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Nov 11, 2017 22:29:06 GMT |
Post by VALA STORMSTRIDER on Nov 11, 2017 22:29:06 GMT
Blistering winds whipped down the icy peaks that traced across the snow swept lands. Bitter to the bone they cut like a knife through anything that was not protected from their torment. Trees groaned with dancing branches of green and white, their very roots shuddering in defiance to the winds monstrous strength. Then came the snows. Not the first of the season nor the last. The already frost laden landscape would soon have a fresh coat of icy white in the coming hours. From the frozen ponds, to the foot long icicles that clung to hovels and towers alike the world of the Shiver Mountains was locked in an eternal winter. With the temperatures never reaching above freezing this hellish landscape still held pockets of life that strove in their fight to survive. It was in one of these pockets that the heir to the Shiver Mountains found herself in.
"Careful! My hair is not that of a doll's!" The generally soft voice of the princess wailed through gritted teeth.
"My apologize my lady." The gentle tone came from a young servant as her hands were busy brushing through Vala's silken, snowy hair.
Weeks had passed since a letter regarding a diplomatic emissary from the royal house of The Land of Ash was to be stopping by. Given that the two lands were so different; not just in climate but for their people as well, relations hadn't always been the most friendly between the nations. Being a lady of the most noble family in her lands Vala had long ago learned about the royal families that dotted the land. While The Land of Ash and The Shiver Mountains had poor relations through out the years Vala was grateful they did not share any borders. With such differences between their people, war would have certainly broken out between the nations. Of course such a fight would have been legendary, a tale for the ages. The real question that had always lingered in the depths of her mind was who would have won. There were many factors to consider when nations pitted off against one another. Military strength, the grade of armaments, the skills of its commanders, and of course the terrain. Since the nations birth The Shiver Mountains has been a difficult place for life to take root even more difficult for a nation to rise from its snowy banks. The royal army was by no means small bolstering a few thousand troops when the need arose, yet compared to other this was merely a security detail. What gave the Shiver Mountains their true strength was the land itself. Over the centuries many invaders sought to claim the land for its vast natural resources of metals, and timber yet the kingdom never fell to an outside force. Living in these lands of ice and snow the people of The Shiver Mountains are a hardy folk who have grown accustomed to bitter conditions. Invading forces have never coped well this factor. While a war might not have ended in their victory they had waited out many sieges before. Vast armies come into the mountains but very few walk out if any at all.
Staring at her own reflection these thoughts plundered Vala's mind as her icy blue eyes gazed towards the servant who was finishing up the swirling bun of hair that now hung tightly to the back of head. Donning a long flowing white dress whose hems were laced in a snow flake like design with her families crested etched ever so gently into the chest of her outfit Vala looked very much like the role of princess. Aside from the few golden earrings that lay pinned into her cat like ears very little that was worn was of her choosing.
Sighing softly Vala brushed a hand across her cheek with a disgruntled looked plastered upon her face. Oh how she hated being dressed like a child's doll. The already soft hue of her skin had been dusted with a fine powder of white making her already pale skin glow in the candle light of the room. With her nails filed to a soft point, rosy lip stick that glistened red in the light and a corset that made the curves of her body seem fuller she radiated with a glow of beauty.
"Surely I could do without this rib cracker." Whining softly Vala poked and prodded the corset through her dress.
Brushing her hand away in a gentle manner the servant coax her with soft words.
"Ey' my lady but your mother, our Queen requests it be so." Patting her gently on the shoulder Vala allowed herself another sigh.
"Feels as though it's going to squeeze my heart from my chest." Vala sighed once again before coming to rest her chin upon her hand.
"'ell if that be the case at least we'll know you 'ave one." The servant allowed herself a soft smile before the two of them enjoyed an accompanying laugh.
"Very well. I don't think there' much else you can do with me."Eying herself in the mirror one last time she turned towards the servant.
"Ey'. I've done all I can with ye, but you can't polish a turd."Again the two allowed for a brief chuckle as Vala came to stand with a click of her heels upon the stone flooring.
"Inform the guardsmen I will need an escort to the grand hall. Our guest should be arriving any time."
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Post by RAYDON MACULA on Nov 12, 2017 5:12:36 GMT
 'Cause I just can't look its killing me and taking control. Jealousy, turning saints into the sea swimming through sick lullabies, choking on your alibi. But it's just the price I pay, destiny is calling me. Open up my eager eyes, 'cause I'm Mr. Brightside | The wind outside was whistling, the snow for the moment had stopped and it made the last leg of the trip slightly easier. His parents had asked him to take his horse instead of the carriage to meet with the royal family of this province. But Ray would have rather died than spent any time on the back of some beast. He was royalty, as such he should not have to brace the cold winds of the mountains when he could sit comfortably inside the carriage and let his servents deal with the weather. His sister had given him a look when he left, but he could care less about what she thought of him. He was a prince, royalty, he could do whatever he wanted.
