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Post by Zena on Jun 21, 2004 20:42:05 GMT -6
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EvergreenLM - 01:43pm Jun 6, 2002 ET (#267 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Know Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
Bells, Baubles, Bangles and Gypsies
Evergreen was scrutinizing Zena’s facial expressions. There was something peculiar about the way she “looked” at things. Something was not quite right.
Just as Evergreen was about to question her, a small whining distracted her thoughts. Evergreen turned away from Zena.
Lying with his chest and paws to the ground with his rump in the air wagging his stump of a tail was a familiar sight. Evergreen gave the little dog a scratch and received a good licking in return as he jumped into her arms.
“Little Dog!”, Evergreen whispered with enthusiasm. “Zena, its…wait a minute, if Little Dog is here then that means…”
Zena’s demeanor quickly changed to panic, “Where is Little Gabby?” “Evergreen, if the dog is here, he would not leave her unless…”
Evergreen placed her hand on the side of Zena’s face and said in a quite, calming manner, “Zena, don’t worry. Believe me, she is alright. I can feel that no harm has come to her.”
Evergreen now could see that Zena heard the words, but had limited sight to see the reassuring look she imparted to her. Evergreen quickly looked at XWPfan and Puella. That look was one of double concern, for Zena and for Little Gabby.
Evergreen’s face changed as she realized that the presence of Little Dog meant that the gypsies were indeed Gabby and Phalon. She turned to smile at Zena thinking that at least Phalon and Little Gabby were alright, albeit that they were on center stage of the Roman encampment as were they.
She looked back at Zena and realized that Zena was turned in that direction but her eyes were looking past the scene.
"Zena?", Evergreen whispered.
"I can't see you," Zena replied.
Quickly and instinctively Evergreen slid over so that their shoulders were touching and said, "I'm here."
"I know," Zena said. "I'm counting on that. I can't run when the time comes and you can't wait for me. Go without me and get Phalon and Gabby free. You must be out before the Queen orders the archers to shoot. Don't argue, just do what I ask."
“By all the gods, what a fine mess we are in”, Evergreen mumbled under her breath not wanting Zena to hear.
XWPfan grabbed Evergreen’s shoulder digging her nail deeply into the muscle.
“Quite…someone is coming! “
“Sit down and put your hands behind your back! Quickly, do as I say!”
Evergreen leaned into Zena’s ear and whispered, “I am not going ANYWHERE without you.”
EvergreenLM - 01:48pm Jun 6, 2002 ET (#268 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Know Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
Three 'Bs' and the Gypsies...continued
The tent flap opened, and Little Dog ran straight for one of the three entering the tent. Evergreen looked up and had to stifle the urge to burst out laughing. For standing before them were Phalon with Little Gabby at her side. Directly to their right was a woman of strong bearing and obvious Roman heritage.
Phalon and Little Gabby were dressed in the most flamboyant of clothes, draped with baubles, and bangles. Their eyes, cheeks, and lips were adorned with the most potent of colors! Hanging from Little Gabby’s staff were small silver and brass bells that jingled with every step!
* Ah, Zeus…they remind me of the women who come into the Tavern offering to sell their pleasures to any Amazon who has had too much mead and been without a companion for too many seasons*,thought Evergreen still fighting the laughter that could erupt at any moment.
Little Gabby turned and saw Zena. Evergreen’s urge to laugh quickly turned to fear at the realization that Little Gabby, seeing Zena, may not be able to maintain her silence.
Evergreen moved, and was quickly rewarded with a sandal kick into her ribs. *leara, my ‘dear’ sister, leara. How nice of you to say ‘hello’ *, thought Evergreen.
It was enough of a diversion to get Little Gabby to look her way. Evergreen’s dark eyes shot Little Gabby a look of *no matter WHAT- stay silent!*
Little Gabby looked around and saw the others. She looked back at Zena. Her eyes glistened with impending tears.
In her mind, Evergreen shouted, *Stay strong! Stay strong little Amazon!*
The bells on Little Gabby’s staff started to jingle.
Little Gabby’s knuckles were white gripping the staff. A look not seen before this time came over her face.
Evergreen’s heart sank and silently pleaded,*Please don’t do it…*
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Post by Zena on Jun 21, 2004 20:42:54 GMT -6
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girlpower - 07:08pm Jun 6, 2002 ET (#269 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear..but the strength to conquer it.
Looking around the tent Puella sees Xwpfan, Evergreen, Zena and Leara. How did this plan get so complicated? I was pummeled by Xwpfan and sent into this Roman camp, and I haven’t even had a chance to give these swine the misinformation about Pompey and Justinian. I did get a chance to send Lares to get Leicester, but that was for selfish reasons. I want him in this battle, for the sheer purpose of being able to look him in the eyes, as I exact my revenge on him.
I look to Xwpfan, as she explains the layout of the impending war. She is right, we are in perfect position to send the Roman’s straight into the awaiting warriors. I watch her every movement and expression. “I learned some interesting information from Lares, the boy who tended my wounds, care to hear?” I whispered to my friend. “Caesar is gathering his troops to attack Pompeii. It seems your parchment got his attention. All it would take is a carrier pigeon to get the soldier’s to pick up camp and head out. Just in case we need a little help in getting these pigs to move.” Xwpfan nodded and said, “It is an option, in case we need it.”
Looking over at Evergreen I can see her concern for Zena. I see how one can care for someone enough to give anything for them, but I can’t forgive her actions towards me. Seeing Leara parading around the tent makes me want to scream. Evergreen your intentions did no good at all. She doesn’t know who she is, any more then I know who I am. Two lives completely displaced because of the actions of a young girl. I will have to talk with her later, but for now I am more concerned with little Gabbyfan.
No sooner had my thoughts focussed on the young warrior, than she suddenly appeared through the tent flap. Phalon was with her and they were dressed very colorfully. Very clever, Gypsies. The look on her face, when she saw Zena, made me want to go over and quiet her fears. Instead I just moved a little closer while Evergreen reached out for her. Her movement resulted in a kick from Leara, but got Gabbyfan’s attention. She stayed very quiet but I can see her knuckles whiten as she clasps her staff.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:48:06 GMT -6
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gabbyfan4ever - 10:16pm Jun 6, 2002 ET (#270 of 330)
Little Gabbyfan had only moments earlier wiped away tears of laughter after hearing Phalons performance as a "gypsy", but was now as serious as she had ever been her entire life. She and Phalon were on their way to find her Amazon sisters, and her mother Zena.
Little dog had already ran ahead of them and lead them to a tent in the center of the Roman camp. As little gabbyfan entered the tent her breath completely left her. At first she saw nothing but her mother zena, tied up and battered. Zena was looking towards her, but little gabbyfan could tell she was not actually seeing her. The little Amazon felt emotions rise in her she had never experienced before, and was barely able to keep her composer.
Little Gabbyfan attention was broken only when she saw Evergreen recieve a swift and brutal kick from the same woman Gabbyfan had used as staff practice earlier that day. The little warrior looked back at her mother, surveyed the rest of her sisters, and gripped her staff until her knuckles were completley white. IT was then that she felt all control leave her, and instinct had won out. She leaped at Leara with all the force her body could muster and knocked her down with her staff. Little gabbyfan looked up to see her sisters and mother staring wide-eyed back her. The sound from the bells on her staff were loud, but the roaring in gabbyfans ears was deafening.
All the commotion in the tent sent the Roman guards bursting in and it took three of them to drag the little Amazon off Leara. Gabbyfan look one last look at her mother as she was being dragged out of the tent and heard the guards say "This little Amazon will be an example for all the rest! She goes on the cross! We will put her up for a few hours for all the Amazons to see before we break her legs."
Little gabbyfan felt fear like she had never felt before. She was going to be put on a cross just like her family had been. All gabbyfan could hope was that it would provide enough distraction to allow Zena and her sisters to escape.
zena - 10:43pm Jun 6, 2002 ET (#271 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
One Against An Army
There is no up or down in darkness. Only one smooth universal plane where eveything is revealed in sound, smell or touch.
The sandaled foot connecting with Evergreen's ribs made her body lurch back against Zena and she heard Evergreen's low snarl in response. Roman smell. Woman. Tiny bells ringing continuously, and then the sound of a staff against a body and Little Gabby's howl. "Gabby!," Zena shouted above the sounds of the Roman woman shrieking and male voices giving orders. There was clearly a fight going on and Gabby was not winning. Finally Zena heard,"This little Amazon will be an example for all the rest! She goes on the cross! We will put her up for a few hours for all the Amazons to see before we break her legs."
Zena got to her knees frantic to follow the sound in her darkness. "The cross. They're taking my child to the cross!," she wailed. She struggled to her feet and ran toward the direction of the receding sounds of the soldiers and their prisoner but several pairs of arms pulled her down. It was a moment before she realized it was friends and not Romans that held her and then she stopped fighting. Sobbing she put out her hand for Evergreen in the emptiness and begged, "Do something Evergreen, all of you, do something! Or by the gods I'll throw myself out there and kill as many as I can before they kill me."
gabbyfan4ever - 11:06pm Jun 6, 2002 ET (#272 of 330)
Little Gabbyfan had tears streaming down her face from a wild mix of emotions ranging from fear, anger, and hope she would at least be a distraction to allow her fellow Amazons escape. She could barely breath and kept a mental picture of Zena in her mind to keep out the reaccuring image of her family on crosses from returning.
Little Gabbyfan heard the voices to the ROman guards around her but did not comprehend what was said. Her head was still pounding from the deafening roar of anger and fear. The little Amazon felt her legs taken out from under her as she was forced on her knees.
Gabbyfan was now staring directly at the huge cross she was going to be hung from in only moments. The guards barked at her to get up and walk to the cross, but gabbyfan couldn't even have stood if she had tried. She recieved a hard kick to the small of her back by a Roman for disobeying an order. The guards then picked gabbyfan up, and laid her on the cross, holding her arms and legs down to be tied. Little gabbyfan could feel the Roman dog's hands touching her, and when she was securley tied recieved a hard slap to the face.
The Roman's yelled to have the other Amazons brought out to watch. "See what we will happen to the rest of you for defying Rome! We will break her legs at our leasure."
Gabbyfan felt herself being lifted into the air, and had the wind painfully knocked out of her as the cross slid into place. As gabbyfan looked down she saw her sisters looking back up at her. The only thing gabbyfan could do then was seal an image of her mother into her mind, and wait for the Romans to decide to break her legs.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:49:06 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 12:48am Jun 7, 2002 ET (#273 of 330)
Left to our own devices
I knew that little dog's arrival meant Little Gabby and Phalon were our mystery Gypsies. Little dog wagging is stubby little tail and endless kisses distracted Evergreen and Zena from realizing it right away.
I watched Evergreen's panicked expression as she said .."Zena, if little dog is her then that means"...
I nodded solemnly.
Zena in a high pitched almost panicked voice asked,"Where's little Gabby? Evergreen, if little dog is here... He would never leave her alone."
Evergreen gave her a comforting look but I noticed there was no change in Zena's tone or facial expression. Something wasn't right but I couldn't quite lay my finger on it.
I smiled as I noticed how Evergreen was inching closer to Zena. Soon they were touching shoulder to shoulder. In that moment I envied them for the care and the concern they obviously shared for one another.
Evergreen's face told of her deepening concern, when she looked at Puella it was if she was on the verge of tears.
I was lost in my own thoughts, struggling to find some words of comfort or support for Eg and Zena, when I heard the jingling of bells and the heavy step of a Roman boots.
As I heard the boots come closer I grabbed Evergreen's shoulder and accidently dug my nails into her shoulder as I loudly whispered,"Quiet! Someone is coming! Put your hands behind your back! Zena seemed to hesitate so I whispered,"Quickly, do as I say!"
We no sooner got into position when the tent flap opened and little dog ran straight for the three entering the tent.
There stood Little Gabbyfan and Phalon dressed in the wildest, most colorful garb I had ever seen. They were a sight! I had never seen so many bangles and baubles on two people in my life. Gabby and Phalon had bright colors on their lips, eyes and cheeks .Gabby stood there with a staff adorned with silver and brass bells that jingled with any movement .
I could see that Eg wanted to burst out laughing but fortunately she did not.
I couldn't take my eyes off Gabby she appeared nervous and abit frightened. The kid was in over her head. Gabby looked like she could break down and cry at any moment.
LittleGabby's eyes searched for her mother Zena's eyes but when she found her- their eyes didn't connect, it was if Zena was looking beyond Gabby. A knot twisted in my stomach as the thought of Zena possibly being blind entered my head.
Lear gave a swift kick, to Evergreen's side. Gabby became infuriated and attacked Leara. We tried the best we could to hold her back but to no avail. The Roman guards heard the commotion and came in and dragged her Gabby off of Leara. The guard bellowed," this one's going to the crosses!"
To the crosses... the words felt like daggers going in to my heart.How many Amazons had we lost to those horrid crosses? I wondered.
Zena was beside herself with grief and worry. Left to her own devices she'd try to take on the whole Roman camp herself. We of course prevented her from even trying.
Zena was grief stricken and blind and full of rage. I looked at our little group and I realized it was now up to me to do or say something....
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EvergreenLM - 02:36am Jun 7, 2002 ET (#274 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Know Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
Que the Action Pack Theme
The guard bellowed," this one's going to the crosses!"
Evergreen growled,"Not if I can help it", at the same time she grabbed Zena by the arm. "Come on, out the back with me, quickly!"
Zena started to protest as Evergreen was pulling her into nothingness. Evergreen ran supporting Zena as they tripped and stumbled.
"Wait!", Evergreen said as she pulled Zena to the ground.
