill omen for him. For a long moment he stayed on the doorstep, unmoving, staring at the door as if mentally talking with the house yet that, was just silly. Looks could be deceiving though and after a moment he shoved the door open and moved inside. He paused a step or two into the door and inhaled a deep breath. Damn it, they should of gone in the night was taken but many of the clues had been outside. Bloody footprints, the bracelet..bits of her clothing..He might of been a knight but his family were known for their tracking sense of seeing things that others could not, noticing details that elsewhere would of been trivial flimflam. He moved easily, cautiously, overstepping the footprints on the floor, kneeling down to rub his fingers over them before bringing them to his nose and finally rub his fingers together as he lifted up and moved to check out the bloody handprints, fingerprints. He would of reached out to touch then, but no..no need to put more then that one touch of his upon the house. Least he be accused of taking her. Which in itself was ridiculous but people in a panic, in pain often didn't think things through. The trail of clues followed out the back steps and off into the woods. All telling their own story. Of who took her, and how hard she fought. He felt pride rip through him despite the situation. She was fierce woman when she wanted to be. He wasn't going to disappoint her, she had left clues for as long as she could and he was going to follow them. HE was going to find her. Where the fabric bits stopped there was indentions of hoof prints in the loamy damp soil.. and something else.. a pool of blood.. broken foliage... much to large a place for the tiny courtesan to have fallen and left the void in the brush... someone had died here... on thru the forest in the direction of red wall he could track.. the hoof prints for some time... without further implications of clues or trail from Shaden.. just when the trail ran cold.. he would be close to giving up.. there it would be... a tiny scrap of lace.. on a branch.. at head height.. tossed from the back of a horse.. further evidence she had survived.. the encounter Shifting his belt around and panting from the long and quick stride of his legs to follow the trail. He paused a moment to catch his breath and caught sight of the hoof prints within the soil. Shifting the sword at his hip, he kneeled to inspect the prints indentations. He inched forward, much like a crab without raising himself up to inspect the broken foliage. Someone died here...but not Shaden. Perhaps someone she had mortally wounded but the body had been removed..Why? Was the person well known? Would they have lead to where Shaden was? This was perhaps the case and all questions shifted to Yes. Throwing a bit of broken twig from his hand back onto the ground, he rose up onto his feet once more following the line of hoof prints. They were leading...towards Red Wall. His lips pulled in a tight frown as he let out a huff and moved off after the prints. Night was no doubt creeping over the island but with the heavy foliage of the forest..one could hardly tell. In the dying light the trial ran nearly cold before a glint of lace caught the light, a saving grace? The finger of God? He had to wonder as he yanked the lace from the tree and held it under his nose for a sniff. Her scent.. orchids and jasmine.. softly cajoled him further into the interior of the Isle of Skye... so many things could be though.. the men.. were Maahes men... and it was rumored that Maahes had a hand in the terrible dealings that went on with the wolves.. and Shaden had disappeared after leaving.. Maahes House.. perhaps the General was tired of his.. so called Whore of a sister in laws closeness to his wife.. and sought to remove her from the picture...on toward RedWall the clues would lead.. few and far between.. and yet just when the path seemed to disappear.. there it would be..a broken limb bent at an odd angle... a piece of clothing.. indeed she had left what she could of a trail.. between bouts of unconsciousness. it stopped though altogether.. on the opposite side of RedWall.. the valley being circumvented entirely... before the trail went cold. Nic: Nicholas was a man of few words, unless it was to Shaden but a man of great intelligence, a hawk eye who saw more then what most people did. The reason for Shaden's disappearance could go in a million directions but one he was sure it would never go into was Maahes offing her. Even Nicholas knew while the man was brash, rude, and generally an ASS, he cared about Shaden...cared about how much his wife cared for her sister. Though right now Nicholas was inclined to say it was not all that well if Ealora said enough to hurt Shaden into going out without her guard. Though in truth, the oily footprints back at the Townhouse was enough in his mind to warrant the arrest and interrogation of those men. Gloved hand groaned as the lace was curled into his hand and his heart gave a lurch at the scent. "SHADEN!" He called into the darkness. If she was being kept out here, perhaps she could hear him. Call out to him and he could find her. A foolish heart hoped as the trial continued near to the edge of Red Wall were it died completely and his heart sank as he turned this way and that. God Damn it! "SHADEN! CAN YOU HEAR ME?!" He called again into the new dark surroundings, pausing, waiting on baited breath. Wishing...hoping for an answer. Wolven Guards: When the answer came it would not be what he wanted.. familiar faces of the men who were guarding his beloved.. suddenly appeared in the dark... " Come luokin fer yer Whore?" one laughed as they circled him.. six in total from the shadows came.. " That bytch killed Brag and Nordel... she's a hellcat.. how is she in bed.. I bet she leaves you wrung out " the laugh was dark and edged with danger... the hiss of steel as his sword drew... surrounding the knight cudgels and clubs... resounded in slaps against hands.. " I'll be tasting her soon... been wanting to kick up those skirts for a while.. even big with a bastard child in her.. she's still.. something to make a rod hard.. " Nic: The blade at his side sung as the voice that answered was not Shaden's. His lips pulled back into a snarl as the men came into view. God damn them! He would make them pay for their betrayal. "Where the hell is she?" He hissed behind curled lips as he turned slowly, knowing well six men in were against his odds but that didn't mean he wasn't going to fight like hell. Old man or not. "Its more then they deserved. You'll get much the same treatment, that I can promise you!" Ignoring their comments about Shaden though it did make his blood boil. "Touch her..and I will make sure you beg for mercy before I kill you.." He lunged suddenly, knowing well that the first move made or broke the battle. Never wait for the first move when the odds were against you. MAKE the first move, catch them off guard. The sword swung high over the head of one as his boot clipped another against the chest. Wolven Guards: The battle would rage until it became three against one.. three falling beneath the old Knights sword and expertise... though Nicholas would receive some wounds of his own, for the most part his attackers were... ill displayed and trained relying more on brawn than brain.. it was at this point another voice cut thru the air...
Grenuie`: "You want to see you woman... then you will put down your sword.. and know you submit to God's will... " the voice was decidedly weasesly but invoked power at the same time.. Grenuie` the Cardinal... of Jerdonme.. stepped from the shadows... " Be of use to us... give us information on the movements of the troops of the Duke.. and you shall see your woman. She is not far now... " Nic: His face twisted as his sword sank into the third mans chest, poking outside his back as he gargled and spit up blood before Nicholas let him slide from the blade. Decidedly if Shaden was here, would she be horrified by the satisfaction on his face as the third man fell from his blade. It was true that six against one was not a good odd and had left him with a gash from shoulder down to his wrist on his left arm and another along his chest soaking the shirt he wore, making it stick against his skin as he faced the rest when the voice flowed from the darkness. Silvery blue eyes turned to the Cardinal. A devote Christian, he could barely believe his eyes. The church!! "I'll make an even better deal for you. Take me to my wife and I won't kill you and enjoy sending your slimy soul to hell." He turned to face the Cardinal, his sword posed up at the man in defense, in defiance. "This isn't God's will, Damn you! This is madness!"* Grenuie`: The man chuckled his hand upheld the only thing that stilled the men from attacking once more... " If you die here in these woods who will know.. you have some value.. in your knowledge of the troop movements... but do not overestimate it... you are.. expendable my child... God's hand moves in mysterious ways.. have you not seen the revelations... the conversions to the faith about you... God sometimes uses the most unlikely of soldiers.. sacrifices in the war to save souls... the few will perish.. to save the many... Shall you and your .... wife..." the last was said with derision " Be of the few.. or the many.. it is your decision" Nic: "I'll not say it again old man...I may not be a priest...but at this point in your life, neither are you. You'll burn in hell for your actions here. NOW TAKE ME TO MY GOD DAMN WIFE!" He screamed into the mans face even as he held back the men from attacking. He had fell three of them all ready, what made the twisted man of God think he couldn't fell the other three? "Lets play a game Cardinal hmm, if I fall, it will be in vain, but if you fall? Will the world rejoice, wanna find out? I have no qualms in slaying a man who betrayed God and his people. I hired these men, you think I can't take them out and you?" Grenuie`: The hand shifted only minorly.. and behind Nicholas a cudgel was brought down on his skull ' Take him.. put him in the cell beside her.. and post a guard to listen.. if he will not talk.. I will interrogate him at dawn... perhaps..seeing his wife and child tortured will make him talk.. " it was a cold voice that gave the orders as the men gathered Nicholas up.. tying him to the rump of a horse.. heading toward the labyrinth.
Nic: As the cudgel was brought down upon his head, a blinding pain shot through his mind. The sword fell lazily from his grasp as he slumped to his knees. It might of looked quite comical were it not for the situation at hand as he swayed left and right, fighting the blackness that threatened to consume him as the Cardinals words swam inside and out of a head that was screaming in pain before blackness shot up and he fell completely to the ground unaware of the men who were hauling him upward and tying him onto the horse.
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Post by Sir Nicholas Stryker on Feb 1, 2009 14:43:13 GMT -6
It would be much later that Nicholas woke.. three stone walls surrounding him in darkness.. one wall of iron bars... the sounds of misery.. children crying.. water dripping in annoying rhythm down the musky walls... as a soft voice singing quietly in French.. a voice he knew well.. one that tried to comfort the children.. as the screams begin... a child had been tossed into the lions den... the sounds were hideous.. but only lasted a few minutes.. before nothing more than the sounds of growling remained.. as the lion ingested his dinner... only one tonight.. the other must be out with it's master.. Nic: The man gave a grunt as he shifted against the floor. Pain shot through his chest and down his arm were the gashes had long since stopped bleeding, crusting over with dried blood but no less painful. Adrenaline had kept him from feeling the wounds when inflected but now, they screamed as much as his head did. As he blinked into the darkness, he worried, panicked inwardly really that he had once again been blinded but finally as the darkness adjusted in his eyes, he could see the cracks in the floor. A sigh of relief left his lips, followed by another groan at the annoying drip. There was water close by...a river..a lake..Something that made that incessant drip continue. He stored the knowledge away in his mind as he rolled to his back. Children were crying but it was the hideous screams of a child being ripped apart that made a shudder run through him. "Ye do I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.."He mumbled as he shifted to a sitting position on the floor,the words more trying to comfort himself to erase the mental image of a child being torn apart and the growling that followed. A hand rose to press against the back of his head before he winced and pulled his hand back from the knob that had formed. Crawling across the floor, he followed the quiet French singing to the bars. "Shaden.."He whispered, his hand reaching through the bars to feel against the wall. Shaden : "Nicholas?" her voice broke unbelieving... " Nicholas.. is that you?" he could hear the relief and fear in her voice.. " Noooo you can't be in here.. no.... not you " tears ravaged her voice as she pressed against the bars... he was so close... only a foot or so away thru the thick limestone walls.. her hand slipped thru the bars and along the wall till she grasp his hand tightly... " oh god Nicholas...I'm so sorry so sorrry are you alright.. ?" Nic: No its the Pope. He wanted to shoot it back at her feeling that tickle of anger rise but then fall as her hand found his and grasped tightly. Lord how he wanted to hold her. Why couldn't they put them in a cell together! This thumb moved over her knuckles as she grasped his hand, soothing, comfort. Even in a time like this. "It's me.."He could all most laugh. Didn't she know his voice by now but her strained voice broke his heart, made his throat tighten and ache. "It's ok my love..none of this is your fault, I'm fine. How are you? How is our baby?" Yes he was keeping up the pretense of being her husband but in truth, only their vows to Gods kept it unofficial. He loved her, more then he had ever loved anyone else. Even Soren and that was saying something. Joy, was his. He was there every painstaking day of her pregnancy and he would be there for that little girl every day of her life. If that didn't make him the father, then f**k anyone else who thought differently! "Are you hurt?" Shaden : I'm well... only a few bruises.. and bumps... " her voice caught in her throat.. when he asked of Joy... and she avoided the question.. all day she had awaited the movements.. barely breathing trying to feel just one little kick..not since the baby had begun to move had she been so still " I'm scared... Nicholas... .. there are horrible things going on in this hellish place...." Malice: A laugh cut thru the darkness... " Poooorr Poorrr little whore... your scared " Malice appeared in the darkness... a lamplight casting her in relief... as she moved to the cell before Shaden... "you have to wonder... why you are here.. yes?" Nic: His fingers stroked over her palm but no doubt she could feel the tremble in his fingers, he heard the catch of her breath when he asked of Joy and fear shot through him, increasing his heart rate. His jaw clenched as he fought a shudder of disgust at the place and of pain of his own wounds, though not life threatening. "It's going to be all right baby, I promise you.." His hand tightened with Shaden's as Malice appeared in the lamplight, a growl left his lips, not unlike a beast. "Leave her alone! You want any answers, come to me!" Malice: "ohhh tsk tsk.. you wouldn't even be alive Knight had not Grenuie wanted some answers from you ... count yourself lucky you ran across him and not me.. and my pets.. " she smirked. lowering in a hunch before Shaden... " You know..it was your sister I wanted.. not you... it was a mistake.. you were taken.. but then again... it seems to have worked out just as well... everyone is running about looking for you.. and she will make a mistake.. and then I will get her... Though I have to wonder how you feel.. that you took her place... you and your child for her and hers... perhaps ...?" Nic: "Shut up, hellish bytch!"He growled as his hand held tight to Shaden's. "Don't listen to her Shaden. Stop talking to my wife god damn you! Shaden don't listen, you understand. Your sister is devastated your gone..."He hated to admit it and while he was still angry at the pirate. He had seen the woman sob over her sisters disappear. Saw her face, pale and devoid of color at even then mention of Shaden's name. "Be strong Shaden, She won't get Ealora..Ealora will never let anything happen to you. You know that, She loves you.." Malice: "ohhhh your sister loves you.. she's devastated.. " she mocked Nicholas.. now in sing song voice... " I wonder if I put them in a cell together.. gave them knives.. and said the survivor would go free.. who would walk out.. my bet is on the Pirate... She let her own brother be killed by that Moor husband of hers.. turned her back on her real blood.. do you think she would put your life.. or your child's above hers.. " now there was a laugh.. " Tell him.. why you left your sisters house... what was your argument about ?" she knew well the guards had told her.. it was almost too perfect... Shaden: " Be quiet.. !" she screamed.. her hand dropping from Nic's to press against her ears.. to drown out the sound of the woman's voice... "Stop Stop... " she rocked back and forth in misery " She’s my sister.. she would not harm me... " Nic: As soon as Shaden's hand left his he let out a growl of a scream, his hand lunging for the woman as he pressed his body tight against the bars of his own cell. "SHUT THE f**k UP!" His teeth snapped as he screamed at the woman. " Shaden don't listen to her! You know Ealora, don't give in to her! You hear me, don't listen to her, bitter f**king slut! I'll kill you myself, leave her the hell alone!" It was the most enraged he had ever been and perhaps the first time Shaden had ever seen him beyond his calm exterior. Malice: "everything that befalls you.. is because of Her.. your association to her.. and her Blackamoor..." she hissed... " Do you think she is innocent.. She Killed Caleb's family.. for years he wanted to bring her to justice for it.. and the other crimes she committed.. murder, pillaging.. thievery... pirating.. she was as cold blooded killer as any.. man woman child... Caleb's wife and Children.. her own brother... and then.. when he had brought her to Justice.. Her husband.. the moor... killed Caleb... to save her... they know... no real.. honor.. She has tore apart so many lives... and now lives .. in happiness with her children.. and husband.. I will see them both in hell for what they have done..!"She paced back and forth like a caged lion out of Nicholas reach... hissing at him as he grasp thru the bars and yelled at her.. " Do you think a title as Lord General's Wife absolves her of her crimes.... erases her past... or the General is absolved of the murders he has inflicted... CALEB is dead because of her.. and your deaths will fall on her hands as well.. ! " Shaden : " She's not like that.. Ealora has changed..." she sobbed.. quietly... her hands falling to her belly.... " I don't know what happened in the past.. but she is not that person any longer... If you know.. love.. if you Loved Caleb... then you know this is wrong.. what you do to these children is wrong.. and you are a worse Monster than she ever was.. " Nic: "Who the hell are you to wrought justice! You evil slut! Look at what your doing, destroying lives. That's not justice, its f**king madness!" He continued though he had stopped trying to reach her, instead grasping the bars to pull himself to his feet even as his head continued to throb painfully. "Caleb deserved to die, you hear me you stupid bytch. He was a weak fool! What enrages you more, bytch, that he couldn't hack it or that he was to weak to escape his own f**king justice. The General might of killed him, but he deserved it. Trying to kill his own sister! Weak little chyt, what enraged you more huh? That he was consumed by his own sister and forgot all about you, or that you finally realize you were just some pathetic little pawn. What enrages you more huh bytch? That Caleb life isn’t even worth remembering to Ealora and her family, that their happier without him, GLAD he is dead. Huh you stupid bytch! What enrages you more, come on...let me out of here. I'll get rid of your suffering." Malice: She laughed oddly vacantly without passion.. his enraged performance doing nothing to sway her one way or the other.. " I have work to do... I have to lay the trap for your sister... perhaps I will make Maahes choose.. which one lives or dies... again my money is on the Pirate.. such a shame.. little Shaden.. always the sister left without... in Ealora's shadow.. she gets everything.. love.. respect.. and people still call you whore.. no matter that she's a murdering bytch... your the one who suffers.. and now you suffer more for her... " she laughed and moved off down the corridor.. taking the light with her... Issac: "Lady" a small yet brave voice whispered from the other side of the cell... " Lady don't cry... “ the little boys’ voice carried in the dark.. He seemed to understand the sorrow and pain the lady felt but at the same time needed her strenght.. “ sing for us again…” In the past few days it had been this little voice… the little boys hands that had reached from his cell to hers… both needing the other so very much.. A touch in the darkness… Shaden: " I'm sorry... Issac... I'm just upset... " she hiccupped softly... and spoke a bit louder... " I will tell a story in a little bit.. I just need to rest a moment " she was exhausted.. her hand slipping back outside the cell searching the rock face... " Nicholas......? " Nic: He let out a scream and grasped the bars, yanking and shoving back and forth with all his might, like a caged beast on the rampage with no where to go. Finally as the woman walked away with the light, he calmed down, throwing himself away from the bars and running his hands through his hair as he paced back and forth, left to rise. His ire calming as the child spoke with Shaden and then she to him. Dropping to his knees, he inched to the corner and stuck his hand through the gab of the bars, feeling along the wall till he found her hand and clasped it in his own. "I'm here.." Shaden: "She's insane.... mad... we have to get out of here... these children.. have to get out... she feeds them to those lions.... it's horrible... " she whispered.. not wanting the children to hear... " there are so many...." her voice still held the surge of emotions from the woman’s taunting... " I Hate that you are here.. but I cannot help but be glad that you are with me "
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Post by nairneadair on Feb 1, 2009 19:30:50 GMT -6
{Takes place after wolfman attack. Sorry for delay in posting.}
Briar Rose
Danae: The women re emerged with plate and drink in hands. Both sat before the Greek woman and a smile of thanks was given. "Rose, you are to good." She said as she began to sip on her tea. The familar voice of Ealora was heard and a galnce was made over her shoulder, only for her body to then turn fully toward her. Then eyes spotted Shaden and a wave of hand was given to them both. "Thank you Ealora, I think I will.. just, at least let me get something to eat to help ground me better." Danae was quickly coming the protective type over her new found friends. That tend to be a habit with this one. She msiled to them both again before returning her attention to the delicious smelling food. Tea was set aside, body slipped onto the stool, and the Commander would began enjoying the savory tasting food. Shaden: Slowly she eased into the seat, something of a balancing act.. one hand on the back of the chair, the other on her belly.. what was she afriad she would roll away? finally she landed in the chair with a sigh.. " it's the getting up and down that are the hardest" she grinned rubbing her own belly for a moment before smiling beautifully at Rose who came over with her favorite tea, laced heavily with honey and lemon " Rose.. you really are a doll.. do you have anything.. sweet today.. perhaps some honey cake?" the answer was yes.. it seemed it always was.. and soon enough , a platter of warmed honeycakes were brought to the table for the preganant sisters, the smell of ambrosia tinting the air.. in the fragrant steam that rose from them , Waving to Danae she smiled and nodded .. in response to her be there in a minute.. then turned once more to Ealora... " So where is the big Papa anyway?" Ealora: A wink went in danae direction, the teasing grin pulling at her lips. "Rough night Danae dear?" She wiggled her eyebrows for emphisis before giving a nod of understand. "Eat eat girl, your to skinny, we'll have you married and barefoot and pregnant in no time."Again she was teasing, Danae stood on her own toe feet and Ealora admired her for it. Not that Shaden did not, she did as well. Women in general who could stand on their own two feet without the need of a man to protect them twenty four seven always served to impress and gain her respect. Not to mention Danae was an accomplished woman, the best ranger Ealora knew and her promise to watch over her husband when they went off to war, had calmed Ealora considerably. She trusted Danae, knew she would do all she could. "God forbid we get stuck in a burning house Shaden darling.."Commenting on how hard it was to sit down and get up now with a big belly in the way. The honeycakes delivered presently earned a moan from her lips and yes she stole a slice and popped it into her mouth. God that was heaven! "Actually, I don't know where he is..I assumed at the barracks training with the rest of the men. Where is Nic might I ask? That man is your permant shadow.." Another slice of honeycake was stolen and popped into her mouth. theurgically: The bitter wind of Winter's chilling embrace always made traveling difficult. He was not one to question the monastery however. There was an important parchment he needed to deliver to the Arch Bishop of London. The white Wudong robe was trimmed in black but was drapped with a wolf pelt for additional warmth. He was running low on supplies and luckily he took notice to an Inn up ahead. The leg wraps also needed some adjusting so he was hoping that a room was available. The distance was eagerly shortened. His hand extended to grab a hold of the doors handle before opening up. He slipped inside quickly, shutting the door behind him to prevent any release of heat the Inn may have accumulated thus far. He stepped off to the right of the door to prevent himself from being the victim of an opening door should someone be behind him. He took a second to look over those that were within before light steps carried to a nearby table. He wanted to warm up a bit before he'd inquire about anything at this point. The chair was removed and when he sat down, he ran a hand over his short tendrils to remove any frost that may have taken residence. It was way too cold for his liking. He removed the leather pouch from his side and set it down upon the table top before allowing his arms to slip within the sleeves for additional warmth. Maahes: No one could continue in the cold that ran havoc across the nation. Even he could not force his men on when every movement was torture. The days would run short, as with the threat of the growing war still racing hearts and pressing them on. They would not stop training, but only go in shorter spurts of harder driven work. Snow and ice covered the land, holding back movement as even the leather of his armor seemed to freeze against darkened flesh. Born and raised in the burning lands he found little comfort in the icy tomb of the Isle. However, the promise of Spring was not far. The Beast would press open the door, with a heavily marked hand and make way into the tavern. The warmth of the fire quickly took hold, and the heavy fabric that covered his face would be removed. An Arabic curse of the weather and it's chill left thick lips in a heavy rumble as he made way to the fireplace. Hell even his tightly bound dreads were frozen down his spine. "We will go to Egypt now." He barked at his wife bending to place his hands over the fire--both bone and leather would cry out with the motion as an overworked body made it's weariness known. Broken English was harsh and uninviting, but those who knew the Lord General knew well of his tough love, and brash attitude. It was just that now they would have a bitter cold animal to deal with. Danae: Danae would of course nod, then gave Ealora a smirk when glancing back to her as she spoke on eating, being to then, getting her married off and pregnant. Had she been awake longer and more herself, a mad laugh would have been the response. Instead though, Danae just smirked. "Good luck..." Yeah, after this last relationship... uh uhh, Danae wasn't planning on going there again any time soon. Right now, she was focusing on herself and the needs of the people whom she was charged with protecting and helping. Icy blue hues left Ealora and Shaden long enough to settle on the hulking figure of her long time friend and the husband to the newest one. A nod was given to him, already seeing the displeased look on his face as he left the chill of winters graps outside and melted into the slow warmth of the Inns heat that seem to curl around all within. Her attention would return to the plate of food she was finishing up along with the tea washing it down. The night had not been that rough, just... deep. A lot was going on in Turas Lan right now, a lot of things that didn't make sense. Things that this ranger needed to speak with Ealora, Maahes and Shaden about. After last nights conversation with Alendral, she was worried...for all of them. Shaden: Her laughter filled the air at Maahes Arrival.. and his bruqse comment about Egypt... " your right sister dear.. can you imigine us now.. with our big bellys shimminingy up the mast of the Shadow Storm.. like we did last summer?" now her laughter rose higher, tinkeling like windchimes in the warm closeness of the Tavern.. wafting over to the Chinaman.. in the wolves cloak , to tease his senses.. along with Shaden Aramoire: the wonderous smell of Honey Cakes.. what a change.. from outside in the snowing cold.. abasent of anything.. even scent seemed frozen.. to the warmth and verirtable soup of sensations that went on inside the tavern.. all quite odd (d) Ealora: Celadon eyes swung to the door and the arrival of someone she had not seen before around Skye. Her head tipped to the gentleman as Rose went around to tending him, drink and food...that was Rose's speciality. Yet it was the beast of her husband lumbering through the door that truly caught her attention as he stalked towards the flames and gruff voice followed. "Oh yes, are we? and what would you do if Shaden and I went into labor aboard the ship and no land in sight hmm?"She teased as she wiggled to the edge of the seat, taking her some time to do so, a hand lifted to rub against his back. Lord he was cold! With a grunt, a hand was pushed against the armrest of the chair and she was able get the momentum to push herself out of the chair and press into her husband, hands and body to try and warm him. "Want some warm cider? Rose made it this morning.."Breathed against his shoulder as she nuzzled her lips against flesh and yes, even let russet curls dance across his backside. Knowing his weakness was one of the best things in the world, but he knew hers as well. A grin curled her lips as Shaden spoke of shimming up masts with big bellies. Yes she could see them trying, a comical thought but in reality, not bloody likely! "I could imagine a comical scene of trying but doubt in reality we could do such a thing.." It was wonderous to leave the cold, the war and the wolves outside in the snow. For a few precious moments to live in blissful ignorance of what was going on around them but realitry would sink in all to quickly once more, it couldn't be avoided forever. theurgically: While the Tibetan was getting situated he took notice to two pregnant women and the honey cakes. There was a faint smile before his dark almonds were brought toward the female warrior. The thought of a woman being a fighter was always met with opposition in his land. Though, that didn't say he was going to question her prowess with a sword. He wasn't home, so he often felt safer to keep to himself. His attention caught whom he believed was the tendress. He waved her down leaning slightly for quietly spoken words to meet the shell of her ear of the things he needed. When the price was told, he relinquished a few coins he had in payment. The door was reopened and he turned slightly to catch the newest one entering. The fellow looked like he had experienced far more then he wished for. No form of greeting from the monk at this time. He could hear the conversation carrying on, it was almost like they were family but he made no assumption. He removed the flask he had along with a cloth that had been used to cover the bread that was all but two bites from being finished. He gave them both to the tenderess to take care of. The plan was to stay the night and venture out when it was... a bit warmer in the morning. He had a dislike for traveling at night, especially with Mother Nature exacting revenge for the summer heat. Maahes: Instantly the warmth of the woman he loved and cherished could melt away even the coldest of hearts. Against her palm like any good dog would he closed his eyes and enjoyed the attention. With her hand she would ease him into sleep if she was not careful, as amber would be hidden behind closed eyes. "Then we will have our child at sea.." He muttered under his breath only letting his face fall wanting so badly to just stretch out on the floor and sleep. The weary look in his eyes remained but the harsh tone of his voice left as he straightened his body and started to undo the heavy armor that was second skin--or so it seemed. Armed to the teeth as always, he stood to undo the many straps that crossed his body to let the sheathed weapons fall away and be pressed against the wall to stand. Dark eyes then would pass over the room, taking in all faces new and old. Like a book he read them, face to face each story so different as there were many here from all walks of life. However, it would be the cloth covered man who sat alone who would gather his attention. Like his own, the man's face stood out, and with the growing threat of so many enemies new and old; it would take the General little time to make his accusations. "You are far from home." His voice rich and deep laced with the accent of his desert born heritage boomed over the room as he spoke to the monk. "Of what business do you have here?" Perhaps he was being too forward, as correct manners were often lost, but those who knew Maahes knew he was not one to be questioned on his character. However, his tone was not harsh nor demanding..just a force not reckoned with. With the fire still at his back he continued to undo the straps of his chestplate, but would let his hands still as he could go no further; just wasn't possible to reach that far back, no? Danae: The ranger did finish up the plate of food and down the remainder of tea before pusing both plate and cup away. When Rose was done to seeing to the others, she came back around and asked Danae if there was anything else needed. The Greek woman nodded and smiled. "In fact there is.. I'll take to some coffee now. A mug..." Odd for someone like Danae to ask for coffee, but she'd need it to help her stay awake on the ride back to Red Wall. It was already growing late, but if she hurried, she could make it before the sun disappeared entirely. Coffee was quickly brought forth and Danae turned, letting the small of her back rest againt the counter, elbows on it and she stood in a some what relaxed manner. Icy blue hues watched the others before eyes settled on the new strange looking male. She knew many people here even if thei wasn't her home, but she didn't recall ever coming across his face before. She straightened her stance as she pushed up and took her coffee in one hand. She could tell he was perhaps thinking oddly of her. Something this dark skinned warrior type had grown use to. She got all kinds of looks, disrepectful insults, and Danae would just smile. It wasn't the first and it sure as hell wasn't going to be the last. As Maahes closed in on the man, Danae moved closer to Eloara and Shaden. She stood silently as she looked between them with a smile and then to the men as it faded. Just being observant for now, no need for her to get worked up just yet. The man didn't come off as a threat, but it wasn't dismissed all together just yet. Shaden: Shaden had already begun eating the honey cakes, watching Ealora and Maahes swoon over one another, if she wasn't guilty of the same thing when Nicholas was around she might roll her eyes.. but as it was.. she just smiled.. happy that her sister and husband were working their disagreements out it seemed.. " So I am automatically drug along with you to have my child on a ship?" she snorted. sipping the warmed cider and popping another peice of cake into her mouth now... she did roll her eyes.. but when Maahes approached the stranger, her eyes turned.. her face paling at the wolf cloak he wore.. coindence was not somthing she beliveed in.. her fork clattered noisly to the saucer that held her cake.. hands going to her belly in a protective gesture... yes there were things she hadn't told her family about.. the threat of Gottschalks children agaisnt her and the unborn child she carried... annoying as he could be she almost wished for Alendrals, canty face to appear... he at least had the pulse of the undercurrent of things that went bump in the night (d) Ealora: Nimble fingers worked to get the rest of the leather armor from his body and set aside and out of the wall. Wouldn't want anyone tripping over it, Maahes was no small man and even his armor was large to accomidiate him. With a final rub against his back she began to make the decend back into her chair. Her feet were aching just by the few minutes she had been standing and it was not pleasant for a pregnant woman to be irritated if she didn't have to be. A heavy sigh left her lips as her hand carressed at her belly. A wink went in Danae direction as the woman asked for coffee, sort of a silent tease for the woman before celadon eyes swung as Maahes caught sight of the stranger. She could not help the tug of her lips into a grin. Her husband could seem a brute to other people, it was why he was known as the beast but even once a upon a time, she had seen that beast directed at her and had not cowarded. Still look at them now, married to each other, expecting a baby. Fate and life were a funny thing and since the man was not threatening at the moment, she saw no need to worry. Her hand moved to clasp Shaden wrist as her fork clattered to her plate. a comforting squeeze as a concerned and questioning look went towards her sister who looked pale at the sight of the man. Just what was wrong with her? theurgically: Enemies came in all shapes and sizes. The strong articulation from the desert warrior brought the attention of the monk into his direction. Those eyes of his met directly. The twin pools of the monk were like looking from the eye of a hurricane, being calm around until it's destructive nature needed to be unleashed. At first, he only responded with silence allowing himself to continue about his own business. Though, better judgement changed that fact. " Tis not for others to concern themselves with. I've no qualm with you or those here. " The rather melodious tones from broken English accented with Eastern rhythms broke through. " Though, if it would ease your soul... Your more than welcome to release me of my Earthly prison. " He was fearless and that tone depicted such. That didn't say there was some form of respect laced within each syllable. He could feel the looks he was getting, but it didn't affect him in the slightest. The tendress brought him back his flask full of water and a full loaf of bread. He offered a nod of gratitude in return for her services. He brought his attention back down toward his supplies before they were rearranged. Afterwhich, his focus returned back upon the owner of the desert cord. Tiberius: *Apollo, a beautiful chesnutt mount carried them into town once more.. With direction from her, he guided Apollo to the Inn where they would find this Avery hopefully. He was slashed about his torso, front and back, as well as his left forearm. She was bruising about the neck and had a few gashes that matched his, obviously made by the same weapon. He slowed Apollo before the inn, dismounting first, then offering his right arm to help Nairne down. Conversely, her right arm was wounded. What a pair they made. He would tether Apollo before helping guide her within. Cerulean hues sought out those gathered within the in. His left arm tucked in against his waist, appraising each and every potential danger.