The cabin of the small carriage was, however, sweltering. It didn't help that he refused to push back the red silken screen covering the window to allow light in. So he was using a bit of his own magick to hold a flame in his hand to read by. This caused the cabin to heat up rather quickly, he could feel himself starting to sweat but he ignored it and continued reading his book about the history of the Shiver Mountains. Seeing as their provinces did not share a common border, Ray had never felt the need to read about the inhabitants of this province. They had never been worth his time. But now that his parents were entrusting him with his first diplomatic mission, he wanted to impress them. He needed to.
With a sigh Ray finally put the flame out in his hand and closed the book in his lap. Shoving it back into the large knapsack he had brought with him. It shared space with some parchment and quills, along with a few other books he planned on reading when he wasn't wasting his time with the royal family. For the first time the entire trip he decided to move the red silk away from the small window in the carriage and take a peak outside.
It was nothing like his home. He was used to the red sand and the gray sky. Here is was nothing but white with bits of blue and gray rock that peeked out from under mounds of snow. With a look of disgust he opened the window slightly, only to be assaulted by the biting cold of the mountain air. With a gasp he retreated back into the confines of the carriage and shut the window and screen as quickly as possible. Feeling as though the wind had stolen his breath, Ray cuddled against the silk cushions of his seat and simply waited for the carriage to stop moving.
What seemed like eons passed before the carriage finally came to a stop and he could hear voices that were not familiar to him. Uncertain if he should poke his nose out of the window again, but worried that something may be wrong, Ray slid the screen back just enough for one eye to get a glimpse of the outside world. To his relief they had made it to the gates of the keep and soon he wouldn't be cooped up any longer.
After a process of speaking with the guards at the gates and then taking the carriage farther in, Ray was finally free to leave what had effectively been his home for the last few weeks. Stepping out he braced himself for the bitter wind, but was surprised that the tall walls of the keep kept the wind from howling around them. Granted it was still extremely chilly and made Ray's lip curl in disgust. How I miss home.
Straightening out his clothes he motioned for one of the servent men to grab his knapsack and the gold trimmed package beside it. Running a few fingers through his hair he stepped away from the carriage and towards the largest and most impressive looking guard he could find, assuming he would be the one in charge.
"You there, I am Prince Macula from the Land of Ash. I'm here to see the royal family." He stopped for a moment and he thought about his next choice of words. His parents said to be kind and courteous. But his studying had always told him to exert dominance and exude power. "Please, let them know I have arrived." Ray felt as though he had accomplished a small task in being polite, but also felt sick to his stomach.
And so very cold. |
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Post by VALA STORMSTRIDER on Nov 12, 2017 6:12:20 GMT
To say it was a rarity to have a foreign diplomat traversing the frost bitten lands of this desolate landscape was an under stand. Even more so when that person was here to increase relations. Through out the winding history of the Shiver Mountains, those with royal status had only come to broker peace after a many years of warfare. On this day the emissary from the ashen lands far to the east had come here to bolster kinship rather than to intimidate or harass. This meeting was surely one for the scribes to take note of in their massive, dusty tomes.
From the heightened vantage point from the castle walls the carriages coming had long be known by the sentries that walked their chilling patrols. While the date in question had been known to by all within the castle walls it still took some by surprise to see another nations banner while not at a time of war. With haste the guardsmen had taken their posts with upright posture and galvanized attention for who was to come. Approaching the worn ice laden gates of the keep it took few moments for the carriage to pass through unhindered as papers where shown by its driver. The poor man had weathered much of the storm and the guards thought it better to allow the carriage quick escort into the court yard. Away from the blistering winds that tore through a persons clothes the courtyard was a haven from the outside world.
At a moments notice the steel breasted soldiers lined up along the pathway which led to the castles main door. Shoulder to shoulder, oaks spears with steel tips held at their side their feet clapped together as they held a position of salute. Seconds passed as the carriage came to a stand still as it rocked gently on its frozen axles before coming to a stop. The creaking of ice coated hinges filled the air as the carriages door swung open to reveal their welcomed guest. Having spent their whole lives within the borders of The Shiver Mountains those who stood nearby by were taken aback by the fiery hair that rested upon the foreigners head. It was only with years of strenuous training that the soldiers held their shocks of awe that filled their bodies as they kept their stance at attention.
At the figures command a nearby servant; who had been standing ready for any order, took haste in retrieving the items that this stranger asked of. Then approaching the captain of the guard, the guardsmen gave him a powerful salute.
"At once ma' lord." The captain replied respectfully knowing how difficult it must have been to use such pleasantries on a person so far below his status.
