La llum i l'anima [Mascherari & Caeli]
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		<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Non-Adult Sandbox =&gt; Non-Adult Roleplays =&gt; Topic started by: Caeli on December 06, 2009, 10:25:37 pm</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:25:37 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Continuing this story from another site. :-)<br>Originally posted 2005-2007.<br><br><br><br><strong>Prologue Coming Eventually...</strong>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:26:53 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/1d/Lhurriel_2.png)</div>Lhurriel sat back with a laugh, waving away the offers of ale and other drink. Though this was by no means her first official assignment as the kingdom's youngest mage, it was the first ordained by the king. Despite the people who didn't have much reason to like the man, they did like her, and were glad to hear that she was being sent off on such an important mission as retrieving the king's amulet. Public knowledge said that thieves had stole into the palace treasury, stolen the amulet and some gold besides, and then made off with the objects towards the border, hoping to get out before pursuers could catch up. In magicycles, the task was easy; however, Ree knew that given time and not a frozen trail, she could trace the magic of the amulet anywhere.<br><br>"No, no more!" Ree shook her head but couldn't keep back her good-natured smiles, again brushing off more offers of drink. Her closest friends - a rather disreputable bunch of honorable thieves, street rats, and entertainers - insisted, but she held firm, knowing that getting drunk (not an easy task, since her water magic diluted most of the alcohol anyway) before meeting her hunting partner would probably not be the best idea. First impressions were everything, or so people said - Ree didn't want the man getting the impression that she was a happy-go-lucky fool who drank away her nights at the Lower City inn.<br><br>The place was in the cheaper districts of the capital city, but despite its surroundings, continued to be a very upstanding, highly regarded place. Soldiers, guards, and sailors frequented the place during all seasons of the year, and rarely were there extra rooms for new guests or visitors to the city. Lhurriel Keladar, His Majesty's youngest and only powerful female resident mage, was often seen frequenting the area, but as one of the denizens of the Lower City. She frequently transformed into one of the waitresses of the Inn, flirting freely but lightly like an impertinent City wench.<br><br>"I'm to the lobby to wait for the King's guard," she laughingly told everyone, making her excuses and bowing her way from the room. At the moment, though, she was the Master Mage in her full glory, traveling robes molded to her lithe body and eyes shining with excitement at this new adventure. It was to be naught but a simple errand - follow the thieves, get the amulet back, come back. Easy and simple. At the gentle purr of half a dozen magicycles, Lhurriel opened the door to the Inn and looked down the road. As she expected, a small group of soldiers approached on excellent models of magicycles, all wearing the King's colors. Lhurriel waited for all of them to stop in front of the inn before she stepped down into the cobble-stoned street and bowed deeply to the paladin and his entourage of guards.<br><br>"It's an honor to meet you all. I am Lady-Mage Lhurriel."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:31:12 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden was, naturally, honored to take up His Majesty's request to hunt down the sorry souls who dared to steal from the treasury. Thieving gold from the kingdom was one thing but to make off with the Royal Amulet was nigh the highest form of treason. The only thing worse were an outright defiance to the crown and it's kingdom.<br><br>Sir Kaeden Alydarr was the first to be summoned for the task of retrieving the stolen treasure, and it was far from Kae to not serve his kingdom. He was fiercly devoted to knighthood. Well trained and highly regaurded among the ranks, as well as those of any level nobility. Even so, he was not affected by his fame. His heart was always with his sword. Since he was but a young lad, barely of age to be a squire, he knew what it was he would do with his life: ride strong under the banners of the kingdom.<br><br>And so that banner stood high above his head as he dismounted the cycle he arrived on, the flagman hot on his heels. He approached a young woman who stood at the entrance of the pub. She was clad in clothing fit for travel and seemed as though she had an aire of magic about her; perhaps she was who he was to meet with for the journey after the amulet. His assumption was proven so when she bowed in introduction.<br><br>"We are the royal guard of His Majesty, King Roland." he replied with a much lighter bow, "I am Sir Kaeden Alydarr."<br><br>He looked upon the girl with trained eyes, examining her in usefulness rather than character, as he was trained to do so. She seemed built well enough to be able to pull her own weight through out the journey, though, more would be assessed as the subject of her magical abilities would arise.<br><br>"Are you ready to be off?" he asked curtly, "It would be best if we could leave immediately."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:33:44 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"Certainly, Sir Alydarr. But for stealth's sake, could we not dismiss the flagman, send him back to the Palace? We've not a need to proclaim our identity to every passing traveler on the road, and risk robbery besides. I'm sure it wouldn't be beyond us to fight any highwaymen off, but it's an annoyance we could easily avoid."<br><br>Lhurriel stared right back at the knight without blinking, her eyes steady and firm. Nobody was more confident in themselves than she; she had not trained for almost sixteen years to be uncertain of her skill and talent. She had both in plenty - talent inherited from her Border Clan ancestors, and skill trained into her ever since she'd been a toddler of two years old, playing with whirling globes of ice.<br><br>He looked quite capable, as would any knight of King Roland. Strong, much more well muscled than she; then again, Lhurriel knew that in any fight against an armed man, her small throwing daggers would have little use unless she could throw them somewhere lethal. Preferably the throat or eyes; if she was unlucky and the man had a helm, her obvious weapon would be her magic. And Lhurriel had no qualms about using magic against her opponents, oh no.<br><br>Lhurriel grimaced as she remembered the state of her magicycle. It had formerly been one of the latest models, given to her by one of her previous amours, Lord Eversleigh, Corsair Atadel. He was the manager and owner of one of the kingdom's best manufacturers of magicycles, and in return for some of the fastest and best 'cycles for mages, Lhurriel got called frequently to his estate to help him purify and cut special crystals for the custom-order magicycles. She didn't mind, so much - the tradeoff was well worth it.<br><br>However, at the moment her magicycle was sitting in the trash heap, wrecked because some careless and arrogant knight had tried to use it over the obstacle course. That was what she got for not spelling the thing so that only she could use it.<br><br>"Erm..." Lhurriel squirmed uncomfortably, suddenly chagrined. "I apologize for the inconvenience, Sir Alydarr, but yesterday one of the knights at the palace hacked into the engine of my magicycle and attempted to ride it over the more difficult obstacle course. Needless to say, my magicycle didn't survive the trip. 'Twas Sir Morath. Perhaps you know him. Anyway, I was hoping I could catch a ride on yours, at least until we get to Lord Eversleigh's estate, about a day's travel away along our road. He's got a new model ready for me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:35:37 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>There was a glint of amusement in his dark eyes when the woman asked for the flagman to be dismissed, though it would have been difficult for anyone to notice through his curtain of raven strands that fell about the frame of his face.<br><br>"There is no need to worry over such a thing, Lady-Mage." he reassured her, "He will remain within city limits. We understand the delicacy the mission before us requires and the haste that is necessary. I will allow little to no chance of any delay."<br><br>With that Kaeden turned about and addressed the very man they spoke of.<br><br>"Christopher, return to His Majesty and inform him that the rendezvous was successful. We leave immediately for the amulet."<br><br>The man stood at attention at the order and gave a solid salute to Kaeden before returning to his magicycle.<br><br>"Sir." Chistopher called, "Good luck."<br><br>Kaeden gave him a nod and the flagman turned to carry out his orders. With the flagman returning to the castle, the numbers of the escort had reduced to 5, including Kae. He was fully confident in the abilities of his soldiers and new that 5 would be more than enough to sustain strength should anything happen along the way. He turned his attention to the remaining numbers.<br><br>"Our first stop is the Eversleigh estate." he informed them, "We will decide which direction to go from there."<br><br>They all nodded their understanding and started their magicycles, preparing to begin their days ride. All were dressed lightly for royal guard: thick leather boots, strong oxhide leggings and light white tunics, though underneath was a layer of chainmail. Sir Alydarr never believed in wearing full armor. To him, full steel-clad soldiers meant a war was near and though he devoted himself to knighthood, he thought better to keep as far away from the idea of war unless it was inescapable. So, he would always wear the versitile clothing everyday, unless events call for a ceremonial uniform.<br><br>Returning his attention to Lhurriel, he offered his hand to help her onto his cycle, "Shall we, Lady?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:36:34 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel had to admire how efficient and highly regarded Kaeden was amongst the other soldiers. They snapped to attention whenever he even glanced at them, and all of the guards were crisp and orderly. All of them obviously respected Kaeden very much - Lhurriel hadn't heard of the man herself, but she figured that he had to be rather high-ranked and had done some very credible deeds in the past, for the King to send him on this mission with her.<br><br>"Thank you, Sir- Oh! I almost forgot." Lhurriel dug into the pockets of her midnight-blue robe, which hugged her lithe body snugly and allowed her to move her body freely. Traveling robes were cut up the back and front several inches past the knees to allow for easy movement, and to allow one to sit unimpeded on a magicycle. Finally, she pulled out a small packet of crystals from the belts of one of her dagger sheaths, strapped to the side of her leg.<br><br>"Compliments of my magic. I've been working on these crystals for the past week, spelling them for speed and keeping the heat flow of the crystals away so that we don't have to stop as often." Lhurriel proceeded to remove the front covers protecting the crystals of the magicycles, and with a bit of magic made the crystal that was currently running absorb her pieces. Almost immediately, the crystal flared and brightened, and a light surge of power shifted the 'cycles into a higher gear.<br><br>"Okay. Now we can go." With a gracious smile for Kaeden, Lhurriel took his hand and swung her leg over the back of the cycle. She pulled on the light blue-tinted goggles that she wore when riding the cycles over her eyes, and magic made the scanner built into the crystals of the goggles flare to life, as the miniature scanning systems began reading mage signatures in their surroundings.<br><br>"And it's Lhurriel, Sir Alydarr. I've never cared much for titles."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:37:02 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>Kaeden blinked curiously as she reached into her layers of clothing to pull out the pouch of crystals. He watched intently as she fiddled with the cycles. Once the magicycle surged with newfound energy, Kaeden was more than certain now that the mage's ability. There weren't all too many mages who were able to work with the power crystals for magicycles and get them to be strong enough to work highly efficiently for very long. Indeed she must be an extremely schooled magic worker.<br><br>"Thank you..." he said as he mounted the cycle in front of her, "Lhurriel."<br><br>Once he was seated on the cycle he reached into a small pouch at his belt and pulled out a thin leather thong to tie his hair back. As he was preparing for the extended journey, so did his men, securing pouches, tightening straps, and adjusting their seated positions. Kaeden place on a pair of dark glasses, shield his eyes from the bright sunlight as well as the wind during the ride, and waved a command to move forward. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:37:23 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel gave a soft squeak of surprise as the magicycle accelerated, grinning as she felt the wind whip her hair and her robe back behind her. Before the speed became too fast for reckless movement, she tucked the ends of her robe around her legs, so they didn't flap around dangerously behind her. After getting settled again, she kept her arms wrapped around Kaeden's waist, not surprised to feel the hard metal links of chainmail beneath his clothes. Such a professional...<br><br>They passed the outskirts of the city and several forests in a blur, the countryside speeding past the small group of soldiers and mage as they whipped past bends in the road and signs and the occasional waystation or house on their magicycles. Lhurriel sighed in contentment and blinked sleepily, suddenly realizing that her magic had had another positive effect on the crystals - their ride was a lot smoother than before she'd&nbsp; tampered with the cyrstals.<br><br><em>Perhaps it has something to do with the purifying effects of magic...</em> Lhurriel thought hazily to herself, reaching a hand back to smother a yawn. She smiled and couldn't resist a grin when she saw several children ahead, playing happily in the road. At their mother's admonishment, they quickly moved out of the way and watched as the cycles approached with wide, awed eyes, huge smiles lighting up their little faces.<br><br>Grinning, Lhurriel leaned forward slightly. "Slow down a bit, would you?" She called over the wind. She narrowed her eyes critically, measuring distance and speed, and spun a bit of magic out of herself, making small, floating globes of magic appear in the air beside her, one for each little boy and girl watching them. As they passed, Lhurriel blew them a kiss, an exuberant, spirited smile on her face. The action of her arm waving towards the children caused the globes of magic to fly towards them, floating gently down. Lhurriel triggered another small spell to make them mallaeble, so that they could poke their fingers into the magic balls and stretch them, and still the magic would revert to little floating balls. For the mother, Lhurriel tossed a larger mage-light that would last them at least two months, and would save them at least that much in crystal energy.<br><br>It cost her a little magic, but Lhurriel always loved children. It was so worth it to see the delighted smiles on their faces, to hear the shouts of joy as the magicycles raced past and down the road. Such flashy shows of magic never cost her much, and Lhurriel considered it her duty to help the simple folk of the kingdom in whatever way she could. Not only would the small magelights keep the children out of trouble, but they could also be used to light the home when it grew dark.<br><br>Besides, Corsair had plenty of lapis lazuli stones on his estate for her to augment her magic. Magelights didn't cost much at all, and what little energy she used could easily be replenished when they stopped for the night.<br><br>"Thank you!" Lhurriel called to Kaeden.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:37:51 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden gave the mage a backward glance and a brisk nod before revving the throttle on his magicycle. It didnt take long for him to catch up to the others who had kept up their constant speed. Once he had settled back into formation Kaeden slowed to keep pace with the others.<br><br>Kaeden had taken quick notice of how improved the magicycles performance was, as Lhurriel had said it would be, with the new crystals. He had never heard the machine purr so well before, nor handle so easily. Glancing at the crystal he saw it showed little sign of fatigue, though they had been traveling for several hours already. Being a lifelong knight his dedication was elsewhere, but he did know a thing or two about magicycles, (however little it was,) and he was impressed.<br><br>The woman had to have been well schooled in the arts to be able to create energy crystals as efficient as those. Crystal working was certainly not a trade that was easily picked up. It took many years of study and apprenticeship to be able to understand the properties and function of the crystals as well as how to create them. Kaeden was most certainly confident in the mage's ability, though; making crystals and hunting down thieves were two different things.<br><br>The conditions of the journey were that of a perfect mid-spring day. The day was warming and winds from the ride were enough to keep perfectly cooled as one traveled the road. The sun hovered lazily in the bright blue afternoon sky as though it were contented to watch as the immaculate white puffs of clouds pranced about. Though the conditions were brilliant, it was not wise to travel an entire day.<br><br>Kaeden began to wave commands to two of the escorts and as they approached a fork up the road, the two broke off toward the northbound road from their eastern path. As soon as they had gone, he waved instructions to the remainder of his soldiers and they nodded their understanding. Not too long after did they veer off the road toward a thin grove of trees. Once they were under the protection of the cold shade, they slowed to a stop and cut the engines to their magicycles.<br><br>"We will rest here for a while." Kaeden explained to his mage passenger as he stepped down from his cycle, "I sent the two others up north to the river for some drinking water. We will have a bit of food once they return, until then you are free to do as you like. But before we go any further, I would like to introduce our companions."<br><br>As Lhurriel was on her feet once again, he motioned a hand toward the thin blonde to his right.<br><br>"This is Rohwik." At the sound of his name, the man turned his attention to the pair. He had a lankier build in comparison to all others, but he was still strong and well toned, "He is one of the scouters that accompany us on this journey. The other scout is Tolan."<br><br>"It is a pleasure, Lady." Rohwik greeted with a low and respectful bow, "But please, call me Hawk. All friends do."<br><br>Just then, the other soldier who had wondered off on his own earlier returned and Kaeden placed a brotherly hand on his shoulder. This caught the man by light surprise, which was immediately replaced by a bit of confusion.<br><br>"This is William," he said with a stern shake of the soldier's shoulder, "He is able to assess any enemy's strengths and faults, whether man or beast." Kaeden spoke with sincere pride in his men and their abilities.<br><br>"Or woman." Snickered Rohwik in addition as he strolled by.<br><br>He didn't get far at all before he received a swift boot to the rear, compliments of William himself. A soft smile curled onto the corner of Kaeden's lips as he watched his comrades teased one another.<br><br>"It is certainly an honor to accompany you and Sir Alydarr on this mission for His Magjesty, Lady Mage." William bowed as well, "Sir, with our current progress we should be able to reach the Lord's estate before sunset."<br><br>"Good. I am certain Lord Atadel would be gracious enough to let us stay the night." William nodded to his superior and to their Lady companion before going on about his business, "The last of us is Ghestin, whom you had seen with a red cloth strip tied around his right forearm." Kaeden concluded, "He's a formidable man to cross steel with and has a wit to match. Anyhow, should you need anything, Lhurriel, do not hesitate to ask any of us."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:38:49 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel, used to traveling on the road for long periods of time, drifted to sleep for not a few minutes. Her arms were still linked tightly around Kaeden's back from habit, but her mind drifted into a period of rest as the sun glowed brightly in the sky, its warmth soaking into their bodies as the magicycles purred softly in the countryside. Even in her half-conscious state, Lhurriel could vaguely hear birdsong and nature's natural sounds; once trained, no warrior or mage could ever be truly relaxed and unguarded, even in sleep.<br><br>She jerked herself awake when she felt her ride stop, and had to drag a sleeve across her dream-glazed eyes before she was fully awake. She listened intently as Kaeden introduced the other guards, but was a bit put out that she didn't recognize any of them. Lhurriel didn't spend much time with the Palace soldiers, but she went to their training fields regularly, and she was well on the way to being known throughout the palace as one of the best magicycle fighters.<br><br>At the Palace, there were several varying difficulties of obstacle courses for soldiers and guards to hone their magicycle-battle skills. On one of the most advanced courses, there were even simulated battle exercises, complete with sun-powered machines that fired holographic grenades and blades at a magicycle driver. Though the holograms didn't actually cause damage, mages often magicked them so that the effect was similarly simulated for those who dared to challenge themselves. So far, Lhurriel had been the only mage and one in a few warriors to make a run through the advanced course relatively unscathed.<br><br>Still, Lhurriel was always happy to make the acquaintance of other guards and soldiers from the palace.<br><br>"'Tis <em>my</em> pleasure, Hawk. I've worked with several scouts in some of my past missions, and I've always found them to be a great help." Lhurriel gave a gracious, thankful smile and bow for each of the soldiers that she was introduced to, glad to see that they were not uncomfortable in her company.<br><br>"Please... call me Lhurriel," she implored of each of them. "I'm simply not comfortable with titles and all... and I'm really not lady enough to be called as such. Lhurriel is fine." Remembering Kaeden's comment about Lord Atadel, Lhurriel turned to him.<br><br>"I'll contact Corsair- I mean, Lord Atadel - right now, and warn him about our arrival. I need to speak with him about my magicycle, anyway." With a regal nod, Lhurriel spun on her heel and walked along the line of trees, trying to find one suitable for her purposes. When she found a large, thick-trunked tree, solid and straight, she stood in front of it, an impassively blank look on her face. Lhurriel pulled a thread of water magic from her personal supply, sending streams of water twisting and spinning around her body. The detached look in her eyes showed that this was a spell she used often and easily. Flicking her fingers in the direction of the tree, Lhurriel made herself comfortable on the ground, sitting cross-logged as a panel of ice solidified and formed against the tree.<br><br>More magic, another spell - Lhurriel had to increase her concentration, shutting out the stares of the guards and Sir Alydarr in order to cast the communication spell. Making a wild guess, the mage grinned as an image of Corsair's face appeared in the ice, a black headband holding back his rich black hair as he worked on a magicycle. Even though he could very easily transform into a lord, Corsair was definitely not averse to working alongside his men on magicycle repairs and improvements.<br><br>"Corsair! Sir Alydarr wanted me to warn you that we were arriving tonight, probably just before sunset." Lhurriel had the supreme pleasure of watching the young lord whirl around, and his eyes alight with pleasure at the sight of her in the mirror that he left positioned in his workshop.<br><br>"Ree! Of course, of course, tell him it's fine. I've prepared extra rooms in the house like you suggested, and told Cook to make us some extra food for dinner tonight. I'm assuming you also want to hear about your new magicycle?" The man grinned wickedly at her, blue eyes sparkling with mirth. Lhurriel smothered a shout of laughter and nodded, leaning forward with her elbows on her knees.<br><br>"We finally got a hold of the <em>soharii</em> crystal that you managed to pull out of the mines for us. It's amazing, Ree-" Corsair's eyes shone brightly, clearly passionate about his work though everyone knew he didn't need to personally involve himself in the manufacturing, "You've outdone yourself. The quality of this crystal is almost as perfect as you can get, considering you hardly even needed to smooth out the rough edges. Once you come tonight, all you'll have to do is cast your usual panoply of spells and wards on it, and it'll run like a dream. Your magicycle," he continued, "Has basic mage controls on it. Made of our lightest and strongest alloy, the way I know you like it, and this time I programmed it so that it can only be turned on by you or someone you've given a bit of your magic onto. No more accidents like Sir Morath, ah?"<br><br>Lhurriel's eyes widened at the mention of each new feature that he'd installed - he'd gone much further with her custom model than she'd requested. She wondered how much he was going to charge her - she wasn't as rich as he, certainly!<br><br>"No, of course not. Thank you for the work, Corsair... but I know this was a rush job, and all of those custom features must cost a fortune. How much do I owe you?"