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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 30, 2017 12:32:48 GMT -5
When Lynn knocked the man to his back Azariah sucked in a gasp of air, her eyes wide. She rolled to the side, fighting against the netting. In the next few moments she watched through the netting as Lynn took down the five men. She smirked slightly as she watched, she had amazing footwork, excellent striking, she was a good person to have on her side. Azariah managed to get the knife that Lynn tossed at her and she sawed through the thick netting. Eventually she broke free and stood just as Lynn asked her what should be done with the man. Azariah stared at him for a moment and then she slipped her pack from her back and reached inside, she pulled the scroll from her bag.
“This is truly what you’re after isn’t it?” She asked as she looked to his expression, she stepped forward as she unraveled the scroll.
“Please…” He begged, his breathing caught in his throat from the tight grip that Lynn held.
“I’ve already looked it over.” Azariah spoke as she held the scroll before his eyes. “We are headed to the temple in the desert, here.” She pointed to the blank scroll and then chuckled. “But your human eyes can’t see this scroll. Elves can.” She rose her brow slightly and shoved the fake scroll into his chest. “So take it, if you think it will be helpful. Take it back to that wretched king, tell him where I’m headed, I would love to cut him down as he tries to kill me.” She looked to Lynn and gave a nod. “Shoot him in the foot.” She spoke, “Teach him a lesson or two.” She turned and stepped away. Azariah climbed onto Winslow whom snorted. She sound of the gun firing echoed against the landscape. The man screamed in pain as he blood splashed against the snow. “Let’s go, like you said, the desert is no place to be wandering at night, we’ve only a few hours.” Azariah spoke as she waited for Lynn. She glanced to the man for a moment before she gave Winslow a kick and they were off. They rode toward the desert lands, leading the man to think they were telling the truth.
Azariah let Winslow gallop for a long distance before she finally slowed him down as they came to a stream. She allowed him water before she looked to Lynn. “Now, we will head north, I’m going to keep us off the main pathways. I know these forests well enough.” She spoke as they began the voyage once again. They climbed through the mountains and then down into a valley, the air became heavier with humidity as they lowered into the valley, the snow melted away. They traveled on a dirt pathway along a stream. Azariah rode with her hood up, she watched the land around them as a gentle warm breeze pushed through the tall blades of grass. The sun was nearly set. In the distance light from lanterns could be seen, a small down. Drisdol. It was a small mining town of humans. The sounds of the mine in the distance could be heard, the gentle echo from the dynamite, the clatter of hammers and pick axes.
“This city is Drisdol, they are very secluded from the surrounding cities, just a bunch of miners. We should be safe to stay here tonight.” Azariah spoke softly. She glanced around as they came into town. She slipped down off of her horse and tied him to the post in front of the inn. She stepped inside and to the man at the front counter. “One room please.” She set a few pieces of gold on the counter, enough to cover the night.
The man looked up, he stared at Azariah for a moment and then to Lynn. He gave a nod. “One room, of course.” He reached behind the counter and pulled a key. “Just up the stairs there, and to your right.” He returned to writing on his notepad then.
Azariah took the key and gave a nod. “Thank you sir.” She spoke as she turned and climbed up the stairs. She stepped into the room. It was cramped and small, but it had two twin sized beds, so it would do. She let out a long slow sigh and collapsed down onto the bed. “Thanks for everything, Lynn.” She spoke as she looked up at the ceiling. “I would have been in a sticky situation without you, back there.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 30, 2017 15:34:29 GMT -5
Lynn glanced over as they rode – Azariah speaking of the small town they would come to. “You would be surprised how many spies linger in even the smallest of towns. Often our information came from small towns that our targets imagine the same… we must keep our heads down” she spoke as their hooves came to the cobbled road of the mining town.
She climbed from her horse and led Bonnie to the small stable next to the Inn. “Just for a bit… eat up” she spoke as she rubbed the nose of her horse. Bonnie brushed her jaw against Lynn and then Lynn chuckled. “Apples.. as soon as I get them” she nodded and then stepped away. She stepped inside the Inn and followed Azariah. As they came to the room Lynn pulled her sword and shield off of her back and set it on the side of the bed. She then unclipped her shoulder piece – an in instant, lead by magic, her entire suite unbuckled and floated into the air. It hovered in the same position, as if sitting on an armor rack.
“This is crazy” she spoke and then stepped towards the floating armor, that resembled a human. She touched her chest piece and then in just a few seconds the entire suite was on her once again – the leather straps moved swiftly, tightening down perfectly. Exactly how Lynn had put it on initially. Then… Lynn took it all back off. The suit stood next to her bed – ready if she needed a quick dress.
Lynn stood now in a pair of long tight pants, and a tunic. She laid down on her bed and let out a long sigh. “Azariah… Please don’t thank me again. I’ve told you …. This sort of business is what fuels my life – my mission is yours, my life one alike. Don’t thank me until we are done.” She spoke and placed her hands behind her head. “For now… sleep… we shouldn’t stay too terribly long.. word travels fast. If someone knows we are here – we need to leave within 6 hours..” her words trailed off as she instantly fell into sleep.
“Lee” A man spoke to the crusader, who turned to him.
“Sir” Lynn stood at attention.
“At ease… you tracked down the Sword of the Golden Crusade…. A weapon thought to have been lost for centuries… Do you know of its Origin?” her commander spoke – they were standing infront of the Crusader Head Quarters.
“I believe so..” she spoked softly.
“Tell me what you know” he spoke, crossing his arms.
“A sword embedded with… magic, I know even in the few moments I had it – I felt this sickening feeling. It made me light headed and…” she shook her head. “The Gold Crusader had come upon it, it’s power tainted him and lead him to the betrayal of the Crusade, where he formed the Gold Crusade. He almost killed the entire Crusade, in the attempt to replace them and gain the Kingdom’s trust” she spoke and then shook her head. “Why did you have me retrieve his weapon?”
“There has been word of someone who wishes to do the same… We were to retrieve it, and store it. Clearly if you can find it with effort, anyone could have… With that – I am promoting you to Officer, Lee” he spoke and approached her. “Your official promotion will be next week. You deserve this”
Lynn sat up from her bed – she rubbed her hands on her forehead and gave a long sigh. She stood up and moved to her armor. It quickly formed around her, and she pulled her sword and shield on. She stood before the large mirror and combed her hair with her fingers – her eyes looking over her pixie cut. Though now her hair was getting a little long – long than she was expected.
