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Post by Liou on Jul 25, 2014 16:45:12 GMT -5
King Garrick's bedroom was perfect, and the world felt almost right. Laurie had gone in at the first opportunity she got. She knew the place so well that it nearly felt like home as she strolled around the room, inspecting every thing he had touched, retracing the choreography of his steps. After all the time she had spent watching him, she knew only too well how to put every thing in its place. She untangled the ribbons and sorted them by length, cleaned the shoes and sorted them by the order in which they would be needed. She paused for a minute in front of the mirror, holding one of his outfits against her body, trying to determine how it would fit her figure. The urge to try it on was overwhelming, but her duty to the King was more important. His clothes felt so nice and soft under her hands, though. She spent a few minutes waltzing around the room, holding a whole outfit and spinning it around while singing under her breath. She hugged his pillow for a while, tested the inside of the wardrobe - which was surprisingly comfortable and would do nicely for a several-hour-long-stay -, cleaned his hair brush, took a handful of water from the wash basin, rubbed it reverently over her hands and drank a little bit. She only left when everything seemed perfect. It felt as good as if she could enjoy the comfort of the bedroom herself. Laurie did not look her best, pale, more underfed than usual, her dress dirty after her stay in the sodden streets. She knew that wasn't enough to put a damper on her looks. Her hair looked nice and a bit wild when it was out of its usual neat style, her face was slightly flushed and her eyes had a bright, almost feverish shine to them. Laurie normally disliked anything that made her look abnormal, but anything that could help her charm her way into Stallion Manor was welcome. She suspected that her sisters had not looked a lot better when they had been welcomed in. She summoned all her courage and walked up to the front gates of the manor. It felt strange. The inside of the manor was very familiar to her, of course, but the main entrance, she had never seen so closely. It seemed like such a complicated way to enter. What on earth was she doing in broad daylight, asking to be let in instead of sneaking around? It made her feel so stupid. She smoothed her hair nervously, clutching the Grand Duke's handkerchief in her other hand for support, as she waited for a servant to become available for eye contact. "Excuse me," she called in a shy, soft voice, "good day, pardon me for bothering you. I was told that my three sisters are currently in the generous care of House Stallion, and was wondering if it would be possible for me to meet them, if you would have the kindness to arrange that." She bowed her head. I assume King Garrick left his room at some point. Now it's all tidy. Nothing's missing. No one's been sniffing anything. Laurie actually goes to the FRONT entrance of Stallion Manor (GASP) to ask Celestial's NPC guys about her sisters so we can flashback next round 8D
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Post by Pixie on Jul 25, 2014 17:35:04 GMT -5
To Frederick’s relief, the slave lord who had been insistent to reclaim Xavier had submitted to the glamours effects and backed away. It was satisfying having the Courdonian be subjected to his will. It was an almost amusing turn of events when his normal standing was taken into account. Importantly, he had not incurred the wrath of the man or had his glamour fail. After Lord Duval walked away, Frederick turned to observe Xavier’s reaction. He was prepared for any reception to his actions, aware of Xavier’s opinions about him. Instead of seeming humiliated or upset at the elf coming to his defense, he seemed grateful, if not shocked. “Thank you.”Despite the heartwarming reception, there would be consequences to standing up for Xavier. He had very publicly presented himself against his peasant disguise. Having to pretend to be an Ophid noble could be unsustainable and dangerous. If they went asking for him with the other Ophids, they would realize he was there. Even with Melvin dead, he could not be certain they would not try to recall him back to that terrible court. He saved Xavier, which was a great relief to his heart, but his cover was dangerously close to being blown. He’d have to be diligent to lying low until the nobility left, or he did. At the moment, he had expended all of his magic for the glamour. Frederick was feeling light-headed, ill, and weak. He had to retreat from the square before the spell faltered and people had a greater opportunity to feel suspicious of him. Without his glamour up, the mage felt vulnerable, which was a feeling he detested. He ducked his way out of the square after returning Xavier a smile. The boy carried himself back to his hideout, not a second before blacking out. --- Kaldora had pulled away from the hug with sudden urgency. It was concerning to Ilaria, that despite restraining herself from trying to rescue the girl, which would rightfully have kept Kaldora and her from danger, she was acting like she might if there was a direct threat outside the alleyway. After a moment of worry, she realized that that was not the case. Kaldora claimed she had things to intend to elsewhere, which quelled her worries about immediate peril. She left Ilaria with a hug and an offer to meet in the Woods the next day. Ilaria was still upset from their argument. She still wanted to be able to save everyone, and she had failed. It was a sadistic choice, to protect Kaldora and herself or the unknown girl who was killed. With thoughts on failing to protect people, she realized she hadn’t checked up on Aldrich in a while. The man had extraordinary bad luck and had been pleasant company. Seeing to his wellbeing could be a good distraction from her troubling thoughts. Medieville had grown very dangerous, with slave lords and serial killers running about reeking havoc. She needed to know if he had been caught up in any of it. She found the door to the studio, strangely, to be wide open. A look inside revealed statues running rampant like they had the last time, but the scene was off. She crossed the threshold and began to take a closer look. “Hey Aldrich. Hey statue friends! I thought I’d drop by.” Ilaria announced her presence as not to startle anyone. Her emotional distress barely crept into her voice. Once inside the familiar dust-choked studio, Ilaria noticed that there was a noble girl inside the studio who seemed vaguely familiar. Aldrich seemed to be lying in a cot. It wasn’t quite the time of day for sleeping, so she realized something was wrong. Not wanting to disregard the other girl, she informed her “Hello, M’lady. I’m just his bodyguard.” She made her way over the his cot to take a closer look at him. He had a sickly appearance to him and a drained expression. She was concerned. Sickness wasn’t always avoidable, but she wondered if there was something she could have done to prevented it. “Aldrich...You don’t look well.” Ilaria exclaimed with a frown. She tried to think of the best course of action. Maybe the woman there had already done something to try and heal him.Ilaria still did not want to pass up the chance to make him feel better. “I know! I’ll sing you a song!” Ilaria cheered, after some thought. Ilaria begun to sing sweetly, but with a wavering voice and not much skill. Little lamb Little baby lamb It's a sunny day Why act grim and grey? Oh- Little lamb Little baby lamb It's a sunny day Why let it fade away?
