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Narillamne
Posted: 01 Sep 2004 02:38 PM |
She brushed the blonde hair from her eyes and gazed with deep green eyes around the tower chamber from where she sat against the wall. Given a choice this was one of the last places in the lands she would wish to find herself. Given a choice she would still be sitting at the bridge across the Great River. Like last time.
So why had she come this far? Last time she had waited, secure in the knowledge that she was following her heart. Secure in the thought that even if the others were willing to commit an evil act, she had taken no part.
Now they were back, trying to put right what had been done in order that Evaramier might hopefully find some answers.
And he had, or at least appeared to have, and the others had gone to do the deed. Sighing slightly, she looked down the stares at the open archway, unable to see what lay beyond for the smoke that rose up the steps and obscured any sight or sound of her companions.
Standing slowly, she began to pace back and forward across the room. Last time it had been the thought that she might compromise her beliefs, the feeling in her heart that what was being done was wrong.
This time… she glanced up the stairs where the Mage had disappeared… well this time it was the Atalan. Perform a task for them? Never! They were abominations, twisted corruptions of everything she believed in and held dear, one in her eyes with those who followed the Hunter. Something to be despised.
She paused in her pacing and looked once more at the smoking archway. But they were her friends, some more than others, but friends nonetheless. And Ronan was down there. He had gone, though he seemed to understand why she had not.
Could she be wrong?
Closing her eyes briefly in slight despair she resumed her pacing. How to decide that what she was doing was right, how could she truly know….
And then it came to her. She would ask Him. The one who had never failed her, the one who had saved and protected her and always stood at her side.
She knelt and composed herself, closing her eyes and searching in her mind for the words. Certain that whatever happened, He would answer.
‘Sa Cemw Ilmela, ean eal E, aeym ceailc lamelillan Acelilceil. Vyewa sa.’
She waited, as she did so Ronan appeared from the smoke and ran up the stairs.
“Elvalia, we… I need you, “ he said.
“Me? Why?” She asked, looking up.
“Please… we were assailed by demons… like the other day,” he answered.
Then, as he spoke, it came… the answer…, as she had known it would, as it always did.
“I do not approve of what is being done here this day child, but I sense greater evil below than is normal for this place. Your companions are in peril and need your aid.”, said the voice of Aros.
“Anirilln aey Sa Cemw,” she whispered, and standing quickly began to buckle on her helm, and then unslung her bow. “I’m coming,” she said to Ronan.
She followed him through the smoke and down the stairs to find the others bandaging wounds and looking anxiously around while Luther stood over the fallen figure of Macha.
Looking quickly at Evaramier, she asked him to cast some protections on her then moved away from the group slightly, using all her skill to remain unseen as she took watch.
She listened as Luther knelt and whispered his prayers, and then smiled slightly as the familiar rush of power told of his success.
Then they came, horrific figures rushing past her unseen figure to attack her companions. Seeing Arawen surrounded and faring badly she loosed arrow after arrow in a blaze of speed at those who surrounded her, killing at least three before… everything faded.
She opened her eyes to find the others looking on with concern and Luther standing over her. All that is save Ronan.
He stood, waving his fist in the air and shouting, “You see! She is not yours!”
Mildly concerned, Elvalia looked around at them, “What’s all the shouting about, what happened?”
“You fell, helping me,” smiled Arawen as Ronan continued to shout at nothing.
As they gathered themselves to continue, Ronan grasped Elvalia’s arm, “Elvalia, we must leave.”
Puzzled, she looked back at his frightened expression, “We’ll be all right. Come, let’s continue.”
As they continued through the halls Ronan continued to mutter about leaving and trying to convince her to go, Elvalia, however, now that she was here at Aros’ will, was going nowhere. As far as she was concerned, she had been sent for a reason.
So… they continued onwards until at last they reached the chamber where the hellfire wyrm had been killed, its huge carcass almost blocking the doorway.
The sense of evil was almost overpowering, circles inscribed on the floor giving forth demons periodically, to be disposed of and replaced by others until… one by one the party fell. Ronan among them. Elvalia fell to her knees beside the body, calling out to Aros in pain. More attacks, each more vicious than the last until, all went black for her too.
When she opened her eyes it was to see the others standing around slightly confused with Calia and Calmeir among them.
Luther quickly completed his ministrations and laboured to raise the wyrm as the evil within the circles began to grow. Then at last the wyrm began to rise to its feet, only for Ronan to grab Elvalia by the elbow and begin pulling her towards the exit.
“We must go,” he breathed
“Now? Why? What’s the matter…?”
Refusing to explain he continued to ignore her pleading until at last they reached the chamber within the tower. Hurriedly pulling of her helm she brushed the hair from her eyes and frowned in his direction. ‘What is going on?” she asked him.
“I…. Had to get you away from there.” He said, releasing a deep breath.
“I don’t understand, why? Why me?” The questioning one was replaced by one of concern, and not a little fear.
“I’d brought you here, I watched you fall. I would not see it happen again.” He said a little more calmly.
“Well… yes, you were shouting and ranting at somebody, what was happening?”
“I don’t know, Elvalia. But I will not have them take you….” His voice tailed off as her frown deepened and a look of confusion creased her face.
“Who?” She said quietly.
“I don’t know… I heard it in my mind though,” he said as the others began to climb the stairs behind them.
“Heard what?”
“It doesn’t matter… you are here now.” He whispered
As the others continued to arrive and discuss what had happened Elvalia stared at Ronan in silence and followed mutely as they left Narilamne and made their way to the pass into Midor.
As they gathered round the campfire, Elvalia slumped down against the cliff and continued to stare quietly at Ronan, ignoring the hair plastered to her face by the driving rain.
“What’s wrong, Elvalia?” he said with a hoarse voice.
“The voices, what were they saying?”
“Just that we would all die… and that you would be ‘his’
Her green eyes fixed on his as he continued, “The voice hissed and spluttered, but you are here… so the voice was wrong.”
Pulling her shakily to her feet, he said, “I would have you in Ferein, you should talk to someone in safety there.”
“I fact, no, somewhere nearby would be better, come… I’ll lead you there.”, he whispered as he pulled her gently along.
Elvalia remained silent, still in shock as he led the way to the tears and up the hill to the lake where he slumped to the floor.
Elvalia lowered herself to the ground at the edge of the water and looked out across the lake at nothing in particular.
“Will you tell me?” He said, “I mean, what you are thinking about? Will you tell me?”
“I… I don’t understand,” she said, shaking her head in bewilderment, “Why would anybody pick me out?”
He turned to her and considered, “I thought everybody heard them, but then I saw you fall, perhaps they were just meant to break me…”
“And if not?” She asked. “I mean… I’ve already been attacked twice.”
“You are here,” he said. “The voices lied.
She nodded uncertainly and looked at the statue of the Mother as the sun began to sink towards the horizon.
And wondered…. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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The abduction
Posted: 02 Sep 2004 02:51 PM |
As she peered around the base of the tree a brief glint of sunlight broke through the canopy and lit her blonde hair. Her green eyes narrowed slightly as she counted the ettins tramping across the forest floor before her, grunting to each other in whatever language it was they used.
Not that they would have seen her if they’d looked in her direction. As usual she was hidden and had come to check Bloodwood after finding a note for her at Icy Vale. The note told of a mass attack on Brandibuck the evening before, and she had come to see whether things were back to normal. The note had mentioned that a large group had made camp and she had come to see whether or not they had moved on.
So far it seemed to be the case, nothing unusual to speak of. Just the usual crop, wandering alone or in pairs through the strange red mist.
Almost done, she was walking lightly over the fallen leaves when she heard the familiar sound of arrows being fired not far away.
Certain that she knew from the sound alone who was doing the shooting, she turned and walked back towards where it was coming from.
As she drew closer she could see the fire arrows flaring through the mist and smiled in recognition. As Ronan finished off the ettin and threw a wooden chip on the corpse he looked up at her approach.
“I saw you,” he said.
Grimacing slightly she tried to hide her amusement, “You and Luther are the only ones who can without magic though.”
She watched as he stood checking for signs on the ground then looked up at her, “Somebody has passed this way…. You?”
As she nodded he stood and smiled slightly, “I’m going through the Kobai, would you like to come?”
“Of course,” she smiled, following behind as he led the way through the Canyon and on, eventually, to the desert around Ender’s tent. Not speaking much but they knew the way each other fought and managed without communication for the most part.
As Elvalia finished off a cobra and turned to follow Ronan towards Buckshire she turned quickly at the sound of a small scuffle behind her.
“Elv…, “ the voice panted.
As Ronan also turned back a familiar figure stepped from behind a rock, shuddering, “Elv… alia.”
“Marillan!” Cried Elvalia.
As she saw Ronan, Marillan dived back behind the rock, shuddering violently, “Wha… what a horrid place.”
Realising that Ronan was staring at the pair of them Marillan became even more nervous. As she comprehended the cause Elvalia turned to him, “Ronan, go on, I’ll meet you in Buckshire.”
“As you say,” he nodded hesitantly, taking another look at Marillan.
Glancing at him, Elvalia tried to reassure him, “It’s all right, go on, and I’ll meet you at the Inn.”
As he trudged off somewhat disconsolately she turned once more to Marillan who was still staring round wildly even though she was a little calmer now Ronan had left.
“I wasn’t sure I’d see you again, after… well after you fell. What happened?” She asked her.
“I… I don’t know… when I woke I was somewhere else and you’d gone… I just remember the bear… and the teeth… and claws… “ Said Marillan, beginning to shudder violently.
“I… I’m sorry Marillan, I tripped, but… it won’t happen again, I promised to look after you no matter what, and I will. You’ll be safe with me.” Said Elvalia, “Here, I have something for you… a better one than the last.”
As Marillan took it, eyes open wide, Elvalia looked around, “We shouldn’t stand around here talking, lets head to Buckshire… you’ll be safe there.”
As Marillan followed behind still shaking slightly, Elvalia looked back over her shoulder, “Don’t worry, Ronan will have cleared anything dangerous out of the way.”
As the walked into the village, Elvalia heard Marillan cry out behind her, “Buildings! A village!” Elvalia turned, smiling, “Yes, civilisation of sorts, no one will harm you here. You’ll be safe with me. Let’s go and meet Ronan at the Inn.”
As Marillan began to look wary again, Elvalia smiled reassuringly, “Don’t worry, he won’t harm you… he’s a friend.”
At Marillan’s - albeit somewhat doubtful – nod, Elvalia turned and walked in through the door of McGillicutty’s. As she smiled at Ronan all hell broke loose behind her and she whipped round in alarm at the sound of people screaming outside along with Jusin yelling as he hurried his oxen and cart away.
Elvalia hurriedly pulled on her helm and, grasping her bow tightly, ran back out.
To find Marillan cowering near the stone shrine with a demon stood over her, one of the largest Elvalia had ever seen, certainly bigger than those she had driven off from the Plains a few days before.
“he… help!” Called Marillan.
Not stopping to consider, Elvalia hurriedly began to shoot arrow after arrow at the demon while shouting for Ronan at the top of her voice.
As Ronan fell from the door of the inn and took in the scene the demon turned towards Elvalia and began to advance on her.
“Ah! It’s you… come here my pretty.”
Elvalia began to back away, still shooting for all her worth, not pausing to wonder why few if any of her arrows were hitting, and even less why those that did seemed to do no damage.
Quickly, the demon closed the distance and grasped her round the waist, lifting her into the air. Still she fired arrow after arrow, glimpsing Ronan doing the same. Then the breath was knocked from her as the demon dropped her to the ground and turned towards Ronan. He didn’t appear to be harming it either and as it advanced towards him turned to yell at Elvalia, “Run away!” Before heading himself for the Trading Post.
Elvalia, however, would not leave, conscious that Marillan still cowered in the same position she pulled herself to her feet and began once more to fire arrow after arrow at the demon.
This time, as it neared, a wave of fear passed over her such as she had never felt before and she turned to cower against a nearby fence post, her arms dropping to her sides. The demon continued to advance.
“At last, my pretty.”
As it came closer Elvalia turned to run once more, dimly aware that Ronan had returned with Arasus Olmen, and that Marillan was calling out, asking what she should do.
“Oh… don’t run, let’s stop and talk.”
Elvalia froze, she couldn’t move, could hardly stand. Immobile, she watched as first Ronan then Arasus fell to the ground, pressed flat as if something stood on each of them. Leering, the demon peered down at them.
“That’s better… humans can be so… annoying.”
Tears of anguish began to flow down Elvalia’s cheeks as the demon looked at Ronan.
“Did you give her my message? Well…well… it doesn’t matter…”
As it turned once more to Elvalia, she turned to that which had in the past offered her most comfort and began to pray, “Sa Cemw Ilmela, ean ela E Acelilceil, E fav aey iracty yla!” In the background she could hear Marillan, obviously trying to sound braver than she felt, “l…. leave them be…!”
The demon drew close to Elvalia.
“It doesn’t matter…”
“L… leave them… p… please!” Called Marillan.
“I just wanted to meet you in person… finally…” The demon leered down at Elvalia, baring its teeth.
“I spoke to her of voices. They lied.” Grunted Ronan.
“Oh… no… I never lie when it comes to these things… I told you she would be mine… and she will… won’t you my pretty?”
“She is not yours to take!” Called Ronan, struggling to rise.
The demon laughed loudly as Marillan called out once again, “L… lady Elv… Elvalia…what… what should I do?”
“NO!” Screamed Elvalia at the demon.
“No… no… sadly you are right, “
Said the demon, looking once more at Ronan before turning once more to Elvalia.
“She must come willingly…” It chuckled.
“NEVER!” screamed Elvalia, “NEVER! AROS WILL STOP YOU!”
“Will you come willingly?”
“NEVER!”
“That’s what I thought…”
The demon turned towards Marillan and began to pace over to her.
“She brought this upon you didn’t she?” Said Ronan through gritted teeth.
“What has brought this demon here Elvalia?” Asked Arasus.
“Is this a friend?” asked the demon, “perhaps your friend will convince you…”
It reached down and grabbed Marillan by the arm, holding her dangling in the air. Elvalia looked impotently at the young elf as she stared pleadingly towards her, “Lady?” Marillan, pleaded, then screamed, dropping the bow Elvalia had not long
given her.
“PUT HER DOWN!” Yelled Elvalia at the demon.
“The one from the desert, yes Elvalia? She brought it here,” grunted Ronan.
“Oh… no… “ Leered the demon at Elvalia.
“PUT HER DOWN!”
“I will not… In fact since you will not come, I think I will play with her for a while.”
Still holding Marillan by one arm, the demon dragged a huge talon across her, causing her to scream out in pain
“Oh yes… soft…”
Marillan screamed out again as the demon plunged a talon into her thigh then twisted it cruelly.
“FLEE LADY!” Screamed Marillan before fainting and falling limp.
“Yes… very nice… listen to those screams… lovely…lovely…”
It walked back towards Elvalia still holding the limp form of Marillan.
“Tell you what… my pretty one… when you are willing to come to me… I’ll give her back.”
Then, grasping the girl around the waist the demon flew off.
Leaving the three still standing frozen in place. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Search for a Reason - Part I
Posted: 11 Sep 2004 05:22 AM |
Buckshire fell quiet, birds began to sing once more as the locals tentatively looked out from behind shuttered windows or barely opened doors.
As if relieved of a great weight, the two men stood and looked around, uncertain whether the demon had definitely departed.
Elvalia staggered as the pressure which had held her was finally released, ripped off her helm and fell to the ground sobbing.
As Ronan bent over her, Arasus turned to the pair of them, “Elvalia, who was that woman?”
She didn’t hear, or if she did ignored the question. Shuddering from a mixture of distress and fear she looked up bitterly at Ronan, “I told you! You wouldn’t listen!”
Ronan shook his head calmly, “I still don’t, you are not taken.”
The green eyes blazed at him through a mixture of tears and anger, “No… but Marillan is, and it’s me they want. I told you… I told Luther… Nobody listened!”
“Why do the demons want you?” Asked Arasus.
“I… I don’t know…” she answered.
Quietly, so Arasus wouldn’t hear, Ronan looked into her eyes and spoke to her, still remaining remarkably calm, “Elvalia… speak to Lirnna Virvaniyon if you will not believe me.” As he looked away he continued, “We’ve… been through something like this.”
As he stood and walked towards Arasus to thank him, Elvalia pulled herself into a sitting position and watched his retreating back, “I do believe you…. But I can’t let them harm her…”
Arasus looked at her over Ronan’s shoulder, “Never would I leave anyone to face a demon alone. I am glad we all made it but I worry for the woman taken now.”
As Elvalia climbed shakily to her feet, Ronan looked at her once more, “Sometimes… sometimes we can’t have all we want.”
As she was on the point of replying, they began… screams echoing around the village, cries of torment, a young girl crying out in pain and fear. Elvalia retrieved her helmet from the ground and nervously buckled it back on, yelling out, “No!”
Ronan too appeared to have heard them, “I know that sound… it is the sound one makes with ultimate suffering.”
He stopped then, apparently listening to something more as Elvalia and Arasus looked around wildly. “Where is it… where is it coming from?” As the screams continued to echo, Ronan shook his fists in the air, “She is not yours!” He yelled.
What it was he was responding to, Elvalia didn’t know, “She is stronger than you know!” He shouted, covering his ears as if trying to block something out.
“I won’t leave her Ronan, I won’t let them have her. I don’t care what happens, I’ll save her.” She said, lifting her voice in an effort to drown out the screams and get through to him. Running over she grabbed his shoulder, “What is it? The voices again?” She asked him.
Through he nodded to her and removed his hands from his ears at last, “But they say the same things… they’ve stopped now but I WILL NOT believe them.”
“I… I need to think… but I WILL stop this.” She said, looking at him intently.
Then it came, the voice, in her head this time, It iss not her I want, it iss you… and I will have what I want.”
Trembling violently once more she clasped her hands over her ears trying to block it out as the screams began to echo around once more, “NO! YOU WILL NOT!” she screamed.
Oh yess… you will come… you will be mine…”
“NEVER! I WILL STOP YOU!” She continued yelling as Ronan grabbed her elbow and pulled her into McGillicutty’s.
Shaking her he looked into her eyes, trying to get her to listen to him, “Elvalia! Listen to me!”
Briefly, she looked up at him, “You know you will need to be strong.” He said, “You will need to follow your heart, nothing else matters.”
The green eyes looked up at him blazing with determination, “I will save her, I shall not give in to this. You say follow my heart… that is what my heart tells me. I shall never give in and I will save her.”
Smiling ruefully Ronan looked away slightly, “Perhaps you will.”
“There is no perhaps Ronan… I will.” She answered.
“Perhaps I was right,” he said, nodding slowly, “when I say you are stronger than it thinks, and for that there is hope.”
Arasus meanwhile had been searching the ground, and suddenly called them over, “I found something… she must have dropped it.”
Tears began to fill Elvalia’s eyes as she instantly recognised his find, “It is… it is Marillan’s, I made it for her.” Slumping against a nearby wall, her voice dropped until it was barely a whisper, “All she wanted to do was be like me, to have somebody to look after her.
Taking it from Ronan she wrapped it carefully, “I will give it back to her…when I have freed her.”
“Any ideas where she might be?” Asked Arasus.
Shaking her head slowly, she came to a decision, “I will go to Ferein, and speak with Camthalion, he is a master of lore… he must be able to help.”
She shouldered her bow and walked off towards the port, with the two men following. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Search for a Reason - Part 2
Posted: 20 Sep 2004 07:18 AM |
The barge from the Aegea tied up at the dock and the young elven woman skipped lightly down the gangplank, followed by the two men whose height easily overshadowed her own. As she stepped onto the dock, some of the weight on her shoulders seemed to lessen. She stood taking in the calmness and sheer peace then walked up the hill towards the gates followed by the two humans.
“Vmaaanelvla Fmeaniramla” she said, bowing to the guards and then passing quickly through onto the Path of Aros, where the sense of peace inside her deepened to the point she could almost forget the events of a few hours before… almost.
They passed silently through the trees and mists of outer Ferein then on into the inner city, coming to a halt at last before the gates to the palace. As Elvalia greeted th guards at the door, Arasus, looked towards Ronan, “Should we wait out here?”
“Come inside. “ said Ronan.
“Yes, come, “ said Elvalia with a smile, slightly disturbed as always by the unease humans displayed here.
“We will wait on the benches,” said Ronan, as they walked into the main hall. As they sat, Elvalia approached the reception desk, already uncomfortable partly because of the surroundings, partly because of the overdressed functionary she was approaching.
“Greetings Elvalia, “ said Elorin.
Slightly surprised that he had for once remembered her name, she bowed and answered in kind. “Not too busy I hope?” Elorin glanced over at the two humans, then turned to her with a fixed smile, “Oh never too busy for you Elvalia.”
Noticing the direction of his glance, she fixed her green eyes on him and said, “They are friends, and both good men.” Elorin looked back at her doubtfully as she continued, “I have an urgent request you may be able to assist with.”
With what was anything but a genuine smile, Elorin looked back at her, “And what can I do for you this time Elvalia, should I summon the Council?”
Sensing that he was trying to annoy her, though in truth he did not have to make much of an effort in that regard, Elvalia looked back at him calmly, “That might be wise, it would be good to see the Princess once more.”
“No…no… it is too early to be making light of people’s requests, I cannot summon the council.” He said. In the background she could hear low mutterings from the two men, especially Ronan, who’s understanding of what was being said gave him an advantage over Arasus. Though she was concentrating on Elorin, it was clear from what she could over hear that Ronan was no happier with Elorin than she was. Bristling slightly at the flat rejection, she calmed herself before continuing. “I would like to see Camthalion as a matter of urgency.”
Blunt as usual Elorin snapped off a reply, “He is a busy wizard… why would he drop everything just to see you? If you could tell me then I will see that the matter is addressed in a timely fashion.”
Doubtful to say the least that Elorin’s definition of timely was the same as her own, Elvalia once more had to calm herself before replying, “An elf has been taking, by demons. They want me in exchange.”
She watched the incredulous look that appeared on the other elf’s face, and waited calmly for his reaction, which predictably wasn’t long I coming, “Demons you say? Want you? Has taken an elf?”
Sensing that this was going to take longer than she had at first thought, Elvalia continued to explain, “She is a friend, a young one by the name of Marillan. It is me this demon appears to be after, she is merely bait, but I would not see her harmed.”
“I do not recognise the name, is she someone important?” Asked Elorin.
Though she kept her voice even, the anger as usual was clear from her blazing eyes as she kept her eyes fixed on Elorin, “She is important to me, is that not enough? Or is the fate of one elf beneath your notice and that of the Council?”
“Oh no, all elves are important to me… I mean the Council… but we must look to Ferein first, Camthalion cannot drop everything just because of one elf.” Said Elorin, assuming his usual bureaucratic pomposity.
“Well,” Elvalia said coldly, “I could always come back, break his door down and explain why you refused to allow me to see him if that’s what you want.” As she spoke she was dimly aware of Ronan’s barely suppressed laughter in the background and Arasuss’s whispered question about what was being said.
Elorin smiled thinly back at her, “Oh, I doubt his door would be broken down, but no matter. He is not in today.”
“Not in, “ she said quietly, “so it seems that like the demon attacks in Mystic Wood this is just something else for you to jot down and forget about.”
Elorin looked back at her coldly, “Of course, we are concerned about that… we have patrols there daily...you need not concern yourself with that. Camthalion is not in the palace at all… however, I will give him your message and regards.”
Acutely aware of the number of attacks at the grove she had fought off both alone and with others, Elvalia’s green eyes blazed once more in anger, “I concern myself with Ferein Elorin, whether you like it or not. Where is he?”
“As I said, he is not in…who am I to ask him where and whence he goes?” Replied Elorin, “I am afraid his business is his own. But I will pass on your message...what was the girl’s name again?”
Ronan called out from where he sat, his tone no less angry than Elvalia’s, “Elorin, Elvalia has requested audiences some while since. Is there no other of the Elfen lore-masters that are available?”
Coolly ignoring both Ronan and his question, Elorin pulled out a quill and piece of parchment and began to write notes, glancing up at Elvalia as he did so, “And her name was?”
Bluntly, and at the end of her patience, Elvalia replied, “Just tell him that I, Elvalia, wish to see him, urgently, can you manage that? If you are too ‘busy’ I would be happy to write it down for you.”
“Missing girl, summons demons, “ muttered Elorin as he wrote. Finishing at last he looked up at Elvalia, supremely unaware of any anger or indeed the continued mutterings from where the two humans sat, “There… I have it written down, I will tell him the very second he walks through the door.”
“Well,” said Elvalia, her voice heavy with irony, “that is a relief, perhaps there is hope for you after all. Don’t forget will you?”
Looking slightly offended Elorin puffed himself up, “Of course I will not forget, I have it written down. Now, if you will excuse me... I am very busy." He said, waving his hand dismiisively.
Elvalia just stood agape, eyes flaring in anger, "Yes, I can see that," she hissed, "Well I'll just get on with fighting demons to make sure you can check your notes in safety!"
She turned away from him and walked over to the others, "So, it looks like we wait... again."
"How long?" Asked Arasus.
"Well... knowing him," she said, jerking a thumb over her shoulder at Elorin, "it could take years."
Elvalia paused, looking around a little depsondently, "I think we ought to go to the tower."
"Yes, but which one?" Said Ronan, looking at her enquiringly.
"Tel' Elena," she said, looking over at the entrance.
"Tel' Elena?" Asked Arasus, confused.
Turning to him, Ronan explained, "Only those of elven blood and arcane ability may enter."
"Oh, I see, " said Arasus, looking at Elvalia apparaisingly.
"I'm allowed in," she said, with a wry smile, "I might not be able to cast much more than a spark, but I still qualify, just."
With which she walked through the gates and into the tower, leaving the others to settle down outside and wait. The two men exchanged idle chatter for ten minutes and looked up as Elvalia appeared once more on the steps, sighing.
"I found him," she said quietly, "he was inside."
"Who? Camthalion?" Asked Ronan. As Elvalia noded he smiled, "Well that is good news."
"Well... perhaps," she said grimacing slightly, "I started to explain, and he was concerned... but then he was called away. He will summon me tomorrow."
"So," she continued, with a shrug, "we wait." As Arasus made his apologies and departed on business of his own, she sat on the steps of the tower and rested her chin in her hands, staring into the distance, deep in thought.
Ronan tentatively raised a hand towards her shoulder but then changed his mind and let it drop back to his side, "If you've a thought on where to go, or what to do... I will follow, Elvalia, you know that."
Elvalia looked up at him, smiling, "I know you will, my friend, but for now I think it best we wait. Camthalion will help, I am sure of it."
Looking off into the distance once more a cold determination entered her eyes, "I will not give in, they will not beat me."
"Of course not," said Ronan, "No one can beat you if you follow your heart."
She looked up at him once more, smiling slightly, "I always have, Ronan, I won't stop now." |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Waiting for Camthalion
Posted: 28 Sep 2004 05:51 AM |
These were the worst moments... when she was alone, left to reflect. It had been days now, weeks even - and nothing.
The Oakhouse was quiet, Shard and Shinesa must have retired before she arrived and the fire had already begun to burn low.
She sat cross-legged on the rug before it, the flames reflected in her green eyes as she quietly added more wood to bring it back to life.
So many ways she had tried to fight back and failed. Failed attempts at making bows, failed attempts to find something to stop her at least running in fear when it appeared or sent one of its minions to attack her.
So many people trying to help.
'You cannot do this alone,' Luther had said, 'you will need every friend you have to get through this. Part of her saw the wisdom in that, but a greater one would rather they weren't placed in danger. How many of them had been attacked already just because they travelled with her?
Ronan, Lirrna, many others, all had been present at one time or another, all had been able to do nothing.
Placing a last log among the flames she shuddered slightly and leant her elbows on her knees, resting her chin in her hands.
Yet still she waited for Camthalion's call, while day by day the questions in her mind multiplied and her determination to find a way to deal with this grew.
Casting around for a reason why this might be happening she had asked so many for aid yet none of them had an idea.
Save one... and that was the one she was most afraid of.
Her eyes glazed over as she sat remembering the screams, the cries of torment, Marillan's cries as the fiend toyed with her.
And the voice... 'You will be mine Child of Aros...how much longer can you listen to this? How much longer will you wait? You will come to me in time'
Ignoring the tears which ran down her face she closed her eyes briefly as the phrase she dreaded most sprang once more into her head. 'Child of Aros'.
Ever since she arrived in these lands, she had told anybody who cared to listen that she was just an archer, just Elvalia. If the demon only knew that every time it called her that it only increased her determination to fight... she was a child of Aros, and an elf of Aros would not give in, she would never give in.
She had cast around for aid wherever it might be found. Even Shaz'jen was trying to help, scouring Nethar'u for any reason why this might be taking place, why she should be wanted. The problem was that of all those she had spoken to, of all those that had looked at her with a mixture of fear and sympathy, there was one voice which stuck in her head. One who had come closer than any other to providing an answer. An incredible answer.
Opening her eyes she blinked through the tears she barely remembered producing and looked down at her right hand... at the six vicious scars which seemed to defy any attempt at removal.
She traced over them with her left hand and smiled sadly as she remembered the person who had caused them, and why he had done it to her. Remembered the day when she had stood on the Plains and ignored the pain as his talons had driven deep into her flesh, as she tried to transfer some of her strength and conviction of what was right to him... to convince him that he was doing the right thing.
