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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 11, 2019 21:33:17 GMT -5
Azariah was shivering by the time he came to realize what happened to her. She didn’t fight him as he pulled her into his arms though her body was stiff, she wouldn’t have put up a good fight if she tried. Her eyes closed as her breathing began to slow and become deeper. As the ice melted from her body her color regained. The pink of her lips returned and Azariah slowly opened her eyes. “Varmond.” She spoke softly. She reached her hand up to his cheek, a smile curve up her lips. The warmth of his body had returned and thankfully her touch didn’t send icy spirals down her skin.
“What she did was give you something that no one else has.” Azariah spoke, her head lay against his chest now. “Skadi may have toyed with you all of your life, but what if she is trying to share with you now? What if she isn’t playing with you? What if this gift truly was a gift?” Her voice was a whisper as she spoke. Eventually she moved and brushed his hair from his eyes. She looked to where the ice had shot up the wall. She looked to the shattered chair that was once frozen by Varmond’s power.
“Too bad I don’t have control over fire, hm?” She smirked playfully in a joking manner. She kissed his cheek then as she moved to the fire that had nearly gone out from the chill in the room. She poked it with the iron rod and shivered as she tossed a new log on the fire and blew into the flames. “Why would she give you a gift now? What did she say to you Varmond?” Azariah questioned as she lifted one of the fur blankets and wrapped it around her body.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 11, 2019 21:45:48 GMT -5
As Varmod felt her move within his arms and rest her head against him he was glad she didn't seem injured. He wouldn't have forgiven himself if he had harmed or maimed her in any way. She was the only person he couldn't ever bring himself to hurt. As she leaned into him he kissed the top of her head and ran his fingers through her hair. "I can't imagine her doing anything for me out of love or even pity." He replied to her comment about his 'gift'. "She wants me to use it to aid her somehow. She just hasn't told me how yet." He grit his teeth at the thought of seeing the goddess again but smiled when Azariah tried to make light of the situation.
When she asked what Skadi had said he sighed and rubbed the back of his head as he tried to recall the words spoken before he felt the ice crawling through his skin. "Something about my heritage, but of course I know who she is, and my father was just some poor sap who stumbled upon her path." At least that's what Skadi had always told him. Just a warrior who was strong enough to please her for an evening and give her a son to use among the mortal men. "Maybe Odin is giving her a hard time about you being married to me. A man with a goddess for a mother but nothing to show for it." He scoffed as he imagined the hypothetical conversation between the two gods who seemed to be locked in some sort of contest to see who's child was better.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 11, 2019 22:03:53 GMT -5
Azariah stepped back over to Varmond’s side as a shiver ran down her spin. She listened to him speak of his mother and gave a soft sigh. “Perhaps.” She then chuckled to his words about Odin and Skadi in a quarrel. “It would seem that Odin has made quite a few of the gods angry.” She drew her brows together as the room seemed to shift in feeling, to the presence of something. Her eyes turned and lifted to look into Odin’s single eye.
“Azariah.” He spoke a smug smile upon his lips. He looked to Varmond then, “It seems you’ve powers after all, son.” He spoke though his expression remained void of emotion. “Whitlock.” He spoke as he looked back to Azariah. “The people and even the King of Whitlock blame me for the terrible things that have happened to them, they have renounced their faith in the gods. It seems only Frigg has not been maimed in their drunken shouting.” He scoffed slightly. “All because you were taken away from Whitlock they have blamed the gods for every single ill will to befall them.” He grinned then, “The grain stores? Those were lit on fire by Otta in a drunken rage, he was trying to prove that the gods had left Whitlock to die.” He chuckled then, clearly entertained. “Azariah you and Varmond will march into victory in Whitlock.” He leaned close and grasped her chin gently as Azariah went to flinch away. Her memories of him choking her were still all too present. “The people of Skajadol have my protection.” He grinned. “All I ask is that you are sure to deliver Otta to Hel, we wouldn’t want anymore bickering between the gods, now would we?” He glanced to Varmond a moment a smirk upon his lips.
Azariah stared to Odin. Her father. It seemed all too real as he sat before her. “I will return Otta to Hel.” She spoke finally.
“I know you will.” Odin released her finally. He looked to the broken chair upon the floor, “Keep an eye on your anger boy.” He looked to Varmond with his glowing eye. “Don’t injure our sweet Azariah, hm?” He chuckled. “You wouldn’t want my wrath fall upon you.”
Azariah stood then, “He wouldn’t harm me.” Her voice was strong as she spoke. “You shouldn’t threaten him.” She drew her brows together.
Odin watched the princess a moment a grin still plastered on his lips. “Frigg visits you and all of a sudden you have the fire of her soul.” He raised a brow. He then glanced to the door. “I must be off.” He disappeared then, vanishing into the air.
Azariah reached forward but it was too late. There was a knock at the door then. She glanced to Varmond a moment before she stepped to the door. “Who is it?” She questioned softly. But the sound of a cooing baby gave her the answer. She opened the door and smiled. “Moira and Asgar.” She welcomed her into the home. “Are you alright?” She questioned softly.
“I’m...so exhausted...” Moira let out a half hearted laugh.