When Lynn noticed Azariah was awake – she turned and smiled slightly. “Morning” she spoke and then nodded. “Elven Bread?” she handed out a square and then bit into her own. “So we head into this forest next?” she questioned. They stepped out of the room and headed into the lobby. Lynn glanced around “Empty..” she spoke and set the key on the front desk. She drew her sword and shield and exited outside. She walked over to the stables – to find both horses were gone.
“Oh… hell no” she grit her teeth. “They took our horses!” she looked to Azariah and then turned. Two men stood – in al black - holding the horses in their hands.
“Your Armor” he spoke, laughing. “It looks expensive… a pretty penny. Cough up 50 gold, or ditch the suit – you can have your precious horse back..” he held a knife against Bonnie, the tip of the knife barely touching her stomach. Lynn grit her teeth and shook her head.
“You don’t want to make my horse nervous…” she spoke and slowly moved her hand to her waist.
Lynn gave a swift nod – Bonnie reared up and kicked the man. His knife went clattering against the ground. Lynn grabbed the gun, that she swiped from the man, and held it pointed to the other man. She pulled the trigger – the gun let out a loud boom, but the bullet was completely inaccurate. It was enough to cause Bonnie to run – and the man to be confused. Lynn pulled up her shield and approached…
It was then that suddenly the man fell to the ground – an arrow through his temple. An Elf leaped from her horse and held her bow – her eyes looking to the two…
“Az..?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jul 30, 2017 16:25:26 GMT -5
Azariah lay on the bed she let out a soft sigh when Lynn told her not to thank her for doing what she’d done, that it was expected basically. She stared at the ceiling for awhile before she finally slipped into a slumber.
“Wait up, Az!” A voice called.
Azariah turned swiftly, her eyes looking to the path behind her, she was surrounded by a thick forest. “Rhys?” She questioned.
A woman came running up, she had auburn hair and emerald eyes. “The king.” She spoke and held her hand up. It was in a fist, she held something.
Azariah furrowed her brows slightly before she reached forward and took the item from the woman’s hand. She looked to the trinket. The tree of life. She gave a gentle smile. “Thank you Rhys.” She looked to the woman. She wrapped her arms around her, “I’ll come back safe, I promise.” She whispered.
Rhys held onto the embrace for a moment before she nodded, “I know you will, Az. You’re the only one that could…” She took a step back, “You have to come back.” She gave a nod. “You can’t die, okay?”
Azariah smiled, “I won’t die.” She replied, “I have to go, I have a long trek ahead of me and I have to make it to King Lazarus’ kingdom before they move the scroll. Goodbye Rhys.” She turned.
“I’m not saying goodbye.” Rhys spoke, “What if I say goodbye and you never come back?” Her voice was sad.
Azariah paused a moment and let out a soft sigh. “Until next time?” She asked and looked over her shoulder.
Rhys grinned, “Until next time, Az.”
Azariah woke to the sound of Lynn moving about. She sat up and took the bread from her and munched on it for a moment before she stood and gathered her things. “The forest, yes, we are headed that way.” She let out a soft chuckle. “It will be several days before we reach the forest, it is very far to the north.”
Azariah pulled her bow as they came down the stairs to the empty desk. “Something isn’t right.” She spoke softly as they pressed outside. She spun around when the man spoke, her bow drawn. Her eyes focused on the man that held Winslow. Everything happened so quickly she watched as the arrow sliced through the man, she spun and held her aim on the newcomer just as she leaped down from her own horse.
“Rhys?” Azariah’s eyes widened slightly, her jaw loose. She lowered her bow and slipped it to her back.
“It is you!” The woman rushed forward. She was wearing a thick long parka that was dyed a deep blue with a pelt of fur on the inside to keep her warm. She wrapped her arms around Azariah and hugged her tightly. “You didn’t come back.” She whispered. She then took a step back and looked to Lynn for a moment. “I…I found this.” She pulled a folded-up piece of paper from her pocket. It was one of the bounty posters. “I…I thought the worst, Az…” She looked down slightly. “I was afraid the king had you…our king was injured in the attack…do you know about the attack?”
Azariah returned the hug, her face still filled with shock. She’d never expected Rhys to ever leave the city, especially now. “Is he okay?” She asked softly.
“He was shot with three arrows, poison…King Lazarus is a monster.”
“Rhys!” Azariah rushed forward and shoved her aside. An arrow sliced through the air and stuck into the pole beam of the barn. “We can talk later. We need to move.” She helped Rhys up and helped her up onto her horse. She glanced to Lynn and gave a nod before she climbed onto Winslow. She clicked her tongue and off they went.
Azariah drew her bow and aimed in as her horse galloped along. A man stood at the end of the road with his arrow drawn. She released her arrow and it sliced into his neck, he flew back and stuck into the fence behind him. An arrow tinged off of the chest piece that Winslow wore. “To the left!” Rhys called. She too released an arrow that struck down one of the men.
“This way!” Azariah called as she made a quick turn into a thin alley way. The horses hooves clattered as they ran through the city. A man stood with a gun, a rifle. Azariah released her bow just as she heard the gun fire. In the next moment she felt a hot heat in her side. She grit her teeth and pushed onward. They emerged from the city and pushed into the hills of the valley. She pushed Winslow for nearly an hour before she allowed him to slow down. Blood trailed down the side of the horse from her wound.
“Az!” Rhys spoke as she came up to her side. “You’re hurt…” She whispered, looking to the wound.
“I…I’m okay…” She spoke, her hand was bloody as she held pressure over the wound. “I’m fine.” She spoke, “We can’t stop moving now.”
“Azariah.” Rhys reached over and grabbed Winslow’s reins. “We can’t lose you, either.” Her voice was firm. She stared into Azariah’s eyes. “You’re the only descendant of the Thalor bloodline left.” She pulled the reins over Winslow’s head and led them off of the pathway into the forest until they had a good amount of protection. She then slipped from her horse and pulled an apple from her pack, she fed it to her horse and pat the horse on her nose. She heard a grunt from Bonnie and let out a soft chuckle. “You want one too?” She pulled another apple and fed it to Bonnie and then she turned and helped Azariah down off of her horse. She helped her sit on a boulder and pulled away her clothing that was bloodied around the wound. Rhys pulled her pack from her back and instantly went to work. She placed a powder on the wound and spoke a few words in the Elvish tongue as she worked. It was weak magic, but magic nonetheless.
“They’re all dead?” Azariah asked, “All of them?” She questioned.
Rhys took in a deep breath, “That is why King Thalor sent me to retrieve you….besides, you promised you would come back, and that you wouldn’t die.” She let out a soft laugh. “You’re the only one powerful enough that is left, besides the king…but…he is getting to be too old…we can’t risk losing him to war.”
