|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 25, 2011 16:44:04 GMT -5
The elves had risen early. Most of Elestirne's escort were present in the common room,and scattered about. A few were absent,perhaps on errands. The rest paused in their conversations to watch Tsukasa as he came down. Some nodded in greeting but none spoke. There seemed to be a slightly tense air about them.
Authnor,Tigron and Lady Elestirne were sitting at a table a ways removed from the rest the elves and the other customers. Olore stood close by, his fine head at Elestirne's shoulder. The elven-queen seemed pale and weary still but a faint glow of health seemed to have at last returned to her face. The three-four if Olore was to be included-seemed solemnly in discussion about the upcoming ritual. Authnor had just finished speaking of using the escort-or some of them anyway-as a physical ring of protection in case undead did attack during the casting. Elestirne was now telling Authnor and Tigron of the location Olore had found, and the materials and ingredients that would be needed. Her voice was as beautiful and melodic as ever,but still shaded faintly with pain and weariness.
"There is pure spring water, earth and air in plenty at the clearing Olore found, and it is heavy with the strength of nature and with pure ,natural magic. There is a heavy ring of old oaks all around and it is in one of the more secluded parts of the forest. It is perfect. What the clearing does not provide we must gather. Therefore we will need firewood for a bonfire and enough rock salt to form a wide circle. As well as blood from the kin,"she glanced briefly at Tigron. "Wood for the bowl we can either call or carve from one of the oaks, or find such here, and a silver pitcher I have. I will need to purify myself for the ritual, so I will bathe at the spring. My arm will have to be unbound and removed from its sling and I will be dressed simply,my hair loose.
"The magic of my crown, necklace and swords might disrupt the ritual and the delicate balance in the ring once sealed, so I will not be wearing them. Olore will be helping with the ritual, and Tigron to is indirectly a part, so it will be up to you Authnor,and the escort to defend against any threat that manifests. And, since symbolism matters some in such a ritual, we will hold it in the darkness before dawn, for the dawn shall represent renewal and new life. And such Tigron's brother shall have." She paused a moment, then went on, her tone suddenly serious,almost grim. "And I shall warn you both that once the salt ring is joined and the ritual begun it shall be death to step into the circle. You must not cross the ring for any reason until the ritual is finished."
Her silver eyes lingered intensely on Authnor particularily. "Not for any reason-even if you percieve me to be weakening or in danger. The lich-remnant may try to attack or even possess me but you must not cross the ring." She kept her piercing silver gaze on the knight until he grudgingly affirmed he understood, then relaxed minimally. A shadow of worry darkened her fair features and she leaned back,wincing.
Olore nuzzled her even as his ears pricked in Tsukasa's direction. Bright the dawn warrior of man, the eldritch being greeted. I know you are there. Do,join us and, since I am right to guess you have heard my lady's words, do share your thoughts also. His words to Tsukasa were only heard by the mortal, but Elestirne lifted her head as if sensing something, and her silver gaze lighted on Tsukasa. She nodded to him slightly, what might have been a weak,faint smile ghosting across her lips. Authnor looked up as well to find out what had drawn his queen's attention,his expression hard and profoundly unhappy and worried before he masked it. He nodded to the samurai. "Bright the dawn warrior. Join us if you will. It would be good to know if you gave thought to my words and our conversation last night, and if you rested well." The last was delivered with a canted eyebrow. The elven knight, in a subtle way,seemed either to be asking something or hinting at something.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 22, 2011 18:14:59 GMT -5
Authnor's stony expression seemed to ease some, if only very little. "Very little is truly as it appears and almost none of it is as simple as is first thought. Life is always changing. I thought different once, when I was younger and things still seemed either black or white. I have learned better since knowing my lady-and especially since her crowning. She it was that reminded me of the wide diversity and difference to be found in the world and in life, and nature's unflinching embrace and acceptance of that diversity and uniqueness."
He slanted a sharp gaze to Tsukasa, wondering belatedly if he had perhaps said too much in revealing and hinting at Artanor's past history and strife before Elestirne had taken the throne and made all right. Wondering too, why Tsukasa still made no comment. Must be overwhelmed,Authnor mused;dismissing the second thought. He decided to say no more on Artanor yet, if it could be helped.
"Duty is a commendable trait," the knight said at last. "One I more than understand as a knight to Artanor and especially to my queen. Honor and loyalty as well." His eyes flashed briefly. "Yet I must point out that my lady-queen was outside the walls when she was taken and not one of Mittelmarch's citizens, and futhermore, that you are not sworn or bound to her as I am. Your honor thus, is fully intact. Mine however..."
Authnor was cut off abruptly. A silvery light had manifested about ten feet from the two and a moment later Olore had appeared in full form. He pawed the ground delicately with one silver forehoof, fixing elven knight and samurai both with his depthless sapphire eyes.
What interesting discussions, the stallion commented wryly,amusement coloring the thought heavily. I am glad to see that you two are becoming better acquainted-even friends-and that you, Authnor, are finally becoming more open-minded. And do be quiet, he added somewhat tartly,as the knight started to object. Remember knight-protector, that it was I that ultimately made you stay behind, and for what reasons, not Tsukasa. If you still believe there to be a stain on your honor, a failure in your duty, that is a matter between you and your queen. But your oath and friendship also demands you help those whom she considers friends and allies and you did so by helping defend Mittelmarch. As to the part of the secret and curse that Elestirne yet keeps, and why she chooses to bear the burden alone, those are between her and the gods alone,and personal matters. You know what you need to know, no more. Be content that you have that much,when others know nothing at all of either curse or true lineage.
He glanced from one to the other briefly. Perhaps more talk should wait. I am certain you, Tsukasa, have much to think of, and perhaps other things to do. And you, Authnor, would do well to speak to your queen-I am going to scout the area for a place such as she has described for the ritual and you should watch over her and make sure she gets her rest. She will need all of it and more between now and the ritual. Perhaps it might not be a bad idea for you two to get some as well. Your strength might be needed if unwelcome visitors are drawn to the magic and the lich-remnant and come calling, as Elestirne fears will occur. But I will leave you now. I would rather find a suitable place tonight so that there is enough time to properly prepare and ward it after gathering the needed materials for the casting. The stallion shook out his mane then leveled Authnor with a sharp look before nodding to both. Talk more if you wish, but remember my words. May the light shine on you both. With that, the stallion simply faded away in a shimmer of silver sparkles.
Authnor stood staring at the spot for a few moments then sighed and shook his head, seeming frustrated. He glanced at Tsukasa. "I do hate when he does that.." the knight said. "Ever appearing out of nowhere when one thinks they are alone and their words private. I shall never get used to it I think. Unfortunately, he is right. As he always seems to be. I apoligize if my words gave offense, but I do not take either dishonor or failure in duty lightly-especially not when connected to my service to Elestirne. I will leave you to yourself, and see to my queen as Honored Olore suggests. I am certain we will speak tomorrow and it might be best to put your request to my lady before the ritual. I doubt she will be in any state to hear it after. May the stars shine on you and light your way...friend." The tall, red-haired elf gave an odd,brief smile, inclined his head a little, and headed back for the inn.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 20, 2011 13:06:47 GMT -5
Authnor paused as Tsukasa called after him. After a moment, the elf turned slowly back to face the man, a strange, unreadable expression on his face. The tall warrior laughed softly suddenly-whether at himself, Tsukasa or the man's words could not be certain.
