Kaymele (part 5)

    Once I had told my story up until we escaped, the girl on the horse dismounted, and walked over to me.  She looks me straight in the eye, and then steps back, calm and relaxed but still cautious.
    'My name is Natia, and this is my friend Anakis, and the lion boy over there is Prid,' says Natia introducing them.
    'I am Kaymele, and this is Nithron.  The terror from the sky over there is my dragon Florentide.  I apologies for all the trouble she caused your group,' I say curtsying.
    'Oh no harm done,' whispered Anakis.
    'Where are you going?' I ask, 'unless it's none of my business.  Your group looks as though it was to travel a great distance.  Is there an emergency?'
    'They're headed to heal the solders in Revelin.  Why where are you going?' asks Prid.
    'We are headed to the rebels in Revelin to fight for freedom and justice,' I say placing my hands on my hips.
    'Well if we're all headed in more or less the same direction, what is to keep us from traveling together?  Just us little people, our lion friend, and you three,' says Natia, a little too enthusiastically.
    'Oh, must we call you little people?' I say sarcastically, 'I tell you Nithron, Fairies are the absolute worst liars!  They are just to good to lie properly I tell you!'
    Nithron stifles a laugh.  Anakis, and Natia look at me and turn a sickly white.
    'W-We aren't fairies,' Natia says nervously laughing, 'If we were then we would be around our tree growing flowers, and minding our own business.'
    'Ah, I see,' I say putting on my best "I believe you" face.
    'They are liars.  They think I've fallen for their little tricks.  These are banished Fairies, probably for healing someone they shouldn't have.  Wonderful,' I think.
    'Well now that's sorted shouldn't we get moving?' says Prid.
    I decide against flying on Florentide.  To walk with our new companions until the other side of the plains.  Nithron is easily keeping up with the horses, whereas I'm keeping up, but I'm loosing ground fast.  Anakis offered a ride on her centaur, which I gladly accept.  I learned that his name is Derpa.  He's not like other centaurs who are proud, persnickety, and would only carry one rider if the time came.  He is humble, gracious, and gladly accepted another rider.
    'Why does Derpa not speek?  Is there nothing worth talking about?' I ask Anakis.
    'No, he would talk if he could,' I know I looked puzzled so she continued, 'He has never been able to talk according to Liki.  That was his previous owner.'
    'Isn't he, well, a little purple?' I asked.
    'Yes, and that's what makes him unusual and unique, Linki was just going to let him die when Natia said she would take him,' says Anakis.
    'Oh poor Derpa.  I agree, he is truly a wonderful centaur,' I say looking passed Anakis to the back of Derpa's head.  I see him smile.
    On and on we ride, Nithron eventually joins Natia on her horse, until we see the edge of the plains.   Where the tall grass ends and the dense forest begins.  Everyone dismounted from their steeds and walked over to the end of the grass.  Prid looks over his shoulder back to his home, and the family he must have left behind.
    'There before us is the Tawarthion Forest.  It has many dangers, so terrible that not even the King's bravest men dare to enter the enchanted woodland,' proclaims Nithron walking towards the dark trees.
    'Florentide fly above and see how far the forest extends,' I say.
    She takes off and we walk forward Anakis leading the horse.  Derpa walked cautiously towards the woods with Prid behind him.  Nithron led the way until we saw Florentide again.
    'I flew as far as I dare.  The forest goes on forever.  I guess these new pests didn't know that,' says
Florentide with a snort.
    'Florentide be kind to our new friends.  They've done nothing to harm you, what's wrong?' I ask stroking her neck.
    'They are slow, we could have been there by now if we would have just left them behind,' says Florentide.
    'Now your being selfish.  Just because you can't fly as fast as your heart desires, you don't want people that could very well help us,' I argue.
    'What seems to be the problem?' asks Nithron walking back to us.
    'Florentide is angry that we can't go faster,' I say looking up at her.
    'Ah, if we were to go faster we would die sooner.  See that clump of trees over there?' says Nithron pointing at some trees about 10 yards away, 'those aren't trees.'
    He picks up a rock, about the size of his fist, and throws it into the trees.  The trees up root themselves and move.  Causing the rock to fly into the center of the patch.  Flames shoot up from the ground where the rock landed, blackening it, then the rock sunk into the sand with a terrible screeching sound.  The trees moved back as if nothing happened.
    We all stand in horror of what might have happened to us if we had gone into the grove.  Slowly walking around the patch, we made our way further into the forest, now being more cautious than ever.  Trees loom over us like great Giants.  Every so often one of us would see a root move, or a tree move without the wind.  Making good time we notice a change in the trees again.  The air shifts and the woods go deadly silent.  Then foot steps fall only a few yards away from us.  I hear Anakis scream, Florentide roar and snarl.  Nithron and I race back to the others and see 4 strangers back to back between Prid and Florentide.  Their eyes are filled with fear and the tension is thick.

Ok people's I finished this in New Mexico and I left room for other minds.

Nuvole (part 1)

