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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 13:24:41 GMT -5
Reyrie’s gaze was to the storm over the ocean once again. “We all have demons within our past, just demons of different sizes and origins.” She spoke as she took in the brilliant display of lightening over the sea. “Some are demons that are forced upon us, that which only make us stronger. Hm?” She gave a slight smile to Lenne and nodded as she spoke of the war. “It may seem as though it will be endless to you, but...the prophecy does not see it that way, it is sewn into this world that those that are chosen shall lead this world into a brighter future, one without so much hatred.” She crossed her arms over her chest as she leaned against the railing of the rock. Her robin blue eyes watched Lenne for a long moment as she listened to her speak of her lack of knowledge of the Fae life. Her smile faded slightly as she thought of the distress that it must have brought to grow up in such a way. A royal even. Lenne couldn’t risk anyone knowing what she was.
Reyrie watched as the flicker of lightening splashed across Lenne’s features as the woman seemed to be off in a distant world as she spoke of her father. “Perhaps they were not showing you in a way that made it easy to understand the Fae culture.” Reyrie gave a gentle smile. She glanced back out to the sea. “It will take time for this world to change, for humans and Fae alike to learn to live together...” A bolt of lightening scattered across the skies, “I’ll follow...in just a moment.” She spoke as she moved and sat once again with her feet dangling over the edge of the dock. She was focused, almost as if she was lost in her thoughts. Amra always called Reyrie a dreamer because of this.
As a bolt of lightening flashed across the skies Reyrie caught a glimpse of a silhouette in the distance, floating above the crashing waves of the sea. The waves became larger and more intense as a wind began to kick up around Reyrie. Her hood fell and her hair danced about as she lifted her eyes to look to the shadow. It reached forward and the palm of its hand pressed against her forehead. Reyrie collapsed back upon the dock, her eyes rolled back, the vines crawled across her skin and even emit a slight green glow.
The world was silent. The sound of a pin dropping would echo for miles it seemed. This world was familiar. A place that Reyrie had been sucked into before. “Young Reyrie.” A voice spoke, it was strong, noble even. “Years of us pushing you and finally you have set in motion the beginning of the prophecy.” A tall fit figure stood before her, clad in beautiful gold and silver armor adorned in red cloth and brown leathers. It was the armor of the high elves of ancient times. Two swords hung from the man’s hips as he stepped forward and offered a hand to Reyrie. She hesitated a moment as she looked around the darkness usually there was something, some form of features to the world. But this time...it was nothing but shadows. She finally took his hand and was easily lifted to her feet. “Forgive me if I didn’t introduce myself.”
“Corellon.” Reyrie spoke her eyes fixed on him, her jaw loose. She’d been called forth by a few of the lesser gods before when she was young. Amra had pushed it aside as a daydream. But this was no doubt the god of war and protection that stood before her.
Corellon chuckled as he watched her, “Clever girl.” He spoke as he walked along. Grass began to form beneath their feet. The landscape pushed outward from them into a rolling landscape of foothills. “You’ll travel to a forgotten city, Seldwyn. Many things lie in wait for you there, young fae.” He smiled to her. He waved his hand and the castle of King Lennithare showed in the distance. The Crimson Guard crawled about the hillside. “You will need the strength of an army to win this war, Reyrie.” He spoke as he waved his hand again. The day that Daly was overtaken flashed before her eyes. She stood in the middle of it. Reliving it. Reyrie watched as her father rushed to her side.
“No!” She whimpered and took a step forward only to fall into a void of darkness.
In the next moment Corellon caught her in his grasp, his hands grasped around her ribcage as he set her down gently. “Keep that anger here.” He held his hand over his chest. “You will need it child.”
A wave of water splashed over the dock and Reyrie sat up with a gasp. She choked slightly as she scattered to her feet. She looked up to the dark skies a long moment before she pulled her hood up and rushed toward the castle. The gods truly were watching her. Closer than she might have thought. She made her way into the castle and slipped into the dining hall where she was greeted rather swiftly by Lenne’s brother. She offered a smile to Ryton as he’d pulled out the chair. “Thank you.” It was not a custom that she was used to. She looked to Lenne and then to the Lord. “My apologies for being late. I was caught up in some thoughts.” She looked to the meal that was laid out before them upon the table. Even the food that humans ate was quite different than she was used to. She plucked fruits from a plate and grasped a slice of bread. She then spooned some vegetables upon her plate as well. The Fae were not known for eating much meat, it weighed them down. “Oh thank you.” She spoke as the glass of wine was poured for her by Arador. She looked about the room and when she realized it was just her and the royal family she lowered her hood and let out a long breath. Hiding was something that she was not so accustomed to, being from the enchanted forest there was no need to hide.
