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Anomaly
Jul 2, 2021 14:16:34 GMT -5
via mobile
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 2, 2021 14:16:34 GMT -5
Liliana Morgenson
“Fresh baked goods here! Get your bread rolls! Cinnamon buns! Grab a cake for your lady!” A young elvish child called out. She had chocolate brown hair that was velvety in a way, it held gorgeous tassels that many could only dream of. She held a wooden sign in her small hands that read, ‘Morgenson Bakery - Loafs 1copper. Cakes 1 silver. Donuts by the dozen for 1 copper.’ It was done in beautiful swirling writing.
“Liliana! Look at you girl.” A man dressed in shining knights armor clanked toward her. He knelt down on a knee so that his eyes were even with hers. “You’ve gotten taller since last I saw you, eh?” He reached forward and touched the tip of her ear that poked from her hair. “These beauties are getting longer too.” He chuckled. The old man had a peppered beard upon his face. The armor he wore was silver with golden embellishments and he wore a blue cape upon his back.
“Captain Peter.” Liliana exclaimed a grin upon her lips. She curtsied. “Father says I am growing like a weed.” She giggled playfully.
“That you are child.” He spoke as he slowly stood. “How’s that magic of yours coming along, eh? Are you going to Kellet’s Academy soon? You’re getting older now.” The Captain spoke a smile upon his lips.
“She’s needed here.” An older elf spoke, he had all the likenesses of Liliana. Though he didn’t look old enough to be her father. He glanced to the young girl. “Father wants you inside, Lilly.”
The young girl gave a smile, “I’ll get you a fresh bread roll, Captain. I know that must be what you want.” She spoke as she turned and rushed along over the cobbled streets and into the beautifully decorated bakery. It was small, and to the right of the counter was a set of stairs that led down into the basement, which happened to be their home.
“Lilly.” A male elf from behind the counter spoke. “Your mother needs you, hm?” He nodded toward the staircase.
“Of course father.” She spoke as she scurried down the stairs. Liliana rushed through the small living room that also had the old wooden dining table within it. She made her way across the room and into the back bedroom. “Mother?” She spoke as she walked into the room. An elf lay upon the bed, she had the same gorgeous features as Liliana. Sweat beaded across her brow. “Father...sent me…” She spoke as she began to gather items from the bedside table.
“Lilly…” The woman’s eyes cracked open and she reached forward and took her daughter’s hand and pulled it to her chest. “My beautiful girl.” She tilted her head slightly. “I fear I may be too far gone this time dear…”
Liliana gazed into her mother’s eyes. “Mother?” She asked, tears began to well in her own ocean blue hues. “No, I can do this. Just like I have before. The Gods placed such a gift within my hands so that I may aid you and others that become ill like you. You’ve said it. Don’t worry mother.” She gave a gentle smile. For such a young child she had been forced to grow up quickly. It was discovered at a young age that she was capable of healing magic, something that was quite rare.
“No, Lilly.” Her mother held her hand a bit more tightly this time. “Last time...that you healed me...you were in bed for nearly a week...I fear this time you may not wake again.” She kissed the back of her daughter’s hand. “Just, make me a tea dear. A tea sounds lovely.” Her mother squeezed her eyes shut as her expression contorted in pain. She coughed and held a cloth to her lips. Blood speckled upon the cloth.
“No...mother…” The child stared to her mother, both of her hands gripped onto her arm now.
“Shhh dear. Just a tea.” Her breaths were shaky now.
That night Liliana sat at her mother’s side. Her brother and father came into the room and sat as well. There was nothing more that could be done. The young elf cried when her mother passed, she sobbed into the woman’s shoulder. Eventually she found herself wandering to the beautiful lake that was near the city center. The moon was full that night. Not a cloud in the sky. The stars twinkled about against the darkness of the space beyond. She sat down at the edge of the water, her feet hung down over the bank. Tears rolled over her cheeks as she stifled whimpers that threatened to come across her lips. Her fingertips curled into the thick lush grass that she sat upon.
She watched as a fish splashed the surface of the lake. The hoot of an owl filled the silence of the night along with the chirp of crickets and frogs. A strange cold filled the air then. Liliana gazed up into the skies as a darkness swept across the moon, blotting it out. She quickly scrambled to her feet as she stared upward into the abyss. A rush of icy cold air pushed Liliana’s hair from her face and she sucked in a breath as she watched the darkness seemingly explode from the sky. Around it danced flecks of light that rained down from the empty night sky. The stars were no where to be seen, the moon and it’s beautiful glow were non-existent now.
Liliana turned and rushed through the park, her feet carried her quickly across the lush green grass and onto the cobblestone walkway. Though as she rushed forward she felt a warm within her, it was overwhelming. The world around her began to spin. She cried out just before everything fell into darkness.
That was 10 years ago. Liliana was what have come to be called gifted by the Goddess of the Light. On that night 10 years ago the world of Drabroxus changed, nothing would ever be the same again it seemed. Liliana woke to a newly found power. She could heal those that were horribly injured or sick beyond the repair of the apothecary. Though the strange thing about her power was, it engulfed those that she healed in a fire. It was an incredible feat. The first time that she performed the magic was nearly a week after the anomaly. A man had come into the bakery to steal the money from the shop, her father had fought against the man and in the end, he ended up with a knife in his chest. Liliana had cried as she placed her hand over her father’s wound, and without even thinking the flames had engulfed him and as the flames disappeared her father was left without even a scratch.
**
10 years passed. Liliana grew from a young child into a young woman. She was convinced to travel to Kellet’s Academy. She walked along the dirt road, her ocean eyes looked up to the beautiful tower as she approached. The stones were perfectly in place and seemed not weathered a day. She gazed about in a curious manner as she watched those in their robes walk about the campus. Houses all surrounded the grand tower, homes for those that were attending the school. She drew in a breath and as she walked forward she found herself walking toward Master Kellet himself.
“It took a long time for you to come to me, Liliana.” Master Kellet mused a grin upon his lips. “I am pleased that you have finally seen the light.” He nodded as he turned. “Come, we shall go inside. I’ve a room awaiting you.”
Liliana glanced to him curiously. “You know of me?” She questioned, her brows furrowed slightly.
Master Kellet chuckled lightly as he nodded, “Yes child. I knew of you when your mother was still alive.I sent the captain of the Baron’s guard to recruit you. He stated that you simply stayed at your mother’s side to keep her well. I understood your position. Even as a child you had great magic within you.” He spoke as he walked up the spiraling stone staircase. “And I hear that you’ve been touched with a gift from the Goddess of Light as well?” He raised a brow slightly as he looked to her. “How delightful.” He smirked. “I’ve heard stories, do tell me….have you saved a nearly dead soldier? The story was quite extravagant, unlike something that one would be prone to believe. You understand that I have my doubts.” He smirked slightly as he turned and walked her to a door. He paused before it. “But then again, I have seen your work. Nearly 15 years ago, yes. You were so young. Your parents didn’t realize what you had until I said something to them.” He shrugged slightly. “Your talent is what I dream of.” He pushed a door open and stepped into the room.
It held an empty bookshelf, a desk, and a bed. It was simple enough. “I’m not really that special Master Kellet.” Liliana spoke, her voice soft. “I just only trying to help, the soldier would have died if I had not helped him.”