* -d- Maahes: "You would be surprised to know that it does concern me. As any who step foot into this city are to have their business stated." The Beast of a man enforced the law of the lands, and made that very clear with heavy arms crossing over his chest. "It is the law of the land who will be facing war within the Spring. You understand I am sure." Within that same moment a knight came through the doors of the tavern and quickly crossed paths to the General. With words whispered to the Beast Maahes's face fell and he turned to retrieve his armor. He would be forced to leave, but the promise of a return was lingering as he bent to kiss his wife, and eyes turning to Danae. "Keep your eye on that one." He whispered making notion to the monk. With a squeeze of Ealora's hand he would meet her eyes. "There is a fight brewing outside the arena, I will return." Danae: Icy hues of pale blue fell to the forms of Eloara and Shaden at the sound of a fork clanking to the saucer. Brows arched in concern and Eloara was already asking the question Danae had wanted to voice. The sound of Maahes' voice had her lifting her eyes and at his request she nodded. "Like a hawk." She replied before letting her eyes leave his form and drift to the man. A simple look, face void of any hint of emotion. She wasn't the irrational type, it wasn't in her nature. As a ranger, her training had taught her to always observe, gather information, think it through and then react only if it was needed. Her eyes then left the man and looked to the two new entries. Brows furrowed at the sight of them. Obvious they had come to meet some sort of trouble. She looked back to Eloara and Shaden, lips slightly thin as she was growing more and more concerned. She lowered some to speak only for them to hear. "When chance comes... I need to speak with you both...and Maahes. Alendral and I had a very interesting conversation last night and all things considered, I think its very important you know what that conversation was about. It involves all three of you...as well as the safty of your unborn children. The sooner the better of course..." She didn't want to elaborate on any more on what she said, to many ears were around and well, the situation was delicate... not to mention dangerous. Ealora: Only a soft sigh was uttered as Maahes was his typical self with those he did not know. It did not bother her, even when she was on the recieving end. The man held himself up well and with Danae there as well, she was not worried of an attack. Besides, he looked a monk and monks didn't fight...did they? Her fingers caressed her sisters arm, soothing the tension in her body. She would discuss it with her later, to many ears indeed. Celadon eyes rose to Danae, a comfort to know the woman would watch their back but a frown pulled at her lips as her husband kissed her lips. A fight at the arena? Lord would they ever have a peaceful evening. Her hand lingered upon his cheek as the kiss lingered only a few seconds more and then he was gone. The frown seemed to pull even tighter at Danae's words and a hand went protectively to the round of her belly. The safety of their children? She wanted to voice out her concern, ask questions but Alendral was not present and nor was Maahes and again, to many ears and if it was concerning her child or Shaden's, then there was no need to involve others. She was always a woman to want to keep her life private. "Tonight then...if you can find Alendral..why don't the two of you meet Maahes, Shaden and I at our townhouse..its just down the street by the beach and we will discuss these matters then?"* theurgically: The comments breached the shell of his ears. The monk knew where he stood and so silence became the stronghold demeanor for now. After the exchange of words; his lips curled slightly more into a mild smile before uncapping the flask and removing a very small sip before placing its cap back on. He latched it to the black sash that wrapped around his waist. It was then he broke a small portion of the loaf off and rewrapped the rest sliding it to the inside of his robe where a he had a special compartment just for it. He shifted his gaze just slightly toward the Ranger. That face of someone who looked to be late twenties to early thirties just kept that similarly worn smile. That look was just to get a better image of those who were still there. The brute of a male had made his exit, but he was for certain it wasn't going to be long. The monk could hold his own in combat, they were built for self-defense. Though, he generally sought out a different route if applicable and when it didn't jeopardize his own objective. He was quiet as then returned his sights upon the pregnant woman who had shown the desert warrior attention. Just the thought of life being precious came to mind, but nothing more before he returned his focus upon the table before him. The small piece of bread was slipped in between those tiers while his thoughts sought out answers to his earlier questions. Nairne: The ride back into Turas Lan was not the most pleasant for the sore Nairne. She leaned on Tiberius the whole time, focusing on anything except the pain, and was grateful when they came to the Briar. As they made their way inside, she leaned on him, his arm around her, refusing to allow him to carry her when he was hurt as well. There were cuts on her neck, a large bruise, and she was holding her right arm cautiously. Indigo gaze sought out anyone familiar slowly, until finally, her eyes caught on Ealora. With a nod in that direction, she murmured,"We can sit over there...that's Shaden's sister..." Anulia: Saying goodbye to the sun on the cloudy and cold day, the evening brought with it duties. Anulia was ever faithful in her duties to Briar Rose, not letting rumors nor the talks of war stop her. The jungle beauty gave a wide smile; parting her full lips towards the young Lucius as she bid him farewell and moved inside. The brown cloak lined with fur was removed from her petite and curvy frame so she could cast it onto the small hook and moved more into the kitchen area. The smells of breads, stews, simmering meats and best of all, potatoes filled the air. Thick strips that made up her skirt swayed about her muscular legs as she approached the cook, pressed a small hand to his arm in greeting then moved towards her work station to gather the small bit of fabric so she could tie back her small braids from her face. Much like her custom, the cloth was placed over her forehead and the top of the braids, then tied off under her hair, pushing every long length back before an apron was reached for and placed around her frame. A smile to Rose and she moved to bump the door with her hip as she finished tieing up the ribbons. Chocolate colored eyes rose to see all the people who had gathered tonight. Wonderful! Business as usual. To the bar she went, asking all those if they had their drinks yet or not. As always, she was happily settled into her duties and most accepted her kind smile. Tiberius: *It was a soft murmured* Yes.. Do you see the man you were looking for? *He would move with her, and even though she was being utterly independant in a time he wanted to do nothing more than help her through this whole ordeal. He guided her to the woman who was Mistress Aramoire's sister. Attentive to any little misstep with her, he did not want to see her hurt worse than she was. He would hurt tomorrow, she was hurting now.* -d- Danae: "I needed to make mention of it now, so that perhaps the lot of us could meet later." It seemed the two fesity women thought much along the same lines. Danae nodded. "Of course..." The tall, dark skinned woman rose to her full height once more, straightening her stance and evenly balancing out her weight. With her coffee still in hand, she stayed near Eloara and Shaden both. This one wasn't going any where right now, not until Maahes made it back. It may her traveling in the cold night back to Red Wall, but it was something she was willing to do to keep others safe. A glance was cast back toward the new strange looking man in his robes, head dipped and eyes focused. Watching him carefully, she took in all the small details. How he looked about, sat, reached for things or tucked them away. After wall, a man's body lanuage was one way to learn about them without having to ask by speaking. She was armed of course, always was. But just because she bore weapons didn't mean she didn't know how to fight in other ways. There was alot to be learned about this one indeed and in time, perhaps those who wished or needed to know more would learn in the less violent way. Eyes then shifted as a familar face came into view, one that had her smirking. Another dark skinned beauty, Anulia. A nod and smile was granted to her in greeting before the ranger went back to the semi stoic and observant behavior, only to then see others approching Eloara, Shaden and herself. As soon as they neared, she Greek woman asked. "What happened to you? Who's responsible for it?" Body growing rigid, preparing herself to handle it if it was called for. Aman-ud-Din: So it would seem that the Briar Rose was busier than ever. But then again, when was the Briar Rose not filled with patrons? Devoted to good company and delectable cuisine, this was the place to be. Aman-ud-Din was rather keen on sitting near that fire to warm up from the cold outside. The fur cloak made of black and grey hairs did rather well in conserving his body heat, something the Arab was grateful for. With the turban on his head and the fabric pulled over his face, the chilled air was partly blocked and leaving only his eyes and thick brows visible..for the moment anway. Slipping inside, the lofty man wrapped in the thick fur cloak stepped inside and immediately felt the rush of heat. Lovely. Sighing softly, the door was promptly close behind him--leaving the dreaded chill where it belonged. A hand lifted to pull the fabric down and expose his face and the markings upon his cheeks, though those along his forehead were covered by the wrapped fabric. Stepping in further, he moved around Rose as she jogged to the bar with empty mugs. Oh dear. If the Arab had looks he did not notice them..or if he did he shrugged them off as his dark eyes swept about the room and took silent tally and count of familar faces. Danae. Ealora. Anulia! A smile crossed his lips as he granted a nod to each of them, even as long legs carried him toward the hearth to sit and soak up heat. Ealora: Fingers moved against her stomach in a gentle caress as celadon eyes took in the room. More and more people were coming in from the chill of the evening setting in. Brows creased together at Narine and the gentleman as both of them seemed injuried. Danae, got the question in before she could. "Danae.."She spoke before offering her hands to the woman, she needed help up. Damnable weight gain, though she loved being pregnant, having life within her, up and down were annoying. When Danae had lifted her up, she turned a hand to Nairne shoulder as eyes swept over them both. "Did you send for a healer?" Her gaze turned upward, ah, there was Anulia, she waved in the girls direction, a hello before eyes swept the room only to see Aman as he unwrapped his face. She hadn't seen him in...well a long time and she nodded in return when his attention focused on her. Back arched as a hand moved to steady herself, gods did it hurt to stand. Pushing her discomfort aside, she moved her gaze back to Nairne and her friend. "Sit...sit..Rose, hot cider for these two, please."She caught the tender as she passed, the woman nodded and dashed off. theurgically: There was a brief acknowledgement of the others that had made themselves known, though other than that he went back to tending to his own priorities. By the way that woman was staring at him, he felt like a caged display. He was a real easy being to read. Each movement was graceful and calculated. Quick when it needed to be, though laxed in the same motion. He wasn't on edge at all, just there to warm up and later on be on his way. He remained just as silent as he had been since the other had left. He raised his arms slightly allowing them to seek solace within the confines of his sleeves while those pools were closed. He wasn't sleeping just meditating a bit. He knew not a soul within these four walls, so he did listen for anything that may have closed in within his proximity. Just that slight weary smile upon his lips and the constant inhale and exhale of his stomach gave way to the only visible signs of life. At this point, he figured that any quick movements would have resulted in a misread antic. Chaos in the works. There was inner laughter at the thought before he returned to centering himself once again. Nairne: Nairne was pleased to see Ealora. She could have cried, but didn't. Why? She'd done enough of that earlier. Once a day was quite enough! Taking the offered sit, biting her lip to keep from making noise, Nairne readjusted her arm and propped it on the table. "We got...attacked..." Looking around, hesitant to cause any panic, she lowered her voice to a whisper,"A man...a wolf...something." She looked to Tibby to explain, but hopefully he'd do it with discretion. Anulia: Chocolate colored eyes drifted towards Danae, seeing the greek woman giving her a smile in return. Anulia loved the power of a smile! How she gave it and most returned it! She watched as Danae's face turned back to that stoic look and sighed slightly. Warriors. Ah well, she would not doubt get another beautiful smile from her later. Eyes found Ealora and gave a soft wave to the pregnant pirate, before she looked on. Nairne..she had met breifly, but waved never the less. Shaden of course had a greeting of the smile. Eyes went towards the door to see the robed Arab coming inside. She had tea! Already she was hurrying to gather the pot of hot water, the wooden mug and pouring the water into it. Reaching under the bar, she grabed the heavy hookah from it's hiding place so she could walk over and greet her friend with his cherished items. ``By the fire you always sit my friend. Soaking up all the warmth.`` Handing him the items, she gave a wink and moved away, promising a return soon. To each table she passed, asking if anyone was in need of anything. One male gave her a look of disgust before pulling his drink closer to him. It was nothing new. Many believed she was meant to be a slave and dirty because of her dark skin. Anulia did not let him phase her as she went to the next table. Yet another person with such different features. His eyes were shaped in a way she never saw before and his dress looked like that of Aman-ud-Din's but of different colors. ``Are you in need of anything?`` Anulia did not understand meditating, in fact she would have thought him to be praying. Tiberius: *He moved beside her, yielding to Nairne to the woman's aid. His eyes flickered to the woman Nairne was speaking to (Ealora). He moved to settle next to Nairne, with a soft groan on the way down. Bending? Bad idea with one's torso all torn up. He spoke softly.* There was a man posing as a wolf who walked upright in the field we had been riding through on our horses exercise and morning run..He tried to choke her, and had... some sort of blades on his hands to tear at us..Though he's been run off.. -d- Danae: Danae's eyes continued to glance from here to there. Keeping check on the stranger, staring? No...carefully watching..yes. There was no ill feelings toward the man, not wanting to cause him harm. So for him to feel like as if he was a target, the vibe he may be getting wasn't one coming from her. Wtih Ealora's request, Danae's attention was diverted from the man for now and she helped her pregnant friend to her feet. Then was careful to listen to the details of Nairne and her friend as they gave an explanation for their condition. Brows furrowed, jaw tightened and this is what she and Alendral had been speaking on just last night. Moments later a few of Danae's men came in, she spotting them and them her. With a lift of her chin, they came over to where their Commander was. Looking back to the two injured souls, Danae asked. "How long ago exactly? Was he alone? And what field exactly?" These were all things Danae needed so she could send her men out to search for clues or answers. A lift of her head was made as she swayed this way and that way, trying to look past a few people walking by. As she did, she hoped her eyes would catch those of her friend Aman-ud-Din. Knowing their was no healer in the Inn right now, maybe he could help while word was sent for one like Avery or Aislin. Shaden: While Shaden's own Preganancy was further advanced than that of Ealoras.. she was a little lighter on her feet.. at Nairne's and Tibby's recount of what happened and seeing them injured and bloody , SHaden did what she did.. best.. Garnered attention.. up on her feet, and then up in a chair the very preganant Courtesan would clank her fork upon the china saucer.. " Is there a Healer in the house.. we have an Emergency!" sing song voice was loud yet commanding as the clink of the fork seemed to rise above the din.. although it never occured to her.. people might think she was in labor... " I say is there a Healer in the house " if no one answered her next step would be to climb up on the table! that is if Ealora and Danea didn't pull her down from her perch first.. ohhh if Nic heard of this he would spank her bottom! Aman-ud-Din: A few familiar faces which was more than he could ever ask for. Already he could feel the warmth of the fire through the thick fur cloak replacing the chilled air. The black and grey cloak was shed from his shoulders, revealing the dark robes he wore underneath. Aman-ud-Din had yet to sit down before Anulia came over with..oh bless her heart. Aman-ud-Din let out a soft chuckle as he took the hookah from her and sat it on the floor, which the tea he took from her hands with a dip of his bearded chin. ``Shukran, my friend. You know me too well.`` He said, before his eyes lifted at the sound of Shaden asking for a healer and it being an emergency. What happened? A thick brow arched as he turned his eyes to Danae, who seemed to be holding his gaze, perhaps even silently asking for his help in even a small way. Well, he was not a healer, that was for certain. Setting the hot tea down on the table nearest the couch, the lofty Arab navigated around a few tables, chairs, and patrons who were now looking at the women. Coming up to Danae's side, he placed a hand upon her shoulder gently before removing it. ``I am not a healer, but perhaps I might help until one arrives...what has happened?`` He asked, thick Arab accent rolling from his tongue as he glanced from one person to the other, waiting for some sort of explanation from someone. Ealora: Her face did not waver, did not move as they both explained what happened. Her eyes moving from the gentleman back to Nairne and then to Danae. It had not been the wolves this time but a man dressed like one? It was a reminder of the night there was a group of men, near matching that discription in the square and after her...if not for Jean and being close to the Lily...and her faint. Shaden clammering brought her out of her thoughts and she groaned as her head fell into her hand. I don't know her...I am not with her...the thoughts crossed her mind and though the situation was not funny, she let out a laugh before her head lifted and she grasped her sisters arm. "Shaden! stop it, lord above darling, you'll wake the dead..."Her attention turned to Aman as he approached and she let out a sigh of relief. At least someone to help till a healer got there and it would get Shaden to shut...up..."Aman, thank you..they were attacked, she is favoring her arm, him his...hip..." Was that right? She was only mildly aware of their injuries, the attack itself more disturbing. At least they were alive. theurgically: The woman of dark skin would have thought right amongst it all. In that particular form of meditation he was praying. It was when her words registered that he brought weathered features and almond shaped orbs of nature's embrace to meet her own chocolate irises. The broken English once more escaped from parted tiers. " Nae, I'm quite taken care of. Thank you. " No hostility, not even the slightest hint of dishonorable intentions found in his articulation. A soft smile projected as the vocals ended. His eye contact also broke at that time. His skull realigned itself with the table before lids closed the world off from the darkened hazels. He could hear bits and pieces of the conversation going on. Then, the words of needing a healer rang out. He made no mention of being such. He had earlier taken notice to the injured duo, but he hadn't wished to relinquish his own herbs at the time. Morals were now standing his way. Before he allowed the mocha beauty whom had asked if he was alright headed out he waved her back over before locking eyes again. He removed a pouch that had some sort of greenish gel mixed within it. " This is a mixture of Shepards Purse, Rosemary, Dried Wheat, and Water. It won't stop the pain, but it will keep it from bleeding any more than it needs to. It'll also clean the wound out to give them ample time for a healer to tend to them." The pouch was set upon the end of the table. She could do whatever with that information, but now his own conscience was clear. He reset into his previous posture before once more resuming his prayer. Nairne: Nairne listened to Tiberius, nodding to each, and she gave a tired smile,"Run off...you saved my life. It's dead." She said it cause that was no man. No man, no person with a soul, could do such horrific things. It was Shaden's...yelling...that made Nairne blush profusely. Oh Lord! Reaching out her uninjured hand, she tried to grab Shaden's sleeve,"No, no, really...you don't need to cause a ruckus. I'll be alright..." And it seemed too late. First one asking what happened and another offering something for wounds. Nairne felt confused, but nodded her thanks. "I was thrown from my horse and...attacked. I think my arm is broke..." She pointed to her right. On her neck were cuts and the mark of a hand. Anulia: The comotion of Shaden could not be ignored. Her calls for a healer made Anulia glance her way, only geting part of the conversation at hand. Anulia was not a healer, but when Aman rose to assist, she felt much better that someone had come over to help. Others shook their heads and went back to eating or drinking. Not many had the skills to heal, even the basic of wounds. Braids shifted behind her 5'2 frame as her attention went back to the male before her. His eyes looked so fimilar, but she could not place them. A nod was given, thankful for his kind tone and honesty before she started to shift her feet and walk away, only to be waved back. She had caught his motions out of the corner of her right eye and faced him once more with a wide smile that pulled her full lips back and showed the pearl colored teeth. Chocolate eyes lowered to the pouch he removed, thinking at first it was coin for what ever he had ordered before. As he spoke, Anulia's smile faded into a calm look while all her focus was on his words. She had not heard of half the things he said in that listing save dried wheat and water. But what the mixture could do, was more kind then most were offering. ``Thank you Sir. I shall tell them at once.`` Anulia was a careful soul, reaching for the pouch as if it had glass within it, before she moved away from the male and towards the small group of others who were gathered. With the pouch in both her palms, small and delicate hands rose outwards towards the middle of the group in offering.``The male at the table I have just came from, said this could stop the bleeding until the healer comes. And clean the wound. I can also send for Aislin.`` Anulia moved it left to right, waiting for someone to take it. Tiberius: *he looked between Mistress Aramoire's sister and then to the one who wasn't a healer.* Her right arm is not free to move of it's own accord. Her throat bruised and cut. I am.. cut about on my chest and back.. And well.. *he held up his left arm where the damage was all in a central location. It was the worst of his injures.* My arm.. but.. We were able to ride back here.. *He did not want to admit to killing.. The shame was in his eyes as they cast down.* -d- Danae: Danae gave Shaden a look like she had lost her damn mind. Nope, if this was what pregnacy did to you... Danae didn't want it...ever. "Shaden, please.. get down from there before you hurt yourself." She said as a hand was lifted in order to help the woman down. Only after Shaden's feet were planted firmly on the ground again, did she feel the touch of a hand to her shoulder. Looking, she smiled seeing it was Aman-ud-Din. As he spoke, Danae nodded. "Yes,I know, but you know enough to help I think and you've tended to my wounds more than once." Slightly grinning, she let her eyes leave him and return to those gathered about to Nairne and the male. Apparently she'd get no more details and looked to her men. "You have enough information to work with, go... see what you can find. I'll not be to far behind you." Dead or not, human or not, if they were able to recover the corpse of the attacker, they had something to go on. The men all nodded, making their salute of a fist over their chest before moving off and out. Icy blue hues then looked to Anulia as she wiggled her way in and presented the pouch. Her eyes left the pouch, looked to Aman, then Anulia and then around to see what man Anulia meant. Not knowing right away, she looked back to Aman-ud-Din. "Is this something you can work with?" She asked as she looked between Aman-ud-Din and Anulia. Aman-ud-Din: Brown eyes turned to Ealora. She did not need to thank him, he would do what he could or try to until a suitable physician could be found. Attacked? Aman-ud-Din frowned at that. But then his eyes turned to the man who produced some sort of gel and then turned ot Anulia who delivered the pouch. Aman-ud-Din had been raised in the deserve and knew of desert remedies, nothing else. ``I have never heard of the ingredients in this pouch...they are herbs mysterious to me.`` He said, glancing down to Danae and then to Anulia. The man tried to help, and his salve might work, however, it was not something he knew of because he was not from these lands. Perhaps they could use it later or the healer that came would know how to best use the gel of sorts. Until then, Aman-ud-Din feared he would do something wrong and make matters worse. Taking the pouch from Anulia, he sat it on the table for now and turned to her once more. ``Anulia..ask Rose where the jar of powered pomagranate peelings and myrrh are. Bring those to me along with a bowl of water and clothes.`` He said, touching her shoulder before his attention turned to those injured. ``My lady we should elevate your arm..`` He said before stepping closer and glancing over his shoulder. ``Danae..find something soft to cushion her arm please.`` The Arab asked. theurgically: The monk figured he could find those ingredients later on to make another concoction. That had been his last one. It wasn't that it was difficult to make, it just took time and patience to do it. He slowly stood to his feet and gave a quick glance toward the small gathering. He had played his part and assisted where he could without actually being involved with their matters in particularly. Light foot falls led him toward the room he had purchased from Rose earlier. The morning sun rose and set far too soon, so he needed his rest. He was certain that the two hurt would be attended to and taken care of so leaving them as they were did not weigh on his conscience as if it would have should they've been alone. The door to his nightly residence was opened and shut just as soon as he slipped within. Nairne: "Fieldren Fields..." A simple answer. Nairne had forgotten considering all the fuss. She looked at the man that suggested elevating her arm and nodded. She noted that Shaden and Ealora were leaving, to find Aislin they said, and she wondered if that was wise. Would they be safe? God she hoped so. Nairne hadn't known such danger lurked within the city itself. Noting Tibby's eyes, she murmured,"You did what you had to. You saved me." He had done nothing wrong, in her eyes. Looking up at the man, she wondered for a moment, then laughed softly,"I was telling Tibby about you...I've heard your name..." She recognized him from talk, but had never met him. Anulia: Chocolate eyes moved around each face, from the new male named Tiberius, then to Nairne and back to Danae and Aman-ud-Din. Anulia had only known how to heal snake bites, not much else so she was holding the pouch and only going by what the male said. Giving it to Aman, she listened to him closely and gave a nod. Raising, she looked to the male who had lowered his head before placing a hand on his shoulder that was closer to her. ``You did what you had to. Do not let that fill you with a sense of loss. I too, have seen these men and they can not be reasoned with. They had attacked myself and a friend. We are very lucky to be here..as you both are now.`` With that, she moved off and went to get the items Aman-ud-Din had asked for. Returning promptly, she gave the items to Aman-ud-Din. Tiberius: I am sorry I did not know the name of the field we were in.. I had arrived night before last... *his gaze resting on Danae, then shifting to smile gently at Nairne, giving a small accepting nod. He felt like a fixture, just trying to not pose a problem.. His gaze took in each of those gathered around them.* -d- Danae: Danae watched and listened and when Aman-ud-Din asked her to find something soft to cushion the injured woman's arm, the ranger moved off to find it. Since Anulia pointed out who the man was, she looked to him, gave a curt nod that was followed by a lopsided smirk. He way of a silent thank you. She watched as he moved off and then went back to finding what Aman-ud-Din asked for. Locating a medium sized pillow on the couch, she grabbed it and quickly returned, handing it off to the Arab. "Here.." She looked to them all and nodded. "You are both okay now... I'm going to go make sure Shaden and Elora are finding a healer without any trouble. I will return soon." She said as one hand came to rest on the shoulders of both Aman-ud-Din and Anulia. A last look given before she moved to take up her cloak and fur before stepping out into the cold and moving off with Majesty to see to what she had told the others. Dora: Dora stood near the door, and edged into the room, careful not to make a stir."Land o Mercy! Some one got injured?" Aman-ud-Din: Aman-ud-Din knew the customs and traditions of his people and of his lands, western traditions and remedies were unknown to him. But, that was something that a healer would know of, but until then, he knew something that could help them until then. Eyes turned to Anulia as she came over with the things he asked for and he thanked her. Setting the jars and the water aside, Danae brought back the pillow and with care it was slipped under Nairne's arm. But to hear that she heard of him, Aman-ud-Din arched a brow, but offered a smile all the same. ``Well, there are few with a name such as mine.`` He mused softly before turning to the man first, judging his wounds a bit more serious. The wounds were washed and wiped with the water, getting rid of blood that lingered or dirt. The salve of myrrh was carefully spread over the wounds, which would help the cuts heal and prevent infection. ``Arabian traditions and remedies. When the healers come, they will better treat you.`` He offered, and then once the cuts were covered in the salve, he applied the powder of pomegranate peelings over them before wrapping them. Once he was done with 'Tibby' as Nairne called him, he smiled to him lightly and now turned to Nairne. ``Tilt your head a bit to the side so I might better see your cuts, my lady.`` Nairne: The man was kind. That was what Nairne noted. He was gentle and though he was not a healer had decided to help them as he could. "Thank you..." Using her left to prop her right arm on the pillow, Nairne felt breath whisper through her lips at the pain. It hurt something awful. Watching him treat Tibby, she smiled, thinking that she had to thank him better. A gift perhaps? Yes, a gift. It was Aman's voice that made her look at him and she adjusted her neck to give him better access, her hair falling to the other side,"They sting..." Tiberius: *He cooperated with the Aman as best as possible. He winced and his jaw clenched as the man worked over the wounds on his chest and back, the tunic removed and a blessing he'd worn riding breeches that day... but his left forearm caused sharp inhales and rough exhales. The wounds there obviously worse. He tried to keep quiet, though, suffering silently. His voice quiet.* Thank you, kind sir. -d- Aegraine: She brought a light near Nairne, so the man aiding could better what need to be done, first aid, as it was. "Will this help?" She held the candle where it did not cast shadows for Aman. Aislin: Aislin would not be hard to find. Eamonn was now back from his ride, having been ambushed and came back sooner then he would like. Aislin's trip back to Eohmark was also cut from the plan, leaving her here in Turas lan for the time being. One could only imagine her face when she was told by Ealora and Shaden, followed closely by Danae, that there was another attack. Someone needed to kill what ever the hell was making her infirmary so backed up with vicious wounds. Gathering her supplies in a small sac, she handed it off to Eamonn -knowing he would take it anyway- and both followed after the very pregnant women as they lead the way towards the tavern. Why were they out here by themselves again? Aislin was about her husband much too often, because she was asking the same questions he would have, though in her mind of course. Entering the tavern, she took the bag from Eamonn as her skirts swirled about her long legs while she moved towards where she saw Aman-ud-Din, Anulia and two others she had not met yet. ``Here ah be. What have ye done so far Aman-ud-Din?`` Already she was setting the bag down and leaning over to pull out items. She did not need the story, she already heard it from the two prego women. Dora: Dorie held her apron hem up over her mouth and nose, a shield against gasping, for she did not want to see anyone hurt, and here were two ot them at once.."Worra! They will recover, right? And be well as new, now the Healer see to them I swear I be scairt to go out for firewood these days." Covers her eyes, too, now. Eamonn: Had it not been for the ambush on the ride to Eohmark, Eamonn would not be here now. He did not particularly enjoy remaining here in the city, but under the advice of his wife, he refrained from heading back out..for now. But that did not mean he would not be heading back out later. Right now, that seemed to change. Eamonn was grumbling to himself as he took the bag from his wife and followed her to the inn and the two pregnant woman..who should be inside at this time. Eamonn was going to pop sense into someone one of these damn days. Moving in behind his wife, he handed the sac of supplies to his wife as hazel eyes moved to the Arab and he arched a brow. When did he practice healing arts? The blonde blinked, but said nothing as he turned his gaze down to Tiberius--a stranger to him--and Nairne. Fools. They should not have been out so far and so late..these were dangerous times. Eamonn cleared his throat. ``You two are fortunate to have escaped with your lives.`` He said stiffly, before waving it off and moving to the bar to get himself a mug of whiskey to calm an already flaring temper provoked not simply by the two injured, but the past events that came to pass. Where had common sense gone? Aman-ud-DinHe knew that pressure more than likely hurt, but at least he had not poured whiskey in his wound, which seemed to be a thing the healers here did. The Arab did not consume alcohol, and that was why he never used it himself. So, from that pain Tiberius was spared. ``You need not thank me, I do what I can.`` Aman-ud-Din replied before turning to Nairne. He waited for her to tilt her head to the side so he could apply the salve of myrrh and then the powdered pomegranate to her cuts, which were not as bad as her counterpart here. That was when the door opened and dark eyes turned to see the healer Aislin and the typically moody Eamonn. With war upon them and such events taking place, Aman-ud-Din could understand, not to mention he heard of the Marshal's ambush. Aman-ud-Din stepped aside to give room for the healer. ``I bathed their wounds with water, elevated her arm which is possibly broken, and used the salve of myrrh and pomegranate powder to help sterilize and prompt their wounds to heal quickly.`` He answered, ignoring Eamonn's comment as he turned back to the two. ``You are now in the best of hands, my friends.`` And they were; Aislin was the finest physician of Skye, her living husband was proof of that.