Azariah looked away, “I shouldn’t have left.” She whispered softly.
“This isn’t your fault, Az…you would be among the dead if you hadn’t left to steal back the scroll.” Rhys spoke, “Our people will make it through.” She nodded and spoke the last few words of Elvish that caused the wound to gain a white light. Azariah winced as it healed her wound. Rhys stood and turned to Lynn. “I missed introductions.” She gave a gentle smile. “I’m Rhys Lovella.” She spoke her voice was soft. “How do you know, Az?” She questioned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 10:26:56 GMT -5
Lynn leaped onto Bonnie and followed as they ran through the city. She reached to her back and drew her sword and Shield. She held her shield up, taking the back of the choral – several tings of arrows bounced off the shield, as she blocked oncoming attacks. As they ran through an alley – she lashed out her sword – knocking over a wooden stand which held several plants. It crashed onto the ground, blocking the path behind them.
As they left the city Lynn backed off from the two – turning Bonnie around. “Keep going!” She shouted, just as three horses came chasing after them. “Lets do it” she gripped the reigns and Bonnie began running forward – directly to the 3 men. She was incredibly fast, her body lowered slightly – her four legs moving with power and speed. “Now!!” Lynn shouted.
Bonnie leaned her head down and kicked up her rear end – Lynn went flying forward, in between two of the horsemen. She held her sword and shield out perfectly. A splatter of blood covered her as her sword sliced into the neck of the man on the right, her shield digging into the side of the left man. They fell from their horse to the ground… Lynn hit the ground and rolled several times before she caught herself – one knee on the ground, the other bent infront of her. She easily lifted upward and looked to the last man.
She held her sword up and parried the horseman. The man turned around and approached her. Then an instant he was knocked from his horse – flying to the ground. Bonnie had reared up and kicked him down –
Lynn walked to him and gripped his neck – “Who sent you?” she shouted. The man chuckled – blood had filled his teeth. He spat at her and then leaned down. Lynn grit her teeth and gripped his jaw – in one swift motion she broke his neck. She glanced down his body and noticed a parchment – she reached into his pocket and grabbed the scroll. It was sent by carrier pigeon…
She climbed onto Bonnie and bolted forward, back to the two – had hadn’t gone far at all. “Our enemies have been sent by someone…” she placed her sword and shield onto her back and pulled the scroll out. She unrolled it and read it… “Lord Shire” she grit her teeth and then chuckled. “He is a really lowly thug of a lord. He has been trying to join the High Council along Lazarus, but never had the funds.. surely he is sending everything he has after us. That money would ensure him a spot…” she glanced up and slid the scroll away.
Lynn listened as they continued to ride – the small conversation between Rhys and Azariah, until finally Rhys asked Lynn a questioned. Lynn glanced up and smiled briefly – “Lynn” she replied, introducing herself. “I ran into Azariah shortly after she stole the scroll from Lazarus, I came upon her blood..” she lifted her brow.
“But you are human, yes?” Rhys questioned – puzzled.
“Um, yes. I am…” she nodded and then glanced away. “Who I was before means nothing to who I am now – I have sworn my shield to Azariah and her people. Human or no – I am her guardian” she spoke as they continued forward.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 19:34:40 GMT -5
“She didn’t have to help me.” Azariah spoke as she pushed herself up from the boulder. She stepped over to Lynn and reached up to the scroll, she unraveled it and looked to the cursive writing. She let out a long slow sigh as she read over the script.
Rhys stepped forward and took the scroll from Azariah’s hands. She looked up to Lynn and searched her eyes for a moment. “Well Lynn, I thank you for protecting, Azariah.” She gave a smile. “You’ve no idea who you’re protecting, do you?” She moved and climbed onto her horse. “Have you told her, Az?”
Azariah climbed onto her horse, “We should get moving, Rhys, we can’t waste time on idle banter.” She spoke as she gave Winslow a small kick. “We will stay off the roads.” She spoke as they marched along the rocky forest. Azariah pushed ahead, leading the way, her eyes watched every shadow that the sun cast upon the ground, she watched for any small movement.
Rhys hung back slightly, she looked to Lynn, looking to her horse. “I trust, Azariah.” She began as she looked over the armor that Bonnie was clad in. “If you meant harm to her, I would know it, clearly you do not.” She spoke, “It is just shocking to see someone who is, or rather used to belong to the Crusaders. I’m sure Azariah has spoken of what the Crusaders have done to us.” She looked back ahead for a moment. “Azariah is the only remaining elf from the Thalor bloodline.” She looked ahead, Azariah was a good bit ahead of them, out of earshot. “She is basically the princess, she doesn’t realize that yet. She also doesn’t realize how ill our king is.” Rhys sadness in her eyes, “I fear that by time we make it back to Nerium that the king may be dead, the last attack, he was shot with poison, a poison that I could not heal. The other healers are still trying to help him.”
“Rhys?” Azariah called, “Lynn.” She paused at the top of the ridge, her eyes looked down toward a town.
“What I am trying to say, is, thank you. You’ve done a noble deed, Lynn, you’ve done much more than protect an elf. You’ve protected the next heir to the throne of the Peacekeeper Elves.” She spoke softly and then moved up forward a bit quicker until she made it to Azariah’s side.
“Look at all of them.” She spoke as she stared to the town below them on the ridge. Horses with banner flags, men in armor. The knight’s army. “How will we ever get to our king?” Azariah asked, she glanced to Lynn. “You know their tactics Lynn…do you know how to move forward? I feel like every direction we go, we are becoming more and more cornered.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 19:47:20 GMT -5
Lynn turned her head slightly as Rhys began to talk to her. She turned her head – looking forward, until Rhys paused in her sentence. “The entire human race is blood line based, money based. What I see in Azariah is not a blood line, not a certain race… I see a living being who would give her life for the true good of the world. I would fight for no one less than such” she spoke and then turned her head away.
Lynn jumped from Bonnie, as they came to the crest of the hill. She stared down to the choral of men. “They are camping” she pointed. They were putting up make shift walls, fires we beginning to start. “They will create a hexagon, 2 men guarding at each point. They will send a group of 3-4 men to scout directly North, South, East and West, one time an hour for 30 minutes each. They are to travel no more than a mile away. Judging by the set up… they only plan to stay one day..” she glanced over to them.
“If these are the men that are traveling from battle – they will be exhausted. The first shift of watch is the weakest. We have two options…” she pointed outward. “They spend more time looking in the direction they are traveling, rather than where they have come from. It appears the head of their side is pointing…” she turned and pointed North West – “This way… so we go..” she glanced up “South East, about 4 miles – and camp. Or we slip by during the first shift, which should start…” she glanced to the sun that was headed downward. “In roughly 2 hours” she glanced to the two.