"Tsukasa, no offense meant, but your race as a whole-regardless of culture-tends to distrust anything and anyone different than them and find that difference disturbing. And yet that is a flaw of the elves and all other races as well; to tend to cloister ourselves within our own race, our own beliefs and our own culture and ways, and to look on others with distrust and suspicion because of the difference. It seems odd to me that we seem to shun and fear difference and look at it askance when it is a natural part of the world. No two birds sing with the same voice, no two trees grow the same way. Nor do any two beasts hunt the same way or any two rivers flow with the same water. This world we walk-and the nature all around us-is wonderful and strange, full of diversity and difference. We all have worth. What a dull existence it would be if all things, if all people, were exactly the same. We would have nothing to learn from each other, nothing to share with and teach other, nothing to set us apart. We would have no individuality.
“And yet we shun and distrust difference-even revile and fear it in some cases-rather than embrace it as we should. If we did...perhaps the world would be better. And I say to you that men as a race has always, to some extent, distrusted and been disturbed by the elder, longer-lived races and perhaps particularly the elves because we are so very different from both you and the dwarves. And we elves, likewise, have been distrustful and wary of those not of elvenkind. Such holds true still. We fear what is different, perhaps more because it is different than whatever it is that makes it different. We of Artanor are perhaps a prime example. Too many millennia have we been cloistered within our wards and mountains, lost and forgotten to the world and other races without, and at odds with and shunning even ourselves; forgetting the common threads of elven heritage and citizens of the realm for the differences of wood-elf or high, sea –elf or wild, and common blood/birth or noble. We even chose to divide and shun based on what city one was from.”
Authnor shook his head. His emerald eyes were dark. “Well do I remember those days of suspicion, distrust and division even amongst ourselves. It was the queen that broke us free out of the web of deceit, mistrust and lies we had woven, the shackles of prejudice we had bound our minds with. She healed the rifts and united all the kindreds, cities and houses once more. And thanks to her we slowly are becoming reacquainted with and known again, in the world without . And so, we are perhaps more open-minded about associating with the good races, and more friendly with them, than other elves.” A small, faint smile. “Yet the old stigmas and prejudices hold and we are thus wary and keep firmly to ourselves as a people.”
He held Tsukasa’s gaze sternly for a moment. “I know not what you think you have learned of my race-and of we of Artanor specifically-when we were discussing the curse, my queen, and the truth of her lineage. It would be considered little though, to what you would learn and see if you are allowed to come with us when we return home.” He paused a moment, wondering why the man had not commented further on those thing, or even the slip of Authnor’s age, but decided that perhaps Tsukasa was overwhelmed and still trying to make sense of it all. At the samurai’s next words he hesitated still further.
"I told you once that questions are tricky things with us. Especially direct ones, for they can be viewed as rude, and as demands for answers and information, rather than polite requests for such. You must have noticed that you have almost never heard I, my lady, or any of her elves ask direct questions of anyone save at need, if at all. However, when one is among mortals whose ways are not ours, sometimes new ways must be briefly adopted. Questions seem to be the norm for your kind, and heartily accepted and encoaraged. And...there is something I would perhaps ask you, if you would grant the courtesy of an answer." His gaze was suddenly sharp and piercing,expression unreadable and maybe a little forbidding as he crossed his arms and faced Tsukasa squarely.
"I still do not understand why you went with to try to rescue my queen." The elf said at last, bluntly,eyes glinting. "Storm, Olore and Tatsumara were bound by friendship and oath to. You had neither reason nor cause to. Why risk yourself for someone you knew not at all and owed nothing to,save,perhaps,your life? Very few would do something so dangerous for a stranger for nothing, or for no reason... And why did you agree with Olore and Storm in forcing me to stay behind? My oaths and personal friendship gave me the right to go-demanded it. It would...be good to hear your reasons for. both things I ask since...as her knight and her friend my honor is compromised for not going to help rescue her. With it, the sense that I have failed in my duty. She has not asked me why I was not with. Yet. But I know she wonders. And so, there is shame in the failure of not having been there as I ought to have been, as oath and friendship demanded." The elven-knight's eyes were dark,his expression grim.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 15, 2011 21:34:33 GMT -5
"Not 'the' goddess," Authnor corrected; deciding to answer the second topic and let the first drop. "Our highest goddess Tsukasa, the one we most revere and love: Holy Araira of the Stars, Stargiver and Heavenqueen; second only to Erthalu Lightfather, her consort. And no. Not 'the divine bloodline'.
"The royal line has divine blood true but it has been much diluted as the long centuries and subsequent generations have passed. Only in a rare few royals its said, does the divine blood blossom again and exist in equal strength and measure as the elven. Those few-and there is never more than one, maybe two,every so many generations-are considered god-touched or favored, meant for great destinies or strange fates. The wise tend to regard them as chosen of the gods, not just marked or favored by them. I don't know what to believe, but we both heard my lady name herself Araira's chosen last night. Yet she did not say what she was chosen for-or as-and so I believe she is holding something back. And that worries me. If we are worthy enough to learn of her true lineage and the most important part of the curse, then why not the full part and the whole secret?
"On the curse...it is not 'until' Araira calls her home, it is if she is allowed to," the elf noted darkly. "She said both that the curse forbids her either dying or being killed, and from leaving this earth. Forever." Authnor looked at Tsukasa,his gaze grim."We neither live forever, nor are immortal as your legends and tales paint us. We do have lifespans and eventually lay down our lives and bodies when it is time to move on to what is next-even though our lives may be ten times or more longer than a mortal's. And we can be slain by blade,beast,grief and magic, though not by age and sickness. I have seen the leaves fall five hundred times and more since my first breath and I am barely to be considered middle-aged,as you might say. But to return to topic, from what my queen has said she is cursed to linger forever in this world; unable to die,forbidden from leaving. Doomed, eventually,to fading to nothing more than some sort of spirit-not dead, but neither truly alive-when her sorrows and burdens overwhelm her. To be so cursed, with no hope of release or freedom from weariness..." Authnor shook his head, seeming at a loss. "No elf could comprehend it. It would be an unnatural existence for us, to be chained to life beyond our time,against our will. Against too,the natural order of things,and abhorrent. A terrible curse. I must hope that there is a way to lift it or alter it. No elf should have to suffer so."
He glanced to the man. "You ask me for insight on this. I have none to give you. I am a warrior, not a mage, and have little understanding of magic and its ways. Nor do I wish to. You would do better to ask Olore. I know nothing more beyond what Elestirne told us.
"As for why she wants to endure alone...I know my lady quite well. She may feel that since there is nothing anyone can do to help there is no point in having them try. Or she feels her burdens and sorrows are her own,and not to be placed on others. Perhaps she feels that accepting help, comfort, or encoaragement is a weakness-a vulnerability she dares not show or allow herself. As she herself said, she has bigger responsibilities than herself. She has a realm to rule and a people to lead. Her own personal burdens, sorrows and pains she cannot-will not-allow to interfere in that. And since she also cannot change the curse or lineage, nor her end and what's in store for her, she should at least be allowed to live the present as she chooses-with what peace,happiness,and enjoyment that might come. And I know she has no desire for who and what she is to taint or sully how others may see and treat her. In that,I can understand why she keeps her secrets close and hidden. Far too many would seek to use and take advantage of her for one or the other if they could,and an equal number might fear her, or else worship her. And she believes one should be known and judged for their actions and who they choose to be, not who and what they are born."
The knight sighed. "Foretold, prophecied queen,last of her line,divine-blooded, marked and chosen by the goddess, cruelly cursed and likely meant for a strange fate, or destiny greater even than being Queen of her people...she carries heavy burdens. Far too many, and yet she was also given the strength to bear them by the grace of the gods. I would help her if I could-or if she would allow it. As would you it seems. But I don't think she grasps that it is no bad thing to draw strength from others in need, or that she understands why others are so insistent on helping her. But...might I be right in thinking that you will aid and take part in this ritual,as a way,perhaps, of paying back for her healing and helping you?" Authnor looked at Tsukasa,then to the sky. "But I have talked too long and you perhaps had other things to do than speak to me on things that trouble us both. I would suggest to get some sleep as well ere long, for I think its likely that most of tomorrow will be spent preparing for the ritual,once Elestirne tells us what is needed."
