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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Jan 22, 2015 19:03:51 GMT -5
Geleon smiled and nodded. “That won’t be a problem milady. I’ll have someone from the kitchen bring you an evening meal.” He didn’t know much about this young woman other than her being a guest of Agrius, and that she had some degree of elven heritage judging by her ears, but he found her rather interesting, and attractive.
“If there is nothing else milady then I shall take my leave of you until the morrow,” he said with a gentlemanly bow.
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Post by Cendra on Feb 4, 2015 5:28:48 GMT -5
“Thank you. Don't worry yourself over much with formalities. You say you're no lord and I am just the messenger. I would say we're on even ground.” She said good naturedly as an amused smile touched her lips. Geleon graced her with another polite smile and nodded in response.
“Until the morrow then.” She said as he closed the door, leaving her to herself. After locking the door and depositing her belongings onto the chest, she sighed as she caught her reflection in the mirror. She was a sight for sure, but perhaps not one for sore eyes. A few dirt smudges dotted her face and her cloths were no better with a nice coating of earth on her brown, leather boots, brown breeches and cloak that mixed threads of gray, brown and green. It wasn't so bad she finally decided, she had traveled more than a weeks journey after all, but she would use the wash basin and full pitcher none the less.
Without further thought, cool water was poured into the white basin and washrag taken in hand. By the time she finished, the water was, unsurprisingly, a dark muddy color. Feeling very much refreshed, Celevire plopped down tiredly onto the bed grabbing her buckler on on the way. It was an old thing having been passed down many generations already, but sturdy and very well made. The buckler itself was fourteen inches in diameter coated in leather with eight, three inch metal, spikes protruding out from the edge. In the center was a dome of metal that was five inches in diameter followed by eight rows of one inch domes leading to their respective spikes. Into the leather had been etched many runes. Some she had put there herself, some she knew from stories of its past owners, but other meanings had been lost to time. These were the ones that excited her the most. She would muse about different theories as she cleaned and polished it. She would figure them out one day. Perhaps something in the old library would shed some light on them.
The sun sank low and soon a knock was heard at the door and her evening meal was served. By the time she had finished, sleep was more than a welcome thought. The soft bed was strange again after sleeping under the stars most of the time. She welcomed the feeling however, and soon drifted into a restful sleep.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Feb 24, 2015 18:03:03 GMT -5
There was suddenly the loud tolling of a bell, which echoed through the citadel halls, and across all the town, and beyond its walls. It was dawn at last, the time just before the sun’s arrival every morning, but not all awoke at such a time. Triest had already awoke an hour or so before the bell had begun its call. She exited her quarters, again wrapped in her fur cloak, and the fur trim hood shrouded her face in shadow.
As she entered the dining hall, in search of a quick meal before her next journey, she nearly ran into Geleon. “Geleon,” she said quickly with a slight gasp of surprise at the near collision.
“Triest,” he replied in an excited tone, followed with a gracious bow. “I had heard that you returned yesterday, but never caught sight of you before the night.”
Triest looked him over, her eyes betraying her attraction as her stern expression seemed to melt away. She was momentarily speechless.
Geleon just smiled. “You look most beautiful, as always. It is good to see you after so many long months.”
As the toll of the bell finally ceased, her composure, as well as her stern expression, quickly returned as she once again erected her wall of thorns. “Your charming demeanor might work on those silly, romantic minded town girls, but it’ll get you nowhere with me.” A scowl etched its way across her face as she shoved him backwards, and walked past him into the dining hall. “And why don’t you watch where you’re walking eh?” Despite her harsh attitude her heart sank at pushing Geleon away, but she knew it was for the best.
Geleon bowed graciously. “I shall leave you in peace then milady,” he replied, before turning to leave. He knew that she cared for him, it wasn’t hard to see when he looked in her eyes. Why she always pushed him away, however, remained a mystery. He knew there were things about her past that greatly troubled her, but he knew not what could have broken her so deeply. Agrius likely knew, but he would never think to go behind Triest’s back, and he knew Agrius would not tell him anyway.
He decided to check in on Celevire now as he noticed people leaving their rooms, and heading for the dining hall. While he hadn’t heard anything specific about the journey that she and Triest were to embark on, he did know it was something very important.
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Post by Cendra on Mar 21, 2015 17:32:25 GMT -5
Celevire sat straight up in her bed. “Bells?” she thought, “Why are there bells?” then the events of the day before came flooding back and she jumped out of bed like a tightly coiled spring. Cursing the dark curtains, she quickly pulled them apart letting her eyes be painfully greeted by the early morning sun.
She wasn't late yet, but soon would be. Celevire hated being late and this was certainly no time to make a poor impression on her already disagreeable traveling companion. It made for a most comical sight to be sure. Anyone who happened to glace to that particular window saw the panicked form of a young redheaded woman, strands bounced everywhere as the she hopped on one foot then the other to get her boots on. This of course lead to a dramatic tumble or two. After what seemed like far too long for her liking, Celevire dashed out the door of her room and almost collided with Geleon.
“Oh! Geleon! Forgive me! I need to hurry on my way.” she started to hurry past him, but stopped again suddenly. “Wait! You wouldn't mind helping me would you? I've restocked my provisions here before, but there are more items on my list than I usually require. I would be most grateful for your help.” She looked to him hopefully.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Apr 1, 2015 16:50:34 GMT -5
Geleon blinked, surprised at the sudden near collision with Celevire as she flew forth from her room. He had no time to react or respond to her apology before she was racing past him only to skid to a halt and return to him. He listened quietly to her plea for help and then smiled. “I’d be honored to aid you milady.” He held his hand out to receive the list of items she spoke of. “A horse is waiting for you at the stables just outside so you can prepare it for your journey. I will bring your provisions to you there.”
When Triest arrived at the stables she found her horse waiting for her along with another horse that she presumed was to be used by Celevire for the journey. She found, however, that there was no sign of Celevire anywhere around. “Ten minutes,” she groaned allowed, as she walked into the storehouse at the back of the stables to retrieve her saddle. “That’s all she’s getting.”
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Post by Cendra on Apr 12, 2015 21:25:59 GMT -5
Celevire let out a sigh of relief, making some red strands that had come loose in front of her face take flight.
