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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 20:26:00 GMT -5
Tyra turned her head slightly as she had climbed into the bed, sneaking under the plush covers. She shut her eyes and listened, picturing the moment in her head. Before the story was over – she was asleep. In truth – the day had been exhausting. They fought a war, traveled home, scent her father, celebrated… It felt like a day that would never end.
Bjorn stood in his leathers, his cape flowing in the wind. He held a wooden sword and shield, circling a small girl. “Hold it higher” he spoke as he looked to Tyra – who held her own sword and shield. “Your stance – a little wider, one leg forward” he spoke. Tyra adjusted herself and then shuffled forward, her sword swinging.
Bjorn blocked it easily and circled around her once more. “Watch me steps” he spoke clearly “They will predict my next movement...” he thrust forward. Tyra blocked it and stepped back – putting distance between them. “Very good” he spoke and thrust forward again.
With a flick of her wrist – she caught his sword from his grip and threw it. She then shuffled forward and slammed her shield against his own – her sword touching his leg in that instant.
“If I was taller, you’d be dead!” Tyra shouted happily, her voice high pitched and happy.
Bjorn laughed then and scooped her up with one arm, lifting her to sit on her shoulder. “Thats my girl” he laughed and spun her in a circle. He slowly set her back down. “Why don’t we get some milk in celebration, hm?” he smirked and stood back up, his hues looking to her lovingly. It was then that a boom went off – a bullet flying through the air and slamming into his chest. His eyes grew wide and he fell forward, face first into the dirt….
Tyra sat forward suddenly – heaving loudly, tears in her eyes. She gripped her head and sighed deeply… she stood from the bed, it was the mid of dawn… she stepped over to the wooden doors that lead to her deck. She opened one and stepped outside, her hands touching the rails.. her eyes looked out to the mountain side, covered in thick forests… she reached upward and touched the fang about her necklace and took in a deep breath.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 21:10:21 GMT -5
Rylee gazed over the woman a moment. She stood and moved to grasp one of the furs. She lifted it up over Tyra and tucked it in, “Sleep well, you deserve it...” She spoke in a whisper before she moved to a large chair within the room. She sat down and let out a long breath as her mind tried to wrap around everything that happened. How was she still asleep? Where was Nym? His job was to stop her from having tube dreams. He’d stopped them before...why wasn’t he doing it now? Her body felt heavy, something she’d never really felt in a dream before. She fought the urge to sleep but eventually she’d pulled her knees against her chest and wrapped her arms around her legs. Her head lulled to the side as she slipped off into a slumber.
“Whatever it takes.” Rylee stood on a bridge across from a man in a fine suit. She didn’t have the Hexagon tattoo upon her cheekbone. She stood in military garb. Her hair was pulled up into a bun, though loose strands hung about her face. She wore aviator goggles upon her head. Make up defined her cheekbones and lipstick made her lips seem more full. “I’ll do whatever it takes to save him.” She spoke her voice cracked slightly. “Whatever he’s gotten into, there must be something that I can do. Something I can offer.”
The man watched her, a stone cold expression upon his face, sunglasses with dark tint hid his eyes. “You would do whatever it takes? Truly?” He questioned, still his expression was emotionless, his voice was deep.
“He’s my brother...of course...I...” Rylee had tears in her eyes. “Please. There must be something I can do...” She begged.
Finally a smirk curved up the man’s lips. “There is one thing.” He snapped his fingers and a car pulled up next to them. “Get in.” He ordered her.
“Uh...” Rylee hesitated.
“You said anything.” The man spoke as he climbed into the car. “Unless you want your brother to die...get in the car.”
Rylee grit her teeth slightly. She climbed into the car and it started off toward its destination. “What is it that you want me to do?” She questioned, though she received no response from the man. The ride was filled with silence as the automated car zoomed through traffic. Soon enough the car came to a stop outside of a warehouse. “Where are we?” She questioned as the man exited the car. Her heart began to pound within her chest as she followed him. She was highly aware of the lack of movement around them. They were in a secluded location. She walked into the warehouse behind him, the sound of the door closing echoed through the empty space. As the lights began to flicker on to illuminate the hallway she followed the man. She had a battle knife attached to her hip that ran along the small of her back, if something happened...she could defend herself...she hoped…
They entered a room with a chair and a strange tube. “Oh hello.” Nym spoke he stood at a computer. “I’m Nym.” He gave a warm smile. “Welcome to Hexagon.” He motioned toward the chair. “Please have a seat.”
“What is this?” Rylee questioned. “Where is Pete?” She looked to the man that held a stony expression once again.
“Sit.” He spoke. “I’ll see to it that he’s released. Don’t you worry.” A smirk again.
Rylee sat down and watched as Nym strapped her hands and feet down. “Why...do you need to do that?” She questioned, her voice fearful.
“Don’t worry...you won’t remember this part.” Nym offered a friendly smile. “This is just the initiation. It takes time to slow your body down for the first time so that you may enter stasis. You will do quite well. Mr. Harris has told me much of you. We’ve been keeping an eye on you for quite some time. I’m glad that you have come. You will be a great addition to Hexagon.” Nym began to prime syringes.
Rylee watched with wide eyes. She drew in a breath and closed her eyes. “I’d do anything for my brother.” She whispered.
Nym stepped forward as he hung bags of fluid from the IV pole behind the chair. One of the bags was a murky liquid, another had a black fluid within it, and the third held a red liquid that was possibly blood. “Alright.” He spoke as he cleaned her arm and inserted a large bore needle. Rylee winced but she didn’t open her eyes. He did the same with her other arm before he hooked up the fluids. “Deep breath.”
The pain that entered Rylee’s body was much like fire spreading through her veins. She took in a sharp breath and a whimper came over her lips. It didn’t take long before she lost consciousness...
