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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 23, 2019 9:25:14 GMT -5
Amaryll of Talamuk Empires are built from the ground up. Built upon the ashes of those defeated before. Within the dangerous oceans of the Talamuk Sea lay an island of generous size. Years ago the island held strong cities filled with elves, pixies, dwarves, and many other creatures. This was years before man had discovered the island and all of the riches that were held within it. Before humans discovered the island it was a place of peace. The elves traded with the pixies and dwarves. Even the werewolves were well behaved. Everyone had their place and it flowed like gentle stream, gliding easily around the boulders of a river. The elvish people held the center city, the main city of the kingdom. It was where the king and queen resided and where it all began. ** Years ago… “We will welcome these newcomers into our world. We shall not fear them for our people are strong. An ally outside of Talamuk Island is a grand thing to have.” The king stood before his people. His eyes overlooked the sea of varying creatures before him. Some had horns of a goat, others had the body of a horse. A small group of humans stood before the people, surrounded by armored guards of the elven king. “Shall we feast?” The king questioned with a smile upon his lips. He led the humans into his castle. He answered their questions and spent months showing them the ways of their people. The humans took a special interest in his daughter, whom had just been born at the time. Amaryll. She was a beautiful child with black locks and ocean blue eyes. The peculiar thing about her was the glow that came from her hands, magic. The human soldiers were fascinated by it, they asked the king to show them more...and willingly the king did as he was asked. He opened his world for the humans revealing the riches of the lands to them. It was nearly a year and a half before the humans set sail back onto the seas with a few tokens of the Talamuk people to take back to their own lands. A few of the Talamuk people even traveled with them, eager to explore the lands that the humans spoke of. For years the humans kept up the facade of the friendliness to the king. They used him for knowledge. They bored deep within the inner workings of the Talamuk island digging their talons into the people. It wasn’t until Amaryll’s 18th birthday that it happened. Amaryll stood before her father a smile upon her lips, a gentle snow was falling over the island blanketing the mountains in white. “Your mother would be proud of the woman you’ve become, Amaryll.” The king spoke as he cupped her cheek with a smile upon his lips. “You hold the same power that she did.” He chuckled as he looked out over the landscape. Suddenly horns sounded. A warning. The king looked to his daughter confusion swept across their faces. Amaryll ran through the castle, she held up the beautiful black dress that lined her body as she rushed through the marble halls. Her heels clicked quickly as she skidded to a stop and ran outside into the cold. Pixies flew in quickly from the east, blood stained most of their clothing, some were missing limbs, others held dead bodies in their arms. Amaryll rushed to the side of one of the pixies, “Rune what has happened?” She questioned quickly her ocean eyes looked over the man as blood leaked from his nose. He had a wound to his chest that was bleeding. “Hold on.” Amaryll pressed her hand to his side, her eyes locked on his, her breathing quickened slightly as her hand began to glow. “Just breathe.” She spoke as the white glowing of her hand began to spread to his skin. Her eyes closed as she did this and within minutes the bleeding had stopped. “The humans….soldiers...” Rune finally spoke as he cupped the side of her face, blood smeared over her skin. “They came in waves, massive numbers...Amaryll...we stood no chance.” The princess took in a breath she bit her lip slightly, “We will fix this. There has to be an explanation.” She took his hand and placed it on his chest. “I have to help the others.” She rushed from his side to another wounded pixie. She did this for hours until her body became weak from the use of her power. Amaryll sat in the cold as she listened to the sound of bombs in the distance. The humans had turned against them. Attacked them in the early morning hours. Rushed them and given them no chance to defend themselves. Others had come as well from all reaches of the island. It seemed to be a coordinated attack that pushed all of the inhabitants inward. “Amaryll.” The king found her in the early hours of the night. “Come.” He helped her to her feet. “You’ve done enough for one day.” He kissed the top of her head as he wrapped his arm around her. Amaryll closed her eyes as she leaned against the warmth of her father, “Why would they do this?” She questioned softly. “Why would they betray us?” She took in shaken breaths from the cold air that surrounded her. The king let out a long breath, “I….wish I had an answer for you.” He spoke as he sat her down on the edge of her bed. He looked over the dried blood on her arms and dress. Sadness overtook his expression. “This...is not at all what I intended...this is my fault, I allowed them in. We saw them as an ally...our people didn’t know to attack them until it was too late.” Amaryll looked up to her father as she brushed a bit of her hair from her eyes, a thin lock of her black hair had turned a silvery color. It was from the overwhelming use of her magic. The color would come back once she rested enough. “Father, you had no way to know that they would betray us this way.” She spoke as she stood slowly and looked outside. Shadows clung to the night skies. She tilted her head slightly. “Father...” She spoke just as an explosion sounded. Airships. They had flown in under the cover of darkness. Amaryll stumbled back from the shockwave. Screams came from the city below. “Amaryll!” The king grabbed his daughter and he pulled her through the halls of the castle quickly. Guards rushed about as soldiers flooded the cities. Even with magic they were overwhelmed by the amount of artillary that the soldiers brought with them. The sheer number of soldiers out numbered them at least 4 to 1. Another explosion sounded and they were thrust forward. Amaryll’s ears rang as she gasped for air. Dust surrounded her as her vision spun out of focus. She felt a hand on her shoulder, a sticky wetness covered the palm. Her eyes looked up to see her father, bloodied and covered in ash. He was speaking to her but she couldn’t make out the words. The ringing in her ears only seemed to intensify. She watched as his eyes looked up passed her head. Then blood splashed from his chest and his body fell forward on top of her limp and heavy. Amaryll screamed, but the scream didn’t seem to reach her ears. She shoved at her father’s body as she struggled to get from beneath him. Just as she freed herself she felt hands grab onto her arms. She fought against the hold and screamed as she kicked at the soldiers. One that looked to her snickered a wicked grin upon his lips. She knew him. She knew him very well. This was one of the original soldiers that had come to the island. She felt metal clasps click over her wrists, a chain between them held her wrists close together. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she stared to the soldier. He was speaking, shouting orders to the others. She couldn’t understand him. Her eyes looked about the broken ruins of her home. Her body shuddered with sobs as she pulled back against the soldiers as they forced her down the hallway. As she was tugged along she noticed others with the same shackles. The metal had orange glowing inscriptions. It seemed to make her feel weak. It felt as though she could barely breathe… ** Present day… Talamuk island was overrun by the humans, it only took two years for them to secure every portion of the island. They began searching for treasures then. Many of the inhabitants of the island had been taken into custody, many were used as servants to the humans back on their home continent of Omaron. The princess had been taken for something different however. The humans were interested in her power to heal. They experimented on her and drew the energy from her body creating serums for injecting on the battlefield to heal their wounds. It was a breakthrough in medicine. But it came at a cost, though the cost didn’t bother the men too much it was only one elf that suffered after all and they didn’t care if the lives of elves suffered. In the end it all came down to the humans and bettering their lives. Amaryll sat within her chamber. It was small. Dark. No windows to the outside world. She had been locked away for years, she couldn’t count the number. She paced at first. Trying to figure out how to escape. But by a few years into it, she’d lost the energy to fight against the soldiers when they would rush into the room. She lost all will to live. Darkness was not the friend of an elf. Her ocean eyes had become clouded and dull, they were not the bright beautiful color as they once were. Her once beautiful black locks had faded into a silvery white from the amount of energy that the humans drained from her. She had a look of sadness in her eyes that any caged animal holds. The princess had given up all hope for her people for Talamuk. She barely even remembered the name of her home island. She looked to the silver bands upon her arms they wrapped around her forearms, inscriptions glowed a deep red color as she looked to them. At first she’d tried to get the bands off. With no luck. She didn’t hold the key. Without the key she couldn’t remove the devices. The princess lifted her eyes as the door pushed open and two soldiers came into the room. “One your feet.” One ordered. She was tired. Weak. She looked to them from where she sat on the edge of the bed her eyes tired. “I said on your feet elf.” The soldier snapped as he gripped onto her upper arm and jerked her up. Amaryll winced but she didn’t make a sound as she stumbled forward with the soldiers gripping onto her arms. She was taken down the hallway. Four doors. The fifth door on the right was the one they always took her to. She was taken inside and pushed into a hard cold metal chair. Amaryll looked to the clasps that they secured around her body, as if she had the energy to move. She looked up to the soldiers as she strapped her head to the back of the chair. “I do hope you’re happy.” She spoke her voice soft. “You’re killing me. One day this will end my life. And what have you gained from it?” She questioned as she stared to the young soldier’s face. His eyes softened as he looked to her. It had been nearly a year since Amaryll had spoken. His jaw loosened slightly. “I...” “Don’t talk to the elf boy.” One of the other soldiers chuckled. “She’s not a human, don’t feel sorry for her eh?” The soldier gripped Amaryll’s chin and looked into her eyes. “She’s not worth your time. None of them are. They are a tool to be used. That is all.” He released her and stepped over to the control station. “Hook her up.” He ordered the young soldier. The soldier looked to Amaryll once again and let out a breath. “I’m sorry.” He whispered softly. His eyes searched hers. He began hooking electrodes to her body, along her arms and finally he placed two upon her temples. The princess looked to him as he did so. “You missed one.” She spoke, her eyes stared across the room now. “Wouldn’t want to displease your commanding officer now would you?” The soldier looked over the electrodes a moment. He fumbled with the wires. “Um...” He placed the last electrode. He took a step back and looked to her a moment before he turned and nearly ran to the control station that the other soldier stood in. “What if we kill her?” He asked quickly. The other soldier looked to him and a chuckle came over his lips. A cigar was propped within his mouth as he puffed from it a few times. He reached up and took the cigar from his mouth. “You think we can kill her?” He asked with a wide grin. “They’ve been doing this to her for how long? The doctor’s calculated just how much of her essence we can draw up. It is a fool proof plan.” He tilted his head and looked back to the princess through the glass. “You spoke to her hm?” He asked. “It’s been a long while since she’s spoken to anyone, Michael.” “How long sir?” Michael asked softly. “I can’t even remember the last time she spoke.” He scoffed slightly. “At least a year.” He clicked the buttons around on the control board. “Don’t let her get into her head. She’s just an elf. Nothing more.” He clicked the button on and lifted his eyes to look to the princess. Her body jolted and she winced as the machine began to draw her power from her. “Have you heard her story?” The soldier asked as he looked to Michael whom shook his head. “She was the princess of Talamuk Island.” He chuckled as he puffed away at his cigar. “She’s the whole reason we stormed the island...well besides the gold.” He snickered slightly. “That power. None of the other elves had anything like it. She could just touch the wound of a soldier and it would disappear.” He grinned. “That’s how we developed these.” He lifted a capsule with a small needle at the end of it. “Her magic fuels these little guys.” He puffed at his cigar again and shrugged. Michael looked back into the room as the monitors began to beep rapidly. “Commander.” He spoke with his brows drawn together. “Is this normal?” He asked as he looked to the waves upon the screen. The soldier stepped forward puffing away at his cigar. “Not at all.” He looked back into the room to the princess, her eyes fluttered slightly before her head hung forward limply. “Shit...” He muttered as he hit another button. “Disconnect her.” He ordered as he clicked away and adjusted the dials. Michael rushed into the room and removed the connections only to have Amaryll fall limply against him. Her heart was beating rapidly, her breaths were quick and shallow. “I’ve got you.” He spoke as he hugged her to his body carefully. “Take her back to her