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Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 05 Sep 2004 11:02 PM |
Macha ran her fingers soothingly over the strings of her lyre, gentle music pouring soothingly from the instrument. Looking into the fire, she listened quietly to Shalee and Jonny’s discussion about Jand. Concern etched both their features, and she concentrated on smoothing the lines with the music.
As they sat and spoke, a sudden scream pierced the night air. Eyes wide, they all looked up and drew their weapons, moving away from the fire and searching for a cause. Circling atop the hill, Macha glanced at the retreat.
“Hello, my dear.” A familiar melodic voice rang in her ear, as if the speaker stood directly beside her with their mouth placed near her face. She started involuntarily, eyes going wide and heart beginning to pound. Taking a quick breath, she stood as still as she could and spoke with as much authority as she could muster.
“Run, both of you.” She said it calmly, but her eyes searched constantly over the hillside. “Leave her.” The last was intended for him, and she tried to keep the fear out of her voice.
“No, we can’t leave you!” Shalee protested, and Macha could hear her take a step closer.
“Too late.” The voice spoke next to her ear again, and she could hear the pleasure in it, the joy he was taking in her obvious panic. Shaking her head, she tried to make her voice hard.
“There’s nothing you can do, Shalee. Run, please.” Then again, turning her head slightly in the direction of the voice. “Cailela aniras.” Leave them….
“Why?” The voice had circled, coming from the other side, and she started involuntarily again, a shiver running over her body. She tried to hold back the tears, the fear, but her voice broke as she tried again.
“Please…leave now.” She spoke the words, not knowing if she meant them or him, but wanting it over somehow. The weeks of torment, the terror, the helplessness…she felt it upon her and almost dropped to her knees. Gripping tightly to her shield and her mace, she braced her legs and tried to raise her voice defiantly in elven. “They are not yours! Leave them alone!”
“I will not leave you!” Shalee cried out, and Macha closed her eyes a moment in despair. They wouldn’t leave her, she thought in frustration, a tear seeping from underneath her lashes. They wouldn’t leave her, and they would die. They would die, and she would live.
“Come away, Shalee.” She heard Jonny’s voice softly behind her
His voice overlapped it, lilting musically beside her. Beautiful, and sinister, almost loving in it’s direction. “Do not cry. Dry your eyes at once.”
Angrily, she wiped at her face. Shalee and Jonny’s voices drifted behind her, Jonny trying to get Shalee to leave. “I cry because I feel it. I will cry if I please!” The elven floated off her tongue, a natural response to her native tongue. She fell easily into the lilt of the words, her emotions infused in the intricacies of the accent.
“And I will hunt if I please.” The answer came back even closer, softer. She could feel him beside her, almost touching her, though she couldn’t see him. That was the worst part…she couldn’t see him, but she knew he was there. He was always there…the voice became louder, more insistent. “Now will you stop being so pathetic and at least try to live up to the blood which runs within you? Or will you cry, whimper and watch them die in front of you?”
Shalee and Jonny’s voices lost focus as she took in the words, and she drew another breath sharply. She knew they were asking whom she was talking to, that they couldn’t see him or understand her words. They didn’t know…they weren’t aware that she was hunted…and that they had become prey. Because of her, they were prey.
“What do you want?” Her voice rang loudly, frustration seeping through her tone as the elven words rolled from her trained voice.
Clapping slowly, an apparition at first, then steadily coming into focus. He appeared…Tarik stood before her, his hands coming together rhythmically as he watched her in amusement. Trying not to shake, she moved slightly to the side, imposing her between he and the other two for whatever good it would do.
“Greetings.” Cantors voice came from her right, surprising her. She had been focused on Tarik, and hadn’t seen him come up the hill.
“Move away.” She spoke it in common this time, glancing briefly at Shalee and Jonny, keeping her eyes focused on Tarik. He looked from her, then thoughtfully at the slope down to Buckshire, seeming to read her mind just before she spoke. “Go into town. Please, leave.”
“I dunno who ya is … but it ain’t nice ta be scarin people like that.” Jonny looked the Hunter over quickly, hands on his weapon as Tarik vanished and reappeared the few feet away to a position blocking the exit.
“I will not harm them.” His voice rang with unspoken laughter, looking at them in amusement, and then back to her again.
“I will not leave you!” Shalee insisted. “Macha, you are not alone!”
“E ils veelv..” I am going..Tarik spoke again.
“Bickering elves?” Cantors voice rang among them, sarcasm dripping in his tone. “I thought you guys were happy all the time.”
Tarik raised his spear, the end glowing green with enchantment and acid, and pointed it at Cantor. “See how they are?” He spoke in elven, knowing that the others couldn’t understand. She alone knew what he spoke…
“Cantor…” She glanced at him, pleading with her eyes and her voice, then to Shalee and Jonny. “It’s Tarik. Please, all of you leave.”
“Oh…” He stumbled, surprise running across his features.
“We lean amemma, Silnyiril. I am going.” He smiled slightly, looking at her as if savoring the moment. “and so are you….” Slowly, he vanished into the air, and she looked around frantically.
She knew she couldn’t see him…but she ignored Shalees insistent questions…”who is that?” and looked anyway. Their voices surrounded her, washing over her, as the blood drained from her face. Panicked, she closed her eyes a moment and felt a sickening lurch….and opened them to find herself beside the entrance to the Secret Garden, on the Path of Aros. The smell of acrid fire burned around her, and her eyes watered with the smoke of them…and he was there. |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 06 Sep 2004 12:02 AM |
Eyes wide, she looked around the path at the fires. Watering, her eyes kept trying to adjust. “No….what have you done?” She whispered the words, panic creeping into her voice as she turned her head toward him and then glanced at the entrance to the garden. He wasn’t close, and she bolted, heart and legs pounding as she ran for the protection of Elbereth. She began to breathe a sigh of relief as she entered the cave that took her into the garden…and then the world blackened and she felt the abrupt lurch in the pit of her stomach that she had felt just a few moments before. Choking on the smoke, she wiped a hand over her eyes to clear them and found herself standing on the Path of Aros once more, Tarik standing before her with eyes gleaming, a sadistic smile on his handsome face.
“Was that fun? Go ahead, run around a bit.” Mirth infused his voice, the sound of it pleasing to her ears even as it sent a shiver of dread running down her spine.
“What do you want?” Her voice trembled and she winced, looking down at the ground rather than see the pleased smile on his face in response to her fear.
“What do you think I want?” He moved a step closer, a faint smile on his face as he kept his eyes focused intently on her.
“Mother, protect me.” She whispered, eyes wide as she took a step back, closer to the wall behind her.
“She cannot protect you, my child.”
“I am not your child.” She frowned severely at him, her glare belied by the whiteness of her face. “Do not call me that.”
“In time, you will come to see.” He smiled at her, his eyes intent on hers as he stepped closer again. “If you come to me, I will spare Ferein.”
“Ferein?” She couldn’t keep the incredulousness out of her voice. “You think I would serve you simply to spare Ferein? Tell me you will spare the others, and then I will come to you. Ferein is just a city.”
“Define others.” He looked at her consideringly, a half-smile still playing across his full mouth.
“Everyone…those I care about, those who dwell in Ferein, all of the people that you would hunt.” She blinked, finally considering the words that she spoke as he stepped even closer. Pressing herself tightly against the wall, she watched him wide eyed as he came to stand right in front of her.