Rylee was curled into a ball in the chair, her hands balled into fists, her jaw tight. As the sound of Tyra’s quick movements caused Rylee’s eyes to open. She watched as the woman gripped her head before she quickly stepped to the deck. Rylee stood and stepped to the deck her mind was a cloud of confusion. How was she still here? How had she had a dream within a dream? She approached carefully and lifted her hand to place it upon Tyra’s shoulder, she paused for a long moment before she lowered her hand and stepped to the side. She looked out over the small village to the docks and the mountains. “Bad dream?” She asked after a moment, her voice small. “I have those quite a bit.” She continued to look over the village. “Tell me...what is the hunt?” She asked to try to get Tyra’s mind off of the dream that had caused her to spring up from her bed.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 21:41:06 GMT -5
Tyra turned her head and she sighed softly. “Something like that” she spoke and made room on the deck for her to stand next to her. “The hunt is exactly as it sounds” she spoke and cleared her throat. “In this case – we will hunt for the largest elk we can find and sacrifice it to Odin. This is to offer the best we can provide, to ask for his guidance and help as we come to this turning point in our Clan.” she looked out to the sun rays that poked out in the distance.
“We hang the held upside down – and cut its throat. It’s blood shall bathe the new Leader of the Clan, and then we each carve a piece of the elk and eat it. Once this is completed – the elk is offered to Odin, as proof of our strength and commitment to him” she turned towards Rylee and then chuckled. “I am sure it sounds different.. but not to worry, you do not need to participate” she spoke and nodded. “Let’s get dressed” she slipped away and sorted through her wardrobe.
“No doubt my brother is going to try and steal you from me” she spoke as she pulled a pair of pants on. She tucked her tunic in and grasped a vest, with several leather straps about it. “I will not let him” she spoke and then pulled her sword onto her waist. “If he cannot respect me and my wishes, then he can fear me instead” she spoke calmly as she pulled her white cloak back over herself, the fox head resting on her shoulder.
“Come on now, the group should be preparing in the hall. We will eat and then head out...” she spoke and lead her out of the room. It was very early, the sun was barely rising. The chilly morning air was crisp and inviting – it was fall, and winter was around the corner…
They entered the hall were there was breakfast laid out, oats, eggs and the like. Tyra ate a small breakfast and then stood in the circle that formed around Gavion.
“Today – we hunt. We search for the Grand Elk that trots our forest, to bath our clan in its strength – as our future promises nothing, we must command it.” he spoke and nodded. “We should harvest any others we see, as winter is coming – we need to prepare for it. Our Seer suggests a very cold winter...” he spoke and then nodded. “So, with Odin watching us… we will concur what is ours, and hold our lands proudly, in the name of Ragnar” he smiled then as the group cheered.
“On foot now” Gavion spoke as he lead the crew of roughly 20 men out.
“Can you wield a weapon?” Tyra questioned Rylee as they followed behind. They had begun through a trail that led upward into the mountainside. So men talked quietly, of their night – the women they bested. Others spoke of the hunt, and how they heard several pigs were tracked a few days ago. The state of the Clan was okay, but they needed to buckle down. The war used a lot of resource, and there was not much hunting. Tyra imagined the next month would be preparing for winter. Fighting Rykeen’s men would likely come after, unless he was ballsy enough to attack sooner… With the state of the clan… she couldn’t predict what would come.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 21:41:12 GMT -5
Tyra turned her head and she sighed softly. “Something like that” she spoke and made room on the deck for her to stand next to her. “The hunt is exactly as it sounds” she spoke and cleared her throat. “In this case – we will hunt for the largest elk we can find and sacrifice it to Odin. This is to offer the best we can provide, to ask for his guidance and help as we come to this turning point in our Clan.” she looked out to the sun rays that poked out in the distance.
“We hang the held upside down – and cut its throat. It’s blood shall bathe the new Leader of the Clan, and then we each carve a piece of the elk and eat it. Once this is completed – the elk is offered to Odin, as proof of our strength and commitment to him” she turned towards Rylee and then chuckled. “I am sure it sounds different.. but not to worry, you do not need to participate” she spoke and nodded. “Let’s get dressed” she slipped away and sorted through her wardrobe.
“No doubt my brother is going to try and steal you from me” she spoke as she pulled a pair of pants on. She tucked her tunic in and grasped a vest, with several leather straps about it. “I will not let him” she spoke and then pulled her sword onto her waist. “If he cannot respect me and my wishes, then he can fear me instead” she spoke calmly as she pulled her white cloak back over herself, the fox head resting on her shoulder.
“Come on now, the group should be preparing in the hall. We will eat and then head out...” she spoke and lead her out of the room. It was very early, the sun was barely rising. The chilly morning air was crisp and inviting – it was fall, and winter was around the corner…
They entered the hall were there was breakfast laid out, oats, eggs and the like. Tyra ate a small breakfast and then stood in the circle that formed around Gavion.
“Today – we hunt. We search for the Grand Elk that trots our forest, to bath our clan in its strength – as our future promises nothing, we must command it.” he spoke and nodded. “We should harvest any others we see, as winter is coming – we need to prepare for it. Our Seer suggests a very cold winter...” he spoke and then nodded. “So, with Odin watching us… we will concur what is ours, and hold our lands proudly, in the name of Ragnar” he smiled then as the group cheered.
“On foot now” Gavion spoke as he lead the crew of roughly 20 men out.
