--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[111] Drondon: Too Close For Comfort
Tue Aug 2 18:55:57 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom All Kyri IMM RP
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Drondon had just got back from the field and he saw him, the elf that always stood guard at the door, Lanac. Can I speak to you, Songmaster?
Oh, this isn't goin' to be good. Drondon thought. The Songmaster looked
at Lanac, Lanac back at him with a serious cold expression. Absolutely.
They both left the resting pads to speak in quiet.
I have reports of fire and smoke to the southwest of the Vallens. Elves
have lost their homes, they are refugees.
Drondon cut his eyes, his anger through the weeks had just shifted to this
news. What else?
Lanac kept his gaze on Drondon. Dwarves, Sir. They've cut a path and are
here. Dwarven scouts have been spotted.
Drondon called on the elves to prepare the kingdom. He clinched his jaw,
and called for Jinquil to meet him at the gates. She was ready for battle.
Many elves saw a different side to him than most. Only the closest to him
knew that all in all, when it came down to it, he was ready to do anything
for the Vallens, despite feelings of his bloodline.
He let it be known to all in the Vallens, and elves that those that lost
their homes were to make it to the kingdom. There would be food, shelter,
and needed comfort. He ordered his Kyorl to not leave their charges, keep a
vigilant ear and eye open for anything. The Sha'falas were to be at all
openings at the city, and at the gates, prepared.
Talik went out to scout for stragglers, Xelin and Aynira tended the refugees
at the temple, healing the wounded, comforting the children. The Dalars all
came and patrolled, and aided.
Drondon walked to the city gates, giving a quick nod, accompanied with
silent orders to drop any dwarf sighted, by any means necessary. Kyorl
didn't have to be bound by a code of honor, just do their job, and he made
sure that his Kyorl did a damn good job.
He stepped out of the gate, and stood silently next to Jinquil. She found
something, and he knew it. She left quickly and with no sound made,
he followed and both rushed the dwarf.
This dwarf was a large brute, Drondon was already bruised and cut from
previous field battles, but when it came to his home, and elves, he didn't
care how hurt he was. Drondon didn't get much of the chance to hurt the
dwarf, as he went in for a strike, the axe buried into his arm, bleeding
though the leater and staining the chainmail of his sleeve. He had to make
a retreat. He was tired, sore, bloody, but not broken.
Friday, August 5, 2011
The Dirty Dozen
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[107] Xelin: The Dirty Dozen
Tue Aug 2 13:03:42 2011
To: Shalonesti_Kingdom Shalonesti Imm RP Zandreya Religion
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xelin stood in front of his soldiers, his cutlass gleaming in the
moonlight.
'Alright boyo's, it seems as if we're on standby for now, but that does NOT
mean you can go galavanting off to do what you please. As of this moment
you're on defense duty. '
He frowned for a moment then continued, making eye contact with each one.
'They're coming from the west, so by the Mother, that's where we'll be. Oh
yes, boyo's, should they reach our walls we'll meet 'em head on. They'll
have their bloodlust satisfied by our blades. '
He stopped, looked at his soldiers and pulled out a tattered cloth. Walking
up to the standard bearer, he gave the order to bear arms. A few minutes
later the old crimson and black flag flew from the staff. The Dirty Dozen
was back in full force.
'These dwarves are nothing more then animals, boyo's. They want to try and
puff themselves up, instill fear in us. But by the Mother be damned,
they'll pay for what they've done. That's our land out there, Mother
blessed. It may be that they're desperately wanting to get back at us for
the last war. They think if they can hole us up, they'll have us. HA! We
are not stumps that hide in the ground. We are ELVES, the forest is our
home. They are roaches amongst our home. They will be squashed. '
Xelin grinned as he drew his blade, holding it up to the sky.
'THEY WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE! THEY HAVE KILLED OUR COUSINS. MEN,
WOMEN, CHILDREN, THEY DO NOT CARE. OUR FAMILIES THAT WERE LEFT OUT THERE WITHOUT WARNING. OUR BROTHERS, SISTERS, MOTHERS AND FATHERS. THEY WILL REGRET THIS GRUDGE! '
Xelin snapped his collar closed, his grey eyes cold as the steel he bore in
his hand looking westward. All around him his soldiers gathered, readying
their wicked blades he had once wielded, in fact they were all modeled after
his, he found out.
'DEATH TO THE STUMPS! FOR THE VALLEN! FOR THE MOTHER! FOR SHALONESTI! '
they cried into the night air. One unit, one family, defending another.
[107] Xelin: The Dirty Dozen
Tue Aug 2 13:03:42 2011
To: Shalonesti_Kingdom Shalonesti Imm RP Zandreya Religion
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Xelin stood in front of his soldiers, his cutlass gleaming in the
moonlight.
'Alright boyo's, it seems as if we're on standby for now, but that does NOT
mean you can go galavanting off to do what you please. As of this moment
you're on defense duty. '
He frowned for a moment then continued, making eye contact with each one.
'They're coming from the west, so by the Mother, that's where we'll be. Oh
yes, boyo's, should they reach our walls we'll meet 'em head on. They'll
have their bloodlust satisfied by our blades. '
He stopped, looked at his soldiers and pulled out a tattered cloth. Walking
up to the standard bearer, he gave the order to bear arms. A few minutes
later the old crimson and black flag flew from the staff. The Dirty Dozen
was back in full force.
