THE ZENA SCROLLS: CHAPTER III

[Zena]

Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 604
(4/24/03 6:19 am)
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THE ZENA SCROLLS: CHAPTER III
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She heard the sound before anything else. It was rhythmic, like a heartbeat, but each pulse ended in a crash. The crash of a wave on the shore. Water, the sea. For a few beats she listened in the dark and then the blackness evaporated from her vision. It was replaced by a burnt sienna hue. The color integrated into a texture and tapestry of small sticks, no, needles. Pine needles. Beneath her feet lay a soft rug, a cushion of pine needles. She scuffed the toe of her boot down into them, raising the scent of the pine and she took a full deep breath. Slowly she lifted her head and saw the blue of the sea below, beating against a white sand beach couched in the arms of a rocky inlet. From within the coolness and shade of the stand of pines she gazed out past the tree trunks at a cloudless azure sky, a tiny breeze kissed her forehead and tossed her black curls back from her face. The scent of the pines filled her with a sense of well being, of belonging, and she curled one arm around the trunk just to feel the solid presence. She laid her head against the bark thinking that she could stand in this place for all eternity.

The hill upon which the pines were rooted loomed over an enticing green valley that rolled up again into a gentle incline and then became another, lower hillside. Cutting through the green, a road wandered along, chalky white with ground marble gravel as a base. It was pressed deeply into two wagon tracks with stray clumps of grass between that were sprinkled randomly along the route. The road went over the hill and was hidden from sight. Aside from the small birds singing tiny concertos in the pine branches there was no sign of life in this Grecian paradise. As she rested, she placed her right hand on her hip (it seemed familiar to do so) and as she did her hand touched her belt. The feel of the leather under her fingers made her reach for something that should hang there but her fingertips found nothing.

As she pondered the sense that something was gone from it’s place, a rumbling sound came from behind her and the pine needle cushion shook as a chariot drawn by white horses and laden with several smiling people passed near to her stand of pines. They were singing but the language was not one she spoke or understood. Her eyes followed the chariot as it moved down the road toward the far hills, leaving a small cloud of white dust behind the wheels. She stood on tiptoe while holding on to the tree for balance trying to see what she thought looked like wings fastened to the sides above the wheels.
“They come along quite often.” A male voice at her right startled her and she turned her head quickly pulling aside the small evergreen branch she had been holding.
“What?”
“I said, they come along quite often.” Across the road from the pines were two Doric columns and a set of marble stairs. It looked as if the columns guarded an entrance to a temple but there was no building behind them, only the clear sky. On the steps into which the name “Ares” was carved, sat a young man, dressed in the tunic and armor of Imperial Rome. He had removed his helmet and had laid it upon the step beside him where it caught and reflected the sunlight. He was looking steadily at her with some curiousity and he opened his hands in a gesture that spoke of peace.
“Ave,” she said, not really knowing why she said that.
“Ave,” he replied, sitting up a bit straighter at the sound of a familiar word.
Moving from tree to tree she cautiously came a little closer to the road and he held up one hand to stop her.
“You can’t come here. I tried to cross to your side but it isn’t possible. Besides..” Just then another chariot rumbled by, obscuring him until the dust settled. “Besides, I WAS going to say, it’s dangerous. You never know when one will go by."
The road on her right came over a steep hill and so it seemed that the chariots came out of nowhere, suddenly cresting the top and descending speedily. She looked up the hill and then back at him and it came to her that it was important to cross, even though she would have to leave the pines. Once she was certain of her choice she moved swiftly across the rutted road.

[Zena]

She arrived safely and climbed the marble stairs much to the amazement of the young soldier whose appearance, as she saw him closer, was like a figure of Apollo.
“How did you do that?” he laughed.
“I don’t know,” she took a seat beside him and turned away to look at the beautiful sea that gave her such peace. He followed her gaze and they sat in the late afternoon sun, two strangers feeling perfectly comfortable together. At length she pointed to the small Greek fishing boats in the harbor below, “Do you fish?” He looked at the Roman galleys wondering why she asked about fishing. Slowly as if shaking the uncertainty from his head he said, “No. I..I..dig.”
“Dig? Dig what? In the dirt?”
“Yes, in the soil. I am the son of..of..a farmer. Yes! A farmer! Thank you! I had forgotten that.”
“A farmer. Why would anyone farm?"
He looked startled and pulled back a little to look at her. “Why, for food, for the joy of it.”
“Can’t you just LOOK for food when you need it?"
His tanned face broke into a grin and his blue eyes sparkled. “You plant the seeds and then you tend the crop as it grows, waiting for the day when you can gather what you have sown. It’s wonderful. We have a small vinyard south of Rome. Harvest time is full of the smell of ripe grapes crushed in the press and great celebrations of the feast. Jupiter himself has no finer wine.” He smiled broadly then and she smiled in return, enjoying his happiness if not the concept he cherished. A light breeze brushed them and as he shifted his body on the stairs, his military issue sandals scraped on the loose stone. From this angle he could see her better and he leaned back against the steps. She looked like a carving of Minerva he had once seen.
“Nonne alicubi prius convenimus?” he murmured.
“No, I’ve never seen your face before today.”
“Sentio me iam te novisse.”
“I feel that I know you too, but I can’t quite remember where we met.” She broke his gaze and surveyed the sky then looked around at the ground near them. “We should make a fire. It will be dark soon.”
“No, it never gets dark here. It’s always the time just before sunset. The golden afternoon."
She frowned. It seemed out of place to frown. “How can time stand still?"
He shrugged under his officer’s cloak. “It just does."
An elderly man in Athenian dress came down the road from over the hill and as they watched he labored with the aide of a staff to walk. Each step he took seemed to come easier and soon after he passed them he had thrown the stick down and was running along the wagon ruts jumping into the air joyfully every few feet. They laughed together but she stopped when from the place where the old man had entered she heard faint voices.
“Did you hear that?” she asked the soldier.
“Hear what?”
“Nothing. I. .thought. ."
The voices had made her think about herself for the first time. She noticed then that she was not too warm or too cool, not hungry or full, not tired but not fully awake. When she questioned him he nodded and said he felt the same. Nothing hurt, all was well, but somehow there were things that were missing. He too felt that some possession that he always carried should be at his belt but could not remember what. As they talked she heard the call again from over the hill.
“What’s back there?” she pointed and pulled at his arm, hoping he would suggest they explore.
“Nothing. Something. I can’t go back . . and I can’t go ahead” his face told her that he had made the attempt already. Another chariot of travelers passed and she could unquestionably see the wings on the sides this time. Again she heard voices, clearer now and two louder than the rest.
She felt pulled to go up the road to see who was calling but shrank from the next group moving down the hill. A cohort of Roman soldiers had suddenly appeared and marched down toward the valley double time. He called after them, “Wait! Wait for me!” He gave her a pleading look. “I know those men. I was part of that cohort, an officer I think. I belong with them . . ” He took her shoulders in his hands, looked deeply into her hazel eyes and asked the question they both had skirted. “Where are we? Is this. .

[Zena]

“I can’t stay here,” she whispered tearing free. She stood up and ran down the steps and he followed quickly after her.
“Don’t go. Until you came, no one stopped. No one talked to me. I was alone”, he was embarrassed that he had admitted his lonliness and turned his face away. The sound of the marching Romans faded into the distance.
“What keeps you here?” she grabbed his muscular arm and tried to move him from where he stood. He pulled away and held his head in his hands.
“A message. . . My parents. . I can’t move on until they know. . I wanted to return."
She spoke urgently but softly into his ear, “I will take the message. Give me a token so they will know me.” The stronger of the two voices from beyond the hill echoed in her head, nearly blocking out his answer. She felt them so near that now all of her ached to be with them, there were no perfect days without them, no peace. All was as nothing unless they were all together. He pulled a ring from his finger and looked at it lovingly; it bore an image of a vine and grapes and a name, “Gaeus” across the golden surface.
“Hurry! I must go NOW!” Her decision made to go she could stand still no longer. He placed the token on the ring finger on her right hand. She squeezed his hands once, pledging loyalty with her eyes and ran toward the road. As she raced up the hill toward the top he called to her , “I remembered something else! My name! Tell them Flavius will see them again!!!!!”
“Flavius, I have it! Flavius!” She stopped long enough to turn and hold up a hand as he did to her, and in the noise of a wind that had suddenly come up like the howling of a wolf she crested the hill and dove head first to fall back into the blackness. Alone again, Flavius Gaeus a loyal son of Rome and soldier for Caesar sat down again to wait, running his hand over the word “Mars” carved in the step. This time he faced his imprisonment with a hopeful heart.

As she fell she heard “Zeeeeennaaaaaa” and her eyes opened painfully to another sea, a sea of beloved faces that emerged from the evaporating darkness.


Edited by: Zena 1 at: 4/24/03 10:48:58 am

[Zena]

EvergreenLM
Registered Member
Posts: 218
(4/24/03 4:54 pm)
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The Golden Snowfall
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I have seen the golden snowfall before.

Once, when I was a young girl, I watched it as it fell from the sky and gently drifted into smalls glistening hills as the bright full moon receded from its night watch.

I saw it. Sparkling among the mounds of tufted white on the trees, on the ground, and raining down as I shook it from my dark chestnut hair.


You never knew this, but I gathered it up thinking I would take my new found treasure to the market, and there, buy you a token. It would be a silver coin stamped with a pine bough-for Evergreen you know.

Understand that I was but a child and did not realize that such a thing existed just because I wanted it to. The power of my will had never met any test that I had not become the victor.

The token. An amulet of my protection for you as sterling as my promise made in the dark of a moonless night. It is all I had to give you. Just my words… in the dark.

With my leather pouch thrown over my shoulder, I ran to the market as the sun rose and sallied in and out of the winter gray sky. And the golden shimmering sparkles…in the snow…fed my fervor to purchase the coin I knew with an innocent certainty awaited me.

I pounded on his door and when he did not answer, I bent down picking up a stone that I tossed with accuracy hitting the upstairs window... ping. Again, a second and a third stone! Ping…ping.

I shouted. “Timerius, wake up…it’s meeeee…Evergreen…open your door, I wish to make a purchase…wake up.” My voice echoed through the sleeping village that was silent save only a dog barking as reply to my early morning intrusion.

The window shutters creaked opened as Timerius rubbed the sleep from his round ruddy cheeks. “By the gods Evergreen…what do you want from me at this hour? I swear to Olympus…do you ever sleep!?”

“Good morning!” I shouted as if I had never heard the raillery in his tone. “I need a coin…a large silver one…with a pine branch!”

The shutters closed and seemingly a child’s eternity of time passed before I heard the bar being drawn from the large oak door. The wrought iron clasp lowered at the handle as the door swung wide. I had never seen a man in his sleep shirt before and I thought how odd a thing it was.

“Come in ch-i-i-i-l-d.”, the short man yawned as he scratched his large belly. “What’s this about a coin, Evergreen?”

“I need one…for my friend…for Zena. She’s afraid of…well…I took an oath and cannot tell. I promised to protect her... and the coin…will be the way…so she never gets hurt. Do you have such a thing Timerius…for Zena?”

[Zena]

I took my leather pouch and held it out to him. “Here…I can pay…gold…I gathered it in the snow...take it…all of it...in trade…for just one coin.”

Timerius took my dripping bag and looked inside. The sides of his eyes crinkled as he looked into the pouch and, slowly, raised back up to meet my gaze. I thought he smiled because he knew he was getting the better of the trade. After all, who would not take the gold for just one coin…just one.

“What a fine trade indeed…indeed.” He took the bag and placed it on a high shelf, and as he climbed back down the small ladder, his pudgy hand grabbed a jar of molten blue. It rattled as he sat it down upon the counter. “Well, let’s see what we have here…” he picked up the jar and swished it around…Clang…clang…“reach inside child and choose your coin.”

I will never know how it came to be that I drew out such a coin as I desired which glistened as brightly as the gold I saw in the snow. I felt it’s weight in my hand and tossed it up and down a few times before speaking. “Very well…fair trade Timerius…fair trade.”

Laughter was heard as I ran from the shop. I held tightly onto my gift for you until I found you sitting on the rock…our rock…the place where we always met…waiting for each other.

“Ze…Ze…ZeNA…” I panted out your name as I bent at the waist and held onto my thighs thinking my breath may never return. You turned your head with your usual amused smile saved only for me.

I grabbed you down from the rock and ordered you...“put out your hand.” And you did…without question. “Now close your eyes.” And…again…you did.

I took your hand, placed the silver coin in your palm, and gently closed your fingers over it. “ For you…so you will never die…like I promised.”

Puzzled hazel eyes met mine as you unfurled your fingers from my gift. And…in the palm of your hand…to my awe and astonishment…was a golden ring with the image of ripe grapes with the word Gaeus intertwined through the leaves.

I saw your lips as they moved, but I could not hear your words as the noise of a great wind carried them away. And in a flash of a time we stood perfectly still…until… I awoke and found your head resting in my lap as golden snow gently fell upon your face.

"It is What it Is"
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 4/27/03 11:49:03 am
Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 608
(4/25/03 9:53 pm)
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To Sleep, Perchance To Dream
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The faces emerged from the darkness, living portraits painted on an azure canvas. She blinked to clear her unfocused eyes and missed the delighted smiles from the assembled guardians. Zena tilted her head back a little to see whose lap held her, although she knew without seeing. Her trembling right arm reached upward slowly to the concerned face and the back of her hand and fingers traced the cheek that had been so brutally bruised. Evergreen’s face was whole again and framed in the most beautiful aura of golden dust. She turned her cheek to meet Zena’s fingers. “Healed. So soon?” Zena thought. As she gazed at her and filled her heart with the cherished sight of her sister, she became aware of feeling again in her left hand and shifted somewhat so that she could see who held it so tightly. The “small one” among them, Gabby, ever hopeful, was clinging with both hands to Zena as if she could force life back into her cold fingers. She washed both their hands with tears and when she felt a reassuring squeeze from her mother she looked up with a start. Her response was a smile that had no equal but the sun. Gabby too, was encased in the strange golden dust, and squinting in the sparkle of it Zena anxiously sought the others through the blessed mist.

Phalon approached and brushed the forehead where she had once left a kiss for one in death, and offered a sip of water, cool upon parched lips that were white in their extreme dryness. Her appearance had changed. “Where is the blue robe, warrior and mystic?”

Xendra had a cloak to share, her face the serene image of one who had been exorcised of demons and was now free. Zena whispered in an exhausted voice as she received the covering, “Welcome home.” Xendra grinned with a new liveliness.

Blackwolf knelt near Zena’s feet with a pouch of herbs and filled with an obvious energy that had renewed itself in the giving. Zena’s nod to her said, “Now we are truly sisters.”

Puella stood back with head bowed, bearing a burden of undeserved guilt. As the golden mist gathered on their shoulders and touched their souls she put the burden down and came to sit opposite Evergreen at Zena’s head knowing that she was accepted there.
Zena’s hand fell from Evergreen’s face, weighted down by the golden ring and the call of sleep. She sighed and stretched in comfort and as her eyes closed it came to her that one friend was missing, “..who..was..not..there?” The riddle faded from her thoughts and wrapped in the security of the one who had kept her promise, she gave herself easily to Morpheus. He had come to whisper a song of the sleep that heals all and of dreams that bear a reminder of an oath sworn in the twilight by the side of the road to eternity.
Gently Evergreen brushed the golden snow from Zena’s sleeping face. In watchful silence around them, the sisters began their preparation to seek a shelter, for in this realm time flowed on and there was need of a fire to keep the darkness and the cold in it’s place.

[Zena]

1 Xwpfan
Registered Member
Posts: 725
(4/28/03 11:50 am)
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Out of the darkness
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Xendra was not exactly sure what had transpired near the battle’s end and could not quite yet comprehend the price that had been paid for such a victory.

Victory had its final foothold when Xendra found the courage and strength to add her own voice to the anguished yells of banishment, the last of the black ooze came spilling out of her…and thus unleashing the radiant power of goodness and light.

For with the last syllable of Xendra’s decry of banishment, the last speck of black ooze hit the ground. and evaporated.

As of that very moment, Xendra was no longer a pawn trapped in dark, morose and unsavory thoughts, controlled by unseen forces..

The loathsome and lonesome cold within Xendra was replaced by an indescribable warmth.

Glorious changes with Xendra’s spirit began to occur…but
she couldn’t help but wonder was such deliverance possible?

Could the battle against Evil ever really be won?

Xendra, still in pain and physical darkness was not ready to wholeheartedly trust the changes that were taking place inwardly.

As the others stirred about, Xendra remained unmoved, silent lost in a stupor of confusion and disbelief.

As a lightness of being over took the darkness of Xendra’s thoughts and the feelings of confusion and disbelief fell away.


For an instant Xendra forgot the somber circumstances that they had been involved in.

Coming to her senses, Xendra once more stood in silence. This time she joyfully listened to heart for the first time in ages, thump thump, thump thump. She was indeed alive.

Hearing her own heartbeat though, made her wonder about Zena .
Xendra searched her mind, she did not recall Zena’s voice being amongst the ones who had called out.

Xendra slowly and deliberately turned to see if she could hear news of Zena’s condition or how the stranger known as Red had fared but to Xendra’s chagrin all she heard was a deafening silence.

Although Xendra still could not see clearly. Xendra knew more than anything she needed and wanted be with there for Evergreen and to pay homage to her sister and friend Zena .

Xendra did not know if her presence would be welcomed or wanted but it weighed on Xendra’s heart and mind,to not know the fate of Zena .

So,Xendra being as head strong and determined as ever, braved the darkness of her eyes and somehow managed to gingerly find her way to where Zena laid outstretched in Evergreen’s protective and loving arms.

Sadly, Xendra did not see Zena as she tilted her head or how Zena slowly reached up with a trembling arm to trace the outline of Evergreens face, nor could did she see the spectacle as the golden aura of dust encompassed and fell upon each one of them.