The knight turned, preparing to go,then paused;allowing himself a faint,uncomfortable, wry smile as he glanced back to Tsukasa. "This conversation has been...most interesting. I would not normally wonder if a lich-state was unwilling or forced, or if the soul was good in the beginning or deserving of a second chance. Most elves never would. A lich is a lich, and evil. The idea that it could be redeemed would never occur to them. Between you and my young queen I am better instructed in the possible shades of grey that might exist on things I thought as true and unchanging as the changing of the seasons. I owe you both thanks for the lesson in being open-minded. What an enlivening experience it is, being around you mortals.Nothing is impossible for you, not even the thought that evil might be cured and redeemed into good." The veteran knight gave a slight, very slight,bow and left without further comment.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 8, 2011 12:04:41 GMT -5
Authnor eyed Tsukasa hard,the elf's emerald eyes dark. "On that I...could not tell you. I was told it was a possession, which implies unwillingness. And yet, if the soul was not pure before the possession, the corruption,fall and posession would have been much easier for the lich-and much harder for the soul to resist whatever temptation of power or revenge the lich may have offered for the joining. Liches are utterly and completely evil but...it is possible, as my queen so adamantly believes, that the soul is a victim and-whether corrupted or tempted initially or outright possesed-deserves a second chance."
The knight was plainly uncomfortable with the topic. "That is one of the dangers with your kind. You can switch between good and evil at an instants notice,and switch back just as swiftly. Dangerous,and unpredictable. I have known good humans mostly, but I have also heard of some truly evil ones. The overall nature of humankind hovers dangerously,contains the potential for both. Which way will your race ultimately turn?"
Authnor shook his head. "That is for the gods alone to know-and you to decide. Pray it be to good though, for if it is to evil then you have the potential to destroy everything in the thirst for conquest and greed for more that I have observed. There is a darkness in your natures,as well as a good. The choice is yours-individually and as a race-which path you follow."
The emerald eyes turned still darker as worry swept over the knight's face. "I share your worry for my queen. She cannot be killed true-she said death is forbidden her-but that does not lessen my unease. In her weakened state, attempting such a dangerous magic can only have serious consequences. She may be weakened to the point that she has no reserves or strength left. There's also the possibility that the casting will aggravate the injuries gotten at Telamon's hand, or sap her energy to the point that she cannot call on her innate healing for aid or relief."
The elf shook his head yet again, the gesture one of frustration. "As I said, she does too much. But she cannot refuse the cry of help and pain. I pray the price is not too high, and that Tigron knows how very fortunate he is that she agreed to his plea." The tall warrior sighed. "We cannot hope to dissuade her from this, so the only course is to do what we might to help her. As I said earlier, she may actually see this as a redemption of her own, for actions that she cannot forgive herself for but which are not her fault. This is the second time she has slain an elf. No doubt the memories weigh heavily and evilly on her still from the first time. And I think-though I cannot be sure-that she has not said everything about her two secrets. She is holding back something yet,which disturbs me greatly."
He paused and regarded Tsukasa with a piercing glance as he turned over the samurai's request in his mind. "That you would have to ask her personally," he said at last. "I cannot speak for her in that, but I have marked your curiousity about us and I admit I am equally curious about the samurai. I have noticed when among Tatsumura's people that they seem to share certain things in common with us elves, not least a code of honor and love of beauty and nature. And it is not the first time a mortal has stayed with us for a time. Storm has visited and before him there have been others that have earned the privilige. It is not something granted often though and it is her decision not mine Tsukasa. She is Queen, I am not. You will need to ask her and see what she says."
"Now, if I might, I sense you are also troubled regarding the secrets we learned, as I am. It would be good to know what your thoughts and feelings on them are."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 8, 2011 0:31:14 GMT -5
Authnor looked hard at Tsukasa a long moment without speaking. It was plain the knight was thinking hard and fast. His face was unreadable. "It is not the elven way to cling to life when our time is done," he said at last. "That is against the natural order and so,abhorrent to us. Likewise, no elf of good weal would ever consider becoming a lich, the very perversion of life and nature. Something such as you therefore ask me to identify with is most unlikely of ever occuring amongst elves, unless the lich managed to possess the elf in question. And since empaths are exceedingly rare it is most unlikely that I would be faced with the dilemna of bringing pain to the one who might be able to help separate soul and lich. But if something of that sort did ever happen..."
Authnor hesitated,shaking his head the barest amount. "If my brother or anyone that I cared for ever happened to be in such a situation-unlikely as it may be-I would hope to free them from their suffering so that they may journey on and find peace. But bring them back to living form?" The elf shook his head again. "Few elves would consider asking for that-and few elven souls would desire it except in rare circumstances. To answer you:I would not be parted from the item that held the soul, but nor would I keep it in close proximity to the one that agreed to help any more than necesary if to do so would bring them pain and suffering. But enough of this." The warrior looked distinctly uncomfortable with such a subject. "Let us walk." In his own tongue, he passed some orders to the elves.
The tall knight led the way out of the inn and around to the small well he had discovered the samurai and his queen at late the night before. "We can move somewhere else if you wish but for now we will stay here." The knight fixed the samurai with a penetrating stare. "Let us speak then. You said you have had much on your mind. I can only imagine, given the trip to recover and rescue my queen, watching the battle between her and the fiend and then learning of the secrets she keeps hidden and close. It would be good to hear what you would tell. Perhaps thoughts on my earlier words is a part of it. We have time. Someone would be sent to find me if my lady Elestirne needs me." Authnor watched Tsukasa calmly.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 6, 2011 0:22:45 GMT -5
Elestirne blinked very slowly- startled by Tsukasa's words. With obvious effort she dragged herself back erect. A faint but obvious shudder rippled through her-though she tried to conceal it-at the mention of Telamon. Slowly, she shook her head faintly and started to speak but Olore nosed her gently; capturing her gaze with his depthless eyes and holding it. No word he spoke, but after a moment she broke the gaze; looking disconcerted.
Meeting Tsukasa's gaze instead, she noted the plain worry in the samurai's eyes and her own gaze softened a little as she conceded defeat and acknowledged that Authnor and Tsukasa were right. Resignedly, she gave a small nod. "I...will rest yes." she said softly at last. "No more can be done tonight and I have indeed exhausted myself-as you said Authnor. And Tsukasa you know that I cannot die, and the reason behind that. I pray you stay worthy of that trust."
Wincing, she unwound her hand from Olore's mane and pressed it against her side; her eyes turning haunted as her fair features grayed with the weariness and pain she finally let nakedly show. Olore nuzzled her again and she leaned a little against the stallion. "See to what you need to Tsukasa. I will rest to build up strength and energy for the ritual-as you two plead me to do. But we must make preparations and gather ingredients and…"
"It will be for nothing if you are so exhausted and pained that you have not the energy to perform the ritual my queen,” Authnor’s voice was equally respectful and firm. “I repeat myself Lady: I and the others will see to the preparations and gathering what will be needed once you tell us what is required. You must rest and hoard your strength, so that you are able to do the ritual. Let us do this for you-since you are adamant on helping Tigron-and rest for us. Please. You have more than earned and deserved it."
Elestirne looked hard at Authnor for a moment, but nodded reluctantly and allowed Olore to guide her back up to her room, leaning on the stallion.
Authnor watched her go, worry plain in his dark emerald eyes. "She does too much," he said quietly to Tsukasa. "She cannot resist trying to help someone in need or in pain-as you saw when she healed you. It is her nature. She would heal the world if it was possible I think, and would have tried to redeem Telamon I am certain, despite all he did to her and others. Or at least tried to take him alive and give him a chance to repent-even though he never would have. And now we both know the secrets and burdens she carries and hides from the world and her people."