cell.” The other soldier ordered. Michael adjusted the princess in his arms as he nodded. “Of course sir.” He looked to her and let out a breath as he carried her off. ** Amaryll woke several hours later her body ached. She rolled to the side and pushed herself up carefully. Her brows drew together as she looked to her arms. The bands. The metal that she’d grown so accustomed to had been removed from her forearms. Only a single silver band remained. She touched it with her fingertip and took in a breath. Her eyes lifted as she heard movement from across the room. “Good you’re awake.” Michael spoke as he stepped over to her, he had clothing folded up in his arms. He set it at the foot of the bed. “You’re right, they can’t keep doing this to you.” He searched her eyes. “I won’t let them.” He sighed softly. “Get dressed.” Amaryll looked to the man with her tired eyes. She looked to the clothing and gave a slight nod before she stood and stumbled slightly only for the soldier to catch her. She winced and looked into his eyes a moment before she grasped the clothing and carried it into her bathroom. Amaryll pulled on the black pants and knee high leather boots. She pulled a dark blue blouse on and fastened the leather belt across her hips before she pulled on the silvery white cloak. It was the same cloak that most of the soldiers wore. She stepped from the room and looked to the soldier. “Where are you taking me?” She asked. “Somewhere safe.” He spoke in response. “Come on.” He pulled on his own cloak and pulled the hood up. “You must trust me, Amaryll.” He searched her eyes a long moment before he nodded once again. Amaryll searched his eyes, it had been so long since she’d heard her name. She was referred to as many things, but never by her own name. She nodded and followed him as he led her from the room. “Hide your face.” He spoke as they slipped through the halls. He had to steady her several times as they continued. The soldier pulled her out into the streets of the city. “Welcome to Omaron, this city is Grigor.” He moved her quickly. “It won’t be long before….” He glanced back as he heard men begin to yell. He grit his teeth and clasped her hand. “Come on!” He shouted as he rushed her through the city. Amaryll could barely keep up, if anything she was weighing him down. She couldn’t run quickly in her condition. The sound of the guards behind them only seemed to get louder. “Go!” Michael pushed her into a small boat. “Go row!” He ordered as he kicked the boat from the docks. “Just go! Trust me! Row until you can’t! And then keep going!” Amaryll looked to him with frightened eyes as he screamed for her to row. He turned and drew his sword to defend her. She grasped the oars of the small boat and began to paddle her way out to sea. Amaryll watched as the soldiers fought against Michael. He moved swiftly stepping from side to side until one of the soldiers finally beat him. The blood splashed from his body as the sword cut through his flesh. Amaryll only rowed faster at that point, the soldiers turned their eyes to her shouting and pointing as others ran about trying to get a boat ready to come after her. Amaryll didn’t give up though, she forced herself to keep going. The lights of the city began to fade the further she rowed. Waves crashed up against her ship threatening to toss the vessel over. Amaryll rowed until her arms wouldn’t allow her to row anymore. Her hands blistered. Her fingers ached. She gripped onto the edges of the boat as it was tossed about. Rain began to fall upon her as lightening struck through the skies. She cried out as a huge wave threatened to capsize her ship. To be on the open ocean in such a small vessel was a death wish in its own. She was thrown back and her head collided with side side of the ship. The world blurred as she lay back, the small ship bounced about within the waves. She let out a breath as she slipped unconscious as the storm ravaged the ship. |
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Post by Raven on Oct 23, 2019 19:57:13 GMT -5
"I will not be tolerating your distaste against the humans..." A stern voice spoke forward, the King stood in a dimly lit room. About a round table were several people - the council of the King himself. He gathered people from each of the kinds to represent. Standing before him was a short woman.... she had frail soft white skin, with glistening silver hair. Her face looked young, but in reality she wasn't as young as her appearance. She wore a metal shoulder plate and gauntlet over her right arm, of which would hold the blade upon on her waist. On her back was a beautifully decorated bow and the quiver resting next to it. She wore a long cloak - that extended beyond her thighs... and metal boots up to her knees - with several layers and plates to it. Though hidden was her wings, as she was a Fan, or Fairy. Should she wish to fly - they would simply extend from behind her weapons - flexible wings with a mind of their own. Hers were a beautiful crystal blue, like the clear ocean itself, which surrounded their island...
"My King..." The woman spoke with a confident voice. "I have heard rumors of them soiling our women, and stealing our goods, ransacking the hidden temples..." She spoke, looking to him with her burning blue eyes.
"Have you seen it yourself? Has anyone actually... seen it?" he questioned.
"Sir..." she paused. "No... all witnesses have said to been killed..." she shook her head.
"I am sorry, Lena, but unless you can prove it.. there is nothing I can do. I need you to be strong, as my leader of the Rangers, council of nine..." he looked to everyone. "Should we show discourse - they would easily attack us. They are hesitant, and spooked easily... I am worried if we do not show hospitality - that they will retaliate"
"They are a weak species" A dwarf spoke, stepping forward now. "They cower at our magic, our crafts, their eyes light up in sheer awe... They want to learn from us, to be like us. Who would attack the hand that feeds them?" he questioned, looking to Lena then.
"Do you know what they have been calling us?" Lena spoke, looking around to everyone. "The bugs to fuck" she spoke and then scoffed loudly.
"Lena-" The King spoke loudly then. "I will not tolerate that, you know this..."
"You should not tolerate them!" She spoke louder. "I am only telling what I've heard, what I've seen. My King - I've been on the streets day by day, ensuring the protecting of our people. I see it." she turned swiftly then and paced briefly. "We have lived in piece because no outsiders have swayed our means. They seek our knowledge, our power, and when they go home - more will come to learn. Or... others will fight for whoever gets our allegiance"
"We offer our hands to all" He King spoke, several agreed.
"They do not work that way, my King." She tried to calm herself down. "They are possessive, their advantage on their enemies is their only goal. We are that advantage, which makes us a very prized item... Do you not see?" she questioned and then she took in a deep breath.
"Fine..." The King stood forward. "We will take a vote" he looked around. "Those in favor to remove the humans... say Aye"
"Aye" Lena spoke, she turned her gaze to the faelven, who nodded and replied Aye... and that was it.
"Two out of Nine..." The King sighed. "I am sorry Lena... find me hard evidence and we can review this... I know this is hard to take in..." he looked to everyone then and nodded. "Dismissed, we will reconvene tomorrow..." the King then turned and stepped away.
Lena swiftly rushed out of the room, avoiding the glances of her colleagues, and made her way....
***
"What did I say?" A snarling voice came forward. Lena stood with her bow in her hands - she stood on the castles bridge and looked down to the mass of humans that rushed through the city... slaughtering. Her eyes looked upward to the floating zeppelins - a design they had shared - that approached. Everything they taught the humans - they had enhanced even more so. Explosives, weapons, guns, swords, everything they could muster.
"We fall today..." she turned then and looked to the group of people behind her. Rangers. The legendary warriors that kept the place safe. They were beyond the Guard, or even the military. They were the elite task force that were specifically designed to track and hunt the evil spirits and beasts of the island. At times they were called in for special ops, but honestly it wasn't as necessary as it used to be. "We will enact plan zed. Gather the rebellion, and start leading people to the evacuation tunnel..."
Ever since that day - she had been creating a back up plan. She had a secret following of people - people who hated the humans. They had created built an escape tunnel down to an ancient underground ruins of the Netherans, which was now an ancient and extinct species of elves...
The Rangers nodded and ushered off swiftly to do as commanded. She turned back then and grit her teeth. A Zeppelin approached... Her wings sprout from her back and glowed brightly. With speed she jumped into the air and flew upward, she raced toward the floating blimp in the sky. They tried to shoot her - but her speed was too great. She weaved, bounced and zipped about - their spray of bullets couldn't keep up. She landed on the metal hub with strength - and pulled her sword from her waist. She suddenly stabbed into the metal and removed the blade. She then pulled a small tube from her pocket - a kind of dynomite. She packed it into the hole and lit it. Easily she leaped into the air and flew back.... after a second the explosive blew - blasting an even bigger hole into the metal of the floating device. From the hole - hot air released, and the Zepplin began to fall down. Soon enough it lost enough air that it fell straight from the sky - in a hurry.
She flew away then - her eyes looking down to the city on fire. Buildings were crumbling, homes burning. People - dead left and right. She watched two of her rangers fighting humans - a hurry of Elves rushing away. She pulled her bow and fired two quick shots, and then blazed away as bullets came flying her way.
Lena landed on the ground and ran forward, ushering forward. They came to the center of town - where a huge statue of an elf stood... their founder of the city. She reached forward and pulled back the bronze plate where his name rest, and then pressed a small button. The entire statue, and its waterfountain about it- shifted to the right, until stairs were revealed. The people clammered downward - until they came to round woven archway. They stepped through - seemlessly. Though, should a human...they would die from the magical electric shock that would come their. A kind of unique spell crafted in all this time...
"What of the King?" Someone questioned.
"Is he coming? I told him of the back up plan-" Lena spoke loudly over the cluttering of boots on cobblestone.
"No - he was going to get his daughter" A maiden spoke.
Lena grit her teeth and fluttered away in a hurry. She swiftly flew over to the castle and bust through one of the windows. The place was brimming with smoke... she covered her face with her arm and rushed through the hallways. Finally she heard a lot of commotion and noise. She turned around the bend and witnessed several humans, dragging a body. The Princess. Lena rushed forward and pulled her bow and fired. One human fell easily, an arrow right through the heart. She drew another and right as she let it go - a loud sound filled the air.
She flew backwards and hit the ground - blood instantly leaking from her right shoulder. The human withdrew his gun and then nodded - they continued to escape with the princess. Lena gripped her shoulder and cried out - the bullet was full of a poison. She knew it immediately. This was the teachings of her people - sneaky and cruel warfare. She felt her entire become weak with each second. She slowly stood and stumbled to the side, her eyes glancing to the stained glass window that surrounded her. She knew beneath her was the Gardens... She stepped over and then kicked her leg outward, busting the glass. She then slipped from the room and fell downward. Her wings fought to catch the air, only able to slow her fall - as she landed face first in a bush....
***
"The plan is working as expected" A Fae bowed before Lena... The fair woman stood before a dark stone pool... floating in the center was a violet flower with a candle resting in the middle. A tribute to the moon goddess... Lena crossed her arms and turned.
"Good... Michael has been assigned the Operation C wing?" she questioned. Standing before her was an Elf - who appeared to look as human as it could get.
"Yes, he is in place. We will be ready for extraction..." he spoke.
"Detail me the mission, one more time..." she spoke softly.
"Michael will release her. A boat will be accessible on the inlet to the ocean just feet from the exit. They will row... we will have a diversion boat ready to lead the humans away into Trap A... When they reach the mid point - Extraction will occur. Alexstraza and Waylon will emerge, and bring them below using Gillweed for breath. They will swim to the under water tunnel - which will lead to Home..." he nodded. "Meanwhile there will be several ashore teams to create distractions and are prepared for battle... The back up plan is to storm the water front and cover the extraction..." he spoke.
"As clean as it will get... Okay. The final stand will be ready, should we need it. We will rescue the Princess...we have worked so long to get here..." Lena spoke and then nodded. "Okay, tell Michael that tonight is the night...
***
Everything occurred as planned - except Michael's death. From afar a Fairy rest in a tall tree - spying from a distance. When the Princess was pushed onto the boat - and Michael stayed back - there was a small flash of light. A signal from the watcher. All around the rocky inlet - the Rebels hid, waiting to spring an attack. Though as Michael fell - there was shouting and cursing. No boat to follow the Princess. Though they knew her direction. Several humans flooded the lake banks. It was in that moment - that there was a flare in the air.
