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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 10, 2017 21:01:00 GMT -5
Skylar smiled as he spoke of the huge tornado that leveled a city. Her mind wandered for a moment, when he asked her to imagine having power. Skylar looked down away from him and let out a soft laugh. A fuzzy memory of her using the shadows to slip through the city, a scythe in her hand. She shook her head and laughed as she looked to him act out the moves of the powers. “It’s always easy to dream.” Skylar spoke, “It is a great way to get away from the world, to escape. That is why I read. The magic in these books, it is incredible…” She then searched his eyes when he told her they would travel to the library. Skylar swallowed, she knew how much pain her body was in, Dr. Knightley had mentioned that at least one of her ribs were broken on her left side, she could feel the pain, and she wasn’t even moving. As Yevon wrapped his arm around her body Skylar winced, she grit her teeth as she stood up, tears welled in her eyes. “I…” She leaned heavily against him. Her side was on fire, her whole body was sore. She leaned her head into his chest for a long moment until she stabilized. “Okay…” She whispered and went with him to the library.
Skylar watched as he removed his jacket, she looked to his arms for a moment, the bandaging that Dr. Knightley placed to carefully. Then, the question came. When he asked her what powers she would have another flash of the past Skylar came before her eyes, she blinked a few times and then chuckled. “Yevon…” She began as she held her hand to her side. “Magic…it…” She gave a warm smile, “Magic isn’t real….it…” She paused for a moment as a memory of her holding her hand forward, tethering her enemy and then a swift shot from her pistol. She shook her head. “I don’t know what I would have…I’m really not sure…” She looked to him and searched his eyes. “Do you know what magic you would have?” She questioned. “Is it so easy to just choose? How would you get magic….if it was possible?”
**
“My father is going to kill you.” Jasper turned his head to the side, he spat blood.
Mavis looked him over, “Oh? You nearly rape the princess, and now your father will be angry with me? You’ve lost him an entire kingdom, Jasper.” He tilted Jasper’s head back and looked into his eyes. “I have sent a letter to your father, explaining everything. I am certain he will come, as I have invited him, to have an audience with me. When this happens I will discuss your fate with him.”
“You’ve no idea what you are doing to your kingdom by doing this.” Jasper fought against the restraints and spat blood into the king’s face.
Mavis furrowed his brows and swung, a good solid punch caught Jasper in his temple, causing him to lose consciousness. “You’re supposed to be royalty. You should at least act like it. Or in the least show the respect that a street rat shows to his king.” His voice was low, full of anger. He turned then and stepped to his knight that stood at the door. “Find him a cell in the dungeon. He will remain there until his father comes.” He spoke before he left the room.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 10, 2017 21:36:11 GMT -5
Yevon glanced to Skylar and then chuckled. “Hm…” he turned for a moment. He looked out the huge window. His eyes peered over the tops of the buildings of the city, and then the mountains in the distance. “Maybe Strength, or height, that’s a magical power right?” he grinned, making fun of his own height.
Yevon slowly stepped over to one of the seats and sat on the arm rest. “You know, how can you be so sure?” he questioned, standing. “I mean… there is the Gods.. but. Don’t you think maybe, somehow, it is possible? The stories you’ve heard in these books… they have to come from some where. I mean…” he chuckled and shook his head. “I uh… actually never spent much time at the Kingdom. I left at 18, I actually joined the Rangers” he pulled out a necklace that was under his under shirt. It was the ranger symbol. It was a leaf with a sword in the middle of it. He tucked it back under his shirt.
The Rangers was an incredibly powerful group of select fighters. One would have to go very rigorous selection process, that often if failed lead in death. The Elite fighters of no true king. If a certain King was able to earn their alliance they would certainly win any war…
“I actually.. am going to lose this race” he spoke as he came over to Skylar. “My kingdom has nothing to offer, if anything it will be taking from yours. It is not a fair trade.” He spoke softly and then chuckled. “If I did win, my father would forgive me for running.. but still” he chuckled and then shook his head. “As a Ranger we… traveled the world. From city to city, cleaning up the corruption. I’ve been Battling the Divisi since the day it emerged” he stepped over to Skylar and placed his hand on her cheek, looking into her eyes. “Maybe you can forgive me, for this truth” he whispered and then kissed her forehead. “I… I want to win. I want to make sure you are always taken care of, I want to make you smile – make you happy.” He blushed, chuckling awkwardly. “But when the moment comes, my honor will only take me so far” he spoke and then stepped away.
There was a knock on the door and it opened slowly. Dr.Knightley stepped in and bowed her head. “It is time for a check up.. lets get you back to the room my lady. And.. I need to change your dressings as well” she looked to Yevon and then nodded. Yevon turned to Skylar and then smiled, he stepped over and helped her walk back to the bedroom.
Dr.Knightley helped Skylar into her bed and turned to Yevon. “I will come find you later, Dr.Knightley” Yevon spoke and then left the room. He ran his head through his hair and then gave a deep sigh. He made his way to the bathing room. A maid looked to him and then smiled “Would you like me to start a bath?” she questioned.
Yevon looked to her and smiled. “I’ve got it… you may leave.”
“Sir – “ her eyes grew wide.
“Really” he smiled and then shoo’d her out of the room. Yevon made his way to the pump and began to move it, filling the square tub with water. He turned on the hot boiler under the tub that heat up the water. Once it was full, the water was steaming, he turned off the boiler and then stripped down. Yevon stepped over and locked the door, dead bolting it. He set his jacket and sword down, as he had nabbed it from the library.. then slowly peeled off each layer of clothing.
“Jesus” Eva looked into the mirror. She was really beat up. Her breasts were beginning to bruise from the bind, and it was very sore. She climbed into the bed and then sunk down into the water. Resting between her breasts was the Ranger necklace, silver and shining. She reached her hand up and rubbed it slowly, shutting her eyes as the water seeped into her sore muscles…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 10, 2017 22:39:33 GMT -5
Skylar grinned and laughed when Yevon mentioned his height. “Power can come with height, but one can simply become a brute, you’re not that, and I’d never wish it upon you.” She smiled as she moved to the bookshelf and thumbed through a few of the books. When he questioned her, she turned to him, her expression thoughtful, a smile curved up her lips. “I’ve no reason to believe that magic is real. If it were real, I could have defended myself, or better yet, you wouldn’t have been injured by Jasper.” She then looked away, “If it were real, I could only imagine that just as power brews darkness a darkness would come from the magic. Wouldn’t it? With everything there is always that one that causes it to corrupt. Jasper for example.” She looked to Yevon. In the next moment he mentioned the Rangers. “You’re a Ranger?” She questioned and then her eyes fell upon the necklace. She looked to the trinket as he tucked it back away. I actually.. am going to lose this race. In that moment Skylar furrowed her brows and stared to Yevon. She didn’t speak as she stared to him, her expression of defeat. When he touched his hand to her cheek she placed her own hand over his, the warmth of his skin shot energy through her body. Though she looked away after he kissed her forehead. As he stepped from her Skylar held her hand to her cheek. She turned her back to him and shut her eyes for a moment.
As the door opened she looked to Dr. Knightley and gave a nod. He was right. If he had nothing to offer, the king would not choose him. She was silent on the walk back to her room her eyes stared ahead. She let out a slight whimper as she sat back down in her bed. After Yevon left Skylar looked to Ayla whom was still sound asleep on the couch, she let out a soft laugh.
Dr. Knightley gave a smile then. “It’s good to see you smile, princess.” She spoke as she lifted her bag onto the bed. “Take these.” She handed Skylar a few pills which she took with water and scrunched up her nose. “It will help. Remember --…”
“The worse it tastes the better it will help me…I know….” Skylar spoke, her voice soft.
Dr. Knightley took in a breath, “He saved your life.” She spoke as she lifted Skylar’s shirt to inspect her side.
“I am aware, as I am thankful.” Skylar spoke, still she looked away.
Dr. Knightley furrowed her brows. “Do you not approve of him?” She asked then curious.
“He will not gain my father’s approval, no matter the circumstances, he unfortunately has nothing to offer. I cannot allow myself to fall for a man that will clearly not fulfill the challenge.”