“Thank you! I own you a favor!” she said while quickly walking backwards toward the exit before facing the correct direction. As she neared the stables she slowed her pace, trying to catch her breath before entering the structure. She knew Triest was probably inside and didn't want to appear any more frazzled than she already was. Taking one last evening breath, she reached out and opened the door. Sure enough, not ten feet away stood Triest as she went about readying her horse. A scowl was etched on to her face and her manner expressed impatients making Celevire's shoulders sag somewhat in response. "A long journey indeed" she thought and stepped in to face the first challenge that lay before her.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Apr 14, 2015 18:25:32 GMT -5
Triest glanced at Celevire upon hearing her enter, but remained silent as she finished securing her saddle. She then took her bag of provisions and secured it to her saddle along with a curved Noric drinking horn. The horn was a grey color, and had obvious ribbing along the convex side like that of a mountain goat. A brown leather harness wrapped tightly around the horn’s midsection and sported a leather strap that also looped under the lip of the horn’s opening to hold it upright. On the surface of the horn in various places were carved Noric runes, and the opening of the horn was closed up by a dark wooden lid that appeared to have been cut to fit the opening perfectly.
Upon finishing with her saddle, and other items, Triest turned to face Celevire. She crossed her arms, leaning back against the wall of the stable her horse was in. “I’m surprised you showed up within a reasonable amount of time. Maybe you won’t be as irritating a companion as I thought.” Her face was expressionless and her voice monotone, making it hard to discern if she actually meant what she said. It was clear, however, that she was the kind of person who’s respect had to be earned, and she would not make it easy.
There came a heavy rapping on the door. “It’s Geleon. I have the provisions you needed, and Agrius is out here waiting to see the two of you off.”
Triest was puzzled at Geleon’s presence, and she pondered who the provisions were intended for.
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Post by Cendra on Apr 27, 2015 9:12:20 GMT -5
Triest's greeting was about what Celevire had expected, but the words still made her feel somewhat agitated. Thankfully she was able to rein in her thoughts, but not before some particularly colorful words flashed to mind. In the end she settled with a quick glance to the sky and then back to to the task of readying her horse. When Geleon made his presents known, Celevire guided the handsome chestnut colored beast to the entrance.
“Arch Wizard Agrius, you honor us.” she said with a small bow. “And Geleon, many thanks for your help today.” then in lower tones she continued so as to hopefully avoid the hearing of the others present. “I will do my best to be more mindful of the time in the future.” A sheepish smile featured itself on her face before she turned back to the group.
“Any news of the roads before we set out, My Lord? I tend to use them very little in my travels these days as a general caution.”
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Apr 28, 2015 19:27:49 GMT -5
Triest guided her proud, grey steed out of the stables right behind Celevire, prepared for another come on by Geleon. Upon seeing, however, that the provisions he carried were meant for Celevire, and hearing that this was not the first time they had met her eyes quickly filled with jealousy, and her face turned as red as Nascem clay. She steamed angrily for about a minute, completely unnoticed by the others, and then calmed, feeling a bit hurt. She fixed a jealous scowl right on the back of Celevire’s head for good measure.
Geleon smiled and gave a gracious bow in response to Celevire’s thanks before stepping over next to Agrius as Triest guided her horse out next to Celevire. “I can’t recall when Triest has ever worked with a partner before, this should be an interesting journey for you both.”
Triest simply responded with a slight roll of her eyes before crossing her arms.
Agrius nodded in agreement to Geleon’s statement and then tapped the base of his bronze colored staff on the stone beneath their feet. “Interesting or not, this journey is far too important for either of you to allow your personal differences to interfere.” He seemed to direct that statement primarily at Triest with a rather stern look.
Triest sighed a bit and nodded that she understood.
“As for the roads…,” Agrius started, a pleasant expression returning to his face. “...they aren’t any better now than they have been since the war started.”
“Once you cross out of Delrock the roads should be safe enough for travel,” Geleon added.
Agrius reached into his robes and pulled out a wooden token with the spiral staff symbol of the council on it and tossed it to Celevire. “You may need that after you cross the Delrock border so you don’t get stuck in a refugee camp.”
Triest tried to hide a slightly amused smile at the thought of Celevire getting stuck in a refugee camp, but quickly found her composure again when Agrius once again gave her a stern look.
“If there are no other questions, I suggest the two of you get underway as it will likely take about two weeks to reach the other side of the valley, and time is short.”
Triest quickly mounted her horse. “We’ll take the east gate into the woods out of town, and avoid the roads altogether until we cross the border.”
“A wise plan, be safe,” Agrius replied, with a slight bow of his head.
Geleon gave a gracious bow. “Good luck miladies.”
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Post by Cendra on May 15, 2015 15:01:55 GMT -5
Celevire caught the coin and inspected the design that etched the dark wook serface.
"I appreciate the token, My Lord." she said with a small smile. "I'm sure it will prove to be most helpful before the end of this journey."
Though she was shorter, Celevire easily followed Triest's lead by jumping up to mount own her horse. She couldn't help it when a giddy grin made its way on her face. She always got excited at the start of a journey and she did love having an animal companion.
"I'm all for speed and stealth, My Lords." She said, grin still plastered on her face as she massaged the chestnut ears in front of her with her fingers.
"Off we go then, My Lady." She said, ignoring the many looks of longbearing from Triest. With that Celevire's hood was up and her horse happily trot to the East Gate with her bouncing atop. Time to visit Brennen again on the way.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Jun 2, 2015 16:53:45 GMT -5
Triest rode along behind Celevire as they passed back through the heavy iron gates of the citadel. Once through, Triest rode past her and took the lead through the back streets, and alleys of the town so as to avoid any unwanted attention until they reached the east gate. The gate was promptly opened for the duo, the woods laying just beyond.
As Brennen descended from the wall above the gate, Triest rode on ahead. “I’ll wait outside, don’t take too long.”
Thunder rumbled distantly in the west as it had since the day before, and the sky was now becoming overcast. Although the thunder was distant Triest knew that when the rain finally arrived it would come down from the northwest, and would be upon them before they even realized it was imminent. She figured they would only be able to ride for a few hours before the rain would begin to soak the south of the valley and she cursed the fact that it likely wouldn’t let up for days.
Rain was perhaps her least favorite type of weather, as she was used to the arid northern tundra beyond the Etan Mountains where rain was rare and brief with mostly snow falling from the sky. Even the arid conditions of the Nascem Wastelands to the east were preferable to the heavy rain and high humidity of the Central Valley.
“My hair is going to get all frizzy,” she groaned under her breath, crossing her arms as she impatiently waited for Celevire.
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Post by Cendra on Jul 11, 2015 20:49:47 GMT -5
Celevire gave Triest a quick nod of agreement and easily dismounted onto the grassy ground as Brennen came to stand beside her.
