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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 23, 2021 23:10:29 GMT -5
“Yes, I have seen the future” she replied – she moved at the same time as Raenisa, she met her halfway. Her lips pressed into hers with energy – her fingers grasped onto the cloth of the Queen’s dressed and she pulled slightly at her, in a longing fashion. When she pulled away – Tora leaned back slightly with a flushed smiled. She was prepared for the woman to step away, and even then it did not bother her any. The kiss was enough for her…
“Not the place hm?” Tora smirked and stood as Raenisa tugged on her hands. “Any where with you is the proper place” she chuckled and quickly followed behind her. She glanced around as they snuck around the castle, giggling slightly. Tora shut the door behind them and paused as she entered the room. It was luxorious – like nothing she had ever seen, or been in. It smelled sweet, it was clean and kept – large and comfortable. For a second – she felt at home.. as if It shouldn't, but for whatever reason - she loved it.
Tora turned her gaze to the Queen – stepping into her embrace as she whispered to her. She lifted a brow and caught the eyes of the woman. “That’s the way it works, isn’t it? You don’t get to control it” she smirked “but I can give you something to control” she spoke as she pulled at her own cloak. It fell to the floor and she grasped the woman with strength. She slowly walked her backwards until Raenisa’s legs touched the bed.
Tora leaned into the woman and kissed her sweetly, her hand moved upward into her hair, fingers grazing over her scalp. Her fingers trailed down the Queen’s back, applying a gentle pressure down her spine. In the same motion she untied the Raenisa’s dress from the back and dropped the string. Tora’s lips did not move from the woman, no – she stayed consistent in the trading, stealing and giving of kisses.
Tora moved her lips to the woman’s neck and her hands lifted upward. Raenisa’s dress fell to the floor, and so she stood in just her undergarments. The rest was everything it could have been. Hours of what seemed like endless sensation. From moments of passion to a gentle giggle, grazing and caressing – to a small tea break, and then more. Until the skies shattered before them and they came crashing to a slumber, riding the greatest experience at least Tora had ever had. This was a statement, considering her abundant experience… but nothing was like this, nothing ever was like this.
The morning came too swiftly. The sun cracked through the window to wash over the exposed rear and leg of Tora. She had one leg out of the blankets, maintaining the perfect warmth. She woke – spooning Raenisa, who slept soundly. Tora sat for a long moment – her single blue eye, and green – tracing the woman’s perfect skin over and over. She was beyond beautiful… Tora slowly rolled onto her back slightly, her chest exposed out of the blanket. It was always a joy to wake up the night after such an event. The night flashed before her eyes – bits and pieces until she remembered it all…
Tora gave a gentle sigh and she rolled back over. She kissed the bare shoulder of Raenisa, she gave several gentle soft kisses – slowly waking Raenisa up from her slumber. “Rae” she whispered. She remembered last night was the first time she ever called the woman Rae, mostly because she couldn’t mutter the rest of the name between sensations. Then the name felt right.
“Good Morning...” she whispered as the woman came two. She watched the woman familiarize herself with her setting..Tora sat with a gentle – and almost nervous smile. The blanket was wrapped around her now… “Before we talk about anything” she whispered softly and kissed her shoulder again. She placed her chin on her shoulder and looked to her with admiring eyes. “I’ll never regret our night, it was the best I’ve ever had.” she smiled then and reached forward to tuck a lock of Raenisa’s hair away. “Before you either kiss me, or ask me to go – just know that… you deserved that” she smirked “and so did I” she pulled her blankets off and stepped from the bed – in full nude. She stepped over and bent to gather her clothes, she was confident and even alluring in her motions – all intentional. Tora slowly began to get dressed and she came to the end of the bed. “You just say the word, and I’ll respect it” she smirked. “but I wouldn’t ever say no to another night with you, my dear” she bowed her head and pulled her cloak on. She reached for her two axes, which sat at the end of the bed.
“I better go before your servant catches me – you know, she says I’m not safe for you” she chuckled. “It may be true” she paused and stared to the woman for a long time. “I will see you at Breakfast” she stepped for the door. She opened the door and looked left and right – no one. She slipped from the room and quickly rushed down to her room, a few hallways away. As she opened her door – she saw Liliana passing by. “Morning” she nodded and then stepped into her room, paying the woman no mind. As she shut the door – Tora sucked in a breath and let it go slowly. The day came to her again, she couldn’t believe what she had done, but yet – nothing felt better…
Tora fixed herself up – she took a quick bath and redid her hair… Soon enough she was ready. Tora left her room and made her way to the dining room. She bowed her head to Amara, who stepped in with her. “Good morning Amara” she spoke with a smile. She held a chair out for the Princess, and then she stepped to sit across from her. “So – tell me about this Wild Hunt, how does the game work?” she questioned as she nodded to a servant who poured tea.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 24, 2021 21:26:57 GMT -5
The queen had a playful smirk upon her lips, “I do suppose some things can fall out of control...hm?” She watched as Tora’s cloak fell to the floor, “Something I can control?” She questioned as she allowed the Seer to walk her backwards. The kisses were sweet, yet full of passion. Raenisa moved her own hands over Tora’s body, she pulled upon the woman’s clothing. She found herself fully enveloped in the feeling of Tora’s lips upon her skin, her fingers curled into the woman’s hair...and then ran along Tora’s skin. It was like a well choreographed dance as she exchanged kisses. Her body felt as though it was on fire. The night was full of feelings that Raenisa had never experienced before...she was lost in the moment...but it was incredible. As the sun peaked into the room the queen lay wrapped in the blankets, her hand over Tora’s that was wrapped around her body. Her breaths were deep and even, a soft smile upon her lips. She was fully relaxed. As Tora began to kiss along her shoulder the queen’s eyes fluttered open slowly. Raenisa took a moment to come to, but as she did she turned onto her side and gazed to Tora and her nervous smile. The queen searched the woman’s hues as she spoke, she closed her eyes as Tora tucked a lock behind her ear. It send a shiver down her spine as her mind began to replay the events of the night before. Her cheeks blushed slightly. Her lips parted to speak but Tora stood to get dressed. Her breath caught in her chest as she watched the woman gather her clothing with such confidence. A bit of a smile curved up her lips. The queen was speechless as her mind brought up the thought of the night once again as Tora spoke that she’d never say no to another night. Another deep blush crossed the queen’s cheeks. The queen