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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 21, 2021 0:01:59 GMT -5
Amara looked up to Tora as the woman laughed, she chuckled lightly as she was helped up. “Apologies. I...will have to work on my technique with an axe. My people don’t use an axe as a weapon.” She smirked slightly and then followed Tora. “Flame arrows?” She grinned and then listened carefully. “Ohhh this could work.” She nodded. She watched Tora, almost in awe of the woman. She was a true master of the art of war it seemed. She pulled her bow and looked to the quiver that was held forward, a chuckle came over her lips. “Ready.” She drew one of the arrows from the quiver.
The princess focused in and watched carefully. She dipped the arrow into the brazier and watched. As Tora yelled fire she stood perfectly still. The command was a moment too early. The elf drew in and held her breath before she loosed the arrow. The flames crackled as the arrow shot across the sky. It punctured the orb it burst into a rain of fire on the would be battle field below.
The rain of fire was mesmerizing, Amara held her bow at her side and grinned as she looked to Tora. “A few of these orbs could take down an entire troop of King Alexander’s men...without us so much as having to put up a fight.” She chuckled. “Your call was a bit early.” She smirked. “Again.” She nodded and pulled another arrow. She lit it aflame. “To get this just right the trajectory of the orb needs to be just about….” She paused as she held her breath and she loosed another arrow. As the arrow soared through the air it pierced into the orb. This time the way that the fire rained down upon the battle field...it was different. The fire arched forward and spat down upon the open area. It would have caught even more enemies a flame, the other way the fire came down almost directly upon the field. This way it was more spread out.
“How about that?” Amara smiled brightly. “Could you imagine? Five of these orbs being hit at the same time. Sure we’ve used flaming arrows against our enemy before...but for it to create a bomb like this? For fire to rain down upon them? They wouldn’t be able to escape. It would be like a firestorm.” She pondered for a moment. “We could take it a step further...with magic...I would need to ask my mother. My magic...it isn’t nearly as strong as hers, but we could boost this fire with magic...” She nodded, “I think that would turn the tables on the battlefield. They wouldn’t expect it at all.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 21, 2021 0:17:03 GMT -5
Tora grinned and stepped back – she watched the rain of fire. “Ahhh… amazing” she smiled brightly as the Princess spoke about it – to improve it. “We have good aim… but it takes quite the skilled archer to hit the orb like that… I noticed it about you, and your people – you have incredible aim and sharp vision. I knew after seeing you shoot the other day that my idea was finally possible” she smirked. “Will you teach your people?” she questioned.
“This is also how you win a war… you invent, you stay ahead of your enemies capabilities...” she chuckled. “Many people think of us as savages and blood hungry fools. This.. is true, but they also don’t think of strategic, inventive and destructive” she laughed and looked to her village. “Its why I can confidently bring 200 people as my force. My 200 equals mosts 2,000. And that is being conservative….” Tora chuckled.
“Well, go work on your assignment. I want to have your fancy Port Wine again tonight, with your mother. We can discuss more battle strategies?” she questioned.
“Seer” A woman approached, the Shield Maiden looked to Amara and bowed her head slightly. She turned back to Tora. “It is nearly time”
“Tonight, m’lady” Tora bowed her head and then turned into the village.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 21, 2021 0:45:40 GMT -5
Amara grinned as she looked to Tora, “Our rangers begin training as soon as they are old enough to load the bow. With how long we live too...it gives us an advantage.” She smirked and chuckled lightly. She looked back out to the fire as it crackled, “It makes sense. To stay ahead of your enemy...to have an advantage.” She seemed to think a moment. “Your warriors make up for the numbers because of how skilled they are. The way that your warriors fight is unlike anything else, so the enemy that you face does not know how to handle it. It is impressive.” She smiled again. “The disadvantage of my people is that we are built for stealth. We are built for distance. We do not normally fight with a sword or an axe. We would much prefer a bow.” She smiled and shook her head slightly. “I will teach my people. I will take this to Captain Eldrin. We will begin the training as early as tomorrow.”
Amara then raised her brow slightly as Tora mentioned more wine and her mother. She went to speak but as she did a woman walked up. The princess drew in a breath as the Seer was taken away to her duties. “Tonight then.” She spoke, a bit too late. She walked to her horse that was tied off and climbed upon it. She smirked slightly as she looked to Rhys’ horse. She then turned and looked to the village a long moment. The princess rode back to the castle quickly and made her way from the stables to her mother’s study. She knocked upon the door and pushed it open. “Mother?” She questioned.
The queen looked up from her journal and smiled, “Amara, darling.” She closed the leather bound book and set it aside. “How was your training this morning?” She questioned as she stood and stepped to her. She embraced her daughter a long moment.
Amara smiled and hugged her mother back. “It was good. I went to the viking village and learned quite a bit from Tora.” She spoke as she looked to the desk. Her eyes fell upon the vase of flowers. “Ohh these are gorgeous.” She stepped up and sniffed the fresh flowers.
“Aren’t they?” The queen stepped over. “The Seer picked those for me this morning. Thoughtful. They are quite beautiful.” She had a warm smile upon her lips.
The princess turned and looked to her mother, her eyes searched over the queen a long moment. “Tora did?” She questioned curiously.
“Yes, yes. She brought me breakfast and tea, and the flowers.” The queen smiled, delighted. She gave a chuckle. “I don’t know how she did it but she plucked my favorite flower. It was really kind of her to do such a thing.” She spoke before she sat down at her desk.
Amara watched her mother a moment, “I see...Tora has asked to come for more wine this evening. I imagine you are welcome to that idea. She wants to talk more war strategies. She has tasked me to come up with a plan and put it all on paper, so that is what I shall do this afternoon.”
“Oh did she?” The queen smiled once again. “I cannot wait to hear your plans, dear.” She drew in a breath, “I have to finish my letter to the scouts. Busy day.” She spoke and smiled to Amara. “I will see you for dinner then?”
“Yes of course mother.” The princess spoke as she turned from the room. Amara made her way through the castle and to the servant quarters. “Liliana.” She spoke as she pushed the door open. The girl sat at her desk and looked to the princess with wide eyes. “Come with me.” She spoke as she led her from the room and through the castle to her own room. The princess paced slightly and then looked to the young elf. “Tell me what it is that you were hinting to...Tora brought my mother flowers and breakfast...is that it?” She questioned her brows furrowed.
Liliana sucked in a breath as she looked to the princess. She’d never felt such energy from the woman before. “I do believe that the viking is trying to swoon the queen, princess...it would put her people at an advantage...it could cloud the queen’s judgement.” She spoke and then bit her lip.