The humans who ran along the beach stopped and looked upward in confusion. Then a spray of arrows released and landed upon them, killing them instantly. Though - that was just the beginning. In a span of minutes - an entire fleet of humans came rushing. A boat was pulled to the water and they began immediately. Though once getting out in the water - more arrows came, flaming arrows and explosive arrows. Their boat sunk immediately. The humans cursed and searched, but did not find their attackers. Fae's - gentle and small creatures, hid in the tree top that circled the crescent shaped inlet.. they were perfectly masked by camouflage and magic... More and More humans came their way, only to be struck down from a distance.
As the boat made its way to the center of the lake... the entire ocean became flooded with a kind of fog - created by magic. Two elves emerge from the water and reached up to the boat. They reached up to the woman - who was knocked out completely. With a vial in hand - they worked together to pour it into her mouth. Just a sip would do... They pulled her into the water and swam downward. With a sort of whistle sound - they called upon creatures. Dolphins surrounded them... They reached forward, the Princess in hand, and grasped a fin. The dolphins chirped and pulled them deep towards a glass tunnel that was hidden in the darkness.
As they came to - they pushed Amaryll forward and followed in after. The tunnel had a kind of thin barrier protecting its entrance. Anyone could slip through - but it kept the water out. It shimmered and moved like a bubble... They fell through and hit the ground... Slowly both Elves rose and lifted the Princess up...
"She is weak... They have been draining her for so long... on the cusp of death..." Alexstraza set Amaryll down on a cot... The room was dim, lit by candles... Underground.
"Bring in the Oracle..." Lena spoke and turned to the woman. "She can bring her back..."
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Post by Raven on Oct 23, 2019 21:33:31 GMT -5
Within the underground city the oracle rest within her home. The woman had white eyes, she was blind as a bat some would say, others would say she could see more than those with perfect vision. Her name was Rykalis. Old as the moon, she was one of the oldest that still lived after the fall of Talamuk. She knew of the escape plan that Lena had prepared and she too tried to speak to the king of her wary feeling toward the humans. Though, without hard evidence the king’s hands were tied. Rykalis sat before a fire speaking words in the ancient tongue that few remembered. She shook a bundle of herbs that she’d lit on fire as she spoke the ancient blessing. She was praying to the moon goddess for the safe return of the princess, she had prayed for years. Though this time felt different.
The door to her home pushed open. “Oracle.” Alexstraza spoke as he entered, he bowed to one knee. “Lena has requested--...”
“The princess is very ill.” Rykalis spoke as she stood her gaze looked to the man before her. “Very weak.” She moved about and vials began to clatter. “Worry not dear Alexstraza old Rykalis has just the trick.” She chuckled softly as she mixed several things together. She grasped herbs and liquids and before long she had a small bottle of liquid. “There.” She turned and grasped a beautifully hand crafted cane and walked toward the door. She pulled a cloak over her shoulders and smiled. “Lead the way dear boy.” She motioned for him to go on ahead.
Alexstraza didn’t question the old oracle, he’d learned at a young age to not question her ways. The old elf knew many things that most would fight a lifetime to learn, if they could learn it at all. He walked across the old city, some buildings had been repaired to the best of their abilities over the last few years. They did what they could, with what they had. The humans never made it to their underground city, only a few tried. After the several deaths the statue had pushed back into place and the ruins were once again forgotten. Alexstraza paused as they entered the dim room, his eyes looked to the oracle as she moved forward to the princess’ side. “Dear child.” She spoke as she knelt next to her. She pulled a bundle of herbs that she’d wrapped together from her thigh and she lit it aflame with her fingertips. “Breathe in the fresh life of your ancestors, princess Amaryll.” She then began to speak in the ancient tongue. Her eyes began to glow a beautiful white color and runes appeared on her arms.
The ritual lasted several hours as the oracle prayed to the gods for Amaryll to be given strength. The princess lay unconscious for the whole of it. At the conclusion of the ritual Rykalis pricked Amaryll’s finger, and placed a few drops of her blood into the vial that she prepared. The oracle then pricked her own finger and matched the number of drops. “Lena dear, I need a third for this to work.” She looked to the pixie with a soft smile. The oracle reached out and pricked the pixie’s finger as the third drop of her blood made contact with the liquid within the vial it began to glow a bright blue. “Ah there we are.” Rykalis spoke as she swirled the liquid. She moved behind the princess and lifted her head. Drop by drop she got Amaryll to drink the liquid, she choked and coughed a few times in her sleep but the oracle managed. Rykalis lay the princess back a smile upon her lips. “Give her a few days, Lena.” She stood and grasped her cane. “Burn these near her bedside once per day. Our ancestors are watching. Talamuk will rise once again.” She hugged Lena for a moment. “Good job, Lena. Without you none of this would have been possible. Our people would have been lost forever.” She then slipped from the room.
Alexstraza looked to the princess and then to Lena. “She’s right you know?” He spoke and shifted his weight. He took in a breath. “Michael gave everything for this….but without your careful planning we would all have died. Good night Lena.” Alexstraza bowed his head before he slipped from the room.
**
Amaryll stood on her balcony her eyes looked out over the city. She wore a beautiful black dress with black flower print designs upon it. Her eyes glanced over her shoulder as someone walked through the door. A soft smile curved up her lips, “Troubled by my father again?” She asked as her eyes fell upon Lena. This was just days before the attack on the city. “I think you may be right about the humans.” She searched her eyes a moment as she turned and crossed her arms over her chest, her back leaned against the stone railing of the castle balcony. “Lately the commanders, they seem more and more interested in magic. The last they visited I was followed around the entire time they were here. Questioned and watched closely...that and...” She drew her brows together. “Have you ever noticed that our people that go to Omaron never return to visit?” She looked troubled as she spoke the last bit. “I asked you know? I’ve asked how Fitch is...” Her voice fell slightly as she looked away out over the city. “More than once I’ve asked. You know the response I get?” She paused for a long moment. “Omaron is full of adventure, they haven’t seen a soul begging to come back to this island.” She shook her head. “Our roots are here...if I left I would want to return.” She pressed her lips together in a flat line. “And...Fitch he...” She shook her head again. “I shouldn’t trouble you with my ramblings hm?” She looked to Lena and chuckled softly. “Father won’t listen to me either. He says he can’t do anything. If we don’t do anything...what will we do if they turn on us?” Her eyes looked to Lena the beautiful ocean blue had a glaze of tears over it.
**
“Find the elf!” The commander screamed. “Find her now!” They were upon a boat the next morning after her escape. “She couldn’t have gone far she was in a row boat!” They searched and searched to find nothing. Boats scoured the seas and surrounding shorelines with not a trace of the princess left behind. Even the small boat seemed to vanish within the thick fog that had encompassed the island.
**
The oracle was right nearly spot on, two days time passed and the princess began to stir. Over the course of the two days her silvery hair slowly became the beautiful pearl black that it was once before. Her skin gained a beautiful glow of a young elf. The circles beneath her eyes and the gaunt look about her disappeared with the magic that the oracle had cast upon her. She was graced with much needed rest, rest that she hadn’t had since the capitol had been attacked. Amaryll’s eyes fluttered open, the beautiful ocean blue had returned, she didn’t look a day older than the last she’d spent within the walls of her city on Talamuk Island. The pain within her body was gone. All that seemed to remain were faint scars upon her arms from the bracelets and the experimentation that the humans had forced upon her. Amaryll sat up slowly to find that she was in a small room, the walls were made of stone, the bed that she lay in was comfortable. She looked to the beautiful quilt, the pattern was familiar, a pattern from the Talamuk Island people. She traced her fingertips over it and a soft smile curved up her lips. “Somewhere safe...” She repeated the words that Michael had spoken to her as everything rushed back. She remembered rowing. She looked to her hands, the blisters were gone.
Amaryll stood slowly as she looked about the small room. She looked down to her body, she was dressed in the clothing that Michael had given her, minus the cloak, the boots sat by the door and the cloak was hung on the wall. She took in a breath as she slipped the boots. She stared to the door handle a moment before she opened it. To her surprise an elf stood on the other side of the door. “You’re awake.” It was Alexstraza. He stood with a smile upon his lips. “It is good to see you princess.” He bowed deeply.
Alexstraza wasn’t an elf that Amaryll knew. Though to see another being with tipped ears. Her heart began to race. “Am I dreaming?” She questioned.
“No dear. You most certainly are not. Welcome back from the dead.” The oracle walked up as if on cue.
“Oracle Rykalis.” Amaryll breathed her eyes looked to the woman. “You’re alive.” She grinned and rushed forward her arms wrapped around her tightly.
The oracle chuckled as she hugged her back. “Thanks to Lena several of us are alive.” She spoke as she stepped back and leaned on her cane. “We were all having breakfast. Come child.” She spoke as she turned and began walking toward the largest building of the ruins.
Amaryll stood still for a moment before she rushed to catch up with the oracle. She’d spent so much time with the oracle as a child. It was one of the reasons why her magic had grown to strong so quickly. The princess remained quiet as she followed the woman her eyes looked about the city, she remembered coming here as a child a few times when her mother was still alive. She’d spoken of the history of the people that lived here. It was rich and vibrant, much like all the history of the Talamuk Island. The princess walked into the hall and those that sat around the table seemed to freeze. Their eyes all looked to the princess whom just days before was on death’s doorstep. She followed the oracle to where Lena sat and she took a seat near her. The princess gave a smile as she looked to the woman that was once the leader of the Rangers. She hadn’t spoken to Lena much, there was never time, but she’d always admired her.
“Thank you Lena, I am in your debt...” She spoke just before the table erupted into cheers. It was as if a fire had been lit in the room, the faces filled with joy to see their princess once again after years of planning to save her. She looked before her as food was loaded upon a plate for her. Real food. Amaryll hadn’t seen real food in years. The food she was fed in the cell was nothing short of sludge. She only ate what she needed to survive. A grin curved up her lips before she leaned forward and grasped her glass of fresh water, she drank from it happily. After the meal was finished the princess watched the people file from the room and she was left with only her and Lena. Amaryll took in a breath, “What do we do now? Talamuk is no more...I’ve heard the humans speaking of the spoils they brought from our lands by blasting temples...” She shook her head and sighed softly. “They must be stopped.”
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Post by Raven on Oct 26, 2019 19:10:08 GMT -5
"Oracle Rykalis" Lena turned her gaze to the old fragile woman. "You are the binding that holds us together..." Lena smiled and bowed her head. "I am pleased to see you here..." she lead the woman over to Amaryll, who rest on a cot.
"I know, dear, this moment proves it all..." Rykalis began the ritual. Lena offered her bloody and then she stood near by. Though others stood idly, perhaps they even left. Lena lowered herself to sit on her knees, her head bowed, hands upon each thigh. She prayed, and released what little magic that flowed within her to the Oracle. It wasn't much, but this was more a respectful motion. Lena had been preparing for this day for a long time. It was the Return of Talamuk and it's people.
Hours later she felt a hand upon her shoulder. "Now we wait... dear" The Oracle spoke and helped her up. "Thank you" she smiled weakly and they both trailed off.
When morning came - they gathered in what used to be a great cathedral. The towers had crumbled away, but the interior chamber remained. They had turned it into a buffet hall - a celebration for this moment. Everyone sat at the long tables and servd themselves... Lena stood where the podium once was, she waited for the large doors part and the Princess to emerge.
When the Oracle and the Princess entered - the hall shushed. They watched as the Princess came forward and they took their seats at the grand table. This had what was left of the council, and the new additions to it. "You are in no debt, you are the Princess of Tamaluk…" Lena smiled and bowed her head. "Lets eat first, hm?" she piled on eggs and bacon to her plate. After a bit of eating - Amaryll asked what was next.