“Well, good day, Miss Celevire.” His deep voice greeted. Turning he gave a respectful nod in greeting to the other rider, “Lady Triest.”
Celevire discreetly moved her mount to block herself and most of Brennen from view, pretending the horse was skittish from the thunder that rolled through the sky.
Brennen lowered his voice, “Not exactly how I expected to see you departing. Something must have happened indeed for you to have such company.” Celevire hummed an affirmative just as quietly.
“Though, I trust you to be as discreet at our departure as always, friend.” she gave him a fond half-smile as she reached into her bag and pulled out a smaller stack of letters and a purse of coins. “Here. Gallion should be passing this way not many days from now. You can give the letters I can't carry to him. In fact, I wouldn't blame you if you were to give the job as a whole to him. Even if I were to take the other stack they may not reach their destination in a very timely manner.” Brennen let out a gruff grunt at the new information.
“To hear you say so doesn't do much to easy my mind, but I suppose all ventures are as such in these days. Take the others if it wont be a hindrance. We've never had trouble with your judgment before on such things.” Celevire exhaled slowly in thought.
“I think I can do it. I don't expect much trouble on the way to their destinations and I admit, the coin would be of help.” she the end said a bit sheepishly. Brennen let out a hearty laugh and gave her a few friendly pats on the shoulder, knocking the half-elf slightly off balance and wobble a little where she stood. Bringing his voice low again from his laugh, Brennen spoke.
“Go on your adventure then. Just be sure you come back to tell the tale! These walls can quite dull at times, you know. And Druin,” Brennen motioned with his head to the wall where the young man stood at attention, “bless the lad, he's a bit too few in Winters to tell many tales of his own.”
“Oh, I'm sure that wont last long with you around.” A mischievous smirk flashed on to Celevire face. Brennen gave a fake grimace.
“Off with you! Before you ruin my good reputation further!” Celevire gave an amused scoff, and again mounted her steed. Once she was situated she reached down her arm to her friend.
“Until I return then.” Brennen grasped her arm in farewell, a stern expression in place.
“Until them, Miss Celly.” With a roll of her eyes Celevire turned back to Triest.
“Ready!” she said cheerfully, “I'll be making a few stops on the way, but nothing to slow us down.” trotting off in the predetermined direction, making little room for argument.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Jul 17, 2015 17:38:34 GMT -5
Triest snapped the reins lightly and began to follow Celevire. “Hopefully not very many until after we cross the border out of Delrock.”
After several hours of riding through the colorful autumn woods the wind began to blow. The increasing loudness of the thunder behind them indicated that the storm was catching up. Bright red and orange leaves showered to the ground in droves as the ever intensifying wind whipped them from the branches above.
As the duo came to a stop at a small creek, to water the horses, the thunder rumbled closer than ever, nearly right over their heads. The sky darkened rapidly with heavy clouds. Soon after riding onward heavy lightning began to crack through the sky, and the wind picked up dramatically. As the storm overtook them the downpour began, but they had little choice other than to keep riding.
The duo rode for days across Delrock, mostly sticking to the woods, and scarcely seeing another soul except when they snuck into a town to pick up extra provisions, and for Celevire to make deliveries. It was a long, wet journey with few words exchanged between the two, and the rain rarely stopped for more than a few hours at a time.
Finally, after nearly a week of riding the rain had let up for the longest time so far, and they were now within sight range of the eastern border of Delrock. The weather of the past week had given way to dropping temperatures. Thunder could still be heard in the distance and the sky was still heavily overcast, but there was a promise, at the very least, that they might cross the border before the rain returned.
Triest stood on a small hill just within the treeline of an open, grassy plain that lay between them and the border. “I can see the smoke from the refugee camps in those hills just over the border, we’re nearly there,” she announced, for her companion to hear. The main trouble was that there was nothing, but open ground between them and the border, and elf hunting mercenaries often set ambushes in such places. On her own Triest knew that she would simply be checked for pointed ears and then likely sent on her way, but having Celevire along made things tricky. If they discovered her heritage then they would have a fight on their hands for sure. Chances were, they would also likely be outnumbered. Racing for the border seemed their only option, but that guaranteed that they would be chased down and have arrows shot at them.
Triest turned and left the hill, walking back towards her horse farther back in the woods. “If there are elf hunters waiting to ambush anyone who tries to cross the border then we’re in for a fight no matter what we do. We’re going to ride across slow, they’ll come in to inspect us and that’s when we strike. Get ready.” She mounted her horse again, pulling her fur trim hood over her still slightly frizzed hair.
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Post by Cendra on Oct 13, 2015 21:11:11 GMT -5
Celevire welcomed the colorful reds and oranges of the canopy as it blushed through the dark green that was its recent summer guise. It was this time of year she felt most in love with nature. The feeling that she was truly one with the wood filled her. The past week had been cold and wet, but she had traveled in such conditions many times before. The thought that perhaps it was her elven heritage that gave her tolerance of the elements crossed her mind as she observed her traveling companion. Triest looked less thrilled with their situation... or perhaps it was just the slight frizz that had permanently styled its way into her hair. It was hard to say with the frown she was always wearing anyway.
Triest signaled for Celevire to stay in the woods while she scouted ahead. Most of their conversations consisted of similar hand signals as they traveled. The fact that they were still alive and traveling together after a week was quite an accomplishment in Celevire's mind. She had thought of many less agreeable outcomes before they set out. Still, the constant air of awkwardness and creeping sense of urgency was starting to get to her. Rainy weather aside, their travels had so far gone unhindered, however, the closer they came to the boarder the more aware Celevire became of the silence in the wood.
After several minutes Triest returned from the short scouting. “If there are elf hunters waiting to ambush anyone who tries to cross the border then we’re in for a fight no matter what we do. We’re going to ride across slow, they’ll come in to inspect us and that’s when we strike, get ready.” Celevire was almost surprised to hear the other woman's voice, but her lips pursed somewhat sourly at the mention of the elf hunters.
“Let us hope they've already passed through this part of the plains already then. I would usually find a more discreet way to pass the boarder, but I suppose time is of the essence in this case.” Celevire's fingers grazed against the buckler on her back, then raised her hood over her head. “No time like the present I suppose.” she said as she motioned for Triest to lead the way.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Oct 21, 2015 18:05:05 GMT -5
“If you want to cross someplace else, be my guest,” Triest huffed as she snapped the reins, her horse beginning to trot towards the open field. In truth, in order to find tree cover crossing the border they would have to cross into Shyrsiire, which was not far, but they would be stopped by patrols there, and be delayed. Being a well traveled messenger she guessed Celevire would’ve known that, but that didn’t stop Triest from simply being a hard case.