The knight shook his head once slowly. "No matter how much she rests, I feel that this ritual will still severely drain her remaining strength and energy-perhaps beyond her endurance. She should not be doing this-least of all in her current state, after all she has endured. But I cannot stop her. She may see this as her own redemption; a way of cleansing herself of the blood she believes on her hands for being unable to either save Tatsumura or avoid killing Telamon." He cast Tsukasa a sharp, considering look. "I would ask what you think of the twin secrets she revealed. You and I alone-aside from Olore and the gods-know of them. And they were not given up lightly you can be sure. I thought I had known everything about my queen,that there were no secrets between us. I am proven wrong and it is most...unsettling. It makes for disturbing hearing, even as it makes sense of some things I have long wondered. " Casting the gathered escort a glance,Authnor continued. "But perhaps we might move ourselves elsewhere to speak,where other ears cannot overhear what they are not meant to. And we might see to it that Tigron leaves as well. The dagger-or contact with the soul trapped within-seemed to cause my lady pain and I am determined her rest and sleep be as peaceful and untroubled as possible."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 4, 2011 23:11:35 GMT -5
Elestirne tensed suddenly, her silver gaze dropping to the dagger Tigron carried. Olore stiffened in the same instant; sensing what she had. The magic binding the soul to the dagger was failing. The human part was weakening, the lich-remnant, growing stronger. And both were aware of her presence, maybe even of the hope she represented. The hand on Olore's neck clenched into a fist, clutching a handful of silver mane tightly. Pain shot through the still-healing wrist but she did not notice as the soul assaulted her with emotions-both parts of it.
The lich battered her with a mix of hatred, malevolence and rage so strong that she swayed on the spot as her surroundings blurred and spun. From the still-human part of the soul came a desperate pleading for forgiveness and redemption, a still more desperate desire for release and freedom, and strong,genuine regret and remorse for what it had done as itself, before the lich took over. The battle between the two was intense and bitter, the emotions overwhelming in their rawness and strength.
Elestirne swayed again,shuddered profoundly as she sought to keep her shields up between the powerful barrage and her limited reserves of strength and energy. Steeling herself, she sent her consiousness between the two entities;standing between them like a shield and blocking the lich long enough to throw the human remnant a 'lifeline'. It latched on like one drowning and she winced from both the raw touch and sheer pain of it as well as the continued assault of the lich, even as she stabilized the failing magic so that it would hold until the ritual.
She opened her eyes to find Olore all but supporting her and Authnor at her elbow,his expression gravely concerned. Distantly registering his anxious inquiries,she shook her head faintly, drawing in a slow breath as she did. Her voice was grim as she forced herself to speak. "Time is shorter than we think. The magic binding the soul to the dagger begins to fail. It would have failed now if I had not stabilized it. We need to hold the ritual as soon as possible-the day after next if we can. If not earlier. And I..."
"You need rest," Authnor intervened firmly. "Rest and sleep." The knight glanced at both Olore and Tsukasa, as though hoping one or both might help him in this. "Rest Lady. Please. You have exhausted yourself. Focus on building up your strength and energy for the ritual. Let us see to the preparations. Just tell us what is needed."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Jul 3, 2011 18:55:28 GMT -5
( sorry for the hiatus, there has been quite a lot going on)
It was Olore to break the silence this time. The stallion shot Authnor and the elves meaningful looks of warning as he snorted and shook out his mane. It should be noted that the decision has been made. No one said you had to like it. It will not change just because you want it to. Accept it. Tigron agreed to be bound by her decision and her decision is to help him,and the trapped soul of his brother. It would be best for all involved to respect and deal with that, no matter how unhappy they are by it, or worried for her safety and well-being for attempting such a dangerous thing.
He turned a critical eye on Tigron. And this one seems to have been shocked into speechlessness. It's as though he expected to be refused. Clearly he does not know you at all Lady, to believe you would ever deny help in need. And some of your elves would do well to better remember that as well.
Elestirne actually laughed a little at that, a small, faint smile ghosting briefly across her face before her solemn expression returned. "It is hardly every day one hears someone deciding to bring a trapped soul back to living form-much less agreeing to help something that had once been a lich. Rarer still for an elf to agree to either of those things. Be fair Olore."
She patted the shining neck once gingerly, but her silver eyes remained unwaveringly on Tigron and the dagger he carried. "Much must be done. A safe place must be found for the working and I must meditate to decide the best sort of ritual to do-and what magics to combine within it. As well as the best time for the working. The ingredients themselves should be simple, and easy to collect. The spell will be the hard part. And...due to the lich-taint, it is likely that we will attract unwelcome company,probably undead. Protection will be necesary."
"You have my sword my Queen." Authnor broke in swiftly;clearly resigned to the fact that this was beyond his control and attempting to make the best of it. "And all those of the escort. The rest of your elves will stay here lady. Tell me what you need for this working, what you require in a place to safely cast it, and I and your escort will see it accomplished." The knight bowed;tapping his fist against his heart. "Regardless of if you cannot die or not, you are still weak and weary and I would feel better if I and your escort were on hand during this to keep watch over and protect. It is certain to severely tax your already low energy and strength and I will not let you be vulnerable in your resulting exhaustion. I still do not like your decision...but I will accept it and trust that you know what you are doing. I only hope the soul -and its brother-are grateful for the redemption you are offering and appreciative of the risk you are taking."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on May 11, 2011 20:38:51 GMT -5
Elestirne was watching and listening quietly. The reactions of Authnor and her elves had not surprised her in the least, and she had expected it. Tsukasa's plain worry and concern though-which she could feel as well as see-surprised her very greatly.
Tigron's reaction to her words and decision she had yet to see. For the present he seemed to be beyond speech. The anger and shock of Authnor and her elves was beginning to take a toll on her and she took her hand from her side to place on Olore's silky neck as she fought to keep the strain from visibly showing. The stallion nuzzled her lightly; bolstering her reserves with some of his own strength. She stroked his neck gingerly. Did I make the right choice my friend?
That depends. Olore's snort was purely mental. You know as well as I do that it is very rarely permitted to bring a departed soul or spirit back to living form, and for good reason. It is not in keeping with the natural order of life-however good the intentions may be of the one attempting it. This soul though, has not departed from the world is held-either trapped or preserved, whichever you prefer-in a gem. And was wrested from both form and life unjustly and unatturally to begin with. Yes Elestirne; your decision is the right one, and your attempt to restore living form and peace to this lost soul shall succeed-even though all before you in the past that attempted similar things with other, departed souls had failed, no matter how noble their intentions, desperate their need, or selfless their reasons. But if circumstances or sitution had been different-or were you not who and what you are- you too would fail and be consumed in the attempt for your boldness in trying such a thing. Even so, it will take a great deal of strength and energy from you, and you should rest before you even think of attempting it, for you are already weary and injured.
The elven-queen answered nothing to that statement, but patted the stallion's neck once-gingerly-as she thought. "Silence!," she called out at last; the order directed to her elves. Their mutters and whispers ceased immedientlly, and they all turned their gazes to her as she continued. "As I said, my mind is set and I will not change it. My heart tells me this is the right course and if that is not enough for you Olore confirms it to be. There is good yet in this lost soul I am being asked to help and it is worth saving. You need not fear for me. It will be very dangerous yes-exceedingly so-but it will not kill me as it has nearly all others that made similar attempts in the past to restore a soul to living form. My fate forbids that. It will take a great deal of my strength and energy though-especially with my being wounded and weary-so I will rest before even attempting it. And I will not attempt it tonight, nor could I. There are preparations to be made, materials to be gathered-and I must contemplate what sort of ritual it must be, where it must be held, and what magic will give it the greatest strength and power-and the greatest chance for full success. So you all may rest assured on those accounts."