The princess stared to Liliana a long moment, she drew in a breath, “I see. Understood. Thank you for letting me know, Liliana. I will see to it.” The princess nodded toward the door. She paced for a long time before she finally sat at her desk and began writing out her plans. Before she knew it the sun was beginning to set. Winds kicked up as a storm pushed into the area. Huge flakes of snow began to fall. It would be the first big winter storm of the season.
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Post by Raven on Dec 21, 2021 16:38:19 GMT -5
Tora’s boots crunched over the winter snow – she made her way to the center of the village. She wore long brown robes that were fluffy and dense. Woven in the robes were bones and raven feathers… The Robe of the Seer – it was an ancient attire that her ancestors wore before her. The ones she read about in the journal… Tora approached the center of the village, where the bonfire was. Her people circle around her until it was a giant mass of bodies, circled around a single woman…
Tora raised both of her hands “The All Father watches” she spoke with a clear and strong voice. “He has watched us travel across the seas, venture into the world he reigns over. I saw Freya in a distant dream, she has been watching these people.. helping them. Odin brought us here – to bond with these people, unite with them – as he shall with his lost lover.” She held a hand up and turned around to view the crowd.
“And so the first winter of our time comes. Today we emerge into a new realm of time. The age where Viking expand and grow, the Time of Plenty begins now…” she pulled out a bronze bowl. She set the bowl down on a large stump and then pulled her axe out. “I bleed for you, Odin. My blood symbolizes my honor, my strength, my weakness, and my lifeline. I bleed for you, Odin” she sliced her axe across her palm and then she squeezed her hand. A small pool of blood gathered in the bowl…
A woman handed Tora a cloth and she wrapped her hand quickly. She turned her head and nodded. A woman began to play the harp, behind her a man played the drum with her. It was relaxing and she sang… As she sang – a man approached the bowl and cut his hand, drops of his blood fell into the bowl and he received a cloth as well. “Odin – my blood is yours” he spoke and then looked to Tora.
Tora stepped forward and dipped a thumb into the bowl and then drew a line of blood starting above his eye and then down to his chin. She nodded and watched him walk away. One by one – each Viking spilled their blood into the bowl…
“Yule is upon us” Tora spoke and smirked. The last viking woman approached – she was swollen in the stomach, pregnant. Tora smiled and watched as she drew her blood. Tora stepped forward and reached for the robes around the woman, keeping her warm and her pregnant belly covered. She exposed the woman so her stomach stuck outward, bare and pale. Tora knelt onto one knee – she drew a sigil on the stomach of the woman in blood. She took in a breath and let it go slowly “A beautiful future for your son” she spoke softly. When she spoke the words – son. The entire village began to cheer and shout. The mother covered her smile with a hand and start to cry, and laugh, at the same time.
“Yule is upon us!” Tora shouted again and then laughed loudly. Finally Yvette approached Tora and dipped a finger into the bowl – she stepped forward and drew the line on Tora’s face as well. Tora smiled and bowed her head. “Egrit – you shall do the honors” she spoke to the pregnant woman. Egrit was a petite woman, blonde hair – braided and pulled back. She stepped towards the bowl and lifted it… she then stepped over to Tora and held the bowl high in the air.
The village began to chant in unison, they pounded their feet on the ground on beat. The plains began to shake and rumble with the sound of the village. Then it burst into cheering and shouting as the bowl was turned over – the blood poured out of the bowl. Tora held her hands forward and the blood pooled in her hands, and then it poured over her hands and between her fingers. It was still warm.. the Blood hit the snow and seeped into the cold earth…
Before the night was over – the largest bonfire Tora had ever seen was crafted, away from the village slightly. They began to expand the village into the empty plains. A fire was erected – so massive and bright that it could be seen as a faint glowing spotlight from the castle…
Tora found herself back in the tent, she removed her ritual robes and situated herself. Yvette entered the tent and smiled as she stood before her.
“I thought this day would never come” she spoke and then sat down on the couch. “You had been saying.. for so long. To come here, to the mainlands” she shook her head “Here we are… you really are capable of anything, aren’t you – Tora?” she smiled and sighed happily.
“I was born for this, Yvette” Tora spoke as she shifted her cloak onto her shoulders. “Celebrations begin tonight, will you over see the village?” she questioned.
Yvette tilted her head “You aren’t going to attend?” she questioned curiously.
“Ah, I have done my part in Celebrating” she smirked “I want you to make sure the celebration space can accommodate several hundreds of people… I am going to talk to the Queen tonight about Yuletide” she spoke and crossed her arms. “Include them on our festivities, as guests”
“Ahhh, yes. Of course” Yvette nodded “I thought for a second you were running off to pound Hilda in secret” she winked and then stood. “It is a time for celebration, we should share it” she nodded and then left the tent.
Tora gathered her things and then made her way out… before she knew it she stood in the courtyard of the castle. She dusted off some snow that gathered on her shoulders, and then stepped into the huge open gate of the castle. She walked through it for some time until she came upon the study of the Queen… she held a hand up and then knocked on the door. After a moment – she cracked the door and stepped inside. “My Queen” she bowed her head and smiled. She still had the red line that crossed her eye, and her hands were still slightly red from the blood. Blood she never washed off, but it came off naturally.
“The Journal you gave me..” she lifted it and turned it about in her hands. “Speaks of Vikings I wish I could have met… life was different back then.. So much has changed that has shaped my people” she shook her head. “Did you read the whole thing?” she questioned.
“You probably did, the moment I wrote to you the first time” she laughed slightly and then set the book down. “Did you read of his experience of Yule?” she crossed her arms. “Not much has changed at least in that, Yuletide is the highlight of Viking celebrations…” she cleared her throat slightly.
“Yule is the celebration of Odin, as Yule was actually once a name of his. It marks the turn of the year – the great winter. Despite the cold, wind and snows – we burn our fires bright, nothing can keep Odin from hearing our spirit” she smirked and then she cleared her throat once more. As if she was nervous. “Traditionally – the Jarl of the Clan would lead these events, but I am playing this role as Seer and leader of my expedition” she placed a hand on the book and looked down to it as it sat upon her desk. “What would you think about you, and your people being Guests in our celebrations? A new turn of the year, a new rise – that is what is happening right now, isn’t it?” she questioned with a hopeful smile. “I am not trying to convert.. I will never do that to you, or your people. I want to be these Vikings in this book” she pointed to the book.