Xendra did not see the tears or Gabby’s radiant smile as Zena returned the hand squeeze. However she did feel someone brush by and gasped in deligh as she heard Zena’s parched throat croak “Where’s the blue robe, warrior and mystic?”

Xendra upon hearing the words wanted to do something for Zena so without hesitation or thought,Xendra rose and unlatched the clasp the latch to the black cloak she wore.

As Xendra brought the cloak around to extend over Zena’s body golden dust settled upon it, turning the cloak from the darkest black to the purest white.

With the cloak removed from her being, the golden dust freely began to fall upon Xendra as well. Xendra did not know or understand that the golden mist would accomplish what words or deeds could not .

The power that resided in the touch of the golden mist would allow wounds to be healed, heated words and feelings of hatred between to be forgiven but not however forgotten.

As the golden mist began to do it’s work on Xendra it was as if scales fell off of Xendra’s eyes. At first she instinctively closed her eyes to protect her from the lights bright glare but then she quickly reopened them for the world was once again alive with beautiful colors and textures.

Xendra radiated with joy as she saw all the familiar faces gathered round Zena and was beyond delighted when she saw that Evergreen’s bruised and battered face had been made whole.

Zena welcomed Xendra “Home”. Xendra was at a lose for words at Zena’s greeting , for it was beyond anything she could have hoped for or imagined.

All Xendra could do was gleefully and gratefully smile at Zena

..there is only one success... to be able to spend your life your own way.
Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 4/28/03 11:53:20 am

[Zena]

QGrrlPower
Registered Member
Posts: 900
(4/28/03 9:16 pm)
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Golden Aftermath
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My head bowed after the intense battle with Phalon against the Red Warrior. My breath labored, my heart still pulsating in rhythm with the Sword of Ares...

The scene flashes through my head, the swords meeting in time with the rhythmic beat of the Amazon drums from my dreams...the clashing of our swords, Attacking...Countering...Barely missing their targets as each move was made in perfect motion.

A dance of all dances...the dance of creation...the never ending circle of all things. When death only brings forth a new beginning. Listening to each movement, anticipating reactions to every attack. My focus moving internally as the rhythmic beat grew louder.

My mind flashing back to another time, another place...
A bonfire, ceremonial masks, the finest leathers...I can feel the strength of all the women I see before me as they dance to the beat of the drums...

Each fluid motion had meaning, practicing...praising and discipline coursing through their veins...my veins. Rocking back and forth, mimicing the hand movements of the drummers...keeping time as I tap on my legs, as I sit legs crossed watching intently from the sidelines...

A woman stands before me, leaning down, looking into my eyes...A familiar tunic, the smell of sweat, mixed with lavander oil...I smile and giggle as the most beautiful woman I had ever known appeared from beneath her mask. Eyes the color of the sky on a summers day...lips deeper then the ripest berries on the vine...her cheekbones high upon her face with the most contageous smile...

Touching her cheek as she lifted me up and danced with me around the giant flames...The silver streaks in her dark hair reflecting the firelight...flickering with the flames...Ever present was her smile and joyous spirit, as we circled the center of the camp...MOTHER?

The rhythm of the drums as they sounded in my head...my breath as the exhaustion of the battle played itself out...My strength and determination increase with the power of my vision.

A flash of lightening...and now I stand here battle scared...Red Warrior thrown from my sight in retribution for her words...for her knowledge and strength to banish the evil power.

I look towards the gathering of warriors, kneeling around Zena's body...A moment of panic...heart wretching guilt overwhelms me...How could I have been so careless...Avoiding one confrontation led to her lifeless body before me...I should have paid more attention...I should have seen her coming....I should have...

As I drop my sword onto the ground and place my head in my hands a golden mist blankets me from head to toe...warming my spirit...healing my soul...My wounds from battle vanished, my guilt lifted as I witness the rising and falling of Zena's chest with each breath she takes...

I walk towards Zena and take my place aside her...across from Evergreen and Gabby...The golden mist continued to heal the band of warriors brought together to fight a common enemy...now circling around Zena, united in the Golden Aftermath...

[Zena]

blackwolf
Registered Member
Posts: 81
(4/29/03 12:51 pm)
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Memories and Destiny
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The golden dust settled upon me, and immediately I felt rejuvenated. I raised my hand to my head, and found it healed with no scar. I looked around and saw that everyone else had been healed as well. Even Zena, who even with my surge of strength had seemed to pass out of this world for a second, was looking at all the faces around her. I felt such joy and strength that I wanted to lift my head and howl at the bright, blue sky. The only other time I had ever felt this alive was when Montara and I had joined bodies. Even Montara was feeling better, urging me to go running over the hills. As much as I wanted to, I still had obligations to fulfill here. He reluctantly agreed.

I watched as Phalon exited the clearing, walking in the direction that Red had been thrown. My joy quickly died down to a simmer. Nobody could've survived that, I thought, not even a priestess like Bhen Rudha. I wanted to follow Phalon, but I just couldn't make myself. Not yet. When I thought of Red, I had a feeling of failure, like I hadn't done all that I could have for her. "But you did, pet." Montara assured me. "You did all you could. I know it is in your blood to protect and help as much as possible, but there are some things that must happen, and this was one of them."

I silently nodded my head as I picked up my bag of herbs. "I know. But it still hurts."

Montara agreed. Not only was he feeling my pain in the loss of Red, but I was sure he was feeling her ravens' pain also. Of that I felt a remnant myself.

I put up a smile though as I went and knelt at Zena's feet. Now was a time of rejoicing, not sadness. I watched as strength slowly returned to her. Phalon had come back, and I could tell by her face what she had found was not good. I would ask her later.

"Now we are truly sisters," Zena said to me. I smiled at her, unwrapped her bandages, and checked her wound. Of course, it was completely healed. When she had gained enough strength, I helped her to stand. She still leaned on Evergreen and Gabby, but she would be right as rain soon enough. I gathered up all the bandages and herbs and returned them to Lukos' pack. I took time to truly say hi to him. It had been a while for us, and despite my sadness, I was still anxious to see if I could talk to him. My heart must not have been totally into it though because I couldn't make a connection.

"It'll take some time. You can't expect to master everything in a day." Montara assured me.

I contented myself to just hug and pet Lukos. It seemed he had missed me as well, for while we couldn't talk as yet, he was still extremely affectionate. That made me feel a little better. The sun was starting to set over the hills when I walked back to Phalon and pulled her off to the side. "What did you find?"

Knowing I was talking about Red, she too got a sad look in her eyes. "I found her some way into the forest. She had a broken leg and a dislocated shoulder. She'd also been impaled by Evergreen's sword. There was nothing I could do. I also found her raven, the one that had disappeared, nearby. I thought the most appropriate thing to do would be to have them lay together for eternity. I pulled Evergreen's sword out, placed the raven on Red's chest, and covered them both with my robe. I wish I could do more, but I don't know what exactly can be done. I don't know what tradition there is for her people when a warrior dies, and I feel that imposing some other tradition in her burial would be wrong. She did so much for us, I feel it would be degrading in a way."

I nodded my head in understanding. When I died, I wouldn't want some other tradition imposed upon me, no matter how honorable it might be.

Just as I was about to send my own prayers of thanksgiving for her to the heavens, I felt a stirring in the air. Not a breeze in the sense. More of a changing. I looked around to see what could've caused this, and what I saw caused my breath to catch in my throat...Red walking out of the woods and into the clearing, still wrapped in Phalon's cloak.

Phalon and I looked at each other in confusion. How could this be? I glanced back at Red, and saw the cloak glittering in the setting sun from some of the golden dust that still clung lovingly to the garment. "The dust. It might not have been the amount that the rest of us received, but obviously it was enough to heal her," I said.

As she walked towards us, I could tell from the way she walked and held herself that this wasn't entirely true. While her wounds had healed, she was still very weak. Not caring what the others might be thinking about what Red had done to them, I hurried forward to offer my help. It seemed that although both Red and Zena had sustained life-threatening injuries, Zena had received enough of the golden dust to not only heal her but return her strength. Red, on the other hand, had received only enough to heal her wounds.

Upon reaching her, knowing my intent, she held up her hand to stop me. "Nay. Dinnae be touchin' me."

"But you need my help. I can give you some of my strength. It's one of my gifts. Look, you can barely stand on your own."

She shook her head. "It would be ta painful for ye."

Confident in my abilities, I said "I think I can handle it." When she still denied my help, I looked her in the eyes and said "Please. Let me do this." I needed to do this, as much for me as for her. Realizing this, she slowly gave in to her weakness and sank to the ground. I followed her down, and kneeling next to her, closed my eyes to find that now familiar darkness. Upon finding what I was looking for, I reached out to her, putting one hand on her head and the other one grasping her hands, just as I'd done with Zena. Upon contact though, something different happened, something unexpected. I felt her, and saw her, not as what she was now, but as she was then, and I knew it was the same for her. Memories forgotten surfaced and passed between us. I saw her past, and she saw mine.....

**********************************************

A young girl of no more than 6 summers sat at her father's knee, and listened to him explain her destiny. "You have a special gift and responsibility. Upon being born, we were told that you were to become a Protector of the people. It is now time for you to leave us."

[Zena]

"Leave you? Why? Don't you love me anymore? What did I do wrong?" The little girl asked with tears of confusion and hurt in her eyes.

"Of course we love you. We will always love you. You'll always be our little girl. But you must learn the way of the warrior, and that we cannot teach you. We are peaceful folk. All that you must learn will be taught to you from the elder Protector. Don't worry. You won't be the only one. Other kids of your age will be there."

"I don't care. I don't understand. I don't want to be a warrior. I want to stay here with you and Mom and brother and sister. I want to be peaceful with you. Don't make me leave," the little girl cried.

The father hugged the little girl to his breast and watched as an elderly man with the bearing of a warrior and a crow on his shoulder walked down the street. "I'm sorry, little one, my little Akeera. It is your destiny....."

**********************************************

Time passed. Now, a girl of 12 stood in front of her mentor. Though she stood proud before him, tears gathered in her eyes and rolled down her cheeks as she listened to him speak. "I'm sorry Akeera. In order to become a Protector you must bond with an animal, of which you have not done. Like most of the other children in training, you should've bonded two years ago. We've allowed extra time for you just in case, but nothing has happened, and I must let you go."

"So what am I to do now?"

"Go back to your family. Grow herbs to heal people and to use in drinks. Do what all other peaceful people do."

"That is not my calling though. For the past six years I've trained to become a warrior. Now you just want me to forget all that and become peaceful? I can't do that."

Resting his hand on the girl's shoulder, he looked her in the eyes and replied "You must. It is your destiny......"

**********************************************

Time sped up. The same girl, now 16, was practicing down by the river. Though she was no longer officially a warrior, she still trained by herself to be one. No matter what the elder Protector said, she was not meant to be peaceful. Even if she couldn't be a Protector for the people, she could still be a warrior. She knew they existed. She'd heard of stories of mighty warriors outside the forest that fought without the aid of animal bonds. After climbing up a tree, she deftly flipped down to the ground, landing without any difficulty on her feet. Over the years, her agility and strength had increased, even without the constant training she'd been subject to before being sent home.

She thought about her life now. She lived at home with her parents and sister, who was now promised to a man. They were to have the official ceremony of joining later in the summer. She herself was getting to the age where she was to be promised to someone also. Her brother was already joined and expecting a young one. There was talk already that the child would be a Protector like none ever had been before.

A rustling behind her distracted her thoughts. She crouched down and grabbed a staff that she'd made herself. Heart thundering, she continued to stay in the crouched position, ready to spring any direction needed. Presently, a black wolf came out of the bushes, looked at her for a second with it's emerald eyes, then sat down. The girl slowly rose to a standing position and stared at the majestic animal. She'd grown up hearing the wolves howl in the forest, and had come upon a kill every once in a while, but she'd never met one before. Even though this wolf was still young by wolf standards, he had the eyes of a wise one. The girl knew she ought to be afraid, but she wasn't. It felt....right, correct, to be in the presence of this animal. Something that had been meant to happen for years.

"That is right. This has been meant to happen for many years now. The time is now right for us to be together."

Lowering the staff, confused by the voice in her head that seemed as natural as breathing, that filled her with a joy and completeness she never could have imagined, she asked "Who...who are you?"

Rising to his feet, the wolf brushed up against her legs, and in the newly forged bond said "I am Montara. I am your destiny......"

**********************************************

[Zena]

Time has no meaning. The young woman, now known as Blackwolf upon official recognition of her as a Protector, ran through the fields with Montara by her side. Her sword, which had been made specially for her by the old Protector, who had passed the summer before, slapped against her thigh. The woman and wolf ran for the fun of it. They had not had any problems come to their village, and still had the energy and exuberance that one still has when all the world is right.

All of the sudden, the wolf stops and raises it's nose in the air. Sensing the change in her companion, Blackwolf asked "What is it?"

"Fire. From the village. Something's wrong."

Without another word, the two sped off in the direction of the village. Where once their run had been carefree, now they ran with purpose and fear.

Horror of horrors met their eyes upon coming in site of the village. Many homes were burning, several people lay dead. Fighting was occurring at the east end of town. Protectors were trying their best to save what wasn't being burned or dead, but they were dreadfully outnumbered. Blackwolf drew her sword and started in the direction of the fighting. She didn't expect to live through the day. She was an unseasoned warrior like most of the others. She hadn't even killed anyone yet. But she knew responsibility, and she knew what she had to do.

Not looking down as she advanced, she tripped over a body. Turning to look, the sight brought a wordless no to her lips and a weakness in her knees. She dropped down next to the small body and rolled it over to expose the face of her little nephew. She had been personally training him to be a warrior, the Protector of all Protectors as foretold several years before. Now, he lay riddled with arrows, senselessly dead when a boy his age should've been playing. The small staff made for him by his loving aunt lay just beyond his reach, broken in two by the stroke of an unknown sword. Looking around, she saw all of her family in the same area, all slaughtered as they had tried to run away. Great racking sobs stole through her body. Her family, the people she was sworn to protect with her life since birth, lay dead around her.

"Behind you!" Montara yelled. Head clearing, Blackwolf rolled away as a sword came down to sever her head. Rolling to her feet, she ruthlessly slid her sword into the midsection of the soldier in front of her. From his armor, she could tell he was from a Roman legion. "Before you die, I want to know one thing. Why?"

Blood dripping from his lips, the soldier replied "Caesar wants this land for himself. He says it belongs to him, and that all who occupy it are defying his wishes."

"All of this carnage because Caesar wants a bigger empire?" At the soldiers nod, bloodlust filled the warrior, and her eyes turned a golden color that filled the soldier with fear. Through gritted teeth, she said "Thanks. That's all I needed to know." Jerking her sword from his stomach, she then whirled it around and cut off his head. With one last look at her first kill, she turned to her wolf and said "I have failed my family, but I will not fail in my destiny." With the need for blood filling her entire being, the woman threw her head back and gave one long howl, joined by Montara, as they yelled their own battle cry. She then charged into battle, her sword raised, a large black wolf by her side.

**********************************************

The feeling of the bolt of lightning that had struck Red before now filled me, throwing me backwards out of contact. I lay there, drained of strength and reeling from what I had seen and felt from Red. My body still tingled. Whether from the feeling of the bolt of lightning striking my body or from the continual contact I'd had with Red, I did not know. It would take some time to recover though. As the sun faded from view, I looked up to see Red, standing in full strength now. Raising myself to my elbows, I grinned at her and said "Whoa...what a rush."

"To fight for what you believe in and to never give up is to have the heart of a wolf."
Edited by: blackwolf at: 4/29/03 2:33:19 pm

[Zena]

phalon1
Registered Member
Posts: 1151
(4/30/03 10:17 am)
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Remedies
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Phalon watched the transfer of power between Blackwolf and Bhen Rudha and understood she was witnessing, not only a conveyance of revitalizing energy, but an exchange of knowledge as well. A knowledge of one another that strengthened the growing bond between the two passed, and feeling that this a very personal moment, Phalon turned away and focused her attention on the others.

She marveled that they had survived all that had transpired in what, really, was a short period of time, and that souls and bodies had come through seemingly intact. Oh, how times flies, she mused.

To Evergreen, cradling the sleeping Zena’s head in her lap, she said, “Think she’ll be hungry when she wakes?”

“Come on, Phalon, what do you think?” was the reply. “Have you ever known Zena not to be hungry?”

“Ok, then. We have some scrounging to do. She deserves a feast fit for a queen upon waking from her slumber.” Phalon looked around the clearing, and upon noticing the gift brought by Puella for really the first time, exclaimed, “The horses!” thinking - hoping, that some supplies must be left in their saddlebags.

“I don’t know what exactly you have in mind, Phalon, but I, for one, am not supping upon shank of Whisperer now - or ever.”

“No, I meant…”

Evergreen cut her off with a smile, and then both started to laugh, a cleansing, refreshing sound, pure in it’s ring, and contagious, so that all joined in the revelry, easing the weight of tension which hung upon them for what seemed to be ages. They went about setting camp and preparing the meal joyously and lighthearted.

And, oh what a meal it was! Simple, and even meager in content, but bountiful in the fact that they shared it together. A stew made from things gathered nearby, wild onions and carrots, and provisions remaining in the saddlebags, dried pepper and bits of dried meat, flavored with herbs provided by Phalon and Blackwolf. Never had anything tasted so wonderful. Phalon was a bit surprised upon seeing Blackwolf’s contribution to learn that she came from a people of herbalists and healers. She had placed the warrior, in her mind, as coming from a nomadic family of warriors, running in a pack, like the animal whose soul she shared. Funny, Phalon thought, the impressions one has of another, without truly knowing what their pasts held. Phalon knew that Blackwolf thought her somewhat eccentric perhaps, and that having a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to things herself, found Phalon’s ways during their recent adventure to be, in some degree, tedious and exasperating. This amused Phalon, and later, after the meal was finished and all were asleep for the night save herself and Blackwolf, she played up her eccentricities in front of the other, solely for her own amusement.