"Why have we stopped?", whispered Zena"
"My sword,weapons",Evergreen said as she spotted them leaning up against a wooden crate. *This is one sword that will not be returning to Rome*, thought Evergreen as she placed her sword in its scabbard then grabbing two others.
The soldiers were preoccupied with their preparations to nail a young Amazon to the cross. No one saw Evergreen and Zena make their exit and dash to the edge of the forest.
"Stay here! Do NOT move until you hear my voice. Little Gabby will not die this day,but plenty of Romans will."
Evergreen withdrew her sword from its sheath. Zena could not see how it glistened in the sun,but she heard the "swoosh","swoosh" as Evergreen sliced it through the air with the power of Zeus himself.
"I will be back for you", is the last thing Zena heard. She sat alone in the quiet blackness.
Evergreen crouched low,rolled back into the tent, and motioned for the others. She tossed two swords their way.
"Let's go! We have waited long enough!"
Puella and XWPfan looked confused making no movement to take the swords.
" Are you under the influence of the Furies!",XWPfan hissed at Evergreen.
"Do you KNOW how many of THEM are out there,have you counted how many of US are in here!"
"You can either come with me or die where you are sitting. They plan to kill us all anyway. We might as well die like Amazons, and not cowardly old women!",Evergreen snapped back.
Evergreen was so very unsure of Puella. She worried that the Romans were not the only threat to her well being. *I promised to protect her,but it seems that XWPfan has assumed that liability*,thought Evergreen.
Silence over took the three. No one moved. The silence was broken by a "Ca-Cooo", "Ca-Cooo". All three broke into wide smiles. Amazons! Amazons, and nearby at that.
Evergreen could hear the sound of a heavy wooden cross being drug across the ground as it bumped its way to a deep hole into which it will be plunged while its victim's head will be snapped from the force of the action. Evergreen had seen this all before and hated it.
"No, please don't,No, don't do this!", pleaded Little Gabby.
Little Dog was snarling at the legs of the soldier and with a "Yipe" and a "that'll teach you mongrel!",Little Dog whimpered and then was silent.
Evergreen stood up,gave the Amazon sign to the others and charged screaming out the flap of the tent.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:51:01 GMT -6
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girlpower - 04:11am Jun 7, 2002 ET (#275 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear..but the strength to conquer it.
Puella watched in horror as the Roman soldiers took little Gabbyfan out of the tent and to a cross. I looked to the others and see Evergreen pulling Zena out of the back of the tent. “I have to do something Xwpfan. Leara you have a couple scouts here with you, get them to release the horses, we will need them to escape.” We headed towards the opening that Evergreen left out of, looking at each other trying to devise a plan. “Solaria is nearby, we must signal to her.”
Suddenly Evergreen rolled back into the tent and threw two swords our way. "Let's go! We have waited long enough!" she said. We stood motionless for a moment. " Are you under the influence of the Furies!" Xwpfan hissed at Evergreen. "Do you KNOW how many of THEM are out there, have you counted how many of US are in here!" Evergreen’s response was, "You can either come with me or die where you are sitting. They plan to kill us all anyway. We might as well die like Amazons, and not cowardly old women!" Xwpfan and I exchanged looks when we heard "Ca-Cooo", "Ca-Cooo", of the awaiting Amazons. Evergreen stood up, gave the Amazon sign to the others and charged screaming out the flap of the tent.
“She can’t save Gabbyfan alone. I can’t let those Roman swine hurt her.” I said. I grabbed one of the swords that Evergreen had delivered. “Xwpfan, Phalon, Leara are you coming?” I yelled as I ran out of the tent to help save Gabbyfan. “To A Strong Amazon Nation!”…
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gabbyfan4ever - 02:44pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#276 of 330)
little gabbyfan pleaded with the guards to change their minds as she was lifted into the air, but recieved only cruel laughter. When the cross slid into place gabby's head snapped back and slammed into the cross. Her whole body was thrown painfully forward, and then slumped back agaisnt the wood with nothing but her arms to support her, making it hard to breathe.
A few minutes later Gabbyfan shook off the light headed feeling she had gotten from knocking her head against the wood. Before, she had resigned herself to her fate, to die on the cross just as her family had. And had gratefully accepted the slight deliruim that took her away from reality and allowed her to see Zena in her mind. Now she had something worth looking at. From her vantage point she could see Evergreen helping Zena out into the woods behind the tent.
Gabbyfan breathed a sigh of relief knowing that at least Zena would have a chance of coming out of this alive. Gabbyfan locked her eyes on the figure of her mother crouching in the distance and cried.
What gabbyfan saw nexted sent her mind reeling much like the force of the cross had doen to her body before. Evergreen had just come bursting out of the tent looking ready to take on the entire ROman army! And there came Puella right after her! Gabbyfan could only watch like a bystander and hope whatever they had planned would work, and that they wouldn't be killed in the process.
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zena - 03:05pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#277 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
ZWM I
An Amazon is a ferocious opponent, a warrior can hold her own in battle, and a mother will do anything for the well being of her child. An Amazon Warrior Mother will destroy the Roman Empire.
Zena, Amazon Warrior Mother sat alone in the quiet blackness. Evergreen had said, "Stay here! Do NOT move until you hear my voice" and Zena listened intently to the sound of the skirmish coming from the direction of the Roman camp. She heard, "We might as well die like Amazons, and not cowardly old women!" There was the sound of Evergreen's voice and Zena was up and ready to move, knowing full well that WAS NOT what Evergreen had meant. She called softly, "Solaria, Hippolyta, Vasca!", and the three young warriors flanked her immediately. "Go back to where we were hiding, get my sword, chakram and bow. Vasca, cut a vine from that tree." Solaria ran for the cover of the bushes but Hippolyta hung back thinking, "I'm not her servant, why should she order us? We are the strong ones who will take her place." Zena could sense Hippolyta's hesitation and faced her straight on hoping she was focusing on Hippolyta's eyes convincingly. "What part of those orders are beyond your understanding little warrior?", Zena used her powerful voice to the best advantage. "None Zena", Hippolyta replied and looked down wondering what about the feathers in her hair so interested Zena.
Vasca was left handed and so Zena tied her left hand to Zena's right. "This is a training excercise," Zena lied. "In case you are ever chained together in capture and was must lead the others to escape. Vasca, take me to the battle." And so they entered the battle, Solaria with staff, Hippolta using a spear and Vasca with a sword. As they neared the cross where Gabby hung Zena pulled Vasca to a halt and cut the tie with her chakram. She listened to the sounds coming from above and heard Gabby weakly call, "Mother." For a second she held the chakram at eye level and then threw it toward Gabby's feet. It sliced the rope, ricocheted off a Roman standard, cut the left binding, bounced off a wagon and cut the right rope, all in a matter of seconds. The Little Warrior fell from the cross and Evergreen and Xwpfan caught her.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:52:09 GMT -6
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zena - 03:23pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#278 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
ZWM II
Puella and Phalon were heartily cracking Roman skulls with sword and staff and the three young reinforcements had cut a swath through twenty or so foot soldiers. Suddenly Puella called, "Zena, to your right, behind you." Zena tossed her chakram into her left hand and drew her sword with her right, smoothly reaching back with one long swipe. She cleanly removed the head of Flavius who was coming up behind to stab her with his short sword. It rolled away still in it's helmet.
Months from that day of fighting in the Amazon homeland, a messanger arrived with a scroll at a small vinyard in southern Italy. An aging farmer opened the scroll and a pouch with 10 gold drachmas each with a picture of the Emporer, Julius Caesar stamped on the coin. The scroll read: "Your son, Flavius Gaeus, a loyal son of Rome and soldier for Caesar was killed in battle. He was bravely defending his outpost in Roman territory when the fort was overwhelmed by a cowardly band of twenty gigantic barbarian men. Although he killed many of his attackers, these men eventually prevailed, but it took at least half their number to bring him down. The drachma's are a tribute from a grateful Emporer and nation. (signed) Marcus Aurelius, Centurion, First Legion.
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girlpower - 04:10pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#279 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear..but the strength to conquer it.
Calling for the horses
Puella runs behind Evergreen, sword drawn. Soldiers came from every direction. Each one dying in their tracks as we pass. Battling closer to the cross Gabbyfan is hanging on. My eyes show the rage that is within me. I slash my sword into the chest of one soldier as another comes up from behind. I turn around to kill this one as well, but no need. Xwpfan and Phalon are right behind me. “Nice to see you joined the party.” My eyes catch Zena tethered to another Amazon. I looked to Xwpfan and Phalon, then nodded in the direction of Zena. “Mothers” I said. Xwpfan moved into position to protect Zena from oncoming soldiers. Phalon and I remained, fighting anyone who dared come into our path.
Zena was now within reach of little Gabbyfan. I watch as Zena threw her chakram releasing her daughter Gabbyfan. It was an amazing feat for someone who is blind, I am in awe of the heart this woman has. Suddenly a soldier breaks through the protective barrier and goes straight for Zena. I shouted, "Zena, to your right, behind you." Zena tossed her chakram into her left hand and drew her sword with her right, smoothly reaching back with one long swipe. She cleanly removed the head of Flavius. Good move. They need out of here fast. I whistled for Amica. I could hear her rear up, she must be locked up. I whistled again. Evergreen knowing I was calling the horses let out a whistle of her own. Suddenly the sound of wood breaking and horses galloping…
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gabbyfan4ever - 04:38pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#280 of 330)
Little Gabbyfan watched as Evergreen, Puella, and the rest of her Amazons sisters took out any Romans that got their way. Gabbyfan prayed with all her might, and fought to stay concious as it was getting harder and harder to breathe. She had to be ready when her sisters got her off this cross. Something told gabbyfan it was no longer a question of if.
The little Amazons eyes were once again drawn behind the tent to check on her mother, but this time she was no longer there. Gabbyfan looked down and saw Zena right in the middle of the skirmish going on around the cross. She could tell by her mothers eyes that she was not actually seeing anything, and was relying on her other senses. Gabbyfan got as much breath as she could muster and let out a weak cry of "mother!". Only seconds later Zena's chakram had severed the ropes that were beginning to cut into gabbyfans skin. The little Amazon felt herself fall forward into weightlessness, and end up landing on Evergreen and XWPfan.
Gabbyfan took in a huge breath of air, and now cried tears of relief. Evergreen placed gabbyfan gently on the ground, and she tried to regain the use of her legs as her sisters whistled for the horses. They were finally going to get out of this Roman dog-house.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:53:23 GMT -6
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EvergreenLM - 05:36pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#281 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Have Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
Not A Good Day to Die
Evergreen charged out of the tent where she and the others where being held. And with a scream to match the legendary Callisto, she lowered her right shoulder,turned her head, and went crashing into the first Roman she encountered, "Whump!" and the soldier went crashing to the ground.
In one fluid movement, Evergreen thrust her sword into the ground and braced herself while she used both her legs to slam into the next encounter with a Roman sending his body reeling backwards. "Yah!"
Evergreen withdrew the sword from the ground,raised it behind her head to block the Roman iron coming from behind. Her heart raced and her blood ran hot.
"Swoosh, clang, aughh!,clang,yahh!" The noises of the battle reverberated through out the forest. Soldiers ran through by Amazon swords and kicked away, crumpled,held their chest,and fell like the trees they had been so busy gathering just a short time ago..
Evergreen never stopped her forward motion towards the cross that held Little Gabby. Puella matched her step for step,dead Roman to dead Roman, until they had carved a path to that cross.
Evergreen heard it before she saw it. "Swi-wing!,Clang!,Bang!" Three strikes from a Chakram,with the last pass cutting Little Gabby's ropes. *Zena! ,and I'M supposed to be the obstinate one!*,thought Evergreen as she saw the bindings dropped away.
As Little Gabby began to fall, Evergreen and Puella were there to catch her before she hit the ground. Two Romans came running up behind the three swinging swords.
"Swoosh- thud...swoosh- thud". The Roman swords dropped from their hands. Both men clutched arrows that had found their deadly mark.
Puella whistled for Amica. Evergreen saw the horses attempting to break free. Evergreen knew the horses were hobbled to wooden stakes. Puella whistled again. Puella was futively calling bound horses. Evergreen then let out a whistle of her own. Suddenly the sound of wood breaking and horses galloping was heard.
"By Zeus!", Evergreen muttered.The horses spooked and scattered, not at all what Evergreen wanted to happen..
"Puella, take Little Gabby and RUN for the forest! Grab Zena as you go and get them both out of here!"
Without hesitation,Puella placed her right arm around Little Gabby while throwing Gabby's left arm hand over her left shoulder,grabbed Litlle Gabby's hand, and started to run.
Puella passed Zena and her young Amazon "eyes". "Lets go you two. Out of here, NOW!" The four turned and ran to the cover of the forest.
Puella looked back and saw XWPfan,Evergreen,Phalon,and the Amazons who had been hiding in the trees, still engaged in the fight. She also saw Leara standing apart from the event unfolding in her presence. Leara made no move to either join the Amazons or the Romans.
Evergreen also saw leara standing in the shadows.
* Make up your mind woman,thought Evergreen. You are either with us or against us. Make up you mind or I will choose for you. And if I choose to fight against us,I will make sure that you will be keeping father company under the rock pile!*
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:54:54 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 06:58pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#282 of 330)
Rescue Mission
Although I had wanted to, I never had a chance to talk about or even plan a rescue mission for Little Gabby for nearly as soon as the officers hauled her out of the tent to crucify her, Evergreen screamed,"Not if I can help it" and raced on after them.