'These dwarves are nothing more then animals, boyo's. They want to try and
puff themselves up, instill fear in us. But by the Mother be damned,
they'll pay for what they've done. That's our land out there, Mother
blessed. It may be that they're desperately wanting to get back at us for
the last war. They think if they can hole us up, they'll have us. HA! We
are not stumps that hide in the ground. We are ELVES, the forest is our
home. They are roaches amongst our home. They will be squashed. '
Xelin grinned as he drew his blade, holding it up to the sky.
'THEY WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE! THEY HAVE KILLED OUR COUSINS. MEN,
WOMEN, CHILDREN, THEY DO NOT CARE. OUR FAMILIES THAT WERE LEFT OUT THERE WITHOUT WARNING. OUR BROTHERS, SISTERS, MOTHERS AND FATHERS. THEY WILL REGRET THIS GRUDGE! '
Xelin snapped his collar closed, his grey eyes cold as the steel he bore in
his hand looking westward. All around him his soldiers gathered, readying
their wicked blades he had once wielded, in fact they were all modeled after
his, he found out.
'DEATH TO THE STUMPS! FOR THE VALLEN! FOR THE MOTHER! FOR SHALONESTI! '
they cried into the night air. One unit, one family, defending another.
Scouting the Forest for Dwarves
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[106] Talik: Scouting the forest for dwarves.
Tue Aug 2 08:29:43 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_Kingdom Imm (RP)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Once the meeting was adjourned Talik began preperations to meet Jinquil
near the southern gates of Shalonesti. Jinquil had already summoned a small
battalion of Elven forces. Talik spoke briefly with the Senator claiming he
did not wish a large number of elves to accompany him. Talik picked two
rangers, who were skilled with a bow, and a druid for healing, and skill
with their staff. Also with his choice came the safety of the three, all
being able to hide quite well in the forest setting that they ventured.
Talik tipped his head to the Senator and all of the brave elves that stood
in ranks, then headed east into the forest.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, Talik's elven ears could hear the
sounds of chopping, and overall loudness of dwarves. Though they were still
a great distance away, the stench of dwarves, and flame filled the air.
Talik knew that this was not a good sign. Talik explained to his party,
that we will not perish this day. If we are outnumbered, do whatever you
must to escape safely. The elves agreed.
The small party crept closer to the large dwarven army, all of the sounds
were much louder now. Talik sent the quickest ranger of the two to scout
ahead of the group, while Talik and the rest remained hidden. After 20
minutes the ranger returned. She told Talik just what he had feared. This
was an all out battle heading toward Shalonesti. The dwarves were burning
and chopping and murdering defenseless elves that lived in the deep woods,
and had not received word of the refuge Shalonesti had begun. Knowing the
slow pace that the dwarves were moving, Talik ordered the rangers, and druid
to split up. For one hour, find all of the elves living in the deep forest,
and direct them immediately to Shalonesti's gates to seek refuge. Tell them
that food, shelter, clothes, and toys for the children will be provided.
Just as the elves were about to head on their mission, Talik reminded them
once again. We do not perish this day, be quick, be safe. One hour!
Talik who was already packing light for the trip, flew through the forest to
the south. Knowing that he could not blend into the surroundings as well as
the rangers, or druid, he had to be fast. Finding elves scattered within
the forest Talik directed them to Shalonesti Kingdom. Knowing that the
dwarves would be coming soon, he kept the elves at a relentless pace, even
helping carry the smaller children. When the hour was up, Talik returned to
the Kingdom's gates. Where all three members of his party were waiting.
The refugees were taken inside the Kingdom where they would be protected and
cared for. After a quick debriefing from his party members, Talik went
straight to the Speakers to tell him of his findings.
[106] Talik: Scouting the forest for dwarves.
Tue Aug 2 08:29:43 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_Kingdom Imm (RP)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Once the meeting was adjourned Talik began preperations to meet Jinquil
near the southern gates of Shalonesti. Jinquil had already summoned a small
battalion of Elven forces. Talik spoke briefly with the Senator claiming he
did not wish a large number of elves to accompany him. Talik picked two
rangers, who were skilled with a bow, and a druid for healing, and skill
with their staff. Also with his choice came the safety of the three, all
being able to hide quite well in the forest setting that they ventured.
Talik tipped his head to the Senator and all of the brave elves that stood
in ranks, then headed east into the forest.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, Talik's elven ears could hear the
sounds of chopping, and overall loudness of dwarves. Though they were still
a great distance away, the stench of dwarves, and flame filled the air.
Talik knew that this was not a good sign. Talik explained to his party,
that we will not perish this day. If we are outnumbered, do whatever you
must to escape safely. The elves agreed.
The small party crept closer to the large dwarven army, all of the sounds
were much louder now. Talik sent the quickest ranger of the two to scout
ahead of the group, while Talik and the rest remained hidden. After 20
minutes the ranger returned. She told Talik just what he had feared. This
was an all out battle heading toward Shalonesti. The dwarves were burning
and chopping and murdering defenseless elves that lived in the deep woods,
and had not received word of the refuge Shalonesti had begun. Knowing the
slow pace that the dwarves were moving, Talik ordered the rangers, and druid
to split up. For one hour, find all of the elves living in the deep forest,
and direct them immediately to Shalonesti's gates to seek refuge. Tell them
that food, shelter, clothes, and toys for the children will be provided.