“Can you wield a weapon?” Tyra questioned Rylee as they followed behind. They had begun through a trail that led upward into the mountainside. So men talked quietly, of their night – the women they bested. Others spoke of the hunt, and how they heard several pigs were tracked a few days ago. The state of the Clan was okay, but they needed to buckle down. The war used a lot of resource, and there was not much hunting. Tyra imagined the next month would be preparing for winter. Fighting Rykeen’s men would likely come after, unless he was ballsy enough to attack sooner… With the state of the clan… she couldn’t predict what would come.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 22:26:32 GMT -5
Rylee listened intently. The history from her time was missing quite a bit on vikings and their daily way of life. The vikings did not waste time on writing down their history, rather they believed in the gods and pushed forward into a victory that was their life. As she listened to Tyra explain what the hunt was her brows rose slightly. It was incredible the things that the vikings did. The rituals and beliefs. History hadn’t gotten everything correct. Then again, what was written in book was nothing like this dream. “It is very different...interesting actually.” She spoke as she followed her inside. Her stomach formed a bit when Tyra mentioned her brother. “Yes...he...has made it quite clear that he will take me...” She drew her brows together. She wasn’t sure why Tyra was so interested in keeping her, other than the fact that she had Loki’s eyes and she’d shown her a bit of her magic. “I...appreciate you...keeping me from him...” She spoke as she stared to Tyra a long moment. She then moved to the trunk that Tyra had told her to get her clothing from the afternoon before.
Rylee dug through it to find herself a set of clothing worthy of such a hunt. She would have to be agile. A dress wouldn’t do. A bit of a smile curved up her lips, the thought of hunting something. That was her specialty. She could take down the elk alone if she had been asked to do so. It would be easy. Hell she could take down a bear if one asked. She slipped on a pair of dark pants and pulled on a pair of leather boots. She pulled on a leather vest over her tunic. She followed Tyra to the hall, the bite of the crisp air reminded her of the winters when she was young. It had been so long since she had seen snowfall. She could barely remember what the flakes felt like when they touched her cheeks.
As they entered the dining hall she followed Tyra to her seat where she ate a light meal as well, a bit of everything. She lifted her eyes as she felt a gaze upon her, Trayvon smirked as their gaze met. He grinned before he took a bite of his food. Rylee looked away from him and focused on her food. Soon enough they were outside and Gavion led the speech to the small group of men. She listened carefully her eyes glanced around. She found it interesting that Trayvon didn’t participate in the war, nor did he seem to participate in hunts. Why? What sort of Lord would he be if he could not fight?
As they made the trek up the mountain she glanced to Tyra and gave a nod. “Yes...I can wield many weapons...a bow would be sufficient, perhaps a dagger. I will return it to you after the hunt...” She gave a soft smile. “I would like to participate...if that is allowed.”
Before she knew it Rylee had a bow in her hands and a quiver upon her back. They came to the crest of a hill to which they overlooked a valley filled with forest. She closed her eyes a moment and drew in a breath as she listened. “I can get the elk.” She spoke as she glanced to Tyra. “You can take claim of it.” She nodded, “If you would like.” She pulled away from the group and beckoned for Tyra to follow her as others broke from the group as well. The Elk had been spotted. Rylee pulled an arrow into her fingers as she rushed through the forest, her steps were nearly silent. It was evident that she had an absorbent amount of training. As she found the elk within her sights she drew in a breath, the world around them stopped, only Rylee and Tyra could move. Rylee pulled the arrow back and as she exhaled she released it into the air. The arrow sliced through the frozen air and struck into the chest of the Elk. Just as it pierced into the creature time resumed around them. Rylee glanced to Tyra with a grin upon her lips. She rushed forward to the creature as it fell to the ground. The arrow had pierced perfectly into the heart. Rylee knelt over the beast as she pulled her dagger from her thigh. “Rest easy.” She spoke before she sliced the dagger into the chest and twisted it. Life faded from the eyes of the huge Elk that would have towered over her small stature. Rylee stood as blood dripped from the tip of her dagger. Her eyes looked to Tyra the crimson glowed within her eyes though it slowly faded as she took in a long breath. She didn’t speak as she gazed over Tyra. Her brows tucked together then as a twig snapped. “Watch out!”
Rylee shoved Tyra to the side as a mountain lion leaped from the trees above them. The creature slammed her to the ground. Her head slammed against the foliage as the huge puma slashed against her leather vest. Rylee slammed the dagger into the side of the lion which caused it to growl angrily. She couldn’t pause time when something was in contact with her, if she did she wouldn’t have any affect on the object that touched her, even if she wanted to. That was the downfall to her ability. There were always loopholes.
Rylee let out a cry as the mountain lion slashed against her. She slammed the dagger into it again as she continued to fight against it. The dagger stuck into the back of the mountain lion as it's jaws clamped down upon her shoulder. She let out a scream as she tried to get away. She was at a disadvantage. Pain raced through her body as the mountain lion pinned her down.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 22:53:11 GMT -5
Tyra looked to Rylee and nodded slowly. She didnt think anything of it, actually she figured there was quite a bit of confidence in her voice. She would get the elk? She smirked slightly and followed along. The team split up – though no one would be too far. The two stalked for some time until they laid eyes upon a very large elk, with a broad rack. She watched Rylee take off – she was fast and precise… as she ran behind Rylee, hardly able to keep up. She watched then as time stopped – she grit her teeth “No!” he called out as the arrow left the bow.
It was amazing, despite all things. The arrow pierced the Elk – who was frozen in the air mid gallop. She watched as the elk dropped, and Rylee kindly ended its life. She went to say something – but the vicious growl came seconds later. From nothing – a huge mountain lion pounced Rylee. Tyra thrust her sword forward swiftly, lodging the sword in the shoulder of the lion. He released Rylee and pounced Tyra. She held her hands up and gripped the front paws of the Lion – battling it as he stood and pushed against her.
Tyra kicked her leg and threw the lion down. The lion tried to scramble to its feet – swiftly Tyra wrapped her legs around him, sitting atop him and holding on tightly. The lion bucked – but she did not let go. Tyra slipped an arm under the head of the lion and torqued it backward. The lion collapsed, unable to hold her weight and strength – Tyra then grunted loudly as she twisted the lion’s head, breaking its neck.
