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Post by Raven on Nov 24, 2019 13:05:53 GMT -5
Name: Lyra Lark  "We have won the war, finally" A deep voice spoke. There was a gathering in a room. This room's ceiling was taller than one could imagine. Bright marble white walls came from the apex, with glorious columns that encompassed the perimeter of the round room. In the center was a table, of which several people sat. Between men and women. They appeared as normal folk, wearing simple clothing. "It seems as though Satan has retreated to his flaming hell..." Another spoke, stroking his black coarse beard. Then a women spoke, her voice gentle her soft. "I am always retying the strings of fates, each time he decides to act. Often, I can feel it coming, like an rumbling in my stomach. For once I am at peace.... but..." her gaze turned to another man. "Tell us what you found, Thanatos" she spoke. "Lachesis, yes..." A young man spoke. He was awkward looking, and oddly thin. "Upon a collection - The man I rescued had been promised riches, he purchased something from a vendor. A spell stone, of sorts, the first I've seen it... The spell stone was enchanted to find him riches, though in smallest of ways. After gathering him, I became curious. The first I've ever de-robed, I found this salesman. When I came upon him - I knew right away, he was a demon. Selling items like... Lovestones, Wealthstones, Luckstones. All the stones that focused on the Sins and greeds of mankind. The Salesman - a demon...." he crossed his arms then, eyebrows pulled together - the two bushy like. "I have delt with Satan the most, out of all of us..." The man sighed. "As you know, I play the neutral party, as I must have a handle on him, to do my job. War is necessary, but he can over-do it.... I always had to convince him to bring the fight to us, and not over the humans. He always laughed in his riddles, but I never thought he would do it. It sounds like he is fighting us, yes, but with the humans..." This was War speaking, one could tell with the scars across his cheeks, and arms. Though he sat in a leather attire. "He knows our Moral code, that we cannot intrude on the Humans, we cannot persuade them...and neither can he..." Another spoke, he wore mostly a white robe. Chronos. "This work is that of Demons..." Fate spoke and then sighed softly. "Then Angels must do the same...." A voice spoke then. Off to the side - a woman with red hair played the lute. It was a calmly background sound, and this was her sole job, out side of fighting in the wars. They each had their own roles outside of the battlefield. "If I may" she spoke, lowering her head. "Lyra, no, your input is valid, please" Fate held her hand up, waved her forward. Lyra stood then, her lute clasped to her chest. "The humans have been idle, with no guidance. Developing on their own, as we have promised ourselves to allow them. Now..." he cleared her voice, uncomfortable for the next word. "Satan has put influencers down there, introducing items and likely... Black Magic, damning themselves instantly to his servitude. We must provide our aid, White Magic must counter this. If he will not fight us in the skies, then we shall fight him on the ground... Or else he will corrupt the very thing we stand for..." she bowed her head then. "You are are smarter than you let yourself on to, Lyra..." War spoke then, smiling. "She is right, we have spent Hundreds of years. Satan and God's power are a match, there will be no victor, he has learned that. So, it only makes sense...You caught this early, Thanatos... Were you able to determine how long this Salesman had been doing business?" "Roughly 5 years, if appears Satan began while we were finishing the war....right under our noses. I was wondering, lately, why my count of souls had decreased so much. Many more souls found their way naturally, without my aid..." The young man spoke, and then nodded. "I will council with God... I will see what he thinks" Finally the quiet one at the table spoke. She was a fair woman, with a large bosom, and wide hips. Weaved In her hair was little flowers. Mother Earth, Gaia, which ever. There was a bright light then, and it stepped forward. A figure of a man - though shielded completely by the beaming light. No feature could be seen. "No need to gather me..." The deep voice spoke. Everyone at the table was shook - He had never shown his figure before, and even to Gaia he was just a voice. "He has stepped beyond the grounds of our agreement... my Daughter has spoke truth. Do this, you have my permission, and my aid...." he stopped before that able. "He is angry, and will now resort to any means. Knowing our weakness, and he cares not. The humans will eternally be at peril, unless we can dethrone him from his position..." "You mean Satan is an office too?" Thanatos spoke, who was the newest to the team. "As am I...." God spoke. "But my position has never been left..." he bowed his head then. "He cannot be killed, he must be convinced. The only way we can do this is to prove he cannot win. He has had this desire to oppose me, when Evil has it's own job, he has neglected this..." he spoke and then nodded. "We shall reconvene..." he disappeared then. Gaia sat back in her chair, her beautiful black locks falling forward over her chest. "So it is..." she stood then. "Fate... will you work with the Angels, and create a plan? We must delicately pick the most effective positions, to influence and protect, and you would know those ties" Gaia bowed her head. "I must tend to my duties, farewell" she spoke then, stepping from the table... The others stood. Thanatos lifted his cape from the back of the chair and donned it, in an instant his head turned to a pale skull, his fingers just bone. He walked away. War lifted his red blade, and in an instant shining black armor formed into place, covering his chest arms and legs, that of a powerful knight, a red cape hung from his shoulders, he left with a helmet in his opposing hand. Fate stood last, she waved Lyra over "Come on then, you shall help..." *** There was no shooting white light from the sky. Simply - her eyes opened, she climbed from a bed. She wore her attire, the like of a Bard. In her hand - her lute. It was a beautiful oak lute, with golden designs over the top, just before the strumming board. Upon her waist was a weapon. In an instant she knew everything she needed to know. The world, the people, as if she had lived here her whole life. Fate had provided this to her... Fate and Lyra had chose her spot. That of a Kingdom, to watch over it. One of the greater influences, this and other Angels would find like destinations. A place where they could protect and influence, as much as she could. She was not here to preach the word of God, the funniest bit was there was no word of God. This was a man-made creation. No, she was here to ensure the Demons did not intrude, and bright forth influence of good, to show the glory of good, and help with magic. She knew, scattered all over now was this new role - a Mage. Angels fallen, to provide teachings of magic. As Satan had unleashed it upon the world... how easy it was now to grasp the inner desires, lust, glutton, war, greed, all the things were now so achievable, a powerful tactic from the great devil himself. Erected over night became the Tower of Magi, where these Angels would teach. Though, the world not recognize its sudden appearance. A sort of enchanted nature to the design... Lyra gathered herself and made her way out of the room. She was in an Inn, and as she left - she came to the streets of the Kingdom. As if Fate had placed it herself - a sign was tacked to a street sign, on the wooden pole. Royal Bard audition, with a time stamp of today, in roughly an hour. She clasped the lute in place and flung it onto her back, swiftly rushing up the street toward the huge Castle. it took her a little to navigate through the people and the bustle, until she came upon the gates. Two guards stood and stepped forward. "What is your purpose" one spoke. "I am a Bard... here for the uh... Audition" she smiled weakly. Her red hair fell forward slightly. "Very well, go forward and make the second left, to the ballroom. You will wait in the dining area before summoned to the main floor..." he nodded, stepping aside to let her in. "Thank you" she bowed her head. She stepped forward, her knee high boots clicking on the glossy tiled floor. She paused as she came across a beautifully decorated glass. She had never really taken the time to look at herself. For once - there was a nervousness in her chest. Her fingers gripped the belts over her waist, the red kind of scarf that flowed from it, tucked neatly. She wore a corset that pushed her bosom upward, a flowing silky under shirt clung to her arms... Her eyes glanced to another Bard who passed. Wearing similar clothing. It was almost that of a warrior, but a little more casual. As bards often fought in wars, playing their music to ease the fighters after which. Often.. Bards would retire and write songs to the great warriors, their names living eternally. It was as if in seconds this knowledge came to her, not ever knowing it before. She looked the part, this was for sure. She lifted her hands - Gloved, but fingerless, what an interesting design. She fixed the part of her bangs, her red flowing hair almost that of a flowing river, and then nodded. There was nothing too outstanding about her. She wasn't overly beautiful, but she wasn't ugly. There were features of her that were likable, yet nothing that bothered any. The was the goal, as much was her own state. To not be too outstanding, but enough to keep the attention. Where as Thanatos would likely never be taken seriously, outside his attire. She walked down the hallway, until she came to her destination. Several other bards sat, tuning their strings, plucking softly. All nervous as can be... Lyra moved and sat down in a chair, her eyes looking to the great platter of food. Others stood before it and picked at the fingerlings, eating happily. She waited, one by one a Bard was called. Simply the word next, they would look to each other, and one would go. Until the room was empty. Not a soul spoke to her, almost as if she wasn't there, or perhaps she was intimidating. She looked a little more gruesome, as if she had seen war. Truth is, she had seen much war. Fought heavily against the demons, in the sky, down in hell... That history was written on her face... "Next" A guard waved her in. She lifted her lute and stepped into the next room. It was an extremely tall hall, with a beautifully painted ceiling... Three people sat at the furthest wall, making her way to the center was a long journey. "My King, Queen... Princess" She bowed deeply. "Bard, Proceed" The King lifted a hand, waving to her. In an instant - she knew all of the normal tunes, and then some. Some that maybe her persona would have wrote, if she was true. She lifted her lute and began to play. The plucking of the lute was clear, and deep, the item it self was enchanted, though one might not know. It's sound was more beautiful than any lute before. She took in a breath, even the breathing sound became that of the music. Her voice sang then. In an instant the King sat back. The voice of an Angel, in truth. A caramel tone, smooth like a gentle river, flowing through the space of the room. It was a Waltz, and the words were that of Red the Pirate. This was a known tune, one that might play in a tavern to rally the crowds. Then it changed, it became something of her own. In an instant her lute glowed slightly, the plucking became harmonious with the sounds of an entire orchestra. Her toe tapped then - a drums could be heard in the distant. The simple lute song had become an orchestral performance, the room was alive with sound. She smiled then, her voice had paused as the theme plucked forward, the sounds of strings following. It was beautiful and glorious. Then finally all of the sound stopped. And simply her voice, not enchanted. She sung the last line, the echoing words clinging to the walls of the hall. She lowered her lute then, awaiting the response of the Royal Family. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 24, 2019 15:15:09 GMT -5