Just as the elves were about to head on their mission, Talik reminded them
once again. We do not perish this day, be quick, be safe. One hour!
Talik who was already packing light for the trip, flew through the forest to
the south. Knowing that he could not blend into the surroundings as well as
the rangers, or druid, he had to be fast. Finding elves scattered within
the forest Talik directed them to Shalonesti Kingdom. Knowing that the
dwarves would be coming soon, he kept the elves at a relentless pace, even
helping carry the smaller children. When the hour was up, Talik returned to
the Kingdom's gates. Where all three members of his party were waiting.
The refugees were taken inside the Kingdom where they would be protected and
cared for. After a quick debriefing from his party members, Talik went
straight to the Speakers to tell him of his findings.
The First Sparks of War - Sunrise
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[130] Jinquil: The First Sparks of War - Sunrise
Thu Aug 4 23:45:51 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom Thaxanos Wargar All Kyri IMM RP Zandreya
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shalonesti and the elves within it lived for their continuity. Everyday,
the first rays of morning light would splinter the horizon to bathe the
forest in a radiant and golden light. On this particular morning, nothing
in Shalonesti was within the norm. Soldiers and Kyorl lined the gates,
having been at their stations for the entirety of the previous night that
had passed slowly for every soul within the city. The sting of the events
from the evening before was reinforced by the soft red glow that blended
with the vivid orange of the sun to paint the sky over the forest and the
city with fire. The heavy gray plumes of smoke that lingered in the trees
replaced the veil of silver mist usually provided by Shalinastra's falls, a
constant reminder that war was upon them.
[130] Jinquil: The First Sparks of War - Sunrise
Thu Aug 4 23:45:51 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom Thaxanos Wargar All Kyri IMM RP Zandreya
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shalonesti and the elves within it lived for their continuity. Everyday,
the first rays of morning light would splinter the horizon to bathe the
forest in a radiant and golden light. On this particular morning, nothing
in Shalonesti was within the norm. Soldiers and Kyorl lined the gates,
having been at their stations for the entirety of the previous night that
had passed slowly for every soul within the city. The sting of the events
from the evening before was reinforced by the soft red glow that blended
with the vivid orange of the sun to paint the sky over the forest and the
city with fire. The heavy gray plumes of smoke that lingered in the trees
replaced the veil of silver mist usually provided by Shalinastra's falls, a
constant reminder that war was upon them.
Having chosen the most capable elves for the task at hand, Jinquil repeated
the order the Speaker had given the night before when the elves had gathered
together within the Circle of Heavens. "Our Speaker was clear, lose one and
we are to return. This is a mission for scouting only. Do NOT engage the
enemy for to do so at the moment is suicide. " She glanced over each elf
that stood before her, nodding more to herself than them before clasping her
hands behind her back and continuing, "I am going to insist on better from
you. We do not lose ONE. Not one. If you sense danger, even a shiver of
it, you return to the city with as much speed as Zandreya can gift you. "
the order the Speaker had given the night before when the elves had gathered
together within the Circle of Heavens. "Our Speaker was clear, lose one and
we are to return. This is a mission for scouting only. Do NOT engage the
enemy for to do so at the moment is suicide. " She glanced over each elf
that stood before her, nodding more to herself than them before clasping her
hands behind her back and continuing, "I am going to insist on better from
you. We do not lose ONE. Not one. If you sense danger, even a shiver of
it, you return to the city with as much speed as Zandreya can gift you. "
Talik arrived, glancing over the number of men she had gathered with hesitation
before he chose three and made his way off into the forest to begin his
scouting. Chosing three of her own to accompany her, she continues her
orders, "You three will join me in scouting. The rest of you are to cover
the ground immediately surrounding the city. I want you fireproofing ever
vallen you can reach without endangering yourself. Do what you can and
return to the city before nightfall. " With that, she gave the men and
women gathered a crisp salute and once the gesture is returned by all fades
into the labyrinth of the vallenwoods.
before he chose three and made his way off into the forest to begin his
scouting. Chosing three of her own to accompany her, she continues her
orders, "You three will join me in scouting. The rest of you are to cover
the ground immediately surrounding the city. I want you fireproofing ever
vallen you can reach without endangering yourself. Do what you can and
return to the city before nightfall. " With that, she gave the men and
women gathered a crisp salute and once the gesture is returned by all fades
into the labyrinth of the vallenwoods.
The day of scouting was long and arduous. Jinquil and the other three elves
crept to the south through the forest, studying the dwarven army from the
shelter of the mother's trees. It was indeed an entire battalion and no
light raiding party. Cutting and burning their way through the forest, the
dwarves headed towards Shalonesti with no remorse for the destruction they
left behind them. Circling around the dwarven forces to avoid detection,
Jinquil and her small group of scouts picked their way back along the
ancient vallens that lined the coast. It was this route that drew Jinquil's
thoughts elsewhere.
crept to the south through the forest, studying the dwarven army from the
shelter of the mother's trees. It was indeed an entire battalion and no
light raiding party. Cutting and burning their way through the forest, the
dwarves headed towards Shalonesti with no remorse for the destruction they
left behind them. Circling around the dwarven forces to avoid detection,
Jinquil and her small group of scouts picked their way back along the
ancient vallens that lined the coast. It was this route that drew Jinquil's
thoughts elsewhere.