She rode to one side of the hill that she had stood on earlier to look across the field, and out into the browning grass and yellow wild flowers. The wet ground, hidden by the grass, mushed audibly beneath her horse’s hooves. It would not be easy to ride quickly on ground like this. At about the halfway point across the field she noticed multiple riders coming from both the left and the right, converging ahead of them to form a blockade. She guessed there would be others riding up behind them within the next few minutes, effectively surrounding them.
“Be ready,” she whispered to her companion.
As they neared the blockade it became clearer that these were the elf hunting mercenaries she had been expecting. They were dingy looking men, all dressed in hides and furs with messy hair and necklaces of severed elf ears around their necks. They were armed with everything from crossbows and spears to swords and axes, and they seemed more than ready to use them. She could guess that none of these men had had a woman recently, which increased the likelihood that she would not have been left to go on her way had she been alone. These were the kind of dogs that she despised the most, and killing them, should it come to that, was usually a pleasure, and a public service.
“Lift those hoods ladies, lets see them ears!” one of the men barked as the duo drew near.
“Time for a distraction,” Triest whispered to Celevire. A pale yellow light began to course through her fingers. She closed her eyes, focusing her mind on the wet earth beneath them, water and soil swirling together in a thick muck. She took a deep breath, feeling their flow in her mind as the combination yielded to her will. The wet, muddy ground began to roil and gurgle violently on either side of the blockade.
“Sorcery!” one of the men yelped.
Triest’s eyes opened suddenly, and she flung her hands into the air. The muddy ground around the mercenaries burst upward. Several of them were thrown to the ground as their mounts were spooked, and the rest were coated with mud and temporarily distracted.
“Ride!” she shouted to Celevire. Triest clenched her fists, and the wet earth that had shot into the air now took the form of two roiling spheres. After a brief moment of pause she threw her hands to the ground. The two spheres of mud dropped hard atop the remaining mercenaries, knocking many more of them and their mounts to the ground. Triest grabbed hold of her horse’s reins once more, and snapped them hard, riding after Celevire.
“Don’t let them get away!” a deep, angry voice growled from behind her. Triest glanced over her shoulder to see another group of mercenaries, led by a giant, brute of a man in heavy armor. They rode after her swiftly, leaving the other half of their band to collect themselves.
Triest snapped her reins harder, her horse galloping ahead as they were nearly across the border. As Triest watched Celevire cross into the hills ahead of her, her own horse suddenly tripped, because of deep mud hidden in the grass, and flung her to the ground. The beast stumbled through the mud as Triest rolled across the ground, and the mercenaries bared down on her and came to a stop. The leader dropped from his horse, his heavy boots making a splash as they hit the ground.
He was a giant of a man, six feet at least, with huge muscles and an ugly mug with spiky hair down the middle, and shaved sides. His nose looked as if it had been broken many times, and his face exhibited scarring like that of a brawler who had taken many beatings to the face. He sported a sickening grin above his short, stiff chin beard, and his eyes were intensely focused on Triest.
“You’re mine witch!” he growled, as he plodded towards her dazed figure on the ground.
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Post by Cendra on Oct 21, 2015 22:01:47 GMT -5
Celevire rolled her eyes at Triest's back as she mounted her horse. Everything she said had to turn into something confrontational with her companion. Even when she thought she was agreeing with the other woman's logic.
“You do know that back there I was Agre-” she spoke in irritation, but stopped at the urgent whisper. Instantly she was focused on the group in their path. Again, at that moment an extra hour or two of riding didn't seem like such a bad idea. She had seen what men like this did to her kind and avoided them in her travels as much as possible. She really couldn't think of anything about them that didn't make her skin crawl. Adrenaline entered her blood and her heart beat a little faster. She would much rather run, but that was certainly no longer an option in their current predicament. Stealth was more her trade, but she knew how to hold her own if the need arose.
Another low comment from Triest only partly registered in her ear, but was quickly caught on to as the ground came alive. Gaining back control of her steed, Celevire charged forward through the confusion. As she glimpsed back to make sure Triest was following behind, she was more than a little surprised to see the clay golems rise from earth. In fact her mouth may have been slightly agape.
“I suppose it's not all bad having her around.” she thought, but just as she was cresting the mountain boarder, her feelings of dread returned at the sight of Triest's mount dropping hard to the ground. “Aaand the moments over then...”
Celevire's pursuers had mostly stopped their game when Triest fell. It seemed they preferred to cut their losses and have some fun with the catch instead. Still there was one determined rider on her tail.
Ducking behind a large boulder she readied her buckler and waited for the last hunter. Closing her eyes Celevire concentrated on her breathing. She listened to the hoof beats on the ground thrumming, bringing the man yet closer. Her grip on the buckler tightened. The man was so close now his curses were near deafening to her ears. It was then her eyes snapped open as she came to life.
“Turne” She whispered lovingly to the family heirloom. Immediately one of the symbols, expertly etched into it's surface. bust into brilliant blue light. The man faltered for a moment, waiting to see what spell she may have cast. Celevire took this time to quickly ready her horse for what came next.
“Well,” She taunted as she lowered her hood, her voice was low and her lips turned up into a smirk, “come at me then, filth.” When nothing seemed to happen the hunter gave an angry bellow and charged with his spear stretched out in front of him on the right. Celevire joined in immediately and made her own charge only angling herself to his left.
“Elf witch!” He growled and being no knight, it was a moment too late before he realized his mistake. The brunt of the buckler was slammed into his side, a shock of blue exploded from the contact. The strength of the enchantment sent the hunter flying through the air and slamming firmly into the the side of the same champion that loomed over Triest. There was a moment of shock and puzzled silence in the mob as their giant was knocked off his feet and firmly on his behind.
“The time to exit would be now, My Lady.” Celevire shouted out helpfully in a good-natured tone to her companion.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Oct 22, 2015 14:53:13 GMT -5
Triest groaned, and quickly clamored to her feet. She ran towards her horse, which was now several feet ahead of her, but not seemingly injured. As she mounted her horse again, and snapped the reins lightly to get her moving, the brute leading the mercenaries sat up, covered in mud, his face twisted into an angry scowl.
He stood slowly as Triest rode away, and then glanced back at his men. “What are you waiting for!? Get em!”
The rest of his men yelled, and charged forward after Triest, but as they did she made the ground in front of them erupt as she had done earlier, spooking their horses. Several of them were thrown to the ground. As she reached the border crossing she signaled to Celevire to ride into the hills.
