View Full Version : [M/IC] A Lost Heart (J'Von and Naming)
Namingtoohard
06-24-2018, 07:23 AM
Seated on a small wooden stool within the depths of her parents room, Amelia watched herself in the large vanity mirror that stood opposite. The young princess’ gaze drifted over her features idly as she waited, before turning to the small patch of grey scales that marred her otherwise fair skin. Twisting her head a fraction to get a better view, Amelia would bring a hand up to probe at the rough edges of the scales, where they began to creep around the edges of her jaw and cheeks. The scales were firm under her fingers, and rough to the touch – a palpable manifestation of her family’s claim to the throne, and proof that she possessed the blood of the divine dragon
“Don’t pick at it, Amelia. You know better than that”
“I wasn’t!”
The princess quickly dropped her hand, looking sheepish as her mother stepped into view. The similarities between parent and child was immediately obvious; they both had the same blonde hair, the same blue eyes, and the same gentle features. Of course, the two were hardly identical. The queen’s face was marred by the lines and wrinkles of age, and she seemed possessed of a lithe grace that her young daughter had never quite been able to emulate.
The queen shot her daughter a dry look, their eyes meeting briefly through the mirror, but said nothing more. Instead, she moved to take up position behind her daughter, kneeling down with a brush in hand. Slowly, she would reach out and begin to run it through Amelia’s hair. The two sat there in silence for a moment, the young princess trying to resist wincing every time her mother forcibly untangled a knot. After several moments, her mother would speak again.
“Amelia, I want you to tell me about what happened the other day. The incident with the stable hand” she would finally offer.
Though she often tried to spend time with her daughter in this fashion, the queen had an ulterior motive for inviting her here this day. The princess, unfortunately, seemed unwilling to comply. She immediately fell silent, shaking her head with no regard for her mother’s task of brushing her hair.
"Amelia" the woman repeated, exasperation clear in her tone. Still, the child refused to respond. Setting the brush aside, the queen would rise to her full height and step around in front of her daughter, kneeling down before her.
"This will not do, child. You are destined for greater things, but you shall never accomplish them if you spend all your time dwelling on a single mistake” she would utter softly. Reaching out, she would gently brush back a stray lock of her child’s hair. Relenting, Amelia would finally look up, meeting her mother’s gaze. Tears twinkled in the corners of her eyes now, threatening to spill forth.
“Oh, my poor dear” the queen would finally relent, pulling her daughter into a gentle embrace. She would pat the back of her daughter’s head gently, cooing softly as she tried to soothe her upset child.
“You have a great heart, Amelia, but will only discover it to be so through trial. Such has always been the way of our family. If you can speak with those you trust, it may very well help to ease your burden. Emotion is not a sign of weakness, no matter what your father may tell you, and a problem shared is a problem halved”
The small child only nodded in response, face nuzzled against her mother’s collar.
~~~~
Amelia woke slowly at first. A soft groan escaped the princess as consciousness returned, and she quickly buried her head back in the pillows, silently willing the waking world to abate and sleep to return. Several moments passed in silence, before she would finally give in when it became apparent that the opportunity had passed.
Now twenty-three years old and a woman grown, the princess was a far cry from the young girl she had once been. Still protesting the day's beginning, the princess would slowly push her upper body up off the mattress, hair falling about her face in messy ribbons.
"Why now?" the girl grumbled softly to herself, bringing a hand up to rub at her eyes idly for a moment. It had been a great many years since she and her mother had spent time together like that, and now she was awake and aware of the disparity, it was somewhat jarring.
Doing her best to push such thoughts from her mind, the princess would finally throw back the covers of her bed. With a considerable measure of reluctance, she would shuffle across to the edge of the mattress, before finally rising. Dressed in nothing but a relatively thin nightgown, she would take a moment to stretch; a soft yawn escaping her mouth unbidden in the process. Wandering towards the far side of the room, she would draw back the curtains covering her window. Early morning light streamed into the room, and Amelia was forced to spend a few seconds blinking rapidly as she waited for her eyes to adjust.
From the looks of things, the sun had just finished rising, which meant it wouldn't be long until Veikto arrived to rouse her and help her prepare for the coming day. Whilst the former was clearly not necessary today, both her assistance and presence would be welcomed with open arms.
MidKnight
06-28-2018, 03:40 AM
It was just a dream. A dream that woke her from her slumber. Her eyes open wide and scared. She takes a deep breathe and exhales slowly. Realizing of what she had dream about was nothing. Though her skin was covered with sweat. Her body cold and chill. She noticed the window was left open and she could hear the wind breeze gently. She laid on a bed that was her size. Her room was like the others but each had their own. Unlike the regular servants that have duties. Her duty was with the young lady.
She gets up slowly and sits on one side of the bed. Her head lowered with her hand touching the side of her head. Wondering what the dream she had was about. Thinking only for a minute to herself. She had realized the sun itself had not appeared yet. The night was still dark and covered with stars. She took this opportunity to get up rather early than her normal waking schedule.
The window was still open. Veikto walked over to gaze outside for a bit. She leans a little over the edge and the wind breezed by her. Her skin felt the cool chill as the sweat covered her body. It felt relaxing and relieved. The sun was close to rising but not yet fully over the edge. Looking over her shoulder and sees the closest nearby Veikto walked quietly and pulled the door handles. Multiple sets of the same uniforms were hanging inside. Each one similar to the next. She grabbed one set and placed it on the bed. She walked over table that had a large bowl and a pitcher next to it. She lifted up the pitcher and filled the bowl with clean water. She grabbed a sponge and dipped it in the bowl. She squeezed it and started dabbing where her sweat had laid. It took her a couple of minutes and finally walked over to a mirror with many selections of make up.
Though she preferred to use black eye lining and shadow, she was not much effected by the other colors. It did not take her long until she finally decided to dress herself. The sun had finally rise'd up and shines into her room. Tying a ribbon on her back and looked at herself in the mirror. She examined herself and pondered about herself for a moment. Thinking about her childhood as she recalled a few of them. Glimpsing at a second of each one, she only remembered pain and suffering. Anything else was a blur.
She pushed those thoughts away and takes another deep breathe before leaving her room. She knows the lay out of the servant quarters like it on the back of her hand. Others were lost or puzzled of where to go. But it only took her seconds to find the kitchen area where the cooks had prepared the royal household meals. She entered through the door and sees one of the cooks had finally placed the last plate on a tray. "Veikto. Good morning." The young man said with a smile on his face.