“Let us back down from the hill, they will be searching” she led Bonnie downward, so they slunk out of view. “So, what would you like to do then?” she crossed her arms, looking to the two elves.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 20:09:19 GMT -5
Azariah backed Winslow down the hill and took in a breath as she leaned forward slightly, gripping onto the horn of the saddle. “We can’t stop moving.” She spoke as she looked to the smoke that was beginning to rise from the fires that the men lit. “We need to push further, at least push to the area of Sari tonight.”
“That is far, Az.” Rhys spoke, she drew her brows together.
“We need to make it to Nerium as soon as we can, Rhys.” Azariah spoke, “We will travel as you said Lynn, Southeast about 4 miles. We will then round our way back north toward Sari. We should be able to make it before night fall. The sun is still high enough in the sky.” Azariah pondered for a moment, “Okay? Let’s go.” Azariah pulled the reins and they rode off. She led the way toward the south, keeping an eye on the ridges above them. She felt exposed.
Rhys watched Azariah as she rode ahead she glance to Lynn. “She is a really good soul.” She spoke, “So are you.” She gave a nod and a gentle smile before she rode ahead, tailing Azariah.
They rode for several hours, the sun was beginning to set over the ridge. She glanced around and searched through the trees as they came up a hill that allowed them a good vantage point of their surroundings. She looked to Rhys whom was showing signs of exhaustion. “We should rest.” She gave a nod. “I’ll find us a good cover. Come on.” She pressed forward. They rode down into a valley and up next to a ridge where a bit of the rocky ledge stuck out, sheltering them. The sun was nearly gone, only a faint bit of light remained. Azariah slipped from her horse and she moved quickly, gathering fallen branches and dead limbs.
Rhys slipped from her horse and began pulling the items from the saddle bags. She unrolled bedding supplies and pulled a large bag that held food, like jerky and dried fruits. She set everything down and glanced around as Azariah came back with an armful of dried wood. Azariah built up a fire pit and took in a breath. She placed her hand against a log and shut her eyes, focusing. A spark came from her fingertips and flames began to form around the logs. She relaxed back, her eyes glowed a fiery ember orange for a moment before the beautiful blue returned. “I will take first watch.” She spoke as she grabbed a bit of food and stepped to the edge of the overhang. She sat down, cross-legged and looked out over the valley. Her bow was pulled into her lap, ready to be used at any moment.
Rhys munched on some of the food before she lay down near the fire. She glanced to the flames and a small smile on her lips, the warmth lulled her to sleep quickly and soon she’d entered the world of dreams.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 20:38:10 GMT -5
Lynn looked to Azariah as she made the decision. “I am following you, Azariah” Lynn spoke as she climbed back onto Bonnie. Bonnie finished munching on a bit of grass and then continued behind Azariah. Her eyes glanced back to the hill – where she knew the men were camping.
They continued onward – Lynn glanced to Rhys slightly as she spoke once more. Lynn glanced forward and nodded slightly, saying nothing in response. There wasn’t much to be said. Part of her enjoyed traveling with the crusaders – they were rough and tough, talked nasty and laughed loud. Nothing ever bothered them, and nothing ever got close either. Heartless bastards…. But they never suffered. Lynn’s eyes glanced to Rhys..
She could sense the worry… the same vibe Azariah held too. Her people were slaughtered. They struggled… fought… and probably lost. This was a struggle that Lynn had never fully understood or lived in… She could only feel pity for her new found friends…
As they came to their spot – Lynn climbed from Bonnie and dug into her pack for an apple. She tossed an apple to each horse. Bonnie rubbed her head against Lynn, and then plucked the apple from her hand. “Only a few left…” she whispered and then kissed Bonnie’s snout.
Lynn walked over into the woodsy area slightly, she could hear something. She stepped down a bit of hill, climbing over some rocks – when she found it. A tiny stream of water slipped between two rocks, trickling down the hill. Lynn pulled the leather pouch from her side, as it hang on a string, and put the mouth piece at the front of the stream. It filled slowly, but eventually it was full.
Lynn climbed up the hill and came to the fire. “Nice” she smiled to the happy fire – the two sitting before it. “Water” she handed the pouch out and sat down next to Azariah. She reached over and broke a piece of elven bread, and put a few dried berries on it. She nibbled on it and leaned back slightly.
“So… whats our goal?” she questioned, glancing to Azariah. “Retrieve the artifact… release magic back into the world, take down the king, and restore life to the Peacekeepers?” she grinned for a moment and then laid down, eyes glancing upward. She had moved her sword and shield to sit next to her… “That’s a book worthy story” she placed her hands behind her head. “I’ll make sure you see the end of it” she muttered. “Wake me up next…” she spoke and fell asleep easily…
A few hours later – Lynn rose. She was always used to the 4 hour shifts, her body naturally woke her up. She stood up and stepped over to Azariah. “Get some sleep, you need it” she stood infront of Azariah, who was sitting before her. She reached forward and placed her hands on Azariah’s shoulders – her thumb dug into the cloth of her hooded jacket. She massaged her stiff muscles slightly, until finally Lynn pat her shoulder.
She sat down and pulled her sword and shield to her lap. She hummed softly to herself, her eyes attentive to the woods. She slowly stood and pulled her shield on, sword still sheathed behind it. Lynn stepped from the campsite, plucking dry wood from the ground - to keep the fire going. She came back and added more to the flame, leaning against a tree in the midst of it.
Fireflies lingered in the air – a gentle call of an owl in the distance. She honestly loved The Watch. Quiet world – but always active. She reached down to her pocket and plucked a small figurine. It was an unfinished wolf - carved from wood. The body was outlined, the head had more detail than the rest. She rubbed her fingers against the snout, and then drew her knife – she shaved tiny tiny bits off the body, carving out the shape of body…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 21:29:08 GMT -5
Azariah munched on the jerky and sipped on the cool water from the stream. “Thank you, Lynn.” She spoke as she handed the canteen back over. She nodded and let out a chuckle when Lynn asked about what the plan was. “Yes, it is that of a fairytale or a storybook isn’t it? The plan is exactly that. I want to bring an end to Lazarus and I want to bring an end to these wars. An end to hunting those with magic…” She whispered softly. “I’ll wake you soon, we can talk more later. Get some rest.” She gave a gentle nod and slipped to the edge where she sat and continued munching.
