An Unknown Land (one on one)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Lyria on 27-06-2006, 09:13:07</h2>
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				Title: <strong>An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>27-06-2006, 09:13:07</strong>
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				The Elvin woman appeared from the trees, seeming to slip from the closely grown trunks like a shadow. The trees here were ancient. It would take at least three human men with their hands linked to span a typical tree’s circumference. But they grew too close together to span. It was not too uncommon to find a clumps of six or seven trees all grown together, their trunks fused to make one large growth, scattered about the woods.<br><br>The trees were of immense height. They rose high above, sheltering the ground below with a thick canopy of large leaves the size of dinner plates. Dots of sunlight made it past these boughs and past the lower branches to dance along the ground. The branches and leaves closer to the ground were smaller and entwined together, linking the trees, and grew quite far down on the trunks considering their height. A human man could stand on his brother’s shoulders and easily reach the lowest as it met the trunk. And the ends of the branches dipped even further to the ground, able to caress a man’s cheek if her were inclined to walk past. <br><br>But they did not caress the Elvin woman. She flowed under their reach, and on to the river close by. The river was close, the sound of it a constant soothing song, and the scent of it a perfume on the breeze. It provided life to not only the forest and the creatures that dwelled within it, but to the woman as well. It was here that she fetched water to bathe and to drink, and here she trapped fish. And the current was gentle enough to not overtake her, but forceful enough to assist in scrubbing her clothing clean, and the dirt from her skin. <br><br>For now she was simply fetching water with the large deep wooden bowl she carried. Carefully her diminutive feet picked the steps of the path to the river’s edge. The path was well hidden by roots and undergrowth that she was able to slip her feet between with practiced ease. She knew every step of this walk, and no longer had to watch her step, but was able to turn her emerald green eyes in front of her, watching for predators and the unfriendly. For though she had lived here many years, she would always be an intruder. The lands belonged to the elves, but they dwelled elsewhere. <br><br>At the river’s edge, the woman knelt. As she leaned forward she brushed her long silken ivory hair behind her delicately pointed ears, and then reached for the deep bowl. But before grabbing it she was distracted by a foreign object floating on the surface of the river. A flower. One of bright red, and not typical to this part of the forest. She reached out and carefully snagged it. The stem was ragged, as if it had been ripped from its roost. The woman brought it to her nose, her eyes closing as she inhaled softly. The perfume of it was sweet and lovely and her lips upturned ever so slightly. But as soon as they had, they dropped again, and she looked up river. Would something follow? There was nothing new to see. <br><br>After tucking the flower into her hair she once more she reached for her bowl. She dipped it just below the surface of the river, letting it fill with the freshest water. When it was full she gracefully rose and retreated. <br><br>When she reached her cluster of trees she stopped and sighed softly. Before entering her dwelling she gazed wistfully at the pattern of the bark. In one particular spot it had grown mystically into a pattern. She caressed this pattern idly with the long fingers of one hand, appearing deep in cheerless thoughts. After many minutes she sighed again, and entered the hidden door. <br><br>The only evidence of her presence in the small clearing would be the slight aroma of smoke from her fire, and the faint sound of the mournful melody she played on her flute. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-06-2006, 18:32:20</strong>
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				Cyprian is a soldier of the Black Watch. These are elite soldiers from Kalamere, a far away kingdom. These men were trained to operate and fight in many types of terrain and environment in a sort of special force organization. <br><br>When the Great Crusade began the Black Watch was sent along with the regular army to invade the eastern edge of the Great Wood seeking the Tomb of Aldimar, great hero-god to the humans. His tomb is said to hold artefacts of immense dark powers. It was the decision of the Emperor of the human kingdoms to secure this tomb, and protect the heritage of the humans. <br><br>No one suspected the elves would resist but they did, with an amazing fury. This is where the tale of the end of the Black Watch begins, and the one of Cyprian begins…..<br><br>Cyprian lay on the bank, his arm still draped over a large log. He felt the pain in his body but it was difficult to pinpoint where exactly. He managed to pull himself ashore, letting the log that had no doubt saved his life continue its journey north… Or was it South, Cyprian was no longer certain. He took a moment to rest, and to painfully re-live the last day’s events. <br><br>The final battle of the Black Watch began on the morning of the 36 day of the Crusade. A company of elven warriors, 500 strong had hold up in a small valley, and the lords had decided the Black watch would go in and eliminate them. Everything had gone according to plan. It was a slaughter, hardly any of the humans fell. The elven steel was no match for human combat efficiency. It had taken only a few minutes for the charge to end with the valley soaked with the blood of the elves… And that was when it began. <br><br>We had heard of the legendary elven longbowman but had yet to encounter them. We gained great respect for our enemy that morning. First, they had sacrificed 500 good elven warriors to lure us into that death trap, and second the legends were true, their bowmen were great. The first volley took out all our mounts and over half our men. Few were untouched by at least one arrow. I, myself took one in the side near my right hip but there appeared to be no permanent damage. I was lucky. Our formation broke as panic took to the men, and we fled for the cover of the woods. <br><br>Though we had trained to fight the elves in the woods, we were ill prepared for what waited us. It was as if the woods were alive with accursed elven magic. But we struggled and we fought on, refusing to give up. We’d heard what elves did to their prisoners, surrender was not an option. <br><br>By early morning on the 37th day we had reached the raging river. There were only a dozen of us left, out of the original 250 Black Watch members. We had hoped to use the fast current of the river to take us back behind our lines, to safety. To our surprise and much disappointment the river’s great current had suddenly changed, it now flowed north, towards the western Great Forest. Our hearts sank. Only high elven magic could produce such effects. We were doomed men and we knew it, it was only a matter of time. As the sun began to creep up from the East our wait had ended. <br><br>The elves had found us and begun their attack. The men of the Black Watch fought back to back, and they fought as though possessed by demons. It took over 75 elven warriors to finish off the 12 warriors on the high banks of the Great River. I took another arrow, in my left hip but I fought on. When only a few of us remained, I received a sword blow to the side. Though my armour took the brunt, I felt the bite of steel, and I swear I heard some ribs crack just before I tumbled into the river……..<br><br>Now here he was, alive for the time being. He could only assume he was deeper in the elven lands. He looked over his wounds, his side had begun bleeding again, and the bandage had been washed away. He pulled a wet cloth from a pouch and pressed it against the wound. His hip still had the arrow through it, and it didn’t seem to be bleeding much yet, so he decided to leave the arrow for the time being. He could not see the damage to his side though he felt it, his breathing was shallow and through a coughing fit he found blood spewing from his lips. He dared not removed the armour yet. He searched for his sword, the one his father had given him but there was no sign of it. <br><br>After lying back down for a few moments he realized he could smell smoke…. And he could have sworn he heard the sound of a flute playing… He crawled up to his feet listening intently. The fire could mean food he decided. He just hoped it wasn’t a military camp. He started moving in that direction….<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>27-06-2006, 20:01:29</strong>
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				The Elvin woman let her tune die out, and leaned forward to stir the stew cooking over the fire. As the mushrooms and carrots and bits of rabbit tumbled around in the thick broth she thought of the flower. Placing the large wooden spoon aside, she drew the flower from its home behind her ear. There was something about it that was bothering her. <br><br>Suddenly it hit her. Why had she not noticed it before? Her head turned sharply but gracefully towards the direction the river lay. The water…it had been flowing upstream. Upstream had become downstream, or…something. Her hand trembled slightly, not just from the intimidating prospect that the water had changed current, but from the unease of her endless monotony being broken. Every day was the same as the last, and the flower had been the only surprise she had expected. <br><br>Her heart beat a bit more rapidly. What could it mean? Were the gods angry? Was the curse coming to fruition? The woman reached up and felt the skin on the side of her neck…no…no change. It must not be the curse…<br><br>Slowly she stood. The walk to the river was short, and now seemed even shorter, as if the water could reach out and grab her at any moment. But she had to see, she had know. The woman took a deep shaky breath and slowly opened the door to her hidden home. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 15:38:04</strong>
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				Cyprian moved as quietly as he could. His right hand was at his side holding the already bloodied bandage tightly. He limped with the opposite leg being careful not to snag the protruding arrow on any brush. Even in his current state he was quiet. Not elven quiet but close. He’d spend many years training in subterfuge. He knew if this was a military camp he was a dead man but yet he had no choice but to continue on his way. <br><br>He hadn’t eaten real food for some time and the smell was making his mouth water. He stopped moving when the flute stopped. His eyes scanned the area ahead, looking for any sign of a dwelling but he still could not see. He took a few more tentative steps, cautious as ever. The size of these damned trees was making it near impossible to see anything and his frustration was mounting. Still, he knew he was getting close. His free hand drew the short sword from its scabbard. Though it was called a short sword, the 28 inch blade was still a most dangerous weapon in the hands of a trained warrior. <br><br>His eyes spotted what looked like a faint trail. A pair of untrained eyes might have missed it, but not these eyes. Cyprian followed the trail without actually stepping upon it. He tried to leave no sign of his passing, but the blood was leaving a trail that would be easy to spot, but he had no time to stop and try and cover it. He continued to move along the small trail, noticing how the trees formed around it. The clumps seemed to get bigger, and he knew he was close. He lowered himself in some tall grass and began to observe….. It was difficult to tell, but it appeared like the forest floor was beaten down somewhat just ahead of his current position. He saw the smoke rise into the air, no doubt the source of the smell, but it seemed to come out of a large grouping of trees, fused at the base. <br><br>He almost missed it, but from the bark came a firelight suddenly as the bark move !!! He remained quiet, unmoving…..<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 16:12:49</strong>
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				The Elvin woman whisped from the hidden door like smoke from a pipe. Her movements were slow and graceful, but somewhat hesitant. Her eyes were wide with trepidation, and seemed focused on the water, drawn to it. <br><br>After a few steps she stopped. She knew every inch of this spot of the forest, and there was something new, something amiss. It wasn’t just a new squirrel nest, or evidence of a passing owlbear. Her eyes drifted to the ground a few feet in front of her. At the bottom of her scope of sight her Elvin vision had picked up the slight glow of something warm, something stationary, and something that should not be there. After taking a few steps forward she folded her lithe form into a crouch and reached her hand forward. <br><br>When she drew her finger back it was wet and crimson. Blood. Her chest rose and fell a bit faster as she turned her head, scanning the forest around her. But she did not think to turn and look to the space she had already past. Was there an injured animal going to the river to drink or to die? She could now see the rapidly cooling trail of blood that headed down towards the river. <br><br>The woman stood again, and seemed to think deeply before moving forward again. She still had that overwhelming feel of dread about the river. And she needed to be cautious, injured animals could be very dangerous. But it may be a gif. It could mean meat that she could dry and make jerky with. The forest always provided, and if she turned down the gift she could anger it. <br><br>When she reached the rivers edge she saw a much larger pool of blood. Something had laid upon the bank, but was no longer present. Most assuredly it had entered the river and been swept downstream, deeper into the Elvin lands. The woman knelt and gave a small prayer for the animal, asking for its spirit to carry on and bring the forest further life. <br><br>And as she had thought she remembered, the water was flowing in the wrong direction. She sat for several moments and contemplated it. There was nothing else about the river that had changed. Its water was still fresh and sweet, and it still fed the land. Slowly her fear at the change lessened. There was nothing she could do about the switch of the current, and simply had to accept it. But even as she let the fear go, a knot remained in her belly. <br><br>Deciding the knot was just from the unease of having her routine broken, she turned and started back up the path. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 17:48:49</strong>
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				Cyprian was almost stunned when she came into view. He’d never seen an elven maiden before. He’d seen many elven warriors that looked soft and delicate, almost female like in appearance, but never a real elven woman. The stories of their beauty was well earned, never before had he laid eyes on such a vision. He blinked, thinking perhaps he’d died and gone to the halls of the gods. The pain all over reminded him he wasn’t dead yet, and she was an elf, not an angel of mercy come for his soul. He sank lower to the ground as she neared. <br><br>She moved past him with more grace than he’d ever seen, to his eyes it looked almost as though she glided above the forest floor. He couldn’t help but admire her curves as she moved towards the river. She stopped not far and crouched. It gave him the opportunity to gaze upon her features. If her body was amazing then her face was beyond words. Should he live and make it back to human lands he’ll no doubt boast of laying his eyes upon perfection, though no one would believe him.<br><br>She continued to the river, and he realized she’d discovered the trail of blood. He cursed his carelessness. He looked down at his wounds, another puddle of blood had formed just below him. The scent of blood was strong and every once in a while he felt faint. He would need her help if he was to survive. He crouched lower, waiting for her to return towards the dwelling. As she neared he pounced directly in her path, if somewhat unbalanced… “Do not move Lady…. Do not scream… I do not want to harm you but I will… If you force my hand…” he said in abated breath short sword held high and perilously close to her breast…<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>28-06-2006, 19:56:53</strong>
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				She saw the movement before he appeared, but she had hesitated, unsure what to do. This gave him time to pounce in front of her, his blade reaching for the heart that now pounded forcefully under her milky skin. Her eyes, already large, grew even large as they opened in shock and fear, and her throat lurched. The pale lips parted and her breath in took sharply, causing her chest to rise to almost touch the point of his blade.<br><br>The man’s voice fell on her ears, sounding to her deep and rolling like thunder, much lower in register than any elf she had ever heard speak. But this was no elf…she did not know what he was. His stature was large and imposing and even in his weakened state he looked powerful enough to her to crush a boulder. And he had a thin, rough growth of hair on his face, like an animal…though his face…that was not one of an animal. <br><br>His features were foreign and strange, and while frightening, not entirely unappealing. His jaw was much squarer than an elf’s. And his eyes were smaller, but rounder. The color was a rich deep brown, the color of the earth. <br><br>She responded to him in a voice as breathy and lyrical as the flute had been. It resonated almost as if she were an instrument herself. But the shake and the fear in her made it quake with an unmistakable vibrato of terror. “Vaeri....riri pai byr ces ti…”<br><br>Her eyes quickly scanned over the rest of his form. He was the bleeding animal, and as she had thought to herself before, injured animals could be very dangerous. He had very clearly been in a battle of some kind. Or many battles. His armor was worn and damaged, and he had more than just the sword pointed at her for weapons. <br><br>The blood dripped from his side with a small pit pat, and her eyes shot to it, then to his side, and then back to his face. Once more she looked at his side, nodding to it slightly, then met his deep eyes once again. “O eisi ailesaer…”
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 16:39:51</strong>
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				Cyprian was ill prepared for her, he almost took a stepped back but his warrior instincts took over. He watched her, as she spoke, those pale pinkish lips moved and a soft sound was emitted, but he could not comprehend it. He’d heard the elven warriors speak elvish once or twice before, but the way she spoke it was beautiful. Unfortunately beautiful wasn’t very convenient at this particular moment…<br><br>He could tell she was frightened and that was good. Fear in him could make things easier. He continued to clutch at his side, gloved hand bloodied. “I do not understand….” He replied to her first statement, unsure what to do. He wished they could have captured some prisoners and perhaps learn a bit of the language but that was all moot now. He was here, as was she and she was his only hope of survival. <br><br>She clearly nodded to his wounds, side and right hip, plus the protruding arrow from his left hip. She was aware he was wounded and he wondered if this gave her encouragement, perhaps she taught she could defeat a wounded man such as he… He hoped not, he did not want to harm her, but he would if he had to. He sidestepped off the trail and pointed the sword to her dwelling… “Are you alone… alone” he pointed back to her… He spoke firmly and slowly, hoping she could understand. After a long silent moment his eyes seem to roll for an instant and the grip on the sword wavered. It only lasted a second and he brought the sword back up… “Are there others?” he pointed to the dwelling then to her again…<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 17:16:13</strong>
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				The rumble of his voice settled around her again. She watched his face carefully with her exceedingly pale blue eyes. Her desire to understand his words was great, but that did nothing to translate his speech. If she could only understand him she could give him what he wanted and then he might leave, and he might not hurt her. <br><br>Her eyes did not blink but followed his movements. He was gesturing to her dwelling, then back at her. And then…and then he wavered. Her body tensed briefly, but she was too intimidated to make a move against him. And very quickly he recovered. Again he pointed to the dwelling and then to her. Her lips parted to speak, but she looked very confused. Her eyebrows raised and she shook her head softy. “Ai pyl's ialaesal...Ai't mysia...Ai pyl's ialaesal...”<br><br>She started to tremble like a small frightened bird, her eyes shimmering slightly with moisture. This time her words were little more than a whispered breeze floating across his ears, the tone clearly imploring and pleading. “Vaeri pyl's ces ti... Vaeri pyl's ces ti...”
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 20:04:34</strong>
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				He watched her eyes, those large sparkling gemstones. They were like no eyes he’d ever seen before and for a moment he was trapped by them. The head shake, universally it means no, or has some negative meaning. Perhaps she did not live there, or simply did not want to go. Softly, and slowly he replied, “I will no harm you if you do as you are told….” He continued to watch her, as she began to tremble.<br><br>She was obviously afraid, but he dared not lower his weapon. Once again he was about to point weapon towards her dwelling, but he knew it was futile. He thought for a moment…. Finally he let go of his side and brought his glove to his mouth. He bit the tip and pulled his hand away slowly. Though there were a few traces of blood, the hand was much cleaner. He held the sword up and took a step near her offering his hand. “Take my hand…” he said taking another step closer. The sword remained close to her breast. <br><br>With his hand gone from the wound at his right hip a spurt of blood trickled down his side with every step. He knew he didn’t have long…… This time he raised his voice to yell at her, “TAKE MY HAND !!!” as his patience began to dwindle…<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>29-06-2006, 20:44:43</strong>
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				She watched him with wide eyes, like a mouse that knows the owl is swooping and that it is too late to run. Even though he was the injured one, he was the stronger and more aggressive one, and she felt powerless and afraid. She had no idea what kind of creature he was. Something lurked in the back of her mind. A legend, a tale, a whispered story to frighten the children and make them behave...<br><br>As he pulled his hand from his side she watched the blood run, and for a split second the fear was secondary on her face to concern. But he stepped closer and again she was intimidated by his larger bloodied form and the fear returned. Reflexively she took a step back. Her eyes flicked from his hand to his face and her eyes narrowed the tiniest bit in curiosity. <br><br>His voice was no longer low rumbling thunder, but a powerful thunderclap and lightening bolt. She screamed sharply and shortly in extreme alarm at the burst of noise from him, but her diminutive hand shot out quickly to slip into his, disappearing in the larger palm. Again she quietly whispered in an imploring tone. “Vaeri, Ai eis mai mysia, pai byr ces ti, pai byr ces ti.”
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				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>30-06-2006, 17:05:35</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				He could feel the pain getting stronger and stronger which in turn made his patience dwindle. He didn’t want her to be so scared she couldn’t move but the emotions and pain were confusing him. He had hoped he could make her understand, but it would take too long… he would die of blood loss long before they learnt to say ‘hello’.<br><br>Her soft fearful voice turned to one of terror and he so regretted having to raise his voice so. Her hand shot into his and he closed his fingers tightly around her much smaller hand. The sword lowered, “I’m sorry, I did not mean to yell….” He said softly, “You have to try and understand me, I mean you no harm, but I need your help” he said, still trying to keep his voice low and steady. He blinked, and it was getting more and more difficult to keep a clear mind, but he had to, his life depended on it. <br><br>He stepped back again and pulled her hand along towards the dwelling, indicating he wanted her to walk in that direction. Once she stood next to him he let go of her hand and pointed again at the dwelling. He moved behind her and gave her a gentle push indicating he wanted her to move… “Please listen to me… You need to move….”<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>30-06-2006, 20:42:15</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>He seemed to have a change in demeanor, lowering his voice until it was soft and even. He took a step towards her home, the place he had been pointing with his sword, pulled her with him, and then pointed again. She easily caught that he wanted her to go there. The woman seemed to hesitate, but he gave her a small push, his hand feeling large against her back. She stumbled forward a little form the movement, having not expected it. <br><br>The woman didn’t look back, but did as he indicated, and walked to her home. When she reached it she opened the door, only about as tall as he was, and stepped inside. She assumed he was going to follow, and moved into the room. <br><br>The inside was much larger than one would expect. The room was circular, with a diameter of about eighteen feet. It was sort of cordoned off into sections. On the far wall was actually a stone fireplace built into the hard old wood of the trees. In it was a pot of stew, bubbling and fragrant. There was a table and chairs, smaller scale than human, but not by an extreme amount, next to the fire. To the right of that was a large intricately woven rug with pillows on it. To the left of the fire was a large bed, for Elves, average for humans. Next to the bed was a large finally crafted wardrobe. Baskets lined the walls, and thick tree branches grew out of the smooth walls to form shelves. The floor was wooden as well, but worn shiny and smooth from years of footsteps across it. The room was lit by skylight through a ceiling about seven feet high.<br><br>Once inside, the woman stepped to the right and finally turned to him. Her eyes were still wide, and her body still trembled, but her fright seemed to have lessened some degree. Her eyes fell to his bleeding side again. Slowly, as if he might anger again, she moved the pillows from the rug and pointed delicately to it, her slender finger almost looking like a ray of light it was so pale. “Vaeri, jhai pyrn.”
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 00:47:59</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was relieved to see her start moving towards the dwelling. He moved his hand back to the soiled bandage and followed her, his weapon raised, prepared to strike at a moment’s notice. That she was a female, an apparent noncombatant was insignificant at this moment, if she cried for help, he knew what he had to do. <br><br>He continued to look back over his shoulder, to ensure he wasn’t being followed. As they moved between the trees he was glad to see there was no one else about. As he entered the structure he was amazed at its construction. It was as if the tree had grown to the exact specifications required. It was quite a sight. He looked up at the skylight before regaining his senses and moving to close the door. He noticed a very simple locking mechanism and reached for the latch. He peered out a small window to make sure no one was around before turning to the elven maiden before him…<br><br>He watched her large eyes look him over, checking out his wounds no doubt. He followed her finger and listened to her words but still he did not comprehend her language. He did however get her meaning, and he moved slowly and cautiously to the rug where he lowered onto one knee. The arrow was still embedded to his left hip, but that wound did not bleed much so he ignored it for the time being. His right hip was still bleeding quite a bit. His side had blood, but he figured most of the damage was blunt, but until the breastplate came off, there no way of knowing and he was still reluctant to remove the armor. <br><br>Keeping the short sword raised for now, he moved his other hand and removed the armored plates at his hips. It was difficult with just one hand but he managed to get it off. He looked at the woman, and he wondered if she had skill at healing… He pulled the wet bandage away from the wound and he saw the blood still dripping… “Water, and cloth” he said calmly, pointing first at the water in a nearby bucket and then at the soiled bandage in his hand. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 02:59:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>The woman had backed away a little, and had been watching him warily, unblinking, her hands clasped behind his back. She didn’t move or make a sound as he started to take off his armor, but her eyes ran over him, taking in the details of him. The curiosity over what exactly this creature, so like an elf and so not, was growing in direct proportion to the realization he wasn’t there to hurt her, but there because he himself was hurt. <br><br>When he gestured for the bucket, and held up the filthy cloth, it was clear what he needed. Her green eyes ran over the outstretched blade, and eyed it as she quietly drifted to retrieve the things he demanded. First she wrapped her long thin fingers around the handle of the bucket and lifted it. Stepping closer she kept a wide berth of his blade, and leaned forward with outstretched arms to hand it too him, still frightened. Next she back away and knealt on the floor next to a stack of baskets, keeping her body turned towards him and her eyes on him as much as possible. Her hand slipped under the lid of one of them, and emerged with a large piece of sun bleached cloth. It looked to be similar to linen. <br><br>The woman rose from the floor, holding the cloth to her chest. She stepped to the right where some of the limb shelves had grown. Out of a wooden box she pulled a small and very sharp looking knife. Realizing he might think she was getting a weapon she was quick to hold up the cloth, and lay the knife on it. She spoke rapidly, and in a reassuring tone. “Air'm ber sai ter si tyr.”<br><br>Before crossing the room to him again she started cutting the cloth into strips with the knife. When she had several, she folded them and hesitantly stepped forward again, leaving the knife on the table. As if in afterthought, she stopped and turned towards the fire. Walking towards it she approached a cupboard, anchored by limbs. She opened it and pulled out a small leather pouch. <br><br>Then she returned to him. This time she came a little closer, within four feet of him. Her eyes soaked in his wounds like the rug did his running blood. She shook her head softly and looked at him gently, but still warily. Kneeling, she dipped one of the pieces of cloth in the water and slowly reached for him, her voice soft and questioning. “Shor o jhaer ti caer o?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 03:31:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He watched her curiously. He realized the weapon in his hand would make her uncomfortable, and perhaps even hesitate in helping him. He considered lowering it, but he waited a bit longer. He tossed the bloodied cloth just off the rug and took the bucket of water from her, putting it in front of him. His eyes went back to her, to her form. She was lithe, much smaller than a human female, and again those large eyes seem to pierce his soul, in them he could detect a hint of blue. Her skin was pale, almost milky and her hair was long. He should like to touch it, to feel it’s softness… But he couldn’t. <br><br>He watched this beautiful creature gather the cloth, and his sword point dropped, till the point touch the floor, but it came up quickly when he spotted the glint of steel in her hand. His instincts told him to strike, but he could not… He delayed and was about to yell when she placed the blade on the linen. Her voice was soothing, but he could not trust her and sword point was held high once again. <br><br>It appeared to Cyprian that this female wanted to help him, she wanted to help tend to his wounds. His minded debated. Once the knife was abandoned on the table and she came closer he decided to trust her a little for now. He dug the sword tip into the wooden floor and let go of it, making a show for the maiden. <br><br>It was a question, he could tell by her tone, and the way she held the dampened cloth and reached for him told him she wanted to help. He moved his bloodied hand away from the wound at his hip and fully kneeled before her. His left hand moved close to his boot, near the dagger that was sheathed there. He nodded to her to proceed.<br><br>He tried to move back and unbuckle the breastplate that covered his third wound but he could not twist himself enough to reach the last two buckles at the rear. “Help me with this… please?” he said indicating the buckles. He would trust her for now, he really had no choice. As he gazed into her eyes he wondered if she knew he was an enemy of her people… He wondered if she had any idea how many of her kind had fallen by his hand…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 04:31:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Elvin woman was glad to see the sword in the floor and not in his large hand, but knew it was within and easy reach of him. But it was a gesture, an offer, and the meaning was not lost on her. As he appeared to give permission to her offer of assistance, her eyes found his. The gaze of them was peculiar. The emotions behind seemed to her to be contradictory. It almost seemed as if he had some sort of compassion towards her, but at the same time she sensed and underlying enmity. But what it was born from, she did not know. <br><br>Why was she helping him… the question rolled around in her mind. It was beyond his threat of violence; there was a desire in her to make him well, to stop his pain. She had to admit to herself that there was quiet nobility in the large injured man, and an obvious strength of will. <br>She had been deep in thought as he tried to remove his armor, and the rumble of his voice brought her back to the moment and the danger at hand. She could not allow herself to forget his injured state or the terrifying burst of noise he had assaulted her with outside. But he seemed to want her help, straining for the buckles and giving up, then talking to her. <br><br>Hoping she wasn’t reading him incorrectly, she slowly reached for the buckles, her eyes on him warily. Eventually she reached them, and deftly undid them with her delicate fingers. She eased the worn heavy armor off of him, seeing the true shape of his torso for the first time. There was another wound under his armor. She shook her head softly, he was not in good shape, and she would never be able to properly attend to his wounds with his underclothing on. <br><br>With a tentative look she tugged very softly on his shirt and then took her hand away. She made a motion with her hand, bringing it up in the air and over her head. Again her lilting voice was very soft. “Vaeri, o baer sai saji sor os.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 05:08:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He waited patiently as she processed the information. She appeared to be as intelligent as she was beautiful. There was a certain innocence about her, and he felt a pang of guilt for bringing the war to her door. She truly looked like she didn’t know what he was? Were the elves so segregated that the civilians didn’t know who they were at war with? Or that they were even at war?<br><br>He carefully watched her as she reached for the buckles. Her delicate fingers nimbly unbuckled the straps, and she began lifting the armor off of him. The armor was heavy and he could suddenly breath easier. His eyes moved to his side where a large bruise was apparent. There was a cut present, but it was small in comparison to the others. <br><br>He was surprised when she reached for his shirt, but she was right of course, if he was going to tend to his wounds, the shirt would have to be removed. He watched her lips as she spoke. The sound was like music. He watched her movements and he nodded, grabbing the shirt, and allowing her to help him, if she felt brave enough. He struggled at trying to raise his arms but eventually it came off. His chest and abdomen were chiseled from years of combat and training and he had the same tan color all over his body. There was a small hint of dark hair at his chest that traced a thin line down into his breeches. There was also a few scars in some locations. <br><br>He felt exposed, she could easily trick him, and killing him wouldn’t be difficult. He knew he was dead without her help. He had no choice but to give in… Then he glanced at the arrow still embedded in his left thigh. The feathery flight was obviously elven in origin. He couldn’t help but wonder if she’d noticed it…..<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 05:50:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She assisted him carefully, watching his face for signs of anger or pain. Either could cause him to strike out at her. But eventually they had the bloody cloth removed from him. His chest and shoulders were very strong and powerful, and she couldn’t help but scan them with her pale almost colorless blue eyes. His power was frightening but…virile, at the same time. No elf she had ever seen had been built like this. And the dark hair…it…wandered. <br><br>The woman blushed despite her fear. The blood was almost visible as it ran up her nearly translucent skin, from her collarbone to her neck and on to her ears and cheeks. It had been since she was a girl that she had seen the bare chest of a male, and never seen one like this. <br><br>She tore her eyes away and turned to pick up a piece of the folded cloth. Up close he would be able to see that it was softer and silkier than linen, but bore a similar grain of thread. After wetting the cloth she carefully brought her hand to the worst wound, the one on his side, but stopped just short. Her hand was trembling, and she turned her eyes too him, looking for a sign, something to assure her he wanted her to do this. Cleaning the wound could hurt badly, and those powerful arms could send her across the room with one backhand...<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 18:20:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian couldn’t help but watched her as she examined his body. It was clear she’d never seen a human before, and it was also clear she hadn’t recognized the arrow. He’d need to remove it soon he knew. He could tell her colour was changing slightly. He decided to say nothing about it…. <br><br>He watched her as she folded the cloth and moved closer. She dipped it into the water and approached. As she stopped very close to him he could smell her, she smelt like the forest itself, only purer, like a field of wild flowers. He lifted one arm slowly, giving her better access to the wound at his side and he nodded for her to proceed. With his other he pointed to himself, “Cyprian…..” he said hoping she would understand his meaning. His eyes wandered from her hands as they moved to press the cloth against his side and to her own eyes…. Oh he could easily get lost in those large blue eyes. They were almost like a mirror into his soul. <br><br>He couldn’t help but let his eyes wander over her form now that she was so close to him. She had the body of an angel, assuming elves could be angels. His free hand moved slowly towards her face and he hoped she wouldn’t pull away…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>03-07-2006, 19:14:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>He raised his arm and she watched at the potent muscles flexed and writhed under his skin. He had nodded. Gently she pressed the wet cloth to the wound and held it there, letting the water soak into the caked and sticky blood, loosening it so she could wipe it away. Her gaze floated up again as he seemed to tell her his name. <br><br>The male was looking at her fairly intently, and his gaze was not threatening. But there was still something predatory in it, though she didn’t comprehend what. In response to his name she softly brought one hand to rest on the center of her chest. Hesitantly she parted her pale pink lips, and let her name, the name she had not heard or spoken for many many years, roll off of her tongue. “Alorial…”<br><br>After uttering her name she dropped her eyes to the floor, a wave of homesickness washing over her. Out of the corner of her eye she could see his hand moving towards her, and she slowly raised her gaze back to him. His movement was slow and non-threatening, but it still caused her breath to quicken slightly, unsure of his intentions. But she did not pull away. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 14:12:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian cringed in pain as the wet cloth made its way across the wound. His eyes closed shut tightly and he groaned a bit. Once the initial shock had passed he turned to watch this maiden once again. He watched her lips as she spoke that beautiful music-like sound. He could see the fear, and concern in her eyes as his bare, bloodied hand neared her face. It was as if he could not control himself, he needed to touch her, to make sure she was real. A finger touched the skin of her cheek, moving slowly, tracing its way to her pointed ear. The finger then moved along the edge of it till the finger touched her magnificent hair. His hand felt the softness, and he stroked it… before finally pulling his hand away… “I’m sorry….” He said.<br><br>He looked back at the wound, finally able to see the extent of it now that it was mostly clear of caked blood. It was deep, and he knew it would take time to heal properly…. Time he didn’t likely have. He tried to repeat what she said, but it was heavily accented… “All-Laurriel” he said pointing to her… He tried to offer a smile, but the pain in his side made it difficult. He raised his arm again, offering the wound to her gentle touch. He hoped she would continue, her touch had somehow soothed the pain somewhat. He looked away from her… He needed to clear his head and formulate a plan. He was deep in enemy territory and he worried someone would be by. He had difficulty believing she lived out here in the middle of nowhere by herself….. His eyes fell back upon his short sword…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 15:54:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aloriel moved to take the cloth away and rinse it in the water, but his hand had reached her face. She was surprised at how gentle his touch was, just having expected him to be unable to control his larger form with such ease. She sat still and didn’t dare move as he softly moved across her cheek to her delicate, pointed ear. It was when he reached her ear that she reacted in some way. Her large eyes closed and her breath in took sharply, causing her chest to rise. She held this breath as he traced around her very very sensitive ear. It was an intimate touch for an elf, not one normally born of casual contact, but she guessed he probably did not know that. Aloriel let her breath out slowly as he finally moved on to her hair, and her eyes slowly opened, the lids rising like the sun at dawn. <br><br>She didn’t know what his words meant, but his tone was not threatening. She acknowledged she’d heard him with a small nod of her head, and then turned back to the care of his wounds. After rinsing the cloth in the bucket she returned to his side to clean away the rest of the dried blood. At the sound of her name, clumsily spoken but still clear, she paused and turned her eyes back to him once again. Again she offered him a nod. It was a long moment before she did anything else. Finally she took a breath and said his name as well, stretching it out and placing the emphasis on the second syllable. “Sai-pree-uhn.”<br><br>The woman turned back to his wounds. She bathed them, making them clean, but did not dress them yet. The one in his side was deep and angry, and when she looked over it concern furrowed her brow. For now she left it, and moved to his other side where the arrow lay. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 16:44:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was surprised by her reaction to his touch, it wasn’t quite what he was expecting but he was not disappointed. She hadn’t pulled away and for that he was glad. His eyes went from her hair to her eyes as they opened. Those eyes that so captivated him. They were like large pools of pure spring water and he wished he could drink from them.<br><br>He turned from his sword to watch her clean his wounds, grateful for her help. He knew the Ancient Hero’s were looking out for him, it was the only way to explain her presence… Or perhaps she was a curse from the elven gods, meant to distract him while his enemy closed in on his position. Distracted he was. He tried to run through escape plans in his mind, but his closeness to this divine beauty beside him made that nearly impossible. He looked up at her again as she spoke his name, or something that resembled it. He smiled at her, warm and inviting. “Yes, Cyprian” he said to her nodding in acknowledgement. <br><br>He glanced down at his side. The blood was gone and the wound was clean, though a bit of blood still seemed to be leaking from it. He watched her move to the other side, nearer the arrow that lay in his hip. He hoped she was unfamiliar with the elven shaft that still remained stuck there. Perhaps she’d never seen weapons of war. Still, he knelt there prepared to grab her with lightning quickness should she react to the arrow. