Post by Aura on Dec 1, 2007 15:18:58 GMT -5
Chapter One -- Hippie with Daggers
It had been almost three moons since King Asbidan had left to fight a battle on the very borders of his land. Three moons in which alot had happened to his first son, the Prince of Asbidan. Firstly, he had completely forgotten to do attend the Royal Speech which happened every full moon, to tell the people of the happenings. Lilytha had been looking forward to this grimly to raise the point about her sister, and yet had been angered when no Prince had arrived. Kirri's Father, Ghadi Keyes, had attended along with other Advisor's, but none really gave any reassurance and most of the people wanted to see the Prince himself. Secondly, he had refused to go out in public, deciding to stay in his castle for all of the day and all of the night, confined in his own room. This also displeased the people of his Kingdom, for the King often came and paraded himself to the people. Although it was often an act of vanity, all had become accustomed to these visits and were somewhat reassured by the presence of their leader among them, though shrouded by a large escort of guards. They had seen next to nothing of the Prince, and were not happy about it. But by far the worst thing he had done had been to forget to pay the cart workers, who brought the supplies from the castle, where they were made, into the towns and cities of the Kingdom to be sold. These supplies were of food, clothing, equipment and tools, furniture and repairs, a chance to trade and buy. This had infuriated the people, and although they didn't eat well normally, they were used to the little food that they had, and nothing at all was just terrible, as expected. There were rumors of a rebellion, but none arose, and that was why an annoyed expression was upon Lilytha's features as she sat by the Dimandear Lake. This was the problem with Jirapa. There was alot of talk, but no action. It was such a shame, a rebellion would do her good, she almost thought.
Lilytha dipped her bare feet into the Lake. Dimandear had been the name of a Sergent of old, who had led Asbidant to victory in times long set into the past. He had been a great commander, and had forced the armies away from Jirapa and saved the Town. He met his end when was named a traitor with treason to the crown, and despite controversialists about weather he was framed or not, the Royals of Asbidant had thrown him into this lake. He sank, weighed down with great rubies and sapphires, jewels that he had strived in his life to collect. His own earnings had been the death of him, and the irony had stung to all that believed he was innocent. In his memory, the lake had been named after him, and the rumor was that Dimandear's body was somewhere in the depths of its waters, preserved by the purity of the liquid. Lilytha and Rose had often looked into the depths of the lake, looking for the body, as such things intrigued them, but nothing could be seen. It was either just a made up story, or the water was too deep for it to be seen. Both sisters had believed the latter option, as they were great believers in stories like that. Memories, oh sweet memories of the times that they had lived through flashed through her mind as she dipped her hand into the cool water, but she turned them away.
Lilytha had mourned the sacrifice of her sister in her own, special and secret way. She did not shed a tear, as it was not her way. To others, even close childhood friends like Kirri she had put on a brave face and pretended to be okay, even though it was plain for any to see that she was anything but fine. She had become alot more concealed, not the open self that she had been, turning in on her own memories and deciding to keep to herself, staying in quiet places like this to think. It was so silent here, away from the woes of the world for a time, before she was forced by the darkness of night to go back to her humble home in which she now was alone in residing. Her parents had passed away long ago, and she did not dare to let her memory wander to them, so decided not to think about it. Just thoughts. Nothing about her family passed through her mind, just thoughts.
She was roused from this daze like state by the sound of a loud snort, surprisingly close. When she listened, she found she could hear a very slight rumbling round, and the creaking of wood, almost like some kind of cart was passing on the road that led through Jirapa Village and into the center of Asbidant. It was not often - infact it was quite rare - for any visitor to arrive here. No one came in and no one came out, as there were many messengers that were sent out to spread the word of affairs, and they were all ignored. People from the outside world were almost unheard of, so curiosity forced Lilytha to stand and wander through the trees to the road.
She was right in thinking that there had been a cart there - a wooden one was a little way down to road to her right, trundling on. It was a rather large contraption, and led by a simply huge horse. Lilytha stared at it in its splendor, then as it came closer she realized that it was not a horse but a donkey. A donkey of gigantic proportions. It was simply enormous, and was shod with dirty hooves that were well worn and didn't looked like they had molded their way into the donkey's feet. The donkey itself didn't mind, and bobbed its giant head, large floppy ears nodding as it did so in time with its walk. It's large, kind eyes looked to Lilytha as it passed her on the road and nodded its head again, almost as if in greeting. She smiled, despite herself, and looked up to see who led such a large donkey.