Azariah looked up to the stars in the sky as a gentle breeze brushed across her face. She’d lowered her hood as she sat for watch. Her eyes looked to the north star, the milky way. The beauty of the night. She glanced as an owl swooped down and caught its dinner for the evening, the natural selection of things. She began to wonder, what if the fight that her people were in. The push that they had to live. What if it was just another natural selection? What if her people were the prey. She shivered as the night wore on. Her thoughts raced along. Her mind going through every possible outcome, good and bad. She imagined what would happen if she did finally pull through and gather the artifacts. Free the magic. Finish off King Lazarus. She wanted the wars to end. More than anything. She wanted nothing more than to bring the world back to the world her mother and father spoke of. The world without being hunted. Shunned. What happened? She tried to make sense of it. She knew something must have happened, but, no one would speak of it. Was it simply greed of the humans? Would this be possible to end? Or was it a cycle that would never end.
Azariah took in a quick breath when she heard Lynn speak, breaking from her trance of scanning the forest. She gave a tired nod and made to move just as Lynn’s hands touched her shoulders. She could feel the warmth through the material of her jacket. Azariah seemed to melt as she felt her thumbs push against her stiff muscles. She relaxed slightly and in the next moment she felt a pat on her shoulder. She gave a nod and stood, “Thank you, Lynn.” She spoke as she moved next to the fire. Azariah sat down for a moment and looked to Rhys whom shivered in her sleep. She took the blanket that was meant to be hers and carefully tucked it around Rhys.
Rhys opened her eyes slightly, sleepily. “Az…” She muttered in a daze.
“Shh, you’re alright, Rhys, get some rest.” She brushed her back gently for a moment as she watched Rhys slip back asleep. Azariah then moved and lay down on her pallet she rolled to her side and stared at the flames for a good while before she slipped off into a deep slumber.
**
Azariah sat up quickly to a loud cracking sound. She looked around the overhang, her breaths echoed in her ears. Her heartbeat seemed to reverberate off of her chest. She looked around to find herself alone. “Rhys?” She asked, her voice sounded small and far away. “Lynn!” She screamed. She stood quickly and gripped her bow. She ran from the overhang and looked out into the forest. The horses were gone. She heard a scream in the distance. Azariah rushed forward, her feet pounded against the grass and dirt. She ran as fast as she could to the summit of the ridge. As she made her way to the top she felt sharp hot pain in her side. She looked down to see an arrow stuck through her abdomen. When she looked up she could see Rhys cuffed and tied to a horse. A knight chuckled as he sat upon the horse. Another arrow whizzed through the air and stabbed into Azariah’s thigh. She faltered in her steps but she didn’t stop. She brought her bow up and drew an arrow. “Let her go!” She screamed.
Azariah released the arrow and it flew through the air. The knight rose his hand and the arrow burst into flames. Ashes hit his armor and he chuckled. Suddenly the knight appeared before her, he gripped her by her throat. “Azariah.” His voice was deep. His armor was shined with a lion on his chest piece. A crusader? He gripped tightly and slammed her back against the trunk of a tree. “You thought you could get away?” He questioned.
Azariah pulled her dagger and stabbed it into the crease between his shoulder and his chest piece. The knight staggered back and let out a groan of pain. She stumbled and ran toward Rhys. Her run was slow, she winced with each step of her right leg it burned, she could feel her blood running down her thigh. “Rhys…” She pulled at the rope that was tied around her wrists. “Where is Lynn?” She panted.
“Az…” Rhys stared to her, fear in her eyes. “Run!” She cried.
Azariah turned just as the knight slammed into her, knocking her down the embankment. She felt every rock as they tumbled over it, his body crushing hers. They landed at the base, back where the camp was with a thud. He gripped her throat as he held her pinned. Suddenly blood splattered over Azariah. She felt the weight of the knight lift off of her and a hand was held down toward her. She stood and stared into Lynn’s eyes. “Lynn…” Azariah muttered.
**
Azariah sat up with a gasp. Her eyes wide, she looked around she scrambled to her feet. Suddenly Rhys was holding her, “Woah, hold on there.” She spoke, she gripped onto Azariah’s jacket, holding her still. “You’re alright.” Rhys gave a gentle smile. “We’ve some oats there with the fruit in it. Just a bad dream, huh?” Rhys pulled Azariah into an embrace. Azariah trembled. Rhys had been watching her sleep for a good hour now, she’d tried to wake her but Azariah wouldn’t wake from the nightmare. Rhys pulled back after a long moment. “Come on, eat up, we need to move one today, huh?”
Azariah gave a slow nod, “I…um…” She took the bowl that Rhys offered her. “Y-yeah…” She looked and found Lynn, her breaths were beginning to calm now. She ate the oats and watched as Rhys packed up the bedding and food back onto her horse. She then climbed onto Winslow and looked to Lynn. “Ready?” She asked softly. She waited for everyone to be mounted before she started off to the north once more. She rode along the ridge keeping in the trees, keeping hidden. Watching every movement or change she could follow.
Rhys watched Azariah carefully. “We should make it to Sari today…” She spoke softly and glanced to Lynn. “That is….” She paused and furrowed her brows. “Was. Our home.” She looked to Azariah, worry in her eyes. “I’m not sure how she will handle it, but she needs to know…she won’t stop until she does.”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 22:02:48 GMT -5
Lynn turned her head slightly, as she was still leaning against the tree, to Azariah who was twitching in her sleep. Lynn watched as Rhys sat next to her, pushing her shoulder – her face was full of concern and worry. Lynn crossed her arms slightly as she watched. Finally Azariah woke – and Rhys proceeded to practically smother her.
Lynn snuffed out the fire and kicked the coals away. She leaned down and took a long sip from her water, before passing it to Azariah as she stood. “There will be plenty more of those, I am sure” she nodded and then stepped over to Bonnie.
Bonnie was munching grass off to the side, and happily approached her as she came to her. “Hey there” she smiled and rubbed Bonnie’s neck. “We are almost to refuge, a bit to chill out… eat some hay, maybe get a fresh stash of apples. Hmm? Would you like that?” she questioned and then laughed when Bonnie lapped a long lick across Lynn’s face.
“Gross” Lynn chuckled and wiped it away. She climbed onto Bonnie and settled in “I am ready” she nodded and followed Azariah through the trees. Lynn glanced to Rhys and then nodded. “We shall see” she trotted forward to catch up to Azariah.
