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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 13, 2008 0:16:58 GMT -5
When Authion and Storm had both gone Elestirne lifted her gaze from her clasped hands to focus on Tatsumura and Kotaro.
"There is something to what Storm says... Knowing exactly where Olore and I are...Telemachus may well be expecting that I would be accompanied to this meeting. Certainly he knows I would not go without Olore. However,while it may indeed not matter whether you accompany or not the manner in which you would do so does I believe...but we may speak of this in a moment...
"Firstly...this contact...this letter... There is no way that he could have,should have known that I would be here,much less where my rooms were. That in itself is troubling. But that he also managed to slip a message is e'en more so. As Olore pointed out,he would not have come near here,could not have without Olore knowing of it and alerting us. So the letter was either sent by magic or by a lacky of his that would not have invited suspicion-if any he has-who passed it to one of your people. Or...as Authion bluntly brought up,he might have planted a spy here..but that I find most unlikely;knowing your character. And I sleep far too light for any to approach without waking me. Olore?"she queried.
The silver stallion shook his head marginally,mane rippling. None came near your door last eve or this morning before you alerted me. I may not have been material but I was present. There was nothing.
The elven-queen's eyes took on a worried cast. "That leaves magic then...somehow. As for why he would send me this letter...that must still be puzzled, as well as why not wait to tell me this at the meeting,if he knew we would meet. What purpose? What motive? There does not seem to be one..but I know him better than that... Tatsumura, Kotaro...please. I would have your thoughts on this my friends. It is,after all, your home that I might have brought danger to by allowing Storm to bring me and mine here."
Now don't you start that lady, Olore said warningly,for her mind only;swiveling ears towards her. If danger threatens Tatsumura and his following for this it is of Telemachus's making,not yours. But we need focus less on the fact that he managed to contact you,or what it means, than on what our plan shall be for this meeting.
Elestirne bowed her head a little in aknowledgment to this. Through the whole thing however her silver eyes had not left Tatsumura or Kotaro and their light was again keen and piercing even though her face still appeared pale. "Olore suggests that we do not dwell overmuch that Telemachus somehow knows we are here,or that he managed to slip a letter to me. Troubling though both are, and unsettling..."she sighed,faintly "there is little,likely that might be done about either now that they have happened. I still welcome your thoughts,of course,and suggestions-but we must,ought, to speak on this meeting he is asking of I and Olore and what shall be done about that. Tatsumura? Kotaro?"
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Nov 18, 2008 15:34:47 GMT -5
Storm left the throne room and hurried to his room. He wanted to be properly dressed before invesitgating how the demon got his message in. He slipped on a red tunic and fastened Brightblade to his side.
Storm walked out of the his room and hurried to the queen's room to do some investigating. He searched the entire room for whatever seemed out of the ordinary. He didn't find anything. Storm sighed with distraught.
"How did he get in without anyone noticing something. Even if it was magic there should be some traces of it left in the area," He sat on the queen's bed and just thought.
When nothing came to he thought he would try to get all the shinobi in one place so he may speak with them. Storm sat and thought of the message he wanted to send. He had never tried this before but now was better than ever. He thought of the shinobi he knew, and reaching out to them like they were standing right next to him. Then he forced that message out to them. It made his head throbe with pain. He didn't know if it worked but then the next thing he knew there was a voice in his mind telling him something.
'As you wish Akaruri-san.'
He couldn't believe it. It worked. Now was not the time for rejoicing at his new power. He needed to talk with the shinobi right now. Storm ran off to the garden where he had told them to meet.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 20, 2008 15:24:51 GMT -5
Olore,in his customary position at Elestirne's shoulder stood quietly but at attention. His ears were pricked to the sound of Elestirne's voice as she spoke and his eyes were on her,Tatsumura-windwalker and Kotaro. His thoughts drifted,with his other senses.
Telemachus could not have come himself-that much Olore knew beyond a doubt. He would have noticed instantly if he had,would have sensed it. And he suspected that Tatsumura had ways to know if evil approached as well. No,Telemachus would not have come in person, that was certain. Nor,as Authion had rashly suggested,could a spy have been planted here. Not only would he for certain have sensed the deception,Tatsumura's people were bound to notice an addition to their ranks and the stallion's impression of them was that of a close-knit,honour-bound group. No,no stranger could have infiltrated them... That left magic.