Little baby lamb Little baby lamb Don't fret here You are safe here
In the fields with Your sister and brother Your father and mother You are safe here Little baby lamb This is home.
This is home. Little lamb You're never alone. Little baby lamb. This is home...By the time she finished the song, Ilaria had almost forgotten her argument with Kaldora and all that had been troubling her. She smiled at Aldrich before a more serious thought hit her. “You need to see Stabstrike if you haven’t; she’s a good healer. She’s helping my leg. I could escort you.” Ilaria leaned off her crutch to gesture at her bandaged knife wound. It was good to help somebody again. Frederick is happy to drive off Lord Duval ( Elcie), worried about the consequences, and glad to save Xavier. He goes home and collapses. Ilaria leaves after Kaldora ( Coaster) does. She mopes a little then decides to check on Aldrich ( Lizica). She goes into his studio and sees him there with Lucinda ( Kristykimmy), and ill. She sings to him a familiar song and then offers to escort him to Stabstrike.
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Post by Kristykimmy on Jul 25, 2014 18:27:50 GMT -5
Lucinda returned to the studio to find that Babewyn and Stippling had not returned. Aldrich was still on his cot, resting fitfully, wracked by coughs. She made tea, which, besides helping his throat, would be wanted after she gave him the medicines. The herbs used in their creation had a reputation for being incredibly bitter. After she had given him the medicines and his tea, she sat down next to him in a chair. “I hope you'll explain how you took so ill in such a short time, Aldrich,” Lucinda said. “After you get some rest, that is.” Just then, she heard the door open and a young, female voice sing out, “Hey, Aldrich. Hey, statue friends! I thought I’d drop by.”She turned to look and saw the girl from the feast entering the room. She looked over at Aldrich, seeming confused by his condition. She noticed Lucinda sitting there and addressed her. “Hello, M’lady. I’m just his bodyguard.”Lucinda nodded, vaguely remembering the scene that had unfolded after she bought the vase from Aldrich. She had been distracted by Ambrose the the car crash, so she hadn't stuck around to see what had happened with the key. “Aldrich...You don’t look well.” Ilaria exclaimed with a frown. “I know! I’ll sing you a song!”Ilaria proceeded to sing him a sweet lullaby in a wavering but not unpleasant voice. Lucinda smiled at her, the gesture was very sweet. “You need to see Stabstrike if you haven’t; she’s a good healer. She’s helping my leg. I could escort you.” The girl gestured at her leg which was bound up and she was using a crutch. “That's quite all right, miss. I've already given him medicine for his ailments. Still, if you think she could help, you could bring her here; if it isn't too far to go on your injured leg. What Aldrich needs is to rest at the moment. I've also sent a request to magic healers who may be able to do something for him. Why don't you sit and rest? I'll give you some of this tea; it is a special blend from my city, Destrier. I don't believe I caught your name?” Lucinda returns to Aldrich's ( Lizica) studio to find nothing changed. She gives him the medicine and some tea. Ilaria ( Pixie) shows up and Lucinda talks to her about Aldrich.
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Post by Gelquie on Jul 25, 2014 19:45:43 GMT -5
Clare laughed. “I know how that is, being so intent to get there, and then forgetting what you wanted as soon as you arrive. I have a few cuts of those ready; I'll show them to you and you can pick out which ones you'd like.” As Clare moved to grab the cuts, she continued talking. “Yes, I'm from Kine, although personally, I hated it; I moved here as a teen so that I could get an apprenticeship. I just go back every once in a while to visit when I can. The land is harsh enough to live in, but you're right; sharing a border with both Lange and Courdon just makes things worse. And it's just terrible when there's war. Most of the food we make has to go to the soldiers, and then there's the raiders. And all the combined with the pressure from Courdon to stop slaves from escaping into our territory... It was a terrible time to be in Kine, and we didn't even live close to the borders. At least the Second Langeian War didn't take too long, and ended before Elin was old enough to remember much of it.” “I'm just glad there are knights to help out with that, and the trouble at the border. At least they're there to stop any bandits before it's too late... Not much more we can do than that, I guess. Not without stirring up more trouble.” Clare approached with a stack of beef loin and began arranging them on the table in front of Morgaine so that she can examine them. “I hope they're gone soon too, and without creating more things for us to worry about. They may not need us, but quite frankly, we don't need them either.” --- Elin made her way as quickly as she could through the alleys, even though she still wasn't sure exactly what she'd do when she got there, or what she'd do if it turned out Xavier hadn't gone to the Inn at all. (Even though that made the most sense to Elin; Jade Manor was in another direction, and she couldn't think of where else he would be willing to go at a time like this.) Finally, Elin found herself in the alleys near the King's Arms Inn... And she realized just how close she was to the route she took whenever she had to bring meat to the inn... She couldn't believe that it was barely over a week ago since she made her last delivery to Ilsa and Xavier, and could talk to them freely... No need for disguises or worrying about getting caught. Or worrying about seeing her aunt trundle down the street with a delivery that Elin abandoned, and worrying about her seeing her... Or worrying about the presence of Courdonian nobles, and taking Xavier away... The worries she held nearly a week ago felt almost enviable now. After seeing that the coast was clear, Elin ducked out of an alley and found herself at the backdoor at the inn, one that led to the kitchen. She felt her heart soar for a moment before realizing that Xavier was most likely not in the kitchen right now, and reminding herself that he wouldn't be on the other side of that door. Still, she