Dr. Knightley bit her lip slightly, “My apologies, my lady.” She spoke as she pulled a band from her bag. “I’m going to bind your ribs, to help with the pain. Though, this will hurt…my apologies.” She began to wrap the cloth around Skylar’s ribcage. As she did so she began to pull it tight to give Skylar’s ribs support, this caused her to whimper and cry out. Booker came rushing into the room. “Out!” Dr. Knightley ordered. He quickly spun around, his face turning bright red, he wasn’t meant to see the princess like that. Dr. Knightley secured the band into place. “Take this.” She poured a syrup. “Shhh.” Skylar was sobbing by this point. “You’re alright, princess.” She tipped the syrup into the princess’ mouth. “You’ll sleep.” She gave a nod. Skylar lay back with the doctor’s help, tears streamed down her cheeks from the pain of the band. Soon enough, she fell unconscious.
Ayla stood at the foot of the bed. “Dr. Knightley.” She whispered softly.
Dr. Knightley turned to look to her, “Yes, my lady?” She asked as she packed up her bags.
“Will she be alright?” Ayla climbed onto the bed next to Skylar and looked to her peaceful slumber, she wiped away her tears with a kerchief.
“Yes, of course.” Dr. Knightley gave a nod. “It just takes time….here.” She poured another serving of the syrup. Ayla took it and looked to it with a quizzical expression. “Take it, Lady Sarálonde, it will allow you sleep.” Dr. Knightley smiled. She waited for Ayla to take the medicine and then packed her things. “Sleep well, Ayla.” She tucked her in and left the room.
**
Later that evening the knights came stampeding back into the kingdom, the prince trailed along behind him. He stopped at the base of the castle stairs, a few knights grabbed his horse just before it reared. Alden jumped down from his horse, a smile on his lips. He had short brown hair that hung into his bright blue eyes. He wore the long coat of an army general from his kingdom. It was a velvety red with golden trimming. Upon his left arm her wore a shoulder piece that was a lion’s head plated in silver, both forearms had similar gauntlets that had intricate design. He wore a thick belt that held a lion’s head as the clasp. He had armor plated pants and thick black leather boots. “Welcome Prince Windsor.” A knight offered. “The king requests an audience with you.”
Alden gave a nod, “Of course.” He stepped up the stairs, his armored plated clanking with his movement. He marched through the castle as he followed the knight. He looked to Prince Alexander as he passed him in the hall and gave him a nod of his head. He then turned his attention ahead of himself once more. Alden stepped into the throne room where only the king stood. He marched up to the base of the stairs before he knelt down to one knee, bowing deeply as he placed a hand on the ground before him. Though, he did not speak.
Mavis stared to him for a long moment as Amara came into the room and took her place on the throne. He then stood. “You may rise.” He spoke as he descended the stairs. He stood in front of Alden, they were nearly the same height, just over 6 feet tall. “You have been given the chance to compete once more, Prince Windsor. The queen and I saw great things for you in this tournament, you were unfortunately placed against a dirty opponent, whom has recently reared his ugly head. So, you are the ideal replacement, as you would stand before me rather than him if you had not lost to his dirty fighting.” He stared to the prince. “You have much to offer, or so I have been told. So tell me, Alden. What is it that your kingdom can offer with the hand of my daughter?”
Alden stared to the king he gave a nod. “It is a pleasure to be allowed to return, as I want nothing more than to promise the protection and prosperity of this kingdom, as well as Princess Greystoke. My kingdom can offer much more than that. We have a viable army at our disposal, which my father has agreed to give half of in the event that I am chosen to take your daughter’s hand. I also am well vested in fighting myself, as I lead a platoon for my father, if it was not for Jasper’s cheating I would have finished him in the fight. But I will not make excuses, as the enemy does not fight fairly, so it shouldn’t be expected in a duel for the princess’ hand. I can also offer top notch training for your men. We can also fortify the city and make it much more resilient against the Divici, as well as patrolling the outskirts and protecting the families that do not have the wall for protection.” He stared to Mavis, “I offer you plenty of food, as my kingdom is wealthy in crops as well as game for plenty of meats. Lastly I can offer that I will take care of Princess Skylar, I vow to create a strong bond with her, and to search for her happiness, above all else.” Alden then bowed his head at the end of his speaking.
Mavis looked him over for a moment, he looked to Amara as he turned and stepped back to his throne. “Thank you, that will be all.” He spoke, “Tonight for dinner, think of something in my kingdom that you would see fit to improve upon.” He sat down. “You are dismissed.”
“Thank you, my king.” He bowed, “My queen.” He bowed once more before he turned and left the room.
Mavis looked to Amara, “He seems the most promising, doesn’t he?”
“He is very educated, he knows how to pick his words very wisely, and yes, his kingdom has much to offer. This is why I liked him before when we were first selecting men to allow courtship of our daughter.” Amara stood, “I need to check on her…” She spoke and left the throne room.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 10, 2017 23:51:19 GMT -5
Eva stood from the bath – she stepped out of the tub and then faced the mirror. Her wounds had healed now, only leaving a slight pink spot in its place. She rubbed the back of her neck for a moment, but then brought the towel up to her body. After she dried off she bound her breasts once more, and then pulled her clothes back on.
Yevon parted his hair properly, fingers brushing it slightly. He pulled his red coat on, and then his sword. He quickly drew his sword and swung it slightly. With a sigh he sheathed it and then made his way out the door. His steps lead him to the dining room, where the other Prince’s sat.
“You healed up fast Yevon” Peter spoke, smiling as Yevon entered.
Yevon chuckled and nodded “High Protein diet” he joked and then sat down. The swelling in his face had gone down, his black eye was starting to fade. Yevon turned his head as he heard clanking – someone came through the Throne room door. Alden.
Alden approached the table and smiled. “Gentleman” he spoke and then sat down. Peter smiled and nodded “I am glad to see you are running again. Good to see you are well” he held his glass up to Alden.
Alden held his glass and smiled as well “Thank you,.”
The king then stepped into the room. Everyone bowed their head to his entrance, and then the King held his hand up. “Due to circumstances I have changed today’s event. Rather, I will gain an understanding to your theories of leadership” he then looked to Alden and held his hand out. “Our next runner up is Alden, you likely remember him. I believe this collection is of great minds, and honorable souls. Please do not fail me like Jasper did.” He bowed his head and then waved to Yevon. “Yevon first”
Yevon stood and then the men nodded to him. Peter rose his glass “Good luck” he smiled. Yevon stood before the king and queen once again.
“You are healing quickly, I am impressed” Amara spoke and smiled.
Mavis cleared his throat and then continued on. “Yevon, I am going to ask a series of questions. I want you to give me the most honest answer you can conjure… First question: You are judging a trial for the accusation that your second hand is selling weapons to the enemy. What is your judgement?”
Yevon bit his lower lip slightly and then nodded. “I would question the source of the accusation first. If this person was available I would place him in questioning before proceeding with judgement. Until concrete evidence is provided I would lock my second hand into a cell, I would take good care of him though. In this matter I would include my council, this is something I would want multiple minds on” he spoke.
“You would be a king with a council?” Mavis spoke, his voice neutral.
“Yes sir. I find it important to have input of other great minds, as I may not see things the way others might.”
“What would your council contain?”
“My General, my Queen, my lead Doctor, a Scholar, and a Vendor Trades manager” he thought for a moment “Something along those lines… I would have to take more time into the development of that. Weigh out the pros and cons of each position…” Yevon spoke, his eyes looking over the King..
“Hm. Next Question: If you became King of this Kingdom, what would you change?” he questioned.
“My King… the truth is I am not fully aware of the status of this Kingdom. I know what I’ve heard, and what people have told me, but I would want a true analysis of the Kingdom before making any hard decisions… so my answer would be that I cannot change what I do not know” he spoke and then nodded.
The King stood and nodded. “That is all the questions I have. Please send in Peter”
Yevon stepped into the dining room once more and looked to the men. “Peter you are next”
Peter stood and then made his way into the throne room. Yevon sat down and then ate his dinner. It was blackened chicken with veggies. Once he was done – he waited for the King and Queen to enter the room once more.
Mavis smiled as he came to the table. “You all had very fine answers, I will have difficulties making a decision based on them… Tomorrow we will continue. You will play a game of chess with one of my Scholars… The least ranking person will be removed, leaving just 3 men left in the pick. I wish you the best of luck” he then stepped out of the room, Amara right behind him.
