|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 5, 2018 19:24:26 GMT -5
The sun shown down on the valley of green grass. Thick forest lined around the valley shielding it, beyond the forest foothills rose up toward the skies, the crash of waves hidden to the east, and mountains looming in the west. The sound of hoof beats upon the grass trotted through the valley. From the west a small group of horses emerged from the forest, headed toward the center of the valley. A stream ran along the pathway, the waters were crystal clear as a trout leaped from the rushing waves. The group of 8 approached a rock formation in the center of the valley. The rocks were lined before a large boulder. Blue and black ink scribed ancient dialect upon it.
A woman climbed down from her horse, a hood over her head. Her long chocolate brown hair hung from the hood as she lifted her hands up. “Father?” She questioned as she lowered the hood to reveal her face. She had flawless skin and emerald green eyes, a beautiful tiara sat upon her head with a crystal that hung down between her brows. Blue paint was swirled about along her cheekbones, accenting her features.
A man with thin grey hair looked down to the woman, a smile on his lips. He wore a beautiful crown upon his head. “Yes, Keva?” He had a thick grey beard upon his chin that was neatly trimmed.
“Why didn’t mother come?” She questioned as she looked to the rock formation.
The man let out a long breath, “She must tend to our people. You understand dear?”
Keva took in a long breath as she looked to the forest that was directly to the East. “So where are they? If Lord Rasmuth is so eager to bind me in marriage to his son...”
“Keva.” Her father’s voice was slightly angered. “Lord Rasmuth will show.” He spoke as he let out a breath, his jaw was tight.
Keva shifted slightly and nodded as she looked to her father a long moment. “Will this be enough to end the war?” She questioned.
Her father shifted slightly as he looked to her, a slight curve turned up his lips. “My daughter, if it is not, I know not what else would end this dispute.” He pursed his lips slightly as he sat back in the saddle of his horse. “Ah, Lady Ravna.”
A white horse rode across the land toward them with a woman dressed in a black cloak, white long tasseled hair could be seen as she came closer. She dismounted and immediately bowed. “Lord Bowmen.”
“Lady Ravna, thank you for coming.” Keva’s father spoke a smile on his lips.
The woman smiled brightly, she stepped to Keva and cupped her cheeks. “You look absolutely beautiful.” She took a step back and pulled a piece of thick blue and white braided cloth. “This is the color of your family, of your land.” She spoke and nodded, “I will bind you to Lord Rasmuth’s son with his color of red and black.” She handed the long cloth forward and smiled.
“If they show...” Keva spoke she let out a long breath.
“Keva.” Lord Bowmen snapped, “That is enough.”
Keva crossed her arms as she glanced to the forest again, her brows tucked together as she saw smoke rising from the forest. Soon enough she could hear the thud of hooves against the ground as they thundered from the forest. Two of the horsemen were dragging flaming trees that gave them the cover of the smoke that they rode in on. 8 men as well. Just as her father requested. Keva reached up to the clasp of her cloak, she let out a long breath before she released the metal and she set her heavy cloak upon one of the rocks near her. She held the cloth in her hand, it was around three feet long.
The men rode forward dressed in black and red, Lord Rasmuth was younger than her father, he had jet black hair, a scar just above his right eye. His skin was weathered though. He’d seen many wars in his lifetime. Keva brought her eyes to the only man to dismount. The son. He wore a thick leather shoulder piece on his right shoulder, gauntlets on his forearms, a pelt crossed his chest over his woven top. He had three red lines draw over his left eye in a vertical pattern. A dagger was about his hip. A sword on the other side. The Rasmuth family was known for brutality. This wasn’t a decision her father had made quickly. His name was Will. His eyes were like black holes. Keva’s breath shuddered slightly as she glanced to her father.
“Lord Rasmuth.” Her father spoke a smile on his lips. He pulled a bag from the side of his horse and motioned for one of his men to take it. The man dismounted and carried it over to Lord Rasmuth.
Lord Rasmuth opened the bag and jingled it around a bit, he chuckled. “That is a fine gesture.” He grinned as he handed the man a bag of his own. “Lord Bowmen, I do hope you accept my gift to you for allowing my son to be wed to your daughter.”
Keva watched, her stomach churning into knots. She watched as her father nodded as he looked in the bag to the silver and gold that was offered for her. It was a full bag, more than enough to get their town through the winter and then some. Lord Bowmen chuckled, “A find deal we have struck.” He grinned. “Shall we?” He watched for a nod from Lord Rasmuth.
“Let us begin.” Lord Rasmuth grinned as he nodded to his boy.
Will held the cloth in his hand he smiled as he stepped forward. Keva hesitated slightly she glanced to her father before she too stepped forward. She met him in the center between the two sides. Lady Ravna smiled, “Welcome.” She spoke as she looked to the two. She nodded to them. Will reached forward his eyes locking on Keva. Keva reached forward as well, she gripped onto his arm, their arms overlapped her fingers curled around his forearm near his elbow. Lady Ravna began to speak the beautiful tongue of their ancestors, celebrating this day that they were to be bound. The woman began to wrap the two cloths together, binding them around their arms. If Keva pulled back, she would pull Will with her. All the while he stared into her eyes, a smirk on his lips, as if he knew something. Keva blinked and looked down slightly before she brought her eyes back to his. She took in a shaken breath. She was staring into the eyes of a murderer...of a cold blooded killer. She swallowed as she looked to Lady Ravna whom continued to bind their arms as she spoke the beautiful poem of marriage.
“Now.” Lord Rasmuth spoke, his voice low.
Keva felt Will shift. She yelped as he tugged her forward. Keva leaned back as he swung the dagger at her, it graced her neck, but it didn’t cut too deeply. Keva reached forward swiftly, she gripped the hilt of his sword and pulled and then she slammed the sword forward into his abdomen. She was facing him, her eyes stared up into his, she let out a shaken breath as she felt his blood spill over her hand. He staggered forward and blood dripped over his lips. “He....will....have you....” He smiled a bloody smile.
The world had stopped in those moments. As Keva fought against him she fell to her knees as she pulled against the tight bond of the cloth. She cried out as she saw an army of men coming from the east forest. “Father!” She cried as she grabbed the dagger from Will’s hand. “Father!” She sliced at the cloth cutting it, she knocked her arm several times. She ducked forward just as a soldier swung his blade at her. Keva ripped the sword from Will’s chest. She swung and lobbed off the leg of a soldier. As she turned she grabbed her cloak and tossed it over her shoulders. She could heard the men behind her as she rushed forward. Where had her father’s men gone? Where was her father? She clicked her tongue as she saw her horse ahead of her. “Come on....” She breathed as she climbed onto it and kicked. She winced as she heard the thunder of hooves behind her. Keva looked over her shoulder to the thunder of hooves against the cold earth. Her eyes fell on Lady Ravna whom stood with her arms crossed as she watched Keva retreat. She’d been in on it...the whole thing...
Keva cried out as she felt something stab into her. She looked down to see an arrow pierced through her abdomen. She let out a shaken breath as she kicked her horse, “Come on.” She pat him to continue forward. The sun was setting as she rode on. She wasn’t sure which direction she’d gone. Keva took in shaken breaths as she slumped forward on her horse, the cool air around her was causing her muscles to become stiff.
“Father...” She breathed, “I...” Her eyes fluttered as she fought to stay awake. There was a light ahead. A home? Snow was falling, sticking to the ground, covering her tracks, though her blood still dripped into the beautiful white snow, a stark contrast of bright red. Keva slipped from the back of the horse, falling to the ground roughly. She coughed as she felt the arrow move within her body. She clenched her teeth as she stood up. Keva stumbled and staggered forward. She could hear the beating of drums. A celebration?