“I’ll watch little Asgar tomorrow for you again.” Azariah gave a gentle smile. “Did you eat dinner?” She questioned.
“No...I...” Moira turned and gazed to Azariah then for a moment. Then suddenly smoke surrounded her. “I didn’t need dinner.” Loki stood before her with a wicked grin upon his lips. His hand reached out and clutched her neck. “Why are you so important to both Frigg and Odin?” He questioned quickly. “A mortal?” He scoffed. “They shouldn’t even bat an eye at you.” He hissed.
Azariah struggled in his grip, “Var...mond….” She choked out as she gripped onto Loki’s arm.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 11, 2019 22:33:22 GMT -5
Varmod also felt the shift in the room and he tensed in preparation. Though all the preparation in the world wouldn't allow him to truly be ready for Odin's sudden appearance. He gripped Azariah defensively as he saw the god standing next to them and as he reached out and touched her it took all of Varmod's will power not to hit his hand away. This time he had words for Varmod as well and the Jarl only glared at the old god in response to his comments about his gift and anger. If anyone needed to look out for Varmod's anger it was Odin. Though what he said about Otta and the grain stores was far more upsetting than he had imagined he would feel. The stupid boy was making his own people suffer to try and prove he was not such a bastard. It was sad in a way. He had everything a man could want at his feet and yet it still was not enough.
Before Varmod had the chance to say any of the words he had in mind for Odin he was gone and his presence was replaced with another whom knocked on their door. The night was busy and Varmod suddenly felt very tired, but he let Azariah slip away in order to let the woman and her child in from the cold and frowned as the exhausted woman stood before him. Maybe he should assign someone to help her during the day. To let her take care of herself in addition to the child.
The thoughts of Moira's care quickly vanished though as Loki appeared and grabbed Azariah in a fit of jealousy. Varmod had, had enough of gods that night and his motions were quick and fluid as he stepped forward and grasped Loki's arm. Ice encompassed the god's limb and then Varmod delivered several consecutive blows to Loki's exposed rib cage. Normally if a mortal had attempted such a thing on a god they wouldn't have even been able to touch the divine being, but the cold blood that ran through Varmod's veins was divine as well and so each of his strikes landed true and with incredible force. When Loki released Azariah it gave Varmod the opportunity to step between them and deliver a knee to Loki's gut that knocked the breath from the tall, lanky man.
Shocked that Varmod had delivered such pain to him Loki shifted in his smoke to step away from the mortal and out into the cold night. The light from the hearth inside still illuminated his form however and Varmod was not yet done with the god. "You think you can come into my house and lay your hands on what is mine?" Varmod told Loki in a dark and angry voice. "I will teach you some respect that your parents neglected to show you!" As Varmod approached Loki flicked his hand and three dark metal blades flew towards him and pierced into his chest through the leather jerkin. Varmod paused as the blade made contact with his body buy only for a couple of seconds.
The blades that protruded from him quickly slid back out from his flesh and the wounds closed nearly immediately. Like ice crawling across a lake his flesh knit itself together and he reached out to grab Loki's neck the same way he had done to Azariah only moments before. With his free hand Varmod pulled his dagger from its sheath on his hip and he drove the blade into Loki's shoulder, just next to the joint connecting his arm to his body. Ice protruded from the wound as well and severed the nerves in Loki's body which caused the god to scream in pain. The first he had felt such a thing in eons. "Damn you mortal!" Loki hissed. "You'll pay for this." Then he disappeared in a puff of smoke leaving Varmod's outstretched hand empty in the cold air.
"Hmph." Was all Varmod replied and slid his dagger back into his sheath and turned to head back into the house. "Are you alright?" He asked Azariah as he closed the door once more.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 12, 2019 20:02:02 GMT -5
Varmond’s defensive grip upon Azariah had comforted her. Her fear subsided so long as she had contact with Varmond. Though when Loki took a hold of her fear raced through her body. Azariah couldn’t summon her powers to do anything, she couldn’t fight back. What good would her control over time do when Loki was already harming her. The events that ensued after that were incredible. Azariah stepped back as Loki released his tight hold upon her, she gasped in air as she gazed to Varmond. She watched as his punches locked with the god’s body, the sound filled her ears as she stumbled back and sat on the bed. She could still feel his hands upon her. She took in quick breaths and looked up as the room grew silent. “Varmond?” She questioned, her voice full of worry. She stood slowly and began to step toward the door just as Varmond returned into the home. Azariah rushed forward to him, she quickly inspected him for injuries. “I’m alright.” She spoke as her eyes gazed over him. “That was amazing what you did...” She shook her head. “I couldn’t get my magic to react...I was frozen in his grasp...”
Azariah wrapped her arms around him and hugged herself to him as she let out a breath. “Loki aims to kill me out of jealousy it seems.” She whispered.