Yevon stood and then made his way back to his room. He stood outside on the balcony, looking over the city that began to settle down for the night. This was nothing like the frozen wasteland that was Landstar. Yevon leaned against the rail… he had to get his answer… In an instant he teleported down to the ground. He crossed the courtyard and slipped into the wooden door before him. Instantly he bounded down the stairs and stepped into the cell room. The guards were gone.. for now. He came to the door and looked to Jasper, who was slumped over – his arms bound to the walls.
“Ya got food peon?” he spat, looking up. To his surprise Yevon stood, staring to him.
“You work for the Divisi” Yevon spoke.
Jasper’s mouth gaped open, then he grit his teeth. “I do not know what you are talking about”
Yevon suddenly appeared in the cell, his fist slammed into Jasper’s face. He drew his sword and held it to his throat. “Tell me where Gregim Lavoir is” he shouted, the blade nicking Jasper’s throat.
Jasper studdered for a moment and then shook his head. “I wont say”
Yevon grit his teeth and then grunted. He paced for a moment and then sighed. “Useless, you’re going to die anyways”
“Hah – I might, but this entire Kingdom will fall. My dad’s got those bastards headed here right now. This entire place is going to be toast. He knew some shit like this would happen, he hoped it would. If I can’t marry in and take the kingdom, then we will do it by force.” He laughed loudly –
Yevon was gone in an instant, before Jasper could even lift his head back up to notice. Yevon grit his teeth and then came slamming into what was Jasper’s room. He scrambled through his things until he came across a letter. It had yesterdays date on it, he was going to send it.
I am nearing victory. Hold off”
That is all it read… There was a bird cage in the room, the bird sat on its perch, tweeting slightly.. he set the note back down and then left the room, heading to his own. He stood on the balcony, looking out – watching… they were coming. They had to be some what near – that way he could respond quickly by arriving. Considering that note was supposed to be sent yesterday…. It would have to be tomorrow, maybe later..
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 11, 2017 23:51:00 GMT -5
Amara headed toward Skylar’s room just as Dr. Knightley was finishing up. “Dr. Knightley.” She spoke as the doctor pulled the door shut.
“My queen.” Dr. Knightley bowed her head. “She is sleeping.”
“How does she fare?” The queen questioned, she looked to Booker whom stood in attention and then back to the doctor.
“She will heal just fine.” She spoke and then gave a nod, “She needs to rest, she needs to stay relaxed and calm so that her body may heal. I am certain that she has one or two broken ribs…”
“How did this---…”
Dr. Knightley held up her hand, “I am not meaning to interrupt my queen, but I must beg of you not to speak so loudly, she is sleeping. She will heal, just give her a few days, my queen. I will return soon to give her more medication to keep the pain at a comfortable level.”
**
“Searching through another prince’s belongings?” Alden’s voice came from the open doorway. “Jasper had much to hide, he’s always been a sore site for the eyes. His entire kingdom is disgraceful.” He scoffed. He stepped into the bedroom next to Yevon and leaned against the desk, he peered down to the note and looked to the bird. “Hold off…hm..?” He grabbed the note from Yevon’s hands. “Hold off on what?” He questioned before he left the room. He marched straight to the throne room where Mavis stood speaking with one of the knights, Lieutenant Steiner. Alden marched up to the king and bowed his head. “My king, may I intrude? I have something that may be of some importance.” He pulled the note from his pocket and held it up.
Mavis turned to him and took the note, he read over the letters and then looked to Alden, “Where did you find this?”
“Yevon found it in Jasper’s room, I saw him poking around in there. I stepped inside and saw this laying on Jasper’s desk, next to his birdcage.”
“Interesting.” He gave a nod. “Thank you, Alden, you may leave.” He spoke and then turned his eyes back to Lieutenant Steiner. “We are dealing with a sizable force here. Even though the prince attacked my daughter his father more than likely will not care, will not reason. When he shows up, to have his audience with me, I need our men on full guard. Alright?” He waited for Steiner to give a nod before they both left the room.
**
The night was silent in the castle. Dr. Knightley came to Skylar’s side with medication several times through the night, waking her to give the pills and then giving her the syrup for sleep. By time the suns rays pushed into the bedroom Skylar’s eyes cracked open. Her body wasn’t in as much pain as before. She felt better. She slowly sat up and grit her teeth as she did so. “Careful.” Ayla spoke, she sat at the desk, she was writing something out on a piece of parchment paper with a black quill. “You’ve slept for such a long time, I was beginning to worry. The last three times that Dr. Knightley came I had to help her give you the medication, you wouldn’t wake up.” Skylar looked to Ayla a moment before she stood and stepped to the balcony. “Sky?” Ayla asked. Skylar leaned against the balcony and sighed. Ayla stood and came to her side, “What is it?” She questioned.
“Nothing but a simple case of disappointment.” She spoke, her voice soft.
“Disappointment? Of what, Sky?” Ayla pried.
“Yevon.”
“What of him? He seems like the last prince that would want to disappoint you.” Ayla turned slightly, concern in her expression.
“He can’t win, Ayla.” She glanced over for a second before her eyes caught movement coming into her city. Black as the night could be a group of no more than six came through the city. “Jasper’s father is here.” She spoke as she watched the movement. Skylar turned and rushed from her room, with Ayla at her heels.
Booker was close behind Ayla, his heavy armor clanked and chattered, “Princess!!” He called, Skylar wasn’t to go anywhere in the castle without a knight to escort her.
“Skylar!!” Ayla called as she rushed after her, “Wait up!”
Skylar pushed into the royal chambers of the king and queen and searched through several rooms before she found her father in his study. “Father!” She spoke as she came into the room.
Mavis looked up, his eyes widened and he rushed forward. “Sky…what is it?” He placed his hand gently on her back, “Are you alright?”
The door pushed open then to reveal Lieutenant Steiner, “They are here.” He spoke.
Mavis looked to his knight and gave a nod. He then turned his eyes back to Skylar, giving her his full attention. “Are you hurt?” He asked. “Did something happen?”
“I saw Jasper’s father coming through the city like a black cloud, he and his men wear nothing but black…” Skylar was slightly out of breath as she spoke, she held her hand to her side.
“Return to your chambers, you will be safe there.” Mavis pushed passed her. “Amara.” His voice could be heard down the hallway. “We have company.” His steps echoed in the silence of the empty halls.
“Come on princess.” Booker spoke.
“I’m not going.” She shook her head. “I need to know what will become of him.” She rushed off and found herself at the doorway that led into the throne room. Skylar listened as she heard footsteps marching in.
“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Ayla questioned.
Skylar held her finger to her lips as she shut her eyes, listening in, awaiting the conversation.
**
Alden pushed Yevon’s door open, the other two princes were with him. “Not sure if you’ve noticed but the king has company, it looks to be Jasper’s father.” He then rushed off toward the throne room with the others.
**
Mavis sat in his throne, his eyes looked down upon the king before him. He did not bow. Nor did he offer any sort of pleasantries. “King Stone.” Mavis spoke his eyes burning into the man. “I presume you have received the letter that I sent to you.” He paused as he received no response from the man. “Your son, is guilty of battery of my daughter, he nearly defiled her, during the process of courtship!” His voice filled with anger. “These are things that I do not condone in my kingdom, let alone will I allow it with my own daughter!” He stepped down the stairs and stood before the king now. The knights on either side of the man tensed, their hands on their swords. Mavis too had knights at his sides that moved forward as he moved. “What are your views on this matter, King Stone? If he were my son, I would be disgraced, embarrassed. I couldn’t look him in the eye.” He shook his head. “Though, with his blood being royal we can discuss options to his punishment….The law in my kingdom would be death, however, he may be banished to your kingdom for you to do with him as you will. Those are the only two options.” Mavis paused then as he stared to the man, the room filled with silence.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 0:19:01 GMT -5
Yevon turned as Alden stepped into the room. “I uh – “ he then was surprised when Alden stepped into the room. He took the note and then peered to Yevon for a moment, and then left. “uh..” Yevon slowly stepped to the door, and then rushed to his room. It was only a few moments later that his door was barged into, Alden speaking to him once more. There was a frantic vibration in the air, the whole place was buzzing. He could hear what sounded like hundreds of steps in the corridors, men of full steel clanking to their spots.
Yevon grasped his coat and sword and ran out the door. He was just behind Peter and the rest, each with their own weapon ready.