Suddenly Keva felt something slam against the back of her head. The world spun as she fell forward. She whimpered as her world faded to black.
**
Keva woke hours later, she whimpered as she rolled to her side, her hand went to her abdomen, a fresh bandage was wrapped over her skin. Her hands were bound together by a thick rope. She blinked several times as she pushed herself up. Keva glanced around the room. She stumbled and fell knocking metal instruments off of a tray. She gasped as she fell to her back on the floor, she took in quick breaths as she rolled to her stomach to push herself up again. Her body trembled as she closed her eyes tightly. She looked up then as she heard the door click open. Keva moved quickly and pressed her back against the wall, her brows drew together. Was she the enemy of these people? No. Why did they save her? But...why was she bound like a prisoner? Keva grit her teeth as she looked to the person that entered the room.
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 5, 2018 20:16:41 GMT -5
“Tonight!” A young voice spoke loudly over a crowd of people. There was an odd 30 people standing the hall, a feast about the table. Everyone lifted their steins into the air - listening to the woman who stood before everyone on a lifted stage.
“We celebrate the legacy of our former master. Gregor - who died in the beauty of the battle!” She shouted and tossed her mug into the air. A splash of ale fell from the lip and onto the ground. The crowd shouted and did the same, cheering. “Everyone should find the bottle of their mug - just as he was so known to do!” She lifted her drink and then guzzled the entire glass. All the while everyone did the same. Right after she finished she threw her empty mug upward, and everyone else did the same. In an instant music began to play and people began to shout happily.
Gregor, the leader of the Huntsman, had died. But no death was a moment of mourn - he died exactly as he dreamt. They would celebrate him, his legacy, and for his eternal after life. To replace Gregor was his daughter - the woman before the men, Rane. She was the only woman in the Hunstman, and easily the most fierce person in the guild. She had been trained to kill since she was very young...
Rane turned as someone approached, they whispered into her ear. She pulled her brows together and nodded - slipping away from the crowd. She was lead to the back house. Rane opened the large door and entered the room. “You sure it is her?” Rane questioned the man, who then nodded.
Rane knelt down to this woman, who was passed out. “Bring me some warm water, alcohol, bandages....” She pushed her cape slightly out of her way and she turned the woman, looking to the arrow. Her eyes fell upon the clasp on her shirt, the family crest - it was the Lord’s daughter for sure.
She grasped the arrow and yanked it from her body. “Damnit...” She looked into the wound - the tip of the arrow had shattered. She poured water onto the wound and quickly dug out the shards with a pair of metal tweezers. When she finished she packed the wound and patched her up. “Hm...” She leaned back and cleaned her hands off. “Tie her up, she might be worth a good penny...” Rane stood and then nodded.
She went back to the festivities, but her thoughts wondered. Why was the Lord’s daughter wounded, surely her father would be searching for her.... That would lead him to the Hunstman, who they didn’t always see eye to eye. The Hunstman were swords for hire, no morals no anything - just the heat of battle...
Just as midnight struck - she stood and made her way to the room. She opened the door and crossed her arms. “You’re awake...” She lifted a brow and then held a leather pouch forward - it was full of fresh mountain water. “Drink... You lost a good bit of blood” she spoke and then closed the door. “You the Lord’s daughter? Bowmen?” She raised her brow and took in a breath. “What happened to you, you were shot...” She watched the woman closely. Rane stood - ready to draw her dagger, her bow rest on her back - quiver on her hip, which barely poked out from her cape...
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 5, 2018 21:13:58 GMT -5
Keva watched the woman her breaths trembled. Her eyes glanced to the side where her clothing lay. Her eyes then looked to the pouch that was offered forward. She gingerly took it into her hands. She stared to the bit of water that dripped out of it from her grasping it. She then took a drink of the water. It was crisp and fresh. She took in a deep breath, “Yes.” She replied though with a bit of hesitation. “I am Lord Bowman’s daughter...” She stared to this woman before her, her brows tucked together, fear in her eyes. “I was to marry Lord Rasmuth’s son Will.” She took in a deep breath then. The moments began playing in her mind. She looked to the bandages upon her arm where she’d cut herself in her frenzy to get away from Will’s dying body.
“The Lord...” Her voice caught in her chest. “Rasmuth ordered his men to attack. It was a set up.” She clenched her jaw then as she stared at this woman. For all she knew this woman was the enemy, but, even then what could she do? She glanced to the dagger upon Rane’s hip. Her eyes lingered there for a long moment. “Everything happened so quickly, I am uncertain if my father is even alive.” She lowered her eyes then.
**
The sound of a horn bellowed across the land. Two horses barreled toward the city of Dredge. “Open the gates!!” A man called as others began to crank the gates open. “Our Lord has returned!!”
The two horses barreled into the town. One held Lord Bowmen, he was hunched forward, blood stained his body. The other soldier was in front of him with the reins in his hands, he’d led the Lord back into the city. The soldier was heavily wounded as well. The townspeople rushed forward pulling the men from the horses.
“My lord!” A man called out as he rushed over. “By the gods!” He exclaimed. “Lady Ellena!” He rushed off.
Soon enough the Lord was placed on a table, he was under the care of the city apothecary and doctor. The two worked seamlessly patching his wounds, which were many. A woman rushed into the room, her eyes the same color as Keva, her hair was dark as well with grey strands. “My love.” She took his hand. “Peter.” She kissed his forehead as tears welled in her eyes. “Where is our Keva?”
Peter coughed up a bit of blood. He held her hand weakly. “My sweet love...” He breathed, his eyes fluttering. He shook his head. “It...was a trap...Lord Rasmuth...brought his army...his own son...struck our daughter...”
“Keva....” Ellena whimpered tears streaming down her cheeks. “Peter...tell me...tell me she’s with you...” She stood and looked to the other soldier in the room. “Tell me she’s alive.”
Peter shut his eyes, “I...saw her....” He choked, “She got on her horse...she traveled north...she was injured...they pursued...”
Ellena placed her finger on his lips. “My love, we will find her.” She kissed him then before she stood. She walked out of the home. She took in a deep breath as she looked to her people who had gathered around the apothecary’s hut. “I need every able fighter to ready for war!” She called out. “My daughter is still out there! We must bring her back!” A growl of cheers erupted from the men and women.
**
Keva took in a breath as she watched the woman, her eyes once again looked to the dagger. She wasn’t sure if she could trust her. “If it is money that you want, my father will pay you, even my mother will pay you in his absence.” She spoke quickly. She heard something then. Her expression softened as she listened. Hoof beats. “They’re here...” She swallowed.
**
One of Lord Rasmuth’s men rode into the camp. He dismounted his horse and grinned to the men that stood before him. “Where is the girl?” He questioned his eyes one them. “I’ve tracked her here, my Lord knows it. Now where the hell is she?” He stepped forward, “Who is your leader?! Show him to me!” He snapped, his presence was menacing. Blood was dried on him from the battle earlier. He’d tracked her straight from the battleground.
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 5, 2018 21:41:02 GMT -5
Rane pulled her brows together “I am not surprised that Rasmuth has done that, that is a wicked and corrupt family, one that even I refuse service too...his gold is that of blood and hell, nothing I wish to be apart of...” She took her water pouch back and attached it to one of the many belts about her waist.
Rane’s eyes followed Keva’s, her fingers touched the hilt of the dagger on her thigh. “Don’t bother... I’m not going to hurt you anyways... You will be home soon enough” she shifted and let out a breath. “I am Rane Skarsgard, you are in the care of The Huntsman...” She then lifted her hand to the door. Just as she did - heavy hooves clattered on the ground, followed by Keva’s warning.
