Trial and Error [Private]
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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: TheWhiteEmperor on June 16, 2010, 12:45:36 am</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 16, 2010, 12:45:36 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The sun was setting... A lone man stood on the Cliffs of Drequ... Staring off into the distance.. A lone man stood, overlooking the sun's rays as they fled under the horizon... His short, red hair flowed with the wind's breezes. His eyes were cold, his face stern, yet tiny tears were welling up in eyes.. His hands rest solemnly at the hilt of his sword, which jutted out of the ground from where he'd plunged it into the Earth a while ago. His thoughts were elsewhere, thinking of his children, wife, the villagers of Roanok... all dead... He had no one. No one to talk to or be with. Everyone was dead, yet they were haunting him, still roaming the land. They were the undead. He walked among a world ruled by the Dark Lord, Kizare. But the true question is... who was He? He... Him... The man who stood alone... His identity hidden to protect him from the darkness. Who was this sole survivor of the Undead Massacre in Roanok? He knew his name, but never spoke it. The wind seemed to whisper to him, swirling about as he looked to his scarred hands. Warm tears splashed on them, one word spun around in his head now. His name almost seemed to be a burden, his name.. 'Leon...'<br><br>His hand fell around the whole shaft of the hilt, gripping it tightly. He paused a moment before pulling the sword from the ground. Leon reached around, hooking the sword to his belt. He looked back up into the sky, "I will have my revenge... Brother..." Turning about, his heel digging into the ground as he spun, he walked a few meters backward. He stopped, turning back to face the edge of the cliff. Suddenly, he charged for the edge, the end becoming closer and closer. He knew what was below, the Eyu Forest. This forest was the last between him and Hyarka, a small village, not yet consumed by the undead. He found himself at the edge, leaping into the air just as his foot touched the last ground that was under him. Spreading his arms out, he soared through the air, suspended as he sailed. His body begun to sink, falling to the forest floor below. The tree tops were approaching ever quickly, the man fell faster and faster as he maneuvered his body in position to increase speed. His hand wrapped tightly around the hilt of his blade, a good tug on the shaft and the blade was exposed. He prepared himself, he would use the trees to slow his movement.<br><br>His shoulders cocked, sword at the ready. He broke the tree line, slashing his long katana blade out. It caught the edge of the tree, but the small piece broke off, his free falling continuing. Leon thrust the blade again, this time trying to jam it into the wooden entities trunk. It stuck, his body jerking to a stop, a loud pop came from his shoulder. He howled in pain, his shoulder now dislocated, hanging on by one arm. He looked down, his face contorted from pain. He determined it was a good twenty feet down He looked at his arm, "Damn..." he cursed. His good arm gripped the hilt of the sword tightly, yanking it out of the tree. He began to fall again, but half way down, he kicked off the tree's base, flipping to a safe stop t the bottom. He sighed a sigh of relief, then grit his teeth. Grasping his dislocated arm, he lifted it, then swiftly jammed it back into place. Pain shot through his entire arm, the pain was like having a thousand pin needles drive through the entire shoulder. His face turned red as he cried out into the forest in a shriek of pain, bringing it to a faint grunt quickly. "Fuck..." he cursed again, moving his arm around, the pain still there a little.<br><br>[Gah, sorry if it sucks.. It's been awhile since I've been RPing. I have been on quite a vacation from it. =P]
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 22, 2010, 09:08:11 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma had come to the forest looking for sweet berries to make a delicious pie for dinner.&nbsp; It was like any ordinary day, the sun was half past midday and and she knew she would have plenty of time to get it done before her parents returned from the field.&nbsp; It was hard work, keeping their home in order, but she also knew the work was even harder for her parents.&nbsp; So, she learned to make her chores fun and less tiresome.&nbsp; One was to trek into the forest to surprise her family with something new at least twice a week.&nbsp; Today was one of those days.<br><br>She knew where the berries grew the most abundant.&nbsp; It required moving deep into the forest near the base of the Drequ, the tall cliffs so high she could never see the top.&nbsp; Once in a while she would discover a poor animal that found its death because of those cliffs.&nbsp; It always broke her heart.&nbsp; And as much as she disliked the area, the berries loved it.&nbsp; So, she bowed to their desires and continued to trek through areas that scared her, for the rewards were great.<br><br>The day was becoming rather humid and she found herself wiping the moisture from her forehead often as she ventured deeper and deeper into the canopy of the trees.&nbsp; She knew the way well, just as she knew that in another 15 odd minutes she would arrive.&nbsp; Everything of this forest was known to her as if it had been her own private playground.&nbsp; The sounds of the trees when they swayed in the wind, the call of the birds and the habits of the beasts.&nbsp; Yes, nothing ever surprised her on these treks, until today, when she was startled by a howl like none she had ever heard before.&nbsp; Stopping in her tracks, her eyes danced about the area trying to gauge which direction it had come.&nbsp; But she heard no more.<br><br>Slowly, she began to walk again, telling herself it was some poor beast who had been harmed in some way.&nbsp; She had encountered that before.&nbsp; Sometimes they would let her help them, sometimes she would resort to other measures of safety.&nbsp; But the howl was still fishing through her veins, telling her to go back, go back.&nbsp; &nbsp;"But I've come so far already.&nbsp; I cannot go back empty handed."&nbsp; She said out loud to herself.&nbsp; "I will only pick the blackberries that are the furthest away from the cliffs."&nbsp; &nbsp;Because she was sure everything evil came from there.&nbsp; Once again she began to walk with a light, merry song softly coming from her lips,&nbsp; swinging her basket too and fro.<br><br>(No, your post are much longer than I'm use to, but I like it.&nbsp; I just hope my writing is not boring compared to yours.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 22, 2010, 09:55:02 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				[OOC || Oh no, you're writing is wonderful. You're doing a damn fine job.]<br><br>He shuddered at the realization that he'd let out a bloodcurdling howl just moments ago, whining about his injury like a little bitch. He cursed at himself for being so weak. He'd suffered far worse before, but maybe he was getting soft. Having lost so much, he was losing his edge. "Damn," he muttered, swinging his blade in a wide arc, he cut asunder the tree. He grinned, having a small satisfaction of revenge. "Ok, now.. It's time to get to Hyarka Village," he sighed, cracking his weary bones before heading through the forest.<br><br>As he began walking, he heard the animals of the forest skitter and bustle about him. Some running in fear, others gazing upon him with curiosity. Some even felt their territory was being invaded upon. He kept his wits about him, for there were far worse things in this godforsaken forest than a few hungry bears.<br><br>The Eyu Forest may not've fallen victim to the dark forces of Kizare's army, but there was a deep vein of magic in this forest. Some of it was pure, but elders spoke of the old ages in which powerful dark wizards had turned the magic here into dark sorcery, but the healing effects were finally starting to kill off the old, dark magic.. Though some of it was still here, as well as the beasts that were tainted by the evil magic. Suddenly, Leon heard the approach of another.<br><br><em>Hm?!</em> he thought, quickly hiding himself behind a large oak tree. <em>What the hell are villagers doing this far into the Eyu Forest?! Don't they know what evil lurks here?</em> he thought, pondering what he should do. <em>Damn.. I can't afford to deal wi-!</em> Stampeding rampage. He heard it coming from the east, headed straight for the woman who kept getting closer and closer to his position. "Damn it.. Hey! Look out!" he called out, suddenly running out and pushing her out of harm's way, a massive boar ramming into him, cutting him under the legs and sending him soaring through the air. He landed on his recently injured shoulder, causing a searing pain to shoot through his arm. "Gah! Damn!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 22, 2010, 10:23:54 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma had just heard the noise of the stampede, she glanced around for a place of protection when out of the woods, a man creature shape was upon her and pushed her with all it might, sending her flying to the side.&nbsp; Landing on her back, the breath was knocked out of her, so her breathing was more like gasps as she tried to fill her lungs.&nbsp; The sound of the boars passing by drummed in her ears as some barely missing her legs trying to shove their way towards the lead.