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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 1, 2004 23:31:59 GMT -6
Zena 1
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(9/16/03 2:48 pm)
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The Search For Tommorrow
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Cotton, wool, and fine Egyptian linen cascaded over the table and all the women bent over the fabric that flowed like rivers of color from Frieda’s hands. Zena had ordered some tunics, one with extra detail and was admiring a bolt of Jappa silk when she felt a tapping on the toe of her boot. The men and boys had gone out to see to the last chores of the day and only Apollo had remained. She leaned down to look and saw him squatting under the table, tangled in some cotton sheeting.
“Apollo! What are you doing under there? Come up here!”
“Shhh Zee!” He placed a small finger to his lips. “We have to go out.”
“OUT? Where? It’s dark now and you should be heading for bed.”
“Shhhhhhhhh!! It’s ‘portant! I went to tell Sumi I’m sorry, you know, about the mouses, because I think she doesn’t really like them, and I don’t want her to feel bad because I think she was crying and..”
“Apollo...”
“..I think she is very nice I still want her to be my friend even if she can’t be my pet..”
“APOLLO!”
“What?”
“Why do we have to go out?” Zena’s back was getting stiff from being flattened under the table and her patience was thinning out.
“I”m TELLING you Zee! She is gone!”
“Who?”
“Sumi!"
Zena tried to sit up and banged the back of her head on the underside of the table.
“Ow. Oh for the love of Zeus! Come up here!"
He climbed out and up onto her lap. She rubbed the lump that was forming just below the crown of her head with her right hand while holding Apollo with the other.
“We gots to find her!”
“Find who?” Phalon looked up from her mother’s attempts to pin some flannel around her like a skirt.
“Sumi, Auntie Phalon. She isn’t here."
Phalon gently rearranged the fabric into the beginning of a pair of pants. “Maybe she’s, you know, using the....outside.”
“Nope. I looked there."
Together, women and girls squealed, “You LOOKED!”
“She wasn’t there.” Apollo looked embarrassed and then shot Zena a look of desperation. No one seemed to realize that the situation was serious!
“All right. We’ll have a look around.” Zena rose, stood the boy on the bench at table side and strapped on her sword. At her waist she hung the chakram and Frieda reacted slightly as she heard the clink of the metals falling into place. Apollo reached up and pulled at Zena’s shirt until she bent down to his level, and then she whispered in her ear behind his small hand. When she straightened up her eyes sought Vassaly in the corner of the room.
“Vassaly. My partner tells me that you know the town and we would be grateful if you would be our guide."
A small voice added, “Please?”
“Yes, please."
Vassaly hesitated but fell victim to Apollo’s charms and shedding her scaly head covering trailed after them through the shop and out of the door. Cries of “Be careful!” followed them into the street. It was dark and Zena had taken a torch from the store which she lit from a small fire honoring a statue of Aphrodite displayed at the outside of the shop. She handed the torch to Vassaly so that her hands could be free for weapons if needed. Vassaly pointed down a street and they walked together, Apollo staying just a few feet in front and occasionally bounding back to report. After they had moved in silence past a number of houses Zena felt a tug from somewhere unknown to begin a conversation. So did Vassaly.
“Vassaly..”
“Zena..” They had both spoken at once and laughed at the coincidence.
“Vassaly, I’m sorry I put you off before dinner. I have learned to be careful with whom I share a confidence."
Apollo ran back to say “I like her, Zee.” Again they laughed together.
“I’m sorry too. Let us try again."
Zena nodded. “Please tell me, how did you meet Leara?”
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Edited by: Zena 1 at: 9/16/03 2:55 pm
gabbin
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(9/17/03 9:19 pm)
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Re: A House Divided
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Vassaly knew, it was in the way she said it, Frieda had come out of curiosity, she felt ashamed. Vassaly knew Frieda too well. On top of that Vassaly's severe tone in answering of her Rome-return made her uneasy. Frieda had not touched her food and had only drank mead-trying to settle her nerves. Frieda suddenly felt silly and uncomfortable-she needed to go, now, why these women were milling about picking up samples and asking questions about clothes. Frieda said a curt goodnight to nearby Vassaly and Metussa, turning to go, she bumped into a short woman, whose curly hair swept forward against Frieda's cheek-she apologized as she shuffled her way to the door. The woman, with a soft motherly voice, whom she believed to be Kaisa's daughter, offered to walk her home but, she declined, not wanting to be scene with any of these types. A small child took her hand and started to lead her out. The woman she had just bumped into followed them to the door. Frieda turned and spoke in her direction...."There, ah um, there are some hot springs North of town a bit," she offered "if, if you any of you are interested in bathing or or relaxing there, I can have a ffffriend lead you to them in the evening", Frieda was trying to stay calm but the words were just not coming out smoothly-the mead had not helped-she turned, a bit, tipsy and bumped the door frame, embarrassed now, Frieda let the child pull her out of the store and into the cool night air. As they walked along the quiet way, she could hear the far off sound of someone attempting to play an instrument, perhaps a flute. Frieda shivered and was glad to be heading home, safe home, hopefully, that is..if these women didn't visit her with orders, demands or worse. Hopefully, they would be happy with the toiletries and soft towels she would offer them and would not harm her. She was not sure, yet, if meeting them had been a good idea, she was sure she did not wish to meet them again, those weapon women.
