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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 8, 2011 15:23:31 GMT -5
Moving to the door Elestirne-with a look-ordered Authnor to follow. The veteran knight hesitated-clearly torn-then gave in resignedly and slipped out ahead of her to lead the way down the stairs. Elestirne came slowly behind him, one step at a time. Authnor reached the floor before her and instantly turned to help her if she needed it, but she made it without mishap and shook her head at the offer. The moment her bare feet touched the floor there was a shimmer of silver. Olore materialized right next to her, his deep eyes focusing immediently on Tigron and Tsukasa where they waited. Elestirne's eyes went to them too and she frowned just slightly;recognizing Tigron vaguely from the battle with the bandits, and the time he had talked to Nichtmar after the failed attack on Ravenswood. Slowly, she started forward, the magnificent silver stallion pacing her every step and Authnor slightly behind her on her left.
Even abruptly awakened and sorely injured, Elestirne's beauty and poise were undiminished. She moved gracefully towars them, the hem of her silvery gown trailing on the floor;long sleeves floating out behind her. She looked faintly tired true-her eyes weary and holding some deep sorrow and bitterness- but the silver orbs still held a luminous luster and sparkle no mortal maiden's eyes would ever achieve(and few even of elvenkind), and her midnight black hair still shone with faint silver sparkles all throughout its length. The intricate filigree crown of moonstone and diamonds glinted with soft silver light, as did the starjewel at her throat. She herself seemed touched with a soft silver radience.
As she came up to them, they noticed that her left arm was bandaged and bound up in a sling, its wrist and hand both heavily bandaged and splinted. The wrist of the other arm was also bandaged, and that hand went gingerly to her right side-where they could make out the bulky form of more bandaging under the gown. As she stopped they also made out an odd mark-distinctly silver-on one cheekbone, below her eye. Her melodic voice chimed as softly and sweetly as falling rain as she spoke, but it too, was shaded by faint weariness and pain.
"Greetings again Tsukasa-friend. I am told you have someone that wishes to speak to me-urgently, if what I was told is correct. May I learn what was so important that you convinced Authnor to disturb my attempt at rest?" Her tone was calm-light and courteous-yet they sensed a faint, polite rebuke underneath it.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 7, 2011 0:03:47 GMT -5
Elestirne jerked awake abrubtly from the uneasy sleep she had been in. After coming to the inn she had allowed her elves to bring her up here and tend her..and then she must have drifted off from exhaustion and pain. But rest had brought her no peace. Only memories recent and long past. Telamon's blank, dead eyes had haunted her, accusing her. Aegruth's malicious, dying voice had hissed in her ears and mind;cursing and tormenting her. Holy Araira's voice had echoed softly chiming;gently chiding her to finally accept who and what she was. The now-familiar image of a softly glowing star hung before her teasingly. And the same messages, over and over. You are not at fault for what has happened. Forgive yourself, and accept who and what you are. If you deny who you are, you will never know peace with yourself.
Elestirne flinched reflexively as the goddess's words echoed yet again in her mind. She felt lost-as lost as she had felt when she had first learned the prophecy and the truth of her lineage; as lost as the night she had killed Aegruth, and stained her hands with the blood of her own kind; as lost as when she had been coronated and first felt the weight of the crown on her head and Gildin had glowed at her touch...
With an effort, the elven-queen wrested herself out of the grip of her memories. The instant of Telamon's death and the softly glowing silver star lingered insistently yet. She shook them away. Or tried. They remained stubbornly on the fringes of her mind. So did Olore's words. And a disturbing sense of...something. Something promised... Shaking her head faintly, Elestirne reoriented herself and tried to discern what had woken her. Unable to-yet knowing sleep would have no peace for her if she tried to go back to it-she rose carefully with a soft hiss of pain. Gingerly,she dressed and settled slowly into a meditative position. Kneeling, head bowed she settled into trance and tried to sort through her dreams.
Some time later-she had no way of knowing how much-she was disturbed by a soft knock. Authnor's voice hailed her. Tiredly,she called for him to enter, opening her eyes and raising her head slightly as he did. She could feel great anger and frustration from him palpably, and the rawness and intensity of both made her wince and flinch reflexively. He saw the reaction-and that he had obviously interuppted her-and a slightly chagrined look passed over his stony features. The anger did not diminish though.
Elestirne rose slowly from her kneel with a wince and soft hiss of pain, swaying just a little, but keeping her feet. She waved away Authnor's apoligy and question both before either had left his lips. "What is it Authnor?"
The knight's features grew stonier yet. "There is one here who would talk to you, and insists its very important. Tsukasa brought him." He scowled. "But you are weary and sorely injured from your ordeal. You need your rest. I shall tell him to go away again, for you should not have been bothered at all." He turned to leave.
She stopped him. "No." Moving to the small mirror, she studied the reflection presented to her. The numerous bruises,burns and nicks of her captivity had faded considerably, but there remained the mark on her cheekbone-distinctly silver-where the demon-sword had cut her. The silvery star-mark on her brow was mostly hidden by her crown, but its points showed faintly around the moonstone at crown's center. Her silver eyes held a faint, bitter sadness. Elestirne shook her head faintly as she turned away from the mirror back to her knight. "No, Authnor. If he seeks me so urgently he is not likely to leave just because you tell him to. All of Mittelmarch will know I am back and Telamon is dead before long. I will go down. It is better to find out what he wants."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 5, 2011 16:03:46 GMT -5
Authnor's eyes flared hot with rekindled anger, sparking dangerously as he went taut with outrage and indignation. The tall elf did not flinch as the one called Tigron changed himself to a tiger. Consumed with outrage at the challenge and arrogance of the strange mortal-and the disrespect he had shown his beloved queen-Authnor dropped all pretense of politeness and let his hand fall to and clasp the hilt of his longsword. He was aware,vaguely,of the escort muttering amongst themselves angrily in their own tongue at Tigron's words. His own came in a growl as the proud, flame-haired knight met the other's stare with his own, unflinching one.
"The lich was your brother?!" Authnor spat in disgust. "Then my queen's injuries and suffering can be blamed on him! I am certain he and Telamon were working together. What other reason would the demon have for capturing her shortly before the lich decided to attack? She killed one of his main minions after all-and prevented him from turning Sir Nichtmar to his side! If the lich is your brother, he is no friend to my lady!" Authnor's eyes narrowed. "And I do not let disrespect to my queen slip! Nor threats of violence! I have told you once: you will not disturb my queen without my approval and consent. And I do not give it! Not to help a lich! And I will defend my queen and her right to rest from her trials! Now I warn you: Begone!" The fierce elf began to draw his sword in preparation.
ENOUGH! The command crackled angrily out of nowhere. There came a silver flare of light and Olore materialized between the two would-be-combatants. The magnificent being verily radiated anger; his customarily soft silver glow now a flickering silver-white glare limning his entire form; and his ears flat back, nostrils flared. He tossed his head and stomped the floor; his depthless sapphire eyes flaring angrily. A white flame leaped up where the hoof connected,but did not damage the floor.