Several of the mercenaries managed to fire off their crossbows, but most of their shots simply struck several boulders that the duo had just rode behind. With the elf hunters now left behind, the two of them were free to resume their journey east as soon as they found a trail into the hills.
Following the the smoke rising from the hills, it didn’t take more than a few minutes to find a proper trail, but as they rode for the refugee camp in the distance seven riders came from behind bushes ahead on the trail, blocking their path.
“Halt!” one of the men shouted. “You have entered the realm of Atecia!”
The men were outfitted like soldiers, all dressed in sleeveless, black surcoats over a thick, black underlay with long sleeves, and black pants and boots. Beneath the thick underlay was likely chainmail armor, and around their waists were purple, cloth belts. They also sported black, leather gauntlets, and dome shaped helmets with face and cheek guards. The tops of the helms sported a central steeple with a spike on top. The front of their black surcoats featured a coat of arms consisting of a silver shield with the face of a black hound on it, and two swords crossed behind it.
One of the men at the center of the blockade rode forward slowly, his helmet differing from the others in that it was of a bronze color instead of plain steel. “Please state your business.”
Triest pulled the token featuring the Staff of Light from her cloak and held it up. “Council of Magical Affairs, we’re just passing through to the east.”
The man took note of Celevire’s ears and pointed to her. “You, are you not a refugee?”
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Post by Cendra on Oct 22, 2015 19:21:56 GMT -5
Celevire waited until she saw Triest was safely mounted before she began her retreat into the rolling hills ahead. Several hours and some light scouting later they found themselves confronted again, but by soldiers this time. Which was usually better than thieves depending on the day.
“No, Sir. I have the same business as my companion.” Celevire replied respectfully as she reached into her cloak where she stored her tokens. Following Triest's lead, she lifted in to view the glinting piece that Wizard Agrius had gifted her before they set out.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Oct 23, 2015 0:46:35 GMT -5
“Very well. Welcome to Atecia. May your travels within our borders be safe.” The man gave the duo a courteous nod as he rode past. The other six riders followed suit before splitting into two groups, and patrolling off along the border in opposite directions.
As the duo rode onward into the refugee camp they were met with solemn, dingy faces. Many were gaunt with starvation. Most of the refugees were half elves, some full elves, and some human, but all possessed little more than the clothes on their backs.
The living conditions were far from ideal, as the lucky had only flimsy tents to shield them from the elements while others had to find more creative or more desperate means to stay off the cold, muddy ground. Staving off the rain, that was just again beginning to fall, was another matter entirely. Small, desperate fires were surrounded by multiple rings of people, just barely staying warm.
The sick and injured were constantly surrounded by sobbing loved ones, and many women held wailing babies, all desperate for care that anyone lacked the resources to give. Healers roamed around the large camp, doing what they could, but magic and potions could do little to cure starvation.
Triest reached into her cloak, and pulled out a stone talisman attached to a leather strip around her neck, and held it tightly in her hand. She whispered, in a language foreign to Celevire, a small prayer, and the runes on the side of the talisman facing out of her hand glowed white for several seconds. As she returned it beneath her cloak she glanced at Celevire. “See anyone you know or anyone familiar to you?” It was likely the first polite thing she had said to her companion so far, and her first real display of any sort of compassion or concern, but then, Celevire had just saved her life, and for that she was grateful. Her honor also demanded that such a debt was not to be forgotten, nor was it to be taken lightly.
“If you’d like to take a few moments to roam the camp that would be fine, but we still have quite a bit of travel ahead of us. I’ll scout ahead a bit, but it seems this trail is going to be our fastest route for now, and the roads should be safe enough for travel now that we’ve left Delrock behind us.”
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Post by Cendra on Oct 23, 2015 21:45:07 GMT -5
Celevire nodded absently to Triest, her eyes taking in the camp. It always was worse off than the previous time she visited, which last, was no short time ago she admitted. Food and other supplies were getting increasingly difficult to smuggle across the boarder unnoticed. Most of the goods had to be used on the way as means of bribery for silence and passage.
“Yes, I'll take a few moments. I have a delivery here.” She said as an after thought and began scanning the small huddled groups. Many of the forlorn faces she had seen before in passing, but just as many were new to her. After a good half hour of searching, she started to grow concerned that she couldn't find the two faces she was looking for, but she soon she spied one. A young boy who she had called upon the help of before.
“Well, ho there young, Simon!” Went her friendly call to him. The boy, who had been huddled to his mother, glanced up and at the sight of her a bright smile grew on his little, smudged face.
“Miss! You're back!” he said and scampered up as quick as he might for a hug. It was a bit too slow for Celevire's liking. He couldn't have been more than seven summers, but already she could tell that hunger was taking its toll on him. Chuckling, she returned his hug with one arm and ruffled his already messy hair.
“Well, I'm glad to see you too, boy. And of course I came back. I owed you this for the last time didn't I?” With that she reached in her bag and pulled out a well made slingshot and a small sack of smooth stones. “Now you can practice that those hunting skills a bit.”
“You didn't forget! I will be the best hunter in our camp now for sure!” The boy's eyes widened into saucers and the tiredness seemed to leave his limbs for the time being as he scurried back to his mother. “Momma! Look! I told you she would bring it back for me.” His mother gave him an endearing smile.
“So it would seem, little hunter.” She said quietly her voice rough from her state, but it still had a soothing quality to it. She mouthed a 'Thank you' to Celevire which she returned with a slight bow of welcome to the woman.
“Now, Simon, before you go off practicing, I have another job for you.” The boy's softly pointed ears seemed to twitch at the new information and he ran back in front of her posed in an elven salute.
“Yes, Miss!” He said seriously. Celevire had to keep herself from smiling.
“The old elf from last time. You remember the one?” Simon nodded his head “Well, I should like to find him again. Do you know where he would be today?”
Simon broke his salute and came to whisper cautiously in her ear. “He's been a bit grumpy lately. I'm not sure you would want to talk to him right now.”
Celevire raised her eyebrow. “Is he now?” The boy nodded his head emphatically, straight brown hair shaking up an down. She gave him a dramatic sigh.
“Alas! A messenger must put duty ahead of danger in times of trouble. I must face him this very day.”
“Then my prayers go with you, Miss Messenger.” Celevire laughed at that. She knew he could never remember her proper name, but didn't mind.
“Where can I find him then?”
“In the big tent.” The boy pointed ahead to the tattered shape of a tent. It was clearly made from bits and pieces of various kinds of fabric, but it was serviceable. “I think they're having a meeting in there. They got angry when I tried to visit today.”