 Evelynne Farraday
Things had gotten interesting for the humans in the past five years. With the introduction of black magic many were wary of the subject. Though scholars found a property of white magic, of good. There would always be a good an evil. Though, inherently humans tended to choose the much easier route. Black magic was easier to learn, easier to wield and well...it damned the soul to Satan. The Kingdom of Naidel was one of the first places that the demon vendors popped up and one of the first to discover magic in the purest of forms. Though, no human truly knew how to wield magic...without someone to teach them how could they? Naidel sat in the center of the continent of Astfold. It was one of the oldest continents known to man. Full of rich history. Few wars had come across the lands of Astfold. The name was endearingly given by the ancients, by the gods some say, it meant land of love and peace. As cliché as it seemed, the name was true to the land. The king and queen of Naidel let the surrounding towns in such a manner that war was not something that was needed for a gain. Though...five years ago the tides began to turn. The humans began to give in to the deadly sins. Greed came into play...a full war hadn’t broken out yet, but the kingdom of Naidel was on the verge of a war with the kingdom of Voleg that was to the north, separated by a rushing river. They had always had trade with Voleg, until one of their shipments of grains caused great disease. Many died and the king of Voleg blamed the king of Naidel, stating that he’d poisoned the grains to kill off his people on purpose so that he could steal his lands. Of course, that was not the case… Naidel had offered many things in return to ease the suffering of the people of Voleg. The last they had been offered was the king’s daughter. A peace treaty. Her hand in marriage to combine the kingdoms. The king of Voleg went back and forth with the king of Naidel with demands of his men entering the country to oversee the process of their foods before the trade and Naidel quickly accepted fearing a war to break out. Once the two finally came to an agreement a festival was arranged. It was the festival of Searc. It would run for nearly a month and at the end of that time the princess would ultimately be handed over to the prince of Voleg as his bride. This was a huge commitment that the king and queen of Naidel had accepted. Though it was to keep their kingdom safe. It was to open trade, to allow the kingdom of Voleg more trust. The king of Voleg had two sons, the eldest would be wed to the daughter of Naidel and would assume the throne in Naidel, the youngest when of age would marry another maiden and assume the throne there. In essence Voleg would own both lands after the deed was done. The planning for the ceremonies included balls, parades, nightly parties for the people of Naidel. Feasts. Anything that would speak of the happiness of marriage and tying the knot between two countries. The announcement was welcomed by the people of Naidel and the prince was welcomed. It was not unheard of to make such a deal. In fact it had kept many wars at bay in the past. After all the plans had been made one of the last pieces of the puzzle was a bard. A simple task it seemed but the bard would mean everything to the ceremonies, the festivities...it had to be the proper choice. ** The princess sat upon the throne to the left of her father. She wore a beautiful red dress with golden stitching and ribbon along the hem. Beneath the dress a flowing white ruffled skirt with lace upon the edges complimented the ensemble. Flowing white sleeves reached up to the biceps of the princess leaving her shoulders bare. Her hair was a long tasseled chestnut brown, her eyes an emerald green. Her appearance stopped most for a second look. She looked as though she had been carved by one of the gods, at least hat was what she was told by many of her admirers. The prince of Voleg however, she hadn’t met him yet. She only hoped that he was worthy of her hand in marriage and that he wouldn’t be a pompous ass. She glanced to her father after a bard performed, most were alright at best. Nothing worth remembering. “How many more father?” The king looked to his daughter, his greying beard was full and well groomed. The crown upon his head glistened in the light. He gave a soft chuckle. “At least I am not the only one having a horrible time.” “William, stop it. Our people have come from far and wide to audition for this spot. We should respect their effort.” The queen spoke up with a smile upon her face. “Though I would have hoped we could find some form of talent.” She chuckled softly. “Ah you see my point, Valorie.” The king quipped back with a smile. “How many more?” He asked as he looked to one of the knights. The knight opened the door slightly and glanced out. “Just three, my king.” He spoke and resumed his post. “What if we don’t find one?” The princess spoke up quickly before another entered. “Evelynne, do not become discouraged.” The queen gave a warm smile. “One will do. You shall see.” She turned her eyes to look at the man that had entered the room. He was dressed very well. Better than most that came to the audition. The princess sighed as she awaited his performance. She looked about the room. Her eyes moving to the knights whom seem to enjoy the tune. This bard could at least carry a tune...unlike many of the others. The talent seemed to be lacking on this day. By the final audition the princess appeared rather bored. Her eyes barely looked to the woman as she stepped into the hall. As the tune began the princess tilted her head, none of the others had chosen to sing about pirates. She found this rather interesting. Her eyes looked over the woman and her red locks of hair. She was much more interesting than the others that was for certain. Then the lute began to glow and the orchestra sounded within the room. A smile curved up the princess’ lips as she listened. It was simply beautiful. The performance was the only one to keep her attention for the entire song. She wanted to dance to the music. She wanted to sing. The king’s jaw dropped slightly as he listened to the music. He was wary of magic, as he should be. But this use. He had never seen anything like it. He glanced to his wife whom seemed to be enjoying the performance as well. When it was over the family sat in awe. The king cleared his throat. “That.” He began. “That must be the most elaborate performance that we’ve heard all day. Such use of magic.” His eyes never left the bard. He went to speak again. “You’re hired.” The princess spoke up, cutting off her father. “I agree, we couldn’t find a better bard if we tried. Simply magical, in all senses of the word.” The queen spoke up with a warm smile upon her lips. The king cleared his throat, he wasn’t one for magic, but his family. He knew his wife was curious about it as was his daughter. He nodded then. “Well it is decided then, bard.” He motioned to one of the knights. “Sir Peter will show you to your new quarters.” “I can, father.” The princess gave a smile as she stood. The king looked as though he was about to object but the queen touched his arm and nodded. The princess stepped down from the thrones, her heels clicked upon the marble as she stepped toward the bard. Each step she took was elegant. It was clear that she had many classes on how to speak, how to walk. She was truly a noble. “You may follow me.” She spoke to the bard as she led her from the room. They carved through the castle passing many beautiful pieces of art, statues, glorious stained glass. It was an incredible structure. The princess stopped at a door and gave a smile. “This will be your new quarters.” She pushed the door open and stepped inside. It was a lovely room with a four post bed, a chest for storing items, a wardrobe, a bath attached to it. It was what most nobles wished to have. “As you may know the festival will begin, in about a week. So we have time to prepare. Though I’m not certain how much preparation you might need.” It was a compliment woven carefully into the words. “You may call me Eve if you would like, though if in public the king and queen would appreciate you to call me princess, or your highness of course. Silly titles if you ask me.” She shrugged slightly. “Might I know your name bard?” The princess gave a smile as she looked to the woman. She looked to the lute, her eyes full of curiosity. “Where did you learn such magic?” She finally asked after a long moment, her emerald eyes locked on the woman now. |
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Post by Raven on Nov 24, 2019 16:11:11 GMT -5
Lyra smiled to their reaction, though she knew it would be so. She was quite gifted, in more ways than any mortal might know. She hugged her lute and bowed deeply. "Thank you, it would be a honor to play in your name" she moved the Lute so that it was on her back. It was surprising to see the Princess offer her assistance, no doubt that Lyra intrigued her. She bowed once more before being lead away by the Princess.