couldn't go in through the front door. She'd been hiding herself from Ilsa too, and if Ilsa knew where she was, then she'd tell Clare, and if Clare knew, then that'd put her further at risk, at least by the Courdonian nobles. Besides, if the others did make it to the inn... She wasn't sure if she could face them right now. She was as confused as it was. Elin hesitated before grabbing the door handle and opening it slowly, peering in to see if the coast was clear. She didn't see anyone... But she did see a mess before her, with pieces of broken plates scattered on the table, and a few shards on the floor. Elin blinked, wondering what on earth happened that caused such a mess. It must have happened recently, or Ilsa would've cleaned it up. Elin stepped inside carefully so as not to step on anything and closed the door behind her as quietly as possible. She slowly stepped through the room as she heard bits of the conversation going on inside, with the nobles explaining to Ilsa what had happened, and how Xavier was almost taken. I guess Ilsa knows, then, Elin thought to herself, remembering the conversation at the Feast. She took a risk and glanced inside the main in to see who all was there, and whether there was anyone nearby. There was Xavier, Ilsa, Leif, Ambrose, and a purple-skinned woman that Elin didn't recognize. But they were here then, as she expected... Elin moved back, trying to keep herself out of sight. She wasn't sure how she would get Xavier's attention while avoiding the attention of the others. So she just stood there, pondering her dilemma. Clare talks a bit about her home province being close to Lange and Courdon—particularly during the war—and how it affected her family. Largely, she doesn't approve of Courdon bounty hunters, but is relieved for the help of knights. As she talks about this, she presents her selection of meat cuts for Morgaine ( Shinko) and allows her to pick what she wants. Meanwhile, Elin finally makes it to the Inn. She sneaks in the back through the kitchen and begins to listen in on what's going on. She takes a chance to peer out to see who all is there and whether anyone's approaching the kitchen, but otherwise tries to stay hidden. People in the inn: Xavier and Ilsa ( Elcie), Ambrose ( Celestial), Leif ( Tiger), Kaldora ( Coaster)
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Post by Elcie on Jul 25, 2014 20:46:27 GMT -5
Xavier looked at Leif; the spell he'd cast felt unexpectedly soothing, and the soreness faded. "That feels better," he said, rather surprised. He was good at ignoring minor pain like that, and could keep moving even through more severe pain. Leif's concern was surprising, though not unwelcome. "R-really, though, it wasn't bad," he said, looking back down at the table self-consciously. Ilsa listened to Leif's explanation, her expression unreadable and her hand still clasped firmly on Xavier's shoulder. Then the Stallion nobleman backed up what he'd said. His protective stance toward Xavier did not go unnoticed by the innkeeper. She still couldn't place who he was, and was incredibly curious about how he'd met Xavier. And didn't Master Leif say that Grand Duke Alain stepped in...? Regardless of why the nobles had intervened, however, Ilsa was incredibly grateful that they had. As soon as Ambrose stopped speaking Ilsa threw her arms around him and hugged him tightly. " Thank you," she said fervently, and stepped back. "I don't know who you are or how you know Xavier, but thank you for protecting him." She glanced at Leif. "And you, Master Leif... I suppose I owe you an apology. I did not trust your House's sudden interest in him." Ilsa leaned over and hugged Leif as well. "But I'm glad he's under your protection." Xavier looked up at Ilsa. "I'm sorry I never told you," he began. But she shook her head. "Far as I'm concerned, it wasn't any of my business unless you'd wanted it to be," she said. "I never bothered much about where you'd come from, Xavier, you're still the best cook I've ever had." At this, Xavier managed a small but genuine smile. He was relieved that Leif and Ambrose had explained; Ilsa definitely needed to know, but he still wasn't entirely sure he wanted to talk about what had happened. There were some things he didn't think he could put into words yet - how it had felt to see Duval again, how convinced he'd been that he was going back with him. The fact that Leif and Ambrose and the others had so steadfastly defended him felt... not unpleasant, certainly, but it was still difficult to wrap his head around. And he didn't want to even think about those awful, nightmarish moments when he'd believed Elin was dead. Ilsa crossed her arms and cocked her head, looking at the two nobles. "So... drinks? Something to eat? It's on the house, it's the least I can do for you." Xavier stared. He wasn't sure Leif and Ambrose could fully appreciate the enormity of this moment. Ilsa really was grateful to them if she was offering them something for free. A movement through the door to the kitchen caught his eye, and Xavier's heart started beating quicker. Was that...? He didn't dare get his hopes up, and he had no idea why she'd be in the kitchen, but... He had to be sure. Xavier stood up, pulling Ambrose's cloak from his shoulders and handing it back to the man with a grateful nod. "I'm going to check on something in, in the kitchen," Xavier said. To his relief, Ilsa didn't question this. "Careful," she called after him. "It's a bit of a mess." --- Of course Cornelio would have enjoyed that embarrassing display. "I've hardly failed at anything, Your Highness," he said, equally politely. "I am not done yet. But I'm so glad you are enjoying this, er, quaint Kythian welcome." He turned his polite not-quite-sneer on Joffery as he said this, looking down his nose at the young man. "So you're another of our neighbors in Corvus," he said. "I'm sure I will enjoy my stay in this kingdom just as much as I always do." The tone of his voice called into question how much enjoyment that actually was. Ilsa is deeply grateful to Celestial and Tiger for saving Xavier, and hugs both of them. Xavier thinks he sees Gelquie out of the corner of his eye, and even though he doubts he really did, goes to check. Meanwhile, Duval is sarcastic at Rosalie Dylas (Maddy) and Joffery ( PFA).