rolled back onto her back as Tora left, she drew in a deep breath and a grin split her lips, a laugh escaped her and she sighed. What was she doing? She’d never done anything like this before. What had overcome her? She climbed from her bed and pulled on her usual evening robe. She then lay back in her bed and let out a content sigh. Before the queen knew it she’d fallen back asleep. She was awakened some time later by a knock at the door. Liliana pushed the door open and stepped in, “My queen.” She spoke. The woman looked around the room. The queen had hung her dress just as she normally did. Nothing looked out of place. “It’s a beautiful day for the hunt, Nimue finished preparations.” She spoke as she stepped and pulled back the curtains more. “Ah good morning, Liliana.” The queen spoke groggily. “The storm has passed?” She questioned as she sat up slowly. Liliana moved about gathering clothing for the queen. “Yes, it’s absolutely beautiful outside, the storm left nearly a foot of snow.” She spoke as she walked about and hung a dress on the divider for the queen. Raenisa climbed from her bed, her hair was a tangled mess from the evening of events. She walked over to the french doors that opened to the balcony and she gazed out to the beautiful white landscape, a smile upon her lips. “The wind was quite loud.” She spoke as she walked over and took a seat before the armoire. Liliana walked up behind the queen and gently brushed through her hair. “Indeed it was my queen.” She spoke as she stepped away to draw the warm bathwater. She gathered the soaps and a towel for the queen whom sat staring in the mirror at herself. Liliana came back over and continued brushing through the queen’s hair gently. “How was your evening with the Seer?” Liliana asked after several moments of silence. The queen took a moment as she looked to Liliana in the mirror. “It was a lovely evening, we enjoyed our wine and the fantastic board of meats and cheeses. The Seer stayed at the castle because the storm grew so treacherous that I told her to stay in her quarters.” She gave a smile to Liliana as she stood and turned. Her amber hues gazed to the young elf. “We spoke of the hunt today. I am going to participate in it.” She spoke as she stepped over to the bathwater and removed her robe to climb in. She slipped into the water and relaxed her head back. “So, this morning I would appreciate it if you prepared my battle armor and my javelin.” Liliana seemed to freeze. “You’re going to compete in the hunt, my queen?” She asked as she moved about. “That will be incredible to see. I’ve heard stories of how well you fought in the hunt before you became the queen.” She spoke as she began looking through a closet for the armor. ** Amara tilted her head slightly as she saw Tora walking down the hallway toward her. She walked into the dining room with the woman. “Good morning, Tora...” She spoke and gave a smile. “Did you come up to the castle last night? The storm was quite strong.” She spoke as she took her seat. She took a sip of her tea and raised a brow. The question about the Wild Hunt told her the answer to her own question. “You must have had that wine with my mother.” She smiled, she seemed happy about it. “The Winter Festival is to begin today and go for 12 days.” She spoke with an excited voice. “Today our city will hunt creatures such as bears and wolves...and a few others that you may not be familiar with that are regional beasts from deep within the mountains.” She spoke as she watched Tora carefully. “We have hunters that volunteer and the Wild Hunt commences. It is within our city streets. We’ve prepared the city for such an event. Civilians watch from their balconies.” She grinned with excitement. “My mother judges the event and awards points to those that participate. At the end awards are given and in the evening we feast over the spoils of the hunt.” She spoke as the door to the dining hall opened. Raenisa walked in, dressed in elegant elven armor. Deep brown leather with silver embellishments. A clincher wrapped around her waist giving a feminine look to her, yet powerful. It was a gorgeous set of armor fit for the queen. She took a seat at the table and offered a smile as a servant poured her a mug of tea. “Good morning Amara, darling.” She smiled and then looked to Tora. “Good morning Seer.” Amara looked over the armor that her mother wore, she then looked to her mother, “Good morning.” She smiled. “Amara dear, I will be participating in the hunt today.” The queen spoke with a smile. “It’s been a long while since I’ve joined in on the festivities and I believe it is due time. Tora and I will work as a team. This will show both of our people the unity that we can have and the strength that working together will bring.” She spoke and then nodded to Tora. “We discussed this last night.” She looked back to Amara. “What do you think?” The princess looked to Tora a moment and then back to her mother. “I do believe that will do well. For our people to see how well our fighting coincides with the viking clan.” She glanced to Tora another moment. She seemed almost suspicious of the two. The queen had a glow about her, her smile seemed wider than normal. “Though mother, you are the judge of the hunt. Who will judge it?” She questioned after a moment. The queen was quiet a moment as servants set food before the three. She looked to Amara and gave another warm smile, “You my dear.” She spoke. “It is time that I begin giving you responsibilities, hm?” Amara took in a breath, her brows furrowed slightly, “I fight well with Tora...why don’t I fight in your place mother?” She offered, the princess had not lifted her fork at all. Raenisa drew in a breath as she stared to Amara a long moment. “It is important for our people to see me working alongside Tora, as she is the leader of the viking clan. This will help some of our people that do not agree with the arrangement to see that we will work well together and that our people can live among one another.” The queen spoke before she took a sip from her tea. Her amber hues moved to Tora, a soft smile curved up her lips as she looked to the woman. The princess looked back and forth between the two once again. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 24, 2021 21:48:13 GMT -5
Tora lifted a brow to the Princess, who seemed uncertain. “Well, yes – I did have wine with your mother. It is the beginning of Winter Solstice, I was surprised to find that both of our people have similar celebrations – Yours is the Winterfest, and ours Yuletide” she smirked and sipped on her tea.
As the Queen walked into the room – Tora lifted her gaze and then leaned back in her chair. “My Queen” she bowed her head. She listened to the two speak about the Wild Hunt… “Amara – is that a sense of jealousy I hear in your tone?” she questioned with a grin. “I’ll tell you what” she set her fork down, her plate was half eaten. “I’ll let you Participate in the Tournament of Asgard.” she looked to the Queen and nodded her head. “Normally I would fight in the Tourny but I will let you represent me, how about that?” she questioned.
Soon she finished her food and stood. “My Queen – we should discuss our strategy...” she waved her over and lead Raenisa from the room. “Whatever you put in that tea last night – saved my head” she smirked as they walked through the halls. “You’ll need to..” she glanced around “hide your joy a little better” she turned and looked to the woman, she then laughed and lead her to the training fields.