"Good morning." She replied with a smile on her face. "Is her favorite dish ready?" She asked examining the tray. She checked each one carefully before picking up the tray with both her hands.
"It's all set." The cook answered.
She nodded and picked it up and left the kitchen. She walked down the halls and up the stairs where the royalty family had lived. Others like her followed with trays as well but once they were on the same floor they moved in different directions. She found herself standing in front of the young lady's door. She knocked several times before letting herself in. "Good morning m'lady." She said softly. Trying her best to not fully startle the young lady. She noticed the curtains were already opened and Amelia was standing there in her night gown.
She quickly walked to a table and sets the tray down. "You know your not supposed to open the curtains on your own." She simply said walking to the window and looked outside. "What if a guard sees you in your...night gown?" She blinked several times while looking at Amelia. "That would considered rude and disruptive."
Namingtoohard
07-01-2018, 11:39 AM
Amelia would linger by the window for several moments longer, enjoying the kiss of the sun on her skin. The moment would be fleeting, she knew, and so she wanted to make the most of it. As if on cue, a sharp knock sounded from the door on the far side of the room, and the princess knew her moment of relaxation had passed. She would glance over her shoulder just in time to watch Veikto slip in the door, tray laden with breakfast held in her hands. Amelia would smile upon seeing her personal assistant and friend once more, turning to face her good and proper.
"I would be somewhat offended if it didn't. In any case, what is the point of being a princess if you can't even open your own curtains in the morning?" she asked rhetorically, a wry smile flickering across her features. Despite her verbal objection, though, Amelia would comply with the implications of her friend's statement, turning and stepping away from the window without any further argument. She would stride towards the table where Veikto had set down breakfast, leaning forward a fraction as she stared down at it. She would eye the bread, fresh fruits, and spiced game eagerly for a moment, before closing in her eyes and inhaling deeply for a moment. Once again, Veikto had brought a selection of her favourites. The smell alone was enough to make her mouth water.
"Ah, it smells wonderful. The chefs have really outdone themselves again" she would remark idly, slipping into the seat nearest to where the tray had been seated. Reaching out, she would eagerly pull it towards herself, before picking up her cutlery. She would start with the fruit, popping a single piece into her mouth. As could be expected of a meal served to royalty, it was nothing but the best, both crisp and juicy. Once she had swallowed, the princess would turn her attention back to her friend once more.
"You slept well, I hope?" Amelia would ask between mouthfuls, immediately taking another bite of her meal as soon as she had spoken, whilst she waited for Veikto to respond. Small talk and polite inquiries were hardly common between the royal family and their attendants, but Amelia was more than happy to make an exception for someone who had been with her for so long. She would work her way through the various parts of her meal, not finishing any one of them in its entirety. Amelia had never been a big eater to begin with, which was perhaps unsurprising given her relatively small stature, and had been brought up believing that it was unladylike to scoff down an entire dish.
MidKnight
07-19-2018, 05:11 AM
She looked around the window to see if any guards were nearby checking the area. Luckily there weren't any around. She sighs softly and watched as the young lady quickly moved to the table where her breakfast had set. Shaking her head softly as she stuffed her mouth of food. Her attention had caught the bed as it was undone. Walking over to the large bed Veikto grabbed the sheets and blanket. It didn't take her long to fix the bed completely however when the young lady asked about her sleep. Veikto had a pillow in her hands and gives it a slight squeeze.
"It was somewhat unrestful." She admitted. "I keep having the same dreams over and over...I am not sure what it's all supposed it means." After fluffing the pillow and placed it down on the bed. Her eyes slowly looked to the young lady and chuckled softly. "I'm sure it doesn't mean that you should eat your food like that." She walked over to the table. Standing next to her friend she reached for napkin and dabbed the stains around her lips. Her eyes were gentle as her lips smiled. "Wish I could eat that quick." Commented on the empty plates and cups. She pulled away her hand and rolled the napkin aside. "Today there is a small tournament held in your families name...I'm sure your father is currently checking the field for any surprises once the Emperor arrives."
She reaches for the tray and picked it up. Walking over to a wall that had small doors, she opened it and sets the tray on a flat board. She gives a small tug on the rope and then the tray started descending slowly. "Shall we get ready for the day?" She asked over her shoulder, closing the doors.
Namingtoohard
07-23-2018, 10:08 AM
The princess would hesitate between bites briefly as she listened to her friend's honest admission. A dissatisfied frown would flicker across her features briefly, and her brow would furrow. Naturally, Amelia disliked the idea of her closest friend suffering as such, inevitable as it may be. This was hardly the first time she had heard this story, after all, and yet things remained the same. For all the power the lofty position of Amelia's birth afforded her, the dreams of another were well and truly beyond her reach.
She would start briefly as Veikto suddenly started rubbing at her mouth with a napkin, but didn't stop her. Instead, Amelia bore the treatment with a mixture of embarrassment and amusement. She was always so focused on maintaining her image whilst in public that she had a bad tendency to relax and neglect the basics whilst in private. The thought was quickly driven from her mind by the talk of the upcoming tournament.
"Ah, that's right. I had almost forgotten" she would answer, a wry smile flickering across her features. She would set her cutlery down in time for Veikto to take it away with the rest of her meal. The princess would rise from the table and let out a soft yaw, before giving a bit of a casual nod.
"The red dress today, I should think. The one with the golden embroidery" she would declare rather simply. The princess would make her way over to a small screen set up in the corner of the room, quickly slipping behind it to undress. Within moments Amelia had shed her nightclothes, all whilst trusting Veikto to grab the dress she had decided on and pass it to her so that she might change in privacy.
After several moments, when she had finally finished, Amelia would step back into sight. She seemed an entirely different person now, clad in the finery of court. It wasn’t just the clothes, either; The princess now stood with her head raised slightly, and her shoulders pulled back. It almost seemed as if her entire demeanour had shifted, that she was now wearing the proud and confident face that she wished to present to the rest of the world. A far cry from the casual, open person that she truly was in their scarce few moments of privacy.