Edited by: gabbin at: 9/20/03 8:11 pm
1itt1e dog
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(9/20/03 8:12 am)
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Dog In A Box
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The day’s march was hot, dusty and above all loud. Little Dog growled, howled and finally horse from his efforts, lapsed into a sad whimper.
(Grrrrr. Grrrrrrrrr. YIP!! YIP!! YAP!! OOOOOOO Oooooo oooooo. Whine. Hot box!! One opening....sniff, sniff...air! Whine)
Over the tramp of thousands of feet no one heard him as his box was carried along with tents, arms and the other accouterments of the Roman camp. The heated, nearly airless wooden box could easily become his tomb. At dusk they set up camp in it’s official form of armory in the center and the box with the dog was transported there. It lay in the corner under a pile of spears, near the Counsul’s table where she worked on her battle plans. She felt strangely at home in the armory tent, and a whisp of a memory met her there each time she entered. Long ago she was...then the memory would evaporate.
In the box the dog was dying. He lay panting, overcome by heat and suffocating slowly. All he could manage as his fading conciousness returned to his woman was a small feeble whine.
(my woman...my woman..w..h..i..n..e)
In the forest she awoke from her pine needle bed and rose to once again go over the battle plan.
Cave Canem
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 1, 2004 23:33:05 GMT -6
the chaotrix
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(9/20/03 7:35 pm)
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On the Path to Tomorrow
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The song came easily. It spoke of how the dewy grass would feel under her feet, and how the early morning light would give the last of her world a soft lavender glow. How crisp the air would feel at this place, drawn into her lungs for the last time. Everything would be beautiful and serene. The worlds would merge at that moment to finally welcome her home.
A sweet ache had blossomed with that song. Everything would be right after all.
As the last note faded Sumire opened her eyes. The silence after the music was too thick for solitude in the alleyway. Her eyes slanted left and right and noticed shadows on the edges of the her vision. As she lowered the flute and turned her head she some villagers retreated, others inched closer. Those who retreated left the sound of suspicious whispers in their wake. Those who stayed glanced nervously at each other and then looked back at her curiously. They had been listening to her song.
She smiled and nodded acknowledgment to those who remained. “I am sorry.. I have disturbed your dinner. I will leave.” Though a few looked like they might want to ask her something, no one did. They left whispering quietly about another one of the strange women.
“There you are!” Apollo ran past a couple of the last townspeople returning to their home. He grabbed Sumire’s hand and immediately began tugging her in the direction he had come. “I’m sorry Sumi! Don’t run away okay? Cuz I’m really sorry I dint know you dint like mice and you missted dinner but gramma says she has some still waiting for you and Zee, that’s my partner, n’ Vazzly are looking fer you too cuz it’s dangerous Sumi. So C’mon, okay?” It seemed he spoke it all in a single breath, not even noticing Sumire’s several attempts to say something. He turned to where he had left behind his partner and fellow adventurer. “ ZEE! I FOUND HER!”
Sumire went to a knee and gently turned him to face her. “Apollo. You do not need to apologize to me. You did not know I do not like..nezumi.. these... mice. You were kind to bring me something to eat. Thank you for thinking of me.” Looking into his earnest face and bright eyes, she was warmed by his eagerness and spirit. She smiled and moved dusky brown wisps away from his eyes, and ran her fingers through his hair. “I will always remember you, my little lord.” As well as your family.
The two other women with Apollo now approached. One she had not seen previously was holding a torch. Their conversation had paused when Apollo had called to them. She stood as they neared and gave a nod. “Good evening. I.. I am sorry. I had not intended that my short walk would turn into a long one..” She lifted the flute by way of explanation and gave a small shrug. “I play to calm myself.. but time, it seemed to pass too quickly, ne? I hope I have not caused any unnecessary alarm.”