The sky in the area of the forest that sheltered the Dalar family home was
thick with angry black smoke. Jinquil returned to the city with haste,
striding through the gates with her team as the sun's departure once again
faded the sky to colors of cobalt and crimson. Her feet carried her quickly
to the palace ballroom that housed the refugees and she passed quietly and
mostly unnoticed amongst them. Several wept still, each face holding a
shock and desolation that made Jinquil's heart swell.
thick with angry black smoke. Jinquil returned to the city with haste,
striding through the gates with her team as the sun's departure once again
faded the sky to colors of cobalt and crimson. Her feet carried her quickly
to the palace ballroom that housed the refugees and she passed quietly and
mostly unnoticed amongst them. Several wept still, each face holding a
shock and desolation that made Jinquil's heart swell.
After several trips around the large room, it was more than obvious. Her
parents were not among the refugees. They had not yet made it to the safety
of the city. Turning from the room, Jinquil went to find her older sister,
Llorana, her mind already forming a plan.
parents were not among the refugees. They had not yet made it to the safety
of the city. Turning from the room, Jinquil went to find her older sister,
Llorana, her mind already forming a plan.
The First Sparks of War - Nightfall
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[129] Jinquil: The First Sparks of War - Nightfall
Thu Aug 4 23:34:01 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom Thaxanos Wargar All Kyri IMM RP Zandreya
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Though dusk was coming to lay claim to the last remnants of light from
the sun, the darkening sky was tinged a bright red more reminiscent of dawn
than the nightfall. In the distance, the sky lit up with fire, the source
of the red glow that now illuminated the clouds.
After spending the day training with her men, she had been weary and sought
the shelter of the grove to rest but a word from the Songmaster had drawn
her back out to the southern gates with news from the guardian Lanac. The
dwarves were coming and cutting a path through Zandreya's vallens. Elven
scouts had spotted a group of their own people, fleeing from the enemy that
invaded their homes for no reason other than their own selfish need for
blood.
The fires of war were not a new experience. She had long ago become
accustomed to the sting of it during the first battle with the dwarves.
This time however, the battlefield had changed and the song in her allowed
her to hear the mourning of the wood that stretched all around their fair
city. Blinking against the smoke that watered her eyes, the Sha'qelas
Senator stood between the gates, her eyes trained on the dark and hazy
forest that spread before her, waiting alone as Drondon and the others were
forced to deal with the interfering members of enemy clans.
The first form to fade from the mist wasn't at all what she had expected to
see. A small boy, covered in soot appeared from the trees, limping towards
the gate in a way that dragged his small foot through the dirt and grass.
The pain in his face, coupled with fear was heart breaking. Behind him,
scores of others, equally covered in ash appeared as well. She stepped
clear of their path, allowing them to pass into the safety the gates
offered. She mentally made note of the ones who were wounded and shielded
each with her magics as they drew near.
Jinquil held herself off to the side, letting the others that were more
capable of healing and soothing the wounds of the soul than she to take the
refugees into the shelter that the city and her temple offered.
Once the refugees had been escorted into the city, she returned to her
hiding in the deeper shadows the gates provided, her eyes scanning the dark
shapes of the forest once more. She did not see Drondon come up behind her
but she felt his presence just the same, recognizing immediately the soft
tones of the song that hummed in the air around him.
Something in the forest changed and a soft sound caught her ear and Jinquil
darted into action, quietly slipping out and through the trees to locate the
source.
The scout rushed her as she ran towards it, her eyes taking note of it only
just in time to deflect the first blow from his? Axe, taking a gash to the
thigh instead of losing an arm to the short, stout fellow. Filled with a
seething fury she circled the dwarf as Drondon appeared through the trees.
She saw the axe bury into Drondon's skin before she could see no more,
blinded by a spell from a dwarf. She had no time to balk over it, her
concentration held by the soft tone of Drondon's song and the sour smell
that surrounded the stump. She disappeared through the trees, rounding in
an attempt to clear her vision and attack anew but the scout fled into the
woods upon her return. Tired, bone sore and no longer able to breathe with
comfort in the smoke that clung to the trees, Jinquil and Drondon returned
to the groves.
[129] Jinquil: The First Sparks of War - Nightfall
Thu Aug 4 23:34:01 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom Thaxanos Wargar All Kyri IMM RP Zandreya
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Though dusk was coming to lay claim to the last remnants of light from
the sun, the darkening sky was tinged a bright red more reminiscent of dawn
than the nightfall. In the distance, the sky lit up with fire, the source
of the red glow that now illuminated the clouds.
After spending the day training with her men, she had been weary and sought
the shelter of the grove to rest but a word from the Songmaster had drawn
her back out to the southern gates with news from the guardian Lanac. The
dwarves were coming and cutting a path through Zandreya's vallens. Elven
scouts had spotted a group of their own people, fleeing from the enemy that
invaded their homes for no reason other than their own selfish need for
blood.
The fires of war were not a new experience. She had long ago become
accustomed to the sting of it during the first battle with the dwarves.