As they walked - her eyes wondered. The likes of the Gods were not far off from the mortals. Yet, she had to remind herself that she too was once a human. Just like the Gods before her. So their home was decorated much alike. Elaborate, decorative, neat and tidy. Something about it brought peace, and even some feeling of safety. She turned as the Princess did and came before her room.
She stepped inside and smiled "A beautiful room..." she walked over to the gorgeous chest and her fingers touched the top of it, running over the etching in the wood. "I am flattered, A pleasure to meet you Princess Eve. I am Lyra." she set the Lute down on the plush bed and looked around to the room, before stopping to gaze at Eve.
"Magic has always been within me, sneaking it's way out. A few years ago - I received guidance to travel to the Tower. Somehow, under all our noses, an entire community of magic wielding folk thrived. A recent discovery of sorts, that only few are attuned to...I gave up my life to move there, and have only recently emerged. Hearing word of this Audition, I knew I could exemplify all that I learned, and be apart of something" she smirked then "And maybe even teach others" she cleared her throat then.
"I hear your father is weary of Magic. I knew it would be a risk, when I performed..." she shrugged. "A risk worth taking, it seems." she set down a single bag, all that she owned. Basically a set of clothing, neatly folded up within, and that was it. "Will you show me about the Castle? This is my first visit" she smiled, grasping her lute once more and tossing it over her shoulder. She never went any where without it.
"Perhaps too, some time before the festivities, you shall help me pick your favorite pieces." she smiled then. "This is, in the end, about you, right? Perhaps, if you dare, a duet can be arranged" she chuckled then. "That would be mighty brave, if you have the skill" she nodded. "But perhaps, the tour first..." she adjusted her belt and nodded.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 24, 2019 22:24:24 GMT -5
“Lyra.” The princess repeated it sounded like such an elegant name with her royal accent. She smiled, “Pleased to be acquainted.” She bowed her head slightly. She watched as the bard took in the room as she ran her fingertips along the chest. She could only imagine what the woman was coming from. From the looks of her light packing it wasn’t much. The lute seemed to be the only thing of any expense that the woman owned. Evelynne became intrigued once again as Lyra began to speak of magic. A smile curved up her lips as she listened, she looked as if she was in awe once more. “An entire tower of those than can use magic?” She spoke softly, “That is incredible...to have been there and trained with them.” She grinned.
Then when Lyra brought up the king, Evelynne nodded and let out a soft breath. “He is wary of anything that he cannot control.” She chuckled. “Sometimes he is even wary of me. That’s the only reason this arrangement with Vogel has been made. He knows that I can handle it. If the prince can handle me that is another story, luckily I won’t be leaving my own kingdom.” She chuckled softly. “I think you were wise to use your magic, my mother and I have always been fascinated by it.” She tilted her head slightly. “Could you teach me?” She asked, the princess hesitated with this question. “I...well I’ve tried to learn.” She held up her finger and brought over a glass of water. She held the glass forward and then seemed to concentrate. Within the glass the water seemed to swirl before it froze into a solid block of ice. She flipped the glass upside down and then turned it right side up once again. Evelynne waved her hand over the water and it warmed and thawed. “I can’t do much.” She spoke, “But I refuse to use the stones that the salesmen are selling. There is something dark about those stones. That is why my father is wary of magic.”
Evelynne then gave a sheepish smile when she realized just how much she had been talking. “You wanted to see the castle.” She spoke, “I’ll show it to you, come on then.” She turned and walked to the door where she was greeted by one of the servants.
“My princess.” He bowed deeply before her. “The king searches for you. He is in the map room.”
Evelynne took in a breath. She glanced to Lyra. “You’re welcome to walk about the castle, it appears I will have to catch up to you, Lyra.” She gave a soft smile before she left. The princess hurried down the hallways and into the map room. “Father?” She asked as she walked in.
“I don’t want you learning magic from a bard.” The king spoke as he looked to her. “Even your mother agrees it could spell danger for you. We don’t have room for such dangers.” He nodded slightly.
“Father. She trained at a tower of others that can wield magic like her. She isn’t a sinner father. Her magic is pure, can’t you feel it?” Evelynne stood across the table from him. She’d always been able to sense things like that, magic. Just like Lyra said that the magic was always within her. Magic was something that was always within the princess.
“Sense it?” The king chuckled. “Don’t talk nonsense my dear.” He walked around to her and held her shoulders, gazing into her eyes. “I don’t want you getting hurt. You understand?” He asked and pulled her into an embrace.
“I didn’t plan on it.” She returned the embrace and then pulled back. “Thank you father.” She bowed her head before she slipped from the room. She moved down the hallways in the direction that she hoped the Lyra had gone. She passed her room and glanced inside to find it empty. “Good.” She spoke before she started out once again. She wandered down the halls almost aimlessly searching for the bard. It wasn’t until she rounded a corner and ran smack into someone that she let out a cry for help. She looked down to find that it was indeed the bard. “Oh.” The princess exclaimed as she scrambled to her feet, fighting the corset all the way. “Lyra, I didn’t realize you were there.” She glanced to the lute, it seemed to be alright. “Are you hurt? Is the lute alright?” She questioned quickly. That wasn’t the first time she’d bowled someone over like that. She’d done it many times throughout the years, her mind on something else and she would knock right into someone. “Here.” She reached her hand down to help. “I’ll give you that tour now, huh?”
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Post by Raven on Nov 25, 2019 21:52:15 GMT -5
Lyra listened to the woman as she spoke, then her gaze pointed to the glass. She watched with curious eyes, she could sense that muster of magic within her. She smiled and observed, waiting for her finish. "That is quite a feat, to have learned on your own." she stepped over and peered to the glass, which had gathered droplets about the outside of it. "Magic is like a living essence within us, when we call upon it - she responds" she reached forward and touched the glass. Slowly it began to freeze - though not as quickly as Evelynne's. "We all have our calling, the way we speak to magic, and how magic thrives to us. In a way, we each are attuned to a certain style. Though, eventually, with enough will, you could learn to do anything" she lifted her hand, and watched as the ice melted once more as well.