The silver stallion's starry blue orbs narrowed and his ears laced back slightly. He had told Elestirne the truth:nothing had approached either the room or the door before her distress had alerted him. And..though he had not been physically outside her door all of the previous night-he had been speaking with Tatsumura-he had returned before both she or Authion, though he hadn't been visible,and he had sensed nothing. Nothing-magic or otherwise-had approached or touched the door. However...the window was another matter. It had been open,he knew for Elestirne-elf that she was-needed to feel the kiss of the free air or she felt confined. Olore's eyes narrowed further thoughtfully. Telemachus had spoken to his lady by magic carried on the wind's breath..it was disturbingly possible that the fiend could have delivered the letter in a similar way.. But Olore should still have been able to sense that bit of magic... And it didn't answer how he had known they were here and which rooms were Elestirne's...
The stallion snorted faintly in disgust to himself,then his ears came forward again slightly as he sensed a faint current of energy. From within the castle. He focused and was slightly surprised to find it tied to Storm. After a second of thought though,he nodded inwardly to himself;understanding. He had forgotten what Storm had told them of his lineage-there was elf in his blood. Not enough that he could mindspeak with no more effort than thought,but enough that he could do so-though it seemed to be causing him discomfort. Olore filed away the intrigueing discovery to tell Elestirne later. It was something that might prove useful perhaps. The stallion sent a brief thought to the mortal;inflected slightly with gentle laughter. Gently youngling. Do not force the connection,simply allow it. It will be easier for you.
Returning his full attention to the council he was slightly amused to realize that Kotaro appeared to be waiting on Tatsumura to speak first;adhering to that system of rank they seemed so fond of... Shaking his fine head just slightly the stallion spoke to the warrior,and only him.
Kotaro Shadowalker....rank is a fine thing and one important to your society I know but set it aside for now. In here we are friends and equals,with grim things to speak of and discuss. If you have any thoughts to offer on what you think of or believe should be done on either the letter and Telemachus somehow discovering we are here, or on the meeting with the fiend it would be good to hear them. Your input is just as valued as your lord's...
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Nov 20, 2008 23:22:01 GMT -5
Kotaro glanced at Olore.
I understand, but old habits die hard. I just don't know how Telemachus could have gotten that letter inside the castle. My shinobi would have informed me immediately had something been amiss in the kyuden.
He paused, a thought dawning. The shugenja, however, do not report to me. Perhaps they noticed something. Shall I ask them?
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 22, 2008 10:55:41 GMT -5
Olore regarded him solemnly, with a sort of thoughtful interest. The silver stallion tilted his head the faintest degree,a considering look in his eyes, and nodded slightly. Kotaro recieved a sense of approval from him.
A good thought... It is possible that your...shugenja? may have seen or sensed something missed by others. As Elestirne and I already have noted though Telemachus could not have come here in person and we both know your's and your lord's character well enough to believe that your ranks could not have been infiltrated or planted with a spy. Still...count your warriors constantly. Treachery may enter by the smallest and simplest means.. Nor do I believe that he would have had a lackey that could have passed the message to one of yours without suspicion. That leaves magic.
Olore's ears laced back again. Nothing approached or touched Elestirne's door or room last night or this morn-magical or otherwise. I would have known. There is another way,though,that the fiend could have delivered the letter without inviting suspicion. He cast a brief,concerned look to the elf-woman. Elestirne's window was open last night. And the fiend spoke to her with a spell on the breath of wind just as we were entering Mittelmarch and meeting with Storm... He could have easily delivered the letter in a similar way;slipping it into my lady's room through the window,on the wind... Elestirne and I should still have sensed even that though-and it does not explain how he knew we were here,nor how he knew which rooms were my lady's-but is the only explanation that makes sense. But I cannot be sure of more without abandoning the council and going to check and that I will not do until we settle what is to be done about the meeting with the fiend tomorrow eve.
The silver stallion snorted, audibly as well as mentally;drawing a curious look from Elestirne. But enough of this private council Kotaro. Tell your lord and my lady this thought of mine. I do not think it would have occurred to Elestirne yet that Telemachus would have been able to send the message in that means and Tatsumura may have thoughts on what to do. And yes,if you can contact these shugenja without leaving this council do so,and ask them if there are any traces of magic or energy about the window of Elestirne's room. If not, we must wait until I can examine it myself. But now, let us again include Elestirne and Tatsumura in the conversation. It is fair and right that they should know the conclusion I have drawn. And...I did not think to ask my lady this earlier,when her distress summoned me...but ask if she perhaps sensed something... It is possible.
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Post by Kotaro on Nov 22, 2008 11:57:20 GMT -5
Kotaro spoke aloud. "Olore believes that Telemachus placed the message using the wind itself, judging by the fact that her window was open. I agree with him, it seems the only logical avenue with which to do so."