&nbsp; Somewhere in the turmoil, she heard someone using very strong language, so she knew the form had to be human, and the sound of his voice said, it was a man.&nbsp; "A man...out here?" She thought to herself.&nbsp; &nbsp;Emma had come here often in the last year, and never once encountered another human being.<br><br>Once the dust had settled, Emma stood up and brushed the dust from her clothing and retrieved her basket, all the time looking at the man on the other side of the path.&nbsp; She saw bleeding from his leg, and his arm did not look right.&nbsp; Slowly, she walked back onto the path, getting near him, but not to close, she asked.&nbsp; "Are you alright, Sir?"&nbsp; Looking at his leg, she offered, "I can dress that if you like."&nbsp; &nbsp; The man looked as thought he could be big and frightful.&nbsp; And if he were not injuries she would probably have run away.&nbsp; But he was hurt, cut and in some ways very vulnerable at the moment.&nbsp; She doubted he could catch her in his present condition.&nbsp; &nbsp;"There is a spring a few yards that way"&nbsp; She said pointing behind her,&nbsp; "And healing herbs if you are willing to trust me to help."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 22, 2010, 11:01:01 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He coughed, a feeling of fatigue washing over him after being tramped by an entire herd of wild boar. He groaned quietly, struggling to lift himself&nbsp; from a downed position. He was hazy and dazed, confused about the goings on around him. When a woman's voice gently called to him, he could barely make out her words. Shuffling away from her, he propped himself up against a tree. "Gi-give me a moment," he asked, trying to regain his senses.<br><br>Coughing hoarsely, he covered his mouth, only to taste the foul copper-tinge ooze into his mouth. He was bleeding internally, but he tried to hide it from the already scared girl before him. "Ugh," he groaned again, his vision and hearing clearing. Blinking, he saw the woman's figure clearing into his view. She was beautiful and petite, much unlike him.. Built and roughly around the edges. His red hair was dirty from the trampling, and he was beaten up pretty badly, but he'd known worse.<br><br>"Sorry, I don't mean to be rude.. But what are you doing this deep in the forest? You do realize the dangers here, don't you?" he asked, not really concerned about his own health.<br><br>[This is Leon's look.] (http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z120/SSJFierceleon/Kaze.jpg)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 22, 2010, 11:13:55 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I grew up in these forests, I know every tree, plant and animal.&nbsp; I'm sorry you had to get hurt, but I would've jumped out of their way.&nbsp; Those boars are so unpredictable, they crash through somewhere in these woods constantly."&nbsp; She shrugged.&nbsp; But seeing him leaning against a tree, she relaxed her concerns and went over to him, wrapping her small arm around his waist.&nbsp; "Come, sit.&nbsp; You are not helping your wounds like that."&nbsp; Her voice almost scolding.&nbsp; The animals in these dangerous woods did not give her as much bellowing as this man.<br><br>Glancing up into his eyes, she got a good look at him.&nbsp; He was beautiful.&nbsp; His red hair and green eyes were mesmerizing.&nbsp; She had never seen red hair before.&nbsp; No one in Hyarka had anything but brown mostly, a few were blonde, some with black hair.&nbsp; "You really do need tending, if you would only let me.&nbsp; I always carry bandages and things with me in case I come upon a wounded animal."&nbsp; She spoke softly to him, hoping it would cause him to trust her and let her help him.&nbsp; "Please!&nbsp; Please let me do this for you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 22, 2010, 11:39:08 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He winced when she'd hefted him up, helping him to a more comfortable place. He smiled, relaxing, but not really letting her take most of the burden of his own body. It hurt, and probably did more damage to his own body, but he wouldn't force this kind woman to be dragged down by his own dead weight. Sighing lightly to himself, he looked back at her. His cheeks flushed slightly when he realized she was admiring him, and half turned away.<br><br>"I, uhm.. Sure," he said finally. He wondered why the Basekarn hadn't tried to eat her yet. Surely her beauty and gift of nature didn't have any effect on wicked beasts that had been tainted with evil sorcery, could it? Though, he certainly felt more calm just being in her presence. The closer he got to her, the more he felt it. <em>Does this woman.. Have the <span class="bbc_u">gift</span>?</em> Leon thought to himself. It was said that every village had at least one person with the natural gift of cleansing souls and purging evil, but could she be that very person?<br><br>"If you don't mind me asking, Miss.. Who are you?" he asked her curiously. His body, racked with pain, calmed and relaxed at her touch, which was a nice change. Even he wife-to-be hadn't had such an effect on him back home, but maybe that was because they were betrothed. It wasn't like they didn't like each other, but they were more like friends, really. Besides, he was only eighteen, he really wasn't even ready for marriage. <em>Anesha....</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 12:01:29 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Getting on her knees, she decided to check his leg first.&nbsp; Carefully, she ripped the material, exposing the cut.&nbsp; She frowned, it was pretty bad, but she'd seen worse.&nbsp; Pulling the cloth from the top of her basket, she pulled out the large roll of bandages, a sharp knife, and a few herbs.&nbsp; &nbsp;Filtering through the herbs, she realized she was missing something she normally had.&nbsp; &nbsp;Glancing up she apologized.&nbsp; "I'm sorry but I am missing the aloe plant.&nbsp; I must get some. I will hurry back, I promise."&nbsp; As she picked up the knife, she rose and&nbsp; ran as fast as she could towards the area where she knew the aloe grew wild and large.&nbsp; Quickly she gathered several long branches.&nbsp; &nbsp; Then she looked for a special flower.&nbsp; They called it the bucket flower because the flower itself was in the shape of a bucket.&nbsp; Plucking one just a few inches below the bloom, she immediately went to the spring, filled it&nbsp; and hurried back to the man.<br><br>When she finally arrived, she went down on her knees and began to prepare the herbs, mixing them and smashing them on a stone with a little bit of water.&nbsp; Then she tore a piece off the bottom of her petticoat to wipe the blood from his wound.&nbsp; "You took a very bad gorging."&nbsp; <br><br>As he asked who she was, she looked up at him and smiled.&nbsp; "My name is Emma, Emma from Hyarka.&nbsp; And you are?"&nbsp; &nbsp;Looking down, she continued her work until&nbsp; the wound had a soothing pack inside it, and it was completely wrapped.&nbsp; Looking at her finished work, placing her hands on her hips.&nbsp; "There, that looks good."&nbsp; Glancing up at him she said, "Anything else need tending?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 12:32:39 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded, and laid on his back as she went to fetch the herbs she'd been missing. While she was gone, he pondered how he would tell the small village of the news. It was unlikely that the tiny village had heard anything of the Undead Massacre, but one could never be sure at times like these. Turning to the spring, he dipped his hand into it, cupping out a small sip of fresh water. As it slid down his throat and cooled him off, he rest his weary body for the time.<br><br>It wasn't a very long time before she showed back up, quickly tending to the gash on his leg. He watched her intently, the touch of her skin was so soft that they put the finest silk pillows to shame. He smiled at her mention of him taking quite a thrashing, but he shook his head. "Nah, I've had far worse, Lass." he told her.<br><br>Shortly after she finished, he sat up, looking into her eyes and smiling. "Thank you, Emma," he said, patting the bandages lightly. He nodded, knowing that the patchwork was perfect. "I appreciate everything you've done for me. The least I can do is ask if you needed help with anything back in Hyarka since I was headed there anyway," he explained honestly, testing his new bandages by standing back to his feet. Offering his hand, he told her his name. "I'm Leon, by the way. I am glad to meet you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 12:46:29 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As she looked up into Leon's eyes, she felt a sadness within him.&nbsp; &nbsp;She searched his face for an answer, a clue as to where it came from, but her thoughts were interrupted by his claim he was headed to her village.&nbsp; "Then you shall come back with me and stay at our home.&nbsp; My family is not rich, but we have enough to share with a traveler."&nbsp; Then remembering what she had come for, she jumped up.&nbsp; "But first I must gather the berries for a pie for my parents.&nbsp; I would hate to disappoint them.&nbsp; I shall return."&nbsp; Quickly she turned and hurried down to where she knew the berries grew.<br><br>As she approached the large ripe berries, she began to pick them rapidly, filling her basket up quickly.