I understood the motivation to try to rescue her but not the logic. Our numbers were already insignificant compared to theirs, we did not need to sacrifice any more lives. Every life was needed in order to secure a victory over the Romans.
I was trying to develop a less confrontational scheme to rescue Gabby but both adrenaline and emotions were running high. I was trying to remain calm and focused, to stay within myself. I afraid of what I might do if I gave into the emotions of the moment.
Without warning, Evergreen rolled back into the tent. She had managed to find and secure weapons. Swords. She tossed two swords at us. She yelled"Come on let's go!" Puella and I stood there motionless in what must've seemed like forever, unsure of just what she was asking us to do.
Our lack of zeal and effort enraged Evergreen, she Queried in a loud voice," "Are you under the influence of the Furies?"
My eyes met hers as I said, "No I am not under the influence of the fuuries! Are you? Do you KNOW how MANY of Them are out there and How few of us are in here?"
Evergreen snapped back;" You can come with me or die where you are sitting. They plan to kill us all anyway. We might as well die like Amazons and not like cowardly old women!"
Inside I am fuming, of course I want to fight these Roman dogs, but I had hoped to do it on our terms, but then again nothing has gone as planned...
I was about to grab for a sword when I heard Puella say to Leara-" You have a couple of scouts here with you, get them to release the horses. We will need them to escape."Solaria and the others are apt to be near by.
I looked at Puella like she was insane- she was ordering Leara to help us- I shook my head in bewilderment. Had they all just gone mad and lost their common sense?
Puella and I looked at each other sizing each other up. As we exchanged looks, the familiar Ca-Cooo call came from outside the camp. It was our other Amazon sisters signaling us!
Puella saw the glean in my eye and surmised that we had been signaled. Evergeen stood up, opened the flap of the tent signaled and took off running .. with Evergreen's departure, Puella was off and running too saying," Evergreen can't save Gabby alone- Xwpfan and Phalon are you coming?"
Phalon and I took off running towards the cross, we were maybe a half pace behind Puella when I heard her say," Nice to see you joined the party."
I did my best to give her a half smile but out of the corner of my eye I saw Zena, proud Zena tethered to the young warrior Vasca. My instincts had been right, Zena couldn't see.
Puella had seen the same thing and looked back at Phalon and I and nodded towards Zena.
Without hesitation I rushed ahead to take point. I had to protect Zena from any oncoming soldiers.
We carved a bloody trail to the cross, slain Romans laid everywhere. I was doing my best to make a path to the cross and to protect Zena at the same time.
As I dropped one soldier to his knees two more came at me, leaving Zena unguarded .
I swung my sword and connected with the neck of my first atttacker, as I made my downward movement the taller one jumped on my back. I hurled forward and landed on one knee, send him flying on to the ground in front of me. Without nearly a thought I ran my sword threw him, killing him instantly .
I was looking for Zena when I heard Puella cry out "Zena to your right behind you!"
With that Zena in one swift move beheaded Flavius and continued towards the cross. As we got close to the cross I saw Zena raise her chakram to eyelevel when she heard Little Gabbyfan weakly cry out "Mother" she let it fly towards Gabby's ankles.
I ran to the cross and got there in time to catch Gabby
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leara - 07:26pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#283 of 330)
A Messed up Mess
I have really done it this time!! I can’t believe I just kicked Evergreen we are inside the tent it was not necessary it is so hard shifting in and out of control with the monster. Gabbyfan just had to see it I must have the worst timing ever. My shocked state allows her to actually knock me down and beat me good. The Romans are now here those bells on the staff have started the alarm, they are taking her out to make an example of her she will be the first to the cross. This cannot be how do things get so messed up? Well this is nothing unusual for me.
Finally Scout helps me to my feet in this empty tent. We peer out at the scene. The Amazons are skilled warriors no doubt. They are easily handling the Romans as they keep coming to the scene. This scene unfolding before me is mesmerizing creating a trance like state. I am snapped back to reality by the fear inspiring look of make a decision from Evergreen. The next Roman that begins to charge to them on my left find my sword drops him in his tracks.
“Scout, go get them some horses ours will be fine. They have to get out of here.” I command.
I find myself watching the Amazons on their way to get to Gabbyfan free. Finally Evergreen makes it to the cross catches Gabbyfan who fell down. Scout brings our horses and along with her come the Amazon’s horses. Six of the finest horses I have ever seen. They run to their masters sides and are ready to get out of this Roman camp as well. To help the Amazon’s escape we join the fight we are late but we will be the clean up crew.
The monster takes over and there is no time for playing just straight for the kill. The fact that I am battling against them is enough to knock them off their guard. I plant my sword into the chest of one then the next. The third has come to his senses and offers a defense and meets my blade stopping it. “We could do this all day but I haven’t the time” I remark in a hoarse whisper as I plant my dagger in to his chest. Turn to look and I see the cross is empty and no Amazons remain in the camp. The Amazons have disappeared into the cover of the forest and the Romans have broken off their pursuit. A smile washes across my face I know now that I was wrong about the Amazons as I had always hoped in my heart.
The sound of battle the steel clanging and the groans of the dying fill the air it will be a few minutes until the reinforcements arrive from the other side of the camp. Scout there must be no survivors to betray us I motion and so we begin the work of continuing to ensure the soldiers are dead. We could leave here but that will mean that we will die for sure at least here we have a fighting chance.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:56:59 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 11:09pm Jun 7, 2002 ET (#284 of 330)
Rescue Mission continued...
Little Gabby fell into both Evergreen's and my arms. For a brief moment I held the most precious cargo in Amazon history. As I held her I could feel Gabby's body convulsing as she sobbed. I turned her back towards Evergreen so she could comfort her and I could fight the oncoming Romans.
Two Romans attempted to come up behind us but were dispatched by the deadly accuracy of Amazon archery. Swoosh- thud. Swoosh -thud. As we stepped over their bodies, sharp whistles filled the air. I was sure I heard Puella trying to whistle for horses that belonged to the Amazons and I laughed thinking "our horses will never come to you they don't know your whistle ... at least not yet."
I could hear the horse struggling,they knew something was a foot. All they needed was a whistle they recognized to try to obey their commands.
Evergreen gave such a command with a piercing shrill whistle. Suddenly the sound of boards breaking and horses galloping could be heard above the clanging of swords.
Although our horses were battle hardened, the overwhelming stench of blood and death along with the noise of the battle must been too much for the noble but sensitive creatures. The horses had become skiddish and had scattered off.
Without the horses I knew it would be more difficult to get us all out alive. I was glad when I heard Evergreen yell to Puella to get Gabby and Zena safely to the woods. Getting them out of harms way was a top priority and a relief to us all.
I fought my way over to act as cover while Puella gathered Gabby, then Zena and her young Amazon guide. I knew Puella would give her life to protect them, but I still felt compelled to protect and watch until they got to the edge of the woods.
Once they disappeared into the edge of the forest .I turned my full attention to the battle at hand. Romans were everywhere, with each turn of a arm or a head there was a Roman. As withdrew my blade from the dead body of yet another young soldier,this one not much older than little Gabby I saw my hands were crimson red not just mere drips or drops but literally dyed red from all the Roman blood I had spilt just that day.
For just a fraction of a moment; a moment of grief and self-doubt. I did the unthinkable and I let go of my sword. I stood there unable to move, frozen in my own guilt when a Roman soldier tried to thrust his knife into me, fortunately he was only able to put a 2 inch gash in my right leg before I came to my senses.
My leg was on fire and oozing blood, despite the obvious pain I kneed him and he fell to his knees, wincing and covering his privates. Under other circumstances I might've let him go, but today was not a day to have survivors so quickly drove me sword into his heart and pulled it out again.
I don't know why but I felt I needed to take his family crest and insignia off of his uniform as I pulled my sword out of his body. As I stood up I saw Leara just watching not participating for either side. I was livid!
I wanted to attack Leara, but the others seemed to have some level of trust in her. So I just said aloud, "Your day is coming Leara. soon. Very soon."
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EvergreenLM - 01:07am Jun 8, 2002 ET (#285 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Have Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
Tying Up Loose Ends and a Sister
Evergreen looked about and saw that the others one by one were escaping to the safety of the forest secured by Sister Amazons.
Some of the tents had been set ablaze and the wind whipped the fire causing it to pop and crackle. Moans could be heard from the wounded and dying. Evergreen stopped,and surveyed the carnage surrounding her.
How many? How many will have to die in such a like manner before peace could return to this land? Tears for both the Roman dead and injured Amazons streaked Evergreen's cheeks. She did not realize how tightly she was holding her sword. Her hands and face were covered in the blood of men slain because they had sworn an allegiance to white robed men in Rome whose soft hands never held a weapon nor heard the cries of the dying.
A faint whimpering floated in the air and caught Evergreen's attention. The sound became louder, and Evergreen realized that it was Little Dog! She whislted. The injured, but very much alive, canine warrior limped over to where Evergreen was standing.
"Come here,boy",Evergreen softly said. "We need to get out of here before the soldiers that ran to the woods return with a second wind for a fight."
Evergreen picked up Little Dog and threw him over her shoulder. As she began her own retreat to the forest, Evergreen saw leara still standing motionless in the same spot she had maintained throughout the entire conflict.
"By Zeus, I cannot leave her like that." Walking in leara's direction, Evergreen stooped to pick up a length of rope used to tie Little Gabby to the cross.
leara made no attempt to move as she saw the battered and bloodied Amazon taking decisive steps towards her.
Evergreen was finally standing face to face with her past. If there was any recognition of Evergreen on leara's part,it was not shown. They stood staring for a brief moment neither turning away.
"leara, do you not recognize me?",Evergreen said in a compassionate tone.
"I am you sister,leara,do you not remember?"
leara stood steadfast saying nothing and with eyes that did not blink.
"Well,dear sister, we don't have the gift of time to get reacquainted here. If we linger much longer we will not live long enough to speak about the past.
Evergreen sat Little Dog down, and grabbed leara's hands. She made no attempt to break free or speak. Evergreen quickly bound her wrist leaving a length of the rope for a lead.
Little Dog was hoisted back up on Evergreen's shoulder, and with her two charges, she quickly moved towards the forest. She did not look back and had left the regrets for the day behind with the dead.
Evergreen said aloud, "Everything happens precisely as it is meant to be."
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:58:25 GMT -6
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phalon - 01:35am Jun 8, 2002 ET (#286 of 330)
Evergreen, Xwpfan and Phalon had stood their ground and fought off the soldiers that kept coming at them from all sides. They were fighting a losing battle. There were just too many of them. For every one that fell, two more took their place. They had to make a retreat, but how? They were surrounded.
At least Little Gabbyfan had gotten out with Zena and Puella. Phalon was furious at herself for bringing Gabbyfan into this place. How irresponsible she had been. She should have realized how the girl would have reacted upon seeing her mother in the hands of the Romans! Phalon hoped she had made it safely into the forest with her mother.
No time to berate herself now. She would have plenty of time to do that later, if they got out with their lives. She needed Agapanthus. She had left him just inside the cover of the forest when she and Gabbyfan had made their grand entrance into camp. She whistled for him, and hoped that during their short time together since they left Cyrene's he had developed enough trust in her to heed her call.
The great black stallion proved his allegiance. He was at her side in a moment's time. What Phalon needed now was in the saddlebag. She had to keep fighting off the soldiers while rummaging through the bag that held most of her medical supplies. Ah, she had it! She pulled out a large pouch of powder. Sulphur! It had many medicinal purposes, but it was not healing that was on her mind now.
She ran to the still smoldering fire that was once the ammunition tent, swinging her "borrowed" Roman sword the entire way, pausing only briefly to check the direction of the wind. Perfect! She scattered the contents of the pouch into the dying flames. The odor was putrid, but more importantly, a thick blue smoke wafted across the camp. A smoke that was thick enough to provide cover for her Amazon friends and her to escape towards the forest. She called out, "Xwpfan, Evergreen, run NOW!"
Through the haze, Phalon saw Evergreen pick up the wounded Little Dog, and tether a seemingly dazed Leara and head out of camp.
Suddenly, a blow to her back! Phalon fell forward and landed hard. The sword she held was knocked from her hand. She felt herself being jerked to her feet and stood staring into the eyes of three Roman soldiers.
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phalon - 02:20am Jun 8, 2002 ET (#287 of 330)
The hit from behind had left her slightly disoriented. The sulphur's sickening smell filled her nostrils. Phalon felt herself being pulled to another time. A vision filled her mind. This was not a spiritual vision, but a recollection of an event that happened not so long ago. She was transported back to a streambank. A vile odor. Fish entrails. And the hum of thousands of repulsive insects.
As she did then, Phalon now felt the bile rise within her throat. This time she did not fight to keep it down. Her gorge spewed from her mouth and hit it's intended target - the faces of the Roman soldiers.
As the soldiers doubled over, now retching and heaving themselves, Phalon again whistled for Agapanthus. She pulled herself up on her horse and wiped her mouth on the back of her hand. Looking down upon the disabled men, she said, "You Roman filth make me sick."
Under the cover of smoke, she made her way into the forest.
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leara - 08:45pm Jun 8, 2002 ET (#288 of 330)
Cracking UP
I blink the tears from my eyes and the whole scene has changed. The melee of fighting warriors is dwarfed by a string of crosses that are innumerable. The Romans are swarming in to the last of the Rebels. I urge them on shouting, “Get them! We will line the roads with the enemies of Mother Rome!”
My view of the scene is eclipsed by a beautiful yet strangely familiar woman who is standing in front of me. Her lips are moving and there is sound but I can not make it out. I am not understanding. She grasps my hands and ties them together. I look at my own hands. They are clean and empty. My tunic is not even mine how strange.