And now he had come once more into her life and given her a possible answer. Of all those he had spoken to he was the only one who had so much as suggested a possible reason.
She had been one of a large party Luther had led into Undreath, into the lands of the beholders. Exhausted and once more beaten back they had passed through Buckshire Woods on the return journey and just begun to head for the inn to rest when she had turned at the sound of a barely remembered voice and seen him standing there... cowering in terror at the sight of so many people, many unknown to him.
As others expressed fear and fascination at the sight of him, she had calmed him, spoken to him. Glad to see once more a face she had never thought to, encouraged that he of all people would think she would need his concern. That he of all people should abandon the life he had taken up, however briefly, just to show her he cared.
Siann Aikanaro
As glad as she had been to see him, as happy as she was that he was concerned for her, his answers to her questions had been the ones she was most unwilling to accept.
But, at the same time, those which made the most sense.
They had spoken of Shaz'jen's theories of resonances attracting the demons, Siann had stunned Elvalia by suggesting that she may in some way be a resonance herself, that her affinty to the stones was what attracted their attention to her.
But then...
Ronan had suggested that her affinity was to do with her being an elf, that as Aros had said, elves were the race most closely tied to the land and it's fate. But why... if this was so, did all elven not feel the same, and why her?
Siann had suggested that her connection with Aros, her close affinity to him, was what had attracted the interest of the demons.
Closing her eyes once more she took a deep breath as she thought of his words when she told him what the demon called her. That her tie to Aros may be closer than she thought, that the demon was referring to her thus not just because she was an elf... but because...
She shook her head in denial, no it couldn't be true. If it was, then why did she not know, why had He never told her?
And then she heard her own voice... quietly, inside her head. Perhaps he has, perhaps he told both you and Bronwyn. Remember his words when he told you were sisters and asked why you had been split up and protected? 'All will become clear in time.'
She opened her eyes and stared with a glazed expression into the flames of the fire. Then lay and curled herself into a ball before it to trance and dream troubled dreams of demons... and much more. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Child of Aros
Posted: 30 Sep 2004 07:36 AM |
She peered through the darkness and torrential rain, trying in vain to make out any trace of his passage. She hadn't seen him for days now and wanted so badly to talk to him.
The problem was that he wasn't easy to track, harder than most. She scanned the grass carefully, nothing... not so much as a bent blade.
She looked up at the top of the hill as a fork of lightning struck, reflecting in her green eyes and briefly silhouetting the stones.
Sighing softly, she brushed the sodden hair from her eyes with her free hand and looked around. He had to be here somewhere, Uwe had seen him come this way not long before. Apparently he had some theory about the stones and demon attacks that he wanted to test and had been touring sites throughout the land.
Taking a firmer grip on her bow she climbed to the top of the hill and stood in the centre of the circle looking around. So many times in the past she had come her, to pray, and on more than one occasion had spoken to Aros on this very spot. With a last look around through the rain she frowned slightly in frustration and sat in the shelter of one of the stones, propping her bow against it.
There were times when she wished she could track a litlle better, but it was not to be. For better or worse, she was an archer, like her father. Shuddering slightly she quickly pushed that thought to the back of her mind, still uncomfortable with the suggestions that had been made recently.
Delving into her pack she pulled out an apple and began to chew on it as she looked out from shelter at the ceaseless rain.
Then they started again. Jumping to her feet, she cast the apple aside and snatched up her bow as the screams began to echo around the Standing Stones, the cries of torment, the pleading of her friend.
Hurriedly, she snatched her helm from its place at her side and fastened it as she looked around wildly for the source of the voice in her head.
"So long... Child of Aros... why do you wait? You will come in the end, why delay? Why cause her more suffering?"
"I told you... I will come, when I am ready. But on my own terms, not yours." Elvalia said in a low voice as she continued to look around the area for the attack she was sure would come... as it usually did.
Then another voice, a child's voice, "I like it here.. I like this place, I think I'll play here too..."
Slightly puzzled by the new voice but aware from a dim memory who it might be, Elvalia took a firmer grip on her bow and replied in the same low voice. "Not while I am here, I will not allow it."
She nocked an arrow and continued to look out from the centre of the circle as the screams grew in intensity.
Hearing footsteps approaching quickly behind her she swung around and drew her bow ready to shoot, then dropped her arm quickly as she saw a familiar form running over the crest towards her.
"Ronan!" She cried out with evident relief in her voice, at least she wasn't alone now.
"Elvalia! How did you get here? Come! Step away from the circle!" He called out and gestured frantically from it's edge. "Come away! Quckly!"
Planting her feet firmer as the screams and voices grew louder around them she shook her head, "No! I'm not moving from here... they won't taint this place! I feel closer to him here, to him and to so much more! No! I won't leave!"
"Elvalia! It's not just Aros who is close to this place! Don't you hear them? The voices?" shouted Ronan, still not willing to enter the circle.
Still adamantly refusing from where she was, she nodded, "I hear them... Marillan.. the demon.."
"Yes! And something else!" He called.
"Yes, a child, wanting to play..." she said, beginning to look around again.
Then they came, demons, many of them. For a few minutes time seemed to freeze as the two of them shot arrow after arrow into the forms trying to attain the top of the hill.
Finally, the last fell and Ronan began to move once more as he looked back at her and gestured for her to follow.
All through it Elvalia hadn't moved and looking down at the corpses around her feet. Spitting on the nearest she looked up at the skies and shouted, "You dare?"
"They dare Elvalia and there is more! Please! Come away!"
Elvalia frowned briefly as the bodies around her vanished, "I know! The child is involved too somehow. I will not move! This place is sacred!"
Turning away from him she nocked another arrow and stood ready as the child's petulant voice came once more through the screams, "You're no fun... no fun at all... I want you to bleed and suffer like your friend does."
"Elvalia! This place is no more sacred than any other spot in this world! Come away! Now!" Shouted Ronan again, as another voice coursed through her head.
"When will you learn, Child of Aros... there is no choice... you will come... you must.."
"No!" She shouted "I will come, for you!"
Then they attacked again, more of them and more powerful, but dying as before until but one remained and came towards her, the most powerful she had yet seen. Backing away rapidly she continued to shoot as it drew nearer with Ronan frantically attacking it from the side and rear. Closer and closer it came, it's many arms waving blades in her direction and seemingly immune to the damage her and Ronan were causing. Backing further doen the hill she glanced quickly behind her then turned to face it as it finally drew near... and the darkness fell.
She opened her eyes and looked up to see Ronan wiping something from his eye and Calia bent double nearby, blood running down her chin.
Realising that she must have fallen Elvalia jumped quickly to her feet, hearing Ronan's voice behind her giving quiet thanks to Aros behind her and Calia continuing to cough as she recovered from her spell.
Eyes blazing, Elvalia ignored all else around her and ran quickly to the top of the hill to stand once more at the centre of the circle. Once more she planted her feet and nocked an arrow.
From below as he hurried up the hill she could hear Ronan calling out to her, "You would come back? After what just happened? You are mad!"
And the voice in her head... "You cannot win Child of Aros... it is hopeless... your friend will die... eventually"
Angrily, she pulled off her helm and through it to the ground as she glared around her... so be it.
"CHILD OF AROS YOU NAME ME?" She yelled. "CHILD OF AROS I SHALL BE! I WILL COME FOR HER! I WILL COME FOR YOU!"
As silence fell around her she was dimly aware of the others standing a short way off but, ignoring them, dropped her bow to the ground and knelt to pray.
Calming herself in spite of all that had happened she spoke softly, "My Lord Aros, it is I, Elvalia, protect this place." Then stood slowly, picking up her bow as she did.
As the others watched blazing columns of light began to lance down from above, centred on Elvalia. She felt power course through her, giving her strength and protection from anything she might have to endure. Unafraid, she watched as light coursed from her across the circle, pushing back the growing sense of evil.
As the power continued to lance down she looked upwards and shouted, "Thank you, My Lord!"
Aware that the evil was still diminishing steadily she looked around the circle once more in as loud a voice as possible, "YOU HAVE NO POWER HERE! BEGONE!"
As the evil disappeared completely, and the lights faded she began to relax. The rain ceased and the skies began to brighten as another voice came, a voice she knew well, but stronger, louder, and more powerful than she had ever known it.
"CARVE MY BOW ANEW CHILD, A TIME OF WAR IS UPON US. SEEK THE LOREMASTERS OF OUR PEOPLE TO LEARN HOW"
Aware that the others stood, stunned and strangely quiet nearby, she looked up as the voice continued.
"WITHOUT MY BOW, YOUR FOE CANNOT BE FELLED."
As all fell quiet once more she bowed her head and said quietly, "I understand My Lord, I will do this."
As she started to turn to walk over to the others she heard one last voice, Marillan's, sobbing in torment and despair. More certain now of what she must do, and that she might succeed, but not knowing whether she might hear, Elvalia shouted, "I will come Marillan! Have strength!"
As the voice of her friend faded she walked slowly past the others as they stared at her, her voice barely as whisper as she passed and began to walk down the hill, "I must go to Ferein, and speak to Camthalion." |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Thorfin Ginfalin
Posted: 23 Nov 2004 09:12 AM |
“No… never, that won’t do,” another set of clothing joined the ever-growing pile in the corner, surrounded by assorted dyes, yarns and materials.
The blonde head lowered once more over a fresh length of material, green eyes narrowed in concentration as she began to sew. Comfortably seated on a chair in the corner of the room, knees bent, resting her feet on the bed where the great bow lay glowing dimly, adding its light to the meagre illumination of the room.
“I’ll never get the hang of this,” she muttered, “it’s been to long, and besides, I don’t know why I’m even bothering.”
Pausing momentarily, she stared across the room as the small voice within her head said, “Yes you do, it’s because Bron said so.”
A wide smile, one not seen by many appeared on her face. Yes, she’d said many things, stop frowning, don’t narrow your eyes, smile, laugh, and be happy! Not hard for most, certainly not for Bron – though there were times when she wondered…
A soft chuckle broke the silence of the room as she recalled some of Bronwyn’s other advice. Well there was absolutely no chance she’d be doing that. This one though, this one she could try, she thought, bending once more over the material. Dress better, wear clothes, and don’t look so drab all the time.
She glanced ruefully up at the clothing Bron had given her, hanging in the corner; there was no way she would be wearing that. Concentrating on what she was doing, she worked steadily for a few hours; it wasn’t that hard. After all it was her who’d first taught Bron how to do it, it was just a matter of remembering how it was done.
Finally, she stood, stretched and tried on the suit, examining it carefully in the mirror. Not bad, not too showy or revealing. Yes, that would probably do. Smiling, she pulled the suit off once more and turned to pick up her chain. Hanging the suit from one finger she stood momentarily, balancing it on one finger and marvelling as the mithril links glittered softly. So light! Even the clothing she had just made was heavier. The smiths had excelled themselves; it was worth every one of the many gold pieces she had paid.
Sliding into it, she picked up the bow from the bed and left the room for the inn upstairs, locking the door behind her. She walked into the main room of the tavern, nodded to Doc and paused for a moment as she checked through her pack, ensuring she had everything before leaving for Ferein.
So engrossed was she in what she was doing that she wasn’t at first aware of the shadow that had fallen across her, but glanced up sharply to see an elven face smiling down at her.
Recovering from her surprise and nodded politely, “Vmaaaelvla.”
“Hello My Lady,” he replied in a deep yet strangely melodic voice, “nice to see you here.”
She paused momentarily, wary as ever, before tilting her head and smiling, “Have we met? You seem familiar.”
“Elvalia, isn’t it?” He asked.
“It is,” she answered, nodding slowly, “I’m sorry, but I do not recall your name.”
“We have met before Lady, I am Thorfin Ginfalin.” He said.
“Ah yes, “ she smiled, “I remember now, your father is a merchant if I recall correctly.”
“Indeed,” he said, “I am not sure when we met, but I would never forget an attractive woman such as yourself.”
Pausing momentarily, one eyebrow lifted at the compliment and a slight smile on her face, Elvalia said, “I believe we met here actually, though only briefly. I am often in these parts, my sister spends much of her time here and I have a room in this inn.”
“That’s very possible,” he said, smiling, “I come here often on business. Next to Ferein, this is one of the nicest areas of the land.”
She stood for a moment studying him before nodding slowly and continuing, “You are a businessman then?”
Staring back at her unflinchingly, he answered, “After a fashion, I work for my father more out of tradition than any real love of the business.”
A little uncomfortable under his gaze, Elvalia brushed the hair self-consciously out of her eyes and nodded once more, “So what is it you do exactly?”
“My father is a wood craftsman, he makes the finest ale barrels in the land. I am his agent, and travel about taking orders, servicing our various accounts.” He answered, still looking at her.
“You are here on business then?” She asked, once more nodding slowly.
A smile broke out across his features, “That is my excuse for travelling, in truth there is no business to be conducted this day. I am a wanderer at heart, I love to be out on the road, seeing things and meeting people.”
Elvalia tilted her head, smiling slightly, “I see, that is your sole reason then? Just wandering?”
“I would like to think that Aros guided me here,” he said, still smiling.
Taken aback, she blinked and stared at him intently, slightly surprised that he was looking back at her in like manner. “Why do you say that?”
“It is not often that one comes across such pleasant company this far from our lands,” he answered, smiling pleasantly.
“That is true,” she smiled back before looking away a little shyly.
“That armour is very becoming on you Lady. Is it the same type the Ferein guards wear? You lend it a certain grace that I have not often seen in Ferein or away,” he continued pleasantly.
Elvalia stared at him in astonishment before answering uncertainly, “Thank you.”
“Might I ask… what is your calling in life?” He continued.
On safe ground at last, Elvalia relaxed slightly and answered, “I am an archer.”
“Ah! Then you are one of those that help keep the rest of us safe!” he began, seemingly unaware of the soft laughter and mumbled ‘You could say that’, “A noble calling to be sure, for without dedicated people like you we would be overrun by darkness in such a short time.”
Smiling now, Elvalia looked up at him, “I am but one person, just an archer.” She said quietly.
“I aspire to some martial prowess myself, though my work keeps me from training as much as I would like.” Said Thorfin.
Elvalia looked at him once more, taken in the slim, but obviously powerful frame than looked back up at him, “You are a fighter then?”
Smiling back her he answered, “I would hesitate to take on that title, but I have some skill in arms. It is necessary to be able to protect oneself when travelling.”
Sensing that the elf before her was at least genuine, Elvalia relaxed and smiling more openly, said, “There is no need for modesty… what weapon do you use?”
“I have some training with the bow, of course,” he answered, “I also carry a longsword, and have recently picked up a heavy flail to see how I might fare with a heavier weapon.”
Intrigued, Elvalia’s tone grew somewhat surprised, “A flail? That is an unusual weapon.”
Unperturbed, he looked back at her calmly, “Indeed… with the great upsurge of undead in recent weeks I thought it might serve me well.”
Impressed with the practical thinking, Elvalia smiled, “It may indeed.”
“I am lucky enough to have a bow made by the famous archer Avari.” He continued, smiling proudly.
Surprised once more, Elvalia’s brow shot up once more, “Avari made it? May I see it?”
“Aala,” he said, holding it out to her for inspection. As she looked closely at it, he continued, “She threw it down at the fire on the Plains as I was approaching one day, saying that anyone who wanted it could have it.”
“Indeed, it is one of hers,” said Elvalia, handing it back, “I recognise the workmanship.”
“I felt rather fortunate to have arrived at that moment.” He smiled. “Just as I feel fortunate to have come in here this morning and found you.”
Elvalia stood, dumbstruck, for once in her life momentarily speechless. At last she
Answered in a voice that was barely above a whisper, “Thank you.”
“My Lady,” he continued, “might I be so bold as to ask whether you have a suitor?”
If she had been dumbstruck before, Elvalia was now in total shock and began to blush, “No... No I haven’t.”
“Indeed? That does surprise me… perhaps you would do me the honour of allowing me to buy you a meal, or at least a drink.”
An uncharacteristic shyness began to creep into her expression as she looked up at him and said quietly, “A drink would be fine… a juice of some sort, if that suits.”
“That will suit perfectly, I shall be right back,” he said, and wandered off to Doc with a smile.
As he spoke politely with McGillicutty, Elvalia stood motionless, stunned not only by being asked, but also by her acceptance. Perhaps Bronwyn’s talk had been more effective in planting seeds in her mind than she thought. She turned and watched him as he spoke, controlling her surprise as he bought juice for himself as well as her, and smiled as he walked back towards her.
“Here you are my lady,” he said, handing her a bottle of juice with a glass, touching her hand lightly as he did so. She resisted the urge to jerk her hand back and offered her thanks, somehow still unable to control her shyness.
She remained where she was for a moment, unmoving and looking away as he stood smiling down at her, then remembering Bron’s advice finally made her mind up and looked back at him.
“Is something wrong my lady?” He asked.
“Aala. Will you excuse me for just a moment, I will return directly,” she said
As he nodded and said, “Of course, “ Elvalia put her juice down on the table, “Please take a seat,” she said, “I will not be long.”
She stood staring at him a moment before walking off and heading towards her room. Slipping quickly down the stairs she rushed over and wrestled the door open, locking it behind her and pressing her back flat against it.. What was she thinking? Why the shyness? She took a few deep breaths to calm herself and relaxed to consider her options. She could either stay here, locked in until he got bored and left, but then he had been nothing but polite and respectful, and even she was aware that she was not quite that rude. Alternatively she could go back up there now and throw him out on his ear, but again, that was just as rude as the first option – and even given her strength it was one that wasn’t guaranteed to work. Then there was the third, the one Bronwyn would have taken, change, go back up there, see what he had to say and then decide what to do.
It would have to be the third, she thought, beginning to unfasten her armour, if she took either of the first two options and Bron found out she would never be forgiven. She laid her chain carefully on the bed and quickly dressed in the outfit she had mad earlier before heading back up the stairs, pausing just before she entered the main room to take a deep breath and ensure everything was in order.
He stood as she approached the table and inclined his head politely. “My lady, that outfit is beautiful on you.”
“Thank you,” she said quietly as she took her seat.
“You are truly one of the flowers of Ferein,” he continued. She looked at him, completely stunned once more and took a sip of her juice before thanking him again.
“Do you spend a lot of time here in Buckshire?” He asked.
Gathering herself, she smiled back at him, “I travel all over, really, though lately I seem to have been spending much of my time here.”
“Tis a wonder our paths have not crossed more often,” he said, she stared at him briefly, “though I think I will find a way to be here if this is where you are to be found.” Elvalia stared at him for a moment or two before blushing furiously and turning away.
“You flatter me sir,” she mumbled.
He gazed at her averted head a moment or two before taking a sip of his juice and continuing, “No my lady, you flatter me. There are many who would give all they own to be as fortunate as I have been this day.”
He face snapped round in his direction once more and she stared at him once more for a brief moment. Looking away again she took a firm grip on her glass. “That seems a little excessive merely to share a drink with me.” She said
Unfazed, he continued in the same low, melodic voice, “This chance meeting feels like more than just a shared drink, perhaps a friendship will come of it.”
It seemed to Elvalia that with each sentence he spoke her reactions were becoming less and less what she expected. Her confidence and assurance had disappeared, as had the distance she kept between herself and others, even close friends. Somehow, in a manner she couldn’t quite understand, this elf was affecting her deeply. Raising a brow and smiling slightly as she looked back at him and she said, “Anything is possible.”
As she turned back to take some of her juice her head pounded as thoughts chased themselves through it. “Did I just say that? Why? What is it about him?’
“Indeed, I agree anything is possible and the impossible does happen,” he continued. In the background, she was dimly aware that Glordong had entered the inn to rest. Only dimly, however, since she realised that Thorfin was gazing into her eyes. Her own flickered briefly at his words but she held his gaze for a brief moment before turning away once more and saying, “Perhaps.”
She raised her glass once more trying to hide her discomfiture as the assault on her senses continued. “Forgive my brashness lady, but I am quite entranced by you. Do you have this effect on all the men you meet?” He asked, his expression changed from calm assurance to concern as she choked on her drink and coughed. Throwing her head back she laughed loudly, still highly amused as she turned to him and said, “Hardly.”
“Surely you jest!” he said, for the first time he seemed to lose his own composure.
Taking pity on him she said through the laughter, “I am sorry Thorfin, your question surprised me… no, most run a mile.” Aware that for the first time, he himself had turned away in confusion she took the chance to study him surreptitiously. No, there was no falseness there; he was genuine.
“Run?” He said, “Now I know you are jesting with me.”
Still amused, she asked, “Tell me Thorfin, where do you live?”
“I have a room in Icy Vale, I also have a room in my parents’ house that I use when I am in Ferein, “ he answered, clearly confused by the question.
“And you have not heard of me? I have a certain reputation, notoriety even, some might say.” She said with a wry smile.
“I must admit, I have heard of you.” He answered.
“Then you are braver than I thought, “she said, smiling.
“I was more interested in what you have to say for yourself, than what is commonly known about you.” He finished.
Elvalia stopped dead, the amusement wiped from her features to be replaced by another look of astonishment. She looked round briefly taking in the surroundings before looking at him in stunned amazement, “So that is why you are here? You sought me out?”
“Not exactly sought, “ he answered, “our first meeting lingered in my head like a sweet spring breeze.” A jolt seemed to pass through her, rendering her immobile as he continued, “I told myself that if I ever had the good fortune to meet you again I would do my best to get to know you better.”
“To what end,” she asked quietly.
“You are indeed calling me out here,” he smiled, “I will be truthful then, in a word… romance. I am very attracted to you my lady.”
Time seemed to stand still for Elvalia and he watched her closely as she unconsciously ran through the mannerisms those who knew her would recognise so easily. As she brushed the hair away from her eyes nervously and turned to look at him once more he smiled warmly at her and continued.
“I would not have been so blunt lady, but you asked me and I would not lie to you, “ he said, blushing slightly himself.
At last, she gathered herself together and, deeply flushed, said with a voice barely above a whisper, “Then perhaps you had best tell me exactly what it is you have heard of me.”
He seemed to feel the need to gather himself as well, and took a sip of his own juice before answering. “That you are a tireless foe of those who stand against Ferein; that you keep yourself apart from your fellows; that you are very beautiful and dangerous; that you have a temper that is best not crossed, and that you have a twin sister.”
“All true so far,” she said, smiling fondly at the mention of Bronwyn.
“There are probably a few other things but those are the ones that come to mind.” He continued.
“Indeed, there are a ‘few other things’,” she laughed softly.
“Nothing that would prevent me getting to know you better,” he said.
She turned to look into his eyes once more, less uncomfortable on this occasion but impressed by the calmness and openness with which he returned her gaze.
“You have courage, I will allow you that. You will need it, and more,” she said, smiling slightly, “I am not an easy person to be around Thorfin.”
“Forgive me, if I do not see that, “ he said gently.
“You go only by what you have heard, and what you see, “ she said, slightly amused.
“That is so,” he admitted, looking at her intently, “you are trying to scare me off?”
Elvalia looked at him sharply, unnerved by the ease with which he had seemed to read her intentions. “Wisdom as well as bravery,” she said quietly, “a rare combination.”
For only the second time he looked perturbed himself, “If you do not wish my attentions I will withdraw… I do not wish to annoy you my lady.”
Elvalia did not immediately answer, but sat, her green eyes boring into his own. Searching. Judging, and yes… perhaps even trying to intimidate him. For a long moment they sat that way, his gaze as unflinching as her own. Though she didn’t show it, she was impressed, there were many who would have left rather than felt that gaze, or at least turned away, but he did neither. There was a determination there that matched her own, but also something else, a gentleness that appealed to her. Satisfied at last a slight smile appeared on her features as he spoke.
“You are looking for something my lady?” He asked
Continuing to stare at him, she said, “Indeed.”
“You may ask anything of me, I will do my best to reply.” He said.
Holding her gaze she said bluntly, “I was looking for willingness.”
“Willingness?” He asked, looking confused.
“Yes,” she said, “to risk your life.”
“What do you mean exactly?” He asked, taken aback, but still holding her gaze.
“You say I am dangerous, do you know why?” She asked.
“You are very proficient with your bow and have a temper?” He asked in reply.
Laughing softly, she said, “I am, and do, but that is not what I mean, I am dangerous because of who and what I am. I have enemies. You will be at risk merely if it were known that you cared for me.”
“So be it then,” he said, “I do admire you ... and talking plainly in a public place such as this ... it will not be a secret long. I can take care of myself and I am not afraid to fight if I need to. Besides, you beauty has already slain my heart.”
Once more they fell silent, not even aware that for the past few minutes they had held each other’s gaze unflinchingly. Then, looking away at last, Elvalia spoke, “So… you are willing… I suppose the next question is, am I.”
The question was not directed so much at him as at herself, but as she stared into what remained of her drink, he answered anyway.
“You take many risks, yes?”
“That is not what I meant, Thorfin,” she said quietly, “am I willing to risk your life like the others I have cared for, some who didn’t survive the encounter… or were hurt if they did”
“How could you risk my life,” he said openly, “surely my life is my own responsibility.”
Her eyes flickered briefly, “It is my responsibility also,” she said.
“So if you tell me that it would be dangerous to court you and I choose to proceed, it is my own fault if I get hurt, is it not? If there is a chance that you are the one for me, I would be a fool to let that pass by for fear of someone running me through with a spear.” He said, gazing openly once more into her eyes. The stunned expression returned to her features as he continued. “I feel something between us, that is not an everyday occurrence, for many of our race it comes but once.”
Gazing once more into his eyes, she realised that what he said was true, this would be her one and only chance, she would be a fool not to grasp it. Nevertheless…
“If this is to be, Thorfin, it will be for life. If you truly are to be the one, there will be no other… ever.”
Completely unfazed he continued to return her gaze, “That is what I speak of… a true mate forever… I would not have approached you otherwise. Her astonishment complete, Elvalia could do no more than listen as he continued. “I had not thought that this would go so quickly, or that you would be so direct with me. But that is what I feel.”
Outwardly, Elvalia continued to look into his eyes. Inwardly, she surrendered, it became apparent to her that not only did she happen to agree with his views, she believed them. There was something between them. Indefinable maybe, but she couldn’t deny it was there. She caved in and sat in her chair, looking extremely confused by her emotions and more than a little vulnerable.
“My head is spinning to be truthful,” said Thorfin, smiling at her.
“Aala… Thorfin…?” She said quietly.
“Yes Elvalia?”
“What next?” She asked.
“Perhaps a little time to make sure of our emotions and to let things settle a bit in our minds,” he said, placing his hand over hers. She flinched only slightly and left her hands in place.
“I am in love with you Elvalia, I hope you find it in your heart to love me too.” He said gently.
She sat, stunned once more, and looked back at him with widened eyes. “How can you say that? You barely know me.” She said.
“Loving is not a matter of knowing someone’s daily habits, but of feeling a heart connection. I know it is not the way of other races, but among our kind, it is not unusual.” Said Thorfin.
She sagged, accepting finally that what he said was true, aware now that apart from her own decision there would be only one final barrier. “Besides…”she said, “there is one other thing. I said there were two… two things you did not know about me.”
“Please tell me if you wish to,” he said, nodding.
Aware that this could change his view completely she looked at him with what amounted to terror in her eyes and told him what so few knew, “Sa oilaniram ela cemw Ilmela.”
Momentarily taken aback, Thorfin blinked and then said simply, “Will we need his approval? Will that be a hurdle to us having a relationship? For you cannot scare me off lady, you wish me to leave you will have to tell me so.”
Relieved, Elvalia fell back in her chair and laughed loudly. When she had recovered, she looked into his eyes and smiled warmly, “I do not believe it will be a problem, if you are willing to accept the fact.” She said.
“I do not believe you would lie, so then it is the truth, I can accept what you tell me.” He said plainly.
Elvalia became very still, aware that the time had come for her decision, he had clearly made his. Certain that she knew what the answer would be, she looked into his eyes and said quietly, “And you still want this?”
“In a word, yes,” he said, holding her gaze, “You know what it means to recognize one’s mate. I feel that is what has happened to me.” As Elvalia swallowed nervously, and stared at him, plainly enraptured, he continued, “I would swim through molten lava to get to you, just for a chance to present my love to you in the hope that you would accept it.”
As he finished, h looked into her eyes and smiled warmly, a brief flicker of pain became apparent in hers and she said quietly, “Do not let me down Thorfin… just promise me that, I have been hurt too much for one life.”
“I will give you some time to feel this out for yourself,” he said, “there is no rushing into this commitment.” He looked at her directly, “I promise to always be true to you, if you accept me you will always be first in my life.”
“Very well,” she said, “It will take time, I think, but I am willing to consider your offer.”
“My lady I will leave you for now, I think you have a lot to think on,” he said, rising from his chair. As she joined him on her feet he looked down at her and took her hands in his and kissed them lightly.
“I love you Elvalia,” he said, looking deeply into her eyes.
Impulsively, she stood on tiptoe and kissed him on the cheek.
“I will see you soon my love,” he said.
“Yes… yes, you will, be safe Thorfin,” she answered. With a polite nod and a last affectionate look he turned and strode through the tavern door, closing it behind him.
Elvalia stood for a long moment, hands still raised where he had left them, before she realised that Doc was stood behind the bar grinning at her stupidly. Brief annoyance appeared on her face to be swiftly joined by happiness as she began to laugh loudly and walked through the room to change. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Sisters II
Posted: 25 Nov 2004 01:13 AM |
She tramped through the mud on the road, glancing up at the rain and holding her face up for a moment briefly, smiling in pleasure as it ran down her cheeks, soaking her hair. She lowered her head slightly, tilting it to one side as she squeezed some of the water out and then stood looking around her. She was bound to be around here somewhere, she always was.