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 20:00:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				“Ye-ess.” She was fairly certain she knew what that word meant give the tone and the context in which he had used it. And he had nodded his head as he did. <br><br>Aloriel looked down at the arrow. She wasn’t sure what exactly to do. Ideally she thought maybe it should be pushed through to the other side. But with where it was located she thought that impossible. It would have to be cut out. She looked from the arrow to the table where the dagger lay, apprehension clear on her delicate feature. Her eyes found his, and she held the deep gaze for a moment.&nbsp; One thin finger pointed to the head of the arrow buried in his flesh. It then rose and drifted through the air to point at the table where the razor sharp knife lay, the one she had used to cut the cloth. “Ai cali sai ter air or.” Her voiced sounded apologetic and concerned. <br><br>She started to rise, making sure her movements were not sudden or threatening in any way. She spoke calmly, but asking her question, hoping he would understand at least what she wanted to do, and would let her do it. “Tae Ai pai sor? O baer air vaestylaer….eh…eh….yes?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 20:27:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He heard her say the word ‘yes’ and he smiled at her in acknowledgement. She was very intelligent; she was already picking up the language. He on the other hand still could not make sense of her language. It was a very exotic language. He watched her reaction as she looked at the arrow, and if she recognized it for what it was, and what it represented she did not show it. He breathed a sigh of relief.<br><br>He was considering just snapping the arrow with his hands, but he knew the pain could put him out cold, which would not be good. He followed her gaze to the knife. Though he was sure the knife was sharp, its small blade would take forever to cut through the arrow’s shaft. He listened to her words but still could not make it out. He was pretty sure he knew what she was saying though. <br><br>He looked at her curiously as she rose suddenly, but his hand moved quickly to grasp her wrist. He held her tightly at first, before realizing how delicate a creature she was, he loosened his grip. He shook his head as he drew the much larger dagger from his boot. The large knife had a slightly serrated edge and he held the blade towards her for a second before flipping it in his hand, offering it to her handle first… He was uncertain of this, but he detected no malice from her. He pulled her back down next to him and prepared himself for the pain he knew would follow…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>04-07-2006, 21:25:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His smile was a curious thing. It happened up his face unexpectedly, like a fawn entering a clearing, and she felt a hint of the same kind of warmth she might have felt had it actually been as such. He was so expressive, and everything about him was grand and deliberate. Compared to the elves he was very un-subtle. His voice was loud, his form imposing, his movements abrupt…he was a gale force compared to the gentle breeze of an elf. This intensity and force of his presence was even more intense for the solitary elf. Her life was a desert of companionship, and he was a sudden monsoon. <br><br>His hand snatched her wrist like a snake grabbing prey, and she jumped in fear, wincing slightly and his strong grip. He was deceptively fast for what to her was a large creature. She imagined he could be quite dangerous. But very quickly he loosened his grip and she let go of the breath she didn’t realize she had been clutching in his lungs. He shook his head at her intentions, and she looked down at him, as he was still kneeling on the floor. She shook her head as well and tilted it in confusion. “Bai?”<br><br>When he pulled his dagger and presented the handle to her she understood he wanted her to use it instead. The knife was like he was, large and menacing, but holding a grace and beauty as well. And she grasped the level of trust he was showing her by handing it to her. She nodded softly and took it, handle first, wrapping her small hand around it. “Orr….eh….yes.”<br><br>He pulled her back down to the floor next to him. She shook nervously as she looked at the mean blade and then at his flesh. She set the blade on the floor and looked at him. She made a drinking motion, and then turned her head and pointed a finger to a shelf that held a bottle that appeared to be wine. She looked back at him. “Sai-pree-uhn pol? Yes?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 14:08:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was surprised by the smallness of her wrist, she was a small creature but he found her bravery astounding. He must have looked like a beasts next to her, he knew, and yet she remained, and even with the apparent fear in her eyes she did not shy away, and continued to seem to want to aid him. He thought he could detect a hint of loneliness in her large eyes, and he was again caught breathless as he waited for her to make the next move. <br><br>He hoped he wasn’t making a mistake by trusting her… He watched as her slim fingers wrapped around what seemed like a massive handle in her small hand. He looked up at her as she spoke again, and again the sweet musical sound was emitted forth from her lips. He watched and could almost feel her body slide next to his upon the soft rug.<br><br>He kept a grip on her wrist for now, and he felt her shake. A look of confusion came over him as she lowered the dagger to the wooden floor. He understood what she meant as the slender finger pointed to a bottle on a nearby shelf. He looked at the bottle curiously, it appeared as some type of wine, but for all he knew it could be poisonous. However as he suddenly found himself staring at the bottle he realized it had been some time since he drank, and his thirst was suddenly forefront on his mind. He looked to her again as she spoke, and he let go of her hand… “Yes, a drink would be good…. Please…” he said to her softly, nodding his head and smiling….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 16:59:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>He smiled again. Alorial watched his lips curl and his head nod. He was offering her a bit of trust and a bit of kindness among his forced presence in her life. And she was beginning to believe her really had no malice towards her, but had just been in desperate need of aid. Daring to give a little in return, Alorial let the corners of her mouth raise just a hair. The pale full lips gave the hint of a smile. <br><br>Slowly she rose from the rug again, still not wanting to startle him. She wafted over to the shelf and stood on her toes. The tips of her fingers brushed the bottle before finding their home and pulling the bottle from the shelf. It was a little dusty, and before returning to him she wiped it with a cloth. <br><br>When she reached him again she did not sit immediately, but forced the long closed bottle open. She paused before giving it to him. What if he thought it was poisoned? He didn’t give the appearance of that, but she thought it was something she might think in his place. She took a drink of the strong homemade wine, needing a bit of the strength as well, before she took up the task of removing the arrow. The bottle was then offered to him with a nod, and another hint of a smile. She hoped the intense wine would take away a bit of the pain sure to come. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 17:45:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He thought it was the first time he’d seen her almost smile. It seemed forced a bit, but it was lovely. He felt a wave of heat come over him. He watched her little form rise up again and move across the floor. It was almost as if she floated. Every move she made was deliberately slow; no doubt a show for him. She didn’t want to provoke him, and he knew his guard was dropping, whether or not his insides told him not to. <br><br>He watched her figure move as she stretched for the bottle. If he’d felt any better he might have gotten it for her, but… Though he hadn’t said or indicated anything, he’d lost feeling in his left leg, no doubt a side effect of the arrow being lodged in there for so long. He hoped the feeling would return otherwise it would complicate matters. <br><br>He watched her small feet sweep across the floor as she return to his side. She hesitated as she looked down at him, then she took a drink. He realized what she was doing; it was another sign of trust. It hadn’t been required, she’d been anything but kind to him, and he had no intention of harming her… As long as the status quo remained the same… He held out his hand and received the bottle bringing it to his nose. He took in the aroma… It was definitely wine, but it had an odd flavour to it, almost exotic, as the beauty that still stood before him. “Thank you” he said slowly nodding back to her. He brought the bottle to his lips and drank. After several gulps he pulled the bottle away, looking at it… it was strong, but it warmed him…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 18:46:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Thank you. His rumbling words tumbled around inside of her mind. Was that a word of gratitude? She tilted her head a moment as she contemplated it, her hair drifting to hang down from her head as she did. The tone was definitely gracious, but she wondered if she was guessing the words meant one thing, when they meant another. She would have to test it later. <br><br>Alorial knelt again next to him as he drank. She picked up the knife in her hand, noticing the way the handle was well worn. She could see and feel where he had gripped it in his large palm. Her smaller fingers settled in the grooves and she looked again to his leg. Her pale eyes drifted back to her smaller and thinner blade. To her is seemed painfully apparent that her blade would cause less damaged to his flesh as she cut the head of the arrow from his skin, but he had insisted she use his. And with his blade lodged close by in the floor, she would not question his wishes. <br><br>Her chest rose and then fell as she took a very deep breath and closed her eyes, gathering strength. She had never had to do anything this serious before. Her intention was to cut a slit that she could slip the arrowhead out of, as opposed to pulling it out and tearing his flesh. She brought the point of the knife to his skin, and forced it in with a quick short stroke. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-07-2006, 19:55:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He looked up from the bottle as she tilted her head. He had to blink as her hair cascaded down towards her side. She was making it difficult to feel anything at all… He kept an eye on her as she lowered herself to his side. He watched her small fingers wrap once again around the dagger’s large handle. This dagger was not meant to be a tool, it was a killing weapon, and the blood was already stained with the blood of its last victim.<br><br>She seemed to be hesitating a bit, looking back and forth across the room. Cyprian put the bottle down and pulled a clean piece of cloth and held it in his hand. “It’s OK, it has to come out…” He said placing his hand gently atop hers and offering a delicate smile. Moving his hand away he rolled the cloth and placed it between his teeth and bit down. He turned his head to look away….<br><br>He felt the sharp pain as his flesh was torn. He let out a loud growl into the cloth as his eyes shut tightly. Both hands were made into fists and he felt like hitting something but he resisted. He was thankful his leg had gone numb, or else this would have hurt allot more. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 06:32:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>At the feel of his hand gently laying on hers, and the sight of the fragile smile, she wondered if it was as difficult for him to be a gentle breeze as it would be for her to be a monsoon. Once again he amazed her with his control and his expressiveness given his size and his perceived brutishness. She wasn’t sure what his deep voice was saying, but the tone was kind and understanding, so she nodded in return. <br><br>As she cut his flesh and he gutturally growled into the cloth she tensed, ready to spring away should he strike out either reflexively or in anger. But he seemed to have amazing control. She thanked the goddess silently for this bit of protection, and looked down at the cut she had made. It was deep and straight, and she could tell she fortunately had made it to the arrowhead. <br><br>With a bite to her lip she decided not to prolong his pain. With a sudden swift move she grabbed the arrow and ripped it from his flesh. Her instinct was to continue the movement, and spring up and away and flee to the safety of the other side of the room, but she wanted to show trust to him as he had shown her. She held fast and closed her eyes, bracing for whatever might come from the pained and injured beast. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 14:24:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Though his leg was somewhat numb, the pain was still excruciating. As he bit down on the cloth he realized he couldn’t pinpoint exactly where the pain was. He felt the large blade cut deep, but he refused to look at the cut. He realized how odd it was that in battle a cut such as this would not even phase him, he could easily fight through it. It must be the adrenalin he decided. <br><br>His hands were still balled into fists, and the white of his knuckles were showing. He resisted the urge to lash out and hit something. Her movements were thankfully quick, and he felt the arrow being removed from his flesh. The movement of the arrow caused his lower body to flinch and for a second he loss control of his movements. He could no longer kneel and he fell slightly into the elven maiden, not forcefully. He landed somewhat on her lap as he finally pulled the cloth from his mouth allowing him one final cry in pain… “ARGGHHHHHH” <br><br>He lay still for a moment before looking at the blood leaking from his leg. He noticed the arrow still in her hand, and she seemed to be cringing almost, her eyes tightly shut. He tried to push himself off of her, but for the time being he was unable to move. He was suddenly content with being where he was. He needed to rest, just for a minute he decided….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 14:59:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aloriel felt his weight against her slight form, not violently, but almost as if he had fallen over into her. Her pale eyes opened in surprise as he cried out in what had to be excruciating pain. It was the sound of one of the ancient trees tumbling to the ground, or the scream of the river as it carried away a heavy rain, and it vibrated through her whole being.<br><br>She just looked down at him as lay across her, her hands in the air at her sides. After looking at him in stunned silence for several moments, her heart went out to him. She set the arrow aside. Gently she laid one hand on his back, and the other moved to softly stroke his hair. She whispered very quietly and soothingly in her lilting cadence, like she vaguely remembered her mother doing to her when she was a small child. “Air'm eilol, o'jh shi eilol, ber vaer mali taeresi, vaer.”<br><br>If she could have rocked under his weight, she might have. As it was she just let him lay still for a moment. She still needed to dress he wounds, but would not disturb him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 15:45:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment everything seemed like a dream, except for the pain he felt. It was as if he hovered in the clouds, but all around him he could hear the sounds of battle as the clouds turned red with blood. He smelt the blood all around him, but it mixed suddenly with the scent of sweet flowers. He heard the sounds of her voice; it was like a siren’s song as it called to him. He did not comprehend the words, but he followed their sound nonetheless. He felt something at his hair, stroking it back; it was then that his eyes suddenly opened…<br><br>He felt her soothing presence, her voice and her hands at his back and hair. He used his hand to push himself off the ground and again he glanced at his leg. There was blood pooled, but the bleeding had slowed. He felt light headed and he was suddenly aware of the pot of food near the fire. He glanced at it briefly before turning to look at the elven angel at his side. <br><br>“Thank you” he said again, slowly and softly. He pushed himself to his knees but he fell to the other side. He sat up looking for cloth to bind the wounds with, but his eyes kept going from the beautiful elf, to the pot of food to his wounds. He hated his predicament. He was a warrior in enemy territory. His training told him to take whatever he wanted to ensure his survival, be it food or whatever, but she’d been so kind to him. It was clear she was unaware of the war that raged to what he assumed was East. <br><br>He feared when the time came he would be forced to act. He feared he wouldn’t be able to. He suddenly realized he’d been staring at her for a few moments and he turned his eyes away. He would have to assert his authority, to make her understand that though he meant her no harm, he wasn’t here on a sight seeing tour…. He needed to keep his wits about him he thought as he reached for a fresh cloth with which to bandage his wounds.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 19:40:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				And as suddenly as he had fallen on her, he was moving away again. He confused her greatly. Her brow furrowed and she just let her hands lay in her lap as she knelt on the floor and watched him. His movement would have been fervored if he was stronger, she was sure of it. He reminded her so much of a frightened wounded animal, and she felt for him greatly. Much of the fear of him had faded as she had come to think he only wanted assistance and meant no harm to her. <br><br>He said those words again, and she was fairly certain she understood them to mean the Elvin equivalent of&nbsp; ‘thank you’. She watched as his flicked from his leg to the food to her and back again. Then he reached for cloth, she assumed for his wounds. She leaned forward to take the cloth from him, and held up the small pouch. Gently she spoke as he gestured first to his wounds, and then to the pouch again. “O baer sai ver sor ail si shyl, air myr ailaelol.”<br><br>She could see the pools of blood on the rug, and the blood that now stained her gown. She wasn't concerned about those, but looked at him urgently, and waved the pouch again. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>06-07-2006, 20:59:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian did not resist as she reached for the cloth. He let her take it into her hands but not before his fingers brushed the skin of hers. He watched the woman curiously as she held up the pouch and spoke in that hypnotizing voice of hers. Her voice was so soft he wondered if it made a sound or if the words went right to his soul. “I do not understand…” he said softly. Did she want him to take the pouch, or did she want to use its contents. <br><br>He reached for the pouch but decided not to touch it. He pointed to it with his finger. He wondered if maybe it was some form of elvish medicine. “It’s OK, you can use that…” he said finally hoping it wasn’t some form of poison… He noticed her gaze to her stained dress… “I’m very sorry…” he said…<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>07-07-2006, 11:09:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He let her take the cloth, and his finger brushed hers gently, like a butterfly skimming across a field of wildflowers. She might have been more startled at the touch if they hadn’t felt as chilling as the river carrying the spring thaw away from the mountain. The thick coppery smell of blood was heavy in the room, and there was no telling how much blood he had lost before stumbling upon her. But it was enough to turn him cold. <br><br>As her gaze drifted to his again, she noticed the pallor of his skin. Even in the short time since meeting him outside of her tree home he had lost color. Alorial did not know much about healing, but she knew what this could mean. He was in danger of bleeding to death. <br><br>That thought chilled her. This man, of whatever type of creature her was, may have been coarse and loud at first, but he had been in danger of dying, severely injured. It seemed to Alorial that as she had shown she wanted to help him, he had calmed, and meant no harm. And why would he mean harm? As far as she knew, there was no reason for animosity between them, and he was a sentient creature of at least some intelligence. Surely he would not be violent for violence sake. That led to the question of the origin of his wounds, but that question was not as pressing as his survival. <br><br>Cyprian was speaking again, and she listened carefully. His voice was no longer rolling booming thunder, but curiously was much softer and gentler. But as gentle as it had become, she did not understand a word this time, and wasn’t sure of the clues to give their meaning.&nbsp; The pale Elvin woman tilted her head and furrowed her brow as she listened. Her head shook slightly and her shoulders hunched in a shrug. <br><br>Aloriel hoped that his pointing to the pouch was a gesture of persmission to use it, and cautiously opened it, watching him. As long as she didn’t see any resistance she sprinkled some of the bright yellow powder over all of his open wounds. The powder burned on contact, but compared to the pain of the arrow being ripped from his flesh, the burn was probably minor. <br><br>Once the powder had been applied, she set to bandaging him, being as delicate as possible. She used all the clothe she had cut, and made sure his wounds were well covered. Her eyes remained down on her work as she concentrated, unblinking, on taking care of him. <br><br>When she finished she sighed and wiped her hands on her gown and reached over to grab several of the silk pillows. They were luxurious but well worn. She lay then down somewhat behind him and patted the floor in front of them, looking at him. Not knowing if he understood that or not, she moved on to the next need in her mind. Gesturing to the pot of bubbling stew, she looked at him. “Yes?” <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>07-07-2006, 16:31:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was feeling the strain. He was tired, and he felt weak. He wondered how long he had for he was beginning to feel like all this had been too late. He was also beginning to feel cold, and yet he could feel sweat forming on his brow. He wondered for a moment if he would ever see his homeland again, the verdant rolling hills and the large lakes that dotted her landscape. It seemed he would not. At least he wouldn’t die alone…<br><br>He watched her as she tilted her head in confusion. He wished he could understand her. If she were the last person he’d see he’d like to properly thank her for her showing such kindness to an enemy soldier. He watched her holding the cloth before he looked down again at his wounds. <br><br>He kept an eye on this magnificent elven woman as she opened the pouch. His eyes met hers as she seemed to be scared of what he might do, or how he might react to the contents. He gave her a warm smile as a bead of sweat finally slid down his cheek. He felt the powder touch his wounds, he cringed a bit at the burning, but it was more out of surprise than pain. He was curious as to what the substance was, he’d never seen anything like it. <br><br>He watched her delicate hands as they wrapped the bandage around his wounds. As her eyes remained fixed on her work his once again moved across her form. She was like a delicate flower, and yet she did have a look of determination about her. He leaned in a bit closing his eyes and took in the scent of her hair. He could still smell, that was good, because the aroma was a most pleasing one. <br><br>When she was done and pulled away he was a bit disappointed. It seemed she was gesturing for him to lay down. He did not object to her request and he leaned back… Almost falling as his head rested upon the silky softness of the many pillows. When she gestured to the pot he nodded, the thought of his hunger returning. “Yes… please…..” he said looking at her, almost pleading. “You have been most kind…” he said. Deep down he hoped and prayed he would not have to kill her. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>07-07-2006, 19:47:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Again the soft flow of his words was indecipherable save the word ‘yes’, but the tone was one of almost pleading, as was the look on his face, and she suspected it was more than just his need for food. But she wasn’t sure what it could be. She gazed down at him, holding the troubled stare coming from the brown eyes of Cyprion. All she could do was sigh softly and lay the back of her hand softly across his rough and masculine cheek. <br><br>Alorial then gathered up what bit of cloth remained, the arrow, and the bucket of water. She carried them over to set on the small table by the fire, and tried to wash the blood from her hands. She did her best, but did not labor long, knowing he needed food. Her milky skin was stained with his blood for the time being, but she took a large ladle of the thick bubbling stew and poured it in a wooden bow, along with a spoon. Before returning to him she opened a wooden box and pulled out a hearty slice of a light colored bread. Elvin bread. It was light and airy and a touch sweet, perfect with the slightly peppery taste the herbs lent the stew. <br><br>She placed it all on a tray, and moved back to the rug. After setting the tray aside she slipped a small arm under him to assist him in sitting, though she wasn’t sure she would be much help if he didn’t have the strength. One thing she was happy to see was that the powder had started working, and the bleeding had stopped. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>07-07-2006, 20:58:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At the touch of her hand Cyprian closed his eyes and pushed into her hand slightly. He knew this was foolish, to become friends with this being, his superiors would call it dealing with the enemy. He could be hung for such a crime. The soft skin of her hand on the stubble of his cheek made an odd scraping sound as he turned his face slightly…<br><br>He lay back when she stood and walked away. He closed his eyes and concentrated on the beating of his heart, which felt like it was racing. The pain in his legs had lessened, no doubt an effect of the special elven medicine she applied. If he could secure a supply of it… He realized then a warriors mind never stops thinking about war…. He opened his eyes slowly and looked at the maiden as she stood over the pot. He looked down and noticed the initial spots of red on the bandaged had not grown for a few minutes. That was an encouraging thought. <br><br>When she returned he let her assist him into sitting up once again. A bit of strength had returned and the smell of the food made his mouth water. “You truly are an angel” he muttered. He found if he leaned into her it was easier to remain seated, and so he did. He held a hand out and grabbed the spoon and the bowl, and after nodding to her he brought a spoonful of the stew to his lips. He took the bread and dipped it before devouring it as well. It was good… It was very good.<br><br>“It is very good….” He said with a large smile as he felt the warm food in his stomach. He kept leaning on her for support as he kept eating quickly and no doubt noisily for her sensitive ears, but he paid no head. He felt some of his strength return, though he was still very tired. He handed her the bowl and spoon when he was done… “Thank you” he said. He realized he was saying it allot, a testimony to the aid she was giving. He laid back, his head lying on the silk pillows….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>08-07-2006, 03:59:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The man was heavy, but she stayed where she was, letting him eat and lean on her. Once again she didn’t understand his words, but it was very clear he was grateful and enjoyed the food. He consumed it hungrily, noisily, and with enthusiasm. It made her breathe a sigh of relief, most likely if he felt this hunger to eat then he would fell a hunger to live. <br><br>As she supported him she felt his strong muscles flex and move beneath his skin. And she looked over the various scars. Alorial arrived at the conclusion that he was not only a warrior of some kind as he armor had suggested, but a well seasoned one. Many of his scars were shiny and white, the angry color of them long since faded. Her hand idly came to the side of her neck as she held his body with hers. <br><br>When he was finished she heard those two words again, and was fairly certain of their meaning. ‘thank you’. It was most certainly and expression of gratitude, and she filed it away for future use. Alorial assisted him in lying down, and took to food and the wine away. Too much wine would not be good. <br><br>Before returning to him, she paused and looked over to the bed. It would be better for him there, but could he get up? She would not be able to assist him she didn’t think, and his large form had already settled on the wooden floor. Instead of offering him the bed she grabbed the warmest blanket, one of fine soft wool, not itchy but soaked in balm and brushed to soften the fibers. She carried it over to him. <br><br>Before spreading the blanket out she sat by his feet to remove his boots. She reached for the bindings. Her voice was inquisitive, and her brows raised in question as she paused for permission. “Tae Ai?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>09-07-2006, 16:04:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was thankful for her assistance. He felt he would fall asleep soon, he needed to rest. The food had done wonders as he felt some strength return, and the medicine must have some numbing properties as the pain seemed somehow distant. His eyes did not close however. They followed her movements, and he wondered what such a delicate flower was doing so far out in the middle of nowhere all alone… Assuming he was in the middle of nowhere, for all he knew he was on the outskirts of some large Elven community. <br><br>He watched her as she neared with the large heavy blanket. At its sight he realized how cold he did actually feel. He looked forward to feeling it upon his body. As she knelt by his feet he wondered what she was thinking. When she reached for his boots, and spoke he wondered what she wanted to do but it didn’t take long to figure it out. He nodded yes to her. He felt like sitting up and helping her but he decided not to. Instead he reached his arm and undid the straps of his gauntlets. He removed them both and dropped them on the floor. All that remained of his armor were the leg greaves and shin guards. <br><br>He watched as she proceeded to removed those, his blinks becoming long and drawn out. He was close to slumber but tried to resist, he wanted to watch this creature. He knew falling asleep could mean the death of him should she choose to betray him, and yet he didn’t think in his current state he could defend himself anyway. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>10-07-2006, 12:00:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Elvin woman interpreted permission from him, but guessed from his state that if he had declined she wouldn’t have long to wait before the exhaustion and blood loss forced him to unconsciousness. After he had nodded to her she nodded back and turned her attention to removing his boots, not watching him. Her delicate fingers worked the lacings loose, and then set the boots aside. When she saw him remove his arm guards, she moved on to his shin guards and greaves, removing those as well, not asking permission. <br><br>That done, the elf unfolded her body gracefully from the floor, like a new flower grew to reach for the sun. She took the soft blanket and unfolded it, then covered Cyprion as best she could. It was a bit small, but she didn’t expect he would be doing any rolling about. He was covered, and it would keep him warm. She settled down next to him, kneeling by his shoulder and looking at his features. Alorial found she was quite taken by them. Whether it be their uniqueness, the mystery, or the expressiveness she did not know. It could simply be that she liked the way they were formed and arranged, but she had not a clue. All she was certain of was that he needed her, and she needed him. Her need was less obvious though, and she could not name what it was he was supposed to provide. But deep inside of her he was feeding something, and she craved more of his presence. <br><br>She watched as his eyes fought to close, and the rest of him fought to keep them open. Alorial smiled softly, a real smile for the first time. Her soft pale lips spread and curled gently at the ends, a slight dimple showing on either side of her face. Her voice floated down to him from where she was perched above, soft and with a gentle cadence. “O tal's mae eirdaji thysaelaes o cyrn.” &nbsp;With one hand she reached down and brushed a bit of hair from his forehead and then continued in a voice she hoped was comforting and kind. ” O baer os mael, Ai shor byr cas o.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>10-07-2006, 17:57:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was grateful for her help. His boots and the remainder of his armour having been removed he felt much more comfortable. Her every movement was full of grace, it was almost like she floated on the breeze, or it seemed that way through his half closed eyes. He felt the blanket cover him, and it had a nice feel to it. He quickly warmed. <br><br>He felt her presence, and was glad to feel her fingers on his skin. His head tilted towards her slightly and he struggled with the slumber that was sure to overcome him. He heard her voice, and it was like a lullaby sung by an angel. <br><br>He slept for a bit, with dreams of an elven maiden riding bareback on a white stallion… Or a mythical unicorn perhaps… He chased her thought the elven woods, often catching up to her and reaching, but he could never quite make it. All through the chase elven angels were singing to him, perhaps taunting him. <br><br>He moaned a few times through his dreams, and his hand subconsciously reached for and grasped her gown. He held it tightly…….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>10-07-2006, 20:27:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial watched as he finally succumbed to the sleep his body so desperately needed. She sat with him for awhile, just watching him and looking him over. She had been ready to rise and leave his side when he stirred and moaned. Her eyes came to rest on him again, and his hand groped and settled on the fabric of her gown, resting on her thigh. <br><br>Her eyebrows hitched a tad in surprise as she watched his grasp take form. She had been intending to clean up and change her gown, and set about her daily routine so as to ease her mind, but…she would not break away if he needed to feel her near. Her mind wandered over the possibilities of where he had been and what he had seen. She wanted to know how he had gotten hurt, and how he had escaped. She wanted to know where he was from, and what race he was. He was clearly not Elvin, that she knew. Something nagged in the back of her head, a tale she’d heard as a child of large brutes with hair on their bodies and round eyes and ears…but she couldn’t call up the details at this time. <br><br>The longer she sat the more tired she became. It had been stressful dealing with this man, though now he seemed to not mean harm. But when he awoke with more strength, what about then? Would he still be so accepting of her help when he didn’t need it so badly? Would he just leave? <br><br>Alorial was sharply slapped at the thought of him leaving. He had come in like a lightning bolt, and could leave just as quickly. And as the lightening would leave a mark, so would he. Even thought their association started out volatile, it had still been interaction with another sentient being, something she had not had for ages. Having it and having it leave would be worse than if he had never crossed her path as well. Even now as he slept, the gentle sounds of his sleep filling the place, it seemed too quiet after his wakeful presence. <br><br>Eventually she reached for one of the pillows and curled up beside him, facing him, as he hadn’t let go of her gown. Her thoughts rambled for many minutes before they wandered in the direction of the arrow before falling asleeep. As her eyes drifted closed she couldn't help but feel something about it had been familiar…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>12-07-2006, 19:41:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After a time Cyprian’s eyes fluttered open. He blinked a few times wondering where he was… The memory came back to him, slowly but surely. He turned his head to face the ceiling and the window that was there, but he couldn’t tell how long he’d been out. He felt a warm presence at his side and turned to look at the angel that had saved his life.<br><br>She lay besides him, curled up with her hand laying upon his shoulder. Her eyes were closed so he assumed she was asleep, of course according to the rumors he’d heard about elves they never slept… He shrugged the thought off, of course they slept… He gently moved her hand aside and sat up, the pain in his side and hips becoming very apparent once again, but at least he could feel them…<br><br>He didn’t want to disturb her so he lay back down. He rolled on his side with his face so close to hers. He brought his hand up and held it just an inch from hers, moving it around until he held it above her pointed ear… his fingers lowered slowly and he touched the skin moving his fingers from tip to lobe, slowly and gently.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>15-07-2006, 10:51:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was in a field, a lovely field of wildflowers. She rest on her back in them, basking in the sun as she had never been able to do before. The scent of coppery crimson poppies filled her senses, as did the rhythmic breathing of the wind as it washed back and forth over her, dancing in her ear. She lay on a wet nest of the poppies, and they soaked her gown and stained her skin. But she was glad for them, as they brought color to her world. <br><br>She lay still and kept her eyes closed, feeling the heat of the sun next to her. She’d never felt it so close before, and had an urge to reach for it and pull it even closer. But it was too large and kind of scary, and it might burn her with its angry noises. Instead she tentatively reached for it with one hand, her words floating to it in her mind <i>Please do not be afraid…I’ve been so cold…so cold…</i> It let her rest her palm upon it, and her arm rose and fell lightly as it pulsed with life. <br><br>Sometime later as she lay with the radiance it moved her hand away. She pulled it back and curled it under her chin with the other. The heat stayed with her, as did the coppery poppies, and she was content to have them near. Her breathing was long and deep as she basked in him. <br><br>A ray of the sun moved closer, hovering over her hand. She could now feel it’s gentle warm wind blow across her cheek, soothing her, taking her deep into slumber again. The ray of sun moved, caressing without touch, until it hovered over her sensitive Elvin ear. Just the heat of it caused her pace to quicken a notch. <br><br>And then the ray lowered and touched the responsive skin. Her pace jumped another notch and her lips parted slightly in her sleep, her own wind increasing slightly in strength. Few spots on her body could invoke such a response, but her delicate ear…it was one. The sun was blessing her with its warmth, touching her where none had. It was beautiful and sweet and soft. Not at all the raging ball of fire she had believed the sun to be. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>15-07-2006, 14:25:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was almost back to sleep, his bulky hand lightly grazing over this angel’s delicate features. The fingers traced a line from her ear lobe downwards to her neck, gently touching the skin to her shoulder, then to her upper chest. She was an exotic creature to be sure. He blinked a few times before pulling his hand away… As he continued to watch her, he found himself leaning in till he could smell her, his lips barely an inch from her cheek…<br><br>A noise brought him from his half slumber; he thought he could hear voices outside. He rolled up quickly and painfully, his hand wrapping around the hilt of his short sword that was still imbedded into the floorboard. He quickly yanked it free. He cursed this dwelling and its lack of normal windows. A tapping at the door was heard followed by a male elven voice. He couldn’t make the words. <br><br>His free hand moved to the girl's face, covering her mouth to suppress any noise. His grip was firm, his warrior instinct having been returned to him. He shook her, making sure to wake her. He shook her head, his sword held high behind him. He waited for her reaction before taking any other actions. He could feel the pain in his sides, and cursed himself for removing the armor that was scattered about the small room.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>15-07-2006, 19:23:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The sun continued to warm her, its ray traveling over her skin. Its path ran from her ear to her neck to her shoulder to her upper chest. And then the bulk of it moved closer, hovering over her, its wind strong on her delicate skin. The nearness of it quickened her pace in anticipation of more touch. <br><br>As Cyprian moved his hand along her neck he would find a scar. It looked almost like a brand, the scarring looking like that of a burn. It was shiny and white, obviously long healed. It was in the shape of a sun, but the sun looked almost angry with fiery rays. There wasn’t time to contemplate it though, as the knock on the door interrupted the moment. <br><br>The sun was moving and moving rapidly, and there had been another sound. A knock? Who wanted into their field, why would they trespass? Alorial forced her eyes open to see. <br><br>Cyprian was moving, there had been a knock at the door. His hand was on her face, covering her mouth, and his sword was high in the air. Her pale eyes widened in alarm and she dared not move or make a sound. She did seek his gaze with her own, trying to look reassuring. But the fear she felt wasn’t from the blade gleaming in the light and poised in the air, but from the knock, and when her eyes darted towards the door again, she clearly became more frightened. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-07-2006, 18:04:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Controlled panic showed in his eyes and he tried to breathe deeply, to compose himself. He looked to the door, then back to the elven maiden that still lay beside him. He needed to think fast, and his warrior instinct did not disappoint. With his large hand covering her mouth, fingers wrapped around her jaw he clenched a bit tightly and pulled up, trying to get her to her feet. He was relieved she hadn’t panicked yet. That simply wouldn’t do. <br><br>He scanned the room, and he quickly noticed that the lack of windows meant it was very shadowy in the room… Of course elven eyesight was very keen. He had no choice, using his bare feet he slide his gear under a nearby bench. He wouldn’t be able to hide everything he realized as the rap at the door returned, this time with a bit ore force. He heard a muffled voice in a language he did not understand. <br><br>Cyprian realized he wouldn’t be able to hide all signs of his passing. The arrow over by the basin, the blood on the rug, and on her gown, his gloves, not to mention the blood outside, something would likely give him away. He would have to trust this woman to trust him, and in the strength of his sword arm of course. Using his sword hand he brought a finger to his lips, “shhhhhh” he whispered to her. He pulled her along, very firmly towards the door. He hid where the door would open where the people outside would not be able to see him. <br><br>Still holding on to her jaw, he looked into her eyes. The kindness and longing was gone, replaced by fear, anger and determination, a dangerous combination for a human. He pointed to himself and shook his head, realizing that the odds of her understanding him were slim to none. He wade a gesture to the door and shook his head again making a waving gesture that to a human would mean go away. <br><br>Finally his fingers loosen their grip on her jaw, and his hand fell to his side. His sword was at the ready and he nodded to the door handle…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 02:28:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial lay still as she saw the man’s mind process the situation. Her breathing was loud to her through her small delicate nose, and it felt as if his hand could crush her whole face. It wasn’t just the fact he was larger than her or another elf…it was the way he was built, his hands were maws compared to the long fingered thin hands of the Elvin men. He was just more…substantial. And the strength behind his hand was even more unmistakable as he tightened his grip on her jaw and hoisted her to her feet. It hurt, more of an aching pressure, but she didn’t dare struggle. She didn’t think his intention right now was to hurt her, but to control the situation. <br><br>As he looked around the room, her mind raced. The only visitors she had ever gotten had been other elves, and even that had been ages. And they had only stumbled upon her clearing, they had not sought her ought. Usually upon sight of her, they stumbled away just as quickly. But who could be here now? Another elf? Another one of these creatures? It was impossible to know. <br><br>What would she do either way? She was torn. This man had been hurt and scared, but really had made no move to hurt her. He had threatened her, of that there was no mistake, but he had been desperate. If it was another of his kind…what would they be like? And if it was the elves…what then? Thet was not an altogether welcome thought either. <br><br>He made a noise that meant quiet, it must be a universal sign, for she could think of nothing else it could mean, nothing else that could fit. Cyprian pulled her firmly to the door and looked in her eyes. His looked chilled her, the cornered animal was back. Her heart beat wildly in her chest as she contemplated what to do. No one had ever swayed a decision for her before. She made her own decisions, as few as there were to make, and no one else was affected by them. And it was clear by the way he waved and shook his head that he was to remain a secret. <br><br>Cyrpian let go of her jaw and her hand came to takes it’s place, and she looked at him warily and with tentative fear. She didn’t know what he was capable of in this state. Alorial’s eyes then traveled around the room and to the overwhelming evidence of his presence, including the stains on her dress. She moved a few feet and picked up the blanket, wrapping it around her, and then headed to the door. <br><br>Her small hand almost glowed in the shadowy interior as it came to rest on the handle. She took a deep breath and opened the door, just as there was another knock. As the door opened, Alorial made a show of taking a wide deep yawn. She spoke with a sleepy tone to her voice, not sure why she was trying to hide her companion. “Tae Ai caer o?”