Lena smiled and finished her bite. "We take back what is ours... is what we do" she took a sip of water and smiled to her. "But we need our leader back... your father" she pointed with her butter knife as she smeared butter across a piece of toast. "That fateful night... I came to retrieve both of you. However, I was not fast enough. You were dragged away... and I... was shot" she placed a hand on her right shoulder. "But I got up... and went back to the burning castle and found your father. He was hanging on by just a thread of life..." she lowered her utensils then and smiled weakly. "I did the only thing I could do..." she whispered. "I cut the wings from my back and wrapped him in them... They have preserved his body and soul...he has been living off of their life force ever since..." she turned her shoulders briefly - her back was a flat as an elf, no wings remained... If anyone knew her, they would know that Lena's purple and green wings were her pride and joy. They were large and powerful, even more so than some of the other Fae's.
"You're the only one with the strength to bring him back fully. Right now... he would not live but minutes without my wings, but you can heal him..." she took a bite of her toast. 'And then... we will reunite as a Kingdom... and find a way to destroy those who took this land from us..." she spoke and then finished her meal. "When you are ready, we will go see him..." she spoke. "You will need to work with the Oracle on the ritual you must perform. Healing a wound is one thing, but kindling the soul to body, rejuvenating life-force, is another kind of magic... but, Rykalis is confident you can do this. Hell, you should hear the whole prophecy she has found on you" she chuckled then and stood. "Come on..." she waved the Princess over.
Lena lead her to a door that went down a set of stairs. "Unfortunately... No one knows of you mother... I can only hope she escaped" Lena looked to Amaryll for a moment and then pushed open a heavy iron door. This lead to a room that was filled with giant crystals. They started at the ceiling and jut down into the floor, it surrounded a stone table in the center. The room was filled with light and twinkles, even a gentle harp like sound filled the air. It was full of magic...
In the center of the room rest the King. Though one might not know this right away. Resting from each shoulder down to his toes was a pair of wings. They were long and thick... with Dark purple trim that melted into greens and blues of every shade. One could see through the wings, slightly, to the king who had his hands crossed about his chest. He lay on the other set of wings beneath him, the tips of the wings wrapped delicately about the body...
Lena reached forward and touched her wings. They reacted slightly, from her fingertips a light blue color formed and seem to spark across the wings... She removed her hand and sighed. "You know..." she smiled weakly. "We might not have agreed on much, hardly if ever, but... he was... is.. a great man." she turned her gaze towards Amaryll. "He was tough on you, I saw it..." she sighed "He was tough on all of us" she stepped back. "There is not many people I'd cut my wings off for, but my King is certainly one of them. I'd do it again, and for you too.." she bowed her head.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 26, 2019 20:39:44 GMT -5
Amaryll looked to Lena with curious eyes as she spoke of fighting to get Talamuk back. “Just because I am a princess does not mean that I am not in your debt, Lena.” She spoke with soft eyes. Though she looked away at the mentioning of her father. “It is my fault that he was shot.” She whispered as her brows quivered slightly. “We cannot bring him back, Lena….I saw him...he...” She looked back to the Fae as she spoke of cutting off her wings. The very thing that even Amaryll knew Lena cherished. Her eyes saddened when she looked to the flat back of the Fae. “Lena...” She breathed. She didn’t know what to say. She felt horrible. If her father hadn’t been trying to help her from the ground after the explosion...he wouldn’t have let his guard down. He would have seen the soldiers. He could have stopped them.
The princess moved her eyes back to Lena after a long moment. “A prophecy?” She asked her eyes searched Lena’s. She then shook her head and followed the Fae in silence. As Lena spoke of her mother her heart sank even further. She hoped the same as Lena. Though, what if her mother had been taken as well? What if...Amaryll shook the thought from her head. She couldn’t wish the horrors upon anyone else, not even an enemy. She stared up at the beautiful crystals as they entered the chamber her father was resting within. Her eyes glistened as she watched Lena touch her wings, the magic within the wings still reacted to the Fae. Even after all this time of being separated. When Lena spoke of her father she looked away slightly. “I...” She bit her lip slightly. Lena was right. Her father had been hard on her. With good reason. The work he did with her and the work he pushed her to do caused her to become as strong as she was. “I don’t even know how long it has been since...” She looked to her hands. She remembered that night at the castle like it was yesterday. Healing the several Fae that flew in broken and bloody. She’d brought many back from the brink of death. Only for the city to be overrun by the soldiers and most to be murdered in cold blood.
“Princess Amaryll.” The oracle came into the room with a leather bag packed full of supplies. “Do not tell me that is doubt that I hear within your voice.” She clicked her tongue as she walked over with the cane. It clicked with each step that she took. “What would your father think? You were meant for this dear.”
Amaryll looked to the old woman as she let out a breath. “I’m not strong enough for this, Oracle.” She shook her head as her eyes looked over her father.
Rykalis stepped up to the young princess as a chuckle came over her lips. “Only the strongest hold doubt.” She cupped her cheek. “Come now child. You can bring him back. It is said in the prophecy that our princess will return and with her return the king will get a new breath of life. Talamuk will rise from its ashes.” She smiled and let out a soft chuckle. “But you Amaryll. It is you that must believe.” She turned to the leather pack and opened it. “It will take us time to perform this ritual.” She spoke. “Good things do not come easily.” She winked then as she slipped a book from her bag. “And you.” She looked to Lena. “I found something for you as well, something that you very much deserve.” She grinned happily and tilted her head. “The only elf that I believe can do it stands before you and she only stands before you because of everything that you did to get her back. You never gave up hope.” The oracle turned to the table that sat next to the king then. “Amaryll.” She spoke and motioned for her to come to her side.
The princess stepped forward and looked to the page that the oracle had opened to. She ran her fingertips over the beautiful elvish writing. Her breath caught in her chest as a glow came from her fingertips. Her eyes began to glow as her pulse increased. The words began to flow from her lips as sweet and smooth as those of an elder such as the oracle. Rykalis looked to Lena with a grin upon her lips, “Ah you see dear?” She chuckled as she stepped back. A wind whipped through the room suddenly as Amaryll continued to speak. “This may be easier for her than I thought.” The oracle commented as she took a step back. She pushed Lena forward.
Amaryll gripped onto the large book, the leather cover began to glow. The princess’ hair swirled about her face as she stumbled back. The air in the room seemed to shift to an icy cold as she continued to read the spell. Her feet began to lift off of the floor as the magic began to creep up her arms. The glow began to intensify. The princess looked completely focused as she continued the lines. Rykalis stepped forward and took Lena to the side of the king. “Put your magic into this child.” She placed her hands upon the wings. Rykalis moved to the others side and she placed her hands back over Lena’s as she began to whisper ancient words of the Talamuk people.
Amaryll was floating nearly two feet above the ground now, the wind in the room had kicked up, the crystals were pulsating, the light from the crystals seemed to be feeding into the essence of the king now. Lines of glowing dust like particles floated into the king’s body. The room began to fill with a blinding light, the sound seemed to melt from the room all but the voices of Amaryll and the Oracle. Then suddenly the wind blasted through the room with the force of a powerful storm. Amaryll let out a cry as she fell to her knees on the ground. The light faded from the room only a few of the magical crystals remained, the rest had burst into dust. Amaryll took in heavy breaths, her body trembled, the streak of silver swept through her hair once more.
There was movement from beneath Lena and Rykalis’ hands. The beautiful wings had disappeared from beneath their hands. The king took in a breath of life. His eyes fluttered open as the beautiful light faded from his body. He looked to Rykalis and then to Lena. He remembered seeing her cut her wings from her body as he fought to stay alive. Slowly the king sat up. “My king.” Rykalis spoke she bowed deeply. “Welcome home.”
The king gave a smile, though as his lips parted to speak his eyes fell upon his daughter as she collapsed to the floor. “Amaryll!” He gasped as he leaped from the stone table. He skidded to her side and pulled her into his arms. “How long?” He asked as he lifted his eyes to look to the Oracle. “How long has it been?”
Rykalis took in a breath as she stepped forward, she bit her lip slightly. “5 Years my king.” She spoke with a soft tone. “5 years too long ago that our people fell to the hands of the humans that fooled us.” She looked to the princess.
The king took in a breath and nodded. “5 years.” He repeated as he cradled the princess and lifted her from the ground. He set her upon the stone table and his eyes fell upon Lena. “I should have listened to you Lena, I am sorry.” His eyes were locked on hers. “And for you stupidity you paid a heavy cost.” He looked away. “As did everyone else of Talamuk.” He glanced around the room, he knew it. “Not many survived hm?” He looked to Rykalis whom nodded in response. “This, must be righted.”
“We will rise from the ashes. The prophecy foretold this, my king.” The oracle stepped forward and gave a soft smile. “The princess...she will lead us to victory.” She smiled. “As will our dear beloved fae.” She looked to Lena with a nod. “It is with her and her alone that we have survived to fulfill such prophecy.”
The king took in a breath as he looked over the two, his eyes looked back to his daughter. “At the cost that I caused our people.” He spoke his tone grave. “I should have listened to my best Ranger. I shouldn’t have been such a coward.” He nodded his eyes locked on Lena then.
Amaryll stirred slightly, a groan came from her as she lifted her hand to her head. “Rykalis...did it?” Her eyes fell on her father just before he chuckled and wrapped his arms around her. “Father.” She breathed as she stood and hugged herself to him, tears rolled down her cheeks as she let out sobs of happiness.
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Post by Raven on Oct 27, 2019 20:50:31 GMT -5
Lena turned as the Oracle walked in, she hadn't expected it to be so soon. She smiled to her presence and then watched carefully as the Oracle instructed Amaryll. Within seconds of her speaking the words from the book - she could feel the room's energy change. The Crystals glowed, the wings on the table reacted, twitching slightly and the colors swirling with energy. Lena sucked in a breath - the power was amazing. She had remembered when the Oracle had them construct this room. Lena found it fitting for the King to rest, but the Oracle said that it would serve its true purpose in the future. This was it. The Crystals held a tremendous amount of magic within it - and reacted. Everything began to make sense, Rykalis had planned this moment long ago. Nearly 5 years ago...
Lena nodded "Okay, I am ready" she spoke and then stepped behind Amaryll. She held her hands together for a moment and bowed her head. She tapped into her Fae magic and then extended her hands, palms facing toward the Princess. A stream of glowing blue magic flowed from her palms and twisting through the air like a winding stream, until it sunk into Amaryll's back. In an instant - she felt connected to her. As Amaryll began to speak - the entire room reacted. The Oracle stood next to her - palms outward as well. More magic flowed in this room than she had ever felt in her life...
Lena's eyes began to shine a bright light as she was apart of this reaction of power. Her silver hair fluttered behind her as the power swept the room. Her eyes grew wide as Amaryll lifted high into the air, all the magic flowing into the King. Then something changed within Lena. She felt apart of her disappear. Her hands fell away and she stumbled forward - breathing hard... her Blue hues returned and she rushed forward to the Kings side. She turned her gaze to the floating Princess. "No..." she whimpered. Tears filled the brims of her eyes - her wings had dissolved into nothing. Even though she had removed them - she could always feel them. They were apart of her. Now they were gone. "No no no" she shook her head and pat her hands over the King's legs. She felt a hand upon her shoulder - the Oracle drew her back.
Lena stumbled back as there was a final burst of power. The Oracle rubbed her back, palm running over the scars on her shoulder. They burned terribly. Lena slipped from the Oracle, in a rude fashion, and watched as the King rose. From the dead, practically... Lena took a long breath and let it go, her wings might be gone but the King stood once more. She watched until he spoke to her.