Rane stepped outside and looked to this man - he wore the sigil of the Lord, one of his men, on his chest. She stepped forward, her steps confident , she moved to stand infront of him. A crowd of her own men stood behind her, staring down to this man. Rane tilted her head slowly and then smirked.
“I am more than enough Man for you...” She licked her lips and then tossed her braided hair back with a tussle of her head. “What do you want?” She questioned, she didn’t even bother to draw her weapon.
The man squinted his eyes slightly and then scoffed. “You insult me, I asked for your leader - and yet all I see is his dirty mistress” he spat on the ground. “I am here for the Lord’s Daughter, she is here... do not deny her from me.”
Rane let out a deep chuckle of a laugh, she turned her head and glanced to her Huntsman. “A lonely soldier of the Lord stands before me, calling me a mistress...” She laughed again and glanced to him. “Well, you wouldn’t be wrong...” she stepped forward and then stopped a mere foot away from the soldier. “I bet you are pining for a good fuck” she practically spat. She leaned forward then - close enough that her warm breath would fall upon his cheek. “A shame you’ve no dick to work with” she grinned then and took a step back. “You wanted to see the leader?” She questioned. “My friends - who is your leader?” She questioned.
There was silence, nothing. No one spoke. Rane grinned then and glanced to the soldier. The man scoffed once more. “It is clearly not you” he spoke and then drew his sword. “Now back to the kitchen with you, bitch” he held the sword out to her - the tip of it just a fraction of an inch from her leather chest piece.
Rane stepped forward - allowing the tip of his sword to knick into her leather. Her hand reached up and gripped the blade, leather gloves holding it. “The Huntsman has no leader” she quickly twisted the blade, which tweaked his hand - causing him to drop it. “The Huntsman do not vote, they do not select their leader... no... I do not rule these men, and they do not rule me...” She stepped closer and then smiled. “We stand together...in one... line...” She tilted her head then - all of the men moved forward. “No one in the front... no one in the back...” She rolled her head to the other side.
The soldier grit his teeth, his fingers moved to his side where his dagger lay. Rane reached forward and plucked it from his hip and tossed it to the ground. She stepped back from him and then chuckled. “You bear Rasmuth's crest..." she raised a brow and turned. "Show this man what we do to Rasmuth's men" Rane spoke and turned around, walking away from the man. Three Huntsman approached the soldier. Two gripped each arm, holding him place. The final Huntsman pulled his dagger and easily cut every single finger off of the man's hand. He screamed in pain and agony. The men then took rope and tied his sword between his sawed off hands, with his own blood - they wrote the word "Ass" on his forehead. They then turned him around and kicked him in the butt, sending him walking away, sniffling and crying in pain - as a trail of blood followed behind him.
Rane calmly walked to his horse and grasped the reigns. "Hey there sweetie..." she laced her fingers into the mane of the horse and stroked. "You'll stay with us now, hm, how does that sound?" she questioned as she removed the horses armor - which was plastered with Rasmuth's crest. She lead the horse into the stables and then opened the door to the small shack where Keva was.
"Come on, we'll take you home. Rasmuth is still after you..." she stepped forward then and cut the ropes that bind her hands. "You can run and get captured by them, or let us escort you and you can tell your family all about your wonderful stay here - and make mama Skarsgard a very rich lady, hm?" she tilted her head. "Your choice..."
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 5, 2018 22:32:12 GMT -5
Keva watched the woman closely. She adverted her eyes as soon as Rane said something about not hurting her. “Skarsgard...” Keva muttered as the woman stepped outside. “The Huntsman...” She breathed, her father had warned her many times in her life of the danger of The Huntsman. She leaned against the wall listening to what she could. She could hear the man yelling and carrying on. The next moment she could hear his screams and cries of agony.
Keva took several steps back when Rane came in through the door. Then to her surprise she was cut free. “You’ll take me home?” She questioned, she stared at Rane a long moment. She then stepped to her cloak. She pulled it on and clasped it in the front, she ran her fingertips over the family crest as she looked to the woman. “I will make sure that my father pays you more than you ask for.” She straightened slightly and winced. “Plenty to get you and your men through the winter and then some. I am in your debt Rane Skarsgard.” Keva pulled a sachet from her hip and held it forward. “This is all I have with me, besides my tiara.” She thought for a long moment as she handed the pouch to her, it was full of coins. That was the perk of being a noble, of being the noble. Her family was the best off, wealth wise in the country. They had good soldiers, good farms, they had a market for trade. The wealth was endless. Her father had done their region right.
Keva thought a moment. “My horse?” She questioned as she looked to Rane. “He was injured...” She lowered her eyes, “But he brought me here. He was born in our stables....” She watched this woman before her. She adjusted her clothing over her injury and grit her teeth as she tied the leather laces back in place.
**
“Any word?” Peter sat in his bed, his eyes were tired.
“My love, rest, I can handle this. You...you’re injured.” Ellena cupped his cheek. “I’ve sent our best men out to find our daughter, they will find our Keva.” She kissed his cheek.
**
Keva climbed onto her horse. She glanced to the Huntsman that surrounded her. Rena had a strong group, a group that wasn’t anything to reckon with. Rasmuth’s soldier was stupid to even try to attack in their home like that. Keva pat her horse gently, he’d only had a few cuts and scrapes, it wasn’t anything she’d imagined him to have. She had her sword on her hip the beautiful silver hilt held the family crest on it as well in flowing lines. Keva took in a deep breath as they rode forward into the night. Her eyes moved up to the moon that was in the sky, its glow provided them light upon their path.
Keva flinched slightly as a fox ran through their path. Her pulse jumped as she glanced around looking for any other movement within the woods. She could only guess how angered Rasmuth’s men would be once that soldier got back to the line. She ran her thumb over the horn of her saddle as her mind played through the events.
It was several hours later that ahead of them two horses rode upon the path, the sun was beginning to peek over the tops of the mountains to the west. Keva watched as they got closer. Her eyes could pick out the colors. Blue and white. She could see the colors on the horses bridles. Keva glanced to Rane. “Those are my father’s men.” She spoke, her voice was soft.
As they approached her eyes locked with one of the men. The captain of their guard. She’d known him since she was a child. “Keva, you are alive.” He spoke. He glanced to the Huntsman, his eyes ultimately fell upon Rane. He took in a breath. “Lady Skarsgard.” He tipped his head forward toward her, “I’m certain you have a price for treating our Lord’s daughter so well.”
“She saved me, they saved me.” Keva spoke up. “Captain Yusik.” Her eyes watched him. Keva heard something then. Her head turned just as an arrow flew through the air next to her face. The tip of the arrow sliced into her cheek. Rasmuth’s soldiers came barreling over the hill. At least 10 of them. They shot flaming arrows toward the group. Keva yelped as her horse reared and she toppled back, unable to keep her balance with her injuries. She slammed into the ground harshly.
“For Lord Bowmen!!!” She heard the Captain call out as his sword unsheathed.
There was a clash of blades. Keva staggered to her feet, she held her side, she could feel fresh blood on her fingertips, her stitches had torn from the fall. “Damn...” She muttered as she took a few steps forward. She felt a grip upon her shoulder and she was spun around.
“Looky here.” One of the soldiers snickered. “This is Bowmen’s daughter.” He licked his lips as he looked her up and down. “You’re coming with me beauty.” He grasped forward.