She turned her brilliant silver eyes full on Tigron now;holding him calmly in their penetrating, unblinking gaze. "It might take a few days for all to be in order, and for me to be rested enough, but it shall be done. I have promised,and thus am bound. To whatever end. Thus your answer Tigron, and my decision." She waited patiently for the man's response and reaction.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on May 8, 2011 23:30:06 GMT -5
The elves reacted with shock to Elestirne's words. Many, their faces grim, muttered and whispered amongst themselves in their own tongue but-after witnessing Authnor being reubuked-none of them dared question. Authnor himself remained silent ,his expression grim and set lke the others, but also thoughtful. Had he known Tsukasa's mind at that moment he would have been surprised, for their thoughts were very similar. He had caught too, her reaction to the word 'redemption'. This decision has something to do with Telamon. It has to. If she overreaches her limitations and drives herself into a coma trying to bring this lost soul back to living form I shall blame Tigron. For invoking her compassion and desire to help/attempt something so dangerous when she is still so hurt and weary. He had better be grateful for this-its sure to try her strength sorely, weaken her greatly. At the very least.
The elven-knight leveled a hard, burning glare on Tigron for an instant. His expression became thoughtful, considering, as he shifted his glance to Tsukasa. He is worried too. Very, from the looks of it. I wonder why that should be. He has no connection to her, beyond owing his life to her. Why should he be concerned? I'm not certain either..what he thinks of what he learned last night... I should talk to him..see if he understands the enormity of the trust she has shown him...and the risk she took in doing so.. Now is not a good time though. But I wonder why she never told me... And I still don't think she should do this... But Olore seems supremely untroubled by her revelartions. If it were truly too dangerous he surely would never allow her to agree to it. The thought eased the knight's heart only a little. It would still be good to know what the ritual may entail, and how soon she plans to perform it. She should have at least one full day of rest before attempting something so dangerous with the state she is in currently.
He slanted a glance to the queen now; wondering how she seemed so calm and serene despite the turmoil her words and decision had caused, and worrying about the toll all the emotions might be wreaking on her empathic senses. She was a little pale, and seemed pained, but that could have been for her injuries and weariness-he had noticed her hand was pressed to her side again. If the turmoil was taking a toll on her she was either trying very hard not to show it, or Olore was shielding her. Authnor took a moment to glance at Tsukasa, Tigron and the elves before returning his gaze to Elestirne;the emerald orbs tinged with deep concern as he waited to see what his queen would do or say next...
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on May 6, 2011 22:35:38 GMT -5
Elestirne raised one raven eyebrow slightly, a flicker of surprise rippling briefly across her fair features. Her gaze remained on Tigron, but she sensed her elves were similarly surprised; heard low mutters. Authnor was genuinely surprised as well, but she caught a flicker of a pleased smirk beneath that. Olore betrayed no reaction at all.
“I accept your apology,” the elf-queen said at last after a moment. A sharp, lancing glance to Authnor quelled instantly whatever words the elven-knight might have been about to speak. She continued. “For your earlier actions and words-however rash and unwise some of them may have been-were all wrought out of deep concern and fear for your brother. And your belief that he is your only chance for redemption.” An odd expression passed over her face at that word, but it was present for an instant only, no longer.
“As you ask you shall receive Tigron.” Elestirne paused, and took the moment to take in her elves, Authnor, and Tsukasa, all attentively listening. “Not everyone may like or agree with my decision, but my mind is set. I thought long and hard about this, and believe that my choice is truly the best decision for all involved. And you will all abide by it.” She glanced meaningfully at Authnor before returning her piercing gaze to the mortal. “I shall help you Tigron. I will help restore your brother to you.”
“WHAT?!” Authnor’s stunned exclamation broke the resulting silence. The elf-knight glanced from Elestirne to Tigron, then back-as though he could not believe his ears. The other elves began muttering uneasily in their own tongue. “My queen you cannot be serious! You are still weak from your trials and ordeals at the hand of Telamon and your final battle with that fiend. You need rest and healing! Why would you ever agree to do this? You do not know if such a thing is even possible. To heal a lich?!”
“Authnor.” The queen’s melodic voice-though distinctly pained-was suddenly icily stern. The veteran warrior fell silent instantly at the tone, astonished, as she continued. “I do not need to explain myself. You will abide by this. And to answer you Authnor: no, not a lich, a lich’s victim. For the soul was as much of a victim as any the lich killed or ordered killed while in possession of the body the soul inhabited. That trapped soul was not responsible for the actions or decisions of the lich and deserves another chance. There is good there yet, and I can do no less than to heal it Authnor, and restore it to the form and life unjustly taken from it. And no one should have to live with being the last of their line, especially if they can prevent it.” Elestirne’s brilliant silver eyes turned dark, haunted and sorrowful-as if reliving painful memories.
“As for being possible…yes it is. It is just very dangerous-for a fragment of the lich is still trapped with the soul. To heal the soul and restore it, it must first be purified of the lingering taint of the lich, which will be very difficult.” The elf-queen seemed to hesitate slightly, choosing her next words cautiously, with great care. “The rare times it was attempted in the past to bring a departed soul back the attempts never succeeded. Either the caster didn’t have enough strength, or the magic was either not right or not strong enough. And-especially if the soul was tainted with evil or otherwise not meant to be brought back to living form- such attempts…often meant the possession and, more often, life of the caster, without exceptions."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Mar 21, 2011 9:46:31 GMT -5
For a long moment Elestirne was silent, then she spoke softly. "Welcome Tigron. So you return again, as we had agreed. It is good to know that your determination to help your brother has not lessened. After much meditation and thought I have both your answer...and my decision-both of which I know you have been eagerly awaiting. Niether came easily." The elf-queen sighed,and seemed to flinch subtly as her gaze dropped briefly to the dagger. "And it was not a decision made lightly, though I hope it was the right one, and made for the good of all involved."
Her silver eyes flickered briefly to Authnor and her escort, all of whom were tense with anticipation. Authnor was stiff with it;holding his breath as he awaited her decision and alternately throwing Tigron a hard,burning look and her concerned,worried ones. He did not trust Tigron she knew-especially not after the man had challenged him and demanded to see her-and he thought this whole thing a waste of time and unnecesary. She did not blame him, but she hoped what he had learned last night would help him accept her decision better. Her gaze shifted to Tsukasa.
As for him...she could still not be sure what he thought of what he had learned last night, nor what he would think of her decision. He was the one that had brought Tigron to her,even though he had communicated that he would rather have waited to do so, to allow her to rest from the journey. Inwardly she shook her head. Her right hand,still wrapped but healing, pressed gingerly against her side and she carefully kept the pain from showing as she turned her gaze back upon Tigron,;waiting patiently for his answer. Whether Tsukasa had convinced Tigron to wait or not would not have mattered. Nothing would have changed. And by custom, it was Tigron's turn now to speak, and ask her for her decision,and the answer she had found. It would be rude for her to speak without being asked for them. He may not know the elven ways, but she counted on curiousity to lead him to ask.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Mar 12, 2011 15:02:21 GMT -5
The elf that had been sent-one of the escort-did not startle as the strange man appeared before him soon after he had spoken the name. He had been warned about him and he too, like the rest of his bretheren, could sense that this man was no normal mortal. He had seen him transform when confronting Authnor, so he knew the power that lay hidden. His face was carefully expressionless but even in the first shadows of evening his golden hair shone and shimmered with a luster no mortal's would ever have. His eyes studied Tigron intently a moment before acknowledging the bow with a slight nod.
"My queen will speak with you now. Follow me, if you would. She waits." Turning he gestured for Tigron to follow as he strode back across the square to the Silvermoon Inn. He opened the door and continued immedietly to where his queen waited with Olore, Authnor and the mortal Tsukasa. The rest of the escort were also gathered and waiting. He bowed deeply as soon as he had reached his monarch; rising only after she bade him to. "Tigron is come my queen, as you asked." She only nodded slightly and he was disturbed to see the slightly haunted look of pain and worry still on her features.