“I want to Welcome all Spirits, I want to spread life and joy. I want to be who we were meant to be” she took in a breath. “Forgive me, I just had this feeling in my chest, I felt the need to rush to you and share.” She laughed then “So um, what do you think?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 21, 2021 21:01:46 GMT -5
The queen finished her letter and she carefully sealed it with a wax seal of her kingdom. She stood and walked from her study. Raenisa walked to the carrier pigeon room and she handed the letter to the handler. “Ensure that this gets to our scouts before the storm sets in.” She spoke and gave a nod to the man. He bowed deeply and took the letter from his queen before he turned and began preparing one of the hawks for flight. Their fastest bird. Raenisa stepped back into the hallway only to be approached by someone else. Her amber hues looked to the young elf who bowed to her. “My queen.” The woman spoke she was the public advisor for the queen. “Yenearsira is today. Have you made preparations?” She questioned. “Tomorrow will begin Hrive ‘Isia…” “Is it that time…already…?” The queen questioned her brows pulled into a furrow. She let out a breath, “Time has gotten away from me. I cannot believe that the winter solstice is already upon us, yet winter pushes at our very kingdom.” She began walking once again. “We will celebrate, as per usual. This year, we must celebrate the end of Velirtran…the end of this thirteen year cycle…it marks the beginning of something new, Nimue. It is not by luck that we have gained our new allies. It is by the sole purpose of the gods. We have been given another chance at life.” Nimue gazed to her queen, “I have brought tidings for meditation to your study. I have also prepared gifts for our people to pick up from the temple within the city. Teas and herbs to burn just as we normally do. Is there anything else that you would like to add to it?” She questioned. “Make more than usual. I wish to offer some of our gifts to the Vikings.” “My queen…the humans do not prac---…” “I wish to offer them gifts of Yenearsira. Bring the basket to my study when you’ve completed them. I understand that they have different practices. But I would like to share ours.” The queen spoke, her voice strong. She looked to the young woman and then nodded. “We should share ourselves, hm? Not every encounter that we have with humans has to end like it did with Alexander.” Nimue drew in a breath, she did not look happy with this decision that the queen made. “My queen.” She spoke and was given a stern look. “I will ensure that the gifts are just as beautiful as the ones I have prepared for our city.” She bowed and ushered herself away quickly. Raenisa made her way back to her study where she gathered the small ball that was wrapped in silk and tied with a beautiful ribbon. She opened it to reveal a ball of packed herbs for tea, it was contained in a tight mesh material. The queen placed another pack of herbs over the fire and soon the room began to fill with the scent of sage and lavender. She sat with her mug of tea in hand and she began to meditate. This was custom on the day of Yenearsira…or Yeartide. It was the first day of the winter solstice, marking the end of the death that autumn brings. This is the first day of Hrive ‘Isia…or Winterfest. This day is believed to bring purity to the world around them from the blanket of snow that lies over the crust of the world. It is the changing from old to new. To honor this day properly the elves spend it in quiet meditation. The people of the city may discuss in quiet voices the past and share thoughts of the future to come. But elves regard the practice of feasting and drinking senselessly on this day to be barbaric…such as the tradition of humans. It is a day to honor the god Labelas Enorath’s effort to bring longevity to all the elves, as he is father time. The next 12 days however are spent in celebration and merriment. Gifts are given, parties are thrown, gatherings are had. Yenearsira is seen as a holy day, but Hrive ‘Isia is the true embodiment of yeartide. The queen spent the remainder of the day like this in meditation, she drank her tea slowly. At one point she even dared to enter the fade. Raenisa stood upon the snowy mountain. Her breath was stolen from her by the icy air. And yet, she wore a smile upon her lips as she gazed out over the beautiful landscape. A landscape only fit for the gods. The beautiful mountains that were captured by snow jutted into the beautiful blue skies as a full moon oversaw the valley below.
“Raenisa.” A voice came from behind her. A gust of wind blew as the queen turned to see a beautiful elven woman stand before her. The woman held amber hues just like her own, fiery red hair, she wore a beautiful red dress with golden trim.
Hanali Celanil - Goddess of Love
The queen stared to the beautiful woman, this goddess she had not seen before. But she knew exactly who she was. Hanali Celanil. The goddess that oversaw love itself. “Hanali.” She spoke her ancient elvish flowed beautifully from her lips.
The goddess smirked slightly as she stepped forward. “Come.” She held her hand forward. The goddess smiled as the queen took her hand. “Good.” She spoke as she pulled the queen forward. Suddenly the world around them began to morph and change. They stood in a lush forest before a beautiful spring of crystal clear water. “It’s okay.” Hanali spoke as she began to walk into the water. She glanced over her shoulder as she towed the queen into the water. “Tath ‘Neleutha.” It was the ancient words used to describe yeartide. “The end of a cycle of a hard thirteen years, young Raenisa.” She stood facing the woman her eyes gazed to her. “You’ve proven to be stronger than many around you. You’ve withstood many, many trials. You've stood broken for far too long. Now…” She smiled and tilted her head. “Release yourself. Allow the yeartide to bring you anew.” She placed her hand upon the Queen’s cheek. The goddess smiled and then nodded as she lowered the queen into the water. She dipped her head beneath the water and then she began to speak in the ancient tongue. The queen did not struggle, she gave complete trust in the goddess as she was held beneath the water. Even as her lungs burned for air, she did not fight. Bubbles began to rise from the water as time went on. Though Hanali continued to speak, her voice gentle. Just as Raenisa’s body jerked from lack of oxygen the goddess brought her up, her hand cupped beneath the queen’s jaw as she brought her above the water. Raenisa leaned into the woman’s touch as she breathed deeply her eyes still closed. “You’ve much ahead of you.” Hanali spoke, “The cycle begins anew. Draedan will bring many new things to you and your people. Allow it. Accept the change.” She whispered in the queen’s ear before there was a gust of air and the world around Raenisa went dark.The queen opened her eyes finally, she stared to the snow that was accumulating upon the balcony. The sun was set. Had she meditated that long? There was a knock at the door then. The queen stood and turned just as the door opened. “Seer.” She spoke as she drew in a breath. Her amber hues seemed more striking than usual, renewed with life almost. She looked to the blood upon Tora’s face and her eyes moved to the woman’s hands as she brought the journal out and seemed to inspect it. Raenisa moved to stand near Tora as she spoke of the journal. A slight smirk curved up her lips, “Of course I’ve read the journal. I’ve plenty more to offer you, that is just the beginning of my grandfather’s travels. I have made it a point to read through his work, as well as my father’s. I have even read the journals of my fallen King. I search for answers within the pages…” Raenisa tilted her head as the woman spoke of Yule and Yuletide. She allowed Tora to speak on the subject, to tell her exactly what it was. Her grandfather didn’t detail it too deeply. She imagined it was because he partook in the celebration and was drunk himself. Too drunk to recollect everything that happened. She smirked as she saw the nervousness in Tora. “No need to be nervous, Seer. You are right, we should share our traditions. How are we to be one with another without sharing in such a celebration? Tomorrow we shall join in on the celebration. However, today is the beginning of our own holiday. Much like your Yuletide.” She smiled. “I don’t believe my grandfather wrote of it in that journal. He was far too busy among your people. Ah here.” She stepped over to a small table, Nimue had entered into her study while she was meditating and brought a basket full of gifts for the Vikings. “Today begins the world anew. The snow shows us that, hm?” She brought the basket over to her desk and set it next to Tora. “Today is a holy day for my people. We meditate.” She smirked. “I was visited by one of our goddesses, and…” She let out a chuckle. “I feel revived…I feel different…it is hard to explain.” She leaned against the desk as well as she looked to the woman. “I believe we should share our traditions with one another. Tomorrow we begin the twelve days of winterfest. There will be plenty of partying and drinking to be had.” She smiled to Tora, her eyes glanced to the bouquet of flowers again she as thought of her morning. “So I think that this is an excellent idea. Shall we celebrate with a drink?” She asked as she stood and walked across the room to grasp two wine glasses to which she poured a deep red wine into it. She stepped back to Tora, “To a new beginning, to the new rise of Armalon with a new kin to celebrate with.” She held her glass forward and clinked it with Tora. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 21, 2021 22:49:46 GMT -5
Tora smiled brightly as the Queen seem to accept her request, with open arms. “You saw another goddess?” she questioned and put a finger to her chin. “It is considered a great honor to witness a single event with a God, even to see them in the distance in passing, or a symbolic gesture” she lifted a brow “To witness yet another? It a positive manner? My Queen – you are Chosen” she looked as sincere as she could manage. “Perhaps I am the one blessed by your presence, perhaps I am the one being saved” she smirked and then stepped over towards the couch.