"Though, the more we start to dive into magic - the more tempting it can become. Self control, and perseverance is what keeps us alive, rather than swallowed by the corruption..." she nodded. "If you are interested, if is only right that you should learn. Or else, eventually, you could attempt something greater than your capability, and find yourself in great trouble..." she bowed her head. "The curiosities of the unknown drive the feeble minded to the endless dark. I will teach you magic - but most of all, I should teach you strength" she bowed her head. "Though likely in private, no doubt the King would allow his only daughter to dabble in the arts of the untold" she winked and nodded. "Very well, a tour it is" she grasped her lute and followed.
Though swiftly Evelynne was wafted away, she found herself lingering around. Her trails led her up a winding stairs, coming upon a great library. She smiled and glanced within - through the colored pane of the door window. She moved along, until she came upon a room, an infirmary. She slowly stepped in and glanced about - several beds lined. Each with a person laying in it. These were the most critical patients, several women rushed around tending to them. She could smell the scent of death upon them... as she turned her gaze- she saw him sitting in the corner. Though others would see him to be a nurse, it was Thanatos, clothed in his dark robes. She slowly stepped over to him and nodded.
"How is it going?" he questioned to her.
"Well, I think I am getting the hang of things..." she nodded. "It has been such a long time since..." she smirked "I can barely remember my life before" she glanced over to him, who slowly nodded.
"Mine was only but a year ago..." he sighed. "Sometimes I can't stop thinking about it, and other times... I forget that I was once him" he stood and looked to his wrist - a ticking watch clicked away. "You should ease their suffering" Thanatos spoke, glancing to her with his pale skull.
Lyra nodded and gripped her lute - she sat down in a chair next to the one that Thanatos was to take. He was groaning in pain - his body covered in sores, a sickness of sorts. She sighed softly and plucked on her lute. It glowed slightly and the room became slightly tinted, a gentle yellow washing over everyone. Within the gentle folk tune was a calming spell, relaxing the mind and body, to even forget the suffering - the pain washing away.
Thanatos stood and reached downward, his skull hand slipping through the body of the man. Though, the glory was none saw this movement, they saw him placing a hand on the man's shoulder, easing him. The man's heart stopped, his breathing shuttering. Thanatos nodded and slipped the glowing like web into a small pouch. "Until next time" Thanatos whispered and then walked away. No one paid him mind, as if he wasn't even there. A nurse passing...
Lyra lowered her lute and waved a nurse over, who figured out swiftly that the man was dead. "Apologies... I had a strong desire to enter, I think this was my purpose" she whispered and sighed.
"He was on his way out... but your song surely soothed him... thank you" The nurse spoke, and then paused. "Please, come back some time. They would like that..." the other folk were humming softly to themselves, the lingering happiness of her spell still played within.
"I shall" Lyra nodded and then gathered herself. She made her way down the stairs once more, shaken slightly at the death of that man. Though death was no stranger to her, it had been a long time since she had seen a mortal die. Something about it really tugged at her. It wasn't like the death of an angel, or demon... She grasped her lute and then turned a corner.
In an instant she slammed into a body. She cried out and reached forward - steadying the person. "Oh, Princess" she breathed heavily. "I apologize, I was thinking" she held the lute and bowed her head. "Yes, the lute is fine" she smirked. "Thank you" Lyra's eyes fell over the woman, as she adjuster herself. She cleared her throat as a mysterious red flush washed over her complexion. What was this odd fuzzy feeling? She swiftly turned, embarrassed. She had not felt emotions like this in so long. Maybe it was the overwhelming nature of being on Earth. As an Angel in Heaven - her emotions were void, as if the skies nullified them. She was a servant to the gods, not to indulge in the greeds of humanity. Though on the land, she could feel them again...
"The tour - right!" She smiled and followed along. "I found the Library, which was beautiful. And the Infirmary, which... was not as great" she sighed softly. "That was all I came across, though" she followed. "Have you lived here your entire life?" she questioned, looking about the castle as they walked by.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 26, 2019 23:33:47 GMT -5
The princess took in a breath as she finished adjusting her dress. Her eyes caught Lyra’s eyes a moment and she gave a soft smile before she brushed a piece of hair that had fallen into her eyes from the collision. “I’ve spent much of my time in that library.” She spoke with a soft smile before she nodded to the comment about the infirmary. “A sickness has taken several of our people lately. Our apothecary has been working all hours trying to uncover what has caused it.” Her expression seemed sad as she spoke. “I had a handmaiden that fell ill.” She spoke after a long moment of silence. “She fought for a fortnight before her body finally succumbed to the illness.” Evelynne had walked over by a window that peered out over the castle gardens. “Where you came from...was anyone sick within the tower?” She glanced to Lyra. “I just wonder if it is an illness that was caught from the trade...or if like my father says...the dark magic has caused such a plague to befall these people.” She shook her head. “I couldn’t have imagined my handmaiden to be involved in something like that.”
She carried herself forward down the hallway then. They climbed a staircase to another floor. “I have lived her my whole life, yes. I can only imagine how it must feel to see it for the first time. I don’t know a day without it.” She glanced to Lyra a moment before she pushed a door open. They entered a room that held a few bookcases that were chock full of books. It had a desk that overlooked a balcony that faced the city. There was a couch and a chair for curling up to read in. “This is where I spend more time than the library.” She gave a soft smile as her fingertips ran along the cloth of a chair. “When I’m not being taught by a tutor of course.” She looked to Lyra. “My free time is spent here, because I value a moment of peace to myself. This is where I learned how to cause water to freeze.” She leaned against the huge desk and glanced about the room. “Why would you leave the tower where you can learn do perform so many incredible things...just to become a bard for the royal family?” She asked with a slightly raised brow. “I am happy to have you. Just...it seems like a waste of your capabilities. Is it not?” The princess watched the woman carefully. It was almost as if she was testing her, trying to see what the answer would be compared to the answer that she formulated in her head.
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Post by Raven on Nov 27, 2019 10:05:53 GMT -5
Lyra followed along, standing next to the Princess as they peered down to the gardens. It felt as though she knew Eve had stood here many times before. She sucked in a breath “Sick? Yes, yes of course” she nodded. “Many died” it was odd to her. She had suddenly memories, visions, as if she truly lived there. It was an odd feeling to experience, as she knew in reality she had not. As if slipping into the body of someone else – with a story, and a life, and then combining her own into it. Emotions thrived in her, as if she had seen it first hand. Though, no doubt many in the past 5 years had experienced the sickness she was to tell.
“When one dives too deeply into the magic, it can consume you. Imagine like…” she turned to the woman and moved her hands in a motion – gesturing at the world around them. “Magic is like another world. I think of it like… Tree’s taller than you can imagine” she continued to talk as they trailed onward, describing this world to the Princess. “Bright blue skies, and at night – the auras dancing with the stars over your heads. The forests are full of creatures, ancient and new. Small pixies fly – like fluttering glow bugs about. There is even a sort of music in the air, the earth singing to us. Then… in the distance, as you walk through this world.. there is a deep dark black pond. You hear a whisper from it, promising you great power. So you lean down and take a sip. You taste it and it flows within you. It is so easy to do, so easy to take. So you sip again. And again. Until you finally give in and slip into the pond, letting it consume you. Except, this is the devil’s pool of lies. The first sips were free, enticing you” she stopped then and looked to her. “The glory of magic is all around us, white and dark. The forest and the world and it’s beauty – it is all white magic. It is powerful, but harder to harness. While dark magic was easy and simple. But it steals from you…” she paused, closing her eyes.
