Tatsumura Masamune
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Oct 14, 2008 16:58:04 GMT -5
The image of the battle with Raze filled his mind. The Shogun let the image of the battle envelope him, allowing him to not only see, but feel the battle as well. He opened his eyes, the understanding of how things had transpired finally understood.
Masamune watched the onikage for a few moments. He said nothing. He simply stood there, staring down the creature before him. It seemed so strange in many regards. But yet, the similarities between the two began to become more noticeable. As the two continued to size one another up, there seemed to be a understanding between the two. Both were more then what they seemed, both creatures of magic, both driven by honor. Both driven by a need to redeem themselves, and to protect Elestrine. The kami, and the onikage. Though they were worlds apart, for a split moment, they were the same.
Masamune walked pass the onikage, stopping next to his side, not looking back as he spoke.
"We share a common cause at his point Olore-sama. Though we do so for slightly different reasons, we share the same goal. You wish to protect Elestrine-dono from the tsukei, as do I. And...how is it you gaijin say...I'll be frank? We both want his head for the dishonor to both of us. Perhaps you are right, if we had fought together, it may have been a different story. But now , we may see if that is true."
Olore's tail flicked back and forth in the dim light of the quiet hall. A few strands at the end of the tail seemed to fall for no reason at all, and simply seemed to vanish into the air, accompanied by a cold breeze.
"I will honor Elestrine-dono's wishes. I will not go with her to her meeting." The words rang sincere, but a tone that seemed to be a half-truth rang with it.
And I understand her ability more then you might think. In Rokugan, there are people that are tied to the Void, the fifth element. It is best described as the empty spaces between the notes of a song. Something that isn't there, yet brings form to everything. Those with this gift can feel the pains of another, as well as thoughts. I may not understand her power fully, but I understood it enough that I was causing her pain. Why do you think I left as quickly as I did.
The Shogun took a few more steps, before stopping ten feet behind Olore. The hall was darkened with the clouds blocking the moonlight. A wind blew through the hall, blowing Masamune's garb around with it's force, as well as Olore's mane. The two stood in there in silence. As the clouds outside parted to let the moonlight enter once again, the two simply stood there, the few strands of hair resting in Masamune's hand.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 14, 2008 20:44:33 GMT -5
Kotaro shrugged. "I honestly don't know very much about Elestirne. She keeps very much to herself. I actually was looking to help Tatsumura-dono, who himself was part of the rescue party to save Elestirne. I simply joined up with them. I've only seen a brief glimpse of a fraction of Olore's power. Believe me, he is not one to trifle with by any stretch of the imagination."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 14, 2008 22:08:59 GMT -5
Authion nodded-almost to himself, it would seem. "She is not close to many and trusts few people completely,or lets them close enough to see beyond the surface. Storm/Akaruri is an exception-why you shall learn tomorrow. Part of this would have to do with the events of her life I imagine. It is not that she doesn't want to trust though. But to have her trust and friendship...its not a gift to take lightly. And it's plain to me that she counts you and your lord friends or she would not be here to help you against this threat you face. And Olore likes the two of you and that is no small mark in your favor,if I am any judge."
The red-haired elf gave a faint,wry smile. " I sense the veiled power and danger in him,can see it in his appearence and hear it in his words. If what I've sensed is even but a small part of what he has,or what you've seen released...then I certainly don't wish to see either wrath or power...and truly pity they that provoke it-as I've already said. When Elestirne met Akaruri-Storm-which is his true name?- in Mittelmarch before coming here...when she was contacted by the fiend,he struck the ground and it left a scorched furrow. Other times I have seen sparks leap from where he had struck. The mention of Telemachus especially seems to gain these reactions from him but why I don't know-though I suspect it is for more than the fiend capturing Elestirne."
Authion shrugged. "Mere speculation-and likely not for me to ever know. For all my titles and position I'm but a simple warrior. I understand battle far better than magic and the supernatural,and am content to let it remain so. But it is late and I believe both of us are weary. And there is to be another council in the morning I believe...most likely discusing what shall be done about this meeting the sorcerer has begged of my queen? The decision,in any case,is beyond my hands...but I hope we four together can find a way to not let her go alone. I am very uncomfortable with that possibility,and it may be overbold but I sense the same feeling-and resolve-from you three. She is stubborn,but if we work together she will concede to sense and allow a compromise." Authion locked gazes with Kotaro. "I'll leave you to your rest now-and I to mine. It has been a most pleasant conversation. Perhaps my lady has returned from her wanderings by now-I could not find her earlier." The elf extended his arm to Kotaro in invitation for the mortal to clasp forearm to forearm. "Until the morning Kotaro."
