Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Akasma on 04-02-2010, 18:27:46</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Akasma</strong> on <strong>04-02-2010, 18:27:46</strong>
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				The forest was alive with noise, there were the humming’s and chirping’s of cicadas as a musical undercurrent. The plethora of birds chirping happily and sending out mating calls to one another wafted through the air like the overtones and the various calls of mammals and the wind rustling through the leaves of the trees served as punctuation to pull the song together. She knew this song so well she could easily pick out something out of place in the music, but she was concentrating on day dreaming. <br><br>From where she was perched Akasma could easily see the top of the nearby mountain range and was wondering what it felt like to walk through snow. She could see the snow capped portion of the mountains clearly, though had never actually touched snow. She knew it was supposed to be quite cold. The valley she lived in was to warm to have snow and though she had requested her parents had never seen any reason to travel to the mountains. It did not stop her of day dreaming about it though.<br><br>She could see herself playing in the snow, feeling the cold against her skin. She was always hot as though she had a furnace inside her somehow. She could imagine the snow melting against her and letting her cool off for once. Sort of how she felt in water but she was sure it would be even better. She wanted to have a snowball fight and make snowball angels and even maybe a fort with her friends. Many of them felt they were too old for children’s games now but she had a very different opinion. <br><br>As she was thinking this, she noticed how quiet it had gotten except for a rhythmic swishing noise, someone running through the forest. She turned to look in the direction the noise was coming from. In a moment they should come into view. She was relieved to see one of her friends round the corner, Branin. He was one of her favorites, he was a few years younger than her and not too grown up for kids games yet. She slid down out of the tree landing lightly on the ground and went to meet him with a hug.<br><br>“Knew where I was huh?” She asked with a twinkle in her eye.<br><br>“Always.” He smiled at her smugly. His blue eyes twinkling with the secret he could not wait to spill, his blonde hair looked windblown from his run as it fell about his shoulders “You have company at your house. Someone nobody knows.”<br><br>Akasma looked at him shocked, her mouth forming an “o” of surprise. “What do you mean someone that nobody knows? A stranger just went to my house? There is no one in the village we do not know.”<br><br>“Some guy in a dark brown hooded cloak walked into town and straight to your house and they let him in. We were playing in the gathering circle and saw him and I figured I would find you here but Lyra went to the pond just in case.” He was enjoying her shock and he was just as curious as she was who this mysterious person at her house was. Without a word she started running home. It was only a moment before she heard Branin again. “Race you!”&nbsp; <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>06-02-2010, 13:15:30</strong>
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				The village was as he expected it to be; small, secluded and to a point, on the cozy side. It wasn't the first time he had been to such villages before. Truth be told, he didn't blame such villages for wanting to be so far away from civilization. The nearest even remotely size-able city was a good few day's travel. For what purpose was there to be here? Oh, he knew. The villages normally did not have much, but each village did have their gems. This one in particular had a special family living here. Eyes peered up from his hooded figure as he stepped to the outskirts of the village. He was covered in a long brown traveler's cloak, his hood thrown up over his head as to preserve his identity as well as provide some personal privacy. He did not need other potential recognizers seeing him here.<br><br>(http://www.adultcostumeshop.com.au/contents/media/l_IC5407%20plus%20size%20sorcerer%20costume.jpg)<br><br>Where was it, where was it? It was early in the afternoon, the sun shone down brightly, the sky a clear blue in what would been classified a beautiful day. Ah, it was enjoyable. How the weather was so strange in this part of Anathia! He did not often travel to the eastern hemisphere of the world, but when he did, he was always perplexed at how even relatively close sections could be so vastly different. Perhaps it was the general larger size and the mountain range that provided for the weather. Unfortunately, he did not have the time to spend basking in the sun.<br>No, this was not the general area. He spent his time walking through the heart of the village. Even though it was a small village, it was still quite busy with the general life of a community would be. He spent little time there though, eventually finding his way to the other side of it and to the beginnings of the forest. A smile pulled up on his lips as he found what he was looking for. The forest, yes. That is where he was told they lived.<br><br>Making his way into the forest, he did not have to travel very far in to find a home made against the edge of the forest. It was a relatively small house, certainly not anything in the lap of luxury but enough for a few to call home. The Feralillas had always preferred the shade of the forests, enjoying a slightly more secluded place to settle down if they could. Making his way up to the door, a hand extended out to produce a gentle knock upon it. This would be the start, the beginning of something certainly taxing but no doubt, extraordinary.<br><br>However, no one answered the door. He wasn't terribly surprised at the lack of response. Backing away from the door, he let his gaze run up the height of the home, studying how it was built and anything else that perhaps might have stood out. There was no mistaking it, this was their house. A small tingle went down his spine; he felt the presence here. He could sense a great source of magic within the walls. Making his way up to the door again, he lifted his hand up but instead, placed it flat against the door.<br><br>"Feralillas, unfold your wings and hide no more." he would call out.<br><br>It worked. A few moments after he had spoken, the door unlocked itself and opened to him with barely a noise. He stepped into the now opened room, in no rush to get anywhere quickly. It took much patience when it came to dealing with their kind, but in the end, the rewards were great. It was merely waiting now, for them to show themselves.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Akasma</strong> on <strong>06-02-2010, 14:01:06</strong>
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				Adrenion &amp; Senerellia Feralilla stood within the well lit, open interior of their home. Adrenion was Akasma’s father and was tall, about 6’3 and slender but well muscled like a runner, with deep bronze skin. His hair short and spiky, and most notably, a metallic gold shade that reflected the light , with piercing green eyes. Senerellia stood next to him, much shorter, only&nbsp; 5’6 stood slightly to the right of her husband of countless decades. Her hair was long, almost to the floor and was a silken platinum white, her skin only a shade darker made her ocean blue eyes stand out in deep contrast. She was soft, well rounded, and radiated an aura of grace and beauty.<br><br>Inside of their home was cozy, A large portion of the roof over the family room could be moved back with a lever to allow in light, the room was filled with plants of various origin. Luxurious brown cushions were arrayed on the floor for seating in place of furniture. There was a small wood stove near some cabinets that stored dishes that served as a kitchen, but managed to not take much room away from the living area.<br><br>They were not pleased, not pleased at all. They hadn’t opened the door for a moment because they were busy working on a project, a shelf to better arrange some of the plants and make room for more, and some unknown person was spouting their secret for all to hear. They were of a general consignment that this had better be good or dinner had just arrived. The project they had been working on lay abandoned on its side in one corner of the living area. Adrenion waited a moment after the door opened before speaking calmly in his deep voice. “Enter, stranger.”<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>06-02-2010, 14:43:22</strong>
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				Head was kept bowed down as he entered their home. He felt the energy resonating in the air, one that was very fine and so obviously suppressed. It did not escape him though as he had a great affinity for such energies. Eyes peered up from underneath his hood, glancing out to the pair that stood there a small distance away. The male was an impressive figure, built very well and toned to a good degree. He looked his part; moderately aged, healthy and towering over what seemed like everything in the room. Eyes went to the considerably smaller figure at his side. There stood a considerably shorter lady, but no less impressive in her own way. How beautiful was she, the long white hair that was so neatly kept, a figure that resonated with the essence of the feminine features that made men’s hearts skip and burn with desire. <br><br>A smile broke out upon his face before he knelt down where he stood, a knee touching the floor in respect to the couple. “Adrenion and Senerellia Feralilla, it is an honor to be able to meet you. It was not easy finding your whereabouts, but your kind certainly has made sure to keep themselves hidden.” His head was kept bowed the entire time, showing that he meant no harm and humbling himself before them. He had to tread lightly; they were dragons after all. “The world of the magical sends their greetings to you.” Hands reached up to grab a hold of his hood and pulled it up, revealing himself to them. Black spiked hair adorned his head as wood brown eyes gazed to the two of them. Gaze shone for just a moment with some sort of mystical glow, alerting the two that there stood a sorcerer in their presence. Slowly rising to his feet, arms came to cross over his chest, his body still excited and restless especially getting to meet actual dragons, even though they were disguised. “Please excuse the interruptions oh great Ferallilas, but I come to you humbly with a request. I understand that you have a daughter? No doubt any offspring of the Ferallilas will be great in their own right. I have no doubt that she has taken after her mother, lovely and beautiful in every way possible.” Small smile would beam towards Senerellia as he spoke, a nod of his head given to her. Their species was a rare and mystical kind, proud of themselves and strong willed. If there was anything that could touch and soften a dragon, it was praise. Small clearing of his throat would be given as eyes would leave the figure of beauty that stood there. <br><br>“It is not like me to waste time, so I shall be as quick and brief as possible. The world of magic is slowly losing its champions. No doubt, as populations grow, there will be more and more filth that infiltrates its way into our system. We have long been charged with the duty of teaching and spreading our powers to those with great potential. I, however, find myself displeased with much of the students that I am offered; with that, I have set out to find my own student, one that I believe can be held to the highest of regards. I believe that person would be your daughter, oh great Feralillas.”