He looked at her intently for a moment, taking her face in as she tried to control her trembling. “Bargain struck.” He said finally, eliciting a sharp gasp from her. “You serve me, and the hunt is over. Farewell, my child.”
“Why would you do this?” She asked, shock seeping into her voice as he disappeared before her. “Lady, what have I done?” Sinking to her knees, she buried her face in her hands, only to find the hardness of metal pressing against her legs. Opening her eyes, she saw before her a spear, matching to Tariks. Glowing bright green, the tip hissed and spit with acid.
“A gift…” whispered in her ear, a hint of humor in the voice. “Carry it well, my child.” And then, once more, the world darkened and her stomach lurched. Opening her eyes, she found herself once more in Buckshire, the spear clutched tightly in her hands and Shalee and Jonny looking at her in surprise. |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 06 Sep 2004 08:10 AM |
((*massive round of applause*
-Barnas)) |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 06 Sep 2004 09:29 AM |
| ((shivers. good stuff.)) |
Sai Barris, Scamp-at-Large
Cynda LeRange, Reporter, Port Royale
Parson Droim Raine, Preacha o da Word o Swiftfoot |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 09 Sep 2004 01:48 PM |
Awesome and terrible, Macha. What would Vives do without you?
Look forward to seeing you IG when I finally have some time...
Alarwen. |
Alarwen Emeria - Patience and time...
Ranger/Sorc/AA
Jessminda (companion) |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 09 Sep 2004 09:17 PM |
(( http://www.newscientist.com/news/news.jsp?id=ns99996374
heh
- Paul
PS: just joking!)) |
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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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 12 Sep 2004 09:58 PM |
Macha wandered on to the Great Plains, her mind on other things. Starting towards the hill to Mineath Caverns, she stopped abruptly. Elvalia stood before her, green eyes focused on the stones near the crossroads.
“Elvalia?” She asked questioningly, after a short hesitation. She tried to make her voice sound normal, hide the strain that not sleeping along with recent events had focused on her.
“I’d move away.” The blonde elf said softly, not taking her eyes from the stones. “They’ve been coming through for some time now. Winged things, and worse.”
“You’re guarding them, then?”
“No, I was here when they first attacked, with Ana.” Elvalia shook her head slightly. “I’ve checked in Mystic Woods, as well. They are no worse.” Taking off her helm, she brushed her hair back away from her face before turning to Macha. “You look tired…Tarik again?”
“Yes…I saw him again.” Macha had jumped at the mention of his name, and looked away quickly, trying to school her emotions. “I’m fine, though.”
“What did he want this time?” Elvalia spoke softly, keeping one eye on the stones.
“Same as he always wants.” She kept her eyes focused on the stones, away from Elvalia.
“You…” the blondes voice trailed off quietly.
“He came to me in Brandibuck, while I was with Shalee and Jonny.” She nodded her assent as she went on speaking quietly, still not looking at her. “And then, somehow, he took me to Ferein, to the Path of Aros.”
A voice sounded again, very close to her ear, and resonated in her head, sending a shiver through her body that she didn’t have time to hide. “And I gave you a present. Why do you not hold it?”
“I suppose he said Aros is gone again.” Elvalia sighed, pushing her hair out of her eyes.
“We…we didn’t speak of that.” Macha looked around nervously, trying to hide her trembling. Narrowing her eyes, Elvalia looked at her sharply, taking in her demeanor and nodding slowly. As she opened her mouth to speak, Macha looked to her and spoke quickly. “I should go.” She glanced up the hill, turning to begin walking when she stopped abruptly.
“No…” the voice held a hint of patience. “You should take your present in your hand. Or the hunt begins now.”
Sighing, she reached to her side, uncovering and releasing the spear from her pack to hold it in her hand. The end sizzled hotly, green acid dripping from it and onto the ground. Holding it tightly, she carefully avoided Elvalias eyes, staring white faced at the stones. Softly, eyes averted she spoke only for him. “I have done it…now leave them alone.”
“Hold it proudly. It will protect you. And why would I harm them?” She could hear the pleasure in the voice, almost see the smile on his face as he stood watching. She knew he stood watching, though she couldn’t see him. “Until you decide it is not, the hunt is over.”
She could hear Elvalia’s questioning voice, hear another male voice speaking in common, but she focused all her attention on him. Directing her voice softly to where she heard him from, she spoke almost violently.
“I will never be proud of it.”
“You will learn to be.” Almost smugly, the voice wrapped her in it’s warm tones like a blanket, as if trying to comfort her.
“I will do it because I must. I will not be proud of it.” She spoke venomously, trying to rid herself of the pain she felt, the betrayel she held in her heart. She of them, or they of she…she couldn’t think of it that clearly. But the pain….
“Macha…” Elvalias voice finally broke through, as she looked into Machas face questioningly. She couldn’t hear Tarik, Macha realized. She didn’t know who Macha spoke to….”What have you done?”
“I haven’t done anything.” She spoke it softly, looking at the ground.
“You have ended the hunt, yes?” He spoke it questioningly, and very close to her ear. She involuntarily moved her head away, turning it but keeping her eyes focused on the ground.
“The hunt is over, Elvalia.” Her voice sounded resigned, even to her. She felt her face flush with shame.
Shock washed over Elvalias face and she stared at Macha incredulously. “You gave in!”
“I did what I had to do, Elvalia.” She kept her head down, the weight of her decision settling firmly on her shoulders.
“Then..what..I don’t understand.” She looked at her searchingly, and Macha slowly raised her eyes to meet the blazing green ones.
“Me for everyone else, Elvalia. It’s not such a bad bargain.” She looked at her sadly, eyes pleading for understanding.
“No, you did. Oh Macha, why?” Confusion blazed across her voice, and she looked almost as if she would take Macha by the shoulders and shake her.
“He said..he said he would stop the hunt.” She sounded uncertain, even to her own ears.
“Of course. There is nothing to hunt for.” Exasperation crept into Elvalias voice. “Not now.”
“I am not the only one he hunted.” Her voice was almost pleading. “All those in Ferein…You, Bronwyn, Avari, Calia…”
“You will not find me so easily!” Elvalia looked around the plains.
Macha gentled her voice a little, shaking her head and searching Elvalias face for understanding. “The Hunt is over. He will not come for you.”
“Oh, no..not yet it isn’t.” Venom rang in her voice as she continued to look around, searching for someone to direct her anger at. “So..he has you. What now?”
“He will not harm anyone else. Ferein is safe.” She followed Elvalias gaze, restlessly searching the land.
“I didn’t mean that.” Concern rang in Elvalias voice as she returned her eyes to Machas face. “What of you?”
“I do as he asks, and he will stop the hunt.” She let her eyes continue to wander, not looking at Elvalia.
“And…what does he ask?” The archers voice was incredulous, unbelieving.
“He has asked me nothing yet, except that I hold the spear.” Macha’s deep brown eyes returned to linger on the dripping blade. “He knows I would wish to hide it, and wants me to show everyone.”
“I thought I recognized it.” Voice gone cold, Elvalia watched the end of the spear as well.
“I understand if we are enemies now, Elvalia.” She nodded her head slowly, still watching the spear tip. “I did what I must. It is my own choice.”
Two overlapping voices came together in her ears, both sending a chill down her spine. She shivered, closing her eyes tightly as they washed over her.