Keva dodged to the side. Her sword was drawn. She sliced forward catching his blade. Their sword clattered as she fought with him. Her strikes were precise and her footwork was well practiced. She spun and her blade slammed into the soldier’s side slicing into his abdomen. She staggered back, her breathing quick. Another soldier was advancing toward her. Her vision was fuzzy. She lifted her sword, she’d fight to the death if she had to. She wasn’t going to let them take her easily.
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 8, 2018 21:07:56 GMT -5
Rane climbed upon her steed as she exited the room. It was a large black horse, a dark as the night could be. Along his thigh was a deep gash - though now healed, a rippled scar. It was once ripped flesh from when he was just a young calf, from that of a wolf. Rane had stumbled upon him when she was young, hunting in the dark night - as she was required to. Her father would leave her without food, refusing to cook or feed her - he would tell her the only time she were to eat - is if she could find the meal herself. Walking that cold night - starving and hungry, she came upon this calf. The wolf scattered to her presence. She thought then - she could finish this horse, end its suffering and eat...
She made the right decision in the end. She and Arion would develop a beautiful bond. He never reared, he never feared - he acted as if every minute of life was owed to her, and would sooner take an arrow for her with joy... A battle horse that any one would dream of having. No fear. Rane leaned down and pat his mane and nodded “Let’s go” she spoke.
She rode next to Keva as they trailed along the beaten path. The rolling forest hills were known to her, she knew they would travel over the small mountain side to enter the twin peak, where one of the most powerful Kingdoms were nestled in the crest of the mountain. Rane turned her head slightly to peer upon her men - 15 rugged and strong men, like a wave of Ox tracking behind her. The rest stayed at the village.
As the sun began to creep over the mountain side, a thick slush of red and oranges filled the surface of the world - a beautifully painted sunset to the morning. She knew she was tired - but the excitement of the riches kept her powered, luck was on her side.
Soon enough they came upon the great walls of the Kingdom, to which they were met by a very familiar captain. “Yusik...” Rane nodded as she remained on her steed. She turned her gaze - just in time to watch an arrow blaze forward. It barely touched Keva - in an instant her men were already rushed forward, swords pulled. Rane kicked her heels into her steed, they trot on the outside of the battlefield. She pulled her bow and notched an arrow and pulled the string - with each release men fell. This attack was careless, she couldn’t seen an inch of strategy, cocky and foolish...
Rane turned her gaze and it fell upon Keva... her arrow pointed to her attacker. Keva moved with speed and precision - it had been quite some time since she had last seen someone fight like that. Who was this woman truly? There seemed to be more to this story than she expected, though it mattered not. She would release this woman and receive her payment.
Rane bit her lip as she watched Keva stumble - she released her arrow. It flew forward, right between 2 other men - and directly into the back of Keva’s attacker. The force of the arrow pierced through his armor and shred his spine, before finally getting stuck. The man suddenly fell forward, blood pooling from the wound. Her arrows were meant to shred and shatter - recovery from her shots, if possible, was never good.
Rane, with extreme speed, shot 5 more arrows, finishing off the remaining attackers with ease. Like they were practice dummies, she could have ended it sooner - but she wanted to see what Keva could do, she wanted her men to enjoy the thrill of the fight...
Rane finally trot back to Keva, she jumped from her steed - cape fluttering in her wake, and she held her hand down - to help Keva up. “Night fighting...” She nodded and then pulled her bow onto her back and then she glanced to Captain Yusik - who was breathing heavily from the fight.
“Shall we?” She smiled and then climbed back onto her steed. “I’d say that’s a few extra gold bars, hm?” She chuckled. Not a single man was hurt, her men climbed onto their horses and followed behind as the huge gates opened. Yusik, on foot, led them forward into the Kingdom walls.
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 8, 2018 21:39:48 GMT -5
Keva stumbled slightly as she watched the soldier in front of her fall to his knees. She turned her eyes to her Captain as he fought ruthlessly on foot. Next her eyes fell on Rane whom effortlessly shot down several of the soldiers. Her jaw was loose, she’d never seen someone handle a bow so well. The next she knew Rane’s hand was reaching down to her. “Thank you.” Keva took her hand and allowed the woman to pull her up onto the horse. Keva glanced to the other Huntsmen not a scratch on the men. It was truly incredible.
Captain Yusik glanced over his shoulder to the comment about gold, he smirked slightly and let out a soft chuckle before he led them onward. They marched through the city streets, the sound of a horn bellowing echoed over the city. It was neatly nestled into the mountain side, any opening into the city had a tall wall. This was one of the best reinforced cities, it was one of the main reasons why it flourished. The townspeople came from their homes, their eyes looked up to Keva whom was holding her side, blood leaked over her fingers. Though she kept her head up, she kept her eyes forward as they neared the center of town.
Captain Yusik stopped and turned to Rane. He stood directly in front of them. “Lady Skarsgard.” He looked up to her his eyes watched her for a moment. “You shall have an audience with Lady Bowmen.” He glanced to Keva, he took a step forward. “Keva?” He questioned.
The world was churning, Keva’s breaths trembled slightly. “I’m fine.” She spoke as she slipped from the back of the horse. She landed and stumbled slightly. Rane’s horse was a few hands taller than hers. “Please, Rane come inside.” She spoke as she pushed forward toward a beautiful log home. The foundation was made of brick. She reached her hand forward and just before she grabbed the handle the door pulled open.
“Keva.” Ellena reached forward and pulled her into an embrace. “Your father and I have been so worried my dear.” Her eyes looked then to the party of Huntsmen. “Come inside.” She spoke, her eyes falling on Rane. Ellena turned and walked into the home. Keva trailed behind her gripping her side, her steps were heavy. Ellena took in a breath as they entered a room with a large round table, the council room. “Lady Skarsgard.” Ellena began she turned and offered a gentle smile. “What may I pay you for the safe return of my daughter?” Lady Ellena then looked to Keva whom staggered slightly. Her eyes trailed to her daughter’s bloody hand. “Oh...” Ellena took a step forward, she placed her hand over her daughter’s. “Keva my dear?” She looked up just as Keva’s eyes fluttered and her knees buckled. “James!” Ellena cried as she caught her daughter. She lowered her carefully to the floor and she brushed her hair from her eyes.
A man came running down the stairs, the apothecary, he had thick robes on and a bag about his waist that was full of tiny bottles of herbs. He had been administering an herbal treatment to the lord. “Lady Keva...” He knelt next to her and looked to the blood that leaked from her side. “Yusik.” He nodded.
Captain Yusik nodded. He lifted Keva into his arms and she was quickly carried from the room. Lady Ellena let out a shaken breath she’d taken a step to follow but her eyes looked back to Rane. Her jaw tightened slightly. “What is the payment?” She questioned then, her eyes flicked to the door again, she wanted to be by her daughter’s side. Her eyes were tired from lack of sleep. She’d been up all night with the lord, organizing and sending men out in search for her daughter.
|
|
|
|
Post by Raven on Dec 8, 2018 22:30:45 GMT -5
Rane lifted her brow and climbed from her horse, she handed the reigns off to a stable boy and then stepped into the huge castle. It wasn't far until they stood before two huge doors. As they entered - Rane stepped aside, eyes falling to Elena who grasped her daughter. She glanced to one of the guards - who rushed away to get medical help for Keva.
"Payment..." Rena sucked in a deep breath. "How much is your daughter worth to you?" she questioned and then grinned slightly.
Ellena looked to her with a serious brow and then she scoffed, she bit her lower lip. "Three Hundred Thousand" she spoke. This was a fair amount in this economy, one where she could easily live without another worry.
Rena looked to her men, who stood near the stood. "Five Hundred Thousand... I have to split it with my men, they helped..." Rena looked to Ellena, who she could tell was deep in thought.