The princess would take a few casual steps towards her friend, one hand clasped to her breast, before turning away from her. Doing so revealed the laces that ran down the back of her gown, which still needed to be done up. Many of the finer pieces in Amelia’s wardrobe were so lavish that they required the assistance of a servant to put on completely, and this one was no exception.
“Would you be so kind, Veikto?”
MidKnight
08-03-2018, 05:43 PM
She walked into a large closest filled with hundreds of fancy clothing that was hanging by sections. Searching for the dress the young lady requested her eyes examined piece by piece. Finally what felt like a long walk she had found what she was looking for. The dress that was beyond perfect for the young lady. She even grabbed a matching shoes to go with it. Returning to the young lady with her clothes she mentioned. Handing over the items near the privacy area. Veikto had her eyes closed mostly since she knows where the hamper, small bench, sitting stool, and many other things.
Veikto waited by cleaning up mostly around the room. Picking up dirty clothes the young lady had used and tossed. Desk top covered with many items and unorganized. She heard her friend walked out of the privacy area and looked to see her in the dress. She smiled slightly and watched her as she turns around and said. “Would you be so kind, Veikto?”
She nodded in agreement and helped with the lacing. Pulling and giving it a slight tug she was able to finish in seconds. "Looking rather beautiful today." She said looking at her back as her fingers continued checking the laces. "I think your father had requested your presence nearby the tourney grounds. Something about wanting to check the woods to make sure it is safe for the Emperor's arrival." She takes a step back and stood in a appropriate manner. "I heard from the guards there is something lurking around...stalking villagers and patrols." She looked to the window and observed the forest beyond the walls. "Something...dangerous."
Namingtoohard
08-09-2018, 08:33 AM
Amelia waited patiently as her companion worked, lacing up the back of her dress with a speed that was almost enviable. The princess would endure Veikto's ministrations with patience, knowing her repeated checks to be both beneficial and well-intentioned. She would glance back over her shoulder at her companion briefly at the compliment that was hastily thrown her way, a fond and satisfied smile flickering across her features, but Amelia would refrain from responding. Her grin would fade a little as their discussion turned to darker things, and she would turn away again, contemplating Veikto's words briefly. Such news was concerning, but the truth of the matter was yet to be confirmed.
"I'm sure it will be alright. Father must be confident everything is under control if he has invited me to join him out there, despite the supposed risk" she would offer simply, even as she waited. Once Veikto was finished with the laces on her dress, the princess would take a small step forward. She would spend a few moments stretching, testing that they were neither too tight or too lose. Satisfied with the work of her companion, she took a few quick steps towards her dressing table, seating herself in front of the mirror.
“We’ll keep it simple today with the hair. Don’t want to keep my father waiting any more than necessary” Amelia interjected simply, reaching out to pick up a carved comb up from the table, before holding it up for Veikto to take. Truth be told the princess half wanted to head out immediately to see the king, given his request, but he would still want her to look presentable for the remainder of the tournament. Once her companion had begun, she would continue.
“In any case, the tournament is meant to be a day of fun and excitement. I’m not going to let an issue for the guards ruin that if I can help it…and even if something does happen, I’ll have you there to look out for me, Veikto” she would answer whilst she sat patiently, watching her companion by means of the dressing table’s gilded mirror.
MidKnight
08-19-2018, 01:45 PM
Nothing was ever simple with the young lady. She expected to be simple but in reality she wanted something fancy to her taste. She takes the comb and started grooming her hair softly as always. Her hand moved swiftly and the other held the hair as she combed gently. It didn't take her long as she managed to make a style to match the dress she worn. In her mind simple but elegant was her calling.
Listening to her words as she double checked the hair. She takes a step back and placed her hands behind her back. She looked at the mirror and takes in a deep breath. "If you wish for me to protect you m'lady...then I will need a permission paper to access the armory." She remembered she had to check in her sword once she was relieved from her presence. And each time she surrendered that sword she felt weak.
Namingtoohard
08-22-2018, 04:17 AM
The princess allowed herself the luxury of closing her eyes as Veikto took to her task, a small smile curling up the edges of her mouth. This was probably the part of her morning routine that Amelia enjoyed the most, and she was content to just relax and enjoy it. Such was part of the reason that she insisted on even a mild attempt at styling, just as much as her father's expectations. When Veikto was done she spent a few moments turning her head from side to side, examining the results of her servant's work. Like always, Veikto had done an amazing job, performing the task she had been given to the absolute best of her abilities. Satisfied, she gave a simple nod by the way of a response, before rising to her full height again.
"That problem is solved easily enough" Amelia would announce rather simply. Stepping away from the stool, she moved over to her writing desk. Grabbing a fresh piece of parchment, she set it down in the middle of the table, before grabbing a quill from her desk. Cracking open one of the inkwells on hand, she glanced back at Veikto for a moment.
“Bring me a candle, please”
She spent a few moments writing down her message. The content of the letter itself was rather standard, and Amelia worked quickly. She felt no sort of hesitation about allowing her access to a weapon whilst the two of them were together, given the trust that they had built up in their time together. When Veikto arrived, the princess pulled open one of the desk’s drawers, before withdrawing her seal. With quick and fluid motions, she pressed a dob of wax down into the bottom of the parchment, before marking it with the seal, which bore the arms of the royal family. While it didn’t carry as much authority as the seal her father kept, it would doubtless be enough for something like this.
“Come, let us go. You can collect your sword on the way” she answered when she was done, straightening up, before turning for the door.
MidKnight
08-26-2018, 01:26 PM
She gives a slight nod and walked over to another desk. Instead of regular candles like the others this one had a red set. She grabbed one that was already lit and filled with liquid wax. Walking over the young lady's desk and waited by her side as she wrote on the paper. She was swift with the writing and each time she was finished the writing itself was astonishing. Veikto liked how she writes.
When she was done writing she handed over the candle and watched how she carefully poured a small amount perfect for her seal. Receiving the letter and placed it in one of her many pockets. She slowly smiled when she spoke about her sword. Though the armory had a set for servants like her. Though it is very rare to have servants like Veikto. Sword talent, skilled in battle. The Minister thought it would be wise to have the servants not only carry a sword but armor as well. Though they wanted to make it clear to not make look like they wearing it, but concealed.
Her armor was thin like paper but tough to penetrate. It was chain mail and very light. It felt like she wasn't wearing it all. She would follow the lady to the armory but while picking up her sword she took the liberty to quickly dress into the armor. It only took her seconds put it on and fix her clothes. Placing the sword on her back as always and followed the young lady once more.