The expression on my face has not changed it is like it is permanently there. I follow in the direction that I am pulled. My head aches with each beat of my heart, every breath I draw and step I take. The warm blood continues to trickle down through my hair and slowly soaks my tunic. It takes all my strength to stand and move one foot in front of the other. The thoughts are blocked out I hear and feel only the Thump Thud Thump Thud… of the beat in my head calling out the cadence to which we are moving.
All I want to do is lie down a rest, sleeping the sweet eternal sleep but, I am compelled forward.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 19:59:54 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 08:45pm Jun 8, 2002 ET (#289 of 330)
Full Stature
I tried to walk towards Leara but my leg buckled beneath me. As I fell to the ground in agony. I saw Evergreen leading Leara by a rope. I smiled through my gritted teeth at the thought of leara being our captive.
Alone, I sat on the blood soaked ground with the bodies of dead Romans all around me.I extended my leg for a closer look.I could see that the flesh was torn back and the bone was exposed on the inner thigh. The Roman's sword penetrated further than I had thought.
I looked around for help but my sisters had all made it back to the forest. I saw some of Leara's Tad members going around making sure the Romans were dead, but in my wounded condition I intended to only trust my sisters.
I knew if I was going to get back to the forest I was going to have to do it myself. I thought about my predicament, I knew I could not use my sword and sheath as a brace because I would still need a weapon if attacked.
As I sat there perplexed I noticed that in front of me laid a fine specimen of a dead Roman soldier. He had died with his sword still clasped in his right hand.
I crawled over and pried the sword out of his cold lifeless hands. His tunic was of finer linen than I had ever wore, I hated to tear such a fine garment but I knew I had to. I took my sword and I cut 3 long strips from his tunic.
I then put a 2 inch slit in the lip of the leather family crest that I had taken from the other soldier. I then slid the tip of the sword in it like a tiny sheath .
Amazed that my idea actually worked I found myself humming as I put the hilt of his sword next to my inner thigh .I double checked my make-shift sheath before I put the point of the blade against my ankle, then I tied the first strip around the sword and my ankle.
I couldn't help but think the crest looked strangely familiar, but I didn't know why. I pushed the thought out of my mind and tied the second at my knee cap and the third held the hilt of the sword against my upper thigh. I made sure it was secure to my leg.
With my leg now straightened,I had a new problem. I could not get up on my own accord. I need some kind of leverage to pull my self up. I scanned the area but nearly anything standing was now on fire or smoldering. The only thing left standing was the crosses.
I had no choice. I dug deep into the ground and began to drag my body with the sheer force of my arms towards the very cross I had caught Gabby from . I could hear my sisters yelling to me but I signaled them to stay. Inch by inch I pulled myself to the cross. When I got there I put my arms around the tree- like a lover's embrace and kept inching my arms up the tree while the base of the cross bared my weight as I tried to bring myself to my feet.
Finally, I had hoisted myself to my feet and the smell of Sulfur hit my nostrils. It was overpowering, I fought back the urge to vomit. I let go of the cross and nearly stumbled with my first step. I quickly unsheathed my sword and used it to steady me, but a sword is a weapon not a walking stick.
I was tempted to try to go back to the tent for Gabby's staff but I knew that would only leave me at harms way longer. I began to hobble towards the woods, casting a watchful eye with each step when Divine Retribution trotted up to me.
I petted his nose as he nuzzled me,I thanked Retribution for coming to rescue me. Inside I turned to mush, I knew I could never mount the horse in my condition.
Retribution seemed to know my thoughts and kneeled down low, so I could just swing my injured leg over the saddle.I felt tears of relief come to my eyes as Retribution came up to full stature.
I whispered, Take me to my sisters."
Retribution whisked me from that field of death and torment. My thoughts were already to the future there were traps to set,and plans to make before the Romans could regroup.
Finally we made it to the forest and to the welcoming arms of my sisters.We had all survived to fight another day.
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zena - 10:29pm Jun 8, 2002 ET (#290 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Camp Out I
Deep in the northern side of the forest, behind the archers and Zena's remaining warrior guard, the weary band of Amazons gathered to rest and wash. A stream trickled by with just enough water to wash the Roman and Amazon blood away.
First the sisters had made sure that Zena and Little Gabby had help in cleaning up and they left them safely under a tree. Phalon did her best to bind wounds, and gave special attention to the damage done to Xwpfan's leg. She came up with a salve from somewhere for the rope burns on Gabby's wrists and ankles but when she tried to look at Zena's eyes Zena brushed her away and said "Not now. Make sure everyone is taken care of first". "Stubborn Amazons.", Phalon thought. "I really like them."
Zena rested with her back against the tree and Little Gabbyfan cuddled close beside her. The little warrior rested her head and arms in Zena's lap and seem content to just be at peace. Sensing that the washing was finished, Zena called to Vasca, "Vasca, please come here for a moment." Vasca sat down at Zena's right side. "Yes, Zena?", she responded. "Vasca," Zena began in a small voice, "I lied to you. I am so very sorry. It wasn't a training excercise. I was afraid that if you knew I couldn't see you wouldn't take me into the battle. Forgive me." "Zena," Vasca assured her, "I understand what you needed to do and why you had to do it. Of course I forgive you." "Well I DON"T understand and I want to know what we are going to do with these two burdens", Hippolyta gestured toward Zena and Little Gabby.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:01:44 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 01:23am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#294 of 330)
You swim like a dog
We had all made it back to the forest and what a joyful reunion it was. Hugs, smiles and tears were ever present in the camp. The hugs began to disapate as we wanted to clean off the stench of the battle and to cleanse our wounds.
Puella helped me down to the stream, but I pointed out that there was a little further down little wade pool, Puella reluctantly lead me to it.
When we got there I asked Puella if she could help me take off my borrowed boots. Ever so gently she removed each boot, when she finished she offered my hand as a brace to stand, instead I playfully pushed her in the water.Tthere she sat soaking wet with a shocked look upon her face I just roared!
Puella looked at me and said," So you think your smart? So how are you going to get in the water then?"
I laughed defiantly, "I guess if I can crawl over dead soldiers I think I can crawl to clean them off me!"
Puella howled with laughter as I crawled into the water and began to paddle. She shouted, " You swim like a dog!!
I teased back,"How do you think I learned how to swim?"
Finally we floated over to a rock and rested our backs on it.
I turned to Puella and said, "Can we be serious for a minute?" Puella nodded.
"Puella, I almost didn't make it out this time. One of these days I may not. for many tears now I have been raising Amazon children who have lost their mothers, since I never bared children of my own. Currently there are three that I have been caring for and training They are no longer small children but rather young warriors,but they still need much guidance and love.
Vasca and Solaria are bright wonderful, loyal Amazons who will give their all in an exercise or task. Hippolyta is from a linage of Queens. She is strong, proud and boastful. She is my ambitious one, and the one I worry about the most. she fears no one and is apt to speak her mind to anyone. There have been times when I have feared for her future.
I tell you these things because you are my friend and my sister. you and I are of equal skill and have similar ways of thinking. Although you are not yet schooled in the ways of the Amazons, I know you posses great love and loyalty to the sisterhood. I want You if anything should Ever happen to me,to watch over these three.. they are the only legacy I have."
Tears streamed down Puella's face as she weakly said,"I would be honored to."
" Good, now let's get out of here and get my leg tended to, we have plans to make and traps to set.
Phalon was immediately at my side tending to my leg, as she tended to it she said it's going to hurt for a while and your going to have a nasty scar- about 2 inches long and maybe about an inch wide. I nodded I had figured as much.
I hobbled up under a tree I need a nap to recoup my energy if I was going to fight the next day. When I closed my eyes all I could see was the Roman's family crest...
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dscout - 01:36am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#295 of 330)
Scroll of the Dumb Scout 11 Amazons 1 TAD 1= Romans -2
This can’t be happening again. But there it is another Amazon has just landed another blow to the head of Leara and she has done nothing to stop it. She must be on some strange need for barbarous affection of late. She is on the ground and does not move even after the Romans drag the little attacker out the tent flap.
These supposed calm collected Warriors become enraged and out the tent they rush. This is insanity of the highest degree. Then the one comes back in with Roman swords and calls us to arms “Let’s not die like cowardly old women.” The others in the tent rush past and join the growing fight out side. Leara is still on the ground but she is somewhere else in her mind. I take hold of her arm and help her to stand up. I help her to get out of the tent expecting to join in the battle but, nothing happens.
We need to get out of here. Puella is right horses are the best way to charge past the foot soldiers. Leara seems to be able to stand alright and should be here when I get back. I am not dying with out a fight. I think to myself, 'might as well take a few Romans along the way.' As I pass between the tents I meet a couple of them with my blade. Nothing ever works as well as the old trip them and plant to the chest. It fairly quiet not drawing undue attention. It is not a sporting way to kill but it is very effective.
Horses at last! I wish I could still whistle it would make it much easier. They are restless some hear their masters calling and are eager to join them. I open the door, they are crashing the corral the stampede of confusion begins but my horse waits for me. I have to make my way back through the tents to Leara she is gone.
Her sword is sticking in the ground where she left it. Inside the tent I pick up our things I am heading out to the forest where the first two Amazons were brought in from. If I die trying to find her so be it I will not leave her alone. I tell the others with us to leave the camp and join the Army. They are to wait, following the Amazon lead as to battle plans and keeping close watch on their flank.
Tactis seems to have headed out already he is a good horse despite his Roman origins. I feel the sulfur filling my lungs but I will not lose Leara this time. I ride hard out of the camp right up the clearing where the Romans were cutting their wood for the crosses.
I follow the retreating hoof prints. They are tying to be deceptive as to their whereabouts but I will not lose Leara this time. I dismount and follow the low voices. I can not quite make out their conversation but follow the sounds. I will wait here in the shadows watching until the time is right to move.
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phalon - 02:43am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#296 of 330)
Ministering the Wounded and Weary
Phalon had finished tending the wounds of her friends. Thankfully, none of the injuries had been life threatening. Zena's blindness should only be temporary. The gash Xwpfan suffered on her leg was deep and she would most likely walk with a slight limp for many years to come, but though painful, it was a clean cut and now that it was stitched, it should heal nicely.
She walked over to Agapanthus. "Ah boy, what fine friends you and I have become", she whispered into his ear. He nuzzled her face in seeming agreement. Every possession she owned was packed into the saddlebags and bedroll which he carried, for Phalon had no one place she called home. She was a nomad, a wanderer travelling to where ever her visions took her. She unsaddled the horse and rubbed him down.
Her friends and her horse now taken care of, Phalon tended to herself. She took some clean garments from her bags and headed to the stream to bathe. The cold water felt cleansing to both her body and mind as she washed the gypsy paint and the grime from today's skirmish from her face. Once bathed, Phalon donned a fresh tunic and riding breeches. Much more appropiate attire for the impending war then the gypsy garb she had just shed. She belted her ever present pouch of herbs, tonics, and of course, Puella's necklace, around her waist.
Puella's necklace. Phalon felt the time was not yet right for her to return it. Puella was not ready. She still had not accepted Evergreen. The time would come soon enough, Phalon knew, when the talisman's powers would be needed. Until then, Phalon would keep it safe, waiting to give it back to it's rightful owner.
Feeling refreshed, Phalon laid back and stared up at the stars through the trees. The cool breeze rustled the leaves overhead and the night air felt crisp and fresh against Phalon's skin. She saw a star shoot across the sky. Closing her eyes, Phalon dreamt of a time before she knew the ugly face of battle. A time before the visions. A time of youth, innocence and love.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:03:20 GMT -6
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girlpower - 03:47am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#297 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear..but the strength to conquer it.
Puella could barely believe the words I heard coming from Evergreen’s mouth. "Puella, take Little Gabby and RUN for the forest! Grab Zena as you go and get them both out of here!" I was able to get them both to safety. There was no thought involved only instinct. I ran as far as I could into the forest. When the sounds around me assured me it was safe, I set little Gabbyfan down into the awaiting arms of her mother Zena. We were joined shortly by the rest of the Warriors that were in the Roman camp that day. I sat anxiously as I watched each of them arrive.
Where is Xwpfan, I wonder if I should go back and try and find her. Suddenly I smelled sulfur. Following the smell I see Xwpfan attempting to dismount Leara’s horse. Her leg is badly injured. I raised my arm up to her and she excepted my help in removing her from the horse. “We must get that cleaned up.” I helped Xwpfan down to the stream, but she pointed out a wade pool just a little ways in the distance. No leeches please, I pleaded inside my head, as we made our way to the water. I helped her remove her boots and offered her my hand. Suddenly, I was in the water, Xwpfan laughing on the shore. It was such a relief after the emotional rage of the day to just relax. As I lay in the water Xwpfan turned to me and said, “"Puella, I almost didn't make it out this time. One of these days I may not. For many years now I have been raising Amazon children who have lost their mothers, since I never bared children of my own. Currently there are three that I have been caring for and training they are no longer small children but rather young warriors, but they still need much guidance and love.” I listened as she spoke of, Solaria, Vasca & Hippolyta. “I want you if anything should Ever happen to me, to watch over these three... they are the only legacy I have.” My eyes filled with tears of pride and understanding as I spoke. “I would be honored to.” In effort to lighten the subject Xwpfan said, "Good, now let's get out of here and get my leg tended to.”