“I am hoping for the best – when we come upon your home…” she glanced over and then nodded slightly. “We would have a lot more men on our tail if your people were wiped clean – they are nervous. That is why that crew was leaving – quite fast too. Something spooked them… When Lazarus takes a city – they take it completely. Something tells me that something happened, and the Captain took what he could and ran… If you see a white and gold pigeon flying about – you shoot it down…” he spoke and then backed off just a touch.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 22:49:10 GMT -5
Azariah looked to Lynn as she came to her side. She listened to her and then looked back forward. “I’ll shoot it upon sight.” She spoke and gave a nod. She fell silent then as she thought of her home. What would be left? Not even Rhys truly knew, she ran to the ice caverns…she escaped while everything was under attack. They rode deep into the forest then Azariah kept her eyes looking about. It was eerily silent. She could smell the remanence of fire as she neared Sari. The green leaves of the trees were bright against the snow capped back drop of the mountains. Azariah glanced to the gates of Sari as she approached, busted and pushed in, the beautiful elven design shattered. She paused for a moment, gripping the horn of the saddle. She glanced to the dead bodies of the guards before she pushed forward into the city.
She glanced to the buildings, the homes, walls were knocked in by explosions, bodies charred….arrows stuck through chests of children, elderly…it didn’t matter. Tears welled in her eyes as she looked through the city. Azariah climbed down from her horse as they came to a home. She stepped forward and pushed the broken door in carefully, her breaths shook as she fought back the urge to sob. She stepped into the home, this….this was her home. She looked around the living room area and found a portrait of her and her family that had been painted when she was young. Azariah tucked it into her bag and then pulled her mother’s necklace down from the shelf. She also grabbed her father’s dagger. Azariah turned to see Rhys standing in the door way, her eyes sad.
Azariah walked up to her and placed her hands on her shoulders, staring into her eyes for a long moment. “This won’t happen again.” She whispered before she stepped back outside. She looked around to the charred remains. She drew her brows as she looked to the bodies, sure a good amount were elves, but also, a large amount of the bodies were that of King Lazarus’ men. Azariah stepped forward and flipped over a knight, the front of his armor was gouged, a deep slice. She looked around to find others with their heads lobbed off, limbs missing. “You were right, Lynn.” She spoke softly, “Something did scare them away.”
Rhys stepped from Azariah’s home she tucked something into her backpack as she came down to her horse. “What scared them away?” She asked softly as she climbed onto her horse.
A low growl could be heard then. Azariah’s eyes widened, the ground trembled beneath her. “That…is what scared them…” She looked up as a blackish blue dragon stepped toward her, with huge wings, glowing ember cracks within its scales, its eyes were fiery and it had huge horns on its head. “Run!” She cried. Azariah went to turn and run as the beast leaped forward, it breathed its fiery hot breath on her face, it’s nostrils flared, its eyes stared into hers. Azariah stared to the beast before her, her jaw loose, she couldn’t move.
Rhys’ horse had reared, sending her toppling to the ground just before it raced off with Winslow. She sat staring up to the huge creature as it stood inches from Azariah.
Azariah didn’t move as the creature seemed to inspect her, it reached its huge talon forward and pressed it under her chin, lifting and looking into her eyes. The creature then circled around her, each step from the beast was loud as it crumbled the cobblestone beneath it. It then stood before Azariah once more. Azariah took in a shaken breath, she lifted her hand and slowly moved her hand to press against the side of its snout. She winced slightly as she touched the scales but then her expression softened as she stared into the fiery eyes of the beast. “You helped save us.” She whispered softly. The dragon let out a low growl, its eyes moved and suddenly there was a gust of wind as the dragon leaped forward. It snarled in the air as it came down upon a group of men. It spun around in circles, the talons of its huge claws grasped onto a man, slicing through him easily. It chomped down on another. Bounty hunters….
Azariah watched as the dragon ripped them to shreds and in the instant he was done he leaped into the air and landed swiftly before her once more. Azariah stared to the beast. Lifted her hand to the side of his snout once more, her heart pounded within her chest. She winced as the creature then suddenly lunged forward, it gripped onto the back of her jacket and tossed her up into the air. She tumbled around and landed roughly on its back. Then suddenly the beast shot into the sky, Azariah held onto his back, she screamed as the beast twirled about, her legs gripped onto him. Then just as suddenly as he shot into the sky, they’d landed again. The beast shook her off and grunted. It walked a few circles around her before it lay down. Azariah glanced around and her eyes caught Lynn’s. She stepped over the creatures tail. It stood up and followed behind her.
Azariah paused and turned around, the snout of the dragon inches from her face. She backed away slightly, the dragon advanced. She placed her hand on his snout. “Could you give me a moment friend?” She asked. The dragon let out a long heavy sigh, blowing her hair back as it lay down. She stared to the creature for a moment. She turned and walked to Rhys and Lynn.
“That dragon…just…” Rhys’ eyes were huge.
“I know…” Azariah spoke, “I…know…” She bit her lip slightly. It had been decades since a dragon had chosen an elf. The last elf chosen by the dragon’s was before her time, before her father’s time. The dragons would come in a time of war, as told by the story books…
Azariah looked back to the dragon for a long moment, his eyes watched her intently as he lay, awaiting her return. “At least we know why the soldiers left…” She spoke softly and scratched her head. She’d never seen a dragon….it was as if a fairytale had manifested itself right in front of her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 23:15:50 GMT -5
Lynn followed in through the busted doors – her eyes looking over the cold and stiff bodies. She sucked in a deep breath.. she had seen this many times. Often her back was turned to it – leaving the scene as her men demolished the city. She grit her teeth slightly when she saw the children – sliced down by the men…
Lynn slipped from her horse and kicked over one of the men – Crusaders. She leaned down and removed the helmet of the man. His chest piece was caved inward, two large deep gouges cut into him. She leaned back slightly and let out a deep sigh. She reached for his wrist and pulled his gauntlet off – a brand on his wrist.
She stood and kicked his gauntlet away… her hand came to her right wrist, fingers over the metal of her armor – she rubbed slightly… Lynn turned then just as Azariah came out of the house. “It seems I was…” she spoke. Just then the ground rumbled – Lynn spread her legs and pulled her sword and shield.
Lynn stumbled back when the giant beast landed. Her eye stared to the huge thing – but when Azariah shouted to run – Lynn did not budge. She felt a deep dark heavy weight that held her in place. She gripped her sword and watched it interact with Azariah. Suddenly when the dragon lifted into the air – Lynn fell back from the gust of wind, from the wings. She hit the ground and stared upward – completely struck.
She stood and glanced over to Azariah as she returned, the dragon seemed tame. Lynn stared to the dragon – who eyed her from a distance. “In times of war…” she whispered. “Dragons are a known beast to the Crusaders – the balancer of war. A crusader’s biggest enemy” she chuckled and shook her head. “It follows you…” she slowly lowered her sword and shield and placed them on her back.