"My King, even if we denied them - they would have attacked anyways. Our fate was sealed..." she smiled weakly. "But you have returned, and we will exact our revenge..." she bowed her head. "The humans only care for themselves. We have studied them over the years, we have sent men to infiltrate. This was the only way to retrieve the Princess, it has been a long process to understand them. They care about power and riches, their feeble minds are naïve. They are limited in their power..." she looked to Amaryll and then to the Oracle. "The time has come to show the world what The people of Tamaluk can do..." she smiled.
She smiled then as Amaryll stirred, the embrace of the family was worth all the struggle in the past years. "You have done it" Lena bowed her head, the Oracle smiled then.
Boots clicked in the doorway, several people stood. "My King" one of the men spoke. What remained of the Council stood before them. They all kneeled then and bowed their head. "Long live the King" they spoke in unison.
"My King, Princess... we have much to discuss on the plan... let us return and welcome you back to our people first..." Lena held her hand outward and led them up the stairs. "Wait here" she spoke "You need a grand entrance" she winked and then stepped out to the crowd of people that still sat - finishing breakfast.
She waited a moment until the room had hushed. "It is no doubt that you felt a tremendous amount of power just moments ago..." She spoke clearly and proudly, a smile etched across her face. "The Princess has returned, with a fury like no other. With the aid of the Oracle, she has brought our King back to breath once more..." she smiled then. The entire room burst into a standing cheer. They hushed again after a moment of clapping, as Lena's hand held outward to silence them. "The Council and the King plan to make advancements to retake what was once ours, and for the first time in years we will cherish the sun and moon..." she took in a breath, looking about the people who watched her. "We will make them regret their actions, the will crumble under our power. How dare they underestimate us..." the crowd began to clap and cheer once more. "I have enjoyed my moments leading you to this moment, as I was destined to do. I am loyal and honorable to my King and his Daughter, and I release my leadership back to the Royal family. I have no doubt that we will return back to our home, and as the people of Talamuk - Please Welcome the Man back from the Dead, and his Daughter who walked the cusp of life..." she turned her gaze to the door.
Everyone stood and cheered as the two made their way. They held their hands into the air - two fingers pressed together, everyone made a glowing light with their fingers. This was the symbol of pride, often performed at the most legendary events and announcements. Lena stepped aside and held her two fingers up - a glow emitting from her finger tips, she smiled, awaiting for them both to take the spot where the podium once stood, where perhaps two thrones should rest, awaiting for them to take their place once more. One Council man stepped up with a Tiara and crown in hand...waiting to don them onto the King and the Princess....
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 27, 2019 22:13:06 GMT -5
Amaryll’s eyes gazed to Lena, she could see the sadness. The unspilt tears. She drew her brows together slightly as her ocean eyes looked to the table her father had laid upon, the wings were gone. She bit her lip slightly as the words between the king and Lena seemed to melt into the background. She was far too focused on the thought of Lena’s wings disappearing, she could sense the pain that came from the Fae. Though soon enough they climbed up the stairs to be introduced. Amaryll listened to Lena’s speech. It was well said. Lena had become quite the leader, she was truly the leader that the Talamuk people needed in the time of crisis.
“You can get her wings back.” The oracle stood next to Amaryll. “Bring that smile back to the Fae. Hm?” The Oracle placed her hand upon Amaryll’s back before she stepped forward and into the crowd of people.
The king looked to his daughter a moment before he stepped onto the stage with her in tow. It was a beautiful ceremony. The people of Talamuk sang an old song of the ancients and the room seemed to glow with energy as Arvin the King of Talamuk took his crown once again. The crowd cheered brightly as the princess took her tiara from the councilmen. For 5 years they had patiently awaited the return of the royalty. Now they would take back Talamuk Island from the greedy humans that had stolen everything from them. Arvin stepped forward with a smile upon his lips he looked over the crowd and held a hand up to silence their cheers. “People of Talamuk.” He spoke, “we are a strong people, we do not stand down, we will not allow them to keep our home. To destroy what is ours.” The crowd erupted into thunderous applause in that moment. Arvin smiled as he looked over his people, they were broken, but strong. They could take back Talamuk Island. They could regain their lives and safeguard the island against future attacks. At least, that was his hope. “We have Lena to thank for this. Without Lena no one would have survived that night 5 years ago, even I would have fallen to the weapons of the humans.” He nodded and then wrapped his arm around Amaryll’s shoulders. “This beautiful princess of yours saved her old man.” He chuckled as he looked to her with a smile. “Lena brought you to safety and secured a way to get my daughter back and Amaryll was the final piece to bring life back into my soul.”
The crowd once again cheered happily. The king watched over the crowd for a moment before he nodded and motioned for them to dissipate. Soon enough only the three remained in the hall, Amaryll looked to her father and then to Lena. The princess couldn’t stop thinking about the Oracle’s words. Rykalis was wise. She wouldn’t just speak words of something that was impossible. She truly believed that Amaryll could bring back Lena’s wings. Arvin turned to Lena and then looked to the few council members that remained in the room. “Shall we discuss this?” He asked as he took a seat at the cleared table that could act as their war table for now. “Lena what have you learned of the humans by infiltrating them? Besides that they are greedy and only care to gain leverage for themselves.” The king was curious as he gazed over her.
Amaryll drew her brows together, deep in thought. She couldn’t think of how she would get Lena’s wings back, she’d never heard of such a thing. The library. Her brows raised slightly. “Father.” She spoke and stood. “There is something I must do.” She then rushed from the room.
The king looked after his daughter as she ran from the hall, his eyes fell slightly. “Amaryll nor her mother were ever really ones for war.” He let out a breath before he returned his eyes to Lena. “Well, what plans have you come up with? What is the best approach?”
Amaryll rushed through the city and to what looked like an old entrance to a tomb. She walked down the crooked stairs and into the darkness of the cave. She held her fingertips up and flames came from her fingertips, lighting the way for her through the stone catacombs. Amaryll twisted and turned until she came to a deep round room. She took in a breath and whispered in the ancient tongue a gust of air burst through the room to reveal a round library that stretched down toward the core of the earth nearly 200 feet. A walkway swirled down the entire thing. “It must be here.” She spoke as she began to search through the books. She refused to give up. She would find the spell and she would master it. She wouldn’t allow Lena to live any longer without her wings. She remembered just how much Lena’s wings made her different. Unique. She was the only Fae that she knew with such magical wings. Now? The wings were gone...Amaryll wouldn’t rest until she found the spell. She searched and searched for hours until she was nearly at the bottom of the ancient library. Amaryll sat with her back pressed against the bookcase as her fingertips pushed over the page. Her eyes fluttered as she fought to stay awake. The pages flipped quickly as she read through the book. Though as she turned to a page that spoke of reuniting a fae with their wings Amaryll’s head lulled to the side. Her body was tired. Her fingers pressed against the page, her knees were pulled up close to her body. She looked like a young child with a fiction novel, refusing to sleep for fear of not finishing the next part of the book...
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Post by Raven on Oct 27, 2019 22:43:54 GMT -5
Lena nodded her head as the King spoke of her. "It was my honor, though I could never fill your shoes entirely..." she and smiled then. She had always received gratitude for her efforts, but it was different coming from the King. While he had made her the Head of the Rangers, and part of the Council - it was all in her fathers name, who was once a great advisor and friend to the King. She knew his last wishes wasfor the King to watch over her, and of course he did. Though often the King dismissed her, almost as a child of his own, and less of a colleague of knowledge and strength. Though, Lena always showed great attitude, and loyalty to him, a burning passion within her that always drove her forward. In his absence she had grown, from the eager Ranger to an Noble leader. Though she was sullen and full of rage - she hid her emotions, though over time it had drained her entirely. In those last moments of her leadership - she understood the King more than ever. It takes the heart and soul to be strong for your people....
Lena turned her gaze as her thoughts trailed away, and made her way to the make shift war table. It was not nearly as elegant as the past, but it would make do. What was once a council of 12 now was a meager 8... Her hues watched as the Princess wisked away, she noted the eagerness in her, something was up, for sure. All the years she spent watching Amaryll, even though in reality she was only a few years older than her. She observed from a distance, but always sought her safety. She had watched her sneak out to the Gardens, or the stables to go for a late night ride. She would trail behind her, sneaking in the shadows. Even before she had seized thugs from attacking her, all in the peace and quiet of the forest's canopy. She ensured the Princess felt safe, even when reality she was not. The Princess would sneak back in the castle in the late hours of the night, and Lena would hush her voice when the reports were exacted. She would announce that all was fine, ensuring the Princess could at least have a small ounce of freedom.
"Lena" Barak, the leader of the Crimson Guard tilted his head. "You okay?" he questioned.
Lena looked to the Council and slowly nodded. She shifted her shoulders, which burned like fire under her attire. "Yes... Apologies." she leaned forward then and pulled a map of the city out. She marked areas that were destroyed, areas that were highly active with soldiers. She explained how the world had become mechanized, they had built a huge port where several ships came and went - retrieving stock loads of their Enchant Mythril metals, their Hardened Steel-Oak, and other magical goods.
"If we Launch an attack - the Three Kingdoms that feed from this Island will come rushing, this war will be massive..." she spoke softly and then pulled forward several scrolls. "I have learned than many of our Kingdom escaped on a few ships - they sailed to Alibastor, our Sister-Kingdom to the North." she circled the Port city that grew into the mountain side of the Northern Rocks. "We cannot simply emerge and attack, they have too many means of communication. By the time we win the City - we can expect to simply lose it once more..." she spoke softly. "The Humans are naïve of us, and they are not even aware that we are down here... They do not expect a thing, and surprise will be our best chance. But... we need to sever their ties with their allies. I have men that are hiding themselves as Humans within their troops. The Humans are not loyal to anything but themselves... One sign of distrust and the other Kingdoms will split instantly... what we need to do is raise the stakes. If we can create war amongst the humans - and swoop in to give the final blow, we will be that of ravens upon the battlefield..." she smirked. "Use their ignorance and rage upon themselves, they are walking time bombs..."
She leaned back then and nodded. "So, we must figure a way to do this. Additionally, we will want to send the innocent to Alibastor, and also seek their aid... There is an exit to these Ruins, by only the Royal Tunnels, that can only be opened by Royal blood, hence your revival" she leaned forward for a moment. "We can leave this place and rekindle our people... Plus, The Oracle believes the Princess has an even greater destiny..." she leaned back. "A thousand years ago we gave Alibastor the most prized possession we had - as a peace offering...."
"The last two eggs of the Grand Dragon" The King spoke and smirked. "Little did they know that the Grand Dragons were blood bound to my family, the egg will never hatch unless willed upon by the True Rider..." he chuckled then. "Asking for it back will be a tough thing..."
"At most they may ask for more resources when we return to our home... what is that in comparison to our people?" Lena questioned, the council mumbled for a moment and then hushed. This was a huge thing to think over. The Island was rich and plenty with resources, it is what made them so. To have to give more.... what would that mean for the Kingdom?
"Very well..." The King smiled and nodded. "Will you come to Alibastor, then?" The King questioned Lena.
"I can... yes. I have a new band of Rangers under my scope - which can lead the infiltration and stay behind... I am confident of this.." she smiled then.
"Very well, let us reconnect tomorrow morning. I will think on this, and we will act in the evening..." The King stood and bowed his head.
Lena stood then and walked over to the Oracle, who had watched from a distance. "The Ancient Library, dear" The Oracle spoke and nodded. Lena tilted her head and then walked down the winding stairs, until she came upon the Catacombs. The Library had been sealed, she had wanted to enter it for so long - but did not know the spell to do so. She followed the lit torches that had magically rekindled upon the Princess's presence... until she came to the stone door that had scraped along the floor. She slowly entered the Library and looked around... her eyes lit up.