He turned to Lady Elestirne. "My lady, I will attempt to mind-speak with the shugenja in the castle to ask if they sensed anything odd. A few of them are quite keen to these kinds of things. But before I do, I want to ask you if you sensed anything yourself."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 23, 2008 1:10:10 GMT -5
Surprise flickered briefly through the elven-queen's silver eyes. "How do you...?"She broke off,glancing to Olore, and nodded faintly. "Ah,of course. He would have told you." She leveled a questioning look at the silver stallion,who returned it with his own implacable gaze and the slightest flickering of his sculpted ears.
Her bright eyes narrowed;glinting with worry. "I had not considered that... Yes...that would have been the only way for Telemachus to contact me without physically being here-which he could not have done-or having a lackey either here or passing the message on to one of your own. And both you and Olore-and I for that matter-are in agreement that either of the latter options could not have been done. This answers then,how he would have gotten the letter to me but leaves unanswered still how he knew which window was mine or that Olore and I were here to begin with... And both of us should have sensed it..."
She shook her head slightly,thoughtfully. Regarding Kotaro quietly for a moment,she thought over what he had asked before answering. Her words were spoken carefully. "Consiously felt or sensed...no. But there may have been something yes. I did not rest peacefully last night and was wakened abrubtly this morn. Initially,I would have attributed it to what I was dreaming and perhaps part of it was. But it makes sense now to think that the rest-if not most-of it might have been sensing the spell Telemachus used to get the letter in my room..." Pensively,she fell silent for a moment;eyes narrowing further,their clear light veiled. Olore chimed in during the lapse,his deep eyes flickering.
So it was sensed, The stallion nodded thoughtfully. Good. Kotaro,if you can,see if the shugenja sensed anything else. I doubt any magic lingers though,after the spell has achieved its purpose. And the letter is with us. Olore dipped his muzzle towards Elestirne,whose hand still held the parchment. With that settled we must now speak on this meeting the fiend desires of Elestirne and I-and what shall be done for it. The sculpted ears swiveled to Tatsumura as Olore focused his gaze on the warrior. Windwalker...you have yet to speak-about either the meeting or about this letter from the fiend. What are your thoughts?
Elestirne nodded slightly in confirmation to Kotaro. "Yes Kotaro,contact the shugenja if you desire or are able,though I do not-as Olore said-know what they will find,if anything. But even the slightest thing may help." Focusing on Tatsumura,she echoed the stallion. "Tatsumura,I would hear your thoughts on either this letter and its message or the meeting with Telemachus tomorrow but especially the latter." There was still a pale cast to her face but faint color was beginning to bloom in it again now that the shock of this second contact by Telemachus had begun to wear off and her silver eyes had regained their penetrating focus and keen light.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Nov 28, 2008 0:10:14 GMT -5
"I request your permission to have one of the senior shugenja examine your room, my lady. Perhaps that will shed some light on our situation."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 28, 2008 11:19:34 GMT -5
Properly armoured and armed Authion started to head downstairs to exit the castle and meet with his warriors-and possibly to assist Storm-when another thought crossed his mind. Changing his mind the elf took a swift detour-into Elestirne's room next door. Perhaps he would learn or find something that would aid them in understanding how the letter had reached his queen,or at least how the fiend knew she was here..
There was little to see. Elestirne,of course, had the letter,so it would be pointless to look for that. Her traveling gear, and Olore's,lay neatly in one corner. So too,did her swords,a surprise to him. He had not realized she was comfortable enough here to go weaponless. No,not weaponless,he amended. She was always armed-a lesson he had taught her. And there was always Olore of course. To his keen eyes as he scanned the room nothing seemed disturbed or out-of-place,but then again,as magic had been involved, there would likely be no obvious signs of a disturbance. Authion thought of getting a mage to examine the room but decided against it. Not without his queen's permisson.
A vague feeling of unease pricked at him as he neared the window,a sense of wrongness. He stared hard at it, but saw nothing out of the ordinary. His brow furrowed in worry and a frown creased his face. It was magic-his warrior instincts and logic told him that-but he could not pinpoint what sort or from whom...With a frustrated sigh and shake of his head,the knight reluctantly left the room;almost wishing he was a mage so that he could at least make sense of this puzzle. With another sigh,he went downstairs and exited the castle;making his way to where he would find the elven force,and thinking that he may speak to a mage after speaking to the warriors...