Leaning her unstrung bow over her shoulder she passed the Four Winds and paused to listen, sounds of fighting from over near the gypsy camp. With a smile she walked up and along the ridge which stood above the trees and paused as she saw her looking down on the camp.
Walking close she hugged her tightly, “Hello Bron,” she smiled, “how are you?”
“Hello sis,” she answered, smiling with pleasure and returning the embrace, “I’m good, how have you been?”
“I’m fine,” answered Elvalia, smiling happily, “I never felt better.”
She looked out over the trees for a moment, then turned back to her sister, smiling mysteriously, “Shall we go somewhere and talk?”
“Of course,” giggled Bronwyn, “how about the ruined city?”
“I don’t think the Lynaeum is really me,” said Elvalia, smiling wryly.
“Alright,” smiled Bronwyn, “you pick then.”
Elvalia stood thoughtfully for a moment looking around, “I don’t really know anywhere nearby, this isn’t my usual stomping ground, how about you?”
Bronwyn smiled back at her, “I know a place.”
“You do?” Said Elvalia surprised, then laughed loudly at her sister as she stood giggling with her arms spread out in the rain.
“Of course… this is my land. It’s not far.”
Bronwyn led the way for a few minutes then stood smiling back at the surprise on her sister’s face as she looked around the glade.
“I never knew this existed,” said Elvalia as she stared around.
“As you say this is my part of the land, I know it well,” smiled Bronwyn, “let’s go in a little deeper.”
“Aala,” answered Elvalia, tilting her head and smiling. Bronwyn led the way and crossed a bridge to a small patch of grass next to a waterfall. They stood quietly for a moment savouring the place.
“I like waterfalls,” said Bronwyn with a soft smile. Elvalia’s head snapped round to look at her mysteriously, “What is it sister?” asked Bronwyn.
“I was just about to say exactly the same,” said Elvalia, smiling at her fondly then breaking into a laugh, “I think we are pretty much the same.”
Bronwyn smiled back, “Aala. How about butterflies? Do you bathe naked in the waterfall near the desert ruins?”
“Er… not so as I recall, no,” replied Elvalia still laughing.
“You are missing a wonderful treat then,” giggled Bron as she found a comfortable spot to sit.
“Perhaps,” said Elvalia, sitting close beside her and laying her bow on the ground, “maybe I’ll try it someday.”
“So…,” she said, smiling fondly, “how have you been?”
“I have no complaints…,” said her sister, “I feel a bit empty maybe. Like my emotions are not engaged, detached might be a better word. Feels like I’m watching my life, not living it.”
Surprised by the change of mood, Elvalia looked at her closely for a moment, then nodded slowly, “I’m familiar with the feeling, like you are the only one in the world.”
“Aala…” said Bronwyn quietly, “I find it disturbing.”
“But we are living it Bron,” said Elvalia, “ we just have to focus on what’s real. Just accept what we have… or could have, and get on with it.”
“Aala, you are right,” said Bronwyn. “Just an odd feeling.” She giggled, “I am tired of talking about me, you said you wanted to talk to me about something?”
“Aala…” said Elvalia hesitantly, “yes, I did.”
“Tell me then!” Said Bronwyn, leaning towards her curiously.
“Well…” Elvalia cleared her throat, “you were right.”
Bronwyn’s brow shot up in surprise as Elvalia turned towards her shyly.
“I found someone, or rather he found me.” She said.
“Oh my!” Said Bronywn.
“Oh my indeed,” said Elvalia blushing slightly.
“That too!” Cried Bronwyn in surprise, “You are a fast worker! I won’t ask for details”
“Bron!” Elvalia reddened, “No we haven’t.”
Elvalia sat for a moment, not quite sure to say to her sister, who sat watching her with an amused and disappointed expression on her face.
“I’m sorry,” said Bronwyn, settling down to listen, “please go on, I’ll be quiet.”
“I was at Doc’s, just about to leave and he walked in.” Said Elvalia.
“Was he handsome?” Asked Bronwyn eagerly before quickly covering her mouth.
Elvalia blushed and looked down shyly, “Aala.”
“Good! So you met him in a tavern?” Asked Bron, all curiosity.
“Yes… as I was saying, I was about to leave when he walked in, I’d met him once before and forgotten all about him. You know how it is, we meet so many who just seem to disappear.” Said Elvalia.
“Aala, do I know him?” Asked her sister.
“I don’t know, Thorfin his name is, Thorfin Ginfalin.” Answered Elvalia.
Bronwyn thought for a moment, “Doesn’t sound familiar, is he elven?”
“Aala, he is elven, his father is a merchant, a barrel maker, he travels for him on business,” replied Elvalia looking at her curiously, “you’ve not met him then?”
“I don’t go in taverns much,” said Bronwyn, smiling… then blinked, “a merchant? Isn’t that boring?”
“He fights as well,” said Elvalia with a wry smile, “he said he follows the business more from tradition than any liking of it”
“Oh! A fighting merchant?” Said Bronwyn, thinking for a moment. “I’ve never met one of those. Does he have a shop? Let’s go and visit him!”
A look of astonishment appeared on Elvalia’s face, “You know, I never even thought to ask him.”
“Oh! You are in trouble!” Laughed Bronwyn.
“I don’t think so Bron,” said Elvalia smiling happily.
“Good trouble perhaps,” smiled Bronwyn.
“Very good trouble I hope…. I asked him if he was there on business, he said he didn’t have any but liked to wander and meet people,” said Elvalia
“So you did manage to get out a few questions,” said Bron.
Still looking a little stunned at what had happened Elvalia continued, ignoring the statement, “Apparently he had been looking for me since we first met.”
“Really?” Asked Bronwyn, obviously trying not to sound surprised, “How long ago did you first meet him.?”
“You know…” thought Elvalia, “I cannot remember, a couple of months ago at least I’d say.”
“Looks like you made quite an impression on him,” nodded Bronwyn.
“Aala,” said Elvalia a little breathlessly, “It would seem so.”
“Are you alright sister,” said Bronwyn, looking at her closely, “would you like me to get a little water from the stream?”
“I’m fine Bron,” said Elvalia, blushing, and smiling nervously, “he said he used a bow, and had one Avari had made and thrown away. He said she had thrown it down saying anybody could have it if they wanted, it was quite a good one. He said he felt lucky to be passing at that moment.”
“And then….” She continued, unaware of how closely Bronwyn was watching her, “and then he said just as he was fortunate enough to walk into Doc's and find me there.”
“Sounds like a lucky fellow then,” said Bronwyn.
“Then right out of the blue, he asked me if I had a suitor,” laughed Elvalia.
“What did you tell him? That no mortal may touch you?” said Bronwyn, smiling slightly.
“Er… no, that came a bit later I think, or something like it, I certainly didn’t tell him he’d have to queue,” said Elvalia, bursting into laughter that was quickly joined by Bronwyn’s giggling.
“No waiting in this line sir…” said Bronwyn in a deep voice at which point they both dissolved in laughter for a minute or so.
“Anyway…” said Elvalia, when they’d finally recovered, “he seemed surprised and asked if he could buy me dinner or a drink.”
“Not both?” Asked Bronwyn.
“I wasn’t hungry,” laughed Elvalia.
“Not for food anyway,” said Bronwyn quickly dissolving once more into a fit of giggles.
“Bron!” Cried Elvalia going an ever deeper red.
“Sorry…” said Bron, trying to pull herself together, “I’ll be quiet… promise.”
Doubting the earnestness of that remark slightly, Elvalia continued, “I went and changed and joined him at the table and we talked some more, quite a bit more.”
“Changed!” Exclaimed Bronwyn, quickly covering her mouth.
Looking slightly offended Elvalia stared at her sister, “Of course, I took your advice.”
“Oh! You wore the blue outfit I gave you!” Said Bronwyn excitedly.
“Er… no, I wore one a little less… revealing, said Elvalia.
“Probably wise,” nodded Bronwyn.
“He said it looked very nice and that I was truly one of the flowers of Ferein,” said Elvalia.
They both blinked simultaneously. “That is true,” said Bronwyn.
“Of course it is Bron, we both are,” said Elvalia as they dissolved once more.
“He asked if I spent much time in Buckshire and I said I’d been here more often lately seeing you. He said it was a wonder we’d not met more often and that he’d known I was here he’d have visited more.” Said Elvalia.
“He sounds quite a charmer,” smiled Bronwyn.
“Aala…” said Elvalia, blushing, “he certainly had a way with words. I told him he was flattering me, he said he was flattered to be in my presence, that many would give all they own to be as lucky as he had to find me there.”
“Oh my Goddess! You be careful sister!” Exclaimed Bronwyn. “I am jealous,” she pouted, “nobody talks to me like that.”
“Not even your halfling?” Smiled Elvalia.
“He’s not quite that smooth, and besides he is not elven. Elven men can be very good talkers.” Said Bronwyn, smiling.
“Aala,” said Elvalia quietly, “not all are like him though, none are.”
“You keep your wits about you sister,” said Bronwyn, blinking.
“Don’t worry, I have,” said Elvalia, still speaking quietly, “anyway, then he said he was quite entranced with me and asked whether I had that effect on all the men I meet.”
One look was enough to send them once more into a fit of laughter and giggling before Elvalia continued.
“I said no, most run a mile.”
“Only because you’re shooting at them with your bow,” giggled Bronwyn.
“Sister! That’s not true!” Cried Elvalia as they began to laugh once more.
“You’ve wanted to!” said Bronwyn.
“Aala… some maybe,” said Elvalia, still laughing, “he said I must be joking, so I asked him what He knew about me… quite a bit as it happens. He said he’d heard about me so I told him he was braver than I thought.”
“Why is that?” Asked Bronwyn. “You’re easy to get along with.”
Elvalia searched her sister’s face briefly for any hint she might be pulling her leg before smiling broadly and replying, “For you perhaps Bron.” Which brought a shouted “Aala!” in reply.
“Not for many though,” she continued, which brought a somewhat quieter “Oh!”
With a rueful smile, Elvalia continued to explain, “He said he was more interested in hearing it from me than what others had said,” Bronwyn nodded, “that was when I asked him if that was why he was there… to find me. He said that our first meeting had lingered on his mind like a fresh spring breeze, and that he had promised himself that if he ever met me again he would try to get to know me better.”
She looked at Bronwyn, who just stared back in frank astonishment, “Is this something that really happened? It sounds more like a dream”
“I wondered that myself,” said Elvalia quietly, shaking her head in disbelief.
“He’s been out there looking for you, for how long? That’s almost scary.” Said Bronwyn, matching her look.
“Keeping an eye out for me at least, amazing isn’t it,” said Elvalia, “I’m not that hard to find.”
“You can be at times,” smiled Bronwyn.
Sighing, Elvalia nodded, “I can be hard to find, unless I want to be.”
“Even harder to touch,” said Bronwyn, Elvalia shot a questioning look at her, “I mean emotionally,” she smiled.
“Perhaps,” said Elvalai, “until now.”
As Bronwyn nodded, she continued, “I asked him why he wanted to get to know me better – blunt as always… and he answered.” She turned to look at Bronwyn with widened eyes. “In a word… romance.”
“Can’t fault that,” smiled Bronwyn, “he has good taste.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia, starting another round of laughter, “So… I asked him why.”
“Men do not need a why for that,” said Bronwyn matter of factly.
“Well I thought it best he knows what he’s getting into,” said Elvalia, “I asked him exactly what he’d heard of me. He said he’d heard I was a tireless foe of evil, that I kept my self apart, that I have a fierce temper…”
“That you hate men?” Said Bronwyn. As Elvalia turned sharply to he she began to giggle once more, “Sorry, couldn’t resist it.”
“He’d even heard that I have a twin,” said Elvalia, smiling fondly at her sister, who’s eyes widened.
“Me! Does he want to meet me too? He sounds nice. We could share him!” Said Bronwyn excitedly.
Elvalia shot her a suspicious look, “He is nice, and no we can’t.” she said, to which her sister’s only reply was a mischievous grin which started the laughter off once again. “You stick to your halfling.”
“I want an elven charmer too!” Giggled Bronwyn.
“So…” said Elvalia, becoming serious, “none of that put him off, so I tried another approach. I told him if it was even known he admired me he’d stand a greater risk of dying.”
“Rubbish,” muttered Bronwyn
Elvalia sighed, “He thought I was threatening him, he thought I meant because of my temper,” she laughed.
“It sounds like it, why did you threaten him?” Asked Bronwyn.
“I didn’t,” said Elvalia. As Bronwyn looked unconvinced, she continued, “that isn’t what I meant and you know it, but that’s what he thought.” She turned to Bron wide-eyed. “Do you know what he said?”
“Sleep with me?” Asked Bron innocently.
For a long moment Elvalia just sat with her mouth open staring at her sister before reacting, “No!”
“Oh! I don’t have a clue then,” said Bronwyn.
“He said he wasn’t afraid because I had already slain his heart,” said Elvalia. Bronwyn just looked at her, an expression halfway between disbelief and shock on her face. “He did! Truly!” Insisted Elvalia.
“Once I’d recovered,” she continued, “I explained what I meant and he said he wasn’t afraid, he could fight, and defend himself if necessary.”
“The fighting merchant,” nodded Bronwyn, to Elvalia’s laughter.
“So…” she continued, “I said the next question would be whether I was willing to let him risk it. He dismissed that as rubbish, the same as you did.”
“He does have some sense then,” grinned Bronwyn.
Elvalia glanced at her sharply then smiled, “Aala. He said that if there was even a chance I was the one for him he’d be a fool to give it up at the thought of being run through by a spear.”
“He has a way with words doesn’t he?” said Bronwyn.
“Aala… he certainly does, “said Elvalia, “and his eyes Bron, you should see his eyes. They make you melt inside.”
“Hmm,” said Bronwyn as they both negan to laugh again, “I like melting.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia, sagging visibly before pulling herself together, “anyway,” she said, clearing her throat, “I still tried to put him off.”
“Goddess why?” Said Bronwyn
“I told him that if I did allow him to court me and become my partner it would be forever,” said Elvalia, “I’m not like you Bron.”
“What?” said Bronwyn, blinking.
“I don’t throw them back,” grinned Elvalia.
“Why not? They get used up!” Exclaimed Bronwyn, shaking her head.
“I don’t think he will,” laughed Elvalia, even more amused by her sister’s incredulous expression.
“Forever? Without even trying him out!” said Bronwyn.
“He said that’s what he wanted, a true mate forever,” sighed Elvalia, “that’s why he sought me out.”
“What!” said Bronwyn, shaking her head even harder.
“It’s true!” Exclaimed Elvalia.
“I don’t know what to say,” said Bronwyn with a grin, “I thought I raised you better than that.”
Elvalia didn’t react, just stared into the distance, “Then…” she said, “Then he put his hand on mine…”
“Ah!” said Bronwyn.
“And said I am in love with you Elvalia,” she continued. Next to her, she felt Bronwyn jump.
“I asked him how, he hardly knew me,” she said as Bronwyn pinched herself.
“He said that love was not a matter of knowing daily habits, it was a meeting of hearts,” she sighed, “of feeling a heart connection.” She turned to look at Bronwyn who sat silently next to her, stunned. “I told him about our father and even that didn’t put him off. I asked whether knowing all that he still wanted me and he said yes, that he had recognised his mate.”
“Aala,” said Bronwyn quietly.
“He said he would swim through molten lava to present his love to me, in the hopes I would accept it.” Said Elvalia, matching her sister’s tone.
“I understand now…” said Bronwyn.
“That he would always be true to me,” whispered Elvalia, as Bronwyn nodded. “and that if I accepted him I would always be first in his life.”
Elvalia began to weep silently, holding her face in her hands. “I have seen couples like that in Ferein,” said Bronwyn, tears running down her cheeks. She put and arm around Elvalia’s shoulders, “I am happy for you sister.”
Elvalia sobbed through her hands, “Then he left, he stood, kissed my hands, said he loved me and would give me time to think.”
“As is the custom,” nodded Bronwyn as Elvalia looked at her earnestly, “you are speaking of a sacred marriage. Not many find that in this day,” she said, hugging Elvalia tightly, “You are blessed.”
“He is perfect Bron,” whispered Elvalia.
“And you to him,” said Bronwyn, smiling at her fondly.
“You think so?” Asked Elvalia.
“Aala, it is the only way it can work,” said Bronwyn
“He could have been made for me,” said Elvalia, beginning to cry again.
“I bet my bow he feels the same,” smiled Bronwyn.
“Oh, I hope so!” Said Elvalia, trying to pull herself together
“I am so happy for you sister,” said Bronwyn, still holding her tightly, “and more than a little jealous.”
“Thank you Bron, but you have your man, I’m sure you are perfect to him, you are my sister… you couldn’t be anything else,” smiled Elvalia.
“Aala, but you have what every elven woman dreams of, he will pass from me while I am still young.” Said Bronwyn.
“Aala…,” said Elvalia, smiling sadly, “is that why you are unsure Bron?”
“Aala, it will be for a short time no matter what I do or feel.” Answered Bronwyn.
“And that is why you do not want marriage…” said Elvalia, looking at her intently
“Aala, I am just unsure,” said Bronwyn.
“Of him? Or your own feelings.?” Asked Elvalia.
“Both,” said Bronwyn, “but I want to meet your Thorfin.”
“You must, but no stealing,” smiled Elvalia.
“That will not be possible, he will have eyes for no one but you I think,” said Bronwyn with a grin, “which is just as well.”
Elvalia narrowed her eyes slightly but smiled anyway, “Aala. You must talk to your man though for both your sakes… now I am so happy, I would not see you unhappy again. You told me yourself, nobody chooses to be unhappy. You cannot be the new Elvalia, I won’t allow it,” she said, smiling at her with concern.
“Alright,” smiled Bronwyn, “I will talk to him.” She stood looking down at Elvalia, “I need to go to my prayers.”
“Aala… I understand,” said Elvalia, joining her on her feet.
They embraced each other tightly, “I am very happy for you sister,” said Bronwyn.
“Aala, thank you Bron,” said Elvalia.
“I will see you soon, I love you,” said Bronwyn, “oilmaamacc.” She turned and ran back towards the Four Winds
“Aala, fa lalloa, Fmelamal,” whispered Elvalia, smiling while her green eyes watched her fade into the darkness showing anything but the happiness she felt. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Re: Sisters II
Posted: 25 Nov 2004 07:52 AM |
((awwww this is really lovely and beautifully written as always, thanks Benny
- Sol )) |
- Solitaire, Wizard
- Ilyana Fiirhaart, High Priestess of Naruth |
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The answer
Posted: 26 Nov 2004 06:47 AM |
“I don’t believe I’ve ever spent so much time in a tavern,” she whispered to herself, looking around at the empty room. She sat concealed in the corner, feet up on the table, even Doc, busying himself at the bar or shouting at his wife, was unaware that she was there.
She shifted her legs slightly, making herself more comfortable, even the slight tinkle of her chain not making enough noise to betray her presence. Four days… four days since he had left her with her thoughts. Four days since he had left her to consider.
The annoying thing was, if he had only known it, she hadn’t needed four days, not even one. For that matter if he hadn’t left there would have been no need to wait at all. She fiddled distractedly with the trappings of her amour and smiled.
The door to the inn flew open and she sat forward expectantly, only to slump back when she realised it wasn’t him. Luther rushed into the room and stood batting the dust of the road from his robes.
“Hello Luther,” she said.
“Ah, hello there Elvalia, I did not see you there,” said the monk, taking a seat opposite her.
“I sometimes hide even like this,” she said, smiling broadly, “saves awkward conversation.”
“I know what you mean,” he nodded.
“How are you?” Asked Elvalia.
“Well… very well. I just came back from the ruins, I was trying some new prayers for dealing with undead.” He said.
Interested in spite of herself, Elvalia looked at him enquiringly, “Buckshire Ruins?”
“No, the Arunakar ruins, in the desert, it was the closest place to find undead,” he answered.
“Oh those… I never go there, I’m not allowed,” she laughed.
“There are a lot of mummies wandering around those ruins,” he nodded.
“So I’ve heard,” she smiled, “Bron mentioned them.”
“She… enjoys going there it seems,” he said thoughtfully.
“Aala,” laughed Elvalia, “when you can tear her away from the Lynaeum.”
“Aye,” said Luther, “a most unusual elf.”
“Perhaps,” smiled Elvalia fondly, but nevertheless fixing him with a challenging look, “but she is my sister.”
“Aye,” he said, acknowledging the look, ”so… what passes for news these days? Things seem too quiet.”
“Aala, very quiet,” smiled Elvalia, “Not a great deal happening, and I can't say I mind.”
“I don’t know... I find the quiet… disturbing,” he said, “like the calm before a storm.” Then he chuckled, “Look at me, when it is calm, I cannot enjoy. Instead, I see shadows.”
Elvalia shrugged slightly, “I have given up worrying about things I cannot change.”
“There is wisdom in that, still…,” he thought for a moment, “no, your idea is best. Perhaps it is time to make some bags. I have not done that in a long while.”
“Aala,” she said, smiling happily, “we can all use time like this for other things.”
Luther nodded, still looking grim, then looked up at someone behind her just as she turned at the sound of approaching footsteps. She looked shocked as she realised who it was, inwardly thinking, “Gods… not now!”
“Hello my love,” said Thorfin.
Elvalia’s head snapped round quickly towards Luther, who sat there chuckling, “Something you are not telling me?” He laughed, nodding to Thorfin behind her. Struck speechless, going redder by the second, she watched as he stood and bowed, “Greetings, I am Luther,” he said to Thorfin. Looking with a broad smile at Elvalia, he continued, “I suppose that explains your sunny disposition?”
As she listened to Thorfin exchanging greetings behind her she could do nothing but close her eyes briefly and clear her throat, wishing she could disappear.
“Hello sir,” said her suitor, bowing, “I am Thorfin Ginfalin.”
Elvalia turned to smile up at him, happy to look anywhere but at Luther, who she was well aware was still staring at her.
“Well met, Thorfin,” said the monk, “I take it you are a friend of Elvalia here?”
Thorfin smiled down at her affectionately, a smile she returned happily, and looked at the monk, “Aala, I would like to think so.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia, “still gazing at him, “he is.”
Behind her, Luther nodded, “Yes… well… I must finish my prayers and let you two catch up.”
“Please, don’t leave on my account Luther,” said Thorfin pleasantly.
Elvalia turned to look at the monk, inwardly hoping he would disappear, and giving him a look which plainly said as much. She sagged slightly with relief as the monk glanced at her, clearly hiding his amusement, before answering Thorfin. “Oh, I was headed to Port Royale anyway, to see a tailor about some skins,” he smiled, “be well you two.”
“Nice meeting you,” said Thorfin politely.
“Aala,” be safe Luther,” said Elvalia.
As the monk left, closing the door behind him, Elvalia exhaled explosively, then smiled shyly as Thorfin bent to kiss her lightly on the cheek. “Are you well my love?” He asked.
“Yes,” she said quietly, gazing at him as he took a seat beside her, “more so now.”
“It makes me very happy to hear you say that,” he smiled, “you are looking radiant as usual.”
Elvalia began to redden slightly, wondering why the room suddenly seemed a lot warmer, “Thank you, you are very kind.”
As he looked around the room for a moment she stared at him surreptitiously, still slightly disbelieving that this was happening to her.
Turning to look at her once more he smiled, “I speak the truth,” he said, causing her to blush once more.
“Yes… I know,” she said quietly.
“What have you been up to since our last meeting?” He asked.
Thinking it was probably best if she didn’t relate her conversation with Bronwyn, she merely smiled, “Not a great deal… marking time.”
“I must confess that time seems to slow down when I am not with you,” he nodded.
Surprised that anybody could be feeling the same way as her, Elvalia glanced at him sharply, “Indeed it does,” she said, smiling, “the days seem longer.” As she spoke she noticed the affection in his eyes as he watched her speak, watched her every move and, just for a moment, held his gaze.
“Now that I am with you again all is right in my world.” He said
Elvalia blinked rapidly, “I know what you mean,” she smiled. She stared at him as he continued.
“I keep asking myself, how I can be so lucky, over and over again,” he said.
“Aala,” came the softly spoken reply.
“You seem so perfect, I can not believe that no one has spoken for you,” he said, smiling warmly at her.
Elvalia laughed softly, “You yourself gave me some of the reasons for that,” she said fondly.
“There is no woman in the land like you, you are a diamond among the stones,” he said, returning the fondness. As Elvalia stared back at him, plainly captivated, he continued with a smile, “perhaps you are not for the faint of heart.”
For a long moment Elvalia just stared at him, then burst into laughter, “You are probably right,” she said, “but I did warn you.”
“But risk is a part of life, is it not?” He asked
“Aala… it is,” she replied, still amused but gazing at him happily.
“Without risk,” he continued, “there is no growth, no excitement.”
“No gain…” she said softly.
“Indeed ... “ he said, “perhaps the greater the risk the greater the potential gain?”
Elvalia just looked at him, her eyes widening slightly as she realised the import of his words. At last she blushed, and in a voice which was barely above a whisper, said, “I would say so… yes.”
For what was probably only a minute or so, but to her at the time seemed so much longer, they just sat, Thorfin calmly looking at her, and she unable to tear her eyes away from him.
“Elvalia,” he said at last, “have you thought about my offer to you at all?”
“Your offer?” She asked, still unable to look anywhere else, not really thinking, and slightly confused at having to answer a question.
“If you would allow me to pay court to you?” He reminded her.
She blinked, as he smiled at her indulgently, “Oh! That offer.”
Remembering that this was the entire reason for his being here, she at last looked away and smiled shyly, “Indeed I have.” She said quietly.
Thorfin sat watching her closely, barely aware of anything else, not that it would be true to say she was either.
“Aala,” she said softly, beginning to blush once more.
For the first time since they had met, it was Thorfin’s turn to express surprise as he blinked, momentarily taken aback, “Aala?”
Then he smiled, and reached out to take her hand, and kissed it softly, “Thank you my love.”
Elvalia turned to look at him wide eyed, then at last smiled, “No… thank you.”
They sat looking at each other once more, Elvalia still feeling as if she were elsewhere watching, Thorfin, with his eyes sparkling in delight.
“All I can think of to say is… I love you,” as Elvalia began to blush once more he continued, smiling, “I want to tell you over and over, until you get tired of hearing it”
At long last, Elvalia looked openly into his eyes, “I… I love you too Thorfin,” she breathed, swallowing hard.
Thorfin stood, and gently pulled her by the hand from her chair, and embraced her, holding her very lightly, “Thank you my love,” he said.
Looking more stunned than ever, Elvalia awkwardly returned the embrace, and smiled shyly, “You are most welcome.”
For a long while they stood there that way, not wanting to break the contact, Elvalia still struggling to hide her disbelief. At last, Thorfin released her, kissing her lightly on the cheek as he did so. Shakily, in both cases it would be true to say, they resumed their seats.
Still in shock, Elvalia turned to stare at him once more.
“You have a profound effect on me my love,” said Thorfin, in matter of fact manner.
Almost giving in to a fit of laughter, Elvalia merely smiled back at him, “I think it would be true for me to say the same… my love.”
“I am very tempted to cast everything in my life away so that I might spend all my time with you,” he said.
“In truth, I have felt the same way,” she said, at last beginning to compose herself and smiling at him a little more confidently.
He looked back at her in surprise and she laughed softly.
“Why so surprised?” She asked.
“To find you was amazing enough, to find you to be interested in me as well is almost overwhelming,” he answered.
She smiled warmly at him, a little amused, “I would not have said yes, if I were not interested,” she said.
He smiled and nodded, “It is still sinking in.”
She returned the smile warmly, green eyes shining, studying his features as he let his eyes drift over her admiringly. “Indeed it is,” she said, once more unable to look away. Finally, as the looks grew more and more affectionate, she reached out and he took it in his, grasping it firmly but tenderly.
“That gentleman, Luther…” he said, his eyes still locked on hers, “Is he a friend of yours?”
“Aala,” she smiled, as equally intent on him, “just a friend, nothing more.”
Thorfin nodded, “He seemed very nice, is he a tailor?”
Elvalia laughed softly, “He is a monk of Asashi, you know of it? It lies very near Ferein.”
Aware that he was squeezing her hand gently, she smiled affectionately at him, “Ah yes,” he said, they buy many barrels from us… the monks are accomplished brewers.”
Elvalia nodded slowly, “Tell me my love… your father’s business…”
“Aala?” He said, curiously
Careful to ensure that he got the impression that she cared neither way what his answer might be (which much to her own surprise, she didn’t) Elvalia looked into his eyes, “Do you mean to continue in it? You said you did so from tradition rather than any love for it.”
“I will probably always be involved with it in some way, though I do not see it becoming the focus of my life. My older brother will take over the business once my father tires of working.” He answered.
“Aala,” said Elvalia warmly, “you know of course what I do, there is some risk involved in my calling.”
“Yes,” said Thorfin, “but your work insures the safety of many.”
“Indeed it does,” said Elvalia, smiling, “though of course it means danger for me... and perhaps you.”
“I will accept you as you are my love,” said Thorfin, “to ask you to change would be to change the very thing I find so wonderful. And as I have said, I am no stranger to risk and danger… though perhaps not of the sort you are used to. I will adjust as need be, as I told you before, you will not scare me off.”