<br><br>There was silence from beyond the door. After a very long pause a male Elvin voice could be heard. It sounded unsure, but a bit cross. “Cali o car eilia bororys...ae cestal, ei tal? Ci shyr shi ailesaer, cali o mael cos?”<br><br>Alorial tried to hide the chill that ran through her. Of course…he was a cestal, a human. A human. A brutish uncivilized beast that ravaged women and ate children. A destroyer of the forest and an enemy to all Fey. She yawned again and shook her head, gripping the blanket tightly around her. “Bai.”<br><br>Why was she hiding him now that she knew what he was? She had known of humans in legends, and in stories told to scare Elvin children into behaving…<br><br>Another Elvin man could be heard muttering, sounding wary and frightened. “Mi'm ei shor, mi shaes si tas!” &nbsp;A male Elvin hand appeared, pointing at her neck. <br><br>Alorial had a flash of pain on her face, and her head dropped for a moment. She took long deep breath and her very pale eyes slowly ran back up the unseen Elve’s form. Her eyes narrowed and her light lyrical voice lowered to a sinister whisper, growing louder as she spoke, until her voice was louder than it had ever been and she was spitting out her words. “Ai eis ei shor eil ais o pai byr jhaeli ti shi Ai mar ses o eir sai mesaer eil salys sor cestal ailai ei shaes eil kedi cos sai o mai ci tol thaer ol os thaer eil tel os shylaer!”<br>There was the sound of shaky deep breathing, and then it grew quieter as it withdrew. Alorial slowly closed the door, her eyes dropping again and tearing, the wetness glistening in the dim light. She lay her forehead on the door and was quite still. After a long moment a single tear dripped down her cheek. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 16:40:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				By the way she moved to the blanket and wrapped it around herself he got the feeling she knew what he wanted. Cyprian watched the woman carefully as her small slender hand reached for the handle. The lighting in the room increased as the light from the outside shone into the small dwelling, illuminating the beautiful maiden. He heard her speak, and again he wished he knew the language. For all he knew she was cleverly giving him away…<br><br>He heard the male voice speak out and it was definitely elven. His combat training threatened to betray him. At the knowledge of who was there he felt an overwhelming urge to strike out with the sword, thinking of all his fallen brothers. But in the end he resisted. In his shape he could take one, initially by surprise but if there were others he wouldn’t last long. After the male spoke she seemed to have a moment of realization. Cyprian still was unsure if his trust had been well placed. His grip on the short sword tightened. <br><br>He heard a second male voice, a bit further off and muffled by the door. At least two he thought to himself. He kept on watching the female, and he spotted the male hand appear pointing at her neck… He’d seen the scar on it while they lay on the rug. He’d wondered how such a mark could have come about, was it a brand as he had initially thought? Her temperament seemed to change suddenly, when he head came back up her voice raised. Cyprian was surprised by the force of her voice, and what he assumed was anger in her eyes. He smiled suddenly. He wished he could understand what she was saying. <br><br>When the door was finally closed he sigh in relief and his shoulders slumped slightly, but his eyes never left her form. He saw the tear, and the way this previously graceful creature was now slump and weeping. He didn’t know what had happened. Was it fear, or something else? He dropped the point of the sword. His hand reached out and took her arm, turning her gently towards him. He nodded to her, the anger and fear gone from his eyes, replaced by a sympathetic look. He reached with that hand and lightly touched the scar at her neck. He pointed the sword deeper into the room, gesturing for her to move away from the door.&nbsp; <br><br>After a brief moment he looked outside to confirm the elves were gone he turned to face her again. “Thank you…. I appreciate everything you’ve done so far… And I’m sorry if I frightened you… It was not my intention.” He said moving towards the center of the room after locking the door once more. He laid the sword down on the table. He gestured for her to sit on the bed as he went for the wine bottle on the shelf. He unstoppered it and he drank the sweet wine. After putting the bottle on the table he moved back towards her. And he stood before her, unsure what to say or do…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 13:38:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She felt the hand on her arm and let herself be turned to him. She knew what he was, but…he wasn’t, couldn’t be. Yes, he had frightened her, and threatened her, but he had needed her help. And the look in his eyes now was one of compassion. Her pale ones held his and searched them for a sign of the monster the legend said he was supposed to be. But as he reached for the scar on her neck her eyes drifted downward again, a look that could only be described as shame dominating her delicate Elvin features. In her lowered field of vision she could see the sword sweep towards the center of the room. She complied, her small feet leading her away from the door and deeper into the room, her steps heavy with the knowledge of what he was.<br><br>Alorial stopped when he opened the door. Her back was to him, but she peered over her shoulder to him, her profile bathed for a moment in the increased light. Her heart skipped a beat and she felt an edge of worry. Was he leaving? She could see he was just peeking outside, confirming that the other elves had left. A grateful shaky breath eased from her lungs, deflating her further. She did not move from her spot in the center of the room, shelled in her cocoon of a blanket. She was rooted in spot. <br><br>He was speaking again in his softer tone. She watched him with a still face. Her eyes moved and followed his progression around the room, followed as he lay his sword down, followed as he gestured for her to sit. Her body followed his instruction, and she moved the distance to perch on the edge of the bed, still clutching the blanket as if it were a shield, a protection from that which might hurt her. <br><br>Her eyes still watched him. They weren’t exactly wary or curious, just…quietly observant, and somewhat defeated. She had not understood his words beyond ‘Thank you’, but his tone was not a threatening one. <br><br>As he stood before her she raised her gaze to his, sitting quietly for a long moment. When she finally spoke she sounded tired. Her hand raised to point to her ear, and then one long slender finger pointed to his.&nbsp; “O eisi ei cestal.” &nbsp;She shook her head softly and whispered. “Cestal…cestal…” &nbsp;Her hand disappeared again inside the blanket. Her eyes moved from his, and came to rest on the arrow. She looked between him and it several times, but fear did not approach her features...just observance. She almost seemed too drained for emotion.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 15:57:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The way she looked at him seemed to have changed. This word she spoke, ‘Cestal’, it must mean human. He finally noticed her look at the arrow and then back, acknowledgment in her eyes. She was smart, he figured she’d figure it out eventually. He pointed to his chest and repeated the word as she continued to look to him. “Cestal….” He said. He just held her gaze for a moment, not knowing what to say, or what to do…<br><br>Finally he felt he should sit, as the pain in his sides was becoming apparent. He also found he was thirsty, and as good as the wine was, he wanted some water… Cool and refreshing. Though there were certain containers scattered about the room, he didn’t know where to look. He moved towards the kitchen area and went through the pots and barrels. He knew it was rude just to go through the place, but he also knew trying to explain to her what he wanted would take forever. It didn’t take him long to find a barrel of water, and it was surprisingly cool. He grabbed a large cup from the counter and filled it before moving back near the bed. <br><br>He moved and sat next to her on the bed. He ran his hand through his hair and realized how dirty he actually was. Caked blood, dirt and whatever else was all mangled. He’d take a bath in the river later, hopefully the other elves would be gone by then. <br><br>He looked back at the girl, she’d seemed ashamed when he touched her scar and he couldn’t help but wonder why. Was she an exile perhaps? It would explain why she seemed to live alone far out in the middle of nowhere. Finally he moved his hand to her cheek, feeling the soft skin. His fingers wandered back to her ear, and he examined and caressed it in fascination for what seemed like a long minute before pulling it away. He took a long pull from the water and then turned back to her. He pointed a finger to himself…. “Cyprian” hoping she would understand. He offered her the cup still half filled with the cool water.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 17:17:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial sat motionless as leaf on a breezeless day as he acknowledged he was Cestal. After he had said the word she quietly raised a finger to point at her sternum. She whispered a single word, certain he would understand her meaning. “Aer.” The hand then disappeared once again. <br><br>She kept the stillness and the subdued expression as he moved to look through the things in her dining area of her small home. Alorial had no idea what he was looking for and knew she couldn’t ask…he wouldn’t understand. And even if he did understand, she wouldn’t know what he was saying in return. Instead she just let her pale eyes follow him, darting about with his movements. Finally he found what he was looking for, the barrel of cool drinking water. <br><br>The half full barrel of drinking water was cool and very fresh. The barrel was held in place by thick roots, and it was fed from an underground spring. The water ran straight into the barrel that was buried half into the floor. Alorial used river water for cleaning and bathing, and the spring water for cooking and drinking. <br><br>There was a glint in her eye and a look of amusement brushed her expression as he took a small Elvin pitcher and drank with it. She knew to him it must seem like a large cup. Their body sizes weren’t so extreme that they were freakish, she was like a small human woman, but their worlds were built differently. Everything Elvin was of a smaller and more slender scale, and his broad body seemed larger against it. Like now as he moved to sit next to her.&nbsp; The bed would be more than long enough to accommodate his height, but it was only about twice his width, narrow by human standards. <br><br>She wasn’t threatened by his presence, resolved to the fact that he wasn’t there to hurt her, despite his being human. That still confused her, that he could be that kind of a beast, but he seemed reconciled to the fact she was an elf, apparently his enemy. She did not flinch as he raised his hand to her cool cheek. His skin was rough and dirty, but his touch infinitely gentle. Alorial ducked her head softly as he stroked her skin. <br><br>She wondered what he was trying to figure out by touching her cheek, but soon she felt his fingers on a more intimate part of her, her ear. Her eyes fluttered and her chest rose as her breath intook softly. Her pale lips parted softly, and she stiffened somewhat, her small shoulders setting squarely under the blanket. But soon he had finished and she relaxed again, turning her eyes to him once more. <br><br>He pointed to himself and said his name. She thought she understood…he was not just a human, he was an individual. Maybe she should not judge him for what he was, but for how he acted. In return she again brought her finger to her chest and nodded once. “Alorial.” <br><br>With a gentle smile she accepted the water, holding the small pitcher with both hands and allowing the blanket to fall away. She drank of the cool water as well, letting the refreshing feeling of it washing into her clear away the visit of the other elves. <br><br>After she had drank she rose and refilled the pitcher, bringing it back to Cyprian. It was her turn to stand in front of him, unsure what to say or do. Finally she went and grabbed the bucket of water that was bloodied from his wounds. She pointed to herself, and then out the door towards the river, and then paused, seeming to wait for permission. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 18:27:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was surprised that she seemed to enjoy being touched. He didn’t have the soft delicate hands of an elf and yet her faced seemed to adjust to his touch. And those ears… Her reaction was almost something… sensual. She was a curious creature. ‘Alorial’ he thought, it was beautiful, and fitting. He watched her drink the water, both of her small hands wrapped around the cup as she brought it to her pale lips…<br><br>He watched her stand, and moved towards the barrel refilling the cup and returning. He accepted the cup with a careful smile. For another long moment they simply remained there staring at each other. Cyprian could not help but notice how beautiful she was. Her body was perfection, small perfectly round breasts dotted her chest and her hips were the perfect companion to her sensual legs. Impure thoughts ran through his mind of the things he could do with or to her, but as much as he hated the elves, Cyprian was not a rapist. He turned away suddenly, seemingly at the same time as she moved to the soiled bucket…<br><br>She seemed to indicate the door, perhaps she wanted to empty the bucket. He nodded to her as he stood and moved to the table. His large fingers wrapped around the hilt of the sword and he pointed to the door, and nodded again. He considered going with her, but he wasn’t sure how far the other elves had gone. He wouldn’t risk it yet. He moved to the door, opening it slowly for her, gesturing with the sword towards the outside. He didn’t want to scare her, but he felt it important for him to show her that even though they could be somewhat civil, she should make no mistake as to who was in charge. He wanted her to think that in a moment of danger, he would not hesitate to end her life to save his own…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 20:09:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was surprised both to see him pick up the sword again, and to see him let her go. It was kind of conflicting. She had expected him to forbid her from stepping outside, but she was also a little hurt to see that he felt the need to lift his sword. Distrust would not have been unexpected but the sword…it was an instrument of death, one he apparently was not afraid to threaten her with. She slipped to the door and paused, her eyes resting on the sword for a long moment and then meeting his with the air of a wounded spirit. <br><br>Sliding out the door to her clearing she breathed deep. Until she smelled the clean air and the scent of the woods, she hadn’t realized how strong the smell of blood had been inside. Thinking of the blood, she searched the clearing. To her relief it had all cooled sufficiently and was not visible to Elvin sight. <br><br>Alorial followed the path she had followed thousands of times, walking to the river. The water was still flowing in the wrong direction, and she wondered if it would ever change back. As she knelt by the bank and emptied the bucket she noticed again the dried blood on her gown. She needed to change, but could not do so in front of Cyprian.<br><br>With but a brief hesitation she slid into the river, washing her gown as she wore it. The Elvin fabric would not take long to dry. She picked up two stones and gently worked the fabric, rinsing the blood away, and using the time to think of where the situation was going. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 14:05:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As she moved to the door her eyes remained fixed on the sword. It was clear that she feared the sword. That was good. Though Cyprian had no desire to harm this beautiful woodland creature, he would not let his guard down, especially on the odd chance the other elves might still be in the area. When her eyes locked with his, he kept her gaze before nodding to the river…<br><br>When she disappeared from view he moved to his bracers, slipping them on followed by his boots and lower leg greaves. Moving back to the table he slid his belt and scabbard back on, somewhat painfully as it sat near his damaged hip. He sheathed the short sword and drank again from the cup. <br><br>He moved back to the door and he opened it cautiously making sure no one was around. It had been a few minutes and he wondered what was keeping her… Perhaps she ran, to fetch more of the damn elven warriors. Or even an elven cavalier. Those were the fiercest of the elven warriors. Deadly, cunning in a way that seemed odd for an elf. The rumour amongst the lower ranked soldiers was that they were possessed by demons. They fought that way, there was no doubt. <br><br>Cyprian took a few tentative steps outside, and he moved slowly and somewhat painfully along the path towards the river. On his way in he hadn’t taken the time to closely examine the surroundings. He made mental note of any possible ways of escape, or ambush sites. A warrior of Cyprian’s experience never stops thinking like a warrior, always looking for vantage points. He continued along slowly towards the river in the direction Alorial had gone. As the sounds of the rushing waters grew in his ears he spotted the maiden in the water washing her gown. She looked very innocent and pure in that instant. He felt a pang of guilt for involving her in this. He sat back on a nearby rock and watched her quietly. He wasn’t hidden, but she didn’t seem to have noticed him yet…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 19:47:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Out of habit Alorial started to sing, her light lilting voice taking on a very mournful tone as her full pale lips formed the sound. The visit from the elves had been a reminder of painful things, things she had long ago buried deep within her and ignored as she carried on with her day to day monotonous existence. But they had been stirred like the coals of a fire, and the fresh air fed them, making them grow hotter. <br><br>Her fingers worked the fabric distractedly as she used the stones to grind out the blood, and she was much further away than just in the river. Her mind was far and detached from herself as the memories played back for the first time in many years. Her pale eyes were fixed on some unknown point in the water. <br><br>After several minutes the sad song paused and she looked at the gown. Most of the blood had been washed away. There was a faint shadow of it, one that would take many washings to fade completely, but it was better. Alorial dunked her head under the water and came up face first, washing her long hair back behind her, and then she turned to emerge from the river. <br><br>When she saw Cyprian she paused. She had been so consumed by her inner world she had failed to notice the one around her, and wondered how long he had been sitting there and watching her. He hadn’t concealed his presence, but he hadn’t alerted her to it either. <br><br>Alorial ducked her head and then rose from the river, filling the bucket behind her as she did. She gracefully drifted to him and stopped beside where he sat. Her pale eyes ran over him quietly, and she reached one wet finger out to wipe along his dirty arm, leaving a line. The barest hint of a smile played on her lips at his filth. She set the bucket down in front of him and moved to a tree where she grabbed a handful of course moss. She walked back to the bucket and wet it, and then handed it to him.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 20:21:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian continued to watch her as she bathed in the river. He was captivated by her voice… and the song, of which he could not decipher the words, and yet the sounds touched him. She rubbed the gown vigorously, and he hoped the blood would come out. When it came time for him to leave here, he did not want to leave any sign of his passing if it could be avoided. This line of thought led him to other unpleasant thoughts. When he left here could he trust she would not tell he’d been there, and which way he went? He feared he would have to kill her. He was not looking forward to that moment, if it came.<br><br>She finally looked at him just as he was thinking of having to kill her. The look of her innocent eyes sent a chill through his bones. He watched her wet form practically glide out of the water and moved towards him. He cast his eyes away, unable to look her directly in the eyes. When she reached him he reluctantly looked up at her, into her large beautiful eyes. He watched her run her finger along his arm, making a single clean path along it. When she smiled he couldn’t help but smile back. He was dirty. <br><br>After she set the bucket down he observed her gathering some moss. He got the picture… He was dirty, and he no doubt smelled of blood, guts and sweat. He unbuckled the few pieces of armour he’d donned. All that remained was his breeches and boots, and the several layers of bandages around his waist and hips. <br><br>He took the moss from her and ran it along his shoulders and chest, realizing that this wouldn’t do. He stood carefully and started walking towards the bank bringing only the moss and his sword belt with him. Once there he sat and carefully removed the boots.&nbsp; He then, after taking a look back removed his breeches leaving him naked except for the bandages. Keeping his back to the girl he waded slowly into the water until his midsection was covered. He used the moss to rub over his body. As he reached for his lower back near his hips and sides he cringed in pain. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 21:15:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial watched as he started to scrub the grime on his skin. It was thick and heavy and the moss did little more than smear it around in a swirling pattern. The bucket of water would never be enough to clean him properly in his state of filth. As her eyes looked over his powerful form she could only imagine what all was caked on him. A brief shiver ran over her as she wondered how much of the blood on him was of Elvin kind. <br><br>She didn’t want to think of that, and her eyes cast quickly to the ground coincidentally as he started to unbuckle his armor. Noticing the movement out of the corner of her eye she looked back up. He was standing. <br><br>Alorial tilted her head and watched as he moved towards the river. She wasn’t sure that was a good idea, but he did need to be clean. Dirt could cause the wounds to grow angry and sick.&nbsp; After a moment she followed him, her feet quiet and taking their predicted path. <br><br>When he reached the river she expected him to go in clothed as she had. But he sat and removed his boots, then reached for his breeches. Her eyes widened and she quickly turned away, shocked by his immodesty. After hearing the splash of him entering the water she peeked back, relieved to see his lower half was obscured by the flowing water. <br><br>Alorial continued to the river. Despite the fact he still felt the need to threaten with his sword, and the fact the was Cestal, she was worried about him. What if he grew faint from the exertion? What if his strength wavered and the current swept him from his feet? Logically she knew that this <i>should</i> be a relief, but it wasn’t. It was disquieting. <br><br>He was clearly having troubles. His injuries restricted his movements. Alorial bit her lip and contemplated her options. Finally she walked down to the water’s edge, and keeping her eyes averted held out her hand for the moss. If he gave it to her she would know he was accepting her assistance. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 14:34:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				No matter how much he scrubbed, Cyprian seemed unable to cleanse himself of all the grim stuck to his body. Though he has a warrior’s hardened heart, when you realized what you’re covered in it does sometimes make you think. He’d been trained to kill since an early age, quite frankly it was all he knew. The faces of those he’d most recently killed remained imprinted in his mind and were difficult to push away. And the nightmares rarely helped matters. <br><br>The water around him was turning a pinkish grey, and he’d only begun. He turned to face the bank and noticed Alorial moving towards him. He was surprised by her courage and determination. He realized she seemed to want him to get better, and she seemed almost content that he was here, in spite of the realization that he was an enemy to her people, which he figured she must know by now. <br><br>He was even more surprised that she seemed to want to help him bathe. He was no fool, in his weakened state he couldn’t do it alone. He move forward a bit but stopped just before his midsection was revealed to her. He just stopped… And smiled. He gestured for her to come to him with one hand while the other held the moss out for her to take. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 17:09:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She stayed crouched on the bank with her eyes averted and her hand outstretched. Alorial didn’t feel the moss being placed in her hand, so she ventured a tentative peek back. She could see he couldn’t come any further out of the water, but was coaxing her in, the moss in an outstretched hand almost like he was baiting her. It seemed he would accept her help after all. Alorial cautiously moved forward and took his hand with one of hers, and accepted the moss with the other.&nbsp; <br><br>Alorial entered the water once again. It was not lost on her that she was essentially planning on bathing a nude man, no matter what kind of monster species he was. A man that consistently held a sword to her, and was an enemy of her people. But he was noise, he was movement, and he was another sentient being. He was life, and she was compelled to help him. <br><br>They couldn’t move much deeper, or it would be she that was swept away by the current. Still keeping her eyes averted, she moved behind him in the water, standing upstream so his filth did not soil her. She dunked the moss in the water, thoroughly saturating it, and then brought it up above her to his broad shoulders. Alorial used firm pressure to scour his skin, suspecting it would ease any ache in his muscles as well. <br><br>She was grateful to be behind him where he could not see her. The blood had tingled it’s way up her shoulders and neck to her face and ears, and with her pigmentless skin she would be a very distinct pink. <br><br>She scrubbed his neck and shoulders and upper back, feeling the firm flesh and the corded muscle. He was a solid mass of power, and it made her feel quite small, smaller than she even was. Cyprian could crush her without a thought, kill her easily without as sword as with. And she could see the battle scars. There were so many. It was as if he had been in a war…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 18:42:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched Alorial very closely as she began to move into the water towards him. He took her small, soft hand led her a little deeper, but no so deep as to endanger either of them. Being so close to this elven woman was making it difficult to concentrate on his surroundings. Elven warriors could be hidden anywhere along the bank, and his sword rested near the rock at shore. Yet he did not care. The cool waters of the Great River where refreshing him and already he felt much better. <br><br>He grounded himself on the spot as she firmly pressed the moss against him. The feeling left behind in the mosses wake was also very good. To be clean again was something most soldiers long for after days, or even weeks of war. He felt her hands roam over his back and he closed his eyes, seeing her in his mind, rubbing his back, cleansing his body. When the moss made its way to his neck her tilted his head exposing more of the skin, then did the same on the other side. His mind continued to picture her, first with the gown and then without. A soldier so far from his homeland at times had to go long periods of time without feeling the touch of a woman, and it was no different for Cyprian. The touch of this beautiful maiden’s fingers woke something in him and he felt an all too familiar stirring. <br><br>Slowly he turned his head and looked at her. His eyes taking her large ones in. He slowly turned his body completely, but he made no move to touch her. Even though the water rolled past them Cyprian simply stood his ground. If she were to look down she would see his erection just below the surface of the water, but yet he would not touch her. He simply waited for her to continue bathing him. The bandages at his sides were drooping slightly, but he barely felt any pain, assuming the elvish medicine was working.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 20:41:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>He stood as rooted as one of the elder trees of the forest as she washed him. He did not move or sway until she had cleaned his back and upper arms and moved to his neck, and even then his head only moved from one side to the other. As she bathed him she kept her eyes on her task, very mindful that he was nude below the water and that if she were part of her Elvin society, what she was doing would be most offensive. <br><br>Unexpectedly he turned his head, it pivoting on his strong neck to meet her eyes. She did not blink, but met his stare calmly, not sure what he was feeling or what his motive was. For all she knew she could have done a poor job and he was displeased. His expression did not show rage, she was not sure what it showed. <br><br>Then Cyprian turned his whole body. Alorial held his gaze still, afraid to look immodest if her curiosity out did her resolve and her eyes fell to where they shouldn’t. In her mind she could not banish the thought of the line of hair that had traveled his lower stomach into his breeches. And accompanying that image was the memory of his finger on her sensitive Elvin ear. <br><br>It had been since she was a small child that she had been touched by another. This man had not been frightened of her, and had touched her several times, both in hostility and not. It was hard to banish the thought of the warm skin of his hand, but she tried. <br><br>With a trembling hand she brought the moss to his shoulders. She had thought he could probably wash the front of him himself, but perhaps she had misread his injuries and needed more assistance than she has realized. She did not want his wounds dirty. He had to be clean. <br><br>Alorial bathed his upper body slowly, but not lingering. She worked from his shoulders and neck down his arms, and then from his collarbone to his chest and then abdomen. The whole time she kept her eyes averted. When she reached his navel she stopped, and her hand withdrew. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 15:26:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian stood his ground, arms held lightly to the side letting Alorial clean him thoroughly. He continued to stare at her. He could tell she was uncomfortable with the situation as it was but he didn’t care at this point. It wasn’t even about being clean. His attraction to her was apparent in more ways than the obvious one between his legs, but also by the look he gave her now. But he would not push the matter. He would not force himself upon her.<br><br>He finally looked away, to the bank, to the trees, to the river… anything to defuse the current situation. She finally stopped at his navel, and he did not hide the look of disappointment that came upon his face. When she withdrew he reached for and took her wrist for a moment, holding her gaze… But he only took the moss from her releasing her. He dipped it in the river and moved it to his stomach before moving it slowly down to his thighs. Giving his legs a scrubbed he finished by tossing the moss down river. <br><br>It was unfortunate she had already bathed; he would have liked to return the favour. The idea of seeing her naked form was forefront in his mind and try as he might he could not dismiss it. So now they stood, waist deep in the water looking at each other for a time. He pulled away from her finally and reluctantly and he began moving back to the near bank. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 17:09:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When he grabbed her wrist her eyes shot back to him. The grab hadn’t been overly forceful or violent, but there was a strange tension in the air she didn’t completely understand. Her breathing had become slightly more labored, and she felt a pressure in her sternum, almost like anxiety. And now with the way he was looking at her…<br><br>Alorial was able to come to the conclusion that he craved her flesh. The realization of it hit her like a sharp cold wind biting her on a winter day. She felt heat creep over her, from her toes up to the top of her head. Primarily she was wary of him for his want, but as she stood there and stared at him, a feeling grew in the pit of her stomach. It wasn’t physical desire in the same vein as what Cyprian was obviously feeling, but a craving of a deeper kind. <br><br>Acceptance. He was not frightened of her pale skin and her almost colorless eyes. He was not disturbed by the fact that her hair was ivory and that her lips were almost the same white as her cheeks. He was not pushing her away or marking her. He was not afraid to touch her. <br><br>But he took the moss and let go, breaking the contact and the bit of a spell that had taken over the moment. Again she averted her eyes as he finished bathing himself. When the movements ceased she ventured a glance back to him. They stood there, just looking, once again. <br><br>Cyprian was the one to break the look, and he started to move back to the bank. Alorial did as well, her small form slicing through the water easily. She pulled herself to the bank, and kept her head turned as she waited for him to emerge and redress, and to grab the sword he held so frequently. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 17:30:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Once at the bank he took his time, reaching down and carefully pulling his breeches over his wet legs. The pants stuck to him tightly, and with his erection still apparent he struggled a bit before finally lacing up the front. He could feel the pain returning to his sides and sat on a rock for a few moments, resting. <br><br>“Alorial” he said, “come here” he said gesturing to the stone he sat on. “Sit with me…” he finished as he reached down to slide his boots on. It was coming on evening and he could feel the air cooling as the sun began to set near the horizon. He picked up the sword belt and held it near his crotch, hoping to hide the lump a bit. He watched the river as it went by and he wondered at what other powerful magic’s the elves were capable of. <br><br>She was a most curious creature he thought as his eyes finally came to rest on her once again. She was different from the other elves he’d ever seen. Her features lacked any sign of colour. He wondered if this had anything to do with the way she dealt with the other elves earlier, and what exactly did the scar on her neck signify. He wished he could ask her, but knew it would probably be futile. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 19:22:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial had been waiting patiently for him to dress, thinking he would not like it if she went back on her own, and not wanting to leave him to fend for himself in case he felt faint. But he seemed to have much of his strength back, and the Elvin medicine was helping with the pain apparently. Water fell from her dress in little pit pats on the ground, making a ring around her. <br><br>When he spoke her name she jumped a little. It sounded clear and strong, and she was still not used to hearing it, especially from a voice like his. She turned her head to look at him, and he gestured to the stone. She didn't understand the words, but it was evident he wanted her to sit. The rock was in an open area, and not shaded, but with the setting sun she thought it safe to venture to it. Something Cyrprian might have noticed was how she always stuck to the shade. Even her part of the river was shaded with trees. <br><br>She perched on the stone next to him, her eyes going warily to the sword. It was not held at the ready, and not held against her, making her relax some. She turned her eyes to his questioningly, wondering if he wanted something specific, or just to sit. But there was something she had to try and verify. One slender finger raise and slowly floated to the hilt of his sword, and the dried blood staining it. Her voice was very soft. “Aer?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 01:41:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He watched her as she glided from shade to shade, till she sat upon the rock. He shifted himself so his hip touched hers. He just stared at her for a long moment. After awhile she moved, and pointed a slender digit to the hilt of his sword… Or was she pointing to the dry blood. ‘Aer’? That was the word she’d used to describe herself… She wanted to know if it was elven blood. Should he tell her? Obviously she had figured out allot, and she probably only wanted confirmation of what she already knew. <br><br>“Yes, it is elven blood” he nodded… “Aer blood” he said hoping she would understand. He slid the sword on the ground out of sight. Did she understand the concept of battle he wondered? It mattered not. He looked away, staring out at the water as it rushed by. He needed to get out of here he realized. He couldn’t not let this creature make him question his loyalty, and sense of duty. In the morning he would wake and put on his armor, then he would complete the unpleasant task of killer her, before heading back South-East, where he assumed the border lay. <br><br>He turned back to look at her after a few minutes, and he moved his large hand to the side of her face, moving the hair away from her neck, and he looked at the scar it revealed. “You are an intriguing creature Alorial” he started, leaning in for a closer look. He couldn’t help but catch a whiff of her scent… It was lovely. “You are different from the other elves I’ve seen in the past… you’re like… An albino elf perhaps, scarred or branded… exile?” he wondered out loud. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 03:53:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He confirmed it was Elvin blood. The nod of his head, the slight hesitation, and the word 'Aer', established the truth of her suspicions.&nbsp; There was no surprise on her face, just acquiescence to the fact that he was fighting elves. What she did not know was for what reason. She didn’t think it was a happenstance encounter, where there had been a misunderstanding among traveling parties. He had been wearing armor, he had been dressed for battle.&nbsp; <br><br>His brought his hand to her face, and she did not flinch. It was not a threatening move. But as he pulled her hair aside to reveal the scar, her eyes cast themselves to the ground in shame. She didn’t understand his words, but he kept using the word ‘elf’ and ‘elvin’. He had called the Aer blood Elven blood. Blood had been a new word, but it’s meaning had been as obvious as if she had pointed to a tree and called it by it’s name. So he was looking at her scar and talking about Elves. And he used her name. She sighed, not knowing what he was asking, other than it had to do with the mark. It wasn't a large leap to know he wanted to know what the mark was. <br><br>Finally she brought her eyes back to him, the wheels clearly turning in her heads. She pointed to the setting sun. “Mel….Aer” She then pointed to her skin, to the sun, then to the skin again,”Mel Alorial” and made a sizzling noise. Her hand then rose and pointed to where the early moon could be seen. “Tyl Alorial.”&nbsp; She looked back to the sun and pointed again. “Mel... Jhori” She reached down to show him a vibrant patch of plant life in a ray of the sun. She then pointed to the moon, “Tyl… Paer” and then pointed to a patch of lifeless dirt. She then looked at him “Aer Jhori…:” She pointed at the plant life. “Alorial Paer” she shook her head and pointed to the barren ground. <br><br>For the last part she gathered a small pile of earthen colored pebbles, and one piece of white quartz. She held them in her hand. “Aer” She then picked out the quartz and looked at it, speaking quietly. “Alorial”. She then, almost angrily, through the quartz as far as it could, and set the pile of pebbles on the ground. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 05:25:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He continued to examine Alorial, though his eyes moved past her neck. He was clearly examining her other features, her eyes and lips. She looked down in shame and he could only assume… But then she started speaking.<br><br>Her light voice was almost like a bird’s song, and it sang to him. It made it difficult to concentrate but he tried to. He watched her movements closely following her gaze when she pointed to the sun and moon, to the dirt and the grass. She was different from the other elves, cursed perhaps. The sun burnt her skin and forced her to stay in the shadows. He wondered what vile elven god would curse a young maiden like this. No doubt the other elves shunned her, possibly even exiling or banishing her from her actual home, forcing her into a life of solitude. Cyprian realized he could be way off, but this seemed to be the most logical thing. He felt sad for her. <br><br>He watched as she picked up the pebbles and the quartz, following her movements and listening to her soft words until she threw the quartz away confirming his suspicions. He nodded to Alorial in acknowledgement that he understood. “It must be a difficult life…” he said sympathetically. <br><br>He could feel the bandages on his side slipping, probably from the water, they needed to be changed. He looked at the woman, and then pointed to the bandages then to the dwelling. He reached down with one hand and picked up the sword. With the other he took Alorial’s hand. He held it firmly as he stood. Pulling her slightly along, he started moving slowly towards the dwelling cringing in pain every few steps along the way…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 11:32:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>He had watched carefully, and appeared to at least understand that she had been thrown away by the elves, that she had been cast out. Even if he hadn’t understood why, his nod and his tone of voice were demonstrations of his understanding. She did not understand his words, but she held his gaze with her pale orbs and nodded once very softly, not exactly sure what she was agreeing with, other than it was some sort of statement of sympathy. <br><br>Grateful the explanation had been at least partly understood, and encouraged by the fact they had communicated on some primitive level, Alorial felt lighter, even with the somber subject. It was a step that brought them further from being from different worlds, and closer to being some sort of peers. This encouraged Alorial, not knowing of Cyprian’s intended plan. In her naiveté it seemed clear that she held no love for the elves, neither did he, and there would be no more reason for him to distrust her. He had even hidden his sword away. <br><br>When he gestured to his bandages and then to her home, she nodded, almost eagerly. She understood they needed changed. Alorial stood from the stone, her gown only slightly damp now, and almost clean. He gathered his sword, and took her hand firmly, and pulled her to her to the trees. She did not read anything negative into the firmness of his grasp. He was a large creature, a Cestal, and according to legend he should have crushed her now just by his very breath. <br><br>Her brow furrowed slightly as she noticed the pain he was in. It would be some time before he was healed and ready to strike out on his own. <br><br>Once in the dwelling she motioned for him to sit, and handed him the wine. Without waiting for permission she removed his bandages. With a slight smile on her pale lips she moved to the pile of linen like cloth and the small razor sharp dagger. If he didn’t stop her, she sliced more strips of cloth. Her slender fingers were deft and skilled as she handled the fabric. While what she was doing was simple and took no skill, her handling of the fabric had a formal feel to it, as if she was used to working with it. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-07-2006, 17:34:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Upon entering the simple dwelling, the maiden gestured for him to sit and so he did, choosing to sit on the bed this time. Sitting on the rug on the floor made getting up and down difficult. The bed was more comfortable and hurt less. He watched her move to the cloth and knife. He knew now she meant him no harm, and he also knew she would not try to escape his presence. In an odd way it was as if she needed him there as much as he needed her. Still, he laid the sheathed sword on the bed close by. <br><br>The shadows were getting longer and the sun was beginning to set. He wondered if she had any illumination, or if her elven eyes were all the vision she needed? Luckily the fire in the heart was still lit thought the flame was small and low. As he waited for her to get the cloth ready, he reached down and started painfully removing the old bandages, please to see there was only small amounts of blood. <br><br>His mind wandered to the ‘conversation’ they’d had outside. The elves considered themselves more civilized than humans, and yet one of their own had been cast from society for being different. Human society was far from perfect, but a family would not abandon one of their own. At least not any family he knew. He realized that sometimes enlightenment was relative… And faith could easily cloud the most enlightened minds…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>24-07-2006, 20:27:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>Alorial pulled a wooden chair over to sit in front of him as he sat on the bed. She brought the pouch of Elvin medicine with her, along with the bandages. She lightly dusted some on a several squares that were cut just large enough to fit over his wounds. She held them in place with more strips of the linen cloth, winding it around his muscled form. <br><br>Alorial had to move quite close to him to treat him. When she reached to wrap the linen around him, one arm had to travel halfway around him, and she had to stretch with the second arm to reach it. Effectively she was embracing him each time, her breasts and shoulders brushing him each time she had to wrap. <br><br>Each time she was close to him she could feel the heat radiating from his skin, and her perceptive Elvin ears could hear the soft sounds of his breathing. He was a vibrant, living thing, and he was here in her small solitary home. Alorial suspected that when he left it was going to seem even colder and quieter than it had since before his arrival. <br><br>When finished she scooted back in her chair and nodded in satisfaction at the bandages. They were far from perfect, but they would serve their purpose. <br><br>Noticing the shadows and the setting sun, along with feeling the ache in her own empty stomach, she guessed he must be getting hungry again. The stew was still warming over the fire, and the thick pot had kept it warm without burning. She nodded towards the hearth and the pot and looked at him questioningly. Her voice was light and soft and floated to him in the dim light. “Eisi o celia?”&nbsp; She rubbed her stomach and then brought her fingers to her lips and made a chewing motion. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 16:15:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched Alorial as she moved the small wooden chair directly in front of him. He was glad to see the elfish medicine make another appearance; it had numbed the pain and made things significantly easier on him. He silently hoped it would have a similar effect this time. He sat thinking about his homeland as she began bandaging the wound. His mind quickly returned to the present as she reached her arms around him to wrap the bandages securely. He felt her shoulders rub against him first followed by her small breasts. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, trying to not be aroused by this beautiful maiden, but he couldn’t help it. He felt the beginning of an erection and he shifted uneasily…<br><br>He continued to breath deeply, trying to keep his eyes closed, but often they would open and he would glance down to see what she was doing. She was very beautiful, soft and delicate. He felt like wrapping his arms around her and pulling her down on top of him on the bed, but he resisted. Finally he felt her presence missing and he sighed as he opened his eyes to see her sitting back in the chair. He smiled at her, still sitting uncomfortably but content. He looked down at his sides, and at the expert job she’d done. <br><br>He was hungry again, famished actually and he was relieved when she seemed to indicate the pot, and the gestures to her mouth with her fingers. He nodded, “Yes, I am hungry” he said assuming what she had said. Before she stood his hand moved quickly to rest upon her knee… “Alorial…. Thank you….” He said softly, hoping she would understand him. His fingers easily wrapped around her knee and he squeezed it lightly, and smiled at her, almost affectionately…. Yes, it will be unfortunate to have to kill her in the morning…. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 18:49:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was ready to stand and bring him food when he moved very quickly to rest his hand upon her knee. Again she was stunned by the quickness the large man had, but wasn’t frightened at all. He had been smiling at her after she had finished bandaging him.<br><br>His smiles were beautiful, though she had tried to resist thinking them so. But they were. They warmed her like the rays of the sun might if she had been permitted to back in them. But unlike the sun, his smiles were not dangerous and would not harm her…or so she believed. Alorial could see the sword beside him, but to her his smile spoke louder and stronger than the presence of his weapon. <br><br>She heard his words, and recognized each. Her name of course, spoken by another for the first time in countless years, and ‘thank you’, established earlier in the day as a phrase of gratitude. She smiled softly and ducked her head in a gracious nod. “O'vi shaelysti.” &nbsp;Just as she did, he squeezed her knee lightly, and his smile grew warmer, more personal. She felt a tingle in her pointed Elvin ears as blood filled them from the kind touch and the warm expression. It was really the most affection she’d had since being a child. <br><br>Almost self-consciously she finally rose from the chair and drifted to the stew. She added a little water from the drinking barrel to thin it, as it had grown quite thick as it simmered. Not only did she dish him up almost the full remainder of the pot, saving just a small bowl for herself, but she piled on a plate bread, cheese, and a hunk of cured venison. She brought it all to him, setting it on the chair she had been sitting in, and added a cup of the cool water from the barrel. <br><br>Alorial served herself small portions of the same, and moved to sit beside him on the bed. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 20:41:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She nodded to him, a sign of appreciation he decided. He noticed a slight change in coloration in her pale skin as she began rising from the chair. He watched her move to the stew pot, and then he looked away. It had gotten darker within the dwelling he noticed, significantly darker and it was getting cooler, not uncomfortably cooler, just cooler. He could feel his arousal lessening finally, and he adjusted himself leaning back on the bed. <br><br>Laying back on the bed he stretched his arms towards the head of it. It was a comfortable bed, much more comfortable than he was used to. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d slept on a real bed, the hard ground having been used as a bed for as long as he could remember. He could hear the utensils hit the plates as she scooped the food onto them. He turned his head to watch her again, seeing her beautiful, graceful form move almost as if on a cloud… Like an angel would, in the heavens with the Saints he so adored and cherished. <br><br>When she started moving towards he used his arms to help push him back to a sitting position straining in pain a bit. As she neared he could smell the stew, it reminded him about how hungry he was. He smiled at her, “thank you” he said again. He picked up the fork and began devouring the meal, but he continued to watch her as she prepared a plate of her own and sat near him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 21:43:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial had noticed the way he had reclined on the bed, and decided that that is where he would sleep that night. He needed good rest, not the kind the floor would provide, but comfortable, deep sleep. She could make do with the floor, laying among the pillows. She supposed she needed to do something about the blood on the rug, but would have to tackle that in the morning. It had been a very long and full day for her, with stressful breaks in her routine. The food didn’t last long as she was famished, having not eaten earlier when Cryprian did. <br><br>Despite his voracious appetite, she finished first, having not had nearly as much food to consume. She stood and started to prepare for the evening. The first thing she did was walk to a wall and untie a rope secured there. Slowly she let the rope work it’s way away from her, hand over hand, her pale orbs cast to the ceiling. The skylight closed as a large piece of presumable wood came down to cover it. Next she walked to the fire and fed it from a pile of wood. It was getting low, and she sighed softly. Normally she gathered it each day, but had missed it today. It would mean double the work tomorrow. She took the now empty pot and filled it with water from a bucket to let it soak a minute. From a shelf she grabbed a large candle and set it on the small table. With a stick she lit it from the fire, bathing the room in a gentle glow. <br><br>She stopped and looked at Cyprian, apparently suddenly thinking of something. She walked to a shelf on the wall and pulled down a small clay pot. It was set on the table, along with two mugs. Alorial then filled a small tea pot and set it in the fire to heat. That done, she returned to Cyprian to see if he was done with his meal, and if she could retrieve his dishes. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 15:56:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian continued to eat at his plate. The food was exquisite. He watched her every moment, from closing the skylight to the lighting of the candle. The way she moved about the room was almost hypnotising and his eating slowed as he observed her. He could not believe some elfish noble would not take her for a wife because she was different. He knew she was gifted with long life, and he found himself wondering how old she was, and for how long she’d been living this life of solitude. He wondered if by killing her wouldn’t be doing her a favour.<br><br>He could smell the tea warming as he finally finished the last of his plate. For the first time in a long time he felt full. The full stomach made him a bit tired, and he hoped the tea would sooth what was left of his pain, which was now nothing more than a dull throb, no doubt thanks to the elfish medicine. <br><br>He finished his water, then handed her the plate and cup. He watched her walk away and couldn’t help but smile at the light sway of her elven hips. She was so beautiful… He shook those thoughts away and decided to stand, and stretch his legs. Using the chair in front of him he pulled himself up slowly with an audible grunt. His balance was off. It was funny that a few hours ago he’d been outside moving of his own power and now he risked falling. Perhaps the elfish medicine has a side effect. He felt the room begin to spin and considered sitting again. In the sudden confusion he debated about the bed and the chair… Finally he could stand no longer, he made for the chair but he partially missed catching only the side of it, splintering the chair in many pieces as he crashed to the ground with a loud painful groan… Bad idea he decided….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 16:29:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial accepted his plate and cup with a small bow of her head. She was glad he had eaten it all, he needed his strength. Normally the stew would have lasted her several days, but no matter, she would make something else the next day. Perhaps she would even set the traps, though it had been long since she had used them. <br><br>She stacked all of the dishes by the pot intending to go to the river to wash them before it got to dark. But in the mean time it she moved to a shelf and pulled down two glass jars, one almost full of small wooden balls, one with only four left. She could hear him moving behind her, but figured he was just moving to stretch his legs. If he had wanted her, he would have called to her. She took the tops off of the jars and moved one of the balls from the lesser filled and deposited it in the fuller one, leaving only three in the one jar. She looked from the jar to a large basket in the corner and looked concerned. <br><br>Alorial had just picked up the top to one of the jars when she heard the crash. She spun around, dropping the lid, and spied Cyprian laying on the floor among the broken remains of the chair. With great speed she darted across the room, her gown and hair streaming behind her for a brief moment, like a shooting star. She then dropped to kneel beside him, her hair and gown swishing forward around her. Worry was heavy on her features. “Cyprian! Eisi o ces? Shar cadaelaer? O ter shi tysi tasaerer!”<br><br>Her first concern was to make sure the chair had not pierced him when he fell. Briefly she laid a small soft hand across his cheek, but then quickly removed it to check him over, reaching under him and running her hands along his skin, searching for wounds. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 17:02:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he had hit the floor, his mind had gone blank for a moment, but the sound of music brought him back, but it was not music, it was the sweet sound of Alorial’s voice, a little louder and faster than he remembered it. He felt her touch to his cheek as he opened his eyes as he breathed heavily. He was scared and felt very vulnerable. He was glad for her concern as he felt her hands roam his body. He felt no additional pain, just the ones in his sides and hips. He figured he hadn’t done himself anymore damage… Fool he was. <br><br>Looking up into her eyes, he felt he could see the stars in them, a whole expanse of stars. He smiled at her, and a light laugh even followed…. “I think I’m fine Alorial… but thank you.” He said. He turned his head slowly to survey the damage he’d done to her chair… It was in splinters, completely destroyed… “I’m sorry about the chair…” he nodded to the wood that lay across the floor. “I believe I’d like to sit now…..” he said in a low voice. <br><br>He moved his hands underneath himself, pushing up a bit, hoping she would lend him an arm for support. He pressed hard against her body for that support, and with her assistance he was standing in no time. He was also in obvious pain, but he did his best not to show it. Also with her help he sat back down on the bed, allowing his back to fall flat with a loud sigh.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 18:19:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was talking. That was a good sign she thought. He knew her name. But more importantly, he laughed his rumbling laugh, the one that she could feel in her belly. And he smiled, casting warmth around the room. Surely he wouldn’t be doing that if he was hurt further. And he was thanking her again, most likely for her concern. She sighed and looked very relieved. Her pale lips curved in a warm smile one of her own. <br><br>Cyprian then gestured to the chair with one nod of his head. She guessed he must be apologizing for breaking it, or maybe commenting on what he might consider shoddy Elvin workmanship, she did not know, but went with the former as it seemed to be giving him the benefit of the doubt. She waved away what she assumed was concern, and to show how unconcerned she was she picked up a splintered piece of wood and tossed it into the fire. It was just that much less wood she had to gather the next day. <br><br>As he moved to get up off of the floor she tried to help him as best she could. She moved a slight shoulder under his torso and wrapped her arm around his waist. Aloria braced herself, taking as much of his weight as she could as he leaned on her. He was very heavy, much heavier than an elf of the same height would be. <br><br>Somehow they managed to get him to the bed. Alorial helped his sit, having to sit with him at the same time, lowering herself as he lowered his weight. He lay back with his gust of a sigh, and she sat next him and shaking her head as she looked down upon him. She held up a finger and shook it, scolding him, “O ter mae ail shaer, o eisi shael eil eisi ces. Cyrn tal o kaer shaeraes ais o eisi thalol pyrn eil shaejol thesoresi...rairia cestal.” Slight amusement on her face as she finished speaking.&nbsp; <br><br>Alorial looked at him for a long moment, her very pales eyes roaming almost tenderly over his face. Finally she pointed to the dishes, and then towards the front door. Without waiting for permission, she stood, leaving his side. She paused, and turned in a small circle, looking for something. Finding what she needed, she picked up his sword and laid it next to him, then turned to leave.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 20:35:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He lay there and he listened to the small female scold him, or at least that’s what it sounded like. A smile crept across his face when she was done, seeing the amusement on hers. “Stay put… I get it” he said back to her in a gentle voice… He looked back at her, as she looked at him. It seemed several minutes went by. Her large pale eyes were amazing to look at, they were like sparkling gemstones and they subdued him. He was about to raise his hand to caress her face, but she pointed to the table then the door, and stood suddenly.<br><br>He was disappointed that she had left his side, and yet grateful. Getting to close to her would make the things he might need to do more difficult. He stayed lying on the bed, occasionally glancing about the room by turning his head from side to side. As usual, he followed her every move. He knew she was headed outside, and taking the dishes with her explained why, but when she went for his sword he flinched before sitting up suddenly. His large hand wrapped around her small, delicate wrist with some force as she held onto the sword. He looked at her with an air of authority and slowly shook his head… “Please do not touch my sword…” he said as she dropped it on the bed next to him… He finally let go of her wrist, allowing her to exit and complete the tasks she needed to. <br><br>Once she was outside he pushed the short sword against his leg before lying back down on the bed. He didn’t know what had come over him… He knew his sword could be the difference between life and death, and he figured she only wanted to put it closer to him… But he needed to show that even though he could be friendly, he was still in control of the situation. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 21:19:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was startled when he sat up so suddenly and grabbed her wrist, her eyes widening and her lips parting. In her need for companionship she had let herself forget he was as a wounded grizzly. She held perfectly still, not even breathing, as he held her wrist with some force. It seemed as if with one strong squeeze of his hand he could snap it like a twig. Again, she did not understand the words he spoke, but the message was crystal clear. She was not to touch his sword. It was only after she dropped it that he let her go. <br><br>As soon as he let her go she was moving towards the table and grabbing the dishes and heading out the door, her small feet moving quickly and silently out the door. She did not cast a glance at him, but kept her eyes down shamefully. <br><br>In the dim light of dusk she moved with confidence along her path to the river. Again her feet did not stray from the small partings in the undergrowth that she had used for countless years. Her path was hidden, but upon close examination one would see the spots of soil compacted and smooth. <br><br>At the edge of the river she sat heavily, dropping her burden beside her on the back, as she wished she could drop the sudden heaviness she felt. If only she could cast it aside. She had been foolish. Alorial made herself recognize that he was a monster, a Cestal, and he only needed her help for a short time, and then he would be gone. <br><br>She sat for several minutes with her eyes closed and her hands in her lap, but knew she couldn’t linger long. If she did he would think the worst, and would seek her out to make sure she hadn’t betrayed him. Alorial washed the pot and the dishes quietly, not singing like she ordinarily might. <br><br>When she entered her home she moved quietly to put the things in their places, the same places they had held for years. Each item had worn a place on it’s shelf, much like she had worn the hidden path outside with her feet. <br><br>Once things were put away she moved to the fire and with a thick cloth removed the pot of boiling water. With slow deliberate movements she made two cups of tea, one much larger than the other. When finished she pause and finally turned her eyes to him. They were much more wary than they had been before, though not exactly fearful. "Closed" might be the better term. She picked up the larger mug and walked towards the bed, holding it out to him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 16:56:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he lay on the bed he tried to consider his situation, and what the next day would bring. As a member of the Black Watch it was his duty to return to his realm at all cost. And it was also his duty to inflict damage upon his enemy as conveniently possible. If he’d been healthier, he would have attacked and killed the elves that came looking for him earlier but as it was he could barely stand. <br><br>He wondered where she’d gone too, wondering if he’d scared her off by grabbing her. He had to remember to be gentler with her; she was delicate to say the least. He pushed himself back into a sitting position, craning his neck to see outside through the small window by the door. He could see nothing as the sun had now set. He debated trying to go look for her…. He could not tell if it was concern for his safety or for hers… <br><br>He watched her as she finally returned, but he made no attempt to interrupt her. He wondered if he should apologize for grabbing her wrist, but he quickly shrugged the thought off. He was a wounded warrior behind enemy lines in a strange land. She was his prisoner and it was best if neither of them got too comfortable with the situation as everything could change at any moment.<br><br>His eyes remained cast upon her as she prepared the tea, when she stopped in front of him he reached for and grabbed the mug; he took in the soothing smell of the drink. “Thank you” he said in a sincere voice. He gestured to the other cup then patted the area next to him on the bed. “You need to understand that I mean you no harm” he lied, trying to conceal his true intentions… “But you need to be wary of your actions…. Do not reach for a weapon without asking, do not leave my presence without asking…” he said waving his own finger close to her face. He knew she couldn’t understand him, but perhaps the determination in his voice and the seriousness in his face would convey the type of message he wanted to get across to her.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 18:09:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial did as he indicated, and took her mug and sat beside him on the bed. It was his turn to scold her, a large finger in her face. As before, the words were meaningless, but the tone was unambiguous. He was in charge, he was the stronger of the two, and she needed to do as he instructed. He was lecturing her, on what she could guess. Maybe the picking up of his sword, and maybe the going outside. Probably both. <br><br>As she listened to his even and serious tone she watched him unblinking with wide pale eyes. She felt it would be bad to look away, so she merely lowered her head a smidgen, and watched him from under her long light colored lashes. He wasn’t exactly angry she didn’t think…but she couldn’t read what he was, other than serious. Cyprian wanted to make sure his message was clear, but there was something else in his round eyes. Something she had seen long ago, but could not put her finger on. <br><br>When he was done she nodded her head very delicately to indicate she had heard him. She wanted to clarify the message, just to make sure, so she pointed to the sword and shook her head. “Alorial.” &nbsp;She shook her head one more time.&nbsp; Then she pointed to the sword again. “Cyprian.” &nbsp;This time she nodded. <br><br>Next she pointed to the door and shook her head. “Alorial.” &nbsp;She shook her head one more time. Then she pointed once more, “Alorial Cyprian” and nodded. Hopefully she had understood his meaning, and hopefully he could understand hers. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 19:47:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched and listened to Alorial. She seemed to be getting the point. He followed her fingers and her movement and when she seemed to look down he did not hesitate to move his hand towards her, using his fingers to lift her chin so she was looking at him directly. He did not want her looking down in shame or fear. He wanted her to look at him, especially when they spoke. “Do not touch the sword.” He said holding the sheathed weapon up and shaking his head. He then imitated her by pointing at the door and again he shook his head. They seemingly had an understanding… He smiled, pleased. <br><br>He drank at the tea, enjoying the warming feeling of the hot liquid going down into his stomach. He couldn’t identify it, he figured it must be some elfish tea. It seemed the tea had a relaxing quality about it. He looked over to her, just sitting there sipping her tea. He smiled warmly at her. He looked down at the sword and he picked it up, moving it to the floor beyond the bed, out of sight. It was meant as a sign that he trusted her, that he didn’t think she would betray him. <br><br>Slowly he leaned in towards her, carefully gauging her reactions to this invasion of her personal space. He brought his face close to her neck, he smelled her hair and the skin beneath it. She smelled like… Well she smelled elfish, but mixed with flowers and exotic spices. He pulled away, still watching her. He turned away quickly, trying to stop that familiar feeling of need. It only lasted a moment as he turned to regard her again wondering if she’d ever felt the touch of another. For a warrior of Cyprian’s status and calibre he’d had many exploits with women, many of them worthy of song, but he wondered if she’d ever… With that thought he brought a hand up and brushed some of the soft as a feather hair from the side of her face. His fingers moved to feel the skin of her neck, lightly tracing a path along her jaw to the other side…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 21:27:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial returned his smile, her lips spreading and her expression softening to a more relaxed one. She was very glad he seemed pleased. They were managing. She might not know how to speak human, or he Elvin, but they were finding their way. She had picked up a few of his words, and wondered if he would teach her more. <br><br>As he drank his tea, she did the same, bringing the steaming cup to her lips and letting the warm liquid wash over her as she drank. This tea was one she had discovered herself in the forest. It’s leaves were unique, a dark caramel flavor and color, and only with the slightest hint of bitterness. What she loved most of all about it was the way it made her feel. It relaxed her from head to toe, and almost made her feel like she was floating on a cloud. When she drank it, she never thought about going home, or the solitude. Everything seemed right. She wondered if it would make Cyprian feel as euphoric…he was larger than she was, and it might not be strong enough. Then again, he was drinking more of it. But was the human metabolism different? It would be interesting to see. She watched him curiously. <br><br>She didn’t expect him to lean towards her, but she did not flinch or move away. He had hidden his sword away, to her that meant he intended no harm. For some reason he was moving towards her neck. This did give her pause, as that’s where her mark was, but she still did not move. Her brow furrowed slightly as he gently inhaled. Then he pulled away, but he did not look disgusted by her smell. He shouldn’t…she ran the petals of the Jacinth flower through her hair every morning. She had been doing it for so long even the river couldn’t scrub the scent away. <br><br>Alorial tilted her head in curiosity as he turned away, and then turned back. It was if he was trying to figure something out about her. She sat still and met his eyes with her own, feeling relaxed and calm and unthreatened. As he hand rose to brush the hair from her face she smiled, his fingers were as soft as spring wind. The wind whispered along her jaw and her neck. She had always liked a gentle breeze, and softly closed her eyes…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 17:04:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian wondered what was in the tea as he began to feel light headed. He wondered if perhaps she had poisoned him but the feeling wasn’t one of pain or discomfort, it was more of euphoria. He blinked several times trying to clear his mind but he did not move his hand from her skin. He loved her smile he realized, it was almost… inviting. His eyes wandered over the skin of her neck, one again landing on the mark.<br><br>He could no longer resist, he leaned forward until his wet lips pressed against the skin where the brand was. He kissed the skin there, his hand moved her head gently to the side giving him better access. His lips and tongue traced patterns along the scar, and he tasted her. He pulled back after a long moment, his eyes still closed and the taste, and feel of her skin lingered upon his lips. He pulled back finally, his eyes opening and his hand returning to his side. The room seemed to almost spin as he looked down at the large mug still in his hand. He had imbibed most of the liquid and felt very odd. His free hand came to touch his lips. <br><br>He was smiling now, a warm and inviting smile as he looked at her. He pointed at the mug in his hand, “what is this?” he asked curiously. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 20:02:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial’s eyes widened as he moved closer, but it was more in wonder than in fear. He seemed very non-threatening at the moment, but why the closeness? She continued to sit perched on her little cloud, the edges of her vision dancing, her had came up to rest on his upper arm as the heat of his body enveloped her. <br><br>And then his lips were on her skin. Alorial’s eyes fluttered closed and she inhaled long and slow at the exquisite feeling. His large hand came up to tilt her head and she obliged, giving him better access.&nbsp; It seemed he was feeling the mark with his tongue and his lips…was this a human thing? Could he taste the curse? Would he find it revolting? He didn’t seem to…<br><br>When he pulled back she held still, the now moist skin over the scar turning cool from the air, tempering the heat his lips and tongue had left upon her. Her mind focused on that one spot on her skin. With the influence of the tea, it tingled and came alive. <br><br>The sound of his voiced coaxed her eyes open again. He was holding the mug and looked curious. Her smile grew quite wide. He must like the tea. Alorial laughed softly, a light dancing sound. She finished the last of her mug, and then rose to show him. Alorial felt like she was moving very slowly, but she was in no hurry. Eventually she reached a shelf and pulled down a small clay pot. <br><br>Drifting back to him she settled on the bed, and held it in her lap. Her slender fingers wrapped around the handhold on the lid and she lifted it. Inside it was filled with dried leaves, the color an orange tan, not quite the same as a normal dried leaf. The smell was sweet and fragrant, and was dizzying of itself. She held the pot up to him. “Tandros.” &nbsp;She smiled very happily, the first wide and true smile she’d given him that showed her perfect white teeth. Every worry had faded. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 20:39:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The taste of her skin was still lingering on his lips as he smiled back at her. He loved the sound of her laughter, it had a lifting effect, he couldn’t help but chuckle at her. She was such a innocent creature, pure almost as he watched her float across the floor. She seemed to be moving slowly, or perhaps the speed at which his mind was working was increased… His brow creased as he contemplated this… He realized his mind was clouded, he’d obviously had enough of the tea, he put it on the floor and pushed it away. <br><br>Again she seemed to float, his eyes went to her small feet as they glided across the wood floor. He glanced into her lap after she’d settled back into her seat. He looked at the container as she opened it and he saw the orange leaves. He leaned in to smell, but that just made the room spin a little faster he realized as he pulled back smiling again. “T… Tandros?” he repeated. He hadn’t noticed but his arm closest to her was now behind her as he leaned back on the bed. He kept moving so it would brush against her gown. <br><br>As he watched her smiling face, he realized how badly he was attracted to her at this moment… he wondered if it was another side effect of the tea, perhaps it acted as an aphrodisiac? He could still taste her on his lips and he wanted to taste more, and feel her small body with his hands. He closed his eyes and tried to push those thoughts away but he could not. He wondered if she had any idea of what he was thinking, and if perhaps she thought the same… Still sitting very close to her he smiled, “You are a very beautiful creature Alorial” he whispered to her, his lips close to her ear. “I find you very appealing” he continued, not sure where he was going. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>31-07-2006, 09:43:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As he repeated the word she nodded, smiling widely. “Tandros…” &nbsp;she remembered the word he had said when he nodded. “…yes, Tandros.” &nbsp;He had taken a whiff, and now Alorial did as well, closing her eyes as the fragrant leaves filled her head with their scent. The scent felt as if it took her on a flight around the room, and she only settled back into her place on the soft bed next to Cyprian as she exhaled it away. <br><br>Alorial felt his arm behind her. It was like the back to a chair, just like on the one he had broken with his human frame. She giggled softly, her eyes twinkling like evening stars as she thought of his large heavy frame trying to sit in the Elvin chair. She had not seen what had happened, had only heard the fall, but naturally assumed it had given under the weight of his muscles. <br><br>And as his arm was like a back to a chair, she thought it natural to lean against it. She placed the lid back on the pot and set it on the floor, pushing it away as Cyprian had done with his Tandros tea. Now that she had no burden, she leaned back; her slight form resting against his strong arm like a too tall blade of prairie grass might lean against a fallen tree. She sighed contentedly, comfortable with his presence and the support of his arm. <br><br>As she sat near him, she watched his expressive face. It was oh so expressive, much more than the elves. The elves were stoic, only coming to life in the most extreme of times. Alorial was a little different, given her time away, but remembered quite well what her brethren were like. And they most certainly weren’t demonstrative, like Cyprian had been with his lips to her neck. Alorial was about positive humans must just touch more. Cyprian had touched her quite a bit, granted it was usually on her wrist, but there had been other moments. Many of them since drinking the tea. <br><br>As he smiled and spoke so softly, so close to her ear, her expression changed. She smiled delicately, but it was confused and curious. She had recognized her name, but nothing else. And even as she had not understood his words since his appearance, she had usually been able to decipher his tone. But this…this was…different. <br><br>The tone was as gentle and warm as his breath on her ear, but like his breath, seemed to indicate life. There was more to his tone that she could not read, but that spoke of something more expressive than just a simple whisper. It was almost as if his tone felt as sweet and tender as the time he had brushed the hair from her face and traced his fingers along his neck, and at the same time it was as hungry as he had been before he had devoured the first meal. It was a tone she had not heard before. <br><br>Wanting to share and communicate with him, Alorial decided to try what she perceived to be a human custom. As he had done, she reached up slowly with one hand and tilted his head to the side. She turned towards him and nestled her face between her head and his shoulder. Softly she brought her lips to a battle scar on his neck, lightly tracing it and following the jagged line of it. Also as he had done to her, she licked it gently, her warm velvet tongue sneaking from between her pale lips to taste his weathered flesh. His skin was salty and sweet both, and she was amazed to find that she liked the taste of it, it was unlike anything else. Alorial&nbsp; wondered if she tasted the same. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>31-07-2006, 18:34:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At first he wondered if she was feeling any of the euphoric sensations he was, but his question was quickly answered. The way her eyes darted about gave him the impression she was floating on a cloud on the inside. He loved hearing her voice, and when she spoke his language he loved that even more. The room still spun slightly though slower than before. He could hear the cackling of the fire and the breeze outside the dwelling. Other than that all he could hear was the fast pounding of his heart. It was sounding like the drums he heard as a youth in his homeland during the Harvest Festivals. <br><br>He was surprise to feel her leaning back against his arm, though it was a welcome surprise. Though she pressed into his arm he barely felt her weight, indicating she was lighter than he would have even guessed. He could tell by her smile and her sigh she was glad he was there, which led him to other questions he knew would not be answered. How long had she been here, and how long had it been since someone was by to see her? <br><br>He enjoyed the looks she gave him, inviting they were, and warm. It almost seemed to Cyprian as though she was unaccustomed to smiling… and giggling. In a way that saddened him on the inside. A maiden like this should be treasured, like the finest jewels; she should be given all the love and attention she deserved. She should be treated like a lady, nay, like a Princess he decided. <br><br>He was slightly surprised by her forwardness, but was not disappointed. He felt her delicate fingers touch his skin and it left a tingling sensation wherever they made contact. He let her hand direct his head and he watched as she turned and leaned into him. The feel of her soft lips upon his skin forced his eyes to close. He wanted to concentrate on the feel of her lips without distraction. He swallowed hard, and was sure it must have been audible. Never had a woman paid so much attention to him, or had caressed his skin in such a manner. From her lips to her tongue, it was enough to drive a lesser man crazy. <br><br>But Cyprian was not a lesser man, he let her continue for a moment before his hands came to pull her shoulders away. He looked at her, deep into her eyes so he may see into her soul. He wanted this creature very badly, which was apparent by the lump in his breeches, but still he was in control. His body was telling him to throw her down upon the bed and take her for his pleasure, but his heart and mind told him no. That was not a measure of who he was. Instead he leaned his head towards hers, pressing his wet lips gently against hers in a passionate moment…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>31-07-2006, 20:59:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial sensed, rather than saw, his eyes close. And she had heard the swallow, forceful and deep. Once again she wasn’t sure what was meant, but he didn’t seem to dislike what she was doing, and he wasn’t pushing her away…she must be performing the custom satisfactorily. But just as she had that impression, he took her shoulders and moved her away from him. But it was not harsh or impatient, and still she smiled as she looked at the wounded man.&nbsp; <br><br>They looked at each other for a long moment. Cyprian looked deep into her eyes, and Alorial had a sense he could see every thought and every part of her as she floated around him. And she looked deep into his eyes, and she saw the visual representation of the tone his whisper had had. That tender hunger, the ravenous sweetness. It was just now as they stared in each other eyes that she had a sense he was seeing her as a woman, and not as an elf. And under the influence of the tea, it only touched her. <br><br>Alorial had seen the Elvin men and women kiss on occasion before she had been banished, but it had been nothing like the passionate meeting that was born from her Cyprian’s meeting lips. The Elves, like their expressions, were stoic in their kisses, utilitarian. Cyprian was much more dynamic. Alorial tried to match his human kiss, closing her eyes and pressing her full pale lips to his. Her upper and lower lip parted slightly to take his bottom lip between hers. And as she kissed for the first time her graceful hands rose to rest on the corded muscles of his chest. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 16:27:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As the kiss continued Cyprian was pleased to see she seemed to be enjoying it. He figured she’d be scared and hesitant, but she turned out to be neither. Her forwardness might be a result of the odd tea, but it was welcomed by Cyprian. She was eager to explore, and Cyprian was eager to be her subject, though he wanted to explore as well. <br><br>His breathing became laboured, but he showed no signs of slowing as he flicked his tongue across her soft, pale lips. His hands moved down her sides before stretching out towards her back, then one moved back up. It seemed his hands were constantly in motion, wanting to touch every inch of her back and sides. He was glad for this moment… It was a moment of peace, though a battle was being fought within his heart. His mind wanted him to pull away, knowing no good could come of this…. <br><br>But his heart wanted to continue, and continue it did, for a while at least. He laid down on the bed pulling her along with him. His tongue began to probe for hers, as his lips continued to press against her wet mouth. One hand ended up at the back of her neck, and he pulled her lips into his a bit harder. Not able to resist, the other hand moved a bit lower, over the firmness of her rear. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 19:49:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial slipped her tongue next to his, the pale pink muscle delicately moving in a slow rhythm. It kind of tickled, but felt very nice. There was nothing she could liken it to, and didn’t try to think of anything. As she explored his large mouth under the influence of the Tandros, she just enjoyed it. <br><br>What she really enjoyed was his hands, and the way they washed over her form like the firm current of the river. He touched her innocently at first, but even these innocent touches were far more than any Alorial had ever felt. The flesh of her body had been hers and hers alone. The flesh of her body, pale and rejected by the sun, was disgusting to the elves. But Cyprian seemed to not find it repulsive. Alorial craved more, and as his large palm cupped her round firm buttock, she started to feel a different craving…one wholly unrecognizable and new. <br><br>Alorial’s brow furrowed just slightly in wonder. The scent of Cyprian, earthy and subtle was filling her senses, and growing stronger as his body heated. She inhaled it deeply, as she did the Tandros, finding the effect it had on her just as desirable, even if it was more subtle. She was experiencing not only his scent, but the feel of his rough cheek scraping against her silky smooth one…yet another sensation and touch she’d never felt. <br><br>Feeling the coarse growth on his face reminded her of another patch of hair he had that she found curious. Her small Elvin hand slid from his chest down his abdomen to rest at his navel. Her fingers entwined softly in the downy hair that disappeared into his breeches, just toying with it curiously as she learned to kiss him, mimicing his movements as best she could. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 20:14:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian knew he had to end this but he let it go a little further. Now lying flat on his back his arms pulled her body tightly against his, even if it was a bit to the side. She explored his mouth with her tongue and he did likewise, running it along her lips, her teeth and entwining with hers. The hand near her rear slowly pulled the dress she wore up, bit by bit continuing to knead the flesh between hikes. <br><br>He found her to be very appealing, more and more with each passing moment. His arousal was apparent in the lump in his breeches, causing a bit of a tenting effect. It reached its full size as her hand began to caress the trail of hair that led there. She felt small in his hands, but he knew she was a full grown elfish female. He’d never seen a mated pair of elves and he knew nothing of elfish mating rituals, or even if they copulated as humans did. He was very eager to find out. <br><br>Her cheeks brush against his making a slight scrapping sound, and he could tell she was curious about it. He continued to hold her tightly his other hand moving to stroke her beautiful soft hair, which had now spilt about both their faces. Things were getting heated, almost too much so. The battle raged on within him. He wanted to take advantage of her innocence, but knew it wasn’t right. Perhaps he could let things go a little further, just a bit more he debated with himself. After all she seemed to be enjoying herself as much as he was… What right did he have to deny her the simple pleasures she’d been denied by her own people.