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 14, 2008 22:15:37 GMT -5
Kotaro grasped the elf's arm firmly. "Until then, Authion. Rest well. If you'll excuse me, I will take a more direct route to my quarters."
Releasing Authion's arm, he traversed the roof, vanishing over one of the peaks.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 15, 2008 0:09:48 GMT -5
Olore nodded inwardly to himself at faintly sensing the warrior's thoughts;well-pleased. So he had gotten through... That was encouraging. They were not all that different as might be assumed,and could relate to each other in small ways.
The silver stallion did not move as Masamune came down the last steps and began to move past him across the bridge. Nor did he prick his ears to catch his voice. He could hear it quite well. Sensing and knowing that the warrior had stopped-at the point where the hall opened into the bridge-Olore at last moved himself.
Pivoting gracefully,mane and tail swirling,he turned so that he faced Masamune. His knowing eyes were deep and wise and he dipped his muzzle lightly as he answered at last;his voice ringing again with ancient power. If I had joined with you it would have been a different story. He cannot stand against me,powerful though he seems to you. The stallion's muscles rippled as he lifted a slender foreleg and pawed at the stone lightly. I am far beyond him and he will find that out very quickly if he seeks battle or conflict with me. Or if he hurts Elestirne. The stallion swished his long tail briefly,the ends of it brushing the stone of the bridge-and noted with interest when a few strands disappeared in a swirl of cold wind.
Deliberately,Olore paced down the rest of the bridge to join Masamune in the hall;moving lightly,gracefully, as though he were dancing or gliding. Stopping a few feet before the mortal,he spoke again. You may have his head. I will be sure to leave it for you after I have had my turn at him. If he is any bit wise...he would do better to fight you than me. At least then there might be something left. A faint snort. He was not fooled by the half-truth. You will not let her go alone,and nor shall I or the others. We both know this windwalker. But what, exactly, we will do is discussion for tomorrow.
His eyes studied the other thoughtfully at the final words. He gave a slight nod of approval. Good. You have a bit of the idea,though perhaps not accurate exactly. You might understand why she healed you three years ago then-and why she felt drawn to heal you now. She means to explain to you and Kotaro tomorrow the exact nature of it,so that you might understand. It hurt her that you left so swiftly though and she does not understand why. If you would,perhaps, speak to her tomorrow-perhaps before our council-it would be appreciated. She may not know why you helped her three years ago,but she counts you her friend. She would not be here otherwise. You should at least explain why you left so swiftly so that she is less troubled. I know that she would appreciate it.
Olore's long mane and tail blew about him as the wind swirled about the pair,and a distinct silver-white glow limned his form even without the moonlight. His deep blue eyes were unreadable and for a long moment he simply stood and held Tatsumura's gaze without speaking. At last,he indicated the luminous strands of hair resting in Masamune's hand. Each strand shone with its own,faint light. The stallion's voice was faintly wry. Keep those. A gift,freely given. They may help you should you ever need to reach me quickly. You might ask next time though. Olore started to move past Masamune. As he went though,he paused and bent his noble head and neck to lightly touch his muzzle to the mortal's shoulder;his starry blue eyes capturing Masamune's violet ones. I am glad I helped you to understand. Tomorrow it is Elestirne we must help to understand. I would hope we come up with a fitting plan that both she and us can accept. Get some rest friend. You deserve it. Send for us in the morning when it is time for council. Olore continued on his way with no sound,smooth and fluid as water. As Masamune glanced back to look, the silver stallion did also. Remember my words Masamune,and do not forget. With a shift of light the stallion simply faded away in a silver shimmer.
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Oct 21, 2008 20:59:48 GMT -5
Storm listened intently on what Elestirne had said and she was right. He personally wouldn't put it past Telemachus to hurt any of us to get at the queen. He also knew that his protecting instincts would scar his mind to protect one of his dearest to the bitter end no matter the cost.
