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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 15:44:58 GMT -5
Everything happened so fast. The guards swooped in and filled the room and a chorus of voices called for water. Buckets were filled and thrown on the bed to extinguish the flames, but for everything that happened behind Selma she was more focused on what happened before her. Melnaie continued to hang on and try to distract Elijah even with the pressing danger. She blamed Selma for the fire, but of course that was absurd. Then Elijah did something miraculous and called for Melanie to be removed from the room. Selma couldnt help but to give a small smile as she saw Melanie being dragged from the room yelling at the guards to release her.
After that Selma was left alone with Elijah and he was thanking her, for what she wasnt really sure though. "I'm not sure what I did but you're welcome nonetheless." Shentomd him with a touch of confusion in her voice as she watched him pick up and sniff the bottle from the previous night. A potion? Had Melanie really stooped to such tactics to when him over?
Then Elijah asked her an even stranger question. "Elijah I.." she started to say before the images of her dream flashed before her eyes again and this time she vaguely remembered a man smiling at her. "I dont know. I mean perhaps it's because I've worked in the palace so long?" More images touched her mind and she had to close her eyes for a moment as her head swam a bit. Almost like a memory at the very edge of her mind she couldnt quite grasp. "My head is all fuzzy.." she finally admitted.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 16:17:04 GMT -5
Elijah searched Selma’s eyes a moment. The vision he’d had rushed through his mind. The feeling of his arms around her, the warmth of the flames. He noticed how she backed away from his questions, how she seemed to be uncomfortable. When she stated she’d worked here her whole life he gave a nod. “Of course. Perhaps that is all it is.” He gave a gentle smile. He rubbed his head slightly. He paced slightly then and let out a heavy breath. “But, what if it isn’t?” He questioned as he stepped forward. “Just...bare with me.” He lifted her chin. “Worst case this is just a stupid idea, hm?” He gave a slight chuckle, he was nervous as he looked into her emerald eyes. “I’m not sure if this will even work, or if my mind is just fuzzy from everything as well. But I saw you.” He paused, “I saw you as flames overtook the home we were in. You were dressed in a lovely gown, we were both afraid and locked inside...something strange is happening, Selma.”
The prince drew his brows together and he bit his lower lip. He had to give his thought a try, right? He cupped her cheek then and gave a warm smile. “Just trust me.” He spoke as he leaned in. He pressed his lips to hers then. The world swirled around him and suddenly a vision burst into his mind.
Cheers came from a crowd of people. Elijah had his arms wrapped around a woman, his eyes closed as he pressed his lips to hers. He leaned back and took her hands into his. Elijah found himself gazing into Selma’s eyes. It was their wedding day. The bells of the church rang happily through the cobblestone church. The crowd was filled with happy faces. Elijah caught the eyes of Selma’s mother and he nodded to her as she approached him and kissed his cheek before she kissed her daughter’s cheek. It was a joyous day. Elijah scooped his arms under Selma and he kissed her once more before he carried her down the aisle. Flowers were tossed over them as they made their way to the beautiful carriage outside.
Elijah stumbled back from Selma, his chest heaved as he stared to her. “Tell me you saw that...” He spoke, his voice trembled slightly. It seemed with each touch something happened, each time something within him sparked to life and reminded him of this world that seemed to be a fairytale.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 16:33:31 GMT -5
Selma fidgeted as she stood before Elijah, nervous and uncertain of the events transpiring around them. She played with her fingers and searched her thoughts for something that made sense but everything was a jumbled mess. Even lines of reality seemed to blur together as psuedo memories and actual memories threatened to overlap. It was like she was walking through a haze. He was also acting strangely though which she didn't know if it was comforting or concerning. Had Melanie or the make from the festival done something to them? A curse or enchantment perhaps? It would explain the odd images and unwarranted emotions. Magic was so troublesome at times.
When Elijah stepped up to her and lifted her chin she felt as if her heart was going to pound out of her chest and she wanted to pull away from him but something kept her still. A servant and a Prince, it wasnt possible or even thinkable. When he leaned forward and his lips touched hers there was a spark and the memories that threatened to drive her mad suddenly sorted themselves out in a coherent manner and her mind became clear as she felt, heard and saw the joyous occasion play out before her.
Then the vision dissipated as Elijah separated from her once more and she quickly found herself longing to be immersed in the happy memory once more. "I dont understand. These.. thoughts, memories, or images are they real? They feel so real but they're not possible.."