I woke to the sound of scratching outside my thin walls. Cane? I thought.  Why would he be scratching to get in…. unless. Then I heard them, the footsteps that I had grown to recognize over the years. Yup, without a shadow of a doubt, these footsteps belonged to the most hated king I believe has ever ruled Incantevole.
He walked in with the biggest frown I had seen in a while. “Get your lazy butt up!” He shouted at me, taking a swig of wine.
 Oh great, I thought. Something must have happened. He is drinking. He normally only drinks like this when he is mad. Then my thoughts suddenly changed. Oh man, I have to deal with him like this? This just isn’t fair. I sighed.
 “Yes, your majesty, please forgive my laziness.” I bowed “It won’t happen again.”
“It better not.” The king snapped, close enough to my face to spray me with wine. “Now put this on! And when you are done come see me!” He threw a bundle of clothes right in my face, then abruptly turned and left slamming the door behind him.
“Oh great what am I wearing today?” I was talking to Cane. He was the only company I had any more.
 I unrolled the clothes and saw the normal vest, shirt, and breeches, but like always they were in contrasting colors, and for some reason he always makes me wear a different two colors every day. Today it was purple and yellow. I sighed again and dressed quickly. “Well Cane, I have to go now” I said, ruffling the small dogs’ ears as I left my quarters.
I walked up to the throne room like I do every day, but when I got there the king was nowhere to be found. I walked up the back way to the bath house hoping, no praying I wouldn’t run into Andromeda, That lady was a vicious snake, always ready to strike. I shivered at the thought of her. When I had first arrived here I thought King Felix was the worst it could get, then I met Andromeda.  I reached to open the bath house door but stopped when I heard King Felix. “Xander might know of our plans.” He said.
Then there was a pause and Andromeda answered. “Are you sure?”
“I caught him outside the door after we had discussed it. By the way he quickly dismissed himself, I can only assume…”
“Mmh…if he tells it to the wrong people it could slow our efforts. But I sense that the ones we need are coming together nicely. So even if he did tell, there is not much they could do at this stage. Besides, he may even lead us to them.”
This was just the information I had been hoping for. It wasn’t too clear, but I was certain the rebels would find this very valuable information. I waited to see if they said anymore.  After a few moments of silence I knocked on the door. “King Felix, Sir?”
I heard an unhappy sigh. “Yes, what is it?” He said opening the door.
“Sir, you said to come see you when I was dressed.”
He looked confused then remembered. “Oh, yes that. I need to speak with you privately.” He stumbled past me and I followed.
We walked for a while. Then he stopped and entered a small, musty, closed up room with no windows.
“Sit.” He said gesturing to a crate in the corner that looked as if the smallest weight would make it crumble. I sat anyway, knowing if I didn’t he would surely do something terrible to me. ‘This is strange.’  I thought. ‘He is being way too nice.’
“I have a proposition for you,” he said, glaring at me with his evil green eyes.
 I have always hated his eyes. They were always so cold.
 “What is it, Sir?”
“I think I will give you a day off.” He attempted a smile. It was a lost effort.
“But, Sir?”
“Ah no buts. You will take this day off.” He looked me straight in the eyes, like he was trying to pull out all my secrets.
I swallowed hard. “Yes, Sir.” I stood and left closing the door behind me.
I ran to my quarters and sat there thinking. Why would he give me a day off? He hasn’t the past 8 years. It makes no sense. Then I realized. What if he suspects me for giving information to the rebels? It is most likely -no. The only reason he would ever give me a day off. He will probably send one of his obedient little dogs to spy on me while I roam the streets. So I can’t contact my informant. That would be too dangerous. I will have to get them the information another way.

Xander {Part 2}

"Things hadn't really gone the way I had planned.  The course things were supposed to take was simple, I was going to visit the ambassador, settle with myself she really was a threat to Icantevole security and well being of the general population, then return to my day, and forget all about her. Well, that didn't happen. She was an Elf, which at first startled me, why would King Felix imprison an Elf? And then she was so tiny, scared and helpless, how could such a person be bad? And then the matter of Tenzin and what I overheard Felix and that woman talking about. They had killed the old Elvish ambassador without a second thought. They meant to kill him. And then, Andromeda and Felix saying his heart wasn't "Adequate"? I didn't understand any of it, but knew the prisoner needed to be freed. 

Even that didn't go according to plan, now did it?"

Xander sighed, and tied Ciar and Rudy to a nearby tree, "Sleeping in the forest isn't the safest, you know".  The short feisty, girl tossed her head, "Afraid of animals, are we?".  Adonis, the dragon, rolled his eyes, "Shorty, can you not manage one remark without being rude?" 

"I AM NOT SHORTY! And you're one to talk about rudeness!" The girl stomped up to Adonis, her short height giving her the comical appearance of a angry child. 

Xander turned away from the fighting pair, lest he chuckle and be drawn into a scuffle he had no desire to pursue. 

He noticed Bly sitting alone on a log a few paces away. She was Petting a robin who had landed on her shoulder, but her eyes were elsewhere, farther away in the past or future. 

"Hey, mind if I sit?" Xander walked over and motioned to her rather wooden seat. 

Bly jumped slightly, causing the robin to fly off, and scooted over to make room for him. 

She folded her hands in her lap, and looked down at them, not saying anything. 

Xander rubbed the back of his neck, how should he express his sympathy for her loss? Did Elves have any customs for comforting another? Would he insult her by bringing it up? 

Remarkably, she spoke first. 

"Thank you, Captain" she glanced over her shoulder, presumably to make sure the girl and dragon-man were far enough away to not hear. "You didn't need to save me, you put yourself at risk, but you stuck by me, and have helped me more then I can every help you, I'm sure" 

Xander shrugged, "I consider it, for me, repaying a debt to your race to save you. Plus, my Mother taught me to love Elves, seeing you captured and so..." now he couldn't very well say weak or pitiful, that would surely insult her, "...so frightened" that seemed like a good substitute. "Hurt my heart. Anyone who would willingly injure an Elf, particularly one who has done no wrong and is helpless, isn't to be trusted". 

Bly looked up at him, and his heart dropped a few levels at the beauty of her eyes, and how strongly she could stare if she pleased. "Debt? And why did your mother have such a love for my people?" she broke her gaze, and drew back into her hesitant shell, "I'm sorry if I ask questions that shouldn't be asked by a stranger, it's not my place to-" 

Xander put his hand on her shoulder, "Bly, it's ok. I don't know what Elvish customs are, but asking a question is no crime" 

She nodded, and plucked at her filthy dress. 

"Now, I believe you were asking why my Mother taught me to love Elves, and why I have a debt?" Xander smiled at her, and she just shrugged absently. 

Inwardly he sighed, this girl was going to take a lot of ice breaking. 

"My mother was raised by elves"

Bly looked up in surprise, "Raised? Was she a half race?" 

Xander started to say no, but sighed, "I don't know. And neither did she. My Grandmother went straight to a Elven midwife, it's said, and died shortly after. Leaving my newborn mother in the midwife's care. Not knowing who the child's father was, nor who the Mother truly was either, The midwife raised my Mother herself" 

Bly seemed interested now, "It is rare for a Elven midwife to assist in a human's birth. But, of course if the woman needed help, neither would she refuse to assist" 

Xander nodded, "My Mother grew up under the care and teachings of your race, and was only human in appearance.  You know, you remind me of her a lot. She was quiet, gentle, and didn't often voice her opinion or desires" 

Bly ducked her head, and Xander wondered if he had insulted her. But she looked up before to long, "It is one of my short comings" 

"It makes you a sweet person" 

She blushed, and waved her hand, "P-please, continue your story, if it isn't to much to ask" 

He grinned, glad she had requested something without to much stutters, only one, to be exact. 