“Perhaps not,” smiled Elvalia, “though I would be honoured to have you at my side.”
“If there is danger we will face it together,” said Thorfin, “and the honour would be mine, my love.”
“No Thorfin... “ said Elvalia as he squeezed her hand tightly, “we will share it equally, as all else.”
“Would you like to take a walk?” Asked Thorfin suddenly, “perhaps we could sit on the grass outside?”
“I would like nothing better my love,” said Elvalia, smiling happily, “perhaps we could travel, there is a place I know and would share with you.”
“Of course, I would like that,” said Thorfin.
“Very well,” she said, smiling, “come then, we will catch the boat.”
A short time later, Elvalia tripped lightly down the gangplank of the boat and said softly over her shoulder, “This way my love.”
Leading the way swiftly along the track, she walked into Ladriel and led the way to the place she new so well. Laying her bow on the ground she sat in the grass and leant back against her favourite tree, smiling up at him. He looked at her intently for a few moments then sat down beside her.
“This has long been a favourite place of mine,” she said, smiling at him, “The sunsets here are quite enchanting, perhaps better than anywhere else I know.”
“Yes, it is nice here,” he said, before suddenly leaning forward and kissing her lightly on the lips. Her eyes shot wide open but she held the kiss for a moment before pulling away, blushing furiously. “Aala,” he said, “as enchanting as you.”
“My love…” said Elvalia, slightly disconcerted, “there is something I would have you know. This… this sort of thing is all new to me. There is no doubt in my mind, please don’t think that, but I would go slowly.”
“To me as well, my love,” he said, “I have not thought of pressuring you in any way, I would like to take time with this as well. If at anytime, you feel my behaviour is too forward, please let me know.”
Elvalia’s eyes shone as she smiled broadly back at him, “That is exactly the answer I expected, you honour me my love.”
As he took hold of her hand and kissed it affectionately, she gently pulled it away and reached for a bundle that had been slung on her shoulder, “So much so,” she said, “that I would honour you. I have something for you. This belonged to a friend, a very good friend, to myself and my sister, who is now with our Lord. I offered it to Bronwyn, but it is beyond her skill, much as I believe she would cherish it. I do not believe she would object, if I were to give it to you, I am sure you will look after it and use it well.”
She held out the bundle in both hands and watched his eyes for a reaction as he unfastened the meticulous wrapping. “It will serve you well I believe, as indeed it did myself, and Bronwyn for a short time.”
As he finished unwrapping the bow, Thorfin’s eyes widened as he strung it and tested its draw. “You honour me with this gift,” he said, looking stunned.
“It carries the blessing of our Lord,” said Elvalia, “which will help protect you. She stood on tiptoe and kissed him lightly on the cheek, “Take it with my love,” she said, “In the hope that my love will protect you also.”
“Every time I hold it I will think of you my love,” he said, still stunned, “I… I do not know what to say, you have taken me totally off guard.”
Elvalia looked down demurely, “I am honoured that you accept it.”
He gathered her up in his arms and planted a kiss on her forehead. “Surely you are the best thing that has ever happened to me,” he said.
Elvalia settled in his arms and buried her face in his chest, “Your love means so much to me Thorfin, you have no idea how much. There was a time, not long ago at all, when I believed something like this would never happen to me, but Bronwyn was correct, she said there was no way of knowing.”
“Your sister sounds wise,” he said, as she turned her back within his arms to watch the sun rise.
“Wiser I think than she knows herself,” said Elvalia, smiling fondly
“I hope to meet her someday,” he said.
“She said as much of you, you will like her,” said Elvalia, laughing softly before glancing up at him quickly, “not too much I hope.”
“It will be fun to meet your sister,” said Thorfin, is she like you?”
“More perhaps, than either of us realise,” said Elvalia thoughtfully, “and not just in looks. He r methods may be different. But perhaps she seeks the same end, I would hope so. Only time will tell.”
Thorfin tightened his grip on her slightly as she looked into his eyes and smiled, placing her hands over his. He kissed the top of her head and breathed in deeply. “I was thinking the same thing,” he said.
“We have many years ahead of us my love,” she said, “if Aros… and we… will it, we will spend them together.”
“Yes, we will be together always,” he said, and inhaled deeply once more, “Do you know your hair smells like jasmine blooming on a summer’s eve in Ferein?”
She blinked and looked up at him in surprise over her shoulder, allowing hi to kiss her lightly once more. “You have such a way with words my love,” she said, settling in his arms. There are those who would never believe this, you know?”
“What do you mean?” He asked, “My great fortune in finding you?”
“No,” she said, laughing softly, “that I could be in love.” |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Home at last
Posted: 03 Dec 2004 01:58 PM |
She paused for a moment and looked across at the tower, brushing the matted hair from her eyes. She could scarcely believe how hot this day had been. She carried very little and her armour weighed next to nothing but even so… Shouldering her bow she came to a decision and walked along the lake to her favourite spot, bending to test the water in the stream… ice cold, good.
Taking a last quick look around she pulled off her armour and dropped her things to the ground, jumping into the stream to bathe. Once she was clean of the sweat and dirt of the road she just lay, savouring the coolness and listening to the sounds of the wildlife around the lake. For an hour or so she remained that way, content for once just to idle. As the sun began to move towards the horizon she pulled herself out and dug in her pack and pulled out a loose fitting outfit, which she pulled on before stretching out on a rock to dry. So content and peaceful did she feel that she could almost have tranced here, something she rarely did outside in the wild, but then it was rare for her to feel as relaxed and secure as she did at that moment.
Her green eyes snapped open however and she sat up quickly, reaching for her bow as she heard footsteps approaching from the road. Then as she recognised the approaching figure she relaxed and smiled warmly, she might have known he would find her here.
“Greetings my dear, how does this day find you?” Said Thorfin with a smile.
Smiling warmly, she took his hands and reached up to kiss him lightly on the cheek, “Greetings my love, I am well thank you. And you? I trust you are well?”
“That is good to hear,” he said, “Indeed I am very well.”
“Good, I am glad,” she said, smiling affectionately, stepping back to realise that he was studying her carefully. She stood a little self-consciously under his gaze, wondering at it slightly.
“Is that your usual mode of attire?” He asked, “Does not the sun burn your fair skin?”
Looking down she realised that what she wore covered quite a bit less than she would normally have displayed and began to redden before looking back at him. “Not usual, no,” she said shyly, “I was bathing.
“Oh I see,” he said still studying her carefully.
A little disconcerted by the way he was looking at her and still blushing furiously, she looked up at him, “I would be happy to change, if it does not suit.”
“You are indeed beautiful…” he said, “ but it might be best if you changed.”
“Of course,” she said, smiling warmly, “I’ll be just a moment.”
She picked up her pack and ran behind a rock, searching her belongings quickly and inwardly cursing the fact that most of her clothing was in Buckshire. Ah… this would do. She pulled out her mithril shirt and dressed quickly, stepping back out to find him looking into the water.
“Better?” She said, as he turned toward her, “It is mithril, like my armour.”
“It’s very nice,” he said, looking into her eyes.
She returned the gaze and they stood there once more for a minute or so, immobile. These were feelings she was completely unused to. Every time she looked at his eyes she was lost, her mind seemed to empty. Not an uncomfortable feeling, to be sure, but disconcerting nevertheless. She was used to being in control. If not of the situation then at least in control of herself, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain even that.
“Just being close to you, I am feeling light-headed,” he said in that deep, melodic voice.
“Aala,” she said breathlessly.
“Perhaps we should walk, yes?” He said, “Some exercise will be good.”
“If you wish, my love,” she smiled warmly, picking up her belongings, “did you have somewhere in mind?”
“Nowhere special,” he said, as they began to walk, “just wherever our feet take us.”
“As you wish,” she said warmly.
As they walked off beside each other towards the road, Thorfin glanced at her, I hate to admit this,” he said, looking away as she tilted her head in reply, “but I do not trust myself to be alone with you.”
Elvalia stopped and stared at him, her eyes widening as she blushed furiously, “How… how can we be so alike? Those are my feelings.”
“Fate perhaps…” he said, smiling at her, “come, let’s walk.”
“Aala,” she said softly, shaking her head to clear it, Ferein perhaps? I have not been there for some days, if you are willing.”
He shook his head, smiling, “Not enough people there,” he said quietly, causing the fading blush in her cheeks to deepen once more.
As they began to walk once more the temperature, which had been cooling slightly as the sun fell ever lower, suddenly soared once more, as the sky became a deep angry red. Thorfin pulled suddenly at the neck of his robe as Elvalia stared upwards in dismay.
“It is so hot….” he said bemusedly as she exclaimed pointing at the sky. As they stood in shock, huge drops of fire began to fall from the sky, falling around them for as far as the eye could see.
“We must get to cover!” Shouted Thorfin at the very moment when Elvalia doubled up in pain, the land itself seeming to join with her body in a scream of pain. She fell to the ground and curled into a ball, clutching at herself in agony.
As huge balls of fire began to drop around them Thorfin threw himself on top of her, shielding her body with his own. Elvalia was by now in agony, tears of pain rolling down her cheeks as her face contorted in agony.
“Thorfin! It hurts!” She sobbed, “It hurts so much!”
“My love, what can I do?” He asked as she threw her arms around his neck, holding on for grim death. “You must get up my love!”
“The tower…” she gasped, “the tower… it is warded,” then screamed in agony.
Thorfin pulled himself to his feet and lifted her from the ground, holding her close to him as she continued to writhe in agony. Again she screamed, and yet again as he carried her quickly towards the tower, dodging the huge gouts of flame, which still fell from the sky.
He kicked open the door to the tower with his foot and ran inside, lowering her to the floor as she clung to his neck, still sobbing with agony.
“Any better?” He asked breathlessly, crouching over her and holding her tightly
“A little…” she gasped, “it is just so painful.”
They were both swept across the chamber then as a fireball burst through the door, flames enveloping their bodies and in Elvalia’s case adding to the agony she already felt. Pulling himself to his feet as flames licked over his clothing, Thorfin ran to a fountain, scooping water first over himself then using his helmet to gather enough to put out the flames, which licked over Elvalia where she lay once more, curled into a ball.
He staggered then to the door, closing it against the mayhem outside and sat shuddering close to where Elvalia lay sobbing fitfully.
“You were not joking,” he said shakily.
She reached for him and clung to him tightly once more, “Joking? Joking about what?” She sobbed, looking up at him.
“About being dangerous companion,” he said, smiling wryly.
She noticed that his skin was peeling badly from the burns and through her pain and tears pulled medications from her pack and applied what healing arts she had to making him well again.
“Thank you my love,” he said as she settled back to the floor.
The pain coursing through her seemed to have reached a peak, while still in agony she could manage at least to bear it. Realising at last what he said she looked at him a moment, “It’s not just me… not this time my love, nobody is after me this time.”
“You know, we must venture out,” he said, “others may need help. Can you travel?”
“Aala, I must change my armour though,” she said, looking around and realising that the door to the upper levels was sealed..
“I will turn away,” he said with a smile and turned his back as she pulled on her chain, griiting her teeth against the pain that still pulsed through her.
As she finished and looked towards him about to speak a fresh wave of flame and heat licked under the door, causing them both to back away. Glancing warily through the window they could see gouts of fire still pouring through the sky, and huge rents now opening up in the ground to spew out heat and fire.
“We should stay here,” she said, “I have a little magical protection but it will not last long against that.”
“We cannot,” he said, “we should leave and find others and work to stop this, even if we fall in trying.”
She looked at him for a moment, knowing he was right, yet at the same time reluctant to admit to herself that she was being too protective, both of herself and him.
“Aala,” she said finally, taking a deep breath.
“The boat will be here in six hours,” he said , looking out at the barely visible moon.
“We should at least wait that long then,” said Elvalia, “my magic will be enough to protect us as far as the dock, but it won’t last that long.”
As he nodded, she became aware that it was becoming quieter outside an risked opening the door a crack to look out. The rain of fire had stopped and the ground had resumed it’s normal appearance.
“It’s stopped,” she said, looking back at him and sighing slightly.
“Thank Aros,” said Thorfin, “that felt like a close call.”
“Aala,” she said, walking up to him and wrapping her arms around him tightly, “and you are safe.”
As he returned the embrace she stood on her toes and kissed him lightly on the cheek, “Thank you my love.”
“You are welcome,” he said, then paused, “for what?”
“For your strength,” she smiled up at him, “if not for you I would still be out there.”
“We need each other, my love.”
“Aala,” she said, looking into his eyes for a moment then kissing him passionately.
He was momentarily surprised but returned the kiss until she pulled back, blushing furiously.
“Perhaps we should head for the volcano… take a closer look,” he said, surprise still showing in his eyes.
“Aala,” she said, not a little surprised herself by what she had done. Stepping back she quickly cast what protections she could, but for once, not on herself, aiming them at him instead.
“My love, I would rather you protected yourself,” he said.
“You need it more,” she smiled, then lifted her bow, “besides, this is my protection. Come, let us go”
Warily ay first, but with increasing confience as they realised that whatever the distubance was had indeed ceased, at least for now, they passed quickly through Mirghul, skirting Midor to head for Fiirhallen. Though they encountered nothing more dangerous than a minor skirmish with bears and the usual kobolds in Mirghul, Elvalia was nonetheless impressed by what she saw, Thorfin, as he had said, knew how to take care of himself. There was no doubt about it in her mind, everything she saw and heard of this elf only increased her belief and her certainty.
They passed into the mountains and were surprised to encounter nothing more dangerous than crag cats and gnolls, the hill giants at least seemed to have ben affected by what happened and were either dead or in hiding, though there was little to show which.
They climbed the volcano and stood at a distance studying the crater, which to Elvalia’s eyes at least looked little different from usual.
“Do not go in,” she said, as Thorfin moved a little closer.
“I had hoped there would be something, some clue or who knows. I had not really thought about entering, do we dare?”
“Not willingly,” she shook her head, “I have no love for the servants of Naruth, nor they for me I suspect. Even so… “ she said looking around at the ground, “this is not right, no tracks, and no giants either.”
“But they are the ones we must spak to if we are to find out anything,” he said, watching her.
“Indeed,” she said, smiling back at him, “but would they tell us?”
“Hmm… they might taunt us,” he answered.
“Aala… or worse,” she said.
As the spoke they caught a flash of red near the crater and turned towards it, blinded monetarily by the fumes and smoke.
“Did you see that?” Asked Thorfin.
Before Elvalia had a chance to answer, a familiar figure came into view, clad as usual in red, matching her hair, and flexing her wings.
“That?” Said Ilyana, “I am not a that.”
As the priestess flashed a sickly sweet smile in their direction, Elvalia stood calmly, watching her, “Forgive him my lady,” she said, “he meant no offence.”
“I meant someone running,” said Thorfin with a confident smile, “the event, my lady, not the person.”
“I see,” said Ilyana, noting that Elvalia was still looking behind her, examining the crater, “does something here interest you?”
Turning her gaze back to the priestess, Elvalia said, “What happened, do you know? The explosion, the fire across the land.”
“Oh that,” shrugged Ilyana, a great influx of power into the temple.”
“Into?” Asked Elvalia, raising a brow.
“Yes, into, and elsewhere also,” said the priestess, “surely you know the cause.”
“I have an idea, yes,” smiled Elvalia.
As they spoke Thorfin had been watching first one then the other, intrigued by the interplay, noting this, Ilyana began to study him, preening herself. Thorfin looked away as Elvalia glanced back at him then turned back to Ilyana, smiling sweetly. A little discomfited, Ilyana forced herself to do the same.
“So... “ said Elvalia, amused despite herself, “what is your theory Lady?”
“It is no theory, the seal is broken,” said Ilyana.
“The wards,” said Elvalia, nodding slowly, “the wards…first earth and now fire.”
“When the fire seal broke,” said Ilyana, nodding in return, “a gigantic wave of magical energy was released. Some was channelled here, the bulk of it to Nethar’u.”
“Nethar’u? Why there?” Asked Elvalia.
“My Goddess is the Goddess of Fire, she decided it to be so,” answered Ilyana, smiling sweetly.
“How generous of her,” said Elvalia ironically.
“One of her favoured children lairs there from time to time,” said Ilyana.
“Indeed? I can’t say that surprises me,” said Elvalia, keeping the same sweet smile fixed on her face.
“Many of those in Nethar’u worship her,” shrugged Ilyana.
“I can’t say that surprises me either,” said Elvalia.
“Which is why I tell you,” said Ilyana with an enchanting smile.
Elvalia just raised a brow in amusement, not particularly concerned with Ilyana’s attempts at charm or any hidden menace.
“Anything else I can help with?” Asked the priestess, winking towards Thorfin, who merely stood with his eyes on the ground.
“Thank you my lady, I think we are done here,” he said, to the sound of Elvalia’s soft laughter.
Ilyana nodded to Elvalia respectfully, “You mate well Elvalia.”
“Aala,”said Elvalia, glancing fondly towards him, “indeed I do. Perhaps you had best retire to your temple, decide how you will avoid the water when the other two seals break.”
“It shall not invade here,” said Ilyana with a scowl.
“Perhaps a roof?” Said Elvalia, with a wry look at the open crater, “You wouldn’t want your fires to go out. If you are quick, it may even be ready in time.”
As Elvalia burst into laughter, they noticed the approach of somebody else through the mists.
“Ah… Arcane,” said Elvalia, controlling her laughter.
“Ah, this is more promising,” said Ilyana, patting her hair into place with an enchanting smile, “hello there dear.”
“She’s all yours,” said Elvalia, breaking out into laughter once more, “we will leave you to chat with my ‘lady’ here.”
Exchanging brief farewells with the now preening priestess and an uncomfortable looking paladin, the two elves descended back down the mountain and paused in the past to rest.
“You are very brave,” said Thorfin, looking at her, “I know that Ilyana is considered dangerous.”
“As are you,” she said, tilting her head, “you faced her, many would not have the courage.”
“Yes,” he smiled, “but I minded my manners.”
“You always do my love,” she smiled, kissing him lightly on the lips, “It’s one of the things I like about you.”
They loitered briefly to exchange greetings with others making their way to the volcano as they had done. As the travellers moved on, Elvalia turned once more to Thorfin.
“They did not appear inclined to talk,” she said.
“Perhaps,”said Thorfin, “but we did not really want their company in any case.”
“No?” Said Elvalia, raising a brow.
“No,” he answered, “I like being with you, I am selfish… I would have you all to myself.”
“I shall have to make sure you get what you want then,” she said, embracing him tightly, then speaking very quietly once more, “I love you.”
Somewhat taken aback he returned the embrace, “I love you Elvalia,” he replied.
She stepped back and looked at him, a warm smile on her face, but something more. Those who knew her well would have seen the fire in her eyes, a low glimmer that had not been present for some while.
“Well then,” she said, “where next my love?”
“Perhaps we could travel to the north,” he said, “I have heard there are many headed dragons there, near Buckshire, I have never seen one.”
“Aala,” she said, “the hydra. Perhaps then we should travel to the orc village first, they sell potions there that might help us.”
“Indeed,” he said, “a good plan!”
“Aala,” she laughed, “I do make them occasionally, not often.”
They travelled north then, fighting their way through bandits and wolves, Elvalia growing more impressed by his prowess with every minute.
“You are a fine warrior my love,” she said, as the walked through Icy Vale.
“I rather enjoy it, to tell the truth,” he said.
“Aala, there is no shame in that,” she smiled, “if one must fight then so be it.”
They walked slowly on to M’Gok Tukar, silently enjoying the moment of peace, and purchased the potions they had come for. As Elvalia stowed them away she turned to him and smiled.
“How many do you have?” She asked, noting that he was looking back at her intently and gazing back into his eyes.
“How many what?” He asked distractedly.
“Potions,” she said softly, maintaing the eye contact.
He didn’t answer, just pulled her to him and kissed her. Elvalia returning the kiss and not seeming to care about anything else.
At last, she puleed away from him slightly and looked around at the cavern and the glowering half-orcs. “You really do pick romantic places,” she laughed.
“Places?” He asked, caressing her cheek lightly with a finger, “we are in a place?”
“Aala,” she laughed and kissed him once more.
“Perhaps we should move on,” he said then, smiling down at her.
“Aala,” she said, and led the way out of the cavern and village and down into the farmlands.
As they walked towards the troll lands, Elvalia saw someone and paused as an elf ran towards them. Though she didn’t know him, he was obviously aware who she was and bowed respectfully, “My Lady Elvalia,” he said, “I bring a message for you, from the Council.”
“The Council?” She asked, curious but at the same time groaning inwardly.
“Aala,” he answered, handing her a fat sealed package.
Hesitantly, she broke the seal and opened it to find a brief message, along with a list of sirections and a finely wrought silver key.
A little confused, she looked at the messenger as Thorfin watched quietly. “What is this?” She asked, “Do you know what this is about?”
“I do not, My Lady,” he said with a quick smile, “I was merely asked to deliver the package and direct you to follow the directions contained within it. I’m sure all will become clear then.”
Nodding bemusedly, she watched as the messenger bowed once more and ran off.
“What is it?” Said Thorfin.
“I have no idea,” she said, “reading through the parchments once more, “but I must go to Ferein, will you come?”
“Aala, of course,” he smiled warmly, “perhaps I can help with whatever it is.”
They fought their way through the Gladden Hills, Elvalia noting despite her puzzlement over the message that Thorfin fought as bravely and well as he had elsewhere, and passed swiftly through Latonei and into Ferein. Following the directions, and still bemused slightly by the accompanying message, they came at last to a staircase hewn into a cliff face.
“I do not recognise this,” she said, looking up.
“Nor I,” said Thorfin, equally puzzled.
Elvalia walked slowly up the stairs, and passed through a door in the cliff and out onto the summit. She stopped dead, her eyes widening as she looked around. Thorfin climbed up beside her and stood looking around with an equally stunned expression.
“I have never been here,” he said, looking at Elvalia, who stood speechless, “where are we?”
Shakily she looked down and lifted the message which had been in the package, reading the words once more and understanding what they meant, ‘Eden is yours.’
Looking around once more, scarcely believing her eyes, she turned and looked up at Thorfin.
“It is my home,” she said, in a voice he could barely hear, “our home.”
Thorfin blinked and looked at her in surprise, “What did you say?”
Still in shock, Elvalia could barely speak, “It is my… our home, my love.”
Now equally stunned, Thorfin looked around once more, “You are toying with me.”
Eyes wide, she shook her head slowly and led the way across the green plateau through the trees, still unable to believe what she was seeing, marvelling at the surroundings, staring out across the Inner Sea, and back in the other direction over the whole of Ferein.
Then she spotted through the dark evening mists a platform, built on to the side of a cliff face, and moved closer to inspect it. Broad and solidly built, and supporting a house, her house.
She tore her eyes away from it as she spotted another marvel. An altar, beneath a large statue, the like of which she had never seen. He stood there, proud, bow in hand, watching over her and her home. She stood staring up at the face of the statue as Thorfin came up behind her.
“I had no idea,” he said quietly.
“Nor did I,” she said, beginning to weep silently and covering her face with her hands.
He gently led her towards the house as she dried her eyes and stood nervously looking at the door. “After you,” he smiled, gesturing her towards it.
She took the key, unlocking the door and led the way inside. As they stood looking around her shock caught up with her and she slumped to the floor, looking up at him silently.
He picked her up and, kissing her forehead, carried her over to one of the couches and gently set her down.
“It’s beautiful,” she said, shaking her head in disbelief, “I never dreamed…”
“Befitting who you are my love,” he said, smiling down at her. “have you recovered a bit?
“Aala,” she said, nodding jerkily, “a bit. It is your home too, or will be… you know that?”
“I don’t know what to say Elvalia, you are too kind,” he said
“You will be my mate, it is the way of things,” she said, looking up at him with the disbelief still showing in her eyes, “we share… as we share our hearts.”
“Traditionally you would move in with my family,” he smiled, “but I can see that will not be happening.”
“It does not seem so,” she said, with a warm smile, “what is yours is mone my love.”
“Thank you my love,” he said, “but this is yours, won by your hard labours.”
Elvalia focused on him then, looking at him intently, “Until our time is ended, I will be happy to share all I have with you,” she said, “we will be life partners… and it is my way at least.”
“It is an honour befitting you,” he said.
She shook her head slowly, still intent on him, “No Thorfin, you honour me. I am honoured that you want me for a life partner. Few would have had the courage to have even asked.”
“I am pleased that you feel that way,” he said, “it took no courage to ask you, I think we were meant for each other. It is the most natural thing in the world to speak to you.”
“No Thorfin,” she said, beginning to weep once more, “you do not understand. I have been alone before, for too long. I do not wish to spend the rest of my days in that way. Being alone is all well and good, but there is a difference between that and being lonely.”
He pulled her up and into his arms where she hid her face in his chest, “Do not cry my love,” he said, “kissing the top of her head, “you need never be alone again, unless you wish it.”
She looked up at him through her tears, “Never… never will I wish it again,” she said, “you were right, we are meant for each other.”
She reached up and kissed him tenderly, as he gently wiped the tears away, and they stood there for a long while, lost in each other until at last they both puled away and stood looking at each other.
“I think I need to compose myself,” he said, “it would be wise to catch our breaths, yes?”
“Aala,” she said, “but this is not easy.”
“Indeed, I could not agree more, you are like strong drink to my senses,” he said, obviously disturbed. “Perhaps we should be on our way, and visit the hydra as we planned.”
“We had better go, yes,” she said, composing herself.
They walked through the door of the house, Elvalia locking it behind her, and stood once more looking around Eden.
“Wonderful,” said Elvalia,” wandering over to the pools and gently stroking a white stag that drank there, “I am not worthy of this.”
“That is not so,” said Thorfin gently, “do not say such foolish things.”
Looking away from the stag, she stood, awestruck, watching as the sun began to set. She felt his arm around her waist and leant back against him contentedly as they watched, unmoving, until the moon at last appeared above the horizon.
She looked up at him then and smiled tenderly, breaking away, “Come my love, let us go.”
As he nodded, they walked towards the stair where Elvalia turned for a last look, unable to tear herself away. “I do not deserve all this,” she said, shaking her head slowly.”
“Then give it back,” he said, with a deep laugh.
“No! Never!” She cried, joining in the laughter. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Traditions
Posted: 04 Dec 2004 09:55 AM |
With a last disbelieving shake of her head, Elvalia followed Thorfin down the stairs from Eden and into Ferein where the stood for a few moments just savouring the air and each other’s presence. Elvalia breathed deeply and inwardly smiled. But a short week ago she would scarcely have believed that any of this would happen. That within the space of just those few days she would have not just a partner who was everything she needed, but also a home. That said, time with him seemed to be at a premium, there were other things that needed doing, she still had her vow to Aros to think of, and her people. She still had to deal with situations like that which had occurred but moments ago.
It was not unusual for others to come to her for aid, despite the aloofness she showed to many, indeed cultivated it would be true to say. There were still many who knew of her abilities and sought her out. Like Alton had done. She sighed imperceptibly as she thought back over the encounter. Others had fallen, to a lich of all things, and Alton had come for her assistance in mounting a rescue, knowing he would be unable to survive alone.
Elvalia had refused, to Alton’s obvious disappointment, a mood made a little more bitter by the fact that she had assisted in the past in different situations. It was things like this that gave her the reputation for disliking other races, not that it worried her unduly. But, when all was said and done, she followed Aros, and Aros himself had forbidden her to go near undead, no matter what the situation. Those who knew her well would accept her reasons, others… well they found it harder to accept.
Mentally shrugging her shoulders she turned to look at Thorfin, who seemed, like her, to be mulling over what had happened in his mind. To her surprise, and happiness, there had been no condemnation of her actions, just agreement and understanding. There was no doubt about it, less by the minute; this was the elf for her.
Whatever it was that was showing in her eyes, and even now she was unsure how she was sending the signals, it certainly had an effect on him as he realised she was watching him. One look at her was enough for him to gather her up and begin kissing her once more, kisses she accepted and returned with equal emotion.
“You had better stop looking at me like that my love,” he said, looking down as he held her in his arms.
“I cannot help it,” she murmured, smiling.
“We will not be able to keep our vows if this keeps up,” he said, beginning to kiss her once more.
At last, they once more pulled away from each other.
“Shall we walk a bit?” Asked Thorfin.
“We may as well,” she said with a smile, “now we’ve missed the boat.” The conversation with Alton had indeed been a long one.
With a last glance back to where her home lay and a brief, happy smile in his direction, Elvalia began to walk, not particularly caring at that moment where her feet took her.
“Elvalia?” Came the deep, melodic voice from just behind her.
“Aala?” She answered, turning to look at him.
“I love you,” he said, taking her in his arms once more.
Blushing, she wrapped her arms tenderly around his neck, “Aala,” she said softly, “I love you too.”
“Do you think we’ll ever be alone for long?” He asked her, in between little kisses.
“I’m afraid it’s one of the things you’ll have to get used to my love,” she said, laughing softly.
“I was just curious,” he said, “I shall have to steal my kisses in between visits.”
“There are times when we can be alone,” she said, returning his kisses, “We have a lifetime.”
“I am not troubled,” he continued, “it seemed funny to me.”
Elvalia smiled up at him sadly, “For somebody who has always felt alone, I have little time like it, to be honest.”
“That seems odd on the surface…” he said, “but the deeper meaning is plain.”
“I feel alone even among company,” she said, “I think sometimes Bron feels the same.”