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Akasma</strong> on <strong>06-02-2010, 16:00:34</strong>
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				They observed the sorcerer together, for rarely were words needed for them to share thoughts, so well did they know one another, so perfectly did the two dragons match and complement each other. There was much to this one, a flavor to his aura that was hard to place. He was as he said, a sorcerer, and a strong sorcerer at that. Indeed dragons were not common, there were very few of them and the few there were are especially hard to find. For him to have gone through the trouble of finding them spoke volumes. <br><br>Interestingly enough they had hoped for a mentor for their daughter, the elves excelled in nature based spells, so they had been able to teach Akasma very little, and the girl had proven so head strong and independent that they were afraid attempting to teach her themselves would result in the entire forest being leveled. On the other hand they were immensely worried about Akasma learning that she had another form. They had never shown her, never let her know, though she should be fairly safe they were merely trying to make sure not to attract any attention. <br><br>Dispositions had softened with proper respect being shown, their own arrogance quite possibly being the undoing of their daughter, they had decided to agree to allow this man to tutor Akasma. For how could one human be a threat? Either Akasma would learn from this man or not, if not they were quite simply back where they had started nothing lost. Though it was unspoken it would be hard for Senerellia to let her daughter get out of her sight. She was fiercely protective. This time it was Senerellia that spoke. “We would want your oath that no harm shall come to her. She will be your responsibility and should you fail, you would know of our displeasure first hand.”<br><br>She looked this man over again, more carefully wondering at that feel to him that was so different than what she was accustomed to. To look any further would require invading his mind and she was positive he would be aware. It did not seem that it was worth the offense or the disdain she would feel at touching a humans mind to answer her question. She was still pondering this when her eyes flickered to the door a moment before her daughter burst in. Branin visible behind her but hanging back, he turned away deciding he could get the story from his friend later.<br>Akasma was astounded at what she saw. Her parents looking upon a kneeling human in her house, how fascinating! The running hadn’t even been enough to quicken her breathing. She quickly ran her hands through her hair, knowing it would need the moments attention after running. Her silver strands neatened easily falling a bit below her waist her skin much rosier than her mothers, vibrant with youth, her eyes an expressive deep emerald. She went to stand with her parents and it was obvious how much she took after them. She was between them in height 5’9” though she may grow another inch or two yet and more toned than her mother, and slightly better endowed but her clothing made it obvious that she was no lady. Yes, she had that inherent grace from her mother but it was rougher around the edges. She opened her mouth to speak and then thought better of it, waiting to see what happened next.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>06-02-2010, 16:13:27</strong>
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				He stayed silent for the time being, watching the two dragons in disguise look at each other. No doubt they were communicating, he had known that they didn’t need to openly speak to be able to talk amongst their own kin. His eyes peered from one to the other, from the towering figure of a dragon and man’s physical build, to the representation of deep beauty. A smile graced his lips as he did his best to hold in a sigh. He was confident in himself and his skills to confront and communicate with dragons, but even then, he was a bit nervous in being in their presence. The mere fact that they hadn’t attacked him on the spot meant that they were talking to each other and discussing. <br><br>It wasn’t until the lady spoke up that he would come to full attention again. An oath, a promise and a threat….such was the way of dragons. “M’lady, I know well enough of what you are capable of. With that in mind, I promise tha-“ His little oath was interrupted by the sound of a door crashing open. Forgetting the task on hand, he turned to look at the said door. There he found a young elven maiden, hands in her hair fixing it up while another one ran away. Ahh, here she was; what he had come here for. Eyes would run along the length of her body, eyeing her up and down to study her features. What a youthful one she was, so full of life and beautiful in her own right. Eyes caught her own, brown pupils giving off that same shine to show a glimpse of magic should she be keen enough to catch the subtlety of what he revealed. It wasn’t until she went to stand by her parents did he speak again. “Ah and here she is….I would assume? My my, she is certainly just as lovely as her beautiful mother.” He paused for a moment to observe the three of them now, comparing everything from hair color to body shape and even relative height. “She seems to be strong like her father as well. How very lovely she is, having inherited the best qualities from both her parents.” He finally exhaled in a small sigh; at least he had found her and it wasn’t a wild chase all over the village. <br><br>Clearing his throat again, he went to stand up to his full height as he went back to his oath. “I do hereby promise that I will do my best to teach her, care for her and keep her from harm’s way. She will become my personal apprentice under me.” That should’ve been a very big surprise to her. He awaited her reaction as to how she would take everything.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Akasma</strong> on <strong>06-02-2010, 16:44:14</strong>
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				Akasma’s mouth dropped into a perfect “o” entirely losing her composure for a moment. She had been about to ask her parents about the unusual shine she had seen in his eyes when the words he said sank in and she felt her entire world being rocked. Much of the color drained from her face but she forced herself back into a state of composure. “I am to study with this man? He is moving to our village? Her tone was careful, guarded, and without thinking about it she had stepped into a slightly more defensive stance, one foot going back just a few inches, her weight shifting for balance. She could not help but look at this man incredulously. <br><br>Never before had her parents made a decision involving her without discussing it with her first. She felt the fires of rage build within her stomach. They would make her listen to a human? All of the elven knew that humans were nothing more than children, at best. What could he possibly have to teach her? Though the fire continued to build that thought sent her on a tangent as her curiosity was sparked. If it was one thing she craved it was knowledge, she could never get enough. She had even taken time to make friends with the elders so she could learn their stories, their history, and borrow their books when she chose to be winsome enough to convince them to share something so precious.&nbsp; Still, a human, she wouldn’t let it show but still her temper raged within begging to be released upon this mortal who had come along and altered her life without her having any say.<br><br>“Be calm, daughter.” Adrenion spoke serenely as he lay his hand on Akasma’s shoulder. “You will obey us in this. Do not fail me.”<br><br>Though softly spoken the words came with a deep sting. To be reprimanded in front of the human was intolerable. It was unlikely he realized it was such but regardless she would make him pay for this later. Though she could not ignore her father’s order either, she would learn from this man, if he did indeed have anything of value for learning. She nodded her head ever so slightly to her father and then focused her sight on a vase against the back wall, placed near eye level and ignored the rest of the room as if it were not there, her hands clasped gently behind her back, her jaw clenched ever so slightly to hold in the lengthy rant she wanted to let loose so much.<br><br>Senerellia looked to Zaxis. “Your oath is accepted. Shall we arrange the details?” Her parents gestured to the door and walked past the man, Senerellia’s long flowing blue dress swished softly, leaving him to follow as they walked out of the house. They were making it apparent that their discussion of her future would continue to be something she had no part of. She still did not move until all three of them had left the house.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>07-02-2010, 04:34:16</strong>
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				Hand lifted to his chin, fingers gently rubbing at the bottom of it as he watched the reaction of the elven maiden. No doubt she would be shocked, surprised and reacted the way she did. In all honesty, he was just as surprised that they seemed to agree to it without discussing it with their daughter first. Rather hasty, he thought. Perhaps there was a reason for it? Perhaps it was something that they actually would've liked? Or had his words moved them to an even greater degree then he had thought? As the younger elf voiced her displeasure, her words made him think about what she said. Study with him; who said anything about studying? There was no study. It was learn or do not learn. As for moving to their village, well that was certainly not an option. He feared that the potential attachment she had to her parents may have interfered with her learning. He would have to make sure he stated that clearly.<br><br>Still, he couldn't help but feel a small fraction of pity for the maiden. He, a human, would be the superior to the noble elven and dragon race? He pondered how old they really were. Human years were quite different from elven or draconic years. For one, it certainly took other races much longer to mature and grow than it did for humans. Though yes, humans did not live as long, but perhaps that is why they grew faster. Senses were jarred slightly as he heard the father speak, soft yet commanding voice addressing his daughter. That confirmed it; there was more to things than he had thought.<br><br>Movement caught his eye as the alluring Senerellia was the first to move. He remained still as she passed by him, the door coming to open with a gentle sliding of the lock aside. Head moved to turn, eyes watching her from over his shoulder as she spoke and then disappeared out of sight, the blue dress fluttering in her wake. Head turned back to the two that had stood there, a small nod being given to Akasma. This would be quite the shock for anyone; he would have rather apologized and set off to studying the younger elven one, but it seemed like he was being called to arrange such details. No matter, he would have his time later. Turning around, he would take his turn and step through the door, following Senerellia to wherever they deemed it appropriate to discuss things.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Akasma</strong> on <strong>07-02-2010, 12:09:19</strong>