“Prepare for the worst” Peter spoke of their clatter. Yevon hung back as they entered the throne room. The Princes took their positions in the throne room, behind King Stone. Yevon slipped off, his steps creeping around the bend. He walked through a series of hallways, listening for the soldiers. He heard something on the outside – some scratching south – then a thud. They were scaling he castle…
Stone looked to Mavis and then chuckled. “Where is he now then?” Stone held his hands out. “Where is this evidence, your princess? You are making a very big accusation, one that will get you killed” he shouted and then stepped toward Mavis. “So what will it be? Are you sure you want to follow through with this?” he spat and then stepped back. “Show me my son!”
Mavis turned his head and nodded. Two doors opened and Jasper was pushed forward. Stone’s eyes grew big, his fists balling up. “How dare you” he shouted. Then suddenly the entire Castle shook. Flying in from the roof of the throne room came a huge stone ball. It crashed through the room, the tinted glass shattering and falling to the ground. The stone lodged into the tiled floor – the entire place became a sort of sand bath, the destruction lingering in the air. With that a collection of men in all black scaled down on ropes.
Yevon teleported forward the instant he heard the loud sound. He grabbed Skylar with both arms, hugging her close as another crash occurred. A second hole was created. With that the Castle’s walls began to crumble, as they lost support. “Skylar” he spoke and then turned her around. He quickly pushed her against the wall, his back towards the falling debris. “I will come back” he whispered and then pressed his lips against hers. It was a passionate kiss, one that lingered in the past.
A huge stone came flying down their way – he quickly teleported the two into the throne room. “The chambers, now!” Yevon shouted. Amara looked to Yevon and ran towards Skylar, her hands grabbing at her. “Go!” he shouted. All of the Prince’s grabbed their swords and ran forward toward the group. Amara rushed to behind the throne and pulled a lever, unlocking a door behind the throne seats that lead to the secret chambers below, which led to a series of tunnels outward. “Booker, go now! You must protect them!” Yevon shouted. He skipped to the side and shoved his sword into one of the Divisi. He teleported quickly, stabbing another. With a swinging motion, twisting his body – he lopped off the head of another.
King Stone drew his blade and thrust it towards Mavis. Yevon was instantly there, a shield in his hand. He blocked the attack and pushed Mavis back with his leg. “Go, my King, protect your daughter – protect” Stone swung his blade, Yevon ducked and then kicked Stone backward. He teleported instantly and killed another man who tried to stab at Mavis. “Please, she cannot lose you!” he shouted. Mavis looked to Yevon and then stumbled backward. Yevon grit his teeth and teleported quickly, he had Mavis in his grip. He dropped Mavis into the stairway, leading downward. “You must go” he shouted and gripped his sword with rage.
Yevon instantly teleported again, he popped up every where. Killing them like they were flies in the air. The Divisi kept dropping down into the throne room. By now they swarmed the castle from every direction. “Alden! Peter!” he shouted. “Get the fuck down there!” Yevon then fell to the ground, a man had sliced his back. Yevon turned and then teleported – filling with rage now. He sliced at him, killing him instantly. His blade turned more red and red with each kill. But they wouldn’t stop flooding inward…
Jasper came bounding forward – he knocked Yevon over with his brute body. “I’ll fucking kill you” he shouted in Yevon’s face. Yevon gripped Jasper by the collar and then teleported into the air. He dropped Jasper from the top of the building and then seemingly floated there for a moment. In an instantly over 20 Yevon’s appeared, he was teleporting fast enough to create copies of himself. The entire room turned into a red blur, collapsing black bodies with each second…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 0:54:48 GMT -5
Everything happened so quickly. The people within the castle began to panic with the first attack, the sound of the ball breaking through the walls of the throne room echoed through the castle. Skylar turned and ran behind Ayla, Booker at her side. In the next moment another explosion happened she stumbled and was blinded by the debris in the air. Arms wrapped around her and she found herself pressed against the wall. Skylar looked into Yevon’s eyes, her heart pounded within her chest. I will come back. In that moment Yevon pressed his lips against hers. The kiss was so familiar. Her fingers gripped onto him and in the next moment they were in the throne room and Yevon was gone. Skylar pulled against her mother. “Eva!!” She screamed, tears welled in her eyes. Her scream was lost to the sound of clattering swords and screams of innocent people.
“Princess!” Booker rushed forward, he scooped her into his arms as they ran through the hidden passageway.
“This way!” The queen called as she rushed down the stairwell and into the catacombs below.
Ayla managed to keep up with Booker and was right behind him, her eyes full of fear. The group rushed through the hallways until they reached a hidden room below. Amara pressed a hidden switch that opened up into a huge room that was a panic room. It would protect them until Lieutenant Steiner came to assure them it was safe.
**
Mavis stood on the stairwell, his eyes stared up to where Yevon had been only moments ago. His jaw was loose. He took in a small breath before he rushed down the stairs toward his family. The princes were right behind him with the aid of Yevon. Lieutenant Steiner sliced his blade through the Divici, aiming for their weak spots of the armor. He caught a glimpse of someone rushing into the hidden stairwell. Steiner turned and chased after them, he limped slightly, a Divici had managed to slice into his leg, wich each step blood gushed from the wound. He gained on them in the catacombs and finally held his sword up, his eyes locked on Jasper.
“What are you going to do? Huh?” He chuckled. “This entire kingdom will fall. It will be ours. I will have what I came here for!” Jasper spit blood. He held his side. He was weak.
“This kingdom will not fall.” Mavis’ voice came from nowhere. A blade sliced toward Jasper, slipping through his ribs and into his chest. “My people are much stronger than that of the fear you instill into the people of your kingdom. You will not break this kingdom.” He spoke as he ripped the blade from him. Mavis then looked to Steiner. “How is it?” He asked.
Steiner shook his head. “They have come in force, my king…”
From around the corner King Stone came with Divici at his heels. “Run.” Mavis spoke to Steiner and shoved him toward a hallway. They sprinted down the halls with King Stone at their heels until the hallway opened up into a large room. Mavis turned, his sword raised. “You are making a mistake.” He called. “You planned this attack, you’ve declared war on my kingdom.”
King Stone chuckled deeply, “Well, we may not gain your kingdom by way of my idiot son, but I will have it, just as I have had others.” He grinned, “I will kill everyone, if I have to. Don’t worry, I’ll keep your precious daughter alive, just so I can have some fun.” He snickered.
Mavis lunged forward then, he let out an angry yell as he swung his blade at the king. Their swords locked and it began. Steiner kicked the chest of one soldier and he sliced into another. “There are too many!” He pleaded as he blocked an attack and dodged another.
“King Greystoke!” Alden came rushing into the room, his sword drawn. He had Peter and Alexander at his back. The three rushed forward and took on several of the fighters. It turned into an all-out warfare. Blood began to paint the stone floor of the room. Mavis was knocked to his back, King Stone stood above him chuckling deeply. Just as he thrust his sword forward Alden tackled him to the ground and drove a dagger into his skull through his eye. Blood gushed from the wound. Alden stepped to Mavis and offered him his hand. He carefully lifted him and gave a nod before he returned his attention to the Divici. They fought for what felt like hours as more of the soldiers rushed into the room. When all was said and done Mavis stared to the bodies around him. “Are you alright my king?” Alden asked, he had a gash on his arm and a few others scrapes, but nothing severe.
Mavis gave a slow nod, “Steiner, with me.” He then looked to Alden, “Follow that hallway, take three rights and one left. You will find Amara and my daughter, protect them with your life.” He spoke before he ran off to the surface. Bodies were everywhere. It was a warpath. Mavis stood at his throne, the sun shining in on them, his jaw loose. “How could this happen? How could I let this happen?” He questioned out loud.
Steiner looked to his king and gave a slight sigh. “My king, this is not your fault.” He spoke as he rushed forward and sliced through a soldier, the last that moved. He looked around the throne room. His own men on the ground aside the Divici. The attack was so fast. They didn’t have time…
Mavis leaned against the throne, his eyes looking over the destruction. It would take so much to rebuild from this, and what if they attacked again? He then remembered Yevon, he’d saved the kingdom. He’d saved everyone. Yevon was a hero. “Steiner!” Mavis called. “Find Prince Landcaster. I haven’t seen him; he wasn’t with the others. He saved us.”