"You have me at a stalemate Elestirne," said Storm in a kind voice, "I understand your concern for us, especially me, and your desire not to have us hurt but the protective instinct of mine is saying not to let you go alone. I am in a battle with your request and my morals. But know this my queen that no matter what happens to me, it is on my head and not yours and I would gladly put myself in harms way. You are dear to me and I couldn't imagine what would happen if something happened to you. But please let us retire for the night. We shall talk more of this in the morning."
Storm took the lady in a full embrace and led her to her room. After that he decided to retire himself for he knew that a big day was ahead.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 22, 2008 14:45:36 GMT -5
Moonlight rippled down the midnight tresses in a wave as Elestirne raised her head, and silver glimmered subtly the full length of her hair. She rose gracefully in a shimmer of twilight and starlight from the bench and looked at Storm steadily for a long moment without speaking. Gratitude and relief rippled across her features,and shone in her silver eyes briefly.
"I thank you Storm.."she murmured quietly. "It is good to know that you understand why I feel as I do about any of you accompanying me. But I would never force you to choose between honor and morals otorno. If it comes to the two,follow always your heart and your morals over your honor. I still do not like the idea of any of you coming but I cannot stop you from doing so and the danger and risks are your own if you choose to come and share them... I still will not forgive myself if you are injured for it though. As dear as you hold me otorno,my bond-brother, so do I hold you. You are as family to me...as well as friend and I have no desire to see you in danger if preventable. But..."a gentle sigh escaped her as she looked to the sky and noted the late hour. "You are right. It is time for rest and there is time in the morning to talk more."
For the second time that night,Elestirne found herself surprised as Storm embraced her. Touched,and grateful, she returned the embrace and allowed him to lead her back to her rooms. Before he had a chance to disappear to his own room,she put a hand on his shoulder and looked at him with a hint of sterness in the silver eyes. "If you and the others are resolved to come with Olore and I when we go to keep this meeting with Telemachus you may and I will accept it,if perhaps a little unhappily. But I do not want you-or the others-putting themselves in danger for no reason. Not even for me,if you do not have to. I would rather let Telemachus capture me again than have any of you harmed needlessly-you especially,my brother." Her voice was as quiet and musical as always,but there was a subtle tinge of steel in it.
Releasing Storm's shoulder,she gave the mortal a slight gesture of blessing. "Go to your rest now otorno and may the stars watch over you and keep your dreams untroubled. Come get me in the morning when it is time for council." With that,she slipped into her rooms and retired to bed;letting come what rest might.
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Post by telemachus on Oct 24, 2008 10:26:19 GMT -5
A messenger delivers a letter to Elestirne.
Lady Elestirne,
Time trickles by and fate still deems me worthy to live. I’ve seen plenty of empires and kingdoms come and go, power fades and power begins to rise. Though I am impressed with these Jovians, they still have a weakness. Magic will be their downfall, when the time comes. Their faith in their physical strength will be their undoing, but until then I must survive. Emperor Thrawn holds Isg’bel’s Sceptor. I can feel its power pouring through the castle. Too wield it would be incredible.
In my reading I have found details about Karn’s Amulet. It is called an Azoth Gate, created by Demon alchemy. Karn was able to access it when he killed enough souls to energize it. I accessed it once, but it nearly left me powerless. I was too greedy, but I have learned. With the scepter I can send the Jovians back. Mittelmarch has the Azoth Gate somewhere in their hall. I’m sure of it.
I tell you this in hopes of trust. Tell their leaders of this. We have no time to waste.
I hope we meet again.
Your friend,
Telemachus
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 24, 2008 22:32:14 GMT -5
Elestirne woke abruptly in the grey half-light of false dawn. Rising, she went to the small window and looked out at the gardens;remembering-and thinking-of her and Storm's conversation of the night before. It had helped, though she wasn't sure if he fully understood how much. Then again...maybe he had. The way he had happened to be in the same area of the gardens that she had been wandering,and at the same time that she came along was more than coincidence, she felt. It felt as though he had been waiting intentionally for her... She shook her head slightly, briefly. If there was one she could believe of not having ulterior motives for doing such a thing it was he. His actions last night had surprised her, but she had seen clearly that he was genuinely worried and concerned about her meeting with Telemachus. Which would be tomorrow night...