This time however, the battlefield had changed and the song in her allowed
her to hear the mourning of the wood that stretched all around their fair
city. Blinking against the smoke that watered her eyes, the Sha'qelas
Senator stood between the gates, her eyes trained on the dark and hazy
forest that spread before her, waiting alone as Drondon and the others were
forced to deal with the interfering members of enemy clans.
The first form to fade from the mist wasn't at all what she had expected to
see. A small boy, covered in soot appeared from the trees, limping towards
the gate in a way that dragged his small foot through the dirt and grass.
The pain in his face, coupled with fear was heart breaking. Behind him,
scores of others, equally covered in ash appeared as well. She stepped
clear of their path, allowing them to pass into the safety the gates
offered. She mentally made note of the ones who were wounded and shielded
each with her magics as they drew near.
Jinquil held herself off to the side, letting the others that were more
capable of healing and soothing the wounds of the soul than she to take the
refugees into the shelter that the city and her temple offered.
Once the refugees had been escorted into the city, she returned to her
hiding in the deeper shadows the gates provided, her eyes scanning the dark
shapes of the forest once more. She did not see Drondon come up behind her
but she felt his presence just the same, recognizing immediately the soft
tones of the song that hummed in the air around him.
Something in the forest changed and a soft sound caught her ear and Jinquil
darted into action, quietly slipping out and through the trees to locate the
source.
The scout rushed her as she ran towards it, her eyes taking note of it only
just in time to deflect the first blow from his? Axe, taking a gash to the
thigh instead of losing an arm to the short, stout fellow. Filled with a
seething fury she circled the dwarf as Drondon appeared through the trees.
She saw the axe bury into Drondon's skin before she could see no more,
blinded by a spell from a dwarf. She had no time to balk over it, her
concentration held by the soft tone of Drondon's song and the sour smell
that surrounded the stump. She disappeared through the trees, rounding in
an attempt to clear her vision and attack anew but the scout fled into the
woods upon her return. Tired, bone sore and no longer able to breathe with
comfort in the smoke that clung to the trees, Jinquil and Drondon returned
to the groves.
Llorana - Awaiting the Dawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[120] Llorana: Awaiting the Dawn
Wed Aug 3 03:18:38 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom Thaxanos Wargar Kyri - Imm RP Zandreya ALL
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The smell of ash was like a fine dust upon a breeze that promised
something so much worse. And off in the distance, as the threads of night
settled upon the elven kingdom, an ever constant glow - as red as blood -
promising the war that had sat like an itch in the palm of every soldier who
had lifted their blades against the dwarves in the past.
There was a hush, a baited silence, upon the emerald city. From the Temple,
the sounds of faint weeping could be heard and a fearful undertone struck
with the first hints of the rightous anger that would hopefully carry the
displaced elves.
Dusk's pale glimmer would have been beautiful that evening, but for the
taint of ash and flame. Rows of guards stood before her. Men and women who had stood before the gates, had patrolled the markets and the streets, keeping the peace. It had
been years since many of these elves had seen the sort of battle that was
headed their way, but lowering her gaze from the pale sky, she looked upon
them and saw no trace of uncertainty. They were ready for what was coming.
"I am your liason. Your orders will come through me when the Senator is
otherwise absorbed by pressing matters."
She could feel the weight of command settling again, as it had before the
fifty that she had lead through the last war. She found herself missing
those elves as she gazed upon the guards before her. She wouldn't be
leading these ones into battle but keeping the city protected this time
might turn out to be a very bloody affair. They had to be prepared.
Orders were issued, questions were answered.
The dwarves were cutting a swath through the forest, their intent was
clearly the city. They would show no mercy, they would destroy and despoil
anything they came across that was elven. They -could not- get into the
city. Meanwhile, refugees were trickling in at a steady pace and they would
need places to stay, food, water, blankets and clothing.
When all was said and done, full dark had descended upon the majestic elven
city and a foreboding had taken root in her.
Elves bearing the crest of every House in Shalonesti moved with purpose.
Groups of soldiers in Sha'falas livery marched down the main thoroughfare
and lights remained lit. There was hope in what she saw, but there was also
anger. A thing that danced in the eyes of everyone she saw, that tightened
their shoulders and stiffened their backs.
She felt herself drawn into it as she moved silently, the guards dispersed.
She knew she wouldn't be able to sleep, not knowing that her parents had not
been counted amongst the influx of refugees, so she went to the stables to
make ready her steed and await the arrival of Jinquil.
Dawn couldn't come fast enough.
[120] Llorana: Awaiting the Dawn
Wed Aug 3 03:18:38 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom Thaxanos Wargar Kyri - Imm RP Zandreya ALL
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The smell of ash was like a fine dust upon a breeze that promised
something so much worse. And off in the distance, as the threads of night
settled upon the elven kingdom, an ever constant glow - as red as blood -
promising the war that had sat like an itch in the palm of every soldier who
had lifted their blades against the dwarves in the past.
There was a hush, a baited silence, upon the emerald city. From the Temple,
the sounds of faint weeping could be heard and a fearful undertone struck
with the first hints of the rightous anger that would hopefully carry the
displaced elves.