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 28, 2008 11:38:03 GMT -5
Elestirne glanced to Kotaro. A slight frown touched her face and her eyes narrowed slightly,but she nodded after a second. "I cannot see what use it will be when the letter is here with us but if you think it may yield something yes,you may Kotaro. Do so. As long as they are informed that my swords are enchanted and some of my other things may be touched by magic they should be well enough off." Once more she turned her clear gaze to Tatsumura;wondering why he had not yet spoken when he certainly must have thoughts to share...
Olore snorted lightly and imparted a message to Kotaro. Have them inform us immedientally if they find anything. And see to it that they examine the window especially. Since the message entered by that means, remnants of Telemachus's magic may linger in that area.
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Post by Kotaro on Nov 28, 2008 17:34:43 GMT -5
Kotaro nodded at Olore. "Very well."
He turned to Tatsumura. "My lord, who is the most senior of the shugenja?"
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Tatsumura Masamune
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Dec 2, 2008 8:47:43 GMT -5
"Isawa Tanaka, he is the head acolyte of the Void here. If anyone is able to figure out what happened, he will. Though...I think it may be overkill. I have my own theory."
Masamune makes his way towards the window.
"My Eyes and Ears have informed me that Telemachus has met with the Jovians....and the Jovians have there own....shadow warriors. It is possible..though I am not certain."
Masamune turned to face the rest of the group, his resolve seemed solid, as if he had just realized something.
"Kotaro-san, find Yogo Katsume, tell her to place her wards throughout the castle, mainly around Elestrine-dono's new room. And order the Eyes and Ears to take up positions inside the castle, but stay out of sight. Nothing gets in or out."
Masamune looks to Olore and Elestrine.
"I'm sorry to do this, but I must ask you to move to a more secure room. You are an honored guest here, and while you stay here, we must place you in a more secure part of the kyuden."
The tone in is voice tried to be as polite as possible, but it could be told that this was not a matter of debate.
(Sorry for the delay, things have been a bit busy.)
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Post by Kotaro on Dec 2, 2008 12:00:36 GMT -5
"Isawa Tanaka and Yogo Katsume, yes." Kotaro nodded, turned about, then left the room to complete his task.
In the wing of the kyuden that housed the Void acolytes, Kotaro managed to find Isawa Tanaka in short order. Entering quietly, he found the shugenja reading scrolls containing pictographs and symbols entirely unknown to Kotaro.
"Isawa-san, I am sorry to interrupt, but the Shogun and I require your assistance."
"May I ask what for, sir?" the shugenja asked, somewhat reluctant to leave his study of the scrolls.
"It'd be easier just to show you. And we must pick up another on the way," Kotaro replied, turning toward the door. "If you'll come with me."
"Wait here," Kotaro said to Isawa-san. Bowing to the great Buddha statue, he entered the meditation hall. Immediately, a wall of near-solid incense hit him, making his eyes water. Shaking off the brief stun, he went over to the priestess Yogo Tatsume. "Yogo Tatsume?"
"Yes?" she said, not opening her eyes.
"You are needed by the Shogun. If you'd come with me."
"Very well," she replied, standing and bowing to the statue. "Shall we?"
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 2, 2008 23:32:39 GMT -5
Elestirne listened to Tatsumura's words. Her heart weighed heavier as he dismissed Kotaro and continued speaking;fully guessing what would come. She sighed softly when he finished,the sound wistful and clearly audible. The slender elf-queen bowed her head briefly and closed her eyes. Ever must I be protected? I care not for this.
He is your friend and is concerned for your safety. And you are, as he said,an honored guest in is halls. Naturally, he thinks for your protection and well-being Elestirne. And he is shamed that the castle was breached. He is only seeking to look out for you and prevent further harm or threats. I know you don't like this, but you will accept it lady. There is no telling what Telemachus may try between now and the meeting tomorrow eve.
Again Elestirne sighed, but nodded reluctantly-just barely. Raising her head, she opened her eyes and met Tatsumura's gaze levelly. There was unhappiness in the silver orbs but reluctant acceptance as well, and resolve and resignation were in her face.
"I do not like this Masamune,but I must accept it. I can understand your reasons and I wish it were not necesary. But, as Olore said, you think for my safety and there is no telling what Telemachus may try or attempt between now and tomorrow night. Even so..."
She paused, then spoke again;a sternness tinging her voice. "However, you will not move me without moving Authion as well. He-and I-will not accept it. And I would have Storm remain near as well,if possible." Rising, she approached the other with gliding steps. Olore remained where he was. "But please remember my friend. I am an elf. You cannot shut me away from the natural world or the kiss of the free air-no matter how much you wish to protect. You may move me to a more secure room if you feel it is necesary and it is your desire to do so-that is your right as host-but you may not confine me to the castle or within the walls and I ask that you do not."