&nbsp; &nbsp;Finally she had enough to make two pies, and as she turned to return to Leon, a strange dark man was standing directly in front of her.&nbsp; Taking a step back, she knew she was in trouble.&nbsp; Every instinct inside her head screamed danger.&nbsp; He did not have to say a word, she could sense it.<br><br>Suddenly he grabbed her, as her basket and contents fell to the ground.&nbsp; A scream came piercing from deep inside her.&nbsp; She had never known fear in these woods before this day.&nbsp; Now, she felt she would never feel safe again.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 02:00:46 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Before he could even protest, she was gone in a flash. He sighed, wondering what he would do at their home. More importantly, where she went. He couldn't exactly run in his condition, so there was no way of catching up to her. Leon just sat and waited, that is, until her heard a peircing scream throughout the forest. This caused his heart to skip a beat, his eyes wide with terror. "No! Emma!" he called, staggering to his feet.<br><br>He had to find her, and quickly. Despite his injured leg, he sprinted through the forest, trying to find Emma. As he came to a small clearing, where several berry bushes could be seen, he noticed Emma was being held up by a large, burly man. Leon, reaching for his blade, suddenly realized that in his panic, he left it behind. <em>Damn it! Keibatsu!</em> he thought, sorry that he'd forgotten his sword. There wasn't much else left to do but to attempt to fight the man unarmed, but judging by his massive size, it wouldn't be easy.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 02:09:56 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The man had Emma around the waist, pulling her towards him, pressing against her small body.&nbsp; "Stop struggling, it won't hurt as bad if you don't struggle."&nbsp; He laughed.&nbsp; But Emma was to frightened not to struggle.&nbsp; "STOP STRUGGLING!"&nbsp; He shouted, as his hand came up to her throat, squeezing it, trying to make her stop by any means necessary.&nbsp; <br><br>As her throat was being constricted by his massive hands, Emma struggled to be get his fingers loose, her lungs beginning to hurt from lack of oxygen.&nbsp; From the corner of her eye, she saw Leon but because of her struggling, the man had not noticed yet.&nbsp; The last thing she saw was Leon's worried look, before darkness surrounded her.<br><br>The man grinned as her body became limp.&nbsp; Letting her go, Emma fell to the ground in a heap.&nbsp; As the man walked around her to move her into a more acceptable position, it was then he saw Leon and smirked.&nbsp; "And what are you going to do little man?"&nbsp; He asked with loud laughter.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 03:20:33 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Watching in horror and fear, Leon was unsure what he could do to help. When she saw him, Leon felt all his guilt hit him at once. "Damn it.." he muttered, but then he filled with rage, a sudden explosion of energy surrounded him. He looked up, "What am I going to do? I'll fucking kill you!" he cried out, flashing forward so fast that he seemed to disappear, only to reappear when his knee crashed into the large man's jaw, a sickening snapping sound erupting from the jaw. The man reeled back in pain, looking at Leon with rage. Before the man could curse at him, Leon flashed around and kicked him in the temple, sending the man flying into the trees.<br><br>Leon, his energy cooling almost as quickly as it had sparked, staggered over, falling to his knees as he collapsed onto Emma. If the man was still conscious, or alive, he would have to get through Leon first. Leon's technique was very powerful, but not having yet mastered it... It drained everything from him and left him unconscious.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 12:12:31 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The first thing Emma could sense was a heaviness on her chest making it almost impossible to get a deep breath.&nbsp; Slowly her eyes fluttered open to reveal Leon laying across the top of her deathly still.&nbsp; Then she remembered the horrible man and for a moment, she began to panic, trying to rise enough to look about with huge frightened eyes for her attacker, but he was nowhere to be seen.<br><br>Glancing down at Leon's lifeless body, she placed a her hand on the side of his neck and could still feel a heartbeat.&nbsp; "At least you are not dead, my hero."&nbsp; She said softly.&nbsp; There was no other reason the horrible man would have dropped her and not ravished her, unless Leon had intervened.&nbsp; Slowly, with much effort, she began to wiggle herself free from beneath him.&nbsp; It took quite a while, his body was so muscular, the weight was heavy.&nbsp; Finally she was free and stood up, looking around for her basket, she found it off to the side a ways, with more than enough berries, only a third seemed to have been lost.&nbsp; As she went to pick it up, needing the knife bandages and herbs in case Leon had need of a new a dressing, it was then she saw the man, crumbled beneath a tree, his neck broken.&nbsp; "How did Leon do that?"&nbsp; She thought.&nbsp; Yes, she knew he had to be strong, as she had dressed his leg, it would be impossible not to feel the strength in him.&nbsp; Every muscle was tight and firm in her hands.<br><br>Turning, leaving the scene of death behind her, she returned to Leon.&nbsp; Kneeling down beside him, it took great effort to turn him over.&nbsp; How peacefully he slumbered, as if he had not slept in many, many days.&nbsp; He was breathing, and his wound seemed alright, albeit the blood had started to soak to through the bandages.&nbsp; But it would hold until they reach her home.<br><br>Slowly her eyes wandered back to his face.&nbsp; &nbsp;He was quite handsome when he slept, she noticed.&nbsp; Placing a hand on the side of his face, she took a moment to really look at him, touching his face delicately.&nbsp; She had never meet anyone quite like him before.&nbsp; Then she began to try and wake him gently.&nbsp; "Leon, wake up.&nbsp; Leon?&nbsp; Can you hear me?&nbsp; Please wake up, we must get home before the night creatures walk the forest grounds."&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 05:50:13 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It wasn't long before someone was shaking him awake, or at least it hadn't seemed like very long. At first, he didn't respond, but when the distant calling of a voice reached him, he went to it. It was hazy at first, but he could hear her voice clearly now, he was close. "Em..ma?" he asked, slowly opening his eyes, blinking them until his vision cleared. When the beautiful maiden from the village came into his view, he smiled. "Emma..." he managed before she began explaining to them that they needed to leave.<br><br>"Right," he nodded, slowly picking himself up and staggering about on his feet. His head throbbed, but that was likely from having used up all his energy, then standing up too quickly. "Ugh, ok.. Let's get out of here," he said, smiling as he walked toward the village of Hyarka. He couldn't help but wonder if she'd been hurt, but now wasn't the time for questions like that.<br><br>[Sorry, it is moot. Crap. Worthless. Lolz I didn't have much to add on there. =(]
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 06:17:48 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(No..no, its fine)<br><br>Quickly, Emma gathered her things, with the remaining berries in her basket and moved up next to Leon putting her arm around his waist.&nbsp; "If you need support just lean on me."&nbsp; She offered.&nbsp; If he could walk all the way to her house, it would be a miracle.&nbsp; But she had to admit, he did have stamina, and she admired him for it.&nbsp; As they passed where they had been sitting, she scooped up his sword and handed it to him, knowing they might need it along the way.<br><br>After walking for about an hour, she found a place where the rocks were high enough he could sit for a while and she could check his bandage.&nbsp; Guiding him over to the side of the road she watched as he sat down.&nbsp; "It is not too much farther now.&nbsp; But you need to let me look at that leg."&nbsp; Getting on her knees, she took the now dirty bandage off and laid it aside.&nbsp; Carefully, she took out the salve she had put into the wound to help it heal.&nbsp; &nbsp;The wound looked angry, but at least it wasn't getting infected, that was a plus.&nbsp; This time she smashed the fresh leaves without water and put it inside the wound, again re-wrapping it with all the dressings she had left, which wasn't as much as she wanted.<br><br>Looking up at him, she looked into his eyes.&nbsp; He looked tired, and care worn.&nbsp; "When we arrive at the house, you must refresh yourself and then lay down until supper.&nbsp; You do not look well Leon."&nbsp; She said, reaching up and touching his forehead with a worried look.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 06:46:07 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon would walk on his own. That was his decision, this dear girl had already done so much for him, the least he could do was make things easy for her. Besides, there was no way he would give in to his own pain and force a woman to carry his burden. This was his doing and he planned on dealing with it. After they walked quite a ways away from their meeting place, Leon found himself being directed toward a rock formation that was oddly perfect enough for them to rest on.