“I’m thinking for these battles.. I will go with an axe and shield” she lifted one of the shields meant for training. “Though, it would be my shield...” she chuckled and held it up, feeling the weight of it on her arm. “I think, there are a few ways we can approach these monsters” she lifted an axe up and spun it in her hand. “I charge in and go defensive, distract whatever the creature is and let you come in for the kill” she stepped forward. “So, you should always position behind me.. put your non dominant side on my right, so I can guard it for you, if possible” she spoke and then nodded.
“I have an idea” she lifted the shield so that it sat over her head. “You run and leap onto my shield, and I will throw forward – I think this would be great to launch into, or if the creature we are fighting is large?” she questioned. “Lets give that a go… then we can think of a strategy for when we are surrounded” she nodded and waited for the Queen to rush forward and leap.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 24, 2021 22:33:12 GMT -5
The princess furrowed her brows slightly. “Jealousy?” She questioned and shook her head, the princess seemed almost frustrated. “Mother. You have spoken about the importance of my safety my entire life...” She drew in a breath, “Throwing yourself in danger to prove a point.” She shook her head. “What if you’re hurt mother?”
Raenisa watched the princess carefully, “I’ve never even sustained a scratch during the hunt, Amara. This will benefit us. I can assure you.” She glanced to Tora. “Tora is allowing you to partake in a very important event as well, hm?”
Amara drew in a breath, she looked back and forth between the two. The words of Liliana were eating away at her. “Certainly...I’ll judge the event...” She looked to the queen a long moment before her eyes moved to Tora. “You will have to tell me about your tournament...”
The queen gave a smile, “I’m certain that the Seer can explain everything to you.” She took another bite of her meal. Tora spoke up then about discussing strategy. Raenisa looked to her and nodded. “So that we can win.” She smirked and then looked to her daughter. “I’ll see you soon, Amara.” She spoke and stood from the table and walked from the room with Tora. She gave a chuckle to Tora’s comment about the tea. “Ah yes, it’s a family secret. So, I do suppose you’ll need me around if you ever want anymore.” She smiled playfully. Raenisa raised her brow to Tora when she spoke about hiding her joy, a laugh came over her own lips. “Oh...right...” She cleared her throat slightly. She stood next to Tora on the training field, “You’re infectious, you know?” She spoke. “Perhaps you are bad for me.” She shrugged slightly and then grinned to Tora. “But do I seem to mind?” Her amber hues gazed into Tora’s a long moment.
Raenisa looked to the weapon rack. She lifted an old beaten up javelin that had a bit of rust upon it. “Axe and shield huh?” She twirled about the javelin to get a feel for the weapon. Even with such an old low quality weapon the queen moved it with ease. “That may work out quite well.” She spoke as she moved about and stood on Tora’s right side. She tilted her head slightly to the woman’s idea. “Alright...let’s see...” She took a few steps back and then rushed forward. With east the queen leapt upon the shield and sprung off of it into the air. She swiftly tossed her javelin at one of the targets and rolled as she met the ground. The queen rushed forward and ripped her javelin back from the target and rolled back with ease. It was almost like watching a dance as the woman was quickly back at Tora’s side.
“If we become surrounded, we can fight back to back. I’ll cover one side, and you the other.” Raenisa turned around and pressed her back against Tora’s. “We will see all aspects of the field. I’ll try not to be too distracted.” She smirked as she turned around and looked to Tora. "What do you think of that approach? Or do you have another idea that might serve us better?" The queen searched Tora's hues, "Do you think you might enjoy a wine in celebration after the hunt?" A chuckle came over the queen's lips as her amber hues played over Tora. "I might pull out one of the nice bottles again if we win." She winked, a playful smile upon her lips.
**
“Liliana...do you truly believe that the viking Seer is attempting to take advantage of the queen?” Amara questioned. She stood on the library balcony which overlooked the training grounds.
Liliana stood next to her as they watched the two below. “I’m not certain, princess. I did see the viking woman entering her room in the early hours of the morning...I’m not even certain what she would have been doing awake at that hour. They finished off two bottles last night.” The young elf spoke. “What if she is though? Taking advantage? Your mother’s vision would be clouded, her judgment would be...very poor...”
“She was smiling quite a bit this morning at breakfast...more than I’ve ever seen.” Amara spoke, “Perhaps, Liliana...perhaps this is a good thing...I don’t feel as though the Seer is malicious...”
“We didn’t think King Alexander was capable of such things either...” Liliana was quick to reply. “Yet, here we are 20 years later and in a war that we cannot win...”
“If we always push away new ideas, then we deserve to perish. Do we not?” Amara spoke with true wisdom. “I will keep an eye on my mother and ensure that she is being safe...” She smiled then to Liliana. “I like Tora...I think some of the qualities of the vikings could be good for our people. I believe that is why my mother is spending so much time with her. She is learning more of their people and Tora asks questions of our own people.” She nodded and turned to head back into the castle. “I must prepare for the tournament.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 24, 2021 23:14:11 GMT -5
Tora grinned as Raenisa leaped into the air and attacked the target with accuracy and speed, she was actually rather impressed. She gripped the shield and then listened to her idea “I like that – control the field” she nodded and pressed her back against Raenisa, she chuckled “I know I am cute and all..” she joked and then lunged forward at a dummy. She watched the Queen’s stance work, the way her arms moved – she was fluid and swift, she had never seen such work before.
“Another idea for being surrounded” she spoke and threw her shield down. She reached to her hip and pulled her other axe out. “Allow me to antagonize the creatures, gathering their attention. You would need to make yourself disappear. As they turn to attack me – you come up from behind” she spoke and lifted her axes. She watched as Raenisa attacked and nodded “I like it” she smirked and sheathed her axes. “You are talented, It’s a shame you are the Queen… you would be an asset on the battlefield” she spoke and set the shield back on the rack.
“A bottle of wine?” She smirked “You know what those do to me?” she stepped close to the Queen, looking into her eyes as she smirked. “They just bring out my inner desires..” she tugged at the chest piece of the Queen and then stepped back. “When we Win – we will drink Wine – and my name will sing from your lips” she spoke as she walked away.