“I would love the next volume, I have read that book twice already” Tora listened to the woman speak of her rituals. “A day for meditating...” she nodded. “I would love to hear more about your practice of winterfest. I find it interesting that we both celebrate on the same day – yes, Winter Solstice. The shortest day of the year, and the beginning of the new” she smirked “Interesting how similar we truly are” she grinned and then followed the Queen over to her wine table. She accepted a glass and held it up to her.
“To the most beautiful of Queen’s, and her grand city in the mountains, to her people – I wish for prosperity and success for all eternity. If it was for me to grant, you would have it.” she held her glass up. “I am grateful, and honored” she paused and then smirked “Skol” she took a sip and released a happy sigh. “This is the good stuff, huh” she smiled and made her way to the couch. Tora took off her cloak and laid it over the back of the couch.
“On the first day of Yule – we offer only the greatest sacrifice to Odin. We offer him our blood” she raised a brow. “Not like blood magic, no.. just symbolic. Vikings take blood very seriously – the only proper death is blood shed in war. We blood for none but ourselves, our people, and our Gods. The only time we willingly bleed is as a message to Odin.” she smirked. “Many see our traditions as barbaric, but they are full of passion, energy and love...” she took a long sip of her wine and swirled it slightly.
“So, each viking offers their blood” she held her hand out – which was wrapped in a now red cloth. “We offer ourselves, and then I – as the Seer – paint the Life Line from the offerings” she pointed to her red line on her face. “We offer to Odin, and then Bind ourselves together with the blood of our Clan” she then held her hand out. “The remaining blood is poured over my hands, as I guide them – I absorb their essence and hold us together” she smirked “the blood that spills from my hands then enters the Earth, the final offering – to the lands we stand upon” she took another sip.
“So, you meditate… what is the purpose? Is it to align yourself, and start new?” she questioned. “I would love to learn more, I think it would be very interesting for your people to partake in Yuletide, and mine to participate in Winterfest, then perhaps we can find similar traits and combine them?” she smirked “So, tell me more about your celebration, what happens tomorrow?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 21, 2021 23:32:31 GMT -5
The queen nodded she took a sip from her wine, “Yes another goddess. One that I have only read about. One that I am not certain many see. But she binds us to who we truly shall become, so...Hanali is a very important goddess to my people. She is spoken of as the goddess of love, but she aligns the soul. She brings those who are lost back to balance. She gives purpose. She does many things.” The queen spoke the words and then offered a soft smile to Tora. “It gives me much hope, to see her, to have an interaction with her. She spoke that I must accept what is given and that I shall start anew with this new years cycle.” The queen nodded and grinned when Tora noted that their people started their celebration on the same day, the Winter Solstice.
Raenisa blushed as Tora spoke of her as the most beautiful queen. She shook her head slightly, but she held her glass up. “As I am grateful for you to have reached out to me, Tora.” She gave another smile before she joined the viking upon the couch. “Skol.” The queen said with a bit of difficulty with her elvish accent, which only caused her to laugh slightly. “Perhaps I shall just drink to it.” She sat on the couch with Tora. “Indeed this is some of the best wine we have in Armalon.” Raenisa smirked slightly. The queen swirled her wine and sipped from it as she listened to the woman speak of Yule.
The queen looked to her as she spoke of the blood offering, she tilted her head slightly. “Many see the tradition of offering one’s blood to be barbaric yes. But you know, Seer, we are not too terribly different.” She watched the woman a long moment. “The memory that you peered into of mine. That is a normal ritual for a young elf to partake in. It is a commune with the gods. Each and every elf of Armalon will offer their blood to commune with the gods at least once in their lifetime. Upon the solstice sometimes, yes. There are plenty of celebrations that we partake in throughout the year that long ago required an offering of one’s blood. In the recent centuries it has begun to fade away. But there are still traditions that remain.”
Raenisa fell quiet to listen to her speak more. She looked to the woman’s blood stained wrapped hand. Her eyes searched over it a long moment as she listened carefully to Tora. “It sounds as though it is full of quite a bit of passion. I’m certain it is a very special time for your people.” The queen spoke and sipped from her wine. She sat back against the couch and gazed to Tora as she questioned about meditation. “The meditation is a way for us to reconcile the year, to quietly celebrate the past and welcome the future. Some will enter the fade, very few will be approached by the gods. Even fewer will have an interaction such as I have today. In all my years...this is the most the gods have spoken to me.” She paused a moment to think. The queen seemed to ponder the vision she had from the fade a long time before she shook her head slightly.