Steiner gave a nod as he ran from the throne room in search of the prince.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 1:18:34 GMT -5
Yevon stood now in the center of the throne room. The place was covered in black bodies, some cut in half. There was an occasional arm – chopped from its body – laying on the ground. A few heads, but mostly just bodies. Yevon stood covered in blood. His face was splattered with it, his black shoulder pads were glistening with fresh blood… his black leather now almost velvet, soaked and wet. There was pounding on the double doors of the throne room.
He gripped his sword with two hands – his chest was heaving wildly. As the doors burst – he turned his head, his view looking directly to Mavis. Yevon disappeared in an instant – appearing behind the men. Then suddenly the men were flanked from the side by other red cloaked men. Yevons…
Then suddenly Mavis was lifted into the air by Yevon. He gripped him by the collar. Yevon’s face was full of anger, he grit his teeth and then teleported. “You cannot die on her. Not again” he spoke through grit teeth. “I won’t let you” he spoke and teleported Mavis into the secret chamber with Skylar and Amara, the princes and other guards. Suddenly the door that lead back to the throne room shut, and then was locked. The only way out – was out of the Kingdom, through the tunnels exit.
Yevon stood in the center of the throne room. Steiner next to him. Yevon turned his head and then let out a deep sigh. With one hand in the air – the entire room began to glow blue. A huge collection of soldiers stood, all in a bluey essence. They rushed forward in a clattering roar. The souls of the dead, summoned to fight in the name of Greystoke. They were once soldiers of Greystoke, even his officers and so on…
Steiner turned his gaze to Yevon and then dropped to his knees. “I may die tonight” he spoke. “but I will die before a god” he dropped his sword. He was growing weak, his blood still leaked from his wound. Yevon turned and then gripped Steiner by his shoulder plate, pulling him to stand. He touched Steiner’s cheek and a blue wave of energy slipped from his fingers. “Fight with me” he spoke and then gripped his sword.
Steiner suddenly felt a wave of strength, his wound seem to clog up – stopping the bleeding. He stood with his sword as well, they both running into the hallways with the blue knights. They swung away at the Divisi. The Soldiers were leading the civilians to safety, only a few casualties. Seemingly the wave of black men didn’t end. As they made their way to the courtyard – a figure stood by the fountain.
He turned and laughed, a deep sinister laugh. He was a giant knight in full black knight armor. From his helmet was long black feathers… his cloak seem to be some kind of black wispy essence, it lingered around him – like a shadow. He slowly stepped forward, his huge two handed sword in his grip. “You… are not the only one… with gifts” he spoke. His voice was insanely deep, multi-layered, like a demon.
“You must be… my equal” he laughed and then held his hand out. In an instant more black men appeared, out of thin air, like he created them. Yevon gripped his sword and sliced at them with ease, like butter, like puppets. “Let us… fight then” the black knight held his hands out.
Yevon then rushed forward – skipping forward as he teleported with each step. He grabbed the knight, and then disappeared, out of thin air. Just as soon as he did that – all of the black Divisi men disappeared into a wispy shadow. Gone.
The guards fell – mid swing as their momentum continued, their target gone. Steiner looked around as suddenly there was silence. He had watched the event go down… that knight. Yevon. “Yevon!!” He called out, his voice echo’d. A few people emerged from their homes, cheering and hollering. They soon made their way around Steiner, cheering him on. “Steiner! You saved us!” they hollered. Children ran up to his knees, hugging him….
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 2:10:22 GMT -5
Mavis stared to Yevon. “Again?” He questioned, but Yevon was gone. Everything happened so quickly. Amara rushed forward and wrapped her arms around her husband as the locks on the door slid into place. Mavis looked around the room to the few that stood around him. “Amara?” He asked and looked to her, “Is everyone alright?”
Amara gave a nod, “We made it, we are all safe.” She turned and looked to the others. “We will press forward through the tunnels, at the end of the tunnels we have a safe house, outside of the kingdom, until Steiner comes we will stay there in the safety of that home until further notice.”
“We just run?” Alexander asked. “What of the kingdom?”
“The knights will fight for that, everything will be well. As king, if an attack ever happens, you must protect yourself. If you are assassinated the entire kingdom may fall.” Mavis spoke. He moved to Skylar and hugged her gently for a moment before he turned, “We must go now.” He spoke and headed into the tunnels.
Skylar wiped away tears from her face, memories of her and Eva rushed her mind. She sniffled as they made their way through the catacombs. The air was damp and heavy. Peter placed his hand on her shoulder. “Princess.” He spoke and offered her a handkerchief. “This must be hard.” He whispered before he returned to his place behind her with the other princes.
They marched on for an hour or two in silence. Mavis ascended a small staircase and pushed open the heavy metal doors into the basement of a building. Hay lined the floors, and a horse whinnied from outside the building. It was a barn. Mavis led the group outside and stopped a moment, he looked to them and gave a gentle smile. “This is home for a few days.” He gave a nod as he looked to the large cottage style home. Cobblestone foundation with beautiful white walls and dark mahogany wooden trim pieces. Mavis stepped forward and into the home. They stepped into a large dining area.
A woman looked up and gave a looked of concern. “My king?” She asked, she knew if the king was here with this large of a group that something happened in the kingdom. “Princess?” She looked to Skylar a moment and then back to Mavis. “What happened?”
“The kingdom was attack, the castle walls were brought down by catapults, we didn’t see it coming…” Mavis spoke.
“Oh thank heavens you’re alive! Come.” She ushered everyone inside. “Sit, I have a stew.” She rushed off into the kitchen area where she’d been cooking up food all day. The sun was nearly set now.
Skylar sat down at the table and stared at the woodgrain. She couldn’t stop thinking about the kiss. She waited until the stew was served and everyone had eaten. She looked to the doorway several times. After the princes had been shown to their rooms by the woman she looked back down to her empty bowl. “Where is Yevon?” She asked, her voice soft.
Mavis took in a slow breath, “That is a question, I too would like to know. He saved us, he saved all of us.” The king spoke, “I fear he may have been overrun, there were so many Divici, I’ve never seen so many…I don’t know how this happened…”
Amara placed her hand over Mavis’ and gave a squeeze. “No one saw this coming, Mavis.” She then looked to Skylar, “Yevon did a great service, he was very brave to do the things that he did. He will be honored, Skylar.” She gave a nod. “We owe our lives to him.”
Skylar took in a shaken breath and gave a nod, she stood and left the dining table and climbed up the stairs to her bedroom. It had a small patio that she found herself on. She stepped outside as tears welled up in her eyes again. “I can’t lose you…yet I have…and I did…you were right there this whole time…I’ve forgotten so much…” She shook her head, she was beginning to lose a grip on who she was in the other world, it was hard to remember now, hard to even imagine. She stared up at the night sky, it was silent here, the stars twinkled in the sky. “I only hope you are safe…” She whispered before she went inside.
“A bath, my lady?” Ingrid, the maid of the home asked.
“Yes, please.” Skylar spoke softly. She waited for the woman to draw the bath and soon she was undressed and she slipped into the hot water. Her muscles thanked her as she relaxed her head against the porcelain of the tub. Skylar shut her eyes and let out a heavy sigh. After a good while she rose from the tub and dressed herself. She searched through the bookcase in the bedroom and pulled a familiar book from the shelves. The same book Yevon read to her. She sat down on the bad, a small smile on her lips as she read over the same paragraph he’d read to her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 2:28:13 GMT -5
Yevon’s throat was gripped by the knight’s grips. He choked and then was thrown down. All around them was a smokey black haze, it was all darkness. “You think you can defeat me?” he laughed and threw Yevon down. “You are just a mere frail girl, playing the role of a mighty man” he pounded his boot onto her chest – choking her.
Eva gripped at his boot, the sound of cracking filled her ears – her chest was caving by his sheer weight. “Oh I’m not going to kill you yet, child” he spoke and lifted her from the dark floor. He held her up – the red dots of his helmet stared to her. “No.. I look forward to the next fight, and the fight after. You… you are pure enjoyment” he laughed and then threw her down.
She flew downward – breaking through the floor. She fell, and continued to fall. Like some kind of loop. “I know you will find a way through this” he laughed and then appeared before her, as she continued to fall. “and when you do, you will be so full of rage” he laughed and then stepped back. “You will hunt me” he continued, his voice loud now in the abyssal room. “that will be a show worth watching”
Eva continued to fall, her red cloak flittering in the wind behind her. Her eyes looked downward but she saw nothing. Her eyes fought for a touch of light, but it was all darkness. She could feel the freezing cold air flew around her, swallowing her.