Phalon had always enjoyed the night. The stillness of it, the solitude, had always brought her comfort and was a time for quiet reflection. It was her time, and with her feral instincts, obviously Blackwolf’s time also. The two sat together, quietly gazing into the glowing embers of the dying fire, lost in their separate thoughts. The stillness was broken by Blackwolf, who moved to stoke the fire, and Phalon decided to have a little fun, something that seemed long forgotten of late.

She got out her saddlebag and started to shift through its contents. Blackwolf settled in, leaning back against the trunk of a tree, to watch the performance, slightly amused herself.

First, Phalon extracted a handful of scarves, holding each up to the firelight and examining them one by one. Each seemed gaudier than the last, in their bold, bright colors and design. At last, she decided upon a crimson and royal blue silk with tiny strands of golden colored thread running through and tiny brass beads sewed on the ends, and tied her long hair back at her neck. Blackwolf, watching the ritual, asked, “Phalon. Just how many scarves do you think you’ll need?”

“Call it a weakness. I just cannot pass a stall in a market selling these things without making a purchase. A handy collection too, don’t you think?” Eyeing the other’s now healed head, “Not only helpful for keep hair out of one’s eyes, but useful too for bandaging wounds, and tying up large black birds or other loose ends.”

Next she pulled out a necklace with baubles of small colored glass beads dangling from it and placed it around her neck. Another similar one made of brass was added, so that when she moved, the beads hitting together made a small tinkling sound, that sounded large in the stillness and quiet of the night in the forest around them. To accompany the necklaces, she slipped a multitude of brass bracelets in varying widths around her wrist, bartered for at the seaport and meant as gifts for her mother and sister-in-law whenever she next visited. Large hooped earrings with more glass beads bedecked her ears. Altogether, as she made the slightest movement, the clanking of metal and glass, made her sound as a one-woman band. Satisfied, that, in her newly added accessories, she looked befitting the title of mystic, Phalon moved on to the other contents.

She brought out vials and small parchment wrapped packages of oils and herbs, and laid them out in front of her. A small leather pouch containing a coarsely crushed powder was stared into and sniffed. In elaborate and exaggeration gestures, she flung pinches of the powder first over one shoulder, then the other.

“What is that suppose to do?” Blackwolf asked, rolling her eyes.

“Nothing. Just disposing of a potion grown a bit moldy.”

A big sigh was let loose from the younger, and seemingly more sane of the two.

Into a pot of simmering water on the fire, Phalon reached down to the forest floor, plucked a handful of small scalloped leaves growing there, and tossed them into the pot. As they brewed, a balsamic scent filled the air.

“Concocting some kind of potion? For what? To find love, bring on sleep, or perhaps, much more useful here, to cure insanity?”

“Actually, this little plant does all that and so much more, and so easy to find. It grows everywhere. Glechoma hederacea – ground ivy. Heals inward wounds, eases gripping pains, sore throats, headaches, hastens recovery of flesh wounds and bruises, and cures gout and toothaches. Added to a bath it can slow the aging process. Wrapped in a piece of red cloth and placed under your head before falling asleep, and you will dream of your next love. It also…”, Phalon said as she removed the pot from the fire, and stared into the swirling leaves, watching the direction they took as the swirling slowed, “has been known to detect Evil lurking.”

“Oh?” Blackwolf asked, eyebrows arched. “And what do the leaves tell now?”

“All is quiet”, Phalon answered, smiling. “It also makes for a pretty tasty cup of tea, if not a bit bitter. Care to share?” she asked, offering a cup.

[Zena]

Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 617
(5/2/03 8:12 pm)
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Dreamstew
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The incense wafting from a pot of simmering stew wove itself around Zena’s head, lifting it from the bunched up blanket where it lay. “Mmmmm, dinner. Dinner? Who cooked?” She sat up and rubbed the clouds from her eyes, looking around for the source of the smell. She shook off the stiffness of her body and followed her nose to the fire. On the campfire the cooking pot was bubbling and full to the brim with a delicious stew of tender vegetables and bits of meat. Phalon, who seemed to be adding a few spices to the mixture, smiled and handed her a bowl and the ladle.
“Thanks Phalon. It looks great.” She leaned forward and whispered, “Who cooked?"
Evergreen sauntered up behind them then and tapped Zena on the shoulder so that she would turn and said, “It wasn’t me.”
“Oh. I didn’t mean. . .”
“Yeah, you did. But it’s ok. Sit down."
They all sat down around the fire for the evening meal, grateful for the warmth that food and good company brings. There was little conversation until everyone had eaten their fill.
“You know, I think we should eat it with something,” Zena swallowed from the bowl and picked up the root vegetables with her fingers.
“You mean like, eat it with bread? Or wine?” Evergreen tossed the bits of meat into Zena’s bowl where they disappeared as soon as they fell.
“No. I mean like the way you eat cheese with a knife.”
“By the gods Zena, what ARE you talking about. You can’t eat broth with a knife. You’d starve before you got enough. Especially YOU.”
“Not a knife. Another thing. Like a little bowl with maybe a handle to hang on to. Then you could scoop up the liquid. It could be called a. . a. . scoop.”
“Too much trouble,” Evergreen grunted. “Who wants two bowls?”
“I would. I’m going to try it. I can carve it out of wood tomorrow."
Evergreen just gave Zena the arched eyebrow and having finished her meal, went to brush down Whisperer and Ergo. Phalon and Blackwolf were looking over the contents of Phalon’s pack and in the flickering firelight the others all seemed lost in their own thoughts. The familiar forest sounds around them were an Amazon lullabye. It was a good time to curl up with a full stomach, in a safe place, and watch the stars go by.
For a time Zena lay on her back and looked at the patterns of the tiny dots of fire in the inky sky and then she fell asleep under Xendra’s white cloak. She awoke briefy as Evergreen settled down nearby and she murmured, “Evergreen?”
“Zena, why are you not asleep?”
“I am. Really, I am. Evergreen?”
“Now what?”
“Should I make you a scoop?”
“No.”
“Alright.”
“Ok. Make me a scoop.” Zena smiled in the dark and turned over.
All was quiet.

She saw him again in her dreamscape, sitting on the stairs, waiting. It was foggy all around him and she squinted her eyes trying to see him better. As he became clearer she saw him raise one hand slowly, reaching for her. She stretched out her hand but he was too far away for them to touch and he called out, “Remember. ."
She gasped and sat straight up startled to find herself in another place, her heart pounding in her ears. Phalon and Blackwolf were sharing a cup of tea, oblivious to the dreamed drama behind them.

[Zena]

shamrock xwp
Whoosh! Chat Director
Posts: 247
(5/3/03 11:00 am)
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That mystery gal on the black horse is still riding . . .
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The sound of pounding hooves, the smell of fresh morning air after an all night rain, and the chill right down to your bones from having slept out in it and being soaked through to the skin really makes a person re-think their career decision . . .


When last seen our two travelers were camping along the road and heading to deliver a message to someone a long long way from Britannia . . . The messenger was no worse for the wear, and the young slave's boo boo's were healing nicely, in another week you'd never know. The two of them fought constantly . . .

"Look he's a big horse! He's high spirited. I can't help it if you don't like the ride. If he had more than two speeds, I'd use 'em. But as it is, we've got breakneck speed or stop," explained the messenger.

"Yea, well you've got a saddle and I just bump bump bump along back here behind it. My bruises have bruises! Why can't I just get down and walk for a while?" complained the slave girl.

"Why can't I just get down and walk for a while?," whined the messenger mockingly. "We'll, never get where we are going if I have to wait for you to walk there. And I didn't see ANY bruises on your flat lil back side this morning when we changed into dry clothes."

"Well, just because you can't see them from a distance doesn't mean my butt doesn't hurt. And I'll thank you to stop looking while I change clothes. A girl can't find any privacy out here on the road."

The messenger issued a challenge "Shall I turn around and sell you back to the tavern where I picked you up?"

. . . and so it went day in day out . . .


EvergreenLM
Registered Member
Posts: 229
(5/3/03 4:54 pm)
Reply | Edit | Del A Debt to Pay
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The familiar forest sounds around them were an Amazon lullabye. It was a good time to curl up with a full stomach, in a safe place, and watch the stars go by.

For a time Zena lay on her back and looked at the patterns of the tiny dots of fire in the inky sky and then she fell asleep under Xendra’s white cloak. She awoke briefly as Evergreen settled down nearby and she murmured, “Evergreen?”
“Zena, why are you not asleep?”
“I am. Really, I am. Evergreen?”
“Now what?”
“Should I make you a scoop?”
“No.”
“Alright.”
“Ok. Make me a scoop.” Zena smiled in the dark and turned over.
All was quiet.

Evergreen inwardly laughed and thought just how much she cared for this life long companion. No two could be closer, even those born of the same blood did not share the same path these two traveled together.

But thoughts of another sister, one truly born of blood, continued to call Evergreen from a distant unseen place. The insistent beckoning grew stronger with the passing of days and would not be silenced.

She isn’t going to understand, but I must do what my heart knows I must do.

Zena’s slow inhale and exhale of deep sleep could be heard in the stillness. Evergreen knew her well, and with a full stomach of Phalon’s rich stew, Zena would not rise and shine easily come the morrow.

Evergreen listened to the murmurings of Phalon and Blackwolf as they talked of the preceding events, speculated as to where the band of women would now go…”my home is always welcomed to my sisters…I would love to see my family again”.

The wistful tone in Phalon’s voice was easily discernable. Blackwolf gave a hearty agreement to the plan saying they should discuss it with the others at the morning campfire.

Family…what do I really know of mine…how do I ever set right Mother taking Leara away from her own mother…Roman yes, but a mother first. Who was to say that Leara would not have been loved or been given opportunities… a heritage taken from her as she lived in a forest with those who hated all Romans. Leara was robbed of her birthright and, now, it was time to try to set that straight.

Evergreen did not sleep, but lay watching the stars until the dark night slowly stepped from the path of the gray morning light. Phalon and Blackwolf had concluded their exchange and too had moved closer to the fire and slept. Evergreen heard the dying pops and crackles of the wood.

Slowly rolling off to one side, she quietly sat up and slipped on her boots. With one fluid motion she rose to her feet, momentarily watched the group as they slept, turned and walked in the direction of the tethered horses.

The thick forest canopy had not been penetrated by the oncoming light and was dark as Evergreen threw the colorful blanket and saddle up to Whisperer’s back.

Reaching underneath the horse’s belly, she grasped the belt and the cinch effortlessly looping one into the other. Evergreen raised a boot and pushed on Whisperer’s side tightening the cinch… I know you old friend…you’ll blow out on me and just when I am at full gallop, the saddle will slip sending me crashing to the ground…we’ve played out that game, haven’t we love…?

When the saddle was secured, Evergreen rechecked the bit assuring that it was not too tight. Patting Whisperer on the neck, the small Amazon stepped back placing her foot into the stirrup. As her leg rose ascending the tall horse, fingers with the grip of a god, clamped on to Evergreen’s calf causing her to flinch in pain.

The brogue was unmistakable. “And jist weir da ye thin’ ye be goin’ in the dark?”

“Let go of my leg and I will tell you…right after I finish knocking you to the ground!”

“Ahhhh!” Evergreen cried out as the vise like hand twisted the imprisoned leg.

“Okay…okay..let go…I’ll tell ya…I promise…just let go will ya…”

Whisperer turned his head and snorted at BhenRudha…Even my horse doesn’t like her…

Evergreen dismounted onto one foot. “Ah...ah..ah...” Hopping around rubbing her calf, she finally spoke to her purveyor of pain. “What ya go and do that for? I thought you would be glad to see me go.”

The Red woman stepped forward, bent down, once again reaching for the leg.

“Yoou din na’ answer me question small warrior…is it more pain ya be wan’tin?”

“No…nooo. No...pain is not good.” Evergreen stood contemplating the menacing woman standing in front of her. One moment she wanted to strike the living breath from her, and the next, felt an odd bond…caring?…Nah…I wouldn’t go that far…well…maybe a little that far.”

“Did ya ever have unfinished business? Something left undone…something that needs redirection…a debt so to speak? I do, Red. And only I can set it right."

Softly Evergreen continued, “I have a sister. Her name is Leara and she is out there,” Evergreen made a sweeping motion towards the forest, “and I have to find her…I just do. Can you understand that? Can you?”

Without speaking a word, Red stood back and cupped her hands interlacing her fingers. “How ‘bout a leg up warrior?”

Evergreen smiled and stared intently into eyes deep enough to become irrevocably lost. “Thank you.”

Stepping from Red’s hands into the saddle, Evergreen gathered up the reins,pulled to the right as she kicked Whisperer and sounded a soft “click”.

But as the horse moved forward, the reins were jerked back halting the painted pony. Evergreen looked back over her shoulder as Whisperer pranced eager to be guided once again by the familiar weight on his back.

“Red…tell Zena…I…never mind…just tell them...tell them all... I’ll be back”

Evergreen leaned forward in the saddle. And with another heel kick to the side and a “Yah!, Whisperer”, horse and rider were swallowed up in the dense forest as the first rays of dawn danced in and out of the pine branches.

"It is What it Is"
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 5/3/03 5:23:18 pm

[Zena]

QGrrlPower
Registered Member
Posts: 928
(5/4/03 12:11 am)
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Quiet night beneath the stars
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Content that Zena would rest through the night, under the white cloak. The smell of bitter tea brewing, drew me towards the firelight. It has been so long since I could sit back and enjoy the night and the company of others.

I watched from Zena’s side as Phalon walked over to her horse and pulled the colorful scarves from her saddlebag. As she and Blackwolf carried on a conversation, I grin as I recall the last time those scarves brought a smile to my face.

Many moons ago it seemed, yet it was just like yesterday. When dressed as a mystic fortune-teller with Gabbyfan and little dog in tow. The baubles and bangles…the raising of the staff to read the Roman soldier’s future…A smile broadened across my face.

The night quiet…peaceful. I walk to the fire and kneel down, warming myself. Blackwolf and Phalon sat discussing the healing herbs and plants that could be found nearby.

The stars above shown brightly and the night sky was amazingly clear…Suddenly the peace is broken by Zena startling awake.

I look towards her as she obviously began to look for her friend Evergreen…I looked around puzzled…where is Evergreen? I thought as I scanned the campsite. I look towards the horses. Where is Whisperer? Evergreen and her horse are gone…I can only see the shape of one woman…It is the Red Woman. As she stands near the horses.

[Joxcenia]

Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 622
(5/4/03 10:42 am)
Reply
On the Road Again
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The dream already fading with the night, Zena looked around to see if she had disturbed Evergreen. The bedroll was gone but the depression in the grass was still warm. At the horses Red stood with arms folded watching something in the distance and did not turn as Zena approached.
“She’s nae here."
Zena looked in the direction that held Red’s attention but saw nothing.
“Where has she gone?” Red shrugged.
“She ha’ gone ta find the sister.” Puella had moved into earshot. “What sister?"
Zena sighed. “ Leara.” She ran her thumb over the heavy ring on her hand and looked off to the rising sun. “She’ll find us, I trust her homing instinct. I have something to do too, but I’m not certain exactly what. I have to keep a promise I made and I need to be somewhere south of Rome."
Red shrugged again and they gathered the others.

They ate quickly without the benefit of scoops and packed their saddlebags. With the fire extinguished and scattered Phalon took charge of the directions. Zena lingered behind long enough to look over the battlefield one last time and then caught up with the group.


Edited by: Zena 1 at: 5/7/03 5:25:49 pm

BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 187
(5/5/03 12:20 am)
Reply
Outside the Golden Circle
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It was the sound of her shoulder snapping back into place, followed by the crack of her leg setting, that finally pulled Bhen Rudha from the darkness she had been wallowing in. Odd that there was no real pain, only the complaining of her body at having so much work to do.

The priestess had not expected to lay within the forest she died in when arriving in the Summerlands. It did not feel right to be upon the ground with a sword next to her and the feel of feathers in her hands. There was something wrong.

She took a deep breath, wanting to puzzle out the mystery, and her chest seized suddenly with agony. Memory surged with the waves of pain, and for a long time, all she could remember was lightening.


* * *


With her shattered voice, she pronounced, “Thrice I be namin’ ye. Thrice I be claimin’ ye. From this world ye are banished by me!”

Kedos screamed and lashed out at the priestess with a bolt of lightening, catching her in the chest, sending lances of soul deep pain radiating through her body. She was lifted keening from the ground and flung into the forest. As she flew, she could feel the primordial entity fight against her claim. It tried to crush her mind, seeking freedom even in these last moments.

There was no thought left within her . . . only Kedos. It was having its retribution now, before defeat was final. They would perish together it seemed.

A desperate animal caught in a trap, the priestess could see only one way out of the torture. Evergreen’s blade rose, seemingly of its own accord and plunged into the knot of rage and terror that squeezed her heart. At that moment, her body crashed to the ground, driving the sword further into her chest and out her back.

She thought it was strange that there was no pain, only a terrible weakness that flooded her limbs. As blackness swarmed her senses she lifted a last prayer to the Goddess that she had been enough. A wave of pride and love flowed through her just before her voice, the only one that could release Kedos, was silenced.


* * *


Bhen Rudha slowly uncurled her body as the last wave of memory released her. She could feel the remnant of hatred coiled just under her heart, pulsing against the frail mortal body that contained it. Just as she had held the winds, she now held a piece of Kedos, and knew somehow that the ache would never leave her, even in death.

Dust choked her and she coughed. When that brought no new agony, she placed her palms against the forest floor and attempted to push herself upright. It was then she discovered the body of a raven tucked lovingly in her arms.

Without warning, a sob tightened her throat. She knew now that she was not dead, for in the Summerland she would have been spared such torment. Unable to bottle the emotion away, she let herself weep. Silently a pair of ravens landed near the priestess, trying to give what comfort they might. She waved an arm to drive them off, unable to face either their blame or forgiveness, and so they took wing again, to grieve together and wait.