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Post by Rosalie Dylas (Maddy) on Jul 25, 2014 22:00:43 GMT -5
Rosie looked at Sieg with disappointed. So no magic. She brightened though. It still was cool, and he complimented her keys. She watched him dismount and then sighed. "I just wanted to see her and... talk to her. It's complicated." Rosie didn't want to spread the Laurie was a thief and a shadow more than she had to. Maybe if she didn't say it, it'd stop being real. "Sieg, have you ever loved someone so much they make your heart hurt?" she asked, looking down. "You just think about them and you want to be with them but you don't think you can..." She closed her eyes to stop from crying. "Love is really hard." *** Cornelio smiled at Joffery. "It is a pleasure to meet you Joffery of House Jade. I am Prince Cornelio." Cornelio sighed. Lord Duval was such a mood killer, wasn't he. "Lord Duval, with all due respect, one slave isn't enough to start something about. He's hardly worth a war. I think it'd be best for everyone if you dropped it. And enjoyed the music, might help you not be so... bitter?" Cornelio smiled at Lord Duval. Then watched as Duval insulted Joffery, though Cornelio guessed Joffery might not be smart enough to pick that up. Classy Duval, real classy. Rosie is sad with Sieg ( Shinko) Cornelio is a jerk with Joffery ( PFA) and Lord Duval ( Elcie)
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Post by Shinko on Jul 25, 2014 23:15:55 GMT -5
"Sieg, have you ever loved someone so much they make your heart hurt?" she asked, looking down. "You just think about them and you want to be with them but you don't think you can..."The half-elf shifted, his smile becoming a touch melancholy. "Not in the romantic sense, but I think I do understand what you mean. Mother was very distant for a long time after Father died. It was like she had gone away somewhere, even though she was still right there. And it hurt, seeing her in so much pain and wanting to help, but being pushed away. For a long time I despaired to ever know her again as she once was." He shoved that away; this wasn't about him. He took a small, bright purple handkerchief from one of his sleeves and offered it to Rosalie. "It's a good thing I keep a lot of these around- they're also useful for magic tricks. I am dreadfully sorry that you're having a difficult time. I wish I had Mother's talent for knowing what to do in a bad situation- though not if I had to have it at the expense of turning every bit of advice I offered people into some sort of lecture." This last was added with a broad grin, inviting her to share the joke. If she was anything like she seemed, he got the impression she wouldn't terribly appreciate Morgaine's domineering nature. * * * * * Morgaine inspected the cuts of meat critically, trying to decide which ones would make for the best steaks. As she did so, she continued talking. "Corvus isn't exactly easy country either- most of the southern part where I grew up is swampland. I remember that in the village where I was born, anyone who ventured outside their house at night had to where special protective colored lenses over their eyes so they wouldn't be spellbound by a will-o-the-wisp. But I guess I never really though of it as something to dislike. For me that was just life." She pointed to the first of the cuts she decided she wanted, and then continued looking at the others. "But I can certainly understand wanting to move somewhere less troublesome. I wouldn't want to be sandwhiched between Courdon and Lange either. This one," she pointed at a second cut of meat. The old woman's expression turned introspective, "As for the knights... yes. We're all very lucky that such people are willing to put themselves at risk for the sake of our people." She selected the third and final cut she wanted, and held up her runestones. "I suppose they're priced by weight, then? Just name the figure and I'll be out of your hair. I'm glad we had this conversation though, Mistress Clare. And I sincerely hope that things look up for you soon." Sieg slips just a tiny bit of his personal demons for Rosalie Dylas (Maddy), but quickly shoves it aside because as usual he doesn't want to make the situation about him. Instead he offers Rosie a handkerchief, and tries to lighten the mood with a joke about Morgaine being really bossy. Meanwhile, Morgaine rambles some more, and picks the meat she wants. She asks Gelquie (Clare) for the price, and prepares to leave once she's paid for her food.
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Post by Lizica on Jul 26, 2014 1:59:54 GMT -5
Aldrich’s responses to Lucinda’s care had alternated between haggard “I’m fine”s and coughing “thank you”s before he was finally wrapped up on his (now only barely damp) cot. It was overwhelming, in a way—he wasn’t in that bad shape, was he? Was it bad enough to warrant all this worry and panic and care from her and his sculptures and even a message to Lord Leif, goodness, sure Aldrich was sick, but surely it wasn’t so bad that he had to bother everyone over it, right? He tried to thank Lucinda as she left to retrieve some medicine from her manor, and then he stared at the thatched roof for a time, bleary and beleaguered. Then he looked down, and looked around the studio. It was bustling as it always was, of course, but knowing his sculptures, it was fairly toned down, for once. Sculptures ran and flew around the studio, but they all seemed to be staying within sight of Aldrich and his cot. Rasp and Riffler weren’t even flailing at each other—just arguing and being jittery. A few birds were perched on the shelves hopping and shuffling. Some of the heavier sculptures were milling on the floor. There were, however, a couple of noticeable absences. Emery was sitting by Aldrich’s bedside in a tight, guarded posture that was in fact somewhat befitting of a gargoyle. Aldrich turned to him and fixed him with a hazy, squinting stare. “...Please don’t tell me Babewyn and Stippling are still outside.” Emery looked back at him. “Uh, sure.” “’Sure’ what?” “Sure, I won’t tell you.” Aldrich groaned. “But they know what they’re doing,” said Emery unconvincingly. “Try not to worry about them.” Aldrich reached out from under the blankets and rubbed his forehead and the damp cloth there. “You’re worrying about them, aren’t you.” Aldrich responded with a coughing fit. “You’re not getting up,” added Emery. “The Stallion lady said to stay in bed. And I can convince Bisque and Fantail and Knead to sit on you until she comes back.” “At—at least leave the door open until they all come ba-ha-hack. I—I mean—they wouldn’t—would they—would they run into any—” “The crowd