“It is not that uncommon to those that see under the surface of things, “ he said, thoughtfully.
“What do you mean my love?” She said, looking at him curiously.
“That people who have the ability to look deeply into life find most relationships to be superficial,” he said, “and often find themselves alone in a crowd.”
Elvalia tilted her head and looked at him silently for a moment, “Aala... you are right,” she said quietly.
“It can be hard to connect deeply with another,” he continued, “many don't wish to, it is too much of a risk.”
“Happily,” she said, smiling warmly, “it is not impossible.”
“And the rewards are great,” he said, returning her smile, “and worth any risk entailed.”
“Aala,” she said, looking into his eyes, “they are. I told you once before that you were wise, I was right. You will be good for me, I think.”
“And you for me my love,” he said, gathering her up once more to kiss her.
“I need to walk again,” he said, as they finally broke away from each other, “I feel light-headed from being so close to you.”
“I think the sooner this courtship is ended the better,” she laughed, “for both of us.”
“Yes… that is the truth,” he said, wryly, “let us go and sit down and talk on this subject more.”
“Aala,” she said, looking back towards Eden, “by my pool?”
“I do not trust myself up there,” he said, a little awkwardly, “not the way I feel now.”
“No,” she said, blushing slightly, “I know a place.”
She led the way to the Mother’s garden, bowing before her and continuing a little deeper to sit by one of the falls.
“So, my love,” he said, as she smiled warmly at him, “the traditional time for a courtship is a year and a day. Is that what you were thinking of?”
Elvalia blinked and looked at him in surprise, for such an ardent defender of everything elven; due to her early life she was curiously ignorant of the customs and traditions of her people. ”A year and a day?” She asked
“That is what I thought you meant,” said Thorfin, “it is a reasonable amount of time.”
“I had not realised it would be so long,” said Elvalia, frankly stunned.
“That is not very long in our life times my love,” he said, smiling gently.
“Perhaps not...” she said, “but even so, we have known each other for how long? I can barely control myself now, I will need to be locked up.”
“That is why I thought it best for us to talk about this,” he said quietly, “I think we will need to back off the kissing somewhat to meet this goal.”
“Indeed... I think we should talk too,” said Elvalia, not really having heard what he had just said, “I'm not sure I can wait that long.”
Then realisation hit her and she looked at him, eyes wide, totally shocked, “No kissing? You had best call a guard, they will need to lock me up now!”
Thorfin looked at her steadily, “It is the right thing to do in our culture,” he said, “Some kissing, but I think we are tempting ourselves to go further. Do you agree, or is it only me?”
“Oh I agree,” she said, fidgeting uncomfortably, “does it have to be that long?”
Now it was Thorfin’s turn to blink in surprise, “I ... I am not sure,” he said, as she looked at him intently, “If you wish I can ask my father, he will know.”
“You... you are sure this is what you want?” Said Elvalia.
“As far as I know that is what is considered proper,” said Thorfin, confused.
“I mean me...” said Elvalia, bluntly, “not the length of time.”
“I do want you my love,” said Thorfin, slightly confused, “very much.”
“Good...” said Elvalia, and I want you, so why wait?”
“I was under the impression that is what you wanted,” he answered, still bemused, “you did say you wanted to wait, didn’t you?”
“Yes,” she said, “until we are wed, that is true. But if we are sure... why wait for that? Why wait to wed, if we are both sure?”
Suspicion hit her then and her eyes narrowed in a gaze she was almost famous for, “You do wish to marry me don’t you?”
Unperturbed, he looked back at her, “I thought I had made that clear,” he said.
As Elvalia watched from where she sat he rose to his knees and knelt before her.
“Elvalia will you be my life's mate?” He asked, “I would be honoured if you would share your life with me.”
The look of suspicion on her face was now replaced by one of utter surprise as she jumped to her feet and stood looking down at him agape, blushing furiously.
“You do not have to answer now,” he continued, holding her gaze as he stood also.
Elvalia just stood, looking at him silently for a long moment, then looked down briefly as he took both her hands in his. She looked up at him with shining eyes.
“I would be honoured to share my life with you Thorfin Ginfalin, and be your life mate,” she said, somehow never having been more certain of anything in her life.
He kissed her gently before they once more resumed their sitting positions opposite one other.
Coming down from her cloud, Elvalia looked at him and said plaintively, “So we can get married now?”
Thorfin sat there once more dumbfounded, “I… I… yes,” he stammered.
Realising what he thought she meant, Elvalia said hurriedly, “I meant it’s alright for us to get married… isn’t it? We don’t have to wait for a year now?”
As Thorfin still sat there speechless, she continued, beginning to babble and laughing idiotically, ”I didn't mean now right this minute, but now we can... yes?”
Realising at last what she meant, Thorfin said simply, “Aala.”
Elvalia let out an explosive breath of relief, “Thank Aros for that!” She exclaimed.
Thorfin just sat in shock, clearly overtaken by events and struggling to contain his surprise as Elvalia watched him quietly for a moment.
Then realisation hit her and her eyes widened as she clapped a hand over her mouth, “Gods! I’m getting married! Bron will have kittens!”
“Kittens?” He asked, blinking.
“Aala,” she laughed, “it’s a saying, or at least I think so. Though one can never be sure with her.”
“I do not think you are as traditional as I thought, Elvalia,” said Thorfin, still a little overwhelmed.
“Oh. I am, or at least I think so,” she said, “fiercely so in a lot of ways. It’s just that in this case I see no point in waiting so long for no reason.”
“There are reasons,” smiled Thorfin indulgently, “I do not mind putting them aside.”
“But if they are important to you… or your family,” she said, “I will listen.”
“It allows time for a couple to really get to know each other,” said Thorfin, many things can change over the course of our lives and many feel a year to be the least amount of time one should spend on a courtship. Indeed, I have heard of couples who spend several years in this stage.”
Elvalia had been on the point of saying she felt she had known him a lifetime already, but instead just looked at him in surprise, “Really? Did they not love each other then?”
“I think they did,” he smiled, “this is a wonderful time of discovery and some choose to prolong it as long as possible.”
“But what is there to discover if you can’t even kiss?” She asked, bemused.
“Each couple makes their own rules about this,” said Thorfin.
“Oh… I see,” she said slowly and thoughtfully, “So… some couples…” she shook her head in disbelief.
“I felt we were moving faster than we had intended at the outset,” said Thorfin.
“Too slow if you asked me,” muttered Elvalia under her breath.
“Did you say something my love?” Asked Thorfin.
“Oh,” she said, taken of guard, “yes, I think we have taken all the time we need.”
She shook her head in amazement once more, “But several years! Without kissing! How can they find out they love each other?”
“Love is not just about kissing,” he said, looking faintly surprised, “getting to know each other is very important.”
“Aala,” she smiled, “I know you, you know me, and we love each other, that's it.”
“So…” he said, “when would you like to get married?”
“Soon,” she said, “I suppose it depends on what arrangements need to be made. It would need to be here I suppose. We should see the High Priestess. I would imagine you know more of these things than I most likely.”
”We could get married the way our ancestors did,” he said, “just repeat ‘I marry you’ three times to each other and it is done.”
Elvalia looked at him, surprised once more. “I thought I was the one in a hurry,” she said, smiling wryly.
“I thought you did not have that sort of speed in mind,” he said, smiling, “I would not do that. It feels that things are coming at me in a rush ... I am trying to take everything in. Remember, a few hours ago I thought we were waiting a year.”
“I understand,” she nodded, smiling affectionately, “this is our marriage, Thorfin, not mine, we share it. We will ask the High Priestess here.”
“Aala,” he said. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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E silmma aey
Posted: 06 Dec 2004 09:10 AM |
((OOC – with thanks to Trishy for permission to reproduce the songs… and to Macha Sparrowsong for singing them so beautifully… screenshots are here: Benny's Vives Pics))
The arrowhead blazed with enchantment, and with a vicious hum the arrow left her bow to join the others that had transfixed the ettin through the heart, sending it tumbling to the ground.
She lowered her bow and smiled in grim satisfaction, the fire in her green eyes dimming as she relaxed. She stood motionless for a moment, listening for others, but there were none; the wood was clear.
Casting a brief eye over herself for wounds, she smiled, this chain was fine! Not so much as a scratch.
With a last quick look round she shouldered her bow and strolled lightly off towards Brandibuck, humming softly to herself as she went. Time to continue the journey back to Eden. No boat today, but no matter, a chance to walk through the lands for a while… perhaps even pay the trolls in Gladden a visit on the way.
She wandered through the village, still humming, seeming to the halflings who glanced at her or greeted her as she passed as if she hadn’t a care in the world. Inwardly, far from it, listening closely to everything around her, any change in the day-to-day sounds, eyes roving ceaselessly in search of approaching danger. Elvalia was well aware that there were plenty who would be glad to end her existence.
The door to the apothecary opened, Elvalia’s eyes snapped in that direction, hand reaching for her bow. Then relaxed, eyes widening and a broad, fond smile appearing on her face.
“Elvalia!” Called Thorfin, moving quickly over to gather her in an embrace.
“Hello my love,” she said, returning the embrace.
“How did you find me way out here?” He asked.
“I was just passing on my way home when I saw you leave Drugo’s,” she smiled.
“That was a stroke of luck!” He said.
“Aala!” She smiled happily, “You are well my love?”
“Aala, never better,” he smiled back, “how have you been?”
“I have never felt better in my life,” she said, smiling back at him with shining eyes.
As he smiled broadly back at her, the look on her face changed to mild concern as she noticed some bruising and freshly healed cuts. Looking closer she saw too one or two manticore spikes stuck in his robes.
“You were injured?” She asked, frowning slightly.
“Just a scratch, my love, nothing to worry about,” he smiled.
“Aala, very well,” she nodded doubtfully. “I have something for you by the way, the idea came to me as we travelled together.”
As she removed her pack from her shoulder and dug around in it, she continued, “I use one myself and it helps me a great deal, I thought I would buy you one as I knew you cannot get it yourself.”
As she spoke she pulled out the amulet she had travelled to Ka’azim for and handed it to him tenderly, “I use mine all the time, it is most useful, the enchantment lasts for half a day, and even without it, the amulet will give you added protection.”
He took the amulet and clasped it around his neck, “Thank you my love, I do not know what to say, it is very kind of you to give me this.”
“You need say nothing,” she said, throwing her arms around him and kissing him, “I need you alive, Thorfin.”
“I am very careful my love,” he said, returning the kiss.
“Aala… but one cannot be too careful, I do not want to have to lock you up to keep you safe,” she said.
As he looked down at her slightly surprised she looked back into his eyes, “I have missed you Thorfin.”
“And I you love,” he smiled.
“I… I do not feel complete without you,” she smiled shyly.
“What do you mean ceela?” He asked, a little confused.
“Like part of me is missing when you are not with me,” she said quietly.
“That must be an odd feeling,” he smiled, “you must stay with me then, no going away.”
“I do not intend to,” she said, staring into his eyes, “would you like to travel the desert once more?
“I do not mind,” he smiled, “I would follow you anywhere.”
“And I you,” she said quietly, blushing.
“Did you have a destination in mind,” he asked, smiling gently.
“I thought we could travel to Buckshire,” she said, “we may meet my sister… she lives there and you said you would like to meet her. That is if you still wish to of course. If you do not wish it, it matters not”
“I see…” said Thorfin, “have you arranged a meeting with her?”
“We do not normally arrange to meet,” said Elvalia, “I know where she normally travels though.”
“If you desire it, we will do it,” he said, smiling warmly.
“Aala,” she said, smiling back, “come then, you can test your amulet.”
As it developed the trip, though not arduous for Elvalia in normal circumstances, was far easier than even she anticipated, meeting Shalee Windwalker and Daimon en route.
After exchanging pleasantries and polite conversation upon arrival in Buckshire the two were once more left in each other’s company. A situation with which both were becoming increasingly comfortable.
“Now,” said Elvalia, smiling thoughtfully, “where should she be? We may meet other friends of mine, Buckshire seems to be popular with most of them.”
“It would be good to meet your friends,” he said.
She smiled warmly at him and kissed him lightly, “You fought well my love.”
“I did almost nothing,” he said modestly, “except make sure Shalee did not fall behind, she is a bit slower than the rest of us, I think. I would not like to see someone with me fall.”
“Aala,” she said proudly, “it is enough, and it shows care. I admit I tend to run in front, though normally to clear the way.”
“I will follow you so I can keep an eye on things,” he said with a broad smile.
“Thank you my love,” she said, blushing.
“I like it when you blush,” he said, “it is very endearing.
“Somehow I can’t help it when you are around,” she said with a shy smile, “it is not something many see me do, that is for certain.”
“You mean wiggle? Or blush?” He asked.
“Wiggle?” She said, reddening rapidly.
“Aala, you know… when you walk,” he grinned. “It’s nice.”
Elvalia blinked rapidly, “Oh my…” she said, “well, if you like it, I suppose it’s alright.”
“Indeed,” he said, struggling not to laugh, “it is wonderful.”
“I shall have to start following you,” she said, seriously.
“That would not be fair,” he said.
“Why not?” Said Elvalia, frowning slightly.
“You would spoil my view,” he said, smiling broadly.
“Oh…” she said, blushing furiously then turning to walk away. As he followed she looked back over her shoulder laughing softly, “Well… feast your eyes.”
“Indeed I will,” he laughed.
Shaking her head slightly in amusement Elvalia crossed the stream and headed towards the Trading Post, planning on heading towards the Lynaeum, where she knew there would be a good chance of finding her sister. She glanced up the hill and paused, “Oh…” she said, looking once more towards Thorfin, “Macha. You may know her… she knew your name at least. An old friend of mine.”
“I do know her in fact,” said Thorfin, “she is very kind.”
“Aala… she is,” said Elvalia, noting that Daimon was there also, “but she is talking, perhaps we should not interrupt.”
“Interrupt if you like,” called out Daimon.
“Hello laanaelam,” said Macha smiling, as Elvalia climbed the hill, and then smiled wider, “Sir Thorfin.”
Elvalia and Thorfin greeted her in kind.
“Are you both well?” Asked Macha.
“Aala,” said Elvalia.
“Lady Macha,” smiled Thorfin, “good to see you again.”
“Sir Thorfin, it has been far too long,” smiled Macha, “it’s nice to see you gain as well. I promise not to talk your ears off this time, aala?” Then she laughed softly, “Or perhaps I shouldn’t promise.”
“I do not mind,” said Thorfin politely, “you always have something interesting to say.”
”Well,” said Macha, smiling, “I am glad you remember me fondly then. Shall we sit?”
“I hope we are not interrupting,” said Thorfin, taking a seat on the grass as Elvalia sat close beside him laying her bow beside her.
“No,” said Macha, “we were just talking of clothing.”
“This is a nice spot,” said Thorfin, looking around.
“Aala,” said Macha, “it is one of my favourite places, I come here often, especially when I want to speak privately with someone.”
“We have some news,” said Thorfin, changing the subject abruptly, “we are to be married.”
“You… and… Elvalia?” Asked Daimon, raising an eyebrow.
“Aala,” smiled Thorfin, taking a blushing Elvalia’s hand.
“It seems everyone is married these days,” grinned Daimon.
“That is wonderful news,” said Macha, beaming, “congratulations, I am very happy for you. I will never be married, I think, but you both seem happy about it.”
Elvalia and Thorfin agreed without hesitation.
“It gives me a place to sing at,” said Macha, turning to Elvalia.
“Aala,” said Elvalia, smiling warmly, “I am sure you know a song or two that would suit.”
“Perhaps when I stop fighting,” smiled Macha, “I will begin travelling and performing at peoples functions instead, and writing them songs. I will try to write some happy ones, but yes… most of my songs are about love.”
“Oh…” she continued, shaking her head, “but that’s such nice news, it’s good to hear of something happy for a change
“I have yet to hear you sing,” said Thorfin.
“Really, Sir Thorfin?” Asked Macha, “I'm sure you will hear it eventually, I do it often enough.”
“So,” said Macha, “When is this wedding… and where?”
“Good question,” laughed Elvalia, glancing at Thorfin.
“Here in Buckshire,” said Thorfin, seriously, “Alton will…”
“No!” Said Elvalia, dimly aware that she was the subject of a little amusement on the part of the others.
“Well,” said Macha, “I won't be able to attend the ceremony if it is in Ferein. But most certainly I will sing at the festivities after, aala?”
“Aala,” smiled Elvalia, “you will be most welcome Macha.”
“We have not come to an agreement on the details yet,” said Thorfin, as Daimon stood and excused himself.
After they had said their farewells, the subject returned to the wedding, with Thorfin making increasingly wild suggestions as to where it should take place and who should conduct the ceremony, all strenuously rejected by Elvalia, aware that she was being teased mercilessly by both Thorfin and Macha. Arcane, who had arrived in the meanwhile, sat watching and listening, a little bemused
“I think I am getting a headache,” said Elvalia at last, holding her head.
“Now… we shouldn’t tease Elvalia,” smiled Macha, “she might shoot us.”
“Do you think she would?” Asked Thorfin.
“She might,” nodded Macha, glancing at Arcane.
“No…” said Elvalia, looking into Thorfin’s eyes, “I think you are safe.”
“She has already shot me in the heart,” said Thorfin to Macha.
“Aala,” said Elvalia, blushing and smiling shyly, and you survived.
All four fell silent for a few minutes as the sun fell behind the hills, soon to be replaced by a rising full moon.
“When is the wedding then?” Asked Macha at last.
“Soon I hope,” said Elvalia, smiling fondly at Thorfin.
“Aala…” he said, smiling back, “soon.”
“Well,” said Macha, “if you need any help, laalaenam, let me know, aala?”
“Aala Macha,” said Elvalia, “I will.”
“Pretty night,” said Thorfin, looking around the few buildings as Macha looked up at the moon and smiled.
“Aala,” said Elvalia quietly, squeezing his hand gently.
“I like it here, are you sure you want to get married in Ferein?” He asked.
“I don’t think we will have much choice,” she smiled, “given who I am.”
“We have any choice we want,” he said, seeming serious at last, “we could find a priest and get married now.”
As Elvalia just stared at him for a moment, Macha laughed softly, “Under the moon! I have the perfect song for that.”
Still Elvalia did not speak, but sat watching Thorfin for a little longer, thinking back to one of their earlier conversations.
“There is another choice,” she said quietly, at last, then smiled, “the way of our people of old. We would not need a priest for that.”
Aware of the change in her friend’s tone, Macha tilted her head slightly as Thorfin looked at Elvalia and smiled.
“That would be significant, aala?” Said Macha, “Given who you are, Elvalia, a return to old traditions.”
Slightly shaken by her own thoughts, but determined, Elvalia kept her eyes on Thorfin, looking at him intently.
Becoming aware of the direction things were going Macha laughed softly and said quietly, “I think it is tradition that elven women warn their potential friends and loved ones of their impending doom.”
Not reacting, Elvalia continued to concentrate on Thorfin then, barely whispering, said, “You are sure?”
“Aala,” he said, looking back equally seriously, “are you sure?”
Coming to a final decision faster than she would have believed possible herself, Elvalia nodded firmly, “Aala, Macha can witness and sing.”
Realising what had happened Macha covered her mouth briefly in surprise, “My word will not stand in Ferein,” she said quietly.
“Your word is enough for me sister,” said Elvalia quietly, still looking at Thorfin, “If it is good enough for him.”
Thorfin just smiled.
“And besides,” continued Elvalia, glancing at Arcane, “we have a paladin here, I have heard they cannot lie.”
“Sir Arcane,” said Thorfin, “will you witness our wedding.”
As the paladin nodded a slightly stunned Macha looked at Thorfin and Elvalia then smiled and shrugged slightly, “Alright then, a wedding it is,” she said, smiling. “Right now then? I have a gold ring, is that a custom in Ferein, Elvalia?”
“I am unsure,” said Elvalia, “Thorfin may no better I think.”
“The rings are a human custom,” he said, “many in Ferein have taken to it though.”
“Then we will start a new one,” said Elvalia, still looking at him intently, “if you wish.”
“We are,” he smiled, “did you not wish to speak to your father first?”
“In my village,” said Macha quietly, “there was a custom in which a girl would sing to her intended, or who she wished was, on the solstice.”
“I cannot sing,” said Elvalia with a wry smile, “but as for my father… he will be there.”
She stood slowly and looked around at them all, “Eden I think, it will be the perfect place.”
The four of them walked down the hill and caught a cart into Port Royale, then the boat to Ferein, just managing to catch the last before night closed in.
They walked silently through Ferein and climbed the stairs at last to the plateau and the garden, bathed now in mist glowing in the light from the moon at its zenith.
They stood in silence looking at each other for a few moments before Macha murmured that she would change and walked off into the trees. Elvalia looked up at Thorfin and smiled briefly, “I will change also, and I will be but be a moment.”
She ran to the house and shut herself inside, pulling from a drawer the dress she had so carefully altered and stored but never worn. She changed quickly, and then stood in front of the mirror, looking not so much at the dress as at herself. “Have you changed?” She thought, looking at the pinkish complexion and at the green eyes that stared back at her, the familiar embers glowing within them. For a few minutes more she just stood there, deep in thought then shook her head briefly and walked to the door.
She walked back to where she had left the others and found them talking quietly, Macha now wearing a dress, but falling silent as she approached
Elvalia stood, a little uncomfortably, and smiled.
“You look lovely Elvalia,” said Thorfin.
“Thank you,” she said softly, and then looked around briefly. Settling her eyes on the stag, which stood drinking, she smiled and looked back at Thorfin. “By the pool?”
“Aala,” he said quietly.
Silently they led the way over and stood facing each other, both smiling but with nervousness showing in their eyes. Elvalia reached out for Thorfin’s hands and he took hers gently in his and smiled down at her.
The other two stood smiling quietly a short distance off.
Elvalia looked down briefly, swallowed, then looked up into Thorfin’s eyes
”E silmma aey,” she said quietly.
“E silmma aey,” he replied.
”E silmma aey,” she said, as softly as before.
”E silmma aey” came the reply.
She looked then into his eyes for a long moment then said at last, barely whispering, ”E silmma aey”
”E silmma aey,” came Thorfin’s final reply.
Aware that tears were appearing in her eyes, Elvalia smiled and whispered, “What now?”
“It I done he said,” gathering her in his arms, “we are married before the Gods. E ceela aey
He pulled her close and kissed her then, Elvalia returned the kiss then leant back in his arms, dimly aware of Macha wiping her eyes and Arcane smiling in the background, and whispered, “E ceela aey anee,”
“ My wife,” he said gently.
“Aala, my husband always,” she whispered, before throwing her arms around his neck and beginning to weep.
Thorfin held her tightly for a few moments until; as she recovered they turned to face the others. Macha stood, once more, wiping her eyes as the paladin smiled on.
“Thank you,” said Elvalia.
“Aala…” said Thorfin, “thank you both.”
“Of course, sister,” said Macha, smiling.
“Macha,” asked Elvalia quietly, “will you sing?”
“Of course,” smiled Macha, “the traditional song for the traditional setting, aala?”
As Elvalia smiled and gestured to the others to sit, the bard carefully pulled out her lyre to unwrap and tune it.
Thorfin put his arm around Elvalia and she rested her head on his shoulder, gazing up at Macha as she began to play softly on the lyre. Her voice rose then within the garden, seeming at times to harmonise with itself, capturing the three in it’s embrace as Macha closed her eyes and began to sing, happiness evident from the words, but behind them a hint of sadness… and longing…
I want to stay faithful
Guard your honour
Seek peace, obey
Fear, serve and honour you
Until death
Peerless lady
For I love you so much, truly
That one could sooner dry up the deep sea
And hold back its waves
Than I could constrain myself
From loving you
Without falsehood, for my thoughts
My memories, my pleasures
And my desires are perpetually
Of you, whom I cannot leave or even briefly forget
There is no joy or pleasure
Or any other good that one could feel
Or imagine that does not seem to me worthless
Whenever your sweetness wants to sweeten my bitterness
Therefore I want to praise
Adore and fear you
Suffer everything
Experience everything, endure everything
More than I desire any reward
I want to stay faithful
You are the true sapphire
That can heal and end all my sufferings
The emerald, which brings rejoicing
The ruby to brighten and comfort the heart
Your speech, your looks
Your bearing, make one flee and hate and detest
All vice and cherish and desire all that is good
I want to stay faithful...
I want to stay faithful
Her voiced trailed off as she continued to play for a moment then stilled the strings, opening her eyes and smiling sadly.
“Thank you Macha.” Said Elvalia quietly, “that was beautiful, and I have always loved that song.”
“I’m glad you enjoyed it,” said Macha, looking at her for a moment, “thank you for asking me, aala? It means a lot to me.”
Elvalia looked at her fondly, “I also sister.”
Macha caught her up then in an embrace, which Elvalia returned, “Congratulations, sister, I am happy for you,” said Macha.
“Thank you old friend,” smiled Elvalia.
“We are a far way from our first meeting, aala?” Said Macha, “I think you were considering making me disappear, that day, before I had a chance to write a song about you.” She laughed.
“Aala...” said Elvalia, “a long way since the day you were scared of me, I think I terrified you at first.”
“I was scared of many things, then,” said Macha, “and you were elven.”
“You were outside the inn in Paws as I recall,” said Elvalia.
”Aala...I had heard they didn't have a bard of their own,” said Macha, smiling wryly, and I needed a place to sleep. I had nothing.”
“I remember...” smiled Elvalia, “nothing but a dress.”
“A far ways from that now,” said Thorfin.
“Aala,” said Macha, “and I am not afraid of the same things I was.”
“Perhaps today can be a new start in more ways than one,” said Elvalia, “a new start for all of us.”
“I am glad to see this change for you,” said Macha, looking from Elvalia to Thorfin.
“Who would have thought it,” smiled Elvalia.
“Not many,” said Macha, grinning, “You were not even holding your bow.”
“Not I for certain,” said Elvalia, laughing softly, “and not so long ago either. And now I have a home, and a husband.”
“You never did tell me, my love,” said Elvalia, turning to Thorfin and taking his hand, “your family… what did they say?”
“Whatever I wanted was fine with them, as long as…” he said before pausing, allowing Elvalia time to raise a brow, “there were lots of grandchildren.”
Elvalia blushed deeply as Macha giggled and said, “Perhaps we should leave then, I’m certainly not staying for that, aala?”
“We have plenty of time for that,” said Elvalia as Macha continued to giggle, “Macha… will you sing again? My song?”
“If you like,” smiled Macha.
“I have not heard it in so long,” said Elvalia, “I think it would be fitting, it was the first, aala?”
“Aala,” said Macha quietly, “the first I wrote when I came here.”
“Fitting then for a new beginning,” said Elvalia, smiling gently as they sat once more.
They fell silent then and Elvalia sat gazing up at her friend as she began to play softly, slowly at first but gathering pace and urgency as the song developed….
A tale of beauty and honour behold
A tale of which you have seldom heard told
A girl, small and fair,
The forest her home
Beset by a plague of intrigue
Her parents, they loved her enough to flee
To live in the wood and protect her
One day it was over
They left her alone
Unwitting, unwilling and scared
Her bright eyes they flashed with a fire
She was left with but one, a soul-burning desire
Revenge, shouted she
Revenge, I won't flee
Her honour and love demanded the price she paid
The bright shining Elvalia was alone in her pain
But Aros was watching, and one day he came
Embrace her he did
And turned her with love
To seek out a path that would heal her heart
A quest was the task that great Aros divined
Her fathers bow to be hers, family connection defined
In his wisdom he knew
In her bow that she drew
Her loyalty tapped to find peace and love
One day in her journey, she set on a path
Unfamiliar to her, though she travelled alone
But others she met
And they led her afar
To a place that she never thought she would go
Ferein was a place that held anger for her still
It was blame that she placed on their heads
She pushed it aside
And lengthened her stride
She walked proudly through the beauty of her ancestral home
Aros, great Aros, came to her once more
And asked her to perform a heroic task
Though it wrenched at her heart
She accepted the honour
A cities protector, she carries the title with pride
A day in her travels it startled her so
To find one a mirror of her
Puzzled they were
Till a ring told them this
The other and she were sisters and twins
She wanders the land still, protector so true
Her love travels free by her side
Great battles to come
But she will not succumb
Brave hero, such beauty and pride
As Macha slowly stopped playing and bowed, Elvalia sat silently looking up at her for a few moments, keenly aware of what more the song had left unsaid, what was missing. At last she stood, and with shining eyes embraced Macha warmly.
“Thank you Macha,” she said, “there was a time when I thought I would never hear that again.”
“Of course,” said Macha, returning the embrace, “many of my songs were almost lost.”
As they stood holding each other Elvalia began to weep once more, “Thank you... it means so much to me to have you here,” she said, stepping back.
As Thorfin put his arm around Elvalia’s shoulder, Macha blinked, and smiled slightly though there were tears in her eyes too.
“And me…” she said, “I am glad it is not true that we cannot be friends, despite what I am.”
Elvalia looked at her intently for a few moments, “What we both are… aala?”
“Indeed,” said Macha, “it doesn’t matter.”
“No…” said Elvalia, “no it doesn’t.”
Macha smiled and hugged them both, “I should leave now,” she said.
“You are welcome here in my… our home at any time sister,” said Elvalia.
“Thank you,” smiled Macha, looking around the garden, “that is very special to me.”
“Be safe, sister, always,” said Elvalia, “I will make sure of it when I can.”
“Aala,” said Macha, nodding slowly.