“Thank you, Simon.” Celevire smiled softly at him again. “I wont be staying this time so here's my thanks.” Reaching into her bag again Celevire took out wrapped rations for two days and handed them to him a bit more discreetly. If others saw the food inside they might try to take it from him before he could eat any himself. “Only share with your mother now, you hear?”
Simon nodded again, but this time more seriously. He was young, but he knew that things like these were not something to blab or brag about, but be thankful for. He hugged Celevire again and she gave him a quick kiss on the head. After their farewells the redhead walked brusquely toward to indicated tent.
As she approached she notices a wooden poll (that looked more like a stump) with an old rusted bell hanging from it by the door of the tent. Assuming it was a type of knocker she was about to ring it when she heard the sound of raised voices inside.
“Of course I know our situation, but who else would you suggest we ask for aid from? We certainly cannot risk entering the boarders of Delrock. Atecia has agreed to give us peace in their land, but winter is upon us all, there is little food to spare before the snowfall and we have no response from the people of Shyrsiire.” Said an ages but smooth voice. Realizing she was eavesdropping Celevire quickly rang the bell. A deeper gruffer voice bellowed from inside.
“I told you rascals, there will be no story tellin' today!” The fabric of the door was abruptly swept aside to reveal a mountain of a man with an angry expression on his face. Clearly his human heritage was strong by most of his characteristics, but the slightly pointed ears that peeked out from his hair labeled him as one of her own kind. He wasn't old, but nor did he appear very young. His dirty blond hair was somewhat long and his beard had obviously been neglected for many days. His expression froze in that of embarrassment and surprise, however, when his eyes finally found Celevire standing at the door with a look that mirrored his own. They blinked at each other for a moment and then he spoke.
“I apologize, Miss.” He sputtered “The children have been ringing the bell all day and then running off.” Celevire couldn't keep her face from breaking into a grin and there was a suppressed laugh in her voice when she spoke.
“I do not take offense. Perhaps it is their way of punishing you for their lack of entertainment.” She joked. The man sighed in agreement rubbing the back of his neck. She continued on expectantly, but keeping her pleasant tone, “I do have some business with Ilrune...”
The man's tone matched her own, but became more serious. “I'm afraid Ilrune is in counsel and is not taking any audiences with the people today.” Celevire raised an eyebrow.
“Do I look like I live here?” Then she glanced down at herself. It seemed that her intense travel through the rain had indeed left her looking a bit worn. She looked back up at the man. “Don't answer that.” she said pointedly. “I am a Messenger of the Land. I bring word from Shyrsiire.”
Understanding came to the man as he stepped aside to welcome her in, “Yes, yes of course. Come in.”
There was laughing heard from inside the tent.
“Well, bless the stars,” he said as she stepped in. “You have an special sense of timing as always, Celevire.” She greeted the man with a grin. He was an old elf. There was no denying it. His white hair and aging face, though graceful, showed the passing of time in its lines. Still, he stood tall and there was a vitality in him yet, despite his also obvious hunger.
“I do my best, Ilrune. Though, I'm sorry it took me so long. You know how bad Delrock has become. Unfortunately my travels lead me there before here.”
“Only troubling new comes from there since the war's beginning. Ah, but let us not get in to that abysmal subject for now. I am glad you have made it here and with only a few scratches it would seem.”
“Yes. It's been quite the journey-” A discrete coughing from the “door man” cut her off making Ilrune give a heavy sigh.
“Ah, yes. Celevire, this is my adviser Gaelin. I'm sure you heard a bit of our distress before you rang?” Celevire blushed a little in embarrassment, but nodded her head. “Down to the question at hand then. What news have you from Shyrsiire?”
“You know I never read them.” She said as she shuffled through her bag for a few moments. There were not many letters left, but sometimes they got themselves hidden in the other supplies if she'd been carrying them for a while. Finally she found it. The letter with an amber seal of her home. With a deep breathe she handed it over to Ilrune.
“Of course not, girl. But you do have an ear for things around you.” A chuckle came from Gaelin. Celevire returned it with a disapproving glare. Ilrune ignored the two and proceeded to open the letter, lips moving as he read it to himself. The lines on his face lessened for a moment and then grew once more.
“Our hope is in the spring then.” He said factually. “The way is too dangerous now to receive any goods, but a supply of seeds is to come when the snow begins to melt. Small amounts at a time from multiple sources so as not to be detected.” An uneasy silence followed his words. They all knew what this meant. Celevire's face turned into a frown. It was bitter sweet news. Hope was in the spring, but many would be lost to winter. She thought of Simon, his mother even Ilrune and his new adviser. The next time she came through the camp, it would be a miracle to see them again. She only hoped that Simon made good on his desire to learn how to hunt. It might be the only thing to save him and his mother in the coming months. Celevire steeled herself. It was one of the hardest parts of her work. She was only the messenger. Whether the news be good or dire, she only brought the words then had to move on.
“Until spring then.” She said affectionately to Ilrune and nodded to Gaelin who nodded back in turn though his face was clouded. “If I hear any word-”
“You'll send it along I'm sure.” Ilrune finished for her with a pat on the shoulder. “Now off with you! You always have somewhere to be! A story to tell!”
“Oh, I'm sure I'll have quite the story for you come spring. You just wait.” She only half joked.
“You know I don't believe any tall tales without some solid proof, girl.” He wagged a finger at her.
“I'm sure I can pick a little something up along the way.”
Ilrune laughed as he walked her to the door, “Now you're talking! We need something fresh for the little ones. Not a month they come and run me out of stories!”
“A grievous development I'm sure.” she smiled and bowed to the two with a blessing. “May the earth always provide and the skies nurture.” Then Gaelin spoke up from his quiet.
“And may your travels be swift and fair.” Celevire almost laughed considering her destination, but was grateful none the less. Finally she turned her back on the two and went in search of Triest. She was sure the woman was more than a little livid with how much she had dallied.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Oct 25, 2015 0:30:17 GMT -5
Minutes after Celevire had exited the tent, the light rainfall began to grow heavy once more as thunder rumbled in the distance. Even now that they were finally out of Delrock a heavy sense of dread seemed to hang over the land, as if nature itself could sense something darker looming in the near future. Triest was standing just outside the tent with her horse, her fur trim hood again shadowing her face, and keeping the rain out of her hair. She had a good idea that Celevire was likely assuming that she would be angry by now, but in truth she kept sight of her up to the tent before scouting off ahead. “No, I’m not angry,” she assured before Celevire even knew she was there. “I just...really hate this weather,” she continued in a slightly lighter tone. “Where I’m from it hardly ever rains. There’s mainly just sun and snow.”