<br><br>"Two hundred gold pieces." Lhurriel gasped and had to struggle to keep herself from punching the ice she'd used for a medium. That WAS a fortune!<br><br>"One hundred," Lhurriel said flatly. Most custom models of magicycles that Corsair worked on cost only about fifty gold pieces at the most.<br><br>"Rush job, darling. Try again." Lhurriel wanted to growl, but she settled for an irritated glare, resigned. It <em>had</em> been a rush job... he'd managed to build the thing in three days, after all. Most models took at least a week. He'd probably had to put aside all his other assignments in order to work on it...<br><br>"One hundred and fifty gold pieces presented when we arrive, two hours in your workshop tonight after dinner." She saw his eyes light up in pleasant surprise, then glee - he never refused a chance to put her magic and expertise with crystals and magicycles to good use.<br><br>"One hudred and twenty-five gold pieces, three hours in the 'shop tonight, and a kiss when you get your magicycle, then. I'll see you in a few hours." With a chuckle and a charming wink, Corsair waved at her and bent back over his work. Lhurriel shook her head in disgust, mourning the loss of so much of her hard-earned money, and made the ice disintegrate into magic, absorbing it into her body again. With a sigh, she flopped back onto the ground, the back of her neck cool against the moist grass. Closing her eyes, she promptly fell into a light doze again, one arm flung over her eyes. She did, however, keep one part of her alert for Kaeden's voice.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:39:09 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>Kaeden watched curiosly as Lhurriel had gone off and begun spell casting. He had seen mages cast communication spells before, so it really wasn't all that much of a show for him this time around.<br><br>With his current military rank he attended many counsils with King Roland and his warband. True, there were no wars in the recent past, but the king was wise enough to hold council every now and again to make sure all was well with his land and those adjoined by whatever means. Each meeting would, of course, consist of generals and one to two of their best, (Kaeden being one of the latter,) His Magesty's advisors, as well a few scholars - some of which were learned in the arts of majic. When it came to matters in other kingdoms, the present mage would secure a connection spell and matters would be discussed directly.<br><br>The others, however, weren't as lucky to attend meetings and so have never seen any bit of magic casting. (Professionally done, anyway.) Most of their time was spent in the barracks or on the training grounds. Few mages spent time in such areas and if they were around, it certainly wasn't to cast spells. The two watched in awe at the theatrics of the spell, nudging each other asking 'did you see that?!'<br><br>Kaeden turned his attention from Lhurriel and toward the road, glancing out to see if the others were on their return from the river. A bit off in the distance he saw some figures approaching from the north. After a while, he was able to discern them as the remainder of the escort. Kaeden wandered a little ways out from the grove to get out from under the tree canopy. He was sure that they would be able to pick up on his white tunic against the dark color of the trees, and so he began to wave his arms to let them know exactly where they were. Once he caught one of them returning a wave, he walked back under the shade and sat on one of the large roots of a tree.<br><br>He took notice that Hawk and William had settled down near their cycles and were talking amongst themselves. With them no longer mezmerized by Lhurriel's talents, he removed his glasses glanced over toward her to find her laying peacefully on the ground. He smiled softly, finding it amusing she fell asleep so promptly. He stretch his arms out hight above his head, a few small cracks sounded from his back as he drew in a deep breath. After holding in a few moments, he exhaled and relaxed, resting his elbows in his legs.<br><br>Kaeden lifted his head up as a cooling breeze whisped by, gently rustling the sea of leaves in the grove canopy. When he opened them again, he caught sight of Tolan and Ghesting turning off the road and heading towards the area. As they parked their cycles with the rest of them, Kaeden gave a short whistle to grab the attention of the other two and joined them.<br><br>"We stopped by the Yuhiir village down the river." Tolan said as he rustled with ties on his cycle, "Noone seemed to notice anyone in the passed few days."<br><br>"Then they probably headed southeast." Kaeden deduced as he took a waterskin, "We'll have to talk it over with Lhurriel once we get to Lord Eversleigh's estate."<br><br>"Yes, sir." Tolan nodded formally before heading towards the tree to sit himself down.<br><br>"Ghestin, pull out some of the dried meat. We'll eat enough to hold out the rest of the trip." Ghestin nodded and reached into one of the sidebags of his cycle to pull out some wrapped dried meat and carried it to the others who had already settled themselves down.<br><br>I don't like the fact that they could possibly be heading that direction... Kae thought to himself, I just hope that I'm mistaken in my assumptions.<br><br>He sighed and shook his head of the thought. If he were to worry about that possibility, he would worry about it at a better time. Now, it wasn't necessary. He finished restrapping the ties on Tolan's cycle and turned to head over to Lhurriel. He stopped several feet away, so as not to disturb her immedately and watched as she softly sighed. She looked so peaceful. Strange how one minute someone can seem so full of life and in the next be so placid. He walked lightly to her side and knelt down.<br><br>"Lhurriel..." he said in a softened tone, so as not to surprise her, "Lhurriel, they've arrived with the water and we've begun to eat some dried meat. Would you join us or remain here until we leave for the estate?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:40:01 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel heard the steps before they reached her, and listened in a half-comatose state to some of his earlier words before deciding that it would be most prudent to actually hear what he had to say. She sat up in one fluid motion, and looking up at Kaeden with eyes narrowed in speculation. She wondered what he wasn't telling her - obviously, the two returned soldiers had told him something that just might explain the frown on his face.<br><br><em>Oh well... he'll tell me if it's important.</em>. She stood up, stretching idly, and smothered a yawn as she blinked rapidly. Everything in the countryside always smelled so fresh and pure, compared to the city. Everything in so-called civilization had the taint of smoke or some other unsavory smells about... even the palace, though made of large blocks of stone that seemed to stretch to the sky, didn't have the natural smell of growing things and wind.<br><br>"I'll come with you," she said with a nod of thanks. She followed him back to the small circle that he and the others had made, and seated herself next to Rowhik, bowing her head briefly and saying a short prayer to the phoenix deity that she was pledged to before accepting the piece of meet the soldier handed to her. She bit off a chunk, and chewed thoughtfully, glancing at the two new arrivals as she did so.<br><br>Lhurriel all but zoned out as she chewed and swallowed methodically, using her magic to search the area around her for sources to replenish her magic. After a bit, she finally located a large lake nearby, and began gathering the energy into herself, purifying each strand and absorbing it into the rest of her supply of magic. She had to close her eyes and concentrate, because of the farther distance; however, she continued to eat, forehead furrowed slightly as her mind focused on the job at hand.<br><br>When she finished, Lhurriel finally unwound her body and stretched, popping the last bit of meat into her mouth and chewing it quickly. After swallowing, she looked at the rest of the men, an inviting smile brightening her face.<br><br>"Would any of you like a tour of the crystal manufacting shop at Cor- I mean, Lord Atadel's estate? After dinner, I'm due to help him out with some of more delicate aspects of cutting and purifying the crystals, but he wouldn't mind if I showed you around the main area before I did so." It wasn't as if there were any secrets in the main workshop... all the newer, classified improvements were in Corsair's private workshop, hidden from the eyes of all but himself and the kingdom's most powerful and mischievous mage.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:40:33 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden followed Lhurriel back to the group where they welcomed her warmly. He accepted a strip of dried meat from Ghestin and his profered waterskin, now filled to the brim with water from the river, from Tolan. He took a bite from the meat and leaned againsted the gigantic tree that graciously offered them the generous amount of shade for their rest and meal. The day was quiet and still, save for the small bit of conversation between the men about happenings at home. When Lhurriel had voiced her offer, Rohwik nearly jumped at the offer.<br><br>"I would love to see it!" he caught himself in his excitment, cleared his throat and with a calmer tone, "Mi'lady."<br><br>Rohwik wasn't an expert when it came to magicycles, but he was hoping to be quite soon. Most of his youth, before he was able to train in the military forces, was spent with horses and farm animals. There wasn't much need for magicycles at his father's farm. There was no way for the family to afford on either, so instead of ruling the roads with a cycle, Rohwik dominated with a bow and arrow.<br><br>Once he had a chance to see his first magicycle, he was enamored with them. Unfortunately, during his training his skills forced him to put his newfound interest on hold while he honed and perfected his range abilities. Now that he was among the top rated archers in the kingdom, he jumped at any chance given to persue the mysteries of magicycles.<br><br>"I wouldn't mind a peek at some magicycles. Maybe I would get a better idea of how to work on my own and keep it running." added William with a chuckle towards Rohwik's excitement.<br><br>The others kindly declined the offer while they all finished their rations. Kaeden took a long drink from his waterskin and sealed it. He pushed himself off the tree trunk and rested a hand on William's shoulder.<br><br>"I believe all is set to be on the rest of the way." he motioned for everyone to pack up and ready to leave.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:41:14 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel smiled in understanding, crossing her legs as she recalled the first time she'd gotten a magicycle. The feeling had been a revelation - everything about magicycles and their special crystals entranced her, fascinated her like nothing else except the power of the elements, and her own water and ice magic in particular. The tiny flourishes and touches that could make a magicycle run like a dream, as opposed to the sputtering messes that the lesser manufacturers came out with. The delicacy of the crystal cutting, where one mistake could completely ruin the crystal for magicycle use.<br><br>She'd been so fascinated, in fact, that once her busy schedule as a budding journeyman had finished at the age of fifteen, she'd dropped by the manufacturing factory where the 'cycles were primarily produced, and watched with wide eyes as professional crystal-mages (those who specialized in mining and purifying the crystals so essential to magicycles) shaped and poured their magic through crystals. After several visits, she became a regular to the place, and some of the older mages began teaching her the special craft, slowly spoon-feeding her techniques and skills that had taken them years to learn and master. A quick study, Lhurriel realized that she had a gift for magic involving crystals, and swiftly rearranged her schedule to spend more time in the factory, to her teacher's delight.<br><br>That was actually where she and Corsair had first met, three years later. He'd come into the city for his usual tour of the factory, and had seen the girl in rich mage-robes working determinedly at a piece of stubborn crystal that refused to cut right. In her anger, she'd sent a bolt of pure water magic through the clear crystal. Not only had the crystal suddenly shaped itself to her wishes, but the color had dissolved into a translucent, deep sapphire, the crystal purified and energized, it's potential multiplying beyond its original magic value.<br><br>Corsair had rushed over, snatched the flawless mineral from the mage's hands, and exclaimed in pleasant surprise. They'd had dinner, developped a good working business relationship, and events had unfolded from there.<br><br>"I'd be happy to show you the workshop, Sir Rohwik," Lhurriel said with a pleased smile, a light blush rushing into her cheeks as she turned to William and said the same thing. She knew that anyone with more than a passing interest in magicycles would find the workshop fascinating... the manufacturing and production of the 'cycles were more involved than most would think at first glance.<br><br>The young mage stood up as soon as Kaeden motioned for everyone to pack up to leave, munching on a last mouthful of nuts she'd brought along for a quick snack. Brushing off her clothes and boots, she followed Kaeden to the magicycle, climbing in behind him and locking her hands around his waist again. She turned on her magic-scanners, shielded her own magic down, then nodded when she was ready to go.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:42:05 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>The day had grown old as they rode on towards Lord Eversleigh's estate. The men began to tire from their eventless journey. Still being within the protected boundaries of King Roland's lands, there was very little need for sharp vigiliance on their part. The remainder of the ride was carried out with less ceremony as villages and figures of status and influence grew more and more scarce along the rodes. The formation the caravan held eased into more of a joyride than a mission.<br><br>Rohwik and Ghestin took it upon themselves to see exactly just who could out maneuver who, racing ahead of the pack to disappear in the distance. Tolan and William tried to deduce who would come out the better, Tolan finding it difficult to refute any perception of the others William brought to light. (William enjoying the fact each new observation of one would result in his victory over the other, confusing poor Tolan as to who it was William was suggesting would cross the finish line first.)<br><br>Kaeden remained fairly quiet along the way, keeping an eye out for his men while they horsed about as men often did when let loose. Kaeden knew it was good for them to be able to release every so often. It wasn't at all wise to bottle engery or emotions up for too long, most certainly not for one who put his life on the line for a living. It would either drive a man mad or cost him the highest price on the battlefield. Kaeden, however, was a naturally quiet man. He was rarely one to lose his temper, and always kept his head about him no matter what the situation. Even when he was supposedly "let loose" he remained just as timid. The only time he would naturally lose himself was combat. During a battle, he had only one goal; protect his men and his kingdom. It was as though he became the sword he swung and his body merely and empty vessal that allowed him to carry out his sole purpose on the battlefield.<br><br>"Sir." the call of his companion pulled him from his empty reverie, "The Lord's Estate is in the ahead."<br><br>Kae turned his eyes forward toward and Eversleigh's estate rose from beneath the horizon as they continued toward it. Just before reaching the boundaries of the estate, they caught up to Rohwik and Ghestin who had been waiting for them to arrive after they had taken off. They rejoined in their escort formation and reached the gates just as the sun began to sink in a brilliant blend of orange, magenta, and vibrant crimson.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:42:34 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel laughed in delight as the soldiers partook in exhibitions of magicycle skill, wishing that she had her own 'cycle so that she could join them. Despite her superiors' dismay at her avid interest in the advanced vehicular technology, Lhurriel had trained whenever she could in order to understand the objects more, how they worked and what affected their performance. When on leave, she often spent hours deep in concentration over a prototype of a new model, finding ways to streamline performance and maximize speed, or cut down waste energy, or even test out crystals of a different composition. Her fellow colleagues complained that she was too studious, too fascinated with the machines that served as mode of transportation; the other engineers and workers in the magicycle trade appreciated her interest and fed her knowledge, giving her special crystals or a look at new models as a reward for her avid curiosity and constant help.<br><br>She grinned at the memory of hours spent hunched over hunks of the unique metal compound used to construct magicycles, until her eyes were watering at the precise movements and designs of the custom orders. The exasperation of mages better than she only made Lhurriel want to hone her skill at crystal-cutting and magicycle-building; she was good at it, and she loved the work, almost as much as she loved her magical element. Just as she could practicing the arts of magic for hours without stopping, Lhurriel could similarly work on the crystals and magicycles for hours on end, her concentration and focus as equally intense for both tasks.<br><br>"Sir. The Lord's Estate is ahead."<br><br>The mage blinked away nostalgic memories as Kaeden coasted to a stop in front of the wrought-iron gates that surrounded the estate. Low brick walls surrounded the private areas around the main house, but the land around it was well-maintained, the loping hills safe for the Corsair's daily horseback ride around his estate. He surveyed his tenants often, the very epitome of a successful businessman as well as a popular and well-liked landowner.<br><br>The gates opened as the group approached, their magicycles purring efficiently as everyone coasted to a stop. Standing easily in the middle of the road stood Corsair, his deceptively easy smile gracing his face. Before Kaeden's vehicle had even coasted to a stop, Lhurriel had leapt off with graceful ease and ran the few remaining yards into the Lord of Eversleigh's arms. With a wide smile, he caught her up in a tight hug - they hadn't seen each other for months - then put her down, amusement evident in his hazy green eyes. <em>As spontaneous and free as ever</em>, he couldn't help thinking affectionately as he tugged his smile back to normalcy and faced the troop of guards who'd dismounted from their 'cycles.<br><br>"Welcome to the Eversleigh Estate - I am honored to house such respected guests in my home. Please follow me - the shed we store our magicycles in is right around the side of the main wing." The tall nobleman bowed deeply, then swept a white-gloved hand towards the right of the huge mansion, where a shed was cloaked in the shadows of twilight.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:43:16 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				They had pulled into the estate quite ceremoniously, in full and perfect formation, backs straight and chins high and strong. The gave of a most regal air, though they were but humble soldiers in the royal guard. They boys could certainly be quite wild if let loose, but when it came to business and matters of the estate, they were as solid and straight as the steel they carried. Kaeden was certainly proud to have them as his men and he gladly showed it in his performance.<br><br>Lhurriel had greeted Lord Eversleigh in a manner that Kaeden hadn't at all suspected. He had gathered that they were indeed acquaintences, but he hadn't suspected them to be as good friends as this. He watched curiously for a moment as he and his men dismounted their 'cycles, but as they fell in behind him, he thought of it no longer. Not long after did Eversleigh himself greet them.<br><br>"Well met, good Lord." Kaeden replied with a bow of his own, "I thank you on behalf of the King for allowing us to remain in your house this night."<br><br>As their gracious host began to lead them to his shed, Kae nodded to his men and they began to push their magicycles after him. Kae removed the sunglasses he wore along the trip, as the light of day died so did the need for them to remain perched upon his nose. He gently slipped into a small pouch that hung from his belt before following the others to the shed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:43:34 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Corsair Atadel smiled, somehow deep and gracious at the same time. He bowed slightly again, indicating the magicycle storage shed cloaked in shadows near the main house. "Please, come this way. We can leave them in the storage, and then you can all come in and my servants will show you the way to your rooms."<br><br>After his short dialogue, he looked down at her, some undefinable emotion lurking in his eyes. Lhurriel smiled tremulously at the affection and kindness in them, and she gave him her hand, allowing him to tuck it onto his arm like she was a young lady instead of a tomboyish water mage. They walked in silence next to Kaeden, and occasionally Lhurriel interrupted the silence with interesting tidbits about the estate, such as the prize horseflesh wandering the beginnings of the pastures, some notable natural landmarks such as mountain ranges and forests, and even the spectacular gardens that wound around the main house.<br><br>"Here we are," Corsair finally said, arriving at a large, clean, and well-maintained building. "Just place your magicycle in one of the open stalls. I'll have one of my grooms lock the doors after you. We've one of the best crystal security systems in the country, so you won't have to worry about thieves. When you're done here, just come into the house to our left-" He waved vaguely at the large, elegant front of the house to the group's collective left surrounded by neat, pruned plants and flowers; "-and then we can talk and I'll show you to your rooms."<br><br>With that, he bowed politely again and made his leave of the guards, still leading Lhurriel on his arm. Once they were out of sight, his free hand closed warmly over hers, squeezing her smaller hand gently. She glanced up, startled, face slightly pink. "Is something wrong, Corsair?"<br><br>His eyes flicked over her subtle features slowly, and then he shook his head, continuuing to amble them towards the main house. "No, no, nothing like that. It's just been a long time since I've seen you, that's all. I didn't think, after we stopped being lovers, that I would feel your loss so much, even though we parted on good terms," he confessed, leading her inside. She took a deep breath as they entered the house, and smelled only the clean scent of flowers. He led her into the library just off the entrance into the hall, and settled her beside him in a chair facing the fireplace opposite the door into the room.<br><br>They were quiet, content to sit in the peaceful silence surrounding them. Lhurriel's hand was still clasped in Corsair's lap; she glanced at him, and then leaned over to hug him, her smile remniscient of past days when their intimacy went beyond mere friendship. They'd evolved from business partners to friends to lovers, and back to friends, but no hard feelings existed between them. Still, it was easy to miss what used to be.<br><br>"Corsair, even if we are no longer lovers, we are still friends. Good friends," she murmured, giving his hand a quick squeeze before she got up to examine the books lining the shelves behind them. Her fingers and eyes flicked over titled volumes as they waited for the guards to return, but her mind still thought wistfully of the past, when all she had worried about was her magic and her crystals.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:45:07 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden gave the man a nod as Atadel pointed them to the main house and went to park his magicycle in an empty stall. As the two turned to leave the storage house, Kaeden turned and watch them leave, Lhurriel's arm wrapped around the lord's as they went off on their own. Kaeden's curiosity toward their relationship piqued. Lhurriel had, now and again, let informality wash over her as she would mention the man by his first name. Along with the energetic, and quite affectionate greeting, Kaeden began to wonder if they were more than just old friends. He did not linger on the thought any longer. It was not his business to know whether or not the lady mage was seeing anyone nor who it was she was possibly being courted by. With his 'cycle put up for the night, Kae, like the like his men, unstrapped the saddle bags with all their supplies and extra clothing from the vehicles and carried them out.<br><br>"Do you think we'll be able to take a look in the shop like Lady Lhurriel said we would?" Rohwik had become anxious to see how everything was put together and made to work.<br>"It is possible, Hawk." answered Kae as they all walked together to the main house, "But even though it was she who said it was possible, it's the Lord who would be the one to make it so."<br>"Aye sir." Rohwik's voice had dulled with a bit of disappointment, though he knew it was true.<br>"Sir.." Tolan voiced as he sped up from behind, "What do you make of the thieves?"<br>"Well," he replied pensively, "I'm not sure who it is exactly who made off with the amulet, but I'm afraid that - with the direction they could possibly be heading - that I might have an idea of who they may have been stealing it for."