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Post by nairneadair on Feb 1, 2009 19:33:30 GMT -6
Tiberius: *He gave a small nod, back to wincing as the wounds were wrapped* Yes.. I do not understand what you've used, but I trust your judgement, Aman. Again, thank you, especially for attending Nairne.. My debt and gratitude.. -d- Nairne: Oh, Nairne wanted to be crying out with pain. The only thing that kept her from doing so was willpower. She did not want Tibby to know how badly she was hurt. Except that went from her mind when Aislin poked at her arm, at first it VeiledProphecy: was a dull ache and then at one spot she gasped, a cry escaping her, and squeezed her eyes shut. "God that...hurt..." Fractured? Oh joy. "How do you treat a broken one..." Nairne watched her curiously. Oh hell..."You don't cu-cut it off...do you?!" Aislin: Aislin could only do so much here, but then again, their injuires were thankfully not so bad. It could have been much worse. They could have lost their legs or arms, or been gutted wide open like others Aislin had seen. Looking to one of the servers that came to them, she asked the woman to find them a small stick that was thin and bring it to her. When the woman came back, Aislin went to work binding it with cloth so it was softer and them moved it against the woman's arm before binding tight cloth about it so her wrist would not bend. If it should, she could make her bones become unaligned and that would heal her the wrong way. Aman-ud-Din's herbs were among the most Aislin used any way, so she trusted them. ``Ah be trusting those herbs, so ye will nay need to worry. Infection is possible, more so with those men. Ah do nay know why, but many have suffered that and far worse. Ye both should nay go out during the nightly hours again. `` After the woman was cared for, she knew that the male's forearm needed to be handled next. Smaller wounds could be handled with time. Shifting, she pushed her skirts from her way so she did not stumble and knelt down by the male. Her tall form lowered as ocean eyes set on the wound. Reaching behind her, she found the bottle of whiskey and pulled it out. Aislin's face was always an erry calm. No expression or emotions. She felt very little emotionally when it came to such things. Opening the bottle, she had no mercy on the male as she poured the whiskey onto his deep gash to clean it out. It felt close to a hot poker being pressed against the flesh quickly as it cleansed out the wound. She would give the male time to adjust, before looking for the thread and kneedle. He would simply have to endure. Aman-ud-Din: Aman-ud-Din chuckled softly, and tried to be as gentle as he could. ``My friend, I could say the same thing regarding the remedies of the Western World. Much of which I am still understanding.`` He admitted honestly as he continued the task at hand. ``You owe nothing, I trust you would do the same for me had roles been reversed. All that matters is that both you and Lady Nairne are safe.`` He said, before turning to Aislin as she reached for the bottle of whiskey. Even he knew what would come of that. ``Steel yourself, sir, whiskey can be merciless at the hands of a healer.`` Aman-ud-Din as he moved to the bar to ask Rose for some hot water and the chamomile. By the time he came back to them, Aislin was already wielding the needle and thread. Oh dear. Aman-ud-Din began to pour them both hot water in the mugs and dropped the handmade tea bags in them. Tiberius: *His hand went to the nape of her neck when she cried out. Giving it a soft reassuring squeeze and caress. He reached up to pet her hair lightly, just a few strokes before he stopped making Aman's job harder, but it was Aislin approaching. Then whiskey... Whiskey!? He drew in a rough, sharp inhale to choke down that yelp. An audible swallow followed, his body rigid and tight, but he was trying to step away from the pain, mentally at least, but that was far easier thought than accomplished. He turned his head to nuzzle his face into Nairne's shoulder. Alendral: You get one good nights rest--or something close to it, and it all goes to hell. At least that's what the jist of the reports were, and he was going to have a big 'I told you so' for Danae for it. But be as he might be troubled by the news, he was also excited, because he was told one detail that may, for him, yield fortune. The attack failed. Someone survived. So it was that the beleagured spy, whom didn't even have time to adopt his proper disguise, instead opting for his usual discrete ensemble--the black cloth and leather, smooth and indistinct, and the hooded cloak, sticking away from main roads. Knowing the survivor's location. So it was that Nairne might find a bit of a surprise. No sooner did the whiskey hit the poor man's exposed wound than the door opened, revealing the hooded figure long enough to pull it back and reveal none other than the supposed 'Magician', who, in contrast to his appearance to the Lily a night ago, looked anything but the Showman. Of course, it begged the question of what he was doing here, when he closed in on the lot of them purposefully, sparing a glance at each, but stopping at the clearly woundered young man.. and cursed under his breath before realizing it had been done. Aislin: Aislin was use to screams and cries of mercy. She could not always give it, she was no angel to do so. She was a healer and sometimes drastic steps had to be taken to prevent things from coming. The man did well to try and swallow it but why? Pain was pain. It was how you knew that you were alive or not. People should not be ashamed of it. Hands were rinsed in the whiskey as well before she took the needle and thread so she could begin. ``Aman, hold his arm down aye?`` Yes, she was going to do it right there. Once Aman reached over to hold the man's arm down, she asked him to also press the skin closer together so she could start to thread through the flesh. Blood had began to welled up slowly from her stabbing around the wound. In, and out, she pulled the thread tightly, making the skin close up, though leaving a small line so that should any puss rise, it could escape. Aislin's numble fingers were quick and it was interesting enough that she could not sow clothing but could flesh. She weaved Xs across his skin, over and under, over and under until it was tie enough to be cut with a small knife. His blood decorated her hands before she cleansed them in the warm water then poured a bit more whiskey onto his wound and wrapped it with cloth all the way around the arm until you could see the sowed up wound no more. Aman-ud-Din: Aman-ud-Din glanced to Tiberius and wished there was some way he could take away the pain. However, that was something the man would simply have to endure and there was nothing to be done about it. Aman-ud-Din had to endure his own wounds and some of them scarred, though only Aislin here had been a witness to them. Upon the woman's instructions, the Arab grasped the man's arm and held it down as she told him to, his other hand pushing the flesh together as Aislin began to stitch and sow up the man's wounds. ``Somestimes the sight intensifies the pain..cast your eyes elsewhere, my friend. It shall be over soon.`` He offered his own bit of comfort before Aislin finished only to top it all off with more whiskey. Poor man. Aman-ud-Din released Tiberius' arm as Aislin began to wrap his wounds. Tiberius: *His jaw tightened as they worked over his skin. This was possibly the worse feeling he ever had. The burn from the alcohol, then the needle piercing flesh, then there was the pull of the thread through his skin!? AHH but he just let his head duck into Nairne's shoulder. His breath coming in fits and starts, he whimpered, but it seemed to be the only sound he allowed himself.* -d- Alendral: Given that his choices were, at the moment, the Healer and her possible assistant (rather brutish looking for an assistant perhaps, but all the same), and the man who was currently in a fair amount of agony, that left one to speak to.. the same Courtesan he had met last night. Fortune, it seemed, conspired to reveal his identity to half the damned island. So he moved with severe expression. "Lady Adair." he replied, a curiously flat tone designed to get attention over the more chaotic things happening around them. Though the timing seemed as inappropiate as possible, he couldn't precisely afford to wait either. "I need to speak with you. I apologize for the urgency, but there is a matter of urgency in resolving this." Strange for a Magician to be asking questions like this, but then his clothing left little illusion to what he was. Rather abruptly, he'd turn to the healer. "The man. what was he attacked by, was it an animal?" The news in that regard was sketchy, and if it was, well, the young lad was going to have a much worse day, to say the least. Aislin: Aislin leaned back, looking over the toher smaller abrasions to make sure they were looking ok and had not started to discolor. Time was both friend and enemy. She looked to the bar to see Eamonn and others that had gathered before she looked back to the male, Tiberius. It was only when she rose, she saw that the male was now speaking to her. She remembered him from many times of passing ways with him. ``Another male, dressed as an animal. Ah tell ye...ah will be going to kill these things myself if no one else will be doing the deed. It be rediculous that no one has yet to catch these people. Ah grow tired of my infirmary being filled with dying men and women who be affected by the bites in their flesh or gutted wide open. Do ye plan to go hunting Magician? Is yer tricks nay only illusions?`` Aislin asked while her tall form stretched to it's full height of nearly six foot. Thank the viking that flowed in her blood. Aislin's tone was still flat, though the words should have held more expression then they did. Aislin was an empoty woman, no emotions really pressed in her mind. Nairne: Poor Tibby! Nairne felt so awful for the man. All that was to happen was a simple horse ride. Instead he'd rescued her and gotten himself hurt! Giving comfort in the gentle brush of her left hand against his cheek, the right one unable to be moved, being bound by cloth to a stick that was holding it in place. She was so focused on him that at first she didn't notice Alendral and then her name was spoken. Indigo eyes swept to him, a frown forming and brows furrowing. This wasn't the tone of the other night. His questions made Nairne sigh,"A man...a man...dressed as something else...howling and growling with claws..." Her hand went to her neck, horror and disgust in her voice. Tiberius: *Slow deep breaths brought that sweet scent into his lungs, helping to steep his calm. He would not try to save face, but bawling like an infant infront of the woman you were trying to impress, whether or not you saved her life earlier in the day, well.. it simply wasn't done. When it was over and he breathed soft and slow, merely basking in her comfort. He murmured a soft thank you to her shoulder, starting to sit upright again. His eyes flicked up to Aislin.* My gratitide, mistress..-d- Alendral: "Right, well tell me if you have any luck with that because I have every available resource combing from them and I haven't found a damned thing." Last thing he felt like was nursing wounded pride from a stranger he'd met in passing, but in her defense, she didn't know she was talking to one of the people on the hunt. He narrowed his eyes in obvious irritation before flicking them back over to Nairne, collecting himself in the process. "I understand this is difficult, m'lady, but any specifics you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Was he alone? Did he say anything? The claws--were they crudely made or did they look smithed?" Without really asking, the Magician would move a step closer and brush away one of her hands, fixing his eyes on the mark on her neck. Lord, whoever it was had hands like a blasted bear. but the wound gave clues, and that was important. It wasn't the most polite he'd been, but then he didn't have time for it--If this was the work of professionals, the clues would dry up soon. Aislin: A man dressed in the clothing of an animal. It was not so uncommon. Vikings wore the skins and furs of animals all the time, some even wore the skulls about their heads. Aislin did not care about the man's irritation. She was married to the Lord Marshal of skye...Alendral's irritation was mild in comparison. Aislin went back to packing her things, until Alendral moved to pull away Nairne's hand and look to the wound. Aislin was not one to touch, but she reached her hand towards him and push him back slightly from Nairne.``Ah find it funny that ye be so interested in such things Magician. Do nay mistake my tone for passive. What be with the questioning and the urgancy of them? Ah be blind nor deaf.`` Aislin literally placed her tall body between him and the other two wounded. Her thin lips straightened but still she kept that blank stare. Something did not feel right. Was the magician more then he showed? Nairne: Such brisk behavior from Alendral. She recalled him being relaxed the other evening, smiling and bantering with the Lady Galanos. Yet now he had such a serious look on his face and to his manner. Nairne didn't truly wish to recall any of it. She wished to forget everything. That was not likely though. Nairne was about to answer when Aislin got in the way, and though she found it endearing, she reached out her good hand to gently touch Aislin's arm. "Lady Aislin, I do not mind answering." Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself and looked at Alendral with a steady gaze that belied her nerves,"There was one. He spoke...only twice...nothing important. Only words meant to instill fear I think. 'Beg' and...'There is no God for you'..." Nairne's voice cracked some as she stopped and looked away a moment,"Tibby got a better look at his claws than me, Sir Alendral." Tiberius: *His hand moved to the small of her back, to reassure her. The wounds on their body would heal quickly enough but what that beast did to her before he got there would mare her soul for sometime. He looked to the Magician.* The claws looked well constructed.. They were not scraps of metal or broken blades. They were meant to look that way, work that way. -d- Alendral: Having to reveal himself in a situation like this was dangerous--unfortunate, and frustrating. It also was necessary if he wanted any immediacy. "The name is Alendral Sorschal. Spymaster of the Black Talon, Protector of the Griffon Court. " He met the apparently blind healer right in the eye, though it would yield no answers to him, his tone bordering on confrontational. He did not have time to play games with people. Shooting a look at the other two he'd add. "This is not information I wish to part with, but if there is any chance of ending this, it must be done swiftly. I trust that this fact will remain in your confidence, as I know I can trust... most of you with the knowledge. " And now that such a fact was made clear, his expression would soften a little bit as he heard the words. "Heavily accented, I assume?" to Nairine, turning to regarding the wounded man with some consideration. Another piece of the puzzle. Professionally made, smith weapons. So they were more then mercenaries, they were armed. The news was particularly interesting. "... I see. " he already knew Galanos and her men were here to retrieve the body. "You're a warriror than...?" He have to be at least passingly familiar if he was able to notice a professional made weapon while it was currently trying to find an unpleasant place in his anatomy to burrow into. "What of how he fought? A beserker? Thug? Or controlled, dexterous?" Aislin: It was not a matter of answering, it was a matter of space. The two were attacked, how did Aislin know Alendral had not been among those who attacked them. All he had to do was press his finger to the skin and push poison into their flesh. Aislin stared toe to toe with the male, not as defiant as he was, for little emotion really coursed into her viens and thoughts. His revealing of his real duties, made more sense. Such secrets people held. Aislin had her own, but there was no need to tell anyone here what they were. ``Ye may ask such questions, but there be no need to get closer to them. Ah be nay nay liking when people get close to my patients. Ah have my reasons.`` Aislin stepped aside to finish packing her things. Nairne: Well constructed? Nairne did not like the sound of that nor Alendral's response to it. What did it mean? Yet more astounding was the revelation of just who he was! She had just thought him a magician and frequent client at the Lily. Apparently the man had many mysteries. That kind of unnerved her. A spymaster would know many things. Did he know any about her? Nairne watched him a moment with her indigo gaze, uneasy, and nodded,"I will not speak a word of it, Sir Alendral." As to the wolfman, Nairne shuddered, recalling his words and the fear- she had thought it was the end for her. "Accented, aye, though I cannot recall what..." Tiberius: I am no Knight, sire, but I can hold my own against unwanted aggression. A friend of my father's trained me. *he gave a sage nod.* The man was ... out of his mind with sickness. He was not rational, but his movements suggested, that if he were in his right mind, he would be controlled.. Trained. -d- Nairne: "Perhaps not...sickened....perhaps...angry...he didn't get to kill me. I don't know..." Nairne trailed off, let Alendral digest all this, and then watched the man go quiet. Finally he took of his departure,"Not a word, sir, at all." Nairne looked over at Tiberius, tired now and achy,"Perhaps we should stay the night in the Briar. I am tired..." She needed to rest, as did he. They would return to the Lily tomorrow. Tiberius: *He gave a small nod* You have our word, sire. *He would look to her and nod again, rising to his feet carefully, he would offer his right arm to her assistance, and even his left hand. Taking her upstairs to stay there for the night.*-d-
End
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Post by Theodren Galanos on Feb 2, 2009 14:59:57 GMT -6
*Continued Over From Mixing Business With Pleasure Thread* Things started out well enough as he woke within the bed of Moira, but only to notice that she had rose before him. He moved to slowly sit up and rub the sleep from his eyes. Running his hands over his face before over his hair. A scratch was made as his chin before he bent to take up his boots and slip them on. He was pretty much dressed as he and Moira had slept in there clothes.
He stood and began to gather his things so he could meet Nic downstairs as they had planned. His weapons and cloak were grabbed as he moved to and then out the door. Leaving behind the comfort of her room to head downstairs to maybe grab a quick bite to eat. Once he made it down there, he noticed Moira had fixed breakfast and he would of course enjoy a bit of it. Though, as he did, he noticed that the time was fast approaching and there was no sign of Nic.
He frowned... this meant something had gone wrong as Nic suspected. He was quick about getting a little more of the food before washing it down with his drink. Theodren looked to Moira and sighed. "I'm sorry, but I must go.. something's not right and I'm wasting time here eating. Forgive me? I'll make it up to you ...I promise." With that, he moved to place a kiss to her forehead and moved off toward the door. A glance back at her over his shoulder before his things were gathered up once more and he left.
Out to the stable he moved,...quickly. He saddled up his horse, loaded his things in his saddle bags and satchel before mounting. He rode out hard and fast, first he'd go to the places Nic had suggested just to make sure that the man hadn't simply lost track of time. First he went to the vacant townhouse he spoke of. Dismounted and left his horse tethered just outside it. If anyone recognized the horse and remembered its master, they would know to not dare mess with it or the thing on him.
Upon entering he was quick to pick up on the now stale scent of blood. With his sword drawn he moved further in. Attackers were always known to return to the scene of the crime if given a reason. He would see the bloody prints of different markings. His nose sniffed the air again and their was another scent mixing with the stale blood...oil.
He glanced down as he spotted a dark spot.. then two... then three. Another trail it seemed. He followed it, and after seeing it was not leading him to Nic or anyone else he sheathed the sword for now. No, instead it was leading him outside again. Theodren followed it until he saw he would need to turn back only long enough to get his horse and get back on the trail. As he kept to it while tugging the horse behind he saw it was leading him to a wooded area.
The large dark male would allow his eyes to follow the clues while searching for new ones. It was all leading him to another house. Again, the horse was left to himself though not tethered down this time as he knew it would not move to far off from its master. More blood, more prints... both fingers and feet. The more he kept running into these things, the less he was liking it. He feared the outcome would not be good.
The man was smart enough to not touch anything but only look, listen and smell. All senses were of use here except that of touch. He didn't want people to get the wrong idea should anyone see or find him here. From past experiences, he knew people in fear were quick to point fingers and accuse as to calm their worries. Just as the first house, the evidence he was finding was leading him once again out into the elements.
A low whistle to gain his steeds attention to have it follow him as he preferred to follow on foot instead of horse back when possible. The ears of the brown beast twitched as it heard his master and slowly the horse made his way to him, following in behind him as he grazed here and there. Foot prints and hoof prints were now what he was tracking. Some old and a set much fresher. His first thought, Nic.
There was a darker spot within the soil and upon closer examination, he realized it was a place where a pool of blood had been soaked up by the ground. His jaw would tighten a little at this and his eyes lifted quickly to do a quick survey of his surroundings. Not seeing or hearing anything he lowered his gaze back downward, spotting several broken branches of bushes and other foliage. So far, he had followed the tell tell signs until he was now within the forest of Red Wall.
The dark copper skinned male clad in what most assumed as barbaric looking clothing of cottons and furs with weapons both visible and hidden was on Nic's trail it seemed while the Knight himself had been on someone else's. Theodren continued to move further in, finding more indications of a terrible event. There was a fight.. several footprints were noted, the way they had been placed showed it clear as day. Again, eyes lifted to double check in making sure none lurked within the camouflage of the forest's cover. He stood still, listening for any sounds, carefully paying close attention to anything that would signal he was not alone.
Nothing... dead silence and that worried him. Not even the sound of birds were heard. Either this forest was cursed with an evil that all animal life wished to avoid, or someone was near. He looked to his horse, gauging the steeds actions and looking to see if the animal could give an indication of a possible threat. The brown beast seemed to be in his usual manner but perhaps a little on edge as the ears moved not constantly as if picking up on something, but occasionally as if trying to.
The Greek male returned his attention to the trail, following and trying to work in his mind what had taken place here. After coming to a conclusion, it was then he spotted a roughed area within some foliage and the ground. Someone had been here, laying though dragged away. The warrior ranger followed it for as long as he could until it seem to fade and then disappear. "Damn it..." He murmured to himself.
But wait... there looked to be something up ahead... what was it and where would it lead him? It didn't matter, he knew he needed to see it for himself and so he began to move once again.
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Feb 2, 2009 22:57:15 GMT -6
Ealora: Ealora had been ordered to bed rest nearly a week ago and out of that week, she had hardly hit her bed more then to sleep a few hours at night. Maahes knew well his wife wouldn't keep to the Healers advice to stay in the bed but she had also proven that the baby was safe and sound, strong within her. That didn't stop her from making plans though, while Maahes attended the training grounds, Ealora sent out for help, the man she sent had strict instructions, find Danae, bring her back, discuss nothing on the way. It was important because,she had no idea who was watching, who was lurking in the Shadows though the how and why of Shaden's disappearance had come to light, she still...wanted extra help. Everything possible was being done, without her..but Ealora was not going to let that stop her from enlisting the best damned possible people to find her sisters trail...and find her sister. Danae...was the best in Ealora's eyes and next to Maahes and Shaden herself, the only other person Ealora trusted. Eppie had been put down for her afternoon nap, giving Ealora time to work what Alen had found out over her head, giving her time to work over in her head just what she could tell Danae that would lead to her sisters whereabouts. Now all she had to do, was wait on Danae.
Danae:A man quickly came to the room that Danae was currently residing at within the Briar Rose due to a trip to check on a friend. A knock came to the door, and Danae's eyes opened as she was currently trying to catch up on a bit of rest for the first time in a long while. Dagger was pulled from its sheath and she neared the door. "Who goes there?" She spoke lowly with a threatening tone. The man was quick to state his name, position, and that he was here on behalf of the Lord General's wife, a an order. Danae opened the door and stood within its frame. He quickly gave her the message and Danae nodded. She turned for only a moment to gather her things and followed him out. The two quickly rode to where Ealora was at after mounting their horses. The dark copper skinned ranger followed the man as he lead her in the home and then the room. Danae entered, giving a nod to him before turning to Ealora. "Ealora? Is everything alright? Is Maahes hurt or is the baby coming?" There were all asked with concern but with a calm voice as she looked the woman over to make sure all was indeed well, at least from the visual aspect of things.
Ealora:Pushing up from the chair she was resting in, no easy feat. She raised her arms and gently clasped Danae against the shoulders, a small smile creasing over her lips. Well people would be inclined to believe the baby was coming if she sent urgently for them right? "Maahes is fine, the baby is fine. Danae..I need your help though." Her eyes turned to the guard who had assisted her, still standing dutifully by the door. With a nod in his direction he backed out of the room and shut the door after himself. When he was gone, Ealora unclasped a hand from one shoulder and lead Danae to a chair before falling, quite slowly into her own. "Shaden has been kidnapped.." There, she could start there. "Danae, you are the best...A ranger, I knew no one else I could trust. Everything is being done to find her, but not fast enough. Not for me.." She paused as she wrapped her arms around her belly, all most protectively. "Its my fault she was taken. Danae..the wolves, you know of them, it all started with them...its all because of me...and Maahes." Wait she was getting ahead of herself. She let out a sigh as a hand rose to rack through russet curls. "Will you help me?" There back on track.
Danae: Danae carefully moved closer toward Ealora, and continued to eye her from head to toe until the woman began to speak. She was glad to know that all of them were fine, all but Shaden it seemed. The Greek ranger looked over her shoulder to make sure they were alone as she knew just how delicate the situation was and how important it was to make sure no one else heard the information given and possibly more that could follow. Danae's full lips formed a thin line as she had moved and got comfortable in her seat. "Ealora... you know that you can ask anything of me and it is yours. My men and myself are in debt to you and Maahes. We are here for you in whatever ways are needed. Of course I will help you." She began to shake her head. "Ealora... what people do to others, they do for their own benefit. Yes, you may all be connected in this, but people have a choice and they chose to bring chaos upon your family and into your lives. Chaos that I myself and those with me will in fact help bring to an end." All was said with a matter of fact tone. The woman would not and did not show mercy to those that threatened her friends and family. " Tell me what you can and what would you like for us to do." She said as she leaned up, hands clasped together as fingers weaved into each other. Elbows rested upon her knees and she was ready to carefully listen.
Ealora: She let out a breath of relief, not that she expected Danae to refuse but it did ease her somewhat to know Danae would pick up the trail. "I can't tell you much of her disappearance; Maahes, Galen and Nic know where she was taken..but its by a woman. I don't remember her name, Perry told me her name and I can't remember but I've seen her before. I don't know if Maahes told you but about 8 months ago..I was kidnapped, taken to an island Pirates use as a refugee, they tried me, some crimes I did commit, others I hadn't, all set up by my brother, Caleb. Anyway's, that's not important, Maahes came for me, but Caleb wouldn't give up, I killed his wife and unborn child Danae...on accident but he wanted me dead...so Maahes killed him, I let him...there was a woman across the square, screamed his name. I know now she was his lover and accomplice. So you see Danae, she is doing this because of Caleb, I'm afraid of what she will do to Shaden but also what she has done..you know the attacks, not the wolves, the beasts, all of it is coming from around Red Wall. You've been there Danae, have you seen anything unusual? Anything that would lead you to believe..."She paused, she didn't know what she expected Danae to say, that she knew where Shaden was kept, of course not.
Danae:Danae's brows would furrow as Ealora began to talk. "Galen? Galen has returned?" She asked, absolutely flabber-ghasted at that as it had been ages since she last laid eyes on him. That thought was pushed aside however as she returned her foucs on the rest of what was said. She nodded occasionally, taking it all in like a sponge to water. "I see...well, you did what you had to do and in doing that, this woman feels she needs to do the same. Regardless of what it was that Caleb did was wrong. I assure you now... I will do everything in my power to see to Shaden's safety as well as yours." She thought a moment as Ealora spoke on not just the wolves but these beasts and the attacks. To Danae, it all seem to coinensidental that all of this had started around the same time. Therefore making her come to the realization they all had to be connected somehow. That was the coin in the bucket question... how. At Ealora's question, Danae nodded, there was something that others did not know, not yet and perhaps in time it would be made known. "I have... and I know I've lost two men because of it. Alendral informed me of this not very long ago." The reasons that Ealora gave were enough to get this woman pissed off and want to see things herself. However, the fact that two of her men along with other innocent people was just fuel to an already burning fire that those who caused this would feel not just the heat but the wrath of it.
Ealora:"Yes, but he is perhaps not the child you knew..quite the young man, quite conflicted." She answered with a nod and reached out to take the woman's hand into her own. "Danae..I promised Maahes I would not put me or our child in danger but this is killing me, doing nothing. I can not fight back. I trust you...like a sister. I imagine if I had sisters, you and Shaden would of been them..or they would of been like the two of you..."Celadon eyes rose from her hand in Danae's to meet Danae's eyes. "I can't tell you were Shaden was taken, I don't know. My guess though, start at Red Wall..it's all started there.."
Danae:Danae nodded and when Ealora's hand came to overlap her own, Danae's let one free of the clasp to overlap that of Ealora's. "You're trust is well founded and will not fail." She said as a squeeze was given to her hand. Danae had always felt welcomed by Ealora since arriving in her and Maahes's home. "You and Maahes are all the family I have now. My own kin are dead and so now I am not only honored you think so highly of me, but I would be honored for you and Maahes to call me sister." Danae was deeply moved and it showed within her eyes. "I will find her. Me and my men will move out as soon as I leave here. She will be found and will be found alive." The Greek woman said as she nodded as her hand remained over that of Ealora's.
Ealora:A smile pulled at the side of her lips at Danae's words. She was comforted by them. set at ease more then she had been since Shaden's disappearance, more so then when she figured out when Alen visited. This..would not break their family and it was now made one more stronger by Danae. "I know you will, my friend, my sister. I have faith in you.." Slowly she released Danae's hand and pushed up from the couch in an arch, if to get herself momentum to get up right. One thing was for sure, they were going to have a big baby. "I'm not kicking you out.."A hum of a laugh passed her lips, but she didn't want to stall Danae any longer. Pausing long enough to pull Danae into an awkward, belly in the middle hug. "Thank you, my sister.."
Danae:Danae would smile to in that weird way. It was a combination of perhaps a smirk and a grin. As Ealora's first sounding words, the copper skinned woman nodded as if to confirm those very words. Her hand was released and so would Ealora's. She watched as the woman made her best effort in raising herself up from the chair. Danae had to chuckle. Poor woman. "No, of course not.. I know this but you are right... the sooner I get going, the faster we can find Shaden. "Danae would return the embrace, lingering if only for a momet before she released her. "I'll send word as soon as we find out anything... anything at all." She said as she moved to the door. Danae looked to Ealora once last time, smiled and then would exit. On to Majesty's back she mounted and with a loud yelp in her Greek language, the pair of them were off to gather men, weapons and get to Red Wall.
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Post by Sir Nicholas Stryker on Feb 3, 2009 18:33:15 GMT -6
Shaden:She had told stories to eager ears that wanted to forget their surroundings and sang softly until the last one had fallen asleep...there was no day and night here.. lost time.. lost completely.. in the darkness.. her voice carried ..she was no lark.. no one would ever misconstrue her voice for angelic.. in fact it was only the sad fact that she had been the only adult in there for days that her voice soothed them.. once they had slept she leaned against the wall of her cell... her hand pressed into Nic's... grasping tightly until she too fell into exhausted slumber... hours later.. it was pain that awakened her... groggily her eyes opened.. to the darkness.. it was not a nightmare.. in the distance she heard the rumbling sound of the lions... and the sea... in the distance pounding against the cliffs that over the eons waves had carved these very caves... " noooo not now.. not hear" she whispered.. in the darkness as her hands went to her belly as the pain lanced around her middle settling into her back.. she gasp... and breathed softy trying to will the pain away... "Please... Joy.. wait."
Nic:In the darkness there was no sense of time but if he had to guess, it was daytime by now as Shaden's voice soothed the children slowly, weaving a tale that would keep their imaginations fresh, keep their dreams peaceful despitee their situation. He leaned against the wall, listening without really hearing. Trying to work in his mind the haze of coming there. In the darkness he listened to the shuffle of feet. The mumble of the guards and he planned, his thumb lazily stroking over Shaden's hand which he refused to let go, even as she slept. Wanting nothing more to be holding her, being a comfort, a pillow to sleep against rather then the cold hard ground. His head lulled, willing him to get the sleep that had alluded him for days but as Shaden's voice broke through the darkness, the pained expression of her words..of Joy, he shuffled against the floor, pressing against the bars. "Shaden...is the baby coming?!" He didn't wait for an answer, pulling, pushing, rattling the bars. "Guard! Guard, you have to let me in there with her!" He called into the darkness.
Shaden:Her breath , soft gasp of pain would tell him what he needed to know... "Nic.." the panic in her voice.. as another pain laced about her middle.... "It's not time... not here.." she murmured through clenched teeth.. the pains were harsh.. not the smaller ones that had plagued her off and on for days.. that came and went.... as he begin to shake the bars she groaned unable to keep it in.. "My water..... " she panted.. as the ground beneath her soaked up the water that sheltered the child...
Nic: "Hush up damn it. You're not going anywhere." The guard rumbled from the darkness and Nicholas growled as he shook the bars. "Her water just broke damn you! That's my daughter! Let me in there. I swear I will be no trouble. You can kill me if I cause any trouble but don't make her suffer this birth alone!" The guards face peeked out from the darkness. "Any trouble and your dead.."He grumbled as the keys shuffled and the door creaked open. Nicholas pushed up from his knees and crept from the cell. True to his word, he caused no trouble for the guard as he was let into Shaden's cell and the door locked behind him. Sliding to his feet, he grasped her arm, raising her hand to his lips to press a kiss against her knuckles. He had needed in, to be with her...but he had no idea what to do. "Shaden..it's ok I'm here.." He heaved a sigh and threw a hand through his hair. "God..I don't know what to do.."He whispered, more to himself then her, not really realizing he was doing it. "Shaden...tell me what to do.." Though he was ready to bounce off the walls, he remained calm, rooted by her side.
Shaden:Her eyes moved to him widening.. as the guard even left a small torch burning outside... for them to see by. it would be the first time they had seen each other since the night she told him she loved him.. dirty and ragged tears .streaked down her face.. she looked like a wild scared doe cornered and about to be felled by a hunters arrow, her arms grasp about his neck softly "Nicholas. this isn't right.. " she shivered in his arms... before she nodded...softly... "Help me get over there... to take off these skirts.. some of it is still dry.. we will need something to clean her with.. and wrap her in.." she knew soon she would be in no condition to move about.. standing and moving toward the straw pallet.. she removed her skirts.. remaining only in the shift of linen beneath... "Put it where it will stay dry.." she motioned away from the weeping walls.. and doubled over in pain.. as another pain took her in its grasp.. hands falling to her belly once again.. she grunted harshly... her breath caught in her throat.. before she screamed... out her pain.. a sound that made the guards.. turn away.. shamed.. and woke the sleeping children... slowly she eased to her knees with his help and onto the straw pallet... as the pain subsided... "Nicholas.. if I don't make it .. through this..." sweet beaded her pale brow as she breathed heavily... "I want you to raise her... love her..."
Nic: "Shh shh...its ok, everything will be ok." He soothed to her as a hand rubbed at her back. She looked a ragged mess but he probably looked just as bad, a heavy beard, dirty face, sliced up arm and chest. Bloody shirt. That didn't matter though as he rubbed at her back in comfort, pressing a kiss against her forehead before he was shifting to help her up, nearly carrying her to the straw pallet himself before easing her down. He helped were he could in getting her skirts off and throwing it over his shoulder to keep it from getting wet. "It's ok baby, it'll be ok...don't talk like that. We'll raise her together...and you know I love her..I'll love her her whole life.."His thumb passed over her forehead, pushing the sweat off her brow.
Shaden:Another Pain assaulted her making her raise from the pallet.. the veins in her neck and shoulders straining as she tried to keep in the screams.. but failed... "It's too quick something's wrong.. " she cried in between pains... sobbing and panting... taking comfort in him when he held her and soothed her softy... in those moments she relaxed.. against him... silently until another pain would take her... hours rolled by.. ticking away slowly.. her screams so intense that even the guards moved back and forth to the cell... the door opened and a pail of water... some blankets and a cloak were left at the opening.. before it closed again.. One stayed.. just outside... the conflict on his face apparent... when the torchlight would reveal him to them.. ever so often... after that.. she begin to push.. "Nic.... sit behind me.... help me sit up.. so I can push.." she breathed against his cheek as he held her closely... "I'm so tired."
Nic:"We'll work it out...it'll...be ok" Though his heart was racing as her face twisted with pain. He wanted to do something, but he didn't know what to do. He hadn't been allowed in the room when Jadrien was born and she had screamed..as Shaden had....but Soren had never said something was wrong. He had..just known, in seeing the wine spill across the table. This was decidedly different. Sliding in behind her, he held her, swaying, rubbing at her back with one hand, her belly with the other, whispering to Joy to be nice to her mommy. Whispering comforting words to Shaden. Slowly, he eased her up so she was sitting upward, settling in behind her. "I'm here baby...you can do it, bring your baby into the world..you can do it, your strong. Push."
Shaden:For what seemed like days she labored.. sometimes walking the line between consciousness and death... she pushed and pushed until she could scream no more... her legs pulled back to her chest.. valiantly birthing her daughter... at last she whispered to him... "You will have to help.. I feel her... almost out... go... " she lay back now.. onto the straw pallet.. quiet as he moved between her legs.. almost before he could get ready another pain assailed her body, making her bolt upright in hideous groaning screaming that shook the very foundations of the cave... the baby slipped from her body... to the shoulders... The Guard at the door.. opened it.. and stepped in... "you will need this... for the cord " he lay a small knife on the things.. he had offered.. then closed the door once again.
Nic:He was itchy behind her, or at least it felt like it. Though he was trying to remain calm, his movement, rocking her as she labored, was moving himself to. To keep himself moving so he wouldn't freak out. This was the point where the Knight broke down, where it showed he had no idea what he was doing in this situation. Finally when she asked for his help again, he shifted from behind her, helping her to lie back before scooting across the floor. Oh hell! Even before he was ready she was pushing again, screaming and he winced with the scream as he tore even through his heart, but the baby was coming, sliding from within her and he was there to usher the child into the world. He cradled the little one within the skirt from his shoulder, silvery blue eyes lifting to the guard before down to the knife. Holding the baby as softly as he could, he inched to get the knife and cut the cord as his hand worked some of the blood and mucus off the baby. His lips pulling in a tight frown. The baby wasn't crying.
Shaden: She fell back as her body at last release the child from it's grips.. long sobbing breaths.. ushered into exhausted lungs... "Nic.... let me see her... Let me see Joy " she whispered.. rolling onto her side... her eyes finding him in the dimness.... her face paled even more... at the look on his face... there was no crying... no movement.. " nooooooooooo noooooooo she's alive.. you make her alive.. breath for her.. give her to me.. " she struggled to raise toward him... " nooooooooooooo" it was the most heartbreaking sound of all... never had such anguish been heard.. or felt.. "Nic.. noooo nooo Nic.. pleaaseeeeeeee"
Nic:His eyes rose to meet Shaden's then fell to Joy as he shifted to lay the baby within his lap, rubbing the skirt furiously over her body to warm her, hoping that would wake the baby up, that she would start crying. Working the babies mouth open, he worked his finger around her throat, clearing the mucus from her throat. "Come on baby Joy, breath..."He ushered down to the little girl baby. A heavy sigh left his lips, strangled with a cry as he lifted Joy by her ankles and gave her bottom a resound smack and then another. Damn it! His throat tightened as the tears slid down his cheeks at both Shaden's cries and his own anguish. Curling the baby into his arm again, he couldn't bear to say it. Couldn't bear to disappoint Shaden, couldn't bear not seeing that little girl grow up. He had been there, through ever moment of Shaden's pregnancy, had felt Joy kick and marveled. She just had to make it. Raising her in his arms, he pressed his mouth against hers and blew softly. "Breath baby girl, breath" Again he raised her to breath into her mouth"You're wanted..you're loved..breath.."A strangled cry left his lips and he couldn't go on. Sliding across the floor, the tears pouring down his cheeks, he gently ushered the cloth wrapped baby from his arms to Shaden's.
Shaden:She watched in agony... as he tried everything possible to rouse the child... to no avail... her tears flowing freely over her face.. as she shook her head back and forth.. her words softer and softer as hope diminished completely "Nooo... Nooo.. I want my baby " she whispered " I want her..." her eyes rose to him... as he lay the baby in her arms.. lashes squeezed together to try and dam the flow of tears.. that dripped onto the skirt wrapped child.. her fingers.. pulled back the covering looking at the small baby.. index finger tracing her perfect little face.. cupid bow lips.. tiny nose... perfect fingers and toes.. she was lost.. she loved this little girl so much.. how would she ever live.. go on without her.... "She has been still for days now... not moving.. I didn't' want to believe... " she sobbed.. leaning into him.... "Why her... ? why .... She did nothing to deserve this.. She deserved to live.... " quiet racking sobs shook her.. as she held the baby tightly.. and fell into his arms.. " oh Nicholas.. our little girl " in the cells beside them children wept for the pain of the Lady who had sung to them for days The guards shuffled back and forth before the cell.. even they were not immune to her grief.
Nic:As he lay the baby within her arms, he shifted down to the floor, wrapping her and Joy into his arms as he slowly rocked them both back and forth. His face buried into Shaden's neck as the man sobbed harder then he had in his entire life. He couldn't answer her questions. He didn't know why and nothing came to mind to soothe her heartache or his own. "She's beautiful...she's perfect.."He whispered against her neck as his head rose and pressed against hers, his voice a cracking mess. Their Joy, their beautiful little girl...she had deserved a chance. He didn't understand it.
Shaden:For long moments they were just there.. combined in their misery holding onto one another until she pulled away from him... shifting the small perfect child into his arms... the patch of copper colored hair deeming her, her mothers child.. She stood.. moving to the bucket of water.. and dipped a rag into it.. quickly cleaning herself as best she could.. in silence.. the Guard at the door adverted his eyes.. and looked away... as she finished she got another cloth and the cloak and blanket and moved back to Nicholas... "She needs to be cleaned... properly." She held out her hands for the little one.. and bathed her quietly, finally wrapping her in a torn corner of the blanket.. then settled beside him once more pulling the remaining blanket over them... rocking the child in her arms softly.... " She will not take her from me... like the other children.. I will kill her... " she murmured against the babies forehead.. as she begin to sing a soft lullaby.. Shaden was fast drifting into a quiet madness.
Nic:He watched her, holding the unmoving baby within his arms. Watching her wash herself off then scoot back. Slowly he ushered the baby back into her arms. A frail little thing. No matter if she would never cry at them, never smile or laugh. He treated her like the treasure she was. He shifted to his knees, cradling the babies head as Shaden cleaned her, soft uttered words, cracking with emotion as he spoke a only prayer he knew in Latin. The lord bless you and keep you. Shifting back on her bottom, he held her as she held their Joy and rocked back and forth. "She will never harm you or the children ever again.."He uttered against her neck as he stared at the floor what seemed like hours before finally he jerked from behind her, slowly rising to full height and move to the bars. "Guard..Guard, let me out now. Let me out of this.."He ushered the guard over but once the man moved to open the door, Nicholas lunged, grabbing the man by the shirt, he pulled, hard and the mans head clanged against the bars. With a groan, the man went limp. Nic let out a runt as he lifted the mans weight up only to find the keys before he released the man to slump onto the ground. Moving to the door, he wiggled the keys till he found the right one and swung the door open, bringing the keys with him as he moved to Shaden. "Come on baby, you need to get up for me, lets get Joy and those kids out of here.."
Shaden: She moved numbly... pulling the blanket about her shoulders... looking at the fallen guard she whispered "His sword..." her movements were slow and deliberate, no doubt exhausted.. and aching... yet somehow she rose to the challenge of living.. if only to save her daughter from the terrible fate that had befallen the other children in this hell. Leaning heavily she watched down the corridor for more guards as he moved to the three other cells releasing the children, cautioning them to be silent and to follow quietly... She was enveloped in a haze.. a fog... holding the still child tightly to her... as if life depended on it...
Nic: Slowly he leaned to help her upward till his eyes followed hers to the sword. "I'll get it..come on baby.."He offered softly to her ear as he lead her from the cell, pausing only to pick up the sword and leaving her only to open the cell doors of the other children. A little boy ran past him in the one flickering flame of torchlight and immediately latched himself onto to Shaden's skirts. Was that the little boy Isaac who had talked to her a while ago? He hardly had time to wonder as the children all gathered behind him and Shaden. "Listen kids, this isn't going to be easy. But be brave, stay behind Lady Shaden here and I PROMISE you, I will get you all home. I know your scared. We're not going to abandon you...Now stay behind her."He directed some of the kids around him to move behind Shaden as he cautiously lead the way, holding the torch up to light their way. As a guard appeared from the darkness, the torch was thrust into the mans face who screamed and dropped his sword. With one quick roll and downward swing, the guard fell to the ground. One of the children screamed and Nic's attention turned, a hand raised to the child, a smile pulled at his lips despite the situation, he wasn't going anywhere. "Isaac..here hold this, keep the tunnel lit for me.."He ushered the boy from Shaden's skirts though the four year old still held tight with one hand, he took the torch Nicholas offered him. He had to be brave, a good boy and a little hand held the torch up as far as it would go. A growl filled the tunnel as he lead them on, turning out to be two more guards, hoping to scare whoever was coming with the torch, at the sight of the clan they ran for them. Nicholas jumped out, grasping the first mans collar, he threw him without letting go, letting the mans weight rock them into a circle as the second ran past Nic, he threw the one man into the other, knocking them both to the floor. A strong kick and both were knocked out as he ushered the children and Shaden on.