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 20:54:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial felt strange, almost as if she had a fever or a sickness as she devoursed Cyprian’s mouth and lips as he did hers. She was slightly dizzied, even more than the Tandros could explain, and she had curious sensations in her body. Almost like the ache of muscles that had been overworked and needed a soothing massage. She pressed close to him, and on their own accord, her hips pressed into his side. <br><br>Her pale eyes had been closed so she could concentrate on the new feelings and sensations and what she perceived to be human customs. As such was the case, she did not see the growth in his breeches. But as she pressed to his side, partially laying on him, her leg brushed against the hard ridge hidden by his clothing. <br><br>Alorial knew the technicalities of mating, but she knew nothing of the pleasure or passion associated it. She was aware of the mechanics…but knew not of intimacy, or of coupling for pleasure. Occasionaly she had felt stirrings within her mature body, but had ignored them as best she could until they went away. And she had only a vague idea of the hunger males possessed to breed, wanting to continue their family line, but not that the hunger was for any other reason. But at the feel of his swollen manhood against her leg, her Tandros influenced mind started to try and connect the dots, to come to realizations. <br><br>But Tandros Alorial didn’t want to think. She just wanted to be, and pushed away the naggings starting to awaken in the corners of her mind. Instead she wanted to explore the awakenings in her body. If not for the tea she would probably be shying away, but as it was, she just wanted to drown in the sensations and the stimulus. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 21:15:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The heat was intensifying, and the only sound he could hear was the cackling fire and their wet kisses. Finally he moaned into her mouth, unable to stop himself. He felt her hips press into him, and in response he pushed his growth into her. His hand continued to caress the soft skin of her rear, often pulling her into him. He wanted to be free of the damn breeches he realized and considered starting to pull the laces that held them bound. <br><br>He wondered if she really knew what could happen, or what might happen as it was. Her hand still worked at his navel and it was the light tracing and brushing of those small fingers that was causing him to begin bucking his hips lightly, wanting her hand to move lower… Of course the bucking action cause a severe pain to return to his side. <br><br>The pain had a sobering effect on his mind, and as he returned to his sense he realized what was happening, what he was allowing to happen. This was wrong on so many levels. Fraternizing with the enemy was punishable by death, and as far as he knew it had never happened. He let go of her dress and brought his hands to her shoulders as softly as he could. He pushed her away… “I’m … I’m sorry Alorial… this is wrong… I cannot…” was all he could mutter as he pushed her to a sitting position. The lump in his breeches was still very apparent, but Cyprian was a noble warrior… <br><br>He pulled himself to sit besides her again… he could no longer look her in the eyes; he stared down as his booted feet. “I’m sorry” he said again in an apologetic voice though one hand was snaked around her waist and held on tightly. His head told him this was the right thing to do. He could not get attached to this creature. His heart however had a different opinion… His heart and soul wanted to continue what they had started…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 06:31:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was lost in the sea of the feelings Cyrpian was rousing. She held on to his kiss, letting it keep her from being washed completely away. The longer they slid their lips together and entwined their tongues, the more the small tree home became transparent. She was only vaguely aware of anything that existed beyond the two of them. <br><br>Alorial did not know exactly what was happening, but whatever it was, she felt drawn to it, and in her present state, had no fear or trepidation. All she knew was that this vibrant living creature had invaded her world, and for the first time she felt as if she was more than a shadow. Alorial felt as if she finally existed, and was corporeal, and not just a phantom that lived insignificantly in the woods. She was more aware of her breath, now that it was becoming heavier and more labored. She was more aware of her heart now that she could hear it in her ears. She was more aware of her skin, as her gown was gradually raised and the air fell upon her legs. She was aware that she liked to be touched, and that friction was pleasant. <br><br>And she was achingly aware of him. Her body pressed to his, and he pulled her closer with his hands. As her hand toyed with the curious patch of hair on his navel she felt his skin heat, like a clay baking pot. She could hear his labored breathing in her ears, and feel it wash across her cheeks. And she could feel his strong body as her legs instinctually parted as her hips stirred. But mostly she was aware of his hard large manhood at the apex of his thighs, and that his hips stirred as hers did. <br><br>But then he was pushing her gently away with his strong hands, moving them both to sitting. Alorial didn’t understand what had happened…had she done something incorrectly? But he sounded apologetic, and he was using that word he had used several times before when he had sounded apologetic, ‘sorry’. Why was he sorry? And why wouldn’t he look at her? He was still touching her…and had even taken ahold of her around her waist. <br><br>She was so confused, and sat very still, watching his face intently with her pale eyes, even as he refused to move his gaze from his boots. But thankfully the euphoric effect of the tea kept her from taking it as a personal slight or intense rejection. Instead of the hurt she could be feeling, the dominant emotion was confusion. <br><br>Alorial raised her hand and set it on his shoulder, patting it softly, trying to comfort him. A soft sweet smile crossed her lips as she gazed at the regretful man. She didn’t want him to be sorry and unhappy. She wanted him as happy as she was right now. There was a way he could be happy. It was the way she stopped bad feelings. &nbsp;“Cyprian Tandros?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 15:35:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His arm remained around her waist and he pulled her, and squeezed her tightly and reassuringly. He finally glanced back at her when she spoke. He could see the look of confusion upon her face, and he just smiled warmly at her, hoping to dispel any thoughts that she had done something wrong. “Alorial…” he started, speaking softly, hardly the voice of a warrior. His other hand moved to stroke the side of her face. “No, no Tandros…” he said, the last thing he needed was to cloud his judgement further. <br><br>Again he smiled at her… “It is OK Alorial; I’m not upset with you…. This just isn’t right.” Who was he fooling; it had felt right, almost too right. He’d been with many women, but none had felt as right as Alorial had just moments before, and yet he’d stopped himself. The still very apparent lump in his breeches made that obvious enough. He needed to do or say something to make her see that his stopping wasn’t her fault… He gestured to the bandages at his side… “Pain, hurt” he said making cringing faces. He put his hands together and laid them along his face… “Sleep, very tired…” he said, finally gesturing to the bed. <br><br>He moved his hands away from her, he pointed to himself and then to the rug, “I need to sleep, regain my strength” he said as he bent low and began removing his boots…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 18:42:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She leaned against him as his arm tightened reassuringly around her, drinking in his warmth and solidity. His warm smile fed hers, making it grow larger and wider. He was obviously not displeased with her. Her slightly hazy pale eyes sparkled as he looked at her and spoke with a voice as gentle as a butterfly’s first flight.&nbsp; He didn’t want tea, and that was fine. <br><br>As he kept talking, she got the message that he was in pain, and her face lost the confused look. She nodded softly to indicate understanding. Her eyes flicked to the telltale lump in his breeches, curious if it hurt as well, but mostly she just looked at his handsome face and listened to the softness his strong voice had taken on. <br><br>When he pointed to the rug and bent to remove his boots, she slipped from the bed to kneel at his feet. She shook her head as she pointed to the rug and looked up at him. “Bai…No…Cyrprian no maer ol si <i>vel</i>.” &nbsp;She pointed to the bed. “Cyrprian maer ol si <i>shaer</i>...yes.” &nbsp;She tried to look stern, and reached to push his hands aside so she could remove his boots for him. The 'yes' had not been a question, but an order. He would not sleep on the floor, she had easily gotten his message that he was tired and in pain, and she would have him comfortable. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 19:53:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was glad she didn’t seem to upset. When she glanced down at the large lump in his breeches he shifted a bit, trying not to look embarrassed. He continued to smile at her as she slid to the ground. He knew a woman like Alorial should kneel before no man, but he hadn’t the strength to fight with her, and he truly did appreciate the gesture. He had become weary, and looked forward to sleeping. <br><br>Her voice still sounded musical to him, and he watched her pale lips move in harmony with the rest of her body. He watched at her pointing at the bed and back. He would have been content with the rug, but would not object to sharing her bed. He noticed when she spoke there was a sternness in her voice suddenly, as if she was telling him he was sleeping on the bed. He grinned at the thought of this small, almost frail creature ordering him around. <br><br>Once his boots were removed he loosened the stings holding his breeches, easing some of the discomfort. He took hold of Alorial’s shoulders, pulling up to stand in front of him. He looked up and her eyes, and was caught for a lingering moment. Her eyes had a way of trapping him, for a moment he could not move, nor look away.... Finally, and hesitantly he did let go, and he pushed himself till his head was near the head of the bed and he lay back, his head now resting on the soft pillow. He looked at Alorial and gestured for her to join him. He would not take advantage of her, but he wanted to sleep with her body in his arms so that he may dream of her. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>03-08-2006, 09:30:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She loosened the laces and pulled the leather boots from his feet, just as she had earlier when he had taken rest upon the rug, the rug now stained with his blood. It was ruined, she would have to dispose of it somehow. Probably would be best to burn it, as she did most of her discarded items…of which there were few. <br><br>At her command that he was to sleep on the bed and not the floor, he grinned. She was a little surprised to see the expression. It was as if he was amused with her. It dawned on her that she would have no way of making him do anything he didn’t want to do. Perhaps that was what he was grinning at, the thought of her trying. The thought made her grin as well. She would only push on him futiley, like an autumn leaf swirling blow against the side of the might tree it fell from, if she tried to move him. He was just too large and strong. <br><br>She smiled softly as he took hold of her shoulder and pulled her to her feet. At her height of 5’3 and the weight of a hundred pounds, she was the size of a small human woman. But he seemed massive to her. Truthfully to him the difference in size might not seem so extreme, but to Alorial it was. She had only seen lithe Elvin males before, their bodies willowy and graceful. She had never seen the corded muscles and thick biceps and thighs. And standing in front of him, standing to her full height, she felt she should be looking down on him more than she was, but he was practically looking her in the eye, even as he still sat. <br><br>They looked at one another. The moment seemed to stretch and she tilted her head the slightest bit as she returned his gaze. There was so much depth to his eyes, so many untold stories that she would never know, even if he did want to tell her. She could learn his language, but it would take time…time they wouldn’t have. She was certain when he was healed he would leave. The thought was not nearly so dreadful now as it had been before…the Tandros soothed the sting. <br><br>Alorial had planned on sleeping on the floor herself, not wanting to disturb him. When he motioned for her to join him she paused. Only Elvin mates shared beds…not friends and not strangers. He was not her mate. And he wasn’t exactly the same as a friend either. But what was the difference of laying on the bed next to him as opposed to laying on the floor with him, as she had done before. Nothing. And besides, the elves had cast her out. She was not going to follow silly traditions that would not affect her. <br><br>Alorial walked over to the candle and extinguished it, leaving the only light in the room the soft glow of the dying fire. She drifted back to the bed and sat on it. One at a time she pulled her delicate feet up and removed her sandals. She normally did not sleep in her gown, but figured it&nbsp; best for now. <br><br>Once her feet were bare she turned to look down at him. The bed might be long, but it wasn’t even twice his width. She would be laying more than just next to him. She would have to lay <i>next</i> to him, with him. Alorial hesitated, unsure of what the proper way to lay with him would be. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>04-08-2006, 19:12:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian’s eyes did not wander far from her form as she moved away to extinguish the candle or as she returned, in the near darkness. He observed as she sat on the edge of the bed, and she looked down at him. He wondered what she was waiting for, but he realized this might be more intimate than she would be used to. Thoughts again returned to the idea of how long she’d been living here alone….<br><br>He moved until he was on his back at the edge of one side and extended his arm to the far side. With the other hand he gestured for her to lay down, hopefully her head on his shoulder. The fire in his loins had lessened, and he hoped with her so close he could put her out of his thoughts long enough to get to sleep. With the laces of his breeches loosened, he was beginning to 'tent', cursing under his breath for his lack of body control...<br><br>“Come Alorial… come and lay with me” he said as he kept gesturing for her to move next to him….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 10:29:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial watched as Cyprian slid his body over and held out his arm. He made a little nook for her to sleep in next to his body it seemed. He was using her pillow, though there were others on the floor. But the way he was positioned, and the space he had made for her, it would make more sense to use him as a pillow. <br><br>Alorial curled her pale lips slightly in a smile, and reached for the foot of the bed, grabbing a blanket. She slid her body next to him. She laid her head on his shoulder, her silk hair spreading over his arm. Alorial sighed contentedly as she settled next to him, his body head warming her. With her soft cheek pressed to his skin she could feel his heart beating, and hear it with her Elvin ear. <br><br>With her upper arm she spread the blanket over them. Only Elvin mates shared beds, and while she didn’t think Cyprian wanted to be her mate, she did recognize that there was an intimacy to their closeness. To Alorial it signified an acceptance, and a step in their friendship. She had no idea when it meant to Cyprian, and wondered if humans took different steps in their relationships. Perhaps this was common for them, just a way to conserve heat. No matter what it was, Alorial decided she liked the feel of his solid body next to her, and the gentle feel of the rise and fall of his chest. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 02:19:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian noticed how Alorial pulled the blanket, and once he got a grip on it, he helped her pull it to cover them. He liked the way she melded into him, the feel of her hair cascading over his arm and shoulder and the feel of her cheek upon his skin. Her body was cool, cooler than he would have suspected but he thought nothing of it. The arm that she laid across curled and pulled her to him. <br><br>If this were a human woman he’d likely had taken her by now, but he was worried about how delicate she was, and considering his situation, he didn’t want to feel like he was taking advantage of her. On the other hand, he’d likely have to kill her come morning, so what would it matter? He breathed deeply, taking in her scent once again. His arm pulled her tightly against him and he turned slightly towards her. <br><br>Perhaps it was the effect of the tea, or perhaps it was the scent of this most lovely of females that lay next to him but his eyes became heavy. The shadows flickering on the wall were mesmerizing and it wasn’t long before he fell into a deep sleep…….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>09-08-2006, 02:46:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was sleepy, and the tea made it worse, but she floated on consciousness a little longer. It was very comfortable lying with Cyprian, cuddled against his chest with his large arm encircling her. He had turned partway towards her, and she could feel his warm breath whisper across her forehead as he breathed deep. <br><br>Even though the tea still had her feeling happy, she was contemplating the situation. She liked having Cyprian here…but it was dangerous for him, dangerous for them both. She may not get visits from the elves, but they were about sometimes. There was evidence of their passing. And if they were looking for him, would they give up the search easily? Or would they come back…<br><br>And then there were the questions of the battles he had been in. He had killed elves, that had been established, and the elves would kill him if they found him. Why? Was it just the legendary hatred between the races? He had warmed to her she thought…the desire his body had for her was plain, there was no denying it, and yet he restrained himself and did not take her by force. Either the lore of the humans was wrong, or he was different than a normal human…or perhaps it was a bit of both. <br><br>She sighed deeply, inhaling his masculine human scent. It was soothing. He had gotten firm with her several times, but he had never hurt her, and she didn’t think he would. If anything, she felt safer in his presence. Alorial let her eyes drift closed, falling asleep several hours later than Cyprian, her body finally too tired to keep awake. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>09-08-2006, 16:31:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian awoke like he usually did, at first light. He blinked a few times, his eyes adjusting to the various bands of sunlight peeking through the cracks in the wood and through the skylight above. He turned slightly to look upon Alorial still sleeping in his arms. He was surprised he’d slept through the night, but he figured the tea, and his wounds probably had something to do with that. <br><br>He felt very warm, and he moved the blanket so it no longer covered his body, only hers. He flexed the muscles in his side and felt a shudder of pain, and he cringed noticeably. He relaxed himself. Otherwise the pain was slight. He should be able to move around today he decided. He needed to start moving south as soon as possible figuring the elves would return, and probably in greater numbers, perhaps they would even send a Ranger, or worse, a magic wielding Sentinel…<br><br>He glanced down at his sword, on the floor close by, then he looked at the woman in his arms… Not yet, it wasn’t time he decided. Laying his head back down on the soft pillow he kissed the top of Alorial’s head. He hated himself suddenly for getting her into this, she was innocent, completely and obviously unaware of the war that raged far to the South East. His hand moved to stoke her soft hair. <br><br>His stomach crawled again, indicating he was hungry but he forced himself to remain silent and still, not wanting to wake the lovely creature. His dressings would also need changing soon, as he could see the red stains beginning to show through the bandages. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 16:42:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial slept a time longer than Cyprian, snuggled next to his warmth. Her dreams were soft and content for the most part, her sleep deep and untroubled. The soft gentle breath easing from her parted lips was slow and rhythmic, and completely tranquil as he held her close. <br><br>Eventually she stirred, and not long after, stirred again. Her body was awakening, drifting from the fogginess of slumber. And even before she was fully awake, a small smile curled her pale lips. She could smell Cyprian’s earthy and male scent, and could feel the firmness of him next to her. It took no conscious thought to bring the smile to her lips. It was all a basal reaction to his presence. It was a smile that slipped away a little as consciousness finally did wash the last of her sleep away. Without the euphoric effects of the tea, she was a bit more aware of the situation they found themselves in. <br><br>Alorial slowly sat up next, and nodded a good morning to him, smiling shyly, and not nearly as peacefully as she had when she had still be clinging to sleep. Her ivory hair cascaded down over her shoulder, and her pale eyes took him in, in the rays of light criss-crossing the dim light of the room. <br><br>She pointed to the fire and the ‘kitchen’ area, her eyes questioning. With one hand she patted his belly, and pointed again, still looking questioning.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 21:11:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He’d felt her stir the first time, but he remained completely silent and still, not wanting to wake her if he could avoid it. But the second time he just smiled as he watched her eyes flutter about. Her smile, even before having seen him indicated she’d slept well, and peacefully. He smiled back at her. He wasn’t sure why he was smiling, he just was. <br><br>He watched her as she sat, and looked about the room, He looked up at her, as he remained flat on his back. His arm slid around his waist, almost subconsciously. The hand then slid up to feel her soft hair as it hung loosely off her shoulders. She looked down at him, and in could see himself in her large eyes… and in that instant he was reminded of who, or what he was and his smile faded somewhat. <br><br>When she pointed to the kitchen area, and to his stomach, he nodded, “yes… I am very hungry… again” she must think him an animal, constantly hungry and from what little he saw her eat, he must have seemed gluttonous for food. He slowly pushed himself up to sit next to her as he looked around the place. His side felt much better, as long as he didn’t try to flex, or overexert the area in some way. He slid himself slowly to the edge of the bed but made no effort to rise, simply content for the time being to sit with his feet on the floor. Since seeing himself in her eyes, he had difficulty making eye contact….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 09:34:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded and said that word, ‘yes’, He understood what she had asked, something that made her smile grow a fraction. They were communicating, despite the fact they couldn’t speak each other’s language. As he moved to sit, she watched, ready to help. He seemed to be doing well though, something else that made her smile grow. Alorial kept waiting fro him to look back at her, so she could communicate with her expression how pleased she was that he was healing.<br><br>But he was looking at the floor. She waited another long moment for him to look her in the eye, but when he didn’t, she quietly rose. Perhaps his head hurt? Maybe the wounds were causing a fever that made it difficult to hold his head up. She reached a pale hand out to rest on the skin of his forehead…no, it was no warmer than when she had first encountered him, even though that was warmer than her own cool flesh. <br><br>Alorial let her hand float away, and took a step back. Maybe he just liked quiet and solitude in the morning. She stooped and picked up the discarded mugs from the evening before and then headed to prepare a meal. Alorial did not normally eat much in the mornings, but he was a large creature, he was probably ravenous at every time of day. <br><br>On her tiptoes once more, she pulled a plate from the high shelf. On it she piled various kind of berries, a large scoop of shelled walnuts, and a substantial chunk of cheese. She looked at her cheese basket and frowned at the supply, her eyes then moving to the jars of wooden balls. The cheese would run out, but she would just have to gather other food later in the day. <br><br>Once the plate was heaping, she brought it to him and held it out, along with the large mug, filled with cool water. If he acceptaded it she retrieved a clean gown, this one a pale blue a few shades darker than her eyes. She pointed to the door. “Alorial?” &nbsp;Asking permission to go bathe and change her clothing. She would welcome the opportunity for privacy as he ate his breakfast. If he gave her permission.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 17:16:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He was surprised when her hand touched his forehead, but he did not pull away, nor did he look at her. Her touch was cool, something that he found intriguing considering the warmth of the dwelling. He was a bit disappointed when she stepped back, but made no move to show it. His eyes stayed fixed on her form as she busied herself. The smell of the fruit reached his nose and he breath deeply as he watched her return with the large plate. <br><br>He accepted both the heaping plate and the mug with a smile, taking a long drink from the water. He bent and set the mug on the floor before finally laying his eyes on her larger pale ones for an instant before she moved to retrieve some fresh clothing. He watched her, following her finger to the door. With the clean gown in her hand he quickly figured out what she wanted. He nodded his answer to her. “Yes, Alorial, you may go if you wish…” he pointed to the door. <br><br>He moved his hand to the plate of food and grabbed a large amount of fruit, placing it into his mouth, enjoying the mixture of flavours and juices…<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 20:06:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled softly as his interesting eyes finally met hers again, even if it was but for an instant, and took warmth from his smile. And he gave her permission to go bathe, the sound of her name tumbling from his lips. It wasn’t the same graceful sound an elf might use, Cyprian’s speech was more syncopated, but it sounded lovely to her none the less. <br><br>Alorial watched him for just a moment more; at the voracious way he devoured the fruit, and hoped she had given him enough to eat. Gathering would definitely be in order that afternoon, lest she let him starve. She shook her small head at the thought of how much he ate, and slipped her form out the door. <br><br>The morning sun warmed the glad through the canopy of the trees. She avoided the direct sunlight, but the air had heated around her just enough. Pausing to take a deep breath, she let the scents of the dirt and leaves and flora fill her senses. The breeze had shifted from the day before, and she could not smell the river today. <br><br>Alorial headed for the river’s edge, but once there, hesitated before removing her green gown and bathing. Before yesterday she would have thought nothing of it. But now…her quiet existence had been interrupted twice. First by Cyprian, and second, by the other elves. Her solitary part of the forest didn’t seem so solitary anymore. <br><br>Deciding she was being silly, she stripped her gown off and quickly entered the cool water, her pale skin bright in the shaded part of the river. Cyprian’s arrival and that of the elves had been related…it did not mean she would be disturbed again. But she wouldn’t linger. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>13-08-2006, 12:46:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched her form as it exited the dwelling. He smiled, by the gods she was beautiful, and yet she seemed so sad from her being abandoned by her own people… No matter, that would all be over soon enough he decided. He finished the fruit and cheese quite quickly feeling rejuvenated already. He decided he wouldn’t get caught with his breeches down again should the elves return. <br><br>He rose slowly, glad to see his body was steady enough, and as long as his paces were small he felt no additional pain at all from his injuries. He mode his way across the floor to the pile that had become his armour. Grabbing the pile he pulled them to the bed, where he sat once more. He reach for, and donned his greaves, first the legs, then the arms. <br><br>He knew he would have to leave this place at some point today, he knew he would be safer out there, in the wilds. This was too open, and he had no doubt his enemy would return. Most likely many humans had escaped the elven slaughter, and would be roaming these woods, seeking to return to their homeland. If he could meet up with some of them, their chances of survival would increase. On the other hand what chance did he have, he was no doubt deep in enemy territory with wounds that might prevent him from properly defending himself.<br><br>The situation was grim he was thinking as he lifted the main part of the armour. It was made up of a strong steel breastplate with several plate and chain attachments. Where it used to be smooth and shiny it was now gritted with dents and scratched and he knew he’d need to beat out the large dent in the side before he could don it once again, and he knew he wouldn’t be able to beat at it in his current condition… He dropped the thing to the floor with a loud clang. <br><br>He stood again, and moved to the door, opening it slowly and peering outside. He spotted no one, but he could hear the sounds of water splashing coming from the direction of the river. He considered walking down to see her, but ultimately decided against it. He would allow her her privacy. He moved to a stump near the door and let himself fall gently upon it, and he began to consider his next move…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 18:36:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial marveled again at the way the water had changed direction. It just didn’t make sense to her. It never occurred to her it could be magic, or that the elves had changed its course. Her thoughts traveled to the gods, and if they had been angry with someone or something, and if they had been a punishment somehow. It didn’t affect her much, the water seemed warmer, as it wasn’t flowing from the mountains for a change, and that was actually welcome. The warm water was soothing. Too soothing, as despite her intentions, she found herself delaying her departure. <br><br>Alorial knew she needed to tend to Cyprian, especially since if she took too long, he would likely look for her. She didn’t wish for him to see her full paleness, she felt like a ghost in the water, even she could see how her skin practically glowed, even in the shadowed daylight. Beyond modesty, she was ashamed of her skin. Cyprian seemed to feel some sort of affection or friendship for her, she was confused at to what exactly it was, but she didn’t wish to spoil it with revealing herself, no, she would stay as covered as possible, and was grateful for the long gowns with the long sleeves that she always wore. <br><br>Eventually she forced herself to finish her relaxing bath. One last plunge under the surface to let the current clean her hair, and she would be finished. She rose from the water face first, letting the water smooth back her ivory hair, her eyes closed. With her eyes closed, she did not see the figure watching her from the opposite side of the bank. <br><br>As she wiped the water from her eyes, she turned towards the bank she would climb onto. Emerging from the water, she dried herself with the green dress, and wrung her hair as dry as she could. The pale blue dress then slipped over her head to settle on her curves, and she headed up the trail towards home. <br><br>When Cyprian came into sight, sitting upon his stump, her first instinct was to smile. But when she saw he had donned his armor, she frowned slightly. She approached him slowly, having learned how his moods could swing. As her hair made her gown damp over the shoulders and back, she reached forward with one finger and touched his bracers. “Shia eisi o shaesol os eisys, Cyprian?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 19:57:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was sitting, enjoying the cool breeze as it hit his bare chest, or at least the part that wasn’t covered by bloodied bandages. Still, the fresh air was doing wonders to clearing his head. And his greaves were making him feel a bit more at home. Yesterday was the first time he’d taken them off in over a month he figured. They had become almost like a second skin to him. He wished he would have been able to don the rest of his armour, but that would have to wait until he had the strength to beat the dents out of it.<br><br>He noticed her approach and he smiled at her. With the light of day behind her, and her hair still dripping slightly he realized how truly beautiful this creature was. It went far beyond the simple beauty of the many human females from his homeland, this was a delicate, exquisite beauty born of nature. She required no accessories for her beauty was natural. It was not only in her appearance, but in her graceful movements, and her musical voice. The gown she wore clung to her flesh, most likely from the dampness of her skin, and it left no part of her figure to the imagination. He found himself drawn to her, his thoughts constantly picturing her he realized. And yet he felt more and more like he would have to kill her, if not for the safety of his body then to save his sanity. <br><br>He tilted his head when he saw her frown, such a beautiful woman should never be made to frown. She moved slowly, but with purpose. He watched as her finger touch the greave upon his arm. He realized she could have pointed to the armour from a distance, but yet she approached and touched the cold steel. There was a hint of sadness in his eyes as he smiled back at her. He didn’t know what she’d asked, and was only slightly certain it had been a question. His name had been clear enough, he loved the way it sounded coming from her lips. <br><br>“I’m worried… the others may come back. I need to be ready… Ready” he repeated wondering if she’d understood anything he’d said. He smiled when he realized he’d forgotten his sword inside, how careless. He figured they were safe, for now. He grabbed a hold of her extended wrist and slowly stood, his body very close to hers. He closed his eyes as he smelled her, the sweet scent returning to his nose. How he longed to kiss her, but he knew that would only make things worse. <br><br>He would be leaving soon, but his bandages needed changing. Finally opening his eyes after what seemed like an eternity he took her wrist still in his much larger hand and pressed it lightly to his side, “I need to change the cloth” he said hoping she would understand. He then pulled away and led her back into the dwelling where he moved to sit once again on the bed. On the way he let go of her wrist finally and glance to the floor, making sure his sword had lain undisturbed…<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 22:02:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial saw the edge of sadness in his expression as he smiled. But it was a smile, and it tempered her frown, making her smile softly. She listened carefully to his words, especially to the repeated one, ‘ready’, but could not determine the meaning. She was fairly certain he wasn’t leaving though, as he wasn’t wearing his chest piece and she couldn’t see his sword anywhere. <br><br>Her head craned upward as he gently grasped her wrists and pushed his taller form from the stump. The heat radiating from his body washed over her, and again she was reminded of the rays of the sun she wasn’t allowed to feel directly. But the warmth shining from him was a sweet substitute. <br><br>She watched as he closed his eyes and breathed deep of her. For some reason that gave her a tight feeling in her lower belly, and she wet her lips. Was he as taken with her scent as she was with his? Was her scent intriguing and incomparable to anything else, as his was to her? That thought made her feel even warmer. The feeling reminded her of when they sat on the bed and he pressed his lips to hers. There seemed to be the same kind of energy in the air, and she waited for his lips again. But he did not give them to her this time. <br><br>When he pressed her hand against his bandages she nodded. They needed changed again. Her body glided next to him as they made their way into the dwelling, and she stayed close as they did, bathing in his heat. When he let go of her wrist and moved over to the bed she finally drifted away, gathering what she needed for the bandages. <br><br>Before she tended to his wounds, she opened the skylight, pulling on the rope to pull the wooden covering back, letting her small home fill with the sunlight that managed to flicker through the canopy of thick leaves above. Small dots of lights danced about a small part of the room. <br><br>At his side again, she carefully cut away the old bandage, smiling at what lay beneath. The wounds were healing better than they would on their own, the elvish medicine speeding the healing. It would still be some time before he was completely healed, but he was on his way. Again she applied the powder to his wounds, having to moisten them gently with water first as they were drying and scabbing and not bleeding much. And as before, she wrapped him, reaching around him in and embrace as she wound the strips around him. <br><br>When she had finished she sat back with a smile, please with her work, and the fact that she had been able to help him. Now if only she could raise his spirits. She did not like to see the air of sadness about him. Pointing to her flute, she asked him a question in her quiet lilting voice. "Shyr o jhoji ti sai vae?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-08-2006, 14:32:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian waited for Alorial to return, watching her beautiful figure as she glided across the floor of the small natural dwelling. She gathered whatever supplies she needed, and he no longer held any look of concern as she held the knife she used to cut the bandages. She would not harm him, that much he knew. In an odd way he was sensing that she somehow needed him to save her… He wondered if she had any idea what form that salvation would take…<br><br>The light came into the room and lit the place up, making it look more like day. He was thankful. So many battles happened at night while both sides fought from the shadows looking for an edge. He preferred the sunlight. This thought of sun made him look at Alorial again in curiosity. He wondered how one could survive without the feel of the warming rays of the sun. His god was a servant of the sun, it gave life, or at least he’d always believe that was the case.<br><br>He followed her gaze to the wounds as the old bandages were removed and he too was pleased with what he saw. The elvish medicine was doing its job well. The wounds were already scabbed over. He could feel that in no time he would be back to fighting strength all thanks to Alorial. He lifted his arms over his head, giving her access to his body. As she wrapped the cloth around his waist he leaned into her a little, smelling her, which was something he found himself doing often. The movement of her fingers along his body made his arousal begin anew, something he'd hoped he could avoid. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat. <br><br>He watched her sit back, and smile forcing him to match hers. His eyes did meet her much paler ones, seeing them sparkle. She was pleased, that much he could tell. But he could not keep her gaze for long; afraid he would betray his intentions. He noticed her pointing suddenly and he followed the line of her fingers, noticing the flute. He looked at her again when she spoke, her voice sounding itself like music. He nodded and pointed to the flute… “Yes… please, play for me Alorial…”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>17-08-2006, 09:39:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was very pleased he wanted her to play. The nod, the point, the word ‘yes’ and her name…it was all very easy to construe. What was harder to interpret was what was making something seem uneasy with Cyprian. He had met her eyes again…but there was something very deep and far away in them. She did not know what it was, whether he missed his home, his people, or if he was in physical pain, but something was not the way it had been before. <br><br>With a small sigh she stood to retrieve the flute, but paused in front of him. With him sitting on the bed, and her standing, she was just slightly taller than him. She tilted her head softly and gazed down at him. Slowly and gradually, like she had approached the armor, she brought the cool skin of her palm to his rough cheek. Alorial cupped it and stroked the spot <br>under his eye with her thumb, and spoke quietly and with as much reassurance as she could convey. “Cyprian… Vaeri pai byr shi mar. Oli pae o shor kai cysti. O shor thol shaesi o eisi tael sai shi, eil o shor shi cadia.”<br><br>The position of her hand changed slightly. It slid from his cheek to his jaw and she very delicately ran her thumb over the surface of his bottom lip, wishing he would smile a real smile. His hot breath washed over her hand several times before she moved to let it fall away and retrieve the flute. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-08-2006, 15:39:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He watched her stand and start to move but was surprised by her sudden pause. He looked up at her beautiful eyes questioningly… He wore a serious look upon his face, curious as to what she was about to do… He closed his eyes slowly and he could almost sense her hand moving cautiously. He wanted her to touch his face; he wanted to feel her cool skin upon his flesh. He tilted his hand into her face, praying his gods and hers would forgive him when the time was right. Her voice was like a siren’s song and his eyes opened to watch those lips move. Her voice was reassuring, and his heart wanted to pretend she was forgiving him. “I am so sorry” was all he said when she was done. He should have died on that rock, or been swept to the Abyss by the Great River.<br><br>He didn’t move his eyes away from hers as her hand moved slightly, down his face. He felt her thumb move across his lips and he opened his mouth slightly, kissing her thumb softly. He did smile up at Alorial, but it still held a hint of sadness, a sadness that he realized could likely follow him for the remainder of his days, as he knew her ghost would. She had cracked through the armour that protected his heart, and he was beginning to realize his life had been about killing, and about death. When she pulled away and moved to the far wall he realized what his heart yearned for, he wanted to feel life, he wanted to stop killing and he wanted to love………<br><br>……..But he still had a duty to perform. He could not abandon his people so easily. The questions and conflict raged in his heart, it was as if he could feel it breaking. He’d always felt a life of service to his King and country was a good life, now he realized unquestioned loyalty; blind servitude was a wasted life. There was so much around for him to see, touch and feel. It took an exiled, cursed elven maiden to show him the path he had taken did not lead to salvation, but to eternal damnation…. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>17-08-2006, 23:02:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial had watched his reaction to her touch. The deliberate closing of his eyes, and then the just as deliberate re-opening of them as she spoke. She listened as he spoke…she was beginning to recognize ‘I’m sorry’. His tone was always apologetic when he said it, but…she didn’t know what he could be apologizing for, unless he was just sorry for his mood. She watched the way his lips gently moved under her thumb to kiss it, making her smile a bit wider. And he also smiled, but it was still sad. But he couldn’t help that. He had a right to feel what he was feeling, and she would pay homage to his melancholy with her music. <br><br>She retrieved the double barreled flute. The wood was almost as white as her skin, but held a bit of yellow. It was worn very smooth and held a sheen in the places her delicate fingers had caressed it through the years. <br><br>Alorial took her place next to the still smoldering fire. After laying a small log in it to keep it alive, she readied her instrument, bringing it to her wetted lips. Her eyes closed and she inhaled gently, her elbows rising from her sides, one hand on either set of holes.<br><br>The tune she started with was a mournful one. Long slow wailing notes that seemed to weep in the confines of the dwelling. The were low and full of air, like the dying moan of a large noble creature. And then, a moment of silence.