“I will oppose you, Macha. You know that.” The voice was cold, and resigned.
“I do have another task for you now, though.” Warmth infused the tone, rich and deep and not at all as chilling as the dread that rose in her at the sound of it. |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 01:57 AM |
| ((ooo...that's excellent)) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
--
"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
--
<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 04:18 AM |
| ((I agree... brilliant stuff, nice one Trish)) |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 09:48 AM |
“What is it?” She asked after a moment, her heart beating faster. Closing her eyes, she willed herself calm with limited success.
“There is a group over there on the Plains. Go to them. And wear this. It will prove to be important.” Macha felt the shift of fabric, and looked down to see her normal armor had been replaced with something less familiar. Greens and Browns, similar to the armor that Elvalia wore as a protector of Ferein, but perceptibly different. Sighing slightly, she shifted her grip on the spear, then spoke to the air around her.
“They will not be harmed?” She couldn’t help but look around, even in the knowledge that he would not be seen.
“No.” The answer came back, a hint of humor in the voice as if amused that she would ask. Nodding once she turned and steeled herself, walking towards the fire.
As she approached, she noted the variety of reactions her arrival provoked. Calia and Solitaire greeted her warmly. Calia approached to stand beside her, obviously expecting the hug they normally exchanged. Shifting uncomfortably, Macha looked away and greeted them softly, noting as she did Elvalias narrowed eyes and Daimons look of surprise.
“You are to take all the Elves to Ferein. And explain to the council why the Hunt is over.” His voice sounded pleasant, reasonable, in her ear and she looked around nervously at the rest, considering.
“I need to ask you something, please.” She spoke quietly, unaware if she was speaking over someone else but unable to focus on anything but that he stood with her, watching her, hoping she would make a mistake. “I..I need to speak to the council in Ferein. I need the elven to come with me.” She couldn’t hide the anguish from her face, or stop herself from shooting a quick look to Elvalia, who looked away over her shoulder.
“You are to be my…ambassador, my dear.” His voice was warm and suffused with humor, pleasant almost.
“I am not sure I can be of help, Macha.” Solitaire looked at her sadly as Calia reached out and took Machas hand. Jumping at the touch, Macha let her own hand fall limply in her friends grasp as she looked to Solitaire. “Not all are welcome there, I’m afraid.”
“You are with friends, Sol.” Calia grasped Machas hand a little more tightly, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Macha looked down at the ground, not noticing the sad look on Elvalias face as she too looked down.
“Daimon, perhaps if we talk now, you can go with Macha…” Solitaire gestured away from the fire. “Let us walk a ways…”
“Please…if you would come.” Macha was unsure, looking at each of them in fear. The thought flicked through her mind of what might happen if they would not come, and she glanced into Calias face and then away quickly.
“Let us see what treatment –she- will receive.” Voryns voice, ever present in the background this day it seemed, moved to the front of her mind and she felt the heat rise in her face at it.
“Why, Macha…” Elvalia spoke quietly, her voice and Calias clashing as the priestess tried to ask how to be of help. “Why must we go? What has he asked?”
“Oh no…” Calia gasped, squeezing Machas hand again and looking at her questioningly.
“I am to be his … ambassador. I am to explain why the hunt has ended.” She avoided their gaze, keeping her eyes averted.
“How can I help?” Calia asked sympathetically, as Elvalia narrowed her eyes and looked searchingly around the plain.
“An why has it ended, Macha?” Jonny asked, though he knew the answer. He had been there….
“You won’t be harmed. I just need the elven to come to the council with me.”
“Why?” Calia asked insistently, then sighed slightly. “Let me pray first, then, and I will come.”
“I assume so that you can hear it as well.” Her head shook imperceptibly, dreading the moment when she stood before the council. The elves who scorned her even as a follower of the Mother, and now…
“Have I been summoned, too?” Calia asked as she knelt in preparation for her prayers. “Or am I simply there for support?”
“I am not summoned, Calia. I am told to go.” She spoke it quietly, still seeking desperately to put off the inevitable.
“Tell her Macha…tell her who orders you to go.” The voice was authoritative, and she couldn’t help but glance questioningly at the archer, the woman who had befriended her when first she came away from her secluded life.
“Umm..I don’t understand.” Calia turned her attention once again to Machas face from fussing with her robes.
“Yes…care to tell us who ordered you to go?” Voryns cold voice rang through the plains, obviously taking pleasure in her discomfort.
Closing her eyes at the insistent voices, she couldn’t close out the voice in her own head. The one that at every moment told her that she was less…that she wasn’t strong enough, and that is why she had done this, the unthinkable. Shaking her head slightly, she whispered it softly, voice trembling. “Tarik….”
“Indeed.” Voryn sounded even more pleased. “The amazing two-faced elves unraveled.”
“Come sister.” Calia spoke, ignoring Voryn and resuming her arranging as she readied her prayers. “I will pray and I will support you in your day.”
“You have no idea what I’ve done and why!” Heat exploded behind Machas eyes, and she glared at the mage who stood off to one side deriding her. The pressure of the day, of the past days, came rushing into her head and the guilt was replaced by a boiling anger. The words came out in a hiss. “You couldn’t even fathom it.”
“So sing a song about it.” So close to her ear she could almost feel his touch, his voice pleased. “I do so love your voice.”
“I will enjoy your suffering at Tarik’s service as much as I suffer from my service at the demon hands.” Voryn looked at her smugly, waiting for her reaction. She had jumped slightly at the voice beside her, and looking around searchingly before returning her gaze to Voryn and raising her chin.
“At least I can accept my choices, and take responsibility for them.” She looked directly at Voryn.
“Soon, you will feel what I feel!” He sounded triumphant, reveling in her anguish. “Of course, you have chosen to do so. You will still remain ignorant of what –I- go through.”
Calia tried to soothe her, taking her hand again and encouraging her to go now, it was time to travel. Macha looked around for Daimon and Solitaire, searching for them so they could travel together, when the voice came more authoritatively.
“I was not asking to hear a song. Do I ask questions, Macha?”
She sighed heavily, looking around this time for any sign of him. “Am I singing, or traveling?” She asked, exasperation and strain coloring her voice. “Or am I doing both at once?”
“You are singing while you wait to travel!” The voice rang in her ear, and she jumped slightly at the power of it before she could stop herself. “And then singing and traveling!”
Narrowing her eyes, Macha carefully unstrapped her lyre from her pack, sitting herself by the fire and adjusting the strings. Looking around exageratedly, she put a pleasant tone to her questioning voice. “Any special requests?”
“If it is negative towards myself or my followers…” She could hear the grin in his voice, tell that he was enjoying her defiance at least in part.
“So you do not wish to hear the Mothers song, I take it?” She couldn’t keep the sarcastic tone from her voice, the anger threatening to rise in her again. She had tuned out the rest of them at the conflict, though she could hear them in the background. As she began to play and sing, a mourning song that had recently come back into her mind from home, she didn’t notice Elvalia wipe a tear from her eyes. As always when she sang, she felt the world still around her, and she poured all of her anguish and anger into the song, a song of the peace that death would bring, of the merging with all things that would come with that release. The song ended too soon, and the praise of her friends was drowned out by his simple sentence, absorbing her attention as always.