“I only hope that this buys enough time to save more lives.” Reyrie spoke with a soft smile. “Amra in Faelyn will welcome any of the refugees that come her way, we have plenty of space and...it is well protected. The Crimson Guard cannot enter our forest.” She nodded and then took a drink of her own wine. “I will make as many ears as I can so that you can use them to offer to the king...” She ate a few of the berries upon her plate then. When Ryton made her comment Reyrie had a smile of her own that split her lips. “It certainly is kind of you to speak of the Fae gods in such a positive way. But I am no speaker, just simply the one that was given the chance to bring peace to our world.” She got a curious look upon her expression as she noticed that he avoided eye contact with her and his cheeks had flushed pink, she glanced to Lenne whom had chuckled.
Reyrie looked to the Lord as his daughter broke the news as to where they would head next. She took a drink of her wine and smiled as she lifted the pitcher to pour more. If there was one thing humans had it was alcohol. She hadn’t had much of it in her lifetime. It was sweet and went perfectly with her food. “I do not imagine it will be easy to get through the forest...even with the gods on our side. The ancients do not just gift something...it must be earned...even the gifts that I possess did not come without sacrifice.” She had a bit of a pink tint to her cheeks as she relaxed slightly into her chair. The fruits and vegetables were doing nothing to soak up the alcohol in the wine. Soon enough she would find herself drunk if she was not careful. “Even with the danger, it is our best bet to find more clues as to where the book of power has been hidden. The book that you allowed me to have mentions the temple in Seldwyn. I can only hope that the temple was not completely destroyed by the Crimson Guard so long ago when they destroyed the city...” She finished off the glass and gave a contented sigh. “This wine is incredible, my lord.” She lifted her glass after Ryton poured her a third. “Best I have yet to have.” She tilted the glass back and allowed it to fill her mouth before she leaned back in the chair. “This is my first meal with humans, actually.” She let out a light giggle then, the alcohol seemed to be effecting her now. “At least I am in good company.” She hummed.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 13:49:17 GMT -5
Lord Aragon gave a chuckle and smiled “Yes, I do fancy a good wine – you are drinking a 40 year old port, aged in a cherrywood barrel, where the storage was above a smoke room, so the years of smoke flavor seeps in..” he swirled his glass and took a swig. “One of my favorites” he smirked then. “Though, it sneaks up on you” he gave a laugh – his own cheeks rosey, barely hidden by his beard.
“Perhaps you should slow down” Lenne laughed, she had not drank much – just a glass to feel loose. “I doubt you’ve had much wine before, your tolerance would not be that great” she laughed then and took the pitcher away. Ryton reached over then and grasped the pitcher, stealing it from her.
“Ah, don’t be so lame” he poured another glass and drank it happily, grinning as he held the glass up to his lips. “Let me grab desert” he spoke and stood and came back into the room moments later with a fudge cake. “Ahh… now this is the stuff” he set it down and sliced a piece for himself and plopped it on his plate. He cut one for his father, and then he peered to Lenne. “Care to break that diet, sister?”
Lenne gave a sigh “Sure” he held her plate up and accepted the large slice. She set it down and then shook her head, grinning.
“And for my lady?” he held a slice upward with the knife to Reyrie and set it upon her plate. “Enjoy” he spoke deeply and sat back down.
Lord Aragon bit into his slice and leaned back “Ah yes...” he smirked. For the first time in a while – they all laughed, and smiled, and didn’t worry about anything. Perhaps it was the thought of hope – they didnt live in extreme fear… for now.
It was a little while later, a few glasses of wine down – that the doors opened. A woman stepped forth – Eva. “I have a delivery, for the royal saviors”
“Oh, my dear Eva – come sit sit. We are just drinking some wine” Lord Aragon waved her over.
Eva chuckled and set the basket down and stepped over “Ah, I would my lord, forgive me. I have many things to tend to” she bowed her head.
“Ah, fair enough – have you brought what our friend here needs?” he questioned.
“Yes” she smiled then and looked to Reyrie - “You are the one they burned?” she looked confused. “By the Gods… The one who summoned the dragon too” she held a hand to her chest in pure awe.
“Don’t gawk too hard, Eva. She is just a Fae, out to change the world” Lenne spoke and then chuckled. “Thank you for the delivery – it will be help more than you can imagine” she bowed her head. Eva then nodded and left the room.
“I can’t help but to wonder what tunes the bards shall sing of you, my fair Fae” Ryton spoke and then smiled to Rey.
“Oye, enough of that at the table” Aragon spoke and then stood. “I – will be off. Tomorrow – we can discuss more, hm?” he bowed his head to Reyrie “Good night”
“Good night Father” Lenne spoke “Drink some water before bed” she called out as he stepped away.
“Ah – whatever” he called as he closed the door behind him.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 18:17:26 GMT -5
Reyrie swirled the wine in her glass and inhaled as Aragon spoke of the flavors of the wine. “Only 40 years?” She smiled, “Hm not the oldest wine I’ve tasted, but certainly the most flavorful.” She chuckled lightly. It was very evident in the slight slur in her speech that the wine was having an effect on her, her words were almost hard to understand as her elven accent became very thick. Her robin eyes looked to Lenne as she laughed, Reyrie smirked as she watched the pitcher taken away. “We don’t have wine, per say, and the drink we do have is only for very special occasions.” The drink she spoke of was close to a wine, but it was from a magical fruit called Gaia Crisps. It was a lovely juicy fruit that was crisp at first bit but full of juice. It took years to make a wine like drink out of it. But when it was completed, one drink was quite enough to knock a Fae on his or her back for the rest of the evening. It was potent stuff. “And it’s...almost too strong to enjoy.” She added after a bit of thought.