**
Steiner pulled away and held his hands out. “My people” he spoke and looked towards the Castle. It was still intact, but one could tell it had a good bit of damage. “Please, return to your homes. Our King and Queen, our Princess – they are safe. We were able to push them into safety… I must get them” he spoke. The people clammered for a moment but then nodded. They all headed back to their homes.
Several people of the castle emerged and stood before Steiner. “What would you have us do?” one of the knights questioned.
“This attack could not have been predicted, and we have emerged.. we need to clean up the castle as fast as we can. We need to show strength, we can stand back up – emerge from this one step forward. I will get the King and Queen.” He spoke and then stepped towards one of his men. “Send a note to Kingdom Windhelm and request aid. We will need reinforcements on site to ensure the safety of this kingdom… who is to know if that son of a bitch will be back” he spoke and then headed off.
He made his way to the gates and waved to the men. “Double the protection, I want us on Gold standard, phase 1” he spoke. Instantly the men ran about – several climbing up into the towers. Steiner climbed onto his horse and slapped the reigns – headed directly to the safety home. It was not a long ride, and before nightfall he arrived. He climbed off of his mount and ran inside.
“My King, my Queen” he spoke and bowed his head. Mavis stood and made his way over.
“What happened out there Steiner?” Mavis spoke, his face full of seriousness, concern.
“There was a knight outside the castle. He was… uh…” he shook his head. “My King… it was magic. He summoned the Divisi from nothing, he commanded them…” his eyes were frantic, he hated to admit it. “Yevon he.. he ran forward and challenged this knight. When they approached – they both disappeared… when he did all of the Divisi did too. Like they are linked to this black knight..” he spoke and then slowly stepped towards the king. “Did you… see what I saw? Yevon… he? I.. I only heard stories of people like this.. he can…?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 15:34:36 GMT -5
“He teleported.” Skylar’s voice broke the stale silence of the room, the tension. Steiner looked to her his eyes wide, he couldn’t believe it. He couldn’t. Skylar set a book down on the table, “How do you think these stories are made up?” Her fingertips stayed over the leather back book. “Demons. Angels. Gods.” Skylar looked to her father. “We cannot deny that what happened, what Yevon did. It is something that only a God can do.”
“What he did was save us all.” Mavis spoke. “He gave his life for our kingdom.” He took in a deep breath, “We will celebrate his life, we will honor his death, but we will not speak of the magic. There is good reason magic is not around anymore.” He reached forward and grasped the book from beneath his daughter’s fingertips. It was one of Ren’s stories, about the tornado that wiped out the city. He had a weak smile on his lips as he looked to his daughter. “For now, we leave this within the pages of the books, alright Sky?”
“My king, what if there are more like Yevon? That knight…it....it brought forth the Divici…what if it comes back? We cannot defend ourselves, our numbers…” He lowered his eyes. “We lost a huge portion of our men, at least half….there…there were so many.”
“Which is precisely why we must push forward. We will persevere.” Mavis looked to his daughter. “You will be wed to the man that has the most to offer, Skylar. The three men that remain all seem to be good men, you cannot argue that. But, it will be the man with the most support that we will side with.” He looked to Amara for a long moment before he looked back to his daughter. “The three men that remain all put their lives on the line for this kingdom. It will be a hard decision to make, but, it is something that must be done. We are a sitting target now, the Divici know we are weak. We do not have time.” He handed the book back to his daughter then.
“What of Yevon?” Skylar asked softly.
“Princess, he disappeared with that knight…” Steiner spoke.
Skylar looked to him, “That doesn’t mean anything…” She whispered.
“Skylar there is nothing we can do for him, with the circumstances he is more than likely dead. The odds are against him.” Mavis stared into her eyes.
“You didn’t see his body how do you even know? You’re not even going to look?! Doesn’t he at least deserve that?!” Skylar rose her voice, her eyes welled with tears.
“Skylar.” Amara stepped forward. “We will honor him, we do not have the men to spare for a manhunt, we….we don’t even know where to start.” She placed her hand on Skylar’s shoulder.
Skylar took in a quick breath. “How do we not even try?” Her voice shook as she turned and left the room, she ran up the stairs to her bedroom.
Amara looked to the king, “She isn’t going to be happy. No matter what direction we take.” She shook her head. “Now we need to focus on our kingdom, what’s best for it.”
Mavis gave a nod, “We will do our best, Amara.” He looked to the Lieutenant then. “We will stay here while the castle undergoes repairs. Tomorrow I will speak before the city, to let them know not to be afraid. Everything will be alright, we will rebuild from this. Tomorrow the princes will compete in a game of war, I want to see who has the best tactical skills, the best thoughtful actions.” He then turned and led Amara from the room.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 17:57:07 GMT -5
Eva reached her hands out – her fingers looking to grip anything that would come her way in the darkness. You will escape How? There must be some fault in this… without vision, she couldn’t dare to teleport… Eva shut her eyes and sucked in a deep breath, fighting against the pressuring winds that surrounded her. When she opened her eyes she saw stars, frantically moving white dots…. Like a static tv..
***
Alden stood as Steiner entered the room, he crossed his arms and listened. He had seen it too… as the Princess ran upstairs he gave a slight sigh. He moved to the table, where the Queen sat… “There are ancient stories of people like this…” he spoke and sat down across from her. “It was said that the first King of my lands was like him. That once there were more, but now the rarity keeps them in hiding, or worse. Stories of people finding and capturing these people… trying to find out how to take it from them. The greed…” Alden shook his head and then gave a sigh.
“Yevon… he…” Alden bit his lip slightly and then gave a sigh. “I did not know him very well, but I know that he was a likable… honorable man. I know that the Princess had taken a liking to him” he spoke, his eyes raising to Amara. “I fear for her sake, she will grieve, she will be upset… as my Queen, as her mother… do you know what I can do to help?” he questioned.
Amara looked to him, her face softening. She gave a gentle sigh and then nodded. “Unfortunately Skylar will not be pleased with anything we may do for her. The best thing is to give her space. She will follow through with this because she knows she must, but she will want to resist the entire way… if we fight her, it will make it harder” Amara spoke softly and then stood. “For now, sir Alden, just keep an eye on her, but allow her to sort herself..” then Amara stepped to the stairs and climbed upward.
Alden gave a sigh and then moved to the living room. When the room selection was being handled – they had come up short. He had volunteered to sleep in the living room, if he slept at all. Instead he stood and sat before the small desk In the room. With paper and quill he wrote a letter to this father.
Father,
As you know I have been re-entered into the race. However the Divisi attacked just last night, my fellow Prince runner – up sacrificed his life to save us. The Queen and King are well, the Princess is distraught. I believe I would be next in line, as you know we have much to offer in aid. I request that you send the Blue Militia to help. The state of the Kingdom is well recoverable, but the people will not feel safe. I hope you understand the advantage it will prove in my position.
Your son,
Alden
He folded the letter up and then stepped to the cage by the door. Once the letter was sent, he sat back down on the couch.
***
When morning came the smell of eggs, bacon, and toast filled the air. Alden stood in the kitchen, an apron tied over his armor. The owner of the home stood next to him, they exchanged words – laughing. “No no, you’ll burn it like that” she spoke and reached over, taking his spatula from him.
“Oh – come on, I can do this” Alden spoke, reached back for the spatula. The woman jerked her hand and hit him with the flat end, laughing as Alden continued forward. “You burnt the bacon, how do you even do that?” she spoke and then stirred the eggs once more.
“Ah well, you know.” He turned the pieces of toast over and then took the wooden spoon to the huge pot of oatmeal. “because obviously I don’t” he laughed. The woman chuckled and then waved him off.
“You’ve done enough, you know – you could quarter some logs for me, I would actually love that” he spoke, holding the spatula towards the door. Alden laughed and pulled the apron off.