“You sing beautifully, I am pleased.” His voice was warm, approving with no trace of the earlier challenge. She gave words of thanks to those who stood around her absently, concentrating on his words.
“Am I to sing while I travel then?” The anger had drained from her voice, and she spoke softly, calmly, still soothed by the making of song.
“If you desire to.” He sounded pleased that she would ask him, his voice soothing.
“If it makes your heart lighter, sing so the Mother can hear you.” Calia cupped her hand gently, pressing it between her own, and she felt a pang in her heart. As she turned to answer Calia, she felt a weight in her hand suddenly. The feel of cold metal, jewelry of some sort. She turned her head down to look as she answered her friend gently.
“Calia…The Mother does not hear me anymore.” Her eyes found the amulet, the same time as a cold chill came over her, emanating from the necklace. Quickly, she turned and put it in her pack as his voice resonated gently to her, almost singing.
“A gift…” Then, as she put it into her pack, the sound of offense drifted into his tone. “You do not wear it?”
Taking the amulet out of her pack with slow movements, she fastened it around her neck and looked to Elvalia. “Will you come to Ferein with me, Elvalia?”
“I will come…” Elvalia looked at her, eyes full of sadness.
“Shall we travel then?” She nodded slowly, then wiped a hand over her face. “I would as soon have it done.” |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 11:46 AM |
((Splendid! A million trillion XP for this player!
....if they beat a black slaad.
-Barnas)) |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 02:33 PM |
| erm they did and a white one too |
Its easy clinging to your moral high ground when you have everything, try it when you have nothing left.
Cain Angus |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 07:29 PM |
| Erm... no they didn't - not the second time around |
Elvalia - Chosen of Aros
Elrith Mellin
Perin - 'Cleric (an' drewid) o' Elbreff' Weddin's an' pies a speciarality
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 13 Sep 2004 09:13 PM |
Turning, Macha ran up the hill and into the caverns leading through to Icy Vale, the first leg of the journey to Ferein. Stopping suddenly, she turned to Calia, a sudden thought crossing her mind. She had not told her yet…her friend would hear it when they were surrounded by others.
“Calia.” She paused, looking into her face questioningly. “Before I tell the council, I would tell you. You should hear it first.”
“Hear what?” Calia’s voice sounded cautious, hesitant. Macha glanced to Elvalia, who looked down, then back to Calia, eyes filling with tears.
“The Hunt is over. Because of something I did.”
“The Hunt for you?” Calia questioned. Macha almost looked down, then shook her head slightly and kept her eyes on the priestesses face.
“No. They will hunt no one any longer.” Elvalia looked at the ground sadly, but Macha kept her eyes on Calia, searching for understanding. “Tarik and his followers no longer hunt.”
“At all?” She sounded like she was having trouble grasping it, her voice confused and her eyes questioning. “They are gone?”
“At all…” Macha shook her head, stopping for a moment at the last part of Calias question. “In exchange…in exchange, I serve him.”
“Oh, Macha…” Calia breathed, her voice disbelieving. Seeing the look on Machas face, she shook her head slightly, then took on a resigned expression. “I will stand by you sister.”
“Thank you, Calia.” Macha touched her arm gently, searching her face with deep eyes. “I will understand, should you change your mind.”
“Your welcome. I will not.” The priestess looked at her consideringly for a moment, then spoke once more. “You know what your punishment will be, Macha.”
“What do you mean?” A faint glimmer of fear entered her voice, and almost in response she felt protection begin to emanate from the amulet and the spear.
“It might be banishment from Ferein.” Calia watched her for reaction, sympathy in her eyes.
She almost laughed, the relief she felt overshadowed by the idea that that was a punishment she couldn’t bear. “My punishment is worse than that, Calia. But you are all safe from the hunt.”
“Yes, they are, my child.” Tarik spoke companionably, approvingly, from the position he seemed to have taken up permanently at her side. Calia went on talking, but Macha felt nothing but anger in that moment, and responded venomously.
“I am –not- your child.” She shivered involuntarily, looking around with eyes blazing, fear and anger coming together in them.
“Yes, my daughter, you are.” His voice was calm, almost soothing, and she glared around even more wildly at the assertion.
“I serve you. That is all.” Frowning slightly, she turned back to Calia, trying to ignore the feeling of his eyes watching her in amusement.
Looking at her friend a moment, Macha nodded silently, then turned and began to run the rest of the journey to Ferein. She ran with abandon, throwing herself into the fight with trolls that greeted them, as always, in the Gladden Hills and slowing only when they reached the walkways into Ferein. Cautiously, she slowed to a purposeful walk, setting a brisk pace that kept the two shorter legged full elves a couple steps behind her.
Stopping short at one point, she looked around, and then returned her gaze to Calia. She had been running on instinct, but her direction failed her. “Is this the way?”
“Oh, dear Macha.” Calia smiled, looking at her affectionately. “Where do you wish to go?”
“I need to speak to the council…the Palace, most likely.” She looked around once more, as Elvalia caught up and stood beside them, waiting for them to move on.
“It is ironic that my child and Aros’ child travel together, but true all the same.” Tarik stated it casually, without much emotion in his voice.
“Come then.” Calia looked at her a moment, obviously noting the expression of horror on her face and thinking it pertained to her assignment. “You will most likely not be allowed in the Palace, Macha.”
“Must you torture me still?” She ignored Calia, anguish infused in her voice as she looked out over the side of the walkway. “Is it not enough that I serve you?”
“The truth is now a torture?” She couldn’t tell if his tone was mocking, or chastising. The gentleness ran over her and she shivered, resisting the urge to trust him.
“There is no truth in that!” She yelled it over the bridge, heedless of who might hear. “I am not your child!”
“Oh?” He sounded amused again now, but still his voice was gentle, consoling. “And how do you know this?”
“Are you human suddenly?” She almost spit the words, glaring around in outrage that he would infer it…that her half-blood was turned to something even worse, the blood of evil. The quiet settled in to her as she seethed, and she noticed that not even the birds were singing. It was as if the world had stopped…but perhaps it was just her heart.
“I am what I wish to be.” He spoke with authority, the amusement and gentle tone replaced by the intonation of one who expects to be heard, and obeyed. “I am a God…more, I am your God.”
She went cold, her body stiffening and her eyes going wide. “No.” she whispered, shaking her head in denial. “No, that is a lie.”
“Have I ever lied to you?” He sounded reasonable, the authority still in his voice but not as harshly. She could hear Calias voice, calling her name as if from far away as she struggled to control her emotions.
“No!” She yelled, as loudly as she could, her trained voice echoing through the trees. “But that is a lie!”
“Macha!” Calia grabbed her arm, turning her towards herself, concern on her features. “Macha, I am sorry sister…”
“No, it is not…” whispered into her ear, the tone almost loving.
“I am sorry…” Calia began again, noting the look on Machas face. “I will have to ask for your weapons.”
Macha closed her eyes, the world spinning around her. Taking a deep breath, she drew herself up straighter and summoned a deeper strength. Collapsing in panic would not help, she told herself. There was a purpose to this…she must fulfill her purpose…
“Do not give them to her.” Tarik sounded entertained by the notion, and Macha turned to Calia, resignation on her features.
“I cannot.”
“Why not? What is it you are to attack in Ferein?” Calia looked her over, her face calm but wariness in her eyes.
“You will not give them to her, my daughter.”