Reyrie giggled as Ryton stole the pitcher back from Lenne and poured himself more wine. Reyrie peered to the cake that sat before them, her brows rose slightly. Deserts were something of a weakness for her. “How could you diet around such incredible foods?” Reyrie questioned with a grin. She looked to Ryton as he spoke the words ‘my lady’, meant in her direction. Her smile became confused once again. Humans, the ones that she’d run into aside from this interaction had always been terrible toward her. She’d never been treated in such a way, it felt like he were treating her like royalty. “Ah thank you, thank you.” She spoke as she looked to the chocolate cake before her.
She lifted the spoon and bit into the slice. It nearly melted in her mouth, she hummed and nodded. “This is excellent.” She smiled and then fell quiet to finish her piece. After the cake she’d let Ryton pour her a fourth glass of wine. But at the offering of another she held her hand up to him. Her world was spinning enough without adding more alcohol on top of it. She’d only made it about halfway through the fourth glass. She held it in her hands as the doors pushed open. She tensed slightly, for fear that her hood was down and she would be discovered. Though when the Lord met her with a warm greeting Reyrie relaxed slightly. She looked to the woman and took a small sip of her wine. Her cheeks were rosy red at this point, a permanent smile seemed to be placed upon her lips.
When Eva focused her attention on Reyrie she only smiled in response. “It was my fault that the guard had been called to high alert. So I had to do something to stop them. I would not have slept if Fae lives were on my hands for my own mistakes.” She spoke and then finished the last bit of wine. She looked through the items in the basket. “Ah yes, this is perfect.” She spoke with a smile upon her lips. “Thank you, Eva.” She spoke as the woman left the room.
Reyrie looked to Ryton with a curious stare once again to his comment. She didn’t know what to do with his compliments. When Aragon spoke up and stood she looked to him and nodded. “Yes of course. Over less wine.” She lifted her empty glass and let out a content sigh. She watched as Ryton left the room as well leaving Lenne to take care of a drunken Reyrie. She smiled slightly, “I think...Lenne I may need your help.” She stood and staggered a bit, another giggle came over her lips. “Your brother...why...is he being so nice to me?” She asked curiously. “I’m not used to such treatment from humans, usually they try to kill me, or at least try to slice off my ear to make coin.” She had both her hands upon the table. “I’d almost think he was trying to swoon me...” She giggled again then, “Can you believe it?” She turned from the table and let out a laugh as she fought to keep her balance. “That wine...that’s strong stuff. Just wait until you try some Gaia Juice.” She kissed her fingertips as if it was a delectable item. “Just a few sips is all you need.” She wrapped her arm around Lenne and leaned against her for balance. “It’s some of the best tasting stuff on this planet, yet I’ve only had it a few times in my lifetime. No means to celebrate anything...but when we do this...when we really bring peace back...” She sighed in a content manner. “We shall drink to that, Lenne.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 19:06:19 GMT -5
Lenne stood as Rey did, she gave a chuckle and even a sigh was she hobbled her way to Lenne’s side. She wrapped an arm around her, though she was hesitant, she went with the flow of Rey’s nature. “Come on then” she leaned down briefly and lifted the basket that was dropped off by Eva upward. Lenne was not even tipsy, her brother had always teased her for being lame – not much of a party animal. Though, she allowed the people around her to relax and drink – and have fun. The entire dinner she was ready at any moment to defend them, if necessary, her bow anchored by her side – and now on her back.
“My brother?” she chuckled “Yes, he is trying to swoon you. He is a man, after all” she chuckled and walked her down the hallway. No one was around at this hour, and in truth most of the staff was Fae or knew of the Fae, so she did not fret deeply of their travel.
Lenne pushed open the guest room with her boot and brought Rey inwards. Though she expected a empty room – she paused suddenly. The Captain of the Crimson Guard stood – peering into the room, as if waiting for them. He chuckled and turned as his back was faced them. “Ah… the lovely Lenne Valinthore, and her Fae Maiden...”
Lenne slowly let go of Rey and drew her blade. “You are not welcome in the private chambers of our guest” she spoke.
“Oh, yes, I found it very suspicious that you suddenly had a Dragon issue, meanwhile I had interview half your city and militia and heard nothing of it...” he lifted his hands “I saw threw your facade, and quite the display of power in truth, played into your act...” he drew his blade as well. “I shall snuff your little flame of hope out, these demons – corrupting you all” he leaped forward then.