<br><br>They all fell silent as the men, too, had the same hunch. Immediately the subject was dropped none of Kaeden's men wish to dig into things they shouldn't and so chose to avoid the possibility completely. Kaeden appreciated the kind thoughts of his men, though he wouldn't had minded speaking of it - granted, he was also content not to press the matter. Upon reaching the front door to the house, they were let inside by a young servant girl, William, of course, teased by Rohwik has he had caught the man glancing at the girl.<br><br>She led them a little further into the simply decorated home, simple and plain yet somehow exotic and elegant. Finally reaching the library, she announced their arrival of the Kae and his men in a sweet soft spoken voice.<br><br>"I thank you again, Lord Atadel," Kaeden spoke as he stepped through the door, "For letting us stay in your home for the night."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:45:17 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Corsair stood as the guards strode into the room and turned towards Lhurriel, who had by now wandered to the fireplace mantel, where she stood staring dazedly at a portrait. He didn't make any outward movements, but the young businessman knew what she was staring at, and for a brief moment winced inwardly at forgetting to move the portrait back to his private rooms.<br><br>"Lhurriel, I think some of your guests are wanting to explore the factory for a bit?" He murmured quietly, knowing that the mage could hear him very well despite the lowered volume. She started, guiltily jumping away from the fireplace and swinging her eyes toward him. They stared at each other for a brief moment, his gaze piercing, hers pained, and then she swiped the expression clean off her face and smiled at William and Rowhik.<br><br>"You two wanted to look at the manufacturing shop in the estate, yes? I'll be taking you there. For everyone else-" Grinning as she strode past them into the hall, Lhurriel yanked at the bellpull to summon the butler. "-Camden shall show you to your rooms and endeavor to ensure your comfort for as long as you stay here."<br><br>From another of various doors down the hall a stately and regal middle-aged man strode, his face impassive as befit his station. "As you wish, lady-mage."<br><br>"And make sure to give them the rooms near mine. I believe Rina had those rooms cleaned and aired for our guests," shouted Lhurriel, beckoning to the two guards and moving towards the hall that would eventually lead them to the manufacturing shop in the house's west wing. The butler merely bowed, face quite expressionless but for an occasional twitch on the right corner of his lips, and murmured a few pleasantries to the guards before leading them on their way.<br><br>Corsair just managed to get Kaeden's attention before the group disappeared upstairs. "Actually, Sir Alydarr, may I please speak with you a bit about your plans after you leave? I'd like to find out how I can help, if there is a way. I'd appreciate if you would return to the library after you leave your things in your room."<br><br>The young lord walked back into the library, peace and quiet descending now that the ever-energetic Lhurriel had left. He gazed around the library - he hadn't been here in awhile, since he always managed his magicycle and estate business in his study. Eyes caught on the portrait Lhurriel had studied. Ambling over to the fireplace, Corsair picked it up and slid onto the chair he'd sat in previously.<br><br>Teasing gray eyes, transparently filled with passion and life, stared back at him. Lustrous dark hair gleamed, caressing olive-toned shoulders bare thanks to the dress Lhurriel had been coaxed into for the portrait sitting. Somehow the artist had managed to paint her laughing freely, looking nothing like the serious, subdued persona she adopted around government officials and business acquaintances. Corsair's own blue eyes, usually sharp and intense, softened fractionally at the portrait. It was a beautiful picture, rendered most accurately and amazingly. Of course, it certainly didn't belong in his library, made public to any who would visit his home... Lord Eversleigh placed the portrait face down on the coffee table, then left the room to get some work done before his talk with Sir Kaeden and dinner.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:45:52 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden wondered suddenly just what it was they may have interrupted as they entered the room. For a moment, he could have sworn that Lhurriel had a terribly forlorn look on her face and Atadel's expression wasn't any better. Concern soon reverted back to curiosity as Lhurriel switched back to the woman he had met earlier that day, but seeming to know her way about the place, (as well as the names of nigh everyone who lived there.) Lhurriel waved William and Rohwik on with her toward the factory. Kaeden felt a bit awkward knowing, by the looks on the faces of his men, that he must have been the only one to pick up the bit of tension in the library. He sighed and tried to shake the thought from his head as he began to follow Tolan and Ghestin whilst Camden led them toward their rooms.<br><br>"Actually, Sir Alydarr, may I please speak with you a bit about your plans after you leave? I'd like to find out how I can help, if there is a way. I'd appreciate if you would return to the library after you leave your things in your room." <br>Kae's head turned to look over his shoulder to the Lord standing behind him, "Certainly, Lord Atadel."<br><br>With a nod from the lord, Kaeden continued on his way to find his room for the night. Listening to the other two talk about getting cleaned up and possibly even skipping dinner for the nice warm bed. Who knows when and if they'll get another chance to sleep so comfortably again on this mission. Once the other two had been shown to their rooms, Camden opened the door to an empty room, directing the captain inside. The room was definately plain, though, didn't exactly give of a welcoming feeling. Kaeden paid no mind to it though, he didn't need anything extravagent or overly decorated. The bed alone was more than enough. <br><br>"Thank you, Camden." he spoke as he stepped inside.<br><br>The butler nodded and shut the door as he went about the rest of his business. Kaeden, dropped his bags atop the bed, removing his shirt and chainmail armor he donned underneath. After folding them into a pile, he set them aside on the edge of the bed to be delt with later. Kae rummaged through one of his two bags and pulled out a crisp, white undershirt and a forest green tunic that he slipped on. He yanked out his tail from underneath his new clothing and clasp a black leather belt atop them. Without a second more, Kaeden stepped out again to meet with Atadel.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:46:28 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sans baggage, to be removed up to the guards' rooms by several footmen and maids, Lhurriel led William and Rowhik to the factory, chattering the entire way about its various well-known amenities and high-tech crystal technology.<br><br>"We've got the place running twelve hours a day, manned by several shifts of different people. Some of the best crystal- and light-mages in the country worked on the crystals that recharged during off-the-clock hours, and then provided plenty of bright, natural light during work hours. Some of the best machinery available to magicycle manufacturers are secured and kept right in the factory, and of course you can't forget the fact that anyone employed under Lord Atadel also receives room and board in the west wing of the house. Which means that there is always a plethora of activity happening around here," Lhurriel finished, eyes glimmering happily as she opened the large double doors to the factory.<br><br>As soon as she opened the factory doors, the cacophony of sawing, hammering, and the sparks of magic flying around from the crystal mages paused for a moment, as those with less important tasks looked up to see who was visiting. Apparently Lhurriel had been absent from the factory for long enough that some of the new workers and mages didn't recognize her; however, no more than a second passed before a greeting bellow and several shouts of varied welcome and surprise rang out. Pretty soon, Lhurriel could barely be seen between the bulky figures of a metalsmith, an absurdly tall and rail-thin engineer, a rugged crystal mage, and the lead magicycle designer of Eversleigh's group.<br><br>Lhurriel gave a squawk of protest as her tiny frame was hauled into a seated position on the metalsmith's shoulders, and the small group turned to greet Rowhik and William. "Well, we've got visitors! Since you're not busy, Gareth, you might as well show them around," the crystal mage offered to the metalsmith, shaking Lhurriel's, then the two guards' in greeting.<br><br>"Right. You two-"<br><br>"William and Rowhik," Lhurriel supplied helpfully from above everyone's heads.<br><br>"Sir William and Sir Rowhik, come with me. I'm the metalsmith, Gareth Asdragar," the burly man said. He stood both tall and wide, but only gave the impression of strength and bulk. His arms and upper body were all muscle, with not a hint of extra fat in sight. His gentle handling of the rather younger water mage seated on his right shoulder belied his potential strength, a fact that Lhurriel was sure neither soldier missed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:52:22 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				One would think that with all the time the two soldiers spent training, as well as constantly being around Ghestin, that they wouldn't at all be surprised by muscled men. But then again, Sir Asdragar didn't seem to be just any muscled man. By mental comparison, Ghestin would only have been about half his size. <br><br>Being of military duty, muscle and bulk were definitely gained on part of Ghestin, but endurance and certain level of agility were also a part of his regimen therefore Ghestin remained fairly small, though bulky. Being a metalsmith, most work was done in a static place, giving more to muscle growth and little to movement and this gave Gareth a much larger advantage over Ghestin when it came to size. Needless to say, William and Rohwik were slightly taken aback by just how much bigger he was. (Naturally though, as it were almost a subconscious reaction, William began to survey the man, calculating and deducing the metalworker's strengths and weaknesses.)<br><br>"Lead the way, good sir!" grinned Rohwik, his overwhelming excitement already washing over any sense of intimidation that had overcome him only a moment ago.<br><br><br>As Kaeden began back toward the library, Tolan had opened the door, coincidentally looking for Kae. <br><br>"Captain!" Tolan blinked, taken by surprise with Kaeden standing outside his door, "I was about to knock on your door.."<br>"What is it you need?" Kaeden asked, stopping for a moment.<br>"Ghestin and I will probably remain in our rooms until the meals are ready. Do you supposed you could send word for us?"<br>"Of course." he answered.<br>"Thank you, Sir."<br><br>With a nod, Kaeden went on his way as Tolan ebbed back into his room. The household had lost it's radiance with the setting of the sun. Maids and other servants began wandering about the home, lighting candles for the coming evening as Kae wandered down the staircase back to the library.<br><br>When he had returned, he glance around the room, finding not sign of the estate's lord. Figuring he must have gone to take care of some other business whilst Kae had gotten himself settled, the captain began to glance about the shelves, skimming book titles. There were numerous books on magicycles; their history, their specifications, journals recounting modifications made by well-known names in the business, theories on how crystals functioned and how to improve them, and many more - much to Kaeden's surprise.<br><br>But there were other titles, of course. Countless titles of literature, some even Kaeden had read. There were histories and maps, scientific theories and magical studies. The library was fairly large and the collection Corsair seemed to have accumulated was vast and quite varied. Kaeden was quite impressed. Kaeden heard a small voice come from the door to the room.<br><br>"May I help you with anything, Sir?" a young maid had chanced to see Kaeden alone in the library as she passed by lighting a few small candles.<br>"Lord Atadel had summoned me here." he replied, turning fully toward the door.<br>"Ah, I will inform him that you are waiting then." she curtsied lightly and then left to do so.<br><br>By then Kaeden had strolled near the fireplace, glancing over some of the mantle pieces that were displayed. Turning around, Kaeden noticed a pictureframe face down on the table. He figured that one of the must have bumped into the table, knocking it over and so reached down to set the fallen portrait upright. As he did so, he glanced at the woman in the frame and a tinge of familiarity pricked at him.<br><br>He picked up the picture to get a closer look at the woman. At first it wasn't obvious, but as soon as he realized it was her, Kaeden had a difficult time believing he missed it in the first place. It was Lhurriel and she looked... different. Her sunny and joyful smile that he had first met at the tavern was just as prominent as it ever was. But, she looked... beautiful. Having only met her, he only saw the Lhurriel donned in dull colored traveling apparel. The Lhurriel dressed in the gown he looked down upon looked so much more womanly; elegant and graceful and... And why would Corsair have such a picture of Lhurriel? <br><br>Well, it had to have been obvious. The informal and excited greeting, how she knew everything and everyone about the place, and now the portrait. Lhurriel and Corsair were -- 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:53:32 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel grinned, shifting slightly on the metalsmith's shoulder as he led them around the compound and factory grounds. The area they'd entered was mostly where workers congregated in their free time, and it was also where all the basic blueprint designs and engineering and construction diagrams of the crystals and magicycles were posted along the walls. If Gareth, Alasdair (the crystal mage), Lucian (the engineer), and Tristan (the magicycle designer) were all sitting idle in the factory's main lobby, then that meant work had probably finished early that night, and now only trivialities needed to be finished and completed.<br><br>"So I'm guessing you guys must have finished my custom already," Lhurriel chirped from her vantage point, ducking to avoid the top sill of a doorway. Gareth let out a shout of laughter at her eager tone, and Alasdair reached up to tap her lightly on the head.<br><br>"You minx. You know Eversleigh always works the fastest on <em>your</em> models," he scolded. "He and I worked clean until dawn yesterday so that it would be ready by this evening. Today, all that we did with it was test it some, and let Tristan put the finishing coats of color on it. We can slip into the workroom to take a look at it at the end of our tour," Alasdair said with a smug smile, fully satisfied with how the magicycle had come out.<br><br>Lhurriel hid her grin, but then pointed at the long, unbroken glass window along their left. She began explaining the different rooms they were passing to the two guards, delving into their functions and which part of the magicycle the workers in the room specialized in working on. First, the main metal-working and assembly room, where different alloys were created, shaped, and then constructed into the empty shell of a magicycle. Directly opposite that room was the special assembly team, those in charge of the extra accesories that went onto and into a magicycle, material or magic. Seats, protective varnishing, spells for weather-proofing and spells to guard against magical tampering... the list went on and on, usually customized by the party ordering the magicycle.<br><br>Further down the hall was the room housing a huge variety of crystals and crystal-cutting materials, as well as tools to examine and grade different crystals. Only crystal mages and crystal cutters ever entered this room, and this group of individuals was probably among the highest educated of all of Lord Atadel's employees. Not only did they exceed in the tasks directly relating to crystals, but they were also knew to the most minute detail where a crystal had been mined, the composition of the crystal and the rocks it had been extracted from, which conditions would best stretch out the crystal's energy longevity, and other details that would boggle the minds of most ordinary folk. This room also contained a huge shelf of books that ranged from geography to history to crystals and even books dedicated to the art of crystal cutting. The group passed several other rooms and decreased in size as Tristan and Lucian went to handle damage control with the workers under their supervision, and finally Alasdair, Gareth, Lhurriel, Rowhik, and William arrived at one of a dozen custom workshops, where custom orders were built from the metal plating to the last castings of magic and spells.<br><br>"Here you are, Ree," Alasdair chuckled, handing her down from Gareth's shoulder. He opened to the door to the workshop containing her magicycle with a flourish, and absorbed her delighted squeal of pleasure as she took in the svelte contours of her new magicycle.<br><br><br><br>"My lord, Sir Alydarr is waiting for you in the library," a maid informed Corsair just as he finished up with some bank notes. He glanced up, nodded and thanked the girl, then stood up with a yawn. Working on the books had never been a favorite activity of his, but he dealt with the executive side of owning and maintaining a business, considering it a necessary dislike to his passion for magicycles and running his estate.<br><br>Striding briskly down several halls, Corsair reached the library and walked in, pulling several maps from his shelves before reaching out to take Kaeden's hand.<br><br>"I apologize for making you wait, Sir Alydarr. I hope you found something to occupy yourself while you were waiting," Corsair said, shaking the knight's hand and then indicating that they should both sit. He set everything on the coffee table in front of them and then took a seat in his chair, settling into its firm cushions and sitting forward so he could face Kaeden. <br><br>"Before we get down to business, tell me how your trip here was. I hope you didn't come across any bandits or looters? I've had reports from some of the locals about strangers who don't look like they belong here."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:54:41 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				William and Rohwik were practically plastered to the reinforced windows.&nbsp; They gawked on as the wizards analyzed, cut, worked and reworked the crystals. The two watched intently as they inched down the hall. Rohwik eyed the handwork of the metalworkers as they shaped and cut magicycles out of molds and sheets. The thought of whether he could talk some of the workers at shop into helping him slightly customize his own magicycle. (Nothing entirely special, of course. Merely a possible new designer body for his bike, a nice little paintjob, perhaps some good crystals. But nothing too over-the-top.) William, on the other hand, wasn't as entranced by the processes. His interest merely piqued because of his natural interest in nearly everything. He loved to learn new things, though he never really delve too deep when it came to obsession. (Save for serving his kingdom, though that still wasn't something he focused on overly much.)<br><br>An interesting sound - William gathered something of excited surprise (hopefully from that of their lady mage companion) or a most unrefined (and viciously unmanly) indication of pain or somethingelse most negative should it have originated from any of their other tour companions - caught the attention of the two guests in the house. Rohwik pryed himself from the window and the two wandered over to the small group gathered at one of the doors. <br><br>"Saints alive!" Rohwik squawked in awe.<br><br><br><br>Kae's eyes darted from the picture in his hand toward the man who approached him from the door and pulled a few papers from the shelves. Quickly he replaced the picture, upright, on the coffee table and offered his hand to the lord of the estate. Kaeden held his hand up in protest towards Atadel's apology for the wait. As he motioned for Kae to take a seat, he did so, watching him place all the items onto the table. The royal soldier's eyes narrowed as Corsair mentioned bandits and the confessions of the local eye seeing unusual characters about the lands.<br><br>"I see." Kae mused a moment, "I would have to say that the journey out was pleasant enough, I suppose. We had not trouble from anyone getting here, that is for certain. Though, I took it upon myself to send a few of my men to Yuhiir to see if they could gather any information there but they returned empty-handed."<br><br>Kaeden's eyes fell to the dancing flames of the crackling fireplace as he mentally mapped out the land. The thieves they were looking for couldn't have gone north from the kingdom without anyone noticing so they had to have run off in the eastern direction that - they certainly hoped - Kaeden and his men followed.<br><br>"Please, tell me of what the local people here have seen. Any help we can get on this journey is most welcome, my lord."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 10:54:54 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel could hardly contain her excitement as she darted back through the door, dragging Rowhik (the first person she could get her hands on) with her.<br><br>The magicycle truly was a thing of beauty. The first word that came to mind was <em>sleek</em> - everything about the magicycle was slim and made for speed, the entire frame painted and constructed with the mage in mind, in flowing, neutral blues and grays. The seat was lifted slightly higher in back, and everything cushioned discreetly so that discomfort wouldn't be too much of a problem on long journeys. Everything about the magicycle was compact and didn't mar the sleek look of the rest of the body. Even better, the casing that protected the crystal already glowed (to her mage-Sight) with power, the spells casted to prevent another from driving the vehicle. As she wandered around the 'cycle, Lhurriel pulled Rowhik along, explaining all the different parts that made her custom model different from the standard ones that the guards usually recieved.<br><br>"Usually the seat is wider, but since this is a custom we usually have the customer try out several different seats. Also, you see these small alloy fixtures underneath everything? Most models need larger ones because they support people with larger body weight and size... since I'm smaller though, I think they felt they could sacrifice a certain amount of reinforcing. Also, this 'cycle is designed for speed, since my fighting style tends towards agility and evasion, not head-on power. These crystals built into the sides would enhance my magic if we engaged in magicycle combat..." Lhurriel continued to chatter excitedly as she explored, and finally stopped to take a breath. Whirling around, she practically threw herself into Alasdair's arms with a laugh.<br><br>"Thank you so much! It's perfect, absolutely perfect! Isn't it, Rowhik? William?" She practically pranced back to the two guards, her face wreathed in a glowing smile.<br><br><br><br>Corsair's sharp eyes didn't miss the movement of Kae replacing Lhurriel's picture on the table, but he didn't say anything about it, giving himself a mental reminder to bring up the topic of Lhurriel later. As he shuffled through some of the estate and local maps, Corsair turned his mind back to the matters at hand.<br><br>"My people never saw much - merely lights in a barn that nobody lived in, or several figures riding magicycles at midnight, when no person has any reason to ride. Some of the hedge wizards and visiting mages nearby said they felt disturbances in the magical balance the night the visitors and bandits were seen, but after that all signs of their existence disappeared, and things returned as they were."<br><br>Corsair finally found the map he was searching for and pulled it out, indicating several crystals fused to certain portions of the map. "These are where the sightings were, and if you activate these crystals, it tells us the times they were seen. To all appearances, they are heading out of the country at all speed. However, some of my crystal mage specialists were able to detect and gather some of the crystal energy that came from their magicycle models... cheap, badly-built imitations of my own, with fractured and defective crystals that will break down within the next couple of days at the rate the bandits are using them. I concluded that the bandits and your artifact-snatchers are probably the same people, or are in league with each other. Other than that though, we have none other information to give you."<br><br>That concluded, Corsair's eyes found themselves swinging back to the portrait of Lhurriel, propped up on the table in its frame. He thought about mentioning the young woman, and see how this soldier reacted... but changed his mind, instead getting to his feet.<br><br>"I expect Lhurriel and the others will have finished with the tour by now. Dinner is very soon, so I should probably get ready. I don't hold on formality here, but I would like to change into clothes that I haven't been working in all day," Corsair explained. He nodded towards the door, where a maid curtsied and informed the men that dinner would be served in twenty minutes.<br><br>"Shall we?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:05:19 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Rohwik's eyes grew wide as his gaze fell upon the lustrous body of a mechanized dream. It was beautiful, it was powerful, it was perfect, it was... hers. The thought panged in his head as Lhurriel led him about explaining bits and pieces of her customized new baby, drool almost dripping from between his lips. With the sudden realization his excitment all but survived. His steps around the vehicle grew heavy and his shoulders drooped while the ecstatic young mage continued on her enamoured inspection.