Ellena fidgeted slightly and then she nodded. "Fi-" she was cut off when someone rushed through the doors, pushing past the men.
"She's bleeding out, it appears there is internal damage" a man stood, his hands were covered in blood.
"Did you locate the source?" Rena spoke and rushed towards him. "Take me to her"
They rushed quickly to Keva's room. Rena swiftly made her way to the bed. "Bleeding yeah, do you hear her?" she leaned down "her breathing... Get me some alcohol, a scalpel - Red grab my bag from my horse - " she shouted to one of her men.
Instantly a scalpel was in her hand - she held Keva down and cut the wound - to be a little bigger. "Looks like her lung yeah... It was hit but the activity in the fighting caused the wound to get worse" she turned her head just as Red came with her leather satchel. "Red get me the Netherwilt - in the small brown pouch"
The burly man, with long matted hair and a braided beard sifted through the bag until finally he opened the small pouch and handed her what appeared to be a nugget of smooshed flower. Rane ripped off a chunk and pushed it into the wound. "The wound isn't terrible, just enough to make her... bleed" she flushed the wound with the alcohol and then she stitched her back up.
The medic stood "What is netherwilt?" he questioned.
Rane held her hand to Keva's wrist, getting her pulse. "She's stabilizing"
"Netherwilt is a rare flower, the oils in it have magical properties. She'll absorb it, and the flower will naturally be absorbed, it's pretty much the most expensive flower known to man, but it'll save a life - every time" she leaned back and sighed. She stepped over to a bucket of water and dunked her hands. "Magic is long and forgotten, but it's still around..." she grabbed a rag and dried her hands off.
"How... did you learn to do that?" Ellena questioned, she was fidgeting with her hands infront of her, worry stricken across her face.
"My mother was a doctor, that is what she wanted me to be, but..." she shook her head. "I learned regardless" she took the remaining Netherwilt and put it in her satchel and then slung it over her chest. "Stay by her side and watch her, we can discuss payment tomorrow morning... I couldn't possibly take your gold if I delivered a dead daughter"
Ellen wiped a tear away, her eyes fell to the captain who stood in the door way. "Yes... Yusik - get our guest rooms..." she then stepped next to her daughter and grasped her hand...
"We don't have too many rooms-"
"We can pile into about.. 3 rooms?" Red spoke, crossing his arms. "We sleep on the floor daily, we don't need your pampered treatment, let's just get some shut eye... and maybe some ale..." he stepped past Yusik.
"Very well... right this way.." Yusik grit his teeth slightly and then lead them down the hallway and held his arm out to the three doors. "There you go"
All the men split up into 2 and took 2 rooms while Rena got her own. It wasn't because she was their 'leader' but that she was a female. Respect. Rena plopped onto the massive bed and let out a long drawn sigh. Her bow and quiver rest against the bed.... She fell asleep swiftly - along with everyone else. They had been up for almost 24 hours...
Rena woke before the sun even thought of hitting the sky, she pulled her bow and quiver and made her way to Keva's room, she slowly opened it to see Ellena sitting in the plush chair, fast asleep. Rena stepped to Keva and placed her fingers on her wrist... She looked to the stitches - the wound had completely healed. A part of her wished she hadn't used what little Netherwilt she had, but there would be no way to get paid, that was for certain. Plus... there was something about Keva that struck her, she wasn't the typical royal brat...
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 8, 2018 23:14:17 GMT -5
Swords clattered together. Two men dressed in leather armor fought with each other. One kneed the other knocking him to his back, he held his sword forward toward the man’s neck. “My round, Yusik.” The man chuckled, his eyes then moved to the sound of a small branch snapping. “Who’s there?” The man asked. He stepped toward the sound and moved quickly, ready to strike. Before him was the young Lady Keva, she threw her arms up and backed up, shielding herself. “Lady Keva....” The man breathed, he sheathed his sword. He glanced around. “What has you outside so late?” He knelt down and offered a hand forward helping Keva up to her feet. Keva was 5 years old...
Keva looked to him with her emerald eyes. She grinned then, “The swordplay, Sir Hendrick.” She replied, she glanced to Yusik whom stood and dusted himself off.
Sir Hendrick chuckled he glanced to Yusik. “Why don’t you retire for the evening?” He asked as he offered his hand to Keva. “I need to tuck young Lady Keva into bed.”
Keva watched as Yusik nodded and walked away. She took Sir Hendrick’s hand. “I...” She paused unsure of the words to use.
Sir Hendrick walked her into the armory where he pulled a short wooden sword from a locker. He then turned to her and held to toward her, hilt first. “Let’s learn, shall we?” He smiled to her.
Keva’s eyes lit up as she stepped forward and took the blade. She grinned and nodded, “Yes.” She sliced the sword around a few times and giggled happily.
Sir Hendrick devoted time each night to teaching her...Sir Bowmen even granted him permission to train his daughter. After years of practice and training Keva had become the fighter she was today...
Keva’s head moved slightly when Rane touched her wrist. Her eyes fluttered but she didn’t wake, she was fast asleep. Ellena’s eyes opened slowly to the movement in the room. She took in a breath. “Lady Skarsgard.” She whispered softly. She stood and looked to her daughter with worried eyes a moment until she noticed that the wound was healed. Her expression changed to awe. She looked to the Huntsmen before her a long moment and then nodded. “I will have a breakfast feast prepared.” She spoke, “After I will take care of a payment for you.” She searched Rane’s eyes and took in a breath. Lady Ellena then slipped from the room.
**
A few hours later as the sun lifted into the sky in the dining hall a feast was prepared. Large enough to feed the Huntsmen. Lady Ellena stood at the head of the table. “A feast.” She spoke as she looked to the men, her eyes fell upon Rane. “A thank you.” She spoke her voice strong. “Without you my daughter would have died or fallen into the hands of Lord Rasmuth. Please, eat as much as you like, if something is lacking I will have more made.” She turned then and paused as her eyes fell upon Keva.
Keva walked in through the doorway. She wore black pants with a dagger upon her thigh, she had on a dark brown leather top that cinched together accenting her figure. Her cloak was hung about her shoulders clasped around her neck. Her sword was sheathed at her hip, her family crest was etched into the sword, it had a gorgeous hilt upon it made of silver and gold. “Mother.” She spoke and nodded. The two turned and stepped from the room.
“Keva dear...how are you feeling?” Ellena questioned as they walked into the council room.
Keva turned her eyes to her mother, she gave a gentle smile. “Well, mother. The wound is completely healed.” She shook her head. “We must pay the Huntsmen well. They saved me.”
Ellena placed her hand on her daughter’s shoulder. She gave a nod. “Of course my dear.” She spoke, “That was already in my plans.” She stepped over to a bag upon the table. “I’ve already arranged a payment that should more than make the Huntsmen happy.” She opened the bag, it was filled with gold and silver, twice what Rane had asked for at least.
Keva stared at the bag a long moment. “What do we do about Rasmuth?” She questioned then her eyes falling on her mother.
Ellena let out a long breath. “You will do nothing my dear. I cannot afford to lose you. Our people cannot lose you.”
Keva grit her teeth slightly. “I can fight better than some of our best soldiers.” She spoke quickly. “If Sir Hendrick was...”
“Keva.” Ellena cut her off. “Please.” She searched her eyes a long moment. “Your father is still recovering and...you nearly died.”
Keva took in a breath she bowed her head slightly. “Of course mother.” She spoke. “I will get Rane so we can pay her.” She then stepped from the room. Keva walked to the dining room and she stepped to Rane. “My mother would like to speak to you about payment.” She searched Rane’s eyes. “Thank you, whatever you did...” She remembered Rane at her side slicing into her. She’d gone in and out of consciousness. “Come with me.” Keva spoke, she glanced to the men around the table that were eating happily. Keva walked back down the hallway and she entered the council room. She looked to Rane a moment before her eyes fell on her mother.