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				Adrenion and Senerellia waited outside the door for Zaxis, when he did come out and had closed the door behind him they started walking, leaving room for him to walk beside them into the forest. They made very little noise as they moved through the forest, carefully watching where they were walking to make the least impact, though they were not truly elven many of their reverences for nature had rubbed off on them. Once they were far enough from their home to not be heard they continued the conversation.&nbsp; Though most would have been embarrassed by their daughters display, her parents had not been, the story would be different had the display had been made in front of other dragons. They felt she was validated in her anger, this was sudden and they had not yet had a chance to speak with her about it. They would explain later, their choice was logical, even if she disliked it she would have to agree to the logic of it. “Akasma has much power, surpassing even our wildest hopes and dreams, but she lacks finesse. For one, she is not aware of her draconic heritage, partly due to the fact that she uses brute strength, or brute power to overcome things. Secondly, rather than using a careful lick of flame to start a fire she will use a fireball that will decimate everything in a 4 meter radius. This is why we are allowing your tutelage. We also think it would be good for her to study elsewhere, somewhere that has room for a young one to learn without the risk of burning the village, or forest&nbsp; to the ground. It is that reason in particular that has stayed our hand in her studies here.” She looked to the sorcerer to see if he had absorbed what she was telling him. <br><br>Though there were things that a sorcerer could teach a dragon, they both worked off of internal power, they both had to learn their limits, for if one drew too much energy it would exhaust or even kill them. It required much studying, much work, much practice to become skilled. Sorcerers were infamous for their control in casting. They would use only as much energy as they needed to, thus reserving as much as possible for emergencies. Also they were often infusing their spells into scrolls for use later rather than letting reserved energy from a day go to waste. It was said that a diligent sorcerer always slept well. Dragons rarely bothered putting their magic into scrolls. They had more than their fair share of magical abilities. Their curse lie in the fact that there were so few of them and often large groups of adventurers would seek them for their hides as the best armor in the world was made from dragon hide. Fortunately few could kill a dragon, oh and it was exceptionally hard for a dragon to ignore shiny things. They had a tendency to collect them. Regardless of personal danger involved. Even the Feralilla’s, could not resist the lure of treasure. They had excavated under their home carefully and stored their treasure there. <br><br>The deciding factor really had been that they were afraid that if they did not take her away from their home soon and teach her then she was going to hurt herself because a dragon’s power grew as they aged. Being relatively young she still could not draw enough power to kill herself, yet. Given another decade or two and she would be able to. All young ones learned better from those that were not their parents, though because of their circumstances the normal dragon mentors were not available. Adrenion spoke up now. “I would like to see on a map though where she will be going and I would like some communication on her progress from time to time. Also, I want her to be able to come and visit us for a week out of every year. What supplies will she need to have to begin her studies?”&nbsp; She seemed to deal with the emotional side of things and he with the practical. Some found it disconcerting to have a conversation with them because of the way they tended to talk. They would wait now to see what the sorcerer had to say to this.<br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>09-02-2010, 21:42:05</strong>
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				Eyes looked to the twin dragons in disguise, watching as they closed the door behind him. Where were they to go? His gaze was fixated upon the pair, marveling in their grace and way they held themselves. It seemed like into the forest was the destination. The trees stood strong and proud, sturdy and a shelter to many. The sun just peeked through the canopy, lighting the ground yet hiding the glaring beams from being too discomforting. They came to a stop finally, the pair of them turning around to address him. It seemed like this was their explanation, their reasoning for their choices. He listened to them, taking in what they said. <br><br>His eyes widened slightly as he learned that she was unaware of her draconic roots, pondering how one could grow up and not take notice to such an innate power. This would prove to be more interesting as the seconds passed. It seemed like his job was more difficult then he had imagined; not only did he have to teach her, but he also had to help her control and suppress her roots, or learn them firstly at that. A small sigh would be given after a few moments of silence before he started to speak.<br><br>"Great Feralillas, I don't mean to be rude, but why would you not tell your own offspring of their true heritage? Granted, perhaps yes, you wished to lead a peaceful and concealed life, but surely something as important as that would be something to tell them. For one, I'm not sure how I myself would be able to convince her if her own parents refrain from doing the same. Also...." he paused for a moment, thinking back to how the elven maiden seemed so opposed to the idea, how how feisty he saw her being. It wasn't going to be an easy job at all. "I'm not too sure she is very fond of the idea herself. You did see how she reacted back there. I cannot teach someone who has no will; they are just learning it for the sake of someone else, as opposed to themselves." He stopped there, ears listening to what they perhaps had to say.<br><br>While he waited for their reply, he reached into his bag to address the next part of what they had requested. Out of it he pulled a small map, nothing lavish but enough to show the world that they lived in. To be quite honest, he wasn't completely sure where they were right now; he had followed so many instructions and routes to get here that he would have had to take a small amount of time to just retrace everything and map out where he had been prior to reaching here. One thing was for certain though, she would have a long journey to get to his lands. He refused to teach anyone in the comfort of their own homes but instead, have them come to his domain. Small circle would be marked on the western continent, a piece of the southern portion of it to indicate where he resided and ultimately, where their daughter Akasma would be sent to.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Akasma</strong> on <strong>10-02-2010, 19:35:59</strong>
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				The three stood there in the dappled sunlight from above, Adrenion’s hair would catch the light and refract it in a dazzling manner. Once more the couple looked together. They were astounded, so much so that for a slight moment the only bit of emotion that either of them had displayed played across Senerellia’s face as one of momentary shock. Could it be that they mistook this man? He seemed to have a decent amount of power and had even proven himself to some degree by locating them and knowing of their draconic heritage. It would indeed have taken some strong magic to know this, they had hidden successfully from the most powerful beings on Anathia for centuries and this man simply walked straight to their home with the knowledge of who and what they were. Then he asks why they had not told their daughter?<br><br>It was obvious they were hiding from the rest of dragon kind. There were so few dragons, probably not even a hundred on all of Anathia, were their child to take form, to go romping about as an uncontrollable 120ft dragon, how would anyone even hope to hide that? She would be dead for simply existing. How could he know what they were and understand so little? They could only assume it was the brashness of humans to blame. They would get 1 piece of knowledge from a source and fixate on it, ignoring all other information to be gleaned. As though it passed in one ear and out the other, something they did not understand as they gleaned every bit of information they could from a source.<br><br>Would it be wise to allow their daughter to study with this man? If he thought her single comment: “I am to study with this man? He is moving to our village?”&nbsp; Merely a few questions, showed no will, how would he deal with her perpetual questions in the pursuit of knowledge? Then on the other hand, anything she learned from this man would be a start. They could actively search for a different tutor in the meantime in case it became necessary.&nbsp; If anything she would learn much from her voyage there, they had originally intended to send her on her own but now they would take her themselves.&nbsp; They did not worry about her discovering her heritage as she wore a ring that did not come off that prevented the change.&nbsp; Both of them restrained a mental sigh that was begging to come out.<br><br>Adrenion had the sorcerer show him where his home was on his map. Then he addressed the other matters more directly. “She is not to know about her heritage and you are not to question our reasoning. I assure you, she has more appetite for knowledge than any other creature you have ever met. If it turns out you cannot handle her, she will return to us. We shall provide her with a means to communicate with us to update us on her progress. We shall meet again at your home, farewell Zaxis.”