"My Father was a Captain when he met her.  His family were stout supporters of The royal line. Felix was newly king, and they thought he was the embodiment of hope and change.  My Father had no love for races outside of his own, but when he saw my Mother on one of her rare trips into Aragathia, he wanted her.  That's where her lack of decision got her wronged. She didn't have the back none to decline him, and without the counsel of her wiser Adopted family, she married him" 

Xander was glaring at the plants around him, he had no love for his Father, and didn't bother to hide it. 

Bly rested her hand on his arm, "You are not close to the man who fathered you" 

Xander relaxed his glare, and sighed, "No. He pretty much abandoned my Mother and I, and didn't even come when she was dying. And then, his low morals and care for any life outside of his own..." 

Bly slipped her hand into his and squeezed with a surprisingly firm grip. "I'm sorry, Captain"

Her sympathy and gentle voice was so much like his Mothers, it surprised him. 

"So, she married a man she felt no love for nor connection of mind to?" You continued for him. 

"Yes. And I was born shortly after.  My Mother never got to visit her Elven family, my Father didn't permit it. After I was born, he bought a tiny cottage, placed my mother and I in it, and went back to Aragathia. Pretty much leaving us alone" 

"How sad, a boy needs a Father figure in his life" Bly whispered. 

Xander felt touched by how greatly she was concerned, were all Elves this heartfelt? 

"I did visit him as I grew older, I think he wanted to get me used to a Soldier's life from a young age. Often I would have to leave my Mother for a month at a time, and live with him in the barracks. He left strict orders with my Mother that I was to be taught to read, shoot, and fence beyond my age level. When I was 7, I brought back an illness that had been circulating Aragathia that had been dubbed "Soldier's Throat". It had been brought into the city by a Soldier, and it spread rapidly.  I don't remember much, as I was in a high fever, but I remember my Mother nursing me, then it wasn't her, but a new face. When I came out of my Fever, I realized my Mother herself had fallen ill, and somehow an old Elvish woman had come to our aid" he closed his eyes tightly, and felt Bly squeeze his hand again, "Mother died 7 days later". 

Bly drew her breath in sadly, "I'm so sorry, Captain. Death is..." 

"Hard" Xander finished for her. She nodded, and wiped away a tear. 

"I moved in with an Older cousin from my Father's side, then entered official training at age 13. I graduated at 16, and I quickly rose in ranks to where I am now, or, was" 

He sighed, "But the point I was making, my Mother loved your people strongly, and she taught that love to me. And then, if that old Elven woman, how I wish I knew her name, hadn't come, both me and my Mother would've died from that sickness. Your people have done so much for my Family, the least I can do is to rescue one of their ambassadors"

Bly nodded, "I thank you" 

Xander stood up, "Well, I'd better go draw Adonis out.  They are still tossing words at each other over there, if we don't do something, they might kill each other". 

Bly smirked, "I don't think so" 

Xander chuckled, "and why don't you think so? That Nary-"

"Nairi" Bly corrected. 

"ah, yes. Nairi girl has already got her fists balled up" 

Bly laughed, it was light and tinkly, "I just don't think they will, that's all". 

Xander smirked, he would have to get her to laugh again. 

So, I know, this isn't much of a chapter. No new development, but more of a filler. But I wanted to get the talking out of the way for Xander. ;) 

And don't let Bly fool you, she is terribly perceptive. XD 

Natia (Part 2)

  

 "I'm Prid, and this is Anakis and Natia."   Prid looked at the elf girl.  "As you saw, I am half lion, and these two are, um..."   He stopped and looked at Anakis and me.   "What are you, again?"   Anakis looked to me.
   "We're, um, humans," I said.   "Yeah, small humans.   Yeah."   I glanced nervously at the elf girl.
   She didn't seem to be buying it, but she shrugged and said, "Well, where are you going?"
   "We're going to the battlefield.   Anakis and Natia are determined to help the wounded there.   I am to be a soldier."   He paused.   I thought for sure I saw a tear in his eye.   "Anyway, where are you three going?"
   "We are going to the same place." the elf boy said.
   "Then let us go together, neighbor," said Prid.   I am sorry, but I shan't be much for conversation as we travel."   Prid told them his story.
   "My, my," said the elf girl.    "You've had quite an exciting life.   Now I shall tell you my story." she began.

Kaymele (part 4)

(Minus the window)

    To my surprise it was Sarothax, clutching the ring of keys in his hand.  I stare at him wondering what he could possibly want.  He signals me to come closer, and I do.

    'They're all still arguing, one says hang you, the another says drown, and still all the others have their own idea of what to do to you.  Only your grandfather is on your side trying to get you anything but killed,' says Sarothax.

    'Why is this so important that you steal the keys to the door, only to tell me what I already guessed would be happening?' I ask taking a step back.

    'Because your grandfather is not making much of an impression upon them, and they have decided to kill you, though they know not which way,' says Sarothax looking around to make sure the guard does not return.

    'But Sarothax...' I begin.

    'Nithron, my real name is Nithron.  I changed it before I came here,' said Nithron.

    'Ok Nithron, why do you care what happens to me, and why did you change your name?' I ask.

    He looks at the ground, and fumbles with his hands as if he's having an argument with himself.  Finally, he looks straight into my eyes with his cool, pale, blue ones.  They tear into my soul and I want to look away, but I don't.

    'I am part of the resistance, and I came here for protection.  We need more friends than enemies, so I was sent to find more among the people of Incantevole, and the countries surrounding while in hiding.  I came here on a hope that there really were people here, and see if the rumors spoke a bit of truth.  The resistance needs help, and from your actions I see that you are brave, and cunning.  You will make a great addition to the resistance... if you join,' says Nithron extending his hand. 

    I think about his offer.  'This is a choice between life and death.  Or death and death, I could die either way.  I would much rather die for a noble cause than a criminal's penalty.  Besides, nothing is more dangerous enemy with nothing to loose.'

    'I'll go with you, and fight until my dying breath,' I say taking his hand.