“Ah, you see...that is why you’re special. There is only so much magic can do. But your magic is truly from the Goddess of light.” He smiled, “We will train you. You will see.”
**
Nearly another year passed. Liliana was taken directly under the wing of Master Kellet. She learned from him from sun up to sun down. She practiced every waking moment. It wasn’t until she heard of a terrible tale that the bakery had been attacked by raiders and her father and brother had fallen….she didn’t stop before that. Liliana rode the three days and nights that it took to get back to her home of Presstria.
Liliana rode into the grand port city, her eyes gazed about the carefully built buildings, the cobblestone streets. The scent of the market in the air. It all felt the same as it always had. Though as she rounded the corner into the market to see the broken door of the bakery, the soot from the fire, her heart sank. Of course it wouldn’t be the same. What was she thinking? She knew better than that. That was the trouble of Presstria since the darkness had come. There were those gifted with the powers of light...then there were those of shadow. Those that seemed twisted by their ability that they gained. She climbed down from her horse and walked into the bakery, her ocean hues welled with tears. Bread still sat in the case at the counter. Dough upon the preparation counter behind the sales counter. She bit at her lower lip and lowered her eyes as she brushed away a tear. “I should not have left…” She whispered. “This is my fault...I should have been here…” Her eyes caught the crimson blotch from blood upon the floor, scuffs in the wood from the fight that had ensued.
Liliana gathered what little items that she had into a sack. She stepped from the bakery and climbed upon her horse. Tears welled in her eyes as she looked to the scene. She’d have to meet with the tax collector and see what was owed. She imagined she didn’t have the money. She imagined she wouldn’t be able to do anything about it at all. She clicked her tongue and made her way through the streets. Now, it felt different. It didn’t feel like and full of play as it had when she was a child. Now she noticed shadows. She could feel the darkness pulling at her soul. Master Kellet stated this was merely because she had such strong magic that she could feel what the anomaly had brought onto this plain. Liliana rode to the tavern and paid a few copper coins to the stable hand before she walked inside. She sat at the bar on the corner, her eyes looked about to the people as she placed a coin upon the counter. Soon enough a mug of ale was before her. She drank from it as she gazed over the room absentmindedly.
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Anomaly
Jul 2, 2021 18:23:27 GMT -5
Post by Raven on Jul 2, 2021 18:23:27 GMT -5
Freya “The Untouched” Skygarde
“This power! Is a curse – Loki covered the skies with his evil darkness, he peppered the lands with his hatred and tainted the sons and daughters of Odin. His gifts he gives are meant for one thing only – to destroy Odin’s children, to rise up against Odin and over throw his Kingdom! The Seer’s have spoken to us” A large man stood in the center of a huge hall. He had a thick red beard with braids twisted throughout it. His head was shaved on the sides and black runic paint was etched into his flesh. He was massive – a power man, the Jarl…
The hall was filled with men all of equal stature – burley, large, covered in leathers and furs. Out the two doors of the hall was falling snow – over a large viking city. The port was long – filled with ships beyond the sight of vision. This was the largest Viking City in all the northern islands, the most feared - and ultimately the leaders of majority of the clans.
“They have seen it, Jarl Grogan?”
“Aye – they have seen it” he nodded and turned around in a fit of anger. He paced briefly and then held his hands up. “We must send a message back… we must not submit to them. We take these… “gifted” and we bring them to the Skull of Fenrir. We tell Loki to suck our axes, and pour their blood over the skull. Say we never submit to the God of Darkness, Odin will see it. He will bless us with his strength, his courage, as we overcome Loki’s temptations – it will end the long winter, as we have been starving and dying… We owe it to Odin, we owe our allegiance to him!” he shouted. The room uproared in agreement, shouting and yelling. Soon the room beat their chest in unison, and heaved the name “Odin” over and over together, from the base of their chest.
“Tonight – you gather them, gather the gifted. You go home by home, do not let a single one escape us. Odin must know – we are his true children” he nodded and then the room roared again. They began funneling out of the hall. Moments later – screams came across the city as they rushed the homes, pulling the children from their mothers breasts. Everyone they could find, until the large bonfire circle was filled with chained people. From the young to the old – bound and tied together…
Jarl Grogan had rushed from the hall and to his own home. He slammed open the door to his large log cabin like home and fell to his knees before his wife. “I cannot stop them” he shook his head. The woman kneeled down to him. She had beautiful black raven hair, braided perfectly and kept. “When the Seers deem it.. you cannot defy them”
“No – no I will” the Jarl stood and grasped her shoulders. “Get her, wake her up” he called to her. The woman – Ryeke, she rushed over into the bedroom and came upon a young girl. She placed a hand upon her shoulder and shook it. “Wake up, my little Raven” she smiled.
The girl sat up – she had black hair that was shaved on the sides, her hair was braided into thick braids. She was young, only 8, but she had muscles and strength – an eight year old that had killed a wolf, and said to have wrestled a bear…she was fierce, from her hair, her eyes, to the way she stood and looked…She looked around “Mother?” she questioned and slowly stood. “What’s going on?” she could hear the screaming outside. “Are we being attacked?!” She scrambled up and grasped her hand axe on the edge of her dresser. “I will protect you mother- “ she gripped it and slowly crept out of her room.
She eyed her father and then grinned. She set the axe down gently and then rushed across the room – she threw her arms around him and tackled him to the ground. Grogan cried out playfully and wrestled her off his neck and pinned her down. “You’ll need to eat more steak before you’ll be big enough to tackle me like that, little girl” he lifted her up and gave her a long bear hug. “Sit down” he nodded to the wooden chair before him.
“The Seers have demanded the ‘gifted’ be slain before Fenrir, a defiance against Loki…” he crossed his arms. “The men are gathering all of them up… it happens tonight.”
The girl sat back her eyes wide. “No – father, please. I’ll never use it, I swear it”
Ryeke looked to Grogan with piercing eyes. The Jarl sighed softly “No, you will live…” he placed a hand on her shoulder. “but not here, my love… you will get in a boat and ride south, and you will go until your feet cave in. You will fight whatever Odin throws at you, you will show your strength and push forward. But not here…If you stay here, you will die… and it will be my hand forced to kill you…”
The girl began to panic. “No father – I don’t want to leave, I can’t leave. I – I “
“Shh now baby…” Ryeke grasped her and held her to her chest and rocked her slightly.
“You will be the youngest to ever stand The Night Trials, the youngest to emerge and become a Shield Maiden. Nothing – will stop you. You are the great Jarl’s daughter, you are the chosen by Odin” he grasped her shoulders then. “You will do this, and you will come back to me in time – you will show us what it means to be a fearless Valkyr… hm?” he shook her slightly. “Do you hear me?” his voice raised. “You do not have time to pout and cry, you only have time to fight!” he stood. “Get your things, quickly”
The girl scrambled upward and rushed to her room – she gathered her shield, her sword and axe, a pair of clothes. When she came back to the room – her mother had a bag of foods prepared. “Take this…” her mother pulled a silver necklace off her neck and placed it upon the girls. It was the tree of life, Yggdrasil. “You always remember, we are your parents, this city is your home, this plane is yours to conquer and the gods are yours to serve. This world is yours, you take it, child, always” she kissed her forehead and handed her the bag.