Enough of this! Authnor, Knight-Protector, I thought better of you than this. For shame! Your arguing would have woke your queen already if I had not placed a sound-shield around her room when we arrived here-for ensured peace and quiet. Cannot you not see through the unsightly mantle of 'lich' to see the one of 'victim', and the genuine concern of a brother turning to the only hope he knows of to try to save the last of his family? Tigron is not of evil weal. Nor is the soul he seeks to help and preserve. Have done with this senselessness and get you upstairs. Wake your queen. Let her judge Tigron's words and case herself. Only she has right to decide to give help to this man or no. Not you. I should not have had to intercede between you two. The elegant silver stallion shot both Authnor and Tigron clearly disdainful looks, and disappeared in a second silver flare.
Authnor gaped for an instant at the spot the mystical stallion had been;stinging from the scathing rebuke. Only a few other times in their acqaintence had he seen Olore that irritated and realized it would be far wiser to do as ordered, then refuse and tempt the stallion's wrath. Grudgingly, he sheathed his half-drawn sword and took his hand from the hilt.
"Honored Olore is quite right," the knight conceded bitterly at length; giving Tigron a hard look. "I have no choice but to do as ordered and wake her, against my better judgement. But if this meeting taxes her too much, she goes back to her rest and you will wait for morning before bothering her again." To Tsukasa, somewhat more gently. "I will be back." And at that, the fierce, flame-haired knight mounted the stairs to the upper level;reluctance in every step.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 4, 2011 23:44:27 GMT -5
Authnor's emerald eyes flickered to Tsukasa as the other spoke up and came forward. He hadn't noticed him entering, but then again, all his attention had been focused on rebuking the stranger. His arms remained crossed and his expression stern, but some of the fire in his eyes died as he heard the human warrior out. A ripple of startled surprise flickered over his stony expression as Tsukasa bowed low to him after finishing.
"Tsukasa you know my lady-queen's condition. You saw her injuries and know far better than me what she may have endured while in the claws of that...fiend" The elf spat the word. "I thought you realized how badly she needs her rest,and her peace." The warrior's eyes flickered to Tigron briefly. "Many people no doubt suffered or were hurt by the lich or his minions. That does not give them right to come to my lady begging for healing when she is so sorely injured from her own ordeal. My queen's healing powers are great yes-and justly renowned-but she needs rest. Furthermore, she is no mage. I do not understand how this...Tigron believes she can help him-and is the only one who can. Nor do I see how this is important enough to justify tearing her from much needed-and deserved-rest."
Authnor looked between Tsukasa and the stranger called Tigron, waiting for the answer, and prudently shifting slightly so that he blocked the stairs.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 4, 2011 11:56:57 GMT -5
Authnor heard the door open and saw someone slip in, a man. Behind him, the elf thought he glimpsed someone that could only be Tsukasa, but he couldn't be entirely sure. His lady's name being spoken caught his ear and he swiftly turned his attention to the speaker. It was the stranger that had entered. He had approached one of the escort,and was speaking to him. Authnor saw now that the stranger had some tiger-like features and frowned a little. He had glimpsed this one first during the battle with the bandits and undead, and again, later, when the lich's forces had attacked the city. There was something...otherwordly about him. What would bring him here, and what business could he possibly want with Elestirne? His expression darkened perceptibly as he heard the rest of the stranger's words.
Rising, Authnor set his drink down. The expressions of the rest of the escort varied from puzzlement and curiousity to slight frowns at the inquiry. When they caught sight of Authnor's dark look they understood, and made no move to slow him or stop the coming confrontation.
With a few short strides, he had come up unnoticed behind the stranger and, with a look, dismissed the elf of the escort he had approached.
"And just what business do you have with my lady-queen?" the tall elven knight demanded in tones of heavy suspicion. His emerald eyes were hard and glittering. Remembering his surroundings and station he tried to keep his tone cordial, but sarcasm colored his next words.
"Perhaps you are unaware, but she was captured nearly two weeks ago by Telamon and held prisoner by him while the lich attacked this city. A group set out to free and recover her-and succeeded-but in the attempt one of the group was lost, and she was forced to fight and kill the demon that was Telamon; becoming sorely injured as a result. She has only very recently returned to the city and is resting from the ordeal-as she more than deserves. I'll not disturb my queen's much-needed rest unless convinced it is absolutely worth it."
Authnor crossed his arms slightly. "And she has done more than enough for the land and its people at present by slaying Telamon. She should not be bothered by a request to do yet more. What in the name of the gods is so important that I should wake her on your behalf? And because you ask me to is not sufficient. I'll not wake her just because someone wants to speak to her. You can wait for morning." The flame-haired knight eyed the stranger,waiting.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 4, 2011 10:53:48 GMT -5
VERY well done and thought out Wulf! If I had had this when I began Dag I would certainly be further along. Most of what you say in here I learned either the hard way, by accident, or through trial and error. Expect a message from me sometime in near future.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Feb 4, 2011 0:39:04 GMT -5
OCC: I quite agree. Well done Giggles
After leaving Tsukasa Authnor wandered the streets of the city until sunset;making certain that Elestirne was not about. Once certain she was nowhere to be found on the streets, he headed back for the Silvermoon Inn, where the rest of the escort was. Barely had he entered and sat down than did he learn that Lady Elestirne and Olore had beaten him back by some time-over an hour, perhaps two-and that she had been resting upstairs ever since,presumably asleep. The news brought a glimmer of relief to the knight's expression.
It quickly faded though as the others explained that they had tried to see and rebandage her wounds as best as they could, but none of them were healers and the best they had been able to manage was rig a better splint and sling for the shattered hand and wrist. Until either a healer from the force she had left here could look at and tend to her, or she regained enough energy to let her innate healing ease the pain, there was nothing else to be done.
Sipping at wine, Authnor gravely and calmly relayed to the escort all that he had learned from Tsukasa earlier;sitting unblinking through the predictable shock and anger that erupted at the revelations. Authnor paid scant attention to the conversations though. One eye on the door, one on the staircase, he brooded;hoping that-even if word of his lady's return had already spread(no thanks to him and the others)-no one came bothering her, or asking favors or the tale of Telamon's demise...
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Jan 31, 2011 22:55:08 GMT -5
Point to Kotaro And for the record, I don't cause cancer either, and a loved one didn't die to cause me to come to Mittelmarch. The mists brought me of their own accord. But I'm only a friend and ally, not a resident, so perhaps its not my place to speak.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Jan 27, 2011 1:33:57 GMT -5
Elestirne's silver eyes flickered dully as the aged elf appeared, but she offered no response to his attempt at humour. Olore shook out his mane-putting his ears half back-and stomped the floor. Elestirne laid her uninjured hand on his neck with an effort, and focused her gaze on Helvaryn. "Forgive us. We have little tolerance for humor right now. Is there somewhere private we can speak?"