Her father was sitting on a horse near the tourney grounds. Observing young men and women who prepared to participate in the tourney. Training to perfect their skills in combat and wit. He kept his back straight and slightly looked over his shoulder. "Ah. My daughter has finally come to join her father." His smile was not big but more like a grin. "The elite troops are on their way. They will be assigned as guards while we conduct a field inspection." He looked to his own servant. A woman with long black hair that was combed neatly. Slim body and was dressed almost like Veikto but differently. "Bring a couple of horses for my daughter and her servant." He commanded. The servant nodded and gives a gentle kick to the side of her own horse.
Namingtoohard
08-29-2018, 01:50 PM
The two arrived at the armoury rather quickly following their exodus from the princess' rooms, and Amelia was content to wait patiently for Veikto to retrieve her equipment using the sealed letter she had just written. Even standing there, amongst the racks of weapon and armour, the princess maintained a positively royal air. She carried herself with dignity, not allowing herself to sit or slouch for so much as a moment. There was little resemblance to the more friendly, open girl that she had been in her room a few moments earlier. This was the face that she showed to the world when not hidden behind closed doors. The face that her father was proud to see - one that bespoke the ruler she would one day become, given the chance.
When the two of them finally arrived at the tournament grounds, Amelia was quick to approach her father. As expected, the king was waiting for them, dressed in a manner that was fitting for one of his rank, and already astride a horse. Clearly, the man wasn't planning on wasting any time today. When the two of them approached, even the princess would curtsey briefly in a sign of respect, before straightening up as the man spoke.
"I do hope that we didn't keep you waiting too long, father" Amelia answered simply, before raising an eyebrow as he sent one of the nearby servants for some extra horses. The princess watched them go idly for a moment, before speaking up once again. "If I had expected us to go for a ride, then I wouldn't have picked a dress today" she remarked dryly. Of course, that wasn't going to stop her.
When the servant did arrive, Amelia took the reigns of her horse immediately. Like most nobles, Amelia had been trained to ride at a young age, and thus had plenty of experience. She mounted up quickly and effectively, though she didn't bother trying to settle into the saddle properly. She stayed with both of her legs facing to one side, on account of her clothing. Riding side-saddle was hardly ideal, and she didn't have anywhere near as much practice with it as she did with traditional riding. So long as they kept a relatively relaxed pace, though, she would manage just fine. Once they had kicked things into motion and begun to move Amelia quickly manoeuvred her horse to pull in alongside her father, matching his speed so that the two of them might converse.
"So, do we have any real idea what we'll be facing out there? Veikto gave me a rough idea as to what was going on, but nobody seems to know any specifics. Just rumours and guesses" she queried. Whilst her father had done his best to prepare her for situations like this, the princess was no fighter, and thus wanted the chance to prepare herself mentally for what they might find out there, if at all possible.
MidKnight
09-02-2018, 03:23 PM
Veikto took the reins of a Chestnut Bay from the servant. Mounting on the horse as it neighs. She made sure she was sitting comfortably and waited to follow the young lady and her father. Though most of her attention was on the servant who brought them the horses. She recognized the emblem on her shoulder. It was a royal seal that stated she was an elite warrior one who is supposed to be better than Veikto herself.
"I sent out a patrol yesterday to track the beast that lurks around." He said as he kept his face straight. "They returned and reported multiple livestock was found in the forest near the border of the Elven lands. Ambassador Anhaern Naeralei will also be joining with the Emperor at the tourney grounds. Despite the situation is going on they both insist to come and speculate the warriors. The livestock that was found was nothing but rotten meat and bones...but that is not all they found. Some human remains were also found meaning the beast has killed. There were also notice's in other villages to find missing farmers." His head slightly turned. "And now we found them." Then his eyes diverted back to the road. "The Emperor and the Ambassador will be arriving through this road. Of course with a large contingent force of warriors and mages. Still we must take precaution that the Del Valina Carravagio are not to be messed with." He chuckled softly. "And also the Emperor is a old friend of mine. Despite I am King."
Namingtoohard
09-08-2018, 02:31 AM
Amelia didn't look at her father while he spoke, instead keeping her vision focused on the road ahead as she balanced atop her mount. Her precarious position was somewhat difficult to maintain, and required more attention than riding in a more traditional style. Of course, that wasn't to say that she was ignoring the king completely. Indeed, her brow furrowed and the corners of her mouth turned down as she listened to his explanation. The first question that sprung to mind was whether the unknown beast had killed any humans during its rampage, and if there was any news of missing people in the area. Of course, the king had been quite thorough, and quickly established such facts before she needed to ask.
"So we're to play the welcoming party, then" she offered idly, speaking to herself as much as her father. The princess knew what she had to do; this was hardly the first time that she had played this role, and was confident that she could do it rather well. Further words felt meaningless as the two of them continued the ride down the road, until the ambassador's procession eventually came into sight.
The sight of them was an impressive one; a single gilded carriage, presumably containing their honoured guests. They were surrounded by an impressive number of soldiers and mages, all marching about their charge in formation, and looking resplendent in their polished and clean armour. It made for an impressive sight, even for a princess, who was well accustomed to soldiers that seemed to stand up straighter when she was nearby.
Unfortunately, the first move was not to be hers. Despite her lofty title, her father was the one in control this day. Amelia would need to hang back and wait, let him make the first move, and follow whatever precedent he set.
MidKnight
09-15-2018, 06:58 PM
When the marching came to a complete halt. The King gives a gentle kick and moved forward to see the delegate inside the carriage. He kept his face straight while his eyes looked inside. "Ambassador Anhaern Naeralei." He said gently. "It is good to see you again." Then his eyes moved slowly to the other sitting next to the Ambassador. "And it is good to see you as well...old friend." Then smiled.
The Emperor leans forward in his seat and looked at the King and smiled. "Thought your eye sight would be gone by now." He said. "It appeared I thought wrong." Then chuckled.
"If my eyes were gone I would have someone leading my horse for me." His smile was bigger, "Or I would have grown a stupid conscious and rode blindly." Than the two laughed together. The Ambassador remained quiet with his hands cuffed together.