The Jarl stood before his daughter and pulled a white fox cloak out. “I was waiting to give this to you, my daughter… for your birthday” he chuckled and placed it upon her, strapping it into place. “Think of this as a trial, my love. And you – come back to me” he kissed her forehead. “You must go, go now. Go to Floki and give him this” he handed her a scroll. “He will take you…” he nodded. He opened the door and yelled once again “Go!” he shouted. The girl grasped her bag, and then rushed out the door – her feet falling nearly a foot into the snow, but she rushed behind the house and down the pathway – to a small dock down at base of the hillside…
***
Years Later…
“Ahhh Freya” the familiar sound of a stein pounding on the bar top filled her ears. The woman stepped into the Tavern. Her jet black hair had many braids pulled into a final pony tail, her sides of her head were shaved. She wore leather armor – and a white fox cloak. Both of her arms were tattood with viking vunes, from her knuckles to her shoulders… She stepped over to the bar and sat down and grinned happily - “How goes business today, Crow?” she took a long swig and placed a golden coin on the table.
“Not to bad, might have you beat some sense into a few later – who did not pay last night…” he chuckled and wiped the counter off. “Have you got enough yet?” he questioned.
“Not yet, I’m a good bit off… which I mean to ask – have you heard of any work?” she took a long swig and grinned.
“Hmmm…not quite…” he held a hand up briefly. “Let me get back to you, drink” he nodded and stepped over to a woman who had sat down. “Ale, m’lady?” he questioned and poured her a drink. He eyed her for a long moment and then glanced to Freya.
“Freya – come here” he waved her over.
Freya stood, she was nearly 6 feet tall. She was every bit a Viking shield maiden. So much so that she often either gained all the attention of a room, or the room would clear out when she stepped in. She stepped over and glanced to the woman, she smiled and held her mug up. “Skol” she bowed her head briefly and sat down.
“Freya – you should meet Liliana…” he nodded. “This one’s had a tough day… I heard your parent’s place was sacked by thugs… burnt…” he sighed softly and pushed her coin back to her. “This drink is on me… and this uh… woman” the bartender looked to Freya. “She may be able to help you..”
Freya looked to the woman and smiled weakly. “I heard of a fire earlier today… I am… sorry” she sighed and then she leaned back and downed her entire mug. “That one was for them, hm?” she grinned and her mug was instantly replaced with a new one, to the brim with ale. “Do you seek vengeance?” she questioned. “Shall I spill their blood in the great name of Odin?” she smirked. “Or shall I buy you a drink and get you so pissed drunk you hardly remember it happened at all?” she smirked and held her glass up. “What do you say?
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Anomaly
Jul 2, 2021 21:13:12 GMT -5
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 2, 2021 21:13:12 GMT -5
Liliana gave Crow a weak smile. She remembered the man from her childhood. He bought a loaf every third day from her family. Her father would come to this very tavern and inn for a drink about two or three times a week. It was more after her mother passed away. Her brows were pulled together deep in thought, her ocean eyes still glassy. She was too drawn into her thoughts to notice much of what was going on at that point, her fingertips curled around the ceramic mug, her thumb rubbed over the carefully hand crafted handle. It wasn’t until she heard the unfamiliar word ‘Skol’ that her eyes lifted up from the deep amber lager.
As Crow spoke of what happened she lowered her eyes slightly again. She took a long drink of the ale. “Yes. If I had not left for the academy perhaps this would not have happened.” She took another drink and then her eyes looked to the coin that Crow had pressed across the counter back to her. “Oh, Crow I...” She stifled her urge to cry. “Thank you...” Her eyes looked to Freya again. “But I’m not so certain...I...I do not have much if any money at all. My father spent much of his earnings to send me to Master Kellet’s Academy...” She drew in a breath and closed her eyes for a moment.
As Freya spoke Liliana merely drank her ale, when the woman was finished she lifted her eyes and tilted her head slightly, “Vengeance is a wretched beast, isn’t it? Wouldn’t we all want that?” She asked her ocean eyes had a flicker of fire within them for a moment. She shook her head then. “I have no coin to offer to pay a mercenary.” She stood. “I’ve no home to place a roof over your head. I’ve not even a clue who did this to my family. I merely received word and rode here as quickly as I could. The whole ride here I prayed that the messenger was mistaken. But...” She shook her head. “No mistakes were made, to my unfortunate surprise this city seems to be even darker than when I left it. The grip of of Shadow Lord seems to grow with each year. Before we know it this entire continent will fall into war.” She spoke with wisdom that much surpassed her age. Though, training beneath Kellet for a year, anyone would beg for such teachings.
She furrowed her brows slightly as she pushed the mug across the counter toward Crow. “Thank you for the drink. My father would be pleased. It was his favorite ale in Presstria, a true one of a kind he always said.” Liliana stood, “Thank you for your offer. Apologies that I do not have nearly the money that I am certain I look as though I have.” She let out a defeated sigh. The garb that Kellet placed her in made her look noble in a way. She wore a dark blue corset over a satin black tunic. She wore a black skirt beneath the corset and black leather riding boots. Around her neck was a beautiful sapphire piece, it had been her mother’s necklace. “Good day, Crow….Freya….” She turned.
A man stood before her, he held a mug in his hand. “Your father that a lot of debts Lady Morgenson.” He spoke, his speech slurred slightly. “Maybe that’s why he met the demise that he did. Eh? Less worried about paying his coppers and more worried about putting you through that bogus mage academy.” He giggled and scoffed slightly.
Liliana gazed to the drunken man. “Perhaps. You should think of whom you are speaking of. Before you speak ill of someone? Father had notable medical bills from my mother and her illness. The bakery to produce such fine items was not merely a few copper to run. My schooling was indeed expensive, I will give you that. But father used it from my mother’s savings. He said she wanted me to go to Kellet’s academy. He and my brother did their damned best.” She stood tall, her voice was strong. Though she was a petite figure, barely over five feet tall.
The drunken man chuckled as he looked down to her. “Fuckin’ elves. Always an excuse.” He took a step and his ale sloshed over the edges of his mug. “I heard he borrowed money from the Ripper. You know what happens when you don’t pay back the Ripper, eh?” He leaned in close to her and drew his finger across his neck.
Liliana grit her teeth she gripped forward as flames swelled within the black of her pupils, her hand grasped upon his tunic and she pulled him just inches from her face. “I think. You need to drop it.” She spoke her voice full of anger. Flames swirled around her arm and toward her hand.
The man began to squirm as he felt the heat of the flames. “Okay! Okay!” He cried. “Okay please!”
Liliana pulled her hand back and swiftly slammed her fist into the side of his head. The man, a towering figure toppled to the floor like a freshly cut tree. She drew in a breath before she walked over him and out into the streets of the city. Liliana gazed up to the signs, she needed to get to the tax collector and make sure that her family was not behind too much on their debts. She would need to fix the shop...to bring it back to life...
Liliana checked her coin purse, she was running low on funds. She would have to do something to survive until she could return to the academy. She was lucky that the master allowed her to leave when she received the news. She’d always wondered about Kellet. He’d always treated her much like a daughter in a way. He found so much interest in her abilities. Liliana stopped before her family's shop and stared to the damages once again. She couldn’t imagine being alone and yet...here she was.