<br><br>Dragons hoarded knowledge as they did treasure. They were collectors at heart and their daughter had an even more insatiable curiosity that both of them put together. No matter what, something very good came of this, it made them realize how soon her training would need to be attended too and perhaps a spot where they could teach her to become her dragon self. It would take a long time to find a place that safe and seclude, if indeed such a place exists. They walked back to their home without giving a backwards glance to the sorcerer. They would speak with Akasma and prepare for their trip. The town elders would need to know of their intended absence.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>12-02-2010, 16:46:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was true; he did not know everything surrounding the circumstances of the Feralillas. All he knew is that they were dragons and that he was lucky enough to be able to sense them out more easily. Of course, he had much help from different sources. Not all of them were completely helpful, but in the end, he managed to find his way here to them. He listened to them, watching as they silently exchanged thoughts with each other. They seemed....perplexed, shocked even. Was it something he said?<br><br>Whatever they were thinking, it didn't seem like they were going to let him know fully. He could tell though that from their looks, they were reconsidering. That made him frown; perhaps he did say something wrong then? They eventually addressed him though. It seemed they were reluctant now, but still permitting him to be able to teach their daughter. A small nod of his head came as then he let his torso dip forward in an honorary bow. "It will be my utmost pleasure to oversee her studies, oh great Feralillas. I expect to see her at my place in due time? As you know where my domain is now. All she need to bring is herself, a few belongings of her choice and the desire to learn." He watched as the couple departed back to their home, leaving him along in the forest.<br><br>A small sigh left him, his head hanging now before giving a small shake. That was a little too close for his liking; he nearly foiled the opportunity. He would have to make sure to keep his mouth shut when he didn't need to speak. He gazed around at the forest, seeing it starting to darken slightly. Eyes closed as he leaned against the tree, hand coming to rest upon the bark. his form began to dissipate into the air, slowly starting but then more and more of him vanishing. This doppleganger had served it's purpose, merely being an instrument that he controlled to fetch Akasma; his real self was already well on his way to the other location. As much as he would have loved to stay and speak with the Feralillas, he had another potential student to collect. It was extremely rare that one would have 2 students in their tutelage, but this one was also potentially just as great as the young dragoness that he was going to receive.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>13-02-2010, 14:03:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elana stopped in her tracks, now deep into the heart of the old forest as the night reached its darkest hour. Her slender form swayed slightly, not unsteady but moving with the rhythm and airs of the thick woodland. Her large deep green eyes closed as she tilted her head back and breathed in the feel of place, her long chestnut hair dangling free in its simple leather thong. The elven girl slowly sank to bended knee, her woodland garb of greens, browns and greys wrapped tightly about her willowy shape and leaving her long limbs free to move without hindrance through the thickest undergrowth. With a subtle sense of reverence her delicate hands lowered to the loose earth beneath her, and a small wrinkle of concentration appeared on the smooth pale skin of the girl. <br><br>Eli controlled her breathing as she had been taught, stretching out her senses in an attempt to commune with the nature around her in the way that elves had been doing since the beginning of time. She pushed her spirit out through her hands, and tried to draw back a feel of the life around her as it flowed back into her... and was foiled once more. Her eyes opened, dark and angry with herself. Why would it never work for her?? She permitted herself a snort of frustration, all she would allow to break the silence she kept whenever she hunted. She glances about the forest, her pupils enlarged and her night vision the only thing allowing her to see more than pitch blackness aside from the few shafts of moonlight piercing the canopy above. Well where elven nature mastery failed, more traditional methods had to prevail. She tilted her head to allow her pointed pointed ears to batter gather the sounds from around her. Her nostrils flared also, taking in the faint breeze, her senses seeming to sharpen with every moment. <br><br>This was where the young elf girl was in her element, which would have been much to the astonishment of her tutors. Though better than average at combat training, her ability with traditional elven skills was almost nonexistent. Her tracking and woodcraft were poor, she couldn't sense life well, or prepare the healing poultices properly, her runecraft barely functioned, in fact she seemed to have virtually no ability with the usual strengths of elven folk magick. Except sometimes, just from time to time, it slotted into place for her. The grasp was usually fleeting and most often when she was alone, but when it happened, when that tingling slid across the base of her spine and every hair on her head seemed to want to stand up, at that point she felt invincible. <br><br>Out of the blue Elana was aware of the rabbits crouched amongst the bushes at the opposite side of the clearing, the wolf scouting ahead of it's pack in the distance, and most importantly the deer off to her left in the next clearing over. That would be a prize indeed to show Maerlyn! The old man might choke on his useless lessons when she presented that to him! Though the elves revered life and nature, hunting was part of life, and they never mourned a creature that died to continue the life of another. Eli moved like a shadow, gliding swiftly and fluidly, almost seeming not to exist in between fleeting patches of moonlight. As soundless as the best elven hunters in the village she moved toward the deer which was feeding on the the grassy floor of the clearing when she came into view. Carefully she unslung the strangely curved elven shortbow from her back, knocking an arrow. She moved a touch just to gain a more stable footing, when a dry twig broke with a snap. In an instant the deer jerked its head to look directly at her, and then it bolted in a flash into the black night. Or it tried to. In a daze Eli could feel the animal attempting to flee... and yet, as if caught by her gaze, it stood frozen and quivering before her. The tingles on her skin were stronger than ever as she continued to hold its sight. Am I really doing this? Is this possible? The mere thought seemed to jar her trance and she blinked. In that moment, whatever hold she had was gone. The deer actually seemed to stagger and then it really was gone.<br><br>Eli fell back, stunned. That had never happened before! What had she done? Was this the communing with animals the tutors talked about? Somehow it didn't feel like an empathy, more like a grip from which the deer had been unable to escape. But that wasn't possible was it? The girl lay on the soft grass a moment, her slight chest heaving as if she had been running. Finally she gathered herself and began to head back to the village. Sunrise would be only a couple of hours away she realised. Past time for her return. Should her father learn of her night time foraging expedition no doubt she would be receiving another lecture on her responsibilities as chieftain's daughter. With another sigh and with much to think about she slipped into the shadows and headed home.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>14-02-2010, 23:57:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zaxis gave a small sigh as he looked about. Forest and woodlands again; they always seemed to be the sign for the more mythical and not-so-human citizens of the land. No matter though, he was quite accustomed to the lush trees and forests of the land as in his previous journey took him to close to the same kind of area. It was dark out, the wee hours of the morning his preferable time to travel as there was little to distract him, no need to watch for people. Eyes set itself on the path before him; he knew where he was going, yes. Along this path, he would eventually come across the village of the Eastern Woodelves. <br><br>He paused for a moment, eyes closing as he stood there in the middle of the dirt path. His consciousness began to slip from him, ebbing like the ocean tide as he reached out to sense around him. Yes, the woodelves were not far from here. The faint traces of their spirits lingered in the land, their attunement to nature and the land itself barely recognizable, but it did not escape him. A breeze began to pick up as the wind blew past him, cloak fluttering in the wind as eyes opened again. There was no doubt, he was well on the way. What surprised him was how close he really was. It hadn't been any more than ten minutes before he began to see something on the horizon. A smile graced his features as he doubled his efforts, making haste. The wood elves would be rising soon.<br><br>Upon reaching the village, Zaxis found that he had arrived just in time for the sun rise, seeing as the village slowly began to stir to life. Slowly but surely, the citizens began to come out of their houses and establishments, running their errands to the start of the day. What was originally a silent and noiseless night slowly began to become filled with chatter, a small buzz at first that grew and grew with the passing moments. Shops began to open, markets slowly coming to life as stands would be set up, goods and products starting to be hung and placed in spots as to catch the bypasser's eye. Zaxis stopped to breathe in the scent of bread that was just starting to bake, letting the aroma fill his lungs. Ah, the subtle wonders of a village; one would ponder how any source of power could be located here, but they WERE elves after all.