Dusk's pale glimmer would have been beautiful that evening, but for the
taint of ash and flame. Rows of guards stood before her. Men and women who had stood before the gates, had patrolled the markets and the streets, keeping the peace. It had
been years since many of these elves had seen the sort of battle that was
headed their way, but lowering her gaze from the pale sky, she looked upon
them and saw no trace of uncertainty. They were ready for what was coming.
"I am your liason. Your orders will come through me when the Senator is
otherwise absorbed by pressing matters."
She could feel the weight of command settling again, as it had before the
fifty that she had lead through the last war. She found herself missing
those elves as she gazed upon the guards before her. She wouldn't be
leading these ones into battle but keeping the city protected this time
might turn out to be a very bloody affair. They had to be prepared.
Orders were issued, questions were answered.
The dwarves were cutting a swath through the forest, their intent was
clearly the city. They would show no mercy, they would destroy and despoil
anything they came across that was elven. They -could not- get into the
city. Meanwhile, refugees were trickling in at a steady pace and they would
need places to stay, food, water, blankets and clothing.
When all was said and done, full dark had descended upon the majestic elven
city and a foreboding had taken root in her.
Elves bearing the crest of every House in Shalonesti moved with purpose.
Groups of soldiers in Sha'falas livery marched down the main thoroughfare
and lights remained lit. There was hope in what she saw, but there was also
anger. A thing that danced in the eyes of everyone she saw, that tightened
their shoulders and stiffened their backs.
She felt herself drawn into it as she moved silently, the guards dispersed.
She knew she wouldn't be able to sleep, not knowing that her parents had not
been counted amongst the influx of refugees, so she went to the stables to
make ready her steed and await the arrival of Jinquil.
Dawn couldn't come fast enough.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Llorana: Focus
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ 11] Llorana: Focus
Fri Jan 14 23:47:38 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom ( Kwars )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The parchment was deceptively simple in what it proclaimed but she knew
that beneath it all, it wasn't so. Not at all.
She'd been approached by a royal page, asked a question, to which she had
hesitated even though she knew the answer. It was yes. Of course it was
yes. It was the timing, perhaps, that caught her a little off guard.
Some people were made for war, some people were bred to it. For some, that
held them, was their purpose. This would be hers. It had chosen her, in
many ways. She liked to think she had not been intended for such things but
the deeper she trudged back through her life, the clearer it became. Always
striving for adventure, never satisfied until she'd met her match and
overcome it. Finding trouble or being found by it. Thinking these thoughts
no more than a few hours ago, it was as if someone had known.
Thus her fingers had hestiated with quill poised over the page, already
stamped with two official looking seals; one of Sha'falas and one of Kyorl.
She didn't understand why, even now thinking back on it. If she knew her
path with such certainty, then why?
Why hesitate?
The question ate at her until she could no longer sit still and was drawn
from her meditations to meet old Jarri with sword to hand.
The older elf, perhaps respecting the emotional boundries she had thrown up,
met her with quiet understanding and before long, the ringing sound of sword
play filled the Grove of Song.
She burned it out of her, slowly but surely. Muscles aching, lean body
coated with sweat, a dozen bruises decorating various parts of her where
Jarri hadn't spared her an inch. Her hair had come free of its braids just
enough to lend a look of greater dishevelment.
"You are young yet" Jarriantias intoned softly when they were done, when the
haunt had calmed, "As so many others are. Remember this when you are alone,
when you work alongside your fellow Kyorl and when you take to the field of
battle. Your personal feelings are not as important as the task. Remain
focused."
It was good advice. She did know better. It was hard - the hardest thing
she had ever had to do yet perhaps - but she knew it was necessary. The
question then was; How did one become that hard without sacrificing who they
were?
She knew that was what old Jarri wanted her to figure out. There were no
upfront answers. Each Kyorl made their own path or fell upon it.
A shake of her head set the difficult question to the background for the
moment and after sheathing her sword, she grabbed up a towel and headed out
of the groves, not quite able to muster her usual cheer but all the better
for the exercise.
She would be back with her elven squad in no time, but she had a distinct
feeling that the field of battle would be a great deal changed from what she
had experienced before the Mountain.
[ 11] Llorana: Focus
Fri Jan 14 23:47:38 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom ( Kwars )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The parchment was deceptively simple in what it proclaimed but she knew
that beneath it all, it wasn't so. Not at all.
She'd been approached by a royal page, asked a question, to which she had
hesitated even though she knew the answer. It was yes. Of course it was
yes. It was the timing, perhaps, that caught her a little off guard.
Some people were made for war, some people were bred to it. For some, that
held them, was their purpose. This would be hers. It had chosen her, in
many ways. She liked to think she had not been intended for such things but
the deeper she trudged back through her life, the clearer it became. Always
striving for adventure, never satisfied until she'd met her match and
overcome it. Finding trouble or being found by it. Thinking these thoughts
no more than a few hours ago, it was as if someone had known.
Thus her fingers had hestiated with quill poised over the page, already
stamped with two official looking seals; one of Sha'falas and one of Kyorl.
She didn't understand why, even now thinking back on it. If she knew her
path with such certainty, then why?
Why hesitate?
The question ate at her until she could no longer sit still and was drawn
from her meditations to meet old Jarri with sword to hand.
The older elf, perhaps respecting the emotional boundries she had thrown up,
met her with quiet understanding and before long, the ringing sound of sword
play filled the Grove of Song.