“That is a more suitable job” he nodded and then set the apron on the back of a chair. He stepped outside and lifted his head into the air. Winter was around the bend. He could smell the cold air that seem to travel from the north. The trees were beginning to change their colors, their leaves dropping with each gust of wind…
He made his way to the slab and picked up the axe that rest near the logs. He set one log upward and then brought the axe downward in one swift motion. The log easily split, and he kicked it to the side. The pile of logs was huge, but he was determined to finish the task…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 18:32:48 GMT -5
Skylar paced in her room. She held her hand to her side. She slipped her simple dress off and pulled on a night gown, not before she stopped in front of the mirror. Her side was black and blue, it was grotesque to look at.
“Sky…” Ayla’s voice nearly gasped. “I’ll go get--…”
“No.” Skylar turned as she pulled the gown over her head. “Don’t.” She shook her head, “I’ll be fine, Ayla. Thank you.” She spoke and gave a gentle smile.
Ayla took in a breath and gave a nod. “If that is what you wish.” She bowed her head slightly. She’d been roomed with Skylar, to keep her company. “I’m…I’m sorry about--…”
“Don’t.” Skylar’s eyes locked on Ayla, “Don’t say it.” Her voice shook slightly. “No one knows, no one found his body, I’m not giving up on him.” She grit her teeth as she turned and walked out onto the balcony. She shivered slightly to the cool evening air. Skylar stared up at the stars for a long moment as the gentle breeze pushed her long hair around.
“What he did was incredible.” Ayla spoke, coming to her side. She gave a gentle smile. “At least, if anything, you were blessed to have that in your life.” She placed her hand over Skylar’s for a moment and gave a nod. “I’m here, if you want to talk, Sky.” She then stepped inside and climbed into the bed for sleep.
Skylar stood on the balcony for an hour or so. She searched the stars. “Where are you…?” She asked. She turned and went back into the room, she carried a candle over to the desk and pulled a leather journal from a drawer. Skylar thumbed through it and ripped out the few pages that were written on before she found a quill and placed the tip against the paper.
I’m forgetting.
Everything. I’d nearly forgotten you until that kiss. When your lips pressed to mine in that moment I remembered who you were. Yet, when I try to remember our time together, my mind seems clouded. All I can seem to remember is this world, with a fuzzy glimpse of the world before…
Yevon. That’s what you’ve turned to call yourself here. Yet, that kiss reminded me of your true name. I screamed it, in all of the terror of the attack. Yet, no one but I could hear it. My voice was lost to the screams of agony as our soldier died.
You, saved me. You saved us all. Then, you’ve disappeared. Am I genuinely the only one that does not believe in your death? Everyone that stands around me has written you off. Called you brave. Thanked you. Yet, they do not push to find you.
I fear, I’ve lost you…
If I lose you, Eva, what if tomorrow I cannot remember at all? What if those fuzzy memories become nothing more? What if the memory of our world becomes lost?
For now, I will write all of my memories down, the good ones at least, the ones that have not been lost. For each day that you are gone, I will do my best not to forget you.
I fear that soon my father will choose a prince…things will move on. Without you. In this point in time I cannot imagine it, yet, I know it is what must be done. My father is right, our kingdom is in grave danger. We need the support. Unfortunately even if you were alive…if you were here, you could not offer what the other princes offer.
When the time comes available, I will search for you. I’m not giving up. I can’t.
Skylar shut the book. She stood and carried it to her bed by the light of the candle. She slipped under the blankets and shoved the book beneath her pillow. The next morning, she was awakened by the smell of burned food. She sneezed as she sat up. She looked over to find that Ayla was gone. She slipped from the bed as she heard the sound of cracking wood from outside. Skylar stepped onto the balcony and looked down onto the front deck where she saw Alden. She watched him for a long moment as he worked. She hadn’t paid him any attention before. He hadn’t pushed to gain her attention. He was much like Yevon in that respect.
“Allow me.” A man came out onto the deck. This was Ingrid’s husband Evan. “Go on inside and have breakfast.” He gave a smile. “You need to keep your energy up, you’ve much to prove, Prince Windsor.”
“He was cooking, well trying to.” Ayla giggled as she came out onto the deck. “Give him a chance, Sky.”
Skylar looked to Ayla and sighed, “I’m not going to allow myself to grow fond of any of the princes, when the final decision is made, I will do my best to love the man I am wed to. Until then…” She looked away.
“Everything is going to be alright, Sky.” Ayla spoke. “Breakfast is ready, you should come eat with us.”
Skylar gave a slight nod. She came inside and searched through the closet in the room. Her mother had shipped several of her outfits here, just in case they became stuck here at some point. Skylar found a beautiful black dress with dark red accents. “Ayla.” She spoke as she slipped the corset on.
Ayla stepped to her, “Are you sure?” She asked, “What about--…”
“I can handle it…” Skylar took in a breath and let it out slowly. She winced as Ayla tightened the corset down. She then moved in front of the mirror and did her own hair and make-up. “Thank you Ayla.” She gave a gentle smile as she placed her tiara upon her head. She then stepped downstairs and into the dining room.
“You look beautiful.” Peter gazed to Skylar as she sat down at the table, a smile upon his lips.
Mavis and Amara came into the room next. They all sat down as Ingrid began to bring the food to the table. Skylar looked to her food, there was a sense of sadness to her. She couldn’t stop thinking about Yevon. What could have been done? What would be done now? She took a few bites of her food.
Mavis smiled as he looked to his daughter, he was pleased that she had come down for breakfast, he’d feared she would lock herself away. He then looked to the three princes. “Today we will play a game of wits, a game of war. You will play against me.” He gave a nod. “And my Lieutenant. I would like to see who makes the best decisions, the hard decisions.” He stood after he dabbed off his face. “Once you are ready, whomever would like to be first, meet me in the study.” He stepped from the room.
Amara gave Skylar a gentle smile, though she didn’t speak to her. She knew that this needed to be left alone, at least for now.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 20:39:06 GMT -5
Alden paused as Evan stepped outside. He pulled the hatchet to rest on shoulder, and then he smiled. “Evan, I wouldn’t dare eat without you. If we do it together, we both can make it by breakfast” he spoke – his hand pointing to the second axe. Evan glanced to it and then shook his head, but followed through with it anyways. Evan grabbed the axe and stepped up to the second block.
Alden handed him a log and then set his own down. They both began to chop away – splitting the logs with ease. They had been sitting out for just the perfect amount of time. In just 15 minutes they finished off the logs. “I think I won, son” Evan grinned, pointing to his pile which was much bigger. “A bit more practice than you I’d say” Evan spoke and then set down his axe.
Alden chuckled and nodded. “Yeah well…” he scratched the back of his head. “I may be a bit spoiled” he smiled and then set his axe against the side of the house.
“Well, I do appreciate a helping hand. You knocked a good hour out of my day” he pat Alden on the back and then headed towards the front door. Evan held it open for Alden, they both bounded for the breakfast table. Everyone was already seated, and only just began being served.
“Hey sweetheart” Ingrid spoke to Evan, she stepped over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Looks like Alden gave you a helping hand huh?” she smiled and scooped an extra serving of eggs on Alden’s plate. “Eggs for the growing boy” she winked and then sat down. Alden chuckled and took a bite of his food.
“If you weren’t my host, I would probably say something about that” Alden chuckled and then glanced down. Evan laughed and nodded “We are all men, at the end of the day” he spoke and then ate his food.
Breakfast was soon over, Alden stood and helped gather the plates. “Alden, please, you are a guest” Ingrid spoke, her hands taking the stack of plates from him.
“Yes, ma’am..” he finally gave in and nodded. He walked upstairs, to wash up for the evening. As soon as he did Mavis called him over. Mavis pointed to the seat in front of the desk, where a piece of paper sat in front of the two. Mavis picked up the quill and dipped it into ink and then began to draw. He drew mountains to the side, a forest in the middle.
“This is the target… a moving squad headed directly to the castle” he pointed to the triangle. The X on the map was the squad. “Roughly… 900 men… we have 600 men at our disposal.. what are your thoughts?” Mavis spoke, leaning back in his seat now – eyes watching Alden.
Alden looked to the map and then took in a breath. “What kind of men are we dealing with? Heavily trained?”
Mavis nodded – “Known for excellent melee skills”
“What kind of forces do we have, what sort of artillery, any long ranged forces?”
“Out of 600, 200 are Long ranged” Mavis spoke.