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Anomaly
Jul 2, 2021 21:32:31 GMT -5
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 2, 2021 21:32:31 GMT -5
Freya lifted a brow to the woman, smirking as she spoke. Though she did not say much – she let the woman rant a moment.. and then retreat away. She glanced to Crow and sipped her drink.
“She is a broken young lass, sweet to her marrow… her family was good to me” he sighed softly. His eyes grew wide though as there was a commotion in the tavern. Freya turned her gaze and watched right as Liliana drew her fist and leveled the man before him.
“Oh she’s just lively” Freya grinned and stood. She walked over to the man on the ground – who was knocked out cold. She laughed and pulled him off to the side. She leaned down and plucked the pouch of coins from his belt and clutched in her hand. “Messed with the wrong lady, on the wrong day” she smirked and then she stood.
She quickly rushed out of the tavern and made her way down the road, she saw the woman walking slowly away. Freya stopped and watched her from a distance for a long moment… Then she stepped up to her.
“My people believe vengeance is just justice that is due. An eye for an eye...” she crossed her arms. “Honor is a bullshit code that man who fear death hope to use to manipulate their enemy. A group of people – murdered innocents – over coin?” she scoffed. She tossed the coin bag to Liliana. “You do not need to pay me… the men who did this to you – they will pay me, with their life, and their coin pouches… They will walk to the gates of Valhalla and face their choices...and it won’t be to drink with the gods” she looked to Liliana with serious, stone cold eyes. There was a kind of viking rage behind her words, the kind of tone that made it nearly a prophecy. These men would pay, and she would see to it.
Just as she finished her words – drops of rain fell upon her head. She glanced up and then stepped over to an overhang by the nearby shops. “Come on” she held a hand up and an umbrella formed out of nothing. It was an all black polished metal-like umbrella. She held it up and it lifted over their heads, covering them from the rain that began to dump down. “I have a room at the Inn, you can stay with me. You’ll have to tell me what you know. Perhaps these… Ripper people are a good place to start, hm?” she held a hand out to her, as if to agree on the companionship of a Mercenary.
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Anomaly
Jul 2, 2021 22:00:05 GMT -5
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 2, 2021 22:00:05 GMT -5
Liliana had her hands clasped before her, her brows pulled together. Her expression was of pain, the pain one would feel when they have felt true loss. It was a sorrowful look. She rubbed the back of her hand, her knuckles that had made contact with the brute of a man had already discolored slightly. She didn’t normally result to hand to hand combat, but when she had to. She knew exactly what to do thanks to her brother. A sigh came over her lips as she thought of him. When she heard the familiar tune of Freya’s voice her eyes turned and her brows furrowed slightly.
The young elf nearly didn’t catch the pouch of coins as it was tossed at her. It bounced off of her sternum before she caught it by trapping it between her hands and her abdomen. Her ocean eyes looked to the strange woman as she raised a brow slightly. The woman’s strong words sparked a fire within Liliana. Someone was truly as full of rage about her family’s death as she was? “I’m certain that you are busy...” She spoke just as a drop of rain bounced off of her cheek. She gazed up to the overcast skies as a breath escaped her. Though as she leveled her eyes she saw the umbrella appear from thin air. “You...” She gazed up to it as the rain dumped around them pattering upon the umbrella.
Liliana’s eyes looked curiously to Freya, her lips parted slightly. She then looked to the woman’s extended hand for a long moment. She tilted her head slightly before she lifted her hand and gripped onto Freya’s forearm in a commoner’s handshake. That of a warrior. “Thank you.” She spoke as she looked once again to the bakery. “I...” She looked up to the umbrella again. She had been taught to fear the shadow magic. She reached up and touched the pole of the umbrella, she could feel the push and pull of the shadows. Her brows furrowed as flecks of light appeared within her eyes. “You...” She looked to Freya, her eyes curious in that moment. “You’ve been gifted….haven’t you?” She questioned as she searched the woman’s hues. “But...your gift is not from the Goddess of Light...it is from the God of Shadow...” She led her into the partially burnt shop so that they were completely out of the rain. “They say...that there are many that were gifted such powers both of light and dark...and yet I have only met two or three in the past 10 years...”
Liliana’s eyes turned then as she saw a glint of steel reflecting the water of the rain. Knights headed toward the shop. Four guard stepped into the shop and one stepped forward, he wore a red cape, a captain. “Liliana Morgenson. Apologies for the loss of your family. However, this must be delivered to you.” He held a scroll forward.
Liliana took the scroll into her hands and unraveled it. Her expression fell as she read through it. An insurmountable debt, a pit formed within her stomach. “I...500 gold pieces?” She choked out. “Gods...I...” She lifted her eyes to look to the captain. She pulled the pouch from her own pouch and opened it. “I may only have enough copper pieces for 3 or 4 gold pieces...” Her voice shook.
The captain tilted his head as he looked to her. “Very well then. The Lord of Presstria will not tolerate these late payments.” His voice was commanding.
“I...I...” Liliana closed her eyes, a tear rolled down her cheek. To inherit such debt. She would never get out from underneath this. Even if she worked herself to the bone. 500 gold pieces. Even nobles were lucky to see that much in a lifetime.
“You’ve two days, Lady Morgenson.” The captain spoke, his eyes looked to Freya a moment before he turned and stepped from the room followed by the other soldiers.
Liliana fought to hold herself together, she trembled slightly. “Perhaps it was not bandits at all that killed my father...” She breathed. “How could he go into so much debt to the city…? Why would he do this?” But she knew. She knew why. It was the same reason that she’d never had anything of note growing up. Their family scraped by. When he pushed for her to attend the academy. She could barely believe that he had the money to send her. She was right in the end, he hadn’t had the money for it. The words of her mother’s savings were all lies to keep her from worrying about him. She brushed away a tear. “I’m not so certain that you’d want to be seen with the likes of me.” She spoke with a broken laugh. “It seems in a few days I shall be locked behind the city prison bars...” A sigh escaped over her lips as she peered over the scroll once again.
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Anomaly
Jul 2, 2021 22:12:54 GMT -5
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 2, 2021 22:12:54 GMT -5
Freya smirked as she noted of her power “Yes, gifted so they call it.” she chuckled slightly. “The night it happened – the skies covered in a dark shroud, ash fell from the sky and touched my skin..” she chuckled. “The God of Shadows… or as my people call him – Loki” she chuckled. “But why would he give me this gift? I, my people, we worship Odin..” she shook her head. “Alas, this gift is why I am here.. and not with my people. But they would say that is their way. To put me here, and now fight for you and your family” she smirked and then glanced over as some men made their way.
Freya crossed her arms and looked to the guards – who peered to her. She snarled slightly, just to watch them squirm uncomfortably. She bit her lip in anger as they left “2 days for 500 gold?” she scoffed loudly. “That is unfair” she sighed and thought for a long moment.
“There are only a few ways to make that kind of money swiftly. Usually – bounties. So, there are some options. Figure out who killed your parents and I take their money, or see if there are any head-bounties or monster bounties?” she shook her head. “I normally don’t bother alone, but you can actually fight decently. You have some power yourself… we could try, or die trying. Either way, better than you behind bars… Unless you have some other ideas in mind…” she sighed and paced slightly, trying to think of something.