As Phalon tended to Xwpfan’s wound I walked around the camp. Little Gabbyfan is asleep already. She has had a hard day, but she is back safely with her family. I walk up to Leara. She is in some sort of trance like state. I waved my hand in front of her face and there was no response. “Gabbyfan didn’t hit you that hard.” I said aloud looking for a response. “You better come out of this soon, because no one will be sitting around keeping you safe once the war cry is sounded.” The look in my eyes show the anger I feel when I see this woman. Standing up I speak out, “dscout I know you are out there, come here and tend to Leara.” Quietly dscout stood and began walking towards me. “If you need anything come to me. Time to get some sleep.” I walk back over towards Xwpfan, seeing her asleep under a tree, I walk up to her and whisper, “Goodnight.” Then I find a place in between her and Gabbyfan. In case Gabbyfan needs anything before Zena and Evergreen return. I lay down and try to fall asleep…
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:04:57 GMT -6
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phalon - 04:30am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#298 of 330)
Love Lies Bleeding
In her dream, Phalon was transported back to her youth when she was a girl not much older than Little Gabbyfan was now. A time when she knew love. The love of her mother, father and younger brother, and of a handsome young man from her village.
During the day, Phalon helped out in her family's shop. She loved the store, working amongst the bottles of fine olive oils, wooden bowls filled with dried figs, herbs and baskets hanging from the ceiling rafters, stacks of linens and silks, incense and candles, and general goods. All the scents intermingled and tickled her nose with a musky, earthy smell. Her young suitor would come in to make his purchases daily. Stolen glances and sweet smiles. A feather light touch of a hand passing goods over the counter. Phalon always felt her heart would come out of her chest it beat so wildly when he was near.
Each afternoon, when the work day was done, Phalon ran to the meadow. She practically flew over the ground to their meeting place under a large tree. He would be there always, a smile on his face, and arms outstretched, waiting for her to rush into his embrace. There they would sit and talk until the bright sun of the day gave way to the moon's glow. Talk about the day's events, of future plans and of their love for each other. When the moon was high in the night sky, reluctantly they would part until the following afternoon.
One day, while in the store, a young boy from a neighboring village burst through the door. Out of breath from running he explained that a group of Roman soldiers were marching through, taking young maidens into their custody to become slaves. Phalon's father quickly grabbed her and pulled her into the store's back rooms that were their living quarters. He quickly cropped her long hair close to her head with a pair of shears and had her change her clothing into that of her younger brother. Her statue was slight but muscular, and with the baggy boy's clothing, she could easily pass for a boy of about twelve.
The Romans came though, cutting a swath of destruction through anything that came into their way. Houses were destroyed, girls and women were taken, and protesting fathers and husbands beaten or killed. They ransacked the shop, taking what they wanted and destroying much of the rest. One of the soldiers felt Phalon's mother was not moving quickly enough to get the supplies he demanded and slapped her mother hard across the face. Phalon felt her temperature rise and her face grow hot. Angrily and impetuously, she rushed at the soldier with all her might. He easily beat her off and threw her to the ground. As her head slammed into the floor and she faded into unconsciousness, Phalon had the first vision of her life. Even as she lost consciousness, she KNEW what she was seeing was REAL.
A young man in a field, under a tree. Holding a bouquet of daisies, his love's favorite. He turns a looks behind him, a smile on his face, arms outstretched, expecting to see his beloved. Instead he is greeted by the venomnous jeers of soldiers. The smile fades into a look of horror. The flash of a sword. Cries of protest. The sickening THUD of a body hitting the ground. Daisies, petals once the pure white of innocence, scattering in the wind, now tinged in red.
Phalon's family was spared during the raid because the Roman's needed the store for future supplies. In fact, the entire village faired fairly well, all things considered. In time, people returned to their day to day activities, and life began to take on some aspect of normalcy. Not for Phalon though. Everywhere she looked there were reminders. She had lost her one true love. She was forever changed. She grew weary of the hushed conversions when she entered a room. The visions were becoming more frequent. She did not like seeing into other people's lives, or understand why this was happening to her.
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phalon - 04:43am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#299 of 330)
Love Lies Bleeding, (cont.)
It wasn't long after that she left home. A band of gypies befriended her, teaching her methods of healing and that her visions were not a curse or something to be feared. True gypies. Not the petty ones that masqueraded as fortunetellers in carnivals, making a mockery of the gift and using it for money.
But she dreamt of none of this now. Only of the power of young love. Phalon was happy. Happiness never seemed to last long for her though, and she woke with the realization that war was near. Her happiness turned to dread.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:06:50 GMT -6
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Lucystar1 - 08:29am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#300 of 330)
"WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR?... ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!
It was almost dusk. Lucystar stood on the grassy hill that looked down on the now blood-soaked glen, which once was the site of a large Roman Camp. The reins of her horse, Gypsy, were in one hand. Her other hand entwined with that of her queen and soon to be lover, Saxy, who also gazed down at the surreal scene below as A'Mira's reins laid loosely in her free hand.
How many died today, Roman and Amazon? How many of our Amazon sisters are on their way to the healers, some to live, some not? How many Romans are laying out there dying, far from their homes, their families and friends. All for the "Glory of Rome". Lucystar says that last line with a deep, biting bitterness in her voice.
"The Glory of Rome. What glory is there in dying far from home, for a cause none of them know, let alone understand." How do you explain that the only reason they gave their lives was for some pompous asses, namely Caeser and Pompey, who live only to kill or conquer anything and everything they think is a threat to their power.
Xena had tried to explain how the greed and lust for power can drive a person to do hideous things. After all, she said, "Look at what I once was, until I could no longer look myself in the face and tried to put down my sword. Until I met Gabrielle and she taught me that I could still be a warrior... only for good now, not evil."
And so here we stand, my love and I, hand in hand, staring down at that bloody field we left not more than a candlemark ago. I look over at Queen Saxy and I can see she is being drawn into her own battle of demons. Of being a Warrior.
As Queen, she has been challenged several times for her mask. Each time she has fought and won the right to remain our queen. Each time it was she and she along fighting. She had not had to order others to their possible death.
But, I believe, that as Saxy leads us--her people, her family and friends--into battle, a little part of her soul is lost. Isn't that what Gabrielle said after that last big battle at Helicon. And Xena had replied, "War is tough on the soul." It hurts to see such a person who is strong in mind, heart and soul, have to suffer that we might live in peace.
But I know she would willingly give her life for each and every one of us. It is that honor and loyalty that has been instilled in her by her mother and grandmother, our former queens. And she has earned our respect and loyalty, not by her birthright, but because of who she has become, a true Amazon Queen. Yet I know war is not her first choice and I now know this even more so, as we have finally acknowledge our souls' connection. And in doing so, I feel her anguish of the lives lost as it mixes with mine.
(to be continued...)
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Lucystar1 - 10:03am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#301 of 330)
'WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR?... ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! (Part 2)
As I turn from gazing at her face, my eyes move down to our clasped hands and I see the blood from so many as it dries on our hands, almost binding them together. like glue. I then look at our clothes and wonder what color were they really, for now they are soaked with blood. I suddenly wish for a large tub or even a spring to wash these memories off me.
I know Queen Saxy has no regrets over the battle we have just won. Neither do I, yet I can't help but replay it over in my mind.
The Amazons were all finally ready. Gods, it took them forever to arrive and get into thier positions. I don't think QS and I could have waited up in that tree much longer. Though I'm not complaining about the company I was with, But balancing on a branch is not conducive to romantic notions, not that It would have done me any good. QS was all busines. At least n the surface, but I saw the looks she kept throwing my way. "ALright, get your mind back on this story."
It was time for the Battle to Begin. QS gave the call for the archers to begin. First the flaming arrows. These helped panic both man and beast. With smoke everywhere we were all on the same footing. After the fire arrows, the archers sent several volleys into the main tents that were still standing.
Next the call to arms rang out after which Saxy and I left our perch and mounted our horses who were waiting below for us. Even before we had a chance to settle into our saddles and draw our swords, we could hear Amazon war cries rise across the little valley. Then as we rode into the battle the clashing and clanking of metal on metal became deafening. Everywhere I looked I saw Amazons fighting Roman soldiers. There was Evergreen, Zena, Puella, Phalon, xwpfan, leara? and yes there was even our littlest warrior, Little Gabby Fan. I tried to keep an eye out for her as I entered into my own battles with the soldiers, as i knew our Queen was doing the same thing. However after a few moments, I could tell she had received the very best of training and with her mother close by, I turned my attention to the soldiers around me and those around my Queen, for it was my job to watch her back.
It seemed the fighting went on for hours. Actually I think it did, for it is now almost dusk and we started the battle just after daylight hit the meadow. Of course it wasn't constant hand-to-hand. There were brief retreats to deal with the wounded on both sides as well as regrouping and modifing the battle plans. But we could tell the Roman soldiers were wearing down. Oh, how it hurts the male pride to be beaten by a bunch of women. They forget though, we're not your ordinary women, but amazon women.
During a brief break in the fighting, I search out Queen Saxy and find her just as she is putting another soldier out of commission. She looks over at me, smiles and shrugs. "Gotta do, what ya gotta do." I laugh at her silly grin and it feels so good, yet so wrong. How can I laugh when I am surrounded by death and suffering. But I am gently reminded by the hand on my shoulder that we did not start this by invading another's homeland. We were forced into it, but we will not run and hide. We must protect all that is sacred to us.
And with that thought passing beween us, we move back into the middle of the battle and begin protecting our sisters, our friends and each other. We will not stop until the last Roman soldier has either run away or is dead or dying. Our swords zing through the air meeting metal. The noise is becoming deafening but we battle on till the very end.
To help ensure that those running away, have second thoughts about coming back, Queen Saxy and I talk rather loudly to each other about Xena's return in a day or so with the area's militia. Well, we'll have one some day. The romans don't know that. Laughing with Saxy on that one.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:07:58 GMT -6
ß(continued in Part 3)
Lucystar1 - 10:20am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#302 of 330)
"WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR?... ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! (Part3)
As the battle is finally wearing down, a quick scouting reveals that we have succeeded in destroying any remaining weapons, thus making the place useless to any passing bandits.
So here we are, the Queen and her Second, standing together, side-by-side, hand in hand, waiting for our Amazon sisters to report in to us. Silently we offer up a prayer to Artemis asking that our losses be small. For we have fought hard and bravely for our families and way of life.
With that said, I lean over and whisper in my queen's ear. "The battle is over, now it is time for us to begin. For you said you could not think about us, until the battle was done." And I give her a kiss to remind her of her promise. The Queen raises an eyebrow and says "Since when did your memory become so good?" Then locking eyes with Lucystar, it is obvious what both of them want and Queen Saxy returns the kiss with equal conviction for fulfilling her promise.
THE END.....for now.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:09:20 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 10:57am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#303 of 330)
Victory at what cost?
The war for now was over... all the remained to do was gather the dead and the wounded. I stood on the battlefield surveying the lose of life at my feet is the dead body of my second charge Vasca. I close my eyes and try to remember what brought me to this moment... I remembered I had awoke with a start. ..
I had slept longer than I anticipated. I looked around and there was Little Gabbyfan and Puella sound asleep. My leg was sore and stiff, but I managed to rise on my own accord. I bent down and kissed Little Gabbyfan on the forehead, her eyes flittered as I whispered,"Be brave little warrior, you are the bright shinning future of this tribe"
I then limped my way over to Puella, I brushed her hair back from her sleeping face and I whispered," Your friendship and loyalty have been the nicest surprise I've had in many a moon. I pray to Artmeis that we will have many seasons to get to know each other better. Only the Gods know what will happen later this day, but I want you to know I am proud to call you my amazon sister and friend.
As I raised up I said under my breath, "To a strong Amazon nation." and I saw Puella's lip curl with a smile. I closed my eyes and burned that peaceful image into my head, knowing I might need it to comfort me in the day ahead.
I then ventured towards the rest of the group. We all looked weary and worn. I wondered how many would survive another day of carnage.
I looked around and saw my three charges Solaria, Vasca and Hippolyta standing talking amongst themselves looking all too eager for the war to start. I motioned for them to gather round me, they all complied.
I stared into each face, letting their eyes tell me their story. I smiled, I knew them all so well.
I put my hand to Solaria's cheek and said, "You look worried, both for me and over concerns how you will do in battle. Let me tell you it is a possibilty that I or none of you will make it back from this war. If that is the fate of the Gods remember, we shall see each other again in the Elysian fields. Solaria do you remember how brave you can be? You tried valiantly to save me when you thought a stranger was attacking me. I am honored to call you an Amazon warrior."
Hipolyta let out a nasty laugh as she said," Yeah some warrior!You protected her from her best friend."
I glared at Hippolyta, she bowed her head in silence.
"Vasca, my dear loyal and trusting Vasca. I know I can always depend on you to do the right thing. When I saw someone tethered to Zena, I knew it had to be you."
Vasca protested, "But Zena had said it was a training excercise, she lied to me!"
I smiled and said," And given the circumstance I would've lied too. The fact of the matter remains, you listened, obeyed and willingly protected her by being willing to put your own life at risk. I am very proud of you!"
I then turned to Hippolyta, she stood with her shoulders squared and her jaw set. I put my hand on her shoulder and said," My dear Hipolyta, you have been sent by the Gods to challenge me, to keep me guessing and on my toes. I never know what your capable of doing or saying at any given moment. You are fearless and headstrong.
It is for you that I fear for the most. Not just from the Romans, but the enemies you insist on making in our own camp. You need not throw your lineage around.
Everyone knows your ancestors were all Queens.It is not yet your time or season, you do not know nearly enough to even be the Queen's second, let alone Queen. Hipolyta eyes burned with anger as I spoke, I rested my hand on her cheek and said, but someday if the Fates allow it, you will now enough..."