“I hope you’re not expecting me to ride that…” she crossed her arms. The dragon then snarled at her slightly. Lynn scoffed and then let out a long sigh. “I see a good collection of fresh tracks of here – “ she pointed as she walked down the road, down the center of the city. It lead to a barn. Lynn stepped over to the barn – there was scattered hay every where. Muddy prints. “A lot of action here… no dead bodies…” she glanced around and then kneeled down. She brushed away some dirt and then her fingers clasped a round ring. She lifted it – revealing a set of stairs.
“A tunnel?” she questioned, glancing over to the two. “Should we investigate?” she stepped down into the tunnel – it was big enough too for the horses. It was wide and tall – meant for a lot of people… “Hmm”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 5, 2017 23:50:52 GMT -5
“It has been a very long time since a dragon has come to our aid.” Azariah looked back to the dragon for a moment, “A very long time, I have only heard of dragons from the storybooks….” Azariah chuckled when Lynn made the comment about riding the dragon and the creature snarled. She then walked through the city with Lynn, following the tracks.
“That’s the escape tunnel.” Rhys spoke as Lynn uncovered the stairs. “That’s where we left with the king…it was the back up, a plan that the king hoped we would never have to execute.”
Azariah gave a nod, “This will actually be a huge help.” She looked over her shoulder. The dragon had his head poked in through the barn doors, watching her. She stepped to him and placed her hand on the side of his snout. “Protect the city my friend, don’t let anyone follow us, okay?” She spoke softly.
The dragon gave a sound that almost seemed to be a whimper before he shoved his snout into her chest. Azariah fell back from the push onto her back on the floor of the barn. The dragon growled and pulled his head from the barn then a huge gust of wind pushed into the barn. Azariah pushed herself up and she looked to Rhys and Lynn. “Okay. He will keep the bounty hunters and Lazarus’ men off our tail. The tunnel leads beneath the city and dumps us out at the edge of the forest…” She looked to Lynn then, “I promise, we will move through the forest as fast as possible, if you fall unconscious we will not leave you to die.” Azariah stepped from the barn and found Winslow standing just a few houses down. She climbed onto him and waited as Rhys climbed onto her horse.
“I can’t believe a dragon is here…” Rhys spoke softly as she looked up into the sky, searching for the creature. “He saved us…without that dragon I bet the soldiers would have gotten to us….”
“They come when they are needed.” Azariah spoke and gave a nod, she smiled to Rhys then, “Now let’s get to Nerium.” Azariah took off into the tunnel then. It was damp, and dark. It smelled musty. She looked to the light that could barely be seen from the very end of the tunnel. Azariah rode on until they managed to make it through. They emerged at the edge of a thick forest, a fog had set in and a light snow was beginning to fall, soon their tracks would be completely gone. “Alright, this is it.” Azariah looked Lynn, she was worried for her. She knew what the forest did to those who entered.
Azariah watched Lynn for a moment before she moved forward. “Rhys, you lead, I’m going to take up the rear. You know the fastest way to Nerium.”
Rhys gave a nod, “Of course.” She spoke as she pushed forward quickly. She kicked her horse into a gallop and they dodged along through the trees.
Azariah rode along behind Lynn, her eyes watching her carefully as they rushed through the forest.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 6, 2017 10:09:23 GMT -5
Lynn followed behind Azariah and Rhys as they walked through the tunnel. Bonnie neighed uncomfortably – unable to see before her. “Just keep going, girl” she pat her neck and soon they emerged into a thick of trees. Lynn squinted her eyes as they adjusted – and then they all paused.
Lynn turned her head – looking to Azariah and Rhys. “Whatever happens, we continue.” She nodded and then gripped the reigns of Bonnie. She felt slightly nervous – by the way they were so worried. She had heard stories of a forest to the far north, though the most common recommendation was – just stay away from it.
Her eyes looked to the thick forest – there were glowing lights about. Long vines that crawled along trees and the land. Bushes and collections of flowers and plant life – growing in every corner. It was then that Rhys galloped forward – Lynn followed behind. She ducked slightly – a tree had grown over the path way. As she came up – she felt a sudden heaviness within her stomach.
Lynn leaned down slightly and continued to follow. As they moved forward she noticed the land scape – sudden valleys and drops, an occasional floating island in between the valley. Lynn swallowed deeply, as her body began to feel uneven – she was slightly dizzy. There was something about it though – not a typical sickness. She could feel something within her, like being watched but slightly different. She couldn’t pin this feeling.
Lynn leaned forward then, blinking her eyes slightly. She slowly turned her head and glanced to Azariah – who was watching her intently. She fell forward slightly, her hand gripping onto Bonnie’s neck. Bonnie neighed slightly and continued to move – but now even faster.
The excessive bumping caused her body to thrash around slightly – as her muscles fought with her to keep control, to keep balance. She soldiered on, despite the measures. Now a few miles in – she stopped looking around – and only focused on keeping herself right side up. Though her vision was blurred and doubled. She would sooner rather pass out – then have to deal with this uncomfort and queasy feeling. Lynn breathed heavily.
Suddenly Bonnie reared into the air. Something was infront of her. It was a slender being, about half the size of a human. It was a shining white color – light flooding from her presence. 4 slender wings flapped swiftly, holding her up. She held her hand out – and suddenly Lynn lifted into the air, painlessly. Bonnie circled around and neighed uncomfortably.
Lynn gasped – though her eyes now glowed white. She couldn’t see anything. Lynn reached her hands up and gripped her head slightly – it felt now like it was being squeezed. “Stop” she cried out and grit her teeth. The Fairy looked to Azariah and then Rhys – she then dropped Lynn. Lynn hit the ground and rolled over. “Make it stop” she cried out.
Her hearing was full of loud ringing, the vision was nothing but TV static. The pain began to wrack her body. Her muscles convulsed – the fairy did something. What was an annoying sickness was now all around pain. Lynn cried out slightly as it became worst. Blood trickled from her nose, and even gathered in ears. Her eyes still glowed bright white… The Fairy however.. long gone.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Aug 6, 2017 11:21:18 GMT -5
Azariah gasped as the fairy appeared. She watched in awe as the fair lifted Lynn from the back of Bonnie. “Wait!” She called, Winslow pranced in place, he snorted and bobbed his head. She jumped down from his back as the Fairy let go of Lynn. She rushed forward and pulled Lynn up into her arms. “Just breathe.” She spoke as she then pushed Lynn up onto her horse, she climbed up after and held onto Lynn, hugging her to her chest. “Rhys, get Bonnie, I’ll meet you in Nerium.” She spoke as she gave Winslow a kick and clicked her tongue.