There were several braziers that lit aflame with a blue color, its light was dim but spread wide. She trailed her finger tips over the beautiful columns that led onward to the circular middle room. In this moment she lifted her hands - her wings would had lifted her into the air. She could feel them fluttering, her muscles twitching on her back. But she stay in her spot - motionless. She lowered her hands and sighed softly, the burning sensation spreading across her tender back. She turned then as she heard something - she slowly walked past several rows of shelves, until she spied the Princess, sitting with a large thick book in her lap.
Lena chuckled and approached, her arms crossed. "There was once a time that I often found you in this very position. Dangling over a massive book, the Sand God tugging at the strings of your eyes... Soon enough they would will, and you would drool all over the page" she laughed then. She stepped over and placed a warm on hand on her back, giving a familiar rub and pat. "Wake now, you have performed a great feat - and surely your body is facing the toll..." she glanced to the page of the book. It showed a very detailed drawing of a pair of Fae wings. She reached forward and traced the wings for a moment. It was in a language she could not understand... her curiosity was aflame. She tucked the page, saving it for Amaryll and then she closed the book. "Come on..."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 27, 2019 23:21:51 GMT -5
The chuckle tugged at Amaryll’s eyes. She looked up to the Fae sleepily as she listened to her words. The warmth of her hand upon her back reminded her of years ago, it almost seemed like a dream in that moment. Amaryll felt as though everything was a dream...after being tortured for 5 years it was hard to believe any of this to be real. Amaryll watched as Lena traced over the wings before she marked the page in the book. “Your wings.” She spoke in a sleepy tone. She slowly stood and looked to the book that was now in Lena’s hands. “Lena...” She drew her brows together. “You deserve your wings...I will get them back...Rykalis believes it is I that will bring your wings back.” She looked away slightly to the ancient books that surrounded them. “I think I found it...a way...” She nodded slightly as she stepped to the railing and gripped it a moment. “I’m sorry Lena.” She spoke softly in a whisper as she stepped up the winding staircase.
The princess staggered slightly, her body clearly exhausted. As they walked forward the braziers behind them began to fade and flicker out, shadows rushed in behind them. “The ancients had so many spells, so many books.” She trailed her fingertips along the bindings of the books as they walked upward. Soon enough they exited the ancient library and the heavy stone door sealed in place once again, as if commanded by the princess’ presence. “I will find a way, Lena.” She spoke as she stopped and turned to her. “We will get Talamuk back...our people will thrive once again, and you will have your wings.” She smiled then, the beautiful smile that the princess once held. It was a mesmerizing smile that drew in most of the people of Talamuk. It was something that gave more beauty to the princess.
She turned then without another word and walked through the catacombs. “I came down here a lot with my mother as a young child.” She spoke softly. “Even before the attack. We would come down here for peace and quiet, we would escape to read a few of the books of the ancients.” She fell quiet then. “I pray to the gods that she escaped, Lena….if she didn’t escape...” She shook her head. “I should have done something...I should have fought harder...”
Amaryll bit her lip slightly as they emerged from the catacombs and to the ancient city. She wound her way through the streets, many stopped and bowed to her before they continued on. Amaryll stopped again and looked to the Fae. “For years I admired you, Lena.” She gazed into her eyes a long moment. “You were a strong, noble and fearless leader of the Rangers. Something I could truly strive to hope to have such courage one day.” She gave a soft smile. “My magic may be different, but to have hope. That is what you gave our people. Without you all hope would have been lost.” She pushed into the home then and turned to carefully take the book from Lena. It was heavy and thick. It had to be one of the most ancient books that the library kept. The way her mother spoke of the library the deepest books were the eldest, and as the library rose the age of the books lowered. Her mother spoke that the library was created long ago and with each book written they added to the height of the library until it became the catacombs that you see today.
Amaryll moved to the bed and nearly collapsed upon it. Her eyes were heavy with sleep as she looked to Lena. “I will search more tomorrow Lena. I will fix this….” She spoke as her voice began to trail off and then soon enough the princess was fast asleep.
**
The next morning the princess slipped from the home and made her way yet again into the catacombs, accompanied by the large book with the illustrations of the wings. She moved about the library, grabbing books and carrying them to the desk at the center of the base of the library. Before long she had nearly 10 thick leather books stacked upon the dest. The whiteboard against the wall was covered in her scribblings as she tried to think of a way that she could get Lena’s wings back. She was nose deep in a book flipping quickly through the pages as she read over spells and the composition of the wings. The book spoke of the history of the Fae. It spoke the history of Talamuk Island. Long before the capitol city rest above the ruins that were now seated far below the surface.
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Post by Raven on Oct 28, 2019 21:23:25 GMT -5
Lena turned her gaze towards Amaryll as she rambled on. The Princess was full of self-doubt, which she had every right to feel. Years of being tortured, eventually - she was sure - she gave up, or perhaps gave out. To emerge from that was a tough feat. In anything her current attitude was more than expected, that was for sure. Lena reached out and placed a hand upon her shoulder. "We are where we are right now, it is your choice what happens from here and forward. Who the people around you do not define you..." she smiled then and bowed her head. "If you choose to fight, if you choose to find my wings - I will support you the entire way..." she let her hands slip away and followed along. "I am only a hero because I am surrounded by people who support me, and wish for me to do well... Without them, I am no one... And it started with your Father, and you, your mother..." she smiled then.
"I have always felt the energies of people, like I am tied to them. Something tells me your mother is about, I am sure of it... She was always so kind to me, cared for me..." she held open the door to the door to the home, and then again for the bedroom within the cozy crumbled home. "Your time will come, and it is coming swiftly..." she bowed her head and then lifted the giant book... She set it down on the side table and watch her climb into bed. "I have no doubt that you will..." she stood and then slipped from the room. "Good night" she whispered as she whisked herself from the room.
***
"What you seek... is not in a book" The Oracle spoke as she stepped into the library - a candle in hand as she hobbled over to the studying Princess. "All powerful mages that are written into books - do not replicate another craft. They bring it to life..." she spoke and tilted her head. "You want to know something?" she questioned. "The spell you spoke yesterday was not actually complete.... though from your inner being - your very will to bring forth life... you finished it. A spell that had never been accomplished before..." she set the candle down and sat across from the young woman. "Bits and pieces linger in these artifacts..." she thumbed through an ancient page. "But greatness lies within, the answer comes from your desire, where your power rests humbly so..." her old voice croaked in the room, echoing against the books that filled every inch of the walls.
Slowly she stood once more and tucked her chair, the grinding of the wood against the polished marble floor. "You wont find the answer today, or even tomorrow... but soon..." she held a hand up. "But do not stop searching... you will figure the puzzle out... soon" she turned her gaze to the young woman. "But first you must cure yourself, before tending to others... hm?" she smirked and then stepped away. "You also shouldn't skip breakfast, young lady.... not good for the body, not good, tsk tsk..." she spoke as her foot steps lead her away...
***
"It is Decided" The King spoke before the Council. "We cannot spare another day... we will make haste to Alibastor… We will call forth their aid, and the 3 Kingdoms that follow them..." he glanced to Lena then and nodded. "We can only hope the dragons stir to my daughters wake.... they will be the ultimate ticket... if not, then..." he sucked in a breath. "I will find another way, I know it"
"You will" Lena smiled "You are the King of Talamuk, no matter the state of the Kingdom - it thrives, and its heart rests in your hands. As long as you push onward, we do too" she smiled. The councilmen agreed and then stood.
"We stand by you, my King"
"Until my last breath"
Each spoke a line - cheering the hopes of the King. He smiled then and bowed his head "I am surrounded by great people... I am blessed... if my wife is alive.... she would be proud" he bowed his head once more. Though he shed a moment of sadness - for the last conversation he had with her was not so pleasant. They had argued, over his daughter - who was soon to bed wed, they were deciding on the suitor...
"Come, lets hurry. Lena - fetch my daughter, please" he then stepped away.
Lena bowed her head and then made her way down the hallway. The Oracle smirked and waved her forward "She is persistent" the Oracle spoke and then continued onward. Lena trailed downt he stairs, the door to the Library remained open.
"Amaryll?" She questioned as she entered. "We are going to head for Alibastor soon... The King has asked for you retrieval..." she spoke as she came upon the table. It was packed with books... She stepped over and placed a hand upon one of the books and viewed the words, which made no sense to her. She smiled weakly and closed one of the open books. "Come, we need to focus on our home. My wings will come in time, hm?" though, she spoke it with ill-hope. Her Wings were gone, this was a fate she had come to terms with. She always knew since she cut them off that they were gone... and for so long she had been with out them.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 28, 2019 22:14:36 GMT -5
Amaryll looked up with furrowed brows, she had been making notes within the current book that she was in. She frowned slightly at the Oracle. “If it is not in a book how will I know what to do, Rykalis?” She questioned as she looked down to the pages before her. She had notes everywhere, the piles of books upon the desk were much more than most would pull to research. She set the quill down as the Oracle spoke of the spell she’d performed. Incomplete. She’d written history and didn’t even know it. Amaryll watched the old elf with curious eyes as she spoke, she’d always listened well to Rykalis since she was a child. “Rykalis I don’t know if I can do this...” She shook her head, her power rested within her. Beaten down and abused by the humans. She wasn’t the same elf that she was 5 years ago. She wasn’t confident and naive as she was before the attack. Rykalis spoke of healing herself. Amaryll didn’t understand what she was speaking of. Cure herself? The princess sighed softly and lowered her head when she was given the slap on the back of her wrist about skipping breakfast. “Of course Rykalis, I understand...” She mumbled this last bit as she looked back to the books.
Amaryll began writing away quickly, linking what she could together. Finding the pieces of the puzzle. She was so focused on her work that when Lena called out to her from the top of the library she barely even heard the words in the distance. She continued working until she heard the sound of footsteps approaching. “Alibaster?” Amaryll repeated the word as she looked up to Lena. She then looked back down to the books that were piled upon the desk. “Lena...” She let out a breath slowly. “I...if I do not study this then...I may never be able to bring your wings back I must not stop searching...” She looked to the book that Lena closed and her expression softened, Lena was right they needed to focus on Talamuk. Though she could heard the sadness behind Lena’s voice. “Well...” Amaryll placed a page within a book and lifted it. “I’m brining this one with me.” She gave a soft smile. “Rykalis said that I can do this. I will...I promise Lena.”
The princess stood and looked to her with a weak smile. “Do you really believe my mother to still be alive?” She searched her eyes. “Perhaps she could help me with your wings...” She frowned slightly. She didn’t believe in herself. That was easy to see on her expression, even though she’d performed an incredible feat in bringing her father back. She didn’t believe. The oracle was right, she must heal herself before she would ever be able to help Lena. “I should pack and get ready then.” She spoke as she climbed the stairs of the library. She glanced to the books upon the walls her fingertips trailed along a few. “There are so many books and this is merely one of our ancient libraries. There are 4 more like this on the island. I can only hope that the humans have not found them...” She sighed softly.
**
The king stood before the beautiful door that sealed the tunnel that would lead them to Alibaster. The princess stood at his side a leather pack over her shoulders, she wore a black corset with a black long sleeve blouse, it caused the blue of her eyes to amplify. She wore black leggings and knee high boots that had large buckles on the sides. She wore a beautiful sword upon her hip that was one of the sword that belonged to the ancients. The silver hilt held the crest of her family upon it with blue inlays of ancient text. Several of the other men and women were with them a few dwarves, elves and pixies. The king stepped forward and pulled his dagger from his hip and sliced it over his hand. He pressed his hand against the seal in the center of the door and it glowed bright red as his blood leaked over the ancient words inscribed into it.