She lead the Queen to one of the large blossoming trees, which sat next to a pavilion. The views from this particular spot looked out towards another mountain, there was a deep valley which was filled with water below. The sea stretched out beyond it for eternity. Tora gave out a soft sigh and turned her gaze to the Queen who stepped forward.
“What do you think you will do after the war is over?” She questioned, she turned her head to look to her. “I never thought I’d really be here, so I sit and ask what is next constantly. Sometimes I have a vision of it, and other times I have no idea...” she chuckled “You think your people can handle a Viking consult?” she questioned with a smirk on her lips.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 25, 2021 13:48:39 GMT -5
Raenisa chuckled lightly to Tora’s comment as she moved swiftly toward her own target. The two moved together like water within a river. The queen turned to the viking as she stated another idea. “Easy enough.” The queen spoke with a bit of a smirk. The queen slipped behind Tora as the seer pretended to draw the attention of their foes. She swept forward with ease the blade of the javelin would have sliced into several foes. She grinned as she turned and held her javelin with the end on the ground and a hand upon her hip. “A shame?” She laughed lightly. “Hm, perhaps it is.” She leaned the javelin against the rack. “Ah I’ve missed the thrill. I am looking forward to this.” She chuckled lightly.
As Tora stepped closer to her the queen blushed as she gazed into Tora’s hues. “Hm...I do believe I might know what wine does to you.” She played along with the ploy. As Tora tugged at her chest piece her breath trembled, her heart pounded within her chest. Her blush only deepened to the words that the Seer spoke before she walked away. It left the queen frozen in place. It took a moment for Raenisa to follow along toward the pavilion.
Raenisa gave a content sigh, “Ahhh I used to sit here all the time when I was a little girl.” She spoke as she walked up to the railing. “I practiced my magic a lot of the time as I sat here. I meditated. My father always knew where to find me.” She spoke with a soft smile as she reminisced. The queen turned to Tora and leaned her hips against the railing as the woman questioned about the end of the war. Her expression softened as she seemed to think deeply. Her amber hues focused in on Tora. “It’s been so long...I’m...” She furrowed her brows in thought. “I’m not really certain what I would do. I’ve spent day in and day out wrapped up in this war. I haven’t really had a chance to breathe...until you...you’ve given me a hope that I lost so many years ago.” She turned to Tora and her hand cupped the woman’s cheek. The queen gazed into her eyes a soft chuckle came over her lips. “I believe my people will accept your people. Once they find their trust in you. They trust me as their queen. They are hesitant...as they should be. Many would call me naive for trusting you...or even possibly foolish for what we have done.”
Raenisa fell quiet for several moments as she began to think. “I believe that...once this war is finished our people can move forward together into a new flourishing future...we can change so many things...for the better. We will no longer live in the looming fear of King Alexander.” The queen gave a smile as she looked to Tora. “And what of you? When the war is over...what do you plan to do?” She questioned softly. “Will you stay here….?” She questioned as she searched Tora’s hues. Part of her seemed to be hopeful of this. “Or...are you required to go elsewhere as a Seer?” There was a tinge of sadness in her voice as she spoke. But she immediately offered a soft smile. “I imagine you too will have responsibilities...just as I do...”
**
Amara moved through the castle, she wore a beautiful blue dress that caused the crystal color of her hues to seem to shine brighter. Her hair was done up with a beautiful braid, she wore her tiara upon her head. She looked like a proper princess. She made her way down to the training area in search for her mother. The time for the hunt was coming swiftly. She needed all of the fighters around to make the announcement.
“Princess?” Rhys questioned. “You look stunning.” He commented.
Amara looked to him and offered a smile, “Ah, thank you Rhys.” She spoke, “Have you seen my mother?”
“The queen headed that direction with the Seer.” Rhys pointed. “I’ve never seen her fight like that before. I’ve heard stories. But...to actually see her...are King Alexander’s knights pushing toward our city?”
“Oh no...no no...mother is participating in the hunt today, alongside Tora.” Amara gave a gentle smile. “We are keeping King Alexander busy.” She spoke as she walked off. “You had better participate.” She glanced over her shoulder as she moved to find the queen and Tora.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 25, 2021 14:21:01 GMT -5
Tora turned her gaze to the Queen as she spoke of her youth, Tora tried to imagine it – a young Raenisa, sitting here. It was a cute image to her, which pulled at her heart strings. She leaned into the gentle touch of the woman upon her cheek and she smiled. “Hmm..” she turned her head and kissed the palm of the Queen.
“If I could have anything in the world” she glanced around briefly and then smirked. She stepped forward and pushed the Queen gently against the railing. “I’d stay here with you” she spoke as she leaned in close. “I’d watch you get married to a proper man” her finger reached forward and stroked between Raenisa’s bosom. “And every night I’d crawl into your sheets” she smirked. “And you’d sing my name” she slid her hand down – pressing a hand into the Queen’s hips. “The castle would whisper of our secret love, yet keep it secret because they love us” she winked and then stepped back. She brought her hand to her lips and kissed her own finger, which was pressed against the Queen briefly.
“Watching you tremble is my favorite part” Tora spoke and then chuckled. She turned around and peered to the hillside – a figure came approaching downward. “Oh, company...” she turned her head back to the Queen. “I’ll answer your question some time, but in truth – I have no idea. My people thought us to be dead by now...” she stepped forward as Amara came into sight.
“Hello Princess” Tora waved and then turned to stand in the pavilion once more. “The Queen was just showing me this great spot to meditate, and relax. I imagine… some air was good before we kick ass in the Wild Hunt...” she grinned and turned around to the Princess. “I am a bad influence on your mother, I apologize. She should be tending to the people and helping you prepare… I am distracting her from her duties...” she bowed her head. “Shall we tend to duties then?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 25, 2021 15:39:55 GMT -5
Raenisa smiled as the woman kissed her palm. The smirk that curved up Tora’s lips caused the queen to smile a bit wider. As Tora leaned in closer her breath caught in her chest once again. She made to speak as her breath shuddered and her heart raced about, but her words were stolen from her as Tora stroked along her chest bone. Her eyes fluttered slightly as tingles shot through her body. “Hm….I….” She tried to speak but Tora grasped at her hip. The queen’s head leaned forward as she gasped, visions of the night before flashing through her mind. “Tora...” She breathed as she shuddered. Her cheeks were burning pink, she couldn’t think, she couldn’t move. The queen had her hands behind her for balance, her fingers curled around the railing. “I...do believe I made you...tremble...” She breathed as she tried to regain control of herself.