was a ways off. S-stop worrying. Babewyn and Stippling aren’t stupid.” (“ That’s high praise,” called Standorf.) Aldrich didn’t say anything else for a while, not until Lucinda returned. “Th-thank you, milady,” he managed to say unsteadily. “F-for the tea. And the medicine. And for coming. And for your concern. I’m s-sorry for all the trouble.” (Silently, he was also additionally thankful that she had brewed the tea using a regular kettle: Aldrich had yet to find the happy medium that would allow his boiling pot to boil water but not overflow.) “I hope you'll explain how you took so ill in such a short time, Aldrich,” Lucinda said. “After you get some rest, that is.”Aldrich finished a sip of the tea before he tried to smile at her. “Of course,” he said hoarsely. “Hey Aldrich. Hey statue friends! I thought I’d drop by.” Ilaria announced her presence as not to startle anyone.Ah? Ilaria, the pale protector—Aldrich hadn’t seen her in several days. He had wondered what the young merchant had been up to, but he certainly hadn’t been expecting her today of all days. He wished he didn’t feel so awful; instead of greeting her properly, he just broke down in raspy coughing as she introduced herself to Lucinda. “Aldrich...You don’t look well.”“Y-yes,” he managed. “I suppose not. I’ll be a-alright, though.” “I know! I’ll sing you a song!”And without further ado, Ilaria filled the studio with a sweet tune, a lullaby perhaps. Even a few of the bustling sculptures paused in order to listen. At the beginning of the second verse, Aldrich jerked a little. He wasn’t going delirious now, was he? He thought he had heard...accompanying strings, playing a harmony to Ilaria’s song. It was somewhat soft, and Aldrich glanced at Lucinda and at Emery to see if they had heard it as well. Emery beamed back at Aldrich, and as the singing went on, he pointed silently to the shelf of pottery, specifically towards the batch of pots and vases that had just been fired yesterday. "This is home. Little lamb You're never alone. Little baby lamb. This is home..."Wasn’t it just so? Aldrich attempted to clap (still while holding the tea) as Ilaria finished. She and Lucinda would get along wonderfully. His studio was a lot of things, but he hadn’t really considered it a place for songs before. It was a warming thought—in spite of everything. Then, having had a thought of her own, Ilaria told Aldrich, “You need to see Stabstrike if you haven’t; she’s a good healer. She’s helping my leg. I could escort you.” She gestured at her leg, and Aldrich had to sit up slightly from the cot to see: It was heavily bandaged, and she was using a crutch. Aldrich jumped a little. “This place has been in need of a good doctor for years,” said one of the busts at the window. “It’s too bad that with all the birds, we’ve mostly only seen quacks.” “That's quite all right, miss,” Lucinda told Ilaria. “I've already given him medicine for his ailments. Still, if you think she could help, you could bring her here; if it isn't too far to go on your injured leg. What Aldrich needs is to rest at the moment. I've also sent a request to magic healers who may be able to do something for him. Why don't you sit and rest? I'll give you some of this tea; it is a special blend from my city, Destrier. I don't believe I caught your name?”Aldrich fancied himself already feeling much better from Lady Lucinda’s medicine and tea. He almost attempted to sit up properly, but Emery shoved his shoulder down. Instead, from the cot Aldrich motioned weakly to his dusty clothing trunk a few feet from the cot near the back of the studio. “I-I’m sorry I don’t have many chairs,” he told the two of them (with a slight glance to the unfinished marble block on his worktable). “But you can sit on my trunk if you like.” Aldrich then indicated Ilaria’s crutch. “What happened?” he demanded, his voice still hoarse. Behind her, he saw Emery go to the open door and peer around for Babewyn and Stippling. They had the name of a doctor now; but if even Ilaria’s good luck had run short, what else could go wrong? -- "No, I--... I mean, poetry doth heal all wounds of the soul, but for an actual healer... I do believe the name Stabstrike is well-heard in town? Though 'tis not quite befitting of a healer, if I do say."Babewyn stared at the young woman incredulously. “Ha! I’ll say. That’s an awful name for a healer! It’s so awful that I should have remembered it. Where would they work?” she added, running down an adjacent street. "What prompts you to ask for a healer in the first place?” the woman went on. “I do imagine you would need someone more... masonic... for your needs. Unless... you're not asking for yourself, are you..."The gargoyle looked back at the poet again, even as she continued hurrying along. “Of course I don’t need the healer. It’s the ‘masonic’ person who actually needs the healer—why?” Babewyn paused with a frown. Then with sudden brightening of her birdish face, she gave a light cackle and held up to the woman her right granite foreleg, the one missing the paw. “Aha! If you’re worried about this, don’t be, this happened years ago, it was pretty exciting.” Babewyn, having been looking behind her, suddenly bumped into someone in the crowd, someone dressed in unfamiliar finery. The gargoyle glanced up at them, shivered and shook herself, and then promptly hurried off. “Sorry!” she called behind her, and continued leading the poet through the crowd and past streets, still trying to find some indication of healer Stabstrike’s office. “Where’s Arthur when you need him, he knows where this place is.” With a panicked twittering, Stippling circled above, dove, and latched onto Babewyn’s feathery head. The little bird cheeped anxiously and furiously at Babewyn even when she was directly next to the gargoyle’s ear tuft. Babewyn glanced at her and turned her running path back towards the town center. Maybe it would be good to check the studio again. Emery didn’t seem to be out anywhere; maybe he’d found the healer with the awful name first. “Oh, by the way,” the gargoyle added to the poet, who somehow was miraculously still behind her. “Should have asked, why are you following me, anyway? Can I get you something? Was there something you needed?” Aw, Aldrich has so many visitors. :'D Lucinda ( Kristykimmy) looks after him, and then Ilaria ( Pixie) does her part to cheer him up, too. Babewyn finally learns the (awful) name of the healer from Millain ( icon), and the gargoyle runs through a ton of streets and crowds trying to find the office. She accidentally bumps into a Courdonian along the way (and quickly skedaddles), and after Stippling finds her, she eventually decides to head back to the studio.