I turned and spoke to them as a group. If you do not see me on the battlefield it does not mean I am not there, it simply means I've had to find other ways to fight the battle due to my leg.I intend to be there fighting side by side with each of you. Be safe and make me proud."
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xwpfan - 11:16am Jun 9, 2002 ET (#304 of 330)
Victory at what cost? continued
I gave each of my charges their orders, Hippolyta was to go with the lead group, so that she could learn how to lead and to follow directions. Vasca, I had charged with the protection of Little Gabby and Zena and Solaria, I had her remain with me until the battle begun and then I had her flank Puella telling her to guard Puella with her life...
I shook my head and tried to focus I had to bring Vasca's body back for a proper Amazon funeral. I bent down and gently scooped up her body. With tears streaming down my face, I hobbled back towards the others. I was met by Puella but she would not look me in the eye, I could tell something was wrong. Through my grief and anger I said,"Puella what's wrong?" Puella could barely speak, she said, "It's Solaria, she took an arrow that was meant for me,Xwpfan, it's bad I don't think she's going to make it." I stared at her in disbelief and said,"Take me to her ,NOW." I got there and Solaria was weak and losing blood, I cradled her in my arms and began to gently rock her as I softly sang her a lullaby. In the near distance I could hear a scout giving a report on the missing, the wounded and the dead.
I bitterly thought, Victory at what cost? At what expense, look at what I've lost this very day!
Suddenly, I heard the scout's voice dropped to a hushed tone.. something a bout a body of a dead Amazon being found with an Amazon sword sticking out of the body. Puella headed towards me.. I shut my eyes and I prayed, I begged Artmeis for Hippolyta not to have been involved in anyway...
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:10:29 GMT -6
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EvergreenLM - 02:52pm Jun 9, 2002 ET (#305 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Have Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
Shooting Star
As Evergreen and Zena walked back to where the others were peacefully sleeping, except Phalon.
Phalon seemed to be transfixed on the crackling flames of the fire. As Zena and Evergreen approached, Phalon turned, looked at Evergreen, and silently pointed a shaking finger.
“Let me see you sword!”
Evergreen hesitated with a perplexed look on her face. She softly said,
“Alright,Why do you want it Phalon?”
“EG, please, just hand it to me, PLEASE,” Phalon said with a deep sadness in her voice.
Evergreen unsheathed her sword. No one but Zena knew the origin of Evergreen’s only real companion, that beautiful sword. She was surprised and even drew a breath when Evergreen so freely spoke to Phalon of it.
“Here, Phalon”, Evergreen said as she hand it over by the hilt. This sword was my father’s. It was given to him by a Silversmith who had spent some time with the Amazons."
"He had been found injured in the forest,was brought into their village at the time Xena and Gabrielle lived among them. He came to love them for the care,and healing, shown to a stranger. He also hated what he knew of Justinian's plan to annihilate them all and thought it a great irony to embellish the sword with the symbols of his enemy."
Evergreen continued in hushed tones as if she were talking of a dearly loved child.
“Father never knew that the blade, with which he vowed to end the life of every Amazon, was indeed ornamented with the very symbol of our power.”
“The symbol is that of WOMAN. The blue Topaz are the eyes of Xena, the entwined strands of brass and gold, the color of Gabrielle’s hair. The blood Garnets represent the life force of those that feel the power of the blade, and as the Fates would have it, the season of my birth. The silver moon, the golden sun, and the diamond stars, are the universe that binds us all and was given life by our Mother.”
“Justinian’s sword was the only thing Roman my mother took with her as we fled Rome. She recognized the meaning of the symbols giving me the sword as a sacred trust. I tried to return it to father after I killed him. Like me, that which he hated, and loved so much, brought to him his very end.”
Zena stood incredulous. She whispered, “Why are you telling her this? Why now?”
Phalon gently ran her fingers over the stones, then touching the symbols of silver and gold, stopping only when she felt the touch of the blood Garnets. She looked up at Evergreen, and with tears filling her eyes, handed the sword back.
As the sword passed between them, Evergreen’s dark eyes locked with Phalon’s reflecting the crackling fire in her tears. Without exchanging a word, Evergreen knew, Phalon knew, this was the sword of her vision.
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zena - 03:25pm Jun 9, 2002 ET (#306 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Day Is Done
As they returned to the others that evening Zena leaned on Evergreen, not feeling sure of her balance. They found Phalon to get something to stop the ache in Zena's head from the blow that had returned her sight. "I'd be fine if you would just keep your fist off my head," Zena tossed at Evergreen. "Oh, it's not as if your head isn't the hardest one here", she threw back. And so they bantered back and forth until Zena slipped down beside Little Gabbyfan to finally let the potion work. Phalon was having one of her mystical experiences and examined Evergreen's ornate sword carefully. Zena's mind was too hazy to understand fully what the conversation was about and she finally succumbed to sleep. Evergreen sat and watched her sister Leara until she too dozed. Too soon everyone was up and taking positions for the battle.
It went well, if a war can go well for anyone. The camp was destroyed and there was talk that Greek fire might be used to obliterate any traces of the Romans. The losses for the Amazons were minimal but painful; there are no faceless troops in a family. Vasca had died fighting bravely with Zena and Gabbyfan and Zena was sure that she went straight to the Elysian fields. Her loss would be felt by all, but even more poignant was the site of Xwpfan rocking a dying Solaria; the child she had raised to womanhood.
Zena knelt beside them and put her hand against Solaria's pale face, brushing her golden hair back as she had done when she tended her when she was small and sick. She looked at the wound from the arrow deep in her body and knew that in a few moments she would be gone. "Thank you Zena," Solaria whispered and turned her head painfully to see Xwpfan's face, "thank you Mother, you were always so.........." Solaria was dead. Wxpfan broke into a death song for her daughter that joined the wailing of the other women who had lost loved ones. Zena left them to their grief and went to embrace her own unscathed child.
"It's time to get back to our camp and decide what to do next. It's time to bury our dead.", Zena called as she began to gather the warriors for the trip back.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:11:34 GMT -6
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EvergreenLM - 07:30pm Jun 9, 2002 ET (#307 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Have Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
A Final Encounter
The dawn broke and those at the camp site rose and silently went about their morning packing,checking weapons,attending to the horses,and quietly saying what mattered most to those they cared about so dearly.
Everyone knew what the next few hours would bring. All were acutely aware that the good-byes said may be the final parting of many Sisters.
No one showed any fear,but steadfast determination to do what had to be done. They did not ask for this conflict and yet they were drawn deeply inside where the only escape would be to fight their way home again.
The camp fires were extinguished. A circle was formed so all could see the others face. Each had her own story to tell about how they had arrived at this place in time. A final sign and shout"To A Strong Amazon Nation!" was done and the group dispersed.
Those who had formed a strong bond with a companion or friend met in twos and threes saying final words.
Evergreen,currying Whisperer's dark mane, watched all from a distance. There is no one but Zena who Evergreen would allow to see how deeply she cared for them all. Zena was holding Little Gabby. She broke away and approached the place where Evergreen stood.
"I have something I want to say to you",Zena said.
Evergreen never looked away from her task. "I think I don't want to hear it", Evergreen softly muttered.
"Do you not want to hear what may be the last thing we speak of?",Zena said with voice nearly breaking.
"No, actually I don't. It is my fault we are here. We should have gone to Thrace. You could have taken Little Gabby and lived out a peaceful life",Evergreen said turning and now facing Zena.
"No good-byes, Zena,please no good-byes for us",Evergreen turned back to combing Whisperer.
Zena turned to leave.
"Wait,Zena wait!",said Evergreen.
"I will promise you this, we will survive this day and we will have our journey to Thrace", I give you this as my oath",and with that said, Evergreen placed her sword with its legacy into its sheath, mounted Whisperer, and rode off into the direction of the sounds of Roman troops marching into the forest.
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EvergreenLM - 08:07pm Jun 9, 2002 ET (#308 of 330)
"To Conquer Others is to Have Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
All's Well That Ends...
Shortly after Evergreen rode away, the others mounted up singly and in pairs. They were close behind Evergreen and caught up to her as they entered a clearing. A shout like thunder was heard and the Romans came charging out of the forest edge. Shields and drawn swords glistened in the early morning light,banners popped in the wind.
Evergreen swung off of Whisperer and swatted his flank,
"GO!", "Get out of here! GO now!",Evergreen shouted and thinking he should not have to die this day for what humans contrived.
Evergreen was thankful she left Little Dog with the wounded who could not ride nor fight.
Amazons dismounted,notched their bows,drew their weapons forming a circle so no one could come up to any one Sister from behind. The fighting began in earnest. Metal to metal,sai to short swords,arrows flying and finding their mark. Shouting,screaming,dust rising from the earth from this dance to the death, and it seemed to Evergreen that it would never stop.
"Just let this STOP",Evergreen pleaded to whatever god might be witnessing this from afar.
Evergreen could hear Zena screaming at Little Gabby to leave and run to the woods,but when she turned in to see her friend, Little Gabby was steadfast to Zena's side. Evergreen tried to see the others,XWPfan,Phalon,Puella,where were they?
Turning the other direction, Evergreen saw leara, Vasca, Solaria, and Hippolyta. Solaria went down and did not move.
"Bye the gods,let this end",Evergreen shouted out loud. Time stood still as the battle raged on. Finally, Romans began running for the forest. Swords were silenced and the only sound heard were those of the wounded and dying.
Evergreen cried from exhaustion. She lowered her sword,the sword of her father,turned, and saw Zena and Little Gabby. Evergreen raised her hand to them and could not understand their look of horror. Zena shouted as she and Little Gabby ran in her direction, "Noooooo!"
Evergreen heard the footfalls behind her turned and saw Hippolyta with raised sword. Evergreen was confused and did not react,she did not comprehend the import of Hippolyta's actions. She stood and looked into the eyes of a Sister,and saw a stranger there.
As Hippolyta brought the sword down for the kill, Evergreen heard a "Swoosh...thud". She fell at Evergreen's feet. As she grabbed Evergreen's boot,with knife in hand,Evergreen drew up her sword and sent it into Hippolyta and watched as the light in Hippolyta's eyes was gone forever.
Evergreen turned to see Little Gabby,kneeling on one leg with bow in hand. Zena went to Little Gabby to gather her in her arms.
The walk to them seemed like an eternity. As Evergreen approached the pair,she stopped and looked back at her sword,the treasure bestowed upon her by her mother. The sword would stay leaving that part of her past behind with the dead.
Evergreen went to Zena and Little Gabby, and looking at the pair of as a most treasured possession,said,
"It ends here, it begins here. Let's go home."
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:12:53 GMT -6
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zena - 10:11pm Jun 9, 2002 ET (#309 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Home
Evergreen went to Zena and Little Gabby, and looking at the pair as a most treasured possession,said, "It ends here, it begins here. Let's go home." "I'm with you," Zena said, "let's get as far away from these Romans as we can. I hear that in Melodia there's a contest for peace. How's your singing?"
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phalon - 11:59pm Jun 9, 2002 ET (#310 of 330)
The Guardian
Phalon stood on the edge of the forest overlooking what was once the Roman camp, now a bloody battle ground. A great feeling of melancholy came over her. The war was over. Who won? And at what cost?
Phalon shook her head and turned to Agapanthus at her side. "I will miss you", she said to the horse. "We have become good friends, you and I. It is time though, to return you to Cyrene's." Cyrene's Tavern and Inn. By the gods, how long had it been since she had delivered that wounded man there and had borrowed Agapanthus to ride off and join the fight? Days? Weeks? It seemed as if it were an eternity, a life time ago. How far they had all come, and how far they still had to go.
Phalon had made up her mind last night, before the war cry was given. If she was to make it through the battle, she was going home afterwards. They say you can never go home, and it had been twenty-some years since she left that day, shortly after the slaughter of her beloved. But she was going to try. Oh, she had heard bits and pieces of news over the years, mostly from wanderers like herself, who had passed through the village of her youth. She knew that her brother had taken over the family's shop, after her father had gone to the Elysian Fields some-odd years ago. Her brother was now married with grown children of his own. Her mother, she heard, was alive and well, but never quite got over the child who so abruptly and painfully left home.
Before she was to begin her journey, there was one piece of unfinished business to which she needed to attend. Phalon reached into her pouch and pulled out the necklace. She held it up, letting the talisman dangle from it's silver chain intertwined within her fingers. The emerald shone and began to radiate the now familar green light to which Phalon had grown accustomed. A face began to emerge in the glow.
"I've been waiting for you, Phalon."
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phalon - 12:29am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#311 of 330)
The Guardian, (cont.)
"I've been waiting for you, Phalon. Do you know you I am?"
"The wounded man I brought to Cyrene's Tavern. The man from my vision who wiped away Puella's painful memories when she was a young girl. You are one and the same. I know who you are. You are Puella's Guardian."
"Yes. I am the Guardian of the Necklace and of those who wear it.
Phalon, it was not by chance that it was you, who found me laying wounded in that village. Though my wounds were not mortal, I was an old man. My time had come to leave this world for another. I have chosen you. Rather the powers of the necklace have chosen you. I am passing on the guardianship to you. Put the necklace on, Phalon. Keep it until it's rightful owner is ready."
"But, I don't know....."
"You will know. It will find it's way back to whom it belongs --- it always does."
Phalon put the silver chain with it's emerald bull around her neck, and for one brief instant, before she turned to leave, her eyes flashed a brilliant green light.
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xwpfan - 01:32am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#312 of 330)
Unbearable News
Puella knelt beside me her hands were shaking as she broke the unbearable news, Hippolyta was dead. Puella tried to explain that for some unknown reason Hippolyta had attacked Evergreen. Puella grasped my hand harder, her voice quivered as she whispered, Xwpfan I am so sorry.. I began to tremble.