“My advisor Nimue has put together several gifts for your people. The tea is special. It helps you to calm and center yourself. In preparation for the Yeartide.” The queen shifted and gazed to Tora. “We meditate so that we may offer ourselves to our gods. So that we may accept the changes that will be brought with the new year.” She gave a gentle smile, “It can be difficult to understand...I know...the people from Alexander never quite seemed to understand our ways...” She seemed almost nervous. “We haven’t shared our practices with anyone...sense...” She pressed her lips together.
She swirled her wine a moment and then offered a smile. “Apologies.” The queen spoke, “Tomorrow is the beginning of our Winterfest. That means the next 12 days will be filled with plenty of merriment.” She took another sip of her wine, she was nearly halfway through her glass already. “We will begin the festival with a hunt. Even in the times of war I have ensured that we continue our traditions each year. It brings joy to my people...I believe your people would enjoy the hunt. It marks the beginning of this new year. We begin with a feast larger than any other that we hold, we feast upon the spoils of the hunt, and we drink to it.” The queen smiled. “I would very much like for your people to participate in this. Just as I will ensure that my people partake in your Yuletide celebration.” She swirled her wine and then finished off the glass. The queen had not had much to eat, so her cheeks were already slightly pink from the alcohol. “I am curious to see just how similar we may be. Hm?” She stood, “Oh and another journal.” She spoke as she stepped over to her desk. She grasped the old journal and then stepped over to a chest. She opened it and carefully thumbed through a few things she moved aside a few books and then pulled another book out. “This should be the next journal.” She smiled as she came back to Tora. “I am happy that you enjoyed reading of your ancestors so much. Times changed, and your people did what they had to do...much like my own people. We do not easily trust outsiders anymore. But...I hope that with your help I can change that.” The queen smiled as she stepped over to the bottle of wine and poured herself another. She leaned over and topped Tora’s glass off. “Tell me more of your Yuletide. What will tomorrow entail?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 22, 2021 0:20:24 GMT -5
Tora thought for a moment and leaned back. “I wonder if our people have ever met before...” she pondered. “I mean, in a fashion you and I have” she sighed. “It is interesting – at this very minute – you have the most knowledge of my people than anyone else in the world. These Journals tell me more about my people than I even knew” she chuckled “Things are just making sense now” she held her wine glass up towards the Queen as she came with the bottle.
“I was explaining this to Amara – just how powerful History is, writing – these books unlock the future of my people. I did not realize just how important documentation of the events is – until today. It is not really our culture to write our things down… we live in the now, we sing songs and tell tales, that is how history is spread… but you and I both know as a Leader, I need more than songs and tales” she stood and took the journal from the woman. “Thank you for this” she held the book up and brought it to her chest.
She took a long swig of her wine and leaned back into the couch. She looked to the fireplace and the fire that danced within… “In truth… I see you and...” she scoffed slightly and gave a gentle chuckle. “Well, I admire you. As a leader, as a Queen, a woman -” she paused and her cheeks turned slightly pink. She cleared her throat and took a long sip of her wine again.
“Um, anyways” she set the book down on the coffee table and crossed her legs. “A wild Hunt huh?” she questioned and nodded. “I do like a good competition! That is an interesting concept” she leaned back in her seat. “Mm – so, the first day is Day of Rememberance. Before we can be born renewed – we must reflect on the past, just like your meditation might accomplish...” she smirked “but we do it with song, story, and tale”
“We wake in the morning and we fast – only water and tea can be consumed. The day is quiet – we prepare for feasts and celebrations. Then when midday comes – the drinking begins. We continue to fast and only drink mead and ale. When the sunsets – the feast begins. People dream all day of the meal – only the highest quality, food that has been preparing all day. So, we’re pissed ass drunk by this time” she laughed. “We sit together as a clan and as we eat – we talk. The first we discuss – is the names of those who have died this year. We share stories, we eat and drink and laugh in their honor. After some time – we talk about our youth, stories of their mischief, failures and successes. Then we speak of each other, and before the night is over – the leader , or Jarl, would tell the tales of the Gods, of Odin, Thor and Loki, the sons and daughters, the wars” she shook her head.
“And you eat and feast until the sun rises” she laughed. “Or until your body gives out” she laughed then. “The best celebrations is the initial first day, and of course the very last day…. But The Day of Rememberance is the best, at least I think. I can never remember the night” she laughed heartily. “Now… you do not have to drink until your insides fall out… no, but – you will have to share stories” she smiled brightly.
“I suppose if we partake in your Wild Hunt – I could allow at least breakfast. Can’t fight and fast” she tilted her head “Have you ever allowed Amara to participate? That girl has wild talent with the bow. I bet you if I can group with her tomorrow – we’ll win the whole bag” she nodded “I would bet my axe on it” she finished her wine and stood.
Tora helped herself to the bottle, she finished it off between her own glass and Raenisa’s. “I hope years from now – I can tell the story of us. How the mountains exacted her revenge, and the joyful living of all kinds came to be the everyday normal” she lifted her wine glass and finished the rest of her glass.
“Wait – what if” she spoke with a gentle slur. “What – would you rather participate in the Wild Hunt? I wonder” she smirked “When is the last time you even picked up your weapon?” she shook her head “No, it should be You and Me – we’ll make all those hopeful kids wish they were half the duo as us” she stepped forward and placed both hands on the back of the couch. “Would you fight along side me, m’lady?” she bowed deeply – yet playfully. “If only, a dear girl could dream” she mimicked their Elvish accent, though it was extreme and overdone. “I am but just a lowly viking woman, to fight along such a beauty – this would be no greater honor… I think” she sniffed playfully, as if she was crying. “I could die then… yes… yes I could” she then burst into laughter, unable to keep up the charade.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 22, 2021 1:08:46 GMT -5
“Hm.” The queen sipped at her wine, “Perhaps in a distant past our people met. It is entirely possible that one of my ancestors spent time among your people. Perhaps that is why some of our customs overlap.” She smiled and shook her head slightly. “That is precisely why my people keep such a good journal of the past. Sometimes I sit and read through the old tales...so that the same mistakes are hopefully not made again...” She sipped from her glass again as she raised a brow to Tora. The woman spoke of her daughter and a smile curved up her lips. It made the queen happy that Amara had gone to the vikings to learn more about them. She’d kept her daughter full of curiosity, rather than fueling a fear from one encounter. The queen grinned as Tora hugged the journal to her chest like a young school child excited to learn what was within the pages.