They finished their farewells and Elvalia watched as her friend descended the stair, followed by the paladin. Then, as they disappeared from view, she turned to Thorfin.
“So, my love,” he said, taking her in his arms, “how does it feel to be married?”
“Perfect,” she said, wrapping her arms around his neck, “I am complete.” |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Sisters III
Posted: 12 Dec 2004 10:05 AM |
The cleric fell to the last arrow and she shouldered her bow and looked around, they never learnt these bandits. Shrugging inwardly she walked lightly down the slope from the plateau and across the Plains. For a day now she had been looking for her and, unusually, been unable to find her. Even trawling through the port and Buckshire – her usual haunts – had turned up nothing. Perhaps the strange effects caused by the opening of Nethar’u had meant she had been less able to travel without her usual protections.
Passing the campfire near the stones as night began to fall, she slowed as she heard voices ahead and smiled slightly as she saw the familiar blonde head standing out in the gloom.
She was standing talking to a man Elvalia had never met before and, from what she could hear of the conversation, was being flirted with – nothing unusual there.
As she drew closer and Bronwyn and the man noticed her he seemed to lose interest however – nothing unusual there either – and soon left the two sisters alone.
“I need to speak to you Bron, if you have a minute or two,” said Elvalia.
“I’ve got a quick errand to run, walk with me sis,” said Bronwyn.
“Aala, of course,” smiled Elvalia.
They walked past the gates of Midor to Nargul’s tomb, where Bronwyn began to pick the lock, Elvalia looking on and as usual forbearing to comment on the fact that it might be an unusual talent for a druid.
“This will only take a minute,” said Bronwyn, glancing over her shoulder with a smile as she pushed the gates open.
As Elvalia saw who had managed to get herself trapped inside them she groaned inwardly.
Bronwyn as usual was all smiles, “Hello,” she said to the redhead, “sorry it took so long. I like your armour!”
“Thanks,” said Juylina, glancing at Elvalia before looking back at Bronwyn, “someone locked me in there.”
“One of the farm children told me you were there,” smiled Bronwyn, “perhaps it was one of them that did it.”
“I’m sure that was it,” said Juylina, glancing at Elvalia once more, “thank you.. and yes my armour is quite nice.”
“I’m Bronwyn,” said the druid, smiling back at her.
“I’m Juylina, it is nice to meet you,” said the priestess with a slight smile, “despite your chosen company.”
Elvalia just looked back at her expressionless as Bronwyn blinked in surprise, “You don’t like my sister?” She asked.
Elvalia’s expression didn’t change, but inwardly she smiled wryly thinking back to the last meeting she’d had with the redhead, one in which the phrase ‘elven bitch’ had been mentioned, and which had ended in Juylina’s rapid departure after Elvalia had aimed an arrow six inches from her nose.
“She doesn’t seem to like me,” shrugged the priestess.
Elvalia smiled as Bronwyn looked from one to the other, slightly confused, “She really is quite nice… sis are you being mean to folks again?”
As Juylina chuckled and said, “We must have got off on the wrong foot,” Elvalia ignored the comment and turned to her sister with a smile.
“You know me Bron, would I be mean to someone?” She said.
“Hmm,” said Bronwyn, “maybe… if you didn’t like them.”
“No…” said Elvalia, turning to look coldly at the priestess once more, “I normally reply in kind, you know that.”
“But Juylina seems nice,” said Bronwyn, “and she dresses well, you know how important that is.”
“She just decided she didn’t like me,” said Juylina, taking a deep breath, “I was only trying to be nice but she had already made her mind up.” She turned to Bronwyn with a smile as Elvalia just looked back, distinctly unimpressed, “I am quite nice, thank you, there is nothing more important than clothes. Well… maybe one’s hair.”
“Yes, hair is important too!” Giggled Bronwyn.
“Well, thank you again for your time,” said Juylina, “I do not wish to keep you if you have more important things to do.”
“It was nice meeting you, Juylina,” said Bronwyn, “I hope to you again.”
“I am sure you will,” said the priestess, waving to Bronwyn and ignoring Elvalia as she walked off.
As she disappeared into the night the sisters turned to each other.
“How are you Bron?” Smiled Elvalia.
“I am fine sis, and you?” Said Bronwyn.
“I am very well,” said Elvalia, “never better.”
“You’re moving different,” said Bronwyn, looking at her a little quizzically, “more like a cat. What have you been doing?”
“Can we talk?” Asked Elvalia, “I have something to tell you.”
“Aala,” said Bronwyn, raising her eyebrow slightly then giggling, “we are talking.”
Dreading the moment more than she had feared anything before, and more so now it drew ever closer, Elvalia looked around, taking in the gates of the nearby city and the patrolling guards. “Does it have to be here?” She asked.
“No...” said Bronwyn, “anywhere you want, but not Hell!”
“No,” said Elvalia, smiling in spite of herself, “once was enough. The Tears?”
“Aala!” Said Bronwyn happily.
They walked silently along the track and up onto the plateau near the lake, turning to each other once more.
“She was nice!” Giggled Bronwyn.
“Who?” Asked Elvalia, “The Naruth follower?”
“Aala…” said Bronwyn, then blinked in surprise, “What?”
“Juylina, she is one of Ilyana’s people, be careful Bron,” said Elvalia, her mind on what was to come, rather than what she was saying.
“Oh!” Cried Bronwyn, “I didn’t know… alright, I will.”
They fell silent for a few moments, Elvalia looked at her sister and smiled nervously.
“Are you alright?” Asked Bronwyn.
Elvalia thought for a moment, “You’d better sit down,” she said at last, “I don’t want you falling and hitting your head.”
Bronwyn nodded, a little confused, and sat… watching Elvalia as she sat opposite her. “Are you pregnant?” She asked suddenly.
Elvalia, taken aback for a moment, shook her head, “No… I don’t think so, anyway… that’s not what I have to tell you.”
“What then?” Asked Bronwyn, puzzled.
Elvalia looked at her for a few moments, steeling herself.
“I’m married,” she said quietly, then waited.
For what seemed like an age, Bronwyn just stared back at her, expressionless.
“What?” She asked at last.
“I'm married Bron,” Elvalia repeated, as Bron blinked but continued to stare at her, “I got married… we got married.”
A few more minutes passed as Bronwyn continued to stare back at her, Elvalia smiling nervously. At last, Bronwyn bit her lip and looked away, down at the ground.
“I hope you are happy,” she said softly.
“Aala, I am,” said Elvalia, matching her tone.
“Good...” whispered Bronwyn, “that is good.”
“For me Bron, yes,” whispered Elvalia, “It is for me.”
“Aala,” said Bronwyn, still whispering, “I understand sis. That is good news then?”
Elvalia tilted her head and studied her sister for a few moments, in some ways not in the least surprised by the muted reaction.
“I had to Bron,” she said at last, “it was my only chance.”
“You don’t have to explain to me,” whispered Bronwyn, “it is your life.”
“I know I don’t have to, Bron. But I would like to… if you will listen.” Said Elvalia with a warm smile, “You are my sister, if I cannot explain to you… then who can I tell?”
“Aala…” said Bronwyn, “I will listen, of course.”
Elvalia took a deep breath. “There has been part of me missing for a long time Bron. For a long time I just accepted it, ignored the pain it caused, embraced it,” she said awkwardly.
“I…” she continued, as Bronwyn sat silently, watching her speak, “I need to be cared for. Looked after. What most people see isn’t me… it’s what I hide behind. Like a wall. It’s what I’ve been hiding behind ever since our mother died. Like a shield, and it was crumbling… I was crumbling.”
“I know that feeling,” said Bronwyn, softly.
Elvalia reached out and gently took her hand, “I know you do, Bron, we are alike in so many ways.”
“I need,” she continued, “I needed… someone in my life to cling to, to pull me back out from where I've been hiding. Before the shield gave way altogether and I disappeared with it. I need a man... a home... yes, maybe even children, I need ...”
Falling, silent, Elvalia thought for a moment as Bronwyn continued to watch silently, “I need normality,” said Elvalia at last, “I need to have someone who can love me, care for me and protect me. Somebody I can do the same for.”
As Bronwyn nodded slightly, saying nothing, Elvalia looked down at the ground for a moment, knowing that what she would say next would probably hurt her sister most. More so since it was something she herself had never known.
“I need a family Bron,” she whispered at last
“I'm happy for you sis,” said Bronwyn, still expressionless, “if that's what you want.”
“It’s not what I want Bron, it’s what I need,” said Elvalia, “I have to have it. Before I stop being me.”
“I'm not disagreeing with you,” said Bronwyn, still with little emotion in her voice, “well done for finding what you need then...”
“I have found it Bron,” said Elvalia softly, “but part of it I already had. You are my family as well Bron.”
They sat in silence once more, for a few long moments, Elvalia a little confused by her sister’s reaction. Shock, she had expected, but there was something more at work here. Something she was unsure how to deal with.
“It has all happened so quickly,” she said at last.
“Aala,” said Bronwyn tonelessly, “that is true.”
“But I know it is right,” continued Elvalia, “I feel it here in my heart. He is so kind, and gentle, and loving.”
“Good,” said Bronwyn, “I am glad you are happy.”
“Thank you, Bron,” said Elvalia, smiling warmly, “it means so much to me to hear you say that.” As Bronwyn nodded, she continued, “I have not been looking forward to this.”
“To what?” Asked Bronwyn.
“To telling you...” said Elvalia quietly, “I know it is silly but in some ways I was dreading it.”
“I am not so dangerous,” said Bronwyn.
“I know Bron,” said Elvalia, smiling slightly then thinking for a moment. “What I said before though Bron, it still holds true. If you need my help, or anything, even just to talk. You are still my sister and I love you dearly.”
“Aala,” said Bronwyn, nodding. They embraced each other then, Elvalia well aware that she had tears in her eyes, and aware also that as she had feared, something had changed between them.
They pulled apart and looked at each other, Bronwyn silently and Elvalia with hurt showing in her eyes. Wondering how to deal with this.
“Hello Ana,” said Bronwyn suddenly, Elvalia looked up surprised, so caught up in her thoughts had she been that she hadn’t even noticed Ana’s approach.
“I trust all is well here,” said Ana, looking at them both.
“Yes,” said Bron, smiling at last, “Elvalia was just telling me of her marriage.”
“I see,” said Ana, as Elvalia silently looked back down at the ground, “I was just checking on things… due to events today.”
As Bronwyn began to ask what Ana had meant, Elvalia just sat in the same position, not really listening, her thoughts more on what had occurred between herself and Bronwyn. So much so that as Ana left, she became aware that she had no idea why she had come, or what she had been checking on.
“Interesting,” said Bronwyn as she left, “I’m glad she told us.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia softly, though what they had been told she couldn’t say.
“Are we done speaking about this?” Asked Bronwyn.
Elvalia took a deep breath, “You are happy for me Bron... that means so much to me.” She said, relieved when Bronwyn smiled back, “But there is one thing I would ask of you.... if you will answer. I will understand if you cannot.”
As Bronwyn looked back at her curiously, Elvalia steeled herself and, aware that tears were once more appearing in her eyes, whispered, “Please tell me I have not hurt you by doing this.”
“You have not,” said Bronwyn.
Elvalia looked at her for a long moment then nodded and wiped away her tears, “Aala.... thank you Bron,” she said.
“You are welcome,” said Bronwyn
“As are you… always,” said Elvalia with a warm smile.
As Bronwyn nodded, she stood slowly and looked down at her sister. “I must rest,” said Elvalia, “for some reason I am feeling much more tired than usual.”
“Sleep well sister,” said Bronwyn, looking up at her.
“Aala,” said Elvalia, “I will.” Then bent to embrace her sister tightly, “Be safe Bron,” she said, “I love you.”
“See you soon, sis,” said Bronwyn, looking then out over the lake.
“Yes of course,” said Elvalia, “farewell.”
She walked back then towards Midor, deep in thought and aware above all that whatever Bronwyn had said about not being hurt, it wasn’t true. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Attack
Posted: 15 Dec 2004 08:44 AM |
The crisp morning breeze across the Plains ruffled her hair as she leant forward slightly to place a little more wood on the campfire, then leant back, staring into the flames. This should be one of the happiest moments of her life, and in many ways it was; or would be if she could get the look in her sister’s eyes out of her head. The look that denied what she actually said. How could she make her understand that whatever happened in the future, however she felt about another, her sister would always hold the same place she always had.
Whatever Bron had said about not feeling hurt, she knew her well enough to know it wasn’t the case, she had seen that look in her own eyes often enough.
Elvalia leant back against the tree and closed her eyes briefly, sighing softly under her breath. Part of her wanted to seek Bronwyn out and talk to her about it, another said it may be wiser just to leave her be for now; perhaps in time she could come to terms with the change and accept it.
Her eyes jerked open sharply, and she swung her head from side to side looking around her. Something was wrong, quite what, she couldn’t say, just an image. It didn’t happen often but on occasion she had felt similar things, some connection perhaps with her sister due to the fact they were twins. Never anything concrete, just a flash more than anything, but it had been clear enough. Bronwyn was in pain, and crying in a cave nearby.
It could not be Mineath, she knew that having passed through herself only minutes before, which left just two. Bronwyn would be unlikely to have visited the ones in Midor Mountains, as far as Elvalia knew there was little there that would interest her… perhaps Sleath then?
She jumped to her feet, picking up her bow in the process, and ran past the gates of Midor, through the outpost and into the wastelands. Barely aware of what she was doing, she despatched the kobolds and moved onto the lower slopes of Fiirhallen. She dealt quickly with the gnolls and ran into Sleath cavern stopping short in shock.
Bronwyn sat naked just inside the entrance to the cavern, sobbing uncontrollably and clutching the remnants of her elven chain around herself, trying desperately to cover not just her nakedness but horrific wounds which covered every inch of her body. Even through the blood and in the darkness of the cavern, Elvalia could make out the shape of the ‘A’ which hard been carved on every part of her sister that she could see.
Tears filled Elvalia’s eyes, tears of sympathy but tears just as much of rage and anger. It was only the day before that she had heard others speaking of these attacks, and the fact that her sister may be a target, and now it had happened.
She ran over to her sister and sat close beside her, putting her arms around her and holding her close.
“Bron?” She asked quietly, “Was it him?”
Bronwyn buried her face in Elvalia’s shoulder and through the sobs, which still convulsed her, said, “Aala… the vampire… it burns sister.”
Gritting her teeth against the burning hatred and thoughts of revenge that were rising within her, Elvalia took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. Aware now that the priority was helping her sister.
“Come on,” she said softly, desperately trying to console Bronwyn, “we’ll get you to the Temple in Ferein.”
Through the tears, which were running down her face to mingle with the blood Bronwyn whispered, “I can’t walk… my armour… he cut it off… I feel to weak to walk.”
Elvalia quickly searched through her pack and pulled out a suit of armour she wore occasionally, “Here,” she said quietly, “I have a spare set you can wear. Put it on and I’ll carry you if I have to.”
Bronwyn slowly took the armour and began to dress herself, barely able to stand. Elvalia supported her and help her fasten it where necessary as she was trembling so much she was fumbling hopelessly. Bronwyn stood swaying weakly from the loss of blood and stowed the remnants of her chain in her pack.
“Can you walk now?” Asked Elvalia, still holding her gently.
“Aala,” said Bronwyn, swaying so much she could barely stand unsupported, and continuing to sob so much that her words were barely intelligible, “I won’t do what he says,” she said.
“What did he say?” Asked Elvalia.
“To tell the paladin,” answered Bronwyn, “that he has something that he belongs to Loccard. That he owes him something.”
Elvalia nodded slowly, her eyes blazing with a cold green fire, “So do I Bron… so do I”
“I’m a mess,” sobbed Bronwyn, holding her head in her bloodstained hands, “I’ll never be able to show my face again.”
Holding her close and hugging her tightly Elvalia stroked her hair, still barely controlling her anger, “We’ll get it cured Bron,” she said gently, “Arcane had it removed, they can help you at the temple.
“The scars…” sobbed Bronwyn.
“They’ll go too,” said Elvalia, her eyes blazing angrily, “and when they have I’m going too… hunting.”
“I want to go home,” said Bronwyn quietly, beginning to collapse against her.
“The temple first,” said Elvalia, stooping to lift Bronwyn over her shoulder, “we’ll get those wounds dealt with.”
“Aala,” she heard her sister mumble as she adjusted her surprisingly light weight, “just get take me away from here.”
Holding her firmly around the thighs, and drawing her rapier, Elvalia glanced with a look of anguish at the blood, which was beginning to seep through the material.
She walked quickly from the cavern, and still holding Bronwyn, fought off an attack by the gnolls who had regrouped while she was within.
Despite the fact that she was fighting one handed and attempting to keep any blows away from her sister she coped easily with the attack and, settling Bronwyn once more, walked off through the wastelands, dealing with a few kobold attacks just as proficiently.
As they approached the outpost, Elvalia slowed and turned her head, aware that Bronwyn was still bleeding badly and getting rapidly weaker.
“Bron,” she said, “I’m going to have to run, it will be more uncomfortable but we have to be quick.”
“Alright,” said Bronwyn so faintly that Elvalia could barely hear her.
Running faster than she would have thought possible, Elvalia crossed the plains and climbed into the Mirghul hills, fending off attacks as she went and always conscious that Bronwyn was growing weaker by the minute. Always conscious that every stride she took must have felt like knives lancing through her sister however careful she tried to be.
Past the astonished guards in Brandibuck, through Ladriel, barely sparing a glance for what still remained one of her favourite places. Elvalia came at last to the dock on the Inner Sea and stood breathlessly before Natana, asking to be ferried out to the Aegea, and onwards to Ferein.
“And quickly please,” she panted, aware that there was now blood running down her arm which was still tightly wrapped around Bronwyn, and that her sister had fallen unconscious.
She sat on the deck watching the dock at Ferein come closer, cradling her sister in her arms and willing the wind to pick up and push the ship faster towards their destination.
After a few minutes that had seemed like a lifetime Elvalia carried her sister carefully past the shocked Warriors at the gates to Ferein and, eventually, into the temple itself. Looking around frantically she saw High Priestess Liana knelt in silent prayer close to the cleansing fountain. Sighing with relief she carried Bronwyn over, laid her gently on the grass and turned to the Priestess, who hadn’t yet noticed her arrival.
“My Lady,” she said quietly.
Liana stood and turned towards her, taking in the blazing look in Elvalia’s eyes and the form of her sister behind her.
“Yes Elvalia?” Said Liana, “What is the matter?”
“My sister…” whispered Elvalia, still barely controlling herself, “she has been attacked and scarred.”
It was apparent that at the word scarred, Liana became very agitated, “Your sister?” She said, “How so?”
“By a vampire,” said Elvalia angrily, “Loccard.”
“Oh my!” Said Liana, rushing over to Bronwyn, “I just treated a young lady with similar wounds.”
“Good,” said Elvalia, in her anger missing the point of what had been said, “please help her.”
Liana reached Bronwyn, who though still unconscious was tossing restlessly and mumbling to herself. The High Priestess covered her mouth in shock as she examined Bronwyn’s wounds, then placed a gentle hand on her, trying to calm her, “You are in the House of Aros now,” she said quietly, “no one can harm you here.”
Bronwyn opened her eyes, looking round bemusedly, then covered her face with her hands and began to cry once more. Elvalia rushed over and knelt beside her cradling her head as Liana continued to examine the wounds.
“My face,” sobbed Bronwyn, “my face...”
Behind them, another voice spoke, “Bronwyn?” Elvalia looked round and glared as she recognised Eliana, covering her mouth with her hands.
“Not now!” Spat Elvalia, turning once more to Bronwyn, who was still sobbing uncontrollably.
“These wounds,” said Liana, looking at Elvalia, “they are unclean.”
“They are just like mine,” said Eliana.
“Why,” nodded Liana, “who does this to you?”
Bronwyn once more began to thrash around and Elvalia grabbed her, holding her tightly to herself.
“A vampire, my lady,” said Eliana, “his name is Loccard. He is sending a message.”
“Such evil…” murmured Liana, still checking Bronwyn who clung tightly to Elvalia, “such hate.”
“Not for much longer,” said Elvalia in a low, menacing tone, “I’ll send the bastard a message back.”
Liana stood, murmuring an incantation as she gathered healing energies to cast at Bronwyn. As the spell finished Elvalia noticed that the blood still flowing from Bronwyn’s wounds seemed cleaner. Liana nodded in satisfaction then turned briefly to Elvalia.
“Be careful Elvalia,” she said, “he seems dangerous if he can do this with impunity.”
“He hasn’t met me yet,” muttered Elvalia.
With a brief searching look at her Liana once more began to invoke the aid of Aros and Elvalia watched as the energies flowed over her sister, the wounds closing then disappearing altogether as the spell proceeded.
Bronwyn, not realising what was happening, still clung to Elvalia, sobbing loudly, “I don’t want to be ugly!”
“You’re not Bron,” smiled Elvalia sadly, “you’re better.”
“It is done,” said Liana, relaxing, Aros has healed you, and you will never be ugly, as long as your heart is good.”
Barely hearing, Bronwyn continued to sob and mumble as she clung to Elvalia, obviously still weakened from the attack.
“We will see that the defenders of Aros do not allow that creature to pass into our lands, rest now… you are safe,” said Liana
“Don’t worry Bron,” said Elvalia, holding her tightly as the High Priestess once more knelt in prayer, he’ll get what’s coming to him.
Looking down at her sister she realised that she had passed out once more and stood, picking her up gently.
“I will take her to my home,” she said to Liana, “she will be safe there. Thank you My Lady.”
“Go with Aros’s blessings,” said the High Priestess as Elvalia bowed awkwardly then turned and left the temple, heading for Eden.
Reaching the garden at last, she looked around for a moment then laid the unconscious form of her sister beneath the statue of Aros, pulling a cloak from her pack and covering her to make sure she remained warm.
She stroked her sister’s hair gently and murmured, “Rest there Bron, you’ll be safe with Him”
Standing, she looked up into the face of the statue. “Watch over her My Lord,” she said quietly, thinking for a moment, “and over me… I’m going to end this.”
With a last tender look at the sleeping form of her sister she bowed, took the great bow from her shoulder, and hurried towards the dock. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Aftermath
Posted: 22 Dec 2004 01:01 PM |
She wearily climbed the stairs to Eden, it had been a long night, but to her mind a worthwhile one. Reaching the garden she stood briefly, green eyes which were ringed with tiredness looking around as she relaxed and took in the sights and sounds of her home. She walked over to the pond and sat against a rock to silently watch the stag as it grazed and drank from the clear waters.
Leaning over she rinsed some of the soot and smoke stains from her face, refreshing herself at the same time and closed her eyes as she thought back over the events of yesterday and last night. She had seen Macha, spoken to her; adamant at first that she would go after Loccard herself but after arguing for some time agreed that they would work together. Macha had left then but despite their agreement Elvalia had gone to Maldovia herself, not alone but with Iretya. Like a gale the two archers had blown through Maldovia and Valinor itself, killing everything in sight. She smiled grimly in remembrance of how easy it had been. Just two elves, two archers, who together had walked, not run, through one of the most evil places in the lands and emerged with barely a scratch.
Those who saw only the beauty and peace of Ferein would have had more to occupy their minds if they had been able to see the ease with which the vampires and other creatures had been despatched.
But now, she thought, time for rest. The main prize had eluded them and Loccard remained at large. First some rest; buy more arrows, then return, alone if necessary. And again, every night until she found what she sought and avenged her sister.
No matter what it took, no matter what the risk.
Elvalia stood, picking up her bow, and walked towards the house. As she drew closer she saw a familiar form sat near the statue, bundled in the same cloak.
“Hello Bron,” she smiled, as her sister looked up at her.
“Hello sister,” said Bronwyn.
“How are you feeling?” Asked Elvalia.
“Well enough…” said Bronwyn quietly.
“Sorry about the rough journey,” said Elvalia, sitting beside her and smiling warmly.
“I don’t remember most of it,” said her sister, “thank you for helping me.”
“Did you think I wouldn't?” Asked Elvalia. “You passed out, I ran most of the way from Sleath.”
“No,” said Bronwyn, shaking her head and touching her neck “I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate your help.”
“Any time, you know that,” said Elvalia, watching her carefully, “You were bitten too?”
“He did something to my neck,” Bronwyn shuddered, still rubbing at it, “when… when he was done, he reached down and did something. I don’t think he bit me”
“I can see nothing there, Bron,” said Elvalia, looking closely, “I’m gong after him… you know that.”
“Aala...” said Bronwyn, “no reason to.”
“There is every reason,” said Elvalia quietly, “you are my sister.”
“It’s his fault,” said Bronwyn, “if he’d stayed away none of this would be happening.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia softly, putting an arm around her, “I know.”
Bronwyn rested her head on Elvalia’s shoulder, “I feel sad sister, and yesterday I was mad. Now I don’t care really, it doesn’t seem to matter.”
“I’ll find him, this animal,” said Elvalia, stroking her hair, “I’ve been once and I’ll go again until I do. Never say that, everything matters… you matter… to me.”
“I feel empty,” said Bronwyn quietly, “Like I’ve got nothing inside.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia softly, “I know… I’ve felt the same before now.”
“Here’s you armour back,” said Bronwyn, reaching into her pack, “I’m sorry there’s blood on it.”
“You think I’d worry about that?” Said Elvalia, tilting her head and smiling gently.
“I don’t know,” said Bronwyn.
“You ought to,” said Elvalia, “Do you think I’d have let you wander around naked just because I’d rather not get it dirty?”
Elvalia watched her sister affectionately as she shook her head, concerned that despite the healing and the rest Bronwyn still looked far from her usual self.
“Do you still feel sick?” She asked, frowning slightly.
“I feel dirty…” said Bronwyn, “unclean.”
“I can understand why, I think,” said Elvalia gently, “though the High Priestess cleansed the wounds before healing the. She removed any taint that was there, the scars have gone too.”
“Aala…” whispered Bronwyn, “thank you… I couldn’t have lived like that.”
“I know sis,” said Elvalia, holding her close, acutely aware that there were more than outward scars to worry about. More so since she felt she was responsible for at least some of them. “You can stay here as long as you want,” continued Elvalia, “you know that. The Warriors have been alerted and we are warded here.”
For some time, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon in the west, Bronwyn didn’t speak and they just sat there, quietly.
“I want to kill Byron,” said Bronwyn at last.
Elvalia just watched her silently for a few moments, well aware that if she had met him soon after the attack she would have been more than tempted to do the same and solve everybody’s problems in one stroke.
“It's his fault,” continued her sister, “I hate him, why didn’t he stay dead.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia, “I wish I knew Bron, I think he’s caused more trouble than he’s worth frankly.”
“Than anyone’s worth,” said Bronwyn quietly.
“Not more than you Bron,” said Elvalia looking at her intently, “not to me.”
“I’m no different than anyone else,” said Bronwyn, “except maybe dumber.”
“The others are the dumb ones,” said Elvalia, shaking her head, “for putting up with it. Nothing you did caused this.”
“Everything I did caused this...” said Bronwyn, “my choices.”
“It's Byron's choices that have caused this,” said Elvalia, “not yours.”
Bronwyn stood then and walked to the edge of the platform, looking out towards the mountains in the distance. Elvalia stood too, watching from behind, unsure what if anything to say further. Aware that Bronwyn was in despair but not knowing how do deal with it, there had been times when she had scarcely been able to deal with her own, let alone that of others – even her sister’s.
“What will you do now Bron?” She asked at last, “You are welcome to stay here as long as you wish, you know that.”
“I… I don’t know,” said Bronwyn, turning towards her and sitting once more, “I don’t feel like doing anything… ever.”
Elvalia sat beside her and cradled her head once more on her shoulder.
“The Mother didn’t protect me,” said Bronwyn quietly, “the worst thing that ever happened to me, and she didn’t help.”
“I know exactly what you mean,” said Elvalia, stroking her sister’s hair and looking up at the statue, “there have been times when I have felt the same. Times when I felt he had abandoned me.”
“I’m supposed to be his daughter,” said Bronwyn, “what kind of father would allow that to happen?”
“I wish I knew…” said Elvalia softly, “but your sister won’t. Not again.”
“There's no way you could stop it,” said Bronwyn, “even if you had been there, he would have just paralysed you too.”
“I can stop it happening again Bron, and I will, one way or another. Everybody has a weakness, I’ll find his… sooner or later.”
“He'll leave me alone if he gets what Byron has,” said Bronwyn.
“Aala...” said Elvalia, “I know, and if he can't be killed he may just have to be given it. Perhaps it is the only way.”
“Fine with me…” said Bronwyn.
“And with me,” smiled Elvalia grimly, “why should others suffer on his account?”
“They shouldn't,” said Bronwyn.
“No,” said Elvalia quietly, “Macha, Claudia, Elianna, you… and others, he is responsible for too much suffering.”
They fell silent once more for a short while, Bronwyn lost in thought and Elvalia staring up at the statue, “Sometimes…” she said, “we just have to take care of things ourselves.”
“Not sometimes,” said Bronwyn bitterly, “all the time. I was a fool to trust Her.”
“No Bron,” said Elvalia, shaking her head slightly, “we still need them.”
“I don’t,” said Bronwyn firmly.
“I do,” said Elvalia, looking down sadly. “But that doesn't mean I am unable to act on my own if I need to.”
As Bronwyn just shrugged, Elvalia looked at her thoughtfully, smiling slightly, “I think I said once before that you were meant to find your own path, not follow another… that id true I think.”