She sighed hard. “We should get moving. There’s still nearly a week worth of travel ahead of us,” she concluded, a bit somberly before climbing onto her horse.
She had heard some of what transpired within the tent, and the dire situation that lay ahead of the camp, but she could not bring herself to discuss it. It was a story she had seen many times over the past four years, ever since the war started. She had seen many lost in camps just like this one in the past few winters, but she could not bare to tell Celevire that, and to think she’d had little care for her partner or her feelings for the past week. It brought a feeling of shame to her heart as she thought back on when Celevire had saved her life earlier in the day. That was something that had last occurred nearly six years ago when Agrius found her, half dead, and nursed her back to health.
As the duo rode on through the endless rain, leaving the somber site of the refugee camp behind, there seemed to be a mutual silence, both of them deep in thought, wanting to help the refugees, but knowing there was little they could do. The rest of their trek through Atecia was unhindered. They eventually crossed into the easternmost of the Four Kingdoms, Eulor. Their destination was now closer at hand than at any previous point in their journey, but there were yet many miles left to travel, and it looked to be another cold and rainy night.
“So,” Triest started as she glanced at her companion. “Those people back at the refugee camp, how did you come to know them?”
She imagined this sudden display of interest in her partner’s past would certainly come as a surprise, but she felt that a link of trust had been forged. Despite her usual policy of keeping people at a distance, she felt compelled to nurture this new link.
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Post by Cendra on Oct 25, 2015 16:54:19 GMT -5
“No, I’m not angry”, Triest assured before Celevire even knew she was there, “I just...really hate this weather”, she continued in a slightly lighter tone.
“Where I’m from it hardly ever rains, there’s mainly just sun and snow.”
Celevire started at the sound of Triest's voice. The unusual softness to it and kinder words made her wonder what had happened while they were separated. Perhaps she knew someone here as well? But then again, wouldn't that make her even more ornery instead?
She sighed hard, “we should get moving, there’s still nearly a week's worth of travel ahead of us”, she concluded a bit somberly before climbing onto her horse.
“Umm... Alright?” Celevire finally verbalized back somewhat dumbly and definitely puzzled. Pulling the hood back up on her head she gave a small shiver. The rain hadn't bothered her much on their journey this far, but the damper on her spirit seemed to now reflect the small droplets that fell from the dark sky.
For the first time since their departure Celevire felt there was a truly comfortable silence between her and Triest as they rode on. There was some unknown understanding between them as they left the camp behind. The next few days were much the same. There was no bickering or distasteful looks shared. Instead, they seemed to be working much more as a team, taking shifts, scouting ahead, setting up and breaking down camp. They still didn't talk much, but as days went on Celevire was actually starting to become somewhat fond of this change in her companion.
“So…”, Triest started as she glanced at her companion, “...those people back at the refugee camp, how did you come to know them?”
“You mean Ilrune?” Celevire gave a small shrug as she scanned the ground for drier pieces of wood for their camp. “One meets many people as they travel, as I'm sure you know. Everyone is connected really. If you pay attention to pattern it's easy to see. Some of my tribe have family and friends in that camp.” Celevire shivered again, she knew the answer was a little vague, but it was the truth. She knew allot of people and though she cared for most of them, she knew very few of them well. Always coming and going. It was tiring to think about at times, but it was her life.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Oct 26, 2015 1:20:48 GMT -5
The response that Celevire had given to her question was a bit vague, and she seemed as if she really didn’t want to discuss the situation. Still, Triest thought she would probe a bit deeper and see if her companion would open up. “So your tribe has family and friends in that camp...do you have any family in that camp?”
She was uncertain if the topic of family was a touchy subject for Celevire, as it was for her. Most of whom Triest had considered family had died long ago. For the last several years the only family she had felt she had was Agrius, as he had become a strong father figure to her.
Their next destination was not far now, confirmed by the sounding of a deep horn up ahead accompanied by distant torchlight. The rain was beginning to let up again, but the sky was getting dark now, and thunder still rumbled close by. She guessed the sentries had spotted them by now, even in the dark, but they still had several yards to ride before they would be met.
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Post by Cendra on Nov 1, 2015 19:34:20 GMT -5
“No. No blood family. I'm a first generation half-elf. Most of my extended family is with their own kind. They haven't exactly gotten along even before the war.” Celevire shrugged. She didn't want to seem cold after Triest was trying to open up more, so she went on. “Many families from our tribe became stranded on this side of the boarder when fighting broke out, though. It wasn't so hard in the beginning to get them back home, but well. You see where things are now... ” Glancing up she tried to catch the sight of some early starts through the tree canopy as dusk set in, but of course they were cover by clouds. She trusted that Triest knew well enough where they were going, but she couldn't sake the feeling that they were now being watched.
“I imagine my parents would not be happy if they knew I was venturing so far away without a short visit home.” The thought of home brought a calm to Celevire's mind.
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Post by SHADOWMASTER89 on Dec 16, 2015 1:35:38 GMT -5
After a few more yards wolf-like howls could be heard ahead, as well as from the woods on either side of the duo. Both Triest and Celevire recognized them as belonging to black wargs. A tall wall made of massive wooden logs, pointed at their tops, could be seen ahead as well as wooden towers of a similar fashion behind, lit torches inside illuminated humanoid figures standing watch.
“Ubagar!” a deep, gruff voice called out suddenly from up ahead.
Triest stopped immediately, and motioned to Celevire to do the same with a serious look on her face. “Don’t make any sudden movements,” she whispered. “They’re rightfully suspicious of outsiders.”
The howls on either side of them had gotten closer, and were now coming from behind them as well, accompanied by barely audible snarling. The horses whinnied a bit, spooked by the predatory sounds.
A set of heavy wooden gates made of tall logs, like those that made up the wall, opened slowly. Four brawny, humanoid figures clad in armor emerged carrying hefty battle axes, and took up positions on either side of the gate. Following them was another hefty figure riding on the back of a very brawny looking horse with thick fur around the tops of its hooves. The figure rode towards them slowly, baring a torch that lit its face slightly, revealing a thick, black beard hanging from a rather large lower jaw which was topped by two large canines that emerged from the mouth. The tusks were about three or four inches long, and passed the upper lip. The rest of the face featured a wide, squat nose and prominent cheek bones, the entire face tapering upward to a nearly bald head with long dreadlocks hanging off the back.