Lenne parried his attack and threw him against the wall. “Bad move” she spoke – she swung forward and he parried her. He then kicked her in the center of her chest and threw her backward against the bed post. She groaned as she hit the post and then quickly drew her bow – she did not grab an arrow from the quiver by her side. She drew the string back and released a glowing blue arrow – made entirely of magic. It pierced his chest and then suddenly exploded with power. It left a gaping hole in the center of his body that could be seen directly through to the wall he leaned against. His eyes were wide – and blood poured from the cavity.
“Come on” she pulled at Rey and she opened the door. The entire hall was lined with Red Cloaks. She pulled her bow then and released it – this time 4 glowing arrows shot forward. “Go down the hallway, the door to the right” Lenne called as she fired again – she fired and walked backwards at the same time, holding them back. Several fell over and the rest of the guard walked over their fallen bodies. She grit her teeth then and fired once more – this time an electric shock bounced from one guard to roughly 6 – leaving them writhing in pain from the lightning. She finally came to the door and opened it - “Dont seal it, let them come – “ she then wrapped an arm around Rey and helped her run forward into the Throne room.
Her father was already there, her brother too – the Throne room had several Crimson Guard, their blades drawn. “Don’t just stand there” she called and then pulled her bow once more. Instantly her Brother charged in and swept low, knocking a guard over and he pierced the mans chest with this sword . Her father held his own blade and as one Guard came forward – he easily slashed them down and waited, not in quite the shape to charge inward.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 19:40:59 GMT -5
Reyrie leaned against Lenne glad for her assistance. “Thank you.” She spoke as she walked along, in good balance with the help of Lenne. When Lenne answered her question Reyrie let out a light laugh. “I never would have thought that I would see the day that a human would try to swoon me.” She smirked slightly, “Of all Fae...my lineage has such long tipped ears, I can’t even let my hood down without being noticed.” She laughed lightly as they moved along. As they made it to the room Reyrie’s eyes locked on the captain of the Crimson Guard. She leaned against the wall as Lenne stepped into action to draw her blade. The vines crawled along her skin as fear sank into her chest. Though what she saw surprised her.
Lenne displayed such beautiful magic, such control over it as well. Better than some Fae even. It was a unique talent that she’d not seen before. First the owl and now this. Reyrie watched as she blasted a crater into the captain’s chest. She was frozen in thought as she stared to the man as life began to race from his body. Reyrie jolted as Lenne pulled her toward the door. What she saw caused her stomach to sink. The guard, back in force. Ready to annihilate the inhabitants of the castle. Rey turned and ran, though it wasn’t the most graceful of a run she made it to the door. She glanced over her shoulder to see the precision of Lenen’s magic.
As she pushed through the door she held her hand up to seal the door but, Lenne told her not to. “They will overwhelm us.” Reyrie spoke as she was helped forward, her world still spun. Everything felt like a dream. “Tethrin Veralde a tule sinome.” She closed her eyes slightly as she drew her sword. The vines crawled over her skin as Reyrie turned. A guard rushed forward toward her and she spun with precision to catch his blade with her own. The sword’s inscriptions glowed a bright blue as she gazed into his eyes. Tethrin was the god of swordwork. He had saved her in her past when she faced a dozen men on her own. Reyrie’s eyes glowed the same shade of blue as her sword as she brought her knee into the guard to knock him back. She was quick as she moved forward her sword clashed with his and blocked the strikes of others. She spun and brought her heel into the chest of another guard as her blade sliced along the throat of the first. Blood splattered across the floor. She allowed Tethrin to guide her, to aid her in her swordwork.
More Crimson Guard rushed into the room, an overwhelming amount. Reyrie was caught off guard by one of the men whom tackled her to the ground. She let out a yelp as she felt a sharp pain in her side. “Die demon!” He yelled as he twisted the dagger that was lodged into her ribs. Reyrie grit her teeth as she clutched onto him. Roots came from the ground, pushing the stone bricks of the castle away. The roots wrapped around the guard and ripped him from her body. Slowly Reyrie stood, her hand held out as roots wrapped around the others. She rushed across the room as blood ran down her side and just in time her blade blocked a deadly attack from hitting Lenne’s father. She trembled as she held her blade up against the brute. “Anin apsene.” She spoke, begging for forgiveness of the gods. Reyrie shut her eyes as a wave of magic came from her body. Roots cracked through the floor and gripped onto the remaining guardsmen. She staggered as she held her hand to her side. Her other hand reached out as if she were trying to grab something. Then she gripped her hand into a fist quickly. The roots tightened around the men and the throne room filled with cries of pain as the roots ripped into their bodies crushing them and pulling their limbs from their bodies.
Reyrie fell to her knees as the room became silent. “Is...everyone okay?” She questioned as the light faded from her eyes, the vines receded back and her skin was left fair once again. Her breaths trembled. This was the most she’d had to use her magic in a long time. Especially strong spells like this, back to back. But what else was she to do than to ask for help from the gods? “This city...is not safe...” She breathed. “They will come...the king will send his red cloaks...and they will level this city...” She brushed a bit of blood from her nose then from one of the guards catching her across her face with his elbow. She had a nice bruise that had started for form along her cheekbone. “That is all that they know...destruction...” Her eyes had welled with tears.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 19:56:50 GMT -5
Lenne pulled an arrow back and pierced the head of a man who her brother battled. He quickly turned and sliced another down. She fired one after another – some with magic and others with not. Her brother swung his sword – blood was splashed across his face and body, his chest heaved as he fought. He was one of their best swordsman, and was in charge of the personal military of the Lord’s, often leading assaults and battles. Lenne lead the archers and scouts, she was a ranger and tracker by nature.