Her tone was gentle, but no less firm than his, and a glint flickered in her silver eyes as she continued. "If Telemachus wishes to contact me, he would find a way, I do not doubt, no matter the protections in the way. This, intuition tells me. But now we must speak on what shall be done about this meeting tomorrow night that Telemachus desires of me, for that was the original purpose of this council. There are other things that might be spoken of...but this takes precedence and I do not want to ajourn the council until we resolve it Tatsumura." Her voice was firm,expression resolute as she held his violet gaze with her silver one.
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Tatsumura Masamune
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Dec 8, 2008 17:55:33 GMT -5
"I have no arguments with moving them, and would not do so otherwise. And this is not a move to contain you Elestrin -dono, nor confine you inside the walls. I understand the ways and needs of elves better then you give me credit for. You are still free to move about the castle at will, and at any time you seek, though do have the knowledge that no matter where you are, you will be guarded."
Masamune reaches into his kimono, pulling out a few strands of silvery hair. Easily noticed to belong to Olore.
"As for your rendevouz, you should go. But I will be going as well."
Masamune tucks the hairs away, then turning his head to Akururi
"I will not disallow any others from going either, not that I could stop you from going to defend your "Shisutaa."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 9, 2008 21:09:50 GMT -5
"I had to make sure you understood." Regret tinged her musical voice. "I am sorry if my tone sounded harsh. Now that I am sure you understand I can better accept this idea of moving me to a different room and that you act in interest of my safety,which I appreciate. Better over-cautious than careless." A faint tenseness touched her form and showed in her fair face. "But it does not mean I like this any more, though I must accept it. The same for the ideas of being protected and guarded. But,I understand Masamune. This is not meant to imply that I am unable to protect myself, or that Olore is inadequete protection to me-only that you feel it is necesary that I have other protection. Correct? If you must have it, I would feel better if such a guard was half of my own people and half yours instead of wholly your people. But please say not that I give no credit to your knowledge of the ways and needs of elves-you and Kotaro have been friends of mine these three years since our first meeting ha'e we not?"
The elven-queen's eyes widened at sight of the hairs;recognizing them as Olore's. "When...? How?" She looked to Olore questioningly and the stallion answered her unspoken desire for an expanation;projecting his thoughts to both her and Tatsumura.
He and I spoke together after the council last night. There were some things I wished him to have a clear understanding of,and some things I wished answered. The stallion snorted softly,ears flicking to and fro. I was satisfied on both counts lady. The hairs are my gift to him-and a gift well-given-should he need to reach us quickly. He will not misuse them.
Elestirne nodded faintly,then turned to Tatsumura. Again the elven-queen nodded-this one of resignation. A glimmer of sorrow flickered in her silver eyes. "I had no intention of walking into danger blindly. Well do I realize that none of you would let me-and would think yourselves poor friends if you did. And if you insist on accompanying doubtless the others will as well. But I still do not want any of you putting yourselves in needless danger and suggest that it might be better if it seems to Telemachus as though Olore and I are alone. That way, my heart rests easier for knowing that none of you are in danger,and you and the others fulfill their desire to protect and watch out for me."
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Post by Kaida NyteClaw on Dec 9, 2008 21:20:06 GMT -5
Elestirne gave me permission
I sit in a dark room upon meditating. It is quiet and dark with candles lit all around. I see a glimpse of light coming off the water near the edge of my kingdom. A female clad with shining white light emanating from her body and soul seems to call to me. A horse with deep stary blue eyes, is next to her is trying to tell me something. And then a man of dark power comes out of nowhere, and tries to take this maiden of light away, but the horse prevents it. The dark power seems to make me cold as it gets closer to the light.
I sit after a long days work in one of my many quiet chambers to meditate off what the humans call stress. Meditation is a normal thing for me, I have been doing it since I was a little tot. Every usually becomes a little clearer after a few hours of meditation. Today was different though, though I had been meditating for a very long time, I awoke from my meditation feeling something strong. This power that I felt grew closer to my kingdom. I knew not what it was, cept that it was powerful and good.
I decided to set out and search for this powerful being. Every time I felt this power it seemed to send a slight shiver down my spine even though it was good. This power was almost as strong as mine, but stronger. I packed up Faux, and made sure she had enough food for the journey. We set out on the journey that would take us through forested homeland until we reached open meadows surrounded by hills of different sizes.