    Away we run, through long corridors that finally come to the kitchen.  I grab bread, cheese, and a few strips of beef.  My hunting knife lies on the counter from this morning, all cleaned.  I grab it, and stuff it into my pack by the door.  We run around the side of the building.  I call Florentide with my mind, so as not to attract attention from the guards.  She arrives and I climb into the saddle, Nithron looks warily at my dragon.

    'Come on, climb up she won't bite.  At least I think she won't,' I say as I lower my hand to him.  

    He smiles, takes my hand, and has swings up into the saddle.  Off into the air we fly soaring above the clouds, I look down to see the guards running outside, too late to stop us, and my mother falling into father's arms weeping.  

    Further and further away we fly, seeing nothing but endless woods.  Until Florentide spots a clearing with a lake at it's center.  She glides down and lands beside the water.  The water is so smooth that it seems like glass, and the area surrounding is so unfamiliar to me that at once I feel lost.  Never being outside our land has it's drawbacks, but nothing has prepared me for this place.  Florentide looks exhausted, the weight of 2 people had put a strain on her.  Nithron tries to hide his weariness but unsuccessfully.  With the help of Florentide we have a fire going in minutes, confident that we weren't followed we aren't afraid to make the fire any particular size.

    'How many people make up the resistance?' I ask Nithron as I poke the fire.

    'We had about 300, but I've been hiding for 5 months and who knows how many more Beleg has found willing to fight,' says Nithron shaking his blonde hair out of his eyes.  That's when I notice his ears, pointed like an Elf's.  I act as though I hadn't seen anything.  'Is he truly an Elf or did I just imagine it?'

    'I am going to fill the water flasks, I'll be right back,' I say scooping up the flasks before Nithron had a chance to ask any questions.  

    I walk to the water's edge, and stare out into the water looking at the moons reflection on it's surface.  I stretched out my arm holding my hand out to the water, and I slowly turn my hand until the palm is up.  A bubble of water floats above the lake, flies towards me, and slipps into the water flasks filling them to the brim.  

    Feeling satisfied, I leave the flasks on the shore and dive into the cool water.  I surface, and lie on top of the water looking up into the stars.  My scales shine in the light, and even this does not comfort me.  I feel as though I could cry another lake this size with shame, and sorrow.  I think of my family, my uncle Arthion would say "You did the noble thing, leaving your people to fight for a good cause!".  Then I think of my mother, the last I saw of her was her falling into father's arms weeping.  The tears stream down my cheeks as I think of my sister.  'She was so young, and beautiful.  How could Locien have been so blinded by greed?' I stop  to think about this.  I was blinded by anger as much, if not more, as he was by greed.  More tears cascade down my face as I pull myself out of the lake and lie on my back in the sand.  Raising my hand above myself, palm down, I slowly draw my fingers in.  Steam rises off me as I dry off, soon my legs return, and I'm dry.  I grab the flasks and hurry back to the fire, sit beside Florentide, and lean against her warm side.

    'Thought you fell in,' says Nithron carving a stick with my knife.

    'I did,' I say laughing.  'Do you not know what I am?'

    'You're an elf, right.' sighed Nithron.

    'Well, yes and no,' I say gazing into the fire.  He looks at me puzzled.  'Oh, where do I begin.  You've lived in our village for how long and you didn't see anyone jump into the river and not resurface?' he shakes his head, 'I thought as much.  My people are not true Elves, they are only half, save myself,'

    'Then what are you?' asks Nithron.

    'I'm part mermaid.  Also Elf, Dwarf, and Human,' I say flushing bright red.

    Nithron stares at me in disbelief.  'What can I show him that can prove my story?' I ask myself.  Then the answer is clear.  I lift my hand and stretch my fingers towards the water flasks, and a small bubble of water floats over to him.  He reaches out to touch it, but I move it above his head and release it causing the water to drop on his head, soaking him from head to toe.  I cover my mouth to stifle a laugh threatening to escape, as he stands, dripping, in total shock.

    'Now do you believe me? Only mermaids can bend water,' I say still smiling.

    'I suppose I have to know that you've gotten me all wet!' exclaims Nithron.

    'Here let me dry you.' I say.  Once again I lift my hand towards him, he ducks thinking I'm going to drop another water ball on him.  I curl my fingers in slowly, and steam begins to rise from his body.

    'Well I'll be.  How did you do that?' he asks running his fingers through his hair.

    'Being of many races has it's advantages and disadvantages,' I replied, 'well I guess we should get some sleep, especially you Florentide.  We have a long way to travel before we reach the rebel camp,' I say laying down.  Florentide lies her head down and spirals of smoke rise from her nostrils.

    'Yes ma'am!' says Nithron saluting me.

    'Oh, go to sleep Nithron,' I say threatening another water ball.

    Sleep comes easy to us all, and we sleep well into the early afternoon.  After a cold meal of bread and cheese, we decide to walk for a while to give Florentide more time to recuperate.   We are only a few miles, according to Nithron, away from the Africi Grasslands in the Sanari region.  I hear that lions live there, but they are only legend, I hope.

    Several miles we travel on foot until Florentide insists that we ride on her.  She takes it slow flying just above the tree tops. We see the grasslands in the distance, a vast yellow, gold plain with hardly a tree at all.  Landing on the edge of the plain we take in the surroundings.  

    Then 3 figures 1 on a horse, 1 on a centaur, and the last was a lion went running across the plain.  Florentide takes to the air before I stop her and she flies high above them swoops down and lands right infront of the 3.  They stop only a few feet away from her, each one pale, and petrified.  We run to Florentide, and the strangers.  When we arrive no one has moved, and the lion became a young man before our eyes still crouched like the lion.

    'Florentide! Why did you take off like that?' I ask angrily.

    'P-Please don't eat us... we only want to heal the solders,' whispers the girl riding the centaur.

    'My dragon won't eat you, she ate 2 days ago and shouldn't be hungry,' I say in a calming tone, 'who are you, and what are you?'

I'll leave the rest for Anna's characters.