<br><br>"Perfect?" Hawk's spirit suddenly perked up and William, noticing the changes within his friend, eyed him suspiciously, "Well now, Lady Lhurriel, how could one see it's true perfection without seeing the beast in action?"<br><br>The sly boy grinned hoping to win at least one ride.<br><br><br>"I see..." Kaeden thought a moment on the information.<br><br><em>I wouldn't doubt that they were the same thieves we are trying to apprehend. It's also good to know that we are heading in the right direction. The only downside is that they may be going where I knew they are.</em> Kaeden leaned forward in his chair resting his elbows on his knees and lacing his hands together to set his chin on. <em>There's still a chance that they could shift direction and head southwest making them merely a band of petty thieves. But if they don't and continue a straight path...</em> Corsair's voice pulled Kae back from his contemplation on the matter.<br><br>"Yes." Kaeden replied as he stood from his seat, "I will take the map to my room and study the thieves' movements in more detail later tonight. I will have one of the servants direct me and my men to the dinning room. Thank you Lord Atadel."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:05:37 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"That's Lady-Mage to you, Sir Rowhik... and I suppose I'd have to test my baby out before I could call her perfect, hmm?" A devilish gleam flitted through her eyes before her usual sparkle of mischief returned, and she shooed Alasdair and Gareth away, telling them to go back to work while she gloated over her latest acquisition.<br><br>"Aye, little one, but make sure you do not transform this one into a metal carcass as well!" Gareth bellowed before he and Alasdair made their laughing way back to their workrooms, to change for dinner.<br><br>Once they were gone, a playful, flirtatious smile crept onto Lhurriel's lips, and she sidled up to Rowhik's side, her voice a teasing purr.<br><br>"I s'pose you were hoping to get a ride, no? Well lucky you I'm not the possessive type," she murmured softly, taking his hand and dragging the soldier after her until they were standing right next to the magicycle. She made a moue, wondering how they could both fit on the one-person bike. Of course, she wansn't pouting for long - after a brief moment, she clambered onto the comfortable magicycle, perching with a sigh of pleasure on the seat, and then extended a hand towards Rowhik, an inviting smile on her lips.<br><br>"Feel up to a test run, Sir Rowhik?" She asked, a flirting grin curling her lips.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:07:16 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				William stepped aside as the other two men returned to their duties as Lhurriel had suggested, though he turned his eyes back to Hawk as he was certain the man was up to something. As soon as Lhurriel had suggested a ride on her new magicycle, William figured Rohwik was the one that underlyingly suggested it. <br><br>"Why Lady-Mage," Rohwik said, appeasing her quip of addressing her so as not to crush any chances of his chance to win a ride, "I couldn't possibly think to intrude, but since you greatly insist, I would love to."<br><br>Rohwik was not at all hesitant to prop himself on the seat of the sparkling new 'cycle. The cushion was quite comfortable as he climbed aboard to take his place behind Lhurriel, grinning all the while. If only it were his he wouldn't let the darling cycle see the inside of a shed. <br><br>"Lady-Mage," William spoke out, stepping up to the pair on the cycle, both of them unmistakably eager to get it out on the road, "Do you think that this is a good idea? After all, the evening meal is to be prepared soon."<br>"Oh stop being such a white knight, William!" Rohwik jeered, "It's only a short test run. We can't have Lady-Mage Lhurriel continue the journey with a faulty magicycle. And how can we know if it will run well without giving it a good run?"<br>"Firstly, Hawk," William retorted, "It is most certainly possible there is time for it in the morning - IF they had not already check the magicycle here thoroughly already. Secondly, leaving the grounds without first informing Kaeden? He could have your head for that, you know. Third of all, from what Lady Lhurriel had told us of this place and the specifications of her magicycle, it seems that it's been made not only up to their best standards, but overly so. So if you think about it, there really is no need to take it out for a run as it has been built with precision, care, and extreme consideration to its rider."<br><br>William nodded sagely at his deductions knowing, without question, that he was right. Unfortunately, Rohwik didn't see the situation through his eyes. Hawk turned to his companion and raised a brow to accompany the smirk on his lips. <br><br>"William," he replied, "You truly need to have more fun with less books, my friend. As for Kae. Well, that's why you're here! Let him know that we'll be back in time for the meal."<br><br><br><br>Kaeden followed Corsair out of the library and then made his way up the stairs back toward his room. Before he placed the map on the table next to the bed, he opened it up once more glancing at the embedded crystals. He hoped to himself that his suspicions were wrong and that they would veer from the trail the crystals drew out. He glanced further east along the map, eyeing the place he feared they would go. His eyes narrowed in dark reverie for a moment and then he closed the parchment, setting it aside for a later time.<br><br>Turning to his bedside, he reached into one of the pouches on the mattress pulling out a simple comb. Kaeden always tied his hair back tightly when in the presence of power. Loose hair, to him, seemed something more appropriate among his men rather than in times that called for etiquette. He ran the comb through his strands a few times before replacing the band, pulling his tresses into a tight tail secured at the base of his skull. He straightened his tunic before a mirror and stepped out into the hall again. He was presentable. Kaeden rapped lightly on the door just right of his. Almost immediately, Tolan answered the door.<br><br>"Supper should be on the table quite soon." Kaeden informed.<br>Tolan nodded, "Alright, I'll let Ghestin know and we will be down soon. Have William and Hawk returned from their tour with Lady Lhurriel?"<br>"I haven't seen them, but I'm sure that Lord Atadel will have someone fetch them soon. The two still need to get themselves cleaned up before sitting for a meal."<br><br>Tolan slipped back into his room to dress a little more formally for the meal and Kae stepped down the stairs once more, keeping an eye out for someone who could possibly direct him to the dinning room.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:08:06 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel grinned and shook her head at William, her hands moving surely as she tested the grips and felt the smooth paint of the magicycle. She sighed in contented pleasure as she straddled the seat of her bike, wiggling her hips as she felt how comfortable it was compared to that of her previous magicycle. The body of the 'cycle was customized perfectly to her smaller size and her more athletic build, maximizing average and top speed of the magicycle, as well as improving the look of the overall vehicle.<br><br>"Sir William, you won't have to worry about me leaving the grounds. I don't intend to leave the house at all," she remarked cheerfully, an inner twist with her magic causing the magicycle's crystal to flare to life with a gentle, almost inaudible purr. Grinning recklessly, she winked at the concerned knight before leaning forward and warning Rowhik to hold on. Nobody was going to stop her from testing the magicycle, let alone a little frustration on Kaeden's part.<br><br>"Corsair's home is <em>perfect</em> as an obstacle course." With that oh so comforting statement, she gunned the magicycle then sped out of the room on a perfectly linear path straight towards the double doors leading back to the main house, shouts of alarm and yells to halt greeting her ears. Merely allowing her smile to widen even more, Lhurriel formed a flying sphere of raw magic in one hand, which she threw at the large double doors separating the magicycle workshop from the rest of the house. The left door opened, with a set of candles right in their path. And instead of slowing down, she sped up, flying past the entrance (to the guards' bewilderment, then shock) before making a tight barrel roll to the right in order to avoid the hot wax and flames.<br><br>All the way down the hall, sheer laughter left Lhurriel's lips as she urged her machine faster, dodging anything in her way with raw skill and pure talent. Experience told her when to check her speed; it also told her the correct angles to tilt and turn as they raced through the long hallway, the wind they generated sifting through Lhurriel's formerly neat locks.<br><br>It didn't take them long before they arrived in the main hall - with Corsair standing at the base of the stairs to greet them, an unimpressed look on his handsome face. After the casual clothes he had worn earlier, this more impressive outfit, with the dinner jacket showcasing his broad shoulders and the trousers his long legs, made him appear more like the titled lord that he truly was. Not at all fazed by his change in appearance, Lhurriel stopped on a dime not even five steps away from Corsair and leapt off, racing into his arms to give him a crushing hug (ignoring the fact that he had formal dinner clothes on that wouldn't look too becoming creased and wrinkled).<br><br>"It's wonderful! Perfect! It's worth every one hundred and twenty five gold pieces I'm forced to part in order to have her..." Lhurriel said with a squeal of glee, pulling a large, full pouch from her robes. From within came five strings, with twenty five gold pieces attached to each one.<br><br>"As promised, my lord... one hundred... twenty five pieces," she said airily, placing the gold in his hands. Only a mischeivous grin forewarned her of the tight hug he drew her into, which she accepted with wholehearted joy. Unhesitating arms wrapped around his neck, but she was slightly surprised by the possessiveness with which he clutched her slight body. <br><br>"It's worth it to see the smile on your face, Ree," he murmured, quiet enough that Rowhik could not hear them. Hearing a sound, Lhurriel poked her head around his larger form so she could look up the stairs, where Kae was at the moment standing on the second floor landing, as dressed up as Corsair was. Blankness cleared the emotion from her face - she blinked, glanced from Corsair to Kae and back again, before gasping in horror and then rushing over to Rowhik, fairly hauling him off the bike even as she turned off her magicycle.<br><br>"My apologies, my lord, Sir Kaeden! I delayed your two knights. I shall deliver Sir Rowhik to his room to change posthaste! Don't wait too long for us if we're late!" She called as she ran past both men, towing Rowhik behind her as she raced up the stairs then down the hall so they could both get changed in time for dinner.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:09:43 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				William watched as they shot off through the double doors, completely dumbfounded, though not at all surprised, by Rohwik's blatant disregard for his outright concern. <em>Of all the careless most irresponsible people I'm stuck fighting beside...</em> William sighed to himself thinking that it was anything he should not have suspected. With Hawk eyeing the magicycle the way he was, Will knew that he had nothing else on his mind but a joyride. But no, he had faith in his rambunctious companion; Rohwik would listen to William's logic and truth... When the very fires of the Seven Hells ceased to burn. It didn't help William that he was the youngest of the group either. He was generally shrugged off with his words of wisdom and bits of advice. Everyone else was older and wiser - so they liked to think, anyway. The only ones who cared to hear William's thoughts were Kaeden, and every now and then Tolan may have an ear for it. But Kae was usually the one that would help poor Will keep his sanity amongst the more "carefree" natures of their fellow comrades.<br><br>William sighed again, distraught over the thought still, but let it pass with the exhale of his breath. <em>'Good in, bad out.'</em> He voiced a shout of thanks to the familiar faces he passed by as he walked his way out the direction they had entered in. He was actually quite happy to leave the boisterous noises the factory bustle about with. Certainly would get a headache if he had stayed much longer than that. A place where such ruckus overwhelmed the atmosphere so constantly was no place for an intellectual of his capacity. He rather liked the library they had seen at the beginning of their arrival to the grandeur of the magicycle factory where Hawk seemed to be so enamoured with.<br><br>Hawk, on the other hand, thought no more on William's words than when he had said them. (Typical of him, honestly. Just as William had thought it so.) It wasn't as though he never took the boy seriously. On the contrary, he held great faith in the boy and respected him for his wonderful mind. However, when there was a magicycle such as this in question there was no surefire way that would keep him from taking up that offer Lhurriel had extended to him. When the engine revved, he felt the power rumble beneath him and he relished in the feeling. Bloody brand new and the first surge of it's full potential power roared between his legs. (Nevermind the fact that such a beast belonged to the woman who was to drive him around on it.) For that moment, it was all Rohwik and the magicycle... Until the 'cycle took off, of course.<br><br>Torn from his reverie of power, (and possibly the greatest sense of nirvana he would ever feel,) Rohwik latched onto the torso of the lady-mage as she ripped through the halls of the factory. The speed was incredible. He had never seen - or felt - a magicycle hit such vast speeds in so short a time. The crystal she used must have been very well prepared and quite extraordinary. <br><br>With the sudden surge of even more speed, Rohwik couldn't help but tighten his hold on the girl. And he was glad he did as not long after the cycle flipped into a barrel roll and Rohwik swore he felt his stomach turn along with it. Gods, the girl was quite the driver. Twisting and turning with boundless ease, it was almost as if it was merely a second nature to her. Hawk let out a joyous yell in the form of 'yeeehaw!' as they zoomed about the manor. What a rush this was! He hadn't felt such excitement since the very first ride on a magicycle he ever had. Pure fun! Rohwik would have been extremely disappointed once the ride had ceased, but to be honest, being a little unprepared for such a ride had left him a bit dizzied and he was glad to welcome the break. Lhurriel had bounded to the Lord Corsair in expression of her thanks whilst Rohwik gathered his wits, or at least tried. All the while Kaeden glancing on curiously.<br><br>Before Rohwik could consider saying anything along the lines of "what I wouldn't give for a 'cycle like that," Lhurriel had yanked him by the folds of his jerkin to be trudged up the stairway. Kaeden had merely glanced at Lhurriel before she was suddenly overcome by a sudden haste. He meant to approach in casual interest towards the obviously new magicycle and her well of excitement, but as he began to descend, Lhurriel started bounding up the steps, poor Rohwik at her heels, apologizing for her unintentional delay.<br><br>"Please, Lady Lhurriel," Kaeden began to interject, but alas, he was a bit too slow-tongued to get a word in before she was gone, "No need... to... worry.."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:11:38 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel had already deposited Rowhik at his door, running off to her own room one down the hall near Corsair's master suite before he could give a word of thanks. Dashing into her room, she surprised two waiting maids into gasps of surprise (and one broken teacup), and shooed them out with all the efficiency of a cleaning girl with a broom at her disposal.<br><br>Finally, she whirled herself to the walk-in closet, where a bevy of traveling and court clothes, as well as silky dresses and more daring nightgowns and ballgowns hung, resplendent and much unused. Corsair welcomed the young mage into his home unconditionally, despite the fact that they were no longer a couple. Most of the clothing hanging in the closet were Lhurriel's, paid for and bought with her mage's pension; however, some of them (especially the evening dresses and nightbowns) had been gifts from Corsair when they'd been courting.<br><br>Some were so scandalous, they made Lhurriel blush just thinking about wearing them.<br><br>Shaking her head, Lhurriel quickly wandered through, wondering if she should wear a mage's attire or look like a young woman tonight. She finally decided to wear an evening dress, and fingered through the beautiful, soft materials until she came across a new dress. She remembered when she had gotten fitted for it, and the unfortunate events following it that prevented her from ever putting it on in its finished state.<br><br><br><em>"Mademoiselle, this deep blue silk looks gorgeous with your splendid figure!" The dressmaker cooed, ecstatic at her luck in snagging Lord Atadel for a customer, as well as getting to dress such a physically fit and pretty little thing.<br><br>"I am thinking... a plunging neckline here, two thick ribbons of silk around your upper arms for sleeves... Bare shoulders, we must show off such flawless, beautiful skin, my dear!... Such a tiny waist, it emphasizes your chest. It is a bit small, of course..."<br><br>"Madame, I believe the lady's chest size is not of your concern," Corsair cut in coolly. The dressmaker immediately apologized and continued to work, chattering on about Lhurriel's many assets before she finally finished and promised that the silken creation would be finished by the end of the week. Lhurriel giggled as she crawled into Corsair's lap, still clad only in a light shift with her usual absence of a corset, beginning with light kisses before deepening their embraces.</em><br><br><br>What followed was a silly argument about possessiveness and control, and the lack of time Corsair and Lhurriel spent together; Lhurriel left in a huff that night, and then was sent away on an envoy mission to a neighboring country before she could apologize and make up with Corsair. The two did eventually reconcile their differences, deciding to remain friends rather than brave the turmoil of love and romance, which would be difficult to maintain considering their mutually busy schedules and philosophical differences.<br><br>She smiled, a mischeivous grin widening as she thought of the spectacle she would create belowstairs by wearing the dress. It was most suitable for dinner, as it <em>was</em> a dinner gown; the neckline wasn't too scandalously low, and with a bit of jewelry and the right pair of shoes, Lhurriel could look like a young lady again, instead of her usual tomboyish mage appearance.<br><br><br><br>Corsair asked Kaeden and the other guards to seat themselves at the table first, telling them that Lhurriel would be down in no time at all.<br><br>"She gets ready very quickly. If you'll wait here, I'll go up and bring her down. I apologize for the delay," Corsair added hastily, rising from his seat and bowing before retreating back to the main hall. He was halfway up the stairs when a pleasant chortle of laughter greeted him, and involuntarily his eyes widened before he returned the chuckle, escorting the silken vision back down the steps.<br><br>Without announcing himself, Corsair brought Lhurriel in, proudly strolling to their streets and helping her sit down. She had been conveniently placed between Kaeden and Rowhik; Corsair sat across from her, with William at his right elbow and the rest of the guards down his left and on the other side of the table evenly. As soon as the mage was seated, she smiled and turned towards Kaeden, eyes sparkling with mirth.<br><br>"So? What do you think?" She extended one graceful, bare arm, displaying the blue silk loops around her upper arms serving as useless sleeves. The plunging neckline and built-in corset emphasized her modest bosom, and her pheonix pendant also drew attention to the V of the fabric. It tapered off to a slim, muscled abdomen and waist, with the silver-embroidered skirt hidden underneath the tablecloth.<br><br>"Do you like it?" She asked the collective group of guards, an anxious smile hovering on Lhurriel's lips. "I haven't worn this before, and I was so rushed I didn't look in the mirror. My hair and dress do look alright, don't they?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:15:54 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It certainly didn't take long for Rohwik to ready himself for dinner. He rarely put himself completely into prettying up for anyone unless it was a situation that called for a scrutinous eye. (Usually in the cases involving the royal court. There would be serious demerits should anything be amiss amongst the ranks.) The extent of his change was dusting off his pantaloons and changing out for a new, hopefully clean, tunic. Rohwik didn't bother fussing with his hair. It was generally a tangle red mess and he liked it that way. It was less maintenance heavy that way.<br><br>He joined his band quite quickly, giving a large grin to William whom he had recently disregarded earlier. Greeted by an unimpressed roll of eyes, Rohwik took his seat before his young companion. Lord Corsair had informed them Lhurriel would be but a moment and took it upon himself to make certain it was so, leaving the royal escort to chatter amongst themselves.<br><br>"How did you find the Lord's industry?" Kaeden asked the two who had gone.<br>"It was absolutely amazing, Kae!" replied Hawk enthusiastically, his childish glee shattering all formalities between subordinate and superior, "He has a completely intricate system that practically mass-produces the magicycles!"<br><br>Kaeden smiled at his overly-excited friend. He glanced over to William wanting to know what he had thought of the excursion as well. William wasn't half as excited over it as Rohwik had been.<br><br>"It was a learning experience, most certainly." he added quite calm and collectedly, "Though, I believe the highlight of the tour was Lady Lhurriel's personal vehicle."<br><br>On that note, Rohwik shot off again, running on about how Lhurriel handled the savage beast in the most skillful manner. He continued on about the details of Lhurriel's newfound love, (of course he wouldn't admit his underlying desires to call that mechanized beauty his own.) William had turned the rambling fool out while he waited patiently for the meal to get underway, the other two of their company were actually quite interested in what Hawk had to say. (One of the fewer moments.)<br><br>Unfortunately, (or not so unfortunately depending on how one looked at it,) Rohwik was cut short in his tale-telling when Lhurriel took her place next to him and Sir Kaeden. Silence filled the room as the men looked on at the transformed beauty. Ghestin nearly choked on his sip of water when Corsair approached with the lady on his arm. The awestruck silence crashed to a halt when Lhurriel's mirth spilled into the room. <br><br>Her questions were expected of a woman, but even so, few men took it upon themselves to answer. (Poor Kaeden also finding himself taken aback by how different - most certainly for the better -- not that there was anything wrong with her in the first place -- of course.) 'Hell hath no fury,' as they say. Should any of them say the wrong thing he was sure to remain on the bitter end of the stick throughout the rest of the journey. Needless to say that Hawk was not one of the few with the brains to keep his mouth shut.<br><br>"I can certainly tell you one thing. William would sure find -" Rohwik nearly bit off the end of his tongue before he could finish. William had kicked him in the shin beneath the table before he could proceed with his bit of information.<br>"Find that the dress is quite astounding." William said quickly, recovering the dropped sentence, "I would be correct in assuming that it was custom made?" he finished after nervously clearing his throat and completely ignoring Rohwik's pain distorted face. Normally the squabble between the two would be found amusing, but for some reason, it went practically unnoticed