She followed silently as he led her to a secluded spot, then bade her sit. She shook her head faintly, and moved into better light, so that the librarion could better see her injuries. "I daren't sit. I come to inform you of events that have happened, so that you can record them accurately for the benifet of those who will wish to know what happened." Guessing that he may have been entirely unaware of her capture-though he had to have known of the lich's attack-she started with that, then paused. With an effort, she continued: telling of Telamon's torture and attempt to turn her to his side, of the one called Wulf's surprising-and failed-rescue attempt, of the sceptor and the power she had felt from it, of the mutual agreement struck between her and Banith-how he had freed her just as her would be rescuers had come to the city, Tatsumura's battle with-and defeat by- Telamon, and her own battle with and defeat of the fallen elf-to her great regret. As well as the troubling glimpse she had had of what may have been the Azoth Gate, and Telamon's still more troubling words regarding it.
As she neared the end of her recounting, she hesitated on the edge of also telling him the secret of her lineage and the curse of her past, but did not; fearful of it yet. It is for me to bear alone. Both the curse, and the truth of what I am-and will become. "If Telamon's words regarding the Gate are to be taken seriously, then danger seems likely to come to the land because of-or for-it. Banith holds the Sceptor as far as I know, but I do not know into whose care you gave the Gate. I would council them to guard it well however, in case trouble does come from it." With a start, Elestirne realized over an hour had passed. She had been here longer than she had intended. No doubt Authnor would be getting worried and start to search for her soon-if he wasn't already. If not him, others of her elves probally were.
Excusing herself courteously from Helvaryn, she wearily and slowly made for the Silvermoon with Olore at her side; guessing that to be where Authnor and her escort would be lodged. She would like nothing more than to be left in quiet to rest for a few hours...but knew she would not get it. Her elves would overwhelm her, and insist on properly treating and re-dressing her injuries, as she lacked even the energy to call her innate healing to work at beginning to mend them.
Predictably, the moment she and Olore entered she was overwhelmed by her anxious escort. Recognizing the drain they were having on her already sapped strength, Olore swiftly intervened and forced them to clear a space. Two led her upstairs to the room they had secured for her on Authnor's orders. She tolerated their presence only long enough for them to retreat and rebandage her wounds-and fix a proper sling and splint for her shattered wrist and hand-before making them leave and soon drifting tiredly into sleep.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Jan 26, 2011 1:44:47 GMT -5
The elven knight stood several long moments without speaking; looking at Tsukasa without seeming to see him. Several emotions flickered over his face-some recognizable, others not-before settling into a stony mask. His emerald eyes went hard and glittering;subtle fire dancing in their depths as one hand clenched reflexively around the hilt of his longsword. For a few more moments he stood silent as he simulstaneously fought to check his rising anger, and sort through what he had been told. Tsukasa's words had given him some answers, but new questions as well. Collecting himself, the tall elf lowered his head briefly.
"I am sorry to hear of the loss of Tatsumura," he said solemnly, keeping his voice even with effort. "A noble and honorable man,a worthy friend of my lady. May he find his way safely to his ancestors and gods, and be given a place of honor amongst them." It explains much of Storm's behaviour-Tatsumura was his lord after all, he thought to himself. And perhaps also my lady, though she is considerably harder to read... What is meant by her glowing and what the battle may have cost her I know not, but I think I know why she was reluctant to kill Telamon-and how she is feeling about the act..
"She did not want to kill Telamon because it is not her nature," Authnor said heavily. "If she killed him, it is either because he forced her hand or left her no choice. She would rather have avoided conflict. Telamon reminded her far too much of the first sorceror she had tangled with and had to kill, her father's killer.
"And she still feels great guilt and remorse for that act, even though she was more than justified, for that sorceror was an elf fallen to dark magic and evil ways. Much like Telamon himself fell. And among us, it is considered abhorrent for an elf to take another elf's life-except in defense of life, or at the height of need. Doubtless my queen was more than justified in killing Telamon, but she likely blames herself for doing so-for needing to do so-and for the loss of Tatsumura as well, if I know her at all. I believe she is still haunted by the memory of that first sorceror, though it was many years ago. If so, she may be bitter about having to kill another of her kind,and see it as a failure on her part. And if she was tortured by Telamon..." Authnor let the thought trail off grimly, with a faint shake of his head. "I sense something else may be at the root of this, but what it could be to upset her so, I know not."
He frowned a little. "I should go seek her out. Whether with Olore or no, I like not the idea of her wandering about, in light of her injuries and the turmoil she might be in for the ordeal she suffered,and the killing of the fiend. It is obvious the battle and her injuries have taken a great deal out of her. She should be resting. I should not have been so quick to let her out of my sight again so soon after you had brought her back safely to us.."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Jan 18, 2011 10:19:33 GMT -5
After leaving Elestirne, Authnor was sorely tempted to turn around and follow her. But he knew it would be inviting trouble from Olore to do so, if not from Elestirne as well. Just thinking about her, and how pale and injured she had been, set his blood to boiling. Whatever she had undergone at the fiend's hands before the others had gotten to her must have been horrible indeed. And Olore had said that she had killed Telamon. He could not imagine how, but clearly it had taken an immense toll on her. He resolved then and there not to let anyone bother or badger her when she returned until after she had had the chance to rest.
Then there had been that troubling note of sorrowful bitterness he had detected in her voice, beneath the weariness and pain. He had never heard anything like it in her voice before and it boded ill to him. There had to be someone who could help him understand it. Olore was out of the question, and Storm had seemed oddly distant and distracted. But...there was Tsukasa. He had to know something.
Moments later, Authnor had entered the inn. He picked Tsukasa out easily. The man's distinctive style of dress easily marked him from the other patrons. Authnor made his way over, but did not sit. "Tsukasa, may we speak?" He did not wait for the answer, but continued on. "I would have you tell of your journey, your efforts to free my Queen, and what happened in the battle with Telamon. I would hear all of it, if you would grant me the courtesy. Besides her obvious-and grave-physical wounds, something seems wrong with my lady, to be bothering her. She seems at once bitter and saddened by something. You traveled with her, and you were there when I was...forbidden to go." The warrior's face darkened briefly. "I would have you tell me what you know or suspect, and tell me what happened so that I may-perhaps-have answers to this puzzle."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Jan 16, 2011 2:09:31 GMT -5
"They did as their natures compelled them." Elestirne's voice was soft, and still held faint bitterness. "Though I still think it would have been better if they had stayed to aid Mittelmarch, rather than risked themselves to come after me. In any case though, Telamon is dead and it no longer matters. And for their deed Tsukasa shall be welcome always in my realm, as Storm already is, should he ever desire to visit." She returned Tsukasa's bow with a faint nod as he and Storm drifted off, and raised a hand to forestall Authnor as he started to speak; then pressed it gingerly against her bandaged ribs.