<br><br>He watched her as she was back at work, taking care of his injured leg. "Emma, you are much to kind to me... You don't even know who I am, or what I am doing in this dangerous forest," he explained, but he couldn't bring himself to tell such a sweet girl that the rest of the world had been slaughtered. Everyone was dead, the last remaining hope was him and Hyarka Village. He just hoped that the Dark Lord, Kizare, wasn't planning on storming this village, at least not yet. Leon would die if that were to happen, his condition was too meager to hope to fight off a force like he had several days ago.<br><br>He flushed a little when her hand touched his head. "Come now, we best get moving," he told her, trying to avoid any more stalling.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 07:01:42 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma scowled at him.&nbsp; Perhaps if she truly knew who he was, she wouldn't be so free with him.&nbsp; But as far as she was concerned he was just another man.&nbsp; As he said she didn't even know him and they needed to move on, her back stiffened in protest, her fists dug into her sides as she stood up.&nbsp; "I may be merely 17 years of age, but by every account, I am a woman.&nbsp; And I know how and when someone is ready to move on a wounded leg, I'll have you know.&nbsp; So don't be trying to boss the physician around, my dear soldier.&nbsp; I'll not have it!"&nbsp; She said, stomping one of her small feet on the ground, causing some dust to rise.<br><br>But then she bent down, put her things away, placed the basket on her arm and prepared to continue.&nbsp; Looking at him with a smug face, she said, "NOW, I think we should go."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 08:39:19 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon just stood there, surprised that she would be so hurt by his words. He was speechless, unable to really process that she'd gone off on him. He had never challenged her womanhood, nor did he plan to, especially not now. He almost flinched at her when she'd stamped her foot down, but he was a master swordsman, after all. Confused, he stood up, eying her carefully. "Emma.. I didn't mean anything by it. I wasn't trying to hurt you," he explained, feeling bad for her. Turning to walk, the two began their trek out of the forest.<br><br><em>Seventeen? She's just under my own age,</em> he thought quietly, keeping to himself for the rest of the walk through the forest. <em>Emma may be the one with the power to save this world, so I guess it is a good thing that she is a little fiery. It would certainly help.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 08:49:22 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Perhaps Emma had taken it the wrong way, but she was tired of people telling her what to do.&nbsp; But still, she quickly walked up beside him, taking his hand into hers.&nbsp; Glancing up at him, she said, "Just in case you get weak, I will have your hand."&nbsp; Of course, that wasn't why she did it. It was because she rather liked this strong headed man, and she didn't want him lost in the woods without her.&nbsp; <br><br>"We cut off this way"&nbsp; She pointed towards a thick patch of trees.&nbsp; "We live just on the other side."&nbsp; Looking up into the sky she knew she had less than an hour before her parents would arrive.&nbsp; "I've lost so much time.&nbsp; I will need to hurry and prepare their meal as soon as we arrive.&nbsp; But I'll fix something small for you to hold you over until supper."&nbsp; She smiled at him.&nbsp; "Then you lay down until they arrive."&nbsp; &nbsp;She guided down the very narrow path she had created, taking the same route every time she went out to gather berries.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 11:15:25 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon smiled, his cheeks glowing a slight hint of red. "Yes, uhm.. Right," he said, firmly, yet gently, clutching her hand in his. He knew he wasn't going to fall over, but her touch was too irresistable to fight against. He just warmly held her hand in his and allowed her to lead the way, while he kept vigilant of any more attackres along the way.<br><br>He didn't really want to go rest, he needed to see the village elder as soon as possible, but he could wait just one day... Couldn't he? He looked up at the sky, noticing that the sun was sinking below the horizon, or at least it, would be soon. He sighed heavily, today had been a long day. He smiled when he saw the forest exit, noticing a small cluster of homes, with one a little larger then the others. That was likely the village elder's home, or a soup kitchen.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 23, 2010, 11:49:25 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma was so happy to see the village.&nbsp; But they still had to cross the square to her house on the other side.&nbsp; "Just over there, and you will be safe."&nbsp; She said pointing out her home.&nbsp; Turning she careful walked down the small hill that would get them to the flat land of the valley. Once they were both on level ground, she led him into the village towards the center.&nbsp; All eyes were upon them, as each person outside looked upon the stranger.<br><br>"Emma, who is this man with you?"&nbsp; One older woman asked as she approached.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I found him in the woods, he is hurt and I am taking him to my parent's home to be cared for."&nbsp; She answered the woman straight forwarded.&nbsp; &nbsp; "But Emma, what will you parent's say?"&nbsp; A young man asked, eyeing the stranger suspiciously.&nbsp; "They will say I have the heart of a saint for taking in a wayward traveler."&nbsp; She countered.&nbsp; &nbsp;So sure was she that her parents would not be upset, it never entered her mind.<br><br>Soon they were at the front door, with a parade of people following behind.&nbsp; Her parents would be home within the half hour, she had much to do and no time for dawdlers.&nbsp; &nbsp;Opening the door, she guided Leon in and motioned to good steady chair in the corner.&nbsp; "Rest there and I shall give you broth, cheese and bread."<br><br>Quickly she began to start her tasks, including the ones she was late in starting.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 24, 2010, 12:26:15 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looked around to all of the people, following their uncertain glares. He wanted to say something for himself, but Emma was insistent and dragged him along with her quickly. She really was in a hurry to get things done, Leon noted. He smiled to her, wanting to help, but she quickly ushered him to a chair and told him to wait while she acquired his things. Nodding, Leon found himself bored and rested his head on the table, but before he knew it... He was asleep, breathing lightly in his newly found slumber.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 24, 2010, 12:31:49 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma had her back to Leon, as she prepared some sliced apples, cheese and a slice of fresh bread.&nbsp; Turning to place it in front of him, she was stopped by the sight of his head nested inside his arms.&nbsp; Putting the plate down, she tipped her head to one side and looked just stole long looks at him.&nbsp; "You poor man, I should've just put you to bed.&nbsp; Now I dare not wake you up, nor move you."&nbsp; She didn't take her eyes from him for a long time, wondering what it would be like to touch him, to run her fingers through his hair.<br><br>Slowly she leaned into the table, reaching across with her hand, letting her finger tip slide through the soft strands.&nbsp; She couldn't help but smile.&nbsp; If anyone were to walk in at this moment, what would they think of her boldness?&nbsp; Sighing and pulling back, she swallowed hard, turned and set about preparing the evening meal.&nbsp; She still had bread from the night before, she would make new loaves tonight and have them ready for the morrow.&nbsp; Once the meat and potatoes were bubbling, she began on the blackberry pie.&nbsp; Tonight she would prepare a feast for her parents and their guest and, hopefully, they will allow Leon to stay until he is well, if not longer.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 29, 2010, 10:50:49 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While dreaming...<br><em>"Huh? Anesha! Noo..!!" he cried, watching as his wife to be and long-time friend was cut down before him. "Damn you!" he cried, but before he could act, a powerful blast knocked into him. Electrical energy coursing through his body as a powerful being stood before him, laughing sickly at his misfortune. The shadowy figure stomped on Leon's head.</em><br><br>Sadly, and much to Leon's dismay, the sleep that he so dearly needed was cut short. His body convulsed at the dream he'd been having, sending him crashing to the floor. The impact, and loud sound of his body hitting the floor, knocked him into reality and he looked around, heart pumping quickly as he was awoken so abruptly. "Oh, phew.. It was just a dream," he mumbled, scrambling to his feet before beginning to look for Emma.<br><br>Rubbing his lower back, he sighed as he could feel a knot growing. "Mmh, Emma..?" he sighed, wondering where she'd gone.<br><br>[OOC || Eh, crappy.. Sorry.]