Just as she reached out towards Elijah once more the sound of healed shoes on the cobble could be heard quickly approaching and Selma withdrew her hand just as the Queen swept into the room. "What is the meaning of this? What happened? I'm hearing that Melanie set fire to your bed?" She looked towards the bed and saw the soaking and burnt blankets and glared at Selma briefly before turning back to Elijah. "Are you alright, my son?
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 19:37:15 GMT -5
Elijah let out a relieved breath as Selma spoke. It wasn’t believable, yet...it felt real. Yes. That’s exactly how he felt when these visions played before his eyes. He went to speak just as the queen barged into the room demanding an explanation. Elijah straightened as he looked to his mother, his brows drew together. “Yes mother, I’m fine, but Melanie did more than light my bed on fire. She did much more than that.” He spoke as he moved and lifted the bottle that held the potion in it. “She’s attempting to make me a puppet, mother.” He shook the empty bottle. “She came to my room late last night and offered me this drink. I don’t remember much of anything after the first taste of it. Then when I refused to tell my servant to leave, as she was working to clean my room...Melanie became angry with me and well...” He motioned toward the bed.
The queen stepped forward and slapped him harshly across the face before she grasped his chin to force him to look at her. Elijah grit his teeth as he looked to his mother. “You just have to come up with reasons to drive her away don’t you? Hm? Like the last one too.” She slapped him again. Elijah’s head stayed to the side after this one his jaw tightened, his hands balled into fists. The queen turned from him, “I’ve spoken to her, she was in tears when she got to the throne room.” She crossed her arms as she glared to Selma. “And you.” Her expression went from angry to a furious tone. “You seem to be quite the distraction to my son.”
“Mother.” Elijah spoke, his cheekbone was already bruising from her hard blows. “My servant is not the root of this problem.” He moved between the queen and Selma his arms crossed over his chest. “Did you not hear me mother. Melanie is trying to manipulate me.”
“And so she should, you are an ill behaved prince.” The queen shot back her eyes glared to him. “Your father and I have made a deal with Melanie. We will hand the throne over to you and her next week. It is about time that you take up the responsibility. She knows how to rule a kingdom after all. Besides the trade that it will bring Phesa will be exactly what we need to wipe out Rhale. To rid the world of that scum will be music to my ears. With that as your first war, well...our people will love you more than they already do.” She took in a breath then as she turned once again. “I expect you to formally apologize to Melanie for what you’ve done. You sparked the fire, didn’t you son?” She questioned her eyes looking to him. “I can’t believe you would blame sweet Melanie for such an act. She will be a wonderful queen, one that I can trust to take my position.” The queen looked to Selma then. “Get back to work, stop standing around. What do you think we keep you around for?” She snapped before she looked back to her son. “Elijah. You best accept Melanie as your wife to be. She will be your queen as you will be her king. She is just simply defeated by you stating such horrible things about her. A spell?” She scoffed. “Why would she need to cast a spell upon you?” The queen rolled her eyes slightly. “She is a beautiful catch and everything that she has to offer is more than worthy of you.” The queen stopped and looked to Selma. “Be sure that he is presentable for today. Hm?” She stared the woman down for a long moment. “Do not disappoint me, girl.” Her voice was threatening as she stared to her. “Make sure that bruise isn’t visible. Hm?” She walked from the room then without another word.
Elijah was shaking from anger. He took the bottle and threw it across the room as he let out a yell that echoed off of the walls. The bottle shattered a fell to the floor in several pieces that scattered across the beautiful hardwood. “I don’t know what is going on.” He looked to Selma. “She won’t listen to me. She doesn’t care.” He snapped. “You see what I’ve dealt with? Hm? What I have to deal with.” He paced slightly. “On top of all of this...I...” He shook his head. “I...have these strange feelings...these odd memories or dreams...visions if you want to call them that...” He sighed heavily as he stared at Selma, his eyes almost pleading for help. The bruise upon his cheekbone had darkened into a dark purple now, a bit of blood oozed through part of it where his skin had broken from the second harsh blow from his mother.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 20:02:46 GMT -5
As always Selma took the scolding and accusations without complaint as the Queen yelled at her. To her own knowledge Selma hadn't done anything to warrant such hatred from the Queen, but she took the verbal punishment very well. When the Queen directed her to resume her job instead of "standing around" she immediately went to the bed to pull the burnt sheets off and see the damage of the mattress beneath. If they were lucky it would only be wet from the water and easily repairable. Unfortunately though, it wasn't the case and even the mattress had a large black burnt spot in the middle. Almost as if it had started there instead of on the sheets.