Shaden:They followed him.. on.. each time he stopped they stopped moving like a well oiled machine.. several times she bent to comfort and cradle some of the children that cried and almost screamed when Nicholas had to deal with the guards.. Joy cradled against her.. they seemed like the pied pipers bringing the children home.. soon enough they fell into the daylight.. late afternoon.. eyes long used to the dimness were blinded.. for a moment.. as the sun illuminated the forest about them.. nearby to the west you could hear the crashing of the ocean.. and to the east the sound of rushing river water... "Nicholas... where are we... which way..?" she swayed against him lightly...yet still managed to stay upright.. beside her the young boy.. pulled at her skirts.. and she reached her free hand down to grasp his hand... "See Issac.. we are going home." Her fingers squeezed about his.. tightly... somewhere in the darkness these two had bonded.. though all the children seemed to cling and move closer to her... Issac seemed especially close... never letting go of her.
Nic: The daylight finally assaulted their eyes and Nicholas blinked and groaned in pain as his head began to throb anew from the blow against the back of his head. Shoving the sword into his belt, his arm curled around Shaden's shoulders as his head turned left and then right. Which direction indeed. She swayed and he dipped, lifting her up to cradle in his arms. "I'm not sure, but we can't stand here...we'll find it." Isaac let go of her hand only to clasp at her shift were it flowed over Nic's arm. His chest and arm screamed in pain at the strain, the wounds even breaking open along the long gashes and he felt the warm blood flow against his chest and arm, soaking anew at his shirt and through to Shaden's shift. "We have to be close to Red Wall...the river...we'll follow the sound of the River, its the closest to Red Wall..the sea holds nothing but beach." Shifting her in his arms, he wouldn't put her down, she was to weak to walk on her own, at least for how long they would need to go and he couldn't carry her before but damned if he wasn't going to do so now.
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Post by Sir Nicholas Stryker on Feb 3, 2009 18:53:11 GMT -6
Ren:As Ren continued to make his way closer to what caught his eyes, he began to make out figures. Dark gaze would focus as eyes narrowed, there wasn't one, two, or even three... but many. Most looked to be smaller in size and as he closed the distance between himself and what lay up ahead, he realized who a couple of them were. Quickly his scimitar was drawn and he began to quicken his pace. The brown beast behind him seem to sense its master's desperation to reach the on coming crowd and stayed right in behind him. "Nic?!" He yelled as he finally came up to him and there others. "What the hell has happened and who are all these people?" He asked as he surveyed the lot of them. Most were dirty, wearing tattered clothing. Pieces ripped here and there, eyes rimmed and swollen as some looked to be crying or had been. He moved to take a step or two off to the side, peering past them to see if any one or anything was behind them that posed as a threat as all were running, or at least trying to.
Moira: Moira had spent the entire day and most of the evening following Ren from a very safe distance. All bundled up against the cold in a heavy borrowed cloak, she didn't even stop for more than a moment to get water, concerned she would lose sight of him and if that were to happen, then what? She hadn't been watching her surroundings or even the direction in which he had gone, she only followed so by now as she was far from being an explorer she wasn't even all that sure where her following him had ended her up. Then came the yelling of a familiar name. The distance had been closed a bit due to the darkness. Nic? What in the world was he doing out here? If it happened to be Shaden's Nic, anyway. Lost in thought a moment longer she gave up staying behind and hiding, spurring her horse forward with her heels dug into the *still* nervous stallions flanks to catch up with him finally, if all hell broke loose, she would deal with it. She would rather have anyone's wrath on her than drifting behind in pitch darkness all night long. Slowing the animal only as it reached the others.
Shaden: She had fallen into and exhausted half wakefulness in his arms the sway of his gait lulling her vaguely she could hear the children talking.. as she clutched to the precious child in her arms... Her Joy.. her baby... wrapped in a torn corner of a blanket.. delivered in the hellish depths of a madwoman's revenge... her eyes fluttered open as she heard voices... calling out to Nic.. and he stilled.. some of the children.. startled and cried out.. it was a strangers voice.. she picnicked.. were they followed..about to be captured again... "Nic... Put me down... you have to save the children.." she struggled.. still dazed and confused from the horrors of the birth.
Nic: His arms ached with the weight in his arms, not that Shaden had ever been heavy for him but he had a fairly good amount of blood loss. Coupled with the fact they had been walking for what seemed like hours. His breath came in heavy pants, sweat creasing his brow and dropping into his eyes, making the red rimmed eyes from crying blur as he saw man...or form blurred, coupled with a larger blob behind them. It wasn't until his name was called did he let out a sigh of relief and stopped within the forest path, close to weakening to his knees. "It's ok baby...he isn't a threat.."He whispered against Shaden's cheek. With Shaden's girth before him, no doubt the gash on his arm and chest were lost, except the dark patches of blood that had dried in the heat of day. "Theodren...Shaden...baby..birthed...kids.."He panted and stopped only to catch his breath, shifting Shaden in his arms, curling her tight to him despite the pain that screamed from wounds. "I found the trail, someone hit me from behind..she was in the cavern, about an hour or two back that way, the kids...this woman was feeding them to the beasts..Shaden had the baby...I overpowered the guards...got the kids out.."God he was so tired. "I have to get them to Red Wall. We're safe at Red Wall.."
Ren: As a woman's voice and the children screamed, Ren was quick to reassure them "Shhhh, its okay, I'm here to help. I'm a friend." He said as he put a finger to his lips. Not sure if they were being followed yet or not but needed to persuade them to remain calm and quiet juts in case. As his eyes continued to drift back and forth between the Nic, Shaden, and the others he looked past them several times, keeping a check. The man looked in bad shape. As Nic gave an explanation of it all, Ren turned to take the reins of his horse. "Here, take my horse, get her and the everyone else out of here." He then heard hooves thudding from behind and the man moved with a quickness that some thought were loss with old age. "Moira?! What the f**k are you doing here?!Damn it woman! Can you not do as asked once?!?" He sighed. "Never mind... you can help... maybe take a couple of the smaller children back with you on horse back." He looked to Nic. "I'll trail behind you and the others, cover your backs." His eyes cut to Moira. "I'll deal with you later." He said as he began to crouch down and speak softly to the children. "My name is Ren, you all will go with Nic, Shaden and Moira there. They will lead you back to safety... okay?" He asked as he nodded to make sure that the few that still seemed to be terrified knew that things were going to be alright once again. He would make sure of it.
Moira: His voice was heard, scolding her before she could even bring the horse to a complete stop. She had enough control over the beast that once stopped it didn't dance about as much as it wanted to. She smirked at Ren, call it women's intuition, call it stupidity, whatever he might want to call it she had a strong feeling she could be useful and unable to still her tongue the words left her mouth before she could snap it closed. "Would you rather I go back and you can send for me?" Ignoring anything else, she took note of Shaden, Nic, and the children with them. Well, she could do as asked and take a few with her. She jumped from the saddle and helped more than a few children onto the back of the horse, the worst looking ones, though she hated having to pick and choose. Silently praying none screamed anymore or put up a fuss so the damned horse would remain calm. Her gaze moving to Nic and Shaden. "Would you like me to carry the baby, Shaden?" She looked like she could use a long rest,she and Nic both, before they and the children all collapsed right there. Holding tight to the horse while asking, making sure the lunatic animal didn't bolt.
Shaden: She had calmed once Nic said it was a friend... as he knelt to the ground still holding her tightly Issac, the small dark haired four year old boy moved beside her.. his hand grasping onto her arm.. petting her as if trying to console her.. she listened to Nic.. and Ren speaking.. through a fog.. and then she saw Moira... wondering idly what the woman was doing out in the forest.. birth blood loss over a week of being imprisoned underground could bend the mind.. coupled with the reality that her daughter was born still... Shaden was as close to loosing it .. as a woman could be... her head snapped up when Moira offered to take the child.. and she began to tremble grasping the small blanket wrapped form to her.. "nooo nooo one can take her.. noooo" wracking painful sobs of pure anguish followed as she buried her head into the soft sweet tuff of copper hair on the crown of the infants hear.. the infant that did not cry.. or move.
Nic: His head nodded singularly to Theodren, he knew they could still be followed. For a moment, he sank to his knees, still clutching Shaden close as the sound of hooves broke the silence. His body tensed, until he saw Moira. "Moira?! What the...no courtesans should be outside of the Lily, damn it woman!" He was going to have a talk with the guards when he got back. Though visibly, he was relieved to have them both there. Shifting, he placed Shaden upon the ground, pausing to turn a look at Moira at her question to Shaden. "It's ok Moira..." even as Shaden began to cry hysterically. "No one is going to take her Shaden, I promise you.." Grasping Issac up into his arms, he shifted the little boy onto Theodren's horse before moving back towards Shaden. "Let me see our daughter, Shaden..it's all right.."He soothed as he took the bundle from her arms. "Theodren...help her onto the horse..please.." He stepped back, waiting for his friend to do as asked, as asked not demanded. When Shaden was settled behind Issac, he handed Joy back to her before reaching up to cup her face between his hands, soothing the tears from her cheeks with his thumbs. "I'd die before anyone touches her..or you..ever again..."He promised.
Labyrinth Guards: "THERE THEY ARE!" The shout came from behind the group. Nic's head turned to see the guards, two bloody from beating Nic had given them before.
Nic: "Get them to Safety Shaden..I know you can do it. Moira, get on that damn horse." He growled at the courtesan as the sword he had stolen from the guard was pulled from his belt and swung loosely within his hand. "Shaden! get those damn kids to Red Wall!" Behind the two bloody guards, four others followed. Two of which, his personal guards for Shaden. "Theodren...spare none.." Silvery blue eyes had darkened as they met the mans stare, he meant it.
Ren: As he rose to his full height of six foot and three inches, the dark copper skinned male looked from the children to Moira. "Moira...-" He said in a deep warning tone. " this is not the time nor the place." He added as he then watched her begin to dismount and move to take up several of the smaller children. His eyes drifted to Shaden as words were exchanged between herself and Moira. He felt terrible for the woman, she looked like she had been through hell. He looked back to Nic then, he moved closer as the man was down on his knees. "Here, let me help. "He offered his hands to both Shaden and Nic. The massive male would aid Shaden to her feet and Nic up off his knees. The reins to the horse had been released, the brown beast knew not to trot or run off and he was quite used to these sort of things. He watched as Nic helped a small boy up on his horse and then nodded when he was asked to help Shaden. Large but gentle hands were careful to lift and settle her slowly and easy into the saddle. Once she seemed to be alright, he turned back to Nic and eyes went wide with surprise as voices were heard from behind. "Quickly! get going!" The sword was sheathed before his bow and arrows were produced. He tossed his cloak to Shaden for use. An arrow was notched before it was quickly released. Sending it slicing through the air with a whistle. His eyes cut to Nic with a nod. "None it will be."
Moira: Shaden's reaction had her dumbstruck for a moment, piecing parts of that strange puzzle together. She didn't need to know what happened in the last few days to know well that no sound or struggle from the baby was a bad sign. Perhaps the baby took ill, she wasn't sure, but she had enough tact not to ask, not here or now. A nod was passed to Nic and she helped a few more of the less than healthy looking children onto the back of her horse. The stallion could carry five and still support her weight along with them. His breed was a solid, strong animal. The yelling heard well in the night, she threw herself across the back of the horse, still holding fast to the reins and urging the animal to move even before she was settled into the saddle. Being no fighter and even if she were there was a strong doubt that daggers would be of any match. Horse and many children riders along with Moira bolted into a fast run, she would lose them easily, if not for the fact that should it be necessary she would go back on a moments notice to help should it be needed in any form.
Shaden: "Run follow her.. " she urged the children.. the older ones on foot following behind Moira as fast as they could.. she kneed the borrowed stallion... behind him... leaning down to Issac she instructed him to hold on tightly to the pommel.. The baby held tightly to her chest she leaned down.. and scooped up one of the other children who was falling behind.. settling the little girl behind her.. " Hold onto me.. " the forest was thick with trees and shrubs.. and the horse winded it's way along behind Moira... and the children... The sounds of clanging Iron.. and shouts made her stop.. turning the horse about slightly... " Moira... wait!"" she cried out... sliding from the horse.. she put one of the elder children in it's saddle.. with the reins.. and helped more onto the beast back.. She moved to the other woman... and lifted the infant cold and still to her.." Do not let anyone take them... go straight ahead to Red Wall.. tell them You are Shaden's Sister if they ask... You keep my daughter and these children safe " tears ran down her face as she drew a cross bow and arrows from the horses saddle.. "I will not loose him too" her face was a mask of pain, rage and insanity... as she slapped the horses hindquarters " GET!!!!!"
Nic: There was no look back, he couldn't look back least he be caught off guard. Theodren arrow seemed to hit mark, the first man flew back in impact and did not move. With a growl of rage, Nic advanced, the sword swinging, clashing as his former guard laughed in his face. "You'll regret double crossing me!" Nic hissed within his face. The battle raged on, the two battling at the four others rounded in. With a final swing upward, he cut the man wide open, belly to neck and as the sword clattered from the mans hands, Nic moved to take it up, two was better then one right? As an arrow sailed past his shoulder, missing a man by mere inches, he turned to find Shaden the culprit. "Shaden! Damn it!" He whirled just as two swords sailed in his direction and both hands moved to direct the blows off. A foot kicked out to knock one back while he fended off the other. "GET OUT OF HERE! NOW!" He screamed back at her.
Ren:The first arrow that was sent crippled a man, bringing him down to his hands and knees. The second that was quickly notched was sent flying just as the first and struck one in the eye. He glanced back just long enough to make sure that Shaden, Moira, and the children were well on their way before he turned back and notched a third. His eyes squinting in the dimming light at shadows that were making way for he and Nic. A target was picked and the arrow was released. It missed just by mere inches. He heard shouting and though he couldn't turn to look away this time, he quickly gathered it was Nic yelling back at Shaden. Ren had wondered if what he heard was his own arrow of that of another, now he knew as it seemed Shaden had found one of his weapons on his horse. As Ren had taken down three men.. one injured, two dead, Nic seemed to finish it off. Though, both men had to know that more would be following and they needed to get a move on before they were trapped. "Let's go!" He yelled as he began to turn half way and move with a quicken paced.
Moira: Keeping control of the stallion was a real challenge with so many children on the animals back. The extra weight along with the children all struggling valiantly to keep balance with the sudden burst of speed of the stallion. At Shaden's call for her to wait she pulled the animal to a quick stop, turning him about only to see Shaden off the back of he horse she rode and loading more children up to its back. With a lean in her saddle she took the baby from Shaden's offered arms and shook her head. "Shaden, are you mad? Get back on the horse! You're too weak and I can't leave you here alone, Nic will strangle you for doing this!" Not to mention Moira for allowing her to do it. She did not notice the stillness of the baby in the frenzied chaos, gripping the infants body close to her own. Shaking her head she threw her leg over the saddle and holding tight to the baby in a protective manner, she parted her cloak and snuggled the lifeless form within her blouse to hold her safe. Another three children nearly tossed into the saddle of her horse and she directed the eldest child to hold the reins and follow the other horse as fast as was possible. The stallion took off in a gallop, after the other animal. Another prayer whispered that they make it to Red Wall, but as long as they were getting out of here and remained alive, that was all that mattered. She wouldn't leave Shaden, no matter what and she would protect the baby with her life. But this was still unwise, she knew it and she grabbed Shaden's arm, pulling her back to where the trees and brush were thick, it would take some work for anyone to get them back where she hauled Shaden and the last few children. "Shoot from here." Moira could do little, lack of weaponry, but she could play the look out and she could keep any children still with them safe by forcing them to move. She didn't know who was more insane though, her for doing this or Shaden for wanting to remain behind though love made people blind so she didn't fault Shaden entirely. "She's safe, Nic!" The words yelled so he could hear, no man could be expected to fight well while worrying about others. Deciding suddenly again though, this was not far enough if she could hear Nic or he her so she herded the children and grabbed Shaden's arm again to take them even further into that brush. "Now shoot from here." The children were directed to hide and stay hidden unless she called for them to show themselves. The children all took off to do as she bid so now she was able to concentrate on keeping Shaden and the baby safe.
Shaden: "YOU WILL NOT TAKE ANOTHER FROM ME " her voice was one that legends were written of.. bards sung of.. the Valkyrie of Old... copper hair flamed in the setting sun.. as she raised the crossbow.. aiming at one of the men who attacked her Nicholas... the guard looked up... stunned by the sigh of the woman, clothed in nothing more than a gauzy shift.. stained with blood... hair wild as her eyes... it would be the last sight he saw.... singing through the air.. it connected right between the mans's eyes.. he reeled backward stunned by the arrow piercing thru his brain...then fell... already she notched another arrow back...as Nic felled the second aggressor...she trembled with undiluted rage.. coupled with no small bit of derangement.. She had shook off Moira's arm.. and stepped into the small clearing... without care for her own life... nothing mattered anymore... save the man who fought so valiantly to save her.... there was a fine line between heroics.. and I don't care to live anymore... and Shaden had fallen over that line.
Nic: The sword sang as it whizzed around and sliced the last man's head from his shoulders. A wild growl left Nic's mouth, his face a mask of rage and pain. THESE men had done it, taken her..put her in a state to loose the baby, THEY killed Joy and he was going to make them pay. Ren shout had him turning to gathering surroundings. Six bodies lay unmoving upon the ground, and he could hardly think of how they had gotten there. Sliding both swords into his belt, he jogged to where Shaden aimed still with the bow. Jerking out of the aim, he yanked the weapon from her hands with one hand and grasped her arm with the other. "ARE YOU CRAZY!WHEN I TELL YOU TO RUN, YOU RUN!" He was panting with emotion and from the work out of killing men. "I don't matter Shaden.."He breathed in a slower, more calm voice, despite their surroundings. "All that matters is you and those kids.."His grip loosened on her arm but coupled with the bow in the other, he cupped her face between her hands and kissed her lips, hard but short. "Damn it woman, I won't loose you again..and not to wherever I can't bring you back from.."
Ren:What was it with the damn stubborn women?! First Moira and now Shaden. Okay, sure, Shaden had lost her damn mind but Moira? As Ren's gazed moved back and forth from where the men had emerged to Nic and back he kept ushering them to move. Not only was he going to have to help cover the hides of he and Nic but now Shaden, Moira, and whatever children lingered with them since he saw no sign of the horses now. As Nic and Shaden had their exchange of words, his eyes moved to find Moira. "Get up... lets go.. NOW!" He bellowed out as he past Nic and the red head. He looked to them over his shoulder. "Come on you two.. lets get a move on before more make it out and spot us!" He began to move again, taking Moira by the arm and swooping down to grab up a child to lead the way out. He was after all a ranger, and he remembered the way he had came.
Shaden: "Your all I have left" tremulous tears fell over her cheeks.... " The best part of me died in that hell... am I suppose to live without you ?" she whispered against his lips.. " I cannot.. I don't even want to now.. you.. are the only reason I breathe still " she shuddered.. numb not even feeling the bruising of her flesh beneath his grasp.. Ren brushed past them and bellowed at Moira and she flinched.. suddenly the heavens opened up as if the angels above mourned the loss of Joy in the world... cold pounding rain.. that mirrored the way she felt.. inside... she withdrew from him then... and turned.. following Ren and the Children... to Moira... " Give me my daughter " she held out her arms to the other woman.. "now... "
Moira: Her left arm never left the form tucked within the safety of her cloaked form, she held tight to the cold form of the infant. Shaden shaking off her grasp proved just how determined the woman was, but with Nic approaching she knew that.. for now.. it was alright to stop watching Shaden. Her gaze lifted to the trees, aside from their voices. The forest seemed too quiet, but that was likely her paranoia settling into the back of her mind. Moving with the want to get out of here and Ren's loud voice helped in that matter as well. "Come out now!" A soothing voice even if it was shouted out for the lingering children who had hidden in the area. Counting them as she walked and they walked up along side her, leaving Shaden and Nic to themselves for now. The moment Shaden approached and demanded the return of her child Moira moved her cloak and carefully returned the baby to Shaden,even if the tiny thing was past requiring tender handling, the infant would receive it no matter. A glance to Nic, then back to Shaden before she moved to catch up with the children, still in herding them up mode and even counting to assure herself they had them all here.
Nic: What could he say to that? All he could do was kiss her again, grasping her close to him as the heavens opened and rain began to pour down upon the small group left in the clearing. He released her only to follow after the trio. She didn't need a scolding right now, even if he were still blind, he could see she was on the edge or had all ready cracked. No need to add to it but silvery blue eyes met Moira, oh yes she was in trouble but for now, he simply nodded and ushered a hand forward as the children gathered around the adults and they fought their way to the gates of Red Wall. "We'll be safe here..need to get everyone dry, some water..maybe something to eat. I need to send for the General..."He spoke to Ren, his arm curled about Shaden's waist. The hell he was letting her go so far. "Shaden, you and Moira...you need to stay here with the kids.."Although he wasn't going to scold her, his voice booked no refusal. Slowly he released her only to pull the rain and blood soaked shirt from his body while hissing as the wound on his arm and one on his chest cried out in pain. "I just need a few minutes.."He moved the crowd towards the temple, at least the porch would offer refuge from the rain. "and then I'll ride out to town, can't trust anyone else to do it. Not meaning you Theodren..you were...a huge amount of help back there.."
Ren:He paused just long enough to release his hold on Moira so she could give Shaden the baby within her arms. That nearly brought this big man down to his knees as he felt that terrible ache of loss within his chest. Whether it was the loss of a child, a father, or a sister... it all hurt just the same. As soon as the rain began to fall, his dark gaze lifted skyward before looking back to the others. With a child in one arm and a tiny hand now grasping for his other, the man would toss the bow and quiver of arrows over his shoulder to take the needy little hand. He lead that child along with the others toward the forest's tree line. "That's right... come on.. lets go." He ushered them as he continued to glance back occasionally to make sure the others were now moving. They were soon arriving at Red Wall's gates and as they all began to find shelter in one of the houses, he watched and listened. His eyes ever shifting to take it all in and when Nic spoke to him he nodded. "I can ride... you and the others should stay here and rest. I'm fine." However, since Nic said he would ride, he wouldn't stop the man from doing anything he felt he needed to do. "Then I'll ride with you."
Moira: Had she not known full well she was going to hear it for following Ren here she would have faked a shocked look for Nic. However, it was cold and raining which made it more cold but she trekked on, holding on to two small, warm hands within her own. It had gone unnoticed that two of the children had both taken up both of her hands grasp when the babe was returned to Shaden. While Nic and Ren planned out what they needed to do her gaze moved around quickly, searching for two horses that she hoped made it to Red Wall, it hadn't been far from where they were, surely the children on horseback would come here seeking sanctuary, warmth, food, anything.
Shaden: " No no " she stuttered as he ordered her to stay " I can't I have to go... with you... we have to take her.... to .. the church" her eyes welled with sadness.. " we have to.. " she kept demanding not making a whole lot of sense at this point... as he directed her to the porch of her sisters home... " I can't stay here.. Joy has to go.. home... to the church... Nic don't make me.. stay here please... please... " it was heart wrenching the pure agony of a mothers last wish for her child... beside her the small hand of Issac.. pulled at her hand petting it softly.. he seemed to have bonded and empathized with the distraught lady... where she had comforted them in the darkness he now returned the favor.. as well as a four year old could... her hand reached out for him.. settling on his shoulder at the nape of his dark hair caressing tenderly... " Please Nic... take us home... she has to be baptized... and given a name." her knees buckled then, crumpling to the wooden porch... the lifeless baby held tightly to her... " I cannot let her go.. without this... " Issac moved to wrap his arms around her as she rocked back and forth in misery.. his dark eyes challenging the Knight. If he were only older he would see her wishes done.
Nic: Ringing the shirt out on the steps, he took a lean against one of the pillars holding the porch up. He just needed a minute to rest. Just a minute. He needed a minute to think. "I don't think it wise to leave the woman and children alone...Ren.."Tell me what to do..He seemed to beg as silvery blue eyes rose to meet the mans face before turning towards Shaden as she broke down. His throat tightened, ached, tossing the shirt over the railing he moved to her, slowly kneeling and settling his arms against her shoulders. "Shaden, Joy has a name..and I promise you, once you and these kids are safe, I will take you home and we will have her baptized and laid to rest. So she can be at peace.."his voice cracked as he held back tears. "and she will, be safe, in heaven..looking down on you, protecting you.." Fingers lifted to brush back the hair that clung to her face from the rainfall. "Do this for me...stay here with these kids, you've bounded with them, they trust you to keep them safe. They need you here to do that.."
Ren: At Nic's words of gratitude, Ren would only nod. "I promised you I would find a trail and help." He said there was a hint of a grin hut it would fade as he began to survey everyone and then let his eyes fall on Moira. He only gave a shake of his head for now, as this was not the time or place to scold her for not obeying a plea, for her safety. His eye caught sight of the dark brown steed with children still on his back. He would release his hold on the children with him and told them to stay put for now. He moved off the porch and on the soggy ground to help dismount the small and now shivering forms of the children. As he set them down one at a time, they each ran for adults that were now making their way toward the rest of the group, bringing blankets, hot drink, and baskets of bread and fruits. As he moved back up on the porch, others were helping the other children that had been on Moira's horse. They came just as the first had finding the comforts they needed. His eyes saw Shaden and he stepped back, finding himself near the wall, watching silently and awaiting Nic's decision on what was now needed. What would be the plan. Though, as Nic's gaze lifted, it looked as if the man was asking him his opinion. "I think its best if we stay here. At least just long enough to get everyone dry, warm, and fed."
Danae: As the group seem to be gathering, several men and their Commander would head in their direction. At the concerned words of Nic whom was now on his knees, a voice called out. "That won't happen... not while I'm here. Me and my men will have this place surrounded, secured, and well protected. So you do as you need to for now.. when time comes, I'll send a few with you to help safe guard all of those traveling back to Turas Lan." Pale blue icy eyes began survey the group. Taking note of each and everyone of them, seeing how tired, dirty, and wet they all were. A hand lifted and a crowd of men moved in bringing more supplies. "I have weapons here, any that have want of them, see me." As her eyes continued to shift from face to face, they seem to grow wide with shock as they had lingered on one in particular. She swallowed and her skin seem to slowly pale... was she seeing a ghost?
Moira: Speaking softly, but enough to be heard, to both Nic and Shaden. "You need to eat, wash up, have wounds patched." She knew Shaden would likely see it all otherwise and probably want to return home but she had faith in Nic that he could talk Shaden into taking care of herself first, she was the one still among the living and Moira knew full well that Nic wouldn't want to lose Shay anymore than Shay would want to lose him. "If you don't you will end up sick and travel home will taken even longer to have happen." The sight of the other children being helped from the horses turned her attention toward them, Moira moved to help them inside, lifting two of the smallest children, a boy and girl, both looking no more than two years in age. Carrying them back to the others, they felt so malnourished and even their weariness seeped into her. Had she known the full story behind the use of these little ones she would have wanted to stomp off and kill the one who caused them so much pain herself, not that she wasn't thinking on it all ready just for the shape they were all in.
Shaden: She gave Nic a look of a wounded animal trapped.. looking for a way out... as common sense he spoke invaded her hysteria... she nodded softy... agreeing with him... shivering cold and wet... " I need to take her inside so she can get warm.... she's so cold... " she backed away and stood.. turning... the little boy and some other following her inside the temple... her sisters house she knew well.. already servants lit the fires...and made ready food for the children.. hot steaming bowls of nourishing soups and cider to warm them blankets to chase the chill.. but Shaden moved like a wraith toward the room she occupied when at Red wall. Stopping to peek in at the nursery that Ealora had so lovingly painted for her own child... it was like opening a wound.. raw and deep.. one of the servants came beside her... offering to take the child.. not knowing.. it's condition.. " Get me some of the baby clothes from in there.... " she couldn't bring herself to enter the room so filled with love... and backed away scalded with the thoughts.. of Ealora... having a baby... in her arms... this was all her.. fault.. her brother... her husband... everything stemmed from Ealora! In her own room she settled the child onto the bed... pulling back the torn blanket.. as the servant came into the room with the small beautiful baby clothes...
Servant:"Good Lord in Heaven." The woman blessed herself as she realized the babe was dead... " Miss Shaden.. I'm so sorry.. Let me tend her.. I'll clean her and dress her for you... so you don't have too touch her." The woman had good intentions to save Shaden the pain of feeling the cold child's flesh.
Shaden: She now stiffened... " GET OUT DON"T YOU TOUCH HER GET OUT !" she screamed...her fingers pointing toward the door.. " Leave me alone!"
Nic: "Commander.."He had perhaps met the woman once. Honestly now he couldn't remember but he remembered the title of her. Why was she at Red Wall? The question nearly blew his mind. Behind her, Avery moved, following Moira and Shaden into the house to look over the children. Good Lord. A hand rose to push through his hair. He couldn't think right now, all that kept playing through his head was Shaden screaming in pain, the baby sliding free of her body, cold and unmoving in his arms. His chest hurt, a hand pressed and rub against the surface as tears welled in his eyes. Why wasn't it enough? Why was it, ever effort he made, wasn't enough? Was there something else he could of done to save Shaden daughter. Shifting from the ground as Shaden took the baby inside, he moved only to fall against the pillar once more. Silvery blue eyes moved to Ren who seemed to wait for instructions to Danae and her men. People swimming in and out of his mind. His free hand worked open and closed, remembering the feel of Joy kicking against his fingers. He couldn't hold it back any more, the tears spilled down his cheeks as his hand lifted to wipe against his mouth before roughly shoving against his cheeks. His little girl..he was there, every moment, every painstaking moment of nausea, of Shaden's stomach growing with life, of Joy kicking, rolling underneath his touch, of every hello he spoke to her within her mother...and now..His head lifted to find Danae staring at Ren. Did she know him? He could barely focus on them..Shaden screamed from inside the house and he lifted from the pole. "Theodren, rest...we leave at dawn..."He shot before disappearing inside.
Servant:Backing out of the room, tears streaming down her face."I didn't mean..I didn't.."
Nic: Nic's hand went to the woman's back but he moved swiftly past her into the room and fell to his knees behind Shaden, his arms encircling her body, pulling her back against him as his head fell, his forehead resting against her shoulder as he rocked her back and forth. "It's ok baby...No one will touch her..it's ok..I love you..Gods I love you..I'm here.."
Ren:His eyes left Nic only long enough to watch Moira see to some of the children while his large arms crossed over his chest. He seemed to sigh silently to himself with a sense of relief that Shaden was agreeing to stay, at least for a time. Everyone needed to get dry, get clean clothes, food, drink, and have any wounds...minor or major seen about. He moved over toward Nic as the women moved inside. A hand was offered to the man.. the other things on his mind right now. When Nic rose and spoke those last words, he only nodded as eyes followed him to see Nic's form disappear into the house. However, as his eyes left that form, another was slowly looked like he needed it. But then... he knelt down, a hand clasping Nic's shoulder. Like a brother in arms, a squeeze was given. It was all he could offer. The voice of the woman had not been completely ignored, he just had approaching him from the side. He turned to look and saw this Commander. It was then he too began to think he was seeing things.
Danae: Danae seem to be frozen in place after she left only but a few feet between herself and the man before her. Not once did her eyes leave him as others came and went. Lowly she spoke, her lips trembling almost scared to death if she spoke the name on her mind, the image before her would fade away. "The-...Ren?" Brows were slowly arching and suddenly a rush of emotions came at her like a stampede of horses. It couldn't be... he.. he was dead, wasn't he? She began to let her eyes drift up and down his massive form. Taking note of every little detail. His boots, his pants, his tunic, the furs about his form and then the mans face and eyes again. They shifted seeing the ear-ring and then dropped to his hand and saw the tattoo there. It was then she gasped and her own hand lifted to catch the heart that dared to leap out.
Moira:Shaden's screaming was heard, it hadn't fallen on deaf ears, but when Nic moved on and past she breathed a sigh of relief. Shaden had to vent her rage and sadness, Moira knew that as well as anyone but being she had held that lifeless baby made her want to cry for Shaden, the infant wasn't even hers and until now, after holding the baby and helping with the children Moira also knew that the pain had to be ripping Shaden as well as Nic up inside. Shaking her head, she pressed it all aside, not one to become a hindrance she saw to the children, they had eaten and were tucked to sleep by others in the house. That was one task she now needn't see to though would have if it hadn't been done allready. Her gaze moved to take in Ren and Danae now. She saw the warrior woman now and then but aside from that, did not know her. The were engrossed in speaking and not wishing to interrupt she slipped out of the house, finding the horses that had carried the children from certain death. Catching the bridles of both, she began to walk the animals to the stables, but oh so cautiously. They both were stallions and if their senses hadn't been dulled by cold and weariness they would likely have been fighting to kill each other right now. Into stables, putting one in a stall and the other in a stall at the other end of the stable for safety. She worked to unsaddle and unbridle one, rubbing him down, feed and water given, then the task set to and repeated for Ren's horse next. She remained in the stable even when it was all done, lost in thought for the moment.
Avery: Danae had been, insightful enough to enlist her help. No words needed spoken, only that there were going to be people in need. Well that was Avery's badge of honor wasn't it? People in need. "Oh God.."Came from her lips as the crowd of two guards, two women an what seemed like an endless amount of children came into Red Wall gates. One gray eye, one blue swept to Danae before she was pulling her bag off her own horse and following Moira and the kids inside, followed shortly by Shaden and her bundle. She had the baby? It didn't take an expert to see there was something wrong. Dear god! Lids slid closed, pressing tightly together and she forced herself to take a deep breath and settle into looking each and every child over. She would tend to Nic, Shaden and the baby later. Especially when the lady screamed at the servant and sent the woman crying. "I want my mommy!" A child wailed as she ended to the scraped knee. A small, warm, touching smile pulled at her lips as she rubbed the salve over the cleaned wound and then slowly began to blow on it. "You will see your mommy soon. See that bowl of soup there, that's for you.." She helped the child down from the table she had taken over and moved to lift the next one onto it. Dipping a new rag into some clean water, she began to soothe the dirt away from the child's face, looking carefully for any sign of wounds before moving to cleaning each arm, each move precise, careful, all most loving as she began to hum to soothe the little boy on the table. Doctors always looked scary and by humming, she meant to soothe away that fear. They were in good hands. With Nicholas and Theodren here, with Danae and even with Moira and Shaden.
Ren:The man also seem to freeze in place as he was doing the very same thing to her. His dark eyes looking her from head to toe and when his eyes met hers, he knew. No other women he had ever known had eyes like his father and sister. "Danae?" He spoke as he stepped closer, a hand slowly reaching out and then stalled as he debated on if touching her would have her disappearing right before his very eyes. Then, he eased it forward again...slowly taking a few of dark strands between fingers. Feeling they were real... he gasped and looked as if choked on a sudden swell of emotion in his throat. "Oh.. the Gods... they have brought us back together." He whispered as his large arms quickly gathered the woman before him into a tight but caring embrace. "It is you... it really is you." He whispered against the side of her face.