Already word was traveling through out the castle at the newcomers arrival by both the servants as those were off duty at the moment.
"If it pleases 'ma lord, follow me. 'Ma lady, Princess Vala Stormstrider, is awaiting for ye'." The clap of his steel fitted boots clanged through out the open court yard as the captain turned towards the towering door that led to the castles interior.
Waiting a moment so that their guest could follow in pursuit the captain took off towards the castles door.
"We've been awaiting your arrival some time 'ma lord." The captain spoke softly, yet the wide barrel of his chest made his voice boom in the open air.
"Our stable hands will attend to your horses while our servants will off load any cargo you've brought. Various chambers have been prepared for your coming; 'case you favor one room over the rest." The captain continued to speak as he began walking up a wide flowing staircase which led up to the door.
"Our staff is here to serve 'ye as if you were one of our own." Coming to the landing were the massive doors rested the captain stepped off to one side. Again his heels clacked together with a dull metallic ring.
At the signal the wide doors of the keep swung back on their hinges as a sweeping wave of heat tumbled out from the buildings interior.
"Welcome 'ma lord." Again he saluted before taking a step backwards allowing for the prince to enter the castle.
Standing aways back where two massive stairs tangled into one stood Vala in all her beauty. The soft lights brought out a colorful glow that surrounded her figure as it enhanced her physical characteristics. Off to her sides stood similar looking men as to those outside in the bitter cold. Even at a distance it was worth noting while the men that kept at her sides were of a similar figure and armaments an aura about them swore to their skills as elite soldiers.
"Ok... this will all be fine. Don't spit. Keep your chin up. Make eye contact...." The list of information in Vala's head rambled about as she tried to keep her pose. While she was used to dealing with nobility on a fairly normal bases, greeting a foreign diplomat was a first for her.
Taking a few steps forward Vala allowed bent slightly at her knees and took up a curtsy; her hands taking hold of the sides of her flowing dress as she did so. The gesture was a formal one expected by ladies towards gentlemen men, yet unlike the other nobles of her lands it was not nearly as deep. The key here was to show that while Vala wished to give respect to their newcomer they were both of royal blood and held the same powers in their respected holds.
"Greetings Prince Macula, heir to throne of the Land of Ash. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you." Pausing to stand from her bow Vala straightened her stance so that she was standing at her full height once more.
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Nov 12, 2017 23:43:04 GMT |
Post by RAYDON MACULA on Nov 12, 2017 23:43:04 GMT
'Cause I just can't look its killing me and taking control. Jealousy, turning saints into the sea swimming through sick lullabies, choking on your alibi. But it's just the price I pay, destiny is calling me. Open up my eager eyes, 'cause I'm Mr. Brightside | The princess? Ray held back the need to scoff at the thought. He was here on a diplomatic mission, not to drink tea with a princess. "Oh." He once again paid attantion to his clothes, picking at a piece of lint that probably wasn't even there. "I am supposed to be meeting with the Queen. Is she available?"
His words seemed to fall on deaf ears as the guards led him towards the gates of the keep. Ray scoured the courtyard as he passed through, remarking to himself how different everything compared to home. At home there were red and maroon silk curtains accompanied by gold ornaments strewn across walls. The floors were made of limestone and marble sometimes so clean that you could see your reflection in them. Here everything was made of stone, and it was undeniable too cold for Ray.
He followed closely behind the guards, half listening to what they had to say as he committed every walkway to memory. He may need it in the future, though he was here on a friendly visit, he never could be too careful. Glancing over his shoulder at the servant carrying his knapsack and gift for the Queen he ended up walking straight into the back of a guard as they stopped before the gates. "Ugh, watch you-"
He cut his words off short when he noticed the swirling staircases before him and the young woman standing upon them. A blast of warm air covered him and for the first time since leaving the carriage he didn't feel like he was going to freeze to death. Clearing his throat he straightened out his tunic for the fifth time and stepped to the side so that he would be able to see the inside of the keep more clearly. He motioned for the servant to follow him as he moved a few feet inside the gates.
"Princess Stormstrider." Ray offered her a diplomatic and unfeeling smile. Something he had practiced many times in a mirror at home. He offered her a bow of his own, sweeping one arm towards the floor in a dramatic gesture. Straightening up once more he offered her the same smile. "Thank you for allowing me to stay in your... Beautiful home." He motioned for the servant behind him to move closer. He hadn't prepared much gift wise for the princess, but he was sure there was something in his knapsack he could offer to her.
"Please accept this humble gift, from the Land of Ash." He dug through his knapsack as quickly as possible, unsure of what to give her. Quills? No, that's just foolish. A book on spells? Ray rolled his eyes at his own stupidity before grabbing the hook to a small cage. Inside it was a small fire salamander from the caves below the volcano at home. It wasn't much, but he could probably swing some fancy talk into his present.