“Or you run” she pulled her brows together. “Or I kill the Lord – ooh, that sounds like fun, eh?” she thought some more. “Why 500 pieces though, I doubt your father bothered that much? It sounds like they’re just milking you, 2 days for 500 pieces, they’re sending you to jail for fun” she was boiling at this point. “Yeah, killing the Lord sounds right. You give the order and I’ll drive my axe through his skull” she spoke with grit teeth.
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 7:46:04 GMT -5
via mobile
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 3, 2021 7:46:04 GMT -5
Liliana had looked to Freya with an almost mystified expression. “Ashes?” She questioned curiously. “On the night that I was gifted I saw the same shadows…they overtook the moon and the stars…all light disappeared as far as I could see. The sky looked as though it was moving like an angry storm or billowing smoke…” She furrowed her brows slightly. “I ran…I was terrified of it…I was just a child…” She shook her head. “I don’t remember what happened after that. I woke at home in my bed. It wasn’t until a week or so later that I discovered my gift.” She lifted her hand and flames flickered upon her fingertips. She gave a bit of a smirk. “It’s beautiful really…sometimes I just stare into the flames…the gentle dancing and flickering calms me.” She shook her head then.
After the knights had left, Liliana was a mess. Her body trembled. “Unfortunately. Fair is not something that the Lord of Presstria considers. He’s no better than his brother.” She scoffed slightly as she brushed tears away from her cheeks. She glanced to Freya as the woman tried to discern a solution. “There isn’t a simple answer unfortunately. We would have to complete plenty of bounties…” She shook her head. “We’ve no idea who exactly did this.” She looked around the charred shop. At the mentioning of killing the Lord, Liliana burst into a fit of laughter. She giggled for a few moments before she looked to Freya. “Do you want the entire continent of Oclera to be out for your head?” She giggled once again. She then turned toward the stairs. “Let me see if my father still had money stashed away…” She sighed softly, “Come on.” She walked down the old wooden stairs to the small quaint home. It was untouched by the fires above. She drew in a breath as she brushed away another tear.
Liliana stepped over to the stone of the fireplace and knelt down. “Years ago my father created this safe spot. I sat right there.” She pointed to the rug that sat in front of the hearth. “When I was just a child I thought it was silly to have to hide things. But now…the world has become darker…it is as if the shadows that were cast upon Drabroxus have blotted out even the sun’s warm rays of hope.” She sucked in a breath as she pulled the single dagger from her thigh. The only weapon that she carried on her person. She dug it into the concrete and began prying on a brick. It took several minutes of chipping away but she eventually lifted the brick from its resting place. Liliana reached down into the gaping hole and pulled out a small wooden box. Coins clattered within it. She opened it and gazed inside. “Well…” She sighed after a moment of tilting the box back and forth. “It is a start…”
The young elf stood and she looked to Freya a long moment. “500 coins is a considerable debt. My family has never truly profited much. My father believed in taking care of the community. He did not sell his goods much above the price that it took to make and even then…if a hungry orphan came by we would offer up the bread to them at the end of the day. My father cooked pots of stew for the community…” She looked to the old cast iron pot that sat near the hearth. “For someone to murder my family…” She shook her head. “All of those poor souls will suffer…for what?” A sigh came from her as she looked down to the box again. “I’ll never amount to 500 gold pieces in two days…this isn’t even a quarter of the amount that I need.” A soft laugh came over her lips. “My father hid this debt from me. He borrowed to send me to the academy…and I know Master Kellet happily took me in under a severely discounted rate because he wanted to train me so badly…”
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Post by Raven on Jul 3, 2021 9:26:06 GMT -5
Freya chuckled slightly "You saw it too?" she smirked "I come from the farthest northern islands, and you were here.. and you saw it too?" she questioned and let out a soft sigh. "I thought it was Ragnarok, for a moment. That is.. my people's idea of the inevitable fate, when the God's fight, and die... Said to start with a bleeding sky of Ash and Flame" she chuckled. "I was outside - chopping wood. A piece of that darkness, ash, whatever - it landed on my arm. Then I heard almost a hundred horns blow - my entire Clan called to the Gods. The funny thing is - they were excited, happy. The thought of Ragnarok - means the world is destroyed and reborn" she laughed. "Man, my people are so stupid"
Freya cracked a smirk when Liliana laughed at her comment, to kill the Lord. "Ah, killing is a sport for me" she laughed in return. "A bounty on my head just mean's the best fighters of the world will come, I don't even have to find them. It's actually quite a thing. Ah, to present the challengers to my Gods" she laughed again. "Like I said, my people are stupid" she grinned and then she followed down the set of stairs and entered the cozy home.
Freya walked over to the small living room and looked around. She lifted a small image of the family that was framed, she peered to it for a long moment and then set it down. The rug was worn from years of foot steps - the house was a little run down, but still managable. She sighed softly and looked over to Liliana who was digging in the fireplace.
She listened to her stories of her father - who fed the world, it seemed. She crossed her arms "He seems like quite the man..." she spoke softly and hummed. "If we can't come up with the Gold, then you must speak with him. This Lord. I don't know the rules of your people, but if the man wants his gold - 2 days is not enough time. Why throw someone into jail and never get your gold back? Can it be a duel to the death - I can fight for you, or perhaps..." she paced again as she thought.
"You going to jail is not an option, do you hear me? I don't know you, at all. Hell, you don't have any gold... but you do not deserve this. I fight for no one, but Urd put me here for a reason, hm?" she crossed her arms once again.
(Urd = Norse God of Fate)
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 9:58:28 GMT -5
via mobile
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 3, 2021 9:58:28 GMT -5
Liliana glanced to Freya a bit of a smirk upon her lips. “Ragnarok?” She spoke the word back to the woman, it was an interesting word. She’d heard of the Viking people from the northern islands before. But, there was not much literature about them, nor did many know enough about them to speak on it. “Your people sound quite interesting. Then again, the people of the capitol decided that the Goddess of Light has blessed us with these gifts and those that were darkened by the shadows were gifted by the god of shadows whom is seen as unfavorable. To my people, you would be…considered the enemy simply because your magic seems to be dark.” Liliana shook her head as she gazed about her home. She looked to the photo, “I was 5 in that one.” She said with a soft smile upon her lips. “My older brother had to tickle me for the photo because I wouldn’t smile.” She gave a chuckle and shook her head. “Our mother was very ill, I was worried about her.” She stepped to the photo and rubbed her thumb about it.
“Speak with the Lord of Presstria?” Another bit of laughter. Liliana shook her head, “I would be surprised if he even agreed to an audience with me. I’m not a noble. I’m nothing but dirt upon the bottom of his shoe. Him not receiving money from me, I’m sure they do more than just lock away those that haven’t paid…my father had stories. But I’m not certain if it is just simply stories.” She shrugged. “I appreciate your willingness to help me.” She gave a weak smile as she drew in a breath. “We should see about the bounty hm?” She then thought for a moment. “But…I would like to pay respects to my father and brother.”
Liliana climbed the stairs of the home and walked out onto the damp streets. The rain had stopped for now, but the dark clouds in the skies said that the rain would return soon enough. “There are always bounties posted at the city square…hopefully there will be something good posted up, hm?” She had a hopeful smile.