“That he does.” Frigg spoke, she stood before the fireplace her hands outstretched toward it. “Loki has always been jealous, his jealousy is what killed Balder.” Her voice was full of frustration as she spoke. “This has gone on for quite enough time, his trickery.” She turned and gazed to the two. The goddess stepped forward. She stopped next to Azariah whom still held onto Varmond tightly. “Odin and I placed you into the mortal plane for protection...and the moment that you gain access to your powers the other gods are all over you.” She sighed softly as she reached her hand forward. “And look at what Loki has done...” She sighed as she touched the deep bruising that appeared upon Azariah’s neck in the clear shape of a hand each mark from his fingers and palm were clearly defined. Frigg gave a soft smile as a warm glow surrounded the area and the bruising disappeared, as well as the pain and labored breathing that Azariah had. Frigg touched Varmond’s shoulder then, “You are very skilled, I’ve not seen Loki caught off guard in a long time.” She gazed into his eyes a long moment.
Frigg then took a step back, “I will be punishing him, he shouldn’t be a problem anymore after this.” She nodded, “I need to keep you safe, Azariah, you’re all that I have left.” She touched Azariah’s cheek in a loving motherly way. Azariah even closed her eyes to the touch, it was reassuring and gentle. Frigg glanced to Varmond again, “You do well as her protector...thank you, Varmond.” She bowed her head slightly, “I must go before I lose track of Loki again.” She turned and disappeared into a burst of light.
Azariah all the while kept her hold upon Varmond. When Frigg left she turned and looked up to him. “At least out of all the gods we have Frigg.” She spoke with a soft smile, “If anything I feel blessed to have her on our side.” She leaned up and placed a kiss upon his lips before she took his hand and led him before the hearth. She sat down in a chair and gazed into the flames. “I wish we could escape from this mess.” She gave a chuckle as she glanced to him. “But to escape the eyes of the gods, it’s impossible.” She gave a gentle squeeze to his hand. “So we best learn how to use it to our advantage, hm?”
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Post by Nyte on Jun 12, 2019 21:02:33 GMT -5
Varmod embraced Azariah as she wrapped her arms around him and gave a relieved sigh that she was, for the most part, unharmed. When Frigg appeared he tensed once more from the sudden presence and prepared to be assaulted once more by another petty god. However when he saw the woman's gentle face he relaxed, though he did not release his hold on Azariah. When Frigg thanked him he gave a nod and looked away as the bright light stung his eyes when she left. Then when he heard Azariah said they should make the best out of the situation he chuckled. Though his smile did not linger. "It's almost tempting to see if the rumors of wish granting beasts on the mountain are true. To be able to slip past the vision of the gods and go unnoticed. After we resolve this war that is."
He looked towards the fire flickering in the hearth and then looked down to his own hand interlaced with Azariah. "Gods or no gods.. do you regret our union? We've known only trouble since we were wed and things don't look like they'll be getting any easier." He clinched his free hand into a tight fist. "I know I wouldn't have it any other way. You're my only ray of light in this grim existence." He released her hand and pulled her against him once more in a firm embrace. "Even if after I die I go to Hel rather than Skadi bringing me to Valhalla I'll have no regrets having known you."
Varmod smiled and kissed her forehead before guiding her back to their bed to rest for the night after the long and tiring day. He knew he should probably stand guard and make sure no other gods tried to slip into their home but after Frigg's visit he had a feeling no one would be brave enough to do something so foolish. So, he slept, and slept comfortably. Whatever troubles awaited them he would address in the morning.
When the sun did rise above the horizon and its brilliant light shown another fresh layer of fallen snow Varmod walked out of his home and for some reason the cold didn't bother him like it usually did. He had built up a tolerance to it, yes, but there was always a chill that made him shiver in the morning. Today it wasn't present, almost as if his new gift prevented the ice from touching him the same way it had before. Today he was going to finish up some preparations for them to march to war. One way or another the conflict with the fallen Whitlock would end and soon.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 12, 2019 21:15:58 GMT -5
Azariah smirked when Varmond spoke of the beasts upon the mountains. “I wouldn’t say no.” She giggled slightly, she seemed to wander in thought of the idea for a moment before his next words met her. She gazed to him as he spoke of their union, asking of her regrets. Azariah leaned into his embrace and she hugged herself to him. “No, Varmond I wouldn’t change anything.” She closed her eyes as she spoke to him. “When we were first united I may have begged for things to change, but I trusted in Odin. I trusted that you were meant to be with me in some shape or form.” She leaned into the kiss he gave upon her forehead. “Now, you protect me...you saved my life from Loki twice...and what do I have to offer you but my love?” She asked as she gazed to him. “I enjoy my time with you, Varmond, more than I ever thought I would and I know that will never change. You surprise me at every turn.” She chuckled as he led her toward the bed.
Azariah curled into him her arm wrapped around his body and she hugged him tightly for a moment before she began tracing upon him as she seemed to do each and every night. She smiled to him before she settled in. “We will be victorious in the war and after the war if you want to venture upon the tops of the mountains, well...” She smirked slightly. “I would follow you anywhere Varmond, even to Helheim if that must be our eternal resting place.” She snuggled against him a bit more as she felt sleep tugging at her body. It wasn’t long until she submitted to the pull of sleep upon her eyelids.