She slowly opened them and sighed. “Those who dive into dark magic – if they are not careful and wade slowly, they grow sick. The darkness consumes them, a truly terrible death… Their souls become damned to hell, they die terribly. So terribly that hell becomes a relief. They are full of rage and hate, and the Devil himself turns them to demons to command…” she shook her head. “This is how he fuels his army”
“There are people who figure out how to control the dark magic, or at least know the threshold of how much they can get away with. They exist… but one day, they too will dip too far” she cleared her throat. “I spoke too much” she chuckled. “This is why it is important, if you dare to learn. You need to know what is light and what is dark, and how to avoid the temptations” she nodded. “It is a very tricky business” she paced forward. “With guidance, it is easy though. The Gods have given us many gifts, and knowledge” she nodded. “The more the world dives into this magic, those who choose not to partake – will find themselves lost in the times. If the world continues, then you lose. Eventually… your father will need to come around to it, or the surrounding Kingdoms will surpass him in strength, I think he knows this. They all know it, it is a great fear.”
They walked further, until the Princess asked such a daring question, but she smirked to it. “I learned all that I wished. The Tower… is full of powerful people, seeking more and more power. Everyone studies hard, there is not much a social life to it. I wanted to take what I learned – and give it to the people. My talent can bring peace, and happiness. What better than to present it on the biggest platform available? At your ceremonies – I will reach out to thousands, if not more. And they will hear me play…” she smiled at the thought then, it did truly get her excited. “They will find themselves at peace, they will also see how magic can do good. It is a win for everyone, I believe” she continued forward, her boots clicking on the tiled floors.
“What is your purpose of learning magic then?” she questioned as she stood before the desk, looking to the single glass of water. She could tell the girl practiced much… “This question is always the first” she waited then, for the woman’s response.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 27, 2019 12:26:12 GMT -5
Evelynne looked to Lyra as she spoke of the dark magic...of demons and the devil...her expression looked curious, and yet at the same time skeptical. She’d heard her father speak of the demons that brought magic to their home many times. He was a religious sort and the bishop of their kingdom believed that such practices were the devil’s work. The princess gave a soft smile as she listened to Lyra though. “Can light magic, holy magic...consume you the same as the dark magic?” She asked with her brows tucked slightly together. This woman before her spoke with such wisdom, as if she’d dealt with magic for years. She spoke of pixies and other such things that belonged within the binds of a book. Perhaps the bard was like most bards. Full of tall tales with a song to match every one. When Lyra went to speak how those that succumbed to the dark pool of magic died she took in a breath and looked away.
She couldn’t imagine that her handmaiden had made a deal with the devil and allowed dark magic to consume her. She couldn’t imagine her being sent to hell and turned to a demon. It all sounded like a story meant to scare those away from the magic stones that the salesmen sold. Meant to scare those from temptation. It was much like the readings that were said to be spoken by God. The bishop spoke each week on how wretched the devil is and how he is around every corner beckoning for those who are not strong enough. She crossed her arms slightly, almost as if she was uncomfortable as she looked to Lyra. “Getting my father to come around to the use of magic is like asking him to sign his soul away to the devil himself.” She spoke, her eyes locked on the bard’s. “Our bishop speaks against all magics. He sees it all as a trap from the devil.” She turned and stepped to the balcony window again her arms still crossed over her body. “I don’t think that this sickness is from dark magic.” She finally spoke after a long moment. “Not when you look at the people who are sick. Not all of them. Some certainly. But not all of them.” Her smile was gone from her expression.
The princess continued to look outside as Lyra answered her question. It was a fair answer. If one put their head down and studied the right material hard enough, she could see the amount of wisdom that could be learned. Quite quickly actually. “That’s truly a noble pursuit, to bring such happiness to so many people.” She spoke with a soft smile upon her lips. When Lyra asked her why she wanted to learn magic she let out a breath. It was a loaded question, she could feel the weight of it as if it wore down upon her shoulders. Though it was only fair, she had asked an equally loaded question. The princess turned and looked to the bard for a long moment. “At first?” She asked as she searched her eyes. “It was because I was mystified by it, I felt a connection to it like nothing I had felt before.” She moved to a bookshelf and pulled and old leather bound book down from one of the top shelves, her fingertips were barely able to reach it as she stretched to grasp it. She stepped over to the bard as she blew the dust from the cover. “I read this book many times as a child.” She smiled as she held it forward. It was an adventure novel about a mage that went from city to city helping all those that she came into contact with. “A fairytale. Nothing of the truth when I read it over and over and yet I felt that one day it could be possible.”
Evelynne tilted her head slightly as she watched Lyra another moment. “Then five years ago when magic seemed to suddenly exist in the world, it was like a gate opened. I could feel something inside me. Almost as if something awakened.” She drew her brows together. “I don’t know how else I can explain it. It sounds mad.” She shook her head then. She’d never told anyone, especially since magic was such a touchy subject. “I want to save people.” She spoke and then looked to Lyra again. “The more terrible things that happen around me. The sickness. The wars.” She paused a moment. “I want to be like the character in that book. I...want to help...” She drew her brows together slightly in thought.
The door pushed open then and the queen stepped into the room. “Evelynne, darling.” She spoke with a warm smile. “Bard.” She gave a nod. “I heard about what you did for those in the infirmary.” She searched Lyra’s eyes, word traveled quickly within the castle. “That was incredibly kind of you, even the nurses feel more at ease. It has grown rather difficult to see the bright side of things with such a sickness spreading throughout the kingdom like a plague.” The queen looked to the book in Lyra’s hands and let out a soft chuckle. “That was always your favorite Eve.” She looked to her daughter with loving eyes a moment before she turned her attention back to Lyra. “I’m quite curious as to where you have come from? I’ve never seen such a performance.” The queen then looked back to her daughter a moment. “I have a few dresses that our seamstress just finished that I would like you to go try on, darling.” She nodded before her eyes set back on Lyra.
Evelynne watched her mother a moment before she looked to Lyra. “Of course mother.” She spoke. “Thank you.” She wanted to know about what Lyra did in the infirmary. Her eyes searched over the woman another moment before she slipped from the room to go look at the dresses that had been designed for her. It was a long process, the measurements, then several different fittings, and finally before the events she would have the final product. It would be a busy week ahead of her now. The princess’ heels clicked as she walked through the hallways and toward the office of the little old woman that had been a seamstress for the royal family for years, as was her mother, and her mother before that.
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Post by Raven on Nov 27, 2019 13:00:53 GMT -5
Lyra thought for a moment, as the Princess brought up a very true point. “Can white magic consume you? Yes, of course” she nodded. “You must think of where this magic derives. If White is good, and Black is Evil… Think of it like this. What would Good do to a person, if they were overly good? They would sacrifice their life, perhaps even force others into their mindset, corruption occurs amongst the white. Those who are consumed by good – become brainwashed. Take… your Pope for instance, he is so Good – that he is pesky, and bad. In the way that his mind is shut, his live is given, he is no longer… normal, no? In a way that is just as destructive, many have killed in the name of Good. Life, and magic, is about balance. It is simply more disastrous to sway to the bad, but eventually you are no longer yourself either. A victim of Evil himself… And he consumes you. Good, and Bad, are equal demons.” She sucked in a breath and nodded. It was a rough topic, one that was often heavily debated. Even her comments could have be derailed, but this was her belief. Better yet, this was once her life. Was God truly an all holy being? No, of course not. In end, he was once a man too…
“I see your purpose, it is rightful” she nodded. “Magic is curiosity behind science, and truthfully, others have much worse answers, and yet they are still right. You cannot ask for magic, magic chooses you. What you decide to do with it, is your own. I respect your choice, in the end” she smiled then and turned as the Queen stepped in. She shifted the lute on her back, shuffling slightly – as if she was in trouble, yet she knew not.