"Hippolyta is dead." I had known before she had said the words, but hearing them made it real.
My body began to shake and to quiver I wanted to pass out, but I still had one charge to look after, Solaria. My golden child. I wanted so much for her.. and yet there she was in my arms slowly dying. I could hear her rasping for breath ,I looked down in Solaria's eyes and saw the light in them growing dim.. there was a single tear rolling down her cheek, I caught it and held it in the palm of my hand. I whispered it's okay to let go, I understand, but I didn't not really. Solaria must of seen the pain in my eyes for with her final breath she gave me one last gift, she called me mother.
I sat there unable to move. My life's work,my life efforts gone in a single day. My skills as a warrior had not saved them, My prayers were of no use. What had I done to make Artmeis so mad at me? Why not take me instead of those I loved and cared for?
I screamed and cried and screamed some more. I was beyond comfort, beyond all grief. I had nothing left. My charges were dead, my sisters were going off separate ways, my leg would never be the same again and my horse was lost.. I felt alone and abandoned. What did I have left to live for?
As I thought those words I felt a warm hand on my shoulder, it was Puella. I couldn't even smile at her presence. I just fell into her open arms and sobbed. I cried until I threw up and I cried some more.
I had cried so hard my eyes were nearly swollen shut. I could barely see my friend but I could feel her presence. She softly hummed a haunting tune as she started to clean Solaria and prepare her for the funeral Pyre.
The melody was soft and sweet, my eyes grew heavy with every word, the emotional and physical stresses of the day had caught up with me. Puella stopped what she had been doing, laid a bed roll out, sat down and patted the bedroll, "Come ,come rest awhile. I won't leave you."
I closed my eyes and dreamed of my charges.
There was a vision of Vasca begging me to step into her very first snare trap and how I hung for nearly half a day til she figured out how to get me down without ruining her precious snare trap.
I dreamed of Solaria and how she got into her first fight because of me and my lineage, Hippolyta had told her I wasn't really of this tribe that I was an outsider. Solaria was clearly overmatched by Hippolyta, but Solaria still swung at Hippolyta trying to defend my lineage. How fiercely loyal she was. It had taken over three candlemarks to get her to believe that Hippolyta was half right. My great great grandmother had hailed from Ireland but had been adopted by an amazon and that my grandmother and mother were both artisans in this tribe.
My last dream was dark and foreboding. Hippolyta was screaming "Death to the Romans! Around her there was bodies and blood everywhere. I tried to reach out to her and she rebuffed me.
" Stay away from me, you can't tell me what to do any more!" With that she killed yet another Roman. She was mad with blood lust,killing anything that got in her way or tried to tell her what to do....
Then the family crest I had taken off the solider covered over her face. I woke up screaming....
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:13:57 GMT -6
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gabbyfan4ever - 02:38am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#313 of 330)
Aint no Mountain High Enough
Little Gabbyfan stood on the battlefield with her arm through Zena's, and her head resting on her mother's shoulder. She had seen more bloodshed that day than she had ever imagined to see in her entire life. But they had won. The loss of life on both sides weighed heavy on Gabbyfan's soul, and was shown in her tears. She knew, however, that the Amazon Nation had stood valiently against the odds, and fought for the future of the tribe. Though the war was over, it had seemed to last for an eternity.
Little Gabbyfan had slept contentedly the night before the war for the first time since she had been at home, in her own bed. When she awoke the next morning a feeling of determination pervaded her. She would fight for her Nation, for, if she survived, what would be her new home. Gabbyfan was neither cocky, or too laidback, but knew she had found her place no matter the outcome of this day.
Before the battle began little gabby made sure to give all her friends a hug of encouragment, and in some cases, of goodbye. In the back of her mind, Gabbyfan hoped Leara had come out of her daze. She didn't want the woman to be defenseless in the oncoming war. Especially due to a blow to the head by Gabbyfans own staff in a fit of rage.
Cont. next post
gabbyfan4ever - 02:39am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#314 of 330)
Cont.
Gabbyfan was given a new staff to replace the one she had lost at the Roman camp. The little warrior knew she was not skilled in sword-handling, and she had been told carrying one would only make her a target, by the warrior-bard Gabrielle. Who had been recieved this same advice from the great warrior princess, Xena.
THe call to war was fast approaching, and little gabby went to stand with her mother. When the signal was heard the cry "To a Strong Amazon Nation" reverberated throughout the Amazons as they ran to their destiny. Gabbyfan stuck close to her mother during the battle, and kept one eye on her. Zena had tried to order her back to the woods, but that was one command she couldn't follow. She would fight with her family no matter the outcome. For a moment gabby caught a glimpse of the Queen and her second Lucystar fighting, and was awed at their skill.
The fighting had continued off and on all day, and at each lull Gabbyfan made sure all her friends were alive, spurred by a fear of losing someone else she loved. Late in the battle she saw Hippolyta get knocked down by a Roman and lose her sword . Gabbyfan got to her in time to block his potentially fatal blow. She took his legs out from under him with her staff, and sent him sprawling to the ground, knocking him unconcious. Hippolyta looked up at Gabbyfan shocked and frozen for a moment, while gabby gave her a cool stare in return. The little Amazon tore away from Hippolyta's stare, picked up her sword, and handed it back to her. With that the little warrior made her way back to Zena, sending Romans flying out of her path.
The battle waged on thoughout the day, until finally the Romans could fight no longer. Utterly defeated the Roman army was either dead, dying, or had fled. Gabbyfan practically fell into Zena's arms, completely exhausted both mentally and physically. No sooner than she had thought the day was finished, gabby recieved a shock when she looked up to see Hippolyta standing over Evergreen with her sword ready to strike. Zena tried to warn EG, but the Amazon was shocked into stillness. With no thought other than protect her sister, gabbyfan picked up a bow and sent an arrow into Hippolyta that sent her slumped to the ground where Evergreen finished it.
Gabbyfan couldn't move. The same Amazon she had saved from the enemy earlier that same day, was now dead, with an arrow in her from gabbyfans bow. While she did not kill her with the shot, she could have, and her blood innocence would have been wiped out as easy as that. The thing was, gabbyfan would do it again. The little Amazon stayed frozen until Zena came and gathered her up in her comforting arms, as silent tears rolled down gabby's face.
As dusk was fast approaching, Gabbyfan stood reflecting on her life. The little warriors whole world had been completely turned upside down in only a few days. She had lost her family, but had recieved an entire nation in return. When she thought she didn't have anything left, she gained a mother who was willing to die for her, and gabbyfan would do the same. She missed her family, and always would. But she did not miss her old life. She knew where she belonged now.
And as the last tear of the day fell away, so did Little Gabbyfan's old life. The little warrior affectionately hugged her mother Zena like a small child, and she looked ahead to the future with her, wherever that may be.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:16:01 GMT -6
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Joxcenia - 04:05am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#315 of 330)
I Came... I Saw... I Went Home! lol
What Goes Up... Must Come Down!
Joxcenia lay back in a nice groove in a tree branch and rested her eyes. She thought about her vision and how it led her to Greek Fire. Artemis had said that using the Greek Fire and destroying the Roman's weapons was the only way they would win the battle. It was urgent that she got this information to the Queen. Then they needed to find the one among them that could give them the whereabouts of the Roman weapons so that they could steal what they needed and destroy what they didn't.
As Joxcenia pondered all this, she drifted off to sleep. In her dream, she heard the beating of the Amazon drums and the voices of her sisters singing of their past triumphs over their enemies. She glared up at the moon and demanded it give up its secrets, but it only scowled at her. She found herself being lifted up into the air by unseen hands... 'What the...' she wondered. 'Does the moon have the power to do this to me?' She flew higher and higher above the trees, and struggled to release herself before she reached the stars. Suddenly she stopped moving upward and instead found herself being forced downward at an alarmingly fast rate of speed. She hit the ground with a "Thud!" and knew no more.
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"This will be the last tree for today," growled the Roman in charge. "Chop off the limbs and leave them where they lay, then drag the trunk back to camp."
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girlpower - 05:01am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#316 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear..but the strength to conquer it.
Puella finds her family
Puella sits holding Xwpfan on her bedroll, as she wakes screaming from her sleep. Watching her, feeling her pain and sorrow, wishing I could make everything that happened this past day disappear. The war against the Roman’s was now over, but the aftermath is more then I can bear. The smell of blood and the sounds of the screams the smoke from the fires. I feel exactly as if I had been transported into my nightmares, but instead of me being the innocent I was the one guilty of causing such destruction. All three of Xwpfan’s girls were dead from the battle. Vasca faced death on the battlefield, Hippolyta died at the end of a sister’s blade and Solaria, Solaria died of an arrow meant for me. As I sit and comfort Xwpfan I feel responsible for her pain. That arrow was meant for me. Swaying slightly and humming a lullaby. This day has changed our lives forever, as I recall it I begin to cry…
I slept as soundly as I had ever remembered. No nightmares, only familiar faces entered my dreams. Faces of my new family, my dearest friends. Little Gabbyfan and her undaunted spirit. Xwpfan and her strength combined with a loving heart. Zena and her courage. Evergreen and her loyalty. Phalon and her wisdom. Among them I stand, my heart full of pride.
I awaken but do not move. I hear Xwpfan get up and hobble around. She limped her way over to where I lay, she brushed my hair back from my face and whispered, “Your friendship and loyalty have been the nicest surprise I've had in many a moon. I pray to Artemis that we will have many seasons to get to know each other better. Only the Gods know what will happen later this day, but I want you to know I am proud to call you my amazon sister and friend.” Her words cause me to smile, but there is no need to let her know I am awake. These words I hold close to my heart as I face the battle ahead. I watched as Xwpfan limped over to the three Amazons that she has asked me to care for in the event of her death. ‘Her legacy’ she called them. I have no intention of letting anything happen to her. She can finish the job raising them. I hear her parting words to them, “be safe and make me proud."
The battle was fierce, lasting the entire day. By my side was Solaria, I looked at her often as we fought. Her face showed the ache in her heart every time a soldier died by her sword. This has got to stop, there is no reason for this. No reason for Solaria’s heart to harden from a war that will never be won. We may win this battle but there will always be another legion to take it’s place, another Roman bent on extinguishing the lives of the Amazons. As I looked around and bodies lay everywhere, I begin walking towards Solaria. Dropping my sword I raise my arms to take her into an embrace. “Come young one your day of battle is over,” I say. She drops her sword as well and walks into my arms. Just as I wrapped my arms around her she gasped at the sight of something and pushed me to the ground. I watched as an arrow pierced her chest. She fell to the ground and I pulled her into my arms. “Nooo, Solaria Nooo.” I scream. She coughed and then whispered, “Mother, get my mother.” I laid her onto the ground and ran for Xwpfan.
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girlpower - 05:02am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#317 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear... but the strength to conquer it.
Puella finds her family II
I see Xwpfan, carrying Vasca’s dead body in her arms, tears flowing down her face. My heart sank at the sight. Trying to control the tears that cloud my eyes I look to the ground. My attempt to mask my feelings did not work, as soon as she saw me she asked. "Puella what's wrong?" I could barely speak, "It's Solaria, she took an arrow that was meant for me, it's bad and she is asking for you." She stared at me in disbelief and said, "Take me to her, NOW." Xwpfan ran with little thought to her wounded leg to Solaria’s side. She cradled her in her arms. I stood back watching them, giving them whatever time Solaria had left. Looking around the camp I see a Roman bow lying on the ground. Who ever held this bow was the one that shot Solaria. I vow to find whoever that is, and see that they are brought to justice. As I throw the bow to the ground a scout from Leara’s TAD approached me. The scout tells to me that there is an Amazon dead. A sword is sticking out of her. I follow the scout to find Hippolyta’s body. Evergreen’s sword sticking out of her chest. My mind was filled with only one thought. How can I tell Xwpfan that the last of her legacy is dead, and by the hands of Evergreen? I pulled the sword from her body and walked towards the scout. “Evergreen!” I scream. I gave the sword to the scout and told her, “hold onto this sword. I will ask for it later. Thank you.” I slowly walked back to Xwpfan.
I don’t even remember the words I spoke to her. I only remember her face, the pain in her heart could be seen by the blind. As Solaria lying in her arms spoke her last word. “Mother.” She lost control and began to sob. Standing there all I could think was, that arrow was meant for me. It is my fault that she is dead. I walked to Xwpfan and placed my hand on her shoulder, in effort to console her and plead for forgiveness. She fell into my arms. Throughout the night we sat together, until her eyes were so swollen she could barely see. I prepared Solaria for her funeral pyre. The honor I felt in my heart for this young warrior. She gave her life to save me. I began to hum a song of mourning. A song I hear in my dreams. Others begin to hum and sing it as well. I know now this is a song of the Amazons, a song of my family. Looking to Xwpfan in her bedroll, finally sleeping. I do not know what tomorrow will bring, but I do know we will face it together…
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:17:11 GMT -6
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zena - 08:48am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#318 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
The Path Taken
The funeral pyres had burned out and the formal period of mourning was over. Zena felt unbearably grateful that many of her friends were still alive, her best friend was with her and her child was not lost to her.