"No Authnor. Do not press me. I know what you would ask, what you want to hear. Iwill tell you, but not yet. Follow Tsukasa, if you would-I never got a chance to express my thanks and would like to. To him and Storm both. There is something I must do first though. Olore and I will rejoin you later."
Authnor started to say something yet again, then thought better of it. He gave her a long look before nodding and bowing, then left. Elestirne lingered a moment then-Olore at her side-made for the library.
Only moments later the two stood before the doors. After exchanging a glance, the silver stallion nosed them open and led the way inside. There were a few patrons present, and none could help but to look up as the two halted in the middle of the room. Both seemed to shimmer softly, yet noticibly, in the dim light. After a moment, Elestirne spoke a single name. Her melodic voice echoed sweetly and clearly, but was noticibly shaded with pain and weariness.
"Helvaryn."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Jan 10, 2011 20:30:16 GMT -5
Elestirne's apprehension grew the closer they came to Mittelmarch. Over and over the words of the star-goddess echoed in her mind, as well as Aegruth's out of the mists of years past. Blessed, cursed and blood-stained all at once,she mused broodingly. As if it weren't enough that I was prophecied and destined to be Queen. or that I am the last of my line. I never asked for or wanted any of it, and I did not want to have to kill Telamon, nor endanger the lives of others by their coming after me...
Olore's ears flicked. In regards to Telamon, you did the only thing you could have done. Had you not stopped him, he would have continued to be a threat. Mittelmarch thanks and honors you for that deed. He was fallen Elestirne, and beyond any redemption or healing. He made his choice. As did Tatsumura. Let the guilt go. You have done this land and your friends a great service and they will never forget it. Now you must do yourself a favor and stop running from and denying the other part of your lineage.
Elestirne flinched reflectively. "I just want to go back home,"she murmured softly. "We have been here long enough."
We shall see Elestirne, was the calm answer. I do not think the land is ready to let you go yet. I sense you might be needed still. She said nothing to that, falling back into her thoughts and an uneasy half-sleep. Olore snorted after a time, drawing her attention back. We have been seen. It looked like one of you elves. Doubtless they shall be awaiting us. "Lovely." Elestirne murmured; failing to keep the faint, bitter sarcasm out of her voice.
Sure enough the group had no sooner reached and halted at the center fountain than did they see a group of elves led by Authnor hastening towards them. Olore had just enough time to kneel and let Elestirne slip off his back before the elves reached them. Swiftly, he stepped forward;placing himself squarely between the anxious elves and their pale queen and pinning his ears back slightly. Softly, Knight-Commander, he warned. Elestirne is alive and returned to you as promised-but she is weak and sorely wounded yet from the battle to get free. She needs rest. Overwhelming her will do more harm than good Authnor.
The elven knight's expression filled with outrage before he schooled his face into a tightly controlled mask. He darted a quick glance to Elestirne-taking in her injuries and obvious weariness-then back to Olore. "And what of Telamon?" He literally spat the name, not noticing Elestirne's flinch.
Dead, Olore answered. Your queen killed him. But do not press her for details now.
Authnor's jaw worked angrily, but he nodded after a long moment. "We will go back to the inn then, so my queen can rest. As she has deserved." With a few words, he dismissed the other elves, who left reluctantly. Turning back to Olore and the others, he offered quietly, almost humbly. "Thank you. Thank you for bringing her back safely."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 17, 2010 18:49:19 GMT -5
For all those curious this is taking place directly after the events in Decision and Deception and is intended to be a mini-story only. I don't mean to exclude anyone but most of those who will be involved have already been notified. If I think someone else can also contribute I will extend an invite.
Elestirne was quiet as they rode back to Mittelmarch. Her eyes were dark as she thought of how Tsukasa had come upon her last night in the gardens, and the look of wonder and curiousity that he had not quite been able to mask. She was sure he must have heard her song and followed it to find her and her swords glowing. Of the council she knew nothing but it seemed at least that, even if they did blame her,they were not going to do anything. Forgive yourself child. The whisper came out of nowhere. You have done nothing that deserves blame.
Elestirne flinched, but the whisper was gone as quickly as it had come. Her silver eyes turned yet darker as she thought on how Authnor and the rest of her elves would react on seeing her and her injuries, as well as how the city and her friends had fared during the attack that must have happened while she was a captive. Something occurred to her and she voiced it softly; the musical tones of her voice laced with faint ironic sarcasm.
"In the stories that your kind seems so fond of, this would be the part where the-what do you call her?- the 'damsel in distress', would thank her brave saviours for rescuing her from the clutches of the evil that held her." An odd, strained smile briefly touched Elestirne's lips but it was there only an instant and did not reach her eyes.
"And certainly I do owe you both some thanks. But drawing people out of Mittelmarch to come after me was exactly what Telamon was after. That, and getting me out of the way. I was bait. And it worked. Olore would have come anyway, but none of the rest of you needed to get involved-nor risk yourselves for me. I would rather you all had stayed here, where you were most needed, and helped defend Mittelmarch. You all ought to have left me to Telamon, to toy with as he would." Her brilliant silver eyes clouded and bitterness laced her melodic voice. "None of you should have taken the bait and come after me. I knew he could not do me any permanent harm."
When demons turn to angels. Olore intervened sharply. I would have come after you regardless. I was not about to leave you to the like of Telamon again-regardless of whether you knew he could/would not kill you. And you know Storm better than that, to think he would let it go either. Tsukasa's choice to come was his own.
To that, Elestirne answered nothing. With a small, resigned sigh, she bowed her head slightly;star-dusted midnight hair sweeping forward to frame, then hide her face. There seemed to be a faint bitterness and sadness to her posture.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 14, 2010 14:11:42 GMT -5
This is only a rough idea of what Elestirne might look like, but best I have found thus far, for all of that. For rough length of hair and the 'sparkling' effect see profile picture. And Olore Lady Elestirne is the Queen of the mysterious, hidden ancient Elven-realm of Artanor. Gifted with powerful innate healing and immense foresight and wisdom, she has many times proven herself a loyal and brave friend and ally to Mittelmarch. At first ignorant, then bitter, about her position and role as Queen, she has since accepted and somewhat settled into it, if with reluctance. She still bitterly mourns the loss of her parents and simple life she had led before learning of her lineage and fate as the prophecied Queen of Artanor. Her constant companion is the mysterious and powerful silver stallion Olore. While friendly, she is yet sorrowful as well as faintly distant and wary, and only a scarce few are considered close enough to know her well, even among her own people. A few revelations of her past and destiny she yet keeps secret and close to her heart, and they weigh heavily on her soul-though she fears to share them with those she has befriended and become fond of. She is also known as the Starbrow.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Dec 6, 2010 0:28:58 GMT -5
Elestirne raised her head minimally. The awe and wonder of Araira's visit-and sense of the star-goddess's presence itself-had faded. But her words had not, and they chilled the elf as surely as frost chills a leaf. And Araira had used her true-name, binding her tighter than any chains. If she was asked, she would have to tell. No, more than that. She would be compelled to. Elestirne sighed. They were mortals-they were bound to ask. Curiousity would drive them if nothing else. Over a decade of experience with mortals had taught her that much. And if they asked, she would have to tell. But what would they think of her? Despite Araira's assurances, Elestirne remained worried. But she was more worried for if the council would decide to blame and punish her for Tatsumura's death. Almost she felt they should- she blamed herself after all, and would almost welcome punishment in lieu of the guilt she felt.