“Farewell Princess, I look forward to hearing more of that story – one thing though” she lifted a hand, gesturing to pause, even while the Queen stood before her. “All good tales, and great songs – derive from some truth, some where” she bowed her head then. “We can discuss more, of course” she turned her attention to the Queen then and bowed her head.
“I am glad you approve… I knew it was a bit of a stretch beyond my threshold of told allowances…” she cleared her throat then and looked to the Queen with gentle eyes. The Queen was a little taller than her, but yet she held a young and gentle face. She knew full well that the answers she would provide – would be heavily studied, she would be careful to deliver them.
“I was once just a Farmer’s daughter” she spoke and lead the Queen to a couch. With the Queen’s presence – came a servant, who offered hot tea. Lyra nodded yes, and then thought for a second. A flood of memories became her, but these memories – these were her own. The ones she forgot so long ago, before she became an Angel. “Just south of here, a pretty large plot of land… forty three cows, sixty lambs, sheep, geese, chickens…” she leaned her head back slightly as she remember. “A giant farm…” she chuckled. “Though now, burnt to the ground, which happened years ago…” she shook her head. “I would play the lute, a gift my father gave me. Then one day, our herding dog passed. We buried him and I played outside, lute in my hands. Corralling to the fence came all of the animals. We learned that day – that I too could heard them, with my music. There was a kind of.. magic to it then…” she shifted in her seat. “My father saved up all her could and sent me to a conservatory, to the far north, Roxfar, if you know it. From there, just 5 years ago – a mage found me” this is where her memories got fuzzy, to the conjured that was placed within her. Though, everything to the conservatory was true.
“I learned that Magic had been released in the world. Truth is – it was always here, living in us, In the creatures. But within the earth – a fissure erupted. The Magic in the core of this earth, like the soul of it – released into the air. Suddenly, all that magic within us sprung alive, as if it could breath” she nodded “This is how magic came to be, 5 years ago” this piece was true, to a degree. Truth is Satan had released it, like pandoras box. The last piece to the magic puzzle, to bring it alive. It was once just a gift to the gods and the like, but now the mortals had it too…
“The tower of the Magi appeared swiftly, a gathering of people who had these powers. It grew and grew. The mage that found me at the conservatory asked me to come with him, and so I did. Convinced that I had a gift…” she lifted the lute then and smiled. “And sounds like I do. I spent the next 5 years studying, learning, and more so – discovering. What I could do…” she fixed the lute onto her lap. “The music enhances my magic, and my magic enhances the music. There is much I can do, good and bad, with music. It is my choice in the end, to decide” she nodded. “Have I answered your question yet, my Queen?” she smirked then, knowing full well that she answered it and then some. She expected this from the Royal family, a curiosity – both negative, and positive.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 27, 2019 17:22:00 GMT -5
White magic could consume the user as well. This struck Evelynne. Especially the part about the Bishop. She could see that he was corrupted by the good of the church. He wanted everyone to embrace his every word. To follow him like a flock of sheep. She’d never bought into it. She’d never bought into heaven or hell. The devil? She wasn’t too sure about that either. These immortal beings that no one had ever seen. Angels? A fairytale. Something that one of the previous Bishops could have created. In fact she believed that all of the holy texts were written years ago by the bishops of the past.
The next bit that the bard spoke caused her curiosity to peak even more. Magic chose the user. She could imagine that to be true. With everything about this bard that she questioned, things seemed to line up in some form or fashion. She had drawn her brows together slightly and was about to speak in response when her mother had entered the room. She’d nodded her head to the goodbye that Lyra gave her. The bard seemed to spark intrigue with every word that came from her mouth. It was a feeling that Evelynne had never truly felt. As she walked into the seamstress she glanced around the room full of cloth. “Edna?” She projected her voice as she stepped further into the room. “Are you here?”
The small woman poked her head up over a pile of clothing. “Princess. As beautiful as always.” Her skin was wrinkled, her hair white and short. She stepped around and walked up to the princess. “Ah I believe you will enjoy the dresses that I’ve created. Come, come.” She led her into the back of the room where the dresses hung. “We must try them all on to make sure I can get these final adjustments in before the festival begins next week. Each one must be perfect, princess.” Edna smiled brightly.
**
The queen had raised her brows slightly as she watched the bard lift her hand though it caused a smirk to turn up her lips. Not many would have had the courage to do such a thing in her presence. “A bit of a stretch indeed, but it was much welcomed in comparison to the other performances that we sat through this afternoon.” She spoke as she followed the bard to the couch, her heels clicked against the flooring and she sat with grace. She listened intently never taking her eyes away from the bard. As she spoke of the farm she could see it in her eyes, the sadness, the longing for the memory. Though when she spoke of the farm burning down her brows pulled together slightly. The woman that sat before her looked young, young enough that perhaps she would have heard of such a fire. She’d been south of the kingdom all that rested there were open plains, no farm. Maybe the bard’s sense of direction was off? She watched as the woman shifted in her seat and she began to wonder if that was because she was uncomfortable. Was this story a lie? Though the thought passed quickly as the bard mentioned something that she did know, the conservatory in Roxfar, she gave a slight nod and a smile in response.
“My great great grandmother attended that conservatory, it has been around for many generations. Such a beautiful place.” She spoke up finally. She tilted her head slightly when the bard mentioned the mage. Then when she spoke of the fissure releasing magic into the world the queen raised a brow, she was curious. “The tower of Magi. Yes, I know it.” She spoke then her expression relaxing once again. “It is shrouded in mystery though. I’ve yet to actually meet someone from it. What a pleasure.” She spoke with a smile upon her lips now.
The queen chuckled to the final question as she watched the woman smirk. “I do believe you know the answer to that question. Do you not?” She nodded, “You’ve more than answered my question. However you’ve sparked many more, young bard.” The queen searched her eyes. “Tell me how...dangerous is the art of magic?” She asked. “Could it cure the disease that has begun to spread? I know Eve dearly wants to put an end to it. The illness has sparked wars across the continent and into other continents. War is a terrible thing, as I am sure you either know or if you have yet to experience it. I’m certain you can imagine how terrible it can be.” The queen seemed to think a moment, “What you said to Evelynne. About stories being true to some extent. I like that. Every story does have a beginning.” She smiled. Though she had deeper questions, she wished to get to know the bard better. “Liliana.” She spoke with a smile. “That is my name. You may call me by that if you like bard. You see, you’ll be the closest person to my daughter. You must understand the amount of trust that I am putting in you. If there is anything that I must know about you. Now would be a good time to divulge that information. Evelynne means the world to me. Understand?” The queen searched her eyes. It was strange, though she didn’t know the bard well. There was an aura about her that made her want to trust her more than anyone she’d met before. Perhaps it was magic? Though she didn’t feel the same thing that she’d felt during the audition. She could feel the magic in the room then. No, this was different. Something that she couldn’t quite place her finger on. “And what may I call you?” She asked finally after a moment of thought.
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Post by Raven on Nov 27, 2019 18:52:51 GMT -5
Lyra’s eyes watched the queen. She could tell the woman was analyzing her, as she should be. The questions tumbling through her head, the gears turning. She smiled and accepted the tea as it came to her. She took a sip and cleared her throat. “Magic is as dangerous as sword and shield. It all matters what you do with it, and how you allow it to control you...” she thought for a moment, on how to phrase the next sentence...
“Magic has no limit, but we humans do. Curing the sick? I am sure this is well on its way, we shall always advance. Magic will assist and speed this process. The sickness around us...” she paused “the world must be balanced, yes? Magic has introduced so much, and naturally the counter to it is illness. Gaia makes this so, you should imagine.” She took another sip.
“I would only hope to intrigue you, that is my ultimate goal. We are trained in the tower, released when we are ready. Now, the goal is to extend our knowledge. It took time... for the tower to understand their position in the world, and the proper way to educate. The council created a very systematic plan, and now is the time act. Simply, it took time for us to learn enough to be confident in our ways. You understand?” She paused and then took another sip.