She felt a current of unease, but pushed it away. Let come what may. It did no good to worry of it now. Today though...today they would discuss the meeting and whether she and Olore would be allowed to go to the tryst alone-which she knew would not be granted. So it wasn't a question of if the others were coming as much as it was of how to allow them... She wanted to accept the protection and support they wished to offer her, but she also wanted it to seem to Telemachus as though she and Olore were alone, and she did not want the others to risk themselves needlessly. A compromise would have to be reached. Today, she would also explain the nature of otorno to Tatsumura and Kotaro, and maybe why she had been pained by Tatsumura's wound. Tatsumura, at least, deserved that explanation.
The elven-queen shivered suddenly; recalling the dream that had wakened her. A storm had been on the wind,but not a storm of nature. A storm of magic and power. Two forces had been confronting each other. One of light...the other of dark. On the latter's side had been foulness, tainted magic, corrupted power...a sense of perverted wisdom and grace,of fallen granduer and goodness.. On the former's side...subtle power,gentle wisdom and grace...goodness...purity,and a shining being of untold light and majesty. She shook her head, disturbed. If it came to a battle between her and Telemachus...no. She would not think on that. But the storm was coming... Settling to the floor, Elestirne slipped into meditation;closing her eyes as she fell into herself and set about cleansing her mind of all thoughts and worries and focusing on centering. She would need to be calm and clear-headed for the council. False dawn gave way to true dawn and the sunrise but Elestirne-lost in trance-noted none of it.
At last she opened her eyes again and rose. Noting that morning had broke,she started for her door,then halted. There was a letter she had not noticed before. A frown marred the fair features. Why would there be a letter for her? And how would it have gotten to her? The only ones that knew she was here were here in the castle. Unless...it was from one of Mittelmarch that might have recognized her when she met Storm or... A suspicion entered her mind.
Gingerly,she took up the letter and opened it. It was written in the elven-tongue,using elven-runes. What was more, it was written in archaic high-elven,the tongue reserved for loremasters and sages only. Quickly,her keen eyes scanned it;first narrowing in suspicion,then widening with dismay as she reached the signature. A shock of coldness swept through her and the letter dropped from her hands in disbelief... How...?
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 24, 2008 22:47:20 GMT -5
Before the paper had had time to even touch the floor, Olore materialized in a shimmer of silver. His whole bearing radiated concern,for he had sensed her keen and sudden distress. What is it lady? What is wrong? Gently, he touched her mind and found his answers there. His ears went back and his frame tensed. Him...
Elestirne bent to retrieve the letter;eyes veiled,but face slightly pale. "How Olore?"
The silver stallion shook his head,nuzzling her gently. I cannot say. I shall wake the others. It is imperative that we meet at once. With another faint shimmer,the stallion disappeared and reappeared in the corridor outside Elestirne's door. He moved not,but sent his thoughts out powerfully to four separate minds,with only two words of unquestionable command to the sending. Come. Now.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 24, 2008 23:08:05 GMT -5
Kotaro woke with a start. The intense mental projection was strong enough to rend even the deepest sleeper from a dream, and it left the samurai's head aching. Shaking his head to clear the remnants of sleep from his mind, he rolled off his bed, landing gracefully and using his momentum to carry him to the door. He grabbed his wakizashi, threw on a yukata and cinched it closed, never slowing his pace through the castle.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 25, 2008 9:48:04 GMT -5
There was the distinctive sound of shattering china next door,followed by the sound of splintering wood as the door was wrenched open. Authion burst from the room;dressed but not yet armoured,his hair combed but not yet braided. Plainly,the knight had been at his morning meditations and tea. His emerald eyes were glittering and wild and a long knife was in one hand,ready to use.
"What is it? What has happened? What is wrong? Is there trouble? Danger?" The elven-warrior was so agitated that the words poured from him in elven,not common. He looked around wildly,but saw only Olore;standing sentinel at Elestirne's door. Something was plainly wrong-the stallion would not have called with such urgency and command elsewise-but there appeared to be no immediete threat or danger. Some of the wildness left Authion's eyes but he was still tense as a drawn bow. Upon hearing footsteps approaching swiftly,the elf whirled;long knife sweeping up as he dropped to a fighting stance.
He relaxed almost immedietely upon recognizing the approaching figure though. He lowered the weapon just slightly,and straightened. "Kotaro." He remembered to speak in the common tongue this time. The mortal too,was armed and it looked as though he had been roused from sleep for he was hastily dressed. "You too? What is wrong? Do you know?"