True, as Araira had said, it was not her fault-but that didn't prevent her from feeling as though it was, and as though she could have done something to prevent it. Survivor's guilt,she thought bitterly; suddenly identifying with how Nichtmar must have felt after the failed attack on Ravenswood. I could have done nothing, even if I had been free,she admitted with great reluctance. Tatsumura's path was his own to choose and I could not have swayed him from it. No one could have. But at least I slew Telamon in payment for his fall.
The thought made her flinch and she bowed her head once more; closing her eyes with a shudder. The demon-inflicted gash burned suddenly white-hot at the memory and beneath it her ribs throbbed fiercely, with equal pain. Gingerly, she pressed her right hand against the injuries. A few tears tickled down her cheek from the pain. Mittelmarch and many others would doubtless call me a hero for that deed, yet I feel only shame and regret. And failure. Tatsumura's blood may not be on my hands but Telamon's is. And it is still partially because of me that Tatsumura fell, regardless. Either way,I am at fault and have failed in some way.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 21, 2010 23:43:22 GMT -5
Several hours later they reached the kyuden. Elestirne said not a word as they rode in and dismounted, and was still silent after she had untacked Olore and the two of them had gone to her room. She allowed a servant in briefly to wash and re-wrap her wounds-and properly splint her ribs and hand, then shooed them out, her silver eyes bleak. Taking some healing salve that had been left in her room, she smeared it on the demon-tainted injuries-especially the gash on her ribs. When she was done and had washed, she changed out of the rags into a simple gown of silver and white-her swords around her slender waist-then left the room and followed Storm soundlessly as he exited his own room ahead of her. He did not look behind him, so she knew he was unware of her. She remained unobtrusively by the door though, as he continued to the room’s center to address the gathered lords, and their eyes focused on him and him alone; not noticing the gaunt, pale and bandaged elf that stood just past the threshold watching quietly.
Before her voice was drowned out in the heated arguments that resulted at his announcement, she spoke; her voice ringing clearly, though pained. “What he tells you is true. And Telemachus met his end by my blades. I cannot tell you the tale of Tatsumura’s end either,only that he chose his path. And that your loss is my fault. If there is blame to be laid, level it on me, for Tatsumura would not have left the kyuden had Storm not asked him to do so to help recover me. And he would not have died if he had not had to fight Telamon as a distraction to allow my escape. So it is my fault and level what punishment you will on me, not Storm, for I only am responsible. Not him.” As the debate broke out again, she did not stay to listen, but went back to her room and sat long in meditation with her head bowed.
Much later, she left and-barefoot and seeming half in a trance-glided ghostlike into the gardens, wandering soundlessly before stopping in a patch of moonlight and sinking painfully to her knees. She bowed her head as the raw bitterness, guilt and grief rose up; assaulting her empathic senses. Slowly, ritually, she slipped her shattered hand out of the sling and raised both arms heavenwards. Closing her eyes, she raised her face upwards as well; bathing her features and form in moonlight. With a faint shudder, she focused her mind on the fallen as a short, soft song rose to her lips.
‘Forgive the friend who could not stand at your side Forgive the ally who could not lend their strength in time The battle was yours only to fight, the path yours only to walk May your gods receive you kindly and with honor Journey onwards knowing your foe is ended Journey onwards knowing you will be remembered’
Silently, she added. And I am sorry it is because of me that you do so. Opening her eyes, she lowered her arms back to her sides and replaced her hand in its sling. Regret and shame rose up as she turned her thoughts to Telamon. Regret for what he had been…shame for what she had done. No matter that it had been justified, nor that she had been forced to it-it was still an abhorrent act. Regardless of what path he ultimately chose he was an elf. Once. Now his blood stains my hands as surely as Aegruth’s does. And Tatsumura’s as well.
Elestirne bowed her head, her slender frame sagging with sudden weariness as she felt again the full weight of grief, loss, and years that lay in her future. Her silver eyes took on a bleak, haunted cast as she thought on the curse and what lay in store. This is only the beginning…the first loss of many. How many more times shall I endure this? And how many of those losses shall be my fault? A few tears glinted,diamond bright.
Gradually, she became aware of a silver glow blossoming all around her. She thought it Olore but, as she lifted her head minimally, she was astonished to see instead a tall silver-gowned elven female with silver hair and eyes. A radiance surround the mysterious woman, shimmering around her like sparkling silver rain and pooling at her feet. The power and magic in the air were palpable. Wondering,Elestirne noted that she herself shone with a sparkling silver-blue luminence,and that her swords were glowing softly in their sheathes. Speechless and awestruc, the elf bowed her head in reverence as the realization of her celestial visitor's identity became clear to her.
Daughter from daughter descended, do not shoulder guilt and blame where none exists, Holy Araira, the Stargiver's tone was softly chiding, almost motherly. No blood of either friend or foe stains your hands. They chose their own paths and you are blameless. The chiming voice now took on a tone of stern rebuke, but remained gentle. You should embrace what you are, my radiant Elestirne-not hide from or fear it. You will find no peace if you continue to deny the part of your lineage you keep secret. It is a part of you and you cannot change it.
The goddess of heavens and prophecy,queen of the night,took the elf by her shoulders and raised her to her feet. You mustn't deny or hide fom it,or you will bring more grief to yourself than what already lies in store. Tell your companions what you are and the curse you are under-and do not fear their reactions. If they are true friends, the revelations shall not alter their friendship-especially not Storm's. T'elei has not turned from you in all this time for knowing. Nor shall Storm or Tsukasa. Reveal what you are Alatael Elestirne, if they ask, and embrace it my radiant chosen-for only then shall you accept and be at peace with yourself.
With that,the elven goddess touched her forehead lightly-in the very center,just above the moonstone in her crown-then just simply faded away with a shimmer of moonlight and twinkle of stars. A breath of starwind teased a tendril of hair across Elestirne's face, but the elf stood as though frozen;bathed and crowned by silver moonlight. After a long moment she crumpled to her knees, head bowed;a silver-blue shimmer still limning her form. The place where the goddess had touched her seemed to shimmer silver beneath the moonstone.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 13, 2010 16:44:33 GMT -5
The lethargy that seemed to have settled on the small group as they made their way back was broken suddenly when Olore came to an abrupt halt; raising his head and flaring his nostrils. The kyuden is not too far ahead, he noted, answering the unspoken question. If we press on, we can reach it soon. Zigler I know desires to go on to Mittelmarch, and Storm feels he must stop at the kyuden, but what path shall Tsukasa take? Either is open to him.