Once her tears were spent, she was finally able to rise. Her body shook, struggling to continue repairing the damage caused by her fight. Sucking in a deep breath, she looked around her resting place. The glint of gold caught her eye, and she noticed Phalon’s robe bunched upon the ground. It was covered in a fine layer of dust that caught the light. As she reached to pick it up, the priestess noticed that she too was now covered, and wondered at its meaning.

Wondered too why she had been driven back to life. Had not she given everything? Was not she entitled to the rest and healing of the Summerland? She sent her queries to the Goddess and received silence as her answer.

Cast adrift, with no immediate goal before her, she felt a sudden need to return to the battlefield. With sword and robe tucked within her arms, she started limping through the forest. And even though she was desperate to reach the others, she was nonetheless forced to turn once and gaze upon the lifeless raven upon the ground. Teeth clenched against fresh grief, it took a long moment before she could tear herself away and push on.

The past could only haunt her, she needed a future.

Perhaps if she knew they had survived it would be enough for her to have one.

Edited by: BhenRudha at: 5/5/03 4:50:41 am

[Joxcenia]

BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 188
(5/5/03 4:49 am)
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If Not Gold, Then Black
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((Author's Note: This post gets kind of dark and suggestive near the bottom. It is not R rated stuff by any stretch of the imagination, I just wanted to give a heads up for those who are sensitive to such things. BR))

She was still losing blood, and a chill filled her bones. Stabbing Evergreen's sword into the ground, the priestess threw Phalon's robe around her shoulders in an attempt to find some warmth. Tucking the garment tight around her, she left the sword and continued to limp as best she might.

As Bhen Rudha neared the clearing, she paused, unsure if the others would care whether she lived or not. Oh, Phalon had visited her out in the forest, that was true, but did the mystic mourn her passing? Had anyone else gone to see the fallen?

For a moment she thought to simply spy on the group from the trees, but quickly discarded the idea. As she drew closer she could feel the powers, borrowed and inherent, within the group, and figured that one of them would sense her.

So she gathered her courage and stepped to the tree line. What she saw stopped her breath. Zena, hale and whole, the center of nearly everyone's attention. She did not know how it was possible, or that she had even been responsible for the Amazon's recovery, but she sent a prayer of thanks to the Lady in any case.

Just as the priestess thought that perhaps she could escape back into the forest unnoticed, she felt Blackwolf sense her presence. Bhen Rudha watched the warrior turn to Phalon then back in confusion as she stepped from the trees and into the last light of the day.

She tried to walk with strength and pride, to enter the clearing as a priestess. But her body was still broken, the evidence of this a widening stain on her tunic. As the sun set, so did the last of her strength, and she was forced to stop before her leg buckled beneath her.

Bhen Rudha watched as Blackwolf quickly crossed the distance, the warrior intent upon helping. She held up a hand, saying, "Nae. Dinnae be touchin' me." Things had changed, and she knew that Phalon was no longer the only one with the kenning sense.

"But you need my help. I can give you some of my strength. It's one of my gifts. Look, you can barely stand on your own," Blackwolf answered, reaching again.

The priestess shook her head. "It be ta painful fer ye," she said, trying to step back.

Confidence in her expression, the warrior pressed the point, saying, "I think I can handle it." A long silence passed between the two and finally Blackwolf looked Bhen Rudha in the eye and whispered, "Please. Let me do this."

There was debt between them, and it ran both ways, the priestess recognized. Her conscience demanded she accept the offer, even had she been strong enough to refuse. As it was, her broken leg decided it had had enough, and she slowly sank to the grass, followed by the warrior.

She watched Blackwolf close her eyes and followed suit. After a moment, the priestess felt a warm hand rest gently upon her head, and another gather up one of her own. The link was forged quickly, and with the first trickle of energy came visions of Blackwolf's past. Her own memories rose in response, and she could not have fought it had she wanted to. Instead, she sighed and let them come.


* * *


"Father, when can I go on the hunt" I've practiced every day with my spear and pony and I know I can keep up!" the five year old girl, Fechine ni Islene, said, leaping into the large man's lap.

"Ah, my little fiach, you know I would take you, but the other men would not stand for being shown up by such a fierce warrior as yourself," Aed mac Ardal said, wrapping his thick arms around his daughter. "But if you are good, and mind your mother, then maybe we will go out riding, just the two of us. How does that sound?"

The prospect of having time with her beloved father to herself eclipsed the disappointment she felt at having to stay home again during the stag hunt. Squirming till she was tucked up securely, she beamed up at him. "I will be very good then!" she exclaimed.

He kissed the top of her head, so red like his own. He then glanced up to see his wife, Islene ni Luiseach walk into the common room, a smile hiding within her bright green-gold eyes. "But you have to promise not to brag about it to your sister, else your pony will not want to carry you," she said.

"I promise Mama," Fechine said, as her eyes, more gold than green, started drooping in the warmth of the hearth-fire.

She fell asleep to them chuckling softly, and wondered what was so funny.


* * *


Her fingers moved automatically to braid her long auburn hair, weaving a ribbon through the wavy thickness. She wanted to look her very best tonight when her mother took her to the family well for the first time for the Full Moon.

"Fechine, are you not ready yet?" Islene asked as she walked into the girl's bedroom. A fond smile curved her lips as she watched the careful way her daughter tied up her hair. She almost hated to undo such a good job, but crossed the room and swiftly began pulling out the ribbons and plaits that the had been finished only a moment ago. When the ten year old girl wanted to protest she said, "You are going to meet the Lady tonight, not some young man at a fire dance."

Confusion lit the girl's expression, "But Mama, you said I had to clean myself up."

Chuckling softly, Islene kissed the top of her daughter's head and smoothed her hands through the waist length unbound hair. "The Goddess wants to see you as you are, unfettered by ribbons or pretty tunics."

Still confused, but willing to trust her mother, Fechine shrugged and said, "Well . . . you are a priestess, so you would know, huh?"

"Aye, I would know," Islene said, a serene sort of radiance lighting her face. The girl watched the change come over her mother and knew in that instant that she wanted to look that way someday. She vowed to herself to pay attention and learn everything she could.

"Come on then, my little fiach, let us go before your sister returns."

"All right, Mama."


* * *


"It is not fair!" cried Sile ni Islene, watching her younger sister receive a hand axe for her fourteenth birthday. "How come you get one of those and I don't?!"

"Because all you'll do is cut your nose off with it," Fechine said, a wicked grin on her lips.

While her older sister spluttered with rage, she hefted her new axe. The weight of it felt good, natural in her hand. With a weapon like this she was certain to make her sacrifice to the Goddess tonight. It was all she wanted, to make an offering and be accepted by the Lady, to train as a priestess, just like her mother.

Sile continued to whine, and she quickly grew tired of it. With a flick of the wrist, the axe flipped across the room to *thunk* into the log wall near her sister's head. A shriek split the air, and Sile dashed from the room, wailing that she had been attacked.

Fechine laughed and retrieved the axe. When she turned, she saw her father in the doorway, a stern look in his bright blue eyes. Trying not to look guilty she said, "Sile saw a mouse."

Stroking his beard that was barely touched by silver, Aed commented, "I did not know that mice could fly, nor make so much noise when they struck the wall."

"Well . . . everyone knows that mice are stupid."

Trying not to laugh, her father swept her up in a hug, "That they are, Fiach, that they are."

When Fechine returned the next morning, triumphant, Sile was gone. She was too flushed with her own success to worry much about it, or wonder why her parents seemed more sad than angry with her sister.


* * *


Tonight marked the fourth year since she had left home to train as a full priestess. She stood within the sacred ring, opposite three others, all of them armed with swords. Trying to keep fear at bay, she sought the calm center of her soul, just as she had been taught. Finally lifting her own blade in salute, Fechine launched herself forward.

The older priestess fought with beauty and grace, slipping into madness quickly. She watched their faces transform as the Lady touched them, and wanted to know what they felt. Fighting with all the skill she possessed, Fechine was still outmatched and was forced steadily backwards. Knowing that if she stepped out of the ring the test would be over, she lifted her voice in a battle hymn and offered all her love and service up to the Morrigu.

For a breathless moment, she thought she would be ignored, but then the thunder came. She screamed with the ecstasy of it, her soul aflame with Goddess light. Fire seared her back, a combination of pain and rapture coursing through her as the image of the triple ravens burned through her white tunic. It made her heart beat fiercely and poured strength into her arms. Crimson washed her vision, and the fight that had once been hopeless became a dance of equals.

She had been accepted, she was a Bandroi an Cogadh now.


Edited by: BhenRudha at: 5/23/03 1:37:36 am

[Joxcenia]

BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 188
(5/5/03 4:49 am)

If Not Gold, Then Black (continued)
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((Author's Note: This post gets kind of dark and suggestive near the bottom. It is not R rated stuff by any stretch of the imagination, I just wanted to give a heads up for those who are sensitive to such things. BR))


* * *


Gagged and bound in a fetal position, Fechine could only roll her eyes to glare up at her sister. Sile, smirked, smoothing the beautiful Roman gown she wore. "Now who has cut off her own nose, sister?" she said, her expression turning into a sneer.

"I knew I could use your pride against you. It was not hard . . . you were so predicable," Sila continued, walking around her captive. "Killing Mother and Father was regrettable, perhaps, but in the end, worth it."

Grief clutched her heart, and the priestess tried to call the vilest of curses down upon the head of her kinslaying sister. She was kicked for her trouble.

"Your new owner will be here any moment, and I will not have you sleeping when he arrives."

When she saw him for the first time, pasty and obese, she gave herself over to despair. It would be four long, torturous years before she found the courage to escape.


* * *


Her palm ached as she clutched the mirror shard tightly, waiting for him to arrive. The key in the lock sounded overloud and her breath caught in her throat. His bulk was backlit by the torches in the hallway when the door opened. He crossed the room, shedding clothes as he went. The smell of sour wine filled her nose while his weight slid over the silk sheets to cover her completely. She struggled to remain plyable while his large hands molded her body to his desired shape. The sooner he started, the sooner she could strike. Numbed by repetition she hardly felt his movements. She waited till his breathing quickened, it thankfully did not take too long this time. Soon he lifted his face to the ceiling groaning his pleasure. It was then she sliced the mirror shard across his throat. The glass was sharp, and a tide of blood rushed out to stain her. He rolled off, trying to bellow for his guards, and gurgled instead. She watched him die. Her fingers slipped several times on the keys as she tried to open the lock that kept her chained to the wall. Eventually she was able to leave the room, uncaring that she was clothed only in blood and her collar. She had strength enough in her arms to strangle the single guard she met with her chain. After dropping him to the floor, she began picking doors at random, uncaring of the servants that saw her, till she found one that lead to the cool night air. Finally free . . . she ran.


* * *


Energy flowed into Bhen Rudha like a river, strong and fast. She felt the parade of memories move through her, and knew that they were coming to the last fight. Something told her she did not want Blackwolf to know what had transpired in the forest after she had been struck by lightening. Gathering the sensation to her, she sent a jolt of her own down her arm, forcefully pushing the warrior away before her flight was revealed. Purple light flashed and when she opened her eyes, the priestess saw Blackwolf laying sprawled on her back.

Bhen Rudha felt swollen with power, her body rushing to finish the job of healing and she rose easily to her feet. A jagged bolt shaped scar met her fingers as she tested the place where Evergreen's sword had been sheathed. It was fitting that she was marked where the piece of Kedos she held was contained.

Her own lips curved in a grin as Blackwolf pushed herself up on her elbows and said, "Whoa . . . what a rush."


Edited by: BhenRudha at: 5/23/03 1:37:36 am

[Joxcenia]

shamrock xwp
Whoosh! Chat Director
Posts: 253
(5/6/03 1:09 pm)
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Dashing along at breakneck speed gets tiring . . .
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The big black horse was starting to slow down. The messenger pulled him to a stop, and they dismounted.
"Let's walk him a while. It'll be a good break for your butt."

"My butts broken all right," growled the slavegirl. The messenger snickered. "You wouldn't think it was so funny, if it was your butt. Bring your butt over here and let me kick it 30 times and see how funny that feels."

"I don't think so. Although once you pay off your 5 dinars purchase price, you'll be free to do as you please. And if kicking my butt pleases you. You'll be more than welcome to try. Hahahahahahaha! " The messenger punctuated her comments with mirthful laughter.

On and on they walked returning breast for tat and sparing verbally. Eventually, the slavegirl began to tell stories and recite poetry. It went like this:



Edited by: shamrock xwp at: 5/6/03 3:17:13 pm

lilpunkin
Registered Member
Posts: 783
(5/6/03 3:33 pm)
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Walking along the trail...
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"The stars about the lovely moon," The slavegirl began quietly to herself... "Fade back and vanish very soon..."

The messenger looked over at her from the other side of the horse. "Huh?"

"Nothing." The girl replied quickly.

"No, you said something."

"It was a poem... by Sappho..."

"Care to share?" She prodded.

The young girl continued to recite the poem carefully, just as she remembered it:

"The stars about the lovely moon
Fade back and vanish very soon
When, round and full, her silver face
Swims into sight, and lights all space."

"Where'd you learn that?" the messenger stopped, and looked curiously at the girl.

"In -- In the tavern... People come from far and wide... they all have a story to tell, some better than others. I listen.. I learn."

The slave then saw the messenger pondering something for a long second. Feeling awkward, she took the horse's reigns herself and started walking again.. A second passed before the messenger started to follow and regained her position at the horse's head.

Edited by: lilpunkin at: 5/7/03 6:20:10 am

shamrock xwp
Whoosh! Chat Director
Posts: 254
(5/6/03 3:44 pm)
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Re: Walking along the trail...
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Being game for something to break up the monotony, the messenger decided to press her luck, "You know, I'd much rather listen to poetry or stories than fight all day with you. Not that I don't enjoy tossing a good zinger at you now n then. HeHe. It is good to listen. You learn a lot that way. Do another . . . Do another . . . "

Just then the messenger fell flat on her face. "WHUMP!" The messenger cursed, "D#$% root!"

The slave girl howled with laughter and finally crumpled into a giggling heap on the trail . . .

shamrock xwp
Whoosh! Chat Director
Posts: 255
(5/6/03 4:49 pm)
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We find Zena at last . . .
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. . . some time later . . .

There once was a warlord named Gaius,

He was mean and even betrayed us,

He got hit in the leg,
and now wears a peg,

and goes by the name Mini-leg-us.

"Geeze, I wonder when we are going to find this Zena person, my message is for. "

Sometime later after asking countless people for directions, our dead(on their feet)ly duo actually find the elusive Zena!

The messenger nudges the slavegirl, "Here you take her the message."

"Me?? Me?? Why should I take her the message? You're the messenger," the slavegirl zinged back.

"Perhaps so, but you are the slave of a messenger. Now take the scroll and give it to her."

"No. She looks mean."

"Mean?? Naw, well may be a little. If you don't look at the warrior outfit and the weapons and that fine fit muscular body, why she could be anyone's mother! Here take the scroll."

"NO!"

Zena notices the pair and saunters up, smiling an amused smile. "You two seem to have some argument going about me. What's up?"

"Ahem, I have a message for you from, Arthur of England . . .,"

Zena opens the scroll and reads it. She can't contain her laughter and holds her sides as she laughs and gasps for air.

It says:

Xena, The messenger who brought you this scroll is Boudicca (pronounced BOO-DEE-KA) of the Iceni of the East Anglia. I'm busy leading the Celts in rebellion against Roman invaders. They are destroying cities of Colchester, St. Albans and may capture London.

She's a real PITA and some of the Celts want to make her Chieftess. Please send her to the Amazons where she can be with her own kind and stay out of my way.

Also we could really use some reinforcements before the Romans bring in their reinforcements. If you know anyone looking for a war send them north we've got plenty.

Arthur

Zena regained her composure and handed the scroll to the messenger to read. Saying, "Boudicca, you've got the wrong Xena, but you're in luck because I'm an Amazon." Zena laughed some more. "This Arthur fellow doesn't think very highly of you."

Boudicca was more angry than she had ever been in her life and it showed. Zena laughed even harder. Boudicca went into the woods and could be heard taking out her rage on the local vegetation . . .


Edited by: shamrock xwp at: 5/6/03 4:52:41 pm

[Joxcenia]

Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 628
(5/6/03 7:37 pm)
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Travellers, Large and Small
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“What do you mean we’re lost?” Puella pulled her horse up beside Phalon who was looking over the map again, as she had every hour since they left the battlefield.
“’Tis the home of ya own maither and ya lost it?” Red chuckled behind them.
“Hey Phalon.” Now it was Blackwolf on the opposite side.
“WHAT??!!” Phalon was a slight bit irritated and she tightened her grip on the map crunching the aged parchment into crumbs at the corner.
Blackwolf grinned. “It’s upside down.”
“Who’s upside down?”
“Not who, what. The map. You’ve got it upside down."
Phalon examined the map and swore quietly to herself. “What in the name of. . “
“Angyboody wam a miffday mull?” Zena arrived with saddlebags and mouth full of food. They all turned and said in unison, “What?"
She had been gone for an hour on the mission of scouting a clear Roman-free path.
Zena swallowed. “I said, anybody want a midday meal?” As she slid to the ground both saddlebags came with her, filled with bread, cheese and olives. She had even managed to procure some grapes and apples.
“Might as well stop,” Phalon grumbled. “I haven’t a clue where we are.”
“Good thing we aren’t in a hurry to get anywhere.” Blackwolf grabbed a bunch of sweet grapes, the aroma rising temptingly from her hands. “Where did you get all of this? Steal it?”
“Of course not! I traded for it.” Zena gave Blackwolf a playful shove. The bread and cheese were disappearing quickly.
“Traded?” Xendra asked. “What have you got to trade?”
“Scoops. I’ve been carving scoops all morning. We’ve been going so slowly that I would have had enough time to carve a statue of Artemis with one hand.”
“Now Zena, I TOLD you I’m not good with directions,” Phalon held out the map but no one reached for it.
“’Tis the home of ya own maither and ya lost it,” Red shook her head in disbelief.
“WILL you stop saying that?? ??!!” Phalon dropped the map into the center of the circle.
“Nae be angry wi’ me. I nae lost ya maither’s house."
Between bites of bread Zena asked,”Evergreen back yet?"
Phalon shook her head, “Not yet."
Xendra was still interested in the idea of bartering Amazon crafts. “So who traded with you?”
“A farmer. He liked the scoop idea. Said something about using it to eat or discipline his children. I didn’t quite get that."
Everyone sat quietly for a moment and thought about the switches cut from trees that were employed on the disobedient children they had known, themselves included.
“Could work,” Xendra said at last. They all nodded and Gabby reached for another olive wincing at the thought of scoop applied to her posterior by Zena.
Around the bend in the road two travellers appeared just then, leading a large black horse. They were arguing and the taller of the two seemed to be in charge of the dirty and ragged smaller girl. Between them they were shoving a scroll back and forth and pointing at Zena.
“I’ll take care of it,” Zena jumped up brushing the crumbs from her leathers. She walked the few yards down to them in a deceptively relaxed manner. They watched as Zena read the scroll and found it’s contents to be quite amusing. She said something to the taller one who stormed off into the woods and made a great deal of noise kicking at a tree. The smaller girl returned with Zena who offered her food and then stood back to watch as the girl stuffed her cheeks with as much as would fit.
“Mom?” Gabby pulled at her mother’s sleeve. “Make her wash in that stream we passed. I think she’s got fleas, and she stinks.”