Discreetly, he melted back among the rest of the escort; trying to avoid Authnor's eyes, but noticing how his superior's gaze darkened when it fell on Tigron. The Knight-Commander it seemed, had still not forgive the mortal for his behaviour and words from the evening past. And it was well known he thought little of Tigron's request, thought it a waste of time and not worth bothering the queen. His eyes went to her and Tigron now, as did everyone else's; waiting to see how this second meeting would play out, and what the lady's response would be.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Mar 12, 2011 13:19:32 GMT -5
Does anyone know what the vegetarian options there might be for the feast, if any? I'd like to know, so I can calculate how much food I'll need to sustain my slender self for the weekend.
~ Lady Elestirne
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Mar 4, 2011 18:53:18 GMT -5
Elestirne watched as Tsukasa bowed and left them, heading back for the front of the inn. Her silver eyes were weary but thoughtful as she watched the departing samurai. When he had disappeared around the corner she turned to Authnor;already raising a hand to stop him with a faint shake of her head. Her tone was gentle, but firm and brooked no arguement. "No Authnor. Not tonight. We will talk dear friend, and soon-I promise you. You have more than earned it. But, as you said yourself-I should be resting. I will need every moment of what little sleep I will be allowed Authnor." She sighed faintly. "Come my friend."
For all of the next day-after rising late in the morning and having her injuries checked and re-tended-Elestirne did not leave the room. Authnor took it upon himself to stand sentinel at her door, in case she called for something, but realized it was in vain and soon came down to the common room to sit with Tsukasa and his elves. Through it all, Elestirne sat undisturbed in her room; deep in trance,with head bowed as she meditated.
Many thoughts swirled around and chased themselves while she sat thus. Subconsiously, her mind brought up issues and concerns with Tigron's request, analyzed them, then discarded them one by one. There were reasons to refuse...but most were based in predujice and discarded as worthless. There was a good reason to accept-a soul deserved a second chance, as she had told Authnor. Whatever had been wrought/done at his hands/orders as the lich he could not be blamed for,as he had been only a helpless prisoner in his possessed body.
The body may have been used and corrupted...but the soul was stilll good and did not deserve its fate. It deserved a second chance at life and the healer in Elestirne could not ignore the plea for help she had heard when she had touched the dagger's jewel. Could not ignore...and did not dare refuse. She may not have been able to draw Telamon back from his dark path and choices..and may have been forced to kill him, but perhaps..if she could redeem this soul, heal it of its taint...perhaps then she could forgive herself Telamon's blood on her hands. That had been what she had sensed in her meditations yesterday, before Tigron had come. A promise...an opportunity to redeem herself after an action she could not forgive herself for..
She had spoken nothing but truth to Tigron. This... type of 'healing'...would be very difficult-more difficult than anything she had ever done. And, as far as she could remember...it had never been succesful before. Risky to attempt it-and very unpredictable and dangerous, given the lich-taint that still lingered with the trapped soul-but...possible. Perhaps more possible for that fact that she was not exactly mortal...and could not possibly be killed from backlash if it failed. There was only one thing, one ritual that she had read of long ago, that might help in this... But it required strong, natural magic, pure ingredients and surroundings, and a touch of divine influence. The soul would have to be purified first-and any having contact with it-before it was fit to walk the earth again... A frown touched the fair features of the tranced elf..
The first shadows of evening had begun to fall when she at last stirred and opened her eyes. Rising, she opened her door and padded barefoot down to the common room. She looked perhaps a little strained-with what might have been a haunted,distant look of mingled worry and pain in her silver eyes-but that was all that showed as she glided over to where the others waited. "Summon Tigron here," she said softly, a hint of command in her melodic voice. "I have his answer."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 25, 2011 22:40:46 GMT -5
Authnor acknowledged Tsukasa's bow with a nod as he came out of the shadows he had been in. "Tsukasa." Reaching Elestirne, he bowed deeply to his queen. "I woke and you were not in your room," the knight said by way of explanation. "Nor were you in the common room. I could do nothing less than come in search of you. You should be sleeping, not wandering weaponless in the dead of night. You need your rest."
The slight rebuke in his voice disappeared as he added softly. "I heard nearly everything. So that is why you wanted to meet Telamon alone with just Olore at your side when he approached you the last time you were here, and why you refused to stay safely away as Storm and I asked you to when the Jovians attacked the Shogunate. My queen..why did you never tell me any of this?"
Elestirne eyed the knight for a moment, before shaking her head and sighing."You would not have understood old friend. It would have tainted our friendship. Had you known at the moment of my coronation of the curse and what I really was it would forever have changed how you looked at , treated, and thought of me. I will not have that. I will not have either the curse or my full lineage shape how others interact with and see me. Let me be judged and measured by my own actions, my own choices. And my burdens are my own. You can do nothing to help me or lessen them, much though I know you wish you could."
Her gaze shifted back to Tsukasa and she shook her head faintly; her voice taking on a wistful,regretful tone. "Nor can you help, though I appreciate your concern-and your desire to. As for trusted companion...Olore is that, and even he has no power to help ease the burden. As I said: it is mine alone to bear. And so it must remain. I will not have others taking on my burdens,even to help me." Elestirne put her hand to her side with a wince and briefly glanced to the sky. "The night is waning. We all should go back to our rests. I especially-what little I will get. I speak with Tigron to give him my answer, and must meditate heavily on it before I am ready to do so.. Tsukasa...thank you. I will think on your words."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 24, 2011 14:58:22 GMT -5
Elestirne laughed softly, but the sound was one of sadness, not mirth. Carefully she replaced her crown, hiding the glimmering star-mark of Araira's chosen. "No, for you are honorable. And thus do you know my secrets-for I could not-by the words of Araira herself-refuse telling my friends if they asked. But you may tell Storm if I do not myself before I leave. He has earned the right to know what his oath-sister truly is. Perhaps then he would understand why I refused to stay safely out of the way when the Kyuden was threatened and my elves fought with the Shogunate to save it and those within. As for your offer..."
She shook her head faintly."I do not know what help you think you could give. The curse cannot be lifted, is irreversible and eternal. It will be with me always. Like my lineage. I cannot change either, even if I would wish to."
The elf paused a moment, thinking over her next words. "I have no choice in the matter Tsukasa. I cannot change the curse, so I must endure it. I am no stranger to hardship and sacrifice. One learns to live with it and not let it rule you. I cannot choose my end,and I cannot change what is in store-save by a miracle-but I can choose my present and how I spend it. Why think you that I have never revealed the secrets of my full lineage and the curse? I need not have it sully what enjoyment or friendship I may find in life, and I do not need to be worshipped or feared. Nor used or manipulated, as some would try,if they knew the secrets I keep."
The elven-queen drew herself up tall and straight with a wince;glimmering with silver subtly. "My burdens and pains are my owns to carry, my secrets my own to keep-save for those that win them from me. It must be so, for I have bigger responsibilities than myself. I have a realm and people that depend on me to lead and guide them. My personal sufferings and pains I cannot let show, or interfere with that... Which is why I keep them secret and enjoy life as I might-in the ways I am allowed to-and not dwell on the twin burdens of lineage and curse that I carry." She looked at him, seeming surprised, then shook her head faintly. "A fine offer, but why would you do such?"