<br><br>Legs carried him on and on, deeper and deeper into the heart of the village. It wasn't until he reached the center that he found his destination; the chieftain's residence. Of course, he would be in the center; he WAS the heart of the village. Eyes closed as he tried to sense out the lingering traces of energy. Yes, this was it. There was no mistaking it; this was where he was to go. Stepping towards the establishment, he would make sure to pull tightly upon his cloak, making sure his hood was well hung over his head and hiding most of his features. Stepping up to the door, he would pause to take a look around before reaching a hand out. Hand hovered just infront of the door, hesitating for a moment as he gathered himself to meet with the leader of the elves here. His hand came down, knuckles rasping against the door in a manner that let the impacts echo through the air. Knock, knock, knock.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>18-02-2010, 17:44:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eli was woken by a set of knocks on the door. She raised her head, bleary eyed and looked about in a confused manner. The sun barely creeping across the floor told her that she can only have had three or four hours of sleep at most. With a groan she pushed her fingers through her silky hair, her brow wrinkling in sleepy confusion. Everyone in the village knew that her father would be at the Dawn Council meeting at the stone circle. So either someone wanted her, or there was a stranger in the village. <br><br>Her big green eyes open wide at that thought, and at the second set of knocks echoing from the floor below. She quickly pulled her shift off over her head, rifling naked through the contents of the chest at the bottom of her bed as her mind raced. She couldn't remember the last time a stranger had come to visit... maybe the gnome delegation the spring before last...? She cursed herself for staring into space as she thought and quickly burrowed deep into the clothing, pulling out a clean tunic and the dark green leggings. She hopped, pulling on clean smallclothes before scrambling into the leggings and reaching for the tunic on her way out of the door. Yes the gnomes... She thought. Surely one of them wouldn't have come without sending word ahead? So perhaps it was for her after all? Something happened to her father perhaps? In something of a panic she raced down the stairs, managing to buckle her belt as she ran down the carefully crafted wooden staircase.<br><br>Gasping she reached the door, throwing it open before the third set of knocks could strike. Out of breath, she could barely gasp out a sentence as she blinked into the sun of a bright new day... and lost her words anyway. Her mouth worked silently for a moment, before she managed to mentally slap herself and regain control. Was she not Chieftains daughter? Even if there was a... a Human.. in the village. And quite an imposing looking one at that!<br><br>"I... umm... that is I mean.. Greetings to you sir!" Her high, clear voice wavered before firming, her tone formal. "I bid you welcome to this house. I guess you are here to visit my father, but I'm afraid he is busy with council business this morning. Do you have an appointment?" She waited for a response, her eyes taking in the form in front of her, one finger rubbing the point of one ear in a subconscious nervous gesture.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>24-02-2010, 20:11:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hmm....was no one home? He questioned his timing, pondering if perhaps there was something else going on for the moment. He stepped back for a moment, eyes looking up the house before returning to knock a second time. Still no answer. Was he even in the right place? Turning around, he cast his gaze out to the village, just studying the surroundings and what it held. It seemed homely enough, nothing too lavish and extravagant.<br><br>Final try. He turned around and reached his hand out, turning it to give a third and final set of knocks when he heard a little bit of scrambling inside. It was faint and it made him pause; activity? No sooner had those words crossed his mind did the door come swinging open. There before him stood a younger looking elven lady, seemingly panting for air and looking like she just rolled out of bed. Brow lifted up as he gazed at her, the silence lingering for a few moments before she began to speak. A smile crossed his lips finally, small chuckle coming from him as he shook his head.<br><br>"Good morning to you." He paused a moment as she mentioned her father. Ah, so this was her? "....your father? Yes yes, I am indeed looking to see him. Unfortunately no, I did not send word a head of time, but this was more a spur of the moment thing." Eyes studied the younger elf, pouring over her features as she seemed to fumble to greet him. It seemed like she was the one he was really after, but of course she would learn that in due time. "It seems like my timing wasn't the best then? I would ask where the council could be located but I have a feeling I would just get lost trying to find them. Do you know about when could I expect him to be home? Oh yes, my apologies. I am Zaxis and you must be the chieftain's daughter." A hand reached out towards her in simple greeting, his other hand reaching up to pull his hood back. Black spiked hair would emerge from under the hood, light brown eyes that almost glimmered gazing to the elf, pale skin of his handsome complexion catching a few rays of the sunlight that it did not see more of until recently.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>25-02-2010, 16:46:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The elf girl looked slightly up at the striking man as her pulled back his hood and, for the second time in what was already turning into a crowded morning, she was speechless. It wasn't that he was overly handsome to her eyes, though there was a definite attractive quality which went beyond the superficial, but the aura of power which exuded from him and glimmered in those eyes took her breath. She gaped at his hand a moment, before remembering this human custom and reaching out to take the hand in her small delicate one.<br><br>Immediately her knees almost gave way as goosebumps immediately covered every inch on her skin. She recalled that humans had tiny hairs all across their body. Eli was sure that if she had any hair below her head it would have been standing on end , in fact she wasn't at all sure that even her long locks weren't attempting to do just that! Gathering herself and suppressing a gasp at this unexpected and unexplained connection she managed to stammer out a reply. " Yes I am first daughter to the chieftain. My name is Elana D'Elethui. My pleasure to make your acquaintance." She released the hand with a sigh of relief, sure this Zaxis must think her quite mad. She hoped that if he were on official business he wouldn't think that of all her tribe were so scatterbrained and easily flustered "Umm.. my father is attending Dawn Council and may be some time." She glanced up at the sun, still red and swollen and only a finger's breadth over the horizon. "Perhaps an hour, maybe two and he will return. I couldn't tell you the council location even if you were willing. It is a secret meeting, and not something attended by outsiders. I could send a message though if it should be an urgent matter?".<br><br>Eli couldn't help but be curious as to the business this man wanted to discuss. She self consciously smoothed the tunic she was wearing, wishing she had found time to wear an undershirt for some reason, and ran her fingers through her hair again to straighten the odd tangle. "Perhaps you would like to wait inside? I can fetch some breakfast or refreshments for you? Unless you would prefer to see some of the village?". She wondered what his response would be. It could tell her something about what his intentions here were. She sensed power in him... but not danger... at least not imminently. She suspected she would not wish to make an enemy of this man.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>27-02-2010, 20:07:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eyes scanned over the smaller elven maiden with an intrigued look, doing his best to stifle the smirk that threatened to pull up on his lips. He pondered if all the other elves were like her; was this really the daughter of the chieftain here? She seemed so timid and flustered at his appearance; perhaps he had the wrong one? Perhaps he had another daughter? Fingers slowly slipped over her hand as they met, grip tightening just slightly. A small shiver ran up his spine as they made contact; there was no doubt, this was the one. He felt the potential that this one had, the inner power that was still young yet if tendered properly, would become very great indeed.<br><br>"Elana hm?" he responded, just casting his gaze over her once again. "Well then Elana, the pleasure is certainly all mine. I do hope I am not disturbing you?" He paused for a moment as their hands came apart, slowly taking note of how she seemed to shake and glance about almost nervously. This would be interesting indeed; he wondered how they would get along. After all, it seemed like she was to have a partner in that dragon in elven form, Akasma. My my, the two of them seemed to be like night and day; one strong, rebellious and assertive and here was this one, seemingly more on the timid, nervous and flustered side. A hand reached up to gently rub at his chin in thought as if contemplating her words and offers, but in reality pondering about the future and what was in store for not only him, but the two potential apprentices of his. Perhaps it was better that they were so different? Yes, he would use that to his advantage. He would have to make sure that the two of them spent much quality time together. Perhaps by being forced to spend time together they would eventually rub off on one another? One would learn to be more calm and tone down her assertiveness, the other would learn to be more strong in herself and confident. A smirk did happen to slip through his defenses as lips pulled up, but he caught himself and quickly changed the wry smile into a more pleasant grin.<br><br>"Oh, I think that would be most lovely. Please, there is no need to bother with breakfast for me. A little bit of tea would sound most lovely though, thank you." An hour or two to wait? That was no problem, he was in no hurry now. He could spend this time getting to know the elf....after all, she seemed more approachable then the other one did. He would most likely tend to this one first before breaking in the more spunky of the two. Hand came down from his chin and came down to his chest, fingers toying with the fabric of his cloak before slipping it off his figure. It seemed like he was going to be a guest for now, he just had to remember to play it cautious and not be over imposing on this one.