The queen straightened as she heard Tora speak of company. The blush still remained upon her cheeks as she looked to the hillside. “Amara.” She cleared her throat as she stood a bit taller.
Amara approached, she looked to her mother a long moment, her brow raised slightly. “Ah yes, it is a lovely spot. Especially during the summer. You can smell the flowers of the valley if the wind is blowing in the right direction.” The princess commented. “Many would say you’re a bad influence.” Amara quipped, both of her brows raised. “But, they are not the queen of Armalon. Are they?” She smirked and then looked to her mother once again. “It’s time to begin the festival.”
Raenisa sucked in a breath, her head felt light she gave a nod to her daughter. She held back a smile, the blush was still upon her cheeks. “Yes of course. Why don’t you two head into town? I have to go into the vaults to get my javelin.” She spoke as she quickly departed.
Amara held up a hand, her lips parted as she watched her mother quickly walk away. She turned her crystal hues to Tora. “You know, Seer.” She spoke as she watched the woman. “I’ve not seen my mother act this way, ever...” She paused a long time, her eyes focused upon the viking. “I’ve not seen her smile in such a way...” She stepped to Tora and searched her hues. “I’m not sure what is going on between you two. But...” She pressed her lips into a line. “Don’t hurt her. Okay? She’s...been hurt enough...far more than anyone I know...” The princess then turned. “We should go.” She spoke as she walked up the hill without another word. Her heels clicked upon the cobblestone as she made her way to the carriage. Amara climbed inside and sat down, the carriage waited for Tora and then it took off.
“We must present the hunters to the people, I must give a speech to the people to start Winter Fest...I’ve never given this speech before.” Amara seemed nervous. She bit at her lip slightly and then gave a laugh. “I’m not the one that gives the speeches...my mother does...” She looked to Tora and then shook her head.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 25, 2021 20:04:19 GMT -5
Tora looked out to the valley and took in a long breath, she imagined the colors of spring – and the scent of blossoms in the air. She glanced back to the Princess and nodded “Alright, I will meet you at the gates, my Queen” she bowed her head and followed Amara up the hill side. When they stopped – Tora sucked in a breath and let it slowly, no doubt the daughter would watch on…
She was surprised by what Amara had to say… she nodded her head slowly and then smirked “I expect her to hurt me first” she shrugged slightly and nodded. “I understand...” she walked for a bit and then came upon the carriage. She awkwardly stepped inside and shut the door… she parted the cloth that covered the window and shed some light into the cabin.
“Well...” Tora leaned back, listening to Amara’s concern about the speech. “Imagine what your mom might say, but say it better” she smirked and shrugged. “Give it an Amara twist, but whatever it is… just don’t think about it so much. Speak from your heart and it will come naturally, you are a talented leader” she put a hand on Amara’s shoulder “The smart ones always make it more complicated than it should” she chuckled and then nodded.
“Despite all of this – we still need to push forward with the attack. No Wild Hunt for you, no – I need you in tip top shape. Tonight we will push both of those camps on the borders… You will lead one of my groups” she grinned and crossed her arms proudly. “A chance to put your talent to something meaningful, hm?” she shifted as the carriage came to a stop. “While we’re murdering little wolfs and bears – you think about strategy...” she opened the door and then stepped out…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 25, 2021 21:20:46 GMT -5
Amara drew in a deep breath as she looked to Tora, she let out a laugh when the woman said to say the speech better than her mother. Raenisa had a way with speeches that was almost magical. The princess pressed her lips into a flat line. She raised her brow slightly as Tora told her to put her own twist on it. This viking had more belief in the princess than she did herself. “I’m not over complicating this.” She huffed and crossed her arms slightly as Tora placed a hand upon her shoulder. “Winter Fest is the largest celebration of the year and this year...it marks the end of a cycle. That makes this year so much more important...” She pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed.
As Tora spoke about the attack the princess looked to her with furrowed brows. “Me?” She questioned and shook her head. “My mother will never allow me to go into the war...Seer...I am the princess...you said so yourself the other night...before you attacked the first camp.” She seemed confused as she watched Tora leave the carriage. The princess rushed after her, “Wait up!” She called as her heels clicked quickly over the cobblestone. “I drew up the plans...I spent all day yesterday...” She looked to Tora. “I can show you after the hunt...” She slowed her pace slightly. Two knights marched behind them. Many people moved throughout the streets, children ran and played. “I believe it is a well thought out plan, but having your eyes on it would make me feel much better about my ideas.” The princess spoke as they walked into a large open hall. Many people gathered inside.
A child that was rushing through the crowd playing slammed into the side of the princess. Amara fell against Tora and grasped at her for balance, her eyes were wide. She had been completely caught off guard. The child gripped onto the princess and stared up to her with equally wide eyes. It was a young elven girl.
“Arwyn!” A male voice came from the crowd. “Your highness. My apologies.” He bowed deeply.
Amara straightened and looked down to the child whom had tears in her eyes. Her lips pressed together as she seemed to think of what to say to the child. She gave a gentle smile then, “Arwyn is it?” She spoke as she gazed into the girl’s emerald hues. The little girl nodded her head as she sniffled slightly. “You didn’t mean to run into me, I see that.” She spoke and smiled a bit more. “Now run along to your father, he is terribly worried. You shouldn’t run through crowds. Hm?” She nodded. The young girl nodded and then spun and ran to her father’s open arms.
“Thank you princess. It will not happen again.” He spoke as he looked to her with his arms wrapped around his young daughter.
The princess nodded her head as she walked forward through the crowd. “I ran into plenty of strangers when I was a child. When I played, I ran at full speed. Just like that girl.” She laughed lightly and looked to Tora. “This way.” She spoke as she weaved through the crowd. People moved out of the way as the princess walked through, they bowed to her and offered greetings. She was well respected by her people. “You’ll stay here. I’ll call you to the stage soon.” She glanced to Tora a moment. “Your people, look good here, hm?” She looked around at the vikings that were littered throughout the crowd.