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Post by Celestial on Jul 26, 2014 7:28:32 GMT -5
Ambrose was taken completely aback by that hug. He had realised that Ilsa cared about Xavier a lot but he never expected her gratitude to take this form. Nevertheless, it was definitely not unwelcome. While he did not return the hug, since he was not sure if that was the right thing to do, Ambrose smiled and gratefully took it. Once she let him go and hugged Leif as well, he waited until Ilsa had spoken to Xavier before bowing his head. "He is my friend, it was the least I can do for him," Ambrose looked up as he realised that Ilsa had brought up a good point: he had not even introduced himself to her or told her how he knew Xavier. "My apologies, by the way. I should probably say who I am. My name is Ambrose Stallion. I came to know Xavier when he helped me find my way after I got lost. I didn't know the town well when I first arrived, you see." He glanced down at Xavier just in time to notice the young man smile, even if just a little. After what happened, even the tiniest smile meant the world. Ambrose took his hand off Xavier's shoulder. He was going to be alright. Today was certainly not a day he was likely to forget in a hurry but if there was one thing that Ambrose learned is that people were resilient. They could bounce back from worse traumas. And Xavier was not alone, he had friends everywhere, Jade, Stallion or Shadow. Maybe there was hope for them yet, although the idea that they had united in the face of an outside threat instead of any real common ground did not sit too well with Ambrose. Regardless, it was better than being at each other's throats. And if it meant one less person had to suffer, well, he would gladly take it. "Oh, yes," Ambrose nodded as Ilsa's words snapped him out of his thoughts. Judging by the look Xavier gave them, this was not an offer they should refuse. "Some food would be nice, and drink too. I would prefer to have nothing alcoholic though, if that's alright." He frowned slightly as Xavier stood up, handed him his cloak back and headed to the kitchen, looking as though he had seen something. Ambrose glanced towards the door and just for a moment, he thought he had spotted the face of the girl who had hit Lord Duval there. That explained it. Plus, despite the fact that Ambrose knew Alain was not lying, seeing her there briefly just made it even more believeable. Alain did not kill anybody, he'd done the complete opposite. It felt good knowing that. That was one load off his mind. Ambrose wrapped his cloak around himself and pinned it back into place. While Xavier was busy, he might as well take the opportunity to find out what Kaldora had to say. "Master Leif, if it's all the same to you, I think I best find out what your messenger has for me," he said and walked back over to where he had left the night elf, still not sure what exactly he was going to hear. "So...what was it you wanted to tell me?" Ambrose is stunned by Ilsa's( Elcie) hug but still appreciates it. He introduces himself and explains how he knows Xavier before having introspective thoughts. He takes Ilsa's offer of food and then when Xavier goes to the kitchen, notices Elin( Gelquie) there, which just confirms for him what Alain did. He leaves Leif( Tiger) alone and then goes to ask Kaldora( Coaster) what she has to say.
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Post by Tiger on Jul 26, 2014 9:18:55 GMT -5
"And you, Master Leif... I suppose I owe you an apology. I did not trust your House's sudden interest in him."“That’s - “ For the second time in as many days, Leif was surprised by a sudden hug. This one...he was not so sure how to respond to, especially with his arms crossed. He managed to free one enough to pat Ilsa’s arm a bit in what he hoped wasn’t too awkward a gesture. "But I'm glad he's under your protection," the innkeeper added. Leif nodded firmly. “That he is. And...don’t apologize. You were concerned for your friend. I’m just glad we could finally do right by him.” Ilsa offered food and drink; after Ambrose made his request, Leif reluctantly agreed, “No alcohol for me, either.” Much as a drink might have relieved some of his nerves, Leif wasn’t stupid; if another crisis came up, he wanted to be completely ready for it. “If you have any fruit pies, though…” Hopefully this sweet tooth for northern fruits doesn’t follow me back to Corvus.Xavier suddenly stood up and announced he wanted to check something in the kitchen. Leif wondered if he’d left some personal belongings there or something, but didn’t ask. “Shout if you need anything,” he told Xavier as he returned Lord Ambrose’s cloak. As promised, Leif cast a quick Wooparo spell to mend the fabric of Xavier’s tunic. Maybe it didn't matter, since Xavier wasn't even leaving the building, but trouble had a way of cropping up awfully fast within an awfully short space in this city. "Careful.It's a bit of a mess,” Ilsa warned Xavier. ...For ‘Woo’s sake, it’s a kitchen! How much furniture can there be in there to break?Ambrose excused himself to talk with Kaldora. Leif himself was curious about what the Jade messenger wanted from the older man. But it wasn’t his business, Leif supposed, and he settled for leaning back in his chair and watching the windows carefully. I was like, “I don’t know, Leif, I don’t think there's enough to justify me writing a post at this point. I guess there’s Ilsa’s ( Elcie) hug to respond to, but other than that...“ “But...I want to order pie.” So here we are. Ambrose ( Celestial) and Kaldora ( Coaster) are nearby.
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Post by Pixie on Jul 26, 2014 22:13:52 GMT -5
Ilaria frowned as Aldrich’s response was to cough, and give a wavering claim to be alright. He seemed to be quite ill. The young tailor had gathered an audience for her singing. She was pleased to find the pottery supplying her with musical accompaniment. The song sounded lovelier, even with Ilaria’s mediocre singing. The way the statues, even though they could be a little abrasive, seemed to care for Aldrich made Ilaria feel warm inside. Even if he was not lucky, he had caring company looking out for him. After a joke from the busts that sent Ilaria giggling, the lady shared that she already had gotten medical attention for Aldrich. It simultaneously was relieving and saddening. Ilaria wished she had been there for him at the time, but was glad that someone else was. She asked for her name and offered her some tea. It was a kind gesture. Ilaria was glad the Aldrich had her as company too. With Ilaria, the statues, and the other girl, all working to take care of him, Aldrich was in good hands. She relaxed somewhat and responded cheerily “I’m Ilaria Braide. It’s a pleasure to meet you. I wasn’t aware you sent for a healer. You are very sweet, M’lady. I’d love tea.” The sculptor suggested she sit down, and she followed. Resting on the trunk was much better than standing. He seemed concerned by her injured leg, and inquired about. “A villain sliced my leg open with a knife, but it’s fine.” She informed him with a grin, “He was being a real menace at the Solstice Festival. I stopped him from murdering more people and got him put in the stocks!” She paused, running a hand through her own hair absentmindedly, “He actually kind of has tried to kill me before, but I didn’t let him. He thinks I’m a vampire for some odd reason. ” Ilaria is glad Aldrich( Lizica) is being looked after. She introduces herself to Lucinda ( Kristykimmy) after Lucinda greets her, and she tells Aldrich about her leg.