As the Queen left and Selma heard the bottle break against the wall she jumped and turned back to face Elijah as he vented his frustrations about the situation. She agreed with him of course. If Selma was ever a mother she would never treat her child the way the Queen treated Elijah, even if she were nobility. It was the Queen who had unacceptable behavior in most situations. Screaming and lashing out like the spoiled brat she was. If Selma was correct she had married into the family and it had been the King who was born to the previous royal couple. So her title was given and not a birth right.
Elijah's pleading touched Selma's heart and she felt for him but what could she do? She wasn't in a position of power to help him, but maybe there was someone else who could help. "What if you brought this to the King. Surely your father would be more willing to listen to you. He is a reasonable man." She had seen the King during his open court several times and he was usually sympathetic, even if he couldn't really help a situation, but he always seemed to listen. "If you go to him surely he can reason with your mother." Selma's voice became more hopeful as she continued to talk. "Maybe he can have the royal arch mage look into the potion and what caused the fire. Prove once and for all that Melanie did these things and then surely the Queen couldn't force you to marry someone who was attempting to commit treason!" She stepped up to Elijah and her own expression matched his as she reached out and grasped his hand.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 20:39:05 GMT -5
Elijah gazed to her as she spoke, his expression softened. “Perhaps, my father can overrule my mother. He’s the true heir to the throne, she married into her royalty. She was a noble from the west. Only the gods know why my father’s father chose such a vile soul to become the queen.” He sighed and in that moment Selma reached out to touch his hand. He was lost in yet another memory. His eyes closed as his breaths became deep and slow. A calm overcame him just from her touch.
Elijah stood on the hill that overlooked Phesa. His fingertips were laced within Selma’s. He looked to her with a smile upon his lips. “Can you believe it?” He asked as his ocean eyes looked over the city. It was much different than in their time. Smaller even. The homes were quaint. Though the manner still stood over everything. “Tomorrow you will be my wife.” He gave a squeeze to her hand. “After all this time.” He chuckled. “Though...did you hear about the new invention?” He asked with a raised brow. “I don’t like it...the bracelet. They plan to put it on all the lower class. To turn them into slaves, to take away their powers.” He scoffed slightly. “I don’t believe they should have such things stolen from them. What right do we have to do such a thing?” He asked as he turned to her and pulled her into his arms. “We have to put up a fight against the council, speak with the king...he will understand. This isn’t our future in Phesa. I’m a council member, as is your father. We should be able to stop it, if it isn’t a unanimous vote then it can’t happen.” He kissed her cheek and gave a gentle squeeze. “We can stop this. It will be a vile future...” He sighed. “Not one I want our children to grow into.” He smiled to her warmly.
Elijah didn’t pull his hand from hers then as he gazed into her eyes. He took in quick breaths. It was strange to see these visions of a life that he’d never had. He was so happy. He could feel it. Even with the worry that was laced in that vision, he was happy. He smiled. More than he ever smiled now. “The bracelets...” He drew his brows together before he shook his head. “We...will figure this out, hm?” He searched her eyes. “Something has happened...something that we don’t understand...blood magic perhaps?” He released her hand and gave a heavy sigh. “I need to speak with my father, you must come. You were a witness...besides I do not wish to leave you alone.” He gave a soft smile. “I don’t trust Melanie nor do I trust my mother.” He looked to his tunic and let out a sigh before he turned to his closet and sifted through it quickly. He pulled a black tunic with a deep blue jacket out. He quickly changed and brushed through his hair. “Good enough?” He asked though as he looked into the mirror he touched the bruise and winced slightly. He drew in a breath as a slight glow came from his fingertips. The bruise slowly disappeared and soon enough the pain was gone as well. “There, great makeup job.” He chuckled as he looked to her and winked.
Elijah nodded to her to follow as he slipped from the room quickly. He raced through the halls and found his way to the throne room. His jaw tightened when he walked in to see Melanie standing before the king and queen, crying. He let out an exasperated sigh. “Great...” He muttered under his breath.