In the morning when the rays touched Azariah she was curled against Varmond, hugging onto him for heat as the fire had gone out in the middle of the night. Her sleep was deep, so deep that when Varmond rose from the bed Azariah didn’t wake. It wasn’t until the cold of the air around her set in and her lack of heat woke her. She glanced around. “Varmond?” She questioned as she slowly sat up, her body shivered slightly as the nip of the cool air bit at her skin. She wrapped a fur around her and moved to the door as her teeth threatened to chatter. “Varmond….you’re going to freeze yourself...” She drew her brows together as she looked to him. A shiver ran down her spine, “Come inside, have breakfast.” She gave a gentle smile as she turned and headed back in. She poked at the fireplace and brought the coals back to life. Azariah shivered before the fire as she prepared grits in the steel pot. “Final preparations today hm?” She asked Varmond as she glanced to him. “What can I do to help?”
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Post by Nyte on Jun 12, 2019 21:54:58 GMT -5
When he heard Azariah's voice he turned to see her shiver in the cold and he realized that it probably was very cold outside and he was standing as if it were summer already. Though he wasn't bothered by the cold at the mention of breakfast his stomach gave a growl in response. Food was still very important however and he had skipped out on dinner the previous night so he was actually rather hungry. "I'm going to have everyone pack up the supplies we've been getting ready. I want to leave as soon as possible." He sat at their table while he waited for her to make the grits. "Actually, I want you to go over Whitlock's defenses and weaknesses with the war council. Let them know where it would be best to attack. The goal is to unseat the King as quickly as possible and force a surrender. I don't want a long drawn out battle ahead of us." He also planned on killing Otta if he saw the coward, but that was something to worry about at another time.
At the end of this it would mean he would gain control over Whitlock in addition to Skajadol. Two cities with a history of violence but he hoped he could convince those of Whitlock to open their hearts and minds once they were free of their current ruler. "You realize your father will be put on trial after we claim the city. It's not likely that he will survive such an occurrence."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 14, 2019 18:11:49 GMT -5
Azariah stirred the grits in the boiling water as Varmond spoke. As he spoke of her telling the war council the weaknesses and what defenses Whitlock would have she mentally began going over everything in her mind. She had been involved in the war efforts of Whitlock since she was old enough to fight, so what he asked of her wouldn’t be challenging. “If my father survives to the trial.” Azariah spoke as she poured the grits into two bowls. The hot cereal steamed in the cool air of the room as she stepped to the table and sat down next to Varmond. “Otta will not.” She looked to him, her expression serious. “I must kill Otta, that is my responsibility given to me by Hel.” She spooned some of her grits and blew upon it for a moment before she took a bite. “My father will fight until he is killed unless you can subdue him.” She pondered for a moment.
“Whitlock will already be weak from Otta destroying the grain stores in his stupidity.” She shook her head slightly. “Without the grain stores they are left to forage for food throughout the winter and Skadi has kept them locked in winter it sounds like. If they have abandoned all of the Gods I imagine even Njord of the sea has removed fish from their catching.” She paused and ate a bit of her grits blowing on each spoonful. “I will come up with a plan, Varmond.” She gave a gentle smile before she finished her bowl. “I will meet with the council while you get everyone to gather supplies. But, first I must check on Moira.” She nodded before she stood. She rinsed the bowl in the pale of water before she leaned it against the stone of the hearth to dry. Azariah pulled on her clothing for the day and wrapped her black cloak around her shoulders. “You will make a great king.” She stepped to him and grasped the front of his jerkin before she kissed him, a warm smile resided upon her lips as she stepped back from her husband. “I can only imagine the good that will come of this. Whitlock has needed a new ruler for a long time all my father cares about is conquering. Each summer we sail out of the bay and we kill many others that we could have allied with in the end. Innocent people most of the time that didn’t suspect attack from us at all.” She frowned slightly as she gazed up to Varmond, her hands still held onto him. “It saddens me that I was a part of that, but who was I to tell my father no? Hm?” She kissed Varmond’s cheek then before she released him and stepped away. She slipped her sword belt around her hips and her bow and quiver upon her back. After the scouts she could never be too careful.
Azariah made her way through the city, she called upon the war council by going to each home of the men that were upon the council. After she went to Moira’s home and cooked her breakfast. The two chatted and exchanged laughter. Azariah held baby Asgar and rocked him as Moira took a much needed break from the babe. By noon she made her way to meet the council members in the great hall and she stood at the table her eyes looked to the men for a moment before she let out a long breath. “Let’s talk shall we?” She rolled out a parchment. While she had been watching Asgar she’d drawn out a detailed map of Whitlock. Vantage points, towers, walls, she knew where everything was. “Whitlock is seemingly impenetrable at first glance. Every enemy that has tried to take on Whitlock has failed.” She gazed to the men whom shifted uncomfortably to this news. “However, the enemies of the past did not have the princess of Whitlock in their aid.” She grinned then as she pulled out a feather and red ink that she gathered from the seamstress of the village.
Azariah dipped the feather and made marks, “The east side of Whitlock has a pathway that leads up to the boulder that overlooks the sea. Some of you that were there for Varmond and I’s union might remember this area. There are no defenses on this side of town if we come in through here.” She drew a long line. “The terrain on this side of town is a bit more tricky, but, it would be least expected.” She drew the line in town. “It also gives us the cleanest entry to the great hall which is position on the north east side of the city.” She circled the great hall. “There will be guards posted within and outside of the hall. It is best to take them out silently so as to not alert the others. If we go in as a small group I believe we can take out all of the guards at the great hall and slip inside. Once inside the King will be an easy target.” The men grinned to this.