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:22:44 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel laughed aloud, sounding more like the carefree, tomboyish mage she had been for most of the day. She fairly sparkled in the dress, with her hair done rather carelessly (it fell loosely, lightly waved because it had been tied back for most of the day) and a fresh, unadorned face free of paints and makeup. Her mere simplicity only served to outline her freshness and a naturally pretty face, and even if her physique wasn't as developed as some men might prefer, the silken gown she had on did much to exaggerate what she had and make the most of her petite and lithe form.<br><br>"Thank you so very much. And if your faces were any indication of how I looked, I'd say I rather succeeded in my attempt to shock and surprise you boys," she teased, winking at the diners seated around the table. Lhurriel wasn't vain, as far as women went; in reality, she didn't care much about her appearance at all. But there were times when it was simply relaxing and wonderful to be complimented on her looks - to be described as <em>ravishing</em> and <em>stunning</em> instead of as <em>competent</em> and <em>reliable</em>, <em>powerful</em> and <em>skilled</em>. And while being complimented on her skills as a mage and efficiency as a worker was wonderful, Lhurriel often enjoyed (in a rather sadistic fashion) surprising, shocking, and stunning everyone she knew by wearing a flattering dress that made her look like a female instead of a mage.<br><br>Or at least, it made her look like more than just some sexless mage, which she knew was how some at the Palace viewed her.<br><br>Knowing that some of the men were quite uncomfortable, Ree began chattering about current news and some national events, as well as troop movements in the South and some current. Corsair was very surprised, even though he always knew that the lady-mage was a very formidable young woman indeed, both as a mage, as a person, as a royal advisor, and as a woman. He watched silently (while eating the courses servants brought promptly to the table) as Ree engaged in coversation with two of the guards at once, bringing up discussion and debating with them about national policy regarding the environment, magic regulation, business, the economy, and other topics including religion, the nomadic Border Clans, possibility of invasion, and recent discoveries of magical artifacts and scholarly tomes. Soon, Rowhik and William were debating the merits of faster magicycles versus longer crystal life, while Ghestin, Tolan, and Ree were discussing in a rather spirited fashion the current national politics, and the next few candidates who were considering nomination into the Advisory Council.<br><br>From time to time, Ree glanced over at Kaeden, wondering why he remained silent for much of the time. However, she quickly lowered her eyes and took a healthy bite out of her slice of meat before Kae could catch her watching him, and turned back her several conversations. After ensuring that Ghestin and Tolan were arguing quite merrily away, she turned to William and exclaimed in outrage when she saw that he had received the delicate, wonderfully delicious strawberry souffle that Corsair's chef had made a masterpiece of.<br><br>"Corsair! You never told me that your cook made strawberry souffle!" She accused. "And I only get a bowl of fruit?" She said, put out.<br><br>Corsair tried not to laugh. He'd expected this reaction. "Whenever you begin eating sweets, you get so incredibly energetic. And you need your sleep tonight," he said severely, his tone suddenly becoming like that of a disapproving elder sibling's. Lhurriel pouted, quite unhappy with the answer... but had to hide her smirk when a mischevious idea came into her head. William did have the dessert, after all... and she had always loved flirting. She didn't get <em>nearly</em> enough opportunity to do so.<br><br>She finagled her way over to the other side of the table, with servants cheerfully doing her bidding and dragging a chair over next to William. "William, can't I please have a bite of your dessert? I'm really sorry for not listening to you earlier," she apologized, looking properly chastised. Blushing and brushing her hair behind one ear with one hand, she glanced up at him.<br><br>"I know it's rather rude of me to ask, but I just LOVE eating desserts, and this is my favorite." She smiled winningly, the picture of feminine perfection in the lush gown, rosy blush, and sparkling, lively eyes.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:32:42 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				All four of the boys let out a nervous laugh at Lhurriel's confession about her secret intentions. Kaeden turned his gaze elsewhere, clearing his throat with a small smirk on the corner of his lips. She was certainly not like any of the normal ladies of court he was used to. <br><br>Mere minutes from Lhurriel joining the company at the dinner table the food had been served, (and the boys were quite thankful for that.) The staff was certainly efficient in the lord's house. The meal was quite pleasing as well; very close to, if not the same quality served within the dining halls of the king, himself. Tolan and William couldn't seem to let Lord Corsair know enough how wonderful the food was. <br><br>Lhurriel's consideration to the tension the guards had in her presence was certainly helpful. As they talked, it did not take long for them all to relax once again. Ghestin had found out he didn't much care for Lady Lhurriel as much as he appreciated Mage Lhurriel. He never truly took it upon himself to be present during distinguished affairs. Everything was far too over dressed and over flowered, garb, decorations, meals, and words a like. The thought of such "pleasantries," as they were called, gave the large man headaches he could certainly do without.<br><br>Tolan, being born of a quite reputable bloodline, was born into such lifestyle. He was a natural gentleman being the son of a well-to-do lord. (Possibly, though quite distant, kith and kin to the King himself.) However, the transformation from mage to lady was certainly radical enough for Tolan to be rendered just as speechless as the others. He was wonderfully excited to hear Lhurriel's erudition in, well, nearly everything. Being a man of politics as a result of his heritage, he was thrilled to hear her takes on certain issues. Truly, his companions were wonderful to speak with about such things, but after a while, opinions and stances on issues are known and there is little left to discuss between friends that hasn't already been so. <br><br>It was certainly a splendid evening meal. Corsair was more than generous with his accommodations; Kaeden had only planned for a night's rest within his quarters. The meal was more than filling, Kaeden had to decline the proffered dessert but accepting a cup of warm tea, Tolan following suit lest he make himself ill with another bite of food. The others, however, were delighted at the sight of something sweet and pointless, and certainly after such good food, the dessert would be indescribable. <br><br>William, still a very much a child at heart was enthralled with the treat before him. Taking up the fork atop the plate he scooped up a bit of the souffle and, mouth nearly watering in anticipation of the delightful taste, opened wide as he lifted it to his lips. Before he could stick the souffle in his mouth he heard Lady Lhurriel's voice in his ear. He blinked and glanced over to find the ladymage suddenly at his side looking quite... l-lovely.<br><br>To her request, he suddenly felt his cheeks go flush as he gave the others a curious sideglance. Kaeden, Ghestin, and Tolan had made it a point to conveniently not notice the ongoings between Lhurriel and William, each either busied with eating his dessert or sipping his cup of tea. Rohwik snickered in his souffle as he watched the exchange, though shrugged cluelessly in response to Will's desperate glance. Finding no sign of assistance from his companions William swallowed hard and looked back at Lhurriel.<br><br>"I.. uh.. mmrl..." he mumbled, suddenly unable to find any words in his reach. <br><br>He took in a deep breath and turned the forked souffle toward Lhurriel. He was noticeably shaken with nerves as he did so, praying any and all existing deities that nothing would come of this that would haunt him for the remainder of the evening, journey, and perhaps his life.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:33:28 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel grinned wickedly and leaned forward, placing one sun-kissed hand over his to hold the slightly trembling fork steady. With a teasing glint in her eyes, Ree closed them and delicately lipped the souffle off of William's fork. She made an uncharacteristic giggle, giving him a wink, and eased back, watching his face as it turned red and his tongue tied itself into nervous knots. She couldn't help herself.<br><br>Ree laughed gently, eyes sparkling with sympathy for the victim of her merciless teasing. "Thank you for that. But don't you worry, the Cook probably has more souffle made just for me. He <em>loves</em> having me over, unlike Corsair here," the mage said, curtsying rather rudely for the young lord who was chuckling at the head of the table.<br><br>"Indeed," he murmured, smiling. Affection softened the chiseled lines of Corsair's face, making Ree blush slightly before she turned back to William.<br><br>"A gentleman should always be rewarded for his acts of chivalry, don't you think?" She purred teasingly, tapping his chin twice with a contemplative finger before turning his head gently and kissing his jaw softly. A wink and two seconds later, she released the poor young guard and bid her farewell to the others, pleading hunger and saying that she wished to pay the cook and the housekeeper a long-overdue visit.<br><br>When she left, Corsair tried not to choke on his laughter. "Well done, Sir William. I do believe you've earned Lady Mage Keladar's undying love and affection for your generosity with your dessert. She does adore sweet confections so," he replied blandly. Mild updates about life in the capital insued for several minutes until the butler cleared his throat, a regal young woman on his arm.<br><br>"Sir, the Lady Chirtoff and Miss Chirtoff,&nbsp; the Lady Randolph and the Misses Randolph, and Miss Sandoval," the butler intoned rather pathetically (in Corsair's eyes). Right after his doom-and-gloom announcement, a parade of six ladies entered the room, making Corsair's hair rise as feminine, high-pitched giggling echoed in his comfortable dining room. He'd become so used to Ree's down-to-earth, husky laughter... and at the thought, shook his head mentally. <em>She is no longer yours to gloat over and protect, Corsair,</em> he reprimanded himself, before standing as gracefully as he could manage and give a half grimace, half-smile.<br><br>"Ladies... I wasn't expecting you," he said carefully.<br><br>"Ohh! I knew you wouldn't mind. When I heard that the King's Guard was arriving to stay, I knew we had to show them Duchlarevan hospitality," one of the ladies cooed. She was dressed in a frilly, complicated-looking pink confection of lace and taffeta, and she sauntered up to Corsair, grabbing his arm in a death-grip and smiling prettily at him. Corsair wanted to throw up - he had forgotten why he usually stayed away from young misses straight out of the schoolroom. The girl on his arm, the younger Miss Randolph, was but eighteen. Lady Chirtoff was an elderly widow set on marrying her seventeen year-old daughter to Lord Atadel; Lady Randolph was a much younger wife, wanting to cuckold her husband or marry off her daughters to Lord Atadel, or both; Miss Sandoval was the elder Miss Randolph's bosom bow, and thus were always together.<br><br>Somehow, the six ladies maneuvered the entire entourage of women, guards, and Corsair into the sitting room, with its many seats and couches and lounges available. Each young lady snagged the arm of a guard, and the lucky Landy Randolph managed to squeeze her way onto Corsair's arm, handing off her daughter to William.<br><br>Corsair just wanted to groan when he saw the entire scene. Chittering, chattering young schoolgirls. Two widows set on snagging him in three different ways. A room full of high-pitched laughter and giggling. And he HATED giggling young chits. <em>Gods be damned! I hate when the locals gossip about me!</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:35:05 pm</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				He could have sworn beads of sweat had begun rolling down his face as Lhurriel accepted his proffered treat. He felt his stomach unclench as the dinner utensil slipped away from the ladymage's lips. But before he could heave any sigh of relief, there was speak of a reward and suddenly his face was contorted in the oddest expression of worry and... bliss?<br><br>Rohwik was damn certain he had never seen such a look on any man's face before when Lhurriel kissed the boy. What a wicked woman. She knew how uncomfortable William was in that position - they all did. And yet she still pressed to make him squirm. He liked Lhurriel. She was a woman who knew how to have fun. Rohwik grinned to himself as he polished off the last bit of his dessert, stuffing in the last large mouthful before the servant carried the plate away.<br><br>"Please send the cook our thanks, Lady Lhurriel." Tolan manage to put in before she had stepped off, "The meal was quite wonderful."<br><br>William could find no words for Corsair in his fevered attempt at recovery, trying desperately to loosen the collar on his jerkin for relief from the inexplicable heat he felt. The weight of the world lifted when Lhurriel left him at peace, of course, that meant he was open to ridicule by Rohwik. But Rohwik was someone William could handle. As Hawk began poking fun at the boy, Corsair had begun discussing state affairs with Kaeden and normalcy resumed - for a while.<br><br>"Well, I'm sure you know just how reserved the king can be when it comes to situations like that." Kae replied to a comment Corsair had made, "He does mean well, though some times it's difficult to find a better way to approach things."<br><br>Kaeden reached for the cup of warm but quickly cooling tea he had only begun sipping through William's peril, but before he could take a sip of the sweet drink he noticed Corsair stand from his seat while the butler made an arrival announcement.<br><br>The military-bound brothers all turned their attention to the door where a small flock of chatty chicks pooled into the room. At once, all stood from his seat to properly greet the ladies as they led themselves in. <em>Gods, will the torment not end this night?</em> Poor William seemed to feel he was being picked on far more than usual.<br><br>Finding themselves being oriented in the sitting room now, each "claimed" solider kindly helping their lady counterpart take their seat. Tolan had, of course, offered his arm kindly to the young lady Randolf after giving his name, complimenting her quite elaborate gown as he did so. The poor thing nearly swooned as he casually lead her behind those who coerced the first few into the room.<br><br>William was certain to have broken under the scrutinous eye of the widow Chirtoff that fell on Ghestin. It was obvious she admired his well "maintained" physique, but Ghestin seemed unaffected by her approving looks. William's attention was brought back to the young miss Randolf as the young lady of seventeen summers eagerly yanked on his arm to have him seated beside her. <br><br>"Come, come!" she urged, "Sit with me!"<br>"Erh, y-yes." William choked nervously, "Certainly, m'lady."<br><br>The way that the young lass scooted closer and closer to William, causing him to to flush red and practically squirm in his seat would have been cue for Rohwik to begin his usual jestural mocking and ridicule. However, he was quite busied with his own form of company in the form of the young miss Randolf. The little girl wouldn't cease her incessant chattering. <br><br><em>For the love of all that is good in this world, please make her STOP.</em> She just went on and on and on and on. Everynow and then Rohwik tuned back into her words as he kept his nods timely and his smile constant, picking up things about her shoes, the baker's son, and the frills on her dress not matching the laces on her bodice or something before he tuned her out again. Hawk began mentally grumbling at how Fate stacked the cards against them and fell in favor of Kaeden. <em>Why couldn't Kaeden have been stuck with the chatterbox while he spent the evening enjoying the company of what flower Kae had chanced upon?</em><br><br>Flower indeed. Certainly a woman who knew how to paint a picture of beauty. However, Kaeden found her quite a pushy young woman, knowing where she wanted to go in a conversation and sought to keep control of it.<br><br>"Do tell me Master Kaeden," she began with a coy smile, "Are you an important man within the king's forces?"<br>"Each man is important, my lady," Kae answered diplomatically, as he had long ago learned to do, "One man does not make an army."<br>"Indeed." Her tone was curt and Kae picked up the hint of annoyance with his answer. Not wanting to offend any of the guests to the house, as well as not to put Corsair himself at risk at the hands of gossip or the like, Kaeden changed his tactics.<br>"I am a Captain of King Roland's knights." he added.<br>"Oh how wonderful!" of course she perked up again nigh instantly.<br><br><em>It seems we shall have to brave these dark waters as men...</em> Kaeden mentally sighed.
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				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:35:29 pm</strong>
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				"Now you hear me, missy, you can't be romping around the countryside with only those men for company! Why, you'll be scandalized," the bustling middle-aged woman protested as she hurried after Lhurriel, indignation all over her face. The mage only laughed, deftly balancing the tray she held in her left while lifting a portion of her skirt up with her right. Just in time, for two little kittens raced right beneath her skirts, mewling playfully as they skittered out of sight behind a counter. Seconds later, two surprised shouts and a shriek signalled where they had gone, making Lhurriel laugh again.<br><br>"Oh, come now, Mrs. Bertram. As a lady mage, I have long been seen as a scandalized and fallen woman..." Lhurriel commented as she gathered together a collection of cups and saucers.<br><br>"But my lady-"<br><br>"I'm no lady, Mrs. Bertram, and you well know it. And-" Lhurriel continued calmly, when she saw that the housekeeper was about to interrupt her again, "You also know that I will never marry Lord Atadel. We are not suited."<br><br>"On the contrary, Miss Lhurriel!" Mrs. Bertram shuffled over and efficiently handed off two more trays to the young maids waiting for them. Normally the housekeeper would be the one serving Eversleigh's exalted guests, but she had twisted an ankle just two days before Lhurriel and present company had arrived. Thus the two maids, with Lhurriel's assistance. "You're young, you're quite beautiful, and you and the young master get along splendidly!"<br><br>A nostalgic expression passed through the young mage's face, the briefest of shadows before her usual bright smile replaced it. Mrs. Bertram blinked, wondering if she'd merely been imagining things, but forgot about the incident when Lhurriel began speaking again. "Lord Atadel is to marry a young lady of noble birth when he chooses to do so. One who is not out of the country constantly on business, and&nbsp; one whose beauty will do his kindness and looks justice. As a young woman born of the nomadic clans, I cannot be his bride, even were I to wish it. My status as master mage makes it all the more imperative that I not wed a peer of the realm," she said blandly.<br><br>"Miss Lhurriel, you <em>are</em> a princess in your own right-!"<br><br>"That has no bearing on anything whatsoever," Lhurriel said sharply, turning her piercing gaze on the housekeeper. The woman silenced herself, still indignant that the pretty young mage couldn't see how perfectly she and the young master were suited. Couldn't the young lady see that she was the only one who made him laugh and smile freely? That, and the young mage, who had found a second home at the Eversleigh estate, had no business pulling her rank on the house's servants.<br><br>"I'll be taking these tea trays up now," Lhurriel said gently to the housekeeper, to soften her earlier rebuke. She waved at the two maids, who eagerly came at her request. Mrs. Bertram merely shook her head at the mage, wishing that perhaps things had been a different, as the younger girl disappeared up the stairs, maids following at her heels.<br><br><br><br>"How has your magicycle business been going?" Lady Randolph purred, scooting closer to Corsair until her thigh was pressed up against his leg. Giving her a bland, blank look, the young lord stood up smoothly, making her almost tumble ungracefully across the couch. The woman managed to catch herself in time before she made a spectacle of herself, but she glared at Corsair, who was currently replacing several books on a shelf. The sitting room was actually rather spacious, and after some manipulative shuffling Corsair managed to get himself the lounge chair that could seat three. The others were spaced around the room, with Kae and Miss Sandoval seated in the window seat across from the chair he and Lady Randolph were using. <br><br>"It's been going perfectly well, Lady Randolph," Corsair replied, sitting himself down again, only this time with the perfect amount of proprietary distance between&nbsp; himself and the other woman. Despite his best efforts, however, after several minutes Corsair found the lascivious woman once again plastered to his side, her bounteous chest pressed rather firmly against his arm. Even for her, this was a bit strong-<br><br>"Why, it's wonderful to see you again, Lady Randolph," cooed a familiar voice from right behind them. Corsair didn't have to turn around to know that his savior had just come; he rose leisurely, a warm, affectionate smile coming to his lips as he turned to face Lhurriel. Apparently she had already served the others in the room; only he and Kaeden (as well as their companions) had yet to have their drink.<br><br>"Lhurriel. We missed you for dessert. How was the souffle?" He asked, winking slyly to show his thanks. Lhurriel couldn't stop the mysterious, small smile from stealing across her lips -- and at this, Lady Randolph seethed with jealousy, for the smile transformed the mage from a pretty girl to a lovely young woman. And, when she quickly glanced over the dress the mage wore, Lady Randolph neerly hissed in another silent fit of envy.<br><br>"Delicious, as I knew it would be, Corsair. You're so mean-spirited to deny me my dessert," Lhurriel chuckled, her throaty laugh well-refined into a seductive purr. Gorgeous navy silk, a high neckline (at least compared to the current fashion), and few petticoats, and <em>still</em> the girl looked presentable. Beyond presentable! Lady Randolph's eyes narrowed as she watched Lord Atadel kiss the girl's knuckles, and narrowed a sliver more when the Captain did the same, though with less familiarity. <em>I KNOW my bosom is much larger than hers, and yet in that dress she ends up showing herself to advantage while looking like a complete lady!</em> For the dress transformed a boyish, serious mage into a rather attractive little baggage, one who caught the light in Lord Atadel's gaze and took his attention off <em>her</em>.<br><br>"Lord Atadel, don't you think MISS Keladar is being a bit familiar with you and the guards?" Lady Randolph asked dubiously, her eyes glaring daggers at the other girl (who at the moment was chatting amiably with Miss Sandoval and the Captain of the guard).<br><br>"No. This is an intimate little party, and I've known the lady mage for quite a few years," Corsair answered smoothly, knowing that Lady Randolph was jealous and irked that his behavior towards Lhurriel was so much warmer. Displeased, Lady Lissa Randolph waited until Corsair had been summoned by his butler and Lhurriel was speaking to Miss Sandoval to pounce.<br><br>"So, Miss Keladar, how long are you to be visiting again? Last time you stayed for quite some time with Lord Atadel," Lissa mentioned coolly, her tone suggestive and a bit arrogant.<br><br>"Truly. And without a chaperone," Miss Sandoval added, moving just the slightest bit closer to Kae. Without even meaning to, Lhurriel found her jaw gritting at the sight - Miss Sandoval was the most grasping, selfish female the mage had ever had the displeasure to meet, and she felt a bit sorry for Kae, who looked quite uncomfortable having his arm clung to by the young chit.<br><br>"Good friends have no need of chaperones, and I would never dream of behaving improperly while in Lord Atadel's home," Lhurriel replied, her voice dry with badly-disguised humor. Lady Randolph's face flushed at the insinuation - cuddling up to the lord of the house in his own sitting room was improper indeed.<br><br>"Still, you <em>are</em> unmarried, and of but twenty years of age. You shouldn't be alone with an established bachelor like Lord Atadel," Miss Sandoval accused. Lhurriel smirked, drinking her glass of sherry before taking her time to answer.<br><br>"I am an accomplished master mage of this kingdom, proven to be responsible and proper even under the most rigorous and diplomatically strained of situations. I'm sure nobody could find fault with my visiting Lord Atadel to test his magicycles, and work them," Lhurriel replied, her voice chilly. She hated catty females. She could almost feel the invisible smirk Lady Randolph was sporting in her eyes. And when the older lady leaned closer to Miss Sandoval to whisper something, Lhurriel knew she'd misstepped, at least with her words.<br><br>"Probably to test his sexual prowess and work as his personal whore, no doubt," the woman whispered just loudly enough for present company to hear, eyes gleaming deviously. Miss Sandoval, though she set herself up Lhurriel's rival, <em>was</em> an innocent and jumped up with a shocked gasp, eyes wide.<br><br>For the first time that night, Lhurriel felt like slapping the other woman.<br><br>"IF I am Lord Atadel's personal whore, as you so bluntly put it, at least I know I'm suitably feminine and to his taste - unlike the hussies that reside in his district, panting like bitches in heat for his favor," she snapped furiously. Dignity wrapped around her like a scarf, Lhurriel rose, extreme dislike apparent in her eyes. "Captain Kaeden, I'll be taking my leave. Please express my sincere apologies to Lord Atadel when he returns," Lhurriel bit out icily.<br><br>"No need. I'll escort you to the stairs," Corsair said, the crystal mage Alasdair walking beside him. His pale gaze was condemning and narrowed at the attack of the other mage, though evidently he managed to find some amusement in their blatant jealousy. The two ladies rose when they saw him, a bit perturbed at the crystal mage's sudden appearance and guiltily looking away when Corsair gave them hard stares. Corsair may have looked magnificent, but Alasdair dressed to impress in elaborate mage's robes. The crystal mage bowed slightly, earning him two hurried curtsies in return, as well as one bow. In this country, crystal mages were revered for their skill and craftmanship; enviously, Miss Sandoval and Lady Randolph stared as Alasdair shook Lhurriel's hand firmly before smiling at her - an open, friendly smile that acknowledged mutual respect between them, as well as friendship. Similarly, Corsair, gave Lhurriel a silent nod before turning without a word and exiting the room, clearly expecting both mages to follow.<br><br>"I'll see you tomorrow morning, Sir Kaeden," Lhurriel said, giving him an exasperated, frustrated smile before turning to leave.