It finally gave out, she remained sitting atop him, trying to get her legs from under the limp body. She breathed heavily and looked over to Rylee… she stepped off and stumbled slightly, her body shaking from using so much strength. She went over to Rylee and pulled her brows together “Relax” she whispered and pulled at her own tunic, pulling it from her pants. She ripped it and tied it across her body, putting pressure on her shoulder were the lion had bit her. “You are pretty crazy” she chuckled and turned her head – she whistled a unique pitch sequence, and a whistle was return.
A few minutes later – Gavion rushed upward. “Tyra!” he called out.
“Up here” she spoke as she held her hand on one of the slices that Rylee had, trying to keep back the blood. “We need to get her back” she spoke. Gavion’s eyes were huge as he looked to the Elk, and dead Mountain Lion.
“By the blood of Odin” he leaned down then and lifted Rylee. “Come on now, hang in there” he smiled. “This will be a great story, I can tell” he chuckled and then rushed offward towards the city. Just as he did a group of men followed up to the whistle.
“Take these two to the village” she spoke, the men nodded and she rushed after Gavion.
They came into the village and ran to a small hut, where their medic was. “What happened?” Gavion spoke as he place Rylee down, the medic instantly began to move – to clean the wounds.
“She single handedly took the Elk down… it was amazing” she looked to Rylee. “And the Mountain Lion took quite the beating, before I finished it off...” she crossed her arms now, impatiently watching the medic tend to Rylee.
“She killed it?” Gavion questioned, his brows pulling together. “I dare not question the Gods, but I wonder about this one...” he looked to Tyra. “Be careful...”
“I know…” Tyra lifted her gaze and let her breath out slowly. “I trust her though.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 9, 2020 23:33:10 GMT -5
The world spun from the pain that rushed through Rylee’s body. As the weight of the mountain lion lifted from her she gripped her shoulder. She lay on the ground as tears rolled down her cheeks. She watched as Tyra dominated the mountain lion ultimately breaking the neck of the beast. She clinched her jaw as she tried to move but the pain was overwhelming. She let out a cry as Tyra wrapped the piece of cloth over her shoulder to apply pressure. “I’m...alright...” She choked. Perhaps this was the end of the dream. She had placed herself in complete danger, more danger than she would have outside of a dream. The world tunneled in around her as her vision blurred slightly. The cloth was soaked in blood already. The wound that the mountain lion had made in her shoulder was deep and jagged.
“No...no I’m alright...” She spoke softly, her breaths were quick. Though as Gavion lifted her she didn’t fight against him. She had already lost a good amount of blood. Her eyes fluttered slightly. “I’m okay...” She breathed. Before she knew it she sat before the healer of the clan.
The man moved her to lay on her back. “She’s pale.” He spoke as he pulled the cloth from her wound. “Grab my herbs.” He waved his hand at a servant. He poured fresh water over the wound which caused Rylee to whimper. “She’s lost a great deal of blood from this...” He poked in the wound and tilted his head slightly as blood pooled. He stepped to the fireplace and pulled a hot iron. “Deep breath.” He spoke before he pressed the iron into the wound cauterizing it. Rylee screamed in pain as he pressed into the wound. After a few moments her screams fell silent as Rylee’s body fell limp. The healer worked quickly as he grabbed a bowl of herbs from his servant. He ground them up into a paste and he packed the wound. He ripped away the tunic and began working on the other injuries to her shoulder. It took some time but eventually he wrapped the wound carefully. He looked to Tyra and bowed his head. “If the gods are with her, she will recover. It was very deep.” He turned and began cleaning up all of the bloody cloth. “We will have to keep an eye on the wound, Tyra….”
**
The elk was strung up in the center of the village. Fires were lit, ale was poured. The skies were crystal clear as if a sign from the gods in their approval of the offering. The village gathered as the offering was prepared to bring in their new lord.
Rylee had remained unconscious, a cold sweat upon her brow as her body fought to recover. “Nym...” She breathed in her sleep. She had dreams of her time as a Hexagon agent, of Nym waking her from stasis to send her on a mission. Rylee was awakened by the burning pain in her shoulder. She sat up and looked down to the sling that her arm was in. She grit her teeth as she stood slowly. She pulled a fur around her as she staggered slightly. She could hear the chatter of the village. Rylee made her way through the main hall and into the streets. She caught the eyes of a few villagers as she walked along. The fur that she had draped over her shoulders looked much like a cloak.
“For our Lord!” An officer stood upon the lifted stage that the elk hung from. He lifted his sword and sliced through the throat of the elk as Trayvon knelt below it. “For Ragnar!” The crowd cheered as blood covered their new lord as if bringing him into this new life.
Trayvon stood and let out a yell as he held his fist up into the air. “For Bjorn! For Ragnar! For our home! For Odin!” He called out. The village roared to life.
Rylee found Tyra within the crowd and stood next to her. “It should be you.” She spoke, her voice soft. She gave a smile as she looked to Tyra. Her expression upon her face showed that she was still in pain, though she did her best to hide it. “It will be, one day.” She brought her eyes to Trayvon as he continued to speak upon the stage. His eyes connected with her’s and he smirked. She looked away from him and to Tyra. Though she could still feel his eyes upon her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 0:14:17 GMT -5
Tyra left the hut after some time, leaving the medic to his duties. She made her way to the center of the village, where most often they had their bonfire. This time there was a wooden stand that held the elk by its hooves. She watched as the elk was sliced and bountiful amounts of fresh blood came like a waterfall from its head. It washed over Trayvon – covering him. She watched him bath in the blood, but her teeth were grit as anger flushed over her. She looked to Rylee next to her, who surprised her.
“You should be resting...” she spoke softly and sighed softly. “You make it sound like you personally know that future...” she shook her head. “For it to me be – both Trayvon and Gavion must be dead” she spoke softly. “Trayvon is one thing, but I d not wish ill of Gavion...” she crossed her arms.