EvergreenLM
Registered Member
Posts: 235
(5/6/03 10:55 pm)
Reply Whistle Down the Wind
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Evergreen whistled as she rode through the forest, pushing low hanging branches aside, ducking here, ducking there, and often getting a sharp pine needle smack in the face when distracted. The sun was high in the sky and shadows played on the forest floor.

She smiled remembering how the incessant whistling irritated Zena.

“You whistle as you sharpen your sword, you whistle when you’re fishing, you whistle when you bathe, and even whistle when you…well…when you visit the bushes. Did not our mother always say that ‘a whistling girl and a crowing hen always come to some bad end?’ Didn’t she now…say that…or were you too busy whistling to hear her!?”

“I’m hungry.” Evergreen said out loud to no one but the companion beneath her and the birds that screeched as they flew across the noon day sky. “I’m not that bad! It's just my stomach growling!"

Anything to take my mind off food... the whistling ceased as the song began... “ carry me home to the place of light, save me Athena for again tomorrow I’ll fight…sword in hand, courage in heart…take me home to my love never again to part…”

The village appeared over the next rise. And a welcome sight it was to the already weary traveler. People moved in and out of the huts going about daily life of those who have but one home, one hearth. Smoke curled up from the low thatched roofs taking flight into the cerulean sky.

Evergreen heard children’s laughter and watched as two young boys parried with wooden swords as one fell taking a strike to the heart and giving a grand performance of a noble death.

My clothes are but rags…can’t be riding into Mother Rome looking like a beggar. Maybe I will stop…find a market. How I will pay without Zena to bargain is but a challenge I will have to meet and defeat.

Evergreen gave a kick to Whisperer who sauntered sideways down the embankment to the edge of the road leading into the village.

The children stopped their play, an old woman ceased tilling the soil and dropping seeds into the black earth, and a chicken was granted a few additional moments of life before its head met a blade and rolled off a wooden block, as they all turned to stare at the woman riding in on a painted pony.

Never had they seen before an Amazon warrior. Evergreen appeared all the more ominous, displaying a fresh cut above one swollen eyelid acquired from battling a lowly tree branch. Where was the fun in that?

Her dark hair was matted with the silver streaks spiking in their own chosen direction. Her clothing was torn, stained with blood that shimmered with golden sparkles in the sunlight.

Truly the gods had sent her thought the elder as he ran from a tavern door to meet the ragged rider in the middle of the road.

The tall gaunt man was not about to move. Evergreen contemplated riding right over the frail old man, but aching hunger, and the need for fresh clothes and a bath, convinced her to rein Whisperer to a halt. The horse bobbed its head and danced sideways.

“We knew you would come…to help us…to save us from the HLAK.”

“HLAK?…what in Hades is a HLAK?”

“Old man, if my helping you comes with the barter of a bath, new clothing, a hot meal, fodder for my horse, and a sharp sword of my choosing, then the gods have indeed answered your offerings.”

Evergreen smiled, stepped down from her horse handing the man the reins, and began whistling as she walked towards the Inn.
"Xena is the Hero we hope is inside us"-LL

Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 5/6/03 11:42:50 pm

lilpunkin
Registered Member
Posts: 787
(5/7/03 6:28 am)
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Re: Travellers, Large and Small
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As the messenger left, huffing and puffing, the slavegirl stared at the spot where the angry Boudicca had pushed her way through the trees.

Before she knew what to do, the young girl felt the warrior -- Zena's strong grip on her arm as she was led back to the where several others were eating and watching. She let out a timid smile and a nod of her head at the group in greeting.

Zena offered her something to eat, and, as if on cue, the slavegirl's stomach growled. She hadn't realized how hungry she was until she saw food... Without any manners at all, as she had never been taught, she began to greedily stuff into her mouth what food was given to her, until she was interrupted by Zena's daughter's complaint.

The girl looked up and noticed the odd looks on each person's face. Her own face turned a light color of pink, and she stopped her gluttonous gorging. She quickly wiped her face off with the back of her hand.

Fleas? she thought. I dont have -- Suddenly her shoulder itched... She reached to scratch it, and as she did, the girl saw that her arm was blotched with mud and grass stains. And she'd bet the whole five dinars she'd cost that her hair and face -- not even including the bruise -- were in no better shape.

Looking back at the assortment of warriors, the young girl tried to regain her composure. "Uhhh... That stream was... which way?"

[Joxcenia]

BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 194
(5/7/03 5:51 pm)
Reply
Life Continues...
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“Indeed, it be a grand thin’,” Bhen Rudha said, holding out her hand. The warrior’s grin widened and she accepted the hand, pulling herself to her feet.

Wiping dirt from her leathers, Blackwolf motioned towards the campfire where some sort of food was being prepared. “Come on. I’m starving, how ‘bout you?”

Wondering what her welcome would be once the euphoria wore off, the priestess smiled anyway and said, “Aye, I’m after eatin’ a fair bit meself.” She let Blackwolf lead her to the others, conscious of the ragged state her clothes were in and the bundled robe she held once again over her arm.

Finding a place out of the way, a bit from the circle, the priestess watched the others. How easily they moved together, like friends . . . like family. What had once been betrayal and heartache was once again love and a strong sense of unity. She wondered at a magic that could heal souls as well as bodies. For she believed that is what had happened. The glittering gold that still clung to them all confirmed it.

Part of her wished she had been present to receive full benefit of the blessing. Then she could have been new, washed clean like the others. But the Goddess wanted you for a purpose, another part of her said. The Lady groomed you to be here, now, as you are . . . would you deny that?

Weariness that had nothing to do with the body crept over her. In that moment she wanted to say yes, I would deny the Goddess and Her plans. Tears gathered unseen in her eyes, she was not as empty as she had earlier thought. She wanted to slip out into the forest and weep, and was stopped by a smiling Puella who handed her a bowl of stew.

“Go raibh maith, agat,” Bhen Rudha whispered, curling her hands around the warmth of the bowl.

“Uh . . . you’re welcome?” Puella said, her easy smile reflecting honestly in her eyes.

The good will was infectious, and the priestess found herself grinning back, despite the wetness that remained in her eyes. “Indeed, be tha words o’ gratitude.”

“Then of course you’re welcome! There’s more if you want . . . just be sure to get to it before Zena does!” A chuckle followed Puella as she went back to the feast and fire.

Surprised at how quickly humor had returned, the priestess sat stunned for a moment, before she dipped her fingers into the stew to eat. The food was warm and flavorful, quickly filling the cold void in her stomach, and helped to lighten her mood.

The events of the past . . . was it only a day? . . . caught up with the group, and soon there were few murmured conversations as the company settled itself down to sleep. She lay herself straight on the ground, looking up at the stars, the evening was cool, not unlike her homeland, and she was comfortable enough. Though quiet, she remained awake as other conversations dropped off into the even breathing of slumber.

Soon, only the voices of Phalon and Blackwolf could be heard over the cackle of the camp fire. Then came the happy jingle of bells and bangles. The priestess closed her eyes, to imagine the figure so brightly clothed . . . reminding her of the tinkers that traveled the island mending pots and horseshoes, breaking hearts and nicking the odd bit of coin. In the darkness, Bhen Rudha’s smile was bitter-sweet.

She was just drifting off when she heard Phalon speak of ground ivy and its many properties. Not the herbalist that either the mystic or the warrior was, she knew enough to suddenly be afraid. A hand came up to touch the jagged scar that marked her claim on Kedos, and she hoped that the small magic would not mistake her power over the entity for corruption.

Sweat marked her brow as she listened to the slosh of liquid, then breathed a silent sigh of relief as Phalon said that all was clear. No longer able to sleep, the priestess silently rolled over and slipped into the forest. She needed to think.

[Joxcenia]

BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 195
(5/7/03 11:03 pm)
Reply
...And So Shall I
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Once her eyes had adjusted to the moon silvered darkness within the forest, her steps moved unerringly to the sword that had been loaned to her by Evergreen. It remained where she had placed it, upright in the forest loam, shimmering with what seemed its own light. A long time passed where she simply stared at it, remembering what had brought the blade to her hand.

Eventually, Bhen Rudha curled her fingers about the handle and tugged gently, setting the sword free. She could feel the spirit of the blade eager to be reunited with its mistress, and thought on the best way to achieve that. Perhaps she should just place it with her supplies, or a ceremony of sorts?

With a sigh, she thrust the sword back through her belt and began her way around the clearing to where the horses were settled. She saw them to be fine steeds all, well kept and obviously well loved. Ghosting among the animals, she placed a soft hand upon a neck here, a shoulder there, getting an idea of which horse belonged to which rider. Such sensitivity came from the Goddess, and even in her doubt she was able to use it.

Evergreen’s horse snorted at her before her hand came to rest upon the soft nose. Stepping away, the priestess bowed slightly, “I did not mean to intrude, I beg your pardon,” she whispered. The horse had laid his ears back, and brought them forward to listen to the soft Gaeilge words.

“I have something that belongs to your mistress, and would place it where she can find it. If I may?” as the priestess continued to talk, she held out a hand, letting the horse take her full scent from it.

The horse snorted again, taking a step back. Inwardly Bhen Rudha sighed, it seemed that Evergreen’s mount, like her sword, like everyone around her, was over protective. As she was contemplating how she might convince the horse that she meant no harm, the priestess heard footsteps in the grass. Not wanting to be accused of tampering with the tack, she fell back into deeper shadow, to see who it might be.

Evergreen came into view, turned to look back over the sleeping, then went about the task of saddling her horse. Her motions were deft and secure, as if she had done this more times than can be counted. Watching, Bhen Rudha knew what the Amazon meant to do. Her gaze flicked to the obscured campfire, where she knew Zena was sleeping, and wondered how Evergreen could leave, with her friend so newly awakened.

After all they had been though, she could just vanish, in the dark, with no one the wiser? The thought did not sit right with the priestess. So when Evergreen moved to mount her horse, she curled her fingers around the Amazon’s calf . . . tightly.

Registering the Amazon’s wince of pain, she asked in a smooth voice, “An’ jest where dae ye thin’ ta be goin’ in tha dark?”

“Let go of my leg and I will tell you . . . right after I finish knocking you to the ground!” Evergreen answered with her usual capriciousness. Not liking the answer, Bhen Rudha strengthened her grip on the Amazon’s calf and gave it a twist.

“Ahh! Okay . . . okay . . . let go . . . I’ll tell ya . . . I promise . . . just let go will ya?” At the sound of Evergreen’s cries, her horse once again laid his ears back and snorted a warning. For the steed, if not his mistress, Bhen Rudha let go.

“Ah . . . ah . . . ah . . . ” was all Evergreen was able to articulate for a long minute while she hopped around rubbing her calf. Finally she was able to ask, “What ya go and do that for? I thought you would be glad to see me go.”

How was it that she could lose patience so quickly with this Amazon? All she had done was ask a question, was it too much to expect an answer? “Ye dinnae answer me question, small warrior. Di’ ye be wantin’ more pain then?” she asked, reaching for the leg again.

“No . . . nooo. No . . . pain is not good.” Evergreen answered watching the priestess straighten. She finally took a breath and said, “Did ya ever have unfinished business? Something left undone . . . something that needs redirection . . . a debt so to speak?” When Bhen Rudha remained motionless she continued, “I do, Red. And only I can set it right.

“I have a sister. Her name is Leara and she is out there,” Evergreen made a sweeping motion towards the forest, “and I have to find her . . . I just do. Can you understand that? Can you?”

Oh, she understood about sisters, but probably not in the way Evergreen meant. But she also knew about debts, and so without a word, she knelt and cupped her hands. Looking up at the Amazon, she asked, “How abou’ a leg up then, warrior?”

Evergreen smiled and dark eye met amber-green in a long, wordless exchange. “Thank you,” was all she finally said before stepping into Bhen Rudha’s hands and vaulting into the saddle. The Amazon gathered up the reins, pulled to the right as she kicked her horse to leave. But before the pair had gone more than a step, the reins were pulled back and Evergreen looked over her shoulder. “Red . . . tell Zena . . . I . . . never mind . . . just tell them . . . tell them all . . . I’ll be back.” And with those words, Evergreen kicked her horse again and disappeared into what was left of the night.

The priestess stood for a long moment, contemplating the sword that was still nestled against her. She had intended to give it back. Why had she hesitated? Perhaps she was just meant to be caretaker for a while. It was no matter.

Hearing a couple people stirring around the campfire, she did not turn around when she felt eyes upon her, nor when she heard Zena’s footsteps in the grass. Instead she folded her arms and said simply, “She be nae here.”

“Where has she gone?” Zena asked, and the priestess could hear a hint of hurt in the words.

Unwilling to appear to take a side, she simply shrugged and answered, “She hae gone ta be findin’ tha sister. Be findin’ ye again, dinnae worra.” Having finished her message, she glanced at Zena and Puella, who had joined them. It appeared that Zena was already thinking about what to do next and so she only shrugged again once the Amazon finished explaining things to Puella.

There was not much left of the night, so the others were called to wake and strike camp. Moving quickly, Bhen Rudha moved to where she had lain earlier in the night, hoping to find Phalon’s robe, still crumpled in the grass. While Zena was calling out orders, she took Evergreen’s sword and wrapped it in the colorful material, tying the sleeves together tightly. Satisfied that the blade would not fall out of its bindings, the priestess went to find Blackwolf.

The warrior was stowing her own gear, checking over her tack and trying to blink the sleep out of her eyes. A smile lit the bright yellow gaze, “Good morning, Red.”

“Maidin maith ta ye as well, Duibhfaolchú. I be after borrowin’ a bit o’ leather. Dae ye be ha’en’ any ta spare?” She held the bundled sword cradled in one arm, motioning with the other, “I be wantin’ ta be strappin’ this on me back, aye?”

Bhen Rudha watched the calculation flash through Blackwolf’s eyes as she took in the size and shape of the object that the priestess held. After a moment’s hesitation, the other woman nodded, saying, “I have some straps I keep for repairs, they should work I think.” The warrior dug into a saddle bag and produced the promised leather. “If you need anything else, just ask,” she said with a smile.

“Go raibh maith, agat,” the priestess said, already sorting out what pieces would be useful.

Memory flickered and Blackwolf answered, “Tá fáilte romhat.” The Gaeilge bought Bhen Rudha’s head up in surprise. The warrior shrugged a little and tapped the side of her head, “It’s not everything, just phrases and such. But I think it came with your memories.”

Grinning, the priestess nodded, saying, “Mayhap. Be tha’ it be helpin’ me with me an Ghréigis ta.” The pair shared a chuckle and then returned to getting ready to move out.

Working as quickly as she could, Bhen Rudha knotted a pair of straps to the bundled sword, tied one to the back of her belt, and pulled the other over her shoulder to tie to the front of her belt. Jumping about to test balance and stability, it took only a couple adjustment before she was satisfied. As ready as she could be then, she went to see what communal chores she could do, taking a bit of breakfast before helping douse the fire and stow what gear remained.

As the party mounted up, she caught curious glances in her direction and managed a reassuring smile. She would walk, she could keep up.