She watched then as the remaining Guard were grasped by thick root tendrils – she watched as they were split apart by the amazing display of magic. She looked over to Rey – just as her father was saved. She drew an arrow and held it taught, heaving as the guards were killed…
It was over just like that. Reyrie spoke the obvious, though it had to be said. She grit her teeth and stowed her bow away on her back and rushed over to Rey’s side. “Come on” she pressed her hand on the woman’s rib cage where blood oozed out. She leaned down and lifted Rey up easily, as the Fae was light and nimble – she carried her to a new guest room.
“Ryton – get the Freyea” she called and she continued to hold the wound. Her father came up behind them, watching quietly. He did not have much words.
Moments later a Fae woman appeared – she had a bag in her hand - salves and the like, of Fae kind. “Let me see her” the woman spoke and came to the other side of the bed.
“Exhaustion, and… a stab wound I see here” she moved some clothing away and then quickly opened her bag. She pulled out a glass tub of a thick brown substance – she lathered it over the wound and placed her hand over it. She whispered her elven language – calling to the Gods. “There you go dear” she smiled “just a flesh wound” she tucked a lock of Rey’s hair away. She was an older woman.. “You look like Lunascara...” she smiled weakly. “An old friend of mine….” there was a twinge in her eye of a tear, the thought of it.
Ryton did not come back – Aragon stepped out and met his son – telling him to double the guard, and gather the people. It was the middle of the night, but time was of the essence.
“Is she okay?” Lenne questioned.
Frayea looked over and nodded “Oh this one? Yes” she chuckled “this is but a scrape, she will be recovered in just a few minutes” she spoke as her magic flowed into Rey…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 1, 2020 20:29:29 GMT -5
Reyrie winced slightly as Lenne pressed her palm against the wound. “I’m alright.” She gave a weak smile. She leaned against her as she helped her to walk. Her body was tired, the loss of blood wasn’t any help. Reyrie closed her eyes as she was set upon the bed, she took in quick breaths. “A healer…?” She whispered as the woman came into her view. Reyrie gazed up to her, the exhaustion clear in her eyes. She grit her teeth slightly as the woman worked the salve into the wound and she applied pressure. The elven language that she spoke was familiar. It was the same dialect that the people of Daly spoke.
Reyrie stared up to her as she mentioned the name. Her mother. Lunascara was her mother. She was weak as Frayea’s magic flowed into her, it caused her eyes to flutter closed. Though after several minutes of this she opened her eyes and sat up slowly. “How did you know Lunascara?” She questioned, her robin blue eyes focused on the woman. She was still exhausted, but she could focus now. The wound on her side had pink flesh mended together.
Frayea gave a pained smile, “It was some years ago, I lived in a city called Daly. Lunascara was the wife of Malik, he was the leader of our village.” She looked away slightly then. “The Crimson Guard destroyed that village….only a few escaped...”
“Lunascara was my mother...” Reyrie breathed. She’d never met anyone else that made it out of the massacre that was Daly. Tears welled in her eyes as she stared to the woman. “She...was one of the first to die...my father died saving me...”
Frayea’s brows rose as she looked to the girl. She reached up and smudged away the make-up that the other Fae had placed upon her forehead to cover her mark. A grin split her lips then. “By the gods...you survived...” She breathed and pulled Reyrie into a tight embrace. “We searched for you for weeks...months...we tried to find you, but we feared that you were burned by the guard.” She held her there a long moment and let out a warm chuckle. “I helped your mother raise you from just a young babe.” Frayea finally released her.
Reyrie brushed away tears as she looked to the woman. Even her accent was close to Reyrie’s. She fought against it but sobs came over her lips as she looked to the woman. Tears that she’d held in most of her life. The painful memory of the loss of her mother and father...the entire village. To think others survived. She thought she was the only one whom had escaped the Crimson Guard that day.
“Come child.” Frayea pulled her into another embrace and rocked her slightly. “Shhh.” She held her there another long moment before she pulled back and brushed her tears away. “This is a moment to rejoice. Our prophet has survived. I had all but lost hope until I was graced with the presence of Lenne here. The half-ling daughter of a human king.” She gave a weak smile. “I had hope that you survived that day, and here you are.” She smiled and then stood. “There is much to do, hm?” She looked to Lenne.