“Come on” she lead Rylee forward towards the elk. People rushed inward with their knives and cut into the elk, getting small cuts of raw meat. Tyra approached the backside and cut two small slices. She turned to Rylee and handed it to her. Tyra then bit into hers and chewed it, though she didn’t seem all to pleased with it. It was gross – but still a tradition regardless.
“Tell me something” she spoke to Rylee as they stepped away from the crowd. She pulled a gem out from her pocket and held it towards Rylee. “What is this?” she questioned. “One of the men said they found it in your attire… I’ve never seen anything like it...” she went to hand it to Rylee, but her hand pulled away. “When I touch it..” she shook her head. “I feel that…. Gift within me stirring” she put it in her pocket. “Why would a lonely slave have possession of such an item?” she questioned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 0:29:52 GMT -5
“I rested already, didn’t I?” Rylee spoke with a slight smirk upon her lips, the smirk fell away though to Tyra’s next words. “Hm, I do not know the future. I simply see a leader in you, when I look at you. Unlike...” She looked to Trayvon whom ushered the village upon the platform to take their rations. She followed up onto the stage her eyes looked to the huge elk. She reached forward to the raw meat and wrinkled her nose slightly. “You...just...eat it?” She asked and to that Tyra answered her question by putting the meat in her mouth. Rylee lifted the meat and placed it into her mouth, she gagged and nearly retched upon the platform. Though she managed to keep the meat down. It was slimy, chewy...she’d never had raw meat.
Rylee followed her as they made their way away from the crow her eyes looked to Tyra as she began to question her. Though her eyes were drawn to the Phoenix Stone, her jaw loosened slightly. She had lifted her hand to grasp it when Tyra pulled it away. Rylee bit her lip slightly as the question was posed of her. Why did she have it? She remembered the feeling of the bullets slicing through her flesh...the pain as she sat bleeding out on the floor. Her last moments as she gazed to the rock. Was this in fact reality? Had she bent time with the help of the stone? She shook the idea from her head. “I...” She drew her brows together. “I am the daughter of the leader in Greenland...when he traded me he sent me with the stone for protection...” It was a blatant lie, though the lie did not show through. “My younger brother was more important for my father to keep.” She spoke, “Besides Rykeen wanted me for himself...” She looked away. “It is called a Phoenix Stone. It is very old, and very powerful.”
Rylee fell quiet for a moment then as she thought about her next words. Though as she made to speak she felt a hand upon her shoulder, her injured shoulder. This caused a groan of pain to come over her lips as she was spun around. Her eyes gazed to Trayvon whom gripped onto her hip, a grin upon his lips. “Sister.” He spoke as he looked to Tyra. “Don’t you think it’s time to give up your little slave to your new Lord?” He was still covered in the blood of the elk. “Say...as a gift to your new Lord for good favor. Hm? She would be a lovely gift.” He licked his lips as he looked to her, she could feel the heat off of his body as he clutched onto her. “Unless you want to go against your Lord’s wishes. What would Odin think of you?” He scoffed as he stared into Tyra’s eyes, challenging her.
Rylee grit her teeth slightly from the pain he’d caused by grasping her shoulder in the way that he did. The way he held her pinned her good arm to his body, she didn’t have any leverage to push him away. She looked to Tyra with almost pleading eyes. In that moment she wished for Nym to wake her from this horrible dream...how long would she have to endure this…? Or...was this truly her reality? With the pain she felt in her shoulder and the feeling of her body pressed against Trayvon she was beginning to think that this world was her new reality and she would need to get the Phoenix Stone from Tyra in order to escape it...
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 0:36:18 GMT -5
Tyra’s eyebrows pulled together – her story had changed, or perhaps developed. Part of hiding this truth bothered her, but in a way she could understand it. In the end, she as the victim. She sighed softly and slipped the stone away. “I see...” she spoke and then turned as Trayvon approached.
She lifted her gaze and then chuckled slightly. “Tray...” she spoke and stepped forward to him. “What would Odin think?” she questioned. “I could ask him, if you want...” she stepped forward again. He backed up slightly, but then he lifted his head – standing his ground. “What would Odin think of a weak Viking, who cannot fight, or kill his own meal, commanding an army of the most devout and honorable? A coward leading us?” she laughed then. “I think… if Odin were standing here right now – he would say… the strongest would fight for the Slave” she reached for her gauntlet then and tossed it down to the ground.
People around them backed up – watching closely now as they overheard the conversation. “I have claimed what is rightfully mine. If you wish to take it from me, then you shall duel me. I’ll be kind to you, a good favor to my new lord – it does not have to be to the death, unless you will it” she stepped closer then. “So, my Lord What say you?” she was full of anger. Just looking at her brother made her angry…
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 0:57:07 GMT -5
Trayvon furrowed his brows to his sister. “How dare you.” He scoffed, his grip tightened upon Rylee. “If there must be a duel, then so be it. You shall fight my advisor.” He spoke as he gave a whistle. One of the soldiers stepped forward, he was a brute of a man. A protector of Trayvon since he was rather young. “Sven shall fight you in my place.” He smirked. “If you shall win, you may have your slave for now. But ultimately I am the Lord and you will grow to respect me, sister.” His words were sharp as they came from his tongue. He grinned to her as he looked to the rather tall soldier. “What say you Sven?” He asked.
“I accept.” He spoke, his voice deep. He was a brick house. His beard was nearly as long as his hair upon his head. His muscles were well defined. He wore leather armor upon his torso. Most of the men would not dare stand up to Sven. He looked to Tyra and gave a nod, he knew she was capable of putting up a good fight, though he did not seem to be afraid of her like others.
“Come.” Trayvon spoke as he pulled Rylee along. He walked her to the podium where he stood. “My sister wants a fight? Hm? A fight she’ll get!” He roared with a cackle at the end. Some looked to him with surprised expressions, others cheered for the good fight that was about to happen. He glanced to Rylee, “You belong to me much as everything in this village belongs to me.” He chuckled.