On an impulse,Authion turned from Kotaro for a moment and started tentatively for the door;half-expecting that Olore would stop him. But the silver stallion only watched him with unreadable eyes and even gave ground a half-step to allow him to try the door. It was locked. Deeply troubled,the elven-knight returned to Kotaro. His voice was wondering,but grave;eyes dark with worry. "Locked... She never locks others out... Something is greatly amiss here..." He looked to Olore,hoping the stallion would provide insight,since it had been he who had roused them. The silver stallion regarded both with his depthless eyes. I will say nothing until Tatsumura and Storm are also here. You will have to wait for your answers.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 25, 2008 16:42:19 GMT -5
Kotaro shook his head. "I've no idea what the trouble is. All I know is that I was summoned by Olore's telepathy."
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Oct 28, 2008 12:13:24 GMT -5
Storm awoke with a start. He had been dreaming and then he heard a command he recognized as Olore's appear in his mind and he woke up.
'Elestirne,' thought Storm.
He had thought the worst and slipped on his hakama and pulled out Brightblade. He bolted outside and saw nothing except Authion and Kotaro standing out there. we walked up to the others asked.
"Fuuma-dono whats going on?"
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 28, 2008 14:50:17 GMT -5
"We do not know." The faintly grim answer came from Authion. "We were roused even as you-Kotaro from sleep,I from my meditations. All I know is there is most certainly something amiss-for Elestirne's door is locked and she never locks others out. Whatever has happened though...she does not seem to be in immediete danger. But I am worried. Olore will tell us nothing. I think he waits for Tatsumura." The knight ran his free hand through his dark red hair,the other still holding the long knife. "I wish I knew what was amiss.. One of us might try talking to her but I do not know if it would have any effect or if she would answer us if we did. It might be best to wait for your lord Tatsumura to join us."
Olore snorted and dipped his muzzle in the faintest of nods;indigo eyes holding all three, words audible to each of them. You shall have your answers when Tatsumura is come, not before-as I have said already... Elestirne will not emerge until then...she is most unsettled. Reassure yourselves at least with the fact that she is unharmed.
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Oct 29, 2008 13:02:00 GMT -5
Storm put Brightblade up against the wall and put his ear against the door. He heard nothing, not even a rustle of clothing, for he wasn’t trying to be quiet and knew that Elestirne had heard him. Storm knocked the door a few times.
“Elestirne?”
No answer.
Storm’s voice grew more concerned with the quietness; he knocked a little harder this time.
“Oselle, what’s wrong? Why have you locked the door? Elestirne please answer me.”
Storm slumped up against the door and turned to face Olore, the concern on his face was evident.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 29, 2008 22:08:05 GMT -5
Olore gave ground to allow Storm room at the door,ears pricked as the warrior called to Elestirne. His eyes were sympathetic, for he truly believed that Elestirne would not come forward until Tatsumura was also present. She knew the others were outside her door, of course, but the stallion did not think she would emerge until the windwalker had joined them. Therefore, he was unsurprised when no answer other than silence rewarded Storm's calling. As the young warrior slumped the silver stallion came forward with a nicker and a gentle nuzzle;sympathizing with his distress.
Authion's look of worry deepened when Storm's calling brought forth no answer. "If she will not respond to you Storm,there is naught else to be done I'm afraid but wait for your lord Tatsumura as Olore said to do." He cast a glance to Kotaro. "If the three of us were roused so quickly-and if he recieved the call the same instant as we-I wonder why he is not yet come."
Olore snorted softly,and began to answer the doubt he heard in the elven-knight's voice,when he caught a faint,furtive sound from the room. The slightest rustle of silk. His sculpted ears swiveled back. The sound of the latch of the door being drawn back... He turned his head from the three men and fixed his gaze unblinkingly upon the door to Elestirne's room,with a warm thought to Storm. Well done...
The door opened slowly to reveal Elestirne. She was pale and there was a haunted look to both her face and the starbright,but shadowed, eyes. A piece of parchment was held tightly in one,slightly shaking, hand. Silently,she stood in the threshold. Her gaze flickered between the three of them and Olore but she did not step into the hall;seeming hesitant to do so.