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 29, 2010, 11:03:46 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma hurried round the table and knelt by his side.&nbsp; "Are you alright Leon?"&nbsp; She asked worried.&nbsp; She had never seen anyone behave that way while asleep before.&nbsp; "Here, let me help you up."&nbsp; She offered.&nbsp; &nbsp;"You fell, you frightened me.&nbsp; I hope nothing is broken."<br><br>She knelt there beside him, her heart warming because he had called her name.&nbsp; Not some phantom from his past, but her name.&nbsp; He had not forgotten it.&nbsp; "Perhaps you need to eat and rest in a sturdy bed.&nbsp; &nbsp;You are not looking well.&nbsp; My parents should be here soon.&nbsp; My father will know what to do.&nbsp; He is good at healing.&nbsp; The little I know, I learned from him."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 29, 2010, 11:22:59 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon blinked, looking at her oddly. Had he been hallucinating? Nevertheless, she was here now. Smiling, he hugged against her, burying his face in her chest. "Thank you, Emma.. I am so grateful for all that you have done for me. I am sorry that I scared you," he told her, shivering at the dream from his past. He had to save the world soon, before he began losing it. Everyday was worse than the last. He thought he was the only person alive until just a few hours ago, when he met Emma. He shuddered again.<br><br>"Please, I would be elated to have some food and a warm bed," he told her, finally giving in and allowing his usual demeanor to give way. He pulled back, looking into her eyes. "Promise me that you won't die too...."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 29, 2010, 11:33:08 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma looked at him perplexed.&nbsp; "No one can promise such a thing, Leon."&nbsp; The request rather unnerved her.&nbsp; "Here, lets get you settled and I will feed you and put you to bed."<br><br>Once he was settled, she went around to the food picking out the choicest meats, and the sweet smell of cooked green beans with onions, carrots and a touch of brown sugar.&nbsp; Carefully, she ladled the helping onto a plate, added a large piece of sliced fresh bread, smoothing a small amount of butter on top.&nbsp; Turning, she grabbed a fork and knife, walking around the table to his side and placing the meal in front of him.<br><br>Whatever he had been dreaming, it brought out something inside of her.&nbsp; He had obviously experience something truly horrible.&nbsp; And her hand instinctively went to the back of his neck and gently rubbed.&nbsp; "You eat and I will get you a glass of cool milk."&nbsp; She said turning.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 30, 2010, 12:44:14 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looked down into his lap sadly, wondering why he was the only one who seemed willing to live. <em>Why does everyone have to die?</em> he asked himself like a foolish child, even though he knew the answer, though another question was the one that piqued the most interest. <em>Why am I the only one that has ever survived? Why do I keep living? I should be dead....</em><br><br>He seemed to have found a sort of weakness in Emma, bidding her every whim and wish. It seemed hopeless to fight against her will. Was this her power? Leon seemed simply calmer and more relaxed in her presence, let alone when he touched her. He nodded as he began to consume the delicious meal before him, almost mechanically. It was warm, and his body even became warmer just by devouring bite after bite.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 30, 2010, 12:58:47 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Soon a fresh glass of milk was sitting beside his plate.&nbsp; So pitiful did Leon appear, she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and hugged him.&nbsp; "You saved me in the forest, and so help me, I shall return the favor.&nbsp; This I swear."&nbsp; She was glad he was eating well.&nbsp; It would help him heal during the night.&nbsp; Of course, she knew the healing spices that would help hurry the healing process and made the food taste even better.&nbsp; "When you have finished, I shall place you in my bed.&nbsp; It is soft and will keep you warm from the night air.&nbsp; Do not worry yourself tonight.&nbsp; Tomorrow is another day, we shall worry tomorrow."&nbsp; Kissing his forehead, she returned to her duties, preparing the meal for her parents.<br><br>Waiting for him to finish.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>June 30, 2010, 03:02:31 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon felt touched by her words, surprised that anyone would take a favor he'd done for them so far. He smiled weakly at her before continuing to eat his meal. When she began to speak again, he listened but made sure to eat as he was nearly finished. He drank down the milk and smiled as she kissed his head. He shivered, but ignored the rising emotions within him. He quickly finished everything and breathed out in a satisfied manner. He watched her, seeing that she still wasn't quite finished with her parents food. Deciding not to bother her, as she needed to complete the task before he barged into her life again, he just rested himself on the table again, falling asleep like before.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>June 30, 2010, 03:31:46 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emma suddenly realized it had grown very quiet.&nbsp; The little sounds of Leon eating had stopped without her noticing.&nbsp; Turning around, she simply shook her head as she saw he had fallen asleep once more.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Oh Leon."&nbsp; She said with a sigh.&nbsp; But, she decided it was time to put him to bed.<br><br>Walking towards her room at the rear of the house, she opened her door wide and went inside.&nbsp; First she pulled back the bed coverings so he would be able to get in easily.&nbsp; Then, going over to the window, she drew the curtains so the last rays of sunlight didn't bother him.&nbsp; After she felt it was ready, she came back out to the main room and walked to Lean, saying softly, "Wake up, Leon.&nbsp; Please wake up.&nbsp; You would be so much more comfortable in bed."&nbsp; Joscelin him to wake him, she continued to talk to him.&nbsp; "It would not be good for my parents to arrive seeing you like this.&nbsp; Come, let me help you to bed."&nbsp; <br><br>Putting her arms around him, she tried to lift him a bit, hoping it would help to wake him up so he could help get him to her bed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>July 08, 2010, 01:43:29 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As she shook at him, he woke up in a haze. He was a little delerious, but as she tried to lift him, he quickly regained his composure and stood up. "Oh Emma, I am so sorry," he admitted, feeling like a burden to her. He turned and followed her, her slender, fragile form guiding him through the house and to her room. He looked at her and shook his head. Before she could even protest, he stopped her and continued. "I am not going to sleep in your bed, that is not only unfair to you.. But I am the guest and this is your house, so you deserve to sleep in your own bed. I won't take it," he just slumped himself against a wall and lowered his head.<br><br>"I can sleep here."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>July 08, 2010, 03:53:22 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No, you cannot.&nbsp; I shall have my way with this, now come."&nbsp; Emma pulled him to the bed and before he could protest again, she gently pushed him down upon it, lifting his legs so his head was forced down.&nbsp; &nbsp; She had to smile, she knew that now that he was laying down, he wouldn't have the strength to get up.&nbsp; <br><br>Gently, she pulled off his shoes and tucked him under the blanket.&nbsp; Rubbing his head, she whispered, "You have a full stomach, and so tired.&nbsp; Sleep now, and by morning, I promise you will feel so much better."&nbsp; Kissing his forehead, she quietly left the room, closing the door behind her.<br><br>---------------------<br><br>Emma continued in the kitchen for an extra thirty minutes before her parents arrived looking tired and haggard.&nbsp; &nbsp;They had worked an extra hour in the fields, but their efforts made it possible for them to bring home a large basket of food, which was a welcomed sight.&nbsp; As her parents freshened up, she quickly put the food on the table with the place settings.&nbsp; One for each of them.&nbsp; The pie, she left on the hearth to keep warm.&nbsp; Her parents arrived at the table just as she had finished pouring them milk from a pitcher she always kept the fresh milk in.&nbsp; <br><br>Sitting down herself, she waiting for them to serve themselves first before getting her own food.