Danae: Danae continued to stand there, lifeless almost and when the man that appeared to be her brother continued to eye her from top to bottom and back, she tried to calm her breathing and her heart rate. Only after his hand had reached out and toyed with those strands of hair did she fall into him as his arms circled about her. "Theodren... my brother..." She said in a hushed tone. "Yes... it is.. its me.. Danae.. your little sister." The hug given back to him was almost as strong and as powerful as his own. But then, she pulled back. "What are you doing here?! I thought you dead... after the battle.. I searched.. I looked... I did! I promise! And all I found was this." She began to rant as her hand pulled the dagger free from the small of her back and showed it to him. It had been his... the only thing of him she managed to find in the field after the battle ended. She shook her head, her eyes were filled with so much confusion. There was so much to ask.. to share.. it was almost as if she was in a rush in fear of losing him again.
Moira: Moira finally got too cold to stay in place longer. Granter the stable was warm but her clothes were went and clinging to her skin, she hadn't eaten since the morning, Ren had been difficult to follow and the thought of eating had never come to her until this very moment. Moving from the stable and back to where everyone else had gone, she slipped inside and began to look about for someone who may be familiar with this place since gods knew she wasn't.
Avery: One more child down and tons more to go but all seemed occupied in eating and so she would move to take a look at the adults. A smile went to Moira with a nod of her head. "Hello...come on before you catch a death of a cold.." A towel was loosened and thrown around Moira shoulders before she ushered to the long table the children sat at. "Go eat while I get those fools out of the rain.."Partly a tease but she left the woman to move out onto the porch." Danae, you and the gentleman should come in now. Ealora would kill me if I let you and him get sick while you were out here on business for her.." Of course she wasn't waiting to see if they would follow her in. She had Shaden and Nic to look over as well and she was no babysitter but lord she didn't really want to disturb the couple just yet. With a heavy sigh though, she disappeared down the hall to check on the two grieving parents.
Ren: "Me?! What are you doing here?" He asked as he kept one arm around her and was now standing at her side. His eyes lifted and he looked to the woman that asked for them to come in out of the cold. Just as well, he and Danae could catch up with one another a little inside over a warm meal and some drink. "Come one, lets do as the Lady asks..." He said as he moved them inside.
Danae: Danae smirked, she should have known her brother was going to be just as bad on questioning her as she was him. She tucked the dagger away for now, if he wanted it back, it was his to have. They moved inside as her arm slipped about her brothers waist as he was so much bigger than her. They had all night and hopefully more days to come to catch up. To share stories of their travels and their lives since being without each other after all this time.
Moira: She sent a smile of a greeting to the woman who was kind enough to her upon her entering and even provided a towel. A little laugh escaped her as she went to gather Danae and Ren in from the rain and while all that was being done she used the towel on wet and cold hair, rubbing excess water from it and eating a few bites of the food before her though what she really needed was a change of clothes and a scalding hot bath. Whoever the woman had been, Moira would need to speak to her on her return and ask of both. After she tugged the towel over her shoulders again she went back to eating a little more.
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Post by alendral on Feb 5, 2009 14:41:52 GMT -6
Alendrall: Alen fancied himself as insightful. That said, he could only imagine what went through the former Pirate Captain's mind at the head of all this. Their kind tended to follow a pattern: Willfully independent, often loyal despite their profession, fierce, and largely blunt instruments. So what must the Captain thing, sheltered away by her new husband, forced to sit and wait out, to pray for the slightest hint of news that this trouble was over--that his loved ones were safe. Dreading, with every moment, the news that they weren't. Suppose some things do change. He mused. A mere few months ago she was a dynamic and intimidating woman, one of which his usual playful banter held a hint of enticing danger--now he was immersed in his own, and the woman who imagined at the head of a ship was forced to play the part of a passive observor, relying on others. Until now. There was somewhat less pretense than last time to his arrival, the knock on her door. He was clad this time, rather ironically, in the uniform of one of many of Skye's guard, complete with helm and armor which he found largely uncomfortable, already itching to get the bloody thing removed (quite literally in one case. How did the damn soldiers put up with it? It was a very different Magician from before. hollow and tired-looking, grim and unpleasant. A fair amount worse than his last visit. It would also, very likely, be the last time he saw her or anyone else in a while. the risk weighed heavily on his mind.
Ealora: The magician wouldn't of been wrong in his assumptions that it was very difficult for an independent sailor, warrior, hellcat, to be like a caged beast while others tended to things that normally, she would be the head of taking care of. Yet there was more at stake this time then her own life, which was..in so many words, useless, when it came to protecting her family. As far as she was concerned, she had done far to many things, regrettable to ever be redeemed and that her family, had much more then her to live for. However, God saw to it that she was blessed with a large family, even those not of her blood counted amongst those she gladly called brother or sister and then there was the blessing of love above all others, Maahes. However unlikely it had seemed to the world, the two had simply been fated to be together and they both knew it. Despite their constant arguments, they weathered every storm. Malice, was a different storm though and she had promised, with every fiber in her being that she would not endanger the life of the child that grew within her. The soul asset that spoke that for once, they had done something right in their lives, that their love..was united forever and always. Now she had something to protect so she couldn't just go jumping into the fray, come what may. She had to rely on others and that...did not sit well with her. Days she paced like a cage beast, the only comfort to keep her mind clear was the little sunshine colored hair and perfect blue eyed little girl but at night. When Eppie had gone to bed and Maahes was still in training? She did the one thing that brought her the most comfort, though at times like this, it did not, still it kept her mind focused. Draw...paint. The easel set up in the sitting room, she sat awkwardly astride the stool, turned just so her belly would not interfere with her work. The sound of the door had Celadon eyes lifting to find Nora waving that she had it. Nora pulled the latch and stepped back as it swung open. Not the best disguise for the magician spy for Nora's face paled. "Is it Maahes?" The old woman hissed before dragging the man inside and shutting the door behind her. "Dear Gods don't let it be the Lord..I don't know nothing about birthing babies and this will surely make that baby come. oh dear..oh dear" The old woman chattered as Ealora voice flowed from the sitting room. "Nora, who is it?"*
Alendral: "Ah... no, no, the Lord Maahes is fine. He merely sent for me to.. ah, watch over the lady." Okay so he had most certainly missed the personal angle, but he could be forgiven for such details. Clearing his throat subtly as he slipped into the sitting room where the Lady Ealora's voice came from, he'd reach to pull off his helmet and nodded, all business--though what he saw was a bit of a surprise. He passed a look to the easel a moment, appreciatively, before looking at her with something akin to vague bafflement. He never would have guessed, not even for a moment. "...Captain." in a subtle tone that whatever he had to speak about was damned private and Nora needed to step away for a little while. Only once she was out of earshot did he continue again, running a hand lightly through his hair and taking a moment to steel himself. "I apologize for the nature of the visit. I've news to bring." His voice was curiously flat, lacking in all emotion. Something had burned out the Magician from the inside-out hard, and he was struggling to keep it from the surface. he had no desire to prolong this any longer than he had to. "I felt you should know first. I've uncovered... " He paused, finding himself lacking the strength to say what came next. "A great deal. You've heard of the melee at Red Wall, I presume?"
Ealora: Paint caressed fingers wiped against the rag at her thigh as Alen made his presence known in the sitting room...in his little get up. A slender brow rose questioningly. Don't tell her this was another guard...she all ready had six to follow her around where-ever she went. The helmet came off and acknowledgement crossed her face as she gave a lick to her lips. "Nora..can you shut the door behind you please.."Celadon eyes shifted to the woman who was peeking through. The woman started then nodded as the door was clicked shut to leave the two in private. Then and only then did her eyes return to Alen as she took up the rag to clean her fingers while shifting her weight so the brightly colored sari flowed down her legs which had been bare by the material being pulled up and out of harms way. "Apology accepted..though you perhaps scared my housekeeper to death.." The stool turned as she pushed against the floor to face him and yes, she turned the canvas and easel away from him. She never liked anyone seeing her work before it was completed. Still, she saw the surprise on his face when he saw it. Not many people knew she painted and she liked to keep it that way. "Mister Sorschal...a lot of news has been kept from me, in the hopes it will not upset me close to the birth and in essence, make me deliver the child early." She was frustrated yes, and perhaps a far cry from the woman he had first met in the market, though she had been cold and unforgiving back then, this woman, while decidedly more kind hearted had an well wicked mood to her. But could he blame her? Knowing she was a woman of action and not being able to do so now? As the last of the charcoal and paint was removed, as much as she could get it from her fingers, the rag was tossed against the open case of paints at her side. Turning her attention again to him, she let her hand motion to a chair, offering him a seat as she slowly pushed up from the stool. "But you will...not do that to me I hope. Please, whatever it is, you can tell me."*
Alendral: "They are fools acting on their heart, wishing for you not to see yours broken by any ill tidings, failing yet to realize that you will be forced to face it, in time." He seemed to debate sitting for a moment before taking his place, using it as an excuse to stop talking for a moment, before he had to tell her news she almost certainly would not wish to hear, despite her protests to the contrary. "Of course. From what I've gathered from reports and a few eyes in the area, Lady Aramoire and her Guardian were found in the outlying woods not far from it, in pursuit from some of Malice's wildmen. The Lady Galanos--as well as Lord Galanos, assisted in seeing them to safety. " The words that should chill a natural warrior was no mention of Shaden's health in the matter, which he would have readily supplied if things were perfection, but there was no easy way to broach the next part of news, and he would not broach it himself unless he absolutely had to, truth be told. "It appears, and I can not say how, that the two managed to slip from her grasp... " He raised his gaze to her levelly. Judging from the fact this did not put him at ease, the story clearly did not end there.
Ealora: "What others fail to see, is even pregnant I am no less the woman I was before. Yet, in safe guarding the child in my womb, I can not fault them from wishing its safety. As much as I do.." She moved to take the seat across from him, laying her palms against the cushioned arm rests and slowly lowering herself into it as she waited for him to continue. Thank the gods she choose to sit down when he spoke next for the color drained from her face, that in itself was saying much to the olive skinned Egyptian woman. "Shaden was found?" Her fingers tightened against the armrests of the chair, turning knuckles white with the exertion of force. Lids slid closed over celadon eyes as she breathed in a whisper. "Oh thank the Gods.." Lids slid open again and as the smile would of crept to her lips, it started and failed by the look on his face"Alen...what are you not telling me? Is Shaden all right? Is Nic? What about Danae and...Lord Galanos.."Was Danae married without telling her? Guilt, which had all ready strung itself around her heart from the information gathered on their previous encounter, seemed to take a tighter hold, turning blood icy cold as a shudder ran through her. Were she not so slow, she would of jumped from the chair, but the girth of her stomach prevented it, instead of jumping, she slid to the edge of her seat. Best she could do at this time, though she had been trying to jump up as it was.*
Alendrall: "Shaden Lives. as Does Nic, the Lady Galanos, and her brother. " Now the hard part. He had to choose his words carefully here, and he lowered his gaze to the floor, searching for the most delicate way to this, and finding no answers to do it. "Shaden's child... did not survive. I fear. I'm sorry, Captain." His voice trailed off afterwards, knowing that any words he gave after saying such thing would fall on deaf ears. Even speaking the words made his legs feel leaden, made his gut twist merely to say it He took it on himself that such a thing had happened. Too slow, too bloody slow! He had scarcely picked up on the trail by the time they escaped. A few days, perhaps, and this could have turned out differently. He'd been too slow, too... to misdirected, too struggled to catch up. too.. distracted. At the sudden thought, crept through his mind, he withdrew inward slightly and shut his eyes again, trying to silence his own admonishments before the job was done. There would be time for grieving and penance for failure later. The job was not finished.
Ealora: The breath of relief she let out was quickly sucked up as words followed on Shaden's child. Her hand rose, pressed against her mouth as her eyes squeezed shut. Her free hand moved to the round of her belly where the baby gave a strong kick as mothers heart rate increased a step. "Oh Shaden.." She breathed behind her head, shaking her head left to right in disbelief. "I'm so sorry..." She breathed into the air, somehow hoping her sister would hear her. After a moment, she swallowed the lump within her throat as her hand moved away from her mouth "Where are they now? Are they in town? Malice...she did this.." Her hands were moving to push against the armrests of the chair again as her back arched in the struggle to get up from the chair. "This woman..If I hadn't..this is my fault and I will see it right..Alen, do you understand me? Has the baby been..buried yet?"Gods she could hardly say it.*
AIendral: "I don't know. I believe they are resting before they return. The journey has been ardous. " He affixed her with a sympathetic look but nothing more. He was still a stranger in a stranger's house, and he knew that a woman of Ealora's pride would not wish a spectacle to be made of her own pain. That said, he couldn't allow the woman's grief stand. "No. No, Captain. This is not your burden to bear alone, and you had no hand in the death of her child. " He looked up again and met her gaze fiercely, weighing the risks of revealing a shred of himself against putting the woman at ease. Dangerous as it was, he chose the latter. "...Listen. I confess. I didn't know much of Malice, the name, the title, was unfamiliar to me. So I.. sought to find more of the woman." He paused and glanced aside. "She was employed here, by a man known as Geruine. A Cardinal... now, but once an Inquisitor of the Church itself, a pechant for.. cruelty, the kind that only the truly faithful are capable of. " Forcing the bitterness of the voice, he brought it back to the point. "... She was sick. Ill, racked by seizures. They thought the devil in her. They tortured her... burned her. Did unspeakable things. There wasn't an escape for her... so she embraced their judgement to escape it. It's a... familiar, technique, in my circles. She's a monster. She's slaughtered countless innocent lives in the name of... some misbegotten vengence. My point is Ealora, that even though she did those things, she is as much a product of the hands that wrought her as she is responsible in her own right. What you did... what brought this about... had to be done. There was no avoiding such a fate. She put what left of her sanity in the hands of an animal, and he paid for crimes he committed. You... did what you had to. The monster here is Malice, Ealora. I can't make you believe it. but I hope that you will see it in time. Trust me. the fault is in many places. But not yours." he stopped, slightly again and rubbed his eyes, feeling raw and tired despite himself. "...I tell you these things as much because I know how a woman like Malice operates as much as to set you at ease, Ealora. I'm familiar with the kind of animal she is. Her plan is ruined. Carefully laid. Worse, she's been made aware of others biting at her heels. She wants to run--I've tracked her first hiding place, just to see it uprooted. But she won't run. Not yet. She needs... to finish this. "
Ealora: "I might as well have." A hand passed through russet curls, pulling the hair back away from her face. "My brother, was killed by Maahes..the one who was trying to kill me. This woman, Malice? She was his..I don't know what she was but I saw her face Alen.."A hand pressed against her backside, willing the pain away from holding herself upright. "We...choose to do things Alen, I choose to be a pirate, I choose to kill..I choose, to carry a sword and run it through my brothers wife, I choose to set him free..If I had not done so, none of this..would of happened. Whatever the church did to this woman..she is still a monster, she choose to come after my family, after my sister.."She let out a laugh, cruel and unforgiving. "I hope your not sticking up for this woman..because God help her if she comes after my husband or anyone else in my family Alen, I will be waiting for her..If her plan is ruined as you say, she will be desperate, she'll make a mistake.."Celadon eyes rose and turned in his direction. She was close to breaking the promise she had made to Maahes, but she was angry...no beyond angry, she was raging, Celadon eyes were lit with a fire most people besides Maahes, never saw. "This has to end.."*
Alendral: "I'm not defending her." He said flatly. "What happened to her doesn't justify making people suffer for it. It doesn't justify dead children and it doesn't justify the destruction of a family because she placed what was left of her sanity on the shoulders of a monster in his own right. " His voice went frost at the very threat to such a thing. "And she will be. but she is not so stupid as to make an obvious one. It will just make her rushed. Eager to carry out the next phase. Eager to put an end to this her own way, much as we. You're next, Captain. She'll target you, and take you at the first sign of an opening. It will be messy, but it will be." He took a breath to steady himself before addressing the real reason why he came here. "...Now I could... chase after her meaninglessly, hope I find her before I get to you, but that carries a considerable risk. If I'm away, and she slips through our fingers, your life is forfeit. I've thought about it a long while. Considered each possibility. I have only one. We wait for her to strike... and than she dies. " He waited for her to fully understand what he meant by that. apparently, it would seem, Alendral had no mind for Maahes demands either. "...The plan puts you at considerable risk. To you and your child. There's much that could still go wrong, damage to be done. if I had another way to do this.. I'd do it. I'm sorry Captain... the reason I'm here is to ask you to play the part of bait. She'll draw you to her lair first. Once I have sight of her new one... I can purge the entire place. Kill every last one of her men, and her. Put an end to this. "
Ealora: She moved, pacing back and forth between him and the wall. Utilizing the space she had to move like the caged jungle cat that she was known for being. Slowly her eyes slid to him as he spoke of her being the next target. "I kind of figured that..Maahes did as well once we realized what was going on, on your last visit. I have six extra guards assigned to me. Think she will work through them?" Her hand moved from her back to rub her palms together as she continued to move. Trying to work what he was saying through her mind but at the risk involved...she whirled on him and held a singular finger up, the look of death on her face. "No...stop right there. I will NOT put Maahes or my child at risk. No amount of convincing will make me do that. I promised Maahes to keep this child safe and if there is even a pinch of threat involved..tail me if you need to but do so without my knowledge. I don't want to know any move you are making, I don't want to even be able to see you at any given time. I understand if you had another way you would do it....but you have to understand, this child means everything to me and Maahes...I can not, do this..I can not do that.."*
Alendral: "You fail to understand. Ealora I can't stop her from assailing you. She will have the guards around you dead, make no mistake of it. If I risk trying to intercept her I risk losing her. If I risk losing her, she may strike you before I can find her again. Your child will die then, you will die then. She will attack, and in all likelihood--take you. The only thing I tell you, the only reason I chose to come here is to tell you that I won't be far. I'll be watching you. You won't see me. You won't hear me. You will never know I'm there... and I will not... not... allow another child to die by her hand. If you can take any reassurance from that.. consider it a gift. If you come to regret the words, damn my name for eternity. but you should know the fate that lies ahead of you Ealora. you are owed at least that. "
Ealora: "I appreciate the warning then. Work hard Alen. I promised Maahes a safe and healthy child and I am not going to play bait and risk breaking that promise. I am sorry, that is something I will not do. I trust you though..I trust you will find her before she gets the chance to strike. I am no fool Alen..I may not fully understand the Black Talon, but something that is black...is never good correct? Not to mention, I have ears, I heard Maahes tell you never to mention that name to me again..." She moved towards her chair again, though she didn't sit down, she was to worked up. She had to send for Maahes, had to tell him what was going on. Palms continued to rub against one another. "I have been at deaths gate before Alen..that island I was at last, is where I saw Malice and where I was condemned to die..I appreciate the warning, I appreciate the information of what might befall me. It is nothing new, except now our child is in danger too. I can not allow that to happen Alen, so work hard.."*
Alendral: "I will do... what I must, Captain." So much on his shoulders, on his grim work, and now another bit of safety. A child unborn and a family put to his skills... to his assessment, to the single act he knew he had to commit, despite how much the admittance of it pained him. So much relied on the man he was he felt he would drown beneath it, pulled under and never seen again. He couldn't afford it. If it dragged him down when it was done, so be it, but it would not destroy him until then. "'Till we meet again, Captain." he wouldn't even speak on the nature of the Black Talon--those was Maahes request, even if his wife had heard it, and his nature. Frankly, Alendral believed no crime the Captain could ever have committed came close. Perhaps there was arrogance to that--or perhaps he was only being realistic. That was the nature of the order. To commit sins in the name of a greater good. Sacrifice of everything in the name of safety. It was worth the life of an unborn child. All of it. Having relayed what he felt must be told, he made to leave without another word on the matter, the least of all any thanks she might have. He didn't want the words haunting his sleep should he fail.
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Post by Lord General Maahes Asad-Aziem on Feb 8, 2009 0:06:07 GMT -6
Maahes: The morning had come early, even earlier now that Ealora was sick. A pregnancy was very fickle thing--one moment she was fine scratching his stomach to rouse him, and the next throwing last night's dinner up inside his boots Though he has adored every moment of watching her grow, he knew she no longer enjoyed the feeling, and wished for it to be over. They had made plans to see her beloved sister early in the morning, but now he walked the path alone with his beloved wife at home. Nora would be busy that day tending to Ealora so Maahes took Eppie. The little girl held tightly to his hand as they walked, dressed in a mountain of furs and lace; just as Shaden always liked. In her father's hands were a bouquet of flowers; exotic rare stems with bright colors but down in her little gloved hand was a single 'first flower of spring' a weed to other's eyes. They looked like such a funny pair, the dark skin of her father's fingers holding on skin the shade of the pale moon glowing with the youth of a child. Her little chubby fingers held to that flower for dear life afraid she would lose it--picked for Shaden, it belonged to Shaden..that was dead set in her eyes. Even when they stopped at the door to knock she would not greet Gerda as she would in fear that flower would be lost.
Gerda: Upstairs on the third floor of the Lily where Shadens suite of rooms were apart from the rest of the house.. it was darkened.. drapes pulled closed tightly against the sun.. Yesterday had been a time for letting go.. she had forced herself to make sure her daughter was Baptised, and buried properly in the Cathedral Cematary.. every ounce of feeling she had now numbed... pushed down deep into her soul... the night spent with tears that would not keep from falling, as Nicholas held her close.. wrapped in his love...The morning had seen him slipping from their room.. to go and report.. to his superiors where he had been the last few days...And on she slept.. curled up with the Small dark haired little boy.. that had not left her side since RedWall.. Issac... Amid the thick golden coverlets and soft furs they healed and recovered their ordeal. Gerda moved every so often to check on them.. opening the door slighlty.. then closing it.. the poor child needed sleep and so did Shaden... breakfast came and went.. untouched.. and it was as she was coming down the stairs the knock upon the door heralded a visitor.. nay two.. " General Maahes.. what a suprise... and Eppie " the old lady smiled down at the Tot... noticing the weed and her eyes warmed even more " Come in come in... I was just bringing down her Breakfast tray she's still asleep... and Sir Nicholas has gone to report in... "
Maahes: "Gerda. it is good to see you. How is she?" He spoke all at once his voice drawn together out of concern and love. Eppie smiled up at Gerda, but quickly turned to face Maahes and reach for him. It would be within a matter of seconds she would be lifted into the embrace of his arms, and they moved inside the Lily. "Is she in her room? Will she want to see us?" Knowing how women can be at times like this, where the world seemed to close around them and so too would their hearts from the world. Eppie pressed her head against his shoulder closing her eyes as always she did in the Lily as if knowing Maahes hated this place. All of the biggest fights always happened here, but oh how her eyeswould draw to the girls in the other room; like angels they seemed to stand together too beautiful to be real. Oh, how Maahes was going to have his hands full. He would follow Gerda until they came to Shaden's door, but would wait her to give the ok.
Gerda: "She exahusted, grieving and angry... poor mite has been thru and ordeal.. I don't know how she will get threw this.. it's a hard year she's had.. and just when she though her happiness was finally coming together.. the poor little baby was still born.. Shaden and Nicolas both are devastated... He loved that child as if it were his own.. " she shook her head soflty... everyone at the Lily knew how much Shaden loved and wanted that baby... how much Nicholas had loved it.. it was apperant to anyone who saw them.. and now to have such a terrible tragedy... it was senseless.. " But I'm sure she would be happy to see you both.. Where's Lady Ealora.. I hope everything is well with her?" She asked as she led them up the stairs, then pressed the door open.. " Lady Shaden.. you have visitors.. Your Niece Eppie.. and her Father.. the General " she spoke soflty as she moved to the draperys pulling them back to allow the morning sun to filter in.
Shaden : " Tell them to leave... I don't want to see anyone.. " she murmered from the pile of covers, unknowing that the pair stood at the door and could hear her voice... " I never care to see anyone again Gerda.. Cannot you understand I don't want to eat breakfast I don't want visitors and I don't want to get dressed and get on with my life.. LEAVE ME ALONE " her voice raised shrilly.. very uncharistertic of Shaden who was always mannerly and polite, even at the worst of times... beside her the small boy roused.. and drew his hands across his eyes rubbin soflty his hand lay on her arm.. soothing her... for a moment before he whispered... " They are already here Lady " his dark head nodding at the door where Maahes and Eppie stood.. no doubt in shock. Maahes: He would be quick to turn to Gerda, and hand her Eppie. "Will you take her to play with the girls?" Meaning the Lilies, and Gerda would give a nod before heading out with the child. Maahes would stand in the door way in all his might, the glory of a nation rubbing off on a man who always stood so tall. Yet, in all his finery, and all the pride here he could easily be broken. Ealora loved Shaden with all her heart, and it was rarely told of his own affections. He loved this woman, like the sister he never knew, or the mother he never had. Moving across the floor closing the distance his eyes would find the boy's, and study him with a dry almost possessive gaze until amber orbs fell to Shaden. Coming to sit on the side of the bed he would reach out to touch her shoulder lightly. "Shaden.." He whispered, "Tell me there is something I can do to make it all right..." He begged in a desperate voice that broke along with his heart.
Gerda: "Come Issac.. lets go get you and Eppie some breakfast.. " she took Eppie on her hip and held out her hand to the boy , motioning him to come with her.. and wondering if he would, she had never seen anything like ti.. the child was almost glued to Shaden.. and Nicholas... Issac: The mans gaze was met with a similar one.. such strenght in such a young boy, at only 4 or five summers the dark headed child seemed to have a backbone of steel... his chin tilted upward as if in challenge.. to the monolithic man before him before sliding off the bed and toward Gerda.. at the door he paused.. watching.. long enough to see the big man was not going to hurt her... then followed the housekeeper and the little golden girl out shutting the door behind him. Shaden: She flinched when he touched her.. moving away pulling the covers up to her chin, there was a look there of a wild thing, filled with grief.. in the glacial hues that now were shadowed and red rimmed.. if possible she were thinner than ever.. the stark white of her gown almost matching her pale flesh.. " There is nothing to do.. My daughter is dead... no one can undo that... not even the great Maahes " anger punctuated the words... as she glared at him.. " go back to you wife.. and your children... you have no business here..." so much anger welled inside her yet she fought to keep it from spilling out onto him.. knowing it would matter not... nothing would change... ever . Maahes: "My wife is worried of you, she wishes to see you, will you show her as much anger?" He spoke then in typical Maahes fashion, his words dry and deep. "Do you really want me leave?" He whispered again withdrawing his hand, and resting it beside her. Knowing that if she said yes he would up quickly and gone. "Your daughter is not gone from you forever, Shaden." He spoke lightly touching again her shoulder. "Even the great Maahes can not stand to see you hurting." With that he would stand pulling the cover up around her and taking his lower lip between his teeth. "You know that I am here?"
Shaden : " What I want.... what I want is my baby back... I want those children that perished in that hell hole.. food for those beast.. I want them back ! " her voice was broken and laced with pain so deep he could not possible understand. She grasped his hand then.. pressing it against the Linen of her nightgown at her belly.. now flat.. hollow.. empty " Last week you felt her.. inside me... alive... and now it's empty... nothing.. can't you understand.. I don't care... about anything because I'm nothing... without her... I'm empty.. " tears ran down her face then... as she dropped his hand.. limply... " You and Ealora were right... I'm not fit.. to be a mother.. not to my own child... not to yours.. should something happen.. even God knows that.. it seems... I am paying for all the things.. I've done.. the lives I've taken and the life I live... You should worry about How you and yours will be judged...how.. your life and the lives you took will come back to haunt you... this.. My daughter .. dead.. is because of something in Ealora's past.. and Yours... if you wish your child to live.. your lives to be lived... then you should not waste time on a whore.. who is not worthy of the Name Sister... when it really counts.. " angers.. grief and pure.. rage seethed beneath the fire haired one now.. " My child paid the price.. you see that yours lives... that my sister gets to see her child take it's first steps... smile it's first smile.. that is something I will never... get " Maahes: He drew back as if burnt by her words, and tried very hard to swallow back the retaliation he felt inside. He knew it was just the anger speaking, but still..such harsh words..."Are you implying that this is Ealora's fault?" He asked the dark or so he felt as she seemed so distant. "Do you not think another child will not grow there? Or are you going to allow this anger you keep to kill you as well. Shaden, being angry will only hurt you in the end..trust me. This is no ones fault, but there was a reason.." He narrowed his eyes at her. "You are stronger then this, and if you are not then I have been wrong...but I have been wrong before." Standing he turned to face her, "And how is this Ealora's fault?!" He was trying really hard not to get angry...but she drug Ealora in..that was asking for it.
Shaden : She laughed.. not out of humor it was a dry.. almost insane laugh... " The woman who took me... She was Ealora's Sisters Lover... She wants to kill everyone you hold dear to make you suffer.. like she suffers because You killed her Lover... Caleb.. Ealoras.. Brother... who wanted her dead because she Killed his wife and Children.. it all starts and Ends with Ealora... " she moved from the bed.. shivering toward the window looking out over the street where already people begin to move about... tending to their day... " How can the world go on when I feel nothing... I can't breath.. I don't even want to live..." she whispered against the cold pane.. tears streaming down her cheeks.. " Don't let them out of your sight.. she's insane... this Malice woman... if you do not want to feel this empty.. go home.. board the door.. or better yet leave this land and run so she may never find you.. no matter.. how I feel.. I would not wish this.. on you or Ealora... " I love you both too much... it was left unsaid... Maahes: "Bullchyt, Shaden." His voice rose from his chest in a growl, "You are stronger then this, "You will live through this ..and I will slit your throat if you tell my wife you loosing that baby is her fault." Oh, how serious he was.."You have every right to be angry at God, but you do not turn your anger on her. "She has been having pains, she's worried sick, and just because you lose yours does not mean you make her feel she needs to lose ours." Ok he was angry but trying not to be. Maahes just didn't handle the emotional woman..women very well. "You will have your revenge, that I can promise you. I'll keep her safe..you keep your thoughts to yourself." With that he moved down the hall not knowing what to do.
Shaden: She stood staring at the door.. where he left... and mumered.. " you cannot order a broken heart to Mend Maahes.. " she hoped he heard her words.. hoped he kept Ealora and their children safe... it was not that she felt that Ealora too should loose her child... she envied her the chance to watch it grow... live... laugh.. envied all the things she would never get to do with Joy... rocking miserably back and forth she returned to the bed... setteling into the covers... tomorrow... tomorrow maybe she would leave the room.. she just couldn't today..
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Post by Lady Eirian Gwenyth Apollius on Feb 8, 2009 15:23:29 GMT -6
“A single event can awaken within us a stranger totally unknown to us. To live is to be slowly [glow=gold,2,300]born."[/glow]
Antoine de Saint-Exupery
She lived in the craddle of the earth, between the rising hills. Swaddled in a blanket of white winter mist and surrounded by ever-green trees the water cut through the stone so that it fell to the pools below that refused to freeze. In the heart of all that was flowing she was suprised that the world did not surrender a claim to beauty when blood was splattered on the white snow of the woods and fields. People in the Bant Chan Ser had lived in fear. People on the Isle, as a whole, lived in a fear that moved slower than the flow of water until it didn't move at all. Rank, stagnant puddles of it coated garments in disdain and fingertips in thick miseries.
There was a time that the click of the loom was soothing. Now, it was repetitive. The paint brushes were alien under her fingers despite the fact the art was still a sight to behold. For all the wonders that her mind could manufacture, life had fostered in her something different now. The feeling of ink pots, underground messages being scratched by her quills exhilerated the senses just as the budding knowledge of students in secret alcoves. Her want to capture the world for record in beauty turned to the need for her to record it in change. Hours crept by at intervals; Time became meaningless when her husband sat beside her, and they watched the child. A famlily passed in repose on a noble estate enshrouded in mystery. No guests ventured to once wide-open doors. No suppers of travelers nor the sounds of kinsmen. All that remained of her cousins were memories. All that remained of the joy the grounds had contained were the mistress, the babe, the lord, and the few servants that kept it close. They clung to it as a child does to the skirts of a mother.
It was not good to think they were the only ones that did such things. Still, they did it all the more for while the outer world did not see them they heard of the dealings of that world with monsters from nightmares, hunted people, talk of war and great battles waged closer and closer until it seemed all of Skye would fall in to a hole that could never be risen from. Talion spoke of patience not only as a virtue but as a necessity for survival. Could it not be said then, that patience was the key to remembering what it was to love? To help thy neighbor and to seek out a hand to touch another? The outside world had given rise to vile, painful things that were leaving sores open across hearts. If the land was ever going to heal, so the hearts that lived on it must do so first.
There was not an hour, too, that went by without thoughts of them whom she called friend. Faces of the past, newer ones. Their brewding stances or the softness of a face followed her around like the edge of the shadows on the hall. So in time, she grew sick of these shadows. The dreams and thoughts were no longer enough, for if the world was in pain at least there might be one balm to soothe it! "The world is out there, not in here," she said on that fated day as the hour came to an appointed purpose at last, "Tabitha, have the Steward send for m'horse, and your own. I will need men to accompany me, n' let us carry along things should we find ourselves subject to other's hospitality. For all that I know now, I can't stay here as this. What makes our bid to stay safe any more important than another's?"
The lady's companion leaned over to collect the baby from Eirian's arms. "Because of her, m'lady. Nay one wants any harm to come to you or little Hope. Can we not pray for them?" Tabitha pleaded, lowering her head in respect toward's Eirian but in hope her ears weren't shut against her. Morning, noon, and evening the women of the household prayed. Rosaries in hand, they prayed for every soul lost and every soul going forward in defense. Every soul in trevail and every soul close to the same. Was that not enough? Christian duty could cease then at bended knee and beads just this once? Eirian looked to the babe in the arms of the lowered woman and softly, firmly said, "No. Our duty does not cease at salutation to Christ but to the life that we might pray for. If you wish to not accompany me, Tabitha, I shall understand. No ill will born against you, but with or without you, I shall go. My daughter will abide with me nor far from me. If you should come? Courage, woman. We serve a mighty cause and it will not be said that the women beneath the roof of Arianna Hymerodraeth succumbed to a useless life born of fear. Now rise, pay me no more such salutation." Breathing inward, a small smile was had, "Make ready. I shall need cases to hold the loom-work, and the books."
The servant then asked where they would go, to which Eirian told her of all the people that had been touched by malady or worse. There would be giving of alms and comfort to the villages, onward up the roads to the place of the General to see how his land's thrived and offer what could be offered. There was his wife, and a heart-sister among them. There were the old faces Tabitha knew well and some that she didn't, but her Lady had a determination to see them all, somehow. To be seen. Upon seeking the information that was needed, it seemed the world had flooded thus to Turas Lan. Villages were partially emptied, but would be glad for the coin, food, and adoration she offered them. "Then it seems our road will take us further, to Turas Lan."
"You have not been there in a great while. Where shall we sojourn, once we are there? What if there shall be no way out for us.."
"There shall be. Lose not your faith. If it kept you steadily on your knees, my friend, it will lift you up to be in practice now. To Turas Lan we go."
-.-.-.-.