Reyrie brushed a few tears away as she slowly stood to her feet. “We must move tonight. We cannot stay here.” She looked to Lenne. “I imagine that captain sent for more reinforcements if he did not signal within a certain amount of time.” She drew in a breath. “We must get the Fae to Faelyn…..and...” she looked to Lenne, “Your father and brother...” She bit her lip slightly. “I may be able to get them into the forest unharmed...if they remain here...the king will surly hunt them down...I...cannot let them die...” She nodded slightly. “I just...I need time to figure out how to get them into the forest...I may be able to make a remedy that will get them into Faelyn...” She seemed to think deeply then. “We must move the relics as well...we cannot lose such history...the Crimson Guard will burn it...” Her mind was running faster than she could get the words out. She looked to Lenne and took in a breath, her eyes full of worry.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 2, 2020 13:29:17 GMT -5
Over the next hour the throne room became full of people – Fae and human alike. The Lord stood before them, dressed to the nines. He held his hands up and the crowd grew quiet. “My people...” he took in a deep breath. “The King has turned his blade to us… he does not approve of my morals...” he looked around. “This city has been a home for Fae and human alike – this has been an act of my own, as I strongly believe all beating hearts are the same...” there were several gasps, and mumbles. After a few moments – a person began to clap – then the entire room burst into clapping. Most knew already, and if they didn’t know… it didn’t really matter.
“The King has learned of my harboring of these souls… and will be sending his troops before the end of the week. This is the last of my days as your Lord – I must make a decision for the better of the people...” the people grew quiet once more. Rytor stood with his head lowered and hands clasped before him.
“There are 4 sister cities near that will accept you, for the Fae.. we have a separate sanctuary… Anyone left in the city will be killed by the King… So...We will be providing horses, caravans and goods, everyone will receive some gold to help start off in the new homes… I have 4 Captains that will guide you.” he pointed forward to four knights who bowed their heads.
“A revolution is to come, a new age… should you choose to return when it is time – you are my people. .. I know many not be happy about this, and I have failed you… but this is my last effort to save you all for my mistak-”
“No Mistake, my Lord!” Someone shouted. “We stand by you” then in unison the crowd began to shout similar words. Aragon smiled bowed his head.
At the same time as the conversations – ravens were sent to the neighboring cities, to explain and let them know of the incoming crowds.
**
The Lord came walking back into the Room, his son on his tail. Lenne had watched the reuinion of the two… as the Lord walked in she turned her gaze and nodded.
“Everyone is on the move now… I will stay with my guard to protect any stragglers… Ryton… you will go with them, and return to take my hold.”
“Father-”
“No arguments, a Captain goes with his ship, I will make sure everyone gets out...I will be fine” he smiled and placed a hand on his son’s shoulder.
Lenne nodded slowly and looked back to Reyrie “Humans may be full of war and killing, but we have honor. Father, if you wish to stay – I cannot stop you. It is your duty” she spoke then and gripped her bow. “I will gather the relics and prepare our buggy…” Lenne spoke and slipped from the room.
She spent the next hour with several guards – moving everything from the relic room into their most reinforced wagon. The Lord left to make sure all was in order – people were already leaving in caravans to the cities, the entire military and guard had been split up into 5 groups. 4 to guide the caravans, and 1 to stay – to likely die.
Lenne came back to Reyrie’s room “We are prepared whenever you are...” she spoke as she held a bag to her side. Her eyes looked to her brother – who had also packed his things as well. Her brother tugged on her arm and lead her outside to see her lord.
“Father...” she spoke softly.
The Lord stepped forward and pulled Lenne into a hug, he breathed slowly and held her for a moment. She wrapped her arms about his back and sighed softly. He let go and did the same to his son. “You will make an excellent King” he pat Ryton’s cheek and then chuckled. “I knew one day this would bite me in the ass” he winked and he pulled a blade upward and handed it to Ryton.
“Alright, enough of this. Go now. Lenne – save your people...” he bowed his head then.
“I’ll come back for you father, don’t get killed” Ryton spoke through a muffled sniffle.
“Ah, I’ve been around for too long. You should have been Lord years ago – I am pushing along beyond my years, yearning of my loves that rest in the Heavens...” he sighed. “To be truthful, I long for the end…” he smiled then. “My legacy will live through you both...” he sucked in a breath and nodded. “Alright, I’m no good with this stuff.” he waved towards the door.
Lenne lifted her gaze and then turned into the room, she looked to Reyrie and gripped her bow. “Let’s go, the wagon awaits”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 2, 2020 18:55:27 GMT -5
Reyrie stood in the throne room amongst the people. Her eyes looked to the Lord, she could see the desperation in his eyes, the guilt that trickled into his voice. She stood in the shadows her eyes peered from beneath her hood to the humans of the crowd. She easily plucked out the Fae that were in hiding. Cropped ears. It brought pain to her soul that the Fae had to perform such a mutilation in order to survive. What surprised her and brought a smile to her lips was when the crowd cheered to the Lord’s comments about Fae and human being the same. She did not see one disgruntled face among the crowd. Be it that most knew….or something else. This is what fueled her desire to push forward with the movement. To bring forth such a revolution that would change the world as they knew it. The lords plan was very well thought out and in some ways Reyrie knew it would eventually end this way. It wouldn’t be right of him to demand that people leave and then he flee. So she would have Lenne and Rytor to lean upon for the future of this world. The leaders that she would have to trust would rule with the same gentle hand as their father.