“Do not call me that.” Her face pulled down into a frustrated frown, and she looked around again, her gaze settling finally on the priestess. “No, Calia. I will not attack Ferein. But I cannot give you my weapons.”
“Why?” Calia asked, taking a step closer to her.
“It will be as you wish, my child.” The mocking tone was unmistakable, as was the hint of laughter in the voice. “In this case.”
“I am told that I cannot.” Macha tried to ignore the voice, focusing her attention on Calia.
“And why are you allowed to attend this summons, then?” Calia looked at her still, searchingly.
“I have not been summoned.” The reply was patient. “I have been told to go to the council as Tarik’s ambassador, and tell them that the Hunt is ended.”
“To do this, you do not need weapons.” Calia insisted.
“Calia, I cannot give you my weapons.” Macha stated it flatly, mouth set as she looked at her friend. “Now come on. Let’s go.” Turning, she moved resolutely and briskly down the path to the Palace. She infused confidence in her stride that she did not feel in her heart, holding her head high and marching straight up to the doors of the regal building.
“Guards!” Calia called out from behind her, and Macha sighed heavily. “Shut the doors!”
Not looking back, Macha ignored the guards and marched past. They looked confused for a moment, looking from Calia and Elvalia to her, and pausing just long enough for her to march inside the entry way and up to the guard stationed there.
“You there!” One of them called out to her, and she stopped directly in front of him, a neutral expression on her face.
“I need to see the council.” She kept her voice soft, carefully toning it to be soothing and non-threatening.
“What are you doing here, dressed like that?” He sounded incredulous, and she could hear the rustling of men in armor with weapons moving into place around her. Calmly, she drew herself up and wrapped herself in the cocoon she surrounded herself with when performing, commanding a presence of soft confidence.
“Guards, surround this woman!” She could hear Calias voice call out from across the room, and she turned her head to see Elvalia standing close by, hand on her bow. She smiled slightly at her, glad of the reassurance of her closeness.
“She has been here before, I think…” One of the guards spoke aside to the man in front of her, looking her over curiously.
“I need to see the council.” She repeated slowly, with as much authority as she could muster.
“And who are –you-?” The guard asked, shifting his glance to Calia, and then back to Macha. Elvalia looked on, looking from one to the other sadly.
“She is the ambassador of Lord Tarik.” The elven woman said bluntly, looking straight at the guard. “And I am Priestess Calia of Aros.”
“Is this true?” The guard asked Macha directly, his voice uncertain. Macha bowed low, as if she were wearing one of her dresses for court.
“Macha Sparrowsong.” She said pleasantly, rising to look him in the eyes.
“The bard?” He asked incredulously, staring back at her taken aback.
“I am.” She said quietly, nodding slowly at him. With effort, she kept her voice carefully modulated, at a calm, even pitch. Slowly, she spoke the words again, looking determinedly into his eyes. “I come as Tarik’s ambassador, and I must speak with the council.”
The guard blinked twice, shifting his gaze from her to one of the other guards and then back quickly. “Pl…please hold on.” He stammered before turning and rushing off into the palace.
Turning, Macha let out a deep sigh and wandered slowly over to a tree in the center of the room, placing her hand gently on its trunk and closing her eyes. She could feel everyone in the room watching her, wariness almost palpable. She concentrated on her breath, letting it out in a slow, soothing hum.
“You return in far different colors, Lady Sparrowsong.” The voice roused her, and she slowly opened her eyes to see the mage Camthalion standing before her. She heard Calia shift beside her as Camthalion turned to Elvalia. “Greetings, Archer.”
“Please sheath your weapon away, sister.” Calia spoke it quietly beside her, and Macha pointedly ignored her, shifting her grip on the spear at her side.
“Greetings Sir.” She said politely, inclining her head towards him and smiling slightly. “I hope you are well.”
“I am…why do you come here in those colors.” The older elf turned toward her fully now, his attention focused wholly on her as he took in her clothing and the spear she held.
“Because I must, Sir. I am here to address the council.” She spoke more calmly than she felt, noting that Elvalia could not look at her at all, and Calia could not take her eyes from her.
“I speak for the council.” He sounded questioning, looking curiously at her now. “Iretya has been summoned also, however she is some time away.”
Nodding slowly, Macha kept one hand on the tree, absorbing its peaceful touch. Looking around questioningly, she spoke again softly. “Shall I speak now, or shall I wait?”
“And the Princess?” Elvalias question reflected the frown in her voice as she finally looked up to study the arch-mage.
“Her Royal Highness will not speak to one such as this, we know all too well Tariks tricks.” He smiled slightly at Elvalia as if to reassure her, then turned again to Macha, the smile fading into a serious expression. “Speak now….”
Nodding again, Macha drew herself up and took a deep breath, calling on her skill as a performer to lend weight and authority to her words. “I come to inform the council that the Hunt has ended.” Looking directly into his eyes, she took in his surprised expression, and almost smiled. Instead, she continued to speak, watching his face go from surprise to caution. “No one else will be harmed.”
“What lie is this?” He said after a moment, finally finding his voice.
“It is no lie.” She tried to sound reassuring, though her voice was almost trembling now from the strain.
“How has this come to pass?” The mage asked it calmly, his earlier surprise still there but not as evident. Elvalia watched him intently, green eyes focused on his face.
“As you pointed out, I come in different colors this day.” She spoke simply, politely, trying to keep the strain out of her voice as she began to tire. Her mission almost complete…she felt the earlier adrenaline of fear melting away.
“What have you done…?” Shock colored his tone as he looked to her, his features transforming in consternation as he searched her face.
“This is how it was accomplished.” She almost sighed, but pulled herself up straighter and looked into his eyes. “The Hunt is over. Tarik and his followers will no longer seek to harm Ferein or it’s inhabitants.”
“You gave yourself to him?” He shook his head slightly, his eyes drifted over to Calia as she nodded her head in assent. Elvalia turned away, her head bowing and eyes averted.
“I did.” The words felt like a weight on her lips, as she spoke them and nodded her head curtly at him. She watched as his face transformed once more, becoming cold and hard as he looked at her.
“We have heard your piece, creature of Tarik.” He announced, practiced authority coloring his voice as he watched her. “It shall be taken into consideration.”
“I am not a creature of Tarik, Sir, with all respect.” She drew herself up once more, raising her chin and mustering what pride she could find within as she forced herself to meet his gaze still.
“You appear as one to me.” His voice was cold, his eyes colder as he looked at her with contempt. “Now begone, enemy of Ferein.”
She looked sadly at him for a moment, then to Calia and Elvalia. Allowing herself a sigh, she turned back to him and spoke softly before turning and striding purposefully out of the building. “Yes…be well, sir.” |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 14 Sep 2004 03:22 AM |
((More. Huzzah!
-Barnas)) |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 14 Sep 2004 04:04 AM |
| ((yeah, Macha makes it appear that Tarik actually knows what he is doing :)) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
--
"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
--
<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 14 Sep 2004 07:00 AM |
| Woot! |
Cantor Matriel - "How much?" |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 16 Sep 2004 04:31 PM |
Macha crept slowly around the corner, back to the damp wall of the cave and spear clutched tightly in her hand. From the safety of her invisibility spell, she examined the contents of the underground room, counting the inhabitants and deciding on her action. Finally, she inched slowly into the room, positioning herself directly behind the first of the creatures that paced, snuffling and growling, around the room.