"Tsukasa can go wherever he wills," Elestirne's soft interuption was unexpected. "He is not bound to either road. You and I,Olore, go with Storm to face the Shogunate and break the news. If there is going to be blame laid for Tatsumura's death I should face it. I won't have them blaming Storm unjustly." The elf shook her head minimally. "And my wounds are festering. Better that I have them properly seen to here,than in Mittelmarch. And there is something unfinished I must do as well."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 28, 2010 15:23:01 GMT -5
Elestirne had said little after reclaiming her swords and somehow hoisting herself into Olore's saddle as the group had set out. Storm too, had been quiet and seemed both reluctant and displeased to be leaving without resting. His grief, she sensed, was no means lessened, though it seemed contained. Tsukasa seemed merely baffled and confused. Zigler she could not read and there seemed to be a touch of the demonic to him that made her very uneasy.
She herself rode in a half-trance for the most part, only semi-aware of things. The ordinary injuries that she had suffered had healed swiftly,after she had had enough rest to let her healing ability work. The slashes she had gotten from the demon sword though, and her bruised ribs and shattered wrist and hand had not and were paining her immensly. Worse still-even though Storm or Tsukasa had carefully dressed and rebandaged the injuries each time they stopped, the sword slash across her injured ribs seemed to be festering. She could feel the heat of it through the bandages and knew it did not bode well. She tried to hide the pain under a stoic face, but felt sure that Storm at least saw through it. The young warrior knew her well enough by now. And occasionally she thought she saw Tsukasa cast her a curious glance or two. Both men had to have seen her and her swords glowing during the battle and, owing to the curious nature of mortals, were bound to ask soon. For now, shock over recent events still held sway.
When they did ask though? Elestirne shuddered faintly. She dreaded telling what she had kept secret from everyone-even Storm and Authnor-and dreaded the reactions the revelations might bring. Especially from Storm. And there was still her guilt, grief and bitterness to deal with-the sense that the whole thing was her fault. Especially Tatsumura's death. The elf bowed her head wearily, shoulders slumping a little. Suppose the Shogunate blamed her for the lord's death? Mortals were unpredictable like that. What punishment might they try to demand?
They cannot and will not blame you, came Olore's reassuring voice. You have done too much for them and they honor you too highly. If anything, they will honor you more highly now, for ending the life of the one that took their lord from them.
Elestirne shuddered profoundly;flinching at the reminder of what she had done, and the blood on her hands. Olore added more words, his tone slightly more urgent. Remember Elestirne: we cannot change what or who we are born, only who and what we become, and what we are remembered for. Do not hide from what you are, the hidden part of you that you keep secret. It is a part of you and you should embrace it, not fear or deny it. It helped you in the battle against Telamon after all.
If his words reached Elestirne at all, the elf gave no sign; her silver eyes dark and bleak as she sank deeper into herself, the guilt, the bitterness and her dread of what would come. Not to mention the fever that was growing.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 14, 2010 14:44:39 GMT -5
Elestirne watched sorrowfully as Storm took the hilt and abruptly walked off. His words reached her only distantly and she was sure he had not heard anything she had said. She yearned to follow but could not, so she leaned back against the tree and closed her eyes. The deep grief and shock she sensed from Storm was just as keenly present within herself but it was, she reflected almost distantly,much worse for him. She had not served the samurai leader, nor lived with him and so, had not gotten to know him as well. Three years was a decent length of time to mortals and, given Storm's deep code of honor and loyalty it was no surprise he was in such shock. For herself though, her bitterness, shock and sense of guilt threatened to overwhelm her. It was the first time dealing with the loss of a friend and the suddenness of it made her reel at the same time that it baffled her. She couldn't make sense of it. One moment Tatsumura had been here, the next... She had not even gotten to say goodbye. And it was all her fault.
This is what happens when you befriend mortals, an unbidden voice whispered to her. They are there for a moment, then gone when you blink. Whether by sword or the slow decay of age it will happen to all of them. You will lose all of them-both the ones you have now and the ones you make in the future. Why even bother? Eventually you will be utterly alone for, though you are elf you are also something much more. This is but the first loss and sorrow of many.
Out of the past it seemed to her that she heard the cruel, mocking laughter of Aegruth as he pronounced his curse with his dying breath, and she shuddered; dropping her head into her hands. For the first time, Elestirne felt the full weight of being elven and-though she was still quite young as elves account things-she felt in that moment suddenly old and weary with the knowledge that she would linger on long after others have passed. I curse you with sadness and sorrow... came the malicious hiss from the past. She shook her head with a small, mental cry and second shudder;trying to banish the unwelcome memory. And then there was the knowledge that she would have to come to terms with the hidden part of her;whose power she had unconsiously drawn on to win the fight...
Dragging herself back to half-awareness with effort, the elf did not stir;keeping her head bowed as she thought over things. Her grief remained mercifully distant yet-she would mourn this loss later, privately when there was time. Now was not the proper time. Her bitterness and guilt were strong-dominant-along with the sense of blame. If she had not been captured it would have all been avoided... Or if they had only not come after her... This was her fault-her failure-and not anyone else's. The pain of having failed as a friend and ally burned her almost as much as the pain of her wounds. Distantly,she was aware of musing that, if they did not take care with the cuts inflicted by the demon sword they may fester and bring on a fever-especially the gash in her side...
The image of a room and a small object flaring with amber light that she had recieved when killing Telamon came back to her now, and she inhaled softly in dismay. Mittelmarch... The Azoth Gate. The undead that had been marching... How did the city fare? Had it fallen or was it still standing? What of the inhabitants and her elves? They should not linger here any longer. Yes, she needed the rest to restore her energy and allow her wounds to start healing, but the city was more important than her well-being...
She drew in a labored, pained breath as feeling returned with awareness and sharp pain stabbed her side,wrists and hand. She was concious of a dull headache too,and remembered hitting her head rather hard. Possibly a concussion,she mused dazedly. But it can't be helped now. There are more important things. She opened her eyes, the silver orbs glittering-but her gaze seemed oddly distant and unfocused. "We should leave this place," she said softly; wincing as she shifted. "We've spent too long here. And I can rest as we ride."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 13, 2010 23:22:14 GMT -5
I mean Tatsumura. Olore waited until the others had joined them before continuing. He cast a quick glance to Elestirne, who had sunk back down to the ground as everyone had readied the campsite. He slipped away at dawn to engage Telamon. This all of you know. I could have gone with to aid but did not, for my concern was for Elestirne, and getting to her. Before he slipped away though, Tatsumura gave me an ice scepter. It was meant for Elestirne but I did not give it to her and she did not need it. The elf flinched at the hint but otherwise gave no sign of awareness; keeping her head bowed. Olore knew she was listening though.