Melanie turned her eyes looked to him. “Elijah...” She whimpered. “I can’t believe you’d do such a thing to me. To protect a servant over me. It’s clear she did it. She doesn’t want to give up her time with you.” She glared to Selma.
The queen stood a devilish look upon her face. “Guards.” She ordered. “Take this servant and lock her away until this is resolved. Drain her.” The queen stared into Selma’s eyes. “Tonight you will find your voice dear girl. You’ll tell us all what you’ve done before midnight.” She chuckled.
Elijah went to speak up. His breath caught in his chest as Melanie took her arm and laced it around his. As soon as she touched him his eyes glazed over. “Good, that’s where she belongs.” Melanie spoke a chuckle came over her lips. “Isn’t it Elijah? Servants shouldn’t be starting trouble like this one. I saw her dancing with a noble last night. Can’t you believe the audacity?” She grinned as she stared to Selma.
The prince looked to her, his eyes showed a sadness that was locked within. He couldn’t do anything...he flinched slightly as he tried to fight against the spell. “I...am surprised she thought that it was alright to dance when she should have been working.” Her voice was forced, it sounded almost painful.
Melanie giggled as she clung to him. “Isn’t it comical though? A servant and a noble.” She leaned against him and kissed his cheek. His eyes fluttered when she did this, almost as if her hold upon him tightened.
“Take her.” The queen ordered with a grin as the guards came forward and grasped onto Selma’s arms.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 21:00:08 GMT -5
More visions of a life unlived and such strong emotions that came with them. It was almost overwhelming in a way. She now knew that the man in them was Elijah but the scenes didn't make sense. Her mind once again wandered to magic and tricks but if they were only illusions they were so pleasant that she didn't really want them to stop, even if they were confusing. Her wistful smile faded though when Elijah spoke of her accompanying him to see the King. She didn't think her presence would aid him but if he thought it best then perhaps it would. Elijah knew the king far better than she did anyway so she would accompany him and try her best to convince their monarch of the treachery within the palace.
As they drew closer to the throne room Selma thought her heart would pound out of her chest, though when she saw who had beaten them to the King her heart sank into her stomach. Dread filled Selma as she saw the women's expressions when they looked at her. She wanted to grab Elijah and run from the room. Take him away before their coils wound tightly around him and there was no escape. Of course there was nothing she could actually do and before she was able to interject anything the guards were at her sides and squeezing her arms tightly. Drained? She hadn't done anything and she was being sentenced to a fate worse than death. The bracelet was programmed to only drain enough to keep her a death's door but never to pass it during a drain. The only way it would end is if someone turned it off or mercifully killed her. She doubted either would come very quickly. "No! Your Majesty!" She looked up towards the king in a pleading manner. "You're being fooled! Don't let your vision be clouded by those around you!" Her words were bold and much stronger than anything she had said previously. Unbeknownst to her they were the same words she had told the King in a different life time when other council members were whispering lies into his ear.
"Quiet you! You can't address the King in that manner!" One of the guards snapped and yanked her arm to the side. "Ecce enim veritatem!" She yelled in the language used only by spell casters. Common tongue was not used in fear of accidentally casting spells when unintended but the language was only taught to nobles and had no written form in order for servant to learn. For Selma to utter a phrase meaning "see the truth" was practically impossible. A wide spread spell which allowed those around her to see through tricks and deception even if for only a brief moment.
With the sudden outburst the guards tensed as they thought their monarch was in danger and her bracelet was activated on the spot. The drain was not slow or gentle. Her body jerked as if a jolt of electricity shot through her and then she crumpled under the pain that coursed through every fiber of her being. She lacked even the ability to cry out, but some said that made it even worse. The looks of sheer agony were enough to make even nobles turn away from tortured servants.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 21:17:27 GMT -5
Melanie had clouded Elijah’s mind easily as she watched Selma. “Poor servant girl. Plead as much as you want.” She giggled as she laced her fingers with the prince whom wrapped an arm around her waist. He didn’t even seem to notice that Selma was there anymore.
When Selma addressed the king he stood his brows pulled together. He watched as his guards gripped tightly upon the small woman and then suddenly she spoke the ancient language. His eyes moved to Elijah whom stumbled slightly his hand pulled away from Melanie, his eyes cleared. “Father.” He looked to him breathless. Though as Melanie took Elijah’s hand he fell back under the spell.