Ellena took in a breath. “My daughter’s life is priceless.” She spoke as she looked to the Huntsmen. “Though, the actions that you have taken come with a price that is to be paid and I am in debt to you as well as your men. Our entire kingdom is in debt to you.” She spoke as she set the heavy bag before Rane. “1 million. Twice what you asked. For your trouble. How does that fair with you, Lady Skarsgard?”
|
|
|
|
Post by Raven on Dec 8, 2018 23:45:55 GMT -5
Rena glanced up as Ellena stirred, she released her touch on Keva and then stepped back. "Right, thank you..." she nodded to Ellena's comment about breakfast. She made her way out and then gathered her men to the dining hall. Soon enough it became stocked and full of everything they could dream of. Ham, bacon, eggs, gravy, even steak. Rena stepped out to the hallway - when someone approached her.
"Rena" a soft voice reached out to her. A woman stood before her - wearing a black cloak with all black leather, she seemed off in this setting - someone you might expect in the back end of the tavern, stalking whomever her victim would be.
"Lyneth" Rena crossed her arms and shook her head. "What do you want?" she questioned in a dark and rude voice.
Lyneth chuckled and reached for her hood, revealing a soft freckled face an frienzied red hair that was untamed upon her head. "Just to know you are okay" she whispered.
"You should have worried more about that before you betrayed me" Rena scowled and shook her head. "The last person I want to see on this entire planet is you right now." She balled both fists and shook her head. Lyneth - the reason she avoided the hell out of this city.
"Rena, I had to..."
"No, I don't want to hear whatever fucked up excuse you have - you could have spoke with me, I could have helped you. Rena turned then, just as she did - Keva stepped forward. Lyneth quickly turned and rushed away.
Rena looked to Keva and smiled, wiping away all her anger she just displayed in a blink of an eye. "You healed well... Yes, let's talk with your mother, shall we?" she followed Keva to the council room. The doors shut behind them, and the three stood together.
Rena stepped over to the sack of gold, she opened it and peered down to the glittering coins, shifting in its heavy weight as she observed them. "That is sufficient..." she smiled then and tied off the bag. "Pleasure doing business with you, Ellena. This should put my men's worries away, it is much appreciated..." she lifted the bag and slipped an arm around it.
"We'll be out of your hair after breakfast, we wont even speak a word of any of this, in case there are those that would use it against you, Huntsman promise." Rena smiled and bowed her head.
"You have a promise?" Ellena gave a slight chuckle.
"No, of course not" Rena winked and then nodded. She carried the bag out to the main room, Red instantly walked over and took it from her - he, having already ate, carried it to the horses and would remain with it - to protect it.
"Thank you Red" she bowed her head and then made her way over to the huge dining table. "You'll have to make more bacon - for sure" she chuckled and piled her plate high. She dug in - while each person fantasized about the money, what they would do with 1 million gold. Many of them spoke about getting a farm, a home, making sure their wife didn't have to work, sending their sons to Knight School, or to study, to have a fancy carriage or a red silk cloak for every day of the year, and all kinds of hilarity. The group laughed and carried on - a massive family.
There was a scream from outside. Everyone swiftly stood from the table. Rena pulled her brows together and grabbed her bow and rushed outside. Her eyes fell to the stables - Red lay on the ground, blood pooled around him, a collection of golden coins were piled about - a few trickled away, down the road, and then nothing.
"No Red!" Rena fell to her knees and held her hand on his fresh wound, it was a knife wound on his chest. "No no" she shook her head. Red slowly opened his eyes and shook his head.
"Lyneth" he coughed then and sighed. "Take care of him...my boy.."
"No Red, shut up - you're going to make it" she dug in her satchel - pulling out the Netherwilt, but when she looked up... he was gone. "No, you son of a bitch" she pounded her fist on his chest.
"I'll fucking kill her" she stood grit her teeth. "Find me that fucking bandit!" she rushed her to her horse and climbed onto it and slapped the reigns, the horse bolt forward. Rena was in a blind rage, if she saw Lyneth - she was a goner, that was for sure.
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 9, 2018 0:24:48 GMT -5
Ellena turned to Keva as Rane stepped from the room. She gave a soft smile. “It’s good to have you home safe my dear.” She spoke and then sucked in a breath. “Your father would like to see you.” She hugged her gently.
Keva gave a nod, “Of course mother.” She hugged her back a long moment before she slipped from the council room. It was that moment that the scream sounded from outside. Keva rushed out right on Rane’s coat tails. Guards stood about ready to protect her.
“Lyneth...” Keva spoke her brows drawn together. The thief of the city. If there was a loose coin, Lyneth was the one to pocket it. Keva looked up as Rane took off on her horse. “Wait!” She called but it was too late Rane was gone. “Take him inside.” She looked to one of the soldiers. “Get him cleaned up so that he can be buried properly.”
“Of course Lady Bowmen.” The guards spoke as they bowed to her.
Keva lifted her eyes then back to the direction that Rane had rushed off in. She took in a breath as she looked around to the scattered gold on the ground. Her eyes caught something then. Movement. A few blocks away a dark figure slipped behind the wall. Keva rushed forward in a sprint, her boots clicked on the cobblestone ground beneath her. Keva rounded the corner, there was a glimmer of a coin on the ground ahead of her. She rushed forward and lifted the coin. She paused a moment glancing around. Her eyes caught the cloaked figure again in the distance. Keva grit her teeth as she rushed forward she continued this race through the city until she’d lost the figure all together. She stood in a back alley. “Damn it.” She muttered to herself. Keva took a few steps forward, her eyes searched the world around her carefully, looking for anything that would lead her toward Lyneth.
“Looking for something?” A voice asked.
Keva turned to the sound. Her eyes caught a glimpse of something flying toward her face. She ducked and stumbled back quickly, her back pressed against the stone wall of the building behind her. She’d narrowly escaped a board to the side of her head. “Thief.” She spoke her brows pulled together.
Lyneth stood before her, she dropped the board on the ground and chuckle. “Ah the noble Lady Bowmen.” She bowed and then giggled. “Worth every penny here hm?” She questioned as she adjusted the pack on her back. “Lord Rasmuth is going to adore that he’s gotten more money out of this kingdom. And now, I have you.”
Keva grit her teeth. “You don’t have me and you’re not keeping the money.” She growled.
Lyneth pulled a pistol from her hip, she aimed it at Keva and cocked it. “Oh?” She questioned. “It certainly looks like I do have you.”
Keva took in a breath. She closed her eyes for a moment. She then rushed forward. The gunshot echoed as Lyneth pulled the trigger. Keva dodged quickly, her body moved fluidly. Lyneth slammed the butt of her pistol against Keva’s back as she was tackled to the ground. Keva fought with the woman, the two threw strikes back and forth. Keva dodged most of the attacks. She staggered to her feet and drew her sword. “Why did Rasmuth try to kill me?” She questioned quickly.
Lyneth chuckled, “If I knew, do you really think I would tell you?” She smirked then as she drew her own sword.
Keva rushed forward. She swung down with her sword, the blow was harsh as her blade slammed against Lyneth’s block. Keva pushed hard against her backing her into the brick wall of a building behind her. “You know.” She spoke her eyes narrowed.
Lyneth spun from the hold and chuckled. “Maybe I do.” She jumped back as Keva swung at her again.