The queen leaned against the cough as she looked to the viking. She chuckled lightly, “It is quite the competition. Those that participate quite enjoy the rush of adrenaline. One is scored on the beasts that are taken down, as well as the speed and precision.” She smiled and tilted her head as she listened to Tora speak of her customs. “I would be interested in hearing some of the tales and songs.” She nodded. She listened then as Tora laid out the second day of their Yuletide festival. It was completely different, and yet similar to their Winterfest. She smiled as she listened to the Seer, “Honoring the fallen is something that we do on the second day of Winterfest. I enjoy that you honor your fallen as well. They deserve recognition.” She spoked and swirled her wine within her glass. “Ahhh the Jarl tells the tale of the gods, then you’ll be telling the tales this year, hm?” She smirked slightly.
Raenisa smiled as she listened to Tora laugh, the queen enjoyed how much passion the Seer had when she spoke. She raised a brow slightly as Tora asked if Amara ever participated in the hunt. The queen shook her head, “Oh no. Amara doesn’t participate in the hunt...” She paused as she listened to Tora, the excitement in her voice. “Amara is quite skilled...” She commented before she finished her glass. She held hers forward as Tora continued to speak. She grinned, “We shall write it in a journal and share it in song.” She spoke, “About how the elves of the mountains became friends with the vikings of the seas.”
It was then that Tora spoke that the queen should participate in the hunt. The queen chuckled, her cheeks pink. “Oh...I...” But Tora continued to speak. The queen stood and turned to Tora, she laughed lightly and smirked. She watched as Tora bowed and played out the charade. “Well, we could make quite the pair. Couldn’t we?” The queen walked around the couch as she finished her glass. She shook her head and laughed. “But I do not see you as a lowly viking woman, Tora. You are a Seer...you are their leader.” She had a bit of a slur in her own speech. An empty stomach made the alcohol hit her fast. “Tora...this could show our people...my people...that we could fight alongside one another.” She smiled, an excitement lit in her eyes. “I couldn’t tell you the last time that I had my javelin out.” She smirked, “Or would you prefer me to fight with a bow?” She questioned curiously. The queen laughed lightly, “This is the change that the goddess spoke of. Isn’t it? She told me that I was to be born anew...” The queen placed her hand upon Tora’s shoulder and gazed into her eyes. “I do believe that we shall push forward into a new future, that both of our people will thrive within.” She leaned slightly into her hand that was placed upon Tora’s shoulder. “We need more wine, hm?” She spoke with a chuckle. “Shall we continue this conversation in the sitting room?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 22, 2021 1:28:39 GMT -5
Tora smiled brightly, she leaned against the couch and watched the Queen stand and step over. Tora’s smile was different, it was wide and bright. Usually she had a side smirk, one that didn’t show teeth. This smile was full of laughter and energy, no one in the village had the cull to make her laugh like this… no it took someone who understood her – to bring that feeling out…
Tora nodded her head happily as the Queen seemed to talk herself into it. “A javelin huh? Oh, a improvement on the spear. No no, we would work wonderfully as so. I can see it now” she smirked and watched the woman step forward to her. The woman came close and spoke kindly to her. Tora’s cheeks flushed and then she looked down slightly. “You know, it’s almost like you believe in me more than I thought you might” she smiled cheekily as she lifted her gaze.
Her eyes caught the Queens. There was a moment of utter silence. Even the flicking of the fire paused. Tora looked into Raenisa’s eyes and then gasped for a breath. The world resumed again, or maybe it never truly stopped.. but that second lasted for ever for her. Tora searched her eyes and then the womans words came to her. “A new future… to thrive in” she repeated Raenisa’s words very softly.
Tora reached upward and placed a hand upon the Queens, she watched her step closer – a hand upon her shoulder. Tora laughed and grasped the womans hand – she swiftly brought the Queen’s knuckles to her lips – she kissed Raenisa’s hand softly a few times. She lowered her hand and let it drop from her shoulder.
“You don’t drink much these days, do you? Sure you can keep up with me, my Queen? I am seasoned...” she laughed. “Yes, the sitting room sounds great. Maybe some food as well?” she questioned. She moved to the couch and grasped her cloak and book. She then held a hand forward to the Queen “Oh, if you stumble – Im right here” she laughed “lightweight” she joked, poking at the Queen.
“So, tell me more about this Javelin of yours… when did you learn to use that?” She questioned as she lead the Queen out of the room…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 22, 2021 2:10:03 GMT -5
Raenisa smiled as she gazed to Tora and chuckled slightly, “Perhaps, Seer, you should believe in yourself a bit more? You’re a lot stronger than you even gave yourself credit for in your letters. But even that was enough to convince me.” The queen grinned as their eyes caught then. Raenisa gazed into Tora’s hues the beautiful blue color within her eyes caused the queen to smile warmly. She seemed lost in the woman’s eyes. It was only the words of Tora that broke her from this sort of trance like state. “Yes, I believe it.” She nodded. Then Tora reached for her hand and she watched as the woman kissed the back of her hand. Her cheeks burned hot. Her breath caught in her chest. The queen froze in that moment as her heart leaped within her chest.
The queen blinked a few times as she stared to Tora. “Seasoned?” She questioned with a drunken chuckle. “I can keep up with you, Seer.” The queen placed her hand upon the back of the couch to balance herself as she turned to watch Tora gather her things. She flushed pink again as Tora poked fun of her. “I’m...I’ll be just fine...” She eyed her a moment before she walked toward the door. “My javelin.” She mused over the word with a smile upon her lips.
“Long ago, before swords became more popular my people fought with bows and javelins. My great grandfather was one of the strongest knights among our forces years ago. He passed down his fighting skills to my grandfather, and my father passed those to me. My father trained with me for hours upon hours for me to learn such skills. To be honest, the javelin isn’t easy to master, but it is quite an incredible weapon.” The queen spoke as they walked along at a slower pace than usual. She placed her hand upon Tora’s shoulder a few times to balance herself, a chuckle would come over her lips as she would do so.
“My queen.” Liliana spoke with a bow. Her eyes moved to Tora a long moment. “Seer.” She bowed her head slightly. “My queen is there anything that I may do?” She questioned. “You missed dinner, as did Amara.”
Raenisa paused a moment as she looked to Liliana. “Bring food to the sitting room. I’ll be having an evening with the Seer here.” She spoke. “Thank you, Liliana.” She continued walking then.
Liliana eyed Tora, a distrustful glare. “Of course my queen.” She spoke after a few moments of silence.
The queen didn’t seem to notice at all. She placed her hand upon Tora’s shoulder. “As I was saying.” She spoke with a soft laugh. “A lot of practice went into mastering it. Just as Amara has spent countless hours with her bow. It was her chosen weapon. You do not choose your weapon persay...it chooses you. My father used to say that...and I believe him. I tried to master the sword, I never did. Now I could fight with a sword and hold my own. But it is nothing like that of the Javelin….I’m sure you understand, hm?” She leaned against Tora as she caught her balance once again. “This way.” The queen laughed as she pushed the door open to the sitting room. “Let me go grab another bottle, hm?” She spoke as she walked down the stairs into the wine cellar.