"I present to your highness a Fire Salamander from the depths of Infierno, our most beloved volcano. Please be careful though, it does spit fire occasionally." He held the small cage up for her to see. The salamander was quite small but covered in a vast array of red and peach scales. Ray had thought to use it in a spell he was practicing on, but figured there were probably some critters in the mountains he could use instead.
And the salamander would spit fire, but hardly enough to do any damage to anything. |
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Post by VALA STORMSTRIDER on Nov 14, 2017 3:03:45 GMT
The lackadaisical tone that held thick to the princes words with glue hadn't gone unnoticed by Vala. His tone held truth to it however. The castle whose towering form filled the valley below in a giant's shadow wasn't what the first thought of when keeps came to mind. Unlike the unruly, temperate climates found through out the continent The Shiver Mountains had been given its name for good reason. With a constant barrage from sub-zero winds the walls of the castle were built thick. The stone which the castle was forged from was meant to keep the chilling winds at bay while providing adequate protection from exterior forces. Castles found in other regions of the world held a certain charm which the gray, frost laden walls of Crystal's palace did not. The beloved keep might not win any awards for its appearance but with the shear, snow laden mountains at their side and hefty walls no force had breeched its soft belly. Still, while the castle was the strongest hold in all the lands Vala often times wished for a touch of color on its walls. Grey, white and bits of blue seemed to be all that her lands were made of.
With an internal sigh Vala thought better of noting the princess comment. It wasn't lady like, even less so for a princess to call an honored guest out in such a manner; behind closed doors perhaps, but not with so many on lookers. Vala also took a mental note of what she knew about the princesses lands. Hot, smoky, and rugged he was certainty out of his element; literally. Being so far away his home land would make anyone home sick. Compared to where the prince had come from the Shiver Mountains might as well have been on another planet. Taking this with a grain of salt Vala shrugged the slighting comment off with a warming smile.
These thoughts passed through her mind as the prince was busy digging through a satchel that a servant procured.
"A gift you say?"Vala replied with mock surprise. In her lands as well as many others it was a old custom to bring the host a gift. Most of these held a personal touch straight from the lands from where the guest traveled. Other less personal items would be rather generic such as gold or jewels. While any and all gifts were acceptable to the host, impersonal gifts were not held so highly. Over the years Vala or more of her family had been presented with many fine gifts. Spiced wines that could knock a boar out. Finely woven silken dressed from the far east. Even a bear at one point; of course it had to go quickly. Even after all these years the sight of the furred beast caused Vala to faint.
Much like a child on their birthing day (birthday) Vala could hardly suppress the giddiness that swelled in her heart.Her nearly nonchalant expression on the outside masked her love of surprises. Dressing up for nobles and their ladies was well worth it when they showered her in gifts. Sadly, most of the guests she received were from the surrounding lands so any gift given could have gathered whilst out shopping in the local market. Now, here stood a foreigner whose wares would be a rarity in these lands.
Having taken steps forward Vala found herself less than a few feet away as the prince brought up in his clasped hands a small cage. Within its confines was a creature of sorts. No more than a few inches in length with scaled skin the color of fruits and clawed feet that clattered softly on the cages floor. It took a moment for Vala to recognize the creatures form as that of a lizard. Having spent many long hours deep in her library she'd come across pictures of such beasts. Now standing before one she thought the books did them little justice.
"Oh, it's divine." Her tone was silken fabric as she gazed over the creature with sparkling eyes.
As she spoke, the lizard took that moment to allow a high-pitched flaming sneeze to erupt from its slitted nostrils. The heated air washed out and over Vala's face warming her cheek.
"Lovely." Her soft smile grew brighter as she placed a hand on her cheek.
"It's most thoughtful of you. To have a little piece of your home land within the palace."Reaching out gently Vala took the cage into her hands. It was noted that she held it a bit away from her body as no doubt that while its flame were small silk was so easy to burn.
Turning about to a nearby servant Vala passed the caged creature to them. Without having to say a word the servant quickly took off to place the item some where else in the mean time.
"Thank you my dear lord. I hope to keep it for many years to come."Vala spoke though she wasn't quiet sure just how long the creature lived for.
"If it pleases you, the hearth is warmed, and waiting. Would you care to warm yourself whilst enjoying some tea? It will give us the chance to talk about your journey. I'm sure it was quiet the adventure."Motioning towards a nearby high arching door way Vala gestured towards the parlor.