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>28-02-2010, 14:49:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eli nodded as Zaxis repeated her name, noting how foreign it sounded coming from his tongue. His accent was hard to place, seeming to come from nowhere in particular one minute, and then to be strangely thick but in a non-specific sense.&nbsp; She still sensed an air of supressed danger and power emanating from his form, and she wondered if she had made the right choice inviting him into her home. Her still sleepy head was rapidly clearing now, her usual quicksilver thought processes beginning to fire. Her sharp eyes watched the man intently now, standing aside to let him into the ground floor of the dwelling. As she did so she noted a smirk appear on the lips of the man. He disguised it quickly, and yet not quickly enough to escape the notice of the elf. In an instant her bearing was changed. No longer the sleepy girl which had rushed from her bed half dressed. Her own movements became wary, guarded. She wasn't blatant about it, and yet Eli was ready for combat at a moment's notice. She mentally cursed herself for leaving her hunting knife by her bedside. Again, she didn't suspect imminent attack, and yet she would have felt better with it to hand. <br><br>Careful to cover her change in mental stance, as well as physical, the only change an outsider would note was a tenseness in her face. A change had occurred, from elf girl to chieftain's daughter in truth. She took the man's cloak, a quick glance revealing his lack of weaponry beneath and the travel stains on it. No surprise there. Wherever he had come from, there was no human territory within many leagues of the village. Eli also noticed the tone of the man's body, evaluating him as much as appreciating the physical appearance. <br><br>The elf girl gestured deeper into the parlour. The simple stonework of the building belied the smooth grace with which it had been built. The lines of the floors and walls were not complex, and yet curved sinuously and pleasingly in ways not indicated by the exterior. High windows welcomed the sun into the open ground floor, a doorway leading out to the courtyard where the heartree of the house stood. "Please be seated" Elana said, pointing to the arrangement of chairs, mats and cushions arranged around a wooden table near the unlit fire. She hung his cloak on a hook hear the door. "Please excuse me one moment, I will fetch some tea for us both".<br><br>Eli moved with measured pace, walking gracefully into the kitchen area around the curve of the building. Grace was abandoned as soon as she was out of eyeline however! She scurried to the kettle, quickly swinging it back over the fire to boil. The she rushed to the nearby spiral staircase, her deceptively powerful legs carrying her up the tight curl of stairs up the back way to the upper floors. Her heart pounded as she dashed into the wash room, splashing spring water across her features and scraping damp fingers through her hair to finally push it into neatness. She quickly tied it back from her face, racing back through to her room and grabbing her knife. It went quickly beneath her tunic, concealed but in easy reach should it be required. She rattled back down the stairs again, flying agilely on bare feet, pausing to pour the now heated water into delicate silver tea pots, and left them to infuse as she raced further through the house to the opposite side of the courtyard. There she scribbled a note and dispatched a bird to find her father at the earliest opportunity. She didn't know if this Zaxis was as important as she feared, but she felt she should take no chances.<br><br>Elana reappeared in the parlour, carrying a tray with the two pots and mugs for two. The tray also had a selection of freshly chopped fruit. "Forgive my absence if you will, it is not the way of our people to leave guests by themselves. My father's retainers will be at the council meeting with him, and we are not a large household. I have heard that human lords have many servants. Here we mostly tend outselves." Setting the tray down she indicated the pots "May I pour you mint tea, or the spice fruit blend? And please feel free to help yourself to the fruit. I believe the Blue Demberry is all but impossible to find in human lands, yet it carries the most delicious flavour" She watched for his choices with interest, observing his reactions. Whatever this man's purpose, Eli knew she didn't trust him entirely.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>03-03-2010, 20:28:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zaxis didn't excel at negotiations or putting on a friendly face as an ambassador or messenger or some kind; he exceled at being able to analyze a situation or person and be able to tell, or safely assume, what was brewing up there in their minds. It would probably be the closest thing to being able to read minds without actually doing so; however, he was always wary of the elves. Most elven folk he had interactions with surprised him with how hard they were to read. Perhaps it was just that they carried and were shaped just a slight tad different? Nevertheless, he would have to be extra careful.<br><br>Luckily for him, this girl seemed to be more on the readable side. Perhaps it was because she was still younger, or perhaps it was because she probably did just roll out of bed; whatever it was, he noticed that she was starting to become suspicious or cautious of something. What he thought to have been an initial shock or shyness just unveiled to be something deeper, more cautious and wary of him now. He did his best to play his part though, stepping in as he shed his cloak. At least she was still the hospitable hostess for now, for that he was grateful. Watching as his cloak was hung up, he was ushered deeper into her dwelling, his eyes and attention now shifting completely and just going to gazing around the interior. It was a very pleasing place to be; nothing extremely lavish, but nothing shoddy either. It was simple and cozy enough, something that it seemed like these smaller villages had.<br><br>A nod of thanks would be given as she invited him to take a seat around the wooden table, stooping and placing himself down upon one of the chairs placed around it. Watching as she excused herself to fetch some tea, his eyes peered around for a moment more before his mind centered around the task at hand. A sigh would be exhaled from his chest, mentally scolding himself for being so careless and putting on perhaps such an imposing presence before her. This girl was no village idiot, but very shrewd and like him, very analytical. The small lapses and shows of truer emotion seemed to be making her cautious. He would have to put on a better front for her and perhaps her father, if he were to meet him.<br><br>As she returned, head turned and watched as she came back in clutching a tray that was set down on the table. All thoughts were then lost as he looked to the tray that she had placed down, interested in what it held. "Oh please, it is no worries. Nothing that can be done about that if you are the only one here. My my, that does look very good." A happier and slightly more cheerful face would answer her, though in all honesty it wasn't a complete mask. Good tea was something that he enjoyed very thoroughly and what she brought certainly intrigued him. "Oh, I do believe I will have some of the mint tea, thank you very much. Did you say Blue Demberry? Why, I've certainly heard about it. I come from the lands in the west and definitely, there are no such fruits there." Eager to try it, he reached forward and took a small piece of the said fruit, lifting it to his lips and taking a small little bite of the end, not knowing exactly what to expect taste wise.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>04-03-2010, 17:13:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Inwardly Eli relaxed just a touch, her serious face just a tiny bit sunnier. She watched his face as her took a bite, waiting for the initial tart flavour to burst into honey softness at the warmth of his tongue. A guest willing to try an unknown food item was certainly a sign of trust. And she also approved the tea choice. She would of course be drinking whatever her guest chose, as was politic, but while she did not mind the fruit tea the mint blend was particularly good, and her favourite in the early mornings. She leant across the table to retreive the teapot, unmindful of her loose tunic exposing the delicate points of her collarbone and the shadows painting her upper chest. She quickly and neatly poured two cups of the green tea, taking her cup and making sure the Zaxis noted her taking a sip before placing it on a side table.<br><br>"You have certainly journeyed some distance to come all the way from the West. And yet your urgency does not seem so great. It would not be the first time I have acted as my father's proxy if there are matters you wish to discuss?". This was not exactly a lie.. after all she had met with the Pixie envoys several times. Admittedly when her father was too irritated to be bothered, but the point stood. And she was curious about this man. Something about him was different, more purposeful and direct. She was certain there was more there than a diplomat to dance words with. "Perhaps you are interested in opening a trade route with the Demberry harvest? There is much profit to be made, and I'm certain my father would offer favourable terms...?". She was certain this man was no merchant either. And yet he was something! And there was a connection there, a resonance. What could it be?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>05-03-2010, 00:47:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The flavor of the fruit burst into his mouth, tasting the soft sweetness of it. It was magnificent; he would certainly have to look into it more. A small sound of obvious contentment would be let out as he let the rest of the fruit slip into his mouth, reaching to wipe fingers upon a napkin that was provided. "Oh my, that is such a wonderful taste. Demberry, I shall have to commit that name to memory." He offered a warm beaming smile, letting the rest of the fruit swallow down his throat before picking up his mint tea and taking a sip. Ah, it was always nice to have a good cup of tea. He was certainly grateful to the elf for having provided such treats. He sat back slightly, just letting the warm mint flavoring trickle down his throat.