&nbsp; As she did, her father looked across the table at her,&nbsp; "Seems everyone is talking about you, Emma.&nbsp; Care to explain?"&nbsp; &nbsp; Emma cringed, she had hoped to explain Leon to her parents before anyone else had gotten to them, but she guessed it was just too good to hold in.&nbsp; Putting her spoon down, she slowly looked up at her parents.&nbsp; "His name is Leon, I found him in the wood earlier this afternoon while looking for berries."&nbsp; <br><br>Her mother glanced at her father with a&nbsp; sigh, then back to her, "How many times have we told you not to go deep into the woods, Emma?&nbsp; When are you going to take the threat seriously?"&nbsp; &nbsp;Her father just continued to look at his daughter.&nbsp; "But why did you bring him home, Emma?"&nbsp; He asked frustrated.&nbsp; "Didn't you even think about the risk to the village?"&nbsp; &nbsp;Emma looked at both her parents, "Of course, I thought of the risk, but, Father, there is no evil inside him, and he saved my life when a man attacked me.&nbsp; I owed it to him."&nbsp; She said softly.&nbsp; &nbsp; "I brought him here because he is hurt and very ill.&nbsp; &nbsp;I can help him, you know I can."&nbsp; She looked from one to the other.&nbsp; "I couldn't just leave him there.&nbsp; And after he saved my life, I knew I wanted to do all I could to help him."<br><br>Emma waited for her parent's reaction.&nbsp; Even with the concern and frustration in their eyes, she knew they would accept this.&nbsp; Hadn't they taught her to use her gifts for the good of their people?&nbsp; How could she change her ways now, just because he was from the outside.&nbsp; "He's in my room.."&nbsp; she said softly, "and tonight I will lay with him and heal him."&nbsp; &nbsp;Her father just shook his head and looked down at the food.&nbsp; It was her mother that spoke first, "Emma, is he really that seriously ill?&nbsp; You have to be careful, child, don't waste your gifts on unworthy strangers."&nbsp; Even though her mother spoke the words, in her heart, she knew Emma had already made up her mind.&nbsp; Emma had always been open to anyone that needed help.&nbsp; She was like an untouched&nbsp; lamb that never saw the bad in people.&nbsp; &nbsp;Then her father looked up at his only child.&nbsp; "Then....so be it.&nbsp; &nbsp;And I wish him good health.&nbsp; May your instincts be right, my child."&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>They continued their meal in silence until the pie was brought to the table.&nbsp; Not many in the village could make deserts like Emma could, practically out nothing.&nbsp; So they smiled and talked about their day until time for bed.&nbsp; As her parents said goodnight, giving her a kiss on her forehead, and a worried last look, they retired to their room.&nbsp; Emma cleaned up, put things away and stoked the fire in the fireplace, adding a few logs before going to her room.<br><br>Slipping inside, she softly closed the door behind her.&nbsp; Walking over to the bed, Leon was in a deep sleep.&nbsp; She smiled, he would probably not wake up until late morning.&nbsp; That was good.&nbsp; It would give her plenty of time.&nbsp; Slipping out of her apron, dress and shoes, she snatched up an extra blanket, placing it over Leon and the rest of the bed.&nbsp; It would be a cool night and as he heals, she knew he would go from hot to cold throughout the night.&nbsp; It would be a long one for her, but nothing she hadn't done before.&nbsp; <br><br>Carefully, she slipped under the blankets and sheet, her body facing his, as she put her arm around him and began to feel what was wrong.&nbsp; As each pain entered her, she dealt with them one by one.&nbsp; Sometimes the pain was excruciating, others more bearable.&nbsp; But what she hadn't expected, was the pain that had nothing to with his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;It was hard to separate them from the physical healing, and she had never encountered this before.&nbsp; &nbsp;But she held on throughout the night.&nbsp; And by the crow of the rooster at dawn, she was wet with sweat, exhausted and fell back on her side of the bed unable to stay awake any longer.&nbsp; Now she would sleep and the last of the painful images would be slowly removed from her nervous system.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>July 17, 2010, 12:58:38 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He wanted to fight her, but he just couldn't. Leon was far too weak and fragile at the moment to fight back, let alone not accept Emma's gracious offerings. He frowned just before passing out, but his mouth cracked into a smile when she kissed him lightly. His slumber coming fully and punctually as he snoozed quietly until the next morning. However, his sleep was well, he did have a recollection of a few events that happened from his past.<br><br><em>"Leon.. Tell me we'll be friend's forever, please?" Anesha would ask Leon for the billionth time since they were kids. He would just chuckle and nod, blushing as he kissed her forehead. "Always Anesha, just because we're betrothed, doesn't mean we'll stop being friends," he assured her, "Besides, I'm invincible, rem-?" Suddenly the young couple was blasted by a dark, cackling energy. The blast separated them, which forced Leon to struggle to his feet, watching as he watched a demonic, dark figure slice her in two. "Huh? Anesha! Noo..!!" he cried, watching as his wife to be and long-time friend was cut down before him. "Damn you!" he cried, but before he could act, a powerful blast knocked into him. Electrical energy coursing through his body as a powerful being stood before him, laughing sickly at his misfortune. The shadowy figure stomped on Leon's head....<br><br>As he regained consciousness, Leon blinked his hazy eyes until his vision was clear and he could see all of the death and destruction that had befallen his village. Tears began to stream down his face as he saw Anesha's upper body face-up, a look of anguish having spread over her face, her eyes were watery with tears of pain and sorrow. "No.. Anesha...." Leon turned away and brushed his hands over her eyes, closing them respectfully before standing and stumbling forward, regurgitating from the sight and sorrow of the things around him. It was a few more minutes before he recomposed himself, moving around to see everyone was slaughtered, everything burned to ash and devastated.</em><br><br>This was the beginning of Leon's dismay and when the world began to crumble before Kizare's rule, ultimately spelling doom across the land. However, Leon went on a quest to gather the chosen Children who had the Gift. Legends say that the seven Children of Eden had gifts that could purge the world of evil and cleanse even the darkest pain. He hoped that with their help, he could save the world and maybe even bring back those who were lost to him that day so long ago. However, what Leon didn't know prior to his mission was that the world was falling under Kizare's rule at an incredulous pace. Leon couldn't keep up with the spread of the darkness, which forced his mission into a corner from the start. It was doomed to fail. But somehow the small village of Hyarka was spared, untouched by evil, but for how long? He was led here to find the remaining Child of Eden, which he was sure he'd found in Emma, but he had to be sure.<br><br><hr><br>That next morning, Leon's eyes winked out slowly to find a half-nude Emma laying atop him with her arm locked around his neck. His face flashed a hot red, but kept his cool as to not wake her. <em>Did.. We..? No, that's impossible, I would have remembered,</em> thought Leon wildly as he tried to think of a rational reason for their joined bodies. However, he had to admit, he did enjoy the feel of her skin against his own.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>July 19, 2010, 12:32:13 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Slowly, the door to Emma's room began to open, and the head of an older woman peeped around the door.&nbsp; When she saw that the man Emma had brought to their house was awake, she motioned for him to come, then closed the door quietly so he could get dressed.&nbsp; Going back into the kitchen,&nbsp; she nodded to her husband.&nbsp; "He's awake, and that poor child looks like she fought the devil himself all night long.&nbsp; Our guests seems to be a bit perplexed."&nbsp; She chuckled, going to the stove and tending to the eggs, bacon and biscuits cooking there.&nbsp; <br><br>"I hope he doesn't wake her or the healing will not be completed."&nbsp; Emma's father worried.&nbsp; "Oh he'll let her sleep, this I'm sure of.&nbsp; The look on his face was of complete shock."&nbsp; She glanced over to her husband, "I could almost hear his thoughts.&nbsp; &nbsp;Wondering if they had danced beneath the sheets last night."&nbsp; The woman just shook her head.