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Post by RAYDON MACULA on Nov 15, 2017 5:34:50 GMT
'Cause I just can't look its killing me and taking control. Jealousy, turning saints into the sea swimming through sick lullabies, choking on your alibi. But it's just the price I pay, destiny is calling me. Open up my eager eyes, 'cause I'm Mr. Brightside | Ray watched the princess with interest. He had grown up in the Kingdom of Fire and the only other royals he had ever been around were his parents and sister. Their customs were old and deep rooted from centuries of ruling over a land that wasn't friendly to most. His family had always valued men over women, and as such he was seen as more important than his sister. Although his parents were trying their best to make him see that things were changing. By giving his sister the throne instead of him because she was three minutes older. He was going to be lowered to being a trade off with another kingdom. A role the women of the family had always held, now he would be the first male born to marry and leave the kingdom. He wasn't looking forwards to it, he was also quite irritated that his union would be less powerful than his sisters.
Princess Vala was of a different caliber than his family. She was refined and graceful, something that his sister lacked. Which made him slightly less irritated with the fact that he was going to tea time with her and not sitting with her mother. Ray had been told that this mission was of utmost importance, but he was starting to think his parents were just lying to him to get him to leave the castle. Holding back the urge to roll his eyes he smiled at Vala once more before straightening his posture. Ray motioned for the servant behind him to close up the bag and move away from them. He didn't need some chaperone to hover over him while speaking with the princess.
"That sounds wonderful, my lady." He had picked up on her calling him lord and reciprocated. He assumed that here they didn't use proper titles like they did in his Kingdom. There, regardless of what position you held, everyone refer to him as Prince or Highness. He wasn't used to being called lord, but he wouldn't throw a fuss about it. At least, not in front of Vala. He was also very good at being polite, which wasn't something he had ever thought he would be able to do without forcing himself. He found it quite easy in the princess' presence.
"Will your mother be joining us, my lady?" He followed her hands and made his way slowly over towards the arching doorway. He was impressed with the height each of the rooms seemed to achieve. There were no vaulted ceilings at home, aside from the throne room. It made him feel as though home was more smothered together, while here everything was open. Ray was impressed they were able to keep it so much warmer inside.
He stepped through the doorways and watched Vala as she moved. He wasn't completely annoyed with having tea with her, seeing that she wasn't a foolish young thing that he had assumed she was. He felt embarrassed he hadn't thought to bring her a proper gift. He would give words to a few people when he got home for not telling him to do so. Especially his parents. Ray didn't like to look like a fool in front of others.
"I had hoped to meet with the Queen before settling in." |
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Post by VALA STORMSTRIDER on Nov 16, 2017 2:27:43 GMT
"Lovely." The smile grew on Vala's face as she followed her honored guest into the next room. Unlike the main entrance to the palace the foyer that clung to its side was more modest in size. Though it was not possible to reach the ceiling even upon a chair it's slopping, arched ceilings were much lower. The arches allowed for hot air to be pushed back down towards the floor giving the room a constant flow of air. With this design it made it so that a single fire could easily warm a room even in such a bitter landscape.
Spanning out for a good thirty feet in length and twenty in width the foyer was neatly dressed with varying assortment of furniture, shelves, chairs, tables, and the occasional book that had been left resting on a cabinet. Everything from the walls to the cabinets was spotless clearly showing signs of having been cleaned recently. In the middle of the room off left side far away from the frosted windows rested a plushy couch that was positioned before a roaring fire. Before the couch a table sat with a silver plate where two porcelain cups, and a steaming pot of tea awaited them.
"I shall answer all your questions in due time my good lord. First warm yourself by the hearth. I know all to well how the winds tear into a persons soul." Vala spoke as she felt a faint shiver run down her spine. Truth was Vala wasn't bothered by the cold; in fact she found the castle to be much to warm for her liking. But it was the recalling memory from her childhood that caused a quiver in her heart.
Rounding about one side of the couch Vala came to sit upon its cushions. Fanning her dress as not to crumple it she eased herself upon its plushy cushions in a most lady like lady manner.
"Please my good lord. Won't you join me?" Vala patted the cushion next to her own before reaching out towards the steaming kettle.
Taking the white pot by its handle Vala quietly brought it to one of the cups as she slowly poured the brownish steaming liquid into the empty face.
"If you so wish to meet my mother this can be arranged." Her words were soft so much so that they were barely made out over the roaring winds outside the castle walls.
Filling the cup three-fourths to its rim Vala poured her own cup in a similar fashion before setting the kettle down with a dull "tink". By now it was half empty but Vala wasn't about to over indulge herself before the prince. "Too much of a good thing spoils its memory." It was something her mother had taught her when she'd been younger. The idea was that if one partook in something to often the excitement would dry up faster than a puddle in the desert. Having only small amounts here and there made it so that the item could be enjoy each and every time; that least that was the explanation given. In truth Vala believed that her mother thought she was getting fat and this was her loving way to say it. Given Vala's love for snacks both salty and sweet it was sound evidence for one that was one day to rule. Those who were out of shape and appeared like pears weren't fit to lead.