It was a girl of about the same age as herself, dressed in clothes that looked way too big for her. They were a dark shade, patterned with bright flowers in shining contrast with the backround. She was wearing a matching headband that pulled her hair dark brown, almost black hair up, then down to flop over her forehead. She had large brown eyes, much like her donkey's eyes, Lilytha observed carefully. She had been looking straight ahead, but when her donkey looked down at Lilytha she looked down, smiled, then sat up importantly and stated in an obviously fake posh tone -
Greetings, kind miss! I come from the lands of the north bringing news to your people!
She almost shouted importantly, amusement glittering in her eyes. When she saw Lilytha's confused expression, she winked and dropped the pose with a little laugh, and motioned for Lilytha to walk beside her on the cart.
Hi, sorry, I just had to do that. Couldn't resist. I'm Errie. You may have noticed my donkey. I call him Mush. His real name is Save the Mushrooms, everyone says it's a weird name but I think it's cute. I come from a place from the north where we all have strange names, you wouldn't believe mine if I told you, and everyone calls me Errie anyway. Even the animals have strange names, as you can tell with Mush here.
The donkey, apparently Mush, appeared to nod again as his name was mentioned, his large legs which were almost as big as Lilytha herself causing her to almost job to keep up, but her brisk walk was enough. She found this traveler funny in a very weird kind of way, with her abnormal donkey. She wondered how it had gotten such a name, but didn't bother to ask, so introduced herself, deciding to get on with more pressing questions.
I'm Lilytha, a resident of Jirapa Village. What brings you down to Asbidant? Do you have news from the outside world?
She asked eagerly, as news like this was not commonly found inside the village. All the information from the messengers was strictly confined to the Royals, sometimes conveyed in the moonly meetings, but since there had been none the public had no idea of what had been happening. This... Errie, was it? Yes, she seemed exotic and new compared to the rest of the village that they were now entering. Hopefully she would have some information about what was going on outside.
Why of course, that is why I've come here.
Errie said after a pause, and Lilytha had a lingering feeling that she was deciding how much to convey to Lilytha and how much to keep secret.
I hear that your King is out fighting on the borders... I past a battlefield on the way here. It had an Asbidan Standard placed on the ground by a dead commander... not one of yours. You seem to be making progress!
Errie said grimly, obviously not liking the concept of war. Lilytha's eyes lit up though - so Asbidan was winning on their borders? Their King was making progress? That was always a good sign! Maybe he would be back soon and the stupid Prince wouldn't have to be forced to try and fail to rule them. She, although he hadn't been there for long, was looking forward to when the King would return and return discipline to the Kingdom.
I don't know exactly who your King is fighting against, but they're pretty much destroyed now. Your army seems to be doing a good job, I hope... oh.
Errie halted Mush hurriedly, looking ahead with a worried, almost fearful expression crossing her face. Lilytha whipped her head around too, and saw nothing unusual. There were a few of the village people walking around going about their daily business, sending a few interesting looks Errie's - and of course Mush's - way, but nothing more. There was a guard standing by the well, and two children running about, playing. Lilytha saw nothing at all that was unusual, and looked back to Errie, who had lowered the reins nervously, looking to... the guard. Suddenly, the newcomer looked down at Lilytha with a gaze of something like accusation, and spoke in a hushed tone.
Why exactly is there a guard standing there?
Because he's patrolling maybe?
Lilytha replied promptly, not bothering to lower her voice as Errie had done. From her high seat on the cart she cast a look to the guard again, then nervously looked down to Lilytha.
Are they everywhere?
Her tone was no longer hushed, just a little sad, as if disappointed that there were upholders of the law in this place. If it could be called law, more like unfair rules that the Royals of Asbidan had set down just to squeeze a little more money for their own deeds. The saying 'Life's not fair' was a very common one in these parts, as all had learned to live with the little quirks that they had to put up with that no other town did - including the guards.