Shaking out his mane, the silver stallion paused briefly. While in the city I received another token from the wind-walker. This. With a shimmer of silver, the broken hilt materialized between the stallion's hooves; the single hair wrapped around it glimmering brightly. He is lost to us, and it will do no good to search for a body. Nor will it do any good to offer to kill yourself in shame for perceived failure. The stallion's depthless indigo eyes settled unwaveringly on Storm as though he guessed the warrior might be contemplating such a thing. His path was his to choose and he was fully aware of what the probable outcome would be. He would not have allowed any of us to accompany anyway. Lowering his fine head, Olore nudged the hilt towards Storm. You take this. Someone will have to tell the Shogunate of his fall and you are the most obvious choice.
"This is my fault." Elestirne's interruption was so soft it was a few moments before they registered she had spoken. Her silver eyes were glittering with pain and something else as she raised her head to regard them; a haunted look in them. "All of this." Her tone was bitter. "If Telamon had not captured me and used me as bait to draw all of you out, none of you would have endangered yourselves by coming after me unnecessarily. And Tatsumura would be here still, and not have had to face Telamon."
Her eyes went dark with grief, guilt, and anger. Pain rippled across her features as she unconsciously clenched her hands, but she seemed to be refusing to acknowledge it. "None of you should have come. If there is any failure here it is mine, as a friend and ally-for drawing all of you into danger because of me. Especially Tatsumura. I could have endured Telamon's torture and beatings on my own-I knew he would not kill me, despite his threats to do so. He would not have been able to."
Her face turned grim, the bitterness in her melodic voice clearly pronounced now. A few crystal tears carved glistening tracks down pale cheeks. She shook her head faintly before bowing it again; her shoulders sagging as if burdened by heavy weight. "I am responsible for this. This blood is on my hands."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 12, 2010 1:16:14 GMT -5
Elestirne shuddered reflexively as images flitted through her mind. First was of the silver star-burning brighter and more radient then ever. Next were overlapping images of both the battle just fought and the one with Aegruth before she had become Queen, and she realized what Olore had told her about facing something unresolved from her past had turned out to be true. She shuddered again as memory of the curse came back;Aegruth's words hissing at her out of the past. My memory will come back to haunt you long after you had thought yourself rid of me.. That too,had proven true.. But what had been done was done now: Telamon was dead,new blood was on her hands now, Tatsumura was gone and she had... She shook her head, unwilling to think on it yet. She would not have won the battle without tapping into it, but it was possible no one had noticed.
Pulling herself back to the present with an effort she became aware of Storm speaking to her and raised her head a little. Registering the question,she shook her head faintly and,for his sake, tried a smile. It came out weak though,and she knew her heartbrother saw it. "Do not wory about me otorno. Telamon has been dealt with-that is what matters." She was not all right of course, but she refused to lie and tell him she was. She shifted and winced as pain from her injuries assaulted her;particularily her shattered hand and injured side. Her free hand tightened on it-it's injured wrist stabbing her with pain as she did so-and she realized blood was seeping between her fingers. The gash was deeper than she thought, and had also cut through the bandages.
As Storm noticed the wince and moved instinctively to tend to her,she tried to wave him off,but knew it was futile. Instead,she let him have his way;gritting her teeth to keep from crying out as he bandaged and splinted her hand as best as he could,then rebandaged her side before tending to her other cuts. Olore had come forward by then and watched calmly as Storm helped her up. With effort,she stood, but immediently sagged back against the tree. One leg didn't want to support her very much without pain-obviously she had injured it somehow during the fight without being aware-and her vision blurred briefly;her surroundings seeming to double. She dropped Gildin and her right hand came up to her head;her features a mask of pain as she closed her eyes and took in a pained,labored breath.
Elestirne, sit down before you fall down. Olore's voice was gentle, but held an unexpected edge. Storm, you should not have made her move yet. She is hurt more than you know. And we will not leave yet anyway. There are things unfinished that ought to be seen to. Privately, to Elestirne only;sensing her thoughts. Do not dwell on it Elestirne. What is done cannot now be changed, though you might wish it. You did what you had to, what he forced you to. There is no blood on your hands,even if you think otherwise-for your actions were justified. You must accept what you are though, or you'll never have any peace within yourself The battered elf heard the words, but only distantly; still caught up in memories of past and and replaying the recent events in her mind.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 9, 2010 14:17:34 GMT -5
Elestirne bit back a muffled scream of pain as Telamon stepped on the hand she reached towards her swords;breaking both it and the wrist by the force of the stomp before kicking her back forcibly. Momentarily dazed by the pommel strike,she looked up to see his sword descending on her. Before it came near to landing though an ax appeared in his back and a gout of fire flung him away from her. Not wasting the opportunity, she dived for her swords-somehow reclaiming both-and was on her feet and standing near Banith by the time Telamon regained his bearings.
Dropping Langrill, she swept Gildin into a ready postition; The sword flared with brilliant silver-blue light from both blade and stone both. Her eyes glittered with silver fire in pain and anger. Seeming hardly conscious of the movement,the elf drew her battered frame up tall and straight;her fair features locking into a hard mask. Subtle, silver-blue light touched the elven-queen,seeming to halo her.
"You underestimate the ability for tolerance between those who band together to face a common foe." Her gaze flickered briefly to the orc before boring back into the demon. Her voice was deadly quiet but, even so, seemed faintly distant and echoing. She barely seemed to notice the fire around her. "Even enemies will set aside their differences when faced with a greater, mutual enemy. We hate you equally." A grim smile ghosted across her features. "But which of us do you hate more? Maybe yourself, for what you have allowed yourself to become?"
As he flung fire at her and Banith she dove out of the way. Painfully she regained her feet and flung her broken hand out; unconsciously shouting words in the ancient tongue. "Tolo gail!"
Gildin flared brighter in response,as did her own luminence. Light erupted from her hand in blinding silver-white radiance;banishing the haze and filling the area before shrinking in on itself to become a ring of dancing silver-white flames. While Telamon was blinded by the flare, she darted forward and struck swiftly. Runes on Gildin's blade flared to life as the heaven-forged sword contacted the demon's body; opening up his back in a long gash from shoulder to opposite hip and searing his flesh.
As he roared with agony and whipped around, Elestirne raised Gildin for another strike but hesitated as memories of her fight with Aegruth assaulted her. She shuddered reflexively. "Is it worth having this blood on my hands as well? He was-is-still an elf..." That shred of conscience went flying away as Telamon kicked her back with such force that it sent her hurtling backwards into a tree. Her head cracked sharply against the trunk and for a few moments all she saw was doubled. Branches and leaves rained down upon her as she crumpled at the tree's base.