"However unless requested upon she shan't be accompanying us today." Vala paused for a moment as her hand drew near the sugar cup but them rejected the idea.
"If I try to ingest anything else I'm sure this corset will strangle me." Drawing her hand away Vala picked up one of the cups and placed it upon the table in front of where the prince would have sat.
"I do apologize if this upsets you my lord." Vala's gazed turns towards the prince as her left ear flicks gently.
"However, I do believe you will be staying with us for some time. If that is correct then you will have plenty of chances to speak with mother." Allowing herself a soft smile Vala looked over the princes form.
"I do hope my company will satisfy you until that point. I understand if that is not the case however. It seems that everyone; princes to beggars wish to she her, never me." With an elated sigh Vala reached down to cusp the silver etched saucer which her cup rested on. Bringing the cup to her lips she allowed herself a brief sip from its contents before placing it upon the table once more.
"Though... I suppose one day I will be in her shoes; upon the throne with countless numbers flocking for my attention." The tone in her voice neither seemed excited onr sadden by this idea rather she accepted it as it was.
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Nov 20, 2017 17:23:20 GMT |
Post by RAYDON MACULA on Nov 20, 2017 17:23:20 GMT
'Cause I just can't look its killing me and taking control. Jealousy, turning saints into the sea swimming through sick lullabies, choking on your alibi. But it's just the price I pay, destiny is calling me. Open up my eager eyes, 'cause I'm Mr. Brightside | Ray felt an irritated tick start in his left eye. His brow prickled with annoyance as he clenched his fist to keep from showing just how done with this mission he already was. He had expected to be wined and dined by the Queen. Offered a peace treaty and then be able to head home at the most earliest of conveniences. Which for him would have been the next morning, maybe even the middle of the night. He wouldn't want to over extend his stay.
But here he was, taking tea in the parlor with the princess. One who probably had no idea how to lead a province, much less strike up a treaty between their nations. Ray just hoped he wouldn't have to marry the were. She was pretty enough to look at, but Ray's concerns were more of her strategic ability. What would happen if they went to war? Would she faint? Or would she take charge and massacre her enemies like a true warrior? Ray's mind wandered a bit too far at the imagery and he ended up with a stupid smile on his face as he followed Vala into the large parlor.
He quickly returned back to his stoic position as he glanced around the room. There was stark difference here. At home they let their wealth drip from the ceilings and walls. Gold ornaments, fine silks and velvet, even jewels from the caves beneath Infierno adorned every bit of furniture and tapestry they hung. Here it was more cozy, more homey. He felt as though he was walking into the private apartments of someone, instead of a room where serious discussions were made.
Ray watched Vala sit, finding himself nearly rolling his eyes as he watched her put extra care into her dress. Plopping down beside her he kept himself at a safe enough distance to not seem rude, but to also not be too close. Sighing softly as the heat from the fire place warmed his side. He would have preferred it to be much hotter, but he could worry about that later in the evening when he was alone in his room. He accepted the cup from Vala, his eyes lifting slightly at the light weight of the porcelain in his hands. There wasn't much to it, but he was a bit impressed with the craftsmanship.
With little effort he focused his energy into his hands and let the warmth within him heat his tea just a tad more. If it wasn't scalding and melting his taste buds, he wasn't interested.
"I suppose we could do without your mother, for now." He smiled at Vala once more, taking a sip of the tea and holding back a moan of pleasure. It was quite delicious, he hadn't been expecting that.
He sat in silence as she spoke, finding her voice to be quite pleasant to listen to. After a moments pause he set his cup down and inched it closer to the pot, hoping she would pour him some more.
"Your company is more than adequate, my lady. Hopefully I won't bore you." Ray had absolutely nothing to talk about.
"And I'm sure you would do a fine job as queen." He glanced over at her, ignoring the forlorn look on her face. She didn't seem too excited to take up the throne. Much like his sister, who could care less about leading. Why were the women of this country so careless with their duties? Ray wanted nothing more than to be King.
"My lady, do tell me about the mountain. I was reading about some history on the way here, but I feel as though it doesn't do the mountain any justice. Are their any mines or caves nearby? Any kind of monsters that ravage your lands?" Ray was terrible at small talk, but he was quite curious about the mines, they would be a decent thing to explore and intrigued his curiosity. |
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Post by VALA STORMSTRIDER on Nov 25, 2017 1:26:10 GMT
Not one to miss out on small social clues Vala quickly took notice of the princes empty cup. Reaching forward to pick up the tea kettle Vala poured the stemming liquid into his cup. It appeared that the prince had finally something in her kingdom that he'd enjoyed. Had Vala told him just where the tea had come from he might have changed his mind. Rather than ruin the moment Vala kept the thought to herself as she placed the kettle back upon the table.