"And I am going to guess this is your daughter riding side saddle?" The Emperor asked looking further out of the carriage. "By the Gods she has grown bigger since the last time I saw her." He laughed and leans back in his seat. "And the last time I seen you was when you were running around naked as a baby and throwing mud at my robe." He continued laughing.
Veikto remained behind the young lady and remained quiet as well. Still her eyes kept to the forest on full alert for the beast.
Namingtoohard
09-19-2018, 11:27 AM
Amelia urged her horse forward a few steps when her father drew alongside the carriage; staying well and truly behind him, but moving close enough to be within earshot when the king and his guests began to speak. The casual manner adopted by the emperor was somewhat surprising, but the princess suppressed her surprise at the easy familiarity that the two of them seemed to share, despite how long it had been since their last meeting.
The mention of her father as a child was enough to break her considerable composure, however, and Amelia felt an amused smile begin to turn up the corners of her mouth. She didn't bother to hide it, now that the man had spoken to her directly. Truth be told, she had expected the emperor somewhat differently. In her mind she had always pictured him as a formal man, if not outright strict. The emperor presented before her now today was surprisingly jovial, and undoubtedly pleasant.
"Its a pleasure to finally see you again, your excellency. I shall do my best to actually remember your visit this time" she offered, still smiling to herself. A hint of playfulness had crept into her tone, much the same as when she had been speaking to Veikto in private that morning. The emperor's easy nature had her wanting to get in on the fun, even if only a little.
Despite the cheery mood, however, the warnings from earlier that day lingered in the back of her mind. Talk of butchered animals, and human remains in a state no better. A quick glance at Veikto revealed that her servant was watching the trees, expression as stoic as ever. Mere habit, or had she actually picked up on something? Regardless, Amelia turned her attention back to the conversation at hand.
"Perhaps we should push onwards. This is hardly the place for a proper reunion, and we wouldn't want to miss the beginning of the tournament"
She presented her thoughts diplomatically, trying to make it sound like more of a suggestion, and less that she were trying to rush emperor or king. Still, hopefully they would decide to push things into motion again. They should have been perfectly safe, surrounded by so many soldiers and mages.
Why, then, did Amelia still feel so uneasy?
MidKnight
10-13-2018, 12:55 AM
The moment she said it there was silence in the air. Birds stopped chirping like early in the morning. The sounds of bugs in the distance ceased and the wind no longer breezed. Veikto looked around slowly while her hand slowly reached for her sword. Only noises she could hear was the horses breathing which stopped moving as they looked in a certain direction with ears perked. "I must agree with the young lady your highness." She said softly over her shoulder.
The King's servant looked over her shoulder. "I concur as well. We need to leave now your highness."
Suddenly a deep howl echoed in the forest which startled the horses. Everyone's attention looked to where the howl had stirred. The Emperor's expression was stern as he watched carefully. With one hand moving slowly in a certain motion a large number of guards carrying shields and spears surrounded the carriage. "As much as I like to see what is roaming about but even I have to agree with your servants."
The horses jumped scared when a body suddenly fell on the ground from above. Veitko leans forward to stay on the horse as it pranced around in a circle. She examined the body that appeared out of nowhere and realized it was chewed carcass of a human being. "We need to leave!!!" She shouted.
The Emperor waved his hand forward and everybody started moving with haste. Veikto turned to the young lady and with cold steel gaze. "Move!" She said "I'll be right behind you!"
Namingtoohard
10-22-2018, 09:42 AM
Amelia hesitated briefly as the forest around them suddenly fell silent, turning her gaze outwards in nervous ancitipation. The ear-splitting howl that followed was a rude shock, and to more than just the princess herself. Her mount immediately shied, quickly trying to throw off its rider and flee. Within seconds Amelia was struggling to control the skittish horse, and it took her several seconds to bring the beast back under her control.
“What was that?” Amelia muttered softly, speaking more to herself than anyone else around. She could feel panic starting to build in her chest now, but tempered it with the logic of the carragie’s guard. Surely they would be safe, with so many soldiers and mages there, ready to defend the king. Surely no animal would dare to threaten-
That thought, and any preconceived notion of safety, were quickly cut short when a mutilated corpse was dropped from above. Amelia caught no more than a glimpse of it, but the sight was enough to make her breath catch in her throat. Rather predictably, her already unnerved horse tried to bolt again, and as soon as Veikto yelled out, the princess happily obliged it.
Kicking the beast into motion, horse and rider both shot away from the rest of the group. Amelia did her best to steer the animal back towards the castle grounds, but that proved to be about the limit of her capabilities. She quickly felt herself beginning to slip from the horse’s back, riding side-saddle as she was, and gave up the reigns in favour of clinging to the horse’s neck.
After several moments spent desperately clinging to her mount, Amelia took the risk of glancing back behind her, seeking out anyone familiar. Had anyone else bolted as she had? Was her father okay? Where had Veikto ended up?
The decision turned out to be a mistake. An unexpected jolt from the horse sent her tumbling out of the saddle, and Amelia landed hard. It happened so fast that she didn’t even realise until after the fact; one moment she was riding on, and the next she had been reduced to a messy tangle of limbs and fabric. Dazed and winded, her next thoughts came slowly, as if she had to genuinely work to force them through her mind. It took her much too long to recognise the sight of her horse disappearing into the forest without her, quickly disappearing from sight.
MidKnight
11-07-2018, 03:06 PM
The caravan moved quickly to get both the ambassador and the emperor out of harms reach. The sounds of marching in unison. The King was not far behind as they moved quick on their horses but once the young lady had fallen from her horse a large beast bigger than the wagon had rushed out of the woods and snatched the young ladies' horse and dragged into the other side of the woods. The horse whined one second before the neck was snapped as it was dragged away.
Veikto was not far behind and seen what happened. She pulled her reins for her horse to stop to dismount and move quickly to Amelia. Kneeling next to her and helping her stand on her feet. "Come we must move quickly." She said as she guided her back to the horse. The horse started moving nervously suddenly when something came out of the woods again and pranced on it, killing the horse in seconds. Veikto stopped while holding onto the lady for support and stared at the beast that was in front of them.
The monster was big. Horns long as her body, arms bigger than the horse. The beast chewed it's neck ripping it's flesh. It's mouth was covered in blood and skin.