Yes, of course.
Lilytha said, a little confusion in her own tone. She didn't understand why this would be such a problem for Errie, but she supposed that maybe where she had come from there were no such thing as guards and all were allowed their own free will in their streets... such a thing seemed a luxury to Lilytha, so she understood why it was a let down to Errie. But still, why did she seem so bothered? Had she been planning anything that the guard's prevented? Lilytha wondered weather to ask, but quickly configured that if Errie had been planning anything of the sort, and that the guards wouldn't approve... it wasn't that good. So why would she tell a random villager that she had only just met? No, in time maybe Lilytha would find the right time and place to ask, but now? Now was not the time.
Errie let out something like a squeak and tried to urge Mush forward. Mush actually turned to look at her, then turned his head back to the front, his expression... annoyed. Lilytha watched the donkey, alarmed, but it did nothing more. Wow, some clever donkey. She turned to see what had made Errie want to move on in the first place, and saw the guard walking towards their strange company, inspecting them one by one.
Lilytha, is it? Yes, I know you.
He said, pushing his was past her, to stand infront of Mush. Lilytha saw that he had raised one fore-hoof and right at that moment stamped it down, but the guard didn't seem to notice, and she certainly wasn't going to bring it up. If this donkey didn't like the guard, then good for him, it was not an uncommon occurrence.
But who is this?
The guard asked, drawing his long, broad blade and pointing accusingly at Errie with. Errie narrowed her eyes and was still for a moment, then drew her own weapon - a small dagger with a thin blade and a somewhat... blunt point. Lilytha blinked, expecting the guard to laugh at such a pointless dagger, but he did nothing of the sort, just regarded it with a now wary interest. Lilytha realized that he was not aware of the bluntness and thinness of the blade, as not all were as experienced as Lilytha with weapons. Errie was certainly putting on a good act of a threat with such a harmless weapon, but maybe, Lilytha figured, she didn't even know the stupidity of her own blade. She would have to inform Errie sometime, Lilytha thought with a hint of amusement.
I am Errie, a traveler who has come bearing news from the north. But I would prefer it, kind sir, if no weapons were drawn.
She said importantly, in the same voice in which she had joked around in greeting Lilytha earlier. Lilytha made no sign that she had recognized it though, so as not to give Errie away, and just stood there as she had been, watching for the guards reaction. Errie made to sheath her dagger back in... wherever she had taken it from, and after a moments pause the guard did the same, with a long and dramatic sweep to put his sword away.
Thankyou.
Errie said briskly, and urged Mush on once again. This time he went on forward, plodding onwards with his head held high, and Lilytha followed, hoping that the guard would say nothing about her presence with the traveler. He didn't, and she was allowed to keep on walking beside Errie. When they were a safe distance away, Errie sighed and relaxed on the cart, dropping the important stance as soon as she had raised it.
Phew, glad we got out of that one okay!
She said, back to her bouncy self again, stretching with a yawn. Maybe she had traveled here through the night, for she certainly looked tired up there on the seat of the cart. Lilytha wondered again why she was so wary of the guard back there, for she would have to get used to them if she was going to stay in Jirapa for long, then remembered the subject of the blunt dagger with a smile.
Um, Errie... you know your dagger?
Lilytha said, looking up. Errie nodded once and took it out of some pocket or fold in her baggy clothes, Lilytha couldn't see exactly where it was that she kept it. Errie knew it though and brought the flimsy little dagger up to the light.
What, this?
She asked, flicking it into the air and catching it by the hilt, it's tip pointing upwards to the canopy of trees that the path had taken them to.
Yes. You know it can't... do much damage?
Lilytha tested carefully, not wanting to offend her new friend. Errie paused for a moment, then burst out laughing and Lilytha relaxed instantly as Errie sheathed the dagger in wherever it was once more, giggling still.
Hehe, so you noticed then! Yup, it's as blunt as a stump, but no one ever seems to notice. Got that guard back there though didn't it?
Errie asked, amused by Lilytha's reaction to her flimsy little weapon. Obviously she had just been acting, and a good actor she was too, to appear threatening with such a foolish weapon. It was as thin as a twig and looked incredibly flimsy, not worthy to even make a scratch on the softest of skin.