Reyrie glanced around to the people as they left to make preparations. She followed the royal family into the counsel room and stayed back slightly to allow the moment. She stepped forward to the Lord and bowed her head slightly. “If you do not fall to the blade of our enemy, look for Elawyn, she is in the city of Pisqua...look for a bakery, you’ll smell the sweet bread.” She gave a soft smile. “Elawyn can guide you to Faelyn. I will be sure to tell her the remedy. Please understand that I cannot leave the remedy with you, for fear that...” She paused, both Lenne and Ryton had left. “I fear you will not survive, Lord. And...for the remedy for fall into the hands of the Crimson Guard, it would put the entire city of Faelyn at risk.” She turned from him slightly. “I will assist where I can in preparations.” She turned and stepped from the room then.
The elf moved about the castle, helping those that needed her assistance. She aided many of the Fae servants with preparations, packing. Buttoning up loose ends. She eventually moved to her room and began prepping something, she gathered items from the kitchen and asked around to a few of the Faes to gather the proper ingredients. She was just finished with the potion when Lenne came to fetch her she gave a soft smile, “I am ready.” She spoke with a slight nod, “Say your goodbyes...” She spoke softly and watched as Ryton pulled his sister to speak to the Lord. She could see them through the open door as the two hugged to their father. In what most likely would be the last time they would see him. He was prepared for his end, just as most elves become ready for an end after centuries of life. But not the end that she feared he would suffer. Reyrie stepped forward to the Lord then, her brows furrowed slightly. She pulled something from her satchel, a small potion bottle filled with a purple liquid. She placed it into the Lord’s hand and stared into his eyes. “If the outcome looks dire...” She drew in a breath. “Toss it, over the edge, in the direction of the guard. It will summon the spirit dragon...but there will be no mercy without me here to guide it. The entire city will fall...” Her voice was soft as she spoke to the Lord. It was a much better death, rather than die upon a stake burned to death, or ripped to shreds. She imagined the Crimson Guard would hold nothing back of their torturous ways...
She turned then and stepped to Lenne. “Ready?” She spoke her voice soft, somber. She did not like the idea of leaving anyone behind. But she knew it was a necessary evil. Reyrie climbed into the wagon at the front of the caravan that would head back south toward the enchanted forest. Knights led the caravan, they would take them as far as they could before branching off into the town of Pisqua. Humans traveled with them as well. It would disguise the caravan more than a lot of Fae traveling all together. Reyrie was silent as the wagon began over the cobbled path. The gentle bumps eventually lulled her to sleep. Her head leaned against the side of the wagon, her breaths became deep and even. Two weeks travel by foot would be cut nearly in half with the wagons and horses. They could make camp along the way and avoid the cities. This would make the travel much safer than her own travel to the city. But, it would also increase the distance that she would have to travel with Lenne. But, Reyrie did not want to chance that the caravan would be attacked...she did not want to lose any more lives than had already been lost. She would take this disadvantage and use it. It would possibly give them time, the guard would be focused on the castle and the Lord, while everyone else made their way to safety...
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Post by Raven on Aug 10, 2020 16:03:55 GMT -5
Lenne stepped into the caravan, shielded by the buggy and cover. Her brother sat atop next to the driver, to survey the lands as they traveled. About them were several other buggies, horses, and people on foot. It was a sad sight to see - the city had dispersed over night, and soon the place would be abandoned. Lenne pulled the curtain that shielded the window to the side and watched as they began away from the city walls. She pulled in her brows and then finally leaned back, allowing the curtain to fall back to its place. Her home - now becoming a distant shadow in the distance.
"Part of me is sad" she muttered after a long silence. "But then I remind myself of the horrors that the Fae have endured. This.. is easy for us. We can run from our city, from our choices, yet you cannot run from who you are" she sighed and looked to Rey with sad eyes.
***
The King stood, his hand grpping onto the vial provided to him. What magic he held in his hand... what little he even knew of it. He slipped it away into a pouch and then assembled his men to stand outside the gate of the castle. The group left behind were mostly older folk. It was a collaboration of retired knights, with mingling craftsman in the mix, and even women. He called upon the people to stand a final time for the entirety of all. This group were veterans, widows, people who were left alone, volunteering to essentially throw themselves to the Guard in the name of everyone else. No speech was required, no pep talk. The crowd stood in a formation of lines, calmly waiting. Many have waited for this day - to face the foes of the world, and die in battle, to die honorably.
It was an hour later that a crowd of Red Cloaks approached. They stopped before the Lord, the Captain came forward and grinned. "So, you admit you are a traitorous dog? Your every action is against the King, and you will die by it" he pointed his blade forward. "I will show you mercy if you tell me where your people have gone" he lifted his head.