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Post by Draco on Jul 26, 2014 22:42:56 GMT -5
Kari couldn't be shaken that easily. When Elin thought she got rid of her, she merely latched onto her back. There was no way she was letting this man thief out her sight. The likes of her was probably going to steal others, and she must stop her if that is the case! As she hung on, she looked around, familiar with the area. She traveled these alleys on a regular basis, she knew where they were going. It didn't take long for King's Arm Inn came into view. Soon, she seemed to be in the middle of what looked to be something important... And who were these people? She could have sworn she had seen some of them before, she just couldn't place it. --- Elsewhere a dark figure roamed the streets. He was unseen by most, and the few who could see him didn't want to see him. He noticed recently his job has been slowing down in town. This upset him greatly, he had work all over the world, and recently Medieval was a pretty interesting place for him. For days deaths have been appearing, then suddenly, they stopped. Sure he got a few random creatures and such, but... It wasn't the same. He hears a small rattling noise coming from a pocket. He takes out a small box, several bones rattle around inside. He opens it and it points him in a direction. He sighs, following it. He soon comes across a man in a pile of garbage, covered in throw up, and dead. "Interesting. A Courdonian? This was definitely his doing... But throw up? That is new." He takes out another small box, and a ghostly figure leaves the dead man. "Hmm, reading your history, you're not the best of people." The ghost floats, shocked, confused, and tries to fly away. "Oh no you don't." He takes out another box, and the ghost is sucked up into it. He sighs and walks down the street. "If only there was more work in this town." Kari follows Elin ( Gelquie). Death goes on a trip through town thinking.
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Post by Coaster on Jul 26, 2014 23:45:43 GMT -5
"Miss Verdana, I'm...not quite sure what you mean," Ambrose said quietly once she had finished. "Is it something to do with my visions? How do you know about them? ... Look, I'm not sure how you know or what you know but...with all due respect, I'm not sure how you can help me. Nothing and nobody has really helped me ever. But I'll listen to what you have to say, just let me make sure my friend is alright. Please, wait here at the inn for me," he told Kaldora and turned back to Leif and Xavier.As he left to converse with the other Jades, Kaldora waited sheepishly, not sure if she should relax because he seemed to be interested or freak out because she had no idea how she was supposed to say it. Her disguise would hold up, at least, but it certainly didn't help that she had to put so much focus on maintaining it by now. ...Nonetheless, she managed to catch his mention of visions. From what she knew, they were typically an early sign of magical aptitude (in which case they were usually accurate) or occasionally a symptom of extreme stress, strong drink, or certain other substances (in which case they were not). Discounting the latter cases, though, magical aptitude alone still could not account for the unmistakable activity in the square... The mention of "help" was understandable, especially if they revealed darker events, since they usually stopped or came under control long before Ambrose's age, and House Stallion disliked magic to begin with. But if there was any overlap, she could start trying to diagnose it only to follow red herrings... After a moment of conversation, receipt of profuse thanks from the innkeeper, and some brief words with the Jades, Ambrose returned. "So...what was it you wanted to tell me?"Kaldora hesitated, collecting her thoughts, and then carefully began: "Your Lordship... I understand that you had an... episode in the square? Actually, I wasn't aware it was a vision or a regular occurrence, nor was that the reason I followed you here..." She lost her train of thought, but continued. "Bu--but it may shed some light on what brought me. My... former associates"--her voice wavered at that point, and she looked away--"and I... Not under messenger business, but we could recognize..." Putting a hand to her forehead and leaning over the table, she stopped a moment to compose herself. "What happened in the square involved time magic, somehow. If it was a vision, it's unheard of for them to actually use this magic, and what more, it could be dangerous. Not just for you--for Kyth, and for history." She looked up at Ambrose again, studying the expression on his face as what she said sank in, or didn't, as it might be. "Specifically, uncontrolled magic from that particular school was the reason we came to Kyth, to stop it before more drastic measures had to be taken--" Realizing it could be taken badly, but needing to emphasize the implications, she interrupted herself: "--of course, we've only had to deal with it when it was done intentionally, with evil in mind, so..." She caught herself again and winced. Not helping!"...So, this is new to... it's a different animal, obviously, and the usual solutions are unsuitable. Please don't take this as a threat--genuinely, I want to see this resolved, but I will need more information: how long this has been going on, for instance, and how it started." --- "I happen to have these rings I came into not so long ago. Plus these white flowers are all I have on me at the moment. You would have to wait till tomorrow if you wanted any other sort of flowers."Ancel's motion and enthusiasm halted a moment as he was shown the flowers. Sudden realization was dawning on him. The bodies at the feast lottery; a couple of his bunkmates during stays in a dark alley; the strange circumstances of the flower seller's appearance out of one of the same alleys... ...Yes, this was Ilaria's favorite flower! Why else would she have gone into the same alley mere moments after this guy had left some, and what else would she have left by the corpses of her drained victims?? "I'll take ten!--no, twenty, and one of those rings, too--ah, that loathsome wretch is going to love it!~" Ancel grabbed both his usual bags of gemstones--one was empty from his sword order, which would probably be ready any day now and could make a good backup plan, but he'd replenished his other one with equivalently valuable miscellaneous shineys and ancient trinkets at the festival and deposited its contents into Davorin's hand, seizing the items he intended to purchase in return. Kaldora kinda flubs the conversation, but she manages to convey to Ambrose ( Celestial) that his visions somehow involve time magic and might be dangerous on a larger scale. Ancel buys some stuff from Davorin ( Draco).