“I don’t like it,” said Bronwyn, “I want it to be easy.”
“Was it ever?” Asked Elvalia, tilting her head slightly.
“Aala…” said Bronwyn, “once, a long time ago.”
“Then become what you were once more,” smiled Elvalia, “make it easy.”
“One cannot close a box once it has been opened,” said Bronwyn, staring at her.
“No…” said Elvalia, “but you can get back inside it.”
“I cannot do that,” said Bronwyn, staring down at the platform in front of her, “I hate now.”
“Aala,” said Elvalia, smiling sadly, acutely aware that far from drawing together they seemed to be moving further apart.
“Then change it,” she said, “I don't know how, only you can know that, or find out how.”
“I don’t want to change it,” said Bronwyn firmly. “Not a word from her, not even ‘Be strong’ or some other worthless parable.”
“From the Goddess you mean?” Asked Elvalia, and then as her sister nodded looked up at the statue once more. “Aala… I know what you mean,” she said.
“Even if She came and said you fouled up, you idiot, it would be better than this,” said Bronwyn. “She is not my Mother,” she continued, and then pointed angrily at the statue, “and he is not my father.”
“Who knows?” Asked Elvalia, “he has only ever said it once.”
“I meant in any sense,” said Bronwyn.
“Whatever they are,” said Elvalia, nodding with a smile, “we have each other, that much is certain.”
“Aala…” said Bronwyn, “I thank you for that.”
Becoming aware of a sound behind her, Elvalia looked round sharply to see a white stag pawing the ground skittishly. Looking quickly over towards the pool, she could see the stag that dwelt in Eden dimly through the mist and looked once more at the newcomer, her eyes widening.
Standing quickly, she watched as the stag ran off, appearing to try to lead them, then turned back to her sister. “Bron…” she whispered, “the stag.”
Bronwyn looked up to see the stag disappearing into the mist. “So?” She asked, remaining where she sat.
Elvalia watched the stag disappear then said bitterly, “Why not just come and speak?”
Turning then to the statue Elvalia glared up at it, “Well, My Lord?” She asked, “Must we always guess?”
Bronwyn stood and looked at Elvalia, then at the statue for a moment.
“I am going,” she said bluntly, running off towards the stairs leaving her sister still staring up at the face of Aros.
Elvalia stood for a few minutes, weeping silently and ignoring the tears running down her face before turning to walk into the garden.
Looking down at where the stag had stood, Elvalia noticed a trail of blood droplets leading off into the garden. Taking her bow in hand, she followed the trail through the garden until once more she glimpsed the stag through the mist ahead and stopped, watching it silently.
The stag lowered its head to graze on the lush grass, turning its flank towards her as it did so and thereby exposing a vicious wound on its hindquarters. Slowly and quietly moving closer to get a better view, Elvalia could clearly see that an arrow, a hunter’s arrow, had caused it. One moreover, judging by the burns, that had been caused by an acid arrow. Noticing her approach at last the stag lifted its head and tried to move away, shuddering and screaming in pain as it did so.
Elvalia stopped once more, lowered her voice to barely a whisper and spoke in the tongue of beasts, “Calm yourself… Stay still and I will heal you.”
The stag stopped trying to move away and stood watching her warily, quivering in fear. Speaking gently all the while she approached, and caressing the creature gently once she was close enough, Elvalia calmed the animal and at the same time cleansed and treated the wound. As she finished she took the animal’s head in her hands, “There…” she said, stroking it gently, “all is well now.”
The stag looked back at her, now completely calm, and said, “It is not… Even the Mother has enemies she cannot protect herself against,” and vanished.
Standing slightly stunned for a moment, humbled but at the same time bitter, Elvalia reverted to elven, “It is not I you should be telling, My Lady… it is my sister. She is the one who feels abandoned, not I.”
Hearing a flapping from above, Elvalia looked up to see a falcon soaring down from the branches of one of the taller trees. As it approached Elvalia held out her arm and watched silently as it landed, taking a firm grip on her fist and regarding her intently.
“When one speaks,” said the falcon in the same tone the stag had used, “one needs someone to listen. She does not hear me.”
Dropping her bow to the ground and reaching up with her free hand, Elvalia stroked the breast of the falcon gently, “She is in pain, My Lady…” she said softly, “I do not think even she understands why.”
“All life is pain,” said the Goddess, “and happiness. She thinks only of herself, not those who need her.”
“She has no happiness My Lady,” said Elvalia, “she has no one who needs her, she will tell you she needs no one. We are different in that at least, I have what I need.”
“Then she is lost to herself…” said the Goddess with a note of sadness creeping into her voice, “and to me.”
With that, the falcon flew off into the trees and Elvalia slumped to the ground. Holding her head in her hands she wept for what seemed like hours. Grief at her sister’s pain and desolation, but sadness also because in her eyes at least the solution seemed so simple.
At last she stood, wiped her eyes and, picking up her bow from the ground, walked back to the platform and stood staring up at the statue for several minutes.
Coming to a decision at last she laid her bow once more at her side and knelt to pray.
“Why will you not speak to her, as you do to me My Lord?” She asked with her voice barely above a whisper, “Just a word, it would be so easy. I have tried to help her, to make her see, but her needs are different from mine.”
For several minutes she remained on her knees, awaiting an answer, for once expecting one. At last the familiar voice came into her head, “Perhaps because she ignores the messenger.”
For a while longer, Elvalia remained on her knees with head bowed, “I understand...” she said at last, “I wish I could make her do so also... I am strong in my faith; I am true, as I believe is she. If there were some way to help her understand her pain... I would use it.”
With a soft sigh, she continued, “She gets more comfort from her pain... than anything else now I fear.”
Standing at last she bowed deeply, “Thank you My Lord.”
Taking her bow from the ground, she walked over to the edge of the platform and stared up at the moon, debating her next course of action.
Rest first… then Maldovia once more.
As for Bronwyn?
Closing her eyes briefly against the soft moonlight she frowned slightly. “She needs time,” she whispered. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Re: Aftermath
Posted: 22 Dec 2004 04:13 PM |
((URK!))
((*notes that Byron should probably not feel as safe in Freien as he does now.)) |
My name is Byron Lorian....I am the Last Son |
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E ils ill aco...
Posted: 19 Jan 2005 02:36 PM |
So much time… time to think, to dream, and time to remember. She looked over at where the great bow stood, glowling softly, and gave a small, sad smile.
There had been occasions in the past when she would have been glad of such times as these, but one could have too much of everything – even peace.
Such thoughts had been uppermost in her mind of late, how to spend these idle moments, moments which seemed to increase as each day passed. These had not been the only thoughts, it is true, worry over the whereabouts of Thorfin and her sister had also occupied her, as had something else… her memories.
Such an innocent conversation it had seemed at the time, sitting idly as others had reminisced over their childhoods. It had come to her then, with almost as much impact as a physical blow. The shock realisation that apart from the last days with Arod and her mother there was nothing.
It troubled her deeply, she knew she should be able to remember but there really was nothing. It was said that others of her race could recall even the moments of their birth… but not her.
While she didn’t understand entirely why this should be it had at least caused her to come to the decision that no one else at least would suffer in the same way.
With that thought she settled back in the chair briefly, closing her deep green eyes for a moment in reflection. Then she took the quill in hand and leant forward over the parchment, her blonde hair falling either side of her face to almost touch it as she began to write…
“In the weeks since I learned of you I have thought on many things, not least my own childhood. One in many ways which I would not wish upon my greatest enemies. I find myself in an unusual position; I am sworn to protect a people, a way of life, and yet I more than most – due not in small part to that very childhood – am largely ignorant of many of our traditions and much of our history save what I have learnt myself, or indeed taken part in.
I am resolved that this will not happen to you. You will know as much about myself and my forebears, about your people, as I can tell. In time we will come to know one another, even before you enter this world… but you will not suffer the same fate as I. You will know of me, and all who concern you, as much as there is to know – as much as I know.
First… know this; you are the child of Thorfin Ginfalin, a fine elf. One of gentleness and compassion, whose bearing is an example to all who would call themselves one of the Ferein. He is your father, and in time you will come to love him and honour him as much as I do myself.
You are the child also of Elvalia Mellebin, me, your mother.
I am known by many names. I am the Chosen of Aros, you will be told, sworn to protect Ferein and all of our race who dwell here or wander the lands. To the followers of Tarik I am the Silent Huntress; to the Midorans a danger and a heretic; to one who faced perils I can only imagine I am the Silver Lady of the Bow, to one whose interest I would sooner forget I was Child of Aros; while to the rangers I am the Lady of the Wood. Many names you will hear, and much you will hear about me. Some is true, some not, some merely rumour.
This much is certain, however; I am Elvalia… and archer… you mother… an elf.
I am, as near as I can tell (for reasons which will become clear) one hundred and twelve years of age. Among our people, a mere girl. Yet I bear a burden of responsibility and a history of pain and loss many would sooner run from than endure.
Of my own parents I remember little and know less for certain. Save that the elf I knew as father was one Arod Mellebin; an archer and ranger like myself. My mother was Elmirie, a druid, like my sister Bronwyn, your aunt.
Save through my words and memories you will never come to know Arod and Elmirie, they are dead… watched over by our Lord Aros and the mother of all things, Elbereth. Murdered by humans for their refusal to give up what was their own, and to protect myself and your aunt for reasons I can even now not fully understand. It may be in time that the reason becomes clear – I will not burden you with my suspicions, for the moment they weigh only upon myself and your aunt.
Of Arod and Elmirie I remember little save their deaths and the few short days before. It is my hope that as we come to know one another, I may remember more. For now, I can do no more than say that I honour them and what memories I do have, painful though they may be.
From that time, at the age of ten, until my Lord Aros set me upon the path I currently follow I grew up alone, frightened, often hungry… and wild. In many ways even now I am happiest alone, awkward in the company of others, trusting only what I know best – myself – and in the gifts of the Mother and the Archer.
You, my child, will never suffer this fate – not while I breathe – and Aros willing that will be for many years yet.
You will in time come to know what it means to be an elf, come to know this land in which we live as can no other. We are this land… you will know. It is alive, we hear it breathe in the sound of the wind and the rustle of the leaves; hear it suffer as the earth groans beneath the weight of ice and cracks beneath the heat of the desert sun; we hear it rejoice in the sounds of the birds above our heads and the beasts within the forest; we see and hear the blood course through its veins in the rivers and the streams; we feel the very essence of life itself in the grass beneath our feet.
The land is as alive as you or I, in time you will understand.
You will understand Elvalia, as does no other.
I will write more, there are times when I have felt I do not even truly know myself. Perhaps as we come to know one another it may be that this will come to pass, I pray that it does.
For now, know this much; the only certainty:
I am Elvalia, I am an elf… as are you.” |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Re: E ils ill aco...
Posted: 19 Jan 2005 10:40 PM |
| ((good stuff Benny) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
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"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
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<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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The Legacy
Posted: 26 Jan 2005 04:36 PM |
”…el maanyml, aey irilela illa aelam sa ylwaelv ceela elw waeleaneel.”
The softly spoken elven trailed off and she sat back from her kneeling position, looking at the harp silently and listening to the birdsong echoing around the temple gardens.
She pushed herself slowly to her feet and bowed before backing away up the rough cut stairs and bowing again and turning away with a smile of happiness. It was strange how comforting it was to her to come here, rarely receiving an answer nor even certain she was heard, but it was a comfort nevertheless.
Having, as was often the case these days, little to do save think, she crossed the bridge to the far plateau and sat against the large tree… staring out into the mist as the falcons soared above and around her.
“I really should write some more for you,” she said softly, “but later.”
She leant back against the tree and closed her eyes, totally at peace. Certain that here of all places, perhaps more so than any other, she was in no danger, she relaxed totally becoming ever less aware of her surroundings.
Her eyes snapped open suddenly and she sat motionless, attuning herself to what was going on around her, unaware of what it might have been that disturbed her. The plateau was shrouded in darkness and mist, which in itself was unusual. Never had this happened, something was amiss, it never grew dark here.
She rose to her feet and stared around, listening carefully. Nothing. No sound apart from the breeze in the leaves and the soft voices in the distance.
Now she was on her feet, it was clear that the mist rose no higher than her thighs, and she looked up at the skies, allowing the light from the stars and the full moon above to reflect momentarily in her green eyes before looking warily around once more.
Acutely aware of her vulnerability and inwardly cursing herself for the fact that she was, for once, unarmed she began to push quietly through the foliage towards the voices she could still hear in the distance.
Soundlessly, she moved closer, becoming aware that they were speaking elven at least and relaxed slightly. Once she could see the speakers she stopped, stepping into the deeper shadow of a nearby oak and watched.
There were three. She couldn’t make them out clearly though one, a male was on his knees with his back against a fallen log. The other two were female, one knelt facing him while another lay on the ground and couldn’t be seen clearly, though her head must have been in his lap and she held tightly on to one of his hands.
Fascinated, unsure what was occurring for a moment, and wary about moving closer, Elvalia watched silently, staring at the only face she could see clearly until certain it was nobody she knew. As she watched the female facing her said to the unknown male, “It is almost time,” and they began to chant softly, though Elvalia could not make out the words exactly. Even so she was certain she had heard them before, and would know them again.
The chanting grew in volume as the elf facing her busied herself over the other woman, who Elvalia could hear periodically groaning softly in discomfort. Time seemed to stand still for Elvalia as she stood, still slightly stunned by what was occurring, not least why she should be here. The chanting grew louder and louder, rhythmic and insistent but at the same time somehow beckoning and exultant. At last, it seemed to reach a crescendo and silence fell apart from the exhausted breathing from the woman on the ground. The other bent in concentration for a moment or two then at last rose once more to hold up the child, now wrapped in a soft blanket.
“Arod, Elmirie, you have a daughter,” she beamed, then looked down at the child, ”Vmaaanelvla, ceananca ela.”
Elvalia sagged unsteadily to the ground, and stared agape at the scene, then stared at the unknown woman as she spoke once more.
“What is her name?” She asked.
“She is called Bronwyn,” answered Elvalia’s mother tiredly from where she lay still in Arod’s arms.
”Vmaaanelvla Fmelamal,” said the woman, “welcome and be happy, child.”
As her parents repeated the greeting Elvalia’s mother groaned once more, the woman looked down at her with concern, handing Bronwyn quickly to Arod. “Is something wrong sister?”
“No,” gasped Elmirie’s voice, “no, the other is coming.”
Clearly, the woman had not been warned but controlled her surprise and knelt once more.
Elvalia sat in shock, her gaze switching between the woman and her father, aware that she could also just see the moonlights shining on the soft blonde down on Bronwyn’s head where he held her.
She became aware that this time there was no chanting, why that should be she did not know… perhaps it was merely the woman’s surprise at twins that had driven it from her mind. Whatever the reason, she watched and listened to her mother panting and groaning more in discomfort than pain. For what seemed like hours she sat, enthralled, surprised, and somehow deeply moved by what she was witnessing, until at last her mother gave one last loud groan and fell silent apart from her heavy breathing. A few moments more and the woman stood once more and Elvalia looked on in fascination as she repeated the same greeting she had given Bronwyn.
“And this one,” she smiled, “what is she to be called?”
“Elvalia,” breathed her mother as she was helped by Arod into a sitting position, “that is Elvalia.”
”Vmaaanelvla Acelilceil,”said the woman, “welcome and be happy, child.”
She bent then and handed the child to her mother. Elmirie looked down at her then at Bronwyn, then turned to Arod.
“Now they must part,” she said quietly, “at least for a time.”
As Arod nodded she turned back to the woman, “Take Bronwyn, take her now and return to the Grove, they will know what to do. She will be well looked after.”
The woman looked at Elvalia’s parents dumfounded, “Why? I do not understand.”
“I cannot tell you sister,” said Elmirie, “perhaps in time, but for now at least they will be safer apart.”
“But… her name…” whispered the woman.
“No, you must not use it,” said Arod, “let her choose her own when she is old enough, she must not be linked to me.” He bent then and kissed Bronwyn on the forehead before handing her to the woman.
“It must be this way sister,” said Elmirie, she must know what our brothers and sisters can teach at the grove. Elvalia…” she gazed up at Arod with a smile, “Elvalia will need to know other things. She will be safe here with us, and in time it may be they will find each other. It may be that it is safe enough for us to return some day, my heart tells me that Elvalia at least will be back… she must.”
Still puzzled, the woman wrapped Bronwyn in her cloak and nodded briefly, “Very well, I do not understand but it shall be as you wish.”
“You must understand sister… tell nobody, nobody must know where she came from,” said Elmirie insistently.
With a last perplexed nod the woman made her farewells and Elvalia watched her depart and head off through the trees before looking back to where her mother sat.
Arod had sat once more beside her and wrapped an arm around her as they looked down at the child in silence. At last her mother handed him the bundle, “Take her inside, my love, it is growing colder, I will be fine here for a little while.”
As he stood with the baby she smiled up at him, “I will not be long.”
Behind her Elvalia realised that she had been weeping and wiped her eyes.
As Arod walked off through the trees, Elmirie turned her head slightly, “You can come out now, child. He will not hear you.”
Elvalia froze. Who was she speaking to? Hardly daring to breathe she stood and stared at Elmirie, who at last turned towards her more fully. “Is there a reason you hide from me… your own mother? Come, join me, I must speak with you.”
Slowly, Elvalia stood and stepped from the shadow of the tree, walking towards her mother and beginning to weep once more as she did.
She stopped at last and looked down at her at last through her tears.
“Sit, Elvalia… we will be alone,” said her mother, lifting a cloak from the ground and wrapping it around herself. Elvalia lowered herself tentatively to the ground opposite her and gazed at her silently, still weeping.
The woman opposite looked so familiar, and she realised with a jolt how much of her looks she owed to the mother whose features she had all but forgotten. Elmirie gazed back at her intently and brushed her own blonde hair away from her eyes – eyes which like her daughter’s were an almost impenetrable deep green.
“You need not be afraid, you know,” said Elmirie, “there is no reason to bury memory the way you do… there is no shame in remembering, even if the memory is painful.”
Elvalia stifled a sob and looked back silently.
“It may be by now that you begin to understand why we did this,” her mother continued, “why we hid you… and your sister.” She looked at Elvalia intently for a few moments. “Perhaps by now, you know… perhaps not.”
She paused then for a few moments, perhaps hoping that her daughter might answer, perhaps just allowing herself time to think. “You will know… in time, if you do not already. But I know as I look upon my daughter that whatever it is that whatever I may have to sacrifice for her and her sister, whatever I and Arod must do for you both… will be worth it.”
As Elvalia held her hand over her mouth trying to prevent herself from sobbing uncontrollably, Elmirie leant towards her and placed a hand on her stomach.
“It is important that you do not hide any more, daughter. Don’t hide from your memories, you need them now, more than ever. This is the start, now you have begun to remember there is so much more… so much to remember and teach.” She said with a knowing smile.
She stood then, a little painfully and reached down to help Elvalia to her feet.
“We must part now Acelilceil, my moonflower,” she said, “but continue what you have begun, continue.”
She took Elvalia’s head in her hands and kissed her softly on the forehead, “Fa lalloa, Acelilceil. I must go also, for some reason I feel unusually tired this night and I daresay before long there will be a hungry child to care for,” she said with a wry smile, “E ceela aey, oilmaamacc.”
Elvalia slumped to the ground against the tree and at last let her grief free as she watched her mother slowly walk off into the mist…
Opening her eyes, she blinked and looked down into the mists then over at the temple grove to her right.
She wiped the tears from her eyes and laid her hand upon her stomach, “I said I should write child, and now I think I must,” she said, climbing to her feet and walking slowly off towards Eden. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Being Elvalia
Posted: 03 Feb 2005 04:40 AM |
((OOC – as in the past in these tales, what follows in this one, and indeed in others to come, is OOC information for many. Much of what follows as those who know Elvalia are aware would never be revealed by her in conversation - please respect that, if you haven't been told, you don't know))
She ran up the rough hewn steps to Eden, her mind still spinning from the dream, if dream it was; ran through the trees to her home and, with a swift bow to the statue, ducked inside to quickly gather writing materials before running outside once more to make herself comfortable by the pool.
Continue what you have begun, her mother had said, and as she watched the stag grazing quietly she pondered on where best to start.
“With what you know best…” she muttered, and bent over the parchment.
”Vmaaanelvla child. I have decided to continue with these writings both as a means to educate you and also perhaps give you something you will be able in time to pass on to others, even family of your own should that come to pass.
We are elven, as I have told you. I began to explain how this makes us different from others, and would continue. To best explain this I can do no better I believe than explain myself. None know me, as you will do, not even your father. You are different, you are part of me and as such will in months to come be better placed to understand me than any other.
So… to continue. I am Elvalia Ginfalin, Elvalia Mellebin that was. In the same way that I am known by many names, I am a different person to different people. I do not doubt for one moment that one asked would see me differently from another.
Until now, there has been only one who knows the true Elvalia, my thoughts and feelings… myself, but now you too will know.
Know this first. I am a killer I have also in times past been a murderess. I have killed for revenge and the pleasure that gives. It shames me to admit it but while it is not visible, there is blood on my hands.
Make no mistake, child, there is pleasure to be had in killing. I have felt it and, when younger, indulged it. I do not seek forgiveness or compassion, nor can I change what is done. Nor can I forget the thrill of the strength in my arm and the song of my bow as my victims fell.
Killing is easy… too easy. To kill those who oppose your views or annoy you is the path of a coward. It is far harder, and better, to try to understand such people. I was once told by one I honour greatly that there is no reason to kill for killing’s sake. There was a time when – to my shame – I forgot that lesson, but I know also that he was correct.
I am also faithful. I try to live my life as my Lord Aros would live it. I have heard it said that us mortals are no more than pawns at the hands of the gods. I do not believe this is so.
That I live at all is due to Him, had he not saved me I would have died alongside my mother and Arod. He saved me also from what I might have become. If not for him I would yet be a hunter, a murderess. I am His Chosen and have vowed to uphold His word and defend our home and our people. This I believe I have done, even though at times it has not been the easiest path. I am well aware that my views and my beliefs have cost me much, have cost me friendships and more, but I will not change. I am and will remain His loyal servant in all things, whatever the cost. Even were my existence to end, I will die as I live now, a follower of my Lord Aros.
Not just a follower. I must tell you now that whatever else your life may bring your biggest burden will be your parentage. I have been told that we are His daughters, your aunt and I. How this can be I do not fully understand myself but I have heard it from too many sources to deny it. I have been called such by Tarik, by Gukathul, and while my instinct would be to deny their words as lies I cannot deny that He has called me such himself. Nor can I deny the words of those who say I have a power within me. Again, they are not people I would believe easily, but it exists and I can no longer deny it. I have used it, used it but once only but it is there nonetheless.
Therefore you will live your life as His grandchild. A blessing and in some ways a curse. I can offer no advice save that you, as I do, accept it and live your life as seems best to you. It is true to say that were I not His Chosen or his daughter, but merely the humblest of elves, I would be no different… I would still be Elvalia.
And Arod, I hear you say, what of him?
I truly do not know, I have only memories and not many of those, but for the most part they are good memories. I have borne his name for much of my life and will never forget that. That he loved my mother, I do not doubt, nor do I doubt that he shared a bond with her as strong as that I share with your father. One stronger, perhaps, strong enough to ignore the ways of his people and give his name and become father to two children not his own. Strong enough, indeed, to abandon his calling as an archer, leave his home for the wild and ultimately give his life for them. I love and honour him no less knowing I am not his daughter. He will always be a father to me.
I have few friends; in part this is by choice. In part, simply because I am who I am. Many fear or dislike me, deservedly or not. Many are as uncomfortable in my presence as I am in theirs. I would not be truly honest were I to say I do not prefer it this way. I do not trust easily. Those friends I do have I would never abandon any more than I would forget an enemy. Those who know me well are aware of this, in the same way that I am true to My Lord and myself; I am true to my friends and – while I might not tell them all – would never mislead them.
I fear no one, no thing, and no creature. I do, however, respect many. I am not such a fool as to think I am all-powerful. In the same way that killing is an easy route to take, so is taking action without thought. To go blindly into places of danger achieves nothing, I have been to such places – too many to name – but I do not go without reason. To do so only endangers yourself, and ultimately any who might after try to assist you should you fall.”
Elvalia paused, her quill poised above the parchment as she considered what she had written, and moreover was about to write. Noticing that the stag had moved to stand beside her she smiled warmly and reached up to gently caress the beast’s head. “Aala…” she said softly, “I said all, and all it will be, I will hide nothing.” Absently patting the stag, she bent once more over the parchment…
”What I am about to write, I have – as far as I recall – admitted to no one. Somehow, I feel that you of all people are likely to become aware of my true thoughts, so you… you I will tell.
I have, I know, at times been thought a racist, a despiser of all that is not elven.
Aala… it is true, I will admit to you as I will to no other that I hate humans, even though there are some among them that I respect, that I call friend.
As a race I see little to redeem them, for the large part humans have in my experience but one desire. Power. Power for themselves, power over others, power to take what is not theirs. In this I admit they are not alone, I see the same increasingly even among our own people. I have power, it is true, but have never sought it, it is not of my choosing and I would never seek it at the expense of others. I despair that there are many among our people who become ever more like those I despise and I fear for them. A thirst for power, even when sated, leads only to a thirst for more. My heart tells me it will end in sorrow, I know only too well what happens to those among our people who seek power thoughtlessly… but that story is for another time.
For now, it is enough for me to say that I hate them, hate them for the deaths of my mother and Arod, hate them for my years of solitude, hate them for my lost childhood, hate them for robbing my sister for the most part of a family she will never know.
That said, I would not try to change them, I do not seek to harm any.
I seek but one thing, the freedom to live my life, as My Lord and I will it. Let others live as they will; follow whom they will. It matters not to me unless they should try and force their ways upon me, my people or those I care for.
I have written enough for now, I feel. I will write more you may be sure. Already I feel you grow, know you are there, though as yet we have not spoken it will not be long now child… not long at all.”
She dropped her quill to the grass and the green eyes stared intently for a few minutes at the last paragraphs she had written.
“Aala… it is done,” she whispered, “it is about time you admitted as much to yourself.”
Standing slowly she gathered up her things, rolled the parchment carefully and walked thoughtfully towards her home through the trees. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Re: Being Elvalia
Posted: 03 Feb 2005 05:32 AM |
| ((very nice Benny, very powerful)) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
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"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
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<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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The Deep Forest
Posted: 06 Feb 2005 06:00 AM |
She pushed through the last of the undergrowth, stepping from the trees and brushed the sweat-stained hair from her eyes as she looked around the clearing.
Shouldering the great bow, she stood, looked and listened as the familiar sights and sounds mingled with the memories she had of this place.
The cleared area was smaller now, time having allowed the surrounding forest to reclaim lost ground, but what remained was familiar enough. As she walked towards the centre she could still, here and there, glimpse the sun-bleached bones of those who had died in the attack – died at the hands of Arod and Elmirie.
She paused as the evening light glinted on something in the grass and bent to pick it up. A brooch, leaf-shaped and fashioned of some green crystal, inlaid intricately with silver to simulate the veins. Beautiful and so delicate, thinking hard she could not remember seeing such a thing before but was sure she should have.
She only became aware of how long she had stood in thought as the clearing darkened and the green and silver of the brooch faded to black and white. Lifting her head she looked around and noticed a faint green glow from the centre of the clearing and, wary but nevertheless intrigued, moved towards it.
As she came close enough to make out what it was she stopped and stared. Her log, the one in which she had hidden, and on which she had painstakingly carved the memorial to her parents; but now turned to stone, the carved letters glowing faintly green from within. Realising that there was only one way this could have happened she fell to her knees and remained there for a few minutes in silent prayer.
Rising at last she moved once more to the edge of the clearing and quickly, expertly, constructed a shelter from fallen boughs and foliage. Satisfied at last that she would at least remain dry she put her pack inside and made a small fire, sitting nearby and staring into the flames as she ate from her rations.
Her head snapped up as she heard the sound of light, rapid footsteps approaching, and watched with wide green eyes as a very young girl ran past in tears, oblivious to her presence.
“Mother! Mother, where are you?” Called the child from the edge of the clearing, blonde head looking from side to side briefly before she plunged into the trees, still calling. Quickly gathering up her bow and extinguishing the fire, Elvalia followed.
She moved swiftly after the sound of the fading cries, deeper into the forest, catching the child steadily until she was no more than fifty feet behind when the girl stopped suddenly.
“There you are!” Called the little one, clearly relieved, and continued as a woman stepped quickly towards her from the shadow of a tree, “Look mother! It bit me! I’m bleeding!”
As the woman moved swiftly towards her, Elvalia shrank back and melted into the surroundings, her heart skipping a beat as Elmirie knelt before the child and examined the wound. “What bit you Acelilceil? Let me see…” she said, taking the child’s hand.
With a swift smile of relief the woman murmured a soft, low incantation and waved her hand above the wound, watching the healing magic flow. “There,” she said, sitting back on her heels and brushing the child’s tears away, “now tell me, what happened?”
“It was the otter, pouted the child, “at the stream. Father said she had young and I wanted to see but she bit me.” As the woman nodded with a wry smile, she continued. “Why? I wouldn’t have harmed them, I only wanted to watch.”
Elmirie sat on the ground, drawing the girl closer and seating her in her lap. “I know Acelilceil,” she smiled, “but the otter doesn’t. All she knows is that her young must be protected. You’ll see them in time, once they have grown a little, if you are patient.”