Nairi (part 2)

I was quite surprised when a man wearing the clothes of the king’s guard and a girl in a once white dress, now greenish brown with filth, stepped out of the gate. “Why, hello there, travelers, but I think you’ll want to enter through the main gate, nothing to see coming through this one” The man in the king’s armor said.
I didn’t want to hurt an innocent man but we had just been exposed and certainly he was going to report Adonis and I to the king and have us killed. And I couldn’t let that happen. “You are a King’s guard; I shall have to kill you.” That came out way more menacing than I had first intended. I drew my sword, seeing as even though I had the power to control the wind, water, or ice I had never paid much attention when I was supposed to be learning how to use them. So my best bet right now was probably the sword.
“Wait! Stop! Whoever you are, D-don’t kill Cap….Xander” The girl cried.
I looked at her wondering what she had been about to say.
“He isn’t…bad” She sounded like she could barely got the words out of her mouth

“And why shouldn’t I? How do I not know that this isn’t all a setup?”

“Shorty, just drop it.” Adonis said grabbing my shoulder.
I am sure my face turned beet red. “I’M NOT SHORT!” I screamed. I turned to Adonis and tried to step on his foot, but he moved and I fell, nearly impaling myself with my sword.

“Um, sorry to interrupt whatever you doing but can we please leave?.” It was the man again.
“Yes, yes you can, and we’re coming with you.” Adonis looked kind of scared.

“What’s wrong?” I asked looking at his expression.
“That’s what’s wrong.” He said pointing at a mob of guards headed straight for us.

The man, Xander I think she called him, smiled and galloped past me on his horse and yelled. “That’s our cue. If your coming you will have to keep up.”
“Well what are you waiting for, Shorty.” Adonis said. I didn’t even have time to reply till he scooped me up and ran after Xander and the girl, quickly catching up.

“Let me go!” I shouted at hm.
“Oh so you want to be caught by the royal guard.” He said looking at me his hair blowing he was running so fast.
“No.” I said looking down. It was then that Xander noticed we were keeping up with him and his mouth seemed to fall.
“How- how are you…”
“Don’t ask.” Adonis said smiling. And Xander didn’t.
After a while of running and riding we finally stopped, and Adonis abruptly dropped me.
“Ow, that hurt.” I said standing. Adonis shrugged, apparently he didn’t care. At that moment I wanted to slap him, but I was interrupted by the girl.
“H-how, d-did you.” The girl fumbled with her words.
“I think what lady Bly is trying to say is, how in all of Incantevole you keep up with my Rudy?”
“Well it helps that dragons are fast.” Adonis said shrugging.
I looked at the girl she looked quit frightened like she had been through a lot. Then I realized she was an elf! It’s quite easy to tell when you just look at the ears.
“Ok, so first off,” Adonis raised his finger in the air like he was king of the world. “I guess if we are going to be traveling together we should know each other’s names.” He pointed to himself. “The names Adonis, and this,” He said gesturing towards me. “Is, Shorty.” I felt my face go hot with anger. “SHORTY IS NOT MY NAME! WILL YOU STOP CALLING ME THAT?” I looked at the two and smiled, though my anger was far from gone. “My name is Nairi.” I said
“B-bly.” The girl said
“And I am former captain of the royal guard Xander Bolivar.” He bowed formally. He smiled at me. “So how old are you exactly? Ten, Eleven?”
I didn’t get as mad at him as I do at Adonis because it was a normal question, but I still said this through gritted teeth “I.Am.16.”
He looked at me mystified for a second then snapped back. “My apologies.” He said bowing again.
I smiled. “No need to be so formal.” I said.
“Ok now.” Adonis said. “Were do we go from here exactly? It is getting dark and we have absolutely nowhere to stay, except out in the open were any solder can find us.
“He has a point.” Xander said, he looked like he was thinking. Then he said something to Adonis and he said something back. I decided to leave them be and talk about whatever it was. Most likely places to stay, but you never know with boys.
I decided to go talk to Bly she looked so alone just standing there. “Hi.” I said smiling at her.
She blinked at me “H-hi” she said. Man she seemed so shy.
“I just thought since the boys are chatting over there I would come over here and talk to you.” I smiled at her, and she smiled back. Well at least the best she seemed she could manage.

“So since we are apparently going to be traveling together , I thought I should ask you to be my friend?” I smiled again and extended my hand. She took it, and I guess at that moment I made my first real friend.

Andromeda (part 1)

 Andromeda soaked in the heat of the water, enjoying its sweet caress. Bathing had become a strange delight to her. Water that she once feared now cleaned the body that she now possessed.

  Her newest body wasn’t much different from the last one, black hair, fair skin, and the constant violet eyes that took over the host’s former color. And though human bodies were disgusting and shed constantly, bathing was a no doubt perk.

 Her musings were cut short from the loud angry footfalls coming up the stairs.

 Felix came barging in, the wind of his entry blowing out a few candles. He grabbed a bottle out of the wine cabinet, the good wine that he kept hidden there.

“Trouble?” She asked.

“That elf wench has escaped-,” Felix took a sip of wine before continuing.”-and it is been reported that Xander helped her, the traitor. When I find him I’m going to have horses tied to his limbs and set the beasts loose!”

“And you shall. Later. But do not worry so much, my love.”

  Andromeda grabbed her robe as she got out of the tub and covered herself. She gently lowered the wine glass from Frelix’s lips and set it on a nearby table.

“Here, sit down.” Andromeda led him to a cushioned chair and began to massage his temples, weaving a small spell to relax him. Felix’s tense muscles eased and the knot in his brain undone. Pleased with herself, Andromeda moved her skilled hands to his neck and shoulders.

  Felix was so relaxed that he almost forgot to tell her something else.

“Xander might know of our plans.”

Andromeda’s hands paused.,” Are you sure?”

“I caught him outside the door after we had discussed it. By the way he quickly dismissed himself, I can only assume…”

“Mmh…” Andromeda looked up at the air, studying it as if it had the answers, before shaking her head.

“If he tells it to the wrong people it could slow our efforts. But I sense that the ones we need are coming together nicely. So even if he did tell, there is not much they could do at this stage.”

Andromeda continued with her caressing.

“Besides, he may even lead us to them.”

 

 

 

 

How's this?

Felix (part 1)

“A bunch of ingrates, all of you!”

A line of soldiers stood before a menacingly large throne as it’s sitter continued to scowled them.

“My King, I apologize for my men. Xander’s horse is well known to be the fastest, and he knows the best routes out of the city-“

“I do not need your excuses.” Felix snapped harshly,” Have your men search the roads, the trails, anywhere you can fit a soldier. The traitor and the prisoner shall not get away, do you understand?”