Zena glanced around at the people who at one point seemed to have been departing now lingered in the shadows to listen. “As long as you are all right we are all good, eh ?”
“Hai, Zena-san. Yet, I would feel safer if I had an escort back to Grandmother’s house.”
“Hmm. I think my partner can handle that. You up to it, Apollo?” Zena looked down at Apollo who had yet to let go of Sumire’s hand.
“Yup. Come on, Sumi. I’ll get you back home okay.”
Sumire looked at the other woman dressed in Roman finery that looked like it had seen some wear. This woman had remained quiet and watchful, seemingly evaluating her interaction with Zena. Giving a small introductory bow Sumire smiled to the woman. “Good Evening. I am Sumire. It is good meet you.”
Vassaly nodded in return. “A good evening and a pleasure, Sumire. I am Vassaly.” flitting her eyes sidelong at the direction of whispers that could barely be heard “You are brave to travel alone at night with such things about as ill bred rumors and useless gawkers.” she turned her head, saying the last words crisply in the direction of those at the edges of torch light. The sound of shuffling feet, shutters and doors closing brought a look of satisfaction to Vassaly’s face.
Sumire lifted a brow, nodded to Vassaly and shared a subtle smile.
Before anyone could say anything else Sumire’s stomach made the most plaintive grumble about its empty state. Her face blushed and she muttered an apology through a chuckle. Usually she would have been mortified. But at that moment it was just.. silly. Stupid. Funny. It was all right.
“And that, was our cue to get back home. Hmm?” smiled Zena and nodded in the direction they had come.
“Yup! Letsgo, Sumi. Gramma said she saved some fish for you.” He stopped and looked up at her in concern “You like fish, right?” Sumire nodded, smiling brightly. Apollo seemed relieved and continued. “Oh, okay. And then there’s these ladies that brought rags or something for making clothes..”
“Is that so?” With Apollo for an escort, Sumire was guided back to the house. They walked a pace in front of the other two women who talked quietly now and again.
The night seemed refreshing. The air was pleasantly cool and the various scents from people’s kitchens were rich and layered. The sound of Apollo’s voice as he prattled on was charming and the soft murmur of the women behind her was comforting. The torch that Vassaly held crackled gently. The path through the neighborhood was so much more enjoyable than her flight into it had been.
It all made sense, now that she had found her fate. She couldn’t be sure, but there seemed a lightness in the air and she was calm now. Accepting her fate had made all the difference. As soon as she got the chance she would put it motion. The brief time that let up to that was now a gift of living and she felt the very essence of it.
While these people were not in her life for very long, they deserved every bit of what should could give. Tonight, if they would allow her, she would perform for them. A parting gift before she left to find the place.
She looked down at Apollo and smiled.
Everything was right after all.
Edited by: the chaotrix at: 9/20/03 7:45 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:01:51 GMT -6
Vassaly
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(9/21/03 4:23 am)
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Conversations
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After they had moved in silence past a number of houses Zena felt a tug from somewhere unknown to begin a conversation. So did Vassaly.
“Vassaly..”
“Zena..” They had both spoken at once and laughed at the coincidence.
“Vassaly, I’m sorry I put you off before dinner. I have learned to be careful with whom I share a confidence."
Apollo ran back to say “I like her, Zee.” Again they laughed together.
“I’m sorry too. Let us try again."
Zena nodded. “Please tell me, how did you meet Leara?”
Gray eyes looked back at the questioning woman and knew the moment for disclosure of protected information was at hand... but not in front of the boy.
Seeing Sumire in the shadows, Vassaly spoke to their young guide. “Apollo…please do a favor for me. See Sumire…ahead there…” she pointed in the direction of the woman holding a flute. “Catch up with her and see to it that she gets safely back to your home. I know how brave you are.”
The young boy beamed at the idea of him being a great protector and with a large reciprocal smile, two small feet flew towards the direction of his Sumire. Before reaching her, Apollo stop and turned back in the direction of the two women. Giving a short hop in the air, he waved and again turned around shouting excitedly for Sumire to come with him.
When Apollo was out of range of hearing, Vassaly turned to Zena and began searching for the words she knew must be said.
“I have much to tell you…it is difficult on so many levels and I have a warning for you…and your friends. You are not safe here…in this village. We need to talk…privately…away from the others.”