Drawing back slowly, calculatedly, she peered once more around the room, checking the locations of the two other creatures. Nodding once, she drew back her spear and pierced the heart of the bugbear in front of her, whirling quickly to counter the quick attack of the shaman behind. A tremor ran up her arm with the impact of her blows, along with the incoming thrusts of her opponents. After a minute of heated battle, finally her enemies were slain on the floor and she paused to catch her breath with a smile.
“You truly do fight well, my child.” The deep voice resonated throughout the cave, making it difficult to tell where it came from. The smile stayed on her face as she looked around for a glimpse, pleased at the praise.
“Thank you.” She spoke it softly, eyes searching the depths of the cave. Suddenly, he appeared before her and she blinked once, adjusting her eyes again to the light so that she could look at him more clearly.
“You said you preferred to see me, yes?” His voice sounded pleasant, and he gazed on her serenely, his full lips touched with a smile. She returned his gaze, looking into his face quietly for a moment before answering.
“I do, yes. Thank you.” She smiled a bit wider, nodding her assent to his question.
“I will not keep you from your hunt, then.” He gave her a small smile, inclining his head to her slightly and then slowly evaporating into the darkness of the cave.
“Are you still here?” Macha asked after a moment, her brown eyes looking curiously around her in the damp darkness.
“Yes. Do you wish me gone?” Tariks words came gently, a tone of amusement always underlying the rich voice.
“No..I would ask you something.” She relaxed slightly, resting the butt of her spear on the stone floor and looking casually ahead of her. He appeared again in front of her, and she looked into his face, then down at the floor.
“Then ask, my child.” The handsome face became curious as he watched her. “Why do you avert your eyes so?”
“I wish to know…why you chose me. The true reason.” The deep brown eyes slowly rose to meet his, and she forced her gaze to steady as she watched him.
The Hunter paused for a moment, consideration flickering across his face as he looked back at her face. Finally, he smiled slightly. “To which point in your existence do you refer?”
“Well..” She stopped for a moment, her brow wrinkling as she carefully chose her words. “They seem interconnected, I suppose. First, as a sacrifice, and now, as you let me live.” Her eyes drifted back to the floor as she spoke, her voice growing softer as the thoughts took form. “Now you choose to make a bargain with me, for something you obviously do not want to give up.”
“You are more important to me than the Hunt.” Tarik spoke gently, and she looked up again into his face with troubled eyes. He smiled at her, the look in his eyes warming her so that she wondered at the fear his mere name had brought to her in the past.
“I don’t understand why.” Macha’s words came out almost as a whisper, her gaze sweeping his face questioningly.
“In time, you will.” The smile was back in the God’s voice as he slowly disappeared again, watching her until he had faded from sight. Sighing, Macha watched the place where he had stood before her for a moment before hefting her spear once more and continuing through the cave. |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 16 Sep 2004 04:36 PM |
Barnas heart this story.
-Barnas |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 16 Sep 2004 05:36 PM |
The bard sat on the Great Plains, staring into the fire with lyre in hand serenading the flames. A small noise caught her attention, the deep eyes looking up to meet the blazing green of Elvalias, watching her sit and play.
“Greetings, elvalia.” Macha spoke the words mildly, continuing to strum her instrument.
“Hello, Macha.” The archer sat down, stretching her legs toward the fire as her gaze continued to meet the bards own.
“I do not like the tension between us, Elvalia.” She spoke the words gently, searching the face of the woman who had been her friend the longest of anyone she now knew.
“There is an easy way out, Macha.” The slight shoulders shrugged, the green eyes unwavering from their study.
“I will not bend to your will, Elvalia.” The words bore no heat, but the brown eyes flashed a moment before returning once more to calm. “I have my own will, and I follow it. I would think you of all people would understand that.”
“I do not expect to bend anyone to my will.” Elvalia’s voice came, no more heated than her own but bearing the mark of the beginnings of passion. “I am not Tarik.” The name came out harshly, as if loathe to touch the archers lips.
“No, you are not Tarik.” Macha spoke slowly, her eyes going back to the fire thoughtfully for a moment before she spoke again in a voice that held a tinge of wonder. “I did not expect to be happy in my choice, Elvalia.”
“And now you find you are.” It came out as a statement of fact, a frown crossing the blonde elf’s face as she studied Macha.
“This is what I was born to.” Macha looked up once more into the eyes of her friend, searching for any hint of understanding. “It is where I belong.”
“That seems a rather abrupt change of mind.” Elvalia spoke briskly, still studying her intently.
“Does it?” a hint of a smile ran across her lips. “Perhaps it does, to you.”
“Yes.” The word came out sharply, almost accusing in it’s tone, and Macha’s smile faltered for a moment.
“Your sister seems to understand it quite well. In fact, she encouraged me.” Macha kept her eyes on Elvalias face, looking for a reaction. The woman did not supply her with one, other than to look away into the flame of the fire once more.
“I do not bend her to my will any more than you. She is her own person, with her own views.” She spoke it quietly, seemingly lost now in thought and the tension dissolved slightly between them.
“No, she has her own mind.” Smiling wider, Macha began playing softly again. Both of them looked up as the shifter Urebril approached, exchanging polite greetings and speaking quietly together. Macha had stopped playing, drawing her knees up and resting her chin on them as she let the voices drift around her. Her eyes gazed into the fire, and she contributed now and again to the conversation, mostly letting it wash over her as she sat quietly.
“I owe you an answer, my child.” His warm voice caressed her, and she turned her head slightly to her left searchingly.
“Yes? Should I come to you?” She spoke softly, modulating her voice to be barely heard by anyone but him.
“I am here, my daughter.” Tarik’s voice was gentle, the touch of laughter bringing a smile to her lips that faded only slightly, as did the color on her face, at the next words. “I chose you because you are my child, my only daughter.”
“I asked for the truth.” She spoke the words quietly, but she could not keep the accusation out of her tone, and she knew that they were loud enough for the others to hear.
“And that is all I give you.” The voice was mild and soft, calming slightly the panic that was threatening to overwhelm her. She could hear the questioning tone in Urebrils voice, see out of the corner of her eye Elvalia watching her with distaste.
“How is this the truth?” She whispered the next words, chin pressed hard into her knees as she spoke them. “My mother was elven, as are you.”
“To explain that is to confess my mistake.” He paused for a moment, as if reluctant to speak his next words. “When I took your mother, I was as a human.”
“Why would you do such a thing?” Macha’s voice was colored with confusion, and her tone rose again, going as unnoticed as Elvalias tighter grip on her bow.
“To test her, my child. To see if she would accept a human male.” His voice changed slightly, distaste entering his tone. “She did. You were the result.”
Her eyes closed tightly, trying to shut out the tears that appeared burning in them. Elvalia rose, her hand still held tightly on her bow, and one on the quiver of arrows hanging at her side, which she began to sort through meticulously as she watched Macha.
“Why…” Machas voice faltered for a moment, and she paused. “Why would you let me live, then?”
“I did not intend to, did I?” The distaste in the melodic baritone was replaced with a tinge of regret.
“No.” She spoke it softly again, sighing heavily. “But I do. I killed them instead, yes?” Her voice was heavy with held emotion, the tears still barely held back at the memories that popped into her mind. Her mother, lying broken on the ground of a magical circle within which she and her friends had just defeated a slaad. Ropes dangling from one of Machas wrists as she looked fiercely down at the woman who had raised her…and ultimately betrayed her. And the final blow…the one that killed.