"You? Bore me?" Vala covered her mouth with one hand as she allowed a soft giggle to break from her lips.
"I couldn't imagine that ever happening. A prince from a foreign land. The things you've must have seen, and the place you've gone could keep me enthralled for years." Vala replied readily as it was clear she didn't get out of her castle much.
"The mountains?" Her voice raised an octave with its questionable tone.
While the question was one that might have been expected from a traveler it still caught her off guard. Often it was difficult for those living in one spot to describe the place they came from other than what one could see with the naked eye. To them it was something they lived with every day. Life had a way of blurring over time as each day began to blend into the previous ones. Only when the odd change in their normal routine occurred would it be taken notice of.
"Hmm... Well." Vala adjusted herself upon the cushion as she took some time to think.
"As I'm sure you are aware the lands are a harsh one. With torrents of snow and icy wind outsiders find the chilling temperatures dangerous; even difficult to thrive in. Yet, some how we've seemed to have managed quiet well through out the years." Pausing to take a slow sip from her cup Vala continued once more.
"As for what lays under the snow drifts and heaps of stone... the land beneath is filled with a vast net work of caves, and mines. Most of the gem stones found around the lands come from our mines. The earth around here is rich in these gems though like many things in life gathering them does come with its own dangers. Cave-ins generally claim the most lives each year. While deadly, most consider them favorable to what else lays deeper in the earth." Vala allowed her words to trail off as her gaze set upon the crackling fire. It was only when a log snapped in two and fell did her attention return to the prince.
"Sorry. It haunts me sometimes to think of such things." Vala allowed herself a weak smile as her thoughts returned on their previous track.
"There are many monsters that thrive deep within the caves. Some are merely a nuisance that a well lit fire will take care of. These kind are dealt with on a daily bases. Then there are the true horrors of the deep. Venomous eight legged crawlers, carnivorous plants, and many other types. With so many tales from those who return it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. With careful planning, and defenses against these creatures casualties from monsters have declined in recent years though it's not to say it is an uncommon occurrence for a miner to disappear." Sighing softly before sighing and leaning her head to one side Vala nodded her head gently.
"My apologize my dear prince. It seems that I've given our lovely conservation a rather dark aura. I do hope that I answered your question however." Flicking her ears at the thought Vala took another sip from her cup.
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Nov 29, 2017 22:25:49 GMT |
Post by RAYDON MACULA on Nov 29, 2017 22:25:49 GMT
'Cause I just can't look its killing me and taking control. Jealousy, turning saints into the sea swimming through sick lullabies, choking on your alibi. But it's just the price I pay, destiny is calling me. Open up my eager eyes, 'cause I'm Mr. Brightside | Ray let his finger swirl along the top of his cup. His fingers inching ever closer to the heat the tea provided. The fireplace beside him crackled, a small piece of timber broke in half and resettled lower in the pile. Ray watched it for a moment, listening to Vala speak about the dangers and monsters that lived in the caves beneath them. His switched the cup over to his other hand before reaching the first towards the flames.
He got very close to them, allowing them to lick at the pads of his fingers. For a moment he furrowed his brow as he concentrated, the flames raising up towards him, swirling around his hand and arm in a delicate display before falling back towards the bottom of the pit. He waved his hand and the fire grew brighter and hotter for a moment before returning back to it's calmer state.
"Sorry, my Lady." Ray returned his attention to Vala, catching just the end of her ears flickering above her head. "The fire was dying, had to be rekindled." He smiled at her, taking a sip from his cup before setting both cup and saucer onto the table before him.
"The caves sound quite exciting, actually." He snapped his fingers above his head towards the steward holding his bag over by the door way. The poor boy scrambled over and offered the bag while bowing his head. Ray rummaged through it for a moment before bringing out the large book he had been reading on his way here.
"I mean, I'm sure that living here you have seen and heard many horror stories. We too have many stories regarding the caves below our volcano at home. I don't mean to undermine your... um, delicate feelings." Ray felt awkward trying to be polite. His sister was of a warrior caliber and rarely showed feelings towards anyone. He had to constantly remind himself that not all females followed her in that manner. He didn't want to upset Vala. But at the same time was unsure of how to dance around the silliness of her fears. She was a princess, nothing would ever harm her. That is what guards and servants were for. To throw themselves into harms way to protect the heir to their throne. Their future queen and leader. If she could stand up to that level was yet to be seen.
"I scoured our library at home for some information about the Shiver Mountains that didn't involve war or bickering between you and the Riverlands. It was quite difficult to find something decent to read..." Ray stopped talking as he skimmed through the pages, his eyes looking for a particular passage he had read on the way here. Something that had peaked his interest.