“I want our forces to line up here.” She made an x on the north side, “Here.” She made another mark on the east. “And here.” She made a final mark on the south east corner along the beach that led to the village. “However we may not even need to shed the blood of those within Whitlock, so long as we get to the king properly.” She made another mark at the center of town where the stage was. “Once we obtain the king and we have him bound we will bring him here. Alive or not this is where we will bring him. There will be a specific blow of the horn that will signal our warriors to move into the town. This is the part that could become tricky. We will be calling to the people of Whitlock and showing them their dethroned king. Those that stand upon the stage in the center of town are the most vulnerable. If Whitlock does not accept their defeat those that stand upon the stage may die.”
“Why do we not storm the town earlier then?” One of the men questioned quickly, his arms crossed over his chest.
“Because I will be with those that dethrone the king.” Azariah watched him a moment. “Hopefully that is a symbol to the people of Whitlock and if it does break into war….well...I will stop the time around me to save as many lives as I can as we call in our warriors. But it should work. If we must kill the king to ensure that Whitlock understands that they are defeated, then we shall.” She glanced around to the men and they nodded. Azariah then let out a breath, she wasn’t sure if they would agree to her plan, especially since it dealt with the use of her powers which many feared at first. Though with time and with her skills most had warmed up to trusting her it seemed. The men shuffled from the room leaving Azariah alone as she glanced over the page before her.
“It’s fool proof.” The deep voice of Odin filled the room. “As it should be, you are my daughter after all.” He chuckled as he looked over the pages. “I will fill your men and women with strength for the war. This will be a moment that Whitlock and the surrounding areas will never forget.” He grinned as his glowing white eye gazed to her. It was the most gentle he’d ever been around her. To the point that Azariah only smiled back to him, she was at a loss for words. He stepped forward and placed his hand upon her shoulder. “I’m sorry that we could not raise you in Asgard.” He searched her eyes, “But look how strong you’ve become. Stronger than Balder was no doubt, and you’ve a fine husband.” Odin chuckled as he took a step back. “You will do well.” He nodded. “You do not need luck.” He grinned to her again.
Azariah watched him a moment, “Hasn’t luck always been at my side?” She questioned with a smirk. “Otherwise I might not be alive.” She searched his eyes. “Unless you’ve been keeping me safe all these years. Or has mother?” She questioned then with a raise brow just as the door to the great hall pushed open. She glanced to the door and then back to Odin...he was gone. Azariah grit her teeth slightly and shook her head before she turned her attention back to the door.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 16, 2019 9:49:47 GMT -5
Azariah's praise for Varmod and what sort of King he would be made him pause. He hadn't considered that if they wont he would be King. He had been acting simply to defend his people from the threat to the south. Normally when he sacked a city he would place one of his generals over it to make sure that no one else would try to gather troops for an attack. Whitlock was different though. It was positioned in a higher seat of power and ruled over many lands. For as much as he trusted his generals and advisers he did not want to place such a heavy burden on their shoulders. No, he would have to put someone in charge of Skajadol and take over Whitlock himself. Indirect oversee of his people here in Skajadol, but he already knew who he would appoint and trusted him to take care of everyone here.
The second thing that struck Varmod was her comment on Whitlock's suffering. Otta had burned their grain stores and if all the other gods had truly abandoned them they would be starving and desperate. He frowned at that notion and shook his head. He would have to do something to rectify that.
Once he finished his grits Varmod got up and collected his sword and dagger then draped his cloak over his shoulders. Though he still wasn't quite bothered by the cold as he had been. Others would think him mad if he went without the garment though, plus if he were honest he liked the black fur and the way it looked. Then he headed outside to check on the progress of packing for the trip south, and make a few additions.
The food that had been prepared and dried for the trip was plenty for their forces, plus a little extra just in case, but he wanted to be able to feed the starving citizens of Whitlock as well. Taking meat and fresh food was to laborious and they would have to take many additional wagons. It was much easier to take grains and wheat though. So Varmod checked their remaining stores and what they could spare he had packed up in sacks and placed on a wagon to take to the city. If dethroning their mad King wasn't enough to win them over perhaps he could earn their loyalty with food. It was an easy solution he hoped worked very well. Once he was there and in control he would implement other ways to get the people food as well.
With the supplies taken care of Varmod checked with his generals that they were ready to leave at first light. When they gave him confirmation returned back to his home and began to pack his own things for war. Weapons, his shield and leather armor he had made for himself. He put a fresh string on his bow and checked his stock of arrows. As he looked over his belongings he combed his fingers through his hair to push it out of his face and for the first time in weeks he noticed that his feather was gone. He knew he shouldn't have expected it to be there but this was his first all out battle since giving it up to save Azariah. He had always been confident while wearing it but he felt a bit of nervousness enter his mind about what was to come. He could be gravely injured and even with his new power he wasn't sure how much of a beating he could take.