“Yes.” Tariks voice washed over her soothingly, now devoid of anything but warmth. “And in doing so started to make me realize that you are more than worthy of the blood that runs within you.”
A chill came over her slowly, and she began to tremble. Her head tilted, her forehead resting on her knees as conflicting emotions fought within her mind and her heart.
“Are you sad, my child?” The questioning tone caused her to raise her head once more, tilting it in the direction of the sound.
“I do not know what to be.” She spoke the words simply, as honestly as she could. “It is…a hard truth.”
She felt a soft hand caress her cheek, and turned her head more toward the touch, tears threatening again. “I am sorry for that, my child. But I am here for you.”
She nodded her head slowly, her heart beating fast with emotion. Quietly again, she spoke, trying to keep her voice steady. “It is what is, yes? I cannot change it.”
“No, you cannot.” The words were spoken approvingly, and she smiled slightly at the sound.
“Thank you…for telling me.” Machas head nodded once, chin raising slightly as she took control of her feelings and carefully schooled her expression.
“I hope you are…at peace, now that you know.” The humor was back, and a gentle kindness that coaxed another smile from her.
“I feel more at peace than I have for a long time.” She shook her head slightly, red curls bouncing around her face. “Thank you.”
“It was…my pleasure.” The voice faded, a chuckle underlying the deep tones, and she laughed suddenly along with him.
“I’m sure.” She smiled, shaking her head slightly to clear it, and turned back to the conversation around the fire with a bemused expression. |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 16 Sep 2004 05:43 PM |
((HUZZAH!
....Err...do I need to go IG to give you more stuff to write about now? *snickers*
-Barnas)) |
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 16 Sep 2004 10:37 PM |
((HUZZAH!
....Err...do I need to go IG to give you more stuff to write about now? *snickers*
-Barnas))
((Dang Straight you Do!)) |
Purpose in life: finding better ways of allowing players to kill themselves. Repeatedly.
--
"...Cause he mixes it with love
And makes the world taste good."
--
<@James42> Lawful good isn't in your vocabulary, it's on your menu.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 16 Sep 2004 10:56 PM |
((would it be masochistic of me to say yes please? lol...))
<<edited for correct word usage ;-)>> |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 27 Sep 2004 02:07 PM |
Macha’s eyes widened perceptibly, and she stood staring at the large dragon in the middle of Buckshire Marsh for a moment while a flurry of activity began around her. She pulled her crossbow out quickly as Jand and Jonny ran past her at the beast, and then she heard someone yell, “run!”
Turning she made for the exit quickly, glancing back over her shoulder several time to see if the beast was following. Just as she reached the break in the wall, another voice sounded next to her, calmly and melodically. “Do not run.”
Coming to a halt, she turned as she felt a rush of power come over her. Sighting on the dragon, she raised her bow and shot several bolts into it before the combined efforts of the group brought the huge creature down. A smile came over her face as she looked around at everyone, the rush of battle still evident on their features.
“We killed it.” Jand said, looking around at everyone with a huge grin on his face and a hint of surprise in his voice. “Me and Jonny…and Macha.”
“Well done, then.” Alarwen smiled at him.
“It wasn’t a choice thing.” He nodded his head slightly, looking to Alarwen with a wry smile. “It was blocking the exit.”
“Who are they, my child?” The deep voice echoed through her as the others laughed at Jands comment, and she stepped back from everyone, watching them carefully.
“All of them?” She asked softly in elven, looking around at the group as they kept talking around her.
“Only the non-elves, my child. The rest I know.” The voice was gentle, almost soft if not for the power it held and she nodded in response, a small smile on her face.
“The dwarf is Muradin, the humans Jand and Jonny.” She looked around again, oblivious to the fact that the group had noticed her standing off by herself speaking to no one that could be seen. Lianneth bit her lip, looking down as Alarwen and Shalee glanced sharply in her direction.
“Are they your…friends?” Tarik sounded almost amused at the notion, with a touch of concern in his voice as well.
“Alarwen and Shalee are friends. The rest I do not know well.” She tilted her head, eyes unfocused as she glanced around slightly.
“OI! Macha! Are you coming or not?” A loud gruff voice caused her to blink, looking up into the eyes of the dwarf.
“Oh…aala.” She smiled slightly, taking a step forward and refocusing on the group in front of her.
“You should wear the armor I gave you.” Tariks voice sounded concerned, and she frowned slightly. “It will protect you better.”
Smiling slightly, she nodded and dug around in her pack, drawing out the set of armor he had given her the day of the council. “One moment, please.” She spoke over her shoulder, walking over to a large tree and slipping behind it to change. Coming out into the swamp once more, she smoothed her skirt down and came face to face with Alarwen.
“Macha?” The green eyes held deep concern as she looked over Macha. Macha smiled at Alarwen serenely, eyes calmly looking back at her as she drew her spear out once more.
“I am ready now…do we go further?” She smiled at her again, noticing the troubled look increase on her friends face.
“Are you okay, Macha?” The concern deepened, Alarwens eyes searching Macha’s face.
“Oh, I’m fine.” She nodded, her face reflecting only the smile on her lips. “Very well, thank you.” Alarwen’s face grew uncertain, still watching her cautiously. “That was a big dragon, aala?”
“Alright.” Ala hesitated, looking into Macha’s eyes for a moment longer, then nodding and turning away. “Yes, it was.”
The rest of the party continued to banter happily, chatting to each other about the size of the dragon and the effort it took to slay, as they ventured further into the swamp and the territory of the slaads.
As they walked more and more cautiously down the path, they happened upon a large black slaad, of the kind known as death slaads because of the magic they cast. With great effort, the group threw themselves into the battle, the final blow being landed by the chosen of Aros, who appeared in front of them at the last.
As they stood discussing the unusual appearance of such a strong variety of slaad near the entrance, Shalee began to look around nervously, finally speaking of the creature she saw following them. The others looked around curiously, Alarwen, Elvalia and Macha venturing down the walkway to see if they could find anything.
“Are you hunting, Macha?” The voice contained laughter, ringing pleasantly in her ear, and she paused for a moment. Her heart pounded as she thought about his question, and then she tilted her head sideways in realization.
“Yes, I suppose I am.” She frowned slightly, confusion and consideration passing over her face. The conversation continued to float around her, but she let her thoughts turn inward, concentrating on his voice and her own thoughts.
“That’s a little naughty, daughter. But I am proud of you, at that.” The warm voice wrapped around her, and she could feel the confusion ebb a little at the praise in his tone. Still frowning, she thought for a moment more before commenting.
“Violating my own agreement, am I?” Macha’s eyes narrowed slightly, and she gazed off over the side of the walkway, not noticing the looks of concern that Alarwen and Elvalia kept shooting her way as she spoke obviously but too softly for the others to catch.
Her attention drifted suddenly to Shalee, who fell to her knees and started choking, her hands going frantically to her throat. Elvalia rushed over to help, and Macha watched with a look of faint concern on her face tempered by distraction.
“I prefer to call it…setting a new precedent in our arrangement.” His voice sounded amused, good humored, and she smiled suddenly at the tone. The others were looking frantically around for what was causing Shalee such consternation, and she stood calmly, focused inward. “I truly am proud of you.” A warm chuckle rang through her, and she smiled once more. “Were your ears a little taller I would think you the truest of elves.”