&nbsp; After the silence, a very high pitched sweet answer that almost seemed to come from far away. It was light and lilting, flittering through the air between them. And then a low pained sound again, answering the higher gentle one. The exchange was sweet and sad, but somewhat hopeful. And finally, due to the double barrel, she was able to produce a sweet melodic harmony of the bass and the soprano, the sounds dancing together and working in crescendo to reach a joyous sound. After many minutes she let the sound drift away, as if it had left them for a better place. <br><br>Alorial held still for a moment, before opening her eyes and lowering the flute from her lips. She gave him only the barest hint of a smile as she waited for his approval. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>23-08-2006, 20:58:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian took a deep breath and settled back into the soft bed, watching Alorial as she moved across the floor to the flute. It was an odd looking instrument, nothing like he had ever seen before. A double tube was something unheard of in human lands, must be unique to the elves he figured. He watched her form as it seemed to glide across the floor to a spot next to the fire. <br><br>The sound that came out of the instrument was heavenly he thought. He watched her nimble fingers play the instruments, and he listened to the sad melody. It seemed to almost be pulling at his heart. The combination of the two tubes together brought forth a sound unlike any he’d ever heard. He silently wished she’d have chosen something a little less sombre, but it was beautiful nonetheless. <br><br>He closed his eyes for a bit, until the song ended. He opened them and look to the girl, he could see her looking at him. He smiled, “That was beautiful, very much like yourself” he said, unable to stop himself, but he knew she wouldn’t have any idea what he’d said. “You are the most beautiful creature I’ve yet laid my eyes upon….” He said again, gesturing for her to approach. The time for his departure was nearing. Like the sad melody had done, a heavy weight was laid upon his heart, and he felt the lump at his throat as it seemed to tighten his airways….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 19:26:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When he finally spoke, she was unable to determine the meaning from his words. But his expression and his tone led her to believe that he had approved of her playing. She felt a lightness, almost as if gravity had reversed, and a tingling warmth spread through her. But he still seemed very sad, as if there was a weight upon his chest. Alorial wondered if she shouldn’t have chosen a lighter, happier melody, but the one she had played had called to him from her heart. It had chosen Cyprian, she hadn’t chosen the tune. <br><br>At his gesture she rose, leaving the flute on her chair. He wanted her to come near, and she was glad to accommodate. Being across the room from him was better than her normal solitary existence, but being next to him was better yet. <br><br>As she crossed the floor, her small feet still bare from the morning and silent on the floor, her eyes dipped bashfully. Was he maybe going to touch her hair again? Press his lips to hers? Or maybe they would just embrace, and share his sadness for a moment. She would gladly leech some of it away herself if she could, if it meant whatever burden he was carrying was less heavy. <br><br>Her light form came to rest next to him, barely denting the mattress, and she turned her pale orbs up to his face. She smiled delicately, waiting for him to make his intentions known. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 20:57:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched her approach, his eyes scanning hers for any sign of fear, but he saw none. She had no idea was he was about to do. The longer he waited the worse things would be. He did need to get moving soon, several of the elves knew him by name, and without a body they would assume he’d had escaped. He had lingered far too long, and Alorial was a loose end he needed to take care of before he could go. <br><br>Once she was seated he took his time, thinking of something to say, or do. Finally he did move a hand to brush her soft hair. He moved it away from her delicate face, his fingers moving across her cool skin. His other arm moved behind her. He leaned into her a bit, moving his lips to her jaw line, kissing it gently, before allowing his lips to brush what he’d noticed was her very sensitive ears. Finally, with his hand cupping the side of her face he did press his lips to hers, in a gentle but passionate kiss. <br><br>Not caring if she would notice, a single tear ran from his eye down the side of his face as the hand at her cheek slid down slighlty so it lay at her neck. His other hand began moving towards the sword that lay unsheated upon the bed next to them...…..<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>25-08-2006, 14:46:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial smiled bashfully, her pale blue eyes dipping timidly, but with a sparkle of pleasure, when his large hand reached for her hair as she expected him to. He seemed to like it, like the sheen and the softness. It was very different than his own, and the ivory tone didn’t seem to put him off. Nothing about her seemed to put him off, not even her milky skin that he now trailed his fingers over, leaving tingling lines of bliss. <br><br>When his strong arm moved behind her, and he leaned in, she let her eyes flutter closed, and inhaled softly. Again his scent filled her, dizzying and wonderful. His lips met her jaw and she exhaled softly and contentedly, the feeling soft and soothing. Her body relaxed against his, thoroughly trusting in the moment and the tenderness building between them. <br><br>And then he reached her sensitive ears, and she shivered. The feeling shot through her whole body like a lightning bolt, and her hand rose to rest on his chest. She was almost disappointed when he moved to her lips. The feelings he was awakening her body were ones she wanted to explore, wanted to learn more about. They were strange and wonderful, and her fondness for Cyprian was growing steadily. But the disappointment ended when he reached her lips and they were once again joined. <br><br>Alorial felt a surge of warmth as their lips pressed together. It was such an intimate and emotional meeting of their bodies. Passionate and fervent. Nothing like the coldness and distant attitude of the elves. Everything about Cyprian was passionate and she adored that quality, even his flaring temper at times. She moved her hand from his chest to his neck, which she cupped gently, much as he cupped her face. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-08-2006, 18:54:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian continued to kiss Alorial, knowing this would be the last time she would enjoy the intimacy she obviously longed for. In a way he was glad he would be putting her out of her misery, or at least he kept trying to convince himself of that. The hand at her neck continued to caress her skin, delaying the inevitable by moments. His insides were struggling as more tears spilled from his eyes. He felt her hand moved to his own neck, and he knew what he needed to do…<br><br>One hand grasped the hilt of the short sword. The one at her neck suddenly wrapped around her throat and in a violent motion he pushed her to the bed. Though his cheeks were wet with tears, the look he wore was again the look of a warrior as he raised the sword high above him, poised to strike the life out of her. He squeezed her throat, blocking the airway, all his weight laid heavily upon his hand holding her down. “I truly am sorry Alorial…. I hope you can understand I have to do this….” He wondered briefly how it was that one small, thin, unmenacing creature could make him question every inch of his fibre…. She made him consider abandoning his people and his loyalties…. As difficult as this was, and to say it was very difficult was an understatement, he needed to do it to save himself…. <br><br>He hoped to see hate and fear in her eyes; he hoped she would quickly realize what a monster he was, like most of his people. Perhaps if she screamed it would make it easier to complete the distasteful task at hand. His attention was solely on her; he could see or hear nothing else as the grip on the sword tightened. He was ready and he would accept his faith… “I’m so very sorry……” he whispered as he prepared to deal the final blow….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>26-08-2006, 05:18:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial kissed him passionately. She sensed there was something…desperate, in his kiss. Something deep and urgent, but not in the same way as the hunger had been there the evening before. This was something sad. Was he planning on saying good-bye? Is that what this was about? Her hand moved up his neck to his jaw, and her thumb brushed his cheek. That was when she felt the tears. She opened her eyes to implore him to not leave, when she was suddenly forced to the bed. <br><br>Alorial looked up at him with wide, shocked eyes. Immediately her pale orbs glistened&nbsp; as they filled with tears. She gazed at him in confusion, her brows furrowing, her eyes begging. What was he doing? What had she done? Had she displeased him in some way? <br><br>Already she could feel the pressure in her chest as he restricted her breathing. Her hands rose to pull feebly on his wrist. She might as well have been pulling on the trunk of one of the great trees of the forest as effective as her hands were. Her lips parted and she tried to speak, but no words could make it past the hand on her throat.&nbsp; <br><br>It only took a moment for her to see what was happening. The tears on his face, the war in his eyes…He had a loyalty and a duty to his kind. She was an elf, and she was the enemy, as much as his tears attested to the fact he wished she wasn’t. He did care for her, that much she knew and believed.&nbsp; And he started to speak, his words sad and forlorn, confirming her belief. <br><br>Alorial’s hands fell away from his wrist. She was weakening. His weight was compressing her throat, and he had tightened his grip even beyond that. But what really made her let go was her compassion for him. He was in a foreign land, plagued by those that wished to kill him. He didn’t want to kill her; it was clear on his face, but obviously felt trapped and caged, and as if he had no choice. She felt for him, unknowing what she would do in his position. <br><br>Alorial wanted him free, wanted him to live and escape. And it was unreasonable to expect him to live here with her, or for her to go with him. And if she couldn’t be with him, she was done living. She couldn’t go back to the way things were before. Her life had been alone, but now would be truly lonely after knowing the presence of another being. He had given her more warmth in the past 24 hours than she’d had her whole existence, and she would carry her gratefulness with her to the death soon coming. <br><br>As he said one word she recognized, ‘sorry’, things started to fade. Her head was pounding and her lungs felt as if they would burst, but a sense of peace was starting to push into her, and push away her vision. She didn’t want him to weep for her. She didn’t want him to feel the guilt. And as tears streamed from the corners of her eyes down her temples and into her ivory hair, she tried to comfortingly smile, and with much effort, brought one of her delicate hands to rest on his, stroking it softly with her thumb. <br><br><br><br>The elves surrounded the tree. They had not know Cyprian was there, and wouldn’t have, if one of their own had not come back to rid the woods of the cursed one. She was the reason they could not find the human. Her curse damned their search, veiled their eyes. Until they rid the forest of her, they would fail. <br><br>He had watched her bathe, and had been struck by her uniquely horrid beauty. She was an abomination, but her features were as fine as the goddess herself. Due to her beauty, he lingered, and lingered too long. For as he was ready to make his move she left the water for the opposite bank. <br><br>He cursed himself silently as he waited for her to disappear from sight. He would have to wait. He could not cross the current fast enough, she would hear him before he reached her. Once she was gone, he quietly slipped through the water to follow his prey. That was when he caught scent of the human. He was there. Very quietly the elf crept forward. He left a wide berth around the clearing to approach from the side. It was then that he saw them disappear into the dwelling. The human warrior’s skill was renowned, and the elf knew he could not take him himself. He disappeared back into the woods, hurrying for his brethren. <br><br>And here they stood now, having patiently crept up on the tree home. They moved gradually, and as patiently as the great ice that the gods had sent to carve the mountains to the west. If it was one thing the elves had, it was time. They moved as slow as the mournful song of the flute, drifting from the skylight and the small hidden window. It was an almost surreal scene as they inched forward, the sounds of the song accompanying them. <br><br>When the music stopped, they were in position. One above in the limbs, ready to fall from the skylight, three around the door. Four of them should be able to subdue the human and the cursed one. They would have to pounce her quickly, so she could not curse them and doom their fates. One for her, three for him. <br><br>The one above in the boughs watched, hidden by the branches. He scowled as he watched her sit beside the foul human, and as she allowed the smelly thing to touch her. She may be an atrocity, but she was still an elf. Well, soon her life would be ended, as would the human’s, but not before they both were made to suffer for their crimes. <br><br>The elf raised his hand in signal, and the others prepared. Then he flicked his wrist in a sign to make them pause. Something unexpected was happening. The human was pressing her to the bed, his sword raised. The elf could not stop the bit of respect he had for the brute from growing. The human was a true warrior. He had no right to take an Elvin life, but at least he had not fallen prey to the wiles of a woman. That would have been…pathetic. <br><br>But, it was the perfect chance to catch the skilled one unaware. And the pale elf was turning blue as she was pressed beneath the beast’s hand…she would not be able to curse them, she would not have the breath. <br><br>Another flick of the wrist, and the ambush was underway. The three at the door burst in suddenly, the two on the right flying forward to tackle the larger human, one attempting to draw a hood over his head, but failing as they all fell to the floor. The third swung forward with his sap, striking Cyprian’s upraised wrist firmly, knocking the sword from his wrist. <br><br>The one from above dropped from the skylight, landing with a soft thump on the bed next to where Alorial lay gasping for air through her bruised and abused throat. Uncaring of her comfort he swiftly gagged her, then rolled her to her stomach, her weakly writhing oxygen deprived form easy for him to manipulate. He planted a knee in the small of her back and captured her futilely flailing wrists, drawing them behind her. <br><br><br>Alorial was only slightly aware that a change had taken place. Cyprian had been above her, her intense weight crushing her neck, and then he wasn’t. Her lungs expanded forcefully, harshly drawing air into her aching throat. Almost immediately her vision cleared past her pounding head, and she saw the elves. Now she felt fear.<br><br>Alorial struggled to breathe, struggled to move. Her hand reached for Cyprian. But then something was in her mouth and she was rolled over. A sharp pain in the small of her back. She cried out softly and hoarsely around the gag, but it was a pitiful sound, much like her movement. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-08-2006, 06:35:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His cheeks remained stained with the hurt he felt. This was not what he wanted he realized as he saw the tears begin to form in the corner of her eyes. She still did not fear him or hate him, in fact as he began to swing the blade towards her body he realized she seemed to be trying to smile at him… She understood… And that felt like a spear had punctured his torso, trusting through his side piercing his heart. <br><br>But suddenly everything changed; his world which he was so used to having control over finally came crashing down like the roof above him. The door opened with a crash as the sword he held cut through bed besides Alorial. He couldn’t do it; though he was intent upon it he realized he could not kill her….<br><br>The flurry of activity was enough to allow his warrior instincts to kick in, but it was a fraction too late. His sword was sent flying to the floor and he could feel Alorial struggle, they wanted her as much as they wanted him. He was facing the three elves from the doorway as they moved in to grapple him, but Cyprian was not only a warrior, he was a hero. His hand shot out and grasped the first elf's throat pulling him hard head first into the wooden floor. He could feel the blows raining down upon him but all he could see was red. <br><br>From the corner of his eye he could see the elf on the bed attempting to subdue Alorial, and she seemed to be reaching for him… He decided he would not allow them to harm her, he would see to her safety. He let go of the first elf, who proceeded to roll around the floor clutching at his neck, Cyprian’s finger prints having left large marks upon his throat. For a large man he was lightning quick, and his short sword was quickly in his hand as he leaped upon the bed, a foot landing to each side of the maiden as the sword stroke bit hard against her assailants neck forcing a spray of blood to fly onto the walls and furnishings. The enemy was dead long before his limp body struck the floor. <br><br>But for all his skill as a warrior Cyprian realized his mistake. Not only was his footing unsure, but his back was to his remaining opponents as he looked down first at the bloodied elf, and then to Alorial. He began to spin, hoping to complete the maneuver in time….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>29-08-2006, 14:45:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The human fought even harder than the elves had expected. They had known his strength, and had suspected his skill, but had underestimated his speed. The first elf he had grabbed lay on the floor, breathing raggedly through nearly crushed windpipe. He was also bleeding lightly from his right ear, his head had hit the hard wood with a resounding *crack*.&nbsp; The other elf was attempting to subdue him, but was not strong enough without his counterpart. <br><br>The elf above Alorial never even sensed the blade coming for him. He was simply kneeling on her, his knee in her back, his hands preparing to tie her arms, and then he was no more. Like the snap of a twig, his life had ended. But unlike a snapping twig, a torrent of blood ushered forth from the point of separation. Beyond the spray of the initial blow, which had streaked the wall, the bed, Cyprian, and Alorial, there was a flood of it pouring out of the neck of the fallen elf. His body lay on the floor on one side of the bed, spewing it forth towards his head, which lay on the other side. <br><br>The two remaining functioning elves reacted quickly, and with incredible skill. One slipped a dagger from its sheath, the blade dark black and glistening with a sticky substance. Cyprian would know it as an ichor used by the elves to increase the pain of a wound. It was used only in the most desperate of circumstances, it’s origin was secret, but it was rumored to take much effort to produce, and needed the blood of human children to brew. <br><br>But even as Cyprian saw the dagger in mid-spin, it was too late to react to it. The dagger sunk deep into his thigh as the second elf tackled his knees sending him further off balance and flying to the floor to land face first in the pool of Elvin blood. As he hit the floor, the goo on the dagger started its work. Cyprian had felt many bites of a blade, but never one that carried the fire this one did. The wound felt as if there were a million fire ants chewing on every exposed nerve. It was a prickling burning agony, and it wasn’t excluded to the wound. Very slowly it was spreading outward. Now it was just a fraction of an inch beyond his wound in each direction, but in several hours it could cover his body if the wounds was not cleaned. <br><br>As he lay in anguish, the elves were both upon him. A booted foot stomped his cheek, sending white showers through his vision. The other grabbed the dagger and twisted. <br><br>Alorial was gasping on the bed for air. She knew there was a battle going on, but it was strangley quiet. The elves made no vocalizations as they attacked Cyprian. But she could hear the thumps and hits and felt the mattress raise as Cyprian was thrown from it. Warm blood had soaked her back, presumably from the body of the head that had horrifically flown across her vision. She struggled to rise to her hands and knees, she needed to help her human friend, but her body was still gaining strength from it's lack of oxygen. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>30-08-2006, 19:55:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He’d almost made the turn in time, almost…. He saw the substance drip from the elven blade and he knew he was a dead man. The alchemists had never been able to identify the substance, so they assumed no antidote existed. He’d seen men succumb to its effects, in obvious pain, the veins in their bodies growing a dark black in colour, spreading through out their bodies. It was a slow, excruciating death. The elven steel bit deep into his leg and a deep guttural noise was heard. He didn’t have time to worry about the blade as the other elf tackled him off the bed and onto the hard wooden ground…<br><br>His head hit the ground hard, and his face was wet with blood. He didn’t have time to wonder about whether it was his or the dead elf’s as he began to struggle with the elf that was still latched on to him. He let out a primitive growl, very loud, as he started to reach for the elf’s throat; he was going to kill him with his bare hands he decided… But the pain hit him suddenly, it was like nothing he’d ever felt before. He yelled at the pain, which at first only fuelled his anger. He stretched and reached the elf that had landed on the ground with him, and with a satisfying ‘crack’ the elf’s head was turned 180 degrees. Cyprian let go and the limp body collapsed. He turned to face any others but the pain was beginning to worsen…<br><br>The two remaining elves jump him, pressing him to the ground. He struggled but the pain had become too much. He was like a wild, wounded animal unable to put up a meaningful defence. As if the burning in his leg wasn’t enough the twisting of the dagger and the strike to his head made the stars appear overhead. He felt cold, and he could see the rays of the sun enter through the still opened door. He longed for the heat of the sun. Using his hands he clawed at the floor trying to move towards the warm rays. He could no longer move his legs, but the pain remained. He could feel the weight of the elf prying at the dagger. He swung a large back hand, knocking the weight off him. <br><br>Finally he remembered the girl. He tried to turn his head to look above the bed. He could see her on her knees looking down at him…. He mouthed the words ‘I’m sorry’ before slumping slightly. She was alright it seemed. “Alorial…. Alorial……” he whispered as his body gave out, and his head bounced off the floor. His eyes still partially opened, he stared into nothingness……<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>31-08-2006, 15:23:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial gasped and finally was able to draw meaningful breath through her almost crushed neck. Each inhale felt as if daggers were digging into her throat, but she needed to breathe, needed to live to help Cyprian. She watched in dismay as they stabbed with a dagger covered with Mar Os Paer, or in human tongue, Sap of Death. All elves knew what it was, it was the sap from the decaying trees of the plagued part of the forest deep and far beyond the river. Not all elves knew how to cure it, but Alorial had seen the remedy as a child, and it was surprisingly simple. But if she didn’t help him soon, it could kill him in hours. And as her whispered her name, she knew she would never let him die. <br><br>She forced her body up and threw herself from the bed on one of the elves. It was a useless effort, and he simply batted her to the side, letting her thump to the floor. The gag was still around her mouth, and she reached for it to pull it free. The second remaining elf was on her in a second, backhanding her hard against the cheek. Stars exploded in her vision, and she hit the wall, things going dark. <br><br><br>The first elf on Cyprian had secured the warrior’s dangerous hands behind his back. If Cyprian had fought, the elf just twisted the dagger in a painful rend until the human was too weak to fight. The poison should have done its trick though, and the human should be too full of burning pain to think, and his muscles should have weakened. The second elf rejoined him and next came the feet, tying them together with strong Elvin rope as well, and then a length running from his ankles to the back of his belt, pulling his feet back about 30 degrees, keeping him from straightening his legs. <br><br>Cyprian was rolled over, so he could see his captors, and so they could see him. The second elf went to retrieve the unconscious Alorial, throwing her on the bed, and securing her as they had Cyprian. They would have to wait until nightfall to kill her, so the curse said, or her ghost would haunt them. The first elf crouched over the human, regarding him coolly. Suddenly spit, letting the globule of phlegm smack against the human’s cheek. The dagger was then yanked away. <br><br>The second elf knealt over the wound and poured of vile of purplish red liquid over the wound, and roughly wiped away the ichor. The act of cleaning the wound was as painful as the poison itself, but by the time he had finished cleaning it, the pain had lessened. <br><br>The first elf waited until the wound was clean, still crouching silently above the warrior. After several minutes he spoke. “You are going to tell us of what we wish to know. How many more of your kind escaped with you.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>02-09-2006, 19:12:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian stopped struggling long enough to the elves to bind him. Between the pain the poison was inflicting, the wound the dagger had made and the other, previous wounds now being aggravated his mind and body were numb. He continued to stare into nothingness, his face emotionless… <br><br>Eventually his mind returned, and he pushed the pain aside. He could see Alorial motionless on the ground across the floor. He could see the rise and fall of her bosom and knew she yet lived. He watched quietly as one of the elves moved her to the bed and began tying her up as they had him. He looked up at the elf that was crouching before him, and the look of hatred on Cyprian’s face was unmistakable. He closed his eyes and tried to turn his head when the elf spit on him. His anger rose again…… He looked back at the elf, the look he gave him said ‘Enjoy the moment for now elf, because I’m going to kill you first…’<br><br>He felt the dagger pull away and the ensuing blood as it flowed down the side of his leg. He cringed but refused to scream as the liquid poured onto his wound. He even banged his forehead to the hard wood floor a few times hoping to distract himself… But soon the pain lessened. He was surprised at how much his attackers seemed to enjoy inflicting pain upon him…<br><br>He looked up to the elf once again as he began to speak. He spoke the human tongue, though it was broken somewhat. Cyprian just chuckled at the thought of betraying his comrades. “I will tell you nothing, except that I’m going to kill you…. Soon” he said spitting a mixture of blood and phlegm back at the same elf that had done the same to him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>05-09-2006, 00:30:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The elf calmly reached for a piece of linen off the table and wiped the bloody spit off of his face. The corner of his lip twitched up in an almost amused smile, and he tossed the piece of fabric off to the side. “Stupid human. Not know when caged. You are captured. We own your life, what is left of it. You can die with pain, or you can die with peace.”<br><br>The elf nodded to his comrade. The second elf pulled a small wooden box out of a bag on his belt. The box was tied closed several times over. Patiently the second elf loosened the bind, and then after donning a pair of leather gloves, opened the box to quickly grab its writhing contents. <br><br>In the box was a flesh eater. Normally find in the caves of the great mountains as far as the humans knew, there was also a breed that grew in the rotting logs and stumps of the deep forest. They six in long wiggling centipede type creature fed on open wounds, chewing painfully away as much living flesh as it could. It was pale pink, and the second elf moved to hold it suspended above Cyprian’s open leg wound.<br><br>Again, it was the first elf that spoke. “Tell what you know of the fate of your party.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-09-2006, 17:06:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was still concerned about Alorial’s well being; he strained to see her, as she still lay upon the bed. He heard the elf speak to him but mostly ignored the remarks. Between worrying for his ‘friend’ and thoughts of escape he had no time or patience. His eyes were drawn to the small wooden box however, as it had made its appearance. Silently he cursed himself and his foul luck. He’d heard rumours that the elves used living creatures in their interrogations and tortures. <br><br>This was precisely the kind of actions that gave the elves their frightening reputation within the human lands and he had no doubt he would learn what this creature did first hand. And yet he remained defiant, a look of determination was upon his face. Upon seeing the creature he realized he’d heard of them before, but had never actually seen one. A look of concern crossed his face, but he make no plea with his captors. <br><br>He watched the wiggling creature poised above the dagger wound, and his eyes went to the second elves…. “Perhaps I was wrong…. If you drop that into my leg I’m going to kill you first….” He said with a grin… he then nodded to the two dead elves who lay motionless upon the bloody floor. “When I’m done with you you’ll wish you were one of them…” he said loudly. He’d been working his hands behind him, trying to loosen the binds, knowing breaking them would be impossible. He’d worked with elfish rope before, and it was damn near unbreakable. His eyes continued to look for Alorial who was still unmoving upon the bed. <br><br>The first elf seeing his eyes wander moved to the side of the bed and grabbed the female by the hair pulling her up so he could see her. “Is this what you seek dog…. She lives for now…. But like you, she’ll be dead soon enough…. You can make her death painless if you speak” he finished, looking at Cyprian with a smile, and a tilt of his head.<br><br>“She has done nothing…. I am the one you want, let her go….” Cyprian said to the first, shooting daggers from his eyes. After a minute of uncomfortable silence it became obvious the human would not speak… The first elf simply shook his head and nodded to the second who simply dropped the worm like creature onto the wound… Cyprian immediately began to struggle against his bindings, thrashing across the floor. Unbeknown to his assailants he’d spotted the broken piece of glass and began struggling in that direction……<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>07-09-2006, 15:03:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was slowly swimming through the muck of unconsciousness to the light of being awake. Voices. One of them was Cyprian. He lived! Her mind danced with hope, even as her body still lay heavy and lifeless on the bed. Despite the hope, her head was pounding and sore from where she had hit the wall. She moved to bring her small cool hands up to cup it, but was treated instead to a pain around her wrists. <br><br>She was tied. As her head ached she contemplated what she could do to get out of her binds. Her small hands weren’t much larger than her wrists, if she could get her body to move more, maybe she could manage to work her hands—<br><br>A searing pain shot through her already pained head as she was pulled up by her hair. She wanted to scream, and inside of her head she did, but the sound that slipped from her throat was much more pitiful. The whimper was clearly pained, but soft and weak. <br><br>Alorial managed to force her eyes open. She was very dismayed at what she saw. They had beaten him, that was clear, and he had a new wound on his leg. And the bug…it strained for the blood seeping from his thigh. Her stomach churned at the sight of it. <br><br>When the creature was dropped into the wound and writhed into Cyprian’s flesh, Alorial managed to show more signs of life. She called out to him with a cry of dismay, prickly shards of pain protesting within her bruised and nearly crushed throat. Weakly she pulled her body forward, her hair pulling more firmly and sending the pain running around her skull once again. The elf firmly yanked her back, laughing cruelly. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>11-09-2006, 15:26:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The pain he was under was immense, never before had he felt anything like it. His leg had quickly gone numb, or perhaps it was his mind that was trying to block the pain at this point, he could not tell. His body thrashed about on the ground, edging ever so closely to the small sharp of glass still on the floor a few feet away. It wasn’t a large piece, but considering the tightness’ of the ropes it should do the job. His breathing was ragged, and his voice was still loud as the grunts and groans escaped his lips…<br><br>His head moved once more towards the bed, and he could see Alorial was awake, and in her own way she struggled against her captors… His eyes locked with hers for a moment... Good girl he thought, fight them with everything you have his eyes told her. The elf that held her seemed to be taking pleasure on causing her pain. He yanked back on her beautiful hair hard, and his smile all the while was that of a sadistic cruel creature. <br><br>The other elf however did not smile; he followed Cyprian’s jerking movements across the room, watching him intently. “Speak dog…. If you wish the pain to end, tell us what we wish to know” he yelled at Cyprian, the long bladed, blood dripping dagger still held in his hand. “Motherless Cur…” was all Cyprian could yell back as his bloodied fingers finally reached their objective… The small shard cut into his fingers but he ignore it at that was the least of the pain. He needed to cut his bonds quickly….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>15-09-2006, 20:21:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				This was her home. And as it was, she was acutely aware of the changed that had taken place in it, and the scars the battle had left on it. She noticed every broken item, everything that was out of place. And she noticed the shard, and Cyprian’s journey towards it. <br><br>He was warrior. Not only in dress and in manner, but in spirit as well. Even with all he had been through, and the torture he was currently under, he was still fighting. Alorial’s heart surged with a strange sense of pride. He would never let them take his life with out dying from his own efforts to live first. She would not let them take hers without a fight either. <br><br>If the elves saw him cutting his bonds, they may kill him right then and there. She didn’t think they would kill her until nightfall, but it didn’t mean they couldn’t give her a hell on earth to suffer through in the remaining daylight hours. She had to help Cyprian. The only thing she could do would be to cause a distraction, and she would somehow do that. <br><br>The elf holding her painfully by the hair was still laughing cruelly. He brought his long fingered hand up to grasp her chin and point her face towards Cyprian, preventing her from turning her head if she had wanted to. He then moved close to her ear and whispered in a threatening and somewhat hungry manner.&nbsp; “Rail eir cos mendri. Cor paer air byr vaelaerer. Os'm shor byr shi aeraes, jhori oli. Eil shysi, os vaestalol shor os jhori shor shi ber eir sysesaer. Ai aistandroli o cali baelaes thaer si sys os ei tali...raer mar shi vaestodor."<br><br>Panic swelled through her again, and more than ever she was filled with a sense of urgency. This was their chance. Cyprian had to get free. Alorial took a painful breath and then jerked her head forward, her lips parted. She clamped her small teeth down firmly on the flesh of the elve’s hand, in between his forefinger and his thumb. She used every bit of strength and will inside of her to squeeze her jaws shut as hard as she could. She was rewarded with the elf’s scream, and the taste of his blood filling her mouth. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>18-09-2006, 18:38:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian heard the elf gasp and cry in pain. He did not see it, but he didn’t need to be told this was the moment he needed. He ignored the pain and blood dripping from his fingers and he cut the connection between his ankles and wrists. He then made short work of the ankle bindings. He glanced at and saw the blood around Alorial’s mouth. It remained unknown to him that she’d bitten her captor, he assumed he’d hit her. Rage filled his heart and the corded muscles on his arms bulged. He barely touched the glass to the bindings that held his hands and the ropes broke from the sheer power. <br><br>He quickly rolled onto his feet, his body ignoring the pain as the worm continued to burrow into his leg. He was weapon less except for the small shard of glass he held in his hand. The elf drew his long dagger and charged at Cyprian, but the human male was quicker. With lightning quick movements, akin to those of a pouncing panther his large hand shot up and caught the elf’s wrist high above their heads. For a brief moment the elf’s face contorted into a look of fear, but only for a moment as the glass shard was quickly embedded into his throat. He reeled back and fell, his face now wearing the expression of a silent scream. The long blade dropped from his hand, but it did not hit the floor. <br><br>The weapon was in Cyprian’s hand, as he stepped over the dying elf and moved slowly towards the bed. “Let her go, scum” he said pointing at the elf with one bloodied finger. “And I will see to it your death is quick” his voice rose steadily as he approached. The elf drew his blade with the bloodied hand, where Alorial’s teeth marks could clearly be seen; he held the blade close as he hopped off the bed, opposite the side Cyprian approached from. His other hand still held Alorial’s hair and he pulled her down to the floor next to him as he yelled something completely incomprehensible to Cyprian but it wasn’t difficult for him to guess what was being said. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 07:19:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial watched with wide pale eyes as Cyprian burst from his bonds. Hope surged through her weakened body and she took in the display of his beastly strength. His muscles flexed and writhed as he exploded towards the elves, looking more myth than man, more monster than warrior, and like vengeance personified. <br><br>He seemed oblivious to the wriggling devourer of flesh boring into his leg and of the deep cuts on his finger tips. His eyes flashed wildly with anger and power and for a moment she was frightened of him like one might be of a terrible cyclone bearing down on a small place. He was as powerful and as quick, and the elves would be no match. The fear only lasted a brief bit of time, however. Even though he had been meaning to kill her when this all started, she knew he would never hurt her now. She could not explain the realization of that fact, but felt it in her heart and soul. <br><br>Cyprian drove the jagged piece of bloodied glass deep into the throat of the other elf, severing the artery in his neck and sending a spray of blood around the small tree home. There was so much blood everywhere. Alorial was struck for a moment how it invaded every sense. The smell of it was thick and heavy, the tasted of it still in her mouth and causing her stomach to lurch. They were all coated in it, some of it fresh and warm, some of it cold and tacky. And the sight of it…her world was crimson. <br><br>He was advancing, his eyes even more diabolical as the whites glowed in two large orbs in the middle of a field of red. Alorial could feel the fear trembling through the elf behind her. The trembling grew as Cyprian boomed in his deep thundering voice and held a large bloody finger towards them. She did not know what he was saying, but she knew it was meant to save her. <br><br>When she heard the unmistakable sound of a blade being drawn, she tried to lurch forward. But it was a futile effort. She was just too weak, and it was too hard to breath through her partially crushed throat. Her efforts were rewarded with another painful yank to her hair and a searing pain in her scalp. She cried out weakly, and beat at her captor as best she could with her small fists. The words of the elf chilled her, but she would rather die with both of them fighting, then have Cyprian acquiesce to the elf’s wishes. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 16:19:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched the maiden struggle, but it was futile. The elf had a good grip on her hair and he refused to let go for fear of his life. And fear he should. The pain in his leg only increased his rage, as he glared at the elf whose life was now over, he’d simply not been informed yet. “You had your chance elf” he said with a certain raspiness in his voice, spit flying almost clear across the room. He slowly reached down with his right hand and picked up his short sword, which had a much wider, menacing blade than the thin elven one in his left hand.<br><br>The elf seemed about to panic and a moment of worry crossed Cyprian’s mind as he watched him. He took a step forward as the elf took one back, still dragging Alorial by the hair. He seemed to be edging towards the door, and that… Simply wouldn’t do at all… he knew he had to act quickly, for all he knew there were more elves outside, waiting. In less time than it takes a human heart to beat, the short human blade was airborne, much faster than the elf could have anticipated, and it bit him, very deeply. Only the hilt remained exposed, sticking out of his chest just above the heart… He stared blankly at Cyprian with a look of disbelief on his face. His grip on the woman’s hair lessened, before letting go completely as he slid down to his knees. He remained there for an instant, and he tried to speak, a spurt of blood was all that came out of his mouth as he finally slumped to the ground………..<br><br>“Alorial…” Cyprian said weakly as he too slumped in her direction. He landed hard on his good knee and he slid to the ground next to her. One hand moved to his wounded thigh while the other reached and grabbed her small lithe wrist. He pulled her close before letting her go. He handed her the curved elven dagger and pointed to the open wound. “Take it out, quickly….” He said cringing as the pain began to return…..<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>20-09-2006, 07:34:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial could only let the elf drag her along. Her fighting was useless. As Cyprian snarled and stepped forward, the elf stepped towards the door. She tried to organize her chaotic thoughts and come up with some way to help Cyprian, or some way to get out of the elf’s grasp. Her eyes were wide with concern and fear, and darted around the small home, looking for anything that might help her escape. <br><br>Cyprian had his sword, but Alorial didn’t think there was anyway he could reach the elf before the elf killed her. She was in the middle of that thought when the blade was suddenly next to her head, embedded deeply in the elf’s chest. She screamed a small raspy sound out of her injured throat, and scrambled forward when she felt the grip on her ivory hair, now tinted red with blood, release. She was away from him before he hit the floor. <br><br>As she was moving towards Cyprian, he was moving towards her, but weakly. She watched in dismay as he fell to one knee, the stress and exertion finally overcoming his will and his rage. He was next to her, pulling her close. She burst into silent sobs, no sound coming from her throat. Tears ran pale lines down the blood spattering her face. They were alive, but he was dying, and in agony. <br><br>She took the offered dagger in her hand, knowing immediately what needed to be done, despite the language barrier. With the back of her small hands she wiped away the never ending tears blurring her vision. Then, without hesitation, lest her fear of hurting him overcome the urgency of helping him, She crudely and roughly gouged into his thigh. She could see the shape of the large insect burrowing in his flesh, devouring the tissue with its mandibles. <br><br>Alorial was not delicate, she was not skilled, but she was effective. With a jab and a yank she opened the flesh where the bulging writhe was most prominent. The shiny back of the worm was visible, and overcoming any squeamishness, she thrust her hand into the wound, her fingers closing around the undulating insect. She tore it free, a hunk of Cyprian’s flesh still in its jaws. <br><br>Alorial threw it down and stabbed it with the dagger. Over and over and over. It burst with a pop, spilling blood and half digested flesh out across the floor, and still she hacked away, cutting it into a pulp, taking out her fear and hatred and grief and relief on the still writhing bits of the worm. Her small hands both gripped the dagger, and rose and fell with a fury. She sobbed and rasped and let wordless emotions spill from her as she killed it. Eventually it was nothing more than a paste. <br><br>Gasping and crying she flung the dagger across the room and threw herself on Cyprian, holding him around the neck. She didn’t know if he was still conscious or not, but she could hear him breathing, and feel the ragged rise and fall of his chest. He was alive.