The king looked to Selma as the drain began. He walked down the stairs and nodded to his guards. “Take her downstairs, I shall follow.” He spoke, he looked to the queen a moment before he followed the guards. Once they were downstairs the king motioned for the guards to leave. When they hesitated he drew his brows together. “Do you think I can’t handle a servant?” he questioned with a smirk. He followed them to the door and latched the lock into place. The king then turned to Selma whom was strapped into a chair. He stepped forward and reached to her bracelet. “Do not lash out at me girl.” He spoke as his eyes stared into hers. He held something in his hand as he clasped his hand over the bracelet. He didn’t remove his eyes from hers as the drain ceased. Then he withdrew his hand, the bracelet hung in it opened at the latch. He looked to the gears within the bracelet that whirred slightly before he brought his eyes back to her. “Who are you?” He asked. “How do you know the ancient language? Hm? That was much of a lost art. Those words that you spoke have not been used in nearly 100 years, if not more...” He stepped back from her. “So tell me, who are you?”
**
Elijah walked with Melanie and the queen down a hallway. They were headed to the carriage outside. There was an event this morning to announce his courtship of Melanie. The prince was silent a soft smile upon his lips. “Such a beautiful day today, isn’t it your highness?” Melanie asked as she looked to the queen.
“Yes, indeed it is. I do apologize for the girl. It’s tough to find good servants these days.” The queen chuckled as she was helped into the carriage.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 21:33:43 GMT -5
Everything that transpired after her bracelet was turned on was a bit of a blur. Intense pain muddled the mind and seconds seemed to drag on for hours. It felt as if her body was being torn apart and squeezed at the same time. She couldn't breath, think or move until suddenly all of it stopped. When the pain subsided and her mind cleared she blinked as she took a deep breath and gasped as if she had been submerged underwater for far to long. Her body trembled and ached from just the short span of time under the affects. It took her a moment to register what the King had said to her or even that it was the King standing in front of her to begin with. "Your Majesty.." She said between gasps and pulled her legs up into the chair to hug them to her chest to try to stop her trembling. "I don't know what you mean. I'm just a servant." She told him as her thoughts raced to collect themselves.
After a few more breaths her breathing became more steady and she was able to think straight, somewhat. "Lady Melanie.. the Queen.. something isn't right. She brought Elijah a potion and he doesn't act like himself when she's around." She still didn't quite grasp what all was happening, or maybe she was just in denial, but she did know that Melanie was dangerous and Elijah was her target. "Please, you must believe me. I have no reason to lie to you." She begged though she didn't dare reach out to the King the way she had done to Elijah back in his chambers.
With her bracelet removed, something she had yet to really noticed, Selma's arcane energy started to quickly return to her body. For someone who was used to it the constant ebb and flow of power was as common place as their own heart beat, for someone who had it drained away their entire life it felt as if her very soul was being held underneath a waterfall and it threatened to overcome her. The air around her crackled and sparked with energy and as her mind concentrated on Elijah so did her power. "Help me please.." would ring in his ears in the sound of her voice. "What is happening? I'm scared."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 21:50:59 GMT -5
The king stepped back slightly as he watched her he set her bracelet down upon the table. As he listened to her shaken words. He watched as she trembled in fear. “I saw what you wanted me to see, what you willed me to see, girl.” He spoke his eyes were as deep of blue as Elijah’s. He had a silvery beard upon his face that gave him a look of wisdom. “You used magic even with the bracelet.” He searched her eyes as he pulled a chair before her and sat in it. The king sat so that the back of the chair faced her and his arms lay upon the top of it. He leaned forward focused on her. “You’re more than just a servant girl. Tell me who you really are. Were you sent my those of Rhale? How did you overpower your bracelet?” He asked the questions quickly. The king gave a slight sigh, he could tell she was overwhelmed, he could see it in her expression. He reached to her bracelet and clasped it back over her wrist just after her thoughts had reached Elijah. Though, the king was unaware of this telepathy. He watched her a long moment. “Do you hear me?” He asked. “Tell me where you’re from. What are your intentions. I’ve never seen a servant that knew the tongue of mages, much less the ancient spells from long ago.”