“I cannot help my blood.” The smile faded slightly from her face and her eyes clouded as she glanced around once more, seeing Elvalia grasping Shalees hand as the half-elven looked around frantically, still gasping for air.
“Macha…what do you mean?” Alarwen tentatively laid a hand on her shoulder, startling her so that her dark green eyes moved up to meet the woman’s. She blinked a moment, her eyes focusing slowly on her friend.
“Nothing.” She murmured, looking away at the concern in her friend’s eyes.
“You are of the best blood, my daughter.” Tariks tone gentled, floating over her melodically.
“No, you said something.” Alarwen insisted, her hand tightening its hold on her shoulder and commanding her attention.
“No, it’s nothing.” She spoke it again softly, glancing back at Alarwens face and then moving away slightly, turning inward once more and whispering a reply for the other. Alarwen watched her move away, then another scream from Shalee captured her attention. “I still do not believe you. But it really doesn’t matter..blood or not, I am yours.”
Alarwens gaze returned sharply to Macha, as Shalee screamed and dropped to her knees once more. Eyes narrowing, Macha watched as Shalee clutched frantically at her throat.
“Is he here?” Alarwens voice held a touch of anger as she watched Macha watch Shalee.
“What do you think is wrong with her?” Macha asked, still not looking at Alarwen, but watching Elvalia try to help Shalee.
“Don’t evade my question, Macha.” Alarwen sounded stern, taking her by the arm and turning the bard to face her. Macha looked up, eyes clear and bright, straight into the eyes of her friends.
“He is here.” The statement came calmly, and Alarwen shuddered and looked down.
“My daughter, what you believe does not matter. You are my child, and you now obey your true blood. I cannot ever ask for more.” His voice washed over her warmly, bringing a small smile to her mouth and a flush to her cheeks. Her eyes lost focus for a moment, then came back to Alarwens.
“What does he want?” The half-elven asked, voice carrying a hint of venom.
“Nothing, so far. He is watching us…” She paused for a moment, watching Alarwens face, then smiling slightly. “Hunt.”
Alarwens gaze lifted, staring into Machas face for a moment, then frowning as her eyes traveled to the amulet around her neck. “Take it off.” Macha’s hand moved to cover the amulet around her neck, eyes widening at the vehemence in Ala’s tone. “Throw it into the chasm!”
“Do not remove it.” Tariks voice washed over her, sounding very close, and she nodded imperceptibly, fingers closing over the necklace at her throat.
“I cannot.” She said it simply, looking calmly into Alarwens angry face.
“Get rid of it!” Alarwen took a step forward, and Macha covered the necklace further with her hand, shaking her head.
“No, I cannot.” She watched Alarwens face, hand still lying comfortingly against the necklace. “I will not.”
“Tell him you will obey, but not with that…thing…around your neck!” Alarwen’s voice rang with anger, and a hint of despair as she watched Macha intently.
“They do not truly care for you. Remember this, my daughter.” Tariks voice spoke soothingly in her ear, and she could feel a reassuring hand on her back as she watched Alarwens face grow angrier, eyes flashing as she watched Macha touch the necklace around her throat.
“I have sworn to obey. He asks that I wear the necklace that he gave me.” She spoke the words mildly, but her eyes watched Alarwen’s face intently. “Even now, he tells me I must not remove it.”
“Of course not!” Alarwens voice carried a hint of frustration, and she shook her head a moment before starting again. “If he wants you so badly, make a new deal.”
The hand on Macha’s back grew firmer, and she let her eyes drift sideways to see Tarik materializing beside her. His green eyes flashed, a slight smile on his full lips as he looked at Alarwen, pausing a moment to take her in before speaking. The others looked their way, and Macha could hear questioning voices.
“I am quite happy with the arrangement between myself and my child as it is, half blood.”
Tariks eyes stared straight into Alarwen, the expression on his face intent with a hint of amusement.
“I’m sure you are.” Alarwen’s eyes were averted, but her tone carried anger. “For you will be released from your bargain when the necklace corrupts her completely!”
“Please..” Macha whispered, her eyes moving from Tarik to Alarwen, then back again. “Please, do not harm her.”
The voices in the background rang softly in Macha’s ears as she watched Tarik intently. Very slightly, his head inclined toward her and she breathed out in relief. “Thank you.” She whispered, closing her eyes for a moment and tilting her head downward before lifting her chin.
She could hear the others, noting the similarity in the spears that Tarik and she carried, debating whether this elf was a follower of Tarik. No, she heard clearly, no, this was Tarik himself. Returning her attention to those in front of her, she smiled slightly at Alarwen, knowing that she was not to be harmed and seeking to reassure her.
“The necklace forms no part of our agreement. It is a gift to my child. You are familiar with this concept, yes?” His voice held a hint of amusement as he watched Alarwen, then allowed his gaze to wander over the others present.
Macha noticed Alarwens gaze drift to her bow, and she moved forward slightly, touching her friend’s arm. A shudder went through the half-elven, and she looked at Macha again, eyes blazing. “You know I am right, Macha. You will release him from his bargain when the necklace has corrupted you…and all will have been for naught.”
“You are not, half blood.” The contempt in his tone was evident as he returned his gaze back to Alarwen, though she continued to stare intensely at Macha. “Step away from her, my child.” The voice rang through her, and she glanced back at him, eyes sad, then back to Alarwen.
“Stay there, Macha.” Elvalias voice carried to her position, and she glanced her way before moving slightly back and to the side to stand once more beside Tarik.
“Please, do not harm her.” She whispered the words, not daring to look his way but feeling his gaze come back to her.
“It shall be as you wish.” He spoke the words mildly, nodding slightly in her direction before once more disappearing into the dark mist surrounding them.
Elvalias eyes narrowed, going from the empty space beside the bard to rest on her face, as Alarwen gaze shifted as well. Macha blinked rapidly, glancing from one to the other.
“You know I’m right, Macha.” Alarwens words came gently this time, her gaze still angry but softening as she looked on the face of her friend.
“He will not harm you.” Macha spoke softly at first, then deepening the tone with commitment and reassurance as she glanced at each of them in turn. “It is our agreement.”
Alarwens gaze shifted from Macha’s face to the acid dripping from the tip of her spear, a look of despair, then resignation moving in turn across her face. Her eyes moved once more to Machas face, and she took a step forward, touching the bard’s arm. “I will say this while I can, Macha. I love you. I will not let you go.”
“I love you, Alarwen.” Macha smiled at her, face softening as she watched her friends face, trying to ease the pain evident there. “No harm will come to you, I promise.”
Sighing, Alarwen looked at her for a moment longer, then turned and began to walk further down the walkway, past the others, to continue their journey. As she began to follow, a serene smile came over Machas face along with a sense of protection and well being as the voice resonated in her head. A faint glimmer of amusement mingled with a tone of affection.
“How…quaint. I love you also, my child.” |
Trishy
Macha Sparrowsong - Song is my life
Coretta Alandar - Cleric of Midoran
Dekla Debena - whatever
Not all people who wander are lost.
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Re: Fall of a Sparrow
Posted: 27 Sep 2004 02:40 PM |
*melts*
It's so...sweet...
-Barnas |
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