[Joxcenia]

Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 632
(5/9/03 7:49 pm)
Reply
Washday
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“Mom?” Gabby pulled at her mother’s sleeve. “Make her wash in that stream we passed. I think she’s got fleas, and she stinks.” Zena stood with one hand on her hip and took in the total picture of the slave girl. Her hair was tangled and contained bits of straw. The grimy garment she wore was patched and too rough for her tender skin and her feet were bare. An odor wafted up from her; sweat, dirt and old wine.
A flea hopped from the girl onto Zena’s arm where it was quickly dispatched to the insect Elisian Fields. A tinge of pink colored the girl’s cheeks and warmed the warrior’s heart. “This is not one who desires to be dirty or dressed as she is,” she thought. The girl spoke,"Uhhh... That stream was... which way?" Zena gestured to Gabby to follow her a few steps to the horses where she dug around in her saddlebag, finally producing a fine cake of Roman hard soap. It was the kind that Roman women use to scent and color their hair and with it Zena had saved a comb and some silver hair ornaments from her brief reign as goddess of the sea.
“Here Gabs, take her back to the stream. I think you have an extra shirt and pants, those rags are not even fit to burn! If your clothes are too big, we’ll just roll them up and tie them off with this rope.” Gabby nodded a little reluctantly. “Oh and Gabby,” Zena added, “be sure to take your staff. She’ll need a guard. Whistle like Evergreen taught you if you need us.” Gabby stood a little straighter and squared her shoulders. “Ok Mom, I’ll see what I can find out about her while I’m at it. Hey Phalon! Can I have one of your really big scarves for a towel?"
The two girls trudged back up the road and disappeared into the undergrowth. Zena grinned and motioned to Blackwolf. “How about we have a little fun with the bigger one?” “Right behind you Zena!” Blackwolf was ready for a diversion. They followed the sound of a tree being abused and some shouted curses and stopped a few yards away.
“Oh, Boudicca? That’s your name right? Where are you??,” Zena called into the wood. Silence.
“You might as well come out. The woods can be a dangerous place.” Silence.
“Why I hear that there are some wolves about this area. There’s a story going around I heard from my friend Aesop about a boy who was recently attacked here.” Silence.
Blackwolf took her cue and circling around behind Boudicca gave a long low howl.
Zena clapped a hand tightly over her own mouth so that her laughter was silent.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"

Edited by: Zena 1 at: 5/10/03 7:57:19 am

EvergreenLM
Registered Member
Posts: 240
(5/9/03 10:26 pm)
Reply Water, Potatoes, Scoops and Tridents
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Evergreen smiled, stepped down from her horse handing the man the reins, and began whistling as she walked towards the Inn. Moving through the open doorway, she paused giving her eyes time to adjust to from the bright sun to the dimmer interior of a large open room.

As her boots met the rough stone floor, Evergreen scanned the area and quickly decided on a table by the hearth and a window. Never know when I might have to make a hasty exit.

As she walked towards the chosen table, she noted a parchment posted on a thick cedar beam offering a reward to anyone who had information about a slave girl taken from the proprietor of a neighboring village tavern.

The poorly drawn female displayed caused Evergreen to shudder. What did that one do that the bounty is so great...steal the owner’s wife…or worse, his horse…

“Have you seen the little harlot? A large repugnant man stood towering over Evergreen. Nodding at the posting, he continued. “I could not help to notice that you were looking at it a long while.”

Smelling the scent of a carcass lying in the noonday sun, Evergreen stepped back feeling as though she would retch.

“No…no, I don’t know that one. Why do you ask? What has she done?”

As the man spoke again, Evergreen noted that his mouth was a black hole where teeth should have been.

“She ran away…with another woman…left... just up and left... without a word.” The man clenched his fist and released it, clenched and released.

“And why is this any of your concern sir...your daughter?”

Evergreen took another step in retreat thinking if the latter was true she would have run far and fast as soon as she parted her mother's womb.

Reaching the table next to the hearth, Evergreen turned a chair around straddling it while motioning for the barmaid to bring a cup of hopefully cool water from the pitcher just set down on the long wooden trestle table displaying the food and drinks.

“No, not my daughter…my property she be…bought and paid for… to use… like a tool.”

Evergreen accepted the drink, and took her fill without stopping. Pounding the drained cup upon the table, she looked at the man for a moment without speaking.

“Sir…who owns the water I just drank…who owns the air that we now share…who owns the sunlight outside that door?” Evergreen pointed towards the entrance.

The man stood contemplating what game this woman in man’s clothing played. A fool he was not…no...not made a fool would he be…not by any man and certainly not by a woman.

“No one owns those things…what foolish questions you ask.” The black hole grinned.

“Then, sir, kindly tell, if those things have no owner, then why should that woman be of less value in your esteem of things and be a commodity to be purchased?”

Evergreen glanced over her shoulder towards the open window. Up over the table…one leap from the bench…

To her astonishment, the man turned and left roughly pushing chairs, and those that sat upon them, out of his way as he departed.

“Hmmmp…well if the rest of this business goes that well, HLAK should be of no worry.”

Walking over to the spread of food, Evergreen nodded at the barmaid, picked up a knife and stabbed a large roasted potato. Slicing the thick outer skin poking chunks of the tuber into her mouth,the cautious Amazon took care not to cut her lips. As she did so, thoughts of Zena, the practicality of scoops, and perhaps small wooden tridents to pierce her food, came to mind.

Hmmm...this is good...really good..."

As she pivoted returning to her table, she never saw the man enter the tavern with a raised timber in hand…

"Xena Is the Hero We Hope Is Inside Us"-LL

Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 5/9/03 10:38:47 pm

[Joxcenia]

1 Xwpfan
Registered Member
Posts: 750
(5/11/03 10:01 pm)
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All roads lead to Rome?!
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Xendra stood there happily smiling at the newly revived Zena, not really knowing what to do or say next so she just stood there amazed and delighted in her amazing good fortune.

After awhile Xendra sensed the two friends may want some quiet time to talk so she began to quietly slip away but as Xendra started to back away she thought she heard the familar neigh of her horse Solaria…Xendra shook her head , no it couldn’t be.

Xendra shook off the thought, after all to have Zena be alive and to be welcomed back filled Xendra's heart with more joy and happiness than Xendra could have ever wished or hoped for.

Even the thought of having her horse Solaria back was almost be more joy than she could stand.

Sensing xendra’s unease Solaria came up behind Xendra and playfully nuzzled her. Xendra laughed out loud as she turned her head, and her head came in direct contact with Solaria’s nose with a solid thud.

Xendra was quick to console her horse and put her hand out and then softly caressed Solaria's neck.

Xendra smiled to her herself, unlike her owner, Solaria had not changed. Solaria was as strong and majestic as ever.
Xendra hummed happily as she removed the saddle bags and began to brush Solaria.

Solaria stood there regally accepting Xendra's attention,. Xendra revelled in that fact that once again she had something of use and value to do.

Ocacassionally, as Xendra tended to Solaria she looked over at her friends and sisters. Xendra watched their actions and understood that they were scrounging about to find something edible to make for dinner.

Xendra stopped brushing Solaria and turned her attention to her own saddlebags. Xendra searched for provisions,all she found of use were a few medicinal herbs and a few scraps of dried meat bits.

Xendra reached in further into the bags in hopes that something had escaped her scrutiny. Instead of findng food, she found the carefully wrapped feathered mask that she had so lovingly and painstakingly made for Puella many moons ago..

With a heavy and regretful sigh Xendra carefully returned the mask back to it's place and brought her food offerings for the soup that was brewing.

After Xendra added her contribution the cooking pot started bubbling and rose nearly to the rim .Somehow with everyones efforts and offerings a stew of vegetables and tiny bits of meat had beeen formed..
Phalon, added a few spices to the growing mixture, smiled wistfully as the stew took form and substance.

Xendra laughed to herself as she heard Zena query to to Phalon in hushed tones
“Who cooked?”

Phalon was about to answer Zena, when Evergreen came up behind them and tapped Zena squarely on the shoulder .Zena turned and Evergreen grinned as she said said, “It wasn’t me.”
“Oh. I didn’t mean. . .”
“Yeah, you did. But it’s ok. Sit down.”

One by one the group all sat down around the fire for the evening meal. Xendra found herself exceedingly grateful not just for the warmth but for the human companionship again.

As they ate, there was little thought of talk or in depth conversations, food was the priority of the moment.

As the evening meal wound down and everyone was feeling full and content, the atmosphere changed and a playful conversation on how best to eat stew ensued.

It seemed almost everyone’s eyes were on Zena as she drank the juices from her bowl and picked up the remaining root vegetables with her fingers.

Zena realizing she had everyone's full attention motioned towards her bowl of stew as she said “You know, I think we should eat it with something.”

Evergreen looked at Zena quizzically and asked what everyone else was probably thinking “You mean like, eat it with bread? Or wine?”

Zena shook her head. “No. I mean like the way you eat cheese with a knife.”

Evergreen looked down at her knife and then back to Zena and said “By the gods Zena, what ARE you talking about. You can’t eat broth with a knife. You’d starve before you got enough. Especially YOU.”

Zena laughed at the mental image in her head and then tried to explain “Not a knife. Another thing. Like a little bowl with maybe a handle to hang on to. Then you could scoop up the liquid. It could be called a.scoop.”

“Too much trouble,” Evergreen grunted. “Who wants two bowls?” Some of the others nodded in agreement.

Zena was not to be persuaded, she answered “I would. I’m going to try it."

Xendra thought to herself, "I believe you will try it." and then chuckled at the idea of a scoop to eat with.

Xendra watched quietly as each began to drift away from the fire in search of their beloved horse and much needed bedrolls .

Xendra excused herself to no one in particular and walked over to Solaria and unpacked her bedroll.

Xendra looked over the camp, Zena and Evergreen were safely camped together beneath the stars with Lil Gabby just a stone's throw away.

Black Wolf and Phalon were engaged in conversation by the fire with Red recoupping not far from them.

Xendra after much searching found a dry, even spot on which to lay.Xendra felt grateful to be able curl up, having a full stomach, to be in such good company and to be able to truly rest for the first time in what seemed ages.

Xendra stretched out and gazed at the stars but after awhile she turned on to her side and looked where Puella once would have been , instead Puella was warming herself by the fire. Xendra sighed with the knowledge that many moons ago they would have been inseparable on a happy night like this.

Now, despite the healing, their remained an emotional chasm between them. Xendra wondered in heart what if anything, to say to Puella but found any choice of words severely lacking.

Hoping that maybe in the morning's light, she would find the proper words, Xendra allowed herself to surrender to the world of sleep and dreams.

Xendra was visited many times that night in her dream state.
Xendra may have been able to remember her messages had she not been awakened ot the news of Evergreen's departure.

Instead, Xendra rose from her bedroll and joined the group encircled around Zena in time for her to hear Zena sigh. “ Leara.”

Evergreen it seemed had taken off in search of her sister Leara. Xendra upon hearing the news sent up a silent prayer to the Gods for Leara's and Evergreens safe return.

The thought of Leara brought much sadness and remorse to Xendra's heart and soul. How much hurt had Xendra thrown Leara’s way in the past? Xendra shuddered as she remembered how ruthlessly she had killed Leara's wolf Theos.

Xendra refocused as she watched Zena run her thumb over a ring on her hand and peered off to the distance. After a lengthy silence Zena found the way to make her voice sound strong and sure as she said “She’ll find us, I trust her homing instinct. I have something to do too, but I’m not certain exactly what. I have to keep a promise I made and I need to be somewhere south of Rome.”

South of Rome ?! Xendra’s head filled with images of past conflicts with the Romans. Xendra shook her head at the news, once again they would come in contact with Roman soldiers, and on on Roman soil - Xendra shivered at the thought and her stomach gurgled and tied itself into knots...


..there is only one success... to be able to spend your life your own way.

Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 5/18/03 9:21:01 am

[Joxcenia]

1 Xwpfan
Registered Member
Posts: 753
(5/12/03 10:28:43 am)
Reply | Edit | Del
All roads lead to Rome.. continued
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Due to Xendra’s gurgling stomach Xendra found she had no real appetite. Xendra quickly saddled Solaria and secured her repacked saddlebags, while the others hurriedly scarfed down their breakfasts.

After a very hurried breakfast, camp wasquickly and methodically broken down. They were careful to leave little signs of the stay, their trails were covered over and the embers dosed with water and extinguished by mounds of dirt.

Once mounted and assembled the group quickly fell in behind Phalon and Zena . Phalon being anxious to get the adventure underway took matters into her own hands and took charge of the map...

Zena after a short while, decided to scout ahead and road up ahead looking for any signs of Roman troops, so that left the group riding under Phalon ‘s leadership.

After awhile her abilties as guide came in question as she started occassionally stopping to stare at the map and then would just continue onward.

As the days’ sun began to approach mid day Puella decided to find out what kind of progress they were making and pulled her horse up beside Phalon.

After a few moments, Puella shreiked " What do you mean we’re lost?”

Red chuckled and taunted playfully “’Tis the home of ya own maither and ya lost it?”

Phalon was growing a bit irritated. Red's words only made it worse. With every taunting word Phalon increased the death grip she held on the map ,crunching the aged parchment into threads at the corner.

Blackwolf rode up beside Phalon on the opposite side, looked at the map and said
“Hey Phalon.”

Phalon snapped “WHAT??!!”

Blackwolf grinned. “It’s upside down.”

Phalon looked at her “Who’s upside down?”

Black Wolf laughed as she said “Not who, what. The map. You’ve got it upside down.”

Phalon examined the map and swore quietly to herself. “What in the name of..."

A few moments later up rode Zena with a something in her mouth “Angyboody wam a miffday mull?” the group all turned and said in unison, “What?”

Zena swallowed. “I said, anybody want a midday meal?”

Feeeling utterly disgusted and frustrated Phalon brought her horse to a full stop. After Phalon dismounted, Phalon grumbled "Well, we might as well stop I haven’t a clue where we are.”

Zena also dismounted,and to the group's great surprise both Zena's saddlebags were filled with bread, cheese and olives. Somehow, Zena had even managed to get some grapes and apples

Black wolf grabbed a bunch of sweet grapes and tried to make light of the situation by saying “Good thing we aren’t in a hurry to get anywhere!”

As Black wolf munched happily on the grapes she playfully quieried “Where did you get all of this? Steal it?”

Zena gave Blackwolf a playful shove. “Of course not! I traded for it.”

Xendra perked up “Traded?” Xendra asked. “What have you got to trade?”

“Scoops. I’ve been carving scoops all morning. We’ve been going so slowly that I would have had enough time to carve a statue of Artemis with one hand.”

Phalon feeling the need to defend herself said “Now Zena, I TOLD you I’m not good with directions,”
Phalon held out the map but no one reached for it.

Red shook her head in disbelief and again taunted Phalon
“’Tis the home of ya own maither and ya lost it,”

“WILL you stop saying that?!!” Phalon dropped the map into the middle of the group.

Red grinned and said “Nae be angry wi’ me. I nae lost ya maither’s house.”

Between bites of bread Zena asked,”Evergreen back yet?”

Phalon shook her head, “Not yet.”

Still interested in the idea of bartering Amazon crafts. Xendra asked “So who traded with you?”

“A farmer. He liked the scoop idea. Said something about using it to eat or discipline his children. I didn’t quite get that.”

Everyone sat quietly for a moment and thought about the switches cut from trees that were employed on the disobedient children they had known, themselves included.

Xendra thought” Romans seemed to like anything Greek or from other cultures other than there own. Perhaps there was a dinar or two to be made off these filthy Romans".

Although Xendra was daydreaming about the trading of Amazon crafts not so much punishing a child with a scoop Xendra absent mindedly said aloud “It Could work."

The group rode on not really knowing whether they were pointed in the right direction or not, but somewhere amongst many detours and bends they came across two weary travellers walking along , leading a solitatary black horse.

The two strangers appeared to be in a hot debate, perhaps arguing .Of the two, the taller of them seemed to be in command over the dirty and ragged smaller girl, yet the smaller one seemed to hold her ground- even at a distance one could see she had great fire and determination.

The group watched with great amusment as the two continously shoved scroll back and forth amongst each other and kept pointing at Zena.

“I’ll take care of it,” Zena brushing the crumbs from her leathers first, Zena jumped up. She walked the few yards down to them in a seemingly relaxed manner.

The duo carefully watched Zena as she read the scroll and and seemed quite befuddled by Zena’s laughing at the contents of the letter. How could it’s contents be amusing?

After Zena explained the letter’s content to the taller one, the taller one stormed off into the woods and proceeded to let out many unladylike expletives and made a great commotion kicking at a poor defenseless tree.

The smaller girl shook her head and decided to return with Zena , namely because Zena had offered her food .
Obviously starving the group watched in amazement as the girl gulped down her drink and stuffed her cheeks with as much as would fit.

As she ate little black dots would hop on and off her ,the women looked at each other but none wanted to say anything to offend either of the strangers .

Lil Gabby fan had no such compulsion, perhaps feeling slighted for having her staff lesson shortened and perhaps feeling a bit threatened at the addition of another young woman loudly said to her mother,” Mom!”Make her wash in that stream we passed. I think she’s got fleas, and she stinks.”

Xendra laughed at Lil Gabby’s forthright ways and joking added, “Hey you may wanna check her for head lice too!"

Lil Gabby looked at her mom to see if Xendra had been kidding or not. Zena gave Lil Gabbyfan a reassuring look and they were then on their way to the stream.

Soon after their departure there was a wolf like howl that resonated throughout the wooded forest,the sound must of unnerved the messenger a bit as a scream of surprise and fright also filled the woods.

Xendra chuckled knowingly and then thought she should check to make sure the stranger was ok.

..there is only one success... to be able to spend your life your own way.

Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 5/12/03 10:31:20 am

[Joxcenia]

gabbyfan4ever
Registered Member
Posts: 90
(5/11/03 10:15 pm)
Reply Easily traveling
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As the group of women traveled at an easy pace towards Phalon's home, Gabby thought about how Evergreen had left them for a while again. Gabby always missed Evergreen when she was gone, along with the conversations and training she got from the woman she thought of most like an aunt.

Gabby was disturbed from her thoughts by Phalon's frustrated mumblings directed towards the map. A smile spread across Gabby's face as she remembered how frustrated her best friend from the village used to get at her lack of directional sense. Gabby had always managed to get lost even if she was only going from her home to the village market. The smile faded slowly as the nostalgic sense of loss caught up to her wistful remembrances like they always did eventually. She didn’t get lost so easily anymore. Her life could depend on knowing her surroundings, and using them to her advantage.

The young warrior soon got antsy in the saddle, and told her mother she wanted to walk for a while. Gabby didn’t have a horse of her own, and never had. The only horse her family had was for working, and her father said he didn’t need the extra strain when Gabby could walk just as well as ride. Now she walked alongside the group for the most part, and rode behind Zena when she got tired.