Keva moved quickly and countered every move. She hit the thick leather of Lyneth several times drawing a bit of blood. Her skill was far more advanced than the thief before her. Though suddenly she was struck from behind. Keva stumbled forward. Lyneth gripped Keva’s arm gripping tightly until she forced Keva to drop her sword. Lyneth stared into her eyes and chuckled. “Lord Rasmuth wants you alive.” She smirked. “There is something very important about you, he won’t tell me.”
Keva struggled against her she ripped her arm away and stumbled back. She was grabbed from behind and a cloth was wrapped over her mouth. Keva struggled though an overwhelming need to sleep came over her. Keva reached forward, her fingers laced into the cloak of the woman, she popped the clasp off of the material before her vision faded to black.
**
“Where’s Keva?!” Ellena had tears in her eyes as she stared to the Huntsmen that was brought inside. “Find her!” She cried. “Please...”
Guards rushed into the city in search of the Lord’s daughter. All that was left in the alley was her sword with a few splashes of blood on the cobblestone and Lyneth’s clasp.
**
A few hours later Keva woke, she tugged as her hands which were tied tightly together with a rope, a gag was tied around her mouth. Her arms were hugged around a pillar behind her. She looked around with blurred vision as she blinked away the chemicals. She was in a small cabin somewhere. She struggled against the ties and groaned.
“Ahh hello there.” Lyneth crouched before her a grin on her lips. “You look great, really.” She tapped her cheek and chuckled.
Keva struggled against the rope as she tried to speak against the gag in her mouth. She took in quick breaths. Lyneth chuckled again before she stood and walked away. Keva pulled against the rope and screamed against the gag. Moments later a man walked into the room another thief. He knelt down before her and chuckled as he gripped her chin. “You’re going to be a lot of fun.” He stared into her eyes. Keva narrowed her brows, her knee came up between his legs and he fell to the side groaning and cursing. “You’re going to regret that!” He snapped once he’d regained himself. He grabbed her head and slammed it against the pole wielding her unconscious.
|
|
|
|
Post by Raven on Dec 9, 2018 14:59:35 GMT -5
Rane rode for a few blocks - no sign of Lyneth. She turned her steed around and swiftly rode back down the road. It was moments later that shouting filled the air, guards stood around the fighting site. Though - the two had long gone. Rane leaped from her steed and rushed over, pushing through the guards. She looked to the sword on the ground, blood... and then a clasp. Rane reached down and lifted it and turned it around in her hands.
"Ah, it broke..." Lyneth stood, rosey cheeks and flowing hair. She stood in a pair of brown leather pants, a light tunic. Her cape she held together with her fingers, her claps broke - from her last fight.
Rane stepped forward and chuckled. "You shouldn't do so many fun turns in the fight" she pulled her own clasp off of her cape. With one hand she dropped her cape to the couch, as they stood in a cozy cabin. She stepped before Lyneth and titled her head - her fingers attaching the clasp. "There you go.."
"But the turns and twists look cool" Lyneth grinned and bit her lip slightly, her glassy eyes looking to Rane, wanting.
Rane looked to her and then she let a long sigh out. "You.... are married" she whispered and then stepped back, she smiled weakly and then turned.
Lyneth lowered her gaze and then placed her hand on the clasp. "Thank you...Rane.." she smiled and then turned around and left the room.
Rane sat on the couch, her head in her hands. Lyneth was married to Bran Rasmuth, the son of the Lord. She was sold to him, to redeem a debt - which combined the two families. Lyneth Bellend, whose family owned the great Port Bellend, where all major imports and export transactions occurred...
Rane held the clasp up and then bit her lip slightly. "The sword belongs to Lady Bowman, take it to her... Tell her that Lyneth has Keva, and I am going after her." she looked to one of the guards - who lifted the sword and nodded.
"Right away" he spoke and then rushed away with a hurry.
"Someone stable my horse, I'll track by foot" she spoke as she looked to the trail of blood. Small drops - but it was enough to pave the way. She rushed along the streets, which ended up going through a series of allies.
It ended then at a stone wall. "You should have changed things up..." Rane whispered to herself. She reached forward and touched a piece of brick. It moved inward and then the wall shifted - she placed her hand on it and pushed forward. The wall slid open, and then closed as she entered.
The hideout was familiar to her, one that she held Lyneth claim. It once belonged to the thieves guild - and the two ran them out. She rounded the hallway and threw the doors open to the main room, what Lyneth often called her office.
"Lyneth" she called out and tossed the clasp down. Her eyes looked to the huge bag of gold - she wrapped her hand around it and lifted it. "I have something of yours..." she knew Lyneth likely had a hidden room, but she wouldn't go far from her guild - she was surprised to see it just sitting on the desk. "So enough fucking with me..."
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 9, 2018 15:19:33 GMT -5
Keva woke again, her head throbbing. She glanced about the dim room. She let out a cry as she tried to pull at her wrists. Her shoulders were sore from the position she was tied in, the rope was cutting into her skin.
“Awake I see.” The man chuckled from the corner. He was sitting at a desk, a dagger in his hands, he was sharpening the blade.
Keva groaned against the gag in her mouth. She pulled against the rope angrily.
The thief chuckled once more. “You belong to Lord Rasmuth now.” He raised a brow. “Don’t you see? You belonged to him the moment your arm was bound to my brother Will.” He stopped speaking then as he heard the door push open. He listened curiously. A smirk crept over his lips as he heard Rane call out for Lyneth. “Hm, of course.”
Keva thrashed against the ties, she screamed through the gag, loud enough to be heard.
The thief stood and stepped to her. “Shut up.” He grabbed her chin. “Sleep.” He pulled a cloth from his pocket and held it tightly to her face. Keva struggled against him until her head limply fell to the side. He smirked then as he stepped to a torch on the wall. He pulled it and slipped from the room. He walked down the hallway and emerged into the room where Rane stood. “Lyneth has told me so much of you, Rane.” He spoke with a grin. “Why don’t you give up the heroics? Lord Bowmen sold his daughter into the marriage, she belongs to my father. Besides, the little bitch killed my brother.”
“Bran.” Lyneth spoke as she came from another hallway, she had her pistol aimed at Rane. Her eyes met Rane’s and a soft gaze took over her for a moment before she shook it away. “My clasp.” She spoke and chuckled as she looked to the table. She then stepped to her husband.
Bran held his dagger in his hand still, ready to strike. “My father wants us to return Keva to him.” He narrowed his brows. “So take your gold and go back to the corner you belong in. It is not like you to dabble in royal affairs Huntsmen.” He chuckled. He turned his head slightly, Keva was screaming again against the gag. “Persistent isn’t she?” He questioned and chuckled. “Don’t worry, she’s plenty comfortable.” He looked to Rane. “What do you care anyway? You have your money.” He snickered. "Just go."
|
|
|
|
Post by Raven on Dec 9, 2018 17:02:50 GMT -5
Rane turned her gaze as she peered to the man before her. Bran, she had seen him from a distance - but never officially met him. He was the one that changed everything - him and his family. Lyneth was forced to change, she was forced to do things for them. She knew what Lyneth did to Rane was not of her own accord, but in the end it didn't change that it was done. In the end there was no saving Lyneth and she had to cut her ties to her. But now she stood again... it was like she couldn't get away from her, and she hated that...
"Ah, the son of Rasmuth..." she chuckled and then shook her head. "I am surprised you're not off on drunken binges, I hear you have a reputation for that." she nearly hissed, she then bit her lip as Lyneth entered the room. She drew her knife, which was practically a short sword. "As much as I'd like to keep this money - you know I cant. Not without her...Now, I don't want to hurt you..." she raised a brow.