<br><br>Eyes gazed out to the elf, scanning up and down her body as if analyzing, yet maintaining a warm smile to her. "A great deal I have traveled. However, nothing is ever too urgent for a good cup of tea." He gave a bow of his head in thanks to her again before taking another sip and placing it down upon the table. He paused for a moment, thinking of exactly how to address the subject at hand. What was to be said to her? He did not want to potentially alarm her like with Akasma. "Well...." he started, hand rising to his chin to give a small rub. "For one, the world of the magical extends it's greeting to you." He gave another nod, letting the small statement sink in to her as if revealing now that he was not "ordinary" by any standards. "I have come to talk to your father about a personal search, just trying to see what there is that he CAN offer. Your father has had a few encounters with my kind, seeing as he is indeed the chieftain of the village. He seemed to be the best person that I could talk to about such things."<br><br>He was careful with his words, not wanting to hint at perhaps she was what he was looking for. There was no need for alarm. He could wait for her father to come back, to have an audience with the two of them and let his offer sink in slowly by slowly. Gaze ran along her figure once again, a small chuckle coming from him now at how she seemed to have calmed down from the rushed greeting before, seeing the loose ends here and there and before, how she rushed to dress herself to open the door. "My apologies if you were sleeping, I did not mean to wake you up."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>05-03-2010, 17:08:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eli stared into space a moment as his words flowed over her, her eyes looking at the ivory coloured walls and high ceiling but not really seeing, but some things he said burned into her mind. A representative of human magic? Her in the village? She was stunned at the idea.It certainly explained the feeling of power from him. Surely he was looking for one of the centres of elven learning. Raccan.. Darkwood.. somewhere like that? What could possibly bring Zaxis to their village?&nbsp; Her gaze flicked back to him, her mouth open to ask a question. But it froze on her lips as she realised his eyes were wandering her body a moment before. Twin spots of red appeared on her high cheekbones and she crossed her arms across her girlish breasts in a defensive posture as he apologised for getting her out of bed. Her mouth opened again, but once more the words died on her lips as she saw shadows fall across the window. <br><br>She rose to her feet just in time for the door to open and admit the imposing figure of her father. Elana was growing quickly now approaching full womanhood, and almost to her full height, but Dathis was more than head and shoulders above her. Though not built heavily, his steel grey eyes exuded a confidence and assurance more than powerful enough to set anyone back a pace on its own. She had certainly felt the power of that gaze often enough. For all his height he was whip thin, and with a stranger looking on Eli realised how old he had become as if seeing him afresh, the streaks of grey at his temples beginning to widen and spread, the wrinkles deepening. <br><br>His voice had lost none of its power though. "Elana! When you are finished drinking tea, perhaps you would care to introduce the stranger you have brought into our home to your Chieftain?". She practically jumped at the sound of her name. "Y..yes Father. This is Zaxis, a human representative of the Magical caste from the west" Her arm swept up to indicate the man. She turned to face him "Zaxis, allow me to present Chieftain Dathis, my father and head of our village". She gave a short bow, backing away from the men to sit when they did about halfway around the circle of seating between them. She sipped her cooling tea nervously, wondering when she would be dismissed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>10-03-2010, 20:29:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The young elf had exactly the reaction that Zaxis had expected. It wasn't anything new to him, he was used to the small gasps, ooh and ahs when he revealed himself. It wasn't anything that he minded, a curiosity for the generally unknown could be a healthy thing. Arms came to cross over his chest as he leaned backwards, letting his words sink into her head. Eyes wandered around her face, trying to read her mind as it seemed to shift from surprise, to curiosity, to finally what seemed to be a general shyness as her cheeks tinged a red as she went to cover herself. Small roll of his eyes came now as he gave a gentle laugh at her gesture; it wasn't as if she were unclothed or anything. He was merely apologizing.<br><br>Hands reached to pick up the up of tea of his once more, taking another sip as he let the cool mint flavor wash over his tongue before gulping it down. Yes, nothing like a good cup of tea. Before he could sink back into another one of his tea Nirvanas, he was jarred back to reality as shuffling of feet could be heard outside. There was someone approaching. Perhaps her father had returned? He took another quick sip of his tea before setting it down on the table, hands reaching to gently brush at his clothing before he watched the elven girl stand up and move over to answer the door. In his mind, he pondered of what to say, of how to introduce and convince them. The Feralillas had been anything but pleased to see him, although eventually it seemed like he had enough to offer that they didn't send him away immediately. They were dragons though; these were actual elves. He reminded himself that their thinking would be different, that they weren't like the draconic ones that his first student would be hailing from.<br><br>He rose to his feet as he watched the man enter into the house. The man was quite the imposing figure, standing at a little bit taller than he. He would remember to put on his best front, a smile coming to his lips as he stood there silently, just observing them. Chieftain he was indeed; it seemed like he held many years behind him, potentially wise and intuitive from his experience. He seemed a good selection for their village's chieftain after all. Head turned slightly as El'ana spoke, hearing and listening to the two of them being introduced to each other. "Ah, Chieftain D'Elethui? It is good to finally be able to meet you." He took a few steps forward and away from the table, coming to approach the two. "I do apologize for the unannounced visit, but I just....happened to be in the vicinity and couldn't help myself, though it seemed like you were busy when I got here. I have your lovely daughter to thank for the hospitality though and I am grateful, great Chieftain." He let his torso fall forward in a bow to the two of them as they stood there, letting his body hang for a few moments before rising up once again. "It is as your daughter says, I am Zaxis Melkra. The world of the magical extends it's greetings to you Sir." His hand would push forward towards him, reaching out and hanging open in a human gesture of greeting.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>16-03-2010, 21:13:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The older elf bowed his head briefly in response to the bow, his features seemingly carved from wood, unreadable, unknowable beyond the initial frown he had cast at his daughter. Elana sat watching the pair in silence, wondering how on earth her father would handle this. When Zaxis offered his hand the Elder elf seemed aware of human tradition, quickly responding by engulfing the offered hand in both of his. The leathery yet graceful fingers clasped firmly about the fingers of the wizard. <br><br>"Well now..." Dathis rumbled "greetings to you in kind Magus Melkra. It has been many centuries since one of your kin entered our land". The older figure continued to hold onto the limb of the younger, his grip only firm, but unyielding, like gnarled tree roots wrapped around it. "Indeed it has been several decades since any of human kind have strayed as far as this humble settlement. Perhaps the tales from the war have kept your folk at bay?" The old man snorted in a short yet surprising show of humour "Somehow I doubt it... and yet here you are as if sprung from the earth. I suppose I should ask your reasons for your visit... What exactly you couldn't help yourself from doing..." He regarded the other man intensely, the eyes of steel seeming to see through the figure before him. Then he flung the hand from him, drawing a startled squeak from Eli, and walking swiftly in a circle about the chairs to place himself before the fireplace where he leaned on the back of a carved seat. <br><br>"Let us not bandy words, Wizard. We both know your true purpose here." He shot a slightly softened glance at his startled daughter, who nonetheless appeared shrink beneath that gaze. "Do you think you move through our lands unobserved? That our borders go unguarded, even in these more peaceful days? That especially those of magical talent may wander as they will? No, we knew of you as soon as you crossed into our land. And so I know that you do not <em>happen to be in the vicinity </em> but have taken an almost straight path to this very spot. I say almost straight because you have chosen a course to avoid the outer fringes of our larger settlements naturally. Now what could possibly bring you into our company?" The rhetorical question hung in the air several moments, time in which Eli's eyes seemed to grow wider and wider. Was this really how her normally most respectful father was going to treat this powerful stranger? And yet his words fired her curiosity, and her admiration at the seemingly limitless knowledge he possessed. She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, waiting for him to continue.<br><br>"It is of course quite simple. It is no secret that wizards desire power and knowledge. What possible aid could elven kind be to human magic users? Unless perhaps one of us were to be exhibiting signs of an older power.. a more common ancestor of both of our strains of spellcraft." And his eyes turned and fixed on Elana. Her youthful face was scarlet as her mouth dropped open. She was quite literally unable to say a word as all the thoughts in her brain seemed to race and then freeze, helpless. "My daughter has never been able to keep a secret from me.. " His eyes dropped for a fleeting moment to the soles of her feet, which were still somewhat stained with a little ground in dirt and grass stain "..even secrets she perhaps keeps from herself. I suspect she and yourself would both be interested to learn that the chief topic of the abbreviated council I have just returned from was in fact your imminent arrival and the status of my Elana. So please, let us speak openly. Or as openly as adults may at least. What truly is your business here sir? What do you desire of the Elven Kingdom?".