Amaryll took in a breath as she watched her father. She looked over the inscriptions upon the door that began to glow. Though after a few moments the glowing faded and the door did not budge.
“What’s happened?” One of the dwarves questioned.
Amaryll stepped forward, “If I want to make it happen I will make it so.” She spoke under her breath as she pulled her dagger from her thigh.
“Amaryll.” The king reached forward toward her as she sliced into her palm.
She grit her teeth as her blood dripped toward the ground. She pressed her hand against the seal and her eyes began to glow a bright white as her breathing increased. The seal began to glow white as well this time. The princess closed her eyes as she gripped tightly onto the stone, it felt as though the cut in her hand was on fire. She felt her father’s hand upon her shoulder as she fell to her knees. His hand was warm and calming. Then with a burst of white light the doors flung open. The princess stood slowly and looked to her palm, no trace of the cut remained. She looked to her father whom smiled.
Arvin pulled his daughter into his arms. “You are our hope, Amaryll.” He kissed the side of her head. “We will win this war.” He hugged her for another moment before they began forward toward Alibaster.
It would make for a long journey. The tunnel was constructed years ago. It smelled musty from being locked for so many years. Wooden beams stretched across the roof of the halls that were nearly ten feet tall. Amaryll could only imagine how long it had taken to build such tunnels. She knew of them, but she’d always thought that the tunnels were a story that were told to the children of Talamuk to make them feel safe. They marched through the tunnels for hours on end until they reached a second gate. The princess glanced to her father whom nodded and she stepped forward once again. Once again she sliced into her hand and pressed it against the seal. Wind whipped through the tunnels this time as the white light moved swiftly over the doorway and it pushed open. Amaryll didn’t fall to her knees this time she merely stepped back and watched the huge stone doors slide over the rocky floor. She looked once again to her palm that didn’t have a single mark upon it. Rykalis was right, she didn’t need a spell, just the will.
The princess looked up the stairs that led upward. “This is it. Alibaster.” Arvin spoke as he pat his daughter on her shoulder. “We made it thanks to you, Amaryll.” He then marched forward.
Amaryll glanced to Lena a moment before she followed her father and the others up the staircase. Soon enough they stood in a cathedral. It was empty in this time of the evening. Though footsteps approached quickly from the far side of the hallway. “King Ruthgar!” The man clad in armor called out, a grin upon his lips. “You live!” He looked to the others. “Talamuk’s king lives!” His eyes then fell upon Amaryll. “And princess.” He bowed his head. “This is wonderful news.” He smiled brightly. “Come, you all look tired.” He motioned for them to follow.
“We have traveled from Talamuk where we have been in hiding.” Arvin spoke as he followed the young soldier. With the trade agreement at least Alibaster was welcoming to the sight of Talamuk people. “I will arrange for a conference with the king in the morning. It is terribly late.” He looked to them as he led them through the empty streets. It was quiet. Several of the group looked up and chuckled as they looked to the moon for the first time in 5 years. A sight to see.
Amaryll looked to the moon as well, the feeling of the outside air. That wasn’t something that she was allowed as a prisoner either. The people of Talamuk hadn’t faired much better than her in their survival since they had been forced to hid underground to survive. The group was led across the city and behind the castle walls and to a building that held several beds. “This is usually used for our soldiers, but it is the best place that I can offer for this evening King Ruthgar.” The knight bowed deeply.
“Thank you.” Arvin bowed his head before he looked to the others whom milled about in the open room.
“I will send bread and soup to nourish your people.” The knight left quickly.
Amaryll looked about the barn like building. She yawned and rubbed her eyes as she fought back the urge to sleep. She slipped her pack from her back and by the light of a candle she began reading through her book again. Making notes here and there. She would put the pieces together, if it was the last thing she did. She wanted nothing more than to repay Lena for all that she had done and she knew getting her wings back would be a good start to repaying her.
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Post by Raven on Oct 30, 2019 19:02:09 GMT -5
Lena let out a soft sigh and then she smiled, it was a genuine and sweet smile. Her hand reached up and cupped Amaryll's cheek "I appreciate you trying so hard...." she let her hand fall away and she nodded slowly. "I can only hope your mother is alive, she is a power mage - and she and your father are the glue to the Kingdom" she stepped away then. "Come on, we should prepare to leave. It may be some time before we return" she spoke and lead her down the hallways to their chambers.
Before she knew it she stood before the decorated door. It had runes carved into the gate, and was sealed shut. Next to her stood several Rangers, the Council behind her, and a few others. Many were left behind - they would return, surely. Her blue hues watched as the King Failed to open the door, confusion came across her like a wave. Then a pit in her stomach filled her - what if they couldn't get out? Then seemingly the Princess stepped up, as if she knew exactly what to do. Lena glanced over to the old Oracle, who grinned from ear to ear. Lena turned her gaze back and watched as the Princess opened the door with ease, her hand appeared untouched by the blade.
Lena stepped forward, her lips curving into a smirk as a small chuckle came from the Oracle. They made their way down the long tunnel - along the stone walls were paintings, almost like finger paintings, that detailed the entire history of Talamuk. From the point that it broke away from the Eastern Kingdoms, due to a volcanic eruption that caused an earthquake. The power of it was insane, so much that Talamuk was ripped from the huge land mass and pushed away. A giant crack in the sea nearly 200 miles wide separated the island from anything else. For the longest time no one could traverse the Deeps because the sea was so disturbed and powerful. Eventually ships became advanced enough to withstand it, even still it is dangerous. The best route is by Zepplin...
Lena sucked in a breath - as they walked she could feel the magic that stirred in the tunnel. It was enchanted with magic. One step was that of quarter mile. It wasn't long until they came upon the end of the tunnel, another elaborate door. It opened and they walked up a set of stairs. Lena took in a breath of fresh air, the moon cascading over the crew like a welcoming blanket. Lena smiled and looked up to the twinkling stars... They had emerged out of a small stone building, what would normally be a room for a casket, but instead a secret entrance. They exited into a beautiful garden. There were large twisting trees, enchanted by magic, and winding vines that climbed over the lattice fences. Beautiful bushes blooming wildly by scented and colorful flowers... Though it was night - the Beauty of the garden was evident...
Lena turned her head as a Knight approached, welcoming them forward. She raised a brow and then followed along. Soon enough they were lead to the place they would stay, she watched as the Knight left to gather food. Lena's brows pulled together - she saw a slender figure approach. She was walking briskly, her hair flowing behind her. Her Aura was familiar... The others were inside, but Lena await outside, as if on guard.
"My Queen" Lena gasped as the woman came into view.
The Queen rushed forward, her breath slightly out. "I came as swiftly as I saw those doors open..." she reached forward and grasped Lena's hand. "Thank the Gods you are alive, and my Daughter? My H-...Husband" she ushered forward and threw the doors open. "Amaryll!!!" She shouted, her voice echoing in the large room. Lena turned her gaze, looking down the street... Why was the Queen in such a hurry? Where was she, why does she seem panicked? Thoughts crossed her mind, who knew what had changed in so long of time...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 30, 2019 21:27:36 GMT -5
Amaryll was deeply concentrated upon the book. The quill moved about the page freely as she ran her thoughts upon the page. Her eyes lifted then as she heard her voice from across the room. Her heart nearly skipped a beat. She knew the voice. 5 long years. 5 grueling long years. She jumped from the bed tossing the book upon it and she rushed across the room to the queen as tears of joy welled in her eyes. “Mother!” She cried in a broken voice.
The queen embraced her and kissed the side of her head. “Oh my sweet girl.” She held her tightly though her breathing was quick.
“Tourmaline.” Arvin spoke as he approached, his eyes looked over his beautiful wife.
The queen released her daughter and she turned to the king, her arms wrapped around him and she pulled him in close. “Arvin.” She breathed as she buried her face against his chest, she began to sob. Her voice cracked as she tried to fight back the sobs. Though, something wasn’t right.
Amaryll looked to her mother, she’d aged a bit in the time that they all were separated. Wispy grey hairs poked through the beautiful raven black hair upon her head. The king pulled back from the embrace and gazed down at his beautiful wife. “I thought I’d lost you.” He breathed. “No one knew what happened….where you had gone...”
“Fin told me you died...” Tourmaline spoke, “A shotgun to the chest...he saw it.” She spoke of another elf that had been a knight in the castle.
The king glanced to Lena across the room, all eyes were on the royal family. “Lena...cut her own wings from her back to preserve me in hopes that one day someone could bring me back to life...” He gazed into her eyes.
The queen took a step back from the two she embraced Amaryll once again and kissed the side of her head as tears rolled down her cheeks. It was then that the door to the building opened. A man walked in, red as fire beard upon his chin and pointed ears that seemed perfectly chiseled. This was the king of Alibaster. King Fenwick Stone. “Tourmaline?” He questioned then his eyes fell upon Arvin. His brows rose.
“Mommy!” A young child rushed across the room, he had fiery red hair like the king of Alibaster. The young boy ran straight to Tourmaline and hugged himself to her legs. “You left us mommy.” He looked up to her with big blue eyes.
“Unbelievable.” Arvin spoke, his voice low. His expression filled with pain. He scoffed as he turned his back to his love.
Tourmaline sucked in a breath as tears continued to run down her cheeks. She looked to Amaryll as her daughter stared to the young child. “Amaryll...” She finally choked out after a moment.
Fenwick had made it to her side by then he rest his hand upon the middle of the queen’s back. “Amaryll.” He spoke before his eyes moved to the king whom had moved to a balcony with crossed arms.
“King Stone.” Amaryll bowed her head. She glanced to her father. The hurt was clear in her own eyes, but...if it wasn’t for her Arvin would have still been encased in Lena’s wings...he was as good as dead without her. “There are not many that survived the attack 5 years ago upon Talamuk. As you may know...” She glanced to her mother and then to the young boy again. As much as she didn’t want to blame her mother for moving on...she did. She felt a pit build within her stomach, a heavy stone…
“Tourmaline and 30 others were the only refugees to arrive to Alibaster from the attack.” Fenwick spoke, his eyes glanced to Arvin once again. He was clearly uncomfortable. “Many told horror stories, many were injured, some died. Three airships left Talamuk, only one arrived the others were shot down by the humans.” He took in a breath and let it out slowly. “We did not hear of other survivors...” He reached down and lifted up the young child and held him and bounced him slightly upon his hip.
The young boy looked to Amaryll with his big blue eyes. Her mother’s blue eyes. The same blue eyes that Amaryll had. He giggled and then hugged himself to his father. “How old is he?” A voice came from across the room, Arvin. Tourmaline closed her eyes and bit her lip slightly. Arvin walked across the room to stand behind his daughter. “Tourmaline?” His expression was flat.
“He’s almost 5 years old.” Fenwick spoke his brows tucked together. “You cannot blame her, Arvin.” His voice was commanding. “She came as a refugee, more than one soldier stated you were dead...”
The king grit his teeth a growl came from his chest as he turned and walked off without another word. Tourmaline glanced to Fenwick. “Let me speak with him...I will meet you at home, hm?” She leaned forward and gave a kiss to Fenwick. She then tickled her son. “And you young sir, why don’t you sleep? Or the boogey man will come and get you.” She smiled as the boy giggled and squealed turning into his father’s chest. Tourmaline turned and cupped her daughter’s cheek. “I thought...you were dead my sweet girl.” She pulled her once again into her arms. “Please...forgive me.” She kissed her cheek. “I fear your father may not...not now...or ever...” She then slipped away to the balcony where she closed the door to speak to Arvin.