The Lord stepped forward and grinned "I admit that I protect my people, human and fae alike, until my last breath" he gripped his blade then and ran forward. His men directly behind him. The battle commenced - the militia of the Kingdom thrust forward with their might. Several guards fell to their blade but most were cut down. Blood soaked the cobbled streets as the guard cut down each of them. Though none of the militia backed down. Finally the Lord stood – his people dead on the ground… the captain stepped forward once more – his armor covered in blood. “I’ll offer you once more…”
Arador lifted his gaze and then smiled – he pulled the vial from his pocket and shook it. “You quake in fear of the power of the Fae…” he smiled then and tossed the glass forward. It crashed onto the ground at the Captains feet – the liquid pouring over the ground. “but I admire it” he looked up to the sky then as the amazing skeletal beast came from the skies – with a single burst of his power – a flame spat downward onto the city. With a blast of magic the fire exploded – killing all that stood there, and blasting hole at their location. Several buildings crumbled to the ground – and fire danced across the buildies… a city of peace now aflame.
***
Smoke drifted into the sky in a furious rage… Lenne glanced back out the window – though the city was far from her sights… the pummeling smoke from its location was clear as day. She leaned back then… and let a slow sigh out. “Once we drop my brother off, you and I will proceed?” she questioned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 12, 2020 19:33:29 GMT -5
Reyrie had sleepily opened her eyes to Lenne’s comment. Though she didn’t offer much of a response as her body loosened once more. She slept until she felt a tug of magic. A pull upon a beast that she herself summoned. The beautiful vines crawled over her flesh as she sat up. Her eyes looked out the window to the sight of the billowing smoke. She knew it would end in such a way. That the king would toss the potion. Though, she’d hoped that it would not. Lenne’s words broke the fae from what looked to be deep thought. “Yes. We will rest a night within the city of Faelyn, just to be certain that we were not followed by any of the guard. Then we shall head to Seldwyn. But I will need to speak to Amra and tell her of the fall of your city. I’m certain that the Fae will still remain protected across the land by some. But to see your city fall by the hand of the Crimson Guard, it will cause a great bit of unsettled souls.” She looked back out the window, “You should rest, the best you can. It will be a long night of travel. We must put as much distance between us and Valin. Otherwise our caravan will be ripped to shreds by the Crimson Guard before we even make it halfway for Faelyn.”
The fae pulled her knees up and leaned against the side of the carriage. She closed her eyes as the vines that scrawled over her skin began to fade. Eventually her body loosened once again and she slipped into a deep slumber that was without dreams. A rarity for her. The night passed quickly and she was awakened by the sudden stop of the carriage. She heard a few voices and her brows tucked together. She stood and pulled her hood up over her head as she climbed from the carriage. Two Crimson guard stood at the front of the caravan. One had jumped down from his horse and had thrown a man to the ground. “I want to speak to your leader. Who is in charge of this caravan? Where have you come from? Where are the papers?”
“That is no way to speak to anyone whom has not caused you trouble. Is it?” Reyrie stepped forward and helped the man up from the ground. “This is my caravan. We offer goods. Would you like to see? Make a trade? I may even have a few wines to offer you.” She gave a smile to him.
“Why are you wearing a hood?” He questioned as he watched her with hateful eyes.
“The sun.” She pointed up, “It burns my skin, I’m from the north. We spend many days stuck inside because of the cold.” She turned. “Shall I show you the goods?” She questioned. “Or might we be on our way?”
The guard watched her and clicked his tongue slightly. “Take your hood off, and you can be on your way.”
“No.” Reyrie responded her eyes watched him closely. “I am not here to entertain you, we have goods to sell and many of cities that will purchase from us. Now we shall be on our way.” She watched him carefully.
The guard reached forward swiftly only for his hand to be caught by Reyrie before he could grasp onto her hood. The other guard jumped down from his horse quickly and grabbed at her hood harshly causing her to be knocked to the ground as he ripped it from her head. Within a moment their blades were drawn. “Dirty fae.” The guard snarled. “You’re dead.” He lunged forward.
Another fae let out a cry as she was grabbed by the second guard. Though before the first guard’s blade could pierce into Reyrie roots slithered up from the ground and wrapped around his body, the same happened to the other guard. She stood before him slowly and brushed the dirt from the ground. She turned and pet the nose of the horse gently. “Remove the crimson armor from these horses, we will take them.” She then turned to the guards. She stepped forward and pulled her dagger from her thigh. “I tried to handle this civilly.” She spoke as she stood before one of the guards. “Clearly that isn’t something that can be done.” She thrust her dagger forward into his chest and twisted it. She then stepped to the other guard and slid the dagger across his throat swiftly before she walked back to the carriage and climbed in. The roots fell from the men and they crumpled to the dirt road where they were lifted and carried into the bushes by a few of the humans and fae that traveled along with them. Reyrie drew in a breath as she wiped the blood from her dagger.
“This may be a long week of travel.” She spoke as she looked to Lenne. “We will have to take to the back roads. It is the only way that we will make it without so much trouble. The guard are crawling on these main roadways.” She seemed to think a moment. “Once we hit Windhelm I will know where to go to keep us away from the guard. We should make it there by sunset.”
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