Most of my weapons are like that. I think it's because I don't fight much. I'm not into fighting at all. Infact, some people call me a hippie because of it. I don't really mind though, I'm much more into nature than weapons, as you can probably tell from the outfit and the hair.
She said with a giggle, motioning to her flower pattered clothes and the little stem of flowers twisted into her hair. Lilytha smiled and continued on her way with Errie, unsure of what to make of her. She seemed fun, yes, but she was not into weapons, which Lilytha found hard to believe. But each to their own, she supposed, and this fun loving, flower loving traveler could prove useful to her. Maybe she could find out things about the outside world that were less formal, that she would not tell the Prince as they became closer friends. A little insight to what was going on in the world around her, now that would be refreshing. Who knew, maybe Lilytha and Errie would get on just fine...?
[/center]Lilytha dipped her bare feet into the Lake. Dimandear had been the name of a Sergent of old, who had led Asbidant to victory in times long set into the past. He had been a great commander, and had forced the armies away from Jirapa and saved the Town. He met his end when was named a traitor with treason to the crown, and despite controversialists about weather he was framed or not, the Royals of Asbidant had thrown him into this lake. He sank, weighed down with great rubies and sapphires, jewels that he had strived in his life to collect. His own earnings had been the death of him, and the irony had stung to all that believed he was innocent. In his memory, the lake had been named after him, and the rumor was that Dimandear's body was somewhere in the depths of its waters, preserved by the purity of the liquid. Lilytha and Rose had often looked into the depths of the lake, looking for the body, as such things intrigued them, but nothing could be seen. It was either just a made up story, or the water was too deep for it to be seen. Both sisters had believed the latter option, as they were great believers in stories like that. Memories, oh sweet memories of the times that they had lived through flashed through her mind as she dipped her hand into the cool water, but she turned them away.
Lilytha had mourned the sacrifice of her sister in her own, special and secret way. She did not shed a tear, as it was not her way. To others, even close childhood friends like Kirri she had put on a brave face and pretended to be okay, even though it was plain for any to see that she was anything but fine. She had become alot more concealed, not the open self that she had been, turning in on her own memories and deciding to keep to herself, staying in quiet places like this to think. It was so silent here, away from the woes of the world for a time, before she was forced by the darkness of night to go back to her humble home in which she now was alone in residing. Her parents had passed away long ago, and she did not dare to let her memory wander to them, so decided not to think about it. Just thoughts. Nothing about her family passed through her mind, just thoughts.
She was roused from this daze like state by the sound of a loud snort, surprisingly close. When she listened, she found she could hear a very slight rumbling round, and the creaking of wood, almost like some kind of cart was passing on the road that led through Jirapa Village and into the center of Asbidant. It was not often - infact it was quite rare - for any visitor to arrive here. No one came in and no one came out, as there were many messengers that were sent out to spread the word of affairs, and they were all ignored. People from the outside world were almost unheard of, so curiosity forced Lilytha to stand and wander through the trees to the road.
She was right in thinking that there had been a cart there - a wooden one was a little way down to road to her right, trundling on. It was a rather large contraption, and led by a simply huge horse. Lilytha stared at it in its splendor, then as it came closer she realized that it was not a horse but a donkey. A donkey of gigantic proportions. It was simply enormous, and was shod with dirty hooves that were well worn and didn't looked like they had molded their way into the donkey's feet. The donkey itself didn't mind, and bobbed its giant head, large floppy ears nodding as it did so in time with its walk. It's large, kind eyes looked to Lilytha as it passed her on the road and nodded its head again, almost as if in greeting. She smiled, despite herself, and looked up to see who led such a large donkey.
It was a girl of about the same age as herself, dressed in clothes that looked way too big for her. They were a dark shade, patterned with bright flowers in shining contrast with the backround. She was wearing a matching headband that pulled her hair dark brown, almost black hair up, then down to flop over her forehead. She had large brown eyes, much like her donkey's eyes, Lilytha observed carefully. She had been looking straight ahead, but when her donkey looked down at Lilytha she looked down, smiled, then sat up importantly and stated in an obviously fake posh tone -
Greetings, kind miss! I come from the lands of the north bringing news to your people!