**
Elijah took in a breath as he heard Selma’s voice within his mind. He stood next to Melanie. He blinked several times as the queen stood before the crowd she began speaking. Though his attention was not on her. His grip around Melanie’s hand loosened as he slipped from the spell for a moment. I will stop this. He thought hard, thinking of her. He only hoped she could hear him. He was tugged forward by Melanie then whom gave a big smile to him. The queen was speaking of the marriage that was to be arranged within the next week. His heart sank to the words. He did not want to marry this woman. He shook off the spell as it tangled around him. “I feel ill.” Elijah whispered as he pulled from Melanie’s grasp. He stepped quickly from the stage at the end of his mother’s speech.
Melanie trailed after him. “Elijah stop.” She rushed after him as he disappeared into the crowd.
Elijah took in quick breaths as he rushed through the people that turned and bowed to him. He made his way to the carriage as the world around him spun. Memories began to bombard him. He leaned against the carriage door as he gasped for air. It was a horrible feeling. His skin became pale as the thoughts rushed through his mind.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 22:12:43 GMT -5
Only when the bracelet was snapped back into place on her wrist did Selma manage to calm down enough to relax somewhat. She was still frightened, but that was to be expected, but the rush of the arcane dwindled to a manageable trickle instead of a waterfall. "No.." She started. "No, you don't understand. I wasn't sent by anyone. I've lived here in Phesa my entire life. I only know my work and these blasted memories.." She felt the images threaten to overtake her vision once more but kept them at bay. "I know it doesn't make sense but please, please Your Highness. Listen to me! Elijah is not safe!"
She tried to think of anything that would make the King believe her to forgo his interrogation of her and to rescue his son from a vile witch who resorted to potions and tricks. "What could I say to make you believe me?" Her voice grew quiet and she held up her calloused hands, an obvious testament to her laborious years. "I don't know how I know the words but I do. I don't know how I know Elijah so well yet I know so much about him. I know he hates pitch black rooms, doesn't like mint in his ale, and has a soft spot for sweet buns. I've only served him two days and yet I could go on for hours about him." She lowered her hands to her lap and cast her eyes down as she spoke the next sentence in the old language. Another thing about the ancient language was that it was impossible to tell a lie while speaking it. Magical laws forbid it and so only the truth could be uttered in the language. "Drain my life away if you must but I swear on my very soul I am not lying."
***
In the crowd Elijah had escaped into a man easily navigated the crowd and found the prince next to the carriage seemingly laden with turmoil as he struggled to regain his footing, as it were. "Ah, having some trouble my boy?" The man spoke and clasped his hand on Elijah's shoulder. It was the same mysterious man from the festival the day before. "Darling make sure we aren't disturbed? This lad has already had one hell of a day." He said over his shoulder to which the dark haired woman who had been following him the night prior nodded and muttered under her breath to cast a spell to hide them from every sight and sound. "Your mind is easily jumbled. Better learn some better fortitude if you want to survive long as King, and you've left a lovely young woman to suffer in the dungeons who actually still fights on your behalf. Tsk tsk." He walked around to stand before Elijah with a smirk on his lips. "I tell you what. You get dear little Selma out of the dungeons and turn her over to me and I'll help you with your.. courtship problem. Perhaps Melanie finds a suitor she desires even more, hm? Sounds like a fair trade to me."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 22:28:46 GMT -5
The king drew his brows together as the servant girl spoke, his brow raised. He shook his head slightly. Her words made no sense. Perhaps she had gotten lucky with the ancient words she’d spoken. But then she spoke again another verse of ancient text. The king stepped back from her. “You’ll not leave here until this is sorted out.” He stood and left the room locking her inside. “Do not unlock that door for anyone but myself.” The king ordered the guard before he rushed off.
**
Elijah stumbled back from the man his brows drawn together. “What…?” He asked confusion crossed his expression. “What is it that you want with her? Why did you dance with her last night?” He asked quickly. He glanced around the world around them was blurred. “A cloaking spell?” He asked as he glanced to the dark haired woman. “Ah, is it you who is causing all of this confusion? These visions? You’ve planted the thoughts in my mind.” He reached to his hip and pulled his decorated sword. “What if it is you whom shapes the reality that I am currently living? Hm? Are you the one that guides Melanie? My mother? Bot are equally as vile.” He snapped before he turned. “I’m not handing Selma to you, you do not deserve her.” the words were nearly the same as words he’d spoke in his other life as he refused to allow the council to kill his wife. Suddenly the world that was blurred around them became clear. Elijah rushed forward and climbed upon a horse. “I do not wish to see you and your trickery again sir.” The prince kicked the sides of the horse then as he rushed toward his home.