The women continued on their walk until they also found themselves in the presence of the small woman looking as lost as Vassaly felt. Before anyone could say anything else Sumire’s stomach made the most plaintive grumble about its empty state. Her face blushed and she muttered an apology through a chuckle.
“And that was our cue to get back home. Hmm?” smiled Zena and nodded in the direction they had come.
The torch that Vassaly held crackled gently, and with Apollo for an escort, Sumire was guided back to the house.
Sumire ,with Apollo the protector, walked at pace in front of the other two women who talked quietly now and again. When they reached the door to the Inn, Vassaly stopped grasping Zena’s upper arm. Even at the hour, light shone from the windows with laughter and the hum of conversations emanating from within.
“We could go inside to talk in my room or continue on down to the waterside.” Vassaly looked in the direction of the open door and then nodded her head in the direction of the lake that bordered the town. “Your choice.”
Zena did not hesitate in her reply preferring the quiet solitude of open air.
“The lake, yes the lake.”
Calling ahead, Zena instructed Apollo to continue escorting Sumire the remaining short and familiar distance to his home. The young boy waved and the woman with the dark soulful eyes bowed her head and raised it before again joining her small hand with the boy’s.
The night was cool and stars danced in the blackness of the sky. Although not full, the crescent moon provided muted light on the path leading to the lake. The torch Vassaly was carrying gave added guide to their footsteps.
They walked along in silence for awhile. Reaching the edge of the water, the two sat down side by side on a large log looking out to the faint glow of light. Waves rippled to the shore softly blown to the bank as if one was trying to cool a cup of hot mulled wine. The air was scented with pine and the pungent aroma of the earthy forest floor. Frogs croaked their night song as crickets echoed their leggy response.
“I remember the day as if it were just this day. The old man had been ranting in the street for hours as he was prone to do in his times of confusion…or madness. I had gone to the shop next door to purchase newly arrived spices for our kitchen. Cassias, my brother, feeds the town a meal no less a finer one than he would prepare for himself.” She laughed at the thought of how her brother used the costly seasonings as if he possessed an endless cask of silver.
“The old man”…she continued on seeing the Amazon woman reflect back an understanding of the love Vassaly had for her brother… “was shouting of HLAK and the need to rid the town from the threat of his imaginary nemesis. The poor soul has been quite mad since the Romans nearly destroyed our village and killed so many of our families. He lost his wife and all seven of his children. Blames himself for traveling to a distant village that day looking to purchase a large ox to plow his field…to grow more…to provide for his family…who were now all gone. How could men kill children?”
The question was spoken as a soft aside, but the woman listening to her story, reached down grabbing a large stone as she stood up and hurled it with such force into the lake uttering a noise bordering on anguish. A resonant splash was heard as the stone hit deep water.
“It matters not to them…man, woman, child, the old and the frail…even animals…nothing matters to mother Rome…nothing.” The Amazon sat back down clasping her hands as she leaned over propping her elbows on her knees and kicked the damp soil with the toe of her boot. “Please…go on…” Somewhere in the shadowed woods an owl sounded its breathy short burst Whoo…Whoo…Whoo as if also listening and waiting for more…
“I remember her hair… ill kept as it was”… Vassaly laughed as if picturing it at that very moment… “I remember it…dark…with those streaks of silver as shining as the coins in my pouch.
Zena’s head quickly turned in the direction of the story teller wanting to know more as her heart rate accelerated as if sensing something stalking in the nearby woods.
Vassaly continued on in her recounting the day she met Leara, how she had returned to serve the noonday meal and witnessed the confrontation of the short woman in well worn clothing and the large burly man respected by no one for his crass manners and cruelty towards his slaves.
She told of the challenge of authority Leara threw out to man over his ownership of those who were bought and purchased against their right of freedom. The patrons in the Inn had grown silent listening to the small woman saying things to the burly man who sensed that all eyes were on them…that he had been humiliated…by a woman.
Zena smiled thinking…sounds like something Evergreen would do. She stood up and hopped on top of a large smooth rock near the water’s edge, crossing her long legs as she leaned back on her out stretched arms pondering the thought of her friend and where she might be… A fish jumped and splashed near the bank as fireflies darted and dipped in the night.
Edited by: Vassaly at: 9/21/03 3:39 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:03:21 GMT -6
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(9/22/03 8:18 am)
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You're not going to hurt it,are you?