Alden then picked up the quill and dipped it into the ink. He thought for a long moment and then nodded. “Assuming we know of their location… send 50 of the Long range here. Against the mountain top, then the other 50 here. They will be forced to go through this squeeze, against the mountain, as to not get lost in the woods. They will want the stars to guide them” he spoke. Alden glanced up for just a moment, eyes looking to Mavis.
“You fire – but not too much. Just enough to scare them. One of two things will happen. Their forces will split, or they will go into the forest. Perhaps both. If the forces split, the archers take them into the mountains. The other 50 we placed here – will join them. We take them from above with ease, and slowly back them further and further into the mountains. Once this group is taken out, the archers instantly come back to the castle… Now either half the group will go into the woods, or all of them will. At this point the archers move into groups of 33, here… here.. and here.” He dotted the map. “This will contain the group in the forest… from there we send our troops in…200 troops. The moment it gets hairy, you back out. The idea here is to poke and prod at them, play them in the forest. So you run in – scatter them, run out. What will happen is they will start to panic. Their team will be scattered in this forest. Send 50 more men to the back here, catch them if they try to run out the back… they will grow tired and..”
Mavis chuckled and nodded. “Well done” he folded up the piece of paper and nodded. “I experienced this very fight, years ago. We approached it much like you did, but really – I think you had an even better idea. Split the troops up by luring them into the mountains.. I like that” he nodded. “Well.. Alden, you are dismissed. Please send Peter in next” he spoke and then pulled out a new blank sheet…
Alden stood and made his way into the hallway, then down the stairs. “Peter” Alden spoke and came to him. “In the study, the King requests you… Good luck…” he spoke and then nodded. Peter looked to him for a long moment, and then bounded up the stairs. Alden made his way back up to the stairs, to the Princess’s room. He knocked on the door frame, and then leaned against it slightly. “Princess” he spoke and then slowly entered. “I um…” he slowly walked over to the balcony and then let out a deep sigh. “I’m going to be honest with you” he turned around to face her. “I… I’m not sure if I win, but If I do… you are not my captive.. I am doing this for my father, my mother, for your kingdom… I want you to know that. You need to know that I’m not going to… do things to you.” He scratched the back of his head and then gave a sigh. “You want to find Yevon, don’t you? You’re right… no one knows if he’s really dead. Everyone is so scared to lose more people, the risk.. they’re not willing to take it” he turned back around to the balcony.
“I can’t even say that I am willing to take that risk. But.. the moment that I can, the moment my fathers forces arrive – I will put together a search party. I promise..” he spoke and then pulled a necklace from his pocket. “Yevon was a ranger” he spoke softly and walked to Skylar, holding the necklace out. “This was yanked from his neck, a Divisi went for his throat… I was able to grab it… you should take it”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Mar 12, 2017 21:22:25 GMT -5
I remember fighting. Not for my life, not running. But, for sport. It was a game to me. I remember longing for the punches and kicks. The cheer of the crowd. It’s foggy, yet I can hear the crowd screaming and chanting my name as I take down a man twice my size.
I won a large sum of money, it was a fight that many bet against me. All odds were in his favor, my opponent. I remember the ringmaster handing me the money and telling me to go home. Once outside I was chased down by three men. I fought them, in the cold, in the snow. The sound of the gun firing echoed through the night, the feeling of that bullet slicing through my skin. It burned worse than anything I’d ever felt. Yet as I stumbled away, gripping onto my side, bleeding everywhere. I stumbled into you..
Skylar looked up from her journal, she quickly shut it. She turned and looked to Alden as he spoke, her eyes were judgmental, her stare cold. As he spoke, as he explained himself her glare softened slightly, though she crossed her arms, a hand gripping onto her journal. “Don’t lie to me.” She spoke as she stepped into the room. She locked the journal away in the desk and turned to him once again. “Don’t feed me with hope. Just an hour ago, while you were speaking with my father Peter promised to search for Yevon.” She shook her head. “Alexander promised me that he would make everything right, that he would take care of me, make me happy.”
Skylar took in a deep breath, her arms were crossed now, she stood before Alden, she stared up to him with her crystal eyes. She reached out then and grasped the necklace. She ran her thumb over the shiny metal, a tinge of sadness crossed over her expression. “If you really care about my kingdom, protect it, don’t offer me shallow hope. I am in no need of your pity prince.” She turned and walked back out onto the balcony, she stared off to the endless fields of green that rolled over the countryside, her thumb ran over the engravings on the necklace as she stood there.
Ayla stood in the doorway, she bit at her lip slightly. She’d never seen the princess so cold. She stepped into the room and gently grasped Alden’s arm. “Come on.” She whispered and led him from the room and down the stairs to the sitting room. “Don’t….don’t mind her, Alden.” Ayla gave a gentle smile. “She’ll warm up, I promise. She’s just….”
“Grieving.” Amara spoke as she came into the room. “A moment, Ayla.” The queen gave a nod, she waited for Ayla to shut the door before she looked to Alden. “She is very guarded right now, take everything that she may throw at you with a grain of salt, Alden. My daughter is very strong, I assure you. Just give her some time to become comfortable with you.” Amara looked him over for a moment. “She fell for Yevon, he was a very kind soul and he saved her from Jasper. I imagine that the emotional connection that even that gave them is something to be reckoned with. Just, keep that smile, and show her your heart is pure. She will come around, Alden.” The queen gave a motherly smile then. She liked him. She favored him over the others, she knew he was worth a lot to the kingdom, that he had much to offer. “Good luck, Prince Windsor.” She then left the room.
Ayla came into the room then after the queen left. She gave a shy smile and then sighed. “I’m sorry, the princess was so cold…I’ve never seen her this way…” She looked to a painting on the wall. “She won’t even speak with me about it. Which isn’t like her.”
**
Mavis sat across from Peter whom looked to the mountains and the forest and the shapes drawn out on the table. He cleared his throat and took in a deep breath. He wasn’t the best at war, his kingdom hadn’t had much experience with it. “How many men?” He asked.
“900 enemies, you have 600 men.” Mavis crossed his arms, he’d answered this three times now.
“Any with a specialty? Do we have arrows available?”
“200 of your men can shoot ranged weapons proficiently.” Mavis looked down to the paper. He slid it closer to him. “Show me what you would do. They’re gaining ground, Peter, you need to fight back. If they get into your kingdom you will lose everything.”
Peter bit his lip he began to draw. “I’d send half of my ranged men here.” He drew against the mountain. “Ground forces I would send 200 here, split them, so that they will flank the forces. The second half of my ranged men here. After the battle has begun the last wave of men I would send in….here.” He drew in the line, sending his men head on into the fight.
“Alright. Thank you. You are dismissed, now go and get Alexander for me.” Mavis spoke as he looked over the plans.
Peter stared to the king for a moment. No feedback. None at all. His heart pounded in his chest. His palms were sweaty. “Yes my king.” He nodded and left the room. Peter stepped down to the living room and nodded to Alexander. “He’s ready for you.” He rubbed his palms against his pants, trying to calm himself.
Alexander looked to him and chuckled slightly. “Nervous?” He smirked as he left up the stairs. He sat down across from the king and watched him draw out the instructions. “Alright.” Alexander drew several things onto the paper. “I would aim to split up this army headed toward us, as if we scatter them they are easier to take out. Once they are split, I’d scatter them more in the forest here. Flank them, and done.” He set the quill down. “I’d even have 150 men to spare still at the castle, just in case we were unaware of any other threats.”
Mavis rose his brows as he looked over the paper, he smirked. “Very well played, Alexander.” He nodded. “I will see you for dinner then. You are free to go.”
Alexander bowed his head, “Thank you my king.” He stood and left the room.
**
Skylar made her way down and stepped outside. Booker followed her. “Princess, where are we going?” He asked. “It is much safer inside. What if--…”
Skylar stopped and spun around, she stared up to Booker. “I need fresh air, Booker.” She spoke as she headed toward a large apple tree. A horse whinnied and barreled across the field toward them. Skylar gave a gentle smile as the horse came toward her. It bobbed its head and neighed again. Skylar reached up, the tip of her fingers touched an apple, she groaned as her side splintered from her fractured ribs.
Booker reached up, he smirked to her. “For you, my lady.” He knelt down on one knee and offered the apple.
Skylar chuckled at him, “Get up Booker.” She giggled then and took the apple from him, the first real smile she’d had all day. Skylar held the apple out to the horse and pet it. “Good boy.” She smiled as the creature munched on the apple happily.
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