Amaryll stared to Fenwick as he left with the young boy. A few tears rolled over her cheeks. She reached up and brushed them away before she sank onto the bed. Her eyes were filled with pain, confusion. She sniffled as she fought back the urge to sob. Nothing would ever be the same as it was before the war. Not now. Not ever. One of the tears from Amaryll’s cheek fell to the floor and splashed as she moved her gaze to the wooden floor. She could her the voice of her father through the closed door. Her heart bound within her chest as she closed her eyes...this was a nightmare...
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Post by Raven on Oct 30, 2019 22:09:15 GMT -5
Lena stepped back, next to the Oracle - who was smiling slightly. Lena turned her gaze to the old woman and sighed. "You knew?" She questioned softly, while the family seem to bicker back and forth. Rykalis chuckled and looked to Lena and nodded slowly.
"I know much, I see much, I feel... everything. But, I took an Oath as the Keeper of secrets..." The Oracle tilted her head. "I see glimpses, I feel just.... notions, I have to decipher it. I didn't know... entirely, but I knew the family had grown in some way..." she tilted her head. "The joy of being who I am - is watching the truth unravel before my eyes... what people do with it... it interests me so" the Oracle's words were in a hushed whisper. It was the most Lena and the Oracle had ever spoke, really. It seemed in the past year they had grown closer, but she always felt the Oracle was so far.
"This interaction here will define the future, will the King throw it away, or focus on the preservation of his people... The relationship could be an asset, or a weakness..." Lena spoke and crossed her arms as she watched. She turned away then and stepped off, feeling uncomfortable by the scenario. She stepped outside and observed the city, though the steaming exchange between the two Kings seem to seep through the cracks of the doorway. Though soon enough it died down - she stepped aside as the door opened and the King emerged with his son in arm. The King paused and turned to Lena...
The red haired men set down his offspring and titled his head. "You are the Ranger, no?" he questioned.
"Hm, yes my King. Lena" she bowed her head and then smiled weakly.
"Your own wings to save the King?" he sucked in a breath. "That kind of Loyalty is extremely rare... what I would do to have a following as so..." the King paused and then sighed softly. "I would feel remorse for my life, but it is the best its ever been. Despite the situation, and how you and your people suffered..."
"No need to explain yourself to me, sir King, but... Time continues. You have two choices, let it consume you - or move forward. Many drown in the first, and never return to the surface. For a long time... I gave up hope that we would ever even see the Moon and the stars again...." Lena spoke, eyes watching the King, then glancing to the son - a spitting image of his father.
"Mmm... But you still tried, hopeless or not..." the King bowed his head once more. "You are more than you let yourself believe... Ranger. I hope... I get the chance to get to know you more. As much as the King is a legend, you are the future of his people" he spoke and then nodded. "Off I go, before this one escapes me" he waved his son over, who walked over from looking into the bushes.
"Very well, have a good night" Lena bowed her head and then stepped back inside. How awkward that was. Prior to the events - she had met King Stone but a few times... It seemed over time he had changed from the radical and opinionated man - to a very wise one... She wondered what kind of King he was, and what kind of Husband he was too...
Lena slipped over to Amaryll and lowered her head as she slowly approached. She dug in a pocket and pulled a hankerchief out, one that she had actually won in a tournament, just a year prior to the fall. It was Amaryll who gave it to her, they both had snickered together as a line of Knights had wished to win it, the favor of the Princess. Though the reality is that it was nothing more than a silky cloth, it didn't mean anything. Though, somehow - Lena had always carried it around, a symbol of her victory over all of the strongest warriors of the day.
"What a doozy..." Lena spoke finally, and then sighed. "Your mother was very Kind to me, in a way she was a like a mom to me. Not that... I could ever truly understand this kind of...defeat you feel...." she reached up and scratched her head slightly. "Forgive me, I'm not the best at sympathizing" she gave a gentle chuckle... she sucked in a breath and placed her hands on her hips, looking out the dark window to the night that basked the Kingdom. "You've been through so much. Tortured for so long, I can only imagine the only thing you want back is to come home. But now... hm" she glanced over to Amaryll briefly. "All I can say is... at least they are alive, hm? There is potential here, hell... you have a little brother" she chuckled. "My parents died when I was 12, you... already know this. My Father - once an advisor to yours... asked King Arvin to watch over me. He couldn't keep track of me, I was... all over the place" she smirked. "Stealing bread and giving it to the poor, picking Velan buds and losing my mind... He swooped me up and signed me up for Knight's School..." she sighed. "I think then I finally got myself together. Got over it all... but even still, I dream about coming home - the little cottage off of Averstone and Kingsland. My mom made the best Chicken Pie, and Everberry Tea..." she brought a hand up to her arm and rubbed it slightly, thinking of the childhood memories. "You... keep that" she glanced to the cloth, and placed a hand on Amaryll''s back.
Lena stepped away then and made her way back out side, keeping a watchful eye over their tempory home. She sucked in a breath and sighed softly. The air was so fresh and crisp, the moon cascade over the world. She had not seen the sky, not in a long long time. "Idiot" she whispered and leaned against the building. She shut her eyes briefly and pondered the things she could have said instead of what she did.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 1, 2019 18:17:22 GMT -5
Amaryll tried to fight against the sobs, but it only seemed to make her body shake more. Everything was spiraling out of control around her and she felt as though she’d been placed within a glass box to observe. The only thing that broke the princess from her dazed state was that of Lena’s voice. She looked up as she brushed tears away from her face, wiping them onto her pants as her body shuddered. The story of Lena’s childhood. They’d never really spoken in detail about Lena’s parents before. Tourmaline told Amaryll not to pry when she was younger, when she’d wanted to ask the question. But as she grew older she knew better than to ask. She stared to the handkerchief that Lena had placed within her hand the soft blue material with a silver lace stitched lining. She ran her thumb over the corner of the piece that held the coat of arms of her family. She knew exactly what this was. Amaryll sniffled slightly as she stared to the cloth. She could remember every bit of that tournament. It was the most she’d gotten to speak to Lena. She admired her. She’d never been into the tournaments before that year. The princess had come, out of obligation….but that year? No she looked forward to watching the games of the tournament. The hand to hand battle, sword on sword….archery….jousting. It was an incredible spectacle to see…
Amaryll watched as Lena walked from the large room to the doors that led outside. Her eyes fell back to the floor as she let out a soft sigh. The time of the tournament seemed to be another life. So far, far away. Almost forgotten. Though this little piece of cloth brought back all the memories in vivid detail. She ran her thumb along the edge with a gentle smile as she brushed away the tears that still rolled over her cheeks. She lifted her eyes as she heard the door open from the balcony. She watched Tourmaline make her way across the room to her and slowly she stood. The queen embraced the princess and kissed the side of her head. “I never meant to hurt you, Amaryll.” She whispered into her ear. “You’re my little girl, you always will be...it is such a blessing to see you alive...I...” She paused for a long moment, her arms tightened around her daughter slightly before she let out a sigh. “If I would have known, Amaryll...”
“Mother.” Amaryll stopped her she stepped back and brushed a few tears away. “You did what you had to do to survive.” She searched her eyes and gave a soft smile. The pain was evident on her expression. Though she considered the other options, her mother could have been in one of the other airships. She could have died at the hands of a human...or she could have been tortured just as Amaryll was. Her eyes lifted to see her father standing across the room, his gaze was full of mixtures of anger and sadness. “I...”
Tourmaline pulled back and gazed into her daughter’s eyes, her hands remained on her shoulders. “My sweet girl.” She spoke as she reached up and brushed a tear away. “I must return to the castle, but...we will talk in the morning...we will figure this out.” She hugged her again, “We must.” She kissed the side of her head again. “I thank the gods that you are alive, Amaryll.” She whispered softly before she pulled from the embrace and she stepped away. Her head was hung slightly. She glanced to Arvin whom stood with his arms crossed as he watched her exit the room.
Amaryll rubbed the handkerchief as she let out a shaken breath. The anger that her father held, she could feel it from across the room. She watched as he turned and walked back out onto the balcony. It took her several minutes before she finally walked toward him. She hesitated at the door before she pushed it open and stepped to his side. She leaned on the railing and gazed over the sleeping city. There was a silence between the two for several minutes before Amaryll finally cleared her throat uneasily. “Father...you would have wanted mother to be happy had you truly passed. Would you not?” She finally spoke, her voice was soft but the shake was gone from it. She stood and kept her eyes forward. The king didn’t respond it her, though she heard a sigh come over her lips. “I would have wanted her to be happy, to survive without us. As much as it pains me to see it...if we were both death….would you expect her to wallow in grief? To stay on her knees in pain begging for us to be brought back?” She shook her head and sighed softly. “I wouldn’t expect that of anyone. She did what she had to do to survive father and she did well. In fact...we may be in an even better place to barter with King Stone because of the circumstances...just...” She bit her lip slightly as she traced the iron bar that lined the balcony. “Don’t let your hate consume you. You’re no use to the people of Talamuk if that is what you become.” The princess glanced to the king whom remained silent, his eyes fixed forward. “Good night father.” She spoke as she slipped from the balcony.
Amaryll walked back inside, many of the eyes of her people were upon her. There was no yelling like there had been between the king and queen. In fact, they may not have even heard her soft spoken words. She had been locked away and beaten...to the brink of death many times. In the first year she couldn’t count how many bones they’d broken on her, how many times they’d hit her and degraded her to nothing. She’d prayed to the gods to make it stop, to end the pain. But she kept going. Without an answer from the gods...Amaryll may have given up her fight on the outside, but on the inside she had fought every single day that she was held captive by the humans. The princess made her way across the room and pushed open the front door of the building. She paused and looked to Lena a moment. “You know.” She spoke as she turned and looked to the city. “Not many knights, nor Rangers that I know would give up the favor of the princess.” She pulled the handkerchief from her pocket and held it forward. “Lena...thank you.” She searched her eyes a moment before she turned and looked back to the city. “My father may not see it, but my mother...she was merely doing what she had to….what she must to survive.” She leaned against the railing and looked to Lena a long moment again. “Just as you did what you had to do to survive. Running everything was never on your plate of things to do and yet you did it quite well.”
The princess paused a moment. “Have you ever been to the Alibaster springs?” She questioned and a smile curved up her lips. “Tonight would be a perfect night for it, clear skies, large moon.” She chuckled. “Come on.” The princess turned and walked off quickly. She slipped through the city, her eyes looked up to shop signs that hung down from the sides of the buildings. She felt like she’d been here yesterday and yet so many things were different. Shops she remembered from years ago were gone, some were completely new, buildings had grown in size as well. Others no longer existed. She slipped through the city and found her way off the beaten path onto a small single track trail. Amaryll followed the trek through the forest for nearly a mile before they came to a clearing. “The prince and I.” She spoke as she paused to looked at the beautiful springs. The water glowed a bright blue as if it was illuminated by lights below the water, it was a magical place. Even the flowers around the pools had a glow to them and the clearing was just large enough for the moon to cascade its silver light upon them.
“He showed me this place.” She spoke. “When King Stone and my father had decided that I would be wed to him.” She sat down on a large boulder and crossed her legs as she looked over the beauty of the clearing. “He was in Talamuk for my birthday.” She gave a pained smile. “As much as I didn’t want to be wed to him, he was a sweet boy.” She let out a soft sigh. “I saw him...as the humans pulled me away...I saw them kill him.” She closed her eyes and let out a shuddering breath. “That was only just the beginning of it...” She fell silent then as she looked up to the full moon.
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