“Lilly!” A voice called from across the street. A young male elf rushed across the street to the two. He gazed to Freya a moment before he looked back to her, “I…I um…I pulled your father from the fire.” He searched her eyes. “I’m sorry, Liliana.”
She looked to him, a longtime friend of hers. She gave a soft smile and nodded, “Thank you…”
“There…is something.” He reached into his pocket and pulled a crumpled up piece of parchment from it. “Your father had this in his hand…” He placed it into her hand. “He begged me to make sure you got it.” He nodded. There was a call from one of the shops and the young elf turned. “Coming!” He called back. He glanced to her and brushed a tear from her cheek. “I’m sorry, Lilly.” He spoke again before he rushed away.
Liliana unraveled the parchment. The lettering was hastily written. Droplets of blood had leaked upon the page. She couldn’t make out many of the words and the rest of the words didn’t seem to make sense. “Hm…” She moved the page about as she tried to discern what it said. The only words she could clearly make out were, be wary my child. I am sorry. She’d stopped in the middle of the street as she tried to read it. She shook her head. “This isn’t helpful…” She muttered and glanced to Freya. “Okay…” She walked forward and soon enough they stood before the city apothecary’s office.
She bit at her lip slightly before she climbed the cobblestone stairs into the building. “Come on. She’s really a kind person.” She spoke as she pushed the door open. She walked in, her boots clicked upon the wooden flooring. “Hello? Rhian?” She called out.
Soon enough a woman came from the back, bright red locks and emerald green hues. “Liliana.” She stepped forward and pulled the woman into a tight embrace. “Oh Child.” She held her there. “You’ve had a rough go at it, haven’t you?” She asked as she kept her arms held tightly around her. “The loss of your mother was quite enough and now this…” She finally released her and took a step back. “And…who…” She looked up to Freya curiously.
“Freya…her name is Freya…” Liliana spoke before she looked to the woman. “Rhian…I would like to pay my respects…”
Rhian drew in a breath, “Oh dear…I…I’ve burned the bodies, there was not much left that was recognizable. I have their ashes.” She nodded. “I’m sorry…it was a gruesome sight you would not have wanted to see it.”
Liliana bit at her lip slightly, “Of course…” She spoke as she followed the woman over to her desk. “I understand…” She spoke as she looked about the room. Bottles were filled with different elixirs. Plants lined the walls. Books were strewn about the room. “Do you know if my father was in any sort of trouble?” She asked then.
Rhian set the two ceramic boxes upon the table. She drew in a long breath, “I did not. Not until this. No.” She spoke and lowered her gaze. “I heard it was bandits….thieves…out of towners…I’m not sure why your family was targeted…I’m sorry Liliana…”
Liliana placed her hand upon each box and she drew in a breath. “Well…I’ve been left with a 500 gold coin debt to repay…” She bowed her head.
“What?” Rhian questioned swiftly. “That…is absurd…how….how would you ever repay that amount?! Hell I doubt even the Lord has seen that amount in one lump sum.” She scoffed angrily. “You listen to me Lilly, our Lord is as crooked as they come. Your father owed no debt to that man! I’m sure of it.” She grumbled as she moved about swiftly. “You don’t owe him a cent.” She crossed her arms.
Liliana sighed softly and gave a nod. “Of course…right…” She sighed once again. “We should go. Hm?” She glanced to Freya. “I’ve been tasked with this debt…if I do not repay it our lord will toss me into his jail.”
Rhian’s eyes widened. “Liliana…no…” She shook her head quickly. “I will speak to the other merchants…we will do something about this child.”
Liliana lowered her head slightly as she turned and stepped from the home. “The bounties are usually in the city center…” She spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. “Hopefully we find something…good enough…”
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 10:14:16 GMT -5
Post by Raven on Jul 3, 2021 10:14:16 GMT -5
Freya followed Liliana out of the store, her eye fell upon a young man who had ran forward. She smiled softly to their interaction - a family friend, no doubt. She pitied the boy who pulled her family out, in a way that she wished it was Liliana that had the honor. She thought for a moment - what if it had been her. What if she went home and her city was burnt to the ground? She pressed her lips together and then sighed softly.
"Of course, let's see them" Freya spoke as they stepped to the door of the apothecary and stepped inside. Her hues glanced about, but she stood behind Liliana. Her hulking height towered over her, like some kind of body guard. When Rhian looked to her - she smiled and nodded her head. She knew her presence could be threatening, part of her loved that bit...
As Lilian turned to walk out - Freya looked to the two ceramic boxes. "Beautiful work... Do you have a satchel or something?" She questioned and pulled out a gold coin. The woman quickly found a leather bag and set the boxes carefully inside, wrapped in a soft cotton blanket to protect them. Freya lifted the bag and placed it over her shoulder, so it hang against her hip. "Thank you" she spoke and then turned to walk out of the house.
Freya caught up to Liliana and she followed behind her. "I wonder if your father had a bounty, or this was a hit. You know - I'm just the right kind of person to beat that information out of someone..." she smirked and they came to the posting board in the center.
She looked over the images of the postings, to the amounts... She pressed her lips together as she peered...
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 10:30:50 GMT -5
via mobile
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 3, 2021 10:30:50 GMT -5
Liliana glanced over her shoulder as Freya caught up to her. She looked to the satchel, her brows furrowed slightly. “You…didn’t have to…” She reached up and pinched her brow slightly. She’d been the one helping others so long she didn’t know how to accept help from someone. “A bounty?” She questioned and pressed her lips together. “I wouldn’t see how…” She sighed as she looked over the postings carefully. She then gave a smirk to Freya, “You would be the right one to do such a thing. Rhian looked a bit nervous around you too.” She laughed lightly and shook her head. “Perhaps the man at the bar would have saved himself a lump on his head if you were walking behind me.” She grinned and chuckled. “I don’t think anyone in their right mind would try to attack me with you standing over my shoulder.” She then tilted her head as a parchment caught her eye. It was just a piece. Torn. Though the piece that was left nailed to the board had her last name upon it. She knew of no one else in the city besides her family with such a name. “Maybe…you…are right…” She rubbed her thumb over the word. “We just have to find out who and why…”
Liliana then thought for a moment. “Or perhaps my brother had gotten into trouble. He’d been in a few fights here and there as we grew up. Maybe he finally pissed off the wrong people.” She frowned. The thought pained her. If her brother had messed up and caused her father’s death and his own death. She grit her teeth slightly. She grasped at another piece of parchment that held nearly the same penmanship. “Maybe this.” She read over the parchment. “Assistance needed in the port district. Hands needed aboard the cargo ship Galleon’s Launch. Those good with their hands and even better in defense will be considered and paid for their time upon the sea.” She read the parchment out loud. She held the scrap of parchment that had her last name upon it up to the flyer. “This is the same handwriting. I am certain of it….I’ve stared at enough pages to recognize it….” She drew her brows together. “But a cargo crew? Why would they want anything to do with my family…” She turned and looked to Freya. “We should head to the port district. I’m sure this ship won’t be hard to find…”
The young elf turned and walked down the streets toward the port then. She held the flyer in her hand and had shoved the scrap of paper into her pocket. “I can’t fathom an out of town foreigner even knowing our family name…” She muttered. “I mean…it was just a bakery…” She glanced over her shoulder to Freya. “Have you heard of this ship?”