She almost shouted importantly, amusement glittering in her eyes. When she saw Lilytha's confused expression, she winked and dropped the pose with a little laugh, and motioned for Lilytha to walk beside her on the cart.
Hi, sorry, I just had to do that. Couldn't resist. I'm Errie. You may have noticed my donkey. I call him Mush. His real name is Save the Mushrooms, everyone says it's a weird name but I think it's cute. I come from a place from the north where we all have strange names, you wouldn't believe mine if I told you, and everyone calls me Errie anyway. Even the animals have strange names, as you can tell with Mush here.
The donkey, apparently Mush, appeared to nod again as his name was mentioned, his large legs which were almost as big as Lilytha herself causing her to almost job to keep up, but her brisk walk was enough. She found this traveler funny in a very weird kind of way, with her abnormal donkey. She wondered how it had gotten such a name, but didn't bother to ask, so introduced herself, deciding to get on with more pressing questions.
I'm Lilytha, a resident of Jirapa Village. What brings you down to Asbidant? Do you have news from the outside world?
She asked eagerly, as news like this was not commonly found inside the village. All the information from the messengers was strictly confined to the Royals, sometimes conveyed in the moonly meetings, but since there had been none the public had no idea of what had been happening. This... Errie, was it? Yes, she seemed exotic and new compared to the rest of the village that they were now entering. Hopefully she would have some information about what was going on outside.
Why of course, that is why I've come here.
Errie said after a pause, and Lilytha had a lingering feeling that she was deciding how much to convey to Lilytha and how much to keep secret.
I hear that your King is out fighting on the borders... I past a battlefield on the way here. It had an Asbidan Standard placed on the ground by a dead commander... not one of yours. You seem to be making progress!
Errie said grimly, obviously not liking the concept of war. Lilytha's eyes lit up though - so Asbidan was winning on their borders? Their King was making progress? That was always a good sign! Maybe he would be back soon and the stupid Prince wouldn't have to be forced to try and fail to rule them. She, although he hadn't been there for long, was looking forward to when the King would return and return discipline to the Kingdom.
I don't know exactly who your King is fighting against, but they're pretty much destroyed now. Your army seems to be doing a good job, I hope... oh.
Errie halted Mush hurriedly, looking ahead with a worried, almost fearful expression crossing her face. Lilytha whipped her head around too, and saw nothing unusual. There were a few of the village people walking around going about their daily business, sending a few interesting looks Errie's - and of course Mush's - way, but nothing more. There was a guard standing by the well, and two children running about, playing. Lilytha saw nothing at all that was unusual, and looked back to Errie, who had lowered the reins nervously, looking to... the guard. Suddenly, the newcomer looked down at Lilytha with a gaze of something like accusation, and spoke in a hushed tone.
Why exactly is there a guard standing there?
Because he's patrolling maybe?
Lilytha replied promptly, not bothering to lower her voice as Errie had done. From her high seat on the cart she cast a look to the guard again, then nervously looked down to Lilytha.
Are they everywhere?
Her tone was no longer hushed, just a little sad, as if disappointed that there were upholders of the law in this place. If it could be called law, more like unfair rules that the Royals of Asbidan had set down just to squeeze a little more money for their own deeds. The saying 'Life's not fair' was a very common one in these parts, as all had learned to live with the little quirks that they had to put up with that no other town did - including the guards.
Yes, of course.
Lilytha said, a little confusion in her own tone. She didn't understand why this would be such a problem for Errie, but she supposed that maybe where she had come from there were no such thing as guards and all were allowed their own free will in their streets... such a thing seemed a luxury to Lilytha, so she understood why it was a let down to Errie. But still, why did she seem so bothered? Had she been planning anything that the guard's prevented? Lilytha wondered weather to ask, but quickly configured that if Errie had been planning anything of the sort, and that the guards wouldn't approve... it wasn't that good. So why would she tell a random villager that she had only just met? No, in time maybe Lilytha would find the right time and place to ask, but now? Now was not the time.