Rane turned her head slightly towards the screaming - she then looked back towards Lyneth. It was then that Bran lunged forward. Lyneth went to grab him - but her fingers didn't reach him in time. Rane easily slipped to the side and slashed her knife forward - the edge was extremely sharp, as she sharpened it daily. It cut through three of his fingers like butter. They fell to the ground, blood gushing swiftly. Bran grabbed his hand and shouted in pain, his hand dropping his own dagger.
"Don't.." Rane held her dagger forward to Lyneth, who moved to help Bran. "Give me Keva and I'll let him live, or..." she shoved her dagger against his throat. Bran had fallen to his knees just moments before.
Lyneth grit her teeth and then she shuffled forward, she grasped Bran and pulled him back, she helped him up. Lyneth looked to Rane for a long moment - and then pulled Bran along. Bran fought in her arms - "You gotta kill her" he grasped at her collar.
"I'll die trying, we need to take care of you. We'll get her again, it was easy, wasn't it? She is no use if you're dead" Lyneth pulled him into a room, so she could bandage him.
Rane turned then and grasped the sack of gold, she then ushered into the room. Her hands pushed on the levers and bars that held the door shut, and then opened it to reveal Keva. She leaned down and sliced the ropes the bound her hands. She watched as she removed the gag - and then Rane grasped her arm. "Quick, we don't have much time" she lead her down several hallways, it was evident she knew her way around. The false wall opened and they slipped through. Rane then pulled at the piece of brick- which revealed a gear behind it. She suddenly stabbed her dagger into it and twisted it, the gears dislodged and bent - she then nodded.
"They'll be back, Rasmuth wants you dearly - he has Lyneth hunting you." she shook her head "She doesn't play by the books, you are not safe, even when you truly think you are... I should have known" she ushered Keva forward.
|
|
|
|
Post by Blindside Tex on Dec 9, 2018 17:37:04 GMT -5
Keva struggled as the door opened. Her eyes moved to Rane and she paused as her hands were cut free. She grabbed the gag and pulled it from her mouth. Before she could say anything she was ushered from the room quickly. She could tell Rane knew this place well. It was like she’d been here before. The labyrinth of hallways. She watched as Rane broke the mechanism. “Hunting me?” She questioned as she rubbed her wrists that were bruised and cut. She took in a breath. “Why? If Lord Rasmuth wants me dead...shouldn’t she have killed me? She said he wants me for something.” She lowered her eyes then thinking as they rushed through the streets.
Keva stopped suddenly, her hand to her head. She shook her head as a foggy daze took over her. She stumbled as her eyes fluttered slightly.
Your past is what they are interested in child. Who you are is why they want you.
“Who...?” Keva glanced around. The voice. She’d heard it before. She took in a quick breath as she pushed forward. “They drugged me.” She spoke quickly. “My head still isn't right.” She then grabbed Rane’s arm and pulled her down a back alley. They carved through the streets quickly and she knocked on an old wooden door. Keva glanced to Rane. “If I am in danger there is but one person that can truly help.” She gave a gentle smile.
The door opened then to reveal an old lady with wispy white hair. Her skin was wrinkled and her eyes were almost white, she was blind. She stared straight ahead and a chuckle came over her lips. “Lady Keva, what a surprise. And...a friend?” She questioned. She took in a deep breath, her eyes moved but she could not see. “Come in.” She ushered the two inside. The woman moved with ease despite her disability. She sat down in a large chair and poured two glasses of tea. “Drink, dear.” She spoke.
Keva sat down across from her and took a mug into her hands. “Drink the tea.” She looked to Rane. She sipped from the tea as she looked back to the old woman. “Nym.” She spoke after a moment. “I have a problem.”
The old woman grabbed several bottles and tossed several things into the pot of boiling water that was over the fire between them. A purple smoke came from the pot. “Yes, yes you do, dear.” She took in a deep breath wafting the smoke toward her. “The hunter becomes the hunted no?” She grinned. She stood and rushed forward to Keva, her hands gripped Keva’s face on either side. “He calls to you, the old one.”
Keva grit her teeth as the woman held her. Her breaths increased. She gripped onto the woman's arms as her eyes rolled back and her body tensed. She let out a whimper.
You cannot ignore me any longer child. The voice again.
The old woman took a step back she began speaking in the ancient dialect as she sprinkled a few things over Keva’s tense body. She then sat down. “So. A Huntsmen.” She spoke as she stirred the pot and added a few more things to it. “A fitting comrade for our young Lady.”
Keva’s breaths were quick, she was gasping for air, her head was pressed back, her hands gripped the arms of the chair.
“Don’t worry about her.” Nym spoke, “She must communicate.” She stirred the pot. “I’ve told her for years this day would come. Someone would find out.” She then leaned back and chanted a few more lines before she tossed something else into the pot. A burst of flames came from the pot then a plume of black smoke for a moment.
Keva gasped as she leaned forward she grit her teeth. A few drops of blood came from her nose. “Nym. I need your protection. I need the protection of the gods...please...” She breathed, her body quivered slightly.
Nym smiled as she poured a glass of black liquid. “Drink up, Lady Keva.” She held the glass forward. “You’ll have protection from our gods. Though, do you really need it?” She chuckled.
Keva took the glass. She looked to the woman with weary eyes before she downed the glass. Her face scrunched and she shook her head as she slammed the glass down on the table. “I do need it. I’m not who you think I am, Nym.” She watched her a long moment.
The old woman chuckled, “Oh but you are.” She reached forward and grabbed Keva’s hand, palm up. She rubbed her fingers over a deep scar that ran along Keva’s palm. “Don’t you remember child?” She asked as she stared to her.
Keva let out a shuddering breath. “How could I forget?”
The old woman grinned and chuckled. “May the gods be by your side.”
Keva stood and bowed her head. “Thank you.” She spoke as she turned, her eyes flicked to Rane and she let out a breath. “Come on.” She spoke as she stepped from the home. She was silent as she led her back to the mansion that she lived in. The guards rushed forward cheering at her return. Her mother hugged her arms around her and kissed her cheek, tears in her eyes. “Mother.” Keva looked to her a long moment. Ellena let out a breath, it was as if they’d had a conversation without any words spoken. Keva glanced to Rane. “Please, come inside.” She spoke.
Ellena bit her lip slightly, her eyes almost fearful. She followed her daughter into the council room. “Keva dear.” She spoke.
“Mother.” Keva moved to a bookcase and grabbed an old beaten book from the shelf. She set it on the table before Rane. She’d opened the page to a beautiful portrait of a man standing before a beast, fire shot from his hands to the creature. “You believe in magic?” Keva questioned softly, though, it wasn’t much of a question. “Mother Rasmuth knows of our family lineage doesn’t he?” She questioned.
Ellena took in a breath, “Yes...that was part of the exchange, that is why he wanted you so badly...” Her eyes looked away.
Keva nodded, “If he wants me, then we shall give me to him then, hm?” She turned and looked to Rane.
Ellena took a step forward. “Keva...” She placed a hand on her forearm.
“I can handle myself.” Keva spoke her eyes looking to her mother. She then looked to Rane. “If you would. I would like your protection. There is something I must do.”
“Keva.”
“No, I must. Just as you did. I must know.” Keva turned her eyes to her mother. She drew her brows together. Keva then looked to Rane once more. “I would like you to accompany me to the Temple of North Skull. Do you know it?” She questioned as she stepped and brought a map from a bookcase. She rolled it onto the table. “It is here, to the north. It isn’t easy to access.” Keva let out a breath as she looked to Rane. “My great grandfather is Lord Galahad Jameson...one of the last mages...” Her eyes didn’t leave Rane.
|
|