&nbsp; "I still can't believe she helped this stranger, of all people, and in these times."&nbsp; The woman just shook her head completely baffled by this child.&nbsp; <br><br>"Well, we have to have faith, Mother, that she knows what her limits are.&nbsp; After all, she isn't like us.&nbsp; &nbsp;This entire village has tried to help protect her all her life.&nbsp; Perhaps this is a door to a reality we never let her touch, maybe we were wrong in sheltering her so."&nbsp; He said sadly.&nbsp; &nbsp; Picking up his cup of morning tea, he had no more to say on the subject.&nbsp; And it seemed his wife did not either.&nbsp; So they waited in silence for the stranger to join them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>July 20, 2010, 12:11:02 am</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon turned his head slowly, seeing a mature woman's face peer at him. Embarrassment and fear struck him cold, wondering if this was Emma's mother. If it was, the image she saw could not have been a pleasant one and he wasn't sure if he was ready to face the consequences. He wasn't even sure if what appeared to be so, was true. Leon just looked back at Emma, and sighed. <em>Damn it....</em><br><br>As he crawled out of bed, he looked to see his clothes were folded neatly on a small table. <em>Emma....</em> Leon just shook his head and proceeded to don his clothing. He laced his boots up snugly, as he always did, and ensured that his light, tan cloak covered his entire body. He tied and seated Keibatsu at his left side, the length of his blade resting calmly at his side. His ruffled his hair up a bit and then turned to open the door. He looked back at Emma before walking out, only to return to her side, tucking her in before proceeding to leave.<br><br>In the kitchen, Leon's senses were filled with joy at the smells of delicious cooking. He was famished, to say the least. As he approached the two adults, Leon looked at them apologetically. "I.. I'm very sorry for being a burden on the two of you. But.. She insisted that I stay. I.. Can never truly repay her.. Or you," he spouted quickly, flushing red from embarrassment. "However, now I must be going.. I have a date with the Village Chief," he finished, quickly turning on his heel to leave.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>July 20, 2010, 04:44:58 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman that had peaked into Emma's room spoke first, "Now just hold on there, I didn't make this huge breakfast for just the two of us.&nbsp; Besides, we have a few questions for you ourselves.&nbsp; So unless you want me to follow you calling out obscenities, I suggest you sit and have a bite with us before you run off to see anyone."&nbsp; She pointed a ladle towards the chair opposite her husband.&nbsp; "Right there will be fine, Leon."&nbsp; She turned around and began to scoop up his food.<br><br>It was then her husband spoke, "Don't mind Emi, she is a good woman, just worried about Emma is all.&nbsp; &nbsp;The name's Kytok, and I give you fair warning, never ignore Emi, she can swing an iron pot better than any man would figure."&nbsp; He said, rubbing a memory of such a time on the side of his head. "So, how are you feeling?&nbsp; You are lookin pretty good for a man that was as in bad shape as you were last night."&nbsp; Kytok took a nother piece of his bread and some eggs as he waited to see what this Leon would say.<br><br>"I'll tell you how he is, he's perfect.&nbsp; And our little Emma is in there carrying that burdon of his on herself.&nbsp; That's how he is!"&nbsp; She glared at Leon, "And you don't even have the decency to let the child awake so you can thank her properly.&nbsp; No, just go rushing out the door like it was no big deal.&nbsp; Well, in this town, it is a big deal when someone brings you back from death's door."&nbsp; Emi, put her plate down on the table and sat.&nbsp; She stopped looking at Leon, and with a more gentler voice, she said,&nbsp; "And there's more food if that doesn't fill your stomach."<br><br>Kytok, just let his wife rant, something he learned to do after 30 years of marriage.&nbsp; "What my wife is unable to say in a civil tone is the fact that each time Emma heals someone with the sort of damage you had, she sleeps and will not wake up until the hurt, infection or disease flows out of her.&nbsp; She may sleep many hours or even days, since we don't know what all your injuries were, we have no idea.&nbsp; And we have to leave for work, there will be no one to watch her, to protect her.&nbsp; &nbsp;Unless you will give your word to return after you talk to our .....Chief.... ,as you put it, and return here.&nbsp; Do we have your word?"<br><br>No one spoke of the situation Leon had found himself in that morning upon waking, or what his business was, they didn't inquire about where he came from or what his business was.&nbsp; It was as if they had no curiosity at all.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>July 21, 2010, 01:30:57 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stopped, just staring on with reluctance in his eyes at the door. He grit his teeth, wishing that this were easy, but nothing was ever easy, not anymore. Leon had a few <em>choice</em> words he would've like to have spat in their direction, but decided against it and faced them. He bowed and solemnly returned to the table, sat himself down, and simply allowed them to vent. It was in their right, he guessed, since it was their home, their daughter, and their resources that he'd used up.. Even if it was inadvertently. He also picked up on "Emi" having apparently contributed to the name "Emma" and the two seemed to share a sort of punctual attitude, Leon remembering how aggressive or assertive Emma had been on more than one occasion.<br><br>As he took the verbal beating, Leon hovered his palm of the end of Keibatsu's hilt. He contemplated provoking her into striking him, so that he could cut her down in self-defense, but decided it best to just let her believe she had all the answers. Women almost always seemed to operate best in that way, especially since having met Emma and her mother. It bothered him a bit that these two women were among the last women on the planet, when all the world was consumed by darkness and chaos. His body became impatient when the food was set before him, quivering with the angst of finally getting some food to fill his famished hunger. Sighing, he nodded and began to eat quickly and ferociously, however not without his manners. Life alone and in danger had taught him to eat as quickly as possible, but not barbarically so as he was still as much of a gentleman as he was a speed eater.<br><br>When he finished his first plate, he solemnly pushed it aside and licked his lips, patting them softly. It was his turn to speak. "Please," he began, taking in a deep breath to heed them a warning that he would be answering everything in the next few minutes. "Mister Kytok. Misses Emi. I apologize, but I can't exactly explain to you what I have been through for the past several years.. Or what the rest of the world has, as it seems your beautiful village here has yet to be touched by anything outside of itself in quite some time. The world is dying, this much I can shed light on. So when you ask how I feel, I can tell you that I am indeed perfect, in comparison to the world around me...." Leon paused to allow that to sink in for a moment, before continuing.<br><br>"Emotionally, I am not sure I'll ever be stable again. Before all of the world's despair began, I was nothing more than a simple young man. I was betrothed to my most treasured friend and one of the most elegant and radiantly beautiful girls I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. The scars that were caused by witnessing her being bifurcated before my eyes.. Are&nbsp; likely to never heal, but I wouldn't expect you to understand. Nor anyone else," he paused again, reflecting upon his own past. Tears well into his eyes for a few moments, but he quickly wipes them away and smiles. "But, physically I am healthy. I heal fast, but not this fast, I admit. Your daughter, Emma, is a very young woman and is capable of great miracles.. Any man would be lucky to have her in the coming future, but my mission is to ensure that the world has a future to look forward to. That.. Is why I am here."<br><br>The young man before them quirked a brow, "What makes you think I would leave her here alone at all? Let alone while I go and talk to your Village Chief." The youth, fumbled around in his cloak, wondering why Kytok was so disturbed by Leon wanting to speak with the Elder in the village anyways. Finding what he'd been rummaging for, he pulled out a coinpurse with several gold coins in it and allowed it to thump down onto the table. "This won't do you any good outside of your village until the world is restored, but it is a small token of my gratitude," Leon shook his head, causing his ocean of reddish-brown hair to prance about before settling again. "And no, I would never leave her, no matter the circumstances. I will stay with her until she awakens," he promised.