Veikto slowly moved Amelia to some bushes nearby and reached for her sword. She held onto the grip with both hands and ready herself for the next move. The monster sniffed in the air a couple times to turn and see Veikto. It roared fiercely and charged at her with quick speed. Veikto kneels and leans back while striking the beast from below. The monster cried in pain as it slid to the the ground. Veikto looked to the young lady with a stern look. "Run!" She yelled.
Namingtoohard
11-11-2018, 12:45 PM
Dazed and groggy as she was, it took the fallen princess much too long to recognise just what she had seen happen to her horse as it fled, and the significant danger the beast's proximity posed. Her thoughts were still slow in coming, and it was several moments before the cold reality of her situation finally began to sink in. She was stranded a good distance from the castle grounds, without a horse, whilst being pursued by a beast that she had just watched kill a fully grown horse with impunity.
The princess didn't even recognise Veikto's presence right up until the moment her servant dismounted alongside her. Amelia simply knew that one moment she was alone, and that Veikto was suddenly there the next. She clung desperately to Veikto as the woman helped her stand, and leaned on her heavily for support when the two of them began to walk. When the servant deposited her in some bushes nearby, the princess proved very reluctant to let go.
"Surely you don't intend to fi-" she started, only to be silenced by Veikto's yell. Even still, the princess hesitated for a moment, glancing back and forth between her friend and the terrible beast that stood before them. She dry-swallowed once, before speaking again.
"I...just make sure you come back to me, Veikto. I still need you"
Her voice was soft compared to the monster's roaring, and the cacophony of sounds that accompanied it. Truth be told, the princess had no idea if her friend had even heard her or not. Regardless, she would finally do as Veikto had bid at that point, turning away and fleeing into the depths of the forest on foot. She didn't bother sticking to the path this time, instead rushing into the undergrowth good and proper.
Being forced to push her way through the bushes, weave around trees, and climb over roots slowed Amelia's progress some. Had she been possessed of a level head, the princess might have argued that the beast would certainly do a better job of navigating the bush than she, and might even have a way to track her, if it truly desired to hunt her down. Frankly, she was simply praying that Veikto and the other knights and mages would deal with the beast outright, or that it would at least avoid coming after her, for any reason.
Regardless, Amelia simply continued to move until the adrenaline fuelled by her fear began to fade, and fatigue started to wash over her. Only then would she begin to slow, and start to wonder just how she would find her way back, or anyone else would find her.
MidKnight
12-25-2018, 08:21 AM
She was kicked by the beast's leg. Her body flying in the air for several seconds before hitting the ground hard. She groaned in pain and stood back on her feet to see the beast readying itself for another charge. She held onto her sword with one hand while balancing herself with her other hand. The monster attacked once more and the young servant prepared for the final strike. She pushed forward and raised her sword upwards into the belly of the beast and pierced through it's flesh. Blood poured out and covered the woman as she continued pushing forward. In the last moment she was hit by the hind leg. Pushing her once more before the beast fell on the ground and whimpered like a defenseless animal. Veikto slowly stood up and walked to the beast where she watched the animal die from blood loss. Breathing heavy with sweat dripping with the blood on her skin.
"Young lady!" She muttered and finally chased after the one she sworn to protect. It took a while to find her foot prints in the dirt and continued to track her down until she was found. "My Lady!" She hollered as she continued moving forward. "My Lady!!!" She hollered once more.
Namingtoohard
12-28-2018, 12:56 PM
Having regained something of her wits, Amelia settled down to wait once she was relatively certain the beast was no longer chasing after her. The princess tucked herself amongst the roots of a nearby tree and sat back, trying to calm her beating heart and catch what she could of her breath. She waited there for a time, only to eventually be distracted by the unmistakable sound of Veikto's voice calling out to her. Rising to her feet, Amelia glanced about briefly. When the second call came, she quickly headed off in the direction that she thought it had come from.
"Veikto!" The princess yelled in return, shouting out to try and give her friend some indication as to where she currently was, even as she forced her way through the undergrowth. When she bust through the foliage and caught sight of her companion, the feeling of relief was instantaneous.
"Thank the lord, Veikto I -" she started rather simply, before cutting herself off when she realised that her companion was covered in blood. All of a sudden, she found herself overcome with a rather different type of concern. "All that blood. Please tell me that you aren't hurt, and that terrible beast is dead" she asked softly, suddenly sounding much more hesitant.
MidKnight
01-05-2019, 12:40 PM
Her concern was relief when the young lady had revealed herself. After tracking her she realized the young lady did not take off very far. But when she stopped and looked at her with concern it worried her. Veikto looked herself to realize the blood covered her from head to toe. She tried brushing or wiping off the blood but stains remained on her clothing. "It's the beast's blood my lady." She expressed with a soft voice. "I'm just a little bruised but not badly injured." She looked around and can hear birds chirping once more.
"We better get you back to his majesty before he sends a legion of troops to find you." She looked over her should and found the horse tracks where her horse was killed. "I can lead us out of here but it will take a while since your horse took off at a very far distance." She sheathed her sword and chuckled softly. "I never seen a horse take off so fast...and someone who can manage to stay on for that long." She looked to the young lady and sighs heavily and walked towards her. She checked her dress and brushed off the dirt and leaves carefully. "You know how to a make more than I." She joked as she brushed the twigs and leaves out of her hair.
Namingtoohard
01-10-2019, 03:12 AM
Amelia’s relief was palpable when her Veikto confirmed that all the blood coating her clothes was not her own, and instead belonged to the slain beast. The princess would have asked after her father next, but her servant quickly waylaid those fears too, possibly without even realising it. For the first time since the monster had appeared, the knot of fear in her chest seemed to loosen and disappear. In fact, she almost felt like laughing. Was that shock, perhaps? Or was the knowledge that the danger had passed without consequence simply enough to lighten her mood? Now that she knew everyone of import was unhurt, she could view the entire incident through the rose-tinted glasses of hindsight.
“Even so, I feel motivated to try and stay on even longer next time. For obvious reasons” she answered, a smile turning up the corners of her mouth. Indeed, an amused giggle quickly slipped from her lips as Veikto turned her attention to her dress, which was far from pristine. “You may have a point. I don’t think my tailor is going to be very pleased with me” she conceded rather simply. Still, one dress was an acceptable casualty, considering what could have been lost that day.