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Faure</strong> on <strong>29-03-2010, 13:29:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The human lifted his hand up to his hair, giving a small brush back before frame straightened up. The older elf seemed wise beyond his years, almost frightening in the intuition and words he spoke. A lesser man probably would have been cowering and fumbling for words in his position; it seemed as if he'd been found out. Well, not completely yet, but this was proving to be quite amusing. A wide grin would pull up upon his face, his head tilting to the side as hands would lift into the air, a small shrug like gesture being given.<br><br>"Chieftain D'Elethui, you are wise and very observant indeed. It seems like there is little....very little that escapes you indeed." He paused for a moment, eyes shifting momentarily to the younger elven maiden, gaze seeming to twinkle momentarily to her before attention would be brought back to the chieftain. "Your kind impresses me very much; the elves are indeed a very proud and noble race indeed. Nothing escapes your great kingdom, oh great Chieftain. It has just further cemented my decision in coming here and I am ever glad that you noticed. Let us not take any longer, I will dive straight to the point then." Another moment's pause would come before breathing in, his eyes closing as he chose his words. He wasn't sure whom he would rather be speaking to; the elves or the dragons. Both were crafty, both were suspicious it seemed. But of course, he was a human. They had every right to be.<br><br>Eyes opened as head tilted down again, posture keeping itself up right. "As you know, the world grows and grows, becoming ever more populated. However, with such a great increase in the population, comes the pollution of the general populace as well. You know that the Order of Magic has had a long history, dating back many many ages. In recent times, though, the selection and group of found apprentices have been....less than satisfactory. That being said, we are extending our hand out to the far corners of the world, to hand pick only the best, the most worthy potentials in the land." He stopped again to let his gaze fall upon Elana, a small gesture of his head being given to her now. "I have personally traveled to search for my own apprentice and who better to ask, than the daughter of the great elven Chieftain? After all, the great elven history is long and embedded with magic. I have come to choose only the highest, most worthy of such training, if you would allow her to come under my tutelage."<br><br>He would stop there, letting his words and offerings sink in. Eyes scanned over the two, trying to detect potentially the smallest of twitches or signs of what they may be thinking. How would they take this? Would they act like the Feralillas did? Perhaps they would take it in another light? He wondered if the chieftain would accept or reject. More importantly, he wondered about Elana and how she would take this.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Anathia: The apprenticeship (IC: Main Thread)(Lucinda, Faure, Akasma)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Lucinda</strong> on <strong>02-06-2010, 16:17:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a long moment there was complete silence, the scene a seemingly frozen tableau with scarcely a breath drawn. Elana'a thoughts were on the move once more, indeed racing with the flood of information seemingly focused on her. What in nature were these two powerful figures talking about? She held no special powers, no skills to aid the magical world! Four hells, she could barely get herself through her schooling! And yet her father seemed to agree with this stranger? Her eyes flickered to her feet. And he knew! But he had allowed her excursions? She could help but take a gasping breath as the implications sank into her numbed mind, and that breath seemed to breathe life back into the room.<br><br>Her father seemed to come from deep contemplation to gaze first as his daughter and then to mysterious mage. To her dismay (but with a secret thrill deep inside) he began to nod slowly. "It is true. Your words are tempered with half truths and shadows, but I cannot deny that the magic is going out of the world". Even this simple admission and the consequences it brought to the world turned Eli pale. "And I sense that you are correct in that my daughter may be of aid in this... reconstitution of power. And yet... I will not abandon my blood, so naive in the ways of the world, to a stranger without thought or consultation. Wait here wizard." <br><br>The elder elf gazed at Eli and beckoned to her, moving swiftly through the large doors and out into the courtyard. Elana rose with a somewhat dazed apologetic smile in the human's direction and moved as swiftly as courtesy allowed out after her father. She caught up with him at the bench on the far side of the heartree. The trunk was easily six feet across and shielded the elves from the reception room completely. She stumbled to a stop a pace from where Dathis was leaning against the tree, his eyes closed as a sunbeam lit his face and torso. Eli licked her lips and was about to speak... to question... perhaps to say sorry? Her father beat her to it. "Elana, I fear I must apologise." For the second time that morning she felt like fainting, and this time there was no chair beneath her. She dropped to the earth beneath her in an untidy crosslegged heap. Her father had never ever said those words to her in her life! Eyes still closed, he went on. "I should have had this discussion with you before now, but here we are. What I said earlier was true, I have consulted the council on this matter and you. And we are in agreement on this." The eyes finally opened and looked into her soul. "The decision is yours Elana. Whatever you decide to do will be the council's official choice. You may take the decision to go with this man with my blessing. And with luck you will learn much. About magic especially, and about the world. But most of all about yourself. You may uncover your destiny and the path of your future. But I sense that path winds into darkness and confusion, at least for a time. You should know that while this human is powerful and learned, he is also not to be trusted. There is a shadow over his heart, and I suspect that shadow is part of what lingers across your path. But while he thinks to shade you, there is always the possibility for your inner light to burn all of those shadows away from you both." He leaned forward, placing a warm and not unaffectionate hand on her forearm. "There is much light in you my daughter, more than you know. And yet within all beings there is balance. And so I offer you a choice. Stay within elven society, learn more of our ways, try to find yourself or at least a way to live with yourself here in safety. Or risk all, and venture beyond our world, and perhaps someday return to us a whole being." He completed his cryptic words and simply waited her decision.<br><br>In that moment Eli's head stopped spinning. She didn't understand all that she had been told, but she felt the right choice welling from her heart. In that moment it seemed all dropped into place somewhere in the back of her head. Like a decision was made within her without conscious thought, and conveyed to her mouth without her ever needing to think about it. "I will go with him father. It is my destiny". The suddenly older looking elf nodded, a briefly curious twinkling which might have been a welling of tears was lost to her as he turned away. "So be it". They returned inside.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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