Lyra leaned forward and set her cup down on the matching tea plate and then adjusted her posture. Leaning forward slightly, giving the queen her complete attention, as she spoke of her daughter. “Liliana, it is an honor. Though, if you don’t mind it- I will continue to call you Queen” she bowed her head and listened to the queen. She could tell she cared much, this in it self warmed her heart. “My name is Lyra Lark, or Bard, if you please” she smiled then.
“I understand the risk you take, and I will do my best to uphold your trust. You have my word. For now, I serve you and your family and I intend on honoring that” she bowed her head then and slowly stood. “If I may, my Queen. Gather your questions and we can discuss again over a cup of tea. I should tend to myself, and my things, prior to dinner” she bowed then. It was bold to leave the queen without being released, but she pushed it anyways. Almost as a sign, that despite everything - the Queen ruled her, but only to a degree. In a way, demanding a certain kind of respect.
Lyra made her way from the office and to her room. There she cleaned herself up, adjusting her hair. She sat down then and let out a deep sigh. From the ceiling came a thing string, a spider at the end of it. Fate transformed into her human form. “How is it going?” She questioned. Smiling to Lyra.
“Hmm” Lyra thought for a moment. Her voice hushed as she spoke now. “Magic has frightened the humans, no doubt. He has done severe damage. I fear he is up to even worse. I suggest keeping an eye on Famine, an unknown sickness has spread rapidly. I am wondering if these were apart of their timeline...” Lyra spoke, crossing her arms now, tossing a lock of red hair from her face.
Lachesis thought and nodded. “I will look if any threads are cut short, or tangled prematurely...” she nodded. “Anything else?” She questioned.
“Nothing yet. The queen suspects my stories, but she should. Otherwise, living among them is ... different” Lyra turned her gaze as there was a knock on the door. When she looked back to fate - she was gone. Lyras brows pulled together and she stood. “Come in”
A maid stepped in and bowed. “Your dinner is ready, the King is requesting you eat first and then perform while they dine”
“As is my duty” Lyra nodded and grasped her lute. She did the same for the gods, anytime they dined or gathered. Other than battle, that was her duty. Entertainment in the background, to bring a gentle calm to the room.
Lyra followed the maid to the dining room. A single plate was prepared, a small glass of wine. Lyra ate in peace, before finding herself off to the side, sitting in a chair, lute in hand. Before the royal family gathered - she was already playing. Music was a joy to her, and even in the few hours that she had not played - she craved it. This was her need, like a drug. The Magic wished it upon her, if she didn’t make music it would eat her alive. Often if not with her lute - her angelic voice would hum a tune, satisfying her crave.
As she plucked away, a gentle folk sound, light string quartet played - as if sitting behind her. She had her legs crossed and eyes closed, humming softly along with her own playing...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 28, 2019 22:27:49 GMT -5
The queen watched the bard closely as answers came over her lips. A soft smile curved up her lips as she dropped a cube of sugar into her tea and stirred it slowly. The fact that the bard was not afraid to say that magic was dangerous was something that she found comforting in a way. Anyone who told her that magic was all but dangerous she refused to trust. Such power. All things come with a risk. Though the thought of magic controlling someone, that was a concept that she’d never ventured to think of. Her eyes lifted from the tea when the bard mentioned Gaia. Most only believed in one singular God. Though, the queen knew of Gaia, from old books that the Bishop would rather see burn. She had old texts tucked away in the basement of the castle. Texts that spoke of fate of Thanatos even. She had always been intrigued by the idea that there was more than one higher being. She couldn’t imagine one being overseeing everything. Especially when even the devil himself sought his demons to do his bidding.
The queen tilted her head slightly when the bard spoke of the tower. There was a plan behind all of this. Behind the bard being here even. She would have to consult her own council about this matter. If they are simply extending their knowledge that is of no harm. But the queen feared that this could be a facade for something larger. What if this bard was sent to infiltrate her kingdom and break it down piece by piece for the tower so that they could ultimately attack? “Of course I understand. The sharing of your knowledge of such magics is quite intriguing. Especially...to my daughter. You understand.” She locked her eyes on the bard. Though then the bard….excused herself. Liliana sat with her tea cup in hand almost frozen. She drew her brows together slightly as she reached forward and set the tea down and cleared her throat. She’d never had anyone act in such a way, though...the challenge made her smile in the end. She wasn’t angry with Lyra. Not in the least. It was refreshing for her not to obey her every command and wait for the queen to call upon her before she acts. She liked that about this bard….
**
The princess tried on the handful of dresses and was measured for more. It was an exhausting process but Edna wouldn’t take no for an answer. When she was finally finished Edna shooed her from the office and went to work to fix the few things she needed to on the dresses. Evelynne made her way to her room as her stomach growled, she was met by a hand maiden that helped her slip into an evening gown. It was a lovely blue dress that brought out her eyes. The ribbon about the dress was white as the clouds within the sky. It laced about the corset that her hand maiden cinched down tightly. Evelynne closed her eyes as the corset was pulled into place, out of everything corsets were her most hated thing about being the princess. She couldn’t breathe in them. She couldn’t feel anything. It was a terrible invention. After her maiden finished adjusting her hair up in a beautiful up-do that allowed her bangs to hang down slightly she made her way to the dining hall.
The music that came from behind the closed door filled her with joy. With a sense of calm. She smiled as the door was opened for her by one of the knights whom bowed his head. The princess walked across the room, her heels clicking against the marble as she listened to the tune that Lyra played. The gentle humming of her voice. It was soothing. If she’d had any stress or worry. She wouldn’t be able to remember it if she tried. Evelynne recognized the song and she hummed along slightly as she came to the dining table, her hand rested on the back of one of the chairs. The king and queen had yet to make their appearance, she imagined it would be a few minutes at least as she glanced to the table. The servants were still moving about dressing the table for the royal family. Evelynne was early.
She watched curiously as Lyra played the song, she watched her hands move about the lute until she closed her eyes, taking in the beauty of the music. When the song was over the princess smiled. “That was incredible.” She spoke with a warm smile. Though as she was about to speak more the doors opened and her mother and father entered. The princess glanced to Lyra a moment before she took her seat with the king and queen at the table. Dinner was filled with idle chatter. The king spoke of the prince that was to come, Evelynne didn’t argue it. She knew it needed to be done. It was the only way she could see the kingdom staying out of war. They spoke of the many festivities to come and then the queen and princess spoke of the dresses. She chuckled and smiled as the trio spoke. It was easy to see that they all had a love for one another. The princess would do nearly anything that her parents wished of her to do. They had given her everything and she only felt it right to repay them the best she could. When dinner had finished the king and queen left the room to tend to other matters leaving Evelynne with Lyra. The princess glanced to Lyra with a soft smile upon her lips as she stood. “The music was well fitting, thank you for playing for us.” She spoke before she turned. “I’m going to head to the gardens. Would you like a tour?” She asked, though she hoped the bard would come along with her. She had so many questions. “Could you tell me what you did in the infirmary? My mother seemed rather pleased with it….whatever you did...”
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Post by Raven on Nov 29, 2019 9:21:42 GMT -5
When the song ended Lyra opened her hues and looked to the Princess, she bowed her head in response and then resumed plucking at her lute. Though this time she just let the natural sounds fill the air, her magic satisfied for now. As the family gathered in – she hummed softly with her lute, playing quietly in the background. When the family spoke she would lower her volume… when silence came – due to eating, or pure thoughts, she would play. Though, she did not invoke her magic. She wanted to show that she was capable without it. Not every moment was a moment for influence. Granted, she could play music with her magical orchestra attending her – without influential spells assisting, but she knew now was the right time.