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>20-09-2006, 20:45:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was sure Alorial would know what to do, he watched her small fingers wrap around the weapon’s hilt. It saddened him to see the tears flow from her eyes. He brought a bloodied hand to try and wipe some of the tears away, but only manage to leave a streak of diluted blood on her cheek, some from his thumb, some that had sprayed on her from gruesome battle that had just now ended. <br><br>He felt the blade cut into his leg and he held a scream… He held it deep within his soul as his eyes rolled back. His grip on her small wrist tightened, unaware that he had even held on. His other hand balled into a fist and he slammed it into the hard wood floor as he tried to get past the pain. Between the insect that burrowed, the sharp elven blade, the cut from the elf and the injuries from the previous day his body began to weaken. His fist loosened as she worked the knife into his leg.<br><br>When the diminutive creature was removed he felt the pain lessen, and breathe an audible sigh, but the sound of the blade striking into the wood caused him to turn his head. He watched as Alorial continuously struck at the insect. His lips moved to form a smile as he saw her spirit. After the past few minute’s events, a human woman would likely have given in to despair and yet this frail elven woman had some fight remaining inside of her. <br><br>When she tossed the dagger aside and turned to him he rolled a bit, taking the weight off his good leg and he fell in a heap, partially leaning back onto the bed. He felt her arms wrap around his neck and it felt good to have her against him. His eyes were closed, and his breathing becoming steady and he could feel her sobbing into his chest….<br><br>He didn’t know how long he’d been lying there, but it couldn’t have been very long. He’d lost allot of blood, as apparent by the puddle under his leg. He grabbed Alorial‘s shoulders and pulled her back to look at him… “We have to leave… There will be more coming.” He said slowly, hoping she would understand. He knew there would be more. He reached across the floor and grabbed the shirt from one of the dead elves, he pulled weakly at it until it finally gave and tore. He wrapped it around the wound in his leg. <br><br>He looked at Alorial again and he paused. His mind told him she was still a liability and she would likely get him killed… And soon. But in his heart he knew he couldn’t harm her. He’d had his chance to do it and hadn’t been able to, and he knew he could not leave her behind to be butchered by her own people. No, she would have to come with him, back to his people… Or they would die together. <br><br>He grabbed both sides of her face gently, leaning in and kissing her lightly on the lips. “We need to make haste….” He whispered….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>21-09-2006, 13:58:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She did not understand his words once again. He had pushed her gently back from his chest and had spoken slowly and carefully, but there was a sense of urgency in his voice. Her body was racing with adrenalin, her heart rapidly thumping and her breathing quick. She looked deep into his eyes, but her slightly panicked thoughts were clouding her interpretation of his words. For the moment she let the unknown statement go, and moved to assist him. <br><br>Alorial helped him bandage his thigh, feeling back about the crudeness of her cut. The scar would be horrendous. But there were more important things at hand. The immediate concern was even higher than that of his many wounds. They had to leave. There might be more elves. And when this small band did not return to their encampment, the others would wonder, and would come looking. She and Cyprian could not be here. <br><br>She looked up to tell him as best she could that they needed to leave, needed to get out of this place of carnage that used to be her home, when his large soiled hands cupped her face gently, and he leaned in to press his lips to hers. For a moment the panic and the fear paused, and all she could feel was the soft warmth of his lips and his hot breath bathing her face. His whisper was incoherent, but she again heard a hint of urgency. <br><br>Alorial only hoped that he was thinking the same thing she was. She blinked several times, kissed him back gently, and then forced herself to pull away from the comfort she found in him. There was no time. They would be moving very slowly as it was with his many injuries and her not being able to breathe very deeply. She pointed to the door emphatically. “Alorial, Cyprian…kai…kai…”<br><br>She stood up and turned around in a small circle before darting about and gathering just a few things and placing them in a basket that she could wear on her back. She grabbed her flute, a little food, bandages, scissors, the dagger she had tossed away, more linen, and a smaller basket of unknown items. She also took the pouch of elvin medicine, and poured the tandros leaves into a cloth, tying it closed. Alorial then gathered Cyprian’s remaining armor. She stood next to him where he lay slumped against the bed on the floor and held out her small hand to try and assist him as best she could. Right now she was holding the emotions in check, but a knot of fear of the unknown had been born in her belly, and was rapidly growing. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>22-09-2006, 00:50:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He certainly was thinking along the same lines, he nodded, “yes…” as his finger followed hers to the door. With her help, he pulled himself off the floor and sat on the bed. He reached down and painfully tightened his greaves, first the ones on his lower legs, then the ones on his forearms. He stood finally, unsteadily, trying to adjust what was left of his breeches. He looked over the dead elves wondering if he could salvage anything from them. He reached for the walking stick the girl had given him the day before. <br><br>He moved slowly towards the first dead elf, but first he reached into the basket to remove the armor. He tossed it on the floor with a crash… “It will only slow us down, and I’d need a smithy to make it serviceable again…” he said shaking his head. He’d love to have a shirt of chain mail, or even studded leather. Hell a decent shirt would be nice….<br><br>He kneeled as best he could at the first elven corpse as his fingers moved through the pockets. He knew he’d never fit in the elven armor or clothing. These elves carried nothing of value, a fact that didn’t surprise him. From what he knew of the elves, they took what they needed from the forests. Shaking his head finally he stood and moved towards the door, picking up his short sword along the way and returning it to the scabbard at his belt. <br><br>It was almost midday, and the sun was high in the sky. After opening the door he moved through the shadows, fearing for Alorial’s safety. He took her hand and made sure she was close as they began moving, often relying on her form for stability. He looked at the sky, hoping the elves hadn’t changed where the sun rose and set. After determining which way was south east, he started moving in that direction, pulling Alorial along. He didn’t know how long he’d be able to travel for, and already he felt famished… <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>23-09-2006, 00:19:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was surprised he tossed his chest armor aside. He had given her some explanation for it, but she could not understand his words. Maybe it was too heavy, or maybe it was too damaged, or maybe he was already having trouble breathing. Whatever the reason, she trusted his judgment, doubting he would leave behind anything that couldn’t be used. <br><br>She watched as he rifled through the dead elves clothing and possessions. As expected, they didn’t seem to have anything useful. It was strange…they didn’t seem like elves anymore. They were wet and oozing blood, and the stench of the warm sticky liquid was heavy. But they looked like dolls. Nightmarish and horrific dolls, but dolls none the less. She tried to turn her head from the carnage, but the horror held her. She was not used to the sight of battle and of death. She was not even really used to the sight of other living creatures, let alone dead ones. <br><br>As he finished searching the elves, she eventually managed to tear her eyes away and find another task. Water. She didn’t know if they would be following the river or not, but if they weren’t, they would need something to carry water in. She grabbed the bottle of wine and then her waterskin, the one that was used every three months. The one she would have been using in just a few short days from now, if things had been routine. <br><br>She looked at the jars of wooden marbles on the shelf. Each one counted a day. There were three left in the almost empty jar. When the last marble had been moved to the fuller jar, she would have set out on her small two day journey, the same one she had taken for years. She would have taken the basket in the corner that held the fine sewing and embroidery she had done. She would have left it in the same place she always did, and the next day picked up a new basket, that one with more material, orders, and supplies as payment. <br><br>But that routine, along with the one of her daily life, would be no more. <br><br>It was time to leave. Cyprian pulled her out into the forest, but she paused in the doorway of her home. Fear filled her eyes as she realized that she was truly leaving. It had been a sort of a prison, her place of exile. But at the same time, until today, it had been a haven and a place of safety. It had been hers. It was all she knew, the only life she had experienced save the few short years she was in the village as a child. Her parents had placed her here, and she had always harbored dreams that they would one day come for her. Or maybe her brother would. But now...now even if they did, they would not be able to find her. <br><br>Her eyes filled with tears one more time, and she gripped Cyprian's hand tightly. She knew she could not stay. Even if she were able to somehow scour the blood from the walls and the floor and make it liveable, it would not be safe. As she turned her face up to his, a small smile fell to her lips. It was a little sad, but also sweet. He was her home now. Where ever he would be, she would be. They might die, or they might not, but it was clear that whatever path they followed, it would be together. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-09-2006, 18:12:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian knew this was difficult for Alorial. This little dwelling was all the home she’d known for so long. To leave all her possessions behind had to be difficult… But it had to be done. What good was possessions and dwelling if you aren’t alive to enjoy them? He’d seen the tears in her eyes, but dared not pause to comfort her, not yet. There would be time for that later assuming they lived. <br><br>He felt her fingers tighten their grip around his hand, and he tightened his own grip on her. He moved through the brush, and into the woods. His eyes would scan the forest floor for any signs of tracks, but there were none. He didn’t know if that fact should worry him, or make him more relieved. It mattered not; they needed to press on, as quickly as possible…<br><br>The going was easy at first, perhaps the adrenaline from the previous battle had energised him, or perhaps it was just his second wind, but after an hour he felt tired again, exhausted actually. He leaned heavily on the crutch he used to help himself along. At times his eyes would glaze over but he kept moving, though at a slower pace. He glanced down, noticing the bandage on his leg soaked with blood… They would need to stop, and soon. <br><br>It was still mid afternoon, but he knew he could go no further, he noticed an area just beneath the boughs of some high pines. The moss would offer comfort and the brush might conceal them at the same time. He looked to Alorial, who he’d tried to avoid for sake of his sanity and he pointed to the area. Using the crutch he laboriously moved there, still pulling her along, and refusing to loosen the grip on her hand. Once he’d entered the area he collapsed hard onto the ground, pulling Alorial along with him. He lay there for a bit, breathing heavily still holding her hand, the hand that seemed to give him strength throughout their flight…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 06:48:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She was stunned by his pace at first. He was stubborn and driven, like a strong winter wind. He did not falter and did not slow, and several times pulled her along faster than she was used to traveling. Her shorter legs took three strides to one of his, and she was semi running to keep pace with him. Soon her thighs and calves were burning, and she was breathing heavy. At least for the first hour. <br><br>After the first hour he noticeably slowed, and she watched him, grateful for an easier pace, but worried at what it might mean. His bandage was soaked with blood, noticeable on their blood covered bodies only because the bandage at one point had been the only clean thing on him. Now it too was bloody, but still different in the fact that it was crimson fresh, and not the tacky brownish red the other blood was drying to be. <br><br>Alorial knew they would need to wash. The scent of the blood would attract predators. And it felt awful. Sticky and itchy, and…it was blood. Blood of the dead elves and Cyprian. She didn’t think any of her injuries had broken the skin. Her throat still burned and felt as if a thousand needles were jabbing her breathing tube, and the flesh was bruised and tender. And her head was sore where she had hit it, giving her a heavy achy feeling in it. But she knew it must be nothing compared to what Cyprian must feel. He was in a bad way. <br><br>With the sun still high in the sky, he pulled her to a makeshift natural shelter under the pines. She was glad to stop. They needed to cover ground, but if Cyprian did not take some time to at least let his wounds stop bleeding, their flight would be for naught. <br><br>When he collapsed and pulled her with him, her jerked her arm a little painfully, but did no real damage. He had not once let go of her hand, had held it tightly and firmly. At first she thought he might be afraid she would run, but soon came to realize that he was keeping moving because of her. That his will partly came from the fact that they were together, just as her will to fight the elves had kicked in because of his presence. As bad as they were, they were hope for each other. <br><br>She let herself be pulled to the ground, and she knelt beside him. Him still holding her hand. With her free hand she reached out and gently pushed his hair out of his soiled face, and stroked his cheek softly. She murmured quietly, and in Elvin. She just talked, spoke to him reassuringly. Alorial knew he would understand none of what she said, but that wasn’t important. She just wanted to ease him as best she could. As she spoke she kissed him gently several times. She needed to clean him, and feed him, and tend to his wounds, but she would wait until he felt strong enough to let go of her hand.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 18:32:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian’s eyes closed but his breathing remained laborious. His fingers held Alorial’s tightly. It was as though the feel of her skin kept him grounded… Or perhaps it kept him alive. He should be dead, he realized. He deserved to die. He had brought this on her, he was the reason she would be hunted as he was...<br><br>He’d hoped to get even further away, for her safety. He needed to live now if only to keep her safe from her own people. He lay flat on his back for a long moment, listening to the words in the foreign language, none of it made sense to him but the sound of her voice was musical, and it soothed his pain, particularly the pain in his soul….<br><br>He felt the kisses and he opened his eyes, “Alorial… Alorial…” he repeated, barely a whisper. He finally did loosen his grip on her hand, though reluctantly. He put both hand to each side of her face and pulled her lips to his. He kissed her long, the taste of blood mingled in with her natural sweet flavour. He did not care, this was something he needed to do. In a way he wished she could breath life back into him…<br><br>He released her finally, smiling weakly. He tried to push himself up on his elbows. He needed to rid himself of the cobwebs that clouded his mind, he needed to start thinking again. The leg needed tending first. And he was parched… He reached for the bladder filled with water and drank from it quickly, almost too quickly as water leaked out the sides of his mouth down his chest. He barely noticed it as he recapped the skin and dropped it. He began to undo the bandage at his leg… He looked at the elven maiden that knelt next to him… “I need your help Alorial…” he whispered gesturing to the soiled cloth…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>04-10-2006, 21:41:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled in relief, the expression almost pained, as he said her name. He was still holding on, impossibly strong. His strength kept her going. How could she even dare think of quitting or giving up or giving in to what little pain she had, when he was holding on through all he had been through? <br><br>He kissed her, and she felt a surge of emotion rush through her. His lips were cooler than they should be, due to the blood loss she guessed, but it mattered not. The tasted of the blood as it intermingled with their kiss did not matter either. It was clear that they were now bound together, by their situation, but more importantly by some unseen and unknown force that surrounded them. They were connected from the soul outward. <br><br>When he released the kiss she smiled delicately in return, and for a moment pressed her forehead gently against his. Her eyes had been running with tears again, not for their plight, but just because she was so grateful they were together and alive. Somehow the rest would work out. <br><br>She felt him trying to move, and sat back on her knees again. As he pushed to his elbows she almost pushed him back down again. But seeing him reach for his waterskin, she instead, helped support his large frame as best she could. He was parched, and drank heavily. Alorial didn’t know if it was good to drink so much after the exertion he had been through, but he lowered it before she had to decide whether or not to take it away. <br><br>He said something with her name attached again, and with the way he was fiddling with his bandage, she knew what he was referring too. She nodded rapidly, and moved his hands to the side. She would clean and bandage his wound for him. Hopefully it wasn’t as bad as it appeared. <br><br>Her small hands worked quickly to remove the wet sticky bandage tied around his thigh. It had been hastily applied, and did not take much effort to clear it away. Alorial gasped softly when she saw the state of his leg. It was a mess. She had been rough with the dagger in removing the insect, and the cut was very large and deep, the edges of it laying open and exposing his flesh. It was a miracle he had been able to walk at all, let alone at the pace he had set. <br><br>She took a deep breath and steeled herself. First she took some of her own water and poured it sparingly around the wound to let the dried blood soften. Her hands shook slightly, not wanting to hurt him, but knowing that it was going to go in that direction. <br><br>As the filth of the wound softened, she reached into her basket and pulled out the bottle of wine, along with a small flat leather pouch, the small bag of Elvish medicine, and clean linen for a bandage. She also grabbed a separate piece of linen, and carefully cleaned the edge of the wound as effectively as she could. <br><br>Using a bit more water, she did the best that she thought possible to clean his leg. Cleaned up, it was even worse looking. The untorn flesh of his leg was a stark contrast to the exposed muscle of the cut. Aloril closed her eyes for a moment, steeling herself, and then opened them to continue. Carefully she sprinkled the medicine over it, not being too liberal as it was all they had, and now she would be unable to get more of it. <br><br>That done, she took the small flat leather bundle and opened it, revealing needles and a fine Elvin thread. The wound needed closed. She looked fearfully to Cyprian, clearly not frightened of him, but very scared of causing him any more pain than he had already been through. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-10-2006, 17:25:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian was more than happy to lay back down on the soft mossy grown when Alorial pushed his hands away from his leg. He soon moved back onto his elbows so he could watch what she was doing. He knew she would never do anything to purposely cause him harm, or to give him away, so for the next few moments he relaxed a bit, letting down his guard and closing his eyes. <br><br>He could feel her fingers moving across his skin, and that feeling along with the sound of his own heavy breathing almost hypnotized him. He could feel more pain as she worked at cleaning the wound but the pain seemed to be fading. In fact he realized allot of what he’d been feeling was fading as he slumped lower, his arms straightening and his head softly touching the ground. <br><br>He was no longer aware of Alorial or the touch of her soft, delicate fingers; instead he was standing over a waterfall naked as the day he was born. Far below he could see Alorial in a gown of silver with green inlaid patterns along the hems looking up at him, and smiling warmly beckoning him to come down, calling in a language he could not understand. He smiled down at her, then his eyes moved to the pool of deep water at her feet. Suddenly he lurched forward and leaped. Forming a perfect dive he flew down the cliff face feeling the rush of soft wind caress his face. He watched as the clear bluish water came rushing at him, only to suddenly change in appearance. The water turned red, as deep as the blood that had spilled form his wounds. He crashed into it and began struggling to reach the surface. He tried to kick, but could not feel his legs… He tried to call out but his lips could not form the words. Then he finally did surface, and he could see Alorial calling to him, as a group of elven Rangers crept upon her unnoticed. He tried to warn her but he could not… He only sunk deeper into the sea of red… the last vision in his mind was that of the last elf he had killed, smiling sadistically at him as he prepared to plunge his long dagger into Alorial lithe, goddesslike form...<br><br>His eyes barely opened, and his lips moved slightly… He thought he could see her look at him, holding a needle…. “Alorial………” It was barely a whisper as his eyes began to roll back into his head, his breathing suddenly slowing significantly almost stopping altogether. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>06-10-2006, 20:45:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She had been grateful at first that he seemed to be resting. She kept a close eye on him, making sure he was breathing, and laying her ear against his chest every minute or so to make sure she could still feel his heartbeat. It had remained strong and stubborn, much like Cyprian himself, as she had cleaned his wound. <br><br>But as she looked to him, poised with the needle in her small hand, something changed. He was awake now…but…his eyes were very weak. And his breathing was waning. Alorial’s breathing increased in direct proportion to the slowing of his. His lips parted, and she saw more than heard her name tumble from his lips. <br><br>Her heart stopped and her eyes widened. “Bai! Cyprian!” <br><br>She lunged back up toward his head. Her hand dropping the needle for a moment to grab his cheeks instead. Panic rushed through her. He could not leave her. She would not let him. Her small hands shook his head lightly and then smacked his rough cheek. <br><br>“Cyprian!” She sobbed his name out loudly, and her words continued in a rush of sobbing panic. “Bai! Pai byr pai! Vaeri pai byr pai! Pai byr pai! Vaeri kydaer, pai byr jhaer cos pai!”<br><br>She leaned forward and pressed her lips firmly to his, her tears spilling from her eyes to run a ragged course down his soiled cheeks. If she could she would let him inhale her very life force. <br><br>Her hands shook and her body trembled, and she pulled back to look at him, to take inventory of the look in his eyes and the remnants of his living. She also looked him deep in his barely open eyes and whispered three elvin words. Words whose meaning might be decipherable by the love in her eyes and the tenderness in her voice. “Ai jhyli o.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>10-10-2006, 14:55:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment he felt as though the current had strengthened and he was bouncing of the many rocks, thrashing about but it was all a dream… For a moment he wanted to close his eyes and stop struggling. Very tired he was, if he could only sleep. Perhaps then he could join his brothers in the halls of the Saints… He wondered if it was not his time, had he not devoted his life to the struggle. Did he not deserve to rest in peace?<br><br>But his work was not complete. He needed to fight back. Above the water line he saw the light but it was a different light. Silvery hair was drawn near and a hand was reaching out, he reached, hoping it was not too late. With one last moment of defiance to the demons that tried to pull him into an abyss of darkness he reached and grasped at the outstretched hand…<br><br>The spark of life suddenly returned to his eyes as he suddenly gasped, feeling Alorial’s lips upon his, her tears than now ran down his cheek and the touch of her soft hand upon his cheek. But as the feelings of life, and Alorial’s love rushed over him like a warm blanket so to did the pain, first in his sides, hip and legs. He was bruised and his face cringed as the struggle for breath seemed to lessen. He smiled weakly at her, as one hand rose slowly to wipe the tears from her cheeks. Somehow she had saved his life, and she was the work that remained for him, of that he had no doubt. <br><br>What plans the Saints had for his future were unknown to him but he had no doubt it was their work… It was they who had brought the two of them together, but for what purpose? He only knew he had to protect her, he had to keep her alive and get to safety… Ironic it was that it seemed it was now he that needed her protection, her healing touch. Perhaps… Perhaps it wasn’t the Saints doing at all, perhaps her elven gods had somehow bent faith… Perhaps it was they who had orchestrated everything that had led Cyprian to Alorial’s door… What if this was against the Saints wishes, would they forsake him? <br><br>It mattered not. He would do her no harm nor allow others to do her harm. The last words she’d said had needed no translation for they spoke directly to his heart and his soul. With his hand still at her cheek he pulled her back down towards his face and it was he who kissed her. He pulled back after a lingering moment, reaching for breath. His own eyes spoke back to her, filled with love and adoration. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>11-10-2006, 20:21:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was if life had been forced into him, he gasped so strongly and so suddenly, his body tensing for a moment. She pulled back to look at him hopefully as his hand rose to wipe the tears from her cheeks. At the signs of life in him, a bittersweet smile spread on her face. He was alive. But he was so hurt he had almost died, she had almost lost him, and she wasn’t sure the battle was over. <br><br>Her hands rose to meet his, and she held his large palm to the side of her face, rubbing her cheek against it. She could see the look in his eyes, the adoration and the love clear. Somehow, despite their vastly different backgrounds, the world had worked their paths towards each other until they finally crossed and found each other. The goddess of fate had worked her magic kindly for once. <br><br>As she watched him, she could see the pain in his features. She was torn as to what to do. If he drank the wine, it would dull his senses, but would it also harm his body? But she couldn’t stitch his wound without something to lessen the pain, the pain itself could kill him. She felt as if she were holding his life balanced on a tight string. If she let slack into it, his life would fall, if she pulled to tightly, the string would snap and it would fall again. But she couldn’t leave things as they were, the open wound would also snap the string if left as it was. <br><br>Tandros! There wasn’t time to make a tea, but she could grind the leaves into a powder, and he could wash it down with more water. <br><br>She took the hand on her cheek and kissed the back of it, and then kissed each of his fingers quickly. Now that she had an idea on how to ease his suffering and maybe not put him in further peril, she was urgent to do so. The tone in her voice reflected that urgency. “Tandros…Tandros!”<br><br>She reluctantly laid his hand gently on his chest and then softly kissed his forehead before moving over and grabbing the basket. She grabbed a square of linen and then looked for the container of dried leaves. Then she remembered she hadn’t brought it. <br><br>Fresh leaves would work, if he could chew them and swallow them. But she would have to leave his side to find them. It was a common plant; she wouldn’t have to go far…<br><br>Alorial bit her lip in debate. Could she leave him? Would she come back and find him cold and pale? That thought chilled her. But she couldn’t leave him in his state. She pointed off to the woods, and tried to put the question in her voice. “Tandros?” <br><br>She held up the needle and nodded to his leg, hoping he would understand. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>16-10-2006, 15:35:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian could see the inner struggle, but he wasn’t sure how to help her. The gaping wound on his leg seemed to be part of the problem, and it took a moment for it all to register inside his mind. The bleeding was minimal, but it wouldn’t be long before further complications set in. The wound needed to be closed…<br><br>He watched as her lips moved across the back of his hand, then across his fingers. He smiled, though weakly as it was. He tried to give her a look that said he was confident she would know how to proceed. A look that showed he trusted her, and was confident she would make the right choices… When she spoke, he wasn’t sure of what she was saying, but he soon thereafter remember the word, and he repeated… “Tandros…” it was no more than a whisper. <br><br>The tea from the previous evening had had a euphoric effect on him, acting as an aphrodisiac, but at the same time it seemed to have increased healing properties… But was now the right time? Probably not, he moved his lips as she started to move away, but sound came out. He simply let his head rest upon the soft moss and watched her movements as best he could… <br><br>When she returned he was surprised at how much more comfortable he was with her by his side. He watched her movements and finally he shook his head. He nodded to the needle. His hands found a small piece of wood, which he slowly brought to his mouth, placing it between his teeth. His other hand, the one on her side moved and gently wrapped around her ankle, perhaps for reassurance… He nodded a few times before turning his head away; looking deep into the forest, waiting for the inevitable pain he knew was coming…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>19-10-2006, 14:02:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled. He actually smiled as her lips whispered across his fingers and his hand. That smile sent a surge of energy through her, and she held onto that smile as her small hands worked to gather a few of the leaves of the Tandros plant she had found under a tree not far away. She worked quickly, not wanting to be from his side for more than a few minutes. But the smile… small and weak, but she believed it was enough of an assurance that when she went back to him, he would still be alive. <br><br>Upon her quick return she could see that he was in fact still breathing, still awake, and alive. She fell beside him once more, smiling softly at him, her eyes shining with compassion and love. Alorial would do everything she could to ease his pain and help him heal. He was a candle in the darkness, warmth in the cold, and a promise of a different life. <br><br>She held several leaves up, and started to move to bring them to his lips, when he refused them with a shake of his head. With uncertainty she lowered her hand, and watched as he nodded to the needle, and placed a piece of wood between his teeth. Once hand wrapped around her slender ankle, almost like he needed to touch her for comfort. <br><br>He wanted her to continue without anything to stop his pain. She wasn’t sure that was best. The pain would be intense, wouldn’t it? She had never had to sew a wound closed before, but the thought of the sewing needle piercing the tender flesh of an open wound made her cringe and feel weak. What would the actual pain be like. <br><br>Still, it had to be done. Alorial leaned forward and kissed his forehead one last time, letting her full lips linger on his skin. When she sat back, she took a deep breath and looked at the wound. <br><br>Gingerly she reached forward and brought the edges together with her fingers. She took another deep breath, closing her eyes. When she exhaled she opened them, forcing herself to step away mentally, to just see the task ahead, and not focus on the fact that it was the flesh of the man she had so quickly grown to love and need. <br><br>The needle was already threaded with a strong silk. Without delay she brought an only slightly shaky hand to the tear in his leg. After a slight hesitation she pushed the needle through, and then through the opposite side of the cut, pulling the edges together. <br><br>She was in a bit of a quandary. Many small stitches would be a better bind, keep the wound cleaner, but take much longer and cause much more pain. Fewer larger stitches would be uglier, and less sanitary, but would cause him less pain and take less time. The quandary lasted only a moment though, as she knew that for the long term, many small stitches would be the proper way to go. <br><br>Her small hands worked skillfully. After the first few stitches she gained confidence. Alorial zoned out Cyprian as much as she could. She knew the pain had to be powerful, but couldn’t let herself see it lest she be too weak to continue to cause it. Many minutes later she had expertly closed his wound, the green thread a track down the top of his thigh. <br><br>Now that she was finished, she turned to him to see how he was bearing the torture. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>19-10-2006, 18:17:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It almost seemed to Cyprian as he looked deeper into the forest that the touch of Alorial’s cool skin was like a link to reality. More than a day ago he was a leader of men, a fierce warrior. Now he was a broken man, fleeing with a broken woman. He waited patiently for the small needle to penetrate his skin. He wasn’t ready, but he knew he would never be….<br><br>He felt the first puncture, and a grunt emanated from his lips as he bit down hard on the piece of wood. His grip on her ankle tightened. His eyes closed and his face contorted into a look of pain. But it only lasted a few moments as the pain seemed to dull. His eyes opened again, and almost starred blankly into the distance. The only sign of consciousness was the repetitive squeezing of her ankle. <br><br>After awhile the stick fell from his lips, and a few tears ran slowly down his soiled cheeks, mixing with grim, elven and human blood alike but no other reaction or emotion could be seen. He knew not how long it had been but after a while he noticed there was no longer movement, or tugging at his skin… He turned his head in a swift movement…<br><br>He looked up into her eyes and for a moment he was lost to the world around them. Only her eyes remained in sight, those large pale orbs. He let go of her ankle and brought his hand to her face, stroking her cheek with a gentle touch. His eyes moved then to look at the expert job she’d done on his leg. “It’s very good….” He said. His mind told him they could not linger, but he was still unable to find the strength to move. Perhaps they could rest here for a moment longer… His eyes scanned the area around them… There were several coniferous trees with thick boughs blocking the view from the trail. He was glad he’d had the sense to choose a decent resting place. <br><br>He could tell she was also weary. He decided they would stay a bit longer… The hand at her cheek moved to behind her neck and he pulled her head towards his chest, forcing her to lay half atop half besides him… “Rest Alorial…. Regain your strength. I will need to draw upon your aid when we leave again…. Just before the sun sets…” he said in a low voice…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>24-10-2006, 14:00:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>The sight of his tears running down his face settled a pain in her stomach, like she had been punched. But it was also a sign that he was still alive for the moment, as his hand on her ankle had been. But the look in his eyes was strong, and she felt a wave of relief as she realized he was with her, completely, and not clinging to life by a thread. For now, he was fighting to stay with her. <br><br>Again she gently rubbed her soft cheek against his large hand as he brought it to her face. His words were once more unclear, but his tone was not. It held approval as he looked at his leg, and a bittersweet smile tempted the edges of her pale lips upwards. She was very glad he was satisfied, but wished there had been no need of it in the first place. <br><br>She watched as he scanned the area around them, drinking in his life and his movements, still affected by how close he had been to death. No doubt he was evaluating the safety of their current resting place. Alorial did not look around herself, but just watched him, and waited for a sign that they were safe for now. She hoped they were. He needed rest very badly, and she needed rest as well. <br><br>It didn’t take much force for him to pull her to his chest. She gladly lay half over him, draping her body like a blanket and sharing what body heat she had. The grime was getting to her, she had never been so filthy in her life. The dried blood on her pale skin was tight and uncomfortable, and she could smell it even now. But cleaning it away could wait. Right now Cyprian was the most important thing. <br><br>Alorial hoped they were staying the night right where they were. And maybe she could make a fire, and bathe them, and they could eat, and just rest. Her eyes closed as she lay on him, a small daydream entering her head as to what the coming night would ideally be like, though she knew it probably would not be as she hoped it would. Her body relaxed one muscle at a time, the sounds of the forest around them friendly and non-threatening. The daydream soon turned to an actual dream, as the beating of his heart, strong,&nbsp; lulled her exhausted and stressed body and mind into sleep. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>25-10-2006, 16:22:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The feel of her slight frame upon his body might have been painful, but he was exhausted, and so pleased to have her here with him that he didn’t acknowledge the pain. The thought of the filth and grime that covered their bodies was far from his mind as one hand came to stroke her beautiful hair. He only wanted to rest for an hour, maybe two but it wasn’t long before her steady breathing hypnotized him, and sleep claimed him as well……..<br><br>A slight noise brought him out of slumber and his eyes darted about but he could see nothing. Night had fallen and Alorial’s still form had not moved. Again he heard the rustling of the leaves nearby, and it took all his control to resist the sudden urge to panic. His leg was still numb, but the majority of the pain had dulled significantly by now. He continued to watched, and stare into the darkness for whatever was nearby… The he spotted it, and he wished he had his crossbow, as the deer was bent, sniffing at the moss on the forest floor not 10 feet away… <br><br>He watched it but knew not for how long. He looked up through the canopy at the stars above, looking for a hint of what time it was. He spotted the moon, and knew by it’s location it was just after midnight, and he had hoped to be on the move by now. Cyprian was an expert and hunting in the dark, he’d always felt the night was his friend. He believed now that travelling by night would increase their odds of survival. <br><br>His hand went to Alorial’s face and he moved it slightly so he could watch her features for a moment before he spoke in a low voice… “Alorial… It is time to wake… We must get ready to move….” He knew they’d only be able to travel a few hours at most, but that would be a few more miles from her forest home. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>06-11-2006, 19:07:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her sleep was deep and still, her body and mind exhausted from the ordeal earlier in the day. If she dreamt, she did not remember it. And it seemed she had no more closed her eyes than Cyprian was softly calling her name and speaking. But there were other signs of the time that had passed as they rested. It was now night, her own wounds had changed, and it seemed Cyrpian’s had as well. She could see that the bleeding had mostly stopped from his wounds, as the blood that remained was either dry or very tacky. <br><br>Alorial sat up off of him and rubbed her eyes with the back of one hand, coaxing the slumber from them as she yawned. She was still tired, but if he had awakened her, there must be a reason. Alorial looked at his face in the moonlight, watching the shadows dance as he spoke quietly to her. Again she could not understand his words, but it did not matter. She would do as he directed, and walk where he walked. She guessed if he had awakened her that they must need to get moving, otherwise he could have let them sleep. The night was not so cold they couldn’t have gone without a fire. <br><br>Even though it was warm enough they could have gone without a fire, the night air was cool enough to cause her to shiver once. Lying on Cyprian she had been able to share his body heat, and hers with him. But sitting back as she was now, the night air engulfed her. She rubbed her arms once, then paid the cool no heed. There were other concerns. <br><br>Alorial reached for the water skin, and gently drank. Her throat felt very tender and sore, and swallowing sent prickles of pain through it, but she was careful not to flinch. Cyprian was in far worse shape than she was, and she would be strong for him. But he needed other strength as well, and she had one thing she would insist on. <br><br>Stretching out, she grabbed hold of the basket and drug it to her. She handed him the waterskin, and then reached in to pull out cheese and fruit. Alorial handed him both. She nodded to the food, and spoke quietly, but firmly. “O ter aer. O shor shi sai shael ais o pai byr.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>08-11-2006, 20:07:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian stayed on the ground for now, watching her as she woke from her slumber. She looked so peaceful; it pained him to have to awaken her. He watched as she pushed off him a bit and sat up; she looked innocent, almost childlike in those first few moments, as she looked around, then at him confusedly. His smiled widened, and he almost laughed…<br><br>He also felt the cold chill when she was no longer lying atop him, and deep inside he wanted to remain here for the night, but he knew that was a mistake. He started to sit up, cringing as a jolt of pain shot through his leg, but it wasn’t… Unmanageable. It was clear to him that they would need to find warmer clothes for the long journey ahead of them. <br><br>He managed to push himself back so his back lay against the trunk of a small tree, helping to steady him. He watched her movements and she stretched, his eyes remaining on her lithe form, until she was close again. He gladly took the water skin and brought it to his bloodies lips and he drank as if he’d never drank before. He had not realized how thirsty he’d become and the water was almost as refreshing as a bath would be at this point. <br><br>With shaking hands he took both the bread and the cheese, and slowly brought them to his lips, chewing slowly. He leaned his head back against the rough bark of the tree behind him, but he offered Alorial a warm smile. As he looked at her, he was wrought by feelings of blessing and guilt all at the same time. He’d brought this upon her, she was well, living on her own, and she was safe. He’d destroyed her world by showing up unannounced at her doorstep… And yet, he felt blessed to have her with him. He felt blessed to share this measly meal with her. “Thanks you…” he said raising the food a bit before taking another bite and washing it down with the water. <br><br>When the food was done he rolled over on his knees, careful not to aggravate his wounds. He looked out from underneath their hiding spot and after a minute he was satisfied no one was around. He crawled out from under their refuge and pulled himself up, looking over the few items he had strapped to him. He held out his hand for Alorial to take… “It is safe Alorial… Come, we must move… Only for a few hours…” he said hoping to reassure her, but it was as much for his benefit. If they could at least find a source of fresh water, they could wash, and refill their skins. <br><br>He looked to the stars through the canopy of the trees. After a bit of star gazing he was convinced he knew which way they needed to move, and he was certain there was a natural spring that led towards the great river not far. He wanted to find it whilst it was still dark… With a firm grip on her hand he started moving through the trees, pulling along towards their next rest spot…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>08-11-2006, 21:08:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial watched as the different emotions and reactions played on his face. First, the broad smile at her, the cringe of pain as he sat up, and then just a gentle gaze as he watched her for a moment before he took the skin and drank. She wanted to try and determine how weak he was, how bad the pain might be. <br><br>His hands were shaking as he accepted the food, and she watched them with a slight furrow of concern in her brow. But his smile was warm, so warm it dispelled the chill that had wanted to set in from the night air, and pushed away most of her worry. Her full pale lips spread in a soft smile in return. The times ahead were unknown and scary, but she was grateful to be with Cyprian. For the first time in many years, maybe even ever, she felt truly alive. <br><br>He held the food up in a gesture, and used the words she was learning he associated with gratefulness. She nodded in acknowledgment of his thanks, the warm smile still on her lips. As scared and worried as she was, she would be strong for him, not let him think he had to take care of her. She just wanted him to concentrate on healing. The last thing she wanted to be was a burden.