He shook his head to dismiss the thoughts and continued in his preparations until Azariah returned. He also went ahead and started a meal of stew so that when she returned she did not have to make them dinner. He knew it was technically her responsibility to feed them but he liked his stew and it would give her a break for once. He also pulled out a loaf of bread to eat with it and poured some mead in their mugs. A good hearty meal before a long, cold trip to the south and to war.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 16, 2019 16:34:26 GMT -5
The smirk from Azariah’s expression faded away as she brought her eyes to the doorway. One of the council members returned his eyes watched her a moment. “Who were you speaking to just now?” He asked his brows tucked together. She could tell just by the way he was looking to her that he might not trust her.
Azariah took in a breath, “Just speaking my words to the gods, asking for their guidance in our war.” She spoke. It was kind of the truth in a way. She made her way toward the exit. “Hopefully the gods are on our side, hm?” She reached for the door.
The man barred his arm in front of her his eyes staring down to her. He stood as tall as Varmond which was considerably taller than her. “What makes you think the gods even listen to you?” He questioned, “Do you think you are an oracle?” His words were sharp in accusation. “Gifted by Odin.” He scoffed, “Certainly the king paid off the oracle to say such things about you. Why would Odin gift such a small female, or a female at all.”
Azariah cleared her throat, her expression turned to a forced smile as she looked up to him. “Do you not think that Varmond would look down upon you for speaking to me in such a way?” She questioned. “Or Odin himself, perhaps?”
The man’s expression only darkened to her words. “You think that Varmond actually cares about you?” He chuckled as he watched her. “You’re a tool. Taking you out of Whitlock and gaining your trust.” He grinned wickedly to her. “That was all he needed to do for you to completely turn your back on your people. How easily would you turn upon the people of Skajadol?” He reached forward then.
Azariah jumped back quickly, her hand moved to the hilt of her dagger. “And what do you aim to do?” She questioned her eyes watching him. “If you think I’m such a tool to Varmond. Did you aim to kill me?” She questioned.
“We can’t have someone masquerading around stating that they are close to the gods.” He shook his head. “Only the oracle is close to the gods.” He grinned. “You think you can kill me?” He nodded to her hand. “Or are you stupid enough to believe the gods will intervene?”
The princess took in a breath, “Well, I don’t plan on killing you.” She spoke as she watched him. He frowned to her response before he lunged forward. Azariah moved swiftly to the side. She kicked her foot against the back of his leg which knocked him to his knee for a second. The man rose quickly and lunged forward toward her as she drew her dagger. She dodged his hand as it made to grab ahold of her and she ducked beneath a hook of his fist. He was quick for how large he was. Though, with her stature it made her quick and nimble.
She sliced forward with her dagger and caught his shoulder as she’d managed to slip behind him for a few seconds. This only seemed to enrage the man as he turned and finally caught ahold of her. He gripped her wrist that held the dagger in one hand and shoved her back harshly. Azariah yelped as her hips slammed against the war table and her feet lifted off of the floor. The sound of her blade clattering against the ground echoed in her ears as the man gripped the front of her tunic. He held her there his eyes glaring into hers, such rage filled this man. Did he have mistrust in the gods? Or was it as Varmond had said before that his people would not like the idea of someone being so close to the gods. Azariah’s eyes began to glow as she tapped into her powers. She waited until the prime moment as the man drew his fist back, his other hand loosened upon her shirt. He became still as Azariah pulled her body from beneath him. She slipped from the table and grabbed her dagger before she allowed time to resume. The crack of his fist against the table was the first thing that was heard before he let out a yelp of pain.
Azariah smirked as she watched him it took him a few seconds to locate her. She stood about five feet away from him her dagger back in its sheath. “Do you really want to pick a fight with me?” She questioned with a chuckle. “I guarantee you’ll lose.” Her eyes were still glowing as she watched him carefully. He lunged forward toward her again and once more she paused time around him and simply took a step to the side. The man rammed into the wall and crumpled to the floor as blood gushed from his nose. She cleared her throat as another laugh came over her lips. “You missed.” She grinned, “Now what do you really think Varmond would think of this? Hm?” She leaned down and gripped onto his tunic. She lifted up causing him to stand. “Let’s see...shall we?” She didn’t release her grip on him as she drug him from the building. She marched him through the sleeping streets and toward her home, Varmond’s home. Azariah walked in with the bloodied man pulled along behind her. A soft smile curved up her lips to the smell of dinner. “Varmond.” She spoke as she finally released the grip on the man.
“Jarl.” The man fell to his knees. “She is a witch, Jarl. The gods will curse us. I was only trying to stop her from bringing a curse upon us. You’ve gotten what you need from her, she’s given us Whitlock’s greatest weaknesses….” The man kept his head bowed.
Azariah let out a long breath, “I’m not a witch.” She rubbed her wrist from where he’d gripped onto her. She stepped to Varmond, “He aimed to kill me, because of my connection to Odin...if I wasn’t gifted I can guarantee he would have killed me.” She pulled her arms across her chest as her eyes fell to the man once again.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 17, 2019 17:22:43 GMT -5
Varmod was in a pleasant mood as dinner cooked. When he heard the door open he turned, a smile on his face, to greet Azariah which quickly disappeared as he saw her drag Erik Havardson in. Then as he heard what each of them had to say he stood up from his seat by the hearth and crossed the floor to stand before Erik. "Since when do you get to assume my intentions when it comes to my own wife?" He asked the man in a dark and threatening tone. The way the shadows covered Varmod's face gave him a menacing appearance as the clear anger reflected in his eyes. "Your judgement was not asked for or needed." He leaned down to get closer to Erik's face as he brought his tone down. "And why is it that you think I would not be able to tell who is a witch and who is not? Do you think I'm a moron?"