Traveling through this terrain I thought of the previous days and how beautiful my kingdom was. Trees, flowers, and vines growing all around me. This image brought me a sudden warmth inside, for this is how I view the world, is with such beauty.
I traveled for a few more hours before coming upon a slight stream. The air here was cleaner that was all around. The water clear as daylight. I took a wooden cup from my satchel and gathered some water within this cup. Taking a slight sip I set the cup down on a rock and started to meditate again. I felt this feeling again. Yet it was closer now. And it was coming towards me. I shall wait for this being right where it sit. This place is serene and shall be protected from harm. I pulled out a knife and a piece of wood. I thought I might do a little carving as I did alot of different totems for people and gave them wise words. I decided to do a horse, to show majesty, beauty, and a spirited quality about a person.
As I wittled away the time, I could not help but wonder was this mysterious power was that grew closer with the time. Nonetheless I would wait it out and see as it probably is drawn to me, being of a good nature sense and all. I decided to get some food ready while I was at it, for I am hungry and weary, I had obstained from eating anything for a few days. I got a small satchel out and looked at what I had. I like my food cut up, mind you. I had apples, dried oranges and bananas, some potatoes and some strawberries. I was not keen on the whole eating meat thing, the only time I do that is when I give back to Nature itself. I thought about it long and hard, and decided to pull out the fruit and set them on a plate like dish, ready to either eat from or serve. And with that I sat enjoy a strawberry or two while I waited for my totem to be done and the powerful being to stand in my presence.
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Post by Kotaro on Dec 9, 2008 22:31:18 GMT -5
"A task easier said than done," Kotaro said striding into the room, Isawa Tanaka and Yogo Katsume trailing behind him. "If Telemachus is as powerful as they say, and I've no doubt he is, than he will assuredly have taken measures to warn him of any... interrupters. I don't believe he will rely only on his earthly senses. He's much smarter than that."
He turned to the two he brought into the room. "Isawa-san, please check Elestirne-sama's room for any residual traces of magic. Ignore her blades and possessions, and focus your attention on the window and walls. Katsume-san, I need you to place anti-intrusion charms on this room and on the rest of the kyuden, the stronger the better. Go."
"Hai," they said, almost in unison, and set about their tasks.
"Now, how can we accompany Elestirne-sama without being detected?" he said, returning his attention to the topic at hand. "This is all assuming that Telemachus complies with his own terms and comes alone himself, of course.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 10, 2008 21:37:14 GMT -5
Elestirne allowed a brief flicker of surprise to cross her face at Kotaro's reappearence but Olore reacted not at all;save the barest flicker of an ear.
"In many things the word is easier than the deed," she reflected meditatively. "Telemachus is powerful yes,and it is possible that he would take measures of warning against...interrupters as you say. Indeed, 'tis likely. He was smart enough to set a second ambush specifically for Olore and I after the first failed, after all, and to predict that we would make for Mittelmarch rather than the Black Door. No, he should not be underestimated."
She shifted her gaze to Kotaro. "He expects I and Olore of course-and knows we will come. That much is certain. And he knows-or has guessed-the pain it causes me to see danger or pain to/in others and be unable to help. That was apparent when I watched the attack on Mittelmarch and could do nothing,and when Olore bore me away from the ambush on the escort. Likely then, he guesses that I would have done all I could to dissuade you from accompanying."
The slender elf-queen offered the faintest shrug of a shoulder. "Only that course proved a vain one to pursue. I should have realized from the first moment I told of his request that not a one of you would let me go alone, nor walk by myself into what could so easily be a trap." Momentarily,she clasped both men on the shoulder warmly. "But that was clouded by the desire to see no harm com to any of you.
As for Telemachus holding to his own terms, and coming alone, as he had bade me.."Elestirne shook her head faintly. "One should not assume. But I would not trust to it. He may come alone...or he may likely have others-seen or unseen. How is it that you say? 'Hope for the best,prepare and expect the worst'? Thus why I suggest it should seem to the dark one that Olore and I are alone,on the chance that he does hold to the terms he set me... How? I am no mage..but I have mages in the force I brough..and you have magic-users among your numbers as well...or Olore could shield all of you,if he wished. But pure stealth may be better,considering,as Kotaro brought up,that he might have magic searching for..unwelcome tag-alongs-especially those cloaked by magic perhaps."
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Kotaro
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Supporter of Hammer Pants
Shogun
Posts: 1,174
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Post by Kotaro on Dec 11, 2008 0:09:14 GMT -5
"I've learned many things over the years, the first being to never assume anything as certain. After all, the only unchanging thing in the universe is that everything changes," Kotaro said drearily, resting his hand on his wakizashi.