The walls of the capital city still loomed as large as the heightest point in the mountains at the distance of the last miles closing inward. Eirian gasped, as if seeing it for the first time again. Some years ago she had walked her way across parts of Europe to know what the world as she wanted to see it would be like. The cities with soaring cathedrals rising from streets of packed earth, golden columns and things that were not common. She had walked among nuns and prayed with village priests. A traveling soul, her talents procured her funds from one place to the next as she left what was told of her to do behind. Now, embracing what was given her to do by choice, the place of origin was no less awe inspiring. In her heart, she hoped for the chance to see Honheldagus this way again. A city that gleamed in white wonder. For now? Turas Lan held her attention rapt until they were ushed through the gate to view the streets themselves. As they road through the Northern Gate, down the roads some, they would pass a small processional at the Cathedral passing toward the yard. The men stood to refresh themselves, steeds, and garner plan while the women watched a small bundle being committed to the earth. "Oh! My Lady it is no more than a child, a small one, for see how tiny the binding is!" It was not rare for women to give birth to children that survived not the first year, let alone the first hour. Indeed some never a breathed. Those that bore children could give birth ten times in their life and only have two living children to show for it. She pressed the gathered wools and blankets to her chest more, Hope's tiny had reaching out to be littered in kisses. Crossing herself, Eirian asked, "To whom does the buried child belong?" In asking this, God set her course again. Not far from the gathering were women that,hard once toward the mother, found pity.
"It's a shame tha' the Mistress Aramoire couldn't keep the babe.The labor sounded long, from what we heard of it nay tha' far off, ye know."
"God's wrath.."
"Don't ye speak like that!" the woman holding a basket at her hips slapped the other, the younger, with three children and far too many airs to put on. "Un-Christian of ye, Maude! A child be an innocent and that one is in the churchyard plain as day. Baptized. Soul is with God now, poor we thing."
The Lady had her questioned answered in a way that proved God moved quickly. She looked at Tabitha, whom looked at the woman in shock that such a thing could be said of one who's loss was so fresh! In learning that Mistress Aramoire owned a courtesan's house, the maiden's cheeks flushed a fresh shade of scarlet, and she rode closer towards Eirian as if to sheild both Lady and babe from learning of this part of the world in this way.
She sat astride her horse for some time, holding the reigns firm in gloved hands. In idle fashion she toyed with them until the pieces of what she knew met what was known. The name Shaden Aramoire had come across in the messanger's and village discussion as the woman whom had been taken in fondness by the General and his wife, Ealora, a woman of the sea. Now it appeared that Shaden was the Mary Magdeline among women. People are apt to pass judgement before such are viewed as saints. The lady's posistion in life mattered little when the body of her child was seen in the ground instead of her arms. So it would be decided then and there that their first place would be to see to this grieving woman. No amount of prayers could do what the hand of a stranger might strive to. Through instruction granted, though a small matter of mixed looks of shock appeared when what was certainly a lady of some measure, with her companion and guards, were seeking a well decorated house of ill-repute in put among some of the finest venues in the city. The Gilded Lily was not far from where Eirian had spent great numbers of her days in matters of business, and for that, she simply had to smile if only a bit at how strange life works. "Tabitha," she leaned over to the woman who's face burned a scarlet fever, "Take Hope and the both of you go to the Halls, seek out our chambers to rest yourselves all. I shall keep two men with me, and you two men. This will be no place for Hope nor do I venture it best to take you thus with a red face. My modesty will not be offended."
Eirian rode on with no care for the titles she held as no one cared in good measure for those of a contemporary. On the sides of her horse were cynlindral, had tubes, while across her back were shorter ones of the same. She had come to call with more than prayer or to be a burden. Maybe in the skills of her hands and the grief of a woman might form something beautiful to remember young life by.
"Good day, to the household. I have come to see the mistress, if I may, or speak to one close with her if I may not. My name is Eirian, Eirian Apollius."
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Post by moiramacarran on Feb 8, 2009 16:13:53 GMT -6
A good few days had passed with her and other people being within Red Wall, and while they had been cared for rather well but Moira decided she didn't want to remain any longer. Shaden and Nic were gone, having left days ago she assumed since she really did not know the exact date. Getting herself dressed she decided not to tell anyone she was leaving, she would just go.
It didn't take long to get her horse saddled up and to remove it from the stables, taking nothing more than she came here with. Climbing into the saddle she spurred the horse forward, leaving everything here behind, riding home.. or to the place she thought of as a home. The ride couldn't take too long for it had hardly took but a day to get this far before. Or so that was the thought, she hadn't exactly paid attention to the time on the way here. All she had to hope for now was that these wolves Ren decided to tell her about would stay in the woods and she would stay out of them as much as possible.
Glad to have helped but home was the most looked forward to place right now. She had spent the last few days feeling like crap and now finally when nothing seemed to make her feel ill yet again, she was taking herself home, uncertain if she'd ever even return to this area again, the trip had been far from enjoyable for various reasons, far far far from it.
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Lady Shaden Aramoire
Respectable
"It's not the men in your life.. but the life in your Men "
Posts: 135
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Post by Lady Shaden Aramoire on Feb 15, 2009 19:55:57 GMT -6
The ride from Red Wall had been almost silent, save the sound of horses hooves, and every now and again Nic’s voice pointing out something of interest to the young boy who sat before him on the saddle..Young Issac had stayed by Shaden and Nicholas.. And refused to budge.. And even in their grief over Joy.. They had decided to take in the young boy… for his story was horrendous and there were no family left to tend him and while they were inconsolable over their loss.. He did bring them comfort.. And a sense of family.. As well as responsibility for his wellbeing. A few hours ride that would have normally been enjoyed on such a splendid day.. Was barely noted in her mind… her eyes refused to see the shards of green that bravely peeked thru the snow… crocus.. Herald of spring.. Threatened to burst forth in bloom.. In promise of renewal anyway now.. The blue of the sky.. The faint warmth of the sun.. nothing.. Pierced her grief.. Her solitude.. As they rode..upon horseback into the city.. There was no need any longer for her to disdain horseback as she carried her precious daughter in her arms.. now.. The Procession of the two horses did not head to the Lily instead.. straight to the Cathedral, followed by an armed contingent of Guards that stopped and dismounted as the Knight and his Lady moved into the courtyard of the Cathedral on horseback.. They would wait at the gates.. ready if needed. His arm curled around the little boys who's hands never left the horn of the saddle only every once and a while pointing something out and containing some glee out of the excited response out of the little one. Silvery blue eyes did not miss a beat, nor keep Shaden long from his gaze. Though for a long time he simply listened to the clop of hooves, the occasional grunt or sigh from the horses as the pair..or foursome made their way back into town. Eyes turned, people parted as if they were Moses and the red sea. As they passed the gates of the cathedral the armed guards fell back and the horses drew into a close. Shifting on the saddle, he lowered Issac carefully to the ground before taking the ground himself. Boots crunched at the gravel within the yard as he moved around his horse to Shaden's and arms reached up to help her down. He had received the note earlier in the day, Father Lonagahn.. Shaden's confessor, her friend.. and his heart wept for her, he had known how much love she bore for her unborn, had heard her hopes and dreams as well as her fears.. so it was with heavy heart he prepared for their arrival by noon.. in the sanctuary upon the alter , new linens were laid out.. a baptismal font.. filled with holy water.. and on a small table beside it.. a tiny coffin lined with down and softest wool covered by ivory satin as requested by the Lady Aramoire. The swaddled infant was handed down to him.. Before she slipped from the saddle to his side… her hands reaching for the babe.. Then holding one out for the little dark haired boy who settled in next to her like a little regimented solider on duty.. Tightly her fingers curled about his.. Glacial green hues lifting to Nicholas.. With deep grief.. Welling in their depths.. Shimmering sadness.. As she steeled herself for the finality.. The last time she would hold the beautiful child in her arms… she nodded softly.. As she leaned against his shoulder her words barely a whisper.. “ tell me I can do this… tell me I can be this strong…” He took the baby into his arms, cradling the small form against his chest, kissing the smooth forehead of their child that would not stir and only when she was down from the horse and reaching again was the child placed within her arms. His arm curled around her shoulders as she leaned upon him for guidance and support. Her grief was threatening to swallow her whole while his grief threatened a rage he had never felt before and still he kept it behind a mask of calm, a mask of pain. She did not need to feel his rage at this moment. She needed an arm around her, she needed his strength and support. The doors before them opened… a novice ushered them into the main sanctuary, incense filled the air, candles burned in the dimness.. Stained glass let filtered colored light across the carpeted aisle.. She stopped… the weigh of the moment upon her.. Dipping low.. Then genuflecting, crossing her self.. North South East West… the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit… “ God give me strength.. “ she whispered into the air beneath the vaulted ceiling. Then smiled as her prayers were answered.. A sliver of light amber gold.. Seemed to catch fire in the stained glass.. It’s beam centering on Nicholas.. It was a sign.. As surely as she breathed.. And her soul eased somewhat.. As she felt God’s hand of comfort settle over the small family… "You can do this..Shaden, her soul must be at peace. You have the strength in you, borrow mine if you need more but you can do this...Never forget that while Joy is not with us, you are still her mother, you have loved her and will love her the rest of your life. She is no longer with us, but she will watch us..in heaven..know that.." Moving together hand in hand.. Issac holding onto Nicholas opposite hand.. They approached the Alter.. “ Father…” she dipped lowly in respect.. The ragged hem of her dress pooling at her feet.. A Dress borrowed from her sisters wardrobe.., scissors chopping away the extra length of skirt.. So that it more fit the petite form rather than Ealora’s more lean and tall form… in her arms Joy was swaddled in a borrow blanket and gown from Ealora’s nursery.. As it was the only choice… somewhere in her mind she sent up a prayer that she be forgiven her lack of proper grieving attire.. But time was of the essence.. And dark blue was the closest thing to black in Ealora’s wardrobe. “ Ahhhh My Lady Aramoire.. My dear Child “ Father Lonagahn moved toward her his arms open, soft kisses pressed to her cheek and forehead.. “ Sir Stryker “ he also received the Priest gentle kiss to both cheek… “ My dears I am sorry for your loss.. My heart ached when I received you letter.. “ he stepped back from them the sorrow on his old wizened face apparent.. “ Everything has been readied.. As you wished…” his dark almond shaped brown eyes looked over the grieving parents then the small boy that stood between them… with curiosity for a moment.. Then turned to the matter at hand… “ If you will bring the babe forward…” he slipped on his official robes.. Settling his cowl about his shoulders..opening the good book he began to offer his ceremony for the child’s soul, and as a balm to the grieving parents hearts.. He whispered against her hair as his arm tightened about her shoulders and a gentle kiss was placed at her forehead. Shifting in position, he took Issac small hand into his own while the little boys held onto Shaden's other and the trio and babe moved into the chapel. The fathers kiss was received but with no choice words for the man. Yes, he was somewhat angry at the man, but not really at him. This was the man who would bless their child for the afterlife. How could he help not being somewhat angry? How could he help not feeling some resentment. His hand slipped from Isaac's to wrap around Shaden's waist as they approached the alter the father had prepared. Ever so gently, he helped her to her knees before taking his own beside her. His head bent as the prayer began for Joy and yet each word rang against his ears, he couldn't pull them in. A devote Catholic all his life, he knew the words well and yet he still could not seem to pull the words into himself. “ Of all God's loving gifts that of a child is the most precious. It is through children that the hope of the world is ever renewed. It is through love that they are brought to life and through love that they grow and thrive and know how to love. Jesus teaches us our faith and our love should be pure and full of simple trust, just like a child’s. As Jesus did not turn away the children, so too we should receive every child with all the loving welcome and care we can bestow. Joy was Received with such loving welcome into the home of Shaden and Nicholas. For reason only known to the Heavenly Father.. Joy now resides with him. It is not our to question the wisdom, but to accept that God in his wisdom has a plan for each of us, as we seek the keys to his Kingdom, we rest assured that Joy Nichol awaits us there. Symbolically, through baptism, we emerge from the dark waters of life to wash away the old way of being. As we emerge into the light of Holy Wisdom we are spiritually born again - we are anointed, marked, Christened by God’s Holy Spirit. Therefore, baptism is the rite of initiation, the rite of welcome into the Christian faith - a faith where we turn to God of our own free will. The Christening of our children signifies our desire to turn to God so they may learn to love as we have first been loved. This gift of God’s love, this call to life, lived in love, embodied by Christ, symbolized by him welcoming and blessing children, calls us all into the family of God. For the gift of a child, . . . whose innocence and laughter keep the world young, we rejoice and give thanks. May this new life, which we have accepted into our community of ideals and friendship, bestow abundantly the blessings of health, love, knowledge, and wisdom, and in her turn give back richly to the common heritage that endures from generation to generation. And for the gift of parenthood made to Shaden and Nicholas we also give our thanks, even though it was short lived it is a blessing, to create and nurture a child in love and hope, beneath the Heavenly Father’s guidance. Amen “ His arm tightened around Shaden's waist. It was not that he could not cry for what they were doing, he had cried far to much for a man to admit, he simply had no more tears. "Amen.." He uttered in unison with the Father. The Child was blessed, anointed with holy water in the form of a cross upon her forehead, Cradled in the arms of her Mother, warm tears coursing down her cheeks. Nicholas standing beside her a comforting hand at her back as the Father intoned.. The blessing of Christening… “ And to God’s Keeping we commit… Joy Nichol Aramoire…” Shaden’s voice was but a whisper as she caught Father Lonoghan’s gaze.. “ Stryker…. Joy Nichol Aramoire Stryker “ her glacial hues turned upward to Nicholas.. For approval.. “ You are her father.. In every way that could count.. There is no other that my daughter would have called that.. Save you… " Slowly his head lifted as the child's head was anointed with a cross of holy water. Silvery blue eyes turned to Shaden as she looked to him for confirmation on using his last name as well for the child. His arm around her tightened as he leaned forward to place a kiss against her forehead before turning his attention to the Father and nodding his head. "Joy Nichol Aramoire Stryker...Father" He uttered with a surge of fatherly pride. His arm again tightened around Shaden, this time helping to lift her up from the kneel at the alter. He had lost two wives..he had lost two children and no one had ever known but Shaden and his confident and best friend, Brom...who was still intent on looking for his son. The pain of loss was not new to him but oh how it never became any easier, how this ache hurt much more then the loss of any wife. Or even anything he had ever encountered before. For once he was thankful of a coming war, so that he could submerge his anger and grief into the cause, though it would of course never heal the wound, at least he would be able to use it against his enemies. Malice, might of be dead, but he would make sure all those who followed her, followed her to death..He had never been a violent man, save for his country but he would see justice done for their daughter, he would see her soul at true peace. In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy ghost...
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Feb 15, 2009 20:00:20 GMT -6
Alen: The events of the next few days may have been strange, to any who sought the Magician over the past few days. In the tumultous days following the Red Wall Rescue, he had spent several days in plain sight--visiting the Lily one night, taking a clandestine trip to Red Wall the next, appearing in the court briefly to speak to the Duchess, and suddenly, he as gone. Alendral Sorschal, to friends and enemies alike, disappeared. His office vacated, the old borrowed vardo used for his various props disappeared overnight, and all traces of him dried up, he was just gone. The Cardinal's assassination decried as an act of cruelty found no killer, and perhaps somewhere, someone's measure of the man's loyalty was proven right. Alendral Sorschal was gone. and for one woman, all she would have is a word. a promise. a whisper. The last one to see Alendral was currently running the day-to-day-business of the Lily, who received a handsome sum for her time, and found her schedule cleared of his visits from that point on. For his prey, there would be no catching a sign of the hunter...
Shaden: Avery had left earlier, checking on her patient, overwrought with concern over the despair and grief that Shaden was burdened by, it was not only the depth of it that concerned her but the anger and mood swings. Several Herbs in a tea mixture would be entrusted to Gerda with instructions to be given twice a day.. it was a mixture that often soothed.. the post natal depression that accompanied some births.. even more so still ones. Shaden had risen this morning dressed.. and spent part of the day with Ursula in the small office, not a word was mentioned of the baby, just terse questions and answers about the business.. before she found herself tiring.. and longing for a nap.. After which tossing and turning for an hour and not being able to sleep.. she ventured into the adjacent room.. the room that was to be the nursery.. bright yellow wallpaper, animals and dolls it was like a fairy tale room for a princess and at the center the Hanging Bassinet Nic had gifted her with.. slowly she walked to it and picked up the delicate knitted blanket.. holding it tight to her chest.. then moved to settle in the rocking chair that Jack Maggie and Seanna had given her and the babe for Christmas.. slowly she rocked back and forth the steady creak.... creak..... creak... the only sound in her soilitude.
Ealora: Maahes had returned from his visit with Shaden in a foul mood but hadn't told her more then the woman was, not within her right mind at the moment. Well, Ealora could understand that but it wasn't going to stop her from visiting her sister herself. Rather then the loose Sari's, she had a pair of her slacks altered to accommodate her belly and one of Maahes loose fitting tunics. It was perhaps to big for her shoulder wise but it fit snuggly over her belly. Her hair had been pulled back into a ponytail, swinging loosely as she walked. There was one stop she was going to make before visiting her sister. Trailed by six guards and Eli at her side, she made her way to the cemetery. With a priests help, the babies grave was found. A headstone had been placed with the babies full name but recently the dirt had been moved and shifted to accommodate a statue of a little girl angel with hands slightly parted, it was in there a bouquet of Lilies was left though silently she wondered who had erected the statue. Shaden...or Nic..the inscription on the statue though said it all, Mommy and Daddy's little angel. Love Daddy. Her heart squeezed as with Eli assistance, she lowered to her knees and softly began to recite the Egyptian Prayer of Death and Peace. It seemed so wrong, saying a prayer like this for a little girl who never got a chance to know life. When the prayer was finished, Eli helped her up once more and off to the Lily they went. She didn't even knock, as Shaden never needed to knock at her home. The guards and Eli had stayed outside. The guards because she ordered it. Eli because he swore never to step even into a refined whore house. God did Maahes get to her brother to? Old priest or not, she was going to kick her brothers ass. Slowly her coat was shrugged off her shoulders and left on a peg on the wall as she waddled to the stairs and up, knowing very well were her sisters suites were. A gentle rap came to her sisters door before she pushed it open and peeked her head inside. The creak of the rocking chair caught her ear and she sucked in a breath, willing herself forward to head to the nursery. Slowly she crowned the doorway, leaning against it as her hands folded over her belly "It's beautiful in here.." she spoke, breaking Shaden's solitude.
Shaden: The steady Creak of the rocking chair halted.. as glacial hues rimmed in red turned toward the door.. perfectly dressed not a hair out of place.. and yet.. she still seemed a broken mess... paler than ever Ealora had seen, and if she could be rail thin after months of pregnancy she was.. the expertly hand tailored custom gown of dark blue velvet fairly hung from her and it was one of her favorite day gowns before she had grown round with child.. " It was supposed to be bright and cheerful.. to keep her happy and smiling.. Nicholas and I spent much time.. making it just right... " her eyes left her sister and looked vacantly out the window.. again the rocking began... creak creak creak... " What do you want.. why did you come... Maahes will not be pleased you are here.. you should go back home to your family " cold.. dead words without a spark of emotion.. never.. even after the Bruce attacked her.. held her captive had Ealora seen such.. a... blank slate as what was now Shaden's heart and soul.
Ealora: Celadon eyes were taking in first the room and then Shaden. She was going to talk to Nic and Gerda about force feeding her, she was to thin. "It will be again, there can be others...Shaden.."She pushed off the doorway and moved to lean near the window so she could take in her sisters eye. "I know that is probably not something you want to hear right now, but it's something you need to hear. This...is not the end. Maahes is mad at a lot of things, but I took the guards he assigned, they are outside. Along with Eli...we went to Joy's grave, said a prayer. I don't...and will not fault you for grieving Shaden, but not eating...or sleeping. Don't do this to herself, don't do this to the people who love you. Nic and Gerda, the girls, me and Maahes..your family. I speak from experience you know that, when Issa died, I screamed..screamed till my lungs hurt, I wanted to shut everyone else, Maahes..you...wouldn't let me. Kept me loved and safe. I'm not going to lie, its never going to be any easier to think of her and not hurt but life goes on Shaden, life is going on around you..you let it, it will pull you back in but don't do this..my Shaden, don't loose that fire in you."
Shaden: " It's not a puppy to be Replaced Ealora.. " the venom in her voice was almost serpentine... " Can you replace Issa... has the pain dulled. or dissipeared .. because you belly grows round again..? How dare you... you clung to his death for months, using it as a reason for all your misdeeds... and your hatred.. and You want me to just be over it.. in four days?" the chair stopped rocking her hands curling about the carved arms, her nails digging into the wood... " Dont you dare preach to me.. after what I've lost... DON"T.. " she stood then moving to the dresser where little figuines of jesters and dancing bears were displayed.. " I hope your child is delivered safe and sound and that you never know this... pain... go home.. to your husband and your children.. your guards and keep yourself safe.. There is no reason for you to be here.. you made that clear last time I saw you.. do not let your guilt change your mind.. I am no longer your family... I am unfit.. remember... in both your and your husbands eyes.. Now... Go..." she studied one of the porceline jesters, dressed in bright gay colors.. her hands tracing over it's face.. " I don't need you here.. I want to be alone " the words were cold.. dead.. emotionless.. save for the anger that pulsed beneath each one.
Ealora: "I'm not sayin Joy was a puppet...Shaden"She paused to watch her sister, slender brows knitted down seeming as if she was confused but she was trying to push back biting words. Shaden was hurting, it was understandable. "I got revenge on his killers. I will live with killing them, my entire life...but I did what I felt was right, what I felt was justice." Moving a step into the room and then another. "Shaden, our decision was never to hurt you nor call on you being unfit to be a mother or unfit to be in our family. You are still family... Shaden." Her hands curled underneath her belly, trying to cope with the extra weight that constantly pained her back. She still loved being pregnant though Maahes thought she wasn't, it was just...if she could trade one day, perhaps he would know what it felt like. Not to mention she was eager to hold their child in her arms, to have that happy moment she didn't have with Issa. "I am not preaching to you, only telling you, this grief...will swallow you whole if you let it. I'm asking... asking...that you not let it. Grieve as you need to Shaden, but don't think this is the end of all things. It's not.."
Shaden: She watched her hands curl under her belly with a flinch.. it was like a phantom limb no longer there.. her own hand sliding over the now flattened plane of her torso.. she snapped the toy jester in her hand flying thru the air to shatter upon the wall next to Ealora's head.. intentional miss.. but all the same it would get her attention.. " Your Justice Your Feeling be dammed... what your intentions were.. be dammed.. nothing matters to you and Maahes save the way you think you own Morality should be overtaken and pushed onto others.. YOU both Judge when you have no right.. He has judged me.. as a whore.. when He is a killer.. cold blooded and merciless not to mention the biggest ass in the whole of the realm.. You.. Judge me as unfit to raise you children if something should happen to you.. Yet.. you would turn them over to someone because she bears the Title of Lady..." she snarled... her fist balling at her sides.. " After all we have been thru.. YOU think that wasn't meant to hurt... you call that Logical.. and now I loose my child.. because of some vendetta from your and Maahes past.. and I'm suppose to.. hug you.. thank you for wanting me still to be your family " she scoffed.. her chin lifting... " Frankly Ealora.. I bear you no ill will and I hope with all my broken busted heart that you and yours are safe.. and well.. thru this.. and that your never ache as mine.. but I have suffered enough.. for being your family... I'm done... Now.. please.. leave.. I don't think I can abide anymore of your.. sisterly affection today " her back turned.. as she moved to the window..shuddering softly...
Ealora: She ducked as the jester came flying at her, though rightly it was intentionally delivered not to harm her. As she lifted back up, her lips pressed into a tight frown. Shaden had never known the fire in her eyes directly souly at her, until now. "Bite my ass Shaden! You act as if your the only woman who has ever lost a child! In our lives, nothing matters save our intentions and what we'd do for family...We've never pushed our morals on other people but made it clear we'll live by no others but ours. I have....every right to judge those who do wrong to me and damn you, damn you for thinking otherwise...I have NEVER treated you like a whore and neither has Maahes, YOU...want to sit there and fell hurt and sorry for yourself because YOU want to think that we are calling you whore by our decision...we based on decision on this place, on the goings on, not YOU. If it wasn't for this place, then yes, you would of been the decision, no second guesses but I won't have my children raised in a courtesan house, not because of you, but because of what goes on here. and Damn you for trying to make me feel guilty about wanting my kids in a clean house. Screw you Shaden for trying to make me feel guilty about wanting the best damn house possible for my kids. You want to place this blame of your child on Maahes and Me as well? We can not control the actions of others..Malice is doing this of her own will and I will blame myself enough for all those she has hurt because of her twisted and evil heart, but this...? If I didn't care, I wouldn't of had Maahes and his men, and Nic and Perry and JC, and everyone I could think of, out there looking for you..so you go ahead and think what you want to think, you go ahead...twist your heart as black as hers, and you'll end up being no better then her..Is that what you want? Because you still have family who care about you...who will continue to love you despite what you think your labeled to them...you are loved. That means something whether you think it does or not.."
Nic: He'd heard enough, standing in Shaden's room to catch parts of the conversation. He moved to jerk Ealora's arm, if to get her out of the doorway so he could move past. "What the hell do you think you're doing?!"He growled low as he set silvery blue eyes on the woman before moving past to wrap his arms around Shaden's middle, if to comfort and keep her from killing her sister. "Ealora...Shaden has asked that you leave..I suggest doing so.."
Shaden: Every word was like a lash.. and she took each hit with a flinch.. there was no middle ground, polar opposites the two sisters sat at... it seemed each unwilling to budge... as Nic's arms folded about her she relaxed slightly closing dark lashes over her eyes trying to hold back the tears.. how many tears were aloted a human in an hour. a day.. four days... she had yet to use up her qouta... " Your right.. Ealora.. everything you say is right.. go home to your children.. your family and live.. your life.. just go... " defeated.. exhausted she was resigned to the losses of the past few days.. " Tell Maahes if he wishes to carry out his threat.. he is welcome to it.. " slipping from Nic's arms she lay a hand on his cheek.. shadowed by a days growth his eyes showing the same grief as her own.. " We need to be alone Ealora.. please.. just go "
Ealora: Teeth clenched and unclenched, especially when Nic grasped her and yanked her back. Oh if looks could kill. Finally she let out a sigh and shook her head. "I love you Shaden.."before turning and waddling from the room.
Nic: His hand lifted to curl around her own at his cheek, bringing it down to his chest while the other rose to press against the back of her head as he placed a kiss against her forehead. Slowly his arms moved to wrap her in his embrace and slowly rock back and forth. "Everything will be all right..I promise you.."He whispered against her hair.
Shaden: " nothing will ever be right again " she whispered against his chest.. as he rocked her.. softly... " I just want her back... but I know that cannot happen.. but it does not make my heart wish any less " a deep racking sob as her arms wound about his waist holding onto him tightly... " I can't take another well wisher who tells me to buck up and be strong.. and get over it.. I can't.. I just want you .. " she pulled back slightly and looked up at his face... her hands tracing his cheeks softly.. " You haven't slept.. have you eaten? "
Nic: "You got me Shaden, I'm not going anywhere.." Fingers pressed against her back, massaging softly. "We'll tell Gerda no more visitors, no matter what. Till your ready for them.." back and forth, back and forth he rocked her but even he could not help the laugh that passed his lips. "I can do a few more days without rest..but you..need it. Your not well, and you're not eating. But I'll make a deal with you, I'll eat if you do..and I'll lay down with you after, I'll sleep, if you sleep.."
Shaden: She nodded softly " agreed.. but nothing heavy.. I don't think my stomach will take it.. " she inhaled softly looking about the room.. " She said there will be other children.. as if that makes it better.. as if she can be replaced... how could she not know that is not possible.. no one will ever take her place... not our Joy " she shivered slightly.. in his arms... " I only sleep when your beside me.. it's the only time I feel safe anymore ".
Nic: "Some broth then..I'll have Gerda bring it up." He couldn't look at the room and not ache, so he did not look, staring out the window. "No one will ever replace our Joy Shaden, but they are right in the repects that there will be others..not like Joy..but I pray God is merciful enough to give us others." Shifting, he lifted her up into his arms, cradling her to his chest as he carried her from the nursery back into her room. Slowly he lowered onto her bed, using his feet to kick off his boots before snuggling back with her upon his lap. "You will always be safe in my arms Shaden, and if need be, with my dying breath. I would see that safety continue. You mean the world to me, you Shaden, are my world...I understand your reasons for not marrying me, but if it would prove to the world, I would marry you in a heartbeat..but not just to show the world that you are everything to me, but to show you, that you are everything to me. Marriage is not about...owning someone. It's about saying that you will be a witness to your partners life. The one true witness, who promises never to miss a beat, never to miss a moment..."
Shaden: Wrapped up in his arms, she curled into him softly... tangling about him as a vine that had grown attached and dependant on his frame.. his words soothed the ache in her heart.. " I love you Nicholas... I have been afraid all this time to tell you... and I think what would have happened if I never told you.. if you never knew.. and I would have died..... how foolish I have been.. in being scared of you.. for you... " a deep breath as she lay her head upon his heart.. her hands playing soflty over his chest...lovingly caressing in a familiar idle way.. " when I am stronger... when it will not be a question in your heart.. if I say yes.. because I need to fill the void left by Joy's death.. you will ask me again.. and I will say yes... but I can't now.. because there would always be a question for us both.. as to why.. I choose this time to say yes... " soft kisses were pressed to his chest.. above his heart " Please say you understand... " she whispered quietly.
Nic: His arms tightened around her as he began to rock her back and forth once more. Curling her into the protection he promised and she craved. "I am content enough to know you love me Shaden. Do you want to hear a theory of mine? One that came from being in that cursed place.."He wouldn't wait to hear her answer as he continued. "I was married...twice. My first wife, died within a few months of our marriage, she was...pregnant at the time of her death. My second wife, you know of..Soren...she died too pregnant but only within a few months of being together again and before, we were only married a few months before she was taken from me the first time. I don't count this as bad luck, I take it that God...knew better then I did. I take it as knowing something else was waiting for me, my true soul mate..Shaden..you. I've loved you my whole life...I just had to find you." His head dipped to hers against his chest, he kissed at firey curls as he let out a sigh. "So yes, I do understand..I love you...and I'll wait the rest of my life, if I have to..I'll not leave you..ever."
Shaden: She leaned up then kissing him softly.. not a kiss of passion or need.. but a kiss of abiding enduring love " I do love you Nicholas.. and I shall never take you for granted again... I do not know.. how I would have survived that alone.. nor would I have wanted too.. perhaps God in his wisdom has put us together because no one else.. would understand either of us ?" she chuckled softly.. perhaps a sign that she was mending albeit slowly.. but with him.. near.. she could.. relax and be open.. he didn't judge or watch her.. ready for her to break at any moment.. he was just there.. hurting the same as she was..
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Lady Shaden Aramoire
Respectable
"It's not the men in your life.. but the life in your Men "
Posts: 135
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Post by Lady Shaden Aramoire on Feb 15, 2009 20:50:43 GMT -6
The Burial had been private only Shaden Nicholas and Issac, with Father Lonogahn, and the diggers present.. As the tiny coffin was lowered into the dark fertile earth.. The place beneath the branches of a sheltering oak.. Set aside from the rest of the Graveyard… in a place now… reserved for the Aramoire-Stryker Family… a Family plot… that had been purchased by writ.. Earlier in the day…by messenger. The day was ironic… beautiful and warm.. With the kiss of hope.. Spring filtering in the air.. As The small gathering of Mourners stood in stark relief against the blue sky… how on earth on a day as beautiful as this… could one bury a baby daughter… it seemed cruel.. Why wasn’t the whole world crying… why were the skies as cold and empty as her heart?
Done… it was Done.. With the thudding of earth against the small coffin… the words of Father Longagahn. Falling on deaf ears.. And numbed hearts… her hand captured Nicholas… holding on as if he alone could keep her from falling into the same abyss.. The darkness… until that last pat of earth was settled… smoothed… she lay a single white rose on the mound… and turned… from her daughters grave with eyes.. That still could not contain the tears… it was done… Her Joy was gone.
Once They moved back thru the sanctuary she stopped.. Stilling for a moment then turned… “Father… the other children… the ones that perished.. Their families… no one will bless them.. There are no bodies left… they cannot go… to Heaven without this… “ her hands met the fathers grasping his softly her eyes met his “ I want you to perform a ceremony for all the victims… a procession thru the streets, so that all of Turas Lan remembers what has been lost.. And how lucky they are to still have their loved ones. I will pay any expense… find a plot in the cemetery.. Find your best stone masons… I will gather a list of names… of all the victims.. And we will build a memorial.. To them… let no one ever forget what atrocities happened to the children… lest it happen again…” her eyes brooked no defiance or swaying from her cause… The Father hugged her tightly as one would a true daughter…
“ Shaden… my girl you have a heart of gold, and no bottom to it.. To care for others.. Tis your gift.. And why it breaks harder than most when it does… I will see to this.. For you… but you must rest… God Go with you… Sir Stryker… take your Lady home… “ he nodded.. Sensing the mans anger, but also knowing a God fearing man when he came across one… he was hurting.. But he would heal.. They both would.. With time and gods grace…
So it was later in the afternoon that The Lady Apollius would come across the procession for the Children.. Not only Joy Aramoire Stryker.. But all the victims of the tragedy of Winter of Wolves and Roses… now before and after the procession blood red roses were scattered to the crowd… as incense pots, perfumed the air.. A choir lamenting the death of those.. Who had no final resting place. In the next few days there would be a flurry of Masons beginning the monument to those who were victims… and in the months to come a bronzed statue of and avenging angel… sword raised to heaven..
It was even later in the afternoon that the Lady Apollo would arrive at the Lily… Greeted at the door with the customary black pall over the knocker, it fluttered in the wind softly… as If warning away those of less that stout heart… Gerda the iron haired Housekeeper would meet the lady and listen to her greetings… “ My lady will understand there had been a death.. In the family and my Mistress is resting.. It was her baby child.. Born still.. And she still herself recovers from the birth… but if you please you may come in.. leave a message.. I can have someone secretary for you if need be… but Sir Stryker has given strictest instructions not to be disturbed till tomorrow afternoon.. “
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Feb 15, 2009 20:59:49 GMT -6
Ealora:The day had gone well, despite Maahes departure. Nora had insisted upon staying but Ealora had insisted more that she take a day off. The woman was by her side twenty four seven, she needed it. Besides, if the rumors Atlas had told were true and Nora and her father did indeed have something going, then perhaps the woman could ease his mind were it constantly dwelled in shadows. Reluctantly Nora had left, promising to return by nightfall, Eppie was spending the day with Uncle Eli, even her brother needed a break from their crazy father and he adored the little girl. That gave Ealora alone time, time to think of Maahes departure, time to think of Shaden's pain, time to think about the baby which still moved and kicked within her. There wasn't much to tell in what Ealora did that day, nap, read, talk to some of the villagers who stopped by to give her well wishes on the baby's birth and her and Maahes return to the valley. Finally as the sun settled low on the horizon and night was quickly approaching. With the stillness in the house, she had decided to do the one thing that truly brought her comfort and peace, paint. The Canvas was set up in its normal place within the sitting room, the dull fire her only source of light as she sat astride the stool in front of the easel as the brush stroked over charcoal markings of the canvas, her head dipping left as it wove its path and then right to take in the perspective of what she drew.