She tensed faintly then, hearing the rustle before Tsukasa did, and remembering her injuries and the fact she had only her hidden dagger. After a moment she relaxed and a variety of emotions flickered across her face. "Come out Authnor. How long have you been there." Her tone was resigned,accepting.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 15, 2011 15:57:57 GMT -5
"No,"Elestirne corrected, her tone faintly and briefly sharp. "It was not for that that he came. He came for friendship and perhaps a life-debt he felt he owed me. And he need not have. I would have dissuaded him if it had been in my power. Now the Shogunate is leaderless and it is-partly at least-my fault. Yet they refused to hold me responsible."
His question froze her in place with shock. Her blood ran cold and she tensed before she could help herself. Araira's laughter chimed gently in her ears;borne on the wind. Elestirne shook her head faintly, but it persisted. Sighing faintly, she rose in a shimmer of silver, and came around the well to where Tsukasa stood. Her voice was soft and sad, but resigned. "I was afraid of this..." She faced the samurai squarely, but her eyes seemed to see past-through-him. "You ask what I cannot refuse to tell." The elven-queen hesitated, then continued.
"I am...more than I seem, than what you see. Far more." She sighed again, not without bitterness. "My goddess has reminded me of who I am..of what I am. It is not something I wished to be-or wanted-but it is something I cannot change. And the longer I deny or try to hide it, the more it will haunt me."
Slowly, Elestirne reached up and carefully and slowly removed her glittering crown. The star-mark shone glimmering silver in the exact center of her forehead, faintly luminous in the night. "I am chosen by my goddess, as you guessed-chosen and marked-but there is more to it. Not only am I a prophesied monarch, and chosen by Araira, but...I am myself divine. The first monarch of my line, so the legend ran, had to wife the daughter of the star-goddess Araira. Naturally, the divine blood became diluted down the generations, but every once in a while it shows true in a select few-and as strong as the elven blood. I am one of those rare few."
Elestirne shook her head faintly. "It is why my eyes are silver and there is a constant silver glimmer in my hair. And it is why, as I know you have seen, that I glow at times-ussually when using magic. I glowed when battling Telamon because the divine in me...reacted to the demon in him. Without that part of my lineage-and the strength it lent me-I could not have bested Telamon without a great deal more effort, and more severe injuries.
"As to your question...neither he nor Banith could kill me because my curse prevents it. You need not know the details but when I fought and killed a dark sorcerer-another fallen elf and my father's killer-before being made Queen, he cursed me with his dying breath." The elven-queen paused, her face and voice both darkening somewhat.
"Part of that curse is enduring great torment and torture for those I care about and would wish to protect. The other part...is that I may not-cannot-lay down my life until so weary from a lifetime of pain, sorrow and sacrifices that either Araira herself calls me to her side in pity-if allowed/able to-...or I fade to nothing more than a spirit, and be forbidden to leave this mortal earth. Forever. Any other attempts to end my life will always be diverted or prevented, seemingly by chance. The rest of the curse does not concern you, but know that none of it is pleasant. Thus my blessing...and my curse."
There was a deep, bitter,sadness in Elestirne's eyes, a resigned look on her fair features. The elf sighed heavily. "And thus do you have the answers to your questions, young Tsukasa."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 15, 2011 13:21:11 GMT -5
Elestirne could not help but flinch again when Tsukasa brought up Tatsumura and Telamon. "Tatsumura was Storm's lord," she said heavily after a moment, not raising her gaze from the rippling water as she tried to calm both her inner turmoil and the rising worry. "And he was my friend. He helped me my first visit here;even accompanying Olore, Storm and others to free me the first time Telamon-Telemachus then-took me captive. I healed him later from the wounds he recieved in the battle between the two that resulted.
"The last time I was here-when the Jovians threatened Mittelmach-I and my elves saved the kyuden from the enemies that attacked it, saving the lives of Tatsumura and his Shogunate, for they were too few to have won on their own. Yes, his loss weighs heavily on me, for this is the first time I have experienced the loss of a morrtal friend-though it shall not be the last-and I feel it to be my fault he fell. Had I not been captured, he would never have felt it necesary to come with all of you to try to help. And, as I told you shortly before we reached the city, it was not necesary for any of you to have come. Olore and Storm I could not have stopped-and I'm surprised Authnor was not also with-but you, Tatsumura and the dwarf Zigler each made your choices to. None of you needed to risk yourselves though. Telamon and Banith could not have killed me." There was something faintly bitter in her melodic voice and her silver eyes were shadowed and dim as she raised her head at last to look at Tsukasa. Almost relexively, her hand left the water to touch her injured side and her eyes took on a haunted cast. "No matter how much they wanted to-or tried."
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 13, 2011 18:02:15 GMT -5
Elestirne's head snapped up at the voice; silver-touched night-black hair flying back. The whispers of Araira's voice faded on the breeze. She tensed initially, but relaxed a little as she registered the familiar form of Tsukasa approaching her. Still wary, she watched him.
"I am safe enough my friend," she replied quietly after a moment. "Olore is never far,and ever-watchful-twice as much now I am sure-and there is no one in Mittelmarch who would harm me. With the lich gone, and Telamon dead," she winced, a shadow crossing her face as if even speaking the name brought her pain. Her silver eyes took on a shadowed,haunted cast "-there is no danger in my being out by myself. My elves are close by in any case. I could find no rest. It is denied to me." That last was faintly bitter.
She took her gaze from the samurai and returned it to the water;her expression becoming pensively thoughtful. "There is much for me to think about, and elusive answers to seek. Sometimes it helps to sit on my own near water. It is soothing to me." Her long fingers dipped to the water again.
She flinched at his next words as though they had struck her, but fought to keep the reaction from showing. She tensed visibly though, wincing as the action reawakened the pain of her injuries. The only answer she gave was a soft, "No, I am not like the rest of my elves. Or any elf." Soft, chiming laughter seemed to echo in her ears but she pushed it away. Her expression did not show her thoughts but inwardly she was worried. Far too close of a guess for my liking-and partly the truth. But if he does not ask I do not have to answer...
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 13, 2011 13:40:34 GMT -5
Hours later, Elestirne woke abruptly for the second time that day; jolted awake by memories, voices long past, and vague, disquieting images she could put no name or label too. Uneasily, she got up, trying to block out the memories, whispers, and images that flitted through her mind. Resigned to finding no more rest, at least for the moment, she paced the room softly;feeling trapped and stifled. Suddenly, she felt an urge to see the stars and breathe the free air. If she could find no rest in her room, perhaps she could find it under the stars. She went to her door and slipped out;carefully stepping past and around Authnor whom-she was touched to see-had stubbornly decided to sleep at her door;guarding her from any further intrusion that might have come.
Reaching the floor below, she took equal care moving past her escort, almost all of whom seemed to have decided to sleep where they were and not in their rooms as they ought to have been. Slipping out the front door, she was startled to come across Tsukasa. Soundlessly she moved past him. A fold of her gown brushed him for the briefest of instants but it would have felt like the night breeze to him.
Once past him, her eyes fell on the grand central fountain, but she shook her head. It was too obvious a spot in case any should wake and come looking for her-Authnor especially. Turning, she followed the path of her memory behind the Silvermoon Tavern to find a deep well. Moving to it, she seated herself on the rim carefully and stretched her good arm out so that her slender fingers just touched the water's surface. Meditatively, she watched the ripples;deep in thought.
One action influences or leads to another, she mused pensively. I did not want to kill Telamon, but if I had not many, many more would have suffered. I did not act for myself in that moment, in my own defense. My concern and actions were all for my friends and the people of Mittelmarch, my anger for noble Tatsumura's fall, and not what Telamon has done to me personally,or who he reminded me of. And if I had to relive that moment, I would not take back my fatal strike even though I would rather have not had to give it-for he was beyond redemption. And yet the shame and guilt will not let me go. My actions haunt me, even as they did when I slew Aegruth-though I acted as I was forced to... She bowed her head, her long hair falling forward to screen her face.