Moments later Liliana entered the room with a platter of food. She eyed Tora, “I know what you’re doing.” She spoke as she set the platter down.
The queen walked back up the small staircase then. Her amber hues caught Liliana. “Ah, thank you, Liliana.” She spoke as she stepped over. “That will be all.” She nodded as she popped the cork from the wine and poured two glasses. Liliana hesitated a moment, she watched Tora a long moment before she bowed and stepped from the room. Raenisa sat down on the couch and grabbed a piece of cheese from the platter. “Ah this assortment is wonderful.” She popped the cheese into her mouth. The queen was smiling larger than she had the night before. She seemed relaxed. No one ever saw the queen this way. She never smiled to this extent, nor did she laugh in such a way that she did with Tora. She looked to Tora then with a smirk upon her lips. “Tora, how did you know I liked the yellow trumpet flower?” She questioned then her amber hues locked on the woman.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 22, 2021 2:35:28 GMT -5
Tora turned her gaze as they walked, she chuckled as the queen lost her balance slightly. She placed a hand in the middle of Raenisa’s back, helping her along. “Impressive, it is a family practice then” she nodded “I bet you your style is flawless, graceful and cunning” she felt her stumble – her hand upon her back helped. Tora gave her a gentle squeeze once they got back to their footing.
“I know exactly what you mean – the axe, ahh – there is nothing like it. Nothing compares to how I handle two axes in each hand.. ah, I could split the seas” she laughed and looked to the woman as they rounded the corner. She admired the pink in her cheeks, and the cute chuckle she gave… it was like a young giggle, covered by her desire to be royal.
Tora nearly fell over as Liliana neared the corner. She lifted a brow – she caught the energy of the servant. Tora looked about confused and sighed as she left… “Um – right. Well, swords are not a really flexible weapon” she replied. “The Javelin – you have armor piercing, long range, and great up close capabilities. You could disarm a sword holder before he even knew you were there” she laughed and held the door open as she directed them.
Tora followed her into the wine cellar. “I want to see this” she spoke and followed. She stepped each step carefully – she eyed Raenisa intently, ensuring she would not fall. “Whoa” she looked about the room they entered. It was dim and a little cold, but there was row upon row of wine racks, each slot filled. She stepped forward to pluck a bottle out – but she tripped slightly. She stumbled and grasped her footing with a hand upon Raenisa’s shoulder.
Tora let out a laugh as she came to “oops!” she spoke drunkenly. She leaned into Raenisa – she was so close that her nose just barely grazed the Queen’s cheek. Tora stabilized herself and then reached passed the Queen – she plucked a bottle of wine and then held it upward. “This will do, hm?” she grinned and then stepped back, as if nothing happened. “Come on then!”
Tora pulled out a knife and stabbed into the wine bottle, she flicked the cork onto the couch and twirled about. “Glasses” she held her hand out and wiggled her fingers. She waited for the two glasses and then she poured. She sat down and crossed her legs.
Tora glanced to Liliana as she came in, the Queen was grabbing a different bottle to share… Tora reached forward and grasped Liliana’s hand and pulled her back down to her level – after she set the plate down. “And just what exactly do you think I am doing?” she spoke with a cheeky voice and then she let her go.
She turned her head as the Queen came back up. “Thank you – Liliana… have a great night” she raised her glass and nodded. Tora took a sip of her glass and reached for a bit of cheese. “Yeah, I never really thought of adding this mustard, it is quite good” she took a bite and nodded happily. Tora tilted her head as the Queen questioned of the flowers.
Tora sipped on her glass, then she set it down on the coffee table before them. “Well..” she leaned back “To be truthful to you, my Queen – I had help. That morning… oh” she sucked in a breath. “Your breakfast was made by your servant. I woke up late, no thanks to your daughter asking a hundred questions” she laughed “so I rushed, I may have taken the breakfast from Liliana, and then requested her to get you flowers.” she laughed “That servant girl – she was pissed” she lifted her glass.
“So” she spoke with her lips on the rim. “I did not pick the flowers, I did not cook you that food… I sure did want to, but alas. No one to thank but your servant… but you know what I did do?” she took a sip and looked to the Queen with her playful hues. “I made you smile – which is all I wanted to do. So, apologies if you were under the impression that I am that thoughtful” she lifted the wine bottle and topped her glass off…
“I am a Seer – I can see the future!” She waved her hands in the air. “Not of my own volition, of course. One thing I learned how to do swiftly was – reading body language, voice inflection… The first thing I thought when I met you?” she sucked in a breath and let it go out of her nose. “You emit this aura of passion, these people are your blood and air. I could see it in your eyes” she shifted in her spot on the couch. “I could see also – how that passion drained you so. And I don’t know...” she sighed, her voice getting soft and little more serious. “I have this need to try and help you… it is like I said… I sympathize with you because we both suffer in that way. And I - I see you and I have to help you” she shrugged almost defeatedly.
“So – if I can make you smile, even for just a minute. It is worth it” she plucked a piece of cheese and meat from the pile and plucked it into her mouth. “This Wine shit makes me soft!” she exclaimed softly, and then she started laughing. “Mm - ale, mead… oh Im proud and loud...” she chuckled “but wine, your wine? Ugh, I can feel my chest pounding in my ears” she shook her head and then took another sip. “I better drink more, aye?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 22, 2021 11:55:49 GMT -5
The queen smiled to Tora each time the woman helped her keep her balance. The gentle squeeze caused a blush to rush across the woman’s cheeks. Raenisa didn’t seem to notice the energy that came from Liliana as they continued down the hallway. “Precisely. It is a far superior weapon to the sword. But some would choose a sword to fight with any day.” She shrugged slightly and laughed as they came into the sitting room. The queen smirked to Tora, “You know, this wine cellar is one of our best kept secrets.” She spoke and held a finger to her own lips before she giggled lightly. The queen flinched slightly as Tora tripped, though as the woman caught her balance upon her shoulder the queen chuckled. She moved her own hand to Tora’s back to help steady her. “That could have been a terrible disaster.” The queen chuckled she moved her head slightly and gazed into Tora’s hues. They were so close. When Tora reached forward the queen froze, her amber hues locked upon the Seer. “Oh...certainly you will like that wine.” Raenisa spoke after a moment of pause.