She burned it out of her, slowly but surely. Muscles aching, lean body
coated with sweat, a dozen bruises decorating various parts of her where
Jarri hadn't spared her an inch. Her hair had come free of its braids just
enough to lend a look of greater dishevelment.
"You are young yet" Jarriantias intoned softly when they were done, when the
haunt had calmed, "As so many others are. Remember this when you are alone,
when you work alongside your fellow Kyorl and when you take to the field of
battle. Your personal feelings are not as important as the task. Remain
focused."
It was good advice. She did know better. It was hard - the hardest thing
she had ever had to do yet perhaps - but she knew it was necessary. The
question then was; How did one become that hard without sacrificing who they
were?
She knew that was what old Jarri wanted her to figure out. There were no
upfront answers. Each Kyorl made their own path or fell upon it.
A shake of her head set the difficult question to the background for the
moment and after sheathing her sword, she grabbed up a towel and headed out
of the groves, not quite able to muster her usual cheer but all the better
for the exercise.
She would be back with her elven squad in no time, but she had a distinct
feeling that the field of battle would be a great deal changed from what she
had experienced before the Mountain.
Llorana: Familial Obligations: Endurance
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ 10] Llorana: Familial Obligations: Endurance
Thu Jan 13 03:23:26 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom ( Nianica Jinquil Azaros Aelthran )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The soft, not ungentle, laughter of her mother followed and lightly did
she place her hand upon Llorana's head. Striving, perhaps, to comfort her
daughter who had never sought it before.
"No, dear child. " Came the response eventually and Llorana found that she
was watching the slant of the sunlight. "If you three have taught me
anything, it would be that no matter what prediction or demand I've set upon
any of you, you're bound and determined to go your own road - above and
beyond. You three have proven that I am wrong. "
Silence then, inundated with the gentle salt-scented brush of the breeze
upon the edge of dusk's fading light.
"I say a lot of things, Llorana. " The quiet tone of her mother had
changed. So much had changed in so little time it seemed. "But all three
of you have challenged me in your own ways. What I've said to you in the
past has been said to your siblings in different ways."
"You've all disappointed me and... " -when her mother trailed off, Llorana
took the moment to lift her head, to look at her mother through similar
green eyes- "made me more proud than any mother has ever been for her
children."
It was then that her mother, quick as ever, looked down to note the absense
of a ring upon Llorana's finger and a sort of pain passed through the older
elf's eyes. Llorana was unprepared for the touch of her mother's hand upon
her cheek - the same cheek she had slapped perhaps months earlier.
"I raised strong daughters. " She murmured. "But nothing prepares you for
this path but setting foot upon it." -she used her other hand to pat the
stone bench beside her- "Sit with me then and we'll see if I still have a
mothers touch."
* * * *
Much later, Llorana sat alone in the star-lit night, gazing up at a sky that
seemed too full of stars and entirely too far away. She hadn't been
prepared for gentleness, for understanding or comfort, but no tears kissed
her cheeks. She had seen and done too many difficult things to shed tears
for herself. She didn't deserve such a thing yet.
Instead, she drew a sword from its sheath with a sound as of a single harp's
string plucked, and set its tip to the soft ground. The haunt that came
forth, as her fingers slowly wrapped around the hilt, was changed. It held
sorrow and joy in equal measures at first, and when it finally swept her
away, it contained only the enduring strength she had assured herself she
had.
[ 10] Llorana: Familial Obligations: Endurance
Thu Jan 13 03:23:26 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom ( Nianica Jinquil Azaros Aelthran )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The soft, not ungentle, laughter of her mother followed and lightly did
she place her hand upon Llorana's head. Striving, perhaps, to comfort her
daughter who had never sought it before.
"No, dear child. " Came the response eventually and Llorana found that she
was watching the slant of the sunlight. "If you three have taught me
anything, it would be that no matter what prediction or demand I've set upon
any of you, you're bound and determined to go your own road - above and
beyond. You three have proven that I am wrong. "
Silence then, inundated with the gentle salt-scented brush of the breeze
upon the edge of dusk's fading light.
"I say a lot of things, Llorana. " The quiet tone of her mother had
changed. So much had changed in so little time it seemed. "But all three
of you have challenged me in your own ways. What I've said to you in the
past has been said to your siblings in different ways."
"You've all disappointed me and... " -when her mother trailed off, Llorana
took the moment to lift her head, to look at her mother through similar
green eyes- "made me more proud than any mother has ever been for her
children."
It was then that her mother, quick as ever, looked down to note the absense
of a ring upon Llorana's finger and a sort of pain passed through the older
elf's eyes. Llorana was unprepared for the touch of her mother's hand upon
her cheek - the same cheek she had slapped perhaps months earlier.
"I raised strong daughters. " She murmured. "But nothing prepares you for
this path but setting foot upon it." -she used her other hand to pat the
stone bench beside her- "Sit with me then and we'll see if I still have a
mothers touch."
* * * *
Much later, Llorana sat alone in the star-lit night, gazing up at a sky that
seemed too full of stars and entirely too far away. She hadn't been
prepared for gentleness, for understanding or comfort, but no tears kissed
her cheeks. She had seen and done too many difficult things to shed tears
for herself. She didn't deserve such a thing yet.