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>July 21, 2010, 03:26:47 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kytok and Emi listened to everything he had to say calmly and respectfully.&nbsp; They never flinched as he described the outside world, but a sadness did come into their eyes at the loss he had endured.&nbsp; When he had finally finished his meal and his speech, as if on cue, Ami stood up and began to clean up the breakfast and Kytok got up and began to gather their things for the job they would be going to.&nbsp; Not another word was spoken until they were about to leave the house, when Kytok turned and said, "Thank you, Leon, for explaining things and keeping an eye on Emma for us.&nbsp; Please make yourself at home.&nbsp; Consider it your home as well."&nbsp; &nbsp;Glancing outside towards the sun, he made one last comment, "You should have about two good hours before the Chief will not be available, I would make the most of it.&nbsp; Emma will sleep at least three hours.&nbsp; She will be safe until you return."&nbsp; Kytok and Emi closed the door, leaving Leon on his own.<br><br>Emma was still asleep, oblivious to everything that had happened outside her door.&nbsp; Instead she was dreaming horrible dreams of carnage and death.&nbsp; These things came along with the healing of Leon, something new, strange and frightening that she had never encountered before.&nbsp; Perhaps this was why it was taking so long for her to wake up.&nbsp; It required the healing of the whole world, and how does one accomplish such a thing?&nbsp; So she slept on.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>July 21, 2010, 10:27:29 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His eyes bounced between the two as they traded thank yous and offering him tips along the way, which Leon was grateful for, despite the fact that he was unlikely to leave. Leon only nodded, though he wasn't prepared to leave Emma alone in the home. He watched the couple leave, sighing as they seemed to have let him off the hook. Running a hand through his hair, Leon contemplated what he could do while awaiting Emma's consciousness to return. He really needed to see the Elder, but wasn't sure how to do so when he promised to protect Emma. Then, suddenly, he realized what he could do and stood to return to Emma's room.<br><br>Craftily, Leon creeps into the room, trying to keep silent as he begins to remove Keibatsu from his side. Afterward, he slips the blade under the sheets next to her and his own begin to glow a hot white as he spreads his fingers, calling forth a form of barrier. His hands too glowed with that same white, emanating resonance the flowed from his palms. It was his energy condensed from his own pure soul, which would serve perfectly to protect her. A powerful, white barrier formed around the bed, illuminating the entire room with its glow. It was powerful enough to keep even the strongest of men out, however the barrier was best used for combat, as it only worked one way. So he could strike from within, as anything could pass through from the inside. "That should do it," he whispered, turning to leave the room and heading for the village elder's hut.<br><br>Upon reaching the small hut, Leon rapped on the door and awaited a response.<br><br>[OOC || I'll let you play the part of the Elder.. Let's say it is a woman. Age anywhere from 30 - 85. Haha.]
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>August 10, 2010, 04:43:20 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The door slowly creaked open to reveal an elderly woman at the door.&nbsp; She had heard of the strange man that Emma had brought into the village, so she supposed this was him.&nbsp; "I was wondering when you would get here."&nbsp; Pulling the door open further, she stepped partially behind the door to let him in.<br><br>Upon entering, she carefully closed it behind him, glancing out at the few who were watching the man closely.&nbsp; Turning back to the room, she motioned towards a chair, "Sit, I will get us some refreshments and you can tell me what it is on your mind."&nbsp; Walking into a little room off from the living room, you could hear the clinking of glass on glass, a plate being taken from a shelf and placed on something wooden.&nbsp; Then things being stacked on a tray that the woman eventually carried into the room and placed on the table in front of the stranger.&nbsp; Pulling a chair up to the other side of the table, she started to pour him some wise and offered him a plate of fruit and sweet bread before sitting back in her chair.<br><br>"My name is Loril, I am the eldest of the tribe, and I know you have much to tell me.&nbsp; So start with your name."<br><br>Crossing her arms across her lap, she patiently waited for what this man had to say that was so important to him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheWhiteEmperor</strong> on <strong>August 11, 2010, 10:55:48 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leon nodded, bowing slightly as he walked through the doorway. He just silently followed her instructions and awaited for her to be ready for his tale to begin. Looking around, he seemed to notice that they were not alone. Leon appeared to be quite popular, but was it for the right reasons? He kept his vigil, making sure not to allow one of these members to get the better of him, if they were to come after him in any case. Finally, the woman returned and set up a small welcoming platter for him, which he was grateful for, but only took a few slices of an apple.<br><br>"Well, to begin, my birth name is Kamishini Raionshin, but I have always been called Leon for short. My mother used to say that Leon was the perfect name for me, because it had so many great meanings behind it, and yet no God, Hero, or any other icon of people has ever had that name. She said I would be the first known "Leon" to be known worldwide." Leon breathed, lowering his head as he fought back the urge to mourn for his mother, then sighed and continued. "As for why I am here, I need to know if the last Child of Eden still resides in this village. The world needs one of the Children and everyone else is dead.. I watched so many people die...." Leon sadly looked into his lap again, composing himself.<br><br>He spent the next several minutes explaining what had happened with his own village, how entire country sides were turned to nothing but black ash and chaos. Telling of his travels around the world in search of finding hope, or another living being that wouldn't be murdered before his eyes yet again. He even told her of his family and that he was the only one left, except this village. That he had met up with three surviving Children of Eden, but they all perished in their last push against Kizare's forces, everyone died... Everyone except him.<br><br>Leon.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Trial and Error [Private]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Edhel Tari</strong> on <strong>August 11, 2010, 11:24:39 pm</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Loril listened patiently to what Leon had to say, nodding from time to time at parts that were of great interest to her.&nbsp; She noted the heaviness of his voice when he came to certain parts, and could feel his sense of loss and sorrow.&nbsp; Her thoughts went to Emma, who she knew had healed this man the night before and she wondered how she would be when she finally awoke.<br><br>When Leon had finished completely, she leaned forward, taking his hands in her and said reassuringly, "Do not despair, Leon.&nbsp; Yes, the last child of Eden lives within this village, has all her life.&nbsp; She knows nothing of the world outside.&nbsp; The horrors you have encountered have never touched her before yesterday, when she made the choice to heal you."&nbsp; <br><br>Letting go of his hands, she sat back once more looking deeply into his eyes.&nbsp; "We have been waiting for this day, but not with happiness or joy.&nbsp; For it was prophesied that one day a stranger would arrive at our village, chosen by Emma and lead into our midst, broken and in pain.&nbsp; And here you are."&nbsp; She let that sink in before continuing.&nbsp; "And now the day has arrived and we are all worried for her and for you."<br><br>Taking a deep breath, she sighed, "Give her time to heal, then you must tell her what you need from her.&nbsp; Do not hide it from her, she is not to be denied the truth, no matter what.&nbsp; And take her gently into the world, let her adjust before putting her in harms way.&nbsp; For she has no idea who she is, or the powers that lie dormant inside of her."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
		</dl>
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