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				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:48:25 pm</strong>
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				<em>A ridiculously chaotic scene if there ever was one...</em><br><br>Tolan was able to handle himself in the presence of a lady - apparently of any sort. His luck did not end there, for his appealing figure of blue eyes, golden hair and the overall resplendent air he had rendered the poor girl in his at his side helpless in his wake. <br><br>"...And so I ended up a knight of the king's military under Kaeden's command." He concluded, his irresistible soft smiled directed toward his present company, "Do forgive me, my lady. It seems as though I've gone and rambled on about myself."<br><br>"N-no. Please don't apologize, Master Tolan. I don't mind at all." Sighed the young Lady Randolph, her cheeks tinted pink, as she was lost in a dreamy state.<br><br>"Ah, my dear lady, you are very kind..." Tolan stood at the arrival of Lhurriel, accepting the proffered cups of tea, "Thank you Lady Lhurriel."<br><br>Ghestin said very little in ways of conversation. Widow Chirtoff was busy stirring her heated cup, tinkering the spoon against the porcelain walls. Every once and a while she would speak up, voicing an opinion on some obscure issue whilst still giving sidelong glances towards Ghestin's massive and well-chiseled body. At every other remark from the woman she would gain a nod or grunt, perhaps the statement would be worthy enough for a worded response such as "indeed" or "Is that so?" But he gave her very little, though she seemed to like his taciturn nature just as well. Widow Chirtoff content enough to carry out her own conversation. <br><br>William tried desperately to concentrate on the gift of tea Lhurriel had presented him so that he would not hear the dreadful things spilling from young miss Randolph's lips. She had nonchalantly set her tea aside on a nearby table to continue her cuddling against the young solider, intentionally burying his arm in the valley between her breasts as she leaned against him. <br><br>"I'm so very jealous of my mother and sister..." she cooed in a coy little sigh, "I feel so... <em>small</em> compared to them." William choked on the tea his sipped, knowing ful-.. Knowing well what it was she spoke of, "Tell me Sir William, do you think that they're too small?" the seductive girl latched onto the poor boy's arm as she literally rubbed against him. <br><br>The cup in his hand clinked with the plate as it faltered, tea spilling out onto the saucer. He felt himself growing warmer beneath his tunic, the fabric sticking to his skin where he perspired. Gods was this woman pushy! He began to fall into a nervous shake and his words stuttered as he answered as gentlemanly as he could, Tolan help him...<br><br>"M-m'lady." He cleared his throat hoping it would settle his nerves slightly, "I do not think that... Ph-physical characteristics is what should be the core of any re <em>-gulp-</em> lationship. I, personally, believe that the breast - !! - BEST aspect of a woman is h-her mind."<br><br>...She was eating him alive..<br><br>Rohwik's story was more of the same, though slightly different. The chatter of the young Randolph of seventeen summers was endless. There was a void in her that spilled infinite amounts of uninteresting conversation, dull issues that Rohwik, quite frankly, did not care to listen to.<br><br>"I had gone to a cobbler the other day to have the strap mended, but the foolish man told me that he wouldn't repair the shoe after doing it the ninth time." She rambled, "He said that I was careless with such <em>works of art</em>. I swear people of such low class really don't understand the needs of their betters."<br><br>"You <em>don't</em> say..." Rohwik's words dripped profusely with his sardonic tone as he sunk against the back of the cushioned seat.<br><br>"It's true!" obviously the blatant cue of his disinterest was immediately picked up...and discarded. He winced when she continued, "Which reminds me. The other day I had spoken to Elaine - she is the daughter of a well-known horse breeder, he owns the local heard and has countless workers. Lives quite well - but we had spoken about how Belize had chopped off all her hair. She looked terrible!"<br><br><em>How in God's holy name does a cobbler remind you of someones hair?!</em> Rohwik's brows knitted in utter confusion as he gawked at the girl who motored onward. That was it, he had reached the end of his tolerance. <br><br>"Forgive me. It seems the tea Lhurriel had given us has gone straight through me." He lied as he had yet to even taste the brew, "I do hope you'll pardon my short leave."<br><br>He stood with a light bow to his sitting room counterpart. <em>Short like the winter months!</em> He hurriedly walked across the room toward the door.<br><br>"Camden!" He called, "Would you be so kind as to show me - he rounded the corner - <em>a place where I can hide from this chattering chit?!</em>"<br><br>"What is it, exactly, you are duty-bound to do, Sir Kaeden?" asked the lady Sandoval, still prying into matters that hardly concerned her and Kae duly noted her intentions.<br><br>"Well, m'lady..." before he had to fabricate some excuse to veer her off that line of thought, Lhurriel had wandered her way by, "Lhurriel, you've joined us!" Taking the tray from the lady mage's hands he set the final cups with it onto the small table between the chairs Lady Sandoval and he sat in. "I was beginning to wonder if you had retired for the evening, but I'm very glad that is not so." In great relief of her saving him he gladly took her hand and left a light kiss on her fingers in his own personal thanks.<br><br>"What say the cook of Tolan's constant compliments?" he asked hoping to drag out his chat with the lady who currently held his favor over his previous companion, "Do forgive, Tolan for using you as a poor messenger of his endless gratitude. I know by experience just how taxing his relays can be."<br><br>It was then that Lady Randolph spoke out, directing her question toward the woman to whom Kae spoke. He turned his attention to the accusing woman, curious as to what it was she was trying to get at. When Lady Sandoval pitched in, slipping around his arm he knew things were about to slip the line and steps that shouldn't be taken were about to fall on restricted ground. His eyes narrowed as he felt the woman urge him away.<br><br>Rohwik had felt it was time for his return as he had slipped away for some time now and was lucky enough to walk in just as the outbreak began. All eyes of the men in the room drifted toward the spat that was unfolding between the three women, Kaeden standing in the midst of it all. <br><br>At the sound of insinuating such lewd acts in regards to Lhurriel Keladar, Kaeden stiffened and a spark of annoyance toward the woman ignited. Certainly he had only known Lady Keladar for little more than a day, but he was damn certain she was more of a lady than these harlots could ever dream to be. Even so, this was not his fight. He had no ground to stand if he were to step in, knowing very little about the relationship between the mage and the lord of the house.<br><br>The men jumped at Lhurriel's sudden outburst and Tolan and William cringed at the niche she was accused of filling. Will blushed at the blunt wording Lhurriel had used to illustrate - though, quite accurately - the women's behavior within the house of Lord Atadel. But he knew that she was justified in her surge of rage, they all knew. <br><br>When she addressed him, Kaeden looked straight into Lhurriel's eyes, his gaze filled with a high respect for her choice of actions and admiration for her dignified execution. Before he could answer Corsair had spoken, letting everyone know of his return, the mage in his company earning curious gazes. As Lhurriel bid Kae her farewell he returned her smile with a more regrettable one of his own.<br><br>"Rest well, Lady." He answered her.<br><br>As they took their leave, the soldiers all spoke their adieus accompanied by condoling glances from Will and Tolan. Kaeden would have no more of this inexpiable behavior. They had bared such blatantly licentious behavior as men of the court with respect for these women, (though they had not entirely earned it,), but to attack someone outright was something Kae would absolutely not stand for. <br><br>"It is regrettable to have such an exchange happen amongst people of a decent regard." He spoke up, his eyes still falling toward the door Lhurriel and her company had exited, "But I suppose that such impudence comes natural to those who are used to being unbridled by conscience."<br><br>He gazed back toward the woman hanging on his arm, her shocked gaze met by his filled with provocation. <br><br>"Such accusations are not necessary within another man's house, Madam Randolph. I would caution you to be more selective with the thoughts you voice. Envy is never a becoming jewel for a woman to wear."<br><br>At his sudden vocal hardening, the others took their cue and stood from their places readying to, gladly, escort the woman out of the home they had invaded. <br><br>"I do believe that the gathering has come to a close." Kaeden concluded with rock hard severity. <br>"Sir Kaeden!" Lissa had snapped, broken by the call of her actions, "You have absolutely no right to force us out of this home. You are not it's master, nor are you ours-"<br>"Dear lady, I can escort you, as a gentleman, to the door of this manor..." he interjected in a frozen tone, "Or, as the captain of the guard to the boundaries of the estate."<br><br>It was obvious the lady was taken aback by his benign threat and sought not to "dignify" such audacity with a reply.<br><br>"It seems we are no longer welcome with in this house, ladies." She hissed through clenched teeth, her dagger-like stare fixated on Kaeden's empty expression. <br><br>The girls gathered their skirts and walked toward the door, slipping down the obviously familiar halls toward the entrance and their exit. None thought to give a second glance at the boys, save for the lovestruck young lady Randolph who was reluctant to leave Tolan's side regardless of what had just taken place. He expressed his disappointment at how the evening had turned out and urged her on her way.<br><br>"What a terrible thing to say..." Tolan mused aloud.<br>"I can't believe they would accuse Lady Lhurriel of such a thing," William joined in, "There's no possible way she could be of such a manner."<br>"And they call themselves Ladies." Hawk spat.<br>"Rohwik is more of a courtly lady than any of them." Mumbled Ghestin loudly with a shake of his head.<br><br>All glanced towards the larger man, a smirk pulling at the corner of Kaeden's lips, a growl from within Hawk's chest, and a chuckle sounding from Tolan.<br><br>"But.. He's a lecherous hack..." William wondered curiously and was promptly silenced by a fist to the back of his head.<br><br>They decided it was time to turn in for the night, knowing well that they would continue onward to seek the stolen treasure. Kaeden opted to remain and actually try and finish one cup of tea before the night was out. He sat down in a velvet armchair turned toward a window and sighed, sipping at the warm tea Lhurriel had intended for him to drink.
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				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:51:24 pm</strong>
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				<em>"Are you all right, Lhurriel?"<br><br>"Saint's alive, Roland, I am perfectly fine! You mustn't follow me as if there's something wrong," the girl snapped, yanking her arm away from her escort. The knight's expression didn't change, but for the slightest lowering of one edge of his right eyebrow. The young man examined her for a moment - resplendent in full attire as a Master-Mage, her stark black robes embroidered and lined with beautiful silver and accessorized with blue stones set in silver jewelry. She was one of the most lovely young women currently residing at the Palace, a curse and blessing if ever there was one. All the young squires and knights as yet unmatched who trained there hounded her every movement; puppies they were, with not a whit of sense to even realize that the lady-mage's interest in them only extended so far as their ability to get out of her way. Lhurriel Keladar was interested in only those who could exercise her mind and heart - and any who could not, she gave politeness. Those who could only excercise her mind, she gave her deep friendship; only one could ever say he had claimed the orphaned Clan girl's heart.<br><br>Roland was he, though he could already sense a change in the girl's destiny. She was not meant to be his - and when she spread her wings further, she would return their relationship to that of friends, but no more. However, she was only seventeen, and did not have Roland's keen sense of people to guide her choice in a mate. The knight adored her endless wit and compassion, as well as her extreme obstinance and determination. She knew very much for only being seventeen - or at least, she did when matters came to the government, politics, or magic.<br><br>The poor girl knew nothing of society's strictures, and sometimes it showed rather glaringly, as it had tonight. She'd all but snapped when one of the more "showy" and catty nobles had insinuated that Lhurriel made her bed with every knight in the palace. Roland had watched as Lhurriel had flushed, said something that made the woman blanch and turn green, then flounced away after saying something else that made the other ladies turn pale. Sensing pain in her, he had followed after making his excuses.<br><br>"Lhurriel... you would not be in such a temper were there nothing wrong," Roland said softly, the lilting voice of his out-Land accent cooling her conflicting emotions. She stopped silently when his hand touched her shoulder briefly, where he could feel stiffness, tension, fury... and trembling?<br><br>"Ree?" He asked, surprised.<br><br>"How do you do it everyday, Roland?"<br><br>"Do what, my dear?"<br><br>"You are a knight of this country, sworn to its and its people's protection. You have taken the oath of knighthood to defend her and her people to your last days, or die doing your duty." She whirled around. Roland saw the angry, despairing tears clouding her eyes, and when he drew the weeping girl into his arms, he felt the pain that knifed so deeply inside her. "How can you not regret having to defend such despicable people, who would probably leave you for dead were you in need, despite all that you have done for them and theirs?"<br><br>Kissing her hair and folding his arms about her defeated form, Roland smiled gently, tilting her head up to look at him.<br><br>"I do not regret it because even as there are the selfish and the greedy, there are also the selfless and the giving. There are kind souls who aid others in need, even when they are themselves in need of aid." Roland smiled down at Lhurriel, his affection for her obvious when he stopped briefly to lay a gentle kiss on her lips.<br><br>"There are those with compassionate hearts and strong minds, who will do all in their power to spread good." He smoothed back tendrils of hair that had escaped her simple hairdo, framing a face that looked up at him with love sparkling in gray eyes.<br><br>"And every day that I see the sunrise, I do not regret taking the oath of knighthood. Because I made the vow to protect people like you, Lhurriel."</em><br><br><br><br>"Are you all right, Ree?"<br><br>"Corsair, I'm fine. Alasdair, you needn't put your hand on my shoulder as if I'm about to race back to that room and blow it up in my temper. There is nothing wrong, you two, however well-meaning your actions," Lhurriel snapped, shaking her arm and shoulder free of her two friends. Corsair sighed, but bowed and returned to his guests, knowing she was not to be consoled at the moment.<br><br>"And yet you would not be so disturbed were you fine... now would you?" Alasdair murmured quietly as he escorted her up the stairs.<br><br>They were silent as entered her dark room, and the crystal mage lit the fireplace and crystals using his magic. The crystals and fire flickered in the violet of his magic before returning to their natural colors. He turned around as Lhurriel stepped behind a screen and changed into simple robes to work in.<br><br>They were still silent when they walked back down the stairs, but the younger water mage finally spoke. They headed in the direction of the parlor room, in which Lhurriel had so recently told off the local ladies of society. She would have to apologize to the knights for disturbing their evening with such rude words. They both stopped when they reached the door, staring through it at the men, who were now coversing calmly, seated around the fireplace opposite the door.<br><br>"I find it difficult, sometimes, when mingling among the <em>well-born</em>, as they are known... that they are so determined to tarnish my name and ruin my credibility, despite the fact that I am probably more well-learned than they, understand the workings of the country better, and risk my life everytime I leave the palace to protect them and theirs. Sometimes I wonder why I ever thought to take the Mage's Oath of protection and healing, when I would be protecting those who would not be grateful... healing those who do not deserve to keep their life. And those who deserved to live long, rich lives and die in warm beds from old age... It is disheartening to know that often those who deserve our aid the most are the ones who die first of danger."<br><br>Alasdair cracked a haunted smile. "I wondered the same thing, when a close friend of mine was killed during a failed diplomacy outing. He was a knight, and we had uncovered evidence of traitors. Traitors whom he and his fellow soldiers had been in service protecting for their entire careers. He told me that he did not regret it because even as there were the selfish and the greedy, there were also the selfless and the giving. That there were kind souls who aided others in need, even when they needed aid themselves. And also, he said that there are those with compassionate hearts and strong minds, who did all in their power to spread good despite the obstacles they faced."<br><br>He paused and watched Lhurriel as her face went blank in recognition of the words she had heard before. She struggled to remember who had given her the sage advice, but she could not bring a face to mind. "He said that every day that he saw the sunrise, he did not regret taking the oath of knighthood because he had made that vow to protect people like the beautiful young mage waiting for him to come home to her." When she turned her head to look at him, Alasdair smiled and straightened mysteriously.<br><br><em>Those words- so familiar...</em> Features began piecing themselves together in her mind, slowly because time had blurred them quite thoroughly.<br><br>"The others in the factory will be retiring for the night, Lhurriel. Good night, my dear... and do cheer up. You certainly gave those women a piece of your mind... I doubt they'll come sniffing by our Corsair anytime soon."<br><br>Lhurriel put together a handsome, roguish face with a gentle smile before she laughed at Alasdair's words, her humor banishing the long-lost features. She didn't sense the experienced, light touch of the crystal mage blurring the recognition in her mind... she did not need to know that it was he who had three years ago been the messenger of death, with news that her beloved and his company of men had been slaughtered brutally to prevent traitors from getting their due. She did not need old wounds to be reopened... not now, with so much on her mind.<br><br>"Good night, Alasdair." She bowed, as did he - Alasdair's lips curled in a satisfied smile as the young woman he had been charged with guarding strode into the parlor room to greet the others.<br><br><em>Roland... she continues to spread her wings.</em><br><br><br><br>"Ah - Lhurriel. I was afraid you wouldn't be coming back. I was just telling Sir Kaeden and the others that I had enlisted your services tonight in my factory, and that perhaps after our little disturbance you might be headed straight there." Corsair smiled apologetically, but the mage waved them away assuredly.<br><br>"I'm quite sorry for my rather indelicate words earlier this evening," she chuckled, greeting the gathered men with a bow.<br><br>"I hope you are not too disappointed, and I sincerely hope that I did not spoil your evening by inciting them to leave."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:54:51 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden had managed a bit of tea between then and Corsair's return. It did him well to rest his storming mind. It wasn't enough that he had issues about the stolen artifact, but the sheer gall of those women to be as pompous as they were. One would have thought Kae was familiar with the aristocratic hens and, truth be told, he was. He just never managed to get used to their pillowed egos and dreadfully charming characteristic exaggerations. Such people always brought him to his wit's end.<br><br>"Worry not, my lady." Kae shook his head lightly, "The words were well deserved. You have a right to defend your own honor as well as that of Master Atadel. There is certainly no need for apology from you... To be perfectly honest, the men and I were entirely relieved to be able to have a reason to escort them out."<br><br>At the last statement, Kae had taken to giving the lady mage a smile and a nodding thanks. It was certainly a nightmare until Lhurriel had arrived to, more or less, save them from the social vultures. With them gone and the remained of the night left to Kaeden, he felt relieved to be given the chance to ponder their next move with the new information Corsair had given him earlier that day. He would need to call a small meeting in the morning to consult his soliders. <br><br>Shaking the thoughts of tomorrow's coming from his mind, "I do hope that you don't work yourself terribly hard in Lord Corsair's factory tonight. I'll need you for that tomorrow." He finished with a light wink, obviously a light joke between the three of them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:55:25 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blinking at Kae's odd statement about working late, Lhurriel had to ponder the sentence before the meaning dawned on her. She managed to choke back a snort of laughter and only just managed a straight face.<br><br>"I'll be sure not to. Now... I just wanted to come down and see if there was anything else you wanted, before I went to work in the shop."<br><br>She felt <em>much</em> more comfortable in her mage's robes, fitted and tailored to fit her slim, petite body. Perhaps the feeling of soft cotton draped over her entire body eased her nervousness - though Lhurriel could vocally dismiss and outwit those who insulted her dignity by calling her ten kinds of trash unfit to walk the earth, she truly cared about making appearances. Not that she believed all these statements; they were mostly untrue and ridiculous, and none of the people who really mattered would believe them.<br><br><em>Even if they are untrue... there will always be somebody who will use any ammunition they can to tear down my reputation</em>, Lhurriel thought with a frown. As a mage on the King's Council, she had a high influence among several of its members, especially the artisans and Advisors who recognized her steady mind and sound logic; nobles who disliked that someone not of the First Class of the country often took rumors and such to the Advisors who disliked her, or strew false rumors about the Palace to turn others against her. It didn't work since Lhurriel (quite literally) went about the entire Palace doing her work; she saw everybody from the servants to the Palace students, to the knights and pages and various ambassadors and lords and ladies outside of the capital.<br><br>At least, with her clothing and boots swathed about her entire body, nobody could accuse her of using womanly wiles to get her way. If anything, Lhurriel was known as the Ice Princess among those who held a candle for her.<br><br><em>Still - it doesn't hurt!</em> Lhurriel smiled sweetly at Corsair, glad to help him out after he had gifted her with such a beautiful magicycle. "And if there're any special projects you want done with the crystals, I'll throw in my services in that area as well," she promised.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:56:59 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The air about Lhurriel was noticeably different that moments before and Kae was pleased to pick up on it. He felt a little awkward after realizing how ridiculous he must have sounded with his last comment. He was never any good at joking, but he felt the want to attempt to lighten her spirits - though, she apparently didn't seem to need it any longer. <br><br>"No, my lady." Sir Alydarr answer with a light turn of his head, "I believe we've talked enough of our business for the day already. Let me worry about the amulet for the rest of the night."<br><br>Of course he was going to worry about. What evidence they've gathered pointed in a direction Kae didn't want to go. Thoughts couldn't be kept from clouding his mind, they had been storming all day since the news Corsair had relayed. He sighed, realizing that he had wandered off in his own troubled world for but a moment. <br><br>"Lord Atadel, I do thank you for the wonderful meal as well as the kind accommodations for the evening. My men and I appreciate it very much. I will leave the rest of the night to you both." <br><br>Kaeden bowed respectfully to the both of them before excusing himself from the room. He casually made his way up to his room, intending to turn in of course, but not without at least an hour or so pondering their next move.