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Tatsumura Masamune
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"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Oct 30, 2008 7:13:15 GMT -5
The image awoke Masamune from his meditative trance. With no thought, he grabbed his blades, and allowed the cool winds to propel him down the halls at incredible speed. He arrived at the room, seeing all standing around, and Elestrine looking pale.
"What has happened?"
As he said this, the familier sound of blowing winds appeared in the distance.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 30, 2008 21:45:24 GMT -5
"We were all summoned by Olore, my lord. We were waiting for you; Lady Elestirne will only speak to all of us together."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 30, 2008 23:45:53 GMT -5
After Olore had dissappeared Elestirne resumed her position sitting in the middle of her room;head bowed. Questions chased themselves across her mind, primarily How? and Why? Her keen ears had heard the running footsteps and the three voices. She had heard Authion try the door and retreat,defeated, upon finding it locked and had heard too, the words exchanged between the three. Whatever Olore said she did not hear. Even though she could hear their worry she did not stir. Not even at the first of Storm's knocks and his call to her would she move. But the plain concern and distress in his voice the second time-and the use of the endearment she had taught him-finally prompted her. It was not fair to worry them so,she noted reluctantly. Rising in a faint rustle of silk she stepped soundlessly to the door. One hand keeping firm hold of the letter,she raised the other to unlatch the door. As she swung it slowly open she noted instantly the worried expressions of those waiting. And noted that they were no longer three,but four. Tatsumura had joined them. She caught his question and Kotaro's response just as the door swung fully open;allowing them to see her. Her hand tightened unconsiously on the letter and her glance flickered to each of the five waiting,but she came no further than the threshold yet. Alarm showed briefly on her face as she noted that all were armed,but it was a momentary flicker,no more.
"Yes, certainly we must speak." Her voice was no more than a murmur. "But I fear what I have to say is neither encouraging nor good hearing." She seemed to hesitate,then stepped into the hallway after a moment. "I am sorry Olore had to rouse you from your rests...but it is imperative we meet immediently. Where we cannot be heard or seen. Your throne chamber Tatsumura?" The last was delivered with the rising inflection of a question,but also a quiet but definete note of command. "We were all to meet again as it was,to discuss what shall be done about the meeting with...Telemachus tomorrow eve." Her eyes darkened and something seemed to tighten in her face as she mentioned the sorcerer.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 2, 2008 0:45:16 GMT -5
Olore snorted and stamped a forehoof sharply;his ears lacing back. Enough of this! Masamune,we recognize that you are lord here and that this is your domain but there are times where it is not asking that should be done of permisson,but granting without question. Elestirne has troubling news of import that must be known and this is no time for politeness, nor for apoligizing that you all were roused from your rests,when it is needed and justified-as you four soon shall learn. Come.
With that,the stallion set off smartly down the hall with a swish of his long tail. Elestirne hesitated a brief moment,then followed him,along with the others.
Olore led the five down to the throne room,pushing the door open with a gentle nudge of his nose. He waited until all had entered before he joined them. When he had seen all seated he took his place at Elestirne's shoulder,but stayed standing. Gently,he nosed the elven-queen. Speak lady. We are safe here. Whether Masamune enacts again the magic he used last night or not we are protected. I have seen to it.
Elestirne cast him a slightly surprised look,but did not question the words. She could feel what he had done even without searching. It was...akin to a unbreakable,utterly undetectable dome of protection. They could not be seen or heard by any means. She wondered of this but pushed it away to think on later. Taking a calming breath,the elven-queen raised her eyes to lock gazes with each of the four men in turn. Her face was still pale but her eyes were keen and intense.
"Olore has made it safe for us to speak without fear of being overheard or seen by any means so I shall speak plainly." She shifted her hand so that the others could see the parchment held in it. " This letter was in my room when I awoke,and was plainly meant for my eyes and mine alone,for it is written in the archaic high-elven tongue;using high-elven runes. Unless Storm has told someone in Mittelmarch that I was to come-and I do not think he would have,seeing as he did not even tell you twain- the only ones who know I am in the land aside from those of us here now is your people and the faint possibility of any that might have recognized me in the town. But that is not nearly so important as this: there is no one that knows I am here,in this castle, but the six of us gathered here now,your people and my warriors. And none that know whom I am but my own people. And yet,this letter finds me."