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 10:47:02 GMT -5
Post by Raven on Jul 3, 2021 10:47:02 GMT -5
Freya grinned "That is exactly the point, many people hire me just because I am threatening... and tall" she smirked and reached out to the corner of the page that Liliana touched. She plucked it from the board and turned it about in her hand. "Hm.." she handed it down and then looked at the Cargo ship offering. "You have a good eye..." she raised a brow.
"Galleon's Launch..." she sucked in a breath. "A trading ship, nothing that special. They usually ride the coast and trade with the southern Port city.. can't remember the name really. Generally decent, though I've heard some stories that they do a little bit of smuggling, for the right price" she lifted a brow. "I did some work for the Captain a few weeks ago. Ferried some ore from the Blacksmith in town for him" she nodded. "Let's go see them" she spoke and turned.
"We'll find something out" she smiled and nodded. "Let's drop these ashes off at your place, and then head over?" she questioned.
As they walked past her home she hurried inside and found a bedroom - she placed the ashes under a bed and came back outside. "Alright" she nodded and lead Liliana down to the port. Her heavy leather boots clacked on the deck as they came up to the large ship. She placed her hands on her hip and then gave a whistle. The captain who stood at the edge of the ship looked over and then grinned. "Ahhh, Freya" he called out and walked down to the dock. "Come for some work, eh?" he grinned a toothless grin.
"For a coin, of course" Freya smirked.
"You make enough yet for your ride?" he questioned as he approached her, shaking her arm in with a healthy grip.
"Not yet, hoping you can change that" she winked and looked to Liliana. "This here is my friend, hired me for a job, but figured she could give a hand too... Whats the job, boss?"
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 11:25:07 GMT -5
via mobile
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 3, 2021 11:25:07 GMT -5
Liliana looked to the captain with a curious gaze. She’d never gone to the port much, her father said it was dangerous with all the traders and foreigners. Her brother had dreamed of traveling the world by sea. The Captain’s eyes lingered upon the young elf for a long moment he reached forward and took the flyer from her hands and smiled, “Ah yes. It’s always good to earn a bit of coin so you can pay for this one, eh?” He looked to Freya, “She gets expensive depending on the job.” He chuckled. “I’m Captain Vincent Morton. You can call me captain if you’d like for short. It’s easier that way.” He had his hand upon his sword. “What made you pull the flyer down? Eh? How am I supposed to get more recruits if you pull down my sign?” He chuckled.
Liliana drew in a breath, “Oh…um…” She looked to Freya.
“First time?” He chuckled, “No need to worry. We are going to ship out tomorrow after we are all loaded up. You’ll be helping keep the lines taught, and load up the ship. We are headed to Cochbeg with fresh ale and grains for the upcoming winter. I’ll pay 5 gold coins each for the trip.”
Liliana glanced to Freya once again before she looked back to the man. “How many days does it take to get to Cochbeg?”
“2 maybe 3 depending upon the winds and the weather…it’s the sea we believe in the God of the sea, he has no rules.” Captain Morton chuckled lightly.
Liliana bit her lip slightly, “So we ship out tomorrow then?” She asked. “5 gold isn’t much for such a long travel. I could pick up a bounty or two in the city and make double the pay long before your ship even returns to port.”
The captain raised his brows, “Freya you should have told me that she’s an expensive one too.” He laughed heartily. “Alright. 15 each. That enough for ya?” He narrowed his brows slightly.
Liliana drew in a breath, “Yeah. Yeah that sounds fair enough.” She replied.
“Good, now get to work. The local tavern is supplying the barrels. They should have a cart ready. Go on and get it.” The captain spoke before he returned his attention to the line that he had been working on before they approached.
Liliana looked to Freya a moment as she walked away, she glanced over her shoulder to the captain whom was keeping an eye on them as they took their leave. “Do you think his crew would have called for an attack on my family?” She questioned curiously. “Have you seen his crew do such things? He didn’t seem…like it…” She furrowed her brows as they made their way down the street.
“Morgenson.” The captain of the guard stepped before the two. His eyes narrowed as he looked down to her. He didn’t seem frightened by Freya as well. “Thinking of skipping town?” he questioned quickly. “You’ve a debt to pay.” He reminded her with a crooked smile. He seemed to get amusement out of delivering such news.
Liliana balled one of her hands into a fist as she looked to the captain, whom only grinned to her. “No. I am looking for jobs to make money…I don’t even have nearly have the coin…and two days to make it…”
The captain chuckled as he looked to her. “Careful there.” He looked to her fist. “Hit me and you’ll wind up behind bars a lot sooner and I’ll be sure they know exactly how to treat you. Hm?” He chuckled as he walked away.
Liliana took in a long breath and shook her head. “Sometimes. I wish I could just….smash in their skulls….as you like to say.” She closed her eyes for a moment. “Do you think that the captain was ordered to put out the flyer about my family?” She questioned curiously before she sighed as they walked into the tavern.
Crow looked up and smiled to the two. “Ah Freya you found little Liliana.” He chuckled. “Ale?” He asked as he placed two mugs upon the counter.
“Not this time. We are here to collect the barrels for the captain of the Galleon’s Launch.” Liliana spoke up quickly as she held up a hand to stop him from pouring the ale.
Crow furrowed his brows slightly and tilted his head. “Doing odd jobs?” He looked to Freya curiously.
Liliana nodded and cleared her throat. “I have to make coin somehow, hm?” She watched him a moment. “I’ll wait outside for the barrels.” She turned and walked out of the tavern then.
Crow rubbed the counter with his rag as he looked to Freya. “She’s a good lass.” He spoke, “She’s just…having a rough time.” He nodded. “Thank you for looking after her, Freya. The poor thing…” He sighed and shook his head then. “Why are you two running work for that captain eh?”
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 11:59:54 GMT -5
Post by Raven on Jul 3, 2021 11:59:54 GMT -5
Freya crossed her arms as the Captain upped the price. "Good pay means good work, Captain" she grinned and looked to Liliana. Her hues turned as the Guard stepped back up. "Aye - " she stepped forward as the guard began to walk away. "Your fancy little suit wont save you from a good beating, don't forget who you serve. And remember it's not for yourself, just a peon doing errands for a big boss, eh? Think you're untouchable? You better ready yourself next time you approach, consider that a Viking Warning, I plan on delivering your pathetic head to Odin's hand myself" her fist balled up.
The Guard looked to her and then laughed as he walked away. The Captain chuckled too from behind "He is a fool to piss you off, Freya" he chuckled. "Off you go"
Freya scoffed and lead Liliana away. "If I wasn't guarding your name, I would have buried my axe in his skull ages ago" she spat. "Those pretty little boys have no idea what it means to fight, to survive" she laughed. "I dream of breaking their arms and beating their heads with their own heads" she scowled.
She followed behind and they came back to the bar once more. "Oh my favorite face in this whole port" she grinned and looked to Liliana briefly and then nodded. "A quick drink" she winked and the mug was placed before her. She took a long swig and let out a refreshing groan.