"But my concern was that he may have set alarms against intrusion of any kind, magical or otherwise."
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Tatsumura Masamune
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Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Dec 16, 2008 22:57:56 GMT -5
"Hmm...we will have to figure things out quickly. We are running out of time."
Masamune looks about the room, noticing the shugenja at work.
"I will return with my thoughs later, I have some matters to attend to."
With that, Masamune walks out of the room, heading down the hall quickly to check the daily reports.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 19, 2008 1:50:56 GMT -5
Elestirne nodded in agreement. " Yes...that we are. We must decide by tonight my friends. But let us take time to gather our thoughts on the subject...and then remeet. It is early yet." She nods respectively to Tatsumura as he leaves,then briefly places a slender hand on Kotaro's shoulder. "Inform me,if you would, if your...shugenja finds anything?" she requested softly. "At once? I am going to try to clear my mind and shake free of this unease I feel for the thought of this impending meeting.." She sighed,softly. "And when we return we can speak of where I'll be moved to,as according to your lord Tatsumura's desires and concerns for my safety.." She dipped her head to Kotaro in the barest of nods, then turned for the doors;meaning to go find a quiet spot to meditate or be alone.
Olore intercepted her after a few strides. His deep blue eyes verily glowed. No, he said firmly. I will not allow you to worry yourself further Elestirne. You have done enough of that. You deserve a moment free of worry. As you told Tatsumura, elves need the free air and nature,and I am here to watch for you. Let us go for a ride. I need to stretch my legs and it will be good for you to get out. Besides...I sense something. Something draws close. I wish to investigate. He shook his head,mane shimmering with light. Come lady. While the day is young and before any try to stop you. Almost reluctantly,but bemused, Elestirne followed as the stallion bid;only pausing to go to her room and collect her weapons, cloak and a few other things. From there, she tacked Olore and mounted.
The silver stallion wasted no time, breaking into a gentlte trot as soon as she was settled. She looked back briefly, but then focused on what was before her as Olore cleared the gates and began to move purposefully away from the wall. He broke into a smooth canter and,in an eyeblink,the pair was lost to view.
An hour or so later found the two wandering through a wood some miles from the kyuden. Golden sunlight streamed down and dappled the ground in pleasing patterns. Shadows shifted as a breeze stirred leaves and limbs of trees and brought a sweet scent to the two. Upon Olore's back,Elestirne breathed deeply-at peace and one with the surroundings. Olore gave a low nicker. His silver coat gleamed in the half-light as he made his way. I told you that this would be good for you. His tone was one of faint smugness. You needed this lady.
Elestirne gave no response but there was a contented look on her face and her sculpted lips held a faint smile. She did feel more at ease now,less troubled. Her eyes closed as she took another deep breath,and the faint smile became more definete. To be free fom worry for a few hours-and the troubling talk,and here instead among the birdsong, sunshine and growing things.... Her heart rejoiced in the beauty of nature all around her,and of the respite from the problems and questions surrounding her back at Tatsumura's castle. As she rode the tautness and strain etched in her face slowly eased and the sparkle returned to her brilliant silver eyes.
Eventually, the woods began to thin. Olore slowed; ear pricking forward, nostrils flaring. What I sensed is not far now. Ahead of us lady. There was only interest and curiousity in his voice,no alarm. Neverthelss,Elestirne straightened and shifted in the saddle. Her hand slipped to pat Olore's shining neck briefly. It would not do to be unwary.
Glimpses of a meadow and a sparkling stream began to be seen through the trees. Elestirne's keen eyes also picked out the form of a horse-and another that might be elven,by the water. She too, now, could sense something about the figure...a power and deep attunement with and relation towards nature-one that went beyond even the normal attunement of elves towards the natural.
Without any guidance, Olore moved soundlessly from the trees into the meadow and towards the stream and the figure. He left no trace of passage at all-not even a bent grass-and halted about ten feet upstream., his mane and tail flowing in a slight breeze, silver coat shimmering. On his back, the same gentle breeze sent glimmers of silver rippling the full length of Elestirne's long midnight tresses. He crown of intricately-wrought silver and mithril glittered as the sunlight hit it and the single silver-blue moonstone set into its center seemed to shine with its own light. Patiently, she waited;intrigued,and wary of this stranger. She knew that,if Olore could sense power in this one the figure in turn-an elf she now saw- could likely sense Olore.. She waited to see what would befall..