“Come, we should probably get moving. I don’t know about you, but I could definitely use a bath.” Pausing briefly, she threw another brief glance at Veikto’s bloodstained garb. “On second thought, scratch that. You could definitely use one” the princess pointed out. Her nose wrinkled, but amusement danced in her eyes. She didn’t say it, but a part of Amelia didn’t want to be caught in the forest at night after what she had just experienced.
When the two of them finally began walking she relapsed into silence for a little bit, following Veikto diligently as the servant made good on her promise and led her out of the forest. After several moments of silent thought, she’d finally speak up again.
“Now that I think about it, I’ve never seen a creature like that before. What was it, and where did it come from? I can’t help but wonder”
MidKnight
01-29-2019, 09:44 PM
She struggled for a moment when something had pinched on her side. Pressing her palm on her hip only revealed more blood but thinking it was still the beasts' blood. She followed the path of hoof prints and each step felt painful than the last. She heard the Young Lady's question of what kind of creature that was. Taking a moment to think she looked over her shoulder and stopped for a moment to catch her breath. "I have heard of rare mythical beasts that lurk in the isolated areas. Sometimes they can be aggressive if provoked by something dangerous." Her eyes looked to the sky and observed the clouds. "I think the beast was aggressive and attacked because it felt threatened in it's territory or was forced out." She lets out a soft sigh as she pressed her hand on her hip once more. "I do not know much about mythical creatures but only to be stories told by the elderly." She let out a small scoff. "Who knew they were right."
The pain was beginning to become worse and soon she was forced to kneel to the ground. Groaning in pain and keeping her hand held to her side. "I guess I was not fast enough." She blurted out as she lay to her side. Searching where the blood kept coming from, she noticed a tear in her clothing. She pulled the tear forcing it to become bigger. There was a gnash on her side and it was bleeding badly. Groaning in pain and placed her back on the ground to relieve some pain. She leans her head back a little to breathe more easily. "I need you to seal the wound." She looked to her friend. "Gather some wood...build a fire...and use my sword to use as a brand." Reaching for her sword and hands it to her. "I don't have a needle and thread so you'll have to sear the wound." She groans again. "I think I've lost far too much blood."
Namingtoohard
02-03-2019, 07:36 AM
"Our people have trodden these woods for years. If the thing was merely defending its territory, why would it only have started to attack our people recently? No, something must have -"
The princess' introspection was cut short as her companion fell to her kness mid-stride. A cry of alarm slipped from Amelia's lips and she quickly rushed to her friend's side, kneeling down beside her. All the colour bled from her face as she eyed the wound that her friend had suffered, and the panic and fear that she had felt earlier quick returned, much stronger than it had been before. When Veikto spoke, however, Amelia listened. The reminder that she was her friend's only hope did a lot to calm her nerves, and she promptly let out a shaky breath, doing what she could to recover her composure.
"I'll be right back. Just...put as much pressure on that as you can"
With that, the princess rose to her feet, turning her attention to the woods that surrounded them. She quickly set about gathering up all the dead wood that she could, lumping it in a pile not that fur from where Veikto had fallen. She worked quickly as she could manage, paying no mind to the possibility of splinters. Given their surroundings, it wasn't long until she had gathered a rather decent sized pile.
Seating herself by her friend's side, Amelia quickly turned her attention to the pile of wood she had gathered. With no flint in hand, she could think of only one way to light it, and to quickly get it to a necessary temperature. The princess extended a hand towards the wooden pile, her eyes half-closed. After a few moments of silent concentration, a soft golden glow began to surround her form. The princess muttered a few words under her breath softly, before the pile of wood burst into flame. Almost instantaneously, she had a roaring fire hot enough to make her sweat by simply sitting nearby. The sudden exertion left her feeling a little woozy, but she forced the sensation down. There were more important things to worry about.
That done, the princess retrieved Veikto's sword, before turning towards the fire. Holding the blade aloft in a clumsy grip, she hesitated before dunking it into the flames.
"Veikto...are you sure about this? It'll hurt terribly, and scar something awful" she asked, voice soft. It wasn't like they had many other options, but Amelia couldn't help but feel a little bit hesitant.
MidKnight
03-13-2019, 02:41 AM
Veikto kept her hand on the wound giving it pressure to help stop the bleeding but it kept coming out. Groaning in pain and gritted her teeth while her toes in her boots curled from the intense pain. She watched her friend while she continued doing what was asked of her. She tried to sit up to get a better view but the gash was unbearable. She yelped in pain again and laid on her back. Her eyes looks to the young lady when she was asked about the situation.
She nodded and her breathing was heavy. "If this wound doesn't get treated then I'll risk of dying from bleeding." She started to unbutton her uniform and slowly and was able to get the top uniform off while only wearing her undershirt. The wound was more open to see then it was before. Her eyes looked to the young lady. "Don't worry about scarring it." She muttered softly revealing partial of her back which showed more scars of her previous past.
Folding the top uniform as a pillow and laid it behind the back of her head. She looked around and finds a small twig to use as something to bite on. "I can handle it." She said again and dusted the twig and breathed in heavily.
Namingtoohard
03-19-2019, 06:06 AM
Amelia pursed her lips as she listened to her companion's explanation, concern and uncertainty dancing behind her eyes, but she refrained from offering up any further objections. If the choice was between letting her companion die and causing her some measure of pain and discomfort...well, it was hardly a choice at all, especially if Veikto herself was asking her to do it. The princess could only hope that she had the stomach to hold the blade in place when her companion started to writhe and cry out beneath the heated metal's scarlet kiss.
Speaking of the blade, she spent a few moments eyeing it critically, focusing her attention on the small section of metal that was directly within the flames. Had their situation not been so dire, she may have found herself worrying about potential damage to the metal's temper. As it was, though, it seemed they had little choice. Still, as the two of them waited, Amelia found her attention drifting. A sidelong glance let her gaze wander over Veikto's torso, first at the open wound, and then at the myriad of older scars that marred her flesh. The price of a life of combat, she supposed. After a few seconds, however, she realised that she was staring, and quickly looked away.
She spent the next few moments building up the fire, adding a few more bits of wood. Before long she was recoiling from the heat rolling off the blaze, and the relevant section of blade was glowing a healthy red.