When her vision turned single again, she saw Telamon lunging for her,sword extended. Desperately, she threw herself to the side; feeling the sword graze her side and opening a long gash before stabbing into the tree as she regained her feet. As he yanked it back out,she ducked the swing and spun around behind his back;opening him on the opposite side with the same strike she had used earlier.
Sliding in under his arm as he made to swing at her, she uncoiled from the crouch up to full height and, in a lightning-quick movement, slashed the demon diagonally across the chest first, then just as quickly back up across his throat. As he started to fall, the two locked eyes and Telamon shot his hand out as though to grasp her by the throat but she evaded it with effort and slipped free;staggering backwards out of reach.
Making it to another tree several feet away, Elestirne collapsed heavily as the pain of her injuries caught up to her all at once;the odd, distant awareness and strength present during the fight disappearing. She watched the demon form crack and explode to reveal Telemachus as he had been and did not flinch as he pinned his dying gaze on her,though deep in her silver eyes was the barest trace of what might have been pity and sorrow.
Bowing her head-her hair spilling forward like a veil of star-dusted midnight to mantle her- the elf cradled her broken hand to her chest, and pressed the right one gingerly to the gash in her side;laying Gildin across her lap as she took slow,pained breaths with effort. The ring of flickering silver-white flame ebbed and died-opening the way for the others-even as the silver-blue luminence limning her slowly faded away to a subtle silvery shimmer. A few crystal tears trickled down her cheeks,glittering like diamonds.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 4, 2010 23:54:28 GMT -5
Elestirne felt a brief glimmer of triumph as she completed the move and spun back to see the bleeding cut on Telamon's side. Her wrists were burning with pain-her side too, where she had rolled-but she refused to acknowledge either. She took in his grinning face and tensed. A fleeting expression of mingled dismay and worry crossed her face as she saw that he had given in fully to the demon. What was left of Telemachus was buried deep. It reminded her painfully that-despite the boost of strength and health-she was still injured, and weak from the captivity yet. How could she hope to face this? At least with Aegruth she had been at full strength... Her and Telamon were exact opposites-light against the dark. But what did she have to counter the demonic? She shrank from the answer that presented itself, but could not hide from the truth of it. No. Not unless she had to. The demon could glimpse it no doubt, and Olore knew, but she feared the others' reactions. Especially Storm's.
She thought quickly. Odds weren't in her favor. Telamon was stronger, fresher-and more powerful in magic and spells-and she was injured. So I need to be faster and smarter. There was time only for that brief thought before Telamon was rushing her.
She blocked the heavy swing with Langrill and her left wrist screamed with hot pain from the force behind the strike. Unable to hold the block with her injury, the sword dipped before she could strike out with the other, and she dodged to the side. Telamon's sword scored a long cut down her arm and she punched out with Gildin in retaliation. The star sapphire in the ancient, heavenly sword flared with silver-blue light as she did, and the pommel left a sizable, livid-looking bruise on the charcoal cheek. Nimbly, she swung away and fell into a half-crouch. Both swords swept up into a guard, flaring with silver-blue and silver-white light respectively. Although she did not know it, she herself seemed touched with a faint silver glow.
For a moment only, the two stared at each other; silver and crimson orbs burning with equal intensity. They charged at the same time. Elestirne leapt over Telamon's first strike, then ducked the impossibly fast second as she landed. As the demon started to swing a third time, the elf dodged into the arc of the strike, quickly closing the distance between them before the blow could land. Instead of using the opportunity to strike though, she ducked under the demon's arm and leapt away as Telamon overbalanced slightly; his strike hitting nothing but air. As he spun with a snarl to face her, she realized that his last strike had caught her, and she touched the bleeding gash on her leg with a wince.
Before he could rush her, she charged him. The light of her swords merged into one glowing pattern as they crossed and interwove with each other. Without warning, both darted out, each aiming for a side. Telamon parried one and the other scored only a glancing hit. Both came back lightning fast to catch and block his retaliating strike-and she almost buckled under the force of it. Her guard slipped briefly-long enough for the edge of his sword to nick her cheek. The cut seared like fire and she cried out from the pain as she disengaged; throwing his sword out wide and kicking him back while retaliating with a quick strike that opened up a gash on his own cheek, just below the eye. Bringing her swords back into a guard, the elf-queen drew a slow, painful breath, and tossed a tress of midnight hair out of her eyes as she leveled an intently wary gaze on the demon. Her wrists were in agony now, but she fought to keep the pain from showing; knowing that Telamon would take advantage of any weakness she betrayed.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 1, 2010 10:46:58 GMT -5
Elestirne had forced herself to sit still and allow Storm and Tsukasa to tend to her. Reluctantly, she also let herself be coaxed into taking some of the elven-bread and cordial that had been brought and soon felt stronger for it; the pain lessening. Once the two had finished their ministrations she ignored the urge to put as much distance between her and them as she could, and instead focused on talking Olore’s advice; settling-uneasily-into a healing, meditative trance that made the most possible of her innate ability under the circumstances while clearing and focusing her mind at the same time.
She let her awareness-physical and spiritual- spread out in a wide wave. She touched Olore and kept seeking, searching for the missing one of the group. She found the field-and found truth in the same instant-as the image of a broken hilt wrapped in a silver horse-hair came to her mind; imparted, she knew, by Olore. A gasp of dismay and shock escaped her and her bitterness increased as guilt joined it. Wrath began to burn in her. She turned her awareness towards the tower and saw the two battling there, and knew that Telamon ‘saw’ her. If her light was unbearable to him, the darkness he had embraced was beyond abhorrent to her. “Telemachus!” she cried to him; deliberately using his real name. The cry rang out as shrill and piercing as a hunting hawk; full of challenge. “It is time!” As she opened her eyes, the silver orbs began to glitter and dance with their own inner fire. She schooled her face into a grim mask. Her hands went to her swords and they began to glow softly, one brighter than the other. The battered elf-queen herself seemed to be touched with a subtle silver radiance, even her crown and necklace glimmering with it. In her mind’s eye, she saw the familiar vision of a radiant silver star battling darkness, but did not push it away this time. Instead, she took a deep breath and lifted her chin resolutely. If it must be, then so let it be! Still she waited, hoarding her strength.
When she heard the beating rush of heavy wings sweep overhead then stop suddenly, she knew he was here. She flung herself to the side with perfect timing as he dropped-his sword ready to cleave her- and he missed. She rolled and came back agilely to her feet to face him; her narrowed eyes sparking in anger. As she did so, she noticed the fire that cut the others off from her and her eyes narrowed still more. Her voice was icily cold and sharp; no longer bothering to conceal her disdain and contempt. “The same tricks Telemachus? I thought you might have learned better by now.” Her icy voice went still colder. “Yes: it ends. Too long it has been and I am through tolerating you. You’ve tried my patience and hurt my friends one too many times. I have given you enough chances and warnings.”
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