The horses were loaded with the few possessions that they owned and the path to the sea opened wide before them. The world was ready for new adventures. Evergreen playfully punched at Zena’s head, and she ducked out of the way saying, “Hey! Keep your fist off my head. I’m going to take to wearing a helmet if you don’t back off.” Evergreen laughed and swung up into Whisperer’s saddle. “A helmet just for riding? Don’t be ridiculous. Let’s get started before the path gets crowded. Now let’s play the game.” Zena settled onto Ergo saddle and said, “Ok, are you animal, god or human?” “Human” “Agapanthus” “No, Agapanthus is Phalon’s horse.” “Oh. Are you living or dead?” “Living” “Male or female?” “Male” “Caesar.” “Nope” “Are you Greek?” “Yes.” “Herod” “No! Herod’s not Greek! Think harder!” “I can’t my head still hurts.” “Baby” “Not” “Are” The horses and their riders strolled on toward the sea and as they went they were joined by some of their friends.
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xwpfan - 11:12am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#319 of 330)
Saying Goodbye...
I awoke screaming. As my body wakened,for just a fleeting moment I was somewhere between reality and dreams. Not sure of what was dream and what was reality.I wished I could of stayed there... suspended from the conscious knowledge of my pain.
As I became more awake I could feel an uncommon heaviness in my heart and the look at Puella's face confirmed to me know losing Solaria, Vasca and Hippolyta wasn't a dream but my reality .
I tried to get up but my leg had once again stiffened. Puella helped me up. I looked into her eyes, there was so much pain and sorrow there not unlike my own.
I hobbled my way over to Solaria's body. Puella had done a beautiful job preparing her. Tears began to once again roll down my cheeks as I kissed the top of Solaria's head and whispered,"Thank you little one for giving yourself so valiantly, You died a hero but then again you were always a hero to me.
Although I have loved and cared for all my charges, it was you I grew to love the most. You were the daughter I never had. I will miss your laugh, your eagerness to please. The God's allowed me to love someone who was not of my flesh as if she were; for a season. In my heart, you ARE my daughter and will always be. I will make sure you are sent off as a daughter, a hero and a warrior, for to me you were all three.
I knew how brave you truly were,even if you didn't. That's why I sent you to protect Puella. I knew you would give your very life if necessary... and you did. Solaria,your name will live on, future sisters will know of your sacrifice and undying loyalty. I pray to someday see you again in the Elysian fields. For now I am comforted knowing you are free to battle no more."
I looked over to see that Puella's eyes were overflowing with tears. Puella cried," I killed her,it's my fault she's dead. That arrow was meant for me. Can you ever forgive me? I vow to you XWPfan I will kill whoever did this to her"
It was my turn to comfort her, I took her and my arms and said," Hush,I will have no such talk of guilt or vengeance on this day. There will be plenty to go around in the future. Solaria's death is not your fault!There is nothing to forgive,she did as I asked of her she was obeying my command, she fulfilled her duty. Had she not we'd be mourning you instead... and I could not bare that either.
No, my friend, you are not to blame. I know given a choice you would of sacrificed your life for hers. I believe that the fates have willed this day from the beginning. Why else would the Gods give me charge over three young women all so bright but oh so different.
I was given charge of a hero, a warrior and a traitor. It was in their hearts from the very beginning I just never really saw it... I was too busy trying to teach them the ways of the Amazons.
For Solaria and Vasca putting the sisterhood before anything else just came naturally to them... and today they have paid dearly with their lives.
Hippolyta was a different story, it was always how she could do it so much quicker,stronger,better... she was forever challenging me. I had no question in my mind she'd grow up to be a fierce warrior, but I never dreamed she'd purposely try to take a another sisters life.
Puella, as much as I loved her I can't let her be honored with Vasca and Solaria. As far as I am concerned Hippolyta betrayed the Amazon nation, her fellow sisters. She failed to live up to every lesson I ever taught her.I cannot proprely mourn her right now, I can no longer respect her. I just feel numb, beyond pain or reason. Just vastly empty and numb."
Puella softly nodded and then she whispered,"Do you want to say Goodbye to Vasca, they're preparing her now." I nodded.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:18:18 GMT -6
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xwpfan - 11:14am Jun 10, 2002 ET (#320 of 330)
Saying goodbye..part II
Vasca looked serene as if she was just asleep. I brushed a a stray hair back,her body was now stiff and cold. I felt a lump in my throat as I tried to say goodbye. I rested my head on her stomach as I whispered." It is said that the dead can hear our thoughts, so I just wanted you to know that wherever this life takes me I will always remember the you, my little warrior. You always tried extra hard because you were so afraid that you weren't good enough or brave enough to be an Amazon warrior. Today you answered your own questions.
Vasca you died a warriors death and you will be given a proper Amazon funeral. I will miss you always.. I am so proud of you." I kissed her forehead and nodded so that they could take her to lay next to Solaria.
Four of my Amazon sisters carefully lifted her body and slowly headed off. Puella and I followed in silence. I had no words left inside of me to speak.
As we approached I could see our sisters all adorned in ceremonial dress waiting to give Solaria and Vasca a proper funeral. I felt my legs give way bit Puella braced me and we continued forward.
I was handed a torch, but I limped over and grabbed a second torch and handed it to Puella and whispered,"For Solaria" Puella nodded with tears flowing down her face.
Then from somewhere deep inside the ancient melody of the ages stirred inside me and I opened my mouth and out flowed my grief and aanguish in the words of a song. My sisters added their voices, the melody was haunting and sorrowful and yet life affirming as we continued to sing I felt a lightness I had never known. I looked around the camp and through my tears I saw the people I loved and trusted the most grieving with me and for me.
I looked at each of them.I loved them all so much. They were my family, my reason for living,what would I do now with no one to care for? I wondered who would stay and who would off in their different directions and if they would always remember what happened here.
As the last notes hung in the air I looked over at Puella and we stepped forward as one to light the fires. The pryes lit with a whooosh and my sisters began a new song a song of life and remembrance.One by one they stepped forward to hug me and console me. my heart was broken and yet full at the same time.
As the ceremony drew to a close I realized for the first time in my adult life I did not know where to call home. I felt lost and alone again.
Puella must of sensed my discord she squeezed my hand and said, "Whatever the future brings we'll face it together."
I was surveying our little makeshift camp one lasttime when I saw Leara leading Divine Retribution by the reigns towards me. Leara said with tears in her eyes," I am so sorry for your losses. I know nothing on earth can make up for what you've lost.. but I'd like to give you my horse. I know how much you love and care for her. I hope you don't mind but I renamed her Solaria."
I looked Leara deep in the eyes and for the first time I did not see an enemy there..today was not a day for enemies but for grieving. I took the reigns out of her outstreched hand and put them firmly in my own hand and simply said "Thank you Solaria would of loved that."
Puella whistled for her horse so that we could join some of the others, but her horse did not answer her call. Puella stood there shaking her head, perplexed.
I felt a small secret smile came to my lips as I said," Puella you have so much to learn! Remind me to teach you how to whistle for a Amazon horse!"
With that I let out a whistle and what came galloping up but her horse.
Puella laughed out loud and I could feel a hint of life's goodness creeping back into my life.
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EvergreenLM - 01:33pm Jun 10, 2002 ET (#321 of 30)
"To Conquer Others is to Have Power...to Conquer Yourself is to Know the Way"
DISCLAIMER
No Bards,small dogs,horses,smelly Romans,or Lima Beans were harmed in the creation of this Scroll.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:20:01 GMT -6
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leara - 02:06pm Jun 10, 2002 ET (#322 of 330)
Closure for Who Am I ?
The visions are strange and I confront them one by one. This is the truth that has been tormenting my soul for as long as I can remember. The Monster is who I really am by birth – A Roman. The tears begin to flow freely from years of uncertainty, the not knowing what to believe about the past or who I am. In the end it comes down to who you choose to be I had chose many times not to give in to the destructive forces that raged within me. I have performed mostly good deeds for the benefit of others.
I awaken to see my scout has found me and is now caring for the lump on my head. I start to speak “I am a Roman, not just playing a part. I was born to a prominent Roman family but left when I was a small child with my sister Evergreen and her Amazon mother. My mother Madula, left me with the Tribe of the Trees to raise me. They met an untimely end by a warlord. I met back with Madula and you know the rest. Come now the battle is in full swing we must fight for the Amazons and Madula. I think that they may seek their revenge on me as I am their sworn Enemy. I do not fear this, All things will happen as they are supposed to.” My scout helps me to my feet and we head down to get a few Romans of our own.
We join in the battle and for a change the looks I am receiving are not the hate and mistrust of before they are almost a smile of approval. It helps to calm the dread that I am killing my own kind- well those who share my blood. Any predator will eat it’s young in times of desperation and hardship these dogs have brought this fate down on their own heads. My eye does not feel sorry for any of them any longer and my hate is fueled by the losses of the Amazons.
As Scout and I fight through the camp my friends of TAD lie dead and bleeding they who have followed me to their own peril. I want us to fight together I have been away for so much of the battle preparations. The Romans have no heart left to fight because they are mostly dead. In the twilight I order that they are to board the ship and go home not to looking back. I am staying here or will wander up north to my homeland.
It is easy to slip down through the camp the remaining Romans think me a friend and so do the Amazons. I make my way through the camp my stomach sickens with the smell of blood and stench of death that fills the air. There is nothing exalting or beautiful about the carnage that has taken place today.
I make my way back to the place of the Amazon camp and hear the news of the fallen sisters. Despite the rage that has come between us I my heart aches for Xwpfan she has now lost a large part of her family. I remember the feeling all to well, I must try to comfort her. I give to her Madula’s fine stallion knowing that he will be well cared for and loved. I offer the Sword of Madula a fine silver piece to Puella as a true Amazon she has more right to it than I.
Me well I never really know where I am going and sure can’t plan anything once I get there. The one true thing is : The path of right must be followed no matter the cost and your true friends and family will always find you.
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xwpfan - 05:13pm Jun 11, 2002 ET (#323 of 330)
Not the end - a new beginning awaits....
Dear Bards and Scroll fans, the story has not ended, merely it's first chapter. Please,feel welcome to join us as a reader, a writer or both in in the continuing saga of the Zena Scrolls- The Re-building of a Nation.
Just to let you know it is our intention from time to time to add some sort of post here, to keep the folder open for all those who desire to read our tale.
For my fellow bards, let us pray that the Gods shine upon us and allow our new adventures to be pleasing to both reader and writer.
To continue with the tale as reader or writer just click on the folder for "The Zena Scroll- Re-building a Nation"
Thanks again.
To a Strong Amazon Nation.
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Post by Zena on Jun 22, 2004 20:21:56 GMT -6
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leara - 07:33pm Jun 14, 2002 ET (#324 of 330)
Little Update
I, Leara, think that I am going to wait until you settle on a site to decide what exactly to do. I am not sure how I am going to return to the Amazons. I think I will just hang out in the meadow a while longer. I think the scroll will survive a two place divided plot for a little while.
I have to be out of town for a while next week and am best served to sit still. Keeping LS company until QS returns and they return from vacation.
Since I have only my Roman clothing and no money, an encounter with BW will prove interesting, since she hates them as much as I did/do.
I am still working on the how to show up. I seem to be too preoccupied with other things to think straight about it. My usual methods of inspiration are taking longer than usual.
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blackwolf - 07:52pm Jun 14, 2002 ET (#325 of 330)
Gee, Leara, how did you guess about my loathing for Romans (evil laughter) I didn't think I was that obvious Anyway, don't worry about meeting up with me. I like to investigate stuff before I pass judgement. I was going to let the Roman soldiers live if I hadn't heard they were going to tell Caesar about the recent loss. Well, at least their chances for living would have better.
BW
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xwpfan - 08:24pm Jun 17, 2002 ET (#326 of 330)
Update
So far on the Zena Scrolls Re Building a Nation we have for characters: Xwpfan, Puella, Leara,J'mea,Black wolf,Red, Lucystar and hopefully soon Queen Saxy.
Please any of you looking to join please feel free to do so..(hint hint Z-fan lol ) and we hope for the return of our beloved friends, Zena, Evergreen and Phalon to the Zena scrolls.
blackwolf - 01:42am Jun 26, 2002 ET (#327 of 330)
My character
In case anyone wants to know, my character is 5'7, has really short brown hair, hazel eyes, isn't overly muscular but can pass easily for a young man. I wear soft, black leather boots, a black tunic, and my belt is also black (go figure) with a running wolf as the clasp. My only other accessories are my horse and sword. My horse, Lukos, is a palomino and stands 15 hands high. My sword is kept in a black sheath at my side (I might be going a little bit overboard with all of this black, but it's my second favorite color, and it blends well with the darkness that the forest provides). Exactly what my sword looks like will be discussed later (hopefully).
BW
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girlpower - 06:44am Jul 7, 2002 ET (#328 of 330)
Courage is not the absence of fear... but the strength to conquer it.
Girlpower also known as, GP, also known as, Puella Virium, also known as, Galasia Penthesilea's character has completely evolved during the writing of these scrolls.
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zena - 10:24pm Jul 22, 2002 ET (#329 of 330)
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Commercial Break
The Zena Scrolls are sponsored in part by: Salmoneus Productions. Want to break into the Athens theatre scene in comedy or tragedy? Salmoneus can help! He knows many famous playwrights and is a friend to Gabrielle the Battling Bard herself! Be noticed! Sign on with Salmoneus, remember, he knows Hercules!
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xwpfan - 12:14am Aug 2, 2002 ET (#330 of 330)
Say what you mean, mean what you say.
Another Commercial Break
The Zena Scrolls are sponsored in part by: Xenites for Good fashion Sense. Do you have box that just sits there? Are you tired of seeing the same green box day after day after day? Is your box being riduiculed by others? Well no longer, thanks to the Bard and the Warrior you can acessorize your box with your favorite pics. Try us today before you too are considerd BGB.
(BGB refers to Big Green Box, the default picture beside your name on the O2 boards)
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