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 06, 2009, 11:57:21 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>As was his custom, Corsair woke bright and early the next morning, stretching and walking over to his curtained windows before doing anything else. The sun had not yet peeked above the far-off horizon, but had begun casting its glowing light on the night sky, erasing the darkness bit by bit as each ray pushed the light of dawn in its wake.<br><br>The biting breeze of morning chilled the noble for a short moment, before he shook it off and began rummaging through his closet for the day's garments. He quickly threw on a simple, unimpressive shirt and a pair of plain trousers, wrinkling his nose at the overwhelming smell of flower in his closet (one of his servants must have decided that the previous odor of moth-preventing powder was too hideous to endure. Boots took but a moment to pull on, and before five minutes had passed his jaw was clean of overnight bristles and the lord of the estate was striding quickly down the hall, buttoning the cuffs of a dignified-looking black overcoat.<br><br>He fully expected to be the first person in the dining hall; to his surprise, two females glanced up when he entered the room.<br><br>The housekeeper, Mrs. Bertram, immediately stood up and curtsied awkwardly, though Corsair tried to stop her before she injured herself again. Giving Lhurriel a motherly pat on the shoulder, the woman told Corsair she would bring his usual breakfast palate in herself, leaving before the young lord could protest or find someone else to do the task.<br><br>"Still matchmaking," Lhurriel laughed sheepishly, a furious blush staining her cheeks. "I wish you would tell her that we won't ever marry - couldn't ever marry."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 07, 2009, 12:00:27 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden, as scheduled as ever, rose before the sun as he did everyday. The outside greeted him with a calming cool, the morning dew still remaining a moment before the sun drank it up with it's daily rise. His men, trained as he was, were about as well. William, generally taken to leisurely reading at this hour, found the library's vast amount of knowledge a room to his liking. There were several books he had noticed along Lord Atadel's shelves on magicycles he hadn't particularly remembered seeing within the royal archives. Ghestin, as large and intimidating as he was, took the dawning hours as a time of relief and remembrance. Meditation was a ritual usually performed by his brother and partaking in such activities was his daily tribute. Tolan spent his early activities in a manner more similar to that of their captain. <br><br>Tolan had chanced to meet up with Kaeden before he had gotten too far into his morning stroll. Kae was certainly glad for the company, having so much weighing on his mind from the prior night. He needed someone to talk with. At least with the morning stroll things could get a little organized for their gathering. As for Rohwik...<br><br>Well, remembering what a joy dessert had been last night, he had hoped to acquire any that might have been spared by the sly water mage in their company. Well, the kitchen was certainly not what he had expected it to be. When he snuck in he expected a quaint tidy kitchen coupled with a small scullery. Not quite what he found. It was quite the sight for someone who spent a good amount of his life slinking in kitchens for a bit of extra appreciation for fine food. It was quite vast and filled with numerous stoves and ovens, giving the room a warm glow and comfortably warm atmosphere. Before he could root around and rummage for what sort of treats Corsair's cooks had stashed around the place, a seemingly well fed man promptly booted him from the kitchen. Couldn't have been any more perfect in timing, as Rohwik stumbled into the dining hall from the kitchen entrance only to catch Lhurriel and the idea of marriage.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 07, 2009, 12:16:07 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Corsair shook his head as he chuckled at Lhurriel's embarrassed blush, but leaned forward to take her hand in both of his. Fully unaware of their audience (who, by his vantage point, could see most of Corsair's face but none of Lhurriel's, and everything that was happening at the table), the young lord smiled wistfully as he squeezed her hand. She glanced up at him, more curious than startled at his actions, but affection filled her eyes as she looked up at him. Their past intimacy had only served to make them closer friends than before -- though she knew that sometimes, Corsair still wanted more than mere friendship...<br><br>"You know that I would marry you in a heartbeat if my honor demanded it, my dear," he said softly, gently brushing a suitor-like kiss across her knuckles. She held his gaze, wondering just how deeply his feelings still ran. He claimed that he was perfectly fine with the current state of their relationship - but Corsair would do anything to see to her happiness, even cover up his own feelings for her.<br><br>Before she could respond, Lhurriel heard the familiar sound of Mrs. Bertram bustling her way back up the stairs with the food - and as the mage reclaimed her hand and tried to calm her blushes, she heard (to her alarm) the housekeeper scold one of Kaeden's soldiers-<br><br>"Now, young man, you should have seated yourself at the table instead of trying to sneak your way into the kitchen! We don't stint our guests here, especially guests of our Lady-Mage," she said, quite efficiently hustling both the trays of food and the dumbfounded soldier towards the table. Turning, both Lhurriel and Corsair stood to greet him - Corsair wondered how much the soldier had heard, and Lhurriel only <em>hoped</em> that the other man hadn't heard anything incriminating. Or at least, nothing that he could blow into awesome proportions.<br><br><em>"Make sure he</em> never <em>hears anything important - or if he does, he hears it in full. That man could turn a sapling into a forest if he had a mind to,"</em> William had told her when she had been showing him more of the magicycle factory last night, and what she worked on in particular. Lhurriel tried to hide a wince - if he had heard any part of their conversation...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 07, 2009, 11:31:54 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was a curious blink earned from the intimate looking scene before him as Rohwik stumbled out of the kitchen. With the proximity the two had as well as the mention of marriage, perhaps there was more to Master Atadel and the Lady Mage than they had first thought. Before Rohwik's twisted mind could start turning, a portly lass scooted through the door and danced around him with a tray of food. Suddenly, he was enchanted by the wicked spell of this kitchen imp as she carted to the dining table, her outlandish charm on his stomach easily won over his meddlesome mind. With the reward of food, he immediately obeyed this entree siren and claimed a seat at the table, his hands knitted neatly together on the table before him. The ever perfect picture of a model son awaiting his morning meal.<br><br>Not long after Rohwik poised himself at the table, postured as some royal prince with a board down his back, the others had been led in by the scullery maids sent to fetch them. Passing by, Kae noticed the unusual stiffness in Rohwik's spine and ruffled the brilliant red locks that sprouted from his skull. <br><br>"What trouble have you gotten yourself into that's lashed you into such a stated of stoned obedience I could never throw you into?" Smirk.<br>"Why, Captain..." a hand rested over his heart, a mock look of shock and utter appall at the idea, "I am no cause for concern, Sir! I am a guest in an honorable man's home and I mean to keep my wits about me and welcome such kindness with grace and dignity. What other cause would I have?"<br><br>The other men seated themselves in one of many comfortable chairs about the table, a simultaneous dance of eyes accompanying the motion as they all rolled incredulously at how utterly rehearsed Hawk was this morning. Kae, however remained on his feet, making his way to Lord Atadel's side and offering his hand. <br><br>"A glorious morning, good Lord." he greeted with a hardy shake, "I've gotten the chance to taken in the full beauty of your home estate and it is most certainly a sight to see. We are indebted to you for your great kindness." His eyes fell to the lady figure seated just near their host, "And as vibrant as the morning sun, a good morning to you as well, My Lady Mage. I do not mean to be one to tear you from such a wonderful hostel, but I hope that you are ready for our departure today?"<br><br>The question really wasn't one he expected answered, merely an excuse to speak with Lhurriel a moment longer. Strange, Kaeden found it, how he was finding himself most glad to see her; most especially with the light glow on her cheeks and the shy smile she seemed to wear this morning. He cleared his throat lightly and nodded his head to her before moving to a seat of his own - Mrs. Bertram had returned with several more trays, assisted by kitchen hands of course, and nudged him so.<br><br>The covers were lifted and all were washed over by a delighted aroma of breakfast; a medley of omelets to choose from as well as muffins, cakes, and other sweet breads. There were stakes of sausages of many kinds and strips of crispy bacon, cups were filled with tea or a special blend of the Lord's finest coffee. The food seemed endless and comprised of many different treats, some possibly never seen before. Kae suddenly felt as though Corsair had outdone himself and gone a bit overboard for him and his men.<br><br>"Figures." William huffed as Rohwik immediately began filling his platter to its edge and stacking even higher with everything he could reach, managing a slick maneuver of snatching whatever was on a passing plate.<br><br>With his plate filled completely, Rohwik wasted no time moving the food into his mouth. Pity that didn't stop him from speaking...<br><br>"I couldn't.." Swallow. Shovel." Help but overhear..." Swallow. Drink. "Overhear something of a marriage? Are our Lord and Lady to be wed? If so, would we chance an invitation to the ceremony?" ...Shovel.<br><br>All eyes fell over to Lhurriel as forks and spoons ceased their scraping, cups slowly set back onto the table, and mouths swallowed the half chewed bite to hear the answer to the sudden, and most unexpected, question.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 07, 2009, 02:34:52 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel happily greeted the others as they trooped in, followed last by Kae. She giggled at their exaggerated comments about Rowhik's stellar table manners, contributing one or two of her own comments about his otherwise not-so-perfect behavior.<br><br>"A glorious morning indeed, Sir Kaeden," Corsair immediately answered, standing with a genuine smile on his face. "I am always grateful that Fate awarded me with such a beautiful home, as She is not nearly so kind with others of my peers. And do not worry; it is no great debt to see that the friends of my own dearest friend are comfortable and in want of nothing, except that which I cannot provide them."<br><br>When Kae addressed Lhurriel, she stood politely as well, bowing the exact degree required of an Aladellan Master Mage to the captain of a special guard contingent. "I'm well used to the rigors of travel, Sir Kaeden. I am reluctant to leave such good company, and wonderful accomodations-" Corsair grinned at that, but declined to comment, merely chuckling as he seated himself, "-but I do realize we have a mission to accomplish. Nothing will keep me from reaching my goal." Kae was then hustled off to his seat by the housekeeper, and plates of food began circulating, the pleasant exchange of conversation beginning almost simultaneously.<br><br>The matching of wits always left Lhurriel in a happy state of mind, and she was pleased to see that the soldiers found her in good company, and were willing to let down class and rank barriers to poke fun at her. Though their camarederie was slightly stiffer with Corsair present, her open acceptance of Corsair as an equal (and thus a highly acceptable target for teasing and wit) allowed the others to bring him into the pleasant chatter after most of the food had been passed around.<br><br>However, almost all sound and movement in the room halted when Rowhik brought up marriage... and Lhurriel... and Corsair. The mage, startled by the sudden change in topic, flushed a deep rose as embarassment bottled up her usual quick responses; Corsair stopped mid-bite through a piece of toast, and colored slightly... even the servants in the room halted (if they were balanced) and stumbled slightly in mid-step before regaining their footing.<br><br>"I- no! It isn't anything... l-like that! Or- at least, not now there isn't..." Lhurriel managed to choke out, completely unable to form a coherent sentence. While she tried to convince Rowhik that what he'd heard was nothing about any marriage, Corsair gave his servants a LOOK - they all nodded, paused guiltily, and filed out quietly.<br><br>When all of the servants had disappeared silently from the room, Corsair stood up smoothly. "Rowhik's got it all wrong," he said, with an irritated glare at the soldier in question. "There is nothing you've need to concern yourselves about. Lady-Mage Keladar and I are not getting married - we are of different classes, after all. It was simply a misinterpretation on Sir Rowhik's part." His tone bade the entire group to mention the topic no more, and he took his seat silently, continuuing his breakfast where he had left off.<br><br>After a silent second, the others did the same, though the atmosphere was slightly awkward thanks to Rowhik's blundering mouth. Lhurriel and Corsair carefully avoided each other's gazes during the rest of the meal; when he finished, Corsair bade them an early farewell, pleading a busy schedule and estate paperwork. Lhurriel promised to come get him prior to their departure, but those were the only words she said to him for the rest of the morning.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 07, 2009, 05:11:07 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Suddenly the delicious morsels of food lost it's tantalizing taste and it felt as though Rohwik was suddenly swallowing stones. His eyes sunk to his plate and didn't move from them until he was one of the few left at the table. He would be wallowing in this guilt for a while. Rohwik generally had a loosely hinged jaw and he rarely monitored what it was that came out, but he never meant to offend anyone. Quite contrary, he was almost excited over the news of a wedding. He had, personally, never attended one and was delighted to believe that Lhurriel was betrothed to a seemingly well-deserved man like Lord Atadel. <br><br>"Honestly Rohwik." Tolan sighed as he stood from his seat, "Perhaps it would be best to hold back on such leaps of faith until we've come to know our companions a bit more than a day or so."<br>"..." Rohwik really had no retort to Tolans words, looking away quite sheepishly as he and the others departed.<br><br>Feeling the sudden cage of tension around him, he offered the servants his assistance, hoping they would allow it in sympathy for his situation.<br><br>Kaeden had found it quite unusual that the idea of social class would be the first thing to building the barrier between him and Lhurriel. It wasn't a reason he didn't approve of personally, but it was not his place to speak of it. It was Atadel's home and Rohwik had overstepped his boundaries, even if he hadn't meant to. There was no reason for Alydarr to come to his companion's aid. The bite was earned and Kaeden believed in proper discipline. Kaeden had managed to pull Lhurriel aside - though he wouldn't come to his soldier's rescue under the stabbing gaze of Corsair, he wouldn't leave him stranded in the water. He was responsible for his men's actions, after all.<br><br>"Lhurriel.." Kae sighed softly, "I sincerely apologize for the misunderstanding. Rohwik can be a bit of a loose cannon at times and tends to say things he truly doesn't intend to be so insulting. He meant well..."<br><br>Kae's eyes wandered, finding it somewhat difficult to look at Lhurriel straight in the eye. Everytime he tried he would lose his words and forget what he was saying completely. He knew it was a bit rude not to look to her as he spoke, but he wouldn't get a word out otherwise. None coherent, anyway.<br><br>"But his actions shouldn't go without reprimand, I assure you. I will have a word with him personally." Though, he should probably attempt to get an apology to Lord Corsair as well.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 07, 2009, 09:33:35 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel shifted uncomfortably when Kae took her aside for his apology. She couldn't meet his eyes either, because Corsair had just told disproved a rumor that he wished were very true.<br><br>"I understand, really. It would have been easy for anyone to misunderstand the conversation we'd been having," Lhurriel quickly said, the faint blush still lingering on her cheeks. Of course, unsaid was the obvious statement: that any other person would not have mentioned it, and so publicly no less. She had to roll her shoulders slightly, they were so tense.<br><br>"And- don't worry about Lord Atadel. I'm sure he didn't really mind... I'll go speak with him. He was just- s-surprised by the mention of it. Like me. Yes. And- and- and... I suppose I'll go speak with him now. Really, don't worry about Corsair. I can take care of it." The normally articulate, well-spoken mage stammered her way through the simple sentences and decided that it might be best to retreat before she made a complete and utter fool of herself.<br><br>Making a hasty exit from the dining hall, she couldn't help but give a sigh of relief. She didn't like to lie, or dance around the truth - but in this case, it would be impossible to tell Kae why the mention of marriage had disturbed Corsair and her both, without telling the entire sad story. And though it had happened so many months ago, Ree did not like to relive the accident by retelling the story.<br><br><em>I told Corsair... reassured him, over and over again... that I was alright. That the accident had been nothing, just bad luck. I almost believed it myself, but maybe those types of things never go away completely.</em> Sometimes when Lhurriel was stressed out or worked herself to near-exhaustion at the Palace, she would still have nightmares of torrential rain... shards of crystal slicing through the air straight at her.<br><br>Rocks.<br><br>A mangled body.<br><br>A blood-chilling scream as the ground rushed up-<br><br>Lhurriel shuddered , her white-clad arms suddenly chilled. Folding her arms about herself, she walked quickly to the library, where she knew Corsair would be brooding.<br><br>As she thought, he had seated himself in front of the fireplace, chin resting on top of one lightly curled fist. When she knocked lightly on the open door, he glanced back, but only turned his head back towards the dark fireplace. She sat with a sigh next to him, resting her head comfortably on his shoulder as he continued to brood over his thoughts.<br><br>They sifted through their thoughts silence for a long while, neither wanting to bring up the subject at hand. Finally, Corsair turned his head slightly to look down at the lovely young woman seated at his side.<br><br>"For the past six months... I had thought I was past our relationship. But I see I am still at a stalemate - unwilling to let go of our past, and unwilling to move onto the future. Ree, you know I love you, and deeply. I <em>would</em> marry you in a heartbeat - after what happened..."<br><br>With difficulty, Lhurriel restrained a frustrated moan. <em>This again</em>... he brought it up everytime, much to her dismay. She was silent for long moments as she pondered his words, and tried to think of what she could say to remind him of his duty - and hers - to their kingdom.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 01:15:13 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Rohwik had managed to pull at the heartstrings of a familiar portly, yet most kind and generous mistress of the kitchen. (with the help of some very sympathetic kitchen hands, of course.) He had immediately assigned to dish duty, told to scrub each plate sullied at the table by Lord Atadel as well as Rohwik and the others. Mrs. Bertram felt for Rohwik and what had happened, but she did still fret for what treats he might get his fingers on should he be let near any thing that dealt with food. Much to her slight surprise, he was fairly well behaved. It seemed that he took his offense to Lord Atadel quite seriously, even though it was merely an accident.<br><br>Once the dishes had been finished - those that were used at the table as well as a few pots Rohwik managed to grab and wash despite the protests of others - Rohwik felt it was about time to make his way and apologize to the others about his misstep at breakfast. (Madame Bertram had it in her mind that he had done more than enough work to 'repent for his sin' and sent him on his way anyhow.) On his way to search for the master of the estate as well as the lady mage, he had passed by the staircase where three of the other boys had been lightly discussing the continuation of their journey.<br><br>"Rohwik!" William called out, moving down the stairs after the man. The others followed.<br>"Rohwik, I'm terribly sorry for what I had said this morning..." Tolan's head was bowed as he apologized to his companion.<br>"No." Rohwik shook his head curtly, "You were right. I deserved what happened. You're all telling me that I should keep my mouth shut and I just don't listen."<br>"And you don't intend to either..." William eyed the flame-haired jester pointedly.<br>"No, certainly not!" the grin on Rohwik's face caused the poindexter to sigh and shake his head defeated, "I'm the life of the journey - you can't expect me to allow it to go on without keeping things entertaining. But what I <em>can</em> do is apologize for any offense I inadvertently make. And that's precisely what I intend to do. You.. you haven't seen either Master Atadel or Lady Lhurriel, have you?"<br><br>William blinked a moment, unsure as to whether or not he had seen them after they had departed the dinning hall. Ghestin merely shook his head, certain he hadn't.<br><br>"I do believe I had seen the ladymage move to the study... after Kae had apologized." <br>Rohwik winced slightly at that last bit, nodding. He would have to apologize to his superior as well. He knew that his blunder did not only reflect on himself, but on Kaeden as a commanding official as well.<br><br>Having the brotherhood they did, it was no surprise to Hawk that the others practically stepped on his heels when he went to make his way to apologize. He took no offense to it, however, as he admittedly knew he would be the one to suggest sticking their noses where they "weren't invited." <br><br>The man's hand was poised to knock on the door left ajar to the library but stopped himself when he heard Corsair's voice. He had thought that Lhurriel would have been alone, however he found it a good turn for him. It would be best to apologize to the both of them at the same time. Well, so it was his intent until he had <em>heard</em> what was said. He glanced over his shoulder at the others who were looking on and seemed quite interested in the bit that was heard as well. Quickly and quietly they all gathered at the door, as silent as a grave while Corsair continued.<br><br>"What on earth are you all -" Kae was immediately silenced by hands cupping over his mouth. William was first to keep him quiet, Ghestin's rested over his. Kaeden gave a slightly annoyed look of confusion when he was shushed by Tolan and Hawk at once. Kae would have demanded an explanation for the behavior, but there was little chance he would be able to work free of Ghestin's hold unless that was what he wanted.<br><br>Tough luck.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 01:56:35 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Quite oblivious of their audience, both Lhurriel and Corsair both sat in silence for a long moment as Lhurriel absorbed his words.<br><br><em>Yes... I loved him. But if the Fates intervened in such a way, then I was not destined for him since the beginning.</em><br><br>Lhurriel couldn't help it, as emotion clogged her throat. While one part of her understood that she and Corsair could <em>never</em> be together, the other part of her heart denied it with every silent tear it shed. When the accident had first happened, Lhurriel had been devastated - not only because two people had died on her account, and almost all the rest injured, but also because she had developed a fear of storms and heights...<br><br>But because now, duty - both her's, and Corsair's - barred them from ever getting married.<br><br><em>I loved him so much... I thought he was my soulmate. It felt right, it felt true... Perhaps that was my fault, to think that the Fates had blessed me with not only powerful magic, but two men who loved and cared for me.