The woman’s eyes glazed over slightly as she looked towards a pool which reflected the moonlight nearby. “The need for parents to protect their young overrides all else, becomes the most important thing in their lives,” she said softly, “at least until they are able to fend for themselves.”
The child screwed her face up in concentration, “But you and father leave me alone sometimes, is it different for us then?”
Elmirie looked down at her briefly, smiled then looked away, resuming her distant look, “You think so? It might seem so Acelilceil but there is always someone watching over you. Your father is never far away.”
Elvalia held her breath, could it be that Elmirie was not speaking of Arod? She looked down at her bow, all too aware of the connection, then looked up in shock as her mother continued to speak. “He is here now, can’t you see him?”
The child and Elvalia looked around, puzzled, Elvalia all too sure that she knew what her mother meant and half dreading what she might see, until a slight movement behind her made her spin in surprise – standing agape as Arod stepped from the trees and walked past her with a broad smile. He bent over the pair, kissing Elmirie then taking the child in one arm, his bow held in his other hand. “So you found the otter Acelilceil,” he laughed, “you really shouldn’t run off like that, I almost couldn’t keep up.”
“You were watching?” Pouted the child, as he nodded, looking down at her fondly. “Aala,” he said, “but now it is time the young ranger slept; it grows late. Are you coming Elmirie?”
“In a while, my love,” said the woman, “I will not be too long.” She stood and kissed him and the child, who by now had wrapped her arms tightly around his neck, burying her face in his chest. Arod smiled, nodded and walked lightly off towards the clearing.
Elmirie watched them go, fingering a ring on one finger, then looked Elvalia with a slight smile. “You can come out now,” she said, softly, “for some reason I do not understand they do not see you as I can. Elvalia stood motionless for a few moments then slung her bow and stepped out into the moonlight. The two women watched each other silently, each aware of how alike they were in looks at least. At last, Elmirie spoke, holding out her hand with a wry smile, “You can come closer Elvalia, unlike the otter I do not bite.”
Tentatively, Elvalia moved closer, studying her mother; filling in the gaps in the memory as she had with the clearing. Though a few inches taller than Elvalia and Bronwyn, Elmirie still did not quite reach five feet. The hair was the same… blonde, falling forwards over her eyes. And the eyes… deep green, impenetrable, a mirror of Elvalia’s. As her mother looked intently at her a jolt ran through Elvalia as she recognised the power those eyes held; realised that others must feel the same discomfort under her own gaze. But Elmirie was beautiful, like her daughters; clear skinned, fragile but displaying an inner strength, and like Elvalia slightly fairer of skin than Bronwyn.
“It has been a long time,” said Elmirie as Elvalia came near, “five years since that night, for me at least. Though I sense not so long for you.” She stepped closer to her daughter, placing a hand on her daughter’s stomach with a warm smile. “How long?”
Aware that it was the first time she had spoken; that even when they had last met she had done no more than nod or shake her head, Elvalia at last replied, her voice barely a whisper, “A month, five weeks, not long.”
“So you begin to feel,” said Elmirie, taking her daughter’s hands in hers.
“Aala…” breathed Elvalia, “I feel it, not much, just a nagging at the edge of my consciousness, but it is there. Like a candle just lit.”
“There will be more,” said Elmirie with a smile, “much more. Come… sit with me, we did not talk much when last we met.” Her grip firm, cool and strangely warm at the same time, she led Elvalia back to the tree where she had been sat previously and sat against it. Elvalia sat next to her, still a little stunned, laying her bow on the ground.
They sat staring at each other for a few moments, “So like me,” said Elmirie softly, “I could almost be looking in a mirror… and yet not quite the same. Somehow I always knew it would be so.” She reached out suddenly and pulled her daughter into an embrace, much as she had held the child earlier. Surprised and unable to speak, Elvalia just gave herself up to the embrace and accepted the warmth.
Elmirie stroked her daughter’s hair, breathing deeply, “Jasmine… your hair smells of jasmine. So you have returned to Ferein then.”
“Aala,” breathed Elvalia, “I have a home there, with my husband, but I am always drawn back here somehow.” She looked at the pool and then at the forest around her, “Only here do I feel truly safe, this forest will always be my true home.”
“Though I do not understand how this is happening,” she said, looking into her mother’s eyes, “how we can meet, speak, feel each other.”
“Nor I in truth,” said Elmirie, “it was said in my younger days that I had some gift of foresight, though this is beyond me.”
“Perhaps it is the child,” said Elvalia, “I remember so little for some reason, perhaps this is how I am to remember.” She turned and looked off in the direction Arod had taken with her younger self, “Was he always like that? Watching… guarding?”
“Aala…” said Elmirie softly, “not him alone, one of us is never far away even if you never realised it… you were never left truly alone.” She laughed softly then, the laughter a curious echo of Elvalia’s, “It is the way of parents until their young can fend for themselves.”
Elvalia joined in the laughter for a few moments and then became serious, staring at her mother… perhaps now was the time, “Perhaps even after,” she said, unsure what Elmirie’s reaction would be.
Her mother tilted her head slightly, looking at her daughter questioningly, “What do you mean?”
Elvalia took her bow from the ground and stood, looking down at Elmirie and holding it out to her with both hands, “Take it, you will see,” she said softly.
Still puzzled, Elmirie slowly reached out and took the bow in her hands, eyes widening as the bow began to glow then glazing over as an expression of sadness appeared on her face. Barely containing her tears and looking, to Elvalia at least, as if she would rather not have known she handed the bow back and folded her hands in her lap, staring distantly down at them.
“You know then…” she whispered.
“Aala,” said Elvalia softly, “he told me, the Hunter as well, even Gukathul. But there is more, I can do things I should not be able to. Bronwyn knows as well.”
“Bronwyn? She is well?” Said her mother, clearly not sure still how to react.
“Aala…” smiled Elvalia warmly, “she is fine, we found each other. It was he who told us we were sisters, though we suspected. We look so much alike, are alike in many other ways also.”
Her mother remained silent, staring at her daughter who looked back, careful not to give any hint of accusation or judgement.
“There is much of him in you also, I suspect,” said Elmirie at last, “you may look like me, but the differences are there.”
“Mother…?” breathed Elvalia. Elmirie looked back and at last nodded imperceptibly. Elvalia moved then, laying the bow once more on the ground and sitting close beside her mother. “I have… have so many questions… so much I want to ask,” she said softly.
Elmirie bowed her head and held her face in her hands. Elvalia fell silent, watching her, becoming aware as her shoulders began to shake that she was crying and putting an arm around her shoulders.
“Oh child…” sobbed Elmirie, “I am so sorry… such a burden.”
“It is not a burden mother, it could never be that, even not knowing I would still be the same after…” Elvalia stopped herself, as her mother looked up at her questioningly. The woman beside her had five years to live, foresight or not, Elvalia was certain it would not be her who broke it to her.
“After he has guided me, after his kindness, how could I be other than I am?” She said.
Elmirie nodded, clearly unconvinced, and wiped the tears from her eyes.
“Will you tell me, mother?” Asked Elvalia, “can you tell me?”
Elmirie stared at her, studying her face for a long while, then laughed, “And if I did not?” She gestured in the direction of the clearing, “I suspect if I refused it would make little difference, there is a little girl over there who badgers Arod daily for a bow she would not have the strength to pull even though he has refused, I suspect she will not give in, any more than you will.”
Elvalia joined in the laughter, relieved that her mother had not pressed her, “Does he know? Arod I mean?”
“Aala…” said Elmirie softly, “he knows. But you saw him, there is no bitterness there, I could not ask for more.” She looked at Elvalia once more, “So you have returned, will you be staying long?”
“Only a short while, I cannot be away for long,” said Elvalia, “a week or so I suspect. Though this will always be my true home, I have another now, and a husband of my own.”
“Aala,” smiled Elmirie, “a week then, we will speak again.” She gestured to the pool, “I am often here, if you wish to find me this is where I will be, and we will talk. I will tell you… I owe you that much. You and your sister.”
“You owe me nothing mother, nothing at all… but aala, I will come.”
Elmirie stood and retrieved a cloak from the ground, wrapping it around her shoulders and pinning it with a green and silver leaf shaped brooch. She bent and kissed Elvalia’s forehead.
“Very well, until then Elvalia,” she said with a smile, ”Fa lalloa.”
Elvalia watched her walk away until the night and the shadows swallowed her up then reached into the pocket of her robe and took out the brooch she had found. Cupping it in her hand she stared down at it and began to weep uncontrollably, “Fa lalloa mother,” she whispered. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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The Lesson
Posted: 01 Mar 2005 11:34 AM |
She finished her meal and sat for a while with her arms wrapped around her knees, staring into the flames from the small fire, looking up every so often to check the passage of the sun as it neared the tops of the trees around the clearing.
Rather than returning, as she had thought, to speak with Elmirie immediately, she had instead returned home to Ferein, spoken with the Council of Iretya’s defection, then spent a little time in Eden. After waiting for a while in the hope of at least seeing Thorfin, she had made one last trip to Buckshire, in search of a few needed items.
Of Thorfin there was still no sign, but she had at least seen Macha, and spoken at length of her plans. Should Thorfin return in her absence there would at least be somebody to tell him of her whereabouts.
It had been a strange day since her arrival that morning, watching her family and her younger self. If Elmirie had seen her she gave no sign. Arod and the girl were as always unaware of her presence.
Elmirie had walked off into the forest soon after Elvalia had arrived, leaving Arod to watch over the child. Elvalia had watched enthralled as he sat patiently showing the little girl how to make arrows, fielding a seemingly endless succession of questions – mostly beginning with ‘Why’.
Elvalia watched, green eyes shining, as the child painstakingly followed his instructions to produce arrows which – while not perfect – were certainly serviceable. Arod showed her where she had gone wrong, arousing a familiar fire in the child’s eyes that had Elvalia stifling laughter with her hand, a hand which was swiftly joined by the other as the child explained in matter of fact fashion that being able to make arrows was all well and good, but there was no point when she had no bow to shoot them.
Shaking her head and somehow, only the gods knew how, remaining silent, Elvalia listened as Arod explained that even if he were to make a bow, without arrows it would be useless. The all to familiar frown developing on the child’s face as he gestured to the forest around and asked where she intended to buy them.
The child had stood then, her face level with his as he sat facing her, and launched into a lengthy and – to Elvalia’s ears at least – reasoned explanation of why she needed a bow, had waited quite long enough, and would never be able to follow in his steps unless she had one.
Patiently, without a trace of amusement, Arod acknowledged her argument and told her she would have one, when she was able to make arrows without spoiling any. Accepting what he said, the child sat once more and began to work on the arrows with renewed vigour.
Elvalia looked on with a broad smile. All the fire was there, the bluntness, the certainty that she was right – even at that age – as was the determination… and the wilfulness.
So, Elvalia noted later, was the defiance. Arod finished the lesson, grudgingly acknowledging the child’s improvement, and left her to go on one of his periodic patrols of the surrounding forest. The child had watched him leave, settling against a tree to examine one of the arrows. Once she was certain he was out of sight the girl grabbed a handful of the arrows and ran off into the trees, followed swiftly by an intrigued Elvalia.
She caught up with her quickly, and watched as the child searched among the fallen leaves until at last she gave a low cry of triumph and pulled out a half-finished short bow. Stunned, Elvalia settled herself against a rock as the child pulled a small dagger from her leggings and continued to work on the wood, shaping it, smoothing it, pausing every so often to check her work until at last she seemed satisfied with the finished product, holding it up proudly in front of her.
She stood then and laid out some rocks in a line across the top of a fallen tree, strung the bow with a bow string which had also been hidden in her leggings, and moved away to take aim. Patiently the girl nocked arrow after arrow, patiently retrieving them and starting again until she could hit the whole line without missing. Even then, she did not give up, moving away even further to start the same process over again.
Happy at last the child unstrung the bow before hiding it again in the leaves and running back towards the lodge, arrows in hand. As Elvalia watched the small blonde head disappear from view, a stifled laugh came from the trees behind her and she swung round to see Arod removing the bow from the leaves, stand shaking his head for a moment, then walk off after the girl.
Following him back through the forest Elvalia watched as he entered the lodge, then peered through a window to see him approach the table where the child now sat, as Elmirie served a meal.
“Look what I found out in the forest Elmirie,” he said, holding up the bow with a wry smile. Elmirie turned briefly to glance at it before looking intently at her daughter, who sat staring with mouth agape.
“Is it yours Acelilceil?” She asked gently.
The child remained silent, obviously shocked that her secret had been discovered, but at the same time just as unrepentant, and unafraid of what might followed. Clearly not wishing to speak she merely nodded in answer to her mother’s question.
“Where did you find it?” Asked Elmirie.
“I… I didn’t,” said the child with a defiant lifting of her chin, “I made it.”
“You made it? But how? Where did you learn how to do this?” Asked her mother.
“By watching father,” said the girl quietly before looking up at him with a slight smile, “he’s not the only one who can hide.”
“It would seem not,” he laughed, hanging the bow out of reach before looking once more at Elmirie, “she knows how to use it too, but won’t be any more, at least for a while.”
He looked down at the child, the amusement disappearing from his face, “I am at least glad you didn’t choose to practice on something living, but practice will stop until your mother and I say so.”
As the fire kindled in the child’s eyes once more, he continued, “No arguments, not on this occasion, child. The bow remains there until you are given permission, that way we may at least be able to teach you the meaning of patience, even if you seem able to train yourself in other skills. You will use it again when I say so… not before.”
The girl sat smouldering but at last acknowledged what he had said with a nod, and bent her head once more to eat, missing the quick smile that passed between the two older elves. The meal passed in silence, until at last the girl stood and said goodnight to the pair of them, closing the door to her room just forcefully enough to make a point without actually slamming it.
“She will learn,” said Elmirie, “she must.”
“Aala,” said Arod with a brief smile, “she will. I mean to make sure of it.”
With a gentle smile Elmirie turned and caught sight of Elvalia at the window, and stood smiling down at her husband. “I think I will take a walk for a while, if you do not mind, I would like to go and sit by the pool a while.”
“Of course not,” he said, smiling up at her, “I will watch her, I don’t think she’ll be sneaking off anywhere else just yet. I will see you soon.”
“Aala,” said Elmirie, bending to kiss him, “I will not be long.”
She wrapped herself in a cloak and walked off to the forest down the now familiar route without so much as a glance toward where her daughter stood.
Elvalia watched her go, and with a last glance at the lodge, said in a soft voice, “Aala, we need to talk mother, the time has come.”
She glanced towards the edge of the forest, noting the moon just appearing above the trees, and silently walked after the woman. |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Acelilceil
Posted: 10 Mar 2005 07:27 AM |
((OOC – with thanks to Aesir… he knows why))
Silently, Elvalia followed distantly behind her mother as she walked towards the spot where they had last spoken, the moon climbing as she walked, the light breaking occasionally through the canopy above to light the path ahead of her. Only the rustle of the occasional nocturnal animal, and the ceaseless sound of insect calls broke the stillness of the forest around her.
Elmirie sat silently near the pool, under the same tree as before and as yet unaware of her daughter’s presence. She sat watching a plant Elvalia had not noticed before, or for that matter seen at all.
Unwilling to break the mood of silence and, truth be told, hesitant to begin a conversation she had been dreading in many ways, Elvalia sat quietly at the edge of the tiny clearing and watched.
The moon climbed higher, flooding the clearing with its silvery light, all the brighter as it was reflected by the waters of the pool. Still, both elves remained silent, Elmirie intent on the plant as Elvalia sat watching her in silent fascination. Minutes passed, perhaps longer, until the moon finally reached its zenith and Elvalia heard her mother give a soft gasp of wonder and saw her lean in closer towards the plant.
Elvalia climbed silently and slowly to her feet, moving a little closer to look at the plant herself. Focusing her gaze on it she could see that the bulbous shape at the top had split and begun to open in the light of the full moon. Fascinated, she stood silently as in a soft, low melodic voice, her mother began to sing.
Ean ela anira Acelilceil
Laanmelv, laeceanilma, ylilomilew
Lairyllelv relaan, veelelv ane oaam
Laanillwelv ilcela illw tymeyw
Tyilcalaan seelcean vecw
Waatyalaan asamilw vmaal
Laeyviran fa silla
Nleaml fa oaam
Ean ela anira Acelilceil
Laanmelv, laeceanilma, ylilomilew
Ilwsemaw fa silla
Laireamelv fyan elnva
Vyilmwelv eanlaaco
Ceelelv oem eaniramla
A’tyanvanelv leanirelv
Nleaml fa oaam
Ean ela anira Acelilceil
Ceviran el anira wilmn
Lairelelv amirama lela nvill laaa
Irewelv eanlaaco omes ilcc fyan ela
Nvirecw eo anira oemalaan
Tyilcalaan seeloean vecw
Waatyalaan asamilw vmaal
Ean ela anira Acelilceil
As she sang, the soft voice gained in strength as the bud opened to release a single bloom, large petals of palest gold surrounding a centre of deepest green, turning its face to the moonlight above. At last Elmirie fell silent as the flower stood fully open and turned to look over her shoulder with a warm smile of welcome.
Elvalia stood awestruck, staring at the bloom, then whispered, “It is beautiful.”
“Aala,” said Elmirie, “I am blessed, so few see it at all and yet I have now seen it twice – the first before you and your sister were born. Our language has changed, and the letters no longer match, but that is what you were named for. It suits does it not?”
“Aala,” said Elvalia, nodding slowly, “if I had been asked to describe myself before now it would have been as an elf, perhaps archer at most, but it fits.”
“So few are privileged to see such as this,” said Elmirie, turning back towards the flower, “by the time the moon sinks below the horizon the colour will have faded, the petals fallen, the seeds blown on the breeze who knows where… in time to grow and bloom for another.”
She reached up and took Elvalia’s hand, pulling her gently down to sit beside her, casting a quick glance at her stomach as she did. “It is strange,” she said, “I would judge it almost three months, aala?” Elvalia nodded. “Strange indeed,” continued Elmirie, “the child you doubtless watched today has now passed eight years, and yet for you but a few weeks have passed.”
Elmirie smiled, “A child three years older but unchanged in many ways, a little wiser perhaps.”
“There is something I do not understand mother,” said Elvalia, “why is it you allowed her… allowed me to be that way? To be so wilful. At times as I watch it is almost as if she were the parent and you and Arod the children.”
“I can see how it might seem so,” said Elmirie, laughing softly, “but any control she has must come from within herself, she cannot be forced. To her, restraint will be everything I suspect. Without it, who knows what she might become, and yet it is a choice she must make for herself, we cannot make it for her. Show her by example, certainly, but I fear that is all we can do – all we should do. We can only lead and hope she will follow.”
“Because of my father?” Asked Elvalia softly.
Elmirie looked at her silently for a few moments before smiling slightly and answering, “I see that time has not cured your bluntness, Acelilceil.”
She fell silent once more, watching the flower, which had already begun to pale slightly, then at last turned once more to her daughter, “Aala…” she said quietly, “you are ready, I think. It is time you knew.”
“I was young,” she continued, “as young perhaps as the woman who sits before me now… and fell in love with an elf, an archer by the name of Arod Mellebin. My own parents passed when I was young, how I do not know, and I had not long left the grove. Arod’s parents though, they yet lived and lived very much by tradition. While they accepted that he might return my love – as indeed was the case – my youth turned them against any thought of marriage, at least then. And so we courted, with their blessing though in truth it was given grudgingly, and I was content, after all, our people have time on their sides if little else.”
Elvalia drew her knees to her chest, hugging them tightly as she listened, and a curious sense of peace settling over her as her mother spoke.
“It was my way then, as it is now though perhaps less so, to wander freely, to explore and seek solitude. Much as I loved - and still love – Arod my own company has always suited me best. It has always been my way to wander among the gifts of the Mother. And so it was that I was taken, by followers of the Hunter.”
Elvalia remained silent, unwilling to interrupt her mother, questions crowding her head.
“In those days,” continued Elmirie, “I seldom travelled armed, even now I carry but a dagger, so there was little I could do against them. Nevertheless, they did not harm me, seemed content above all to take me as a prize back to their village. There, though confined, I was treated with kindness by all save one – their leader.”
Her eyes clouded as the memories came to the fore, the pain evident in her expression if not her speech. Elvalia, still not trusting herself to speak, could do no more than take her mother’s hand and clasp it gently within her own.
“I have never known such cruelty,” said Elmirie, “before or since. I sense that even among the followers of the Hunter he was unusual in that, it was more part of his nature than brought on by belief. But to him I was a possession, nothing more, something to be used as he saw fit.”
She reached out with her free hand and gently caressed her daughter’s cheek, “So that is how it came to pass daughter, that is how you are the daughter of a Hunter as he has told you.”
Trying desperately, but unsuccessfully, to hold back the tears which were beginning to flow, Elvalia shook her head slightly, “I… I did not know,” she whispered, “no one has told me.”
Elmirie stared at her in silent surprise, “But… I thought when we last spoke…”
“A misunderstanding,” said Elvalia softly, “in truth there is much I have misunderstood, but this… it explains much.”
She looked down silently at her hands for a few moments before looking once more at her mother, a cold green fury showing in her eyes, “Does he live?”
Still shocked that Elvalia had been unaware, Elmirie shook her head slowly, “No… no child, he is dead.” As the fire in her daughters eyes faded, she continued, “Arod, when he realised I was missing, tracked me with some friends. To this day I do not know how they managed it but they found me. Arod himself killed… killed your father; many died that day – two of Arod’s friends among them. In the end though, the remainder of Tarik’s followers were driven off and I was taken back to Ferein.”
“There, when it became apparent I was with child, I was shunned, not least by Arod’s family who now refused to countenance any idea of our relationship continuing. They would not even speak with me. And so it was that we left, came here to live apart. Arod left the land he loved so much, gave up the service of the Archer to whom he had never shown anything but the utmost loyalty, left behind even his own family… just to be with me. Accepted me as I was, accepted another’s children as his own and we married each other before the gods.”
She looked up in surprise as her daughter began to laugh softly, “What is it you find so amusing?” She asked a little impatiently.
“I am sorry mother,” said Elvalia, “it is just that Thorfin and I were married in the same way, I was amused by the coincidence is all,” becoming serious once more she looked away from Elmirie. “I have another question,” she said softly.
It was Elmirie’s turn now to laugh, “Somehow you always do Acelilceil, what is it?”
“Why?” Asked Elvalia softly, “I have seen myself how Arod cared for me, and have enough memories to know that he treated me as his own. Why then was Bronwyn sent away?”
At first Elmirie did not answer but sat staring down at her hands. At last she looked up once more at her daughter, the pain still evident in her eyes. “I can only answer that in one way,” she said quietly, “with questions of my own. You dwell yourself in Ferein, know many of our kind I do not doubt. How are followers of the hunter treated now? How do –you- treat them?”
Elvalia thought for a moment, “Despised by many, even elsewhere in the world they are met by most of our people with hatred, with aggression. For myself… well for myself it depends. There is one I call friend, perhaps my closest friend, she is known… known to be close to the Hunter – it does not change our friendship. Another, another I would have been honoured to call friend has turned and now follows him, that has not altered my respect for her in any way. But… but generally, they are not treated well by our people – regarded as enemies not to be tolerated.”
“Aala,” said Elmirie, “nothing changes. Though the fact of your parentage was not generally known there were enough who were aware of it, as some were aware that I carried not one but two children. We are a race with long memories, and it is not so long now since the War with the Hunter. To many, though you were children of mine, your father’s allegiance would have been enough to condemn you. We thought long and hard, Arod and I, in those months before you were born. It is not easy, it never is for a mother to give up a child, but it seemed then the best thing for us to do. An elven couple dwelling alone in the forest with a child, while rare perhaps, would attract little attention. An elven couple with two children, especially twins, would have been more noteworthy. None knew our whereabouts, but there were enough that would have been willing to harm you and your sister had they found us. Our solitude may keep us safe, but for those who wish us harm it also makes us an easy target.”
Elvalia merely nodded, acutely aware that the woman before her had unwittingly described the fate that would befall her in just two short years from now – in her time at least.
“As for the choice of Bronwyn…” continued Elmirie, “you will know yourself in a very short time how it is to communicate with a child as yet unborn. I knew you, both of you, even before you came into this world. One… the older, in her I saw much of myself, attuned to nature – perhaps to even a greater extent than am I – a free spirit, one who would glory in all the gifts of the mother, frail in some ways perhaps or at least seeming so, yet possessed of strengths she would need to walk the world in safety for the most part, offending none.”
“The other…” she continued quietly, “the other was different. Much about her was closed to me, at least in time. From her I could gain little, and that only briefly and early on. Anger, bitterness, aala… cruelty too. That much at least I learnt while I was able, before she closed herself off from me. What little I knew though left me in no doubt… she was her father’s child.”
Again, Elvalia remained silent, unable this time to even nod as her mother watched her for a few moments before continuing.
“So it was that Arod and I decided that the younger should be the one to stay here with us. To learn our ways by example, from Arod chiefly, to watch him, adopt his ways and some day make her own choice and become what we hoped… an elf of Ferein. You have seen yourself a young girl who cannot be forced to do anything. I suppose you know her better than I, in fact I know you do – know that she can only be led, not forced, that in the end whatever she does is done by her own choice and not another’s”
Elmirie looked down at the great bow, which as ever lay within her daughter’s reach, “It gladdens my heart to see that we will succeed,” she said softly.
“Aala…” whispered Elvalia, “you have.”
She looked around once more at the flower, the petals had all fallen, all but one, which seemed reluctant to not only part from the flower but lose it’s colour as it shone still with a glow of pale gold.
Elmirie stood and helped her daughter to her feet, Elvalia smiled shyly and wrapped her arms around her mother’s neck suddenly.
“Does it change anything Acelilceil?” Whispered Elmirie in her ear as she returned the embrace.
“Not at all,” Elvalia answered, leaning back slightly to look into her mother’s eyes, “I am what I am, I made my choice a long time ago. I have also given my oath, I will never break that. But… but thank you for telling me, I realise it must have caused you pain and that is something I would wish to avoid above all else.”
“The pain is in the past Acelilceil,” smiled Elmirie, “more so for you.”
She leant forward to kiss her daughter’s forehead, “I must go… it is almost morning and I have a daughter to care for,” she smiled, “Fa lalloa, daughter, may Aros watch over you.”
“Farewell mother,” whispered Elvalia, watching her leave.
As she lost sight of her Elvalia turned once more to the flower, which still held the single petal. She sat next to it and gently removed it from the plant, cupping it in her hand for a moment and looking at it thoughtfully. Glancing up at the treeline she smiled as the moon at last disappeared behind the trees, reached for her dagger and cut a lock from her hair. Laying it and the petal on the ground for a moment she reached once more for the plant and removed one of the leaves.
Then, laying the petal on the leaf she painstakingly began to plait the long lock of hair around them, singing as she did so.
E ils anira Acelilceil
E ils Laanmelv, laeceanilma, ylilomilew
Lairyllelv relaan, veelelv ane oaam
E Laanillw ilcela illw tymeyw
Tyilcalaan seelcean vecw
Waatyalaan asamilw vmaal
Laeyviran fa silla
Nleaml fa oaam
E am anira Acelilceil
E ils Laanmelv, laeceanilma, ylilomilew
Ilwsemaw fa silla
E Laiream fyan elnva
Vyilmwelv salaaco
Ceelelv oem eaniramla
A’tyanvanelv leanirelv
Nleaml fa oaam
E ils anira Acelilceil
Ceviran el anira wilmn
E Lairela amirama lela nvill laaa
Irewelv salaaco omes ilcc fyan ela
Nvirecw eo anira oemalaan
Tyilcalaan seeloean vecw
Waatyalaan asamilw vmaal
I ils anira Acelilceil
As she finished she cupped the small token in her hand, picked up her bow and walked swiftly and silently to the lodge, concealing herself as she did. Walking up to the building she let herself in and made her way swiftly to the room where her parents both lay sleeping and placed the token next to her mother’s head, where she would find it when she woke.
“Fa Lalloa Elmirie,” she whispered.
Then Elvalia, daughter of a Hunter, Chosen of Aros, silently made her way out into the predawn light.
As the door closed silently behind her, Elmirie opened her eyes and reached up to take the token, grasping it tightly in her hand. “We will meet again Acelilceil,” she whispered, “we will meet, in time.”
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Translations:
Elmirie’s song
It is the moonflower
Strong, solitary, unafraid
Shunning most, giving to few
Standing alone and proud
Palest moonlit gold
Deepest emerald green
Sought by many
Known by few
It is the moonflower
Strong, solitary, unafraid
Admired by many
Showing but once
Guarding itself
Living for others
Expecting nothing
Known by few
It is the moonflower
Light in the dark
Shining where none can see
Hiding itself from all but one
Child of the forest
Palest moonlit gold
Deepest emerald green
It is the moonflower
Elvalia’s song
I am the moonflower
Strong, solitary, unafraid
Shunning most, giving to few
I stand alone and proud
Palest moonlit gold
Deepest emerald green
Sought by many
Known to few
I am the moonflower
Strong, solitary, unafraid
Sought by many
I show but once
Guarding myself
Living for others
Expecting nothing
Known by few
I am the moonflower
Light in the dark
I shine where none can see
Hiding myself from all but one
Child of the forest
Palest moonlit gold
Deepest emerald green
I am the moonflower |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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