“Yes, you’re Highness.” The captain gathered his men, of who were practically running out of the door, and shut the door behind them.

Felix got up from his throne and marched about the room, taking deep swallows of his wine.

He passed by tapestries dictating his success in battle, draped over the stone walls. Felix paid no heed to any of them, continuing his infuriated pace.

He went and grabbed the wine bottle from the small table beside his throne, only to throw it against the wall when discovering that it was empty.

Mumbling to himself, Felix went upstairs to where he might get more.








Well, I finally got it up! Sorry it took so long, had to type this AND Andromeda's part.

Anakis (Part 2)

   I awoke in a hut.   I panicked for a minute, then remembered asking for shelter from the lion.   And that wonderful boy.   I sighed.   Prid, yes, that was his name.   What a beautiful name.   Prid.   I sighed again and awoke Natia.   "What is it?" she grumbled.

   "Wake up, will you?   You slept all day and night!"

   "So did you!"

   "Yes, but now it's time to get up."

   "You're right," she said hopping up and grabbing her bag.   "We need to leave."

   "Why?"   I didn't want to leave Prid.   "We just got here!"

   "We need to move on to the battlefront.   Help the soldiers.   I thought that was what you wanted to do, Anakis."

   "I do!  But we're, um, tired and um, we need to, um, rest?"

   "You just don't want to leave that hotshot, Pidle."

   "Prid."

   "Prid.   You seemed to be quite drawn by him."

   "He's just nice, that's all."

   "Nice.   Right."   She would have rolled her eyes, if it wasn't for her fairy politeness.

   "He is!"

   Natia was about to speak when that lion came in.   He looked at the two of us, then motioned us outside.   Natia gave me a look that said, This isn't over, then turned to follow the lion.   I followed without a word.

   Prid was outside roasting fish over an open fire.   "Are you two hungry?"   He smiled at us.

   "No, thank you." said Natia.   "We were just leaving."

   "Oh?"

   "Yes.   You see, sir.."

   "Call me Prid."

   "You see, sir, we need to go to the battlefield and help the soldiers.   That's why we're here."   Natia looked down.   "Thank you for you're hospitality, but..."

   "This is what I wanted to talk to you about.   Uncle and I have talked, and I shall accompany you two to the battlefield and I shall begin my duty as a soldier.   You see, I am eighteen today."

   "Oh, happy birthday!" I said!

   He frowned.   "Only I have to leave the ones I love."   He sighed.   "Get you're horse and centaur ready and wait for me.   Come, Uncle."   He walked behind the hut.

   "I wonder what he's doing," said Natia.   I shrugged and hopped on Derpa.   All of the sudden, we heard a massive roar.   Derpa and Soot started.   We turned to see not one, but two lions coming toward us.   One was Prid!   

   "I'm angry!  Let's go!"

   "Why are you angry?" asked Natia.

   "I have to be!   I don't have a horse!   Gidy-up!" he said to Derpa and Soot.   We left without a word.

Prid (Part 1)

   

   The day I was born, everyone knew that I had lion blood in me, for when I am angry, I take the form of a lion.   My claws and teeth killed my mother in her labor.   My father, a lion, took me to the Grasslands to live, but he died 2 years later in a battle.   My uncle Simbani took me into his hut.   He taught me swordplay and chivalry, and all the schooling I would need in life.
   This very year, I am to join the rebel army.   Uncle Simbani does not want to lose another relative.   I do not want to leave him in his old age, but its my duty as a man.
   After I was done speaking, I noticed one of the girls staring at me.   Her hood had fallen down, and long, blond hair was exposed.   "I'm sorry," she said.   "I..."
   "Don't worry about it." I chuckled.   "I get that a lot from the lionesses around here."   I looked around the room.   The other girl was asleep.   I picked her up and put her on my pallet and motioned to the other girl to get on uncle Simbani's pallet.   She hesitated, then yawned and climbed in.   Immediately she fell asleep.   I walked outside to talk to my uncle.   (Note: my uncle speaks Lion, but I shall translate.)
   "Hello, my boy."
   "Hello, uncle."
   "Are the girls asleep?"
   "Yes, uncle."
   "Good."   He paused.   "Did that girl still stare at you?"
   I laughed.   "Yes, she did."
   "She likes you."
   I laughed again.   "I can tell!"
   He paused again.   "Do you like her?"
   I stopped.   Did he really just ask me that question?   "I don't know yet, Uncle, I met her only this morning."
   "All the same, do you like her?"
   How does uncle Simbani always know my deepest thoughts?   "Y-yes, uncle."
   He smiled.   "I had a feeling after that hood fell off, you would see her beauty and character."
   I was embarrassed.   Did I really like Anakis?   I just met her!

Bly { Part 2 }

“I thought the officer had behaved odd, the way he had acted like I was a terror, or a monster. It was odd.  But I had drifted back asleep after he and the guard had left, and their voices faded away into the dark.  Sleep helped me to stop worrying, and eased the fear.  Sometimes my dreams were little better then my reality, but at least they were only dreams, and I could wake up from them”.