</em> First Roland had died... and then the magicycle accident that had changed her life. Lhurriel choked back a sob as tears began running down her face, and was suddenly glad for Corsair's presence as he embraced her tightly, letting her tears wet his clean shirt. He murmured incomprehensible things to her in his soothing voice as she struggled to compose herself.<br><br>"I'm sorry I brought it up. But it hurt - for both of us."<br><br>It still hurt, sometimes, knowing that one simple event had forever altered the course of their life. They had been speaking of marriage, before that... but now, it simply wasn't possible.<br><br>"I'm sorry," Lhurriel finally whispered, when her eyes were dry again. He offered her a handkerchief, which she took and used before returning it.<br><br>"But you and I know... yes. I know. Because my duty demands that I find a spouse who will provide me heirs... that makes you unsuitable," Corsair said. Despite how softly they were speaking, every word coming from their mouths could be heard clearly by their silent audience just outside the door.<br><br>"If I had not made my vows as a mage of this kingdom - I might have considered tossing duty out the window and overruling my own wisdom. But I have to be rational - we both have to be," Lhurriel said with a weak chuckle. "Even love can't remove the fact that I have my duty to the kingdom, and you have yours to your bloodline. But Corsair..."<br><br>He smiled bitterly. "I know, Ree. But until I can in clear conscience say that you are my friend - and only that - I can't even think about looking for a wife. It would not be fair to her if part of my heart still belonged to you."<br><br>Sensing a lightening of the atmosphere, Lhurriel smiled and reached up to hug him, wishing that things may have worked out differently.<br><br>"Pretty words, my lord, but you'll have to let go eventually," she said lightly. She impulsively cupped his face with her right hand, seeing in his eyes a ghost of the haunted look that had been in them when he had burst into the room she was resting in, deeply in pain, after receiving news of her dreadful injury. Sometimes, the nightmares and ghost-pain still haunted Ree - she would wake up sweating, breathing hard, her heart beating unevenly as she struggled to remind herself that that was <em>not</em> her future.<br><br>She rose to her feet gracefully, smiling crookedly when Corsair when he did the same.<br><br>"This is goodbye then," Corsair said ruefully. Lhurriel nodded, not trusting herself to speak. They stared at each other.<br><br>They both reached for each other at the same time - Lhurriel, for Corsair's shoulders, and Corsair for her hips - and for a long moment, the two of them were transported back to the past, when they had been so deeply in love and so full of dreams and visions of future happiness. Lhurriel returned his fervent kiss with every drop of her soul, knowing that this would likely be the last time she would ever be the only female in Corsair's heart. Next time, they would be close friends - but only friends.<br><br>A sudden noise in the doorway made Lhurriel jump... eyes narrowing in suspicion, she strode to the half-open door and yanked it open all the way.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 01:58:49 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kaeden's burning want to kick Rohwik in the head - because there was no doubt in his mind that it was Hawk's idea to eavesdrop on the conversation they were <em>clearly</em> to keep out of - subsided once the subject of the conversation was made clear. It was obvious that the whole story was muddled for them, the conversation lacking details to make everything fit together, but there was no mistaking what was being said.<br><br>His struggles settled, though his men were smart enough to know better than to let him loose. Perhaps Kae was just a little too good when he assumed that Corsair and Lhurriel held feelings for one another. In all honesty, they weren't a terrible match. Quite the contrary, by all accounts. Both were extremely respectable people as well as unsurpassably decent by way of general demeanor. Corsair was a very collected and very business savvy man. Lhurriel was an extremely talented mage with a grand intellect about her as well as a beautiful smile. She filled out rather wonderfully in the gown she wore the night before. <br><br>The captain's brows furrowed and he blinked curiously. What on earth was he thinking? <em>There is no place for such a thing, Kae, you moron.</em> Normally, Kae had no issues with having his mind wander, and certainly not in that way. He had his fill of women when he was at the king's castle. Women constantly vied for his attention and he dealt with it frequently. None managed to catch his eye in a way that would cause him to seek her in a relationship. In all truth, he was very much married to his work as a soldier. Such a life would not permit holding to his duties as he saw fit and foster a healthy and happy relationship with someone. He couldn't think of any woman that way. Most certainly not Lhurriel. For sakes above, she was a comrade and that was probably the worst place to even consider seeking out a <em>companion</em>.<br><br>His storm of thoughts was brushed aside by a heavy thump and suddenly the group was in a discrete panic. Rohwik had attempted to shift closer and find a better view inside, but in doing so, he had lost the placement of his foot and kicked the door as he shifted. It wasn't loud, but it was damn well noticeable. Kae was really going to kill them if they got caught. That remark alone at breakfast hurled Rohwik deep into hot water with Corsair. If they were found snooping at the door, Corsair AND Lhurriel would have it out for them all both!<br><br>Ghestin was fairly quick for someone his size and immediately hauled Kaeden down the hall toward the front door. Alex and Tolan grabbed Hawk by the shoulders and flung him back and he skidded down the marble floor a good few feet. The two others bolted after Ghestin and their captain and hurriedly disappeared from sight. Rohwik clammered up to his feet just in time to have Lhurriel throw open the doors. Rohwik blinked a moment&nbsp; at Lhurriel, his heart lodged in his throat as he thanked all the heavens above that he had slid back as far as he did.<br><br>"Ladymage!" Rohwik called as he turned toward her and approached, "I've been looking for you... I wanted to apologize to you and Lord Atadel for my terrible comment. I honestly didn't mean to offend."<br><br>Kaeden was going to kill them all the next chance he got. Rohwik took comfort in the fact that if he attempted to reprimand them in front of Lhurriel, he would catch the heat as well. Clearly they would be perfectly safe from any wrath of either of them should Lhurriel not find out and she stay with them at all times.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 02:01:24 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lhurriel paused as she looked down at Rowhik, even though she was a good head and a half shorter than he was. She glared, a bit suspicious, but when she couldn't hear any other noise, she gave the knight a bright, cheerful smile.<br><br>Corsair bowed slightly, an amused smile on his face. "No. No need to apologize. I took no offense."<br><br>"That IS sweet of you..." Lhurriel jumped in, "But you needn't have done that. We did not take slight from it. Only the topic is still slightly awkward, is all," she said by way of explanation. Even if they had not heard her and Corsair conversing earlier, that simple sentence would have told the others that it had, indeed, once been a possibility, but now was no longer one for some reason or another. She grinned brightly, then tugged at Rowhike's sleeve (since she wasn't nearly tall enough to sling her arm around his shoulders).<br><br>"Well, we'll be leaving in one or two hours, so we'd best get our magicycles checked. The crystal mage, Alasdair, promised me he'd help me check over your 'cycles, but I need you to come with me and show me which ones belong to who. We'll do a little tune-up while we're at it... customize the 'cycles slightly for each rider, so they'll respond better to all of you," Lhurriel began blithely, walking down the hall and expecting Rowhik to follow her. Though she was a rather small young woman, her confidence and strong will made her presence known.<br><br>Corsair watched the two, an expression of longing flitting through his eyes as he watched her disappear down the hall, still chattering animatedly to the older knight. <em>So trusting, she is...</em> He thought to himself, striding silently in the opposite direction.<br><br>He leaned against the wall just around the corner, and watched rather blandly as the remaining members of Kae's squad whispered and sighed in relief at having escaped Lhurriel's wrath. <em>Interesting. I wonder how long they managed to listen to us without either mage nor lord noticing...</em> Corsair thought offhandedly, his left eyebrow winging up slightly.<br><br>"So."<br><br>The simple word startled all the soldiers into attention, though their faces clearly proclaimed their guilt. Corsair snorted, but smiled, waving at them to indicate that they need not be so formal with him. A self-deprecating grimace crossed over his features as he made eye contact with each of them, at once amused friend and stern lord.<br><br>"How much did you hear, anyway? I would explain some of it to you, but I believe that is now Lhurriel's place, and not my own. I am simply... curious," Corsair remarked drily.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 02:02:34 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Rohwik sighed with a soft nod. Perhaps they did not take offense, but Rohwik knew full well his misstep into halls of discussion that did not welcome him. (And regardless if he was forgiven for it, he was well aware of his awaiting punishment courtesy of his superior. His only consolation to that was the joyous fact in which he would not bear such a burden alone.) With the thought in mind, he was able to keep up the pretense that covered their hides from a mage's - nay, a woman's wrath.<br><br>"Nevertheless, I hand my regrets to you on a silver platter." the vibrant-haired solider bowed lowly as he extended his apology once more. He stood at the gentle tug on his jerkin. As Lhurriel meandered her way off, surely not intending on speaking to herself to where she might wander, Rohwik nodded politely to his honored host before falling into step behind the ladymage.<br><br>The remaining brotherhood held nary a spark of such alleviation. In perfect honesty, Ghestin had considered not releasing the man for the promise of the storming rage he would let loose on them all. However, there was no choice left to him once they were at attention to the familiar voice. Ghestin's arms fell to his sides in suite with the other two and Kaeden was allowed to stand upright on his own.<br><br>"I extend my greatest and sincerest apologies for the behavior of my men." Kae sighed as he straightened his tunic, "If there is any punishment for their actions you feel should be implemented, I'm sure that it would be suitable."<br><br>Like clockwork, the three standing behind their captain winced. Perfect. That was the last time they were going to let Rohwik convince them into pulling them into his wiles. (At least with him around to get them all caught.) They were going to be in for it. Not only was the captain inviting Corsair's punishment, but he would have come up with special penance for each of them. The cool demeanor that Kaeden held only sent shivers down the boys spines. If he wasn't outrightly angry, it would only mean terrible consequences for them all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 02:02:48 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Corsair shook his head. "No... no, it's fine. I'm sure she'll tell you in due time, what we were discussing. And I understand the urge to snoop, and poke my nose where it doesn't belong - it was, in fact, how I came across Lhurriel, though she tells me often that such a chance meeting, steeping in sin and debauchery in both parts, is probably going to give us both bad luck for life!"<br><br>He shook his head, but smiled and waved down the hall gracefully. "I'll help you see to the packing of more rations for the rest of your journey, gentleman, and updating the maps that you currently have. I have some of the best map-making, and map-display technology in the country - if you'd care to take a look, perhaps I can be of some help to determine where these bandits of yours went."<br><br>As he led them down the hall, the lord of the estate detailed his research concerning the map-making technology and equipment he had.<br><br>"At first, it was out of necessity. The magicycles need a way to detect how far above the ground they are, and the angle of the pathway, and anomalies in the terrain ahead. So eventually this technology was developed. But then I though - why could this technology also not be used for cartographers? Several years ago I sent a large group of my riders throughout the country with special 'cycles equipped with magical recording equipment; all of them returned, having recorded many of the major trade roads and paths of travel within the kingdom. Knowledge of other geography filled in the rest." He led them into the dark room; Alasdair was currently casting a spell on a large crystal set into the front of a circular table, so he didn't look up when the small group entered. When he finished, the glow between crystal and mage died, and he stood bowing once for Corsair and another time for the soldiers.<br><br>"Maps, Alasdair." The taller man smiled, glancing back at the crystal and twitching his fingers almost imperceptibly. Immediately, a glowing, slightly transparent three-dimensional geographical map appeared within the perimeters of the table, displaying rivers, canyons, gorges, forests, and mountains. Another twitch of his fingers brought the region of focus into closer view, and more details dotted the crystal-illusion. Everything down to goat paths in the forest and forks in the road could be seen; it was quite thoroughly complete.<br><br>"Interesting device, no?" Alasdair said conversationally. "It took a complicated, powerful working to construct this table - it was Lhurriel who thought of the idea, and connected many of the critical elements of the spell together so that it would function smoothly. But," he said, clearing his throat, "that is quite besides the point at the moment. Now that you can better see the geography you'll be riding into, where do you think the bandits ran to?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>December 08, 2009, 02:07:20 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A slightly odd confession for the lord to share with the lot of them. But Kaeden held his peace with a dignified nod, unsure of what one would say to such a thing when in his place. <br><br>As they were beckoned along, Kae gave a backward glance over his shoulder with the gleam of promise in his eyes. He was pleasantly greeted with the look of guilt and regret on each face. Already he had the perfect punishment for each of them. So perfect he almost couldn't wait to give the orders. However, they would have to wait. Corsair had mentioned the thieving souls that had pilfered the coveted treasure and suddenly the knight's mind had shifted back to assignment.<br><br>Kae had almost forgotten through all of the activity during their stay that they had only just begun their mission to return what was wrongfully taken. He wondered then just how much of an issue this was going to turn out to be. There was little clue to who it was that managed to make off with the royal treasure. All they had to go on was direction. He was actually very grateful for Corsair's help. He wasn't sure just how far they would have gotten if they didn't have his help.<br><br>It wasn't intentional, but Kaeden was only half listening to Corsair's explanation of the mapping system. It wasn't that the technical didn't interest him, but now he had become refocused on the duty at hand and now that he was considering how little they had to go on, he had become pensive, terribly distracted.<br><br>William, however, was quite the contrary. His focus was completely on Lord Atadel and his mind fixated, hanging on every word. The previous burden of guilt and the haunting warrant of punishment had completely left his mind like a weak flame to the gales of a storm. He had become riled with excitement as they moved along down the halls of the estate, eventually his steps were even with Corsair as they trailed ahead of the group toward their destination. Tolan couldn't help but smile as he watched the youngest of the brothers remind him that he was just that. His youthful interest in all things technical and complicated was always something to coax a smile out of whoever took note of it. Ghestin was merely his normal stone faced, silent self following in heavy, (but surprisingly hushed,) steps.<br><br>William couldn't help but watch as the spell transpired between mage and crystal, trying to decipher the spell and it's purpose by body signs and utterances he attempted to make out in the vague light. Unfortunately, the moment hardly lasted long enough for him to come to an educated conclusion. Of course, his internal disappointment was highly overcompensated when the room was brightened by a new source of light.<br><br>The map faded into view and William's eyes lit up twice as bright, his awe painted all over his face. He was amaze by the vivid detail of the terrain, the accuracy of the roadways - easily recalling smaller landmarks he notice on their journey from the kingdom, all of which he could point out without fail - the fabulous ease that came with finding their current whereabouts and deducing precise distance between them and any curious point he could find. The overall majesty of the geological phantasm was indescribable. Without even thinking - or even hearing Corsair's query - his mouth had converted to a fountain of curiosity, spilling countless questions of his own.<br><br>"Lord Atadel, these aren't standard in magicycles, correct? These are merely of your own personal design? How long did it take to create this map in particular? How often are they updated? I mean, considering the fact that it's not done by hand I would imagine it wouldn't take as long, which would mean frequent revision and updating for best accuracy, correct? And what of use in general, Lord? Is it only available to mages? That is, no one without magical talent like myself would have capability of using such technology? I'm curious how the technology and magic coincide. Is it similar to the methods of magicycles? Or is there a different approach taken to implement the structures of magic and science?" The lad went on and on with his questions, fishing for the knowledge of the thing that fascinated him so, each question spawning another thought and thusly several more questions followed; hardly a breath between them. Poor Lord Atadel could possibly spend weeks trying to sate the young ones lust for knowledge.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>December 18, 2009, 09:12:47 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Corsair gave a bark of laughter. "Standard? Gods above, no! If I made these crystals standard in magicycles, my own mages would rebel against me and kill me in my sleep!"<br><br>Chuckling, Alasdair hooked the last piece of magic into the crystal, then loops of the crystal magic to the soldiers in the room, enabling them to also move the map at will. "The crystals required for this sort of map-making illusion are few and far between - the purity, size, and flawlessness required makes such crystals rare and expensive." He named a price that made every jaw in the room (except Kaeden, who was focused on the map, and Ghestin, who didn't react in the slightest) drop in shock.<br><br>Alasdair's smile was crooked as he waited for them to regain their composure. "Since most people have at least a little magic in them, it's possible to make these maps usable for individuals who haven't enough power to become mages. With the right combination of crystals - small ones, those that activate or enhance power - even a layman could manipulate this map. The one in this room is not spelled that way - we've kept it as pure and as minimally complex as possible - but since <em>I</em> am a crystal mage, it's possible for me to tie the spell to you, so you can move the map." Nodding at the map, he flicked his fingers to zoom back out, to a view of the entire country.<br><br>"You should try it out. The spell is attuned to the movements of your fingers and hands. It's a bit difficult to remember how to move and not move at first, but it's quite intuitive. The intricacies and science of this spell are mostly thanks to Miss Lhurriel, though - she was the one who helped pioneer this project. In the meantime-" At Corsair's nod, Alasdair leaned forward, using his free hand to brighten the colors in the north-eastern region of the country. "Lord Atadel's estate is here, at this edge; the Great Eastern Trade Road continues up this way before turning north in a few days..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mascherari</strong> on <strong>January 05, 2010, 06:28:08 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The squad captain was transfixed to the map – though for little reason of astonishment. His eyes were geared into analysis. Where could these thieves be going? Was it possible that whoever was behind this robbery was someone close, or at least operating from somewhere nearby? He glanced over the dimensional map before him, eyes tracing over the landmarks and fields, looking for any trace of possible escapes these bandits could have crawled into. Tolan kept an extra set of eyes out for Kae, always certain about what was going through his superior’s mind, though, he kept an interested ear open to Alasdair’s explanation to young William’s curiosity.<br><br>“I am..” William gave a small and softly forlorn smile, “envious of magic users.”<br><br>He was thoroughly disappointed at the fact that one had to be blessed with the gift of magic in order to use it. He was a creature of comfort and his warmth was knowledge. His ever nagging curiosity drove him and it made his heart sink every time he was reminded that magic would elude him. His young spirits were lifted once more once the crystal mage offered to let William give it a try.<br><br>“Look.” Tolan pointed a bit north on the trade road. “There’s a settlement just east of the trade road.”<br><br>William took to the map like a fish out of water, extending and curling his fingers to let the image flow and zoom as though he had worked it since development. The images whipped by and focused in on the village that Tolan had pointed out. “That’s Enloden. At least a two day’s journey from the Lord’s estate.”<br><br>“Enloden?” Kaeden heard that name before, “There’s a shadow network there. If we find the right place and the right people, perhaps we can find out of there is any information about the stolen artifact… Or at least if anyone has heard of the happening.”<br><br>“And look there. Just northeast of the fields.” William shifted the map again flying the focus passed the fields and to a particular point of interest as Tolan spoke up once again. “It looks like some kind of cavern in the mountains.”<br><br>Kaeden nodded. “Looks like we have our starting point.” The captain looked over to Alasdair and nodded in thanks to the mage’s great help. “My Lord Corsair..” he looked to his host, “I believe it’s time we made our departure.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: La llum i l'anima [Mascherari &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>May 05, 2010, 07:02:18 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The nobleman smiled and bowed slightly. "I am grateful that I can be of service to you gentleman. While I would be honored to have you extend your stay, I understand that you have your duties to the kingdom as well."<br><br>After a few more short, terse comments on where they should go and what kind of plans should be made, the entire group filed out of the map room. Without the magic of the map filling it with a gentle, warm glow, the room seemed almost normal - certainly, nobody who did not know the secrets of the table would be able to guess that it housed such a powerful resource.<br><br>"I'm sure that Lhurriel will be nearly done with preparations on your 'cycles. If you'll follow me?" Corsair led the way to the 'cycle housing, the modern reinvention of the medieval stables. Few people except some nobles with a soft spot for tradition (Corsair being one of them) owned horses anymore.<br><br>As they approached, they could hear Lhurriel muttering out loud to herself as she went over the magicycles. Turning the corner, they could all see that most of their vehicles had been pulled out of their respective boxes; the mage was currently going over Kae's 'cycle, examining and probing it with both fingers as well as magic. From the satisfied tone of her comments, it was clear that she was near to finishing.<br><br>Looking up, she flashed the group a bright smile as they walked near. "I'm just about done here. I need all of you to test them for a short ride before I solidify the changes with my magic, but we should be well on our way to our next destination within the hour."
			</dd>
		</dl>
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