"No, Jarl, I only wished to protect you and Skajadol. I meant nothing else!" It was evident that Erik was terrified as Varmod stood before him. Erik was younger and quick to act but Varmod held a powerful presence which caused him to freeze in his place.
"And you thought to kill my wife without consulting me first? Laying a hand on another man's wife is already a grievous crime, but apparently you don't know that." He looked over Erik and saw the injuries and blood dripping from his face and scoffed. "I believe your wife was also in the lessons Azariah taught to better prepare the shield maidens for the battle? From what I understand she also created some trouble within the ranks by defying orders and causing disruptions. Maybe I need to set an example for those of Skajadol." He turned back to Azariah. "Go get Erik's wife and bring her here."
When Varmod had first taken over as Jarl in Skajadol there had been issues. Even with the people knowing him so well they opposed a new leader. Hell, they opposed almost all changes. They were so steadfast that any shift in power or any new happenings were met with resistance. It was partially why he never bothered to take over rule of foreign lands himself and instead just put generals over the cities. This was just the tipping point in his tolerance for their stubbornness. To outright attack his own wife because of the circumstances of their union was unacceptable.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 17, 2019 19:45:35 GMT -5
Azariah stood silently as Erik and Varmond spoke. She could see the fear in the man’s eyes, the rage that she previously faced had all but disappeared in the presence of Varmond. The things that the man said were hurtful, a witch. Of all things, she wasn’t a witch, it was almost comical to think that is what he thought of her. How many others thought that of her? How many others wished her death upon her? It came as a surprise when Varmond ordered her to go and fetch Erik’s wife. “Of course.” Azariah replied with a simple nod of her head. She glanced to Erik a moment before she stepped from the home. Varmond was right, Yuri was the woman’s name. She was the young woman that Azariah had laid out on her back before the other women. Even that embarrassment didn’t seem to stop her snide remarks.
Azariah stepped from the home as a gust of cold wind whipped through the city. She glanced to the flakes of snow that fluttered through the air as she pulled the hood of her cloak up over her head. She walked through the streets that were empty and silent, her eyes looked into the lit windows of the homes. Families sat at their dinner tables enjoying their food, children smiled and laughed. A soft smile curved up her lips as she glanced to the families. It was a warmth among the cold of Skadi’s winter winds. She found herself before the door and she raised her hand, she paused before her knuckles rapped upon the wooden door. Then she waited. Azariah took a step back as she watched the door pull open. The young maiden stood with her braided blonde hair, she held a wooden bowl in her hands as she looked to Azariah.
“Is everything alright, Princess?” She questioned with her brows pulled together in confusion. Azariah had never paid her a personal visit like this, alone without Varmond.
Azariah took in a breath, “I need you to come with me, Yuri. Erik has gotten himself in quite a bit of trouble with the Jarl and he has requested your presence.”
Yuri took in a breath her eyes watched the woman a long moment before she bit her lower lip nervously. “This isn’t about me is it? I was just following the others...I didn’t mean anything...I...”
Azariah held her hand up and let out a sigh, “Please just come with me, Yuri, now isn’t the time to question or ponder why this situation has come to light.” She gave a nod, her expression was relaxed as she looked to the woman. “Erik has done something and the Jarl has requested your presence.” She turned slightly, “So at this time we must go to the Jarl’s home.”
Yuri set the wooden bowl down and nodded, her breath shook nervously. She at least had been laid out by Azariah enough times to know it was foolish to fight with her. She grasped her cloak from the hook next to the door and stepped outside. The woman was silent as she followed Azariah through the city. It wasn’t until they entered the home that she ran forward and wrapped her arms around Erik, “What’s happened to you?” She exclaimed her eyes wide. “Erik...what happened?”
Azariah glanced to Varmond and gave a slight nod. “She came without any resistance, Jarl.” She stepped to his side and looked to the woman that held her husband upon the floor. Her eyes looked over Erik and the dried blood upon his face from him slamming into the wall of the great hall. Her brows tucked together slightly as she remembered how he’d pinned her upon the table, how she would have lost her life if it wasn’t for her powers...
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Post by Nyte on Jun 17, 2019 20:42:25 GMT -5
While Azariah was gone to fetch Yuri Varmod moved away from Erik and went to stand by his hearth once more. As silence fell over the room, with only the crackle of the fire to fill the void, Erik rose to his feet and opened his mouth to start speaking. "Please, Jarl, I.."