"The Lord wants 500 gold pieces.." she sighed. "It's not doable, not unless I slaughter half the city to gather it...she is doomed for the jails" she sighed. "Taking odd jobs - to make some of that gold, but more so - I want to find the fuckers who killed her parents. I need a good reason to spill some blood, and this is better than any out there" she finished the mug. She placed a copper down and shook his hand. "Might be my last drink with you.." she smirked "Do you know anything about a hit on her family? Liliana has said that the writing for this job, and the hit - were very similar" she lifted a brow. "Would the captain be behind it?" she questioned.
Crow stiffened slightly and then sighed. "A lot of the uh.. underground work tends to work through the Cartel, the Captain is surely apart of the Cartel. It's how most of them make their money. I doubt he wrote the hit, but whoever he works with probably did... The Cartel tends to cut the jobs, like a sponsorship, so they also write the postings" he nodded. "but of course, I didn't say anything to you about it"
"Right... figures. Thanks Crow.. You've been a good friend of mine" she slapped the table. "I have some ale to deliver, take care old friend" she spoke and then made her way out of the tavern.
Freya burped as she exited and then waved to Liliana to the back of the Tavern. There were several barrels waiting. She held a hand out and a black matter began to form before it, it was a giant blob at first but then it began to morph. It turned into a large wheelbarrow, made of a strong black like steel.
She then lifted each barrel and carefully stacked them into the wheelbarrow. "Oh here we go" she held a hand forward and a small seat formed on the side of the Wheelbarrow. "Wouldn't be service - if you had to actually work" she winked "Sit" she nodded and then lifted the two handles and tilted the wheelbarrow up slightly and began to walk. She barely had to push - the wheels turned easily, though the amount of weight was actually quite a lot.
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Anomaly
Jul 3, 2021 12:48:17 GMT -5
via mobile
Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 3, 2021 12:48:17 GMT -5
Liliana stood before the tavern her ocean hues gazed about as the sun was beginning to set over the horizon. The skies rumbled with the storm that would approached the city by sundown. She stepped forward to another post that was full of postings for odds jobs and she searched through it. She walked around it carefully. “Ah…” She grasped another paper and pulled the small torn piece from her pocket and compared the lettering. It was the same. She looked over the page. It was a strange flyer.
Afraid of the dark? Wondering what is crawling around in the shadows? Jumping at every corner? No need to be afraid again. Hire one of our skilled bodyguards and you will once again feel safe in your own city.
It had an address at the bottom. A residence near the port. She tilted her head as she looked over the writing. When she heard a loud burp she lifted her eyes and a chuckle came over her lips. “Vikings aren’t taught the same manners as us mainlanders are you?” She smiled gently. “My mother would have scolded me for that.” She chuckled again as she followed Freya around the back of the building. She frowned slightly when she saw that there was not a cart. “How are we supposed to….?” She began to ask her question just as Freya formed the wheelbarrow. Her brows rose and a smirk curved up her lips. “Oh…that’s one way to do it.” She laughed. Then when Freya made the chair for her she shook her head. “Freya that looks…heavy..uh…” But the way the woman looked to her Liliana didn’t want to argue. “Okay…okay getting on.” She replied as she sat on the chair.
To Liliana’s surprise it seemed effortless for the Viking to lift the weight of the cart. She gazed about with an amused smile upon her lips. “So…I found another flyer, same handwriting. It’s for bodyguards…someone searching for a bodyguard at least.” She spoke as she held the paper up. “I’m thinking whomever writes these must be intertwined with a lot of things in this city…I just…wonder what my father could have done to deserve…” Her voice fell off and a sigh came over her lips. “There are radicals…” She spoke up. “Those that hate the gifted…” She stared to the flyer. “They want to kill those that were gifted with the light…because it is unnatural. My father was very proud that I was chosen by the goddess to receive such powers…what if he was killed because of me?” She asked her voice cracked at the end slightly.
Soon enough they came to the port and Liliana hopped off of the cart. The captain chuckled as he looked to the two. “Well if that wasn’t quick.” He pulled two gold coins. “A tip.” He winked to Liliana as he handed her the coins. “Don’t forget to share with Freya.” He smirked. “Be back first thing in the mornin’ we will be getting underway before the sun is fully up. If you aren’t on the ship I’m not waitin’ around.” He chuckled as he climbed the ramp onto the ship.
Liliana looked to Freya and gave a soft smile. She held the gold coin toward her. “I’m not so sure I could have even made it this far without you.” She gave a soft laugh. “I might have just been sitting in my home staring at the old pictures of my family…” She drew in a long breath. “Shall we look into this then?” She asked as she started walking along. She made her way through the streets and stopped at the end of one of the blocks. Her head tilted to the side slightly. “Hm.” She hummed as she crossed her arms over her chest. “You hang back, hm?” She glanced to Freya. “I’ll um…I’ll see how much they charge for a bodyguard.” She gave a nervous smile.
The young elf walked forward then toward the home. She could hear talking from the other side of the door as she came to it. She felt the eyes of two men on the corner look to her as their conversation broke. They looked rough. Like someone that could easily overpower a small woman like herself. She bit her lip as she lifted her hand to knock on the door. She hastily pulled the letter from her pocket. The door opened and a young woman looked to her. “Hello, how can I help you?” The woman asked with a warm smile.
Liliana lifted up the flyer. “I…just haven’t been feeling so…comfortable lately.” She glanced over her shoulder to the two men that were still watching.
The young woman gave a gentle smile. “Of course, hun. Come on inside.”
Liliana hesitated slightly. “O-okay.” She stepped forward and followed the woman into the home.
“Have a seat. Tea?” The woman pointed to the couch and held a mug of fresh hot tea forward.
Liliana looked to the couch as she took the mug. “oh…thank you.” She smiled. She took a sip from the tea.
“Just a moment, hun.” The woman stepped from the room.
Liliana sipped upon the tea as she looked about the home. It was finely decorated. Cozy. Warm. She took another sip, followed by another. She sat down on the couch after a few minutes of waiting. The tea was the best she’d ever had. She had to ask what leaves the woman had put into it.
The sound of footsteps approached. The woman returned with a man that held a thick beard upon his chin. Though the sounds of their footsteps seemed muffled somehow. Suddenly the man was leaning down and looking Liliana over. “You’re sure?” He asked, his voice sounded so far away.
“Yes, yes of course I’m sure.” She spoke as she grasped the empty mug of tea.
The man grasped Liliana’s chin and chuckled lightly. “I can’t believe it was that easy.” He spoke. By this point Liliana’s eyes had begun to flutter, the world was caving in around her. Her breathing had become shallow and quick as she tried to fight against it. The man chuckled as he watched her struggling. “Don’t fight it, you’re mine now, Liliana Morgenson.” He had a wicked grin upon his lips. Liliana bat away his hand and she muttered unintelligible words. “How strong did you make that cup?” He questioned as he tossed Liliana over his shoulder.
“Strong enough.” The woman replied with a chuckle. “She’s gifted, one can never be too careful. That’s what Ripper taught me at least.”
“Let…go…” Liliana muttered as she felt her consciousness fading away. “Put…me down….”
The man chuckled, “I’ll get her downstairs in case someone comes looking for her.” He spoke as he walked from the room and down a flight of stairs into the basement.
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