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Post by Kaida NyteClaw on Dec 19, 2008 6:32:48 GMT -5
When I finally finished the totem, I could feel as though someone were watching me. I looked around to my left and then my right. No one to either side, and then right in front of me I spotted a traveller on horseback. That strange power I felt was coming from them both. I stood from where I sat looking over at these two, wondering what I could do to get closer. I thought it best to somehow do this in an unexpected way and unharmful one at that.
I said a few short words, in a moment or two I turned into a mist caught by a rush of air, and gliding on it like a cushion over the other side of the stream. Again I said a few more words, these ones echoed within the meadow. Still gazing on the individual on the horse, I turned back to flesh and bone again, shivering as I walked slowly towards the rider and her steed.
Approaching this being I gazed upon both the horse and the person to get in for a closer look. Upon inspection I could see that it was a woman. She was finely dressed like that of a royal person, her steed was well groomed and carried her with the greatest of ease. She was roughly the same age as me. However she was a bit taller than me, for where I come from normal high elves are aroun 5' 8"ish. She was staring at me with silvery grey eyes. She wore a wrought metal circlet upon her gentle head. She had beautiful long silver hair, almost like that of the glowing person in my premonition.
I studied her while walking towards them with such curiosity, I kinda lost myself within her eyes. I looked at the horse in my hand and then back at her horse. It was the exact horse I had my vision of. Why or how this happened was beyond my reasoning at this time. I thought it best to introduce myself.
With a slight bow I say,"Tidings, sister elf"
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 19, 2008 22:24:18 GMT -5
As she and Olore stood there Elestirne took the opportunity to study the stranger, who seemed to be preoccupied in carving something from a beautiful silvery wood.
He was a golden-haired elf, robed richly. A crown of pale gold rested on his head and two rings glittered on one hand. One seemed to be a crest of some sort, but was unfamiliar to her. The other, however, was the symbol of Mittelmarch. He was armed-there was a bow over a shoulder and she espied a sword hilt protruding from a scabbard hung on the peacefully grazing mare behind him. He appeared to be around her age, perhaps slightly younger-a surprise. But the power she sensed from him...undobtedly natural and good. She nodded faintly,but her clear eyes narrowed slightly,wondering. It seemed too out of place to find another here..too coincidental. Why was he here?
He sensed me, Olore imparted. As I sensed him. I believe he may be a druid. He is curious I imagine-about both of us, but I especially. We have nothing to fear from him lady.
Elestirne did not answe, her silver eyes on th stranger, who had noticed them. She watched as he turned to mist and glided across the stream, then resolidfied and began to walk towards them;raising one raven eyebrow. The elven-queen held herself still on Olore, curious and wary, but unafraid.
Olore held himself collected and proud. As motionless as Elestirne, with head held high and neck arched, he calmly permitted the stranger's approach,who bowed as he neared,then halted. The stallion's mane and tail rippled like liquid starlight and his coat shimmered silver.
At the bow,Elestirne inclned her head slightly in a respectful nod;silvr glimering the length of her midnight tresss as she did so. The silver-blue moonstone set in her circlet glittered as a ray of light struck it. With interest, she noticed his awe and surprise as he studied Olore-and her-and noted with surprise of her own the striking resembleance of the carving he held-a horse, she now saw-to Olore.
"Greetings and fair health,"she responded after a moment. Her quiet, musical voice was tinged with surprise and there was wariness in her eyes as she regarded him. Yet, there was curiousity as well. "One observes the symbol of Mittelmarch on your ring and wonders if you are a friend of tha land and also what one might call you."
Olore snorted softly and he shifted slightly. His starry blue eyes held the elf intently in their depthless gaze, but he said nothing yet. Elestirne's eyes held the other also, and after a moment she spoke again. "The carving you hold...bears a marked resembleance to my stallion. May I ask what is its meaning or significance, and surmise that this meeting is not by chance only?" Her voice chimed softly-friendly and gentle-but her silver eyes still held wariness.
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Post by Kaida NyteClaw on Dec 19, 2008 22:28:31 GMT -5
"I am a friend and ally of Mittelmarch. I am Lord Denendir of Kanthea. And as for this carving, it is by chance that you ask of that. The horse itself is of Beauty, Strength, and grace. A horse should never be underestimated for it could prove more than you know. I had a premonition not long ago about a meeting with a being shining in the light, riding a steed. And this image comes back every so often so that I dont forget. And who might you be?" I asked politely.
Seeing that she was kind when she talked, he was a little more at ease now knowing that she knew of mittelmarch. A little surprised that her steed just stands there, as if something was wrong he didnt do what normal horses would.
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