Spotting Blackwolf walking beside her horse to give it a rest, Gabby jogged to catch up to the woman. “Hey Blackwolf!” Gabby yelled as she ran up. “.... So, you can talk to the wolf in your head?” Blackwolf chuckled at the question. “ Yeah I sure can, kid.” “Wow! That’s great! I wish I could.” Gabby’s mindset didn’t stay on one track for very long, and a minute later she asked if Blackwolf could teach her a move with her sword. “Well, how about I teach you something with your staff instead.” Before she could get through with the sentence Gabby was off and running towards Zena’s horse to get her staff. She never passed up a lesson to fine-tune her fighting skills. “Guess what Mom! Blackwolf is gonna teach me some moves for my staff!” Gabby reached up and gave her mother a hug that almost pulled her out of the saddle before she was off and running again. As she ran breathlessly back up to Blackwolf for her lesson, she flashed a smile that filled her whole face. Blackwolf chuckled again.

After a while they stopped for a midday meal at Zena's suggestion. Gabby laughed at the light hearted talk of her mothers scoop invention, and cringed slighty at the thought of it used for punishment. She had never gotten in trouble often, but as all kids, there were times. One instance that stuck out in her mind was when she tried to take her father's cart of a test drive. Just then Gabby was thankfully distracted from her thoughts of the punishment that had ensued, by the arrival of two strangers. They apparantly had a message for Zena. One of them looked slightly less than well groomed. Gabby mentioned this to her mother in an attempt at discreetness, but wasn’t very successful. Before she knew it Zena was pulling her aside telling her to take the girl to the stream nearby. Before Gabby had a chance to complain Zena added that she should take her staff for protection. At this thought of responsibility Gabby visibly brightened, as Zena knew she would. As she was walking the girl to the stream she made sure to reassure her that she had everything under control, and was an expert with her staff. “Hey if ya’ll stick around long enough, I might even teach you something.” Gabby added with a smile. She thought they might be good friends.

Edited by: gabbyfan4ever at: 5/11/03 10:27:31 pm

phalon1
Registered Member
Posts: 1171
(5/11/03 10:56 pm)
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Time for Directions and Smelling Flowers
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“Damn map”, Phalon muttered as she sat down with her back against a tree, apple in one hand, and aged map in the other. She spread the map out in front of her and examined it while she ate the fruit, muttering continuously between bites. “What good is this old thing?” she said to no one in particular. “Landmarks? Landmarks change. Temples crumble and are swallowed up by the earth, flora covering any remaining traces. Forests are cleared for villages. Streams and rivers run dry. How in Hades’ name do they expect me to navigate using this old thing?” “Sheesh”, she said, slapping the map with the back of her hand. “Head east after passing through the pine strand.” Louder, “Well, news for you Ladies. The pines are long gone, probably cut down to make scoops or some much thing.” The others stopped and stared at her for a moment before continuing on what they were doing. Finishing the last bite of apple, she crumpled the map and tossed it and the apple core over her shoulder. “Useless. Completely useless.”

She drew her knees in towards her body and rested her elbows on them, propping her chin in her hands. “And I’m oh-so-glad you find this so amusing”, she said noticing Blackwolf nearby, leaning against a tree in a relaxed, confident manner, arms crossed in front of her, and snickering under her breath.

“You know, don’t you”, Phalon asked, eyes narrowed.

“Who? Me?” Blackwolf mouthed, pointing her finger towards herself, an exaggerated surprised look on her face. “What is it that I’m suppose to know, Phalon?”

“The way. Where we are and where we are headed. You know and you’re having way too much fun watching me stumble through this.”

“And why do you think that?”

“Ah…those wolf instincts of yours. You were there….or Montara was. He led me to the seaport, remember? Have him take me home, Blackwolf. Just for a day.” She fingered the bangles around her wrist. “Oh, to see my mother again!” Phalon breathed in deeply through her nose and continued, “She always smells of flowers, you know? Oh, how I’d like to spend a day with her, let her know how much she means to me, how much she’s taught me, how much she makes me laugh. Tell her again that I love her. Maybe even cook dinner for her.” She laughed at this last thought, “Ok, so maybe that’s not the best idea, but she’d take over in the kitchen anyway. She always does.”

Phalon got a faraway wistful look in her eye, and Blackwolf left her to her memories, finding new amusement with Zena in terrorizing the newcomer. She’d think about what Phalon asked. Possibly Montara did know.

Moments later, the forest echoed with new sounds. If one listened closely, intermingled with the howls from a wolf and the shrieks of a surprised messenger, was the laughter of a seeress, seeing things from another place and a time long ago in her past, her face bright with a smile.


Edited by: phalon1 at: 5/11/03 11:01:08 pm

[Joxcenia]

EvergreenLM
Registered Member
Posts: 242
(5/12/03 12:10 am)
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Things That Go Bump in the Daylight
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Walking over to the spread of food, Evergreen nodded at the Tavern maid, picked up a knife and stabbed a large roasted potato. Slicing the thick outer skin poking chunks of the tuber into her mouth, the cautious Amazon took care not to cut her lips. As she did so, thoughts of Zena, the practicality of scoops, and perhaps small wooden tridents to pierce her food, came to mind.

Hmmm...this is good...really good..."

As she pivoted returning to her table, she never saw the man enter the tavern with a raised timber in hand…

The last sound Evergreen recalled was the screaming of an agonizing “noooooo!” Beyond that, everything was a just a blur…an absolute blur…then blackness.

They say the sound of it could be heard back in the kitchen. The sickening thud of the human head meeting inanimate lumber… “whooomph!”

Dark eyes tried to focus on a face through a red haze. Cool fingers stopped Evergreen’s hand from touching the place that pulsated like a legions cadence. A damp cloth was gently laid upon the source of pain.

“Wha-at happened?”...Evergreen was pushed back down as she tried to rise… “by the gods it hurts.” Again, she tried to move from the spot where she lay flat on her back.

“Its okay…stay down…please…you are safe now. He hit you…hard. You crumpled like your bones had melted from your frame…but not before you…” and the soft voice trailed off.

“Not… before… I… what?” Just to speak sent thunderbolts of renewed pain to Evergreen’s head.

“Not to worry you now…here let me change the cloth.” Cool fingers and a soft voice went about their soothing mission.

“Who are you…what’s your name?” Evergreen’s eyes more clearly focused on the woman…tall, lithe, hair the color of ripe wheat, and face that had seen many summers…tanned with small wrinkles about gray eyes as she smiled.

“I am called Vassaly. My brother owns this Inn. He helped me get you here…to my room.”

Evergreen now recalled her…yes, the Tavern maid who smiled at me… of course.

“Thank you…Vassaly. I will be going and of no more trouble for you…or your brother. I will wait until dark and leave as so not to bring the man back…to cause you, or this place any further harm from him. I should have not baited him so…I…”

“You will not be about worrying of him anymore…no one will…a good deed you did us all.” She sat next to Evergreen on the narrow bed with her hands folded as she nervously twirled the cloth of her blue dress.

Evergreen placed a bloodied hand over the woman’s hand stilling them from their motion.

“What do you mean ‘a good deed’ I did you all?” Evergreen tried to recall the moment, but all memory was irretrievably lost in the pounding pain marching through her head. “Tell me…please… tell me.”

The gray eyes met brown looking deeply, conveying a message of sadness…of bitter truth.

“Do you remember what you were doing…the last thing?”

“No…I don’t.”

“You were eating…the roasted potato…with your knife.”

“I don’t remember…any of it...except him...and you...you brought me the water.”

And the exchange of looks continued.

“I was pouring wine after you nodded at me…you walked away as he came in…fast…up behind you… raised his hand as I screamed…you…you turned seeing it, but were not able to move away from the blow.”

The soft voice quivered as the woman spoke. A solitary tear rolled off her cheek and it was as though Evergreen heard a crashing waterfall.

“Before you fell…before I ran to catch you…the knife…the one you used for your meal…the knife made straight away to his throat. He bled out like the swine he was. Afterwards, my brother, Cassias, and I brought you here…to this room…two nights you have been here.” The woman’s eyes never left their posted gaze on the injured warrior’s face.

Evergreen had killed before, but somehow, hearing it, this time, was different. It was though she had heard just for the first time…the first kill. Something was different.

An inaudible “Oh…by the gods…oh” floated from the bed.

For the first time Evergreen felt empty…alone…except for the woman with the soft gray eyes.

“I took your clothes…the blood…when I heard you calling out… saw that you were awakening, I drew you a bath.

My brother brought that up the room”…nodding towards a large, oval wooden tub with iron staves… “we’ve filled it with hot water…if you will permit me to help you…I will…”

Why not…why not…but how can I ever wash away what I did? Evergreen pushed up on one elbow. “Yes…help me…”

The room began to spin as Evergreen sat upright. The sheet covering her dropped away. I indeed have nothing more to hide… she thought as she swung her legs to the side of the bed.

Vassaly placed a hold around Evergreen’s waist as she draped an arm over her left shoulder and braced it there. Slowly…they walked to the tub where the woman deftly helped her charge over the side.

Feeling the comforting warmth of the water, Evergreen slid fully beneath the surface. As her head rose above the steaming liquid with her body wanting for breath, Vassaly began to gently wash the matted and bloodied hair with sweetly scented soap.

“Lavender…my brother brings me things…from his travels”…she said as she slowly lathered the dark hair... "I have not asked you yet…but what do they call you…your name?”

The pain lessened with the woman’s every touch. My name? What’s my name?

“Your name…what shall I call you…?” She softly whispered.

Evergreen turned looking back into the gray eyes above her. “Leara…my name is Leara of Rome.”
"Xena Is the Hero We Hope Is Inside Us"-LL

Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 5/12/03 9:36:39 am

1 Xwpfan
Registered Member
Posts: 760
(5/18/03 10:26 am)
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Nice to meet you Boudicca
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Silence filled the woods,both the howling and the shreiking had come to an end, yet the stranger had not yet emerged so Xendra decided to check on her

.Xendra had laughed heartedly at the stranger's obvious fright but now she felt it only fair to make sure the stranger was ok.

The stranger was all too easy to locate, even the dumbest Roman could of found her for she had left a trail of broken twigs,trampled foliage,scuffed trees and deep boot prints.

Xendra bent down and peered through a few bent branches there stood the stranger looking quite angry and perturbed. Xendra unconciously chuckled to herself in great amusement,as she thought about the frightful shreik the stranger had let out.

The sound of Xendra's laughing caused the stranger to spin around towards Xendra. By the look on the stranger's face Xendra could tell that her laughter had only further infuriated the stranger.

Xendra was not quite sure what to say, should she apologize,should she introduce herself or should she just walk away?

Finally Xendra simply asked," Are you ok?"There aren't really any wolves about right now."

After a few moments of silence the realization hit the stranger, she had been tricked. The stranger looked at Xendra and proceeded to let out a series of explextives.

Xendra empathetically nodded, just by watching the stranger's demeanor, Xendra could tell that in the stranger's opinon to have shown such weakness and fright in front of a group of strangers was next to unforgivable.

Xendra knew in her own heart how mad and embarassed she would have been if she had been tricked into showing even a modicum fear let alone a full fledged shriek like the stranger had let out .

Finally,to relieve some of the tension Xendra said "Are you done cursing yet ? Maybe after you calm down I'll to introduce myself to you and invite you to join us for some food... you do eat don't you?"

At first the stranger looked at Xendra with blazing anger still in her eyes, until she heard the word FOOD, then her eyes softened and her tone changed.

The stranger then stuck out her hand and replied, "My name is Boudicca and I would love to join you for some grub."

Xendra returned the gesture and stuck out her own hand and said, "Nice to meet you Boudicca, my name is Xendra.Come on ... I'll introduce you to the rest of the group, I believe you've already met Zena ."


..there is only one success... to be able to spend your life your own way.

[Joxcenia]

phalon1
Registered Member
Posts: 1189
(5/21/03 1:19 am)
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The Root of the Problem
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Drip, drip, drip. Phalon was brought from her memories of the past and into the present by the feel of cool droplets of water on her forehead. Rain? No, the sky was clear. She lifted her chin from its resting place on her knees and looked up.

“Uhm. Excuse me. I don’t mean to interrupt your thoughts, but I wanted to return this.” The young girl had returned with Gabbyfan after bathing in the stream and held out the scarf she’d borrowed from Phalon. It was quite wet and was the source of the dripping on Phalon’s face. “Thank you.”

“You are quite welcome”, Phalon said, taking the scarf in her hands. As she did, she noticed a tiny black insect land on her hand. Then another leaped on her forearm. And another. Ugh. The scarf was crawling with the tiny vermin. “I think though”, she said holding out the scarf at arms length, “that more than a quick dip in the stream is in order.”

“Huh?” the girl asked, scratching her head, the cause more from the infestation than from puzzlement.

“It’s going to take more than soap and water to defeat that army of fleas that has entrenched itself on your scalp”, Phalon responded. “It’s time to bring out the heavy weaponry. It won’t hurt, I promise.” The girl looked a bit embarrassed and Phalon quickly added, “Don’t be ashamed. It happens to even to the best of us.”

To Gabbyfan she asked, “Do me a favor? Run down to the stream again. Across the path is a small field. I believe I saw some Meadow Rue growing there when we passed. Do you know what that is?” Gabbyfan shook her head. “It’s a tallish plant, about waist high”, Phalon continued, “with scalloped leaves and a cloud of tiny lavender colored flowers. Dig up a couple of them and bring me the roots. One of Zena’s scoops should work well for the job.” Rummaging through Aronia’s saddlebag, she handed the other young girl a very beat up old pot and said, “Go with her and bring me some water while I make a fire. We’ll rid you of these little buggers in no time.”

By the time Phalon had the fire going, the girls had returned with what she requested. She set the pot in the flames and, while water was heating, laid the roots on a rock and pulverized them by banging another rock against the first. This done, she threw them into the pot. After it came to a boil, she filled a bowl with the brew and set it beside the fire to cool a bit. The girl peered into the bowl at the oily mixture and asked, “You want me to drink that?”

“Not unless you want to be running behind the bushes quite often for the rest of the day”, Phalon said. “No, we are going to wash your hair with it. It’ll kill the fleas.”

The girl bent her head down and Phalon slowly poured the warm liquid onto her hair, massaging it in as she did. Upon the contact, she caught glimpses of the hard life this young girl had endured, and, despite everything she had lived through, there was also an overwhelming sense of hope and pride residing in her. Phalon remembered her own happy childhood memories that she had been reliving earlier, and thought how different hers were from this girl’s. Why, the girl never had a childhood at all. Finishing with her hair, she said, “There, all done. Now you two go run off and talk about whatever it is young girls talk about these days”, thinking the poor girl most likely never had a chance to talk about anything with someone close to her own age. Gabbyfan would be good for her, and she, for Gabbyfan.

After the girls left, Phalon walked over to the tree where she had been sitting earlier to retrieve the infested scarf she had dropped, meaning to throw it into the pot of boiling roots. When she returned to the fire with the scarf, Zena was bent down over the pot. “Hey Phalon”, she said. “See, my scoops work perfect for soup. What’s in here anyway? It’s kind of bitter.”


Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 639
(5/21/03 6:20 pm)
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Re: The Problem of the Root
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Phalon’s open mouthed stare puzzled Zena and she dropped the scoop back into the bubbling pot. “What?”
“Zena,” Phalon began hestitantly, “how are you feeling?”
“Feeling? Great!” She licked her fingers. “The sun is warm, my friends are here..lunch is, well, passible. Why?” She looked around, into the trees and the sky as if she had missed the obvious evidence of some awful event and could now discover it by careful scrutiny of the camp. When nothing seemed to be amiss she laid her hand on Phalon’s arm and grinned. “Phalon, you are always so thoughtful. It’s been at least an hour since we ate and you’re worried that I might be hungry. Well, don’t be concerned. I had a little bowl of this soup and that will hold me for a bit."
Phalon winced and said, “Um. That’s not exactly what I’m thinking. How much ‘soup’ did you say you ate?"
Zena bent down and picked up another scoopful and Phalon reached out to grab her wrist before she could bring it to her mouth. “What? It’s a little bitter but it isn’t terrible. Evergreen’s soup is way worse. Last winter she made this gods awful concoction from turnips.....”
“Poison!” Phalon finally shrieked to stop Zena’s babbling.
“Nah, it was bad but it wasn’t poison. I just don’t like turnips..”
“ZENA!”
“Huh?”
“The pot. It’s flea poison. Meadow Rue. You’ll feel it any minute now!"
Zena sat down abruptly on a log they had placed earlier at the campfire as a bench. She tossed the scoop into the fire as Phalon sat beside her and they waited. After a time Phalon couldn’t help chiding Zena.
“I can’t believe you would just eat anything you find simmering over a campfire.”
“Well usually my friends don’t cook poisonous things.”
“I didn’t think I had to Zenaproof everything!"
Zena put her elbows on her knees and her chin in her hands. “How long do I have?”
“You won’t die, you’ll just need to use the bushes...a lot!"
They waited a bit longer, and Zena poked at the fire with a stick stirring up the flames.
“You know I saw a play like this once by Euripides. Some lady wanted to do away with her husband and she poisoned his stew.”
“I saw that. It was rated 4 scrolls out of five but I thought the characterization was a little weak,” Phalon mused.
After an hour had passed and Zena showed no signs of becoming ill Phalon began to study her closely, hoping to understand what was happening. The fleas that had settled in the rags the slave girl had deposited by the fire for burning, jumped to Zena’s arms and legs but after one bite fell dead to the earth. Zena followed Phalon’s incredulous gaze and saw a little pest meet it’s reward.
“That’s an advantage,” Zena commented.
“I’ll say.”
“Maybe I’m protected from it.”
“Well you should have a stomach ache that would lay you out flat by now.”
“Nope.”
“Nothing?”
“Nope. Well, there IS something."
Phalon who had begun to relax, thinking that the worst was over, stiffened in her seat on the log. “What is it Zena?”
“I have an awful headache. It feels like somebody hit me in the back of the head with a timber!”

Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"

[Joxcenia]

EvergreenLM
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Posts: 249
(5/21/03 6:36 pm)
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Night and Day Dreams
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She smelled the scent of it long before it came into sight. The room was now a mix of sweet lavender, clean linens, and pine mixed with the air from morning fires. Something new, though, melded in the mix.