Raenisa followed Tora back up the stairs and she gazed to the wine bottle in the light. “Ah I have another that I wish to bring up.” She smiled. “It’ll only be a moment.” She then disappeared back into the cellar.
Liliana jerked at her hand when Tora grasped it, her eyes widened with fear. The woman stared to the Seer for a long moment, she swallowed hard, her breath caught. “Good night, my queen. Seer.” She bowed her head and then quickly fled from the room.
The queen was far too focused upon Tora to even notice Liliana and her antics. She gazed to Tora as she explained that she didn’t actually pick the flowers. Raenisa chuckled lightly, “You didn’t pick them...that makes more sense, when would you have time to do such a thing? Especially with Amara asking you questions.” She winked and then giggled lightly. “Liliana...ah yes. She is quite particular. She’s a good servant though.” She took a long drink from her wine and smiled. The queen’s cheeks blushed as Tora spoke of how she made the queen smile and it was all she truly wanted to do. The queen held her glass forward to Tora to top her own glass off. She had a bit of a smirk upon her lips.
Raenisa laughed as Tora waved her hands in the air, it was a hearty laugh, her head fell back slightly and she placed her hand upon Tora’s shoulder. She smirked to Tora as the woman shrugged. “You’re the only one that seems to see through me...besides my daughter.” She shook her head slightly. The queen then laughed to Tora’s comments about the wine making her soft. “Oh? Perhaps you should drink more yes. Maybe it’ll change something.” The queen grabbed a piece of cheese and popped it into her mouth as well. She leaned closer to Tora then a laugh came over her lips. “Out of all of these people I’m surrounded by. Day in and day out. You’re the only one that sees me.” She spoke with a smile upon her lips. “I haven’t smiled like this in over 20 years. And here I sit with a viking, those that they call savages. Yet I enjoy your company...you’re not a savage...no...not at all...you’re quite sweet...and thoughtful...perhaps it is because...” She threw her arms up like Tora did before, “You can see the future.” She giggled and lost her balance slightly. The queen leaned forward and her head pressed against Tora’s shoulder as she laughed. After a moment she straightened herself and took a long drink from her glass, she smirked to Tora, her amber hues seemed to search over the woman as if there was more she wanted to say, but she merely smiled.
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Post by Raven on Dec 23, 2021 1:13:05 GMT -5
Tora laughed and crossed her legs - she watched Raenisa laugh, the smile beaming and her voice singing of joy in the air. Tora smirked and shrugged slightly "I appreciate you understanding, at least" she grinned and tilted her head.
Tora lowered her head in a blush as Raenisa spoke of their interactions - how Tora 'saw' her. She cleared her throat and leaned back and finished her glass. She happily accepted a refill, though her cheeks were bright and her words were slightly slurred. "I wont say you are an easy book to read, to see" she smirked "Can't even say I know what I am reading" she spoke softly now. "But, whatever it is - it feels good, looks good, smells good" she took another sip of her wine. "It helps I can see the future" she giggled, this was after Raenisa had mentioned the same line.
Tora tilted her head toward the Queen who fell into her shoulder, laughing joyfully. Tora pressed her nose into he head of the Queen.. she had soft hair, almost gentle... it smelled, what was that smell? She didn't know what it was, but it was sweet.. it relaxed her instantly. Tora sucked in a breath and lifted her head as Raenisa lifted her own gaze.
She drew in a breath, her eyes relaxed and she sighed softly. "You need to be careful, my lady" she spoke softly, her hues searching hers. "Viking are known to be passionate people" she reached forward and placed her hand upon Raenisa's arm. She leaned in slightly - to take in the breath of the Queen - literally. She closed her eyes and shuddered ever so slightly. "I may take you to a place you've never been..." she whispered. "Wouldn't... want you to be scared, or lost" she leaned in and brushed her nose against the Queen's cheek.
"And everything changes" she whispered into Raenisa's ear. "But its your choice" she breathed.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 23, 2021 13:00:17 GMT -5
The queen tilted her head slightly as she listened to Tora. She blushed deeply as Tora spoke of what she could ‘read’ from the queen. When the Seer reminded her that she could see the future. “Oh, you can see the future this is true, hm?” She drew in a breath as she’d laughed and leaned forward into Tora. She felt Tora’s nose press into her hair. Her cheeks remained blushed as she gazed to Tora. She raised a brow slightly as the Seer told her that she needed to be careful. The queen turned her hues to look to Tora’s hand upon her arm. It was warm, and comforting. When Tora leaned in closer the queen’s breath shuddered slightly, her cheeks burned hot. Raenisa was frozen once again, though a giggle came over her lips, like a young school girl.
Raenisa felt Tora’s nose brush against her cheek and she closed her eyes. Her breath trembled as Tora whispered into her ear. The queen turned her head slightly, she was incredibly close to Tora, her nose nearly pressed into the Seer’s nose. Her amber hues searched Tora’s a long moment. “You’ve already seen the future, haven’t you?” She questioned, her voice barely above a whisper. The queen cupped Tora’s cheek, her breaths shook, her cheeks burned like the surface of the sun. Her thumb rubbed back and forth along Tora’s cheekbone.
The queen then leaned forward and pressed her lips against Tora’s. Her fingers curled into Tora’s hair and she pressed her body forward. There was a passion behind her kiss, almost as though she’d locked that part of her away for so long that it longed to escape. After a long moment the queen pulled back. “I don’t know what it is about you, Tora.” She spoke, her amber hues seemed to almost glow with life. She had a smile upon her lips. “I’m not afraid.” Her voice was a whisper. “This is not the place, though.” She spoke with a bit of a playful smirk.
Raenisa stood and swayed slightly, a giggle came over her lips. She grasped Tora’s hand and pulled her to her feet. Her amber hues once again locked upon the woman, a grin split her lips. “I’ll show you.” She spoke as she led Tora from the room. They wound through the halls of the castle and up a flight of stairs. The queen giggled each time she nearly lost her balance. She was rather drunk. But her smile seemed to shine through the night as the wind howled from the storm. She pushed a door open and she pulled Tora into her quarters. The queen’s quarters. She turned to Tora and searched her eyes once again.
The room was beautifully decorated. There was a fireplace along the far wall that burned and filled the room with heat. The flames danced about within the beautiful mason work of what looked to be river stones. The balcony that overlooked the valley and sea held nearly half a foot of fluffy white snow upon it now. There was a couch placed near the fireplace, a tea set on a table near it. The queen’s bed was made meticulously and held silky sheets upon it. The queen drew in a shaken breath as she cupped Tora’s cheek once again. “Why do I feel this way around you? I so easily allow all of my walls to fall down.” She spoke softly.
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