Rylee wiggled in his grip, though this caused her shoulder to ache. She winced slightly and shut her eyes a moment. “My Lord...I feel weak...might I sit?” She asked him.
Trayvon looked to her and scoffed. “You had better conserve your energy.” He chuckled as he released her.
Rylee moved a few steps from him, she watched Trayvon a moment before she glanced to Tyra. So long as she wasn’t touching him she could manipulate time around her as she pleased. The world froze, ale hung in the air from two mugs that clinked together. Rylee walked through the crowd careful to move around each viking. She stopped before Tyra and touched her shoulder bringing her back to life within the frozen realm. “Use the stone to give you strength.” She spoke her eyes locked on Tyra. “It will give to you as you will it.” With that it would have felt like the blink of an eye to Tyra as Rylee disappeared, she was once again upon the stage seated next to Trayvon. As if nothing happened the world was back in order.
Sven stood before Tyra with his blade drawn and a smile upon his lips. “Is it to first blood? Or first to bow out?” He grinned as his eyes looked to Trayvon.
“I’ll let Tyra decide that. What will it be sister?” He questioned with a smirk. He believed that Sven would obliterate her, just his sheer size gave him an advantage. Rylee seemed nervous as she looked to Sven and then to Tyra as if she was sizing up the fight. She wasn’t certain as to how this would go. Then again, she saw how Tyra fought off the mountain lion, it was an incredible feat. She didn’t doubt that size didn’t matter to Tyra, she could win against a giant if she willed it so.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 1:17:19 GMT -5
Tyra grit her teeth – she had a feeling her brother would do this. Though, she cared not – she could take on anyone. Her eyes glanced to Rylee – she wasn’t exactly sure why she was doing this. Partially it was to put her brother, the other half was she honestly did not want to lose Rylee. There was something about the woman that she couldn’t pin down, something within her told her to protect her, told her that their fates were intertwined.
She glanced up to the sky as her Eagle circled about. Odin was watching. She looked to Sven and drew her blade. She looked over to one of her shield maidens – who handed a shield over to her. The village had created a circle about them.. Gavion stood with his arms crossed, shaking his head slowly. Though, he was interested to see what would happen…
It was almost as if she blinked – and suddenly Rylee was before her. She was startled for a second but then thought, the item. “It would not be honorable” she spoke and then sighed softly. Though, she doubt she could muster the will to lose. She turned as Rylee suddenly disappeared – it was a pretty impressive talent… No, she would not use her gifts here. This was a battle of strength and honor… while she was gifted by Odin – it would not be fair…
She looked to Sven and cleared her throat. “First to bow out” she spoke and twirled the blade in her hand. She backed up slightly and then bowed her head. Sven held a large two handed axe, just from her knowledge – she knew that Sven moved slowly but with a powerful swing.
Tyra circled around Sven as the fight started. He watched her closely and then lifted his axe – swinging it down. She easily jumped out of the way and circled more… she adjusted the shield on her arm and then rushed forward.
Sven swung his axe at her – she blocked the attack and pushed past, her sword slicing into his thigh. He cried out but did not falter, he simply took a step back and watched her as she retreated to her distance. He swung again and missed. He then came forward with a flurry of swings She dodged most until the final – came over his head and downward. She held her shield up and the axe busted into it, getting lodged in the wood. She lowered her head as the tip of the axe pushed through the wood, threatening to nick her nose.
She twisted the shield, ripping a chunk of the wood as she peeled from under his strength, he stumbled forward and she bashed the shield into his head. The entire shield broke into several pieces, falling from her arm as it practically shattered. Sven had stumbled over – groaning as he reached for his axe once more.
Tyra held only her sword, she sliced forward – cutting into his gauntlet and slicing flesh. She then kicked his shoulder as he leaned forward, this sent him backwards as he stumbled to gather his bearings. He grunted and rushed forward. Tyra sheathed her blade and grasped the axe with two hands. She lifted it from the ground and then threw it forward with two hands. The axe spun several times and then lodged into his shoulder.
Sven cried out and hit the ground, his hand holding his shoulder as he breathed heavily. She stepped forward to him then and shut her eyes briefly. The image of her faller falling over flashed before her eyes.
She gripped the stone in one hand – the other held forward. From her finger tips lightning formed, the sound of the lightning zapping from finger to finger filled the air, a static charge glowing in her palm now.
“Submit”
“I yield” Sven spoke and took in a heavy breath. He would need stitches for his wound, which the axe was still lodged in- keeping him from bleeding all over.
Tyra let out a deep breath and the electricity disappeared. It was seconds later that her eagle above – left a happy surprise. From the sky landed a perfect pile of bird shit – which landed on the head of Trayvon, as if planned perfectly. Several people burst into laughter, the others clapped for Tyra’s victory. Gavion chuckled and clapped as well…
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 11:32:52 GMT -5
Rylee watched carefully, her eyes lifted to follow Tyra’s as an eagle flew overhead. She stood slowly as the fight neared its beginning. Trayvon grabbed Rylee and grinned as he pulled her close to him. “Don’t worry this will be over quickly.” He spoke with a chuckle. “Then you’ll see what a true viking is like.” He licked his lips.
Rylee groaned as her shoulder was compressed by his grip. “A true viking has honor.” She spoke as she looked up to him. “Isn’t that what Valhalla is about? Honor in your death. To be able to drink with the gods, to spend time among them.” She stared to him with her crimson eyes.
“Every viking goes to Valhalla upon his death. It is our code, our honor. Yes.” Trayvon pulled his eyes from her as the fight commenced. He grinned as Sven swung his axe with force. Though he frowned as the large warrior appeared to be much slower than his sister.