Amara stepped upon the stage and a hush came over the room. She looked out over the crowd and offered a warm smile. “Welcome.” She spoke. “Our Yeartide is upon us, the city was nearly silent yesterday in recollection of our past, present, and future.” She spoke. She looked a bit nervous. Her hues found Tora and she drew in a deep breath. “This year the Wild Hunt marks the beginning of something special. We will begin a new thirteen year cycle. There is much...” The princess stopped speaking. Her eyes were looking over the crowd into the back of the room. A few looked back, the queen had walked in from outside. The queen wore her javelin upon her back. It was a gorgeous design that held blue steel, a very rare thing to find. It almost seemed to glow in the light of the room. The queen paused as she looked to her daughter, she gave a nod to her.
Amara closed her eyes a moment, “There is much to come in our future. This new thirteen year cycle will mark the beginning of some of the most fulfilling and strongest years of our people.” She looked to the people whom had focused back in on her while the queen stood at the back allowing Amara to make her speech. “We have among us new allies. With these new allies we have already become stronger. Our future will be full of more victories to come.” She got a cheer from the crowd and a grin split her lips finally. “Tonight, after we have celebrated the Wild Hunt...our people will march on two more camps that we have discovered.” She paused and drew in a breath. If she announced it now, her mother would have no say in it. “I will be leading one of the raid parties, alongside Tora to lead the other party. Together we will help to push back King Alexander’s men. By the end of this winter the threat of Alexander will be no longer. So...this Winter Fest….we celebrate the rebirth of our people into something new, something great.” The crowd cheered. The princess gazed to her mother whom looked to her in almost shock it seemed.
Amara drew in a breath as the crowd settled down after a few moments. “I will announce this years hunters that will compete. I will be the judge this year.” She grinned as she grasped the parchment that was set upon the podium on the stage. Amara began naming off several elven hunters that climbed upon the stage. She then named off several vikings. Some were pairs of hunters others were single hunters. She paused a moment, “Our final duo will be the Queen of Armalon….and Seer Tora.” She spoke the crowd cheered. Many of the vikings threw their mugs up in the air causing their ale to splash. She waited for them to get on the stage, Amara smiled to her mother whom looked like a fierce fighter. “I will announce the rules, just as we do each year.” She began to explain the rules of the hunt. Soon enough everyone began to clear out of the room, the hunt would begin in a half an hour. This would give the towns people enough time to get on their balconies and prepare to watch the hunt.
“You’re leading a raiding party?” The queen questioned once the last person had left the room. “Do you have something to do with this Tora? What if she’s injured?” She questioned, the mother in her taking over.
“And you’re not putting yourself in danger by competing in the hunt, mother?” Amara crossed her arms.
“Amara this is not a silly festival that you are speaking of. This is war. These people...could kill you...” She looked terrified. “Tora, you have to tell her this is not a good idea….what if something happens….” She paced slightly. “I cannot let you lead a raiding party…”
Amara looked to Tora and drew in a breath, “I told you she would have nothing to do with me participating in this. Even though I drew up the plans for the attack.” She shrugged slightly. “Perhaps you two can talk it out?” She looked to her mother. “You seem to talk a lot of things out.” She smirked playfully. “Enjoy the hunt. I’ll see you out there.” Amara spoke as she stepped from the building. “You’ll be starting at city square.” She called as she left the room.
The queen pinched the bridge of her nose, just as Amara did when she was stressed. “I don’t doubt her abilities, Tora...but...what if something happens?” She questioned, her voice fearful.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 26, 2021 14:08:34 GMT -5
Tora turned her gaze to the Princess as she rushed to catch up. “A thought out plan?” she smirked “I look forward to hearing it then” she came to a sudden stop right as the child ran into the Princess. She reached for her and aided in her stability and then looked down to the little one. She watched at the engagement of Amara and the young girl, Arywn.
Fire licked the side of Tora’s arm – she shot upward and breathed quickly, she instantly began to cough as smoke seeped into her lungs. She scrambled upward to find herself in collapsed rubble. She pushed a piece of smoldering wood off her legs and slowly stood. Her hair was covered in soot, and she had a thick muddy substance on her arms and face – blood and ashes mixed together..
Tora stumbled to the street and picked up one of her axes, which was laying alone on the cracked cobbled ground. She looked around slowly – the shadow of a dragon flapped over them, and then a huge roar came from it… She stumbled back as the sun blinded her… Tora heard the pattering of foot steps – she gripped her axe and stepped forward. Arwyn came rushing forward with her arms flailed outwards, running to Tora for help. Tora went to reach for her but an arrow flew through the air and pierced the young girl in the back. “No - “ Tora grasped the little girl, who fought to breath. Blood leaked from her mouth and her lungs cracked as she tried to hold on… Tora gripped the little girl’s chin and kissed her forehead – in a swift motion she broke the girl’s neck. Ending her suffering.
Tora stumbled backwards. They were standing in the same spot – she looked to the building to her right, which had crumbled, and she was inside of. Tora looked about the skies – expecting a dragon. What sort of dream was this? Nothing happened… Tora shut her eyes briefly and let it go slowly. Tora followed Amara through the crowd until they came to the stage. Tora smiled and bowed her head “They look alright” she grinned and nodded.
Tora glanced over to Yvette who stood in the crowd, her eyes found Tora and they both nodded. She listened to the woman speak, as Amara began to speak – Tora gave her an approving nod, smiling in a bit of pride as the woman spoke. She nodded her head to the Viking names that came up as she read them off, she smirked though as the Queen and Tora were paired last.
“Ah… of course” Tora grinned as the Queen began to speak, her frustrations aloud. She let the woman get it all out.. Tora took in a breath and let it go slowly – she approached Raenisa and she placed two hands on each of her shoulders. “It is her time” she tilted her head and looked to the woman. “Think of it...” she shut her eyes. The vision of the dragon played over her mind… she let out a breath and it faded. “It will be an easy attack, I will send all of my best fighters with her… she will crush them, easily. And think… she gets to be involved, she becomes invested – her passion for her people and city becomes stronger, which is what we need. This is the next step to her becoming the Queen she is destined to be… let her partake..” she dropped her hands and then smiled “The Gods are watching us, they watch over her… they will not take her from us, will they?” she grasped the Queen’s hands and then kissed her knuckles.