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Xendra was not exactly comfortable being indoors for so long but she was enjoying the family atmosphere and warmth .Atleast,until the knife Red was using to chop the vegetables whizzed through the air narrowly missing Phalon’s head.
Xendra turned as a very shocked Phalon, yelled “Red!” All eyes and ears awaited an explanantion from Red including Vania whose very stance and facial expression matched Xendra’s to T.
Red answered with the hint of a playful smile escaping from the corners of her mouth “Mouse. I dinnae be feelin’ a keen fondness towards da mice, Phalon”,
Satisfied with Red’s explanation, Phalon turned to see where the knife had landed and to no one’s real shock but much to Phalon’s dismay there was a mouse was afixed to the wall by a rather large butcher knife.
Phalon plantively said . “Kaisa will have a fit if she finds a mouse in the house.”
Vania nodded with great affirmation and then returned to mimicking Xendra’s every move and expression.
Phalon gave Xendra a slight nod towards Vania to Xendra, to make her aware of that she had a new shadow. Xendra gave a slight nod back to let Phalon know she was cognizant that Vania was now watching her every move.
Vania now stood at Xendra’s side with her mouth wide open starring very carefully at the little mouse. With her big brown eyes she looked up at Xendra and asked.”You’re not going to hurt it are you?
Xendra really hadn’t had time to consider yet what she was actully going to do with the mouse after she unpinned it. So Xendra knelt down on one knee and consulted with her little shadow,”Well Vania, what should I do with this mouse? He can’t stay in the house “
Vania stood there for a moment with her big eyes looking up to the ceiling as she concentrated on the problem at hand and then she exclaimed , “I think you should set him free Xendra so he can go find his family.””
Xendra’s eyes danced in amusement with the innocence of her answer. Xendra stood back up and walked over to extrac the mouse and the knife from the wall and as she did she couldn’t help but think ”Little mouse,you better be thanking the gods that Vania is watching otherwise you’d be a dead mouse right about now.”
Once the mouse was freed from the wall, Xendra winked at Vania and held the mouse by the tail for Vania to see that it was unharmed, before she carefully let it loose out the open window.
Once the mouse scurried out of sight Red stepped forward to retrieve the butcher knife back from Xendra.
Just as things began to setttle in the kitchen, shrieks of fright were heard coming from the next room.
Forgetting their chores, Phalon, Red,Xendra and Vania rushed towards next room. Poor Phalon saw the chaotic scene first .
The moment Phalon saw how upset the children were she knew they could not rush in and kill the mice so she forceably stopped Red, before she could enter in.
Phalon without thought or hesistation,calmly pried the knife out of Red’s hands as she gestured with her head towards the younger children, and quietly said under her breath, “Big eyes. We’re going to have to do this the hard way.”
Red shook her head as she responded “I really hate mice, Phalon”. Red lthen looked about at the children gave a quick shrug and then in spite of her deep hatred of mice agreed to battle the mice the hard way.
The room was in utter chaos, Phalon’s youngest nieces were screaming, and flaying about. Of course the little rodents were running rampant scurrying over everything and nearly everyone .
Xendra wasn’t sure whether to let Vania follow her in or not, but as Xendra looked back at Vania her heart melted as she saw the anxious little face just waiting Xendra’s next word or action, sensing this Xendra said “Come on little one I’ll teach you how to get rid of mice.”
Vania face lit up as she once again ran to Xendra’s side.
Xendra moved quickly about the room and her shadow ran to keep pace. With every movement there was Vania following with a the same movement only a bit smaller but perhaps a bit quicker. Ever concious of Vania mimicking her every move, Xendra decided it would be best to use the flat of her sword, like a broom to sweep and gently bat mice. Xendra would hit them with just enough force to get them past the door way that led to the shop.
Xendra as she was batting mice noticed that Vania could not quite hit the mice with enough force to get them out the door. Xendra didn’t want her young friend to get frustrated or feel dissapointed so looked around for a better way. Xendra spotted Kaia and thought that would be an acceptable solution so Xendra bent over and hit a mouse right to Kaia in an effort to help Vania feel more useful.
A moment later she saw Vania bent over using a piece of wood to sweep the mice like she had been with her sword.
Xendra smiled with approval at Vania.
Puella was also busy combating the mice. Xendra pointed out to Vania how Puella was fiercely herding mice along the perimeter of the room.
A few moments later Vania tugged on Xendra’s tunic so that Xendra could see that like the two of them, Puella also directed the mice that would not cooperate towards Apollo and Kaia.