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Post by icon on Jul 27, 2014 1:06:28 GMT -5
The gargoyle was asking her about the town. Millian spluttered. "The location of Healer Stabstrike? To be honest, I don't-- I don't know the location of the office, I only heard the name mentioned in the tavern once and it stuck with me solely for the reason you mentioned—I mean, aren't you gargoyles supposed to see things around cities?" " Of course I don’t need the healer. It’s the ‘masonic’ person who actually needs the healer—why? —Aha! If you’re worried about this , don’t be, this happened years ago, it was pretty exciting." Millian looked down with surprise at the statue's paw; she had been so fixated on the whole creature that she hadn't noticed her lopsided gait or damaged forearm. Clearly whatever happened there must have been worth a story, if it was as "exciting" as the statue claimed it to be. Millian continued to match pace with the gargoyle as best she could, watching her bump into a couple of nobles and dodging them herself. As they continued running, Millian swore she caught a glance of a tall robed figure out of the corner of her eye— was that a scythe they were carrying?—but when she turned around, she didn't see anything, and nearly got hit by a moving cart to boot. Best to keep your eyes on the road, she thought to herself. " Oh, by the way," the statue said (now with another stone bird on her head, Millian noted), "Should have asked, why are you following me, anyway? Can I get you something? Was there something you needed?" "I was just — 'tis nothing, really, I did espy that thou art a creature made of stone yet also were alive and I just found it curiouser and curiouser. A scribe by trade I may be, but as you have likely gleaned, my heart lies in poetry. I was wondering—well, I say wonder, though 'hoping to beseech thee' might be a better phrase, if I might garner your story? I do imagine that it would be worth a verse or two." Millian keeps up with Babewyn ( Lizica) on their dash through Medieville; she doesn't know where Stabstrike is located, but does want to know about Babewyn's story in case she can use it for a poem. She also swears she sees Death ( Draco) but doesn't know for certain.
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Post by Celestial on Jul 27, 2014 8:11:29 GMT -5
It was hard to describe the turbulent mess of emotions that went through Ambrose as he listened to Kaldora. In a way, it was a relief to have somebody believe that his powers were genuine but...the way she expected answers from him, answers he wished he knew himself, was absolutely disheartening. And time magic? How could he, a Stallion, have time magic? There was no magic in his blood to speak of, let alone anything as powerful as time magic. And could magic not be controlled somehow? Even Alain, who believed his powers were real and not the sign of some mental illness, always said that there was no way to control his powers. House Stallion was against magic, yes, but...wouldn't he have made an exception just so that his brother could live a normal life? Ambrose sat down at a nearby table, covering his eyes in despair. In a way, Kaldora had told him a lot and nothing at all. He had always suspected his powers were magical in nature somehow anyway and he thought that having that confirmed would have made him feel better. But no, somehow, it gave him even more despair. Because perhaps then, he could have controlled it somehow. He could have led a normal life, been a great man, avoided so much pain and suffering. By now, at his age, it was far too late. Perhaps he would have preferred to truly be mad. At least that way, people would be right about him and there would be no mystery for him to bother himself with. "Where were you with this information twenty years ago? Ten years ago? Why could somebody not have told me when I was younger, when I still had a life ahead of me? Now now, not now when I've accepted what is happening to me," Ambrose shook his head. "Maybe I would have been happier if you never told me" He sighed and looked up, though he did not look directly at Kaldora but instead stared out of the window. "Forgive me, I should not be so angry at you. Don't shoot the messenger, isn't that the common wisdom?" he smiled slightly at that statement. "I wish I knew enough to help you. But my visions started abruptly, one autumn day when I was six years old and have continued throughout my life with no obvious cause. These days, I tend to get one a day but when it first started, I would get as many as twelve." "I don't know what the cause is or why they begun. Most people just think I'm a madman but I know what I see is true. I predicted the famine in Kine, King Starmey's death and...many other things," Ambrose sighed, not wanting to get into details with a stranger about all the horrible things he had seen. "I'm sorry, I wish I could help you but I am incapable of controlling this magic. But the only one who has suffered is me, not anybody else. I would never wish harm on anybody. Woo knows, I've seen enough suffering and despair thanks to this...curse, I believe is the best word." "But, one more thing I found out today which might interest you: if anybody uses magic on me, my visions can trigger. But I suspect it has to be strong magic," he said before looking down at the table. "That's all I can help you with. If you're looking to resolve it, believe me, nobody would be happier than me to see it gone. But I suspect that the only solution to this problem is my death," Ambrose paused, recalling that time, "But I was not allowed to follow that path." *** Gavin grumbled as he heard the knock on the door and had been ordered to answer. He had been having the best daydream about being a knight, charging on horseback into battle and rescuing fair maidens. Instead, he was stuck as a servant in Stlalion Manor doing menial tasks that could have been done by any of the other servants, if they hadn't been "busy" with whatever they were doing. Not even like there were many people left here, how could they be so busy? The servant who had sent him grumbled something about 'busywork' but Gavin was already thinking about how much of a hero he was going to be. Wasn't that enough? At least being a messenger he got to ride the pony and pretend to be a heroic knight on the way to a mighty celebration. Regardless, Gavin did as he was told and unlocked the front entrance. "Yes, hello, wha-" he broke off as he saw who was standing before him. A beautiful lady, or she would be beautiful if she was not so hunted-looking. She clearly needed help! And perhaps he, Gavin, on behalf of House Stallion, could offer her that help. Think, Gavin, think. You have to properly conveypower, heroism and greatness in a few words. All good knights know that how you greet a person can influence everything! You need the perfect words! "Uhhh, hi," he sputtered. That would have to do. He listened to her as she explained her plight. Of course! She did look similar to that girl who he delivered the message to- Bryony or...no Briar, that was her name- so this had to be her sister. How many sisters could one girl have? "Umm, we've only got two of your sisters here," Gavin told her. "I delivered the message to your other one about them and she came with me to the Manor but I haven't seen her since. But why don't you come in? I'm sure once the Grand Duck- I mean Duke, Grand Duke- or someone like that comes back, he'll talk to you," he gestured inside. "Uh, fair maiden." Ambrose is dishearted by hearing what Kaldora( Coaster) has to say and he laments the fact that she has come to him with this information far too late in his life. He tries not to be angry with her and tells her everything he knows about his visions, which admittedly isn't much. That they started when he was six, they used to be worse and that most people think it's a mental illness when it is not. He also tells her that controlling it is impossible and the titbit that strong magic used on him triggers it. Finally, he tells her to not try to solve it, as it is not possible, except with his death which isn't an option. Gavin, the messenger boy/wannabe hero, makes a return! He is stunned by the beauty of Laurie( Liou) and tells her they only have two of her sisters as well as the last time he saw Briar. He offers her to come in to wait for somebody in charge.
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