“I’ve got you, Lynn. You’re going to be okay.” She spoke as she rushed her through the forest. Winslow’s hooves beat against the ground heavily, kicking up mud and rocks as he rushed through the forest. Azariah held on as he leaped over fallen trees and branches. She pushed Lynn forward to duck out of the way of a limb or two. They rode for several miles, at least an hour longer. “Come on.” Azariah spoke, her teeth grit as they pushed through the forest. The green of the leaves was beginning to become covered in ice. Suddenly they came to the edge of a huge frozen lake. Azariah clicked her tongue and they ran along the edge until they came to an area that had jagged cliffs that led upward alongside the mountain.
“Hold on, Lynn.” Azariah held onto Lynn, gripping around her waist, she looked to her with worried eyes. She looked over the blood that trickled from her nose and grit her teeth. She pushed forward on what now appeared to be a roadway. In the distance the flicker of lanterns could be seen along the side of the mountain. As they became closer engravings in the mountainside could be seen, tall pillars and a set of doors. As Azariah came closer she could see a few guards standing about, they had their bows aimed in on her. “Open the gate!” She called. The guards stared to her for a long moment before they realized who it was. “Open the gate now!” She called again.
The gates pushed open and Azariah continued into the city her horse at a full canter. The tunnel began to open up as the pushed passed elves within the tunnel until they came to a huge open area. The city of Nerium. Two statues sat on either side of the stairs of an elf knelt down, his ears were carved out perfectly, his eyes closed. Then in the center of the stairs two more statues stood of carved out female elves their hands clasped together, their eyes up to the ceiling of the city. The city was formed around this, buildings build below the bridge that led across from the tunnel that led into the city. Buildings of homes were everywhere, lights lit up from within. A beautiful white glow came from an orb that floated above the city, magic. It was their only form of light in the city, yet it lit everything up perfectly, not too bright, not too dim.
Azariah leaped from her horse with Lynn in her arms she rushed forward and pushed up a flight of stairs into the royal home that was set behind the two female elf statues. She rushed inside, pushing passed other elves that stopped to stare at her. “My king!” She called as she entered the home. “My king!” She called again as she rounded the corner.
The king lay in a bed, his skin pale. He opened his eyes and blinked a few times. “My dear Azariah…” He breathed and let out a cough. “What have we here?” He pushed himself up weakly.
“My king…” Azariah stepped forward with Lynn cradled against her. “She saved me…the forest…a fairy…it…”
The king had a small smile on his lips, “Oh the fairies of the forest, they know things that not even I know.” He let out a soft chuckle. He pushed himself up and then took Lynn from Azariah’s arms and sat her on the bed. “Hm…” He looked to the glowing white of Lynn’s eyes and examined her.
“What did the fairy do, my king?” Azariah asked, her brows drawn together.
The king used a staff as he stepped around the room to keep his balance. He grabbed a few herbs and powders. “If my thought is correct, something that you would have never guessed from a human.” He mixed a few things together. The king then stepped forward to Lynn. “What was her name?” He asked softly.
“Her name is Lynn, my king.” Azariah spoke she watched her with worried eyes. She hoped she wasn’t too slow…too late…
The king turned his attention back to Lynn as he placed his hand gently on her shoulder. He placed a small cup within her hands and held it there. “Lynn, I need you to drink this.” He helped her lift the glass to her lips. The king assisted her until the last drop was taken. “This should help you.” He spoke as he took the glass away. He then mixed a few more things before he began speaking elvish. The powder illuminated and he blew it over Lynn’s body. He stared at her for a long moment, deep in thought. “The fairy approached her?” He asked and looked to Azariah for her nod in response. “Interesting.” He sat down at his desk. “The fairy wouldn’t have approached her for just any reason, Azariah, you know this.”
“I am aware.” Azariah spoke. She pulled the scroll from her bag and handed it to him. “She helped me bring this to you, she saved me, my king.”
“We are very fortunate that she saved you, Azariah.” He coughed again and wiped a bit of blood from his lips. “The king has poisoned me.” Azariah was silent as she took a seat in the chair facing him. He poured her a glass of tea and held it toward her. Azariah took the cup and held it to her lips. It was warm. A refreshing feeling to the cold she’d endured to get here. “The healers, they’ve tried to stop the spread of the poison, but…” He paused as he coughed heavily again for a moment. “Unfortunately, Azariah, it is something that cannot be healed.”
“No…” Azariah shook her head.
“The council, they will assist you.”
“Me?” Azariah’s eyes widened. “Wh--….no…why me?”
“My dear, you are the last of the Thalor Bloodline, you are the heir…” He hacked again, holding a cloth to his mouth that blotted with blood. “You are the heir to the throne. There is no one else.”
Azariah sat back in her chair and shook her head, “I…”
“You can.” He gave a gentle smile. “Now, this.” He unraveled the scroll and looked it over, “This is what will help you finish this war.” The king coughed again. “I need…to rest…” He nodded. “Can you take her, keep an eye on her. If anything changes come tell me…I want to see her first thing in the morning.”
“Yes my king.” Azariah stood. She carefully lifted Lynn and hugged her to her body. She carried her outside and down the stairs to Winslow. She climbed up onto him and hugged Lynn to her chest. Azariah then clicked her tongue and turned just as Rhys came to the city. “Rhys.” Azariah gave a gentle smile. “Could you see to it that Bonnie is well taken care of? I’m going to get Lynn somewhere where she can rest.”
Rhys gave a nod. “Yes, of course…how is she? The king?”
“She will pull through. The king…” Azariah looked away, “The poison is irreversible….” She then rode off into the city. They rode up a few streets until she climbed down from the horse and hugged Lynn to her chest. “Alright.” She spoke softly as she carried her up to a door. She placed her hand on the door knob and gripped it gently, a glow came from her fingertips and the lock moved out of place. She pushed into the home. It was cozy. This was Azariah’s escape home. Everyone of Sari had a home here. Just in case something like this happened. They had somewhere to hide.
Azariah carried Lynn up a flight of stairs and down a hallway where she carefully pulled the sword and shield from her and set it on the nightstand before she lay her gently on the bed. She stood for a moment, looking over the human before she took a step back and sat down in the recliner chair that was in the room. Azariah leaned the chair back and soon enough she slipped off to sleep. Her brows furrowed in her sleep and her breathing quickened as she entered a dream.
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