From the kitchen below, the aroma of fresh bread and slices of an unfortunate boar, floated up through the floorboards in the room in which Evergreen now found herself as the light of the rising sun peeked in and out of tea stained curtains softly blowing inward.

What is drumming inside my head…I had no wine.

Touching up near her brow, Evergreen found a loosely bound cloth. Thoughts came in and out of her fuzzy consciousness. Incomplete and disjointed pictures actually…nothing that explained her current circumstances.

Did I dream the woman…the bath? Looking down at her clean night shirt laced at the top with a precise bow, Evergreen knew this was not her doing. Hades, I can’t tie a bow when I do have all my senses about me…and the tub…it appears to be not the stuff of dreams.

Purposely placed near the edge the bed was a rough hewn chair with a colorful blanket tossed over the knotted planks. A small pillow sat in the seat. Obviously someone had slept there…but why?

Trying to sit upright brought a wave pounding to bandaged temples. Is the room truly rocking like a ship?

Pushing up, and through the pain, Evergreen sat upright pondering on where she might find her clothing…boots…weapon.

What is a Roman centurion without a weapon? The answer…a dead Roman centurion.

The laughter at her own riddle brought another washing of pain as she attempted to stand on wobbly legs.

“Where are you going…sit back down!”

The woman spoke with an unquestionably displeased, but subdued…command. Her words rolled out with an authority of familiarity.

Evergreen never heard the door open. Now, standing before her, was this woman…those gray eyes. At her words, the standing warrior retreated back to a seated position.

“I’m sorry. I did not mean to shout at you…I was afraid you’d fall…the bleeding has finally stopped, and I did not want…”

The woman sat down the tray she carried. Steam rose from the hot food. She stood for a moment looking at the Evergreen gripping onto the side slats of the bed.

“You are a mulish one aren’t you? Not a wonder you scrap with people and get your head near beat off your neck. Here…let me see that…”

The woman took a step forward as she reached out and removed the cloth binding. “Ahhh…you head heals as fast as your mouth gets you in trouble.”

“Vassaly…your name…that is it, is it not? Did you sleep there last night?” Evergreen pointed to the blanketed chair.

“Yes it is…and yes, I did. I was afraid you would die on me…or sneak away and die on the steps of the Inn. Bad for business. You even fight in your sleep…did you know that? You shouted out names…you cursed…and… you cried.”

The woman with the gentle touch picked up the meal tray and sat it down on Evergreen’s lap. The bowl of gruel, while not visually appealing, at least contained substance, and would fill an empty stomach.

Picking up a carved narrow wooden handle with a larger flat end, Evergreen’s hand shook. “Scoups…”

“What did you say…here, let me help you.” The woman with smiling gray eyes turned the chair taking the tray on her knees. She removed the crude utensil from a shaky hand.

“How did you get that scar on your back?” Vassaly stirred the gruel taking a small bit on the flat end offering it to a waiting mouth. “The scar…how did you get it?”

Swallowing the surprisingly good tasting hot texture, Evergreen looked into the eyes of the woman. “I don’t know…there is so much…these thoughts… none of which make any sense to me.”

“Were you on your way to Rome? You weren’t dressed like a Roman. There is so much I would like to know about you.” A small cup of hot liquid broth was placed at Evergreen’s lips for her to drink.

“Thank you, Vassaly…fo..for…everything. I do not know if I can ever repay your kindness. Just name it, and if it is in my power, it is yours.”

Swirling the gruel, the woman remained quiet before speaking again without looking up. “There is one thing I would ask…”

“Tell me and it will be done.” Evergreen reached out tipping the woman’s face so their eyes met. “Name it.”

Softly, and with great passion, Vassaly whispered…“Take me with you.”
"People can do what they please...so long as they don't do it in the street and frighten the horses..."

Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 5/21/03 6:43:46 pm

Zena 1
Zena Scrolls Host
Posts: 641
(5/23/03 7:14 pm)
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Soup's On!
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The afternoon hours had slipped away and the day was nearly entering night. When the girls had returned clean and rosy from their bath in the stream everyone suddenly realized that all the white dust of Greece had somehow settled on her own person. A general longing for a good long soak entered their minds. There were still enough hours of sun left to accomplish the task before the evening chill and since Evergreen had not yet returned, they were not in a hurry to leave the area. There was enough of the Roman soap left to give them all a good lather and they went in pairs to the refreshing water. As the sun settled behind the olive grove where they had first stopped to eat and encounter Boudicca and the slave girl, they bound their hair in Phalon’s colored cloths and wrapped themselves in blankets to soak up the final rivulets of water that ran down their bodies. They giggled and danced about the fire in the golden afternoon, laughing at the sight of themselves and each other. Only Red stood apart, perhaps feeling foolish in this unusual garb and certainly not given to light hearted play. Zena saw her holding back and took her hand to tug her into the circle around the fire. The priestess had just managed a small smile when Zena, who was looking at the ground beneath them felt the tension in Red’s hand. When she quickly looked up, Red was staring over Zena’s right shoulder and Zena was sure that she knew what had alarmed Red. Over Red’s shoulder Zena saw armed men emerging from the woods beyond the grove and she heard a rustling as they formed a ring around them all. Simultaneously the others became aware of the danger and froze where they stood, well aware that their weapons lay tucked beneath the bedrolls they had prepared earlier, just out of their present reach. Both groups stood silently, and the men were rough in appearance: unshaven, heavily armed, and leering at the women. The leader pushed past them and stood with a confidence born of absolute power before them. He was taller than the rest and carried his helmet in his hand, his sword drawn. They were not an army of any Greek city-state but local thugs with their warlord. Anakreon gave the signal to hold their positions and his second slithered up beside him whispering a question. “What be these strangely dressed ones M’Lord?"
Anakreon delved into his own small intellect and pulled out an answer that he gave with arrogance as if Pelion were stupid. (Which he was) “Fool. These be from Arabia. See their headresses and robes? They’ll fetch a pretty dinar at the slave market.”
Zena still held Red’s hand and felt her fingers clench with the anger running through her. Gently Zena squeezed her fingers and when she caught her attention cautioned her with a glance to control herself. Gabby and the slave girl were close to the edge of the group and more than one of the men drooled with the anticipation of handling their young bodies. Fighting them now was not possible and could leave them all vulnerable to the whims of brutal minds. Dropping Red’s hand, Zena bowed deeply to her and threw herself at Anakreon’s feet. He reached down and tore the scarf from her head, grasping a handful of her short black curls and pulling her head back. Smirking he said, “Don’t suppose you understand Greek do you? Stupid woman. Why did you bow to that one?” He jerked his head toward Red.
Tears came to Zena’s eyes as he pulled her hair and she made full use of the ruse. “N..n..noble sir. Only I speak of your sound. N..no, your language. I fear you! Do not hurt..please!! We are court of most high lady of King of Arabia. Come to see your famous one who talks of future at Delphi. This is she who is queen.” Zena gestured as well as she could toward Red. “Others not know to speak. Only I. We meet King in two day at Delphi."
Anakreon tossed her backward and she sprawled on her back thinking, “By the gods I’ll teach you manners yet.” He studied her and then turned to Pelion and barked his orders. “Tie them. No one touches them. If we ransom the lot they bring more than if we sell them but they will have to be untouched. This King will pay for his wife in Greek coin.” The thugs moved in and tied the wrists of each of the sisters, shoving them into a seated position on the logs they had set for benches. Zena scrambled to a crouching position again before they could bind her and pleaded with Anakreon.
“Great sir. I am, how you say, maker of foods.”
He looked down at first with disdain and then interest. “A cook?”
“Cook. Yes, cook. We gather food before you come. I wish to give food for my queen.”
“Never mind your queen. My men are hungry. You will cook for us.” Anakreon could hardly believe his good fortune. “But mind you, whatever you cook, you will taste first.”
“I good cook. This woman helps me. Many to feed. Let her help?”
“Pelion, untie that one. Don’t forget, I will watch you!!"
Zena bowed humbly before Anakreon and handed Phalon her battered pot to fill with ‘soup’ as the men settled themselves down for what they believed would be an excellent feast.

[Joxcenia]

the chaotrix
Registered Member
Posts: 1
(5/27/03 1:28 am)
Reply The Rising Sun
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Monochrome night revealed distant white stars that mirrored the lights behind her eyes when she was struck. It showed faintly the greys of the bodies pressing closer and the wild whites of their eyes as they circled in. It glinted the silver of a flashing sword. It meant black mud, black blood and black water.

After long hours Sumire opened her eyes. If night meant death, then with the light also came colors, warmth...and life. The morning's sun touched her cheek. The once murky creek water now glistened, giving a whimsical play of light to the gentle sounds she had been meditating on.

Sitting immersed up to her shoulders in a pool, she had let the chill of the creek numb her cuts and bruises. The nick over her eye stopped bleeding long ago. Though her fingertips were wrinkled prunes and a shiver would filter through her body now and then, she felt alive again. The crisp water and light served to invigorate her and she finally began to appreciate the spirit of the morning.

Looking up she saw the trees past the bank opposite her. A breeze gently rustled the leaves and she smiled, now able to see the sounds. Loud greens and quiet greens. A single chirping frog countered the soft gurgle of the stream perfectly. His song was yellow and the stream's was silver. Glancing up along the same bank a bit she sought out the two birds that she had heard bickering. She had imagined their argument had been over which was bluer, the ocean or the sky. There they were. Apparently it had been settled with the warming of the sun.

She watched as a moth, backlit in golden light, fluttered a lazy pattern over the bank. It looped and jagged and dipped with resolute randomness. Sumire imagined that if she could keep it's path traced in her mind it would resemble a child's shaky but oh-so-carefully crafted kana in a letter to a grandparent. In mid-flourish, the moth was plucked out of the air as one of the now-reconciled sparrows zipped home.

With a sigh, Sumire realized that her morning reverie must eventually give way to the grim reality that waited for her back in the copse of trees beyond the creek. But first she needed to alow a moment to share this glorious morning with those who could no longer appreciate it. She rose to her knees, ignoring the hurts that nagged her body through the cold. Plucking a few pale flowers from the grassy bank, she offered thanks to the spirit that was responsible for their beauty. For as terrible as the people of this place had proven themselves to be, she could still be taken every now and then by the actual beauty of the land itself.

The flower looked like it might be similar to the 'moth-ginger' from her homeland yet not nearly as delicate. The petals of the bloom were broad and waxy and colored a translucent white with a touch of mercurial bluish color at it's edges. She sank down into the pool again and looked at the flowers. Gently, she lowered her cupped hands into the water, barely submerged fingers kept the floating flowers circling within the eddy of her hands while she whispered over them. The first bloom she named 'Lord Falkan' just as it slipped passed her fingers and meandered to the edges of her pool until it moored itself in the overgrown grass of the bank. The next one she nodded a bow to and whispered 'Daisuke-sama, gomenazai...' as it circled one last time and drifted to where the current summoned it.

The last one had its edges tinged with a blurry lavender. 'Sumire'
This one was hers. Perhaps it would tell her what to do next. She lowered her hands to her lap as she simply watched the last flower wander within the pool until finally it caught the current. It's path seemed to quicken and in a furious little dance it overtook and passed the slowly swirling 'Daisuke-sama'. She watched only a little longer before her flower went beyond the bend in the creek. She muttered quietly to herself 'Sou desuka... '

She turned to look at her kimono, that was hung to dry on the closest branches over the verdant bank. It dripped water copiously. It was torn in places but now washed free of the mud and blood. With luck, it would not stain. The sun had now crept up the opposite back to bathe the kimono in it's light, as she hoped it would. In perhaps a couple of hours it would be dry enough for her to begin to mend. It was one of the few things she hoped to salvage from last night's attack.

Daisuke had protected her as a true warrior of the House of Kageyama. He fought so fiercly, it almost appeared as if he would single handedly defeat their attackers. But even a warlord's son is only one man.

It had still been dark when she stole into the icy water to wash blood, filth and their stench from her body and mourn the death of her kinsman.

But now the sun had risen and so must she.



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:: pronunciation of Sumire: SUE-me-deh ::
:: pronunciation of Daisuke: DIE-s'keh ::
:: "Daisuke-sama, gomenazai.." = "Lord Daisuke, I am sorry..." ::
:: "Sou desuka..." = "I see..." ::

Edited by: the chaotrix at: 5/27/03 1:31:50 am

[Joxcenia]

BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 215
(5/27/03 3:15 am)
Reply
Not So Very Different
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With a sigh, Bhen Rudha knelt, rolled back on her heels, then sat in the grass. It had felt good to stretch her legs, to pound the good earth with her steps, but it was apparent that she had farther to go before she regained her former endurance. Rubbing her thighs to help ease the ache, she watched Zena move to talk with the two strangers.

They were an odd pair, and part of her wanted to jump up and demand the release of the young girl. But another part warned her of treachery. She shook her head and looked at the others. They seemed ready to welcome the strangers, and she wondered at their easiness. Once upon a time, she would have given them food and a place to stay before even asking their names. Now, she had lost such trust, and it hurt deeply her sense of hospitality.

She felt so out of balance. Nothing was right. She closed her eyes against the sun’s blaze, and tried to find that quiet place within where the Goddess resided. Tears stung her eyes when all she found was a cold silence. The same silence she had found upon waking beneath Phalon’s robe. Determined to not wallow in her grief, Bhen Rudha gained her feet, looking for the slave girl.

Gabby pointed in the direction of the river they had just crossed and ushered the girl away. A bath would do them booth good, she thought, and moved to follow, leaving her boots in the grass.

As she passed by, Phalon’s continued grumbling caught her attention. The mystic crumpled the map and tossed it behind her before venting some of her frustration out on Blackwolf. Bhen Rudha felt a strange, frantic hysteria rise within her again, and she had to stifle laughter. Her reaction to the situation puzzled her. How could she find such a thing funny? Even now, some part of her knew in which direction lay the island of her mothers. It was barred from her forever, but she still knew, and the pain of that knowing was a constant grief. So how could she have laughed at Phalon?

Maybe she laughed to keep herself from weeping.

Sucking in a breath and shaking her head, she lengthened her stride to reach the river. Her feet, still pink and tender winced at the roughness of the ground, but she liked feeling the connection, flesh to earth. Soon she could hear sounds of Gabby talking and turned her steps to follow more closely.

When she got close enough, Bhen Rudha saw Gabby motioning with her hand at the river, the girl clutching at her clothes and eyeing the water dubiously. Gabby saw the tall woman first and moved to hold her staff in a defensive posture before relaxing. “Oh, it’s you Red. Why’re you here?”

“Be thinkin’ ta be after a wash meself, aye?” she asked, slewing her eyes to the slave girl and back to the young Amazon. “Can ye be protectin’ tha both o’ us, dae ye be thinkin’?”

Gabby bit her lip a moment, then shrugged and grinned, exclaiming, “Aye!”

Bhen Rudha chuckled softly, then turned to look at the girl. Hard green eyes met her gaze, and she recognized the anger that simmered just below the surface. Holding her hands out from her sides, she said, “I be Bhen Rudha. Dinnae be afeared o’ me.” A hand rose to touch the copper torc that rested over a ring of white scars at her throat. “I be a slave once meself.”

The girl’s mouth worked for a moment, then she replied, “I’m not afraid.”

Nodding, Bhen Rudha said, “Good,” and unbuckled her belt. She set it, and the makeshift baldric on the ground.

“Were you really a slave?” the girl asked.

She flicked a glance to Gabby, who was finding it hard to be vigilant when there appeared to be a story in the telling. Shrugging out of her shirt, she said, “Aye. Be held fer four years in tha house o’ . . .” she could not say his name. Not now, maybe never. She hesitated in folding her shirt and finally said, “Be a man o’ tha Romans who be keepin’ me.”

Both the younger girls stared at her, taking in the fading bruises and faint scar lines on her whipcord thin body. She stayed still a moment, then set her tunic down and stepped out of her trews, folding them neatly as well. Finally she stepped toward the river, and heard Gabby gasp.

“Wha’ be?” she asked, searching the surroundings for threat.

“Your back . . . what’s that on your back?” the young Amazon asked, eyes round with amazement.

She turned to let both the girls see and said, “Be tha mark o’ me Goddess. Be showin’ me a . . . Bandroi an Cogadh . . . a priestess o’ war.” She hesitated on the words, almost feeling as if she had told a lie. She could not remember what happened while she had lay in darkness, but knew that it was those events, and not her death itself that lay to blame for how she felt now.

Her hesitation went ignored. “Is that why you fought so well Red?” Gabby asked, leaning on her staff, curiosity avid in her blue eyes.

While Bhen Rudha pondered the question, the girl murmured,
“For you know how destructive the deeds of Ares, source of many tears,
And you have learned well the temper of harsh war,
and you have been among both the pursued and the pursuers,
young men, and have had more than your fill of both.”

Frowning a moment in contemplation, the tall woman finally said, to them both, “Aye.” Shaking her head a bit, as if to clear it, she made certain that her clothes were piled neatly where everyone could see them. Once satisfied with this arrangement, she crossed to Gabby obtaining the soap. “Be after helpin’ tha lass with her wash,” she commented before turning back to the girl.

Seeing her standing by the stream, short and stocky with matted dark brown hair and tattered rags for clothes, it was not hard for her to imagine there was girl underneath the knew the virtue of hatred. It was strange, Bhen Rudha thought to herself, she knew hatred so personally, so intimately. It had saved her and nearly destroyed her. It gave the pair a common language between them.

“Ye cannae be ha’in’ a wash in ye clothes,” Bhen Rudha said gently, making no move to touch the girl.

“I know,” came the soft, if somewhat belligerent answer. The pair watched each other for a long moment, and then the girl slowly began to strip off the rags that had barely covered her body. Bruises covered her form, and scrapes too, but for all that the Celt was taller and had a warrior’s frame, they were not so very different.