She was awakened by the sound of her door slowly creaking open.  She tried to will herself to remain still, but fear caused her to sit up again, and face whoever was creeping into her cell.
It was him, the same man who had been so surprised to see she was an Elf earlier.
“W-what do you want?” Bly asked quickly, backing away from him, and feeling her pulse quicken like a trapped field mouse’s.
“I’m not going to hurt you, but keep your voice down.  Juno is a thick sleeper, and the pipe I let him smoke a few hours ago was drugged, but I don’t want to risk it, should we be caught, my career would be ruined, and I’d like to keep my position as Captain” He crouched opposite of her, far enough away to not alarm her even more, but close enough that his hushed voice could be heard.
Bly swallowed hard, and tried to force her face into a look of peace and control, “Who are you? What’s your name? And, where is Tenzin?”
At least her voice didn’t crack, that was a triumph.
He smiled; it was easily given, and seemed tinted with a bit of remorse, “I’m Captain Xander Bolivar, but you can just call me Xander, most do.  I know you want answers to everything right now, but I can’t give them to you. Trust me, alright? I need to get you out of here, and sitting around talking is wasting minutes” He pulled a key from his uniform, and began unlocking her chains.
Bly fidgeted, “I have no reason to trust you. You wear the uniform of the one who has me imprisoned” she gave herself a mental hug for such a grand speech and without ending with mumbles at that!
Captain Bolivar, Xander, sighed, “I know, I know, but listen, I’m the only chance you have to get out, you want to take that chance, don’t you? What is the worse that could befall you? You end up back in this cell. Or dead, which, I assure you; you will be before too long anyway. If you don’t trust me, you have no hope of every getting home again” His voice was urgent, and earnest, and she felt she could trust him.
“Use your Elf magical powers, can I be trusted?” He continued, and Bly felt a laugh coming up at the way he was so open, and wiggled his fingers when he said ‘Elf Magical powers’.
“I don’t have any ‘Elf magical powers’” She copied his hand movements, causing him to duck his head and smile, “But I am going to trust you, Captain Bolivar”.
His smile grew, “Good, now, come along” He stood up, and held his hand out to her.
Bly looked at his black gloved hand, she had said she would trust him, yet dare she put her hand in the man’s?  Who knew what crimes he had committed in the King’s name, could she, and should she, really and truly trust him?
‘Sometimes an Ambassador must go out on the edge of cliffs to win, Bly. It takes just as much courage to be an ambassador as a warrior, and just as much trust as a child, and enough cunning to know where to draw the line. Go out on a cliff, feel the wind, and succeed’ Tenzin’s words came back to her, and she looked into Captain Bolivar’s waiting eyes, “I trust you” she whispered, and placed her hand in his.
He jerked her forward, breaking into a run from the cell, “We must hurry, it’s still barely morning, and the servants won’t be completely out yet.  And hopefully the ones that are will just think I’m getting a lady out of the palace to save her honor, and mine”.
Bly felt her cheeks heat up at the idea of the appearance such a thing would give, but kept her mouth shut, she had set her feet upon the road to the cliff, and there was no stopping now.
He pulled her along behind him, randomly stopping, and yanking her an opposite direction when nearly encountering a servant, and finally led her to the stables.
“I’m going to let you go on Rudy” He led her to a part of the stable where the Captain’s horses were stalled. 
The slight tinge of remorse that tinted his voice didn’t escape her, “You cherish him?” she patted the nose of a gentle black who poked his head out at the early morning newcomers.
Captain Bolivar sighed, and led Rudy, a huge bay horse with a black mane and tail from a padded stall, and began saddling him.  “Me and Rudy have been through a lot, and while he may not be as sleek and graceful as your Elvin horses, I’ll be sad to see him go. But, he is smart, and he will get you to safety quicker than any other horse in the King’s stables”.
Bly blew into Rudy’s nose, “I promise, Captain, if there is ever a chance I can return him to you, I shall”
Captain Bolivar smiled, and gave Rudy’s saddle a final cinch, “Just take good care of him, eh?  Just don’t let him get too spoiled in your Elvin stables”
He helped her up, and sighed, “Listen, before you go, I have two things to tell you. The first pertains to your safety. I know you are going to want to head straight home to whatever Elf city you hail from, but don’t. Try to find the rebels, and work with them to get back. They will expect you to go straight back, and will ambush you before you get there” Bly nodded, she did want to get home, home where she could be safe, and warm, and…”Tenzin? What of him?” She asked, her fingers tightening on the reigns.
Captain Bolivar sighed, “He, didn’t…make it out of the ambush”
The words dropped like an ice crystal upon her heart, piercing and shattering.
“He, died?” She felt her eyes fill with tears, and for once didn’t care that she was showing weakness.
“I really am sorry, Miss.  But apparently he had tried to fight them off, and…” Captain Bolivar frowned, “They said you saw him die, and screamed before falling unconscious, do you not, remember?”
Bly shook her head, “I can’t remember anything” for once, gratitude for not remembering flooded her. At least she didn’t have the memory haunting her dreams, her soul, and her thoughts.
“I am sorry, its apparent you were close to him” Captain Bolivar reached up, and touched her hand, his eyes full of true grief for her.
Bly nodded her head, “He was my teacher, I learned everything from him. I have spent more time with Tenzin then my parents” she wiped the tears away; Tenzin would will her to be strong, and continue clear headedly with the mission at hand. “I thank you, Sir, for your assistance, without your aid, I surely would be still chained and locked away”
Captain Bolivar backed away, “It is an honor to assist an Elf. Take care of Rudy for me, and stick with back alleys until you leave the city limits!” He raised his hand to slap Rudy’s rump, but the sounds of shouting and pounding feet froze him.
Bly felt her mouth go dry, and tightened her grip on the reigns, “They couldn’t have discovered me already, C-could they, Captain?”
Captain Bolivar frowned, “It isn’t a normal routine for the guard to go  shouting so early in the morning, pardon me miss, but I think I might have to share a seat with you” He swung up behind her on the horse, and reached around to hold Rudy’s reigns.
Bly sputtered, “B-but, C-captain, maybe i-it isn’t m-me they are, are searching for, perhaps, m-maybe you aren’t in danger”
She felt a sort of guilt over Tenzin’s death, maybe if she had fought their attackers instead of being a coward, as she knew she most likely was even if she couldn’t remember it, perhaps he wouldn’t have been killed, or at least she would have been slayed beside him. She didn’t want to guilt of making this nice man lose his position.
“Perhaps, but….” Captain Bolivar clicked to Rudy, and they sped from the stable.
Bly had let go of the reigns, giving all control to this man who she dared trust, and gripped Rudy’s black mane in her white knuckled hands.