Rylee watched as Tyra dodged the flurry of attacks, her eyes widened slightly and she tensed as the axe swung and stuck into the shield. The next moments happened quickly, a grin curved up her lips as she watched the axe fly through the air and soon enough Sven submitted to Tyra. Rylee felt Trayvon’s grip tighten on her as he grit his teeth in anger. Then as if icing on the cake his head was splattered with bird dung. Rylee pulled from him as shock and confusion covered his face, as many laughed. She turned to him, close enough for only him to hear. “You’ve no honor, Trayvon. A viking that does not fight his own battles does not deserve much of anything. Much less the Daughter of Loki.” She smirked to him, “That’s what you called me, isn’t it?” She turned and walked from him. She hid the pain in her expression well. A few of the villagers clapped as she walked forward to Tyra. “You’ve managed to keep me for a bit longer.” She spoke with a smile. “Though I don’t doubt that he isn’t going to give up.” She faltered slightly and closed her eyes a moment. The pain in her shoulder was becoming something that she couldn’t quite ignore.
“What are you doing fighting over a slave?” One of the officers approached. He held an ale in his hand. His eyes looked over Rylee. “She’s beautiful, I get that.” He smirked as he looked to Tyra once again. “But your brother won’t stop. You know that, he’s always gotten everything he’s asked for from your mother. He’s a spoiled brat if you ask me, he doesn’t deserve to be our lord.” He took a long drink of his ale. “Many speak of you, girl.” He looked back to Rylee. “Your eyes spark quite a bit of interest. But you are not a viking. Why would you have any gifts of Loki? You are not one of us.” He spoke with a curiosity behind his voice. “You injure just as easily as the rest of us. Tyra is the only Viking gifted by Thor and Odin.” He nodded his head and gave a smile.
Trayvon approached then his hair wet from washing it. He had a hateful scowl upon his face. “Tyra.” He snarled as he stepped to her. “Using your gift to win?” He questioned his voice was full of accusation. “How dare you use your gift against your own clan!” He snapped harshly. “That is not a fair win and you know it.” He growled as he gripped onto Rylee’s wrist. “As Lord I am putting an end to it. I’ll put an end to all of this.” He grinned as he stood there. “Today marks a fortnight to winter.” He glanced around to his people whom all looked to him. “Skadi will be looking for her offering. If we do not make a sufficient offering to her, our winter will be more harsh than our seer has already speculated.” He grinned to his sister. “We must make a sacrifice.” The people of the village grew silent around him. “The gods eyes are already upon us.” He raised his hand as he looked to those around him. “We must offer Skadi this slave that parades around with the eyes of Loki.” He shoved her then. “Making false beliefs.”
Rylee fell backward, unable to catch her balance due to her injured shoulder. She fell harshly onto her side unable to break her fall because of the sling. She grit her teeth as she lay upon her back. Trayvon grinned as he stared down to her. “We will begin the ritual of Njord.”
“You cannot take what is hers.” One of the officers spoke. The one that had danced with Rylee the night before. “Besides.” He carefully assisted Rylee to her feet. “She may not be one of us, but...” He stared to his new lord. “If Loki has gifted us it would be unwise to harm her.” He held Rylee up as she staggered slightly. Her skin was paper white once again.
Trayvon drew his brows together as he stared to the officer. He looked around to the shocked expressions around him. He scoffed and bumped against his sister as he marched away quickly like a pouting child. The village crowd cheered and resumed drinking their ale then. Rylee was walked forward to Tyra by the officer. She took in quick shaken breaths. “Perhaps...you were right...I should have been resting...” She let out a soft laugh, blood ran down her arm from the wound. She could feel blood dripping from her elbow. Rylee stumbled slightly, her hand reached forward and grasped onto Tyra. “Sorry...” She whispered as her forehead pressed against Tyra’s shoulder.
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Post by Raven on May 10, 2020 12:12:38 GMT -5
Tyra turned as the officer approached, a smile plastered on her face over the victory – and the return of Rylee. She tilted her head, her eyes glancing to Gavion who stood behind the officer. “I fight because – I dare not speak for the Gods. They have placed her before us, and I will ignore their actions…” she lifted her head then and smirked. “My brother is a tyrant, and fool, and I am happy to use this opportunity to prove that. I am simply following in my ancestors footsteps, Ragnar lead by courage and difference – if we fall the same path we have always taken – we will never improve, hm?” she looked to Rylee then and placed a hand upon her arm, steadying her.
Several people were listening and they nodded in agreement. It was moments later that her brother interjected. She grit her teeth and scoffed. “The fight was over before then, you know it.” She crossed her arms. It was when he pushed Rylee that she stepped forward. She felt a hand upon her shoulder – Gavion holding her back. She lifted her gaze and scoffed once more, stepping back then. She could see Trayvon grinning now, but was quickly put down by the officer.
“I think you should spend more time trying to gain the respect of your Clan, rather than trying to battle me for dominance…” she stepped closer to Trayvon then. “We all know who has the bigger cock here, hm?” she smirked, the crowd then burst into laughter. “Go on, scramble back to mommy now. Don’t forget, you’re a big boy now… act like it” she spat and then stepped back.
She turned to Rylee and let out a long breath. “Come on…” she took her hand, helping steady her. She lead her through the crowds – who broke way easily… she lead her out of the village… they didn’t go far. There was a decent sized lake. In the middle was a mound of earth – hoisting a huge tree whos branches seem to touch the sky. All around the lake where stones and cobbled path, a spot of ritual.
She had an arm around Rylee, holding her as they walked. “The Nordic belief is that the nine realms are held together by a single tree, Yggdrasil. We exist on Midgard… There are holy parts of the world – where saplings of Yggdrasil have sprouted, said to bring forth the energies of the gods – in their glorious realm of Asgard, where the city of Valhalla rests.” She stepped towards the water and slipped her boots off.