Triest was not particularly concerned as the figure approached. The orc grumbled lightly as if suspicious or annoyed. “Who are you, what do you want in our lands?” he rumbled suddenly, just before coming to a stop a few feet in front of them.
“Should I have perhaps sent a message ahead of my arrival?” Triest asked with a slight smile.
“Hmm?” The orc grumbled and came closer, holding the torch out to see their faces better. A light hearted grin suddenly stretched across his face. “Romkath?”
“Habu,” Triest responded with a smile as the orc rode along side her and they exchanged a forearm grip, greeting one another like old friends.
The orc laughed heartily as he turned his horse back towards the gate. “Come in, Chieftain Koresh will be most pleased you stopped by!”
“Honorary blood sister Romkath has returned!” he shouted out, which was promptly followed by gruff and guttural cheers and howls from the other orcs on guard outside and inside the wall, as well as behind and on either side of them in the darkness. Triest began to ride along behind their guide slowly, and motioned for Celevire to follow as well.
As they approached the gate several orcs emerged from the shadows behind them riding on large, black wargs, carrying spears or bows. The gate closed behind Celevire before they could follow as they were presumably to go back out on watch as they had clearly been before.
“Romkath! Romkath! Romkath!” the many orcs within the gate chanted in growling voices as the two followed the orc on the horse. As the crowd cleared ahead of them the trio entered a large circle in front of the largest structure in the compound. The structure was rounded with a high roof and was built of massive logs, some of which stuck out from the edge of the roof at regular intervals. A very tall pole stretched forth from the center of the roof and presented a banner to the sky which bore the orcish symbol denoting the particular stronghold. Past the edge of the circle and along the front of the structure stood several tall totem poles on either side of the main doors. These depicted the history of the stronghold, and its chieftains, in orcish relief carving and runes. To the left, closer to the edge of the arena style clearing in front of the lodge, sat a massive gong hanging within a wooden frame made from giant logs.
The main doors to the structure opened inward, and a rather imposing orc with a commanding aura about him stepped out and to the edge of the circle.
“Horosh! Horosh!” he called out, holding up a hand as his gaze swept across the crowd, which began to quiet at his call. His thick, black beard hung in several thick braids and what little hair there was atop his head was braided into a thick ponytail which hung down his back. His tusks did not appear to be the longest, judging by the crowd, but they were certainly thicker than most. He was dressed in fine quality furs, and carried a war axe upon his left hip despite not being dressed for battle.
“What is all of this rukus Gorak?” he asked in a wise sounding voice as he looked to the orc on the horse.
The orc called Gorak slipped off of his horse, his feet hitting the ground with a thud and he patted the horse on the side as he walked towards the one that had questioned him. “Honorary blood sister Romkath has returned, Chieftain,” he stated as he looked back at the two women.
Triest slipped off of her horse as the chieftain now peered past Gorak. She approached with a warm smile, walking right up to him. The chieftain looked upon her for a moment before a wide grin stretched across his face and they exchanged a forearm shake.
“Chieftain Koresh,” Triest said in greeting him.
“Romkath,” he responded. “Do you have business out this way?”
“Yes, sadly this isn’t a social visit. My companion and I are on a quest of great importance.”
“I see,” he said as he eyed Celevire. “You and your companion shall spend the night in my lodge then.” He motioned towards the open doors. “Come, fill your bellies with hot food, you look starved, but we shall talk business before we eat.”
Triest motioned for Celevire to come to the doors as the chieftain stepped off into the circle in front of his lodge. “Gorak, see that their horses are properly cared for and then report back.”
“Yes Chieftain!” he bellowed as he brought his fist to his heart, the impact resounding audibly against his chestplate. He then turned and took his horse’s lead, and motioned for some of his men to follow with the other two.
Triest removed her hood as she stood by the doors waiting for Celevire and motioned for her to do the same. “You have nothing to fear concerning your elven heritage here, and to enter a Chieftain’s lodge with your head or face concealed is considered disrespectful.”
Triest then waited for the Chieftain to enter the doors before doing so herself. “As a guest you also never enter a Chieftain’s lodge ahead of him,” she said to Celevire softly. “Just stick close and I’ll teach you what’s what.”
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Post by Cendra on Dec 21, 2015 23:32:55 GMT -5
Celevire had seen a black warg once. A wealthy fur trader had gone through their town once with the beast at his side. Even though the man would go miles from the village, the bone chilling howls still drifted to her ears from the hunt. The man never said how he acquired it and no one had been brave enough to ask. Surely, there were no wild wargs in this area. Celevire's eye shifted from place to place looking for the shape of the beasts, but the log gate caught her eye instead.
“You know this place?” She asked Triest, but fell quiet again at the woman's urgent gesture for silence as they were greeted from above. The howls were growing ever closer and Celevire's steed was uneasy, his own anxiety enhanced had that of his rider's. The redhead's fingers caressed her buckler subconsciously for comfort as, what she now recognized was an orc, approached them. There were rumors of orcs dotted across Shyiire, but Celevire had never met one herself. Other than intimidating and loud, she wasn't quite sure what she thought of them thusfar. Most likely Triest wouldn't have led them there if she wasn't confident of the situation, but still, Celevire found herself pulling her cloak a little tighter around her.
Her apprehension soon turned to mostly confusion as both parties greeted one another in friendly familiarity. They were allies then? Celevire shook her head and winced as loud cheers erupted. She wasn't the only one with stories to tell is seemed. With the howls quieted, her trusty steed followed Triest's horse into the orc habitation. I was bad enough, being a center of attention in this new place, but now with the cheers growing ever yet louder, Celevire couldn't even stop up her ears without seeming rude.
Following Triest's lead, Celevire dismounted once they arrived in front of the chieftain's house. She felt a bit more exposed now on the ground, but kept up the impassive face she wore when she was unsure of a situation.
Triest removed her hood as she stood by the doors waiting for Celevire, motioning for her to do the same. “You have nothing to fear concerning your elven heritage here and to enter a chieftain’s lodge with your head or face concealed is considered disrespectful.”
The corner of Celevire's mouth twitched to a concerned frown for a moment, but she complied by removing the hood from her head none the less. They might not care that she was an elf, but the hood still made her feel safer in this new place.
Triest then waited for the chieftain to enter the doors before doing so herself, “As a guest you also never enter a chieftain’s lodge ahead of him”, she said to Celevire softly. “Just stick close and I’ll teach you what’s what.
Celevire nodded again, patted her horse one last time and followed her companion in.
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