&nbsp; <br><br>Alorial sat facing him, on her knees with her buttocks resting on her heels. She ate only a couple of bites, wanting to save most of the food for Cyprian. She was small and did not require much, and she could go a little hungry if need be. She was not nearly as injured as he was, and his body needed the nourishment more. And it hurt to swallow anyway. Her stomach did feel hollow and empty, but it wasn’t from hunger, it was from the prospect of the journey ahead of them and the anxiety that came with it.<br><br>When Cyprian had finished, Alorial packed up the few things that had been removed from the basket, and then closed it securely. She put it on her back again, the strap crossing down the middle of her chest, falling between her breasts. The load was not heavy, but she knew the longer they walked the heavier it would become. But the weight of it was comforting, it was a sign that they had some food and water, and she still had something to call her own. <br><br>She smiled again as she watched him stand. That was a good sign, he had some strength. She reached out and slipped her small hand in his larger one, letting the warmth&nbsp; of it comfort her as much as the tone of his words did. Once again, she could not understand them, but his tone was reassuring. <br><br>Alorial let him lead the way. She may have lived for years in these woods, but she did not know them. She knew the area around her house, and the path she took when the marble jar was empty, but beyond that the forest was a giant unknown. But as they walked she was able to recognize certain plants, and occasionally stopped him to gather a few leaves or berries she knew were safe. <br><br>Mostly though, she stayed very close to him, holding his hand tightly. It was dark, darker than she had ever seen the woods, and there were sounds she did not recognize. She had always felt secure in her home, lonely, but secure. Her eyes darted about as different sounds echoed around them, but she tried to hide the bulk of her fear. She had faith in him to keep her safe, and to lead her to a welcome place. He had looked at the stars, so she trusted he knew the path they were taking. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>10-11-2006, 17:06:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian led them through the darkened forest. The pace he set was easy, and was probably all his leg could take. He also enjoyed the small stops they would make, so Alorial could gather some herbs. He watched curiously, but to him, one leaf or root looked like all the others. He would take these small breaks to catch his breath. He would lean against the large trees and take as much weight off his leg as he could. <br><br>He was confident he knew where they were going, though he didn’t know how long it would take. He also could not predict how long he could continue. After a few hours he pulled Alorial closer, and though he did not want to he came to lean on her a bit for support…<br><br>Finally in the distance he heard it, the distinct sound of water. He smiled wide as he looked at Alorial, this was a good sign. He found renewed strength and began moving through the trees a bit faster till he entered the slight clearing. The moon was still high, even though the dawn was only a few hours away and it reflected on the calm waters. Off to the left the rapid waters fell into the pool that stood before them. Several springs were emptying into the pool all around them. Fresh water he thought, this was better than he had hoped. <br><br>He let go of her hand and slid down to his knees by the bank, he dropped his hand and began cupping some water into his mouth tasting it. Again he smiled as he gestured for her to approach. He removed his tattered shirt and bracers, tossing them on the grass higher up. He then reached to remove the shin greaves. He paused when he got to his breeches, looking over at Alorial… He stood suddenly and waded into the water up to his knees before removing them and tossing them back offering a brief view of his naked rear. He then stepped slowly into the deeper water till he was waist deep, not taking the time to check the bandages…<br><br>He just stood there for a few minutes, enjoying the feel of the cool water on his skin….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>15-11-2006, 14:20:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial heard the water when he did, and looked at him just as he smiled broadly at her. She returned his smile with a wide one of her own. The dried blood on her skin felt tight and uncomfortable. She had never been as filthy as she was right now, and longed to be clean. And the blood was a constant reminder of what they had gone through, something she wanted to forget. <br><br>His pace picked up, and she kept with him. It was hard to move with his large form leaning on her, but she gladly assisted him in carrying his injured weight. Her throat prickled and burned as her breathing grew slightly labored from the exertion, but she paid it no mind. The promise of the unseen body of water gave her strength. <br><br>When the pool came in sight, Alorial was struck by its serene beauty. She paused and watched the calm water reflect the moonlight around them, the soft light falling over them. A spell came over her, and as Cyprian let go of her hand and started to undress she just absorbed her surroundings, a soft delicate smile on her lips. <br><br>She had a love/hate relationship with the moon. The moon allowed her to roam free and unhidden. It accepted her. The sun forced her to hide beneath the trees and cloaks and whatever else she could find. The sun made her skin burn and sting if she showed it for too long. The moon…she was even more beautiful in the moonlight. Presently it was dulled by the blood and the filth, but normally her skin was almost luminescent in the night.<br><br>The calm reflection of the moon suddenly broke into pieces as Cyprian entered the water. With it the spell holding Alorial also broke. She glanced up to see Cyprian removing his breaches, the posterior view of his nudity unobstructed. Alorial quickly looked away, though her eyes darted back for the briefest of moments before finding rest on the ground in front of her. <br><br>She wanted to bathe and to wear a clean dress, and just realized that that would mean she would be nude as well. She could hide her body in the water, but the clear pool would only distort her visage, not veil it completely. If he wanted, he would be able to gaze upon her complete form. <br><br>A strange warmth settled in her lower belly at the thought of them circling each other in the waters without the barriers of clothing. She had been taught her skin was an abomination, but Cyprian seemed to not mind it. He was not Elvin. Perhaps to man, her paleness was not a curse. <br><br>Her eyes once again rose to see him enjoying the cool water. The basket slipped from her back and she set it quietly on the ground. After slipping off her sandals, she took a tentative step forward. The water was cool, but not cold, and incredibly soothing. The moment she felt it hit the skin of her small feet she wanted more, and most of her hesitation left her. She slipped forward, letting the pool consume her to the neck. <br><br>Closing her eyes, she felt the embrace of the water and the way it soothed her skin. Immediately she plunged under the surface, wetting her long hair. As she rose face first, she felt the heaviness of the wet fabric of her clothing. She wanted clean; she wanted to feel the waters caressing her skin unobstructed. <br><br>Turning her back to Cyprian, Alorial hiked her dress over her head, freeing herself. She clutched it to her chest a moment, and then tossed it to the bank. Feeling very light and free, she sighed contentedly. <br><br>Like Cyprian, she just stood and enjoyed the feel of the gentle lapping at her skin, the grime loosening and her muscles relaxing. Her arms floated at her sides, an unusual feeling. The water she was used to was the rushing river. She was used to working to keep her balance in the current, and using the movement of the water to scour her skin. This was something much more tranquil, and new. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-11-2006, 16:42:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The cool waters along with the cool breeze helped to calm the fires that raged in his wounds. He suddenly felt much better, and he remained in the waist deep waters motionless for a time, simply enjoying the feel. It was suddenly as if everything was gone, and only he and water remained. The trials and tribulations of the past days seemingly only a distant memory, but thought of Alorial soon made him remember. She had saved him, and in return he would save her, he would take her to his homeland, he would stop being a warrior and settle with her, away from these godforsaken elvish woods. <br><br>He heard her as she stepped into the water, and his head slowly turned. After a moment of watching her, she moved slowly and then slid into the coolness of the water. He turned his body to face her, noticing how the moonlight lit up her skin like a beacon. She looked more beautiful than he could have thought possible. She almost seemed to play in the waters, going under, wetting her magnificent hair. As she turned, he watched the water run of the smooth skin of her back after she’d removed her dress. <br><br>He was made suddenly aware that even though he was gravely wounded, he was definitely aroused by the situation. Were he at full health he would take her, but he feared he would cause himself more hurt than good. He let himself sink to his knees, the water level reaching just below the corded muscles of his neck. He smiled at Alorial in a playful manner, not only did his body feel refreshed, but his spirit was as well. He moved slowly under the water, dunking his head below the surface, then shaking his hair dry like a dog. He made his way to where a spring was falling in the pool from about 8 feet over head creating a small waterfall. He stood up underneath, the water just above his navel and ran both hands through his wet hair. <br><br>“Alorial…. Come closer…” he said to the elvish woman, gesturing for her to approach….<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>23-11-2006, 20:13:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A long sigh eased from her lithe form as she let the waters cradle her. Her hands came to her face and gently worked the blood and grime loose, freeing her of the dirty tight feeling the filth had masked her with. She washed it away, and with it some of the stress and turmoil their ordeal had burdened her with. <br><br>Hearing Cyprian move behind her, she turned halfway in the water. Her head craned on her graceful neck to watch him. His playful smile was a surprise, and it sparked a happy feeling inside of her. A tentative grin graced her lips in return. Seeing him smile, and smiling herself, made her feel very light and free. <br><br>He dipped below the surface, and emerged shaking his head like a bathing bear. Alorial laughed softly as the water was flung about, some of it landing on her face and shoulders. As he moved towards the waterfall, she emerged herself again as well. Her hands worked her hair against itself and her scalp, freeing the last of the grime. <br><br>She rose to see him standing waist deep in the water, his powerful torso shining in the light of the moon. Every muscle and scar cast a shadow, and she was struck by how beautiful he looked, like he was made of stone. <br><br>Her name spilled from his lips, and he was gesturing for her to come to him. She guessed his words held the same message as his gesture did. Mindful of her nude form, but not feeling the need to cover herself, she bashfully slid through the water towards him, her long hair splaying out on the water behind her like leaves floating down a stream. <br><br>Upon reaching him, she stood straight up, about a foot away, bringing her chest just out of the water. Droplets ran from her hair and shoulders down over her full breasts and the slightly darker buds that tipped them, hardened by the cool air on her damp skin. Her eyes scanned the peaceful pool, and she spoke. Her words were soft and lyrical and pleasant against the thundering water. “Sor air ei jhylaelia vali. Ai cali baelaes shael eileirdaesi jhoji air.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>24-11-2006, 18:53:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian watched Alorial, as she watched him. He wondered at the look she gave him, it wasn’t a look of fear, like she’d initially had the previous day, no, it was something much more… Personal. She seemed to understand what he wanted, and he watched her as she moved gracefully through the water. He wasn’t sure himself why he’d asked her to come closer, but he was glad he did. Her beautiful hair glistened in the moonlight, as it floated across the water. It almost seemed to Cyprian like Alorial belonged in the water. <br><br>His eyes continued to study her form until she rose from the water. He was surprised how closed she’d come, and he could almost feel her but a foot away. His eyes immediately went to her perfect breasts and lingered there before rising to meet hers when she spoke… What he would give to understand her language? One hand came to rest on her hip pulling her the foot needed for their torso’s to touch. The other hand went to cheek, touching her skin gently, moving across to her ear. He tilted his head to admire her features as his hand continued to caress the soft flesh…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>25-11-2006, 03:12:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His hand came to rest on her hip, feeling very hot where their skin met in the cool water. Gently he pulled her towards him, closing the distance in the water until they were touching, flesh on flesh, without the barrier of clothing or water. <br><br>Alorial had a vague idea that nudity was something to be frowned upon; she held long ago memories from when she was a small child of what was proper and what wasn’t, before she was banished. Because of those distant memories, she felt a small sense of modesty standing so close to the naked man before her. But the lesson was only loosely ingrained, and there was no sense of shame, and actually a bit of excitement settling in her depths. It was if she was defying the culture that had cast her aside, breaking one of their rules. <br><br>The flesh of his torso was even warmer than that of his hand, and Alorial pressed closer to him, her full pale lips parting softly as she turned her face up to him, as if she were gazing into the boughs of a mighty oak. When his second hand tenderly touched her cheek, her long lashes fluttered, closing over her eyes. The past day with him, he had touched her more than she had been touch since she had been condemned to isolation. She hadn’t realized how important touch was, until now, until she finally felt it. <br><br>Her hand moved slowly through the water to find his hip, resting delicately on his hip bone. Her thumb gently stroked along his skin, feeling the strength in him. She was afraid to touch him more, he was so injured, had been through so much. Even though a the moment he seemed to have had some of his strength renewed by the pool, she did not want to tire him. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>27-11-2006, 15:24:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Luckily the water had a cooling effect, because Cyprian knew the heat would be unbearable otherwise, and the darkness hid the most obvious sign of his arousal, though he had no doubt she could feel it pressing against her. He made no attempt to move away, he simply relished the feel of her small body pressed against his. He watched her reaction to his touch, and the way she closed her eyes brought a smile to his face. His own eyes moved lower, caressing her body visually. <br><br>The hand at her back embraced her tightly, while the other gently grasped the back of her neck, adjusting her head. He brought his lips down upon hers, a bit roughly at first, but the kiss soon softened. His own eyes were closed now. It seemed like the kind of moment Cyprian had heard of only in Bard’s tales, in a moonlit pool, just below the spray from a spring. Her lips tasted sweet, and he moved his tongue across them, feeling their supple softness. His hand moved and lightly grabbed a fistful of hair, pulling firmly, but not enough to cause her any harm. She was a delicate flower after all, and needed to be treated as such.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>04-12-2006, 07:28:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When his large hand found the back of her neck, the other on the small of her back, she reached up to rest her hands on his shoulders. With a gentle tug she pulled herself higher out of the water, meeting the explosion of a kiss that soon softened. It reminded her of a thunderclap, startling and a bit frightening at first in it’s power, then quietly strong as it continued to rumble through the night. <br><br>Her body slid along his solid form, and along the evidence of his desire for her. Her feet left the floor of the pool, and she floated in the water and in his grasp. The long waterfall of almost white hair fell over his hands and her back in a cloak, clinging to them. His fingers tangled carefully in the locks at the base of her skull, holding her firmly. Her head fell back with the gentle tug, the long graceful expanse of her neck arching. <br><br>Alorial spoke feverishly and quietly against his lips, the sound like that of a strong wind rustling the branches of a willow tree. <br><br>“Cyprian...riri cyr ti...riri pyl's jhaer ti kai...” <br><br>Her hands moved from his shoulders to lock behind his neck and her body pressed even more firmly to him. <br><br>“Ai…Ai…Ai cali baelaes thaer eileirol mes eir sor...”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>05-12-2006, 19:38:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His lips continued to caress hers, and he gave into the moment, relishing the feel of her slight frame in his strong and powerful hands. He held her aloft, in an embrace the likes of which he’d never quite felt before. The hand at her back slid lower, his hand finally resting on her rear, pulling her tightly against his own body. <br><br>He felt her body slide along his, and his manhood pushed against her, and at that moment there was nothing he wanted more than to take her, here in the moonlit pool. His pulled back on the hair, pulling her lips away from his. He lowered his head and pressed his lips to her neck, where he kiss, and licked every inch of her smooth skin. <br><br>He heard her words as she spoke, but could not decipher them. He could not bring himself to stop… Not yet. He felt her press her body tighter against hers, and he wondered what she was thinking… It certainly felt like she wanted him to continued, both their bodies were indicating as such, but he worried for his wounds… He could feel some strain on his legs and side. The elvish medicine had done wonders for his wounds, and the cool water also refreshed him, but he was still gravely wounded… He knew he should stop, but he could not pull himself away…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>27-12-2006, 18:41:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial held her body to his, her eyes drifting closed. His hands were so large and strong, but his grip was gentle and sure. She felt completely under his power, and gave herself over to his strength and his command, letting him cradle her body. Never had she felt safer.<br><br>Alorial was overcome with sensations and feelings. She felt an ache deep within her, stronger and stranger than she had felt before. Her legs rose to wrap around his waist, mindful of his wounds. The soft skin of her inner thighs brushed against his abdomen, and she pressed closer, the heat at the apex of her legs a strong contrast to the cool waters. She could feel his manhood, swollen, evidence that he must be feeling something similar. The knowledge that he might be experiencing such pleasurable stirrings as well sent a tremble over her form. <br><br>Alorial knew he must be getting fatigued, he was injured and supporting her weight. As slight as she might be, she was still concerned that in his state she might be a burden. But she was unable and unwilling for the moment to let go of him, or allow him to let go. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>28-12-2006, 19:59:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian continued to kiss her neck, enjoying the feel of her small body pressing against his. Every brush of her body on his member made him ache even more, but it wasn’t pain. It was a deeper emotion, a desire to take Alorial, and make love to her the way she deserved to be loved. He pulled his lips from her skin, and he pulled her upper body from his, his eyes moved over her exposed chest, he admired her small but firm breasts, the look of his eyes was similar to that of a starving man looking over a cooked side of beef. <br><br>Finally he pushed her lower body off his, but he kept his arms on hers, almost at arms length. How he wanted her… His mind was fighting a battle with his heart, he knew now was not the time for this… <br><br>He reached down and scooped the small elfish woman in his arms. He took slow, tentative steps towards the bank where their clothing and gear lay. His eyes never leaving hers. When he reached the soft, cool grass he bent to one knee, laying Alorial down gently before he slid to both knees, kneeling at her side, watching the moonlight reflect off her pale skin. He rolled so he was sitting next to her laying form and he smiled, paying no heed to his large erection that seemed to point straight up and had no inclination of softening. His eyes scanning her naked form before him did not help matters. They began at her small feet and wandered up her body, pausing briefly at her flower before they continued to her eyes… he smiled warmly….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>29-12-2006, 16:54:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was surprised to find that the look her gave her, as if she were the only water that could quench a dying man's thirst, did as much to intensify the odd and strange ache as the closeness of his body did. She liked that he looked at her the way he was. It made her feel very...beautiful, and like for the first time her unique coloring was something special and wonderful, and not the instrument of a curse or evil. <br><br>She allowed him to push her body from his. It would have been exquisite to stay close to him, to feel the heat of his skin in the cool water, and to continue to feel the beating of his heart through his chest. But Alorial guessed that maybe he was tired or in pain and it was simply too much at the moment to be that close. <br><br>His eyes captured hers as he scooped her up in his arms and carried her to the bank. She was very content to let her gaze rest in his as her body rest in his arms. And as he set her as gently on the ground as a leaf settling after a fall from a tree, she smiled softly. His look traveled her body and her heart skipped a beat. She held still and watched his face as he took her in. Again she was struck by how glorious he made her feel. <br><br>The warm smile that greeted her when his eyes returned to her face coaxed her own smile larger. She sighed happily and contentedly, speaking softly. "O taji ti thaer eir ais Ai eis ei mas ail si caelael."<br><br>Her sweet smile took on an edge of bashfulness, and she spoke again. "Tae Ai jhyl eir o?"<br><br>Alorial's clear blue eyes drifted then, falling to his broad and scarred shoulders, then lower to his chest. Her gaze moved tentatively back to his eyes again, before moving lower to his abdomen, and then to the evidence of his attraction. She bit her lip curiously and lingered for a long moment and had an urge to reach out and touch him, touch his swelling. But she held back for now. Her look moved lower to his powerful thighs and then down his legs to his feet. Finally she returned to his eyes once more, her thighs pressing together and her hips stirring as she felt more of the wonderful twinges at the apex of her legs. She knew she wanted something from him, and had a hint of an idea of what that was. And the lust she was discovering within herself was starting to reflect in the pale orbs that gazed upon him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>29-12-2006, 18:49:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian followed her gaze his own body, and he couldn’t help but wonder how experienced she was… if at all… He listened to her words, that soft musical voice that had a way to speak directly to his heart, but unfortunately his heart had as much difficulty understanding her words as his mind did. He certainly wished he could understand, it would make their time together simpler…<br><br>Again his eyes followed hers as they scanned his body, from his muscular frame to the many scars that adorned it, to the slight signs of blood, trickling out from the stitched wounds to his swollen member, where her eyes seemed to linger. This had the effect of turning him on even more. Watching her look at him this way, he was getting the distinct impression if he pursued the matter she would not stop him… <br><br>He noticed the shifting of her legs, and the way her thighs stirred. His large hand moved slowly to touch the skin of her abdomen, fingers tracing slowly towards the juncture between her legs. His eyes moved to hers for a moment, and he gave her a reassuring smile. He did not want to hurt her, or even scare her for that matter. When the fingers reached the small amount of fine hair just above her mound his eyes darted back down to follow the hand’s movement. One single finger then moved gently down the lips, and he couldn’t help but noticed the wetness that was present….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>11-04-2007, 15:55:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His hand was like a red hot iron, branding her abdomen and leaving a hot place where his palm touched her. The pounding in her ears grew more intense and her lips parted as she felt his fingers whisper lower across her skin towards the strange tight feeling and ache. <br><br>As his hand traveled her breathing grew slightly heavier, her round breasts rising and falling gently as the promise of an unknown fulfillment became clearer. Alorial had a vague idea of what happened between a male and a female…she knew of mating and the technicalities of it. One did not live among the animals of the woods and not see it. But she knew nothing of the pleasure of physical touch or release, or of the emotional intensity coupling could bring. <br><br>She watched his strong face as his hand slipped lower, her small pink tongue darting out instinctually to wet her pale plump rosebud lips. He gave her a reassuring smile, and her heart gave a strange flutter. The combination of the touch and his expression was an enticing mix. Still parted, her lips curled in a gentle return of his smile. <br><br>Alorial’s eyes suddenly widened and her head fell back, her long silky hair falling in moon tinged silvery cascade. Her neck arched gracefully and she gasped audibly as his large digit found its way over her lips, the careful pressure echoing to the small sensitive pearl she had occasional let the currents of the river caress. But as pleasurable as the river could be with its movement, it was nothing compared to the deliberate feel of Cyprian’s powerful but controlled finger. <br><br>“Cy…Cyprian…” She whispered his name, her head rolling heavily to the side, towards him. Her eyes delicately closed as her thighs moved together in an attempt to trap his hand where it was, lest he remove it. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>12-04-2007, 17:44:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian’s finger continued to touch Alorial intimately. He watched her as her breathing made her chest heave and her head rolled back. He could feel throbbing, different from the ones he’d felt in his wounds the past day, this one was located in a more… specific location. He pushed his own need aside for now, he didn’t even know if his wounds would allow him to perform in that regards…<br><br>So for now his finger continued to caress her, sliding along her wetness. He parted her folds and his finger entered her slightly, moving in and out a few times before moving back up to her sensitive pearl, which he gently and softly rubbed. It might surprise her to see how soft a touch so large a man could have. He brought his fingers away for a moment, moving the fingers that glistened in the soft moonlight to his lips, tasting her. It was a sweet smell and taste, different than any he’d ever experienced before. <br><br>His fingers slowly made their way back to her womanhood, and he continued to work her the way he knew a woman loved to be worked. His head lowered, his warm breath could be felt on her nipple as he breathed in her scent, before his tongue snaked out and flicked at the hardened tip…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>12-04-2007, 20:44:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial’s lower belly was getting tight…not uncomfortably so, but in a way she wasn’t very familiar with. And as it tightened, the ache she felt between her legs also grew. It grew with every stroke of Cyprian’s large and unbelievably gentle finger. As he dipped between her silky bare folds she felt the hot slickness he spread. It made his touch even more glorious, and she heard herself breathe with each stroke, each exhale a soft vocal exclamation of surprise and pleasure.&nbsp; <br><br>His finger moved inside her tightness just a small bit, and she felt her hips stir, seeking more of his finger, despite the slight discomfort of the girth of it. It wasn’t a conscious desire that spurred her to want more of the intrusion, but an instinctual want. Each probe was slightly less discomforting than the previous, and she had an idea that eventually there would be no discomfort at all. But it was when he teased the small protrusion of flesh, the swelling pearl of her sex, that she responded most earnestly.<br><br>And then he removed his finger. Alorial’s eyes opened and she looked at him imploringly, a whimper bursting from her throat. She was stunned to see him place his finger in his mouth, and felt another surge of desire bolt through her sex and over her pale moonlit skin.&nbsp; But then as quick as it had been removed, it was placed back where she wanted it, and his head dipped to her breast. <br><br>His tongue was like velvet fire as it flicked over her tight sensitive nipple. One diminutive hand rose to entangle in the wild mess of hair and pull his mouth closer. The other hand fell to her side and accidentally brush the silky tip of his hard member. She wondered if he would feel the extreme satisfaction she did if she returned the touch. Tentatively she ran her palm delicately over his manhood. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>13-04-2007, 13:58:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian felt her touch, seemingly accidental at first, but the second time he knew she was trying to please him the way he was pleasing her. One of his hands moved to cover hers and he made her wrap her fingers around his thick shaft, then he began stroking himself over her hand, hoping she’d understand. Her skin was soft on his erection, and he sighed deeply, followed by a loud moaning sound. <br><br>His other hand continued to stroke her pearl, hoping to get her off… Hoping to make her feel the sensations of womanhood. He took her nipples into his mouth one by one and he sucked on them, gently stroking them with his tongue, but he wanted to taste more of her…<br><br>He lifted his head and moved to press his lips to hers, his tongue moving along her lower lip. Then his mouth moved to her neck, as he slowly slid down her body, licking and caressing every inch of her form with his mouth. He slid away, taking his shaft from her hand reluctantly and he continued to slide down her body till his mouth was poised just above her mound. He looked at Alorial, into her eyes, smiling sweetly, reassuring her… He didn’t think his wounds could take the abuse, but he wanted to show her what it was like… He wanted nothing more than to please her…<br><br>Breaking their locked gaze he lowered his lips to gently kiss her mound, then one hand parted her folds and slid his tongue within, as the thumb of his hand began to renew its work on her most sensitive area…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>13-04-2007, 15:59:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial was pleased to hear his reaction to her touch. He had guided her hand to a different position, her lithe graceful fingers wrapping around his rock hard manhood. And then he guided her movements, showing her how to pleased him. She eagerly complied, hoping he was feeling the wonderful sensations she was. She was fascinated by the feel of him, the feel of his soft skin over the rigidness underneath. And she was certain she could feel his pulse, feel him throbbing against her palm. The thought that she was affecting him, bringing him pleasure, gave her great satisfaction. <br><br>Everything about the moment was satisfying, his fingers stroking and toying with her, his mouth worshiping her body, the moonlight, the soft sounds of the almost still pool near them…but there was something unsettling as well. As pleasurable as it all was, Alorial felt unsettled, a sense of urgency, a feeling that there was something more that was to come. Her hips moved and writhed like a bed of newly hatched snakes, in search of the unnamed missing element of the moment. <br><br>When Cyprian broke the kiss and moved away from her mouth she whimpered, high pitch and breathy. He could of course not understand her words, but the neediness in them, the begging, was impossible to mistake. <br><br>“Cyprian...riri pai byr myr...rai byr jhaeli tia jhor os paelia ti os sys...”<br><br>He even took his swelling from her hand. <br><br>She watched him move lower, propping herself up on her elbows and lower arms, confused by his actions. He poised himself between her legs, and she was about to speak again when he smiled. Such a sweet tender smile to come from the face of a brutal and hardened warrior. She had seen him slay the elves viciously and brutally…and with the skill of one who had killed many times. Yet here, now, with her, he was as tender as a mare with her colt. <br><br>When he places his lips upon her sex, she gasped, understanding but not believing his intentions. The pleasure was incredible, unlike anything she had encountered before. The heat of his mouth, the slick probe of his tongue, it was glorious. <br><br>Alorial raised one of her hands to entangle in his hair again, lest he move to take away the unique kiss he was giving her. Bolt after bolt shot through her, reverberating through her body. His thumb moved along that sense of urgency, and her body tense and poised, like a deer that hear a foreign noise and was ready to bolt. <br><br>Alorial felt that same sensation, the adrenalin, the feeling of being on edge and ready to run if needed. She didn’t understand it, but new that whatever was to come would come from the ache in her sex, the throbbing in her clit, and the deep emptiness within her. <br><br>Suddenly Alorial cried out, deeper and more primally than before. Her body released and exploded, and she felt as if she might shatter into a thousand bits of light from the force and the ecstasy of it. Her hand pulled on his hair, pulling him deeper into her silky sex, and her hips thrust towards him. Her other arm gave out and she collapsed to her shoulders, her back arching and her hard nipples reaching for the sky and the stars above. <br><br>“Cy-..Cyprian!”<br><br>She continued to cry out in the dark, gasping for air between cries, her vision blackened for the moment by the intensity of her first release. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>13-04-2007, 18:14:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian could hear her words, but still he didn’t know what she was saying. There was an certain urgency in her voice, but it wasn’t one of fear, or danger. She could feel the impending orgasm approach like a storm, and this encouraged him. Never before had he cared so about it, never before had he concentrated so hard to please a woman, but with Alorial, it was different. This was beyond him. <br><br>When he saw she was nearing her peak he increased the intensity of his work, his tongue snaked inside of her, and his fingers worked the area surrounding her juncture, paying particular attention to her clit. He wanted to push her over the edge and felt it when she reached it, he looked up from his work and he saw her head roll back, and her upper body arched, making her look even more beautiful than ever in the moon light. <br><br>As she started to come down his fingers slowed, his touch becoming more soothing, and his mouth continued to suck lightly at the juices that flowed almost freely. One hand slid up her body and gently fondled her breasts, and he silently hoped it had been perfect….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>13-04-2007, 18:37:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her legs tried to clamp closed, to hold him to her so he couldn’t pull away, but her soft thighs just pressed into his hard unyielding form. She writhed as if in intense pain, and the cries coming from her lips could sound to a casual listener as if she was in agony. But what she was feeling was far from pain, quite the opposite, she was feeling the most intense pleasure she had ever experienced in her life. Beyond the physical rapture, it was an experience that she was sharing with Cyprian, the man that had crashed into her isolated life and pulled her from the dreadful routine that was slowly biding time until her inevitable death one day.<br><br>After what seemed like a glorious eternity the waves began to cease and the rhythmic pulsing slowed to a more chaotic twitching and throb of aftershocks. Cyprian slowed with her, seeming to know that things were becoming too intense and sensitive for the frantic attention that had taken her to her heights. His warm hand snaked up her body, and she wrapped her arms over his forearm, embracing him as best she could in their position as he fondled her heaving breasts. Never had she felt more vulnerable or exposed, and never had she felt closer to anyone than to this human that she could not even converse with.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>13-04-2007, 19:05:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian could feel the way Alorial was wrapping her arms around his. He sighed deeply, before taking a final deep breath, allowing the sensual scent of her sex to waif in through him. It was sweet, and filled him with a sense of elation over what had just happened. To him it had seemed as thought her orgasm had been more powerful than anything he’d ever seen before. He pressed his lips one final time to her mound, and softly kissed her there, before he began to trail his way back up her form…<br><br>His lips slowly caressed her stomach first, taking the time to almost tickle her skin with his tongue in a playful manner. Soon he reached her breasts, which he covered in kisses, his hands beginning to trace discernable patterns along her skin, on her arms, her sides. After a long moment he had reached her neck once again, and his hands moved to each side of her face, and he held her gently, as his lips finally reached hers, and his kissed her with as much passion as he could muster. He lay on his side, his body pressed against hers….<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>17-04-2007, 16:40:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alorial had never dreamed she would ever be accepted in the most minor of ways, let alone be treated with such…reverence. She and Cyprian had been through a tornado of emotions and situations, but what mattered was this moment now. In the soft playful whispering of his kisses up her form she felt more valued and cherished and treasured than she had ever thought possible. <br><br>His warm strong palms stroked her skin, feeling as warm as sunlight, though without the painful burn. She sighed softly, the end of the sigh becoming a delicate high pitched moan. After a drought of physical contact, she was drinking thirstily his closeness, her own palms finding there way to his powerful form, stroking in return his abdomen and chest and arms. <br><br>When his hands found her face, cradling it in hands so strong they could crush her if they wished, she felt a deep sense of security and safety, a cradling of her very soul. Yes, they were running for their lives, but even if she died tomorrow she would be safe in her heart, knowing that someone accepted her despite, or possibly even because of, the moon’s curse of her. <br><br>Alorial returned the kiss just as passionately and without concern of her lack of knowledge of such matter. She may not be able to share words with him, but she could use this kiss to speak to him. Her lips moved silently and softly against his, and she whimpered softly into the meeting of their mouths, hoping he was able to infer the depth of her feelings. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Archangel</strong> on <strong>17-04-2007, 19:47:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Cyprian felt warm inside, even though the breeze was cool, and his wet body was bared, there was a great warmth moving throughout him. He could certainly feel what she was sending his way, despite the lack of words. He paused from the kissing and he pulled his head back, his eyes locking onto hers and his hands continued to lightly caress the side of her face. Considering how close he’d come to killing her mere hours ago… He could not believe it, everything that had happened, and yet he lay naked next to this pale skinned elf, a beauty that was beyond comparison. <br><br>He rolled on his back finally, the strain on his wounds beginning to take its toll. His arm slid behind her head and he rolled her so her head was on his shoulder with his hand at her back. His other hand came to caress the side of her face, and the soft hair that surrounded it. “Oh Alorial… What you do to me…” he whispered… “You have taken my heart…. And you have won my soul…” he continued to whisper as his eyes were cast to the heaven’s…<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: An Unknown Land (one on one)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lyria</strong> on <strong>05-11-2007, 04:56:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She knew it was the exhaustion and the trials of the day that finally over came him and moved him to lay on his back under the gaze of the stars, pulling her body with his so she was nestled along side him, her head resting in the hollow of his shoulder. Many time he had pulled her smaller form to where he wanted it, manuevered her without request. But it did not offend her in the least, on the contrary, it made her feel...it made her feel somewhat like a precious possesion that he wanted close. Something valuable and rare. <br><br>As the light night wind caressed her still damp skin, his whispers caressed her ears. Even with a whisper she could feel the rumble of his voice in his chest and her head lay on his shoulder. Feeling his tone as much as hearing it. The words were indecipherable, and she felt a pang of longing to know exactly what he was saying, to be able to hear his exact sentiments and to be able to express to him in the same exactness of manner. But the pang was small and fleeting, the basic message clear in his tone. <br><br>Her breath wafted warm and soft across his skin as she exhaled in a long content sigh. Her body lay along side his as if she were made to fit there, as if he was the place she had been seeking to fit. Her hand came to rest on his abdomen above his navel, her fingers curling and uncurling lightly to gently drag her nails across his scarred skin. <br><br>The pulses of her climax had faded, but the pleasure ache in her sex had not dissapeared. She felt warm between her legs, content, soothed, but the fire was not completely out. The coals were smoldering, and the heat of them made her want to please him as he had pleased her. She felt a little lost, but not bashful. He had accepted her in what she considered the most intimate way, kissing her in a place she'd never dreamed of, drinking her very essense. If he could do that for her, accept her in that way, then she did not fear anything she could try or do would offend him in any way. If it was wrong or clumsy, he would kindly correct her, just as he had corrected her touch earlier. She called upon that correction now, sliding her hand lower to wrap her fingers around his large swelling. The feel of him, hard and hot, in her hand pulled a small quiet moan from deep inside of her. His swelling felt unique and amazing against her palm, and she carefully stroked him as he had shown her. 
			</dd>
		</dl>
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