“Come on, let us take down some beasts” she tugged her hand and lead her out. Tora paused as Yvette stepped forward. “Yvette” Tora smirked and nodded.
Yvette held a shield forward – it was Tora’s. “Seer” she smirked and looked to the Queen, she bowed her head slightly.
“My Queen, I want you to meet General Yvette” she held a hand out. “She is the Commander of the Shield Maidens, she and my powerful women will be guiding Amara” she nodded.
Yvette bowed her head and smirked “Your daughter is safe with me, my lady…” Yvette grasped Tora’s shield and gave it a pat. “There is nothing stronger than a Viking shield, eh?” she smirked. “Good luck today, Seer.. My Queen” she bowed and then walked away.
“When the time comes… I will appoint Yvette as Jarl” she crossed her arms. “I test her for her leadership… I have been absent intentionally. A Seer is not intended to be a Jarl, we are the guide that leads the fearless” she looked to the Queen. “Like sailing on a sea of fog, the Leader strides forward into the unknown. The Seer holds the light at the bow...” she smirked. “Plus I can focus on more fun things, like the beautiful Queen before me” she chuckled and then gripped her shield.
Her shield was different than her clan. Her people wore a shield with a wolf on it, hers had Yggdrasil on it, the Tree that held the realms together. As she did the same for her people… “You know, if I could have it my way – you would never take that battle armor off – looks damn nice on you” she winked and then she grasped her axe. “To the city square then!” she spoke with excitement.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 26, 2021 15:22:56 GMT -5
Raenisa gazed to Tora, her amber hues searched the woman’s. “Her time...” The queen shook her head. She watched as Tora shut her eyes. Perhaps...the Seer had a vision? Maybe this was the reason that she’d chosen to put Amara in danger. She fell quiet as she watched the woman the queen crossed her arms over her chest, much like Amara did. She listened to Tora’s explanation, her eyes were filled with worry. “Tora, I am not like your people...” She shook her head. “I’m not used to...trusting someone else with the life of my daughter...” She paused as Tora spoke of the gods and she kissed the back of the queen’s hands. Raenisa let out a soft chuckle as she looked to her. She shook her head again as Tora tugged upon her. The queen pulled Tora back and gazed into her eyes, “Promise me, that she’ll be kept safe.” She whispered softly, “I know that you’ve had a vision...but...I pray to the gods that nothing happens to either of you.” She gave a gentle smile then. The queen was protective of the princess, rightfully. But she knew that the words that Tora spoke were correct, she needed to allow Amara to be a part of this. Even if it terrified the queen to allow her daughter to fight in the war.
Raenisa gave a smile to Tora as she allowed her to tug her forward. “The beasts will never see us coming.” She spoke with a soft laugh as she walked forward with the woman. The queen allowed her hand to drop to her side as she followed the Seer outside. She looked to the shield maiden that approached. “General Yvette. A pleasure to meet you.” The queen responded her amber hues were fixated on Yvette. She listened to the woman and watched the smirk as she spoke of the viking shield. The queen then looked to Tora as the general left. “Jarl huh?” She gave her own smirk. “It looks as though you are grooming her well. She seems very confident in her abilities.” Raenisa stepped to Tora and listened to her speak. When Tora spoke of focusing more on her, the queen’s cheeks blushed deeply. “Oh?” She gave a laugh.
The queen looked to the shield, “That’s beautiful.” She spoke as she reached out and touched the inscriptions. She then lifted her amber hues to Tora a smirk upon her lips. “Oh?” She asked, “You like it? We have a blacksmith in town...we could get you something made as well.” She winked. “Though I do love your furs and leathers.” She gazed into the woman’s eyes a moment. “Let’s go.” She grinned as she turned and headed off toward the city square.
“We will be busy for at least a few hours.” She looked about to the balconies. A few cheered for their queen as she walked bay. Raenisa grinned as they made it to the city square. “You’ll hear the horn and that will signal the release of the beasts.” The queen turned to Tora with a bit of a smirk upon her lips. “Thank you, for pushing me.” She raised a brow slightly. “You’re the only one that seems to be able to do such a thing.” She smirked once again and chuckled as the sound of the horn blew in the distance. Cheers erupted through the city. “Get ready.” Raenisa spoke as she pulled her javelin from her back. It glistened in the sunlight. She grinned as she heard the growls of beasts.
Soon wolves began rushing through the streets. The queen rushed forward easily besting the creatures. She flipped about and dodged easily. “Come on!” She called over her shoulder as she rushed forward. “We have to be quick if we want to win!” She spoke as she rushed through the streets in search of their next foe.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 26, 2021 16:32:07 GMT -5
Tora gripped her shield and followed the Queen until they rounded to the court. “A set for me?” She questioned, regarding the outfit. She thought for a moment and grinned “Maybe a night in your shoes may be nice… Do my hair like your people.. wear one of those.. oh, I don’t know.” she shuddered “Dresses” she chuckled and shrugged. “Maybe we’ll start with just the armor” she chuckled and spun her axe in her hand.
“The only pushing I do – is putting you against the wall, my dear” she laughed and then the horn sounded loudly. Tora grasped her own horn from her belt and blew it. It was a different sound than the one they just heard. Just as she did a return sound came from afar – every Viking pulled their horn and blew. Theirs were a little lower pitch than hers, which was intentional.
A pile of wolves charged at her – she jumped into the air and twirled – she spun so that her axes lodged into three wolves before her. As she landed – she threw another axe immediately, piercing the tail of a wolf to the ground. The wolf cried out loudly as he was pinned and could not move. Tora rushed forward and beheaded the wolf in an instant with her spare axe. She wiped the blood off on his coat and sheathed the axe on her side. She retrieved her other axe and rushed forward to catch up with the Queen.