The family was weary, skeptical, she had to be careful with her next movements. She had already pushed enough, surely. When Dinner was over – and the King and Queen left – her head remained bowed, until the Princess stepped forward. As she spoke – Lyra smiled and stood from her seat. “I appreciate your compliments, but this is my duty” she moved the lute to her back, a leather strap hoisted across her chest.
“A tour sounds nice” Lyra followed along. Her eyes glanced to the passing Maids and guards. They watched closer than before, she could tell the King had ordered this. Surely anything they spoke of – might be shared to the King and Queen. She turned her gaze, pretending as if not to notice at all. Rather the paintings and statues sparked her interest, apparently. She shifted her gaze to the Princess – who questioned her.
“I am capable of much” Lyra spoke. “I cannot heal, but I can ease the suffering of those around me. My music soothing their pains, to the point where they cannot feel it. For once – in their pain – they can manage to smile, and remember life before. That… is all I did” she nodded. “A man was on the cusp of death, something drew me in. As if he was calling to me for aid. I played until he slipped away, a gentle smile over his lips. It was all I could do” she lowered her gaze.
“Bards can bring much joy to the world. They have always been the ones to do so. Entertainment is just the pay” she glanced up to the sky as they stepped outside. “I intend on seeing the Orphans today, I wish to play for them. Then some other time, I shall see the elderly, and visit the sick again. Outside of my duties – this is my wish” she nodded. “Often, the people in need are the ones less tended to” she pulled her lute forward then and plucked as they walked forward. “Watch” she smirked.
After a few seconds of playing, her fingers caressing over chords, moving upward and down in a waterfall like fashion. She played a serene progression, like not a single passing tone or minor influence was emit. Just purity. From the distance – small birds began to gather. Colorful ones, dull ones, and as she played – those that sang – whistled along. Though, somehow – they sang in key with her lute. She smiled then as all along the tall bushes, in the trees nearby was an orchestra of birds. Lyra turned as she peered to each, her fingers moving as if they had their own mind.
Soon she stopped. The birds lingered, and then one by one they flew off, as if they had forgotten they were even there. Lyra let a chuckle out “A universal language” she looked over to Eve then. “It can move anything with ears” she stepped over to a rose bush, where a red cardinal perched. Lyra quickly hummed a few notes, looking to the little red creature. The bird whistled back in return. Lyra hummed again, having an unknown conversation with the bird. The cardinal hopped in a circle and then lifted into the air – it whistled a long sentence, and then flew away in a hurry. It swayed side to side, until it was lost in the distance, it was clear the little bird was happy.
Lyra turned then to the Princess, a smile etched across her gentle face. “Pretty cool, huh? That is what I could do, in the beginning. It was like I could speak to them” she smirked. “That is how I found out – I had a bit of magic within me.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Nov 30, 2019 12:54:58 GMT -5
As Evelynne stepped forward she’d given a smile. “It may be your duty but you do not play like any Bard that we’ve had before. Even without your magic.” She glanced to the lute curiously. She couldn’t get over the sense of intrigue that she had over this woman. She couldn’t place it, which only made her more curious. She listened quietly as Lyra spoke, her eyes noticed that the servants and knights seemed to be interested in their conversations. This caused her to frown slightly. She didn’t want to be watched like a child. Hell in a month she would be the queen...she would have to lead this kingdom next to the prince. As she thought of this and it was like a lead ball formed in her stomach. She could only hope that the prince would lead with her. That he wouldn’t push her to the back and force her into silence like many of the kings did. Her mother and father were one of the few royals to lead as a team. It was what made their kingdom so successful.
Though her thoughts were subsided as Lyra began to speak about the things that she was capable of doing. What she did in the infirmary. She took in a breath, the thought of being by the side of someone dying. Being next to her hand maiden when she was near death was difficult enough. But to ease someone into their death? It made her uncomfortable. Death wasn’t something she’d had to deal with much until five years ago when the illness began to ravage the kingdom like a plague. When Lyra spoke of the orphans and the old a smile curved up Evelynne’s lips. “You are more than welcome to do that, I can tell you where the orphanage is...and the elderly...they would truly enjoy your music, Lyra.” All of her thoughts of dread seemed to melt away as Lyra began to play once again. She could almost see the magic in the air. She could have sworn she could see it.
The princess’ smile widened as she looked to the birds that began to chime in. It was absolutely beautiful. She giggled slightly as she stepped forward looking to the creatures as they sang along with Lyra. It was something from a fairytale. Something that if she didn’t see it...she would never believe the story to be true. Her eyes fell upon Lyra again as she hummed softly to the tune to herself. The princess had never been much to sing...though there was something that she could do. She could play piano. It was within her lesson plan, her mother wanted her to learn and had hired a tutor for her at a young age. She had picked it up rather easily, a gift the tutor spoke. She watched as the cardinal flew away happily, the smile remained on her lips as she looked to Lyra, almost in a daze.
“I’ve no words...” She looked to her a moment. She looked to the beautiful garden, the flowers and perfectly trimmed hedges. “I’ve never seen anything like that, Lyra. It is something that should be written into the pages of a book. For it to be something that is right before my eyes.” She smiled and looked to her once again. “You’re a very curious bard.” She spoke again after a moment. “I’ve never felt so drawn to someone before. I want to ask you so many questions and yet I also am unsure of what to ask.” She smirked slightly. “I’ve never felt such a way...I...” She drew her brows together as she tried to find words, she finally shook her head and allowed a smile to turn up her lips. “I’m not sure I know how to explain it.”
The princess turned then as she stepped to the railing of the gazebo that she’d led the bard to. It overlooked a small pond with beautiful koi fish that swam around within the pristine waters. “Could I confide in you?” She asked and glanced to Lyra, she searched her eyes a moment. In the gardens they were far from the eyes of servants and knights. “I’ve never met the prince that I am to marry.” She spoke as she turned away and held onto the railing. “My father was forced into striking a deal to prevent war. I understand it. Yet. I always dreamed of meeting my prince during a ball of sorts.” She shook her head and let out a laugh. “Silly. I know...” She sighed then as her fingertips traced the etched wood.
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Post by Raven on Nov 30, 2019 13:19:39 GMT -5
When the Princess's words flowed forward - a string of compliments, riddled with curiosity and amazement.. a small smile crossed over Lyra's lips. Her smirk was almost mischievous. In the big scheme of things - her power was not much, in consideration compared to her peers. Some could shape things from nothing, others could move the earth, control the elements. Lyra was never the shining star, or the legendary Angel, she was a simpleton in truth. To be recognized in such a way - made a fuzzing feeling within her stomach. She remembered then what it was like to be human. There was a bit of greed lingering in that feeling, selfishness, but it felt so good. How could they punish humans so - when it felt so nice? She lowered her gaze then, recognizing the bit of sin fueling her actions.
Her steps followed the Princess as they made way to the gazebo. She shifted the lute to her back and she leaned her arms on the rails. "Whatever you say, will be held in confidence" she nodded to the Princess, who had asked. She listened as Eve spoke of the Prince, how there was evidently a bit of nervousness. She tilted her head and nodded. "That is tough, considering that this Kingdom wished war... Who knows what kind of attitude they may have... Likely not so like minded..." she sighed softly. "I know so much, but this would derail me. I wouldn't know what to do either, except wait and see. Hmm?" she raised a brow. "I'll be here, the whole while - should you need a hand" she bowed her head. Her gaze turned as two guards had strode by, their eyes glancing over at the two girls.
"Your family suspects me so" she chuckled "They should, of course. Lets not give them a reason to worry" she waved the Princess over. "I notice you like to sing" she spoke as they walked. "Perhaps tonight we can select a few songs, the ones you like." she spoke louder, as they came closer to a nearby guard. "A duet is always favored, how you would bring in the room" she smiled and lead her toward the castle. "After dinner?" she questioned.
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