He weaved through the city quickly, the clatter of the hooves against the cobblestone echoed. Elijah didn’t know why but he felt compelled to save Selma. Melanie didn’t matter to him. Nothing else seemed to matter. He jumped from the back of the horse and rushed inside where he ran down the stairs. “Move.” He ordered.
The guard stiffened slightly. “I am under direct orders from the king not to allow anyone inside, your majesty.”
Elijah reached his hand forward and suddenly the guard slumped to his knees and a snoring sound came from his lips. “Enjoy the break.” He spoke as he grabbed the keys from his belt. Elijah fumbled through the keys one by one until he found the right fit. He pushed into the room and rushed forward to Selma. “Are you alright?” He asked as he cupped her cheek. He looked to the bracelet upon her wrist and sighed. “What happened?” He questioned. “I heard your voice...” He searched her eyes a long moment.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 22:48:22 GMT -5
As Elijah refused the offer the man's pleasant smile fell from his lips, and when the illusion spell broke the woman bowed her head apologetically. The pair didn't bother to advance on Elijah as he held the sword out and then rushed from them to climb up on a horse. As he galloped away the man sighed and adjusted the silk gloves on his hands. "What a bother. Seems I'll have to work a little harder to get what I want." He said more to himself than anyone around him and turned to disappear once more as the woman followed on his heels.
***
When the door to the dungeon opened up Selma flinched and looked with fear at who had entered. When she realized it was Elijah who had come for her tears started anew though this time from a feeling of relief. She climbed from her chair and into his arms as she held onto him tightly. She felt safe next to him and was so glad that Melanie had not accompanied him. "I'm fine.. the King removed my bracelet.. it felt like I was going to get crushed. Don't leave me in here please."
From down the hall the sound of footsteps could be heard and Selma gripped Elijah even tighter. "Calm, deep breaths and focus." She heard a voice tell her seemingly from inside her own mind. "Concentrate Selma." It told her in a strong, authoritative tone.
Listening to the voice Selma's took a deep breath and tried to clear her head. She wished that whoever it was that was coming couldn't see them and when a couple of guards rushed into the room they stood at the doorway and looked around in a confused manner. "Where did they go? They couldn't have gotten far. Come on!" One of them said and then both of them disappeared around the corner once more. The temporary cloaking spell dropped after that and Selma felt blood trickle from her nose. Her body was reaching its limit with the effort she was exerting and the extremes between the bracelet being turned on then taken off was more than she could handle.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 1, 2019 5:37:39 GMT -5
Elijah wrapped his arms around Selma and pulled her close. He closed his eyes as he took in deep quick breaths. “It’s alright, I’m not going to leave you here.” He whispered. He was allowing the emotions of the visions to guide him in this moment. There had to be a connection. Why did the man want Selma so badly? Why would he try to make such a trade to gain her? He didn’t have much time to think before he heard the footsteps coming down the hallway. Elijah’s eyes widened and as he went to pull himself from her arms the door was flung open. He closed his eyes tightly in preparation. This was it. He was caught. Then something strange happened, he could feel the spell. Yet, no one had uttered the words of a spell. Elijah watched as the men scurried off in search of them.
He let out a breath as he looked back to Selma he reached his thumb up to wipe away the blood that trickled from her nose. “How...did you do that?” He asked perplexed. “You….these visions...these memories...they must be true...a servant couldn’t possibly overpower the band in such a way...or have the knowledge to perform such a spell. A cloaking spell, Selma...” His jaw was loose as he stared at her. “This is incredible.” Though in his awe he came to the realization. “We can’t stay here...” The words rang in the air.
Elijah hugged onto Selma. “We can’t stay here...the council plans to have us both killed...” His voice trembled slightly. “We should go Selma, leave Phesa...we can find...somewhere safe...” He gripped onto her tightly as the sound of armored guards filled the room. He glanced up to see several knights and members of the armed guard.
“Elijah and Selma Stormier you are under arrest.” A woman spoke, her eyes were cold her expression vacant of emotion.
“My queen please.” Elijah stepped forward. “Please see that this is not what you think. These bracelets will do so much harm...”