They rounded a corner and Tora pointed her axe towards a beast in the distance. It was a huge sabertooth tiger, but was an usual color – it was bright green, with lighter stripes. She gripped her axes and rushed forward – right before she were to attack, a giant creature came from the sky. It was a huge bird with a grey metallic like beak. It pinned down the Saber and tried to lift it back into the air. “Oh hell no ! That was my kill!” She threw her axe at the huge bird. It cut through it’s wing and the beast cried out. “Rae – jump!!” She held her shield up “Don’t let that fucker take my cat!” she shouted. As the Queen rushed over – Tora threw the queen upward with her axe…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 26, 2021 17:36:04 GMT -5
Raenisa grinned as she ran along, it felt good to be in the thick of it. It had been so long since she had felt the adrenaline of the hunt. As they ran down the street toward the saber the queen skidded to a stop as the bird came from overhead, her eyes widened slightly. She glanced to Tora and chuckled, “I won’t let him steal your kill.” She rushed forward and leaped into the air. The queen pushed off of the shield with ease and flew through the air. As she stabbed her javelin forward her eyes held a fiery glow to them. Electricity crackled as it ran up and down her weapon. As it stabbed into the huge beast a bolt of lightening came from the skies. It crackled as it wrapped around both the bird and the saber. The queen landed on her feet, the glow still in her hues. “What a rush!” She exclaimed with a laugh as she looked to the two beasts.
Cheers came from the people around them that stood upon their balconies. The queen grinned as she looked to Tora. “Next one is yours.” She winked to her before she took off running once again. “I haven’t forgotten about your comment. We’ll have to come back to that later, hm?” She had a blush on her cheeks as she rushed through the city. They rounded a corner and the queen rushed toward a bear. “Come on!” She called to Tora as she lunged toward the beast. There was a loud screech from above. Raenisa glanced up just as a huge bat like beast swooped down toward her and Tora. She shifted as the beast came back for another attack. The queen was hit by the creature causing her to fall to her back upon the ground. The huge wings beat air down upon the two as the creature screeched.
“That shouldn’t be here.” The queen scrambled to her feet. “Something is wrong.” She held her arm where the creature had hit her, blood leaked between her fingers. The queen looked to Tora with fearful eyes. “The challenge does not matter. Something is wrong. This creature is not from Armalon.” She dodged and stabbed her javelin into the creature as it swooped down toward her once again.
**
“Princess!” A soldier came running across the balcony that overlooked most of the city.
“Yes?” Amara turned to the man whom was out of breath.
“They came from the south. With creatures under magical command...We couldn’t stop them, your highness.” He fell to a knee, blood ran down his armor from deep wounds between the segments of the armor.
Amara’s eyes widened slightly, “Creatures?” She questioned. “They knew….they were here for five years they know our customs...” She shook her head. “My mother...” She gazed down to the city. As she looked about she saw creatures that did not belong in the hunt. Stronger more vicious beasts.
“Their officers...the magic...” He coughed up blood.
“Princess, we must stop the tournament.” Rhys stood next to her. “Our queen is in danger.”
Amara drew in a breath, her eyes looked to Rhys. “Gather our soldiers. Try not to alarm the city. We will need to get to Tora and the Queen….they must have been planning this all along. That is why they set up those camps...I can only imagine how many more would be here if we hadn’t destroyed one of the camps….” She had her hands balled into fists.
Rhys bowed his head, “Right away, your highness.” He paused a moment as he looked to her, “We will end this...don’t worry...” He gave a reassuring smile.
Amara nodded to him as she knelt next to the elf that was bleeding out. “Here.” She placed her hand over his chest. A white light came from her hand as her eyes began to glow. Healing magic. Few possessed such a skill. The bleeding began to slow and soon the soldier was injury free. “There you are. Now. Where are the officers?” She questioned.
The elf drew in a deep breath as he looked to his healed wounds. “Princess...” He sat up slowly and shook his head. “They are to the south of the city, within the forest. Our troop that was rounding was nearly all killed by them. They had cages on carts full of these beasts...with red eyes. They are controlling them.” He bowed his head. “I apologize princess...we did not have enough soldiers to fight against them with everyone competing in the Wild Hunt….”
“We will stop them….I assure you.” The princess then ran off.
**
Raenisa stepped back several times as she sliced at the bat creature, she’d managed to slice through one of his wings. She held her hand forward and muttered ancient elvish, lightening once again crackled from the skies and struck the beast. Though the bat did not fall. It screeched as it stumbled, it was nearly finished. Raenisa held her arm as her blood continued to leak from the deep gash. The bat screeched again and hobbled forward toward the queen readying itself to attack her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 26, 2021 18:39:36 GMT -5
Tora brushed a bit of blood off her cheek and gripped her shield “I hope you speak with your hands, whenever we talk about it” she rushed forward and playfully slapped Raenisa’s rear. Tora laughed and glanced back behind her “How many can say they hit the Queen’s ass, and lived to breath it?” she laughed and rushed forward. “Come on then!” she gripped her axe and came to a skidding stop.
“What the fu-” she stared to the beast. Tora lifted her shield just in time for the beast to lunge at her. She blocked the attack – though its strength pushed her back several feet, leaving skid marks from her boots which dug in during the attack. There was another – it lunged for Raenisa “No – Raenisa” she cried out as the beast clawed into her. She grit her teeth and then jumped upward with strength, her eye was glowing brightly as she was filled with its power.
She lunged forward and blocked the incoming claw of the beast, she sliced at its foot with her axe and then grasped his other claw. Tora twisted her body and threw the beast to the ground with her weight. She crushed it with her elbow and then she pulled at her side – she crew her dagger and stabbed into the creature, once, twice – then over and over until its blood pulled around them.
Tora stood and then flipped the dagger in her hand. She threw the blade and it stabbed into the wings of the creature which attacked Raenisa. Tora grasped her axe and ran forward - “Show no Mercy, Raenisa!” She shouted and gripped the tail of the creature. She was slung to the side and the creature turned its gaze to Tora and charged. Tora held her shield up and the creature slammed into her shield. Tora was thrown back against the side of a building. She groaned as she hit the ground, she scrambled to her feet and then braced with her shield for the oncoming attack…
Tora called out - “Raenisa, now!” she shouted for the attack. Tora scrambled back and heaved as she held her shield, she was bruised and had a few scrapes… “These guys are way stronger than I expected...” she gripped her axe and sighed. “Shit -” she stumbled slightly as the world rumbled. Creatures were flying swiftly up above. “What” she rushed forward. She groaned and lunged with strength. She gripped the roof of a building and pulled herself up. She stood on the roof and looked out to the city. “Raenisa” she glanced down. “We’re being attacked, we need to Rally” she pulled her horn from her side and blew into it – 3 even tones. In an instant – horns blew back. Tora blew back one long deep tone and then pulled her horn down. “To the castle!” she shouted.
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