Errie let out something like a squeak and tried to urge Mush forward. Mush actually turned to look at her, then turned his head back to the front, his expression... annoyed. Lilytha watched the donkey, alarmed, but it did nothing more. Wow, some clever donkey. She turned to see what had made Errie want to move on in the first place, and saw the guard walking towards their strange company, inspecting them one by one.
Lilytha, is it? Yes, I know you.
He said, pushing his was past her, to stand infront of Mush. Lilytha saw that he had raised one fore-hoof and right at that moment stamped it down, but the guard didn't seem to notice, and she certainly wasn't going to bring it up. If this donkey didn't like the guard, then good for him, it was not an uncommon occurrence.
But who is this?
The guard asked, drawing his long, broad blade and pointing accusingly at Errie with. Errie narrowed her eyes and was still for a moment, then drew her own weapon - a small dagger with a thin blade and a somewhat... blunt point. Lilytha blinked, expecting the guard to laugh at such a pointless dagger, but he did nothing of the sort, just regarded it with a now wary interest. Lilytha realized that he was not aware of the bluntness and thinness of the blade, as not all were as experienced as Lilytha with weapons. Errie was certainly putting on a good act of a threat with such a harmless weapon, but maybe, Lilytha figured, she didn't even know the stupidity of her own blade. She would have to inform Errie sometime, Lilytha thought with a hint of amusement.
I am Errie, a traveler who has come bearing news from the north. But I would prefer it, kind sir, if no weapons were drawn.
She said importantly, in the same voice in which she had joked around in greeting Lilytha earlier. Lilytha made no sign that she had recognized it though, so as not to give Errie away, and just stood there as she had been, watching for the guards reaction. Errie made to sheath her dagger back in... wherever she had taken it from, and after a moments pause the guard did the same, with a long and dramatic sweep to put his sword away.
Thankyou.
Errie said briskly, and urged Mush on once again. This time he went on forward, plodding onwards with his head held high, and Lilytha followed, hoping that the guard would say nothing about her presence with the traveler. He didn't, and she was allowed to keep on walking beside Errie. When they were a safe distance away, Errie sighed and relaxed on the cart, dropping the important stance as soon as she had raised it.
Phew, glad we got out of that one okay!
She said, back to her bouncy self again, stretching with a yawn. Maybe she had traveled here through the night, for she certainly looked tired up there on the seat of the cart. Lilytha wondered again why she was so wary of the guard back there, for she would have to get used to them if she was going to stay in Jirapa for long, then remembered the subject of the blunt dagger with a smile.
Um, Errie... you know your dagger?
Lilytha said, looking up. Errie nodded once and took it out of some pocket or fold in her baggy clothes, Lilytha couldn't see exactly where it was that she kept it. Errie knew it though and brought the flimsy little dagger up to the light.
What, this?
She asked, flicking it into the air and catching it by the hilt, it's tip pointing upwards to the canopy of trees that the path had taken them to.
Yes. You know it can't... do much damage?
Lilytha tested carefully, not wanting to offend her new friend. Errie paused for a moment, then burst out laughing and Lilytha relaxed instantly as Errie sheathed the dagger in wherever it was once more, giggling still.
Hehe, so you noticed then! Yup, it's as blunt as a stump, but no one ever seems to notice. Got that guard back there though didn't it?
Errie asked, amused by Lilytha's reaction to her flimsy little weapon. Obviously she had just been acting, and a good actor she was too, to appear threatening with such a foolish weapon. It was as thin as a twig and looked incredibly flimsy, not worthy to even make a scratch on the softest of skin.
Most of my weapons are like that. I think it's because I don't fight much. I'm not into fighting at all. Infact, some people call me a hippie because of it. I don't really mind though, I'm much more into nature than weapons, as you can probably tell from the outfit and the hair.
She said with a giggle, motioning to her flower pattered clothes and the little stem of flowers twisted into her hair. Lilytha smiled and continued on her way with Errie, unsure of what to make of her. She seemed fun, yes, but she was not into weapons, which Lilytha found hard to believe. But each to their own, she supposed, and this fun loving, flower loving traveler could prove useful to her. Maybe she could find out things about the outside world that were less formal, that she would not tell the Prince as they became closer friends. A little insight to what was going on in the world around her, now that would be refreshing. Who knew, maybe Lilytha and Errie would get on just fine...?