"You've said enough, Erik. You will wait for your wife and receive your judgment for your folly." Varmod snapped back as he turned just enough to cast a murderous glare towards the man which silenced any other objections or pleas that might have been forthcoming. Instead Erik reserved himself to the silence and clinched his fists at his sides as his body shook. To the fearful man it seemed as if the women took an eternity and when they did arrive he found no comfort in having Yuri rush to his side at the sight of his bloodied face. "Your husband seems to think that it is his duty to relieve me of my own wife." Varmod answered her question as he continued to stand by the hearth and let the flames of the fire warm his body. "I've been patient, understanding, and even ignored those that have shown displeasure in my choice to bring Azariah back here. It seems some have interpreted my tolerance as ignorance and therefore think that I am not able to see the truth for myself." He crossed the floor and loomed over the couple before him. "My patience has run out." The room seemed to suddenly get colder as the anger still colored Varmod's expression while looking at the two cowering before him.
Varmod pulled his sword from the sheath on his hip and held it out to Erik's gut. There was a gasp as they thought the Jarl would simply spill their innards upon the floor but instead of the drawing blood Varmod simply cut the leather strap that held Erik's own sword to his hip and let the weapon clatter on the ground at his feet. Neither of them were armed now, with the exception of their daggers, and Varmod motioned for them to turn and head back outside into the cold. The two did so readily and shivered as the wind touched their cheeks though they offered no protest. "You will endure a trial of ice. A fortnight in the cold with only your daggers to provide for you. If you live then you may rejoin us within the city once more. If you return early you will be put to death as traitors. If you don't return we will know the ice has claimed your bodies."
"But, Jarl, our children.." Yuri stated as she thought back to the two young boys waiting in their home for their parents' return.
"Your children will be spared your fate, but they are no longer your concern. Leave before I change my mind on your chance of redemption." He growled back at them to which they nodded and shuffled off to the leave town and carry out their sentence.
Just as the sight of the two was swallowed up by the falling snow Varmod turned just as he saw his most trusted adviser and friend emerge from the shadows. "I saw the damage in the council room and was coming to find out what had happened." He told Varmod and sighed as he looked after the couple. "Need anything, old friend?"
"Take their children to a family member's house. They will remain within their charge until their parents return." Varmod told him.
"And if they do not?" The man asked.
"Then they will have two new sons." Varmod stated plainly to which the man nodded and disappeared once more to carry out Varmod's demands.
A trial in the ice during the dead of winter, starting in the night, was surely a death sentence. Unless Skadi took pity on them of course, which Varmod doubted considering their crimes.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 22, 2019 18:13:27 GMT -5
Azariah stood next to Varmond her eyes looked to her husband as she crossed her arms loosely over her chest. As he spoke she took in the fear in Erik’s eyes and then she watched as the realization crossed over Yuri’s face. Azariah flinched slightly as Varmond drew his sword, though she didn’t move from where she stood. He was the Jarl, if he chose to kill Erik for his crimes that was his choice. She was certain that most men in Whitlock if they had attacker her mother the king would have lobbed their head off before the entire city. Then again Stav was one for show. That was certain. She watched as Erik’s sword fell from his hip, the fear that rose up in the eyes of the man and woman seemed to match the chill in the air of the room.
Azariah followed her husband as he marched the two outside. Her lips parted as she made to protest. This was not a trial. They would surly die. She drew her brows together as she looked to Yuri, a tinge of sadness showed in her eyes. Yuri did not deserve this fate, her husband was the one who acted like a fool. Their children would grow without parents to guide them. Azariah began to think she should have taken care of Erik on her own, made him understand what a grave mistake he made. Though, Varmond would have found out eventually. She would have lost his trust, that was for certain. Azariah watched as the two turned to leave into the cold unforgiving night. Her silver hues glanced to Varmond a moment before she noticed the man that approached. She took this moment to retreat into the warmth of their home. She shivered as she slipped her cloak from her shoulders and hung it upon the hook. Azariah scooped up Erik’s sword from the floor her fingertips ran over the engravings in the leather, her lips flattened into a frown as she let out a long breath.
She moved to stand before the hearth where her eyes gazed into the dancing flames. She wanted to yell at Varmond. She wanted to tell him he was wrong to do such a thing to Yuri when she had not attacked her. Though, he was the Jarl, and perhaps this is how Skjadol handled their affairs. Erik would be a reminder to those that did not trust Azariah that Varmond stood to protect his wife. The flames swirled slightly as a small gust of wind took the room. Azariah turned to find Odin standing before her. “Making choices like that, like Varmond made...it doesn’t always feel good, hm?” The crackling of the fire stopped. Odin had frozen time around her. He stepped forward and gazed into his daughter’s eyes a soft smirk upon his lips. “If he was not a strong Jarl, do you believe he would have made such an action? The king of Whitlock would never sentence the mother of a child to death.” He chuckled as he watched her. Azariah couldn’t move. She groaned slightly as her muscles fought against her, he’d frozen her body into place as well. “Don’t fight with me, dear daughter.” He raised a brow as his glowing white eye looked to her. “You and Varmond will set things in motion...taking out the king of Whitlock, their own princess taking back the throne that is rightfully hers.” He grinned as he cupped her cheek and gazed into her eyes. “Varmond has protected you, do not feel anger toward him child.” Odin vanished then.
Azariah took in a gasp of air as she fell to her knees. The world spun around her as she gazed into the flickering flames. It looked as though she’d merely sat before the fire to gain its warmth. Her breathing began to slow as she closed her eyes. Odin was right, Varmond was protecting her. Yet, she hated to think that the young boys would grow without their parents to guide them...
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