You cannot change the past Elestirne, just as you cannot change who and what you are, a familiar, chiming voice whispered in her ears alone. Until you accept the truth of both my dear child, then you will never be at peace with yourself-nor fully at ease with others. If you hide from the truth of yourself, then you hide from others, and that is not fair to your friends and subjects that love you. You are a Queen, and an elf, but you are so much more, and you should embrace that rather than hide from it. Mark me, there will come the day where you have no choice between hiding and revealing all that you are..
Elestirne made no answer to the voice of the goddess, but remained silent and still;poised on the well with head bowed, haloed in soft silver light as she tried to find her answers
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 13, 2011 11:18:30 GMT -5
Elestirne managed a nod of acknowledgement, and started to turn to make her way back across the room to the stairs;clearly communicating that the meeting was at an end. Authnor shook his head witha faintly stunned air-as though he had been slapped-then moved swiftly to intercept her, after casting another dark look Tigron's way.
"My queen you cannot seriously be considering this?!"was his incredulous question. "Helping him? And the abomination he calls his brother??"
"My decision will be my own when it is made and you will respect it,"the elven-queen returned, just a trifle edgily. "I have examined the dagger and found no evil in his brother's soul. His words are truthful and his distress genuine. A lost soul deserves another chance. For now, I will rest as well as I might, and carefully consider consider things between now and tomorrow evening. It is not a decision to be made lightly, and I am much more aware than you of the risks that shall be involved should I agree. Kindly allow me to rest now dear friend. I am in sore need of it." Briefly, she placed her hand on his shoulder-her silver eyes still holding a faintly haunted cast-before continuing up the stairs haltingly.
When she had disappeared, the knight rounded on Olore. "What will she decides??"
The silver stallion shook out his mane; seeming serenely unconcerned. I could not tell you. I do not know. We shall all find out this time tomorrow. Have some faith knight-protector. She will not make a decision she knows to be wrong. In the meantime I suggest we leave her to her much-deserved rest and, perhaps, find some of our own. It has been a long journey for Tsukasa and I both Authnor. Try to control your impatience and trust in you queen. With that, the silver stallion dipped his muzzle very faintly to the knight, then faded away in a shimmer of silver.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 9, 2011 22:20:50 GMT -5
Elestirne was silent for a long, long moment. Her fair face was expressionless and her lovely, almond-shaped silver eyes revealed nothing of her thoughts. Olore besides her snorted…but said nothing.
“As the lich, your brother was slightly responsible for my capture and injuries,” the elven-queen said quietly at last, her melodic voice faintly shaded with pain. “He was in league with Telamon and it is from him that Telamon learned of my presence here and decided to make sure that I could not stand and help Mittelmarch when the lich attacked. He was responsible for the deaths and sufferings of many whom need not have perished or suffered. And he is responsible for nearly turning my friend Sir Nichtmar to his side, and would have succeeded had I not arrived in time to purge the taint and heal him.” Elestirne paused a moment, then went on. “And you should know that we of elvenkind abhor the undead more than anything else almost, in this world. Liches and other undead are perversions of nature and life-both of which we revere-and upset and threaten the balance of both. As children of nature, and caretakers of it, we cannot suffer undead to exist and will destroy them when we can.”
Authnor had been standing silently by while Tigron had spoken and his lady-queen had answered. Though a bit mollified by the strange mortal’s great show of respect-and his apology and obvious awe and shock upon seeing Elestirne and Olore-he found that his anger and indignation was still hot within him. Taking Elestirne’s words as a subtle-but definite-refusal of Tigron’s plea, he broke his silence.
“No self-respecting elf would help a lich, the perversion of nature that should not exist!” He heard murmurs of agreement from the rest of the escort, who had gathered closer upon their queen’s appearance. “And as my queen says, as the lich your brother was partially responsible for her capture and sufferings. You cannot expect her to agree to healing such a foul creature! It cannot be done! Once a lich, always a lich! Her magic and healing are very great but you cannot change that which is evil! Why should she agree to help you? Why would she try?” There were more faint noises of agreement from the escort, but all had their eyes trained on the queen.
“Authnor!” Elestirne’s melodic voice was not raised in the least, but the startlingly icy tone in it-almost never heard- shocked him. It could not have stung him more than if she had slapped him. Stunned he fell silent instantly; lowering his gaze as she trained her penetrating silver eyes on him. “Do not speak when it is not your place to do so,” she admonished. “If you cannot hold civil and let go your anger at my being awakened for what you see as a waste of time, you may leave until you can control your tongue- and your anger. You are not helping me by letting it get the better of you.”
The proud knight bent his head slightly, chagrined, remembering his lady’s ability and the weariness and pain she must already be enduring. “I apologize, my Queen,” he said softly. She kept her gaze on him a moment longer, then shifted it back to the two men. With a small gesture, she requested to see the dagger. She did not take the item when presented it, but instead looked at it intently. After a moment, she reached out a single, slender finger; her eyes closing briefly. The moment her finger touched the dagger’s jewel however, her eyes opened and she let out a gasp and hiss of pain; flinching back. Authnor immediately put his hands on her shoulders to steady her, as Olore moved to do the same. He looked at her with deep concern, then shot a hard look to Tigron, his eyes glittering.
“What you say is true,” Elestirne murmured softly after a moment. Her eyes had taken on a faintly haunted cast. “Your brother’s soul is in the gem, and so is a remnant of the lich. The lich is evil...but your brother is not. As you said, he was helpless, and cannot be blamed for what he was forced to do. And a lost soul deserves another chance. But you must understand the enormity of what you ask of me, and Authnor is justified in saying you have no right to do so.
"Bringing your brother back can be done, but it will be exceedingly difficult and will require very strong magic. I have never heard of it being done successfully before, and very rarely has it ever been attempted. I have not the strength, nor magic, to try right now and would need time to contemplate what might be required in any case-for such a risky working of unknown magic-if I were to agree. And I cannot, will not, make such a decision hastily. I sympathize with you,” Elestirne said compassionately, gently. “And I understand your urgency…but such a decision cannot be rushed. The magic you placed on the dagger will hold your brother’s soul safe for another day at least, while I contemplate what you are asking of me, so you need not worry for that.
"I know how you desperately you want and need this done," she added; noticing the mortal's dismayed expression-and raising her hand at the same time to stay Authnor's predictable interjection without even looking at the knight-"but even if I were to agree to this right now, it could not be done. Proper preparations must be made if it is to be done and I must be rested and regain at least some of my strength and energy before I even think of attempting such strong,unknown magic. You were right to come to me so swiftly though, even if Authnor does not like you for it, and for disturbing my rest. Come to me again this time tommorow, after I have had time to properly contemplate things." Her silver eyes watched him calmly;waiting serenely for his answer, and for the reactions of those around her to her words. She swayed a little once, and a shadow of pain darkened her face as her hand went to her injured side again.
|
|
|
Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 8, 2011 17:26:54 GMT -5
"A 'little uncultured'??" Authnor repeated darkly in disbelief. "A little?? More than that! He-" The red-haired knight fell silent abruptly as Elestirne turned her head very slowly to level a reproachful look on him. No word she spoke, but neither did she blink. Chagrined, Authnor looked away after a moment;unable to bear the rebuke in the calm silver gaze.
Turning her almond-shaped orbs back to Tsukasa and the stranger known as 'Tigron', she nodded faintly as the samurai finished speaking and bowed to her a second time; carefully concealing her surprise at his shows of respect. Her expression unreadable, she turned her gaze fully on Tigron. Her silver eyes flickered briefly to the jeweled dagger on his belt;sensing magic there and..something else. Sensing power as well, to the strange man himself. A faintly thoughtful look ghosted across her fair features as she brought her gaze back to rest on the two men.
"Then let him speak," she responded serenely. Olore snorted in agreement;sapphire eyes unblinking as he watched the two.
|
|