‘But what?’ she wondered ‘He helps me, then is prepared to flee? Why does he risk so much?’
Rudy and Captain Bolivar rode as one, the bond between horse and rider seemed to create an auora of friendship, and when they were trotting in a back alley, the shouting just muffled noises behind them, The Captain leaned forward, whispering in her ear, and much to closely for comfort, “It strikes me, Fair Elf, I haven’t gotten your name”.
Bly blushed, and fidgeted, Oh how she wished he wouldn’t lean so closely, is was discomfort able.  “Bly Uaine, daughter of Councilmen Arten, and my Mother is Siusan, daughter of-“ she ducked her head, all he had asked was her name, not her linage. 
He nodded, and suddenly urged Rudy to a faster pace, “Beautiful name, now, I’d suggest you hold on tightly, Miss Uaine, This little feat is about to get a tad bit difficult”
Bly went from deep red from blush to a sickly white in mere seconds, “Difficult?”
Captain Bolivar wore a devilish grin that she could see if she turned her head just slightly, and it made her unsettled.  “Aye, difficult, getting through the gates won’t be an easy feat” he glanced behind, and Bly followed his gaze, even though they couldn’t see the King’s men, the sound of their shouting was growing louder and therefore closer.
“H-how do you plan on doing it?” she whispered, fear clutching at every nerve she possessed.
“Well, I’m not quite sure…” He chuckled, “Don’t tell anyone, but some of my best strategically moves have been made without a plan”.
Somehow, that made very little effect for the better for Bly.
The gates to the city appeared much faster then she expected, wasn’t Aragathia a rather large city? But, then again, the palace probably wasn’t located to far from the gate.
The gate was huge, easily the size of a young Fernbark tree, and was constructed of mainly iron and other metals.  She could see soldiers scrambling to get the gigantic gate shut before they rode through, but the very thing the King must’ve meant for protection, was standing in their way.  Captain Bolivar voiced her thoughts, “The gate is unbelievably huge and heavy, there is no way we could get it shut in time should a surprise attack be launched; its one of Aragathia’s little secrets. This great big door, once shut, is like a Mountain’s wall, but that’s only if we can get it shut in time”
The soldiers saw their fast approach, and gave up on heaving the gate shut, and formed a human line in front of the door, and Bly had to feel sorry for their brave, but futile efforts.  At least, she hoped it was futile, otherwise, she and the Captain were in trouble.
The ground between them and the soldiers closed quickly, Bly closed her eyes, and clenched Rudy’s mane all the tighter.
“Stop! Xander! Stop!” an unfamiliar voice called out, and Bly could sense the Captain tensing, as if trying to decide whether to obey. She opened her eyes, and saw the Soldiers had thrown their weapons down, and were holding their hands up as if in surrender.
A coal black horse and a rider dressed in a uniform better then a common soldier’s, but not as grand as The Captain’s rode in front of them, blocking their path.
“Xander, halt. You can’t go out this way” He kept his voice to a hiss, and Bly saw urgency in his eyes.
“Captain, who is this?” She whispered.
Instead of answering her, Captain Bolivar replied to the other man, “And why not, Greven? I’m just taking this lovely lady for a nice ride, is there a protocol against that?”
Greven, as she assumed his name was, growled, “Don’t play smart with me, Xander. You’ve got the Elf Ambassador, and the king has sent us to return her, and you, to him”
Bly suddenly felt like she was going to vomit from the fear rising in her stomach, to be returned would be bad for her, but worse for Captain Bolivar.
“I don’t plan on being hauled back as cargo, thank you” Her rescuer said with a sort of sickly politeness, and began tightening his grip on Rudy’s reigns, Greven noticed.
“Ah, but if you dare take a step out this door, I have men station in the watchtowers, watching this certain path, and only this path. Now, if you had been wise and taken another gate, perhaps you would have escaped, but I suppose you are helpless now, Xander. Even Rudy can’t outrun Ciar” He leaned forward and patted his black mare’s neck.
Bly frowned, why was he saying those things? Giving away the places where he had men being watched, didn’t he realize….
“I challenge you to a race then, Greven” Captain Bolivar whirled Rudy around, and took off at a fast run, the stallion’s hoof spewing dust in the soldier’s faces.
“Captain, is he a friend of yours?” Bly asked, loosening her grip on the mane long enough to brush her hair from her face.
“Friend of mine? The very closest, but I never realized just how close until now” Captain Bolivar sighed, and urged the poor Rudy faster.
“Until now? But he just….” Bly gasped, “He gave away where he had men stationed so you could get away!”
“Indeed” Bolivar glanced behind them, and sighed, “The poor fool, he won’t get off easily for that”
Suddenly, as if from nowhere, Greven and Ciar pounded from a side alley.
Laughing, Greven jerked Bly from off Rudy, and on to his own Mare.  She managed to contain the frightened scream, and only squeaked out a pitiful cry.
“You really should share your ladies, Xander”
“Oh, please put me back!” Bly cried, but Greven chuckled again, “If Xander wants you back, he’ll have to punch me for it, hard”
‘He is entirely lost his mind!’ Bly thought, but jerked when she felt the reigns suddenly thrust into her hands, “Here, hold on to Ciar for me why I battle your knight in shining armor, will you, my dear?”
Captain Bolivar grimaced, “Enough of your tricks, Greven! Let her go!”
“Should you be the only one to get glory? No fair, old friend, like I said, you need to punch me to get me to return her to you” Greven put extra emphases on the punching part, and Bly realized his plan. 
“No need, sir” she shoved him off of Ciar rather roughly, and Captain Bolivar stared at her, “Bly, that was...”
“A part of his plan, I assure you” she felt strangely confident. Gleeful over having realized, made a move, and saved the day. Well, not really, but she could pretend.
Now on the two horses, they made better time, and reached a smaller gate, unguarded, and unlocked, but shut.
The shouts had faded away to another part of the city, surely thanks to Greven giving them wrong leads, Oh how Bly appreciated what he had done.  Xander slid off of Rudy, and hastily unlocked their last obstacle.
“After this, we can escape to the Rebels” He said while swinging it open “Surely they’ll have need of an Elven ambassador and- Why, hello there, travelers, but I think you’ll want to enter through the main gate, nothing to see coming through this one” He was talking to somebody on the other side, and a girl’s voice answered him,  “You are a King’s guard, I shall have to kill you” the sound of a sword being unsheathed terrified Bly.
“Wait! Stop! Whoever you are, D-don’t kill Cap….Xander” She decided that calling him ‘Captain Bolivar’ wouldn’t bode well. “He isn’t…bad” grimacing over how phony that sounded, she still hoped her words got across. Or just stalled whoever planned on killing her rescuer.








And, now I leave it to Katherine, since I am literally B.R.A.I.N D.E.A.D  for this scene. XD XD
I am SO SO SO SO SO SO SOOOOO sorry for talking SO SO SO SO SO SO SO long to finish this shoddy piece of work. As the shrimp from Finding Nemo says, “I am ashamed”.