Ealora's Father: The slow careful steps of the old man made their way down the length of the hall made for careful deliberation as he stood in the doorway watching his beloved daughter, "This entire Valley is sad that your husband has left. Even the men of this land have long faces. Simple farmers, old wives, and even children." Moving forward he moved to take a seat in the massive chair that belonged to the Beast--easing inside. "He is very loved here, I now see that his heart is true." There was right in the man's mind for the time, "Your Mother would be so happy that her daughter is so loved." Looking up to the high ceilings, the rich wood interior far more impressive then any gold. "She once had a dream of a place like this. That you were with child, older three children set at your feet but only one was yours--or so she swore. And the pointed roof reached the moon." For the first time in a very long time the man's eyes were humble; glazed with the admiration of a proud father. "Will you make it my dear? This could be a very long time."
Ealora:Her thumb moved to smudge some of the paint with the charcoal, pulling the blackness into the paint. Her head turned as her father spoke and a slow smile fell over her lips. The man could infuriate her at times but she adored her father, she always had. Sitting at his feet, arms wrapped about his leg as he spoke of his adventures on the sea. She had dreamed of them as he spoke, his fingers moving through her hair. It was some of the happiest moments of her life. Just as much as she adored her father, she had adored her mother. Her mother..had always been a Goddess in her eyes. She was just so...perfect, serene, beautiful, alluring, a lady...The awareness in the her fathers eyes, the current present of mind put her at ease, she honestly couldn't deal with his crazed mind at the moment. "He is...a wonderful man..with the best heart I have ever known, despite his past, despite being...the beast. He saved me.." Her head turned, focused back on her work as she listened to him talk of her mother. God, she missed her so much. "Mother...always did seem to have this ability, to see things of the future in her dreams, no one ever believed her but she never let that bother her..she was the perfect...mother...wife...woman.." Her finger was posed to roam the canvas the whole time but she just couldn't seem to do it. Her head turned again to look at her father. "It will be difficult, it always is..I find I can't stop thinking about him, if he is away from me for more then an hour...I, find myself praying to any Gods that will listen, more then I ever did in my life..My whole world, is all right, is perfect when he smiles..especially at me and I carry him with me, in my very soul. So not having him physically here...is difficult, will be difficult, but he is, the other half of my soul, father. So he is never away from me, but in the physical." Her hand lowered away from the canvas to brush against the cloth on her thigh.
Ealora's Father: "It is so wonderful to see you so happy, but I worry only what will happen when he falls?" He cokeed his head in question. "Are you prepared? To never have him in your bed again? For the cold empty pillow at your side? Or never hear the sound of his voice, or feel his heartbeat under your palm?" The very same suffering he had gone through now for so long. "It has made me crazy Ealora, missing your mother that I would write a letter to a man to come take you away so you would never know such pain. You should not be up much longer.." He smiled down to the round side of her body, "That child needs to rest just as you."
Ealora: "I am glad you are here to see it. After I caused you and mother such pain and heartache. It is one of the regrets I will carry with me the rest of my life. Despite the fact that life..that hurt you so, kept me alive." Slowly she turned upon the stool to face him...in Maahes chair and she had to hum in a small laugh, how that would upset Maahes. "You have some making up to do with him you know.." She sighed as her hands moved to cradle the underside of her belly. "It will probably make me just as crazy, I can not...fathom a life without him. I don't even want to try, not right now anyway's..Maahes knows though, that there will never be another, Man see's a marriage end at the death of one partner when my heart, my soul, will always belong to him and God has heard our union, God knows..that my vows do not end with death..I will continue to be his wife and when my time comes, we will reunite in whatever afterlife exists..whole again. Husband and Wife together again. But I will not think about that now, only when the time comes.."Her head dipped, russet curls falling and sweeping over her face as she grinned, looking down towards her belly as her father did. "I know..I promised Maahes to keep our child safe, protected, strong..." Shifting on the stool, she swept a sheet over the canvas, she never liked people seeing her work before being completed. "I'll head to bed now actually, as you should... I do not mean to call you old, but rest will keep you strong and with me.."Pushing off the stool, she waddled in his direction and leaned down to place a kiss against his forehead. "I love you..you old goat.."The latter a tease as a grin curled her lips.
Wolven Men: Later that night, when all were asleep the sounds of the winter night rose through the windows as Spring chased it's tail. Lost by the sounds of drunken stupor a few of the village men laughed harshly into the night, never knowing figures moved though the brush and soon into the protected walls of red. Eppie's puppy would stir only to have it's neck snapped and was then tossed aside like a toy. They were all asleep, he was sure of it this crazed wolfman whose eyes were bloodshot from living so long in the dark. "You make sure the rest are drugged asleep, I will get the girl." He ordered the few men as throughout the evening little by little they were all put down by a mixture of potions. It would be in Ealora's room he would creep, moving so slow that nothing could be heard until he hovered over her. She was sleeping sound for this he was sure, as the sounds of her slumber filled his ears like a song--so beautiful. This woman before him had been the talk of many fantasies, as for so long so many men desired to tame this hellcat. His hands were cold, one holding tightly to the hilt of the blade drawn, the other then reaching out to touch her cheek lightly and brush back her russet strands of any man's desire. Would she think it was her husband? Come home already? One could only hope.
Ealora: She had to sleep awkwardly know, without her husband beside her, pillows were shoved up and down his side of the bed and one between her legs as she slept just angled on her side, unable to roll onto her back for the purpose of keeping the baby off her spine. One hand was shoved under her own pillow while the other lingered over her head above the pillow, fingers curled downward into her palm flinched and moved as her eyes moved back and forth behind her lids in sleep, in dreams. The house creaked and settled and still the hellcat slept on, believing the walls safety and that no harm would come to her. As the hand touched her cheek she let out a groan, groggily aware of it. "Mmm, Maahes, your hands are freezing"She lazily mumbled between being more asleep then awake. Realization shot through her like a stab in the chest and waking began to creep over her by the second...Maahes was never cold and this...was NOT Maahes. Lids that had fluttered shot open as her hand shot up from the pillow to grab at the wrist at her face, her nails digging into the flesh of a wrist as the figure was silhouetted from her, perfectly, as if the night had somehow transformed him, encasing him in a shroud she could not get past.
Wolven Men: His body hardened at the sights and sound of the woman, and it would be all he could do to contain himself long enough to grab her wrist and pin it back as his other hand rose to clamp her mouth. "Shhhh, little hellcat, the more you struggle the more you fill me with desire." A sick bastard, but then again this was really the true killer of the night, as the wolves were only pawns. A great battle was going on between man and beast as in their own right the sick beasts rejoined their wolf pack to claim back their minds, and return to normal life. Soon, very soon this man who now held the wrist of mother would find out. In the weeks to come much would happen, but for now Ealora would be ripped from her bed, by now two sets of hands with another coming to gag her mouth. "Mmmm, just how I like my women. Gagged." His right eye twitched with a roll of a sick crazed thought. "What I wouldn't give to see these." He let hands fall over her chest pulling back the fabric as another wolfman pushed him back, "Lord would have your head!" From behind a high watchmen collar blue eyes burned from a much more petite figure. "Shhh." They all stilled hearing the sounds of bells as Eppie rang her bedchamber call. She wanted her Mommy, having a bad dream that there was someone there in the room only to wake seeing nothing. "Did you not put that child down? " One asked another, but would not wait for an answer as he made his way out the door.
Ealora:Despite his words, she kicked out as her arm was pinned back against the pillow though she quickly stilled, though not because of him, or the others, her heart racing had lead down the baby connected with her growing fear and the baby kicked hard, reminding her of her promise. Jerked from the bed, her mouth opned to scream, wake the household when a gag was shoved into her mouth as her wrists were held by another. Celadon eyes swiveled left and right, blobs the darkness...to many...to many her mind screamed, her heart thundering in her chest. Though gagged, a deep growl left her throat as slender brows knitted down as one caressed a hand down her chest. Teeth baring down on the gag would of more then likely been bared in his direction had she not been gagged. Her body tensed as the bell rung, oh God, not Eppie! A deeper, more animalistic left her lips at the threat to her child left her throat, shoving her body back into the man that held her, her foot slid back as she shoved, knocking off balance enough to wiggle out of his grasp, one hand curled under her belly, praying, silently begging the child to be still as the other arm came up, elbow posed and striked into the face of the man behind her as her hand rose to her mouth to pull the gag from her mouth"EPPIE RUN! HIDE!" She screamed through the walls before her attention turned back to the room, to dark..how many left, her mind was ablaze, swirling...uncentered from being jerked so abruptly from sleep and still she hesitated, her promise to Maahes weighing heavily on her, protect their child but how to do that when Eppie was in danger?
Wolven Men: Eppie would soon scream, a blood chilling sound and her little feet could be heard until then a thump was all that was left. Was she dead? No, but Ealora didn't know. The men's hands tightened around her and returned to take her as bucked, and laughter spilled from his lips, "Calm now, we wouldn't want to hurt you." When she broke free of her gag and sent one man to fly, a fist would crash into her face--surely that must hurt. "Quickly get her to the horses." Down the lines of the halls they would move, the men forgetting the one man who went after Eppie. Yet if there was a glance stolen in the child's room you could see the outline of a man holding tightly the little girl. His hat had fallen off and his mop of curls could not be mistaken--Peregrine. "Damn it." He cursed under his breath watching them leave as this was not how it was planned. Out into the night they would move crashing into the lines of the forest upon the back's of horses who seemed just as crazy. It would seem like an eternity they would ride along the winding river of the Valley and soon fell to meet the sea and the small shack that lay waiting. Quickly when they all stopped Atlas would throw back the door and move to meet them, "Ealora darling. How was the ride?"
Ealora: Her body tensed as Eppie screamed, rooting her feet to the floor as she heard the patter of her feet and the thud. NO! Not Eppie. Her heart screamed even as the men raced to her her bucking body under control. A low and painful groan fell from her lips as the fist connected against her face and she slumped momentarily against the men who held her. Pain shot through her face into her head causing tears to rise and slid down her cheeks along with a line of blood from her nose. Had this been any other fight, or had she not been with child, her third nose break would of caused her to rage, in any case as they dragged her from the room and down the hall, her feet kicked out, knocking over a table with a vase of flowers, shattering glass across the floor. Anything to wake the household that would not be stirred. Her head flew around, sending russet curls flying as she caught a glimpse of messy curls before she was shoved out the door and onto the front of a horses back with one man holding her roughly from behind. Another gag had been shoved into her mouth to keep her silent from the outlining villages as they rode, her hands forced to the horn of the saddle and held there and on they rode. The moon did not shine tonight, pitch black she could not see where they were going but listened...the river..winding, they were following it and finally when they broke the line of trees to the shack by the sea, she could see. Especially when Atlas stepped from the cottage. Slender brows rooted downward as a growl left her throat from behind the gag, clearly not pleased one bit, her eyes told the story. She would murder him this very moment, if she got the chance.
Atlas: "Let her down you fools, she would dare not run. For if she did she'd be killed, and that little brat of hers would die as well inside her." The men would let Ealora fall to the ground, caring not of the child within her. "Ealora..do you know why you are here?" Atlas came down the steps like a king walking the line of his throne. "Are you aware that you are going to be my wife now and forever. As your Moor is being set up to be killed, and there is no where for you to go?" He bent to look the hellcat in the eyes. "His men marched this morning did they not? Going through the mountain pass aren't they? Do you know how many men I have waiting there?" His eyes burned with a madness. "Perhaps we will go too hmm? Would you like to hear his last breath? His bones breaking under my fist this time? Or the would it please you to hear the way blood sounds in the back of his neck as I run my sword through his heart?" Oh how a fire burned of pure hatred, as the past few weeks had driven him mad. "You do know that if you try anything I will kill that child inside you..even while it is inside you yes?"
Ealora:Shoved from the horse, she fell, hard against her knees and let out a cry of agony as she let her palms fall against the ground. After a few moments, a hand lifted to caress at her belly. Be safe little one..you are your fathers son..you will survive this..I swear it! She soothed in her own mind to her child. Connected as they were, she had no doubts the baby understood her. Her hand slowly rose to jerk the new gag from her mouth, her finger brushing the drying blood from her lips from her nose. "You have...lost your mind" She hissed as her eyes rose to meet his. "I will NEVER marry you and you are insane to think that no matter what men you sent after him, will survive his wrath." Pushing her hand against the ground, she rose to her knees. "I'll not try anything..but not because of you, I made a promise to my HUSBAND and I'll not break that promise. I'm going to ENJOY watching him kill you Atlas Bremah.."
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Post by malicecampbell on Feb 15, 2009 22:09:07 GMT -6
AIendral : Malice. Mary Alice, of the Campbell clan. her next few days must have seemed like a nightmare. Days after their fateful meeting, her plan seemed to unravel piece by piece, with Shaden disappearing from the camp followed by the complete disappearance of the murderer Sorschal, evading all her attempts to infiltrate, as if he had simply vanished. The systematic killing of her wolves destroying her resources... her best laid plans, falling apart... and finally, the end of it. Her last bolt-hole, her hiding place, the last place of her few loyal hands, the remaining wild-men... was burning. The attack was brutal and swift, with the clear goal of destroying every one last of her resources, of literally flushing her out. Maybe she was at the camp--perhaps not, but either way the conclusion was clear: Malice's reign in Skye was coming to an end. The hunter had now become the hunted. It was over. and yet still the killer Sorschal was still strangely absent, his hand never revealed in all this. Time was running out... and all for the fateful meeting of one. She had sought out another fellow monster, and found a shred of humanity, but it was the monster she was facing now.
Malice: She watched the camp burn silently cursing.. had he known.. in the least what she was doing.. he might have given up, complacent in the fact she was withdrawing.. unlike most she knew when the curtain call came.. sometimes it was not always wise to take the stage once more.. He knew now.. she knew this.. the Red Haired Whore and her Lover would have spread the news like wildfire to any and all that would listen.. It was a blow to her plan when she had come back to the Labyrinth to find them gone... her guards dead or missing.. the children gone with the resourceful couple.. nothing left in the labyrinth but the dull roar of the lions as they paced their cage hungry for a meal.. It was then she knew without a doubt her plan had unraveled.. drawn to a conclusion that was evitable.. she would not win this hand.. it was time to fold the cards.. withdraw from the game.. and find a new venue.. it was this mindset that led her to open the cages and step inside.. each lion a fierce wild beast yet tamed with skill patience and fear.. at her hands and only her hands.. before the first beast she lowered herself.. as it padded forward.. it's regal head laying in her lap as he complacently lounged like a big kitten, her hands curled into the deep dark gold fur, scratching and consoling.. " It has come to an end my friend.. we have lost... " easily as if nothing were happening the hand drew across the lions throat a sharpened dagger ending the beast life.. then and there.. the scene would be repeated once more in the second cage.. later the labyrinth would blaze, all the provisions, papers evidence. of names and people who aided her.. lost in the fiery hell.. smoke billowed from crevices in the ground, where eons of water had carved into the caverns below.. belching out.. over the sea cliff that led below... A few days later she would watch from the shadows as her secondary camp.. went up in the same hellish flames though this time not of her doing.
Alendral: "It's over Malice." came the voice, like ice water, devoid of emotion, slipped from behind her... Despite all her efforts, Alexander had found her, clad in black, dirt and soot caked his features, bedecked in weapons of the trade--a sabre, a stiletto, crossbow, currently aimed at her as he emerged from his hiding place, pinning her to the wall with his gaze, never withdrawing. Where there was to be fury, there was only void, the calculating gaze of the clever monster she had seemed to rouse from his slumber "I've known of this place--of both places, for some time now, you know. but I had to be certain. If it's comfort, your tormentor is dead. The real one. The one that started this. " The hunter carefully began to step carefully around her, cutting off her escape, all the while keeping the crossbow keenly honed on the woman, Tense and ready for the slightest movement from the woman. "...I hope that you shall find some peace in that.."
Malice: "I heard Grenuie` was dead.. thank you " the woman before him certainly did not look like the monster she was purported to be... " comfort.. is a thing most.. elusive.. to me.. I have found it twice in my life... both swiftly taken from me.. " she made no move to flee.. made no move at all... " So it has come to this... if you have watched you know I'm clearing out... leaving for good.. I have no more business in Skye.... I'm done with it.. it serves no purpose now... and that Grenuie` is dead.. even t that reason is moot... " she watched him as he aimed the crossbow at her.. seemingly unperturbed or perhaps uncomprehending.. oddly calm and serene was it Malice or Mary Alice he spoke with.
AIendral : "I do. but it can't end that way Mary. You've shed too much blood. Too many innocent people---people who had nothing to do with this... Children! Too many died Malice. Too many suffered. There's only way for this to end for you. " His voice was unnaturally cold despite it. If he was moved by her serenity, he made no sign of it. "Make this easy Malice. It can be quiet. Peaceful. Quick. It's the best kindness I can offer. This will be the only chance to take it. Choose any other path and I can guarantee you only one thing. You will die for your crimes Mary Alice. Make the choice, Mary..."
Malice: She watched him as he spoke.. not with eyes of hatred and fear.. or eyes that calculated her next move... " I have something for you first... it is in the Hotel Room and the Crown and Thistle.. will you take me there.. please...?" indigo eyes showed no sense of game play, or intrigue.. it was almost as if in knowing the end was near.. she accepted it.. welcomed it... " It is a list.. of people I think you are looking for.. including the names... of my sons.. " she stepped toward him then.. from her sleeve she drew a dagger.. dropping it at his feet.. from her hair.. a poison tipped pin.. also dropped at his feet.. letting the darkened silk fall about her shoulders.. " it is a last request... Alexander.. would you deny me ?"
ALendral: Alexander watched her impassively, carefully, weighing the information she could possibly give him, as well as the truth behind the revealing of her hidden weapons. but he was not so stupid as to trust her. "Back up." he said, flatly, carefully shuffling forward only as she retreated and crouching carefully, snatching up the parchment in a swift gesture, never once revealing a sign of weakness. But to her actual request there was a long, painful pause--for the moment, surely she would have entertained the prospect that he would not honor the wishes. "... So be it Malice. but I will warn you. You have no tricks left that will surprise me. You will find no escape. You are already dead Mary. After what you've done, that's all that's left. Move." If she hesitated, for a moment, he'd repeat himself, sternly never getting closer than within arms reach. "Move!" and so this would continue till they reached the town's edge Only when there was risk would he remove the bow and set the majority of his weapons aside--drawing close enough to her to walk almost arm in arm--but with weapon unsheathed, concealed, reminding her at all times that, given the slightest trick, she would die.
Malice: Not one single move was made as they came back into town, they walked side by side like a courting pair down the streets to the Crown and Thistle.. once there it was quick enough up the stairs.. before she spoke softy " The key is in my pocket.. " her eyes indicating her hip.. where a small slit in her skirt revealed a pocket, that reached down deep.. should he reach in to remove it.. his hand would feel the warm flesh of her hip beneath the fabric.. inciting memories of a night neither would forget until death... Her eyes lifted to him at once innocent and open.. " Do not.. look so hurt Alex.... you knew it would come to this.. one way or another.. you are just part of a master plan.. that fate has woven.. "
AIendral : "Shut up." the first hint of emotion crept into his voice as he briefly reflected on a different time, a time that would haunt his nightmares for some time, a moment's hesitation before hastening his removal of his hand like it had somehow burnt, twisting the door open and urging her inside, shutting and locking it behind him while only partially turning away from her. Unable to contain his bubbling emotion further, his face contorted in anger and he whirled on her, stepping fiercely to the woman and grasping her by the arm roughly before shoving them both forward, his stiletto spun expertly in his hand till it was parallel with his forearm and pressed against the flesh of her neck. "Don't you dare. Don't you dare even hide behind such foolishness! You manipulated me. You thought you could play me into doing your damned work, all the while you carried on with your insanity! This wasn't all the work of some uncaring god, Malice. you set the plan in place. You put your heart in the hands of a madman in his own right, and you enacted the plan to put this entire country through hell in the name of your vendetta! So don't play the innocent here. You may have suffered more than anyone could know, but they didn't create Malice. you did!"
Malice: "Such Anger Alexander... righteous.. as it is.. it does not become you.. calm yourself. " her words were not sarcastic, and held an almost angelic quality to them... " They are in my trunk.. under the bed.. journals, list, everything you need going back years... " she pointed toward the windowsill.. " The key is up there... for the trunk.. " she moved to settle in a high backed chair.. her back ramrod stiff as if tied to it.. " I will wait.. I promise to be good " her hands folded in her lap one atop the other.. as if in professional respect.. she kept her word. AIendral: The fury left useless and pointless beneath the woman's serenity left the Magician furious. He moved mechanically past the woman to follow her directions, always carefully keeping one eye on the woman.. though he stopped and inspected the trunk very, very carefully. Once it was unlocked, he stood sharply and glanced at her. "Open it. " He wasn't stupid. If it was rigged to trap, he wasn't about to stumble face first into it. "And don't presume to know what does or doesn't suit me. Regardless of what you think, you know nothing about me. Whatever it is you think you saw that night, you were wrong. Just like I was. The woman I fell for then would have never killed innocent people for her anger. Would have never slaughtered children as a simple consequence of her own damned elaborate plan. You know nothing of the man who owns that name and your use of it disgusts me! "
Malice: " very well " she stood and moved toward him.. lifting the latch , then the lid of the trunk and pressing it back she stepped back.. " There.. nothing to harm you... just books and papers.. nothing more " she moved to settle on the edge of the bed as he spat venom at her about what she knew and didn’t' " Whatever you say.. I know what I saw and what I felt and it was as real as anything I've felt in my life.. enough so to make me ... regret.. and stop what I was doing.. decide to leave Skye... for good... but then again.. there is that pesky matter of attrition, atonement.. and punishment.. that all good church goe's do ascribe to " there was no mockery in her tone.. just resignation... " Say you felt something.. if only as a kindness to me.. before.. you become my executioner.. I would embrace death hoping that someone.. at least .. cared for me.. once in my life... "
AIendral : "... Of course I felt something. I felt for the woman I saw those nights ago. You've suffered more than anyone can comprehend." He set down the papers momentarily and stood slowly, stepping to her, a slow movement, his voice wracked with emotion in spite of being level, cold and neutral. "...I wanted to believe that it was real. I still do. but so was everything else you did Mary. This isn't about atonement. Judgment. This isn't even about payment. Soon you will forget this, and soon you will go back to what you become... but god, Mary... children.. so many children." he shook his head and in a sudden movement he stepped carefully over and climbed to the edge of the bed till he was almost face to face with the woman, locking eyes with the woman, a single hand hovering over, palm raised, with the finality of the reaper himself. ,, carefully, matching eyes with her for a long, cold moment, trying to steel himself. "I'm sorry, Mary..."
Malice: " I know my crimes Alex.. they are burned in my memory each one.. and while I would like to have excuses nothing will suffice... but I have a gift for you... something that may bring you some measure of peace for which you are about to do... " they were so close now.. almost nose to nose, her indigo eyes locked with the steel grey of his... anyone coming upon them would think it was two lovers about to be embroiled in a passion play.. but the passion between them was far different than lovers.. or was it. there was a fine line after all.. between love and hate... " You touched me that night.. changed something inside... and even had you not found me... tonight.. even had you not cleansed me one final time from the earth.. you.... touched me.. the real me... and I both hate and love you for it.. because now... I truly know... what I missed out on... my entire life... and I find myself nothing more than wasted anger and hate..." She felt the blade slip thru the fabric of her bodice.. the tip.. barely caressing the scarred flesh there... as she wrapped her fingers over his.. a tear slipped down her cheek... " I would pray but I don't think.. he would grant me passage into the kingdom..." she swallowed harshly.. steadying herself for the thrust of the blade.. a small smile " It's ok Alex... you have to " another tear... slipped from those eyes that would haunt him for the rest of his life... " Promise me... you will not let this.. damage you... further.. I want.. that night to be the only thing you remember of us... " she leaned forward abruptly plunging the blade into her heart... one hand lifting to his face... caressing it softly.. whispering.. in a pain choked voice.. " It's ok... you freed me " AIendral: Alendral wanted to wall off his heart. he wanted to make the woman pay for his crimes, but every word.. even as the poison tipped hidden blade, concealed with arm sleeve pierced, a moment pain, than a slow, creeping numbness. He tried, desperately, to stave off emotion, but found himself singularly unable. his eyes were cloudy, and despite himself, a few tears began to slip down his face. His voice, cracked with emotion whispered. "...This is a mercy...the blade is tipped with a poison... it won't hurt. It will be peaceful. I took great care to be sure of it. I'm sorry Mary. I am sorry..." it was one of the most difficult things to do in his life, his arm shook violently under the pressure of the dagger, his voice felt leaden, his body, dead weight beneath him. He stared at her expression--serene, affectionate, and shut his eyes against them, leaning forward and pressing his lips lightly against hers, holding them.. waiting for the flicker of life to die., for consciousness to flee her and leave him to his own. He wanted to hate her. To condemn her for everything she did, but all he could think of was a woman beneath. The one free of the torment--the one he was executing. It wasn't Malice. it would have been so much easier if it was Malice, but in that instant Alendral knew. He knew the woman he was executing was not the same woman. the woman he murdered was the one a victim of unspeakable torments, who found no place to hide but behind a monster of others design... "Goodbye Mary.." he whispered against her.
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Post by alendral on Feb 16, 2009 1:50:41 GMT -6
Alendral: When Alen finally appeared again, it was with no great fanfare. He did not follow the protocol of his cover, there would be no signature in the ledger signfying Alendral's arrival--Ursula would not see the Magician darkening her door, all smiles and friendly words. He was a shade, slipping into the Lily with a certain ease, claoked and slipping carefully through the hall. Under most circumstances, this would be a risk, but there was no other way. It was only a curtosey that the person he would appear to first wasn't Shaden, it was her bodyguard. The man that rescued her. The knock at the door. Alendral had never met Nicholas, but he knew that the man would be hovering over Shaden like a hawk after what happened--and despite his need to remain discreet, he had no want to be killed for his trouble. At least Nicholas wouldn't know him well enough to spot how much the Assassin looked like hell. The color had drained from his face, sunken eyes devoid of all life and vibrance. Add to the concealing cut of dark garb, black shirt and leather, the sabre still at his side, and the guard would be well within his rights to be unsettled. but then, an assassin knocking on the door was a bit of an abstract killer, at best. Nic: Shifting off the bed, he kissed her forehead, making Shaden promisr to stay in bed while he went to find something to eat. Something light as he promised. Stealing downstairs, he warned the Lilies not to disturb Shaden as he moved into the kitchens, finding Gerda over a pot of cabbage. His nose wrinkled as he shook her his head but paused long enough to kiss the old woman's cheek before moving to the browl that was still simmering by the fires. The knock came answer while he went back to his work. Two bowls of beef broth and a loave of bread that was slived thin and put on the tray along with the broth. Hmm, wel else. Nic moved about the kitchen trying to think of what else he could feed Shaden. Entirely to thin she was. He ached for Joy yes, but Shaden..she was still living and if she didn't pick up her strength. He didn't even want to think about that. Well, nothing else he could think of light came to mind, the tray would be taken up and carried down the hall. Gerda had all ready let Alen in and Nic paused at the haggard look of the man. "Can I help you Sir?" Gruff but calm voice followed. Shaden wasn't in any mind for visitors and he be damned if he let someone hurt her again.* Alendral: "I've news for Shaden. and you. Malice is dead." the voice replied, cold as steel. "My name is Alendral Sorschal. Tell her that Malice is dead, and that I am here to see to her last. If she wishes no more of me then, than that will be enough." he stepped lightly past him to Shaden's room, regardless of his answer. He owed him no explanations, despite it. He expected a number of things--questions, demands, perhaps an errant threat. what he did not have is the energy to deal with them. Now, free of masks, there was an aura of menace palpable around the man as he walked, the kind that suggested that he was not one take lightly. Curiously, despite the apparent fatigue, it was plain the man was a force to be reckonened with--the way he carried himself, controlled and liquid in his movements . This tired, there was no point in keeping up the illusion of the Magician longer. Shaden: She looked up as her door opened expecting Nic.. already her legs swung over the edge of the bed, while he was gone she had changed into a nightgown and robe.. the room warm with fireglow.. bare feet hitting the floor.. to help with the food as he entered.. she stopped still.. in her tracks seeing Alendral.. her hands moving first to pull the robe closed, as if closeing it would hide her grief.. then to hair as if to smooth it into place.. a nervouse habit.. "Master Sorchal.. I was not expecting you... has something happened..?" panic creased her face.. as her hand flew to her mouth " Ealora... has something happened to my sister " even though only hours befor they had words.. that were flung about in a fit of temper... none of them ment beyond the grief and anger... Shaden still loved.. and feared... for her twinsoul (d) Nic: The tray flinched within his hands settling the china bowls clinching together as his jaw tightened at the name. Even with news that she was dead, He was enraged. Screw spilling, he followed after the man as fast as his feet would carry him and slid the tray to the dresser as he entered behind the man. Moving around the man, he came by Shaden and wrapped his arm protectively around her middle, pulling her back against him. "He had news.."He breathed against her hair. Though he wasn't sure this was the best time to be giving her news on Malice, even if it was good news in his eyes.* Alendral: "Lady Aramoire..." he said nothing in the face of her dismay, not wishing to betray his feelings so early, though perhaps, that, in itself, was enough. turning to stare the two, lifeless in eyes, he hesitated and spoke in a brisk tone. "... I had been hunting Malice, ever since you disappeared. I mistakenly thought Ulnor to be contracted by the woman--saw to him without seeing a second attacker. When you were gone, I scoured Skye for clues, and only after you escaped was I capable of finding her. " He paused then and took his gaze from her, looking steadily at her would-be guardian, unable to meet her in the eyes longer then that. "... I thought that if I kept eye on Ealora, I would find her... and I did. I tracked Malice down, I eradicated her legacy. I killed her. But she had left me a gift... and I discovered she wasn't the only hunter. " He lowered his gaze than, taking a sharp breath and squaring his shoulders. "...She's gone, Ealora. By the time I was able to track her down, she'd been taken. I'm sorry..." Shaden: " no.... no..... you lie " her knees buckled beneath her , though to her credit she did not faint.. as Nicholas caught her from hitting the floor.. she clung to his arms.. and regained her balance and composure.. her jaw tightening... as her mind worked around the words he spoke.. her voice took on a most determined.. tone.. commanding.. it was in these moments.. that Shaden revealed the well of strength within her.. while fragile and broken she still dug deep.. to find the reserve and pull it.. forth... " You do not rest until you bring her home safe... NO Matter the cost... I will pay it... do you hear me... ALendral... you turn over every rock on this island and you find her ".. (d) Nic: His arms tightened around her as she buckled within his arms. His head turned away from Alen as he held her tightly from falling over, from dropping to the floor. "Shaden, it's all right..Malice is dead..whoever this other person is.."his head turned back to stare at Alendral but spoke down to Shaden still. "They can't have the guts Malice did to hurt her..We'll find her. Let Alen rest a night, the man looks ready to fall over. Nothing can be done tonight..but I am sure if you ask it of him, it will be done..Come on, you need to sit down, you need to eat." His arm curled tighter about her as he directed her towards the bed. "So..you killed Malice, did you get any information out of her before you did?" His attention returned to Alen.* Alendral: Alendral said nothing to either of them. Made no move to defend himself, or to follow her orders, either way. His only answer was to pull a piece of parchment from inside his shirt, handing it to Nicholas cooly. "This is a list of names of Spies and assassins currently working inside Skye. the possibility is that he's one of these men. The likelihood that she was keeping an eye on other interests on Ealora. I was able to eliminate some, but not all. I can look into the others, but it will take time. I will have to eliminate the possibilities one by one. However, what I can not say is why this man had an interest in her separate from Mary--from Malice... the two did not seem to operating in tandem, least far as I could see. "
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Post by Sir Nicholas Stryker on Feb 18, 2009 23:18:35 GMT -6
Maahes:A lookout post hung high in the mountainside, it's roof exposed to the weather but endless the watchtower seemed as it stretched high. Dormant for so many years the clearing on the hillside seemed so vacant yet so full of a frozen tundra. The Celtic countryside had been beautiful as the path before him was tread with heavy steps upon the backs of the finest. A small band of men moved to press posts, and set up camps would be the first out. Maahes always lived moments like this, so alive and new; aware and ready. Moving through small farms and little villages the flags of the Griffin Court hung high and eased the minds of those who lived upon the land. However, the motion was bittersweet as the few who turned wide eyes to the band of men knew their meaning..Knights and their Leader did not ride out for simply nothing. No the pieces were being set upon this game of life. Here is the reason they were sharpening their tools, and waiting for the return of their soldiers. Maahes had seen so many wars of great and good, having trained an entire nation to battle, but now an elite band of specialists. Always the quiet ride's thoughts were bent upon the war, but he could not help but be lost in the memory of his wife. When the sun would break through the clouds, and he felt her smiling then as he knew at home she would be waiting. It brought him chills to think of how much she made him a better man. At night the moon was high though vacant through most of the night as the heavy storm winds rushed thick clouds to cover the light, and as he settled inside his tent, his body would stretch out beside the mound of pillow's. A massive arm would curl around one as if he took her into his arm. However, it would be when he pulled a bit of fabric out of his cloak that he really knew..he was an addict, and she the drug. This had been one of her dresses at one point in time...until Aggie thought she needed finer rags. The touch of the silk was cool against his skin, but more importantly..it still smelled of the sweet skin below it.
Stryker:Shaden had described Atlas, his michaelmis gift as the beast that would carry her world upon its shoulders. In honesty, he was perhaps the best war horse he had ever owned. His last had died in the final battle that had also taken him away from his family, away from their deaths, without him. Jade, his other, had been bought with the intention of being a farm hand. As the straps were pulled tight on the horse. He mounted with one singular thought, get to the General. Through the toiling hours on horseback, he had time to think. Of Shaden, of a family lost, of the news he was bringing to the General. Hours spent looking for the missing wife of the General with no results. Of the information both Perry and Jean provided. Which to believe? Neither men had ever given him reason to doubt, except their damnable secrets which were spilled forth in scarlett pools a few nights proir. It was those secrets alone that kept him doubting, but also the heart of the woman of which it pertained. Ealora had always seemed so strong, he just couldn't believe it and now he was carrying ill news to the General on a bloody battlefield. The truth of the matter was, no matter how ill the news was, he could not fathom sending someone else to give it. The General was an ass, of that he had no doubts but the man loved his country, loved his wife, their family and for that Nicholas respected him. Pressing low against the horses neck, as over the hill they rolled towards the tower in the distance before leaning up again as the hill was mastered. Never an expert horseman, he could manage with the best of them if need be. Reigns were shifted to one hand as he yanked the rod sticking out of the saddle he had brought with him, the griffin flag, so he would not be shot at by Maahes own men. Settling the end against the saddle, the flag rose high, whipping and beating in the wind as he yelled as loud as his voice could muster to those posed for attack across the plain"HOLD! HOLD!" as he passed space and time to ride into the emcampment. Exhausted and panting for breath as if he had run the whole way, he had stopped for no one and nothing though, hours bumping upon the spine of the saddle, a bruised buttbone no doubt but he knew finally, the General had to be given the news. Dreading how the man without even, even to carry a message.