"There's no putting it off any longer, I suppose. It isn't going to get any hotter, and the sooner we stop the bleeding the better" she muttered, almost to herself. Slowly and carefully, Amelia reached out and grabbed the blade by the hilt, plucking it from the flames. Her grip on the thing was awkward, but secure. She took a deep breath then, trying to calm her nerves and steel herself for what came next.
"Alright, on three. One...two...three!"
With a brief moment of warning to allow both of them to ready themselves, Amelia would press the flat of the burning sword against Veikto's wound, and promptly try to ignore the smell and sound of sizzling flesh that followed...along with any unpleasant sounds or other signs of discomfort that might come from Veikto herself.
MidKnight
04-11-2019, 04:07 AM
She was breathing a little heavy as she felt the heated blade near her body. She nodded and closed her eyes and held a tight grip with her fists. Once the burning metal touched her wound and made a sizzling noise. Veikto groaned and screamed through the twig in her mouth. Her feet squirmed several times from the intense pain that wormed through her body. Her head leaning back and screamed again. The twig in her mouth broke in several places from the bite but held in place.
Once the moment had passed and Veikto laid on her body back in place. She was breathing slowly and felt relieved from the crucial pain she had to endure. Spitting out the twig to breathe more easier and looked to her friend. "Good." She managed to say. "That's one way of healing a wound." She chuckled and leans her head back again to rest. "Now." She gulped from her dry throat. "We need a ointment that will help." She wanted to touch her wound but it was still hot and burning.
"Find some herbs. Rosewater and Lavenders." She looked around their surroundings. "Easy to find or should be." She chuckled. "Purple for Lavender." She begin describing. "Rosewater looks like a rose but pink." She groaned and her brows frowned. "But hard to find...just need one or two." Her body begin to cover with sweat. "And find a river...bring back some water and a fish if you can...we're gonna have to camp out here for the night." Her head laid still but her eyes started to slowly close. "Keep my sword with you....you'll...need it." Her breathing started to slow and she struggled to keep her eyes open.
Namingtoohard
04-23-2019, 02:46 AM
The smell of roasting flesh and Veikto's screaming were almost unbearable, and it took all of Amelia's self control to keep the knife pressed up against her wound. When it was done she couldn't pull away fast enough, and had to suppress the urge to turn and vomit. Tears prickled in the corners of her eyes, and it took her a moment to regain her composure enough to turn her gaze back towards Veikto again. As it was, she pointedly avoided looking at the damage she had just done, the puckered and burned scar she had just left behind.
She wanted to argue that there had to be a better way of accomplishing their goal. That she could run back to the castle and get help, bring someone here to carry Veikto away and give her the medical treatment she needed. Such objections quickly died on her lips, however. What were the odds that she would be able to find her way back to the castle, and then back to this exact spot? Besides, as it was, the idea of leaving Veikto just long enough to gather supplies already left a bad taste in her mouth. With that in mind, Amelia bit back her objections and nodded.
"Purple lavender. Pink roses. Water and fish" she repeated, as much to herself as to Veikto. Trying to make sure that she had it right, and commit the list to memory. She was virtually clueless out here, in the forest, but the first two certainly sounded like they would be easier to sort out, so she would start there. Her eyes widened as her companion trailed off, though, panic flaring to life in her chest. Sword and list forgotten for the moment, she reached out for her friend, grabbing one of her shoulders firmly with one hand, and grabbing her nearest arm with the other.
"H-hey...somehow I don't think you falling asleep is a good idea at this point, Veikto. Stay with me, alright?" she asked, trying to keep her voice from cracking, with marginal success.. "Just...talk to me, okay? I'll stay close enough to hear. Please"
MidKnight
05-15-2019, 09:31 AM
She fought hard to keep her eye lids open and her breathing was slower than usual. She moved her eyes around and looked to their surrounding area. Shakes her head and takes slow steady breathes. Her hand reached up and grabbed the young lady by her shoulder. "You need to be quick." She finally says.
Her forehead covered in sweat and dirt. Her hair in a tangled mess and skin covered in blood. "Get enough fish to keep you fed." She cleared her throat from the dryness. "And keep the fire burning if you can." She lays back slowly while her eyes drift heavily. "I...I'll try and...." Her eyes wondered under her lids. "And...and stay awake." Her hand reaches up and gently caressed the young ladies cheek. "Keep yourself cleaned." She chuckled softly. "No lady in your position should look...like a peasant." Her motion slowed and eyes closed while her chest was breathing steadily.
Namingtoohard
05-22-2019, 02:18 AM
The princess wanted to say more, but cut herself off as her wounded companion began to drift off to sleep. Her eyes widened a little, panic and fear flooding her system in equal measure. She reached out for her friend, intending to try and rouse her back into consciousness, only to pause as the steady rise and fall of Veikto's chest caught her attention. Relief flooded the princess' system, and she let out a shaky sigh. So long as she didn't slip from this life and into the next, sleep was perfectly acceptable. Good, probably. Amelia didn't want to leave her alone whilst wounded and undefended, but it seemed that there was nothing else for it. With sword in hand, the princess rose to her feet and turned away from her sleeping friend, heading out into the surrounding forest to try and accomplish the goals that had been set for her.
By the time darkness fell, Amelia had returned to their makeshift campsite. The princess had been relieved to find Veikto was still sleeping there peacefully, undiscovered by any more predators that might have been stalking the forest, and still on this side of death's gates. Her success with the tasks she had been given was mixed, however. Gathering the herbs Veikto had requested had proved simple enough, and Amelia had gathered some dead branches that would serve to keep the fire alive and fed whilst she was at it. The princess had also managed to find a small stream that served as a source of fresh water. Fishing had proved beyond her, though. She was simply too inexperienced, too unused to physical labour, to manage it. Instead, she had gathered a handful of small berries that she had found growing nearby, with hopes that they would provide a worthwhile substitute. She knew enough to avoid eating them without knowing what they were, for fears they might be poisonous, but hopefully Veikto would be able to tell her. For the time being, she simply went hungry.
Despite her companion's advice, she looked a right mess. Amelia herself was covered with dirt, and her dress was both stained and wrinkled from the day's events. She sat at the edge of the fire, poking at the embers with a long stick she had found, whilst occasionally feeling it pieces of the dead wood she had gathered earlier. She threw the occasional glance at her companion, a glum expression on her face, whilst she contemplated the possibility of trying to fashion some sort of bed or padding out of what she could find.
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