She paused;silver eyes again flickering briefly to each of them. Olore nuzzled her in encouragement and she raised a hand to pat his shoulder before she continued. She chose her words with care;keenly watching for their reactions. "The letter... is from Telemachus. Somehow-I do not care to think right now just exactly how- he knows that I am here. And,somehow, that I would be here,would come here and not stay in Mittelmarch. I shall read the letter to you since none of you can read the runes."
Her hand shook just slightly as she smoothed the parchment out. Her clear voice, however, was steady.
" Lady Elestirne,
Time trickles by and fate still deems me worthy to live. I’ve seen plenty of empires and kingdoms come and go, power fades and power begins to rise. Though I am impressed with these Jovians, they still have a weakness. Magic will be their downfall, when the time comes. Their faith in their physical strength will be their undoing, but until then I must survive. Emperor Thrawn holds Isg’bel’s Sceptor. I can feel its power pouring through the castle. Too wield it would be incredible.
In my reading I have found details about Karn’s Amulet. It is called an Azoth Gate, created by Demon alchemy. Karn was able to access it when he killed enough souls to energize it. I accessed it once, but it nearly left me powerless. I was too greedy, but I have learned. With the scepter I can send the Jovians back. Mittelmarch has the Azoth Gate somewhere in their hall. I’m sure of it.
I tell you this in hopes of trust. Tell their leaders of this. We have no time to waste.
I hope we meet again.
Your friend,
Telemachus"
Finishing,she fixed them all with a piercing gaze;her eyes brighter than usual. "What this may mean I cannot say. But it does not bode well-especially coming on the eve of the meeting he has begged of me-and it unsettles me greatly that he somehow knew I would be here. I do not like it at all." Her eyes had a haunted cast. "But it seems both Kotaro and I were right. He may not possess the sceptor yet,but he desires to,and if he is with the Jovians he shall certainly have the opportunity to try for it. But he also wants this amulet of the demon Karn and this he cannot reach himself-for Mittelmarch knows him as a traiter now,thanks in part to Olore and I,and he would be killed on sight.
"His purpose for sending this letter I cannot discern-unless he intends for I to go to Mittelmarch and speak with Isen about this and leave you here...but with the meeting he desires of me it seems a strange thing to ask.. I cannot make sense of this but we must not underestimate him. He has a reason for sending me this-and a reason for begging the meeting with me to begin with-and part of it is likely to try to keep me out of the way and unable to aid you with the Jovians in the event an attack comes from them..."
Midnight hair shimmered with silver as Elestirne shook her head slowly,deliberately;the haunted look in her starbright eyes and paleness of her face more pronounced now. "All I can say is that I do not care for the feeling of it. He is up to something,that is certain...has other motives than just desiring the sceptor and it likely involves me to some degree. It seems to me he is playing a game and I care not to be caught in it. It is possible that I might learn more of his motives and what he is up to during the meeting he wishes...but before speaking of what we shall do for that I would hear your thoughts on this my friends,and what might be done. It is most unsettling that he knows I am here and I can only hope that my presence has not brought danger upon you or yours Tatsumura." Her eyes were grave.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 5, 2008 12:12:46 GMT -5
Authion was the first to react to the news. His hand trembled with the effort it took to keep from drawing the hastily sheathed long knife. He almost rose from his seat but Olore's implacable indigo eyes fell on him even as he entertained the thought and he suppressed the urge immedientally. Try as he might however,he could not keep a hard edge from tingeing his melodic voice.
"How would he know? How could he? And how could he have gotten the letter to you-and known which rooms were yours my queen?" His tone was suspicious and skeptical and,though he addressed Elestirne, he looked to Tatsumura; a question in his dark green eyes. "Unless he was let in?"
Think before you speak Authion Knight-Protector of the queen! Olore interjected,his tone sharp and the words projected to all. Tatsumura is a firm friend of your queen and an equally firm enemy of the sorcerer. As are all of good in this land. Speak not on what you do not know. The stallion gave a snort;nostrils flaring. None of Tatsumura's would have let Telemachus in. Have you not seen that much in your day here? Would we have come here if they were not friends? Find your shame elven-knight. In any case, the sorcerer would not have come here, and did not. I would have sensed him if he had tried. No, the message was sent by other means. Magic perhaps, or a lackey of his-if any he has-that would not have attracted suspicion. But Elestirne is right. He should not have been able to know that we are here. It is enough that he knows we are in the land. To somehow know our exact location-and that we would come here is most troubling and upsetting and I do not see good coming of it. Bending his head,he pawed the floor lightly. And, though we should be worried for this unexpected contact and speak on it we must not let it distract us overmuch from speaking on what shall we do about the meeting that one has begged of Elestirne. His eyes held them all. But yes...thoughts on this news? Tatsumura,Kotaro? What do either of you make of or think on this?