Instead, she drew a sword from its sheath with a sound as of a single harp's
string plucked, and set its tip to the soft ground. The haunt that came
forth, as her fingers slowly wrapped around the hilt, was changed. It held
sorrow and joy in equal measures at first, and when it finally swept her
away, it contained only the enduring strength she had assured herself she
had.
Llorana - Familial Obligations: Change
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ 9] Llorana: Familial Obligations: Change
Thu Jan 13 03:03:40 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom ( Nianica Jinquil Azaros Aelthran )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It took longer to reach her parent's summer home on the coast than usual,
as she couldn't seem to muster much more than a dismal canter out of her
steed. The creature seemed almost as exausted as she and, patting its
luxurious mane, she had silently commiserated with the elegant elven beast.
The idea was alone time. It felt as if a long span had passed between the
unveiling of their Kyorl paths, their fiances...
A deep sigh left her lips and as she rode up the earthen path, bracketed by
tall trees weeping emerald leaves, she let the memories pass through her
like dreams through a dream catcher. Only, the threaded patterns didn't
filter the bad dreams, didn't catch the good ones. It let them all go.
The gentle resonating melody of a wind chime caught at her ears as she
dismounted slowly, grimacing at the strain of muscles that had been abused
for months. She strove past the discomfort though and went about removing
her pack from the saddle before she lead the beatiful steed to the nearly
empty stables nearby. There were two horses amongst the stalls, brushed and
at ease. It made her frown, then sigh again. It was probably the staff but
who knew?
Shaking her head, she grabbed up a brush and after setting the saddle of her
horse aside, she went through the strangely meditative process of brushing
the pale coat until it gleamed. It didn't lift her mood, which she had come
out here to visit by herself, but it did settle her and it was in a quiet,
contemplative state that she found her way later into the gardens.
All the vibrant flowers were in full bloom. Her mother had made something
of a hobby of it when they were children and traveling from city to city,
village to village. The marigolds, the roses of many color and scent, the
violets, the lilies - the herbs that gave off calming scents..
Stepping into the center of the garden, wherein stood the ancient stone
gazebo crawling with white and red roses, she spied the only person who
could have made her feel simultaniously worse and better. And striding
slowly toward the woman dressed in a strangely subdued style, she knelt to
set her head upon her mother's lap.
"Have you come to bring me more weighty news, daughter? " The tone was cool
but tired. So tired.
"No, mother. " She whispered softly, hearing a new sort of weight in her
own voice that made her grimace. "I came to be alone but, now that you're
here, I've come to tell you that you're right. You've always been right
about me."
[ 9] Llorana: Familial Obligations: Change
Thu Jan 13 03:03:40 2011
To: Shalonesti Shalonesti_kingdom ( Nianica Jinquil Azaros Aelthran )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It took longer to reach her parent's summer home on the coast than usual,
as she couldn't seem to muster much more than a dismal canter out of her
steed. The creature seemed almost as exausted as she and, patting its
luxurious mane, she had silently commiserated with the elegant elven beast.
The idea was alone time. It felt as if a long span had passed between the
unveiling of their Kyorl paths, their fiances...
A deep sigh left her lips and as she rode up the earthen path, bracketed by
tall trees weeping emerald leaves, she let the memories pass through her
like dreams through a dream catcher. Only, the threaded patterns didn't
filter the bad dreams, didn't catch the good ones. It let them all go.
The gentle resonating melody of a wind chime caught at her ears as she
dismounted slowly, grimacing at the strain of muscles that had been abused
for months. She strove past the discomfort though and went about removing
her pack from the saddle before she lead the beatiful steed to the nearly
empty stables nearby. There were two horses amongst the stalls, brushed and
at ease. It made her frown, then sigh again. It was probably the staff but
who knew?
Shaking her head, she grabbed up a brush and after setting the saddle of her
horse aside, she went through the strangely meditative process of brushing
the pale coat until it gleamed. It didn't lift her mood, which she had come
out here to visit by herself, but it did settle her and it was in a quiet,
contemplative state that she found her way later into the gardens.
All the vibrant flowers were in full bloom. Her mother had made something
of a hobby of it when they were children and traveling from city to city,
village to village. The marigolds, the roses of many color and scent, the
violets, the lilies - the herbs that gave off calming scents..
Stepping into the center of the garden, wherein stood the ancient stone
gazebo crawling with white and red roses, she spied the only person who
could have made her feel simultaniously worse and better. And striding
slowly toward the woman dressed in a strangely subdued style, she knelt to
set her head upon her mother's lap.
"Have you come to bring me more weighty news, daughter? " The tone was cool
but tired. So tired.
"No, mother. " She whispered softly, hearing a new sort of weight in her
own voice that made her grimace. "I came to be alone but, now that you're
here, I've come to tell you that you're right. You've always been right
about me."
The Dalars
Evandim and Ellinda Dalar
Daughter - Nianica Sha'falas Dalar m. Aelthran Shalonost
son - Aelsian Shalonost
daughter - Niena Shalonost
Daughter - Llorana Sha'falas Dalar
Daughter - Jinquil Sha'qelas Dalar m. Elyrial Shalonost
Daughter - Jinquil Sha'qelas Dalar m. Elyrial Shalonost
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