“This sproutling, child of Yggdrasil is Visiggyril” she stepped closer to the water – which lapped the beach gently. “The waters are enchanted… to those the god’s favor – it is said to heal wounds and cleanse illness…” she then reached towards Rylee and picked her up, one arm under her legs and another against her back. She slowly walked into the water until she was chest deep – holding Rylee just on the surface. She leaned her head back and drew in a deep breath and let it go slowly. “Here” she spoke and let go of Rylee for a second. She reached for the stone in her pocket and placed it in Rylee’s fingertips. “Your stone… our tree.. with the combined power – I believe you shall be healed” she whispered and shut her eyes.
“Odin…” she whispered. “Let me be your beacon of strength. Guide this soul to your grace, I ask your offering to her flesh, to mend the body and soul, as Freya would will it. I shall offer my entirety for your aid…” she spoke her soft prayer, words gentle and soothing.
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Post by Blindside Tex on May 10, 2020 21:25:03 GMT -5
Rylee would have joined in the laughter that the others of the clan sounded of in from the comments that Tyra made toward her brother. Though, her forehead was pressed against Tyra’s shoulder, her breathing was a bit quick. She could feel the wetness of her blood as it began to soak the dressing the that healer had placed for her just hours ago. The packing was clearly dislodged and the painful act of searing the wound had been undone. When Tyra began to lead her from the village she leaned against her for balance. “Where...are we going?” She muttered softly as they made their way toward the lake. It was a beautiful sight to see. She listened as Tyra spoke of the realms...and of the tree that sprouted from the earth in the center of the lake. She had never seen anything like it in her time. Then again...a lot of vegetation was gone. Forests were replaced by high rise buildings. Parks were all artificial, some even were virtual. The people that lived in the city in the sky had real parks, trees, food...everything that they had was just like this place, it was beautiful.
Rylee stood at the edge of the water her crimson eyes were dull as she looked to Tyra and listened to the story of the magic of the tree. “But Tyra...I am not of your people...the Gods...why would your Gods favor me?” She questioned softly, almost in disbelief. That didn’t seem to matter to Tyra, she seemed to believe that Rylee would be healed by the tree. Then again, this was a last ditch effort, for Rylee was fated to bleed out soon. Her skin had become pale as the moon, around her eyes had darkened slightly. She appeared rather gaunt. Weak. Her blood mixed into the water as it lapped against her shoulder. As the stone was slipped into her fingertips her eyes opened. The stone began to glow just to her touch, her eyes also took on the beautiful crimson glow.
As Tyra spoke the prayer a wave of energy pushed through the water which caused ripples to push outward from the tree. Within the thick bark of the old tree a light blue glow began to pulse, at first it was very dim like the light of a glow bug...but it began to grow until it equaled that of the full harvest moon. Rylee held onto the Phoenix Stone as she closed her eyes. A glow began to encircle Tyra and Rylee. From the thick tentacle like roots of the tree a figure appeared. A beautiful woman with thick red locks, porcelain skin, and an ivory dress. She walked forward with a pot in hand that looked to be made of silver beneath the moonlight. The woman hummed a gentle tune, it was calming and smooth, and yet it was unlike anything that Rylee had ever heard. This was Eir, the goddess of mercy and healing, the handmaiden of Frigg.
The woman beckoned Tyra to bring Rylee closer. “Lay her down.” She spoke with a velvety smooth voice. She continued to hum as her fingertips grazed along Rylee’s body as she lay beneath the tree of life. She lifted the pot of silver and poured a glowing white liquid over her. “Breathe.” She spoke as the fluid seemed to soak into Rylee’s body. Eir knelt down next to Rylee and placed her hands upon her shoulder. She looked to her with beautiful emerald eyes. “Daughter of Loki.” She spoke as she lifted and finger and pricked it with a needle. She ran her fingertip over Rylees forehead and down the bridge of her nose, over her lips and down her chin, this left a long line of red upon her face. She gripped onto Rylee’s shoulder then which caused Rylee to cry in pain as blood began to pour profusely from the wound. “You do not believe.” She whispered as she leaned in close. “You are not from here, and yet...you belong.” Eir smiled knowingly. The plants beneath the surface of the water were glowing light blue now and the sand beneath the cobbled walkway had even taken on a glow. Eir placed her hand over Rylee’s hand that held the Phoenix Stone. “Believe.” She nodded and closed her eyes as she began to sing a gentle tune once again.
Rylee took in shaken breaths as tears ran down her cheeks. She could feel the magic flowing from this woman as she offered it to her. Though she could not get the pain of her shoulder to leave her mind as Eir continued to grip onto the wound. “Nym...please!” She cried in an effort to make it all stop. A flash of white burst through the area and then suddenly Eir was gone...the light of the glowing foliage was gone...they were left with only the light of the full moon to guide them.
Rylee lay limply upon the shore, the phoenix stone held loosely in her grip. The inscriptions upon the stone still glowed bright white. Her body seemed frozen, her chest did not rise or fall. Not a single breath came over her lips for nearly a minute. It was as if her soul had left her body in those last moment with Eir. But that was not the case. Rylee sucked in a quick breath as her eyes opened, the beautiful crimson glow seemed stronger than ever as she sat up quickly. The color returned to her skin. She pulled the sling from her shoulder and tore away the blood soaked wrap. Beneath the bandaging her skin was flawless, as if the injury had never happened. She lifted her eyes to Tyra as she slowly stood. Her jaw was loose a chuckle came over her lips. “This is more than a place of healing, you’ve just saved my life.” She gazed into Tyra’s eyes a long moment, a warm smile upon her lips.
She stepped forward to the tree and touched the bark, beautiful lines of red rushed from her fingertips over the bark as the tree reacted to her presence. She gazed up into the thick branches of the tree for a long moment before she took a step back. “I...want to know everything.” She spoke as she looked to Tyra. “I want to learn the ways of your people...this...” She looked to the bare skin of her shoulder and let out another elated laugh. “This is incredible...I...should have died, Tyra...” She laughed again, her head leaned back slightly as she did this.
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