"Hmm... I should have book marked the pag- Ah! Here!" He scooched closer to Vala on the couch so that she could see the page as well. "This text is very old, written centuries ago. It explains about a race of humanoid creatures called "goblins". Apparently they were very skilled at extracting the gems from the stones and at one point they were all over the mountains." Ray's eyes lit up as he re-read the passage he had read at least ten times before. A creature that could travel around dark tunnels, sniff out gems, according to the text some even could possess magick. It gave Ray many ideas on how to make himself richer, and more powerful. These he needed if he ever wanted to rule as a king.
After a moment he glanced up at his host, his eyes still shining with enthusiasm. "Have you ever heard stories or seen the goblins yourself, Lady Vala?" |
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Post by VALA STORMSTRIDER on Dec 1, 2017 5:43:50 GMT
The first reaction that came to Vala was to reach out towards the prince as his finger graze across the flames. Her nerves held steady, ready to pounce out and pull the prince from the flames. Before the signal could register from her brain to her body Vala paused. Eyes cast upon the princes relaxed face told her that there was nothing to fear. The flames flickered around his palms as if alive, licking their phoenix tongues across his tanned skin and then retreating to their home. The movement of the flames from the princes presence was more than enough to inform Vala that he was indeed a fire elementalist. It did make sense after all given where he came from. A land swept with flaming mountains, and ashen skies.
Coming to relax once again next to her Vala nodded her head gently.
"It's quiet aright my good lord." Granting the prince a slight smile as Vala sighed internally.
"As if it wasn't hot enough in here already." The words whispered in the back of her mind as she tried to keep her focus away from the rooms growing heat.
"Yes. I suppose to some they could seem that way." Vala commented about the princess insight on caves.
"They are a mysterious area within these lands. We use them so often to extract gems that their dangerous nature can be forgotten in time." Pondering out loud Vala tapped her chin in thought as the prince called one of his servants over.
Digging through the bag with great eagerness Vala placed a cup hand over her mouth to hide the grin that had broken through. Before this point Vala had not met a prince. Shinning armor, silky smooth hair, the finest manners that one could obtain, and the noblest of blood. It wasn't to say that Raydon was lacking these traits but... his actions, his movements were just so "off-the-cuff". Others might have kept an important item off to one side, easily accessible until it was needed. Rather instead Raydon was now scouring through his bag of seemingly endless items for something specific.
It was then that Raydon pulled away from his bag with a rather impressive size tome in his grasp.
"First a lizard and now this beast of a book! How much can that little bag hold?" Vala questioned to herself.
"Worry not my dear prince. It is kind of you to be concerned about my well being but I assure you that I am not as gentle as a snowflake." Giggling softly Vala eyed the prince for a moment until in excitement he slid over to her side.
"Eep!" The slight gasp broke from her lip before it was muffled out by the clapping of her lips.
Internally Vala cursed herself for allowing the soft squeak to break her through her lady-like facade.
"I apologize my good lord." Face blushing a light pink Vala did her best to force her attention onto the book at hand.
"Oh god... how embarrassing. As if this wasn't hard enough already! Why can't I just be left alone and sleep all day!" Vala weept softly on the inside.
"Ah. Yes... let's see what we have here." Vala spoke quickly trying to take her thoughts off what had just happened.
Glossing over the entry Vala soaked the words up like a sponge. Having spent nearly every waking hour the past 12 years reading the great tomes in her library she'd become a quick reader. Picking up the key words from the article Vala began to recall what she knew of her peoples history and all that had happened within their lands.
"Hmm... goblins. The tales are familiar to my people; granted they are often more times than not fairy tales. I shall tell you what is assumed as fact however." Pausing to chew on her lip allowed Vala to gather her thoughts.
"At one time the goblins lived in great numbers in these mountains. The were rather primitive beasts; knowing the basics of crude tools and cloth making. As you said they were well known for their innate mining skills. From what I've read they possessed some ability to "sniff-out" gems and other precious metals. For a time they were used by the ancient people of these lands for just that purpose much like pigs are used to find truffles. As the population of the mountains began to grow the goblins were pushed deeper back into their lands till they were forced into the caves. Things then turned bloody. It seemed that they didn't want to share their gems or land with us any longer and fought back. The goblins held superior numbers of course but they were little more than beasts. With superior armaments the fighting was rather one sided. It rather sporadic warfare through out the years till it stopped one day. The goblins were gone with out so much as a trace left behind." Vala sighed softly before resting her chin on the back of her hand.
"That's what we know of goblins at least. This of course was many, many years before my birth. Most of the records we have here around the palace are as old as the stone walls themselves. The language held within is so old that the translations can often be muddled but I've spent a great time translating much of the old lore so that it isn't lost to time." Vala noted and then began to blush once more.
"I'm sorry my dear lord, it seems I'm just prattling on now." Smiling sheepishly Vala cast her eyes towards the fire.
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