Guard: "So speak it here.." A knight spoke in the same monotone boom that many of the men carried, "You are not permitted beyond this point..Nic, only senior officers." The man spoke a draw of his lips up into his smirk, "And if you keep sleeping with that whore then you will never get to our rank. The Lord General is a very devoted Christian man. You can not pass." The pair of knights that held him back would exchange glances and the other narrowed his eyes upon his companion, "He knows not of what he speaks, Lad. General is asleep, he does not rest much it is important he remains at peace..What do you have to say that is so important, and can it wait until the morning?" A much kinder tone taken.
Stryker:"No Sir, not even to God himself. This message is for the General." The helmet was tucked under his arm as silvery blue eyes swiveled from one man blocking his path to the other. The quickest way though to anger the old knight was to call the woman he loved a whore. His fist balled and flew against the mans face. "Call her that again and I'll flay you alive!" Of course none would see Nic hitting one of the knights without retraining him back. Arms were quickly taken a hold of, the helmet hit the dirt with a dull thud as his chest rose and fell, this time in anger more then a heavy ride. Teeth gritted and for a moment, he yanked and strained against those restraining him before quieting quite suddenly as he addressed the other. "It can not wait, it concerns his wife..Sir..you must wake him. I would not be here if it were not important."
Guard: The men would exchange glances before they would let him pass, "Was the baby born?" One would smile as he let Nic through, but was quick to be put into his place by the other man at his side, "You will learn to act with respect boy. With that the men would go back to their posts, but the deeper Nic would move into the camp the more he would learn that here was where battles were truly one. A tight ship the tents were lined in perfect rows, weapons were being sharpened and stories fed the flames.
Maahes: Maahes would move from his tent, unable to sleep as always but enjoying the cool air on his exposed chest. The weather had warmed only a little, but for a man whose life was spent under the sun, the weather was never too cold to sleep in the heavy material of his tunic. His face was surprised to see Nic, but it dared not show.."I have discovered you must be a witch. I was going to send for you. Nic." Furrowing his brows he turned to face the man, "You have heard of my offer?"
Stryker:"Maybe.."Nic's lips pulled into a tight frown as he was released to pass. He would off them nothing else but that. Even saying that was saying to much. Leaning to grasp the helmet from the ground, he again tucked it under his arm as he moved through rows of perfectly aligned tents to find the General's. Feet stilled, he body shook with the weight of the news he carried. Rooting his body to the spot as he silently prayed to God for guidance. For the strength to deliver such news, for the strength to bare the brunt of the wrath that would likely come from the man. He didn't need to the push to go forward however as the General appeared. A singular brow arched at the General's words. "Send for me? No general, I have not heard of your offer. I come entirely on a different matter." He paused, of course the news was more important but that did not stop him from wanting to know what the General wanted of him. Shifting the helmet to the other arm, he took a step forward to follow the man wherever he was going then paused and took a step back. Maybe it was better to be out of arms reach right now.
Maahes: "No.." He smirked motioning for the man to follow him in. "I bet the women sent you to keep an eye on me? To check to make sure I am doing my job?" He turned a glance over his shoulder to the man and offered him a seat. The tent was not only his sleeping quarters, but as well where meetings were held. So there were two rooms under heavy drape. He would take his seat across from the mall table with maps to cover the woodwork. "Tell me..quickly so that I can as well return to news." Leaning back in his chair he let his hand fall upon his bare chest and cover the locket that was his treasure.
Stryker:He shifted in a move forward, following the General after a moments hesitation. Setting the helmet on the table, he let out a sigh as he sank into the chair. Briefly his thoughts moved to Shaden, so far away at this time and yet so close to his heart. Silvery blue eyes lifted to find the General's hand against the locket. His head dipped, his gloved hand rose, groaning as he shoved it through his hair to the back of his neck as his head lifted once more with a deep sigh, as if trying to force himself to say it. Even these matters though, he couldn't rush it. "No, General...the women did not send me to make sure you're doing your job. Your the best of the best, no one would question what your doing out here." His hand fell from the back of his neck to his lap before he shifted forward to place his elbows against the table, fingers laced together. "First of all General, please know everything is being done and will continue..also please understand we did not send word sooner, in the hopes it could of been resolved without having to bring you into it. While I understand, you may want to put your wife first, I also understand your duty to this country. Which is why everything was and is being done to still resolve it but the time has enviably come where those of us pertaining the knowledge, felt it right to bring this news to you. Your wife...General..is missing. She has been kidnapped by unknown assailants. Alendral Sorschal assured both Shaden and I it was not Malice, as he has..ultimately Sir, killed the woman." Naturally, the news of Malice death would seem like a grain of sand to the weight of the ocean now landed upon the General's shoulders but that was one simple fact he did know, Ealora was not taken by Malice.
Maahes: His entire heart had been set on hearing three little words, he almost could not translate the words that were coming from the knight's mouth. It would register with the weight of a thousand ton falling upon his shoulders. "And did you search that man? The one who wants her?!" He stood quickly his heart falling from his chest, their child..what about their child? "She is due could any day..The docks? Have they been searched? Every port?" He would turn quickly to pull his shirt on, gather what he could as his heart beat out of his chest. "How long has she been missing? Where was she last seen? Where is Eppie?" Always the father bear as even now in a state of panic he would move out into the night air like a bat from hell. "Eric!" His voice would boom and the massive blonde male would quickly turn to face his General. "Until Nightfall if I do not return you.." Would be all he needed to say as he quickly readied a horse, "Have there been any signs?" A plea then as his eyes met Nic's almost begging him even to lie. Ease this trembling heart.
Stryker:He let his chair scoot back as the General heaved up from his chair. Slowly he rose and shook her head"There has been no sign of any man General, interested in your wife. If you know information we do not.."He stopped to collect his helmet and follow the General outside. "The household is fine, they were drugged, never heard a thing. Eppie..was more shaken up but since the child doesn't talk...we couldn't ascertain what happened. She has been taken to Shaden and is with her even now. No one has come in or left Port, General...not with English ships in the open, cutting off trade..The Shadow Storm is still lying in port as well."What did he mean by that? That Ealora hadn't left him...he didn't of course mean it that way. He fancied the woman would be attached to the General's hip now were it not for being pregnant. For once, he felt sorry for the man as eyes begged him for a lie, a lie he could not in good conscious give. "Reports have come to me that the baby was born, but we've found no evidence..also one report that Ealora..was dead but again, there is no sign of it. She is strong, your wife...General...You know your wife better then any of us, hell, the rumors that you two talk to each other without actually speaking, is one I would believe. The last she was seen was at Red Wall, the hallway was a mess, leading us to believe she put up some kind of fight or at least was trying to wake the household. "His horse was quickly brought around by the General's, his helmet was hung on the horn of the saddle as he gripped the side and pushed his foot into the stirrup, though he would wait for the General to mount first, still in a sign of respect. "She has been missing only for a few days now."
Maahes: "Don't tell me she is dead!!" He quickly turned upon the man as if an animal was bursting at the seams. "Do not talk like that..You do not know Ealora. She would not leave me..." His voice grew quieter, "Not now.." The baby would be his focus, a shift in concentration. Somewhere out there was the child he had waited so long for..Without him. Maahes did not say anything the entire ride home, his heart leapt from his chest with every beat of the horse's foot. It would be well into the night he found his horse gasping for breath, but soon Turas Lan would be in the eye of the man..Down into the path of the streets he would move quickly surrounding himself by the best of the best and having the forests combed. He had not even realized the day had broke before he found himself at the doors of Red Wall--searching..longing..lost. "Ealora!!" His cry carried into the sky just as she had cried out for him, a long lost hope. "Bring me Eppie." He barked then to Nic who had no doubt stuck by his side.
Stryker:Stark calm and reserve was pressed upon his face as the General barked in his face. A simple nod was all the man would get before both mounted and were off back towards home. Silence would grip the General and be met by unwavering respected silence in return. He had no doubts the General felt, as he had, when Shaden was taken. He had word sent to Shaden of his return, and the General. A small comfort. Perhaps, it was in hope as well. The General had a way of finding his lost wife. Had done it a few times before? Though he wouldn't be on to comment on how much trouble the woman got into or how much trouble she was herself. He had no wish to have a broken nose. He stuck beside the General through the search until their path lead to Red Wall. While this was their home and often spoken of place of peace, he still felt a sting of heartbreak at seeing the structure again. "General.."The calm voice broke even as the voice barked at him in return. "It is morning, Ealora...is not here.."He stopped and let out a sigh"As you wish.." Horse collected, he rode back to Turas Lan to collect the little girl and ride back, morning was well under way when he returned with the little girl before him on the horse. Shifting to the ground, he gently plucked the little girl from the saddle and pointed at Maahes before letting her down to her feet to run to her father. Perhaps with him there, the little girl would find a voice to say what happened? He honestly hoped, deep in his heart that was so.
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Post by Chief Baliff Ealora on Feb 19, 2009 17:26:31 GMT -6
Night moved into day and day moved into night. Time moved on and hours droned one into the other and none of it seen or felt. The beauty and stillness of night, nor the warmth of the sun now that winter was moving its way out of the land. The basement was her residence. True to her word to both Maahes and Atlas, she put up no fight as she was lead into the cottage and down into the basement which could only be described as a hole in the ground. A mattress has been hauled downstairs for her rest but for the first couple of hours she had wandered the four walls. Caged in and growling. She had never liked four walls. At least any that were not Red Wall. At first she felt along side the walls for any fault, any way to escape but built into the ground and no windows. There was no way, not that she intended to escape herself...What time of day it was, she was not sure. Perhaps midday but the pains had begun low in her back, a dull ache as if the baby were lying upon her spine and yet she felt the child nestled safely near the front. She knew exactly what was happening but had not wanted to believe it. Wanting rather to believe that it was just..the same pains she had before she had laid down upon the mattress to rest. She was just closing her eyes for a moment... She was running through the woods, all around her, a baby was crying...her baby...Maahes baby. Her feet were broken and bloody but true to a dream, it did not hurt. Russet curls were bouncing wildly as her breathing left in long puffs that were soon brought in as long pulls as she continued to run and seemed not to gain any heading. When finally her lungs seemed to ache, she slid to a stop, the baby continued to cry and yet she couldn't place where the cry was coming from. Her hand strayed to a flat belly, devoid of the life it had once held. "EALORA!" A voice yelled her name and she turned only to receive a punch in the gut from an unknown assailant. Stumbling back onto the ground, she let out a cry and clutched at her belly which continued to ache and then again, surged in pain...
A cry left her lips, this time away from sleep as her eyes jerked open and she struggled to sit up. The pain within her belly was growing. Her legs pressed tightly together as her teeth gritted in pain and she let out a low groan as her head fall back, russet curls sweeping the pillow which was all ready sleek with sweat that was beading still across her brow. The house was stirring from above and she dully heard the creak of the basement door and the stomping of feet that stopped abruptly on the stairs. "The baby is coming!" The voice was unknown to her and panicked, she knew that much as the feet continued upstairs only to be followed back down by more. A man rounded the corner along with three other women who kept their gazes downcast as the man carried a black bag to a table nearby and began to pull items from the bag. "The Lord said the baby can die..but to keep the mother alive..Make her comfortable.." The male stated and Ealora shook her head weakly as she fell back upon the mattress as the ladies moved to help her arrange against it, wiping at her brow with something. "No, please...please...my baby...our baby..I promised I. MMMAHHHHHH!" Her back arched as a pain ripped through her lower section. "Please...we've been through so much..." She panted between the throbbing pain, "Shh my lady, shhh..."One of the ladies wiping her brow coo'd before her eyes passed to the other woman. "He did leave the cottage.."The woman confirmed what the other was asking silently. For a moment hope rose in Ealora's heart before another pain brought a scream from her lips. The hours continued. Harsh sounds continued rise through the cottage. Slave paced nervously upstairs at the pained cries of the woman downstairs and the sharp words of their fellow slave screamed at the woman to push. The room felt stifling hot to her. Her hair was slick with the perspiration that continued to roll off her forehead down her neck and up into her hair as her head dipped back as she sat up against her elbows. Her legs arched and pushed back. She had never been one to be embarrassed of her body, now with her legs opened to help birth her baby into the world, she was less inclined to be embarrassed. Though the man had stated her body was open enough to birth the child, it had been slow going and painful. God she wanted to kill Maahes but she wanted him there. "MAAHES!" Her husbands name ripped from her lips as the pain worsened through the hours. Nervous expressions were exchanged as her body shook with the exertion to push the child from her body. The baby slid from her body and for a moment, the room was deathly quiet until.. The baby cried, loud and long and the room as well as the people seemed to breath a sigh of relief even as Ealora allowed her body to fall back against the mattress and pillow. "A son! You have a son my lady!" The man spoke with a note of excitement as the cord was cut and the baby wrapped within a towel before one of the ladies moved to take him and place him into his mothers arms. The baby continued to scream until placed in his mothers arms. Quieting within her embrace, he cooed and whines as his tiny eyelids fluttered to keep awake and visibly was loosing. Maahes, Maahes...we have a son...Her mind screamed, her body pulsed with the words that only her husband would hear and understand without her saying a world as tears slid down her cheek in joy. Unaware of the uneasy stares the three in the room were exchanging. "My lady.."One of the woman spoke after a few minutes of silence. "What do we do? We will not kill your child..but we can't...let him get him..." Celadon eyes rose from her slumbering son to the three who still seemed nervous, unsure. "Help me up.." One hand rose to them, needing their assistance. "The river..I heard it when being brought here, there is a basket in the corner..." As she spoke, one of the ladies and the gentleman moved to help her up, neither protesting that she should be resting for the whole plan was not in just getting her child out. The other lady moved to collect the basket and the foursome moved out of the confines of the cottage albeit the stares and shock of the other slaves within the house. The walk was torturous, both on a body that had just given birth and what she knew she had to do. The sound of the rushing water drew closer and closer as she fought to keep herself upright and awake even with the aid of the ladies and gentleman. At the waters edge she finally pulled away from their helping arms to sink to her knees. The basket was placed before her. Cradling her towel wrapped son close to her chest, she swallowed a hard lump within her throat, her arms quivering, unwilling to let the baby who continued to coo in his sleep within her arms. Slowly she lowered him into the basket before reaching up to yank the necklace from around her neck. Her first and most precious gift from Maahes, his wedding gift to her. A piece of red glass wrapped with wire and strung around a strand of leather. It was a piece of stained glass window, the last piece to survive as the abandoned church were they had first uttered their vows to God, had been destroyed to flush them out of Aberdeen. Curling the string, she lay the piece of glass against the towel and bent to kiss the babies forehead. "Hush now..my baby, be still love, don't cry...Sleep like your rocked by the steam, sleep and remember, my lullaby, and I'll be with you when you dream.." She whispered in song against his ear before lifting up from her lean. With the help of the trio, she rose to her feet with the basket in hand. The water was cold, not freezing but cold enough to make her emit a gasp. Slowly she lowered the basket to the water, holding it only so to make sure it would float but not letting go. God..if you hear me, deliver our baby safely..please God...Do not take this child from me. Do not take this child from Maahes.. The silent prayer would not leave her lips, instead uttered over and over in her mind as her fingers shook, her mind willing her to release and yet her fingers could not let go. "My lady! He will be back any minute!" One of the woman spoke behind her. The woman was worried, and scared..though not of Ealora..she was scared of the Lord returning early. Slowly her fingers eased and the flowing water took hold of the basket as it slowly pushed it along, out of her reach, further and further from hands which were still outstretched, still posed as if holding onto the love that was now flesh and bone, a love of both her and her husband made real. Arms were reaching for her, pulling her back, out of the water onto the bank. Her body shook as the tears fell against her cheeks. The wind crested, lifting and tossing russet curls around her face as she continued to watch the basket get further down the winding river. Her heart ached painfully, Would God answer her prayers? ...Did she do the right thing?.... Would her son make it? .....was she ever going to see him again?.... Heavy arms lifted her up into their embrace. The same gentleman who had tended the birth of her son, carried her back to the cottage. Tired and heartbroken. Their words barely reached her ears. "tell him the baby was stillborn...." "tossed it in the sea.." It wasn't until she was back in the basement did she take in truly what they were saying. They were going to tell Atlas the baby was stillborn and they had tossed him into the sea...even as her baby drifted down the river now. Settled against the mattress, her head lazily rolled against the pillow as the trio muttered in the corner. She did not even notice the bottle that was taken from the bag and handed to one of the women. "Here my lady...drink this.." The woman spoke as she kneeled by Ealora's head. Ealora's head lifted as the bottle was uncorked and tilted to her lips. The taste was like nothing she had even had before, sweet and yet bitter. She coughed some of the liquid up and the woman moved to wipe it away with a rag before helping Ealora's head to settle back against the pillow. Celadon eyes were staring at the ceiling without really pulling the detail of it in to her brain as she continued to utter within her head.. Maahes...We have a son...find him..keep him safe..Gods come home...find our son....and know I love you.. Her breathing deepened, it seemed harder to pull in a breath. Her head felt like lead and rolled to the side with the rest of the strength she had left in her. What did you do to me.. She meant to say it and couldn't. Her lips would not move. Her heart felt like it was going to slide from her body. She felt so weak...felt so tired...felt so cold. Her mouth opened as her eyes saw the river...saw her son drifting off in a basket, her hand rose from the bed, reaching for him, a breath was pulled in, hard and deep before it eased out as her hand fell to the bed with a thud and eyes stared...this time...without seeing. It was not long before the Lord Bremah returned, Ealora had not been covered up, but her eyes had been closed though no breath made her chest rise and fall. The Lord's chest tightened as pain made his blood run cold and race as the slaves stammered about the baby being stillborn, how they had tossed it in the sea and return only to find Ealora dead. That she must of died from infection. All of it fell on deaf ears as he weighed what would happen to him if he was found with her body. He would exact his rage on them later but for now teeth gritted as he turned away from the body. "Get rid of it.." He hissed before stomping upstairs. In the dead of night, when all was still with the world. When children slept dreaming of unicorns and families rested peacefully within their homes, unaware of the danger that could lurk within any corner, unaware of that the stillness of the night was broken, a figure moved through the foliage of the forest carrying a wrapped bundle. When enough distance had been put between the figure and the darkness behind it, the figure stopped and set the bundle down upon the ground with some effort. It lingered for a moment before taking a step back and then another and disappearing into the very night he had come from. The wind whistled and howled through the trees, sounding like a low groan of the world. The sheet of the bundle flapped and cried into the breeze before falling back to reveal the body of the woman that had been Ealora Malory Asad Aziem..unmoving, unseeing, unhearing of the world that moved around a body that would not stir.
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Post by Peregrine Inveryne-Lamont on Feb 21, 2009 9:58:34 GMT -6
Wolves: Drift on a river..The river flowed through the heart of Skye it's careful direction a gentle path through valley and mountain. The tiny basket that carried a tiny child--drifted like a dream down the crystal waters. The naked branches of the trees swayed as his mobile dancing before the face of the child as bright eyes stared openly upward. Tiny fists clenched under the blankets, as little feet kicked as if having somewhere he needed to be. Was it the sense of knowing he did not belong inside this cradle, but the arms of his mother? So warm her body was, curled inside her womb, and how already he missed her heartbeat. What was this strange world? Was it always so cold? This pain that started in the depths of his stomach did it go away? A head full of dark curls, thick pouted lips, and skin the color of the sand--there was no mistaking this child. His birthright to the family name there inside his unmistakable features--the Prince his father had waited so long for. The cold wind blew storm clouds in, and carried his cries down the river bend but it would be in that same breath; Mother nature saving his life. The scent of the child was strong, the rich heritage bloodline something new, and as the basket washed upon the flat rocky shore the nose of the wolf put to memory the smell of man. For years this pack had lived in peace, unrelated to the terrors that roamed the lands of Bant Chan Ser, and haunted the lives of many; They lived in peace--free and wild. At first there was only one, his fur the color of the moon's darkest side and the wet nose of the wolf would only spur on more sobs of the infant son. It would not be until another parted ways with the woods, her coat the other side of the moon silver and white. Her eyes were a gentle blue, and deep down she would know--It was not the cold tip of her nose that was needed, but the warmth of her her body--her heart. The basket would be pulled gently into the cove by the edge of her teeth; against a rockside where an old abandoned boat had become their shelter. It would be here one mother understood another, and the little child would be warmed by natural instinct--no matter what the species. The child held no name, but as heavy eyes closed and he drifted off to sleep curled against the belly of a beast--a name was not needed. (d Anulia: Riding along the back of that rough skin covered body, she swayed and moved with the animal's muscles, letting Komor lead her towards the river as she balanced the empty sacs of skin that were to be filled up for the brair rose inn. No, life was not as peaceful as it had once been, but Anulia had to continue doing what she did. There were so many mysterious still, such as where her beloved friend's wife had gone and if she was okay. Many things plagued the mind but as always, Anulia hid it well within the depths of her soul and spirit. No need to add more of a burden onto others and she could only do so much before it was time for her to let those more skilled do what they could. Along her travels, she always hoped that she would find someone, something to help, so chocolate eyes always kept a close watch to the trees, the lands before her and that behind her. Moving towards the river, she saw that it had finally thawed out enough for the fish to once more swim in it and the waters to run, flowing to the mountains and into the ocean sooner or later. With a tap, Komor lowered his foot and booted feet landed softly on the hard ground while her skirts flowed back down a round her scarred ankles. Komor was the perfect guard, armed with his own weapons and strength; he kept a watch out as Anulia lifted and gathered her skirts to tuck the ends into the waist band of itself so her muscular legs were exposed. Boots were removed to show little feet touching the ground and toes flexing. Reaching for the skins, she moved towards the river, watching as the clear water rushed from one never ending supply, into another. Some fish stayed in the same area, somehow keeping up with the flow before she pressed her foot into it and scared them away, sending most down into the flow. Opening all four skins, she pressed the rims down into the water so it flowed right in and make the sacs expand. When they were heavy enough, she pulled them out and plugged them up, tossing them aside as her teeth started to chatter together with how cold the water was flowing freely over both ankles. Toes went numb that quick, making her ease her want towards the edge, careful to not slip. A russel close by, had her turning her head towards the wooded area, as she reached blindly for her boots, found them and tugged them on. Wolves: As the child's eyes were closed his little hand dug into the fur of the wolf and his gentle sounds eased her very soul. In her mind she could imagine a life together, but her own pups who were now grown circled with weary eyes. Man cub..man cub..the Jungle Book story told all over again, as the Alpha would never allow such a thing. The wolf's muzzle would rest then against the cold face of the child to warm every inch that she could, as motions were cast for the rest of the pack. They knew what they must do. Down the winding banks of the river they would travel, heavy pads of paws skimming the tops of the sand as they went in search. They were on the hunt, but not for prey..salvation. The image of the copper skinned woman would come first, her dark hair a good sign, and it would be then across the bank they would stop. Where humans as stupid as they thought? Did they kill without mercy? So many of their pack died because of their fear of more. Could they not see that it was not the wolves that were sick, but the humans that made their minds lost? The elephants ears would perk fear crossing it's eyes. There were so many of them, and their yellow eyes were all upon the jungle beauty. (d Anulia: Alert or trying to be, chocolate eyes went all over the lands, looking for anything that stuck out as not needing to be there or wrong in the picture. Sadly, Anulia was no so accustom to the lands to say what should be there and what should not. Looking to Komor, she watched as the elephant flapped his ears in irritation, smelling the other predators close at hand. Shifting, Komor moved towards her slowly, his ears moving back and forth slower as he got closer. His trunk was held mid level, ready to grab her up if the need came. Reaching out with that trunk, he touched Anulia's shoulder, pinching the two finger like nostrils to grip her as if alerting her. Chocolate eyes followed where Komor was looking and saw the eyes of beast. They stood there, tall and proud. Unafraid of her, she watched them, looking for signs of insanity. After others had explained, she knew what signs to look for. No drool from the mouth, no aggression as they stood calm. Anulia was a child of the jungle, even before she was taken as a slave she was blessed with feeling nature. nothing felt threatening here. Only calm as the wind blow and she pushed back a few tiny braids from her shoulder. ``Bambeli`` She spoke, calming Komor to stop him from fussing. She started at them for a good while, jungle beauty looking to the beast. Something pulled her to move, parting from komor as he stayed where she told him to. Careful steps were made in the general direction of the beast, almost as if she heard something whispered in them. The trees swayed and the wind moved through them, carrying with it whispers. Friends, the peaceful ones. Wolves: Come with us..trust us..he needs you.. The very earth seemed to reflect the words spoken in their yellow eyes. The silver coat of the wolf pressed in the wind and it lowered it's head meeting her at the edge of the water. The cold tip of his nose would brush the back of her hand should she reach it out, and with that his back to her he would turn. This way..hurry..With that the band of brothers would be off again, turning glances over shoulders to make sure human was following, and casting their grinning lips forward in a howl. It was their cry of victory, that hope was on the way. In the curve of the cave of damp wood the wolf mother was left in the moment with silence, and when the sounds of her children carried down the hallow she would raise her eye to meet the child. Such a wonder life was, nestled against her sleeping so soundly. It hurt her aged heart to know he was leaving, and the contrast of his darker skin against her white fur was proof she could not keep him. Her nuzzle against his cheek would cause a little whimper to cry from his lips and his mouth to pucker. (d Anulia: Any one else would have turned and moved away, for many people had forgotten that the earth held a voice. She raged and cried, laughed and seduced like anyone else. They were all her children and here in the land of those with pale skin had seemed to forgot that. Moving closer, skirts were still tucked, letting her move carefully and slowly towards the wolf. Nothing told her there was danger and when the sudden urge to reach out towards the beast came, she could not resist. Treading the smaller and lower level of the river, she reached out, a pause of beauty with beast in real life as the wolf leaned closer and touched her hand with it's muzzle. It trusted her, would she do the same in return? The cold touch of it made it real, along with how gently it did such an act. Her hand still reached out, but the wolf moved away and began to trot from her with it's brothers following. Anulia pulled her hand back, unsure until it kept looking at her and pausing in it's steps to turn back to her, doing a soft graceful dance on powerful paws before waiting. Follow them she heard the whisper in the trees as the leaves dances and branches swayed. Komor was no longer aggitated, but calmer and stayed as Anulia had told him. Brave, or stupidly, she moved across the river, kicking up water as she moved to the other side and followed after the wolves. When they quickened their pace, so did she, moving to jump over the fallen logs and careful not to trip as she ran after them. There was a need there, one that hopefully would be well mannered in the end. She followed them until a cave came up ahead. So worried about the wolves ahead, she did not notice that in the distance, a ghost from her past waited; silently holding all her fears within it's very wood. Small booted feet stepped towards the cave as her full lips parted and that pink tongue darted out to lick them quickly. Braids swayed as she moved closer, feeling the hard ground turn into soft sand beneath her weight. ``Why have you brought me here?`` She asked, as if they would answer. Pausing in her words, she looked to the cave as a soft whimpering sound came from the darkness. Almost like a child..her heart stilled and eyes went to the wolves, slightly wide. Wolves: Ealora's disappearance had brought the nation to worry, but not for the life the captain--the sanity of their General. She did this, or so it seemed far too much, but this time the fated child would fall prey in the ghosts of her past. Perhaps it was fate that day, the belly of the ship opening up to expose the contents. A nest for cub's but once a holding for slaves. A Viking ship arched through the forest floor, the thick foliage growing around it with the land perhaps knowing it would need to be held down--held back. Animals had a funny way of simply knowing that a fear could rise, did rise, would rise and she stilled a grown cub would brush it's spine under her palm; nudging her forward with his back. The sky would brighten illuminating the insides of the gutted ship, and the white fur of the mother could be made out. She would stand exposing the basket, and the flailing arms of the child who would be rushed with the cold; his cries chasing behind large tears. The white wolf would meet the eyes of the jungle beauty almost daring her to come forth if she did not mean to take care of the child. This was also her threat. (d Anulia: Anulia eyes and the way the land shaped itself around the old vessal had a funny way of hiding what it truly was. Anulia only saw the opening made of moss covered wood, which she took to be rock because it was so dark in color. How little she knew of what awaited her inside. She did not want to go into the darkness, because so much of her lifetime had been spend there both mentally and physically. Always the bird within the cage, no matter how open it was or how much she seemed free. Chocolate eyes darted towards the cub who rubbed against her hand, making her palm straighten out and grow flat to touch the bristled hair of it's back. Fear sank in, but not from the wolf. Old memories came flushing back as the wolf nudged her to go forward. The crying of a baby pulled at her heart, and with it, carrying her feet towards the darkness only to see light pierce in from the sky above. As booted feet carried her forward, she inched past the moss and noticed it was not a cave, but something much more terrifying. Stone had really been wood, darken by the year of rotting out. Chains still hung from the rafters and swung gently by what air was flowing inside, cages held bones of long since passed on humans inside them, some with mouths wide open in a silent scream. Chocolate eyes, normally held with such light and beauty began to tear up as the scene looked so fimilar to her and the ache in her chest returned. Her breath was failing her and when she looked to the right, she saw the one mark that was like a knife in the heart. Burned on the rafter, was the death bird. The same one burned on her inner arm. Gasping, she closed her eyes tightly as tears streamed down her fae. The cries of the child, was the only thing that made her strong as the musky smell filled her lungs. Opening her eyes, she saw the white wolf standing, looking to her as her legs still were in front of the basket. Life...in such a dark place. Both small hands pressed to her own lips, feeling her face to make sure she was still real. The little hands could be seen reaching for the sky, begging for someone to come and touch them. Her heart was pounding wildly in her chest and it was all she could hear as she moved slowly hearing the boards under her feet creak. Sure enough, a child rested within the basket, screaming for someone, anyone. Anulia had to force herself to move her hands out and reach for the basket. They shook as they lowered slowly and wrapped small fingers around the handle. Even as she pulled it up, it shook the baby within, making her shift to place a hand under the basket so the babe did not spill out. When her hands were finally steady, her knees shook, making her stumble as she walked towards the light, forcing her eyes to look no where else. In her mind, she waited for someone to grab her, pull her back and chain her down. Wolves: No one will harm you here..She seemed to say as the mother wolf followed her out into the cold day, eyes falling from the woman to search inside the basket. The baby was to the point of hysteria, and actually tears ran down his cheeks. The rest of the pack bounced back and forth pacing across the ground wishing for the sound to leave the body. Always there were two; two reasons for everything, though the magic number three. This child needed it's life, Skye needed to know this boat was here, and this woman needed to heal. It was clear, even for the wolf that she was afraid not of them but of the ship, and no fool would be needed to put the reasons together. The child's security had been taken, and the muzzle of the white wolf reached to pass inside the basket once again, soothing the baby but only causing his cries to quiet..not stop. He needed to be fed, to be held, to be cleaned, but most of all he needed to be free from this same hell she was in. In her hands Anulia could save a child with hope that he would never grow to see such a ship, or know what those chains were for. In return one day, it would not be questioned this babe would grow to a healthy young man and pull her out of such a place; should the need ever rise. (d Anulia: Anulia was moving slow enough that the white wolf could trot by her side while the others seemed to dance gracefully, though looked agitated as well. She kept moving as the woods greeted her by swaying their branches. Tears stream down her face, but she could breath again. The sound of the baby was real and it alone pulled her from her own mind and horrors. Finally taking pause, she laid the basket down and knelt by it to reach into it. Beautiful, with skin much like her own and hair as wild as the wolves behind her, she unfolded the clothes from the baby, only to prick herself on something within. ``Ouch`` She gasped and pulled her hand back to see a dot of blood upon her finger. Bring it to her mouth, she stuck it in briefly and then pulled it back out to reach for the swollen arms of the baby and pull him from it. He looked so familiar to her as she laid him against her chest, letting him rest his body against her fuller breast as she swayed him and rocked him. ``Shhh, you are with your own kind now. Where did you come from little one?`` Inhaling his scent, she pressed her lips to the side of his head and kissed the hair there before something in the basket caught her eye. Turning her head, she balanced the baby against her with one arm, as she reached into pull the towel up and covered him with it only to see the red object inside. She knew what that was before something in the basket caught her eye. Turning her head, she balanced the baby against her with one arm, as she reached into pull the towel up and covered him with it only to see the red object inside. She knew what that was . She had seen it many times before. Her mind reached hard into her memories on where she had seen it. Upon a slender neck, below a wicked smile. Ealora! Pulling the baby back slightly, she looked into those eyes and studied that face. It could not be! A gift..hope. Pulling the baby back to her, she grabbed the basket up and stood, only to turn and walk as fast as she could back to Komor. Shifting, the baby was placed back in the basket, the necklace was placed over her head for safe keeping, the skins were picked up and Komor lowered to allow her to climb in top of him with the baby still crying softly and sniffling within. Commanding Komor, he turned and moved with a steady pace back to the city, the gift of life in hand and the most precious thing at the moment. Komor did not stop until they were within the city and to the stables were Komor rested during the cold seasons. She was quick to leave him feed and pin him up for the night before the special gift was taken and wrapped in her cloak. Quickly, she moved from the stables and headed towards the soldier's barracks in search for the general. The moment she came to it, she was a bit frantic. ``Where is General maahes? Please..I must speak to him quickly. No time to waste.`` Guard/Perry: The child was quick to cling to her, his heavy eyes falling closed once again worn out from the spell of cries. The barracks were busy with the preparation from the battle, having just returned from the heart of the war a guard was quick to throw up his defense even on the woman of the Isle, "He is not seeing anyone right now, He has not slept in three days M'lady you will have to wait to service him." A wave of his hand would have her pressed back by another guard as horses and their men moved through the gates. The baby curled against her as if still inside his mother's womb, and the sound of the empty stomach could almost be mistaken as her own. A dirty faced Pirate would be quick to pull the guard back who held Anulia, and bared his teeth a threat to both, "This is not a service to the General. This is Anulia, his longest friend." Garbed in his latest costume, an archer of Skye Peregrine would release the men they would point to the office doors where the Beast went to be alone. Perry would then turn a smile from a dirt stained face before motioning on with 'good luck' written in his eyes, and he would turn to rejoin the ranks. (d Anulia: Anulia actually huffed at that. She was well known by now for bringing food to Maahes and redoing his dreads from time to time. She took that as his words of "service". Maahes was not there, so she would wait. The baby was held onto Anulia, as much as Anulia held the baby. She was moved back, easing her steps until another came into view and chocolate eyes shifted over the baby's dark hair to see Perry. Dirt covered his face and blond hair, though his eyes could never be hidden it seemed. She stared at him, with her mouth partly open as she stared at him. How quickly he turned from fierce to gentle. Where was he going! She was about to follow him, when she paused and looked to the top of the baby's head. Pulling the cloak up more over the baby's head, she stared after Perry and then moved in past the guards, nudging her small body through the opening and shifting to the inside, before she took off trotting down the open court area where people came in on horses. She would wait right here...in fact she paused by a pillar and sat down then and there, holding the baby to her and rocking it. She could not feed it with her body, and she should have gotten it milk, but she was in such a hurry, she had forgotten. To Be Continued
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