Authion,at Olore's words,initially felt anger,then humility. Chastened,he bowed his head as he realized that he had nearly inferred that Tatsumura's hold was not safe if Telemachus could have a message reach Elestirne with no one being the wiser,and so,had nearly insulted the strange lord's strength. And perhaps,on some degree, friendship with his queen. Still sitting, Authion made an apolegetic gesture and slight bow,to Olore and Tatsumura. "My apoligies honored Olore and you,Tatsumura. I meant no offense or insult. It is just that the news distresses me greatly. Telemachus...the fiend..is not supposed to know we are here...but how in the name of the gods could he have discovered it? And how did the letter get into my queen's room? Or here at all? Without the messenger being seen?" He sat back,awaiting their reactions and stealing a glance to Elestirne. She sat quietly,her face giving nothing away. Olore too,was quiet;his eyes unreadable.
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Nov 6, 2008 11:18:07 GMT -5
Storm nearly stood up from his seat and draw his sword when Olore cast him a intimidating look. He could not believe that Authion thought that the Shogunate had let the foul creature of an elf into the Kyuden. Storm himself had very good relations with the Queen and would not allow harm to come to her. Storm sighed and just calmed down and then said, "Well now that it is obvious that the sorcerer knows where you are, he could well be expecting company from you so it really wouldn't matter if we accompanied you or not. Pardon I am not talking out of line, but I feel as if I need to check to our security before I get worked up. Oselle, Authion, Tatsamura-dono, Fuuma-dono."
With that Storm bowed and started to leave the room.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Nov 12, 2008 16:51:10 GMT -5
Olore nickered and put his ears back just slightly-indignant to have been left out-but he let it pass. He sent a warm thought to Storm. The tone was quite different from that of only a few moments before,but the warning look was clear.
Be at peace youngling. You know Authion better than that. He spoke without thinking,as I said, and it was concern for Elestirne's safety that moved him,as it does you. He knows that the foul one couldn't come here but his instinct was to say every possibility,whether others wanted to hear it or no. The stallion stretched out his long neck. You might have reacted the same,were you in his position.
Authion,saw Storm's anger and noted him rising from his seat. Spreading his hands wide in a genuine gesture of apoligy,chagrin subtly touching his features,he spoke again,with a brief glance to Olore. The stallion had plainly told Storm something,but that something had just and clearly been meant only for him since the rest of them had heard nothing.
"Alagos-ohtar,"the knight said soberly;using the seldom-spoken elven translation of Storm's name . "I spoke in haste for the surprise of the news and concern for herinya Elestirne. I apoligize to you,and to the room at large,for it." He stood as well,smoothly. "I do not think that checking security will mean any difference for one such as the fiend-especially with honored Olore on watch for him-but it is better to be overcautious than not cautious enough. If Elestirne permits,I will quit this counsel also and see to our warriors,and then perhaps assist you in your tasks. I believe these four are more than capable of discussing what should and will be done about both this contact and the meeting to be held tomorrow eve."
Authion glanced to Elestirne but she did not return it,or show that she saw it,save by the faintest dip of her chin. Olore spoke for her to him. Go. You are restless and would be better served actively doing something than sitting here in counsel. We can indeed manage without you and Storm-in fact,it might procede quicker for that. Leave us. We have much to be spoken of and decided. Those last two were made audible to Storm as well.
Authion bowed to his Queen,Olore and Tatsumura,then took his leave;going to his room to properly arm himself before setting his course for the place where he would find the elven force.
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Kotaro
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Shogun
Posts: 1,174
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Post by Kotaro on Nov 12, 2008 23:08:00 GMT -5
Kotaro looked uneasy. "Somehow, the fiend breached the castle walls undetected, a feat which never been accomplished before in this castle."
He turned to the Shogun. "How could this have happened, my lord? You know this kyuden better than any."
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