“And so much good will become of it.” The woman spoke as a band was slapped onto his wrist and Selma’s wrist. “Drain them.” She grinned.
Elijah took in a breath his eyes widened, he turned to grasp onto Selma just as the wave hit his body. It felt like he was being trampled...stretched...his body felt as though it would explode into a thousand pieces as he fell to the floor.
Elijah grit his teeth as the pain of the bracelet lingered in his mind. He blinked several times as he tried to clear his head. “Come on.” He grasped her hand and ran forward. Elijah pulled her through the hallways quickly. He pulled her into a dark room and pushed her into a closet as he heard the sound of guards rushing down the hall. “Can you do that again? The cloaking spell?” He asked as his breath trembled. “I have not mastered cloaking...I...” He bit his lip slightly. He was incredible at magic, but healing was his strong suite. “We have to get to the stables...that man...the strange man from the festival...he found me...he was asking for you...he too placed a cloaking spell over us he tried to make a deal with me to get you...” He gazed into her eyes with worry in his own. “I don’t imagine he wants you for any good reasons...” He muttered.
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Post by Nyte on Jul 1, 2019 11:04:24 GMT -5
Selma was exhausted and dizzy. Her head swam and the only thing she wanted to do was curl up somewhere and sleep for a few days. Her body ached and shivered from the exertion and the visions that flickered before her eyes only partially registered. It wasn't until Elijah pulled her out of the chair and towed her down the hall that she managed to gain enough of her senses to follow after him. She stumbled every now and again as her feet couldn't quite keep up with him and his quick pace. When he shoved her into a closet to hide from more guards that were now patrolling the corridors she shook her head. There was no way she could use magic again. She wasn't even sure exactly how she was doing it but even attempting was simply out of the question at this point. She just didn't have it in her.
"Lady Selma, please listen to me." A woman's voice echoed in her ears. "You need to follow my directions to the letter and I will help you escape. When the guards pass you in the hall run the opposite direction as fast as you can until you get outside into the courtyard. Once there you must climb the southern wall and get on the other side. I will meet you there and carry you and the Prince to safety. Please, you don't have much time."
The voice didn't sound familiar but had an almost pleading tone to it as she spoke the directions. Although any rational person might have stopped and considered what might happen if they listened to the strange voice Selma knew that if they stayed it would be equally detrimental. "I know how we can get out of here." She told Elijah in a hushed tone. "Don't ask me how I know but just trust me."
When the guards ran past them Selma grasped Elijah's hand and flung herself out of the closet with him and ran in the opposite direction from the guards down the long hall. Her legs felt like jello and she had to force herself to keep moving. Upon hearing someone yell for them to step she was prompted a bit to go a little faster and passed by several other hallways where she wasn't even sure if other guards could see them. "We have to get to the southern wall of the courtyard." She told him breathlessly and slammed her shoulder into the door that would allow them to exit the palace. Opening it was hard for her so she relied on Elijah's help but once they were outside she turned at the end of the steps and ran along the walk that skirted the palace wall and to the southern side. The perimeter of the garden was a six foot tall stone wall with iron bars at the top. A hazard to climb in peak condition much less in her exhausted state. "Over the wall." She told him as she leaned heavily on the stone as she tried to catch her breath.
Suddenly the stones that made up the wall shifted and moved to make passage through it rather than over, which caused Selma to fall forward a bit till she hit against the side of a dark carriage. The door opened and a voice she did recognize came from within. "Come on then. Climb in unless you want to be caught." The man told her. It was the same individual from the party and the earlier encounter with Elijah who had tried to make a deal with him for Selma. Reluctantly Selma climbed in and motioned for Elijah to join her.
Once inside the carriage jerked as the horses at the front were set to a quick pace in order to leave the vicinity of the palace. "So glad you could make it." The man stated as he sat across from the pair with a smile on his lips. "Perhaps now introductions are in order, hmm? I already know who you two are very well though I don't think you've yet to recognize me." He placed a hand on the shoulder of his female companion sitting next to him. The dark haired woman from before. "This is my right hand, Maurine. A talented mage with a bit of a shy demeanor." He moved his hand then over his own chest. "I am Lord Robert Tudor." He said with a proud smile.
"Tudor? As in the King of Rahle?" Selma asked as she tried to keep focused.
"Ah, yes, some refer to me by that title. I much prefer Lord over "Your Majesty" though." He told her in a polite tone.
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