Xendra took note that Kaia showed absolutely no fear and was actually kneeling on the floor in the thick of mice infestation right along with Apollo. Together, they were grabbing mice and tossing them back in the box. Apollo would open the box just long enough to get a few more inside without letting others escape.
Xendra had been so busy combating mice that she had not noticed that Boudicca had stepped into the room until
Boudicca asked “What is all the fuss about?
In unison she was answered “Mice!”
Boudicca laughed and promptly put her boot heel on the tail of a passing mouse and bent down and calmly spoke as she dangled the creature by it’s tail as she said,” You mean to tell me a group of tough Amazons like you are afraid of few little mice?”
Xendra glared at Boudicca, gritted her teeth and answered, “ No, we are not afraid, but the children are.”
Vania piped right up, "I am not afraid!”
Boudicca and Xendra both laughed and Boudicca said to Vania “ Do you mind if I help? I might be of some use .”
Vania looked up at Xendra waiting for an answer, Xendra turned and saw that there were still scurrying mice so Xendra reluctantly offered her sword, but Boudicca shook her head and started looking around for errant rodents and was soon catching mice bare handed and then releasing them to Apollo’s care.
With Boudicca assisting them it gave Xendra a chance to look about the room and she for a brief moment locked eyes with the clearly terrified stranger known as Sumire. Xendra quickly spotted the reason for her obvious terror there were two or three mice near Sumire and the young girl . Xendra paused a moment to see just what Sumire would do.
Xendra watched with observant bemusement as the Sumire spoke to the young girl softly in her own tongue, then Sumire slowly opened her fan and began to try to brush away the closest mouse.
The mouse had a firm grip and was not going to be dislodged by her feeble attempt. Xendra started to move forward but was pleasantly surprised as she saw Sumire tap the mouse and then gave it a good hard slap.
The mice quickly fell and once on the floor Sumire quickly swept it much like Vania and Xendra had been doing .
Sumire appeared relieved as it rolled within Kaia’s reach and Kaia simply picked it up and placed it in Apollo’s box .
Xendra saw each mice after appeared to be a little bit easier for Sumire to deal with so Xendra resumed her sweeping away of the mice as did Vania.
As she swept, Xendra could from time to time hear Sumire continue to talk soothingly to the girl “Maa, maa. Shizuka ni shinasai.. Daijobu.. Nakanaide.. nakanaide..ne?”
Xendra had no earthly idea what she was saying but it seemed to be working for both Sumire and the girl…atleast until the last of the mice were off the girl.
Of course, once Red released her,the girl spun and ran straight for her aunt Phalon, who already had her hands full of two hysterical children.
As the last mice was dropped into the box Vania walked up beside Xendra and slid her tiny hand into Xendra’s .
Xendra gave Vania’s hand a knowing squeeze as Kaia latched the lid to the box and Apollo grabbed it and quickly ran out the back door.
Vania got on her tip toes and whispered,” Will the mice be okay outside alone in the dark?” Xendra solemnly nodded yes.
Apollo was barely out the door when Kaisa burst into the room from the shop side, seeking to find the source of such noise.
In a stern and commanding voice Kaisa demanded "WHAT IN HADES IS GOING ON!?"
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:05:25 GMT -6
1 Xwpfan
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Posts: 1025
(9/22/03 8:18 am)
You're not going to hurt it,are you? (Continued)
Kaisa looked around the room and found it strangely quiet and still considering all the noise had been streaming out of there just moments before.
After a few moments of silence, the girls Phalon had been comforting went to Kaisa and both started yammering at once.
"It's not my fault!"Apollo brought in the.."And we were supposed to feed the cat but....I tried to stop them!Lyndara was chasing us!--"
Kaisa nodded but was growing impatient . Phalon knew Kaisa would want answers from her so she simply shrugged and pretended like she had started to say something.
As their bits and pieces began to run together it appeared that the girls might end up telling the whole story so the women began to carefully volunteer bits of the story too. Kaisa's brows slowly knit together, Kaisa appeared to be even more confused or perhaps she was just suspicious.
Thankfully for all involved Zena, thinking they were in trouble, rushed through the door at the height of Kaisa’s suspicions .
Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 9/22/03 5:57 pm
Zena 1
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(9/23/03 6:54 pm)
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Re: Electric Conversations
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There was a restlessness in Zena’s spirit that pulled her body along with it. From her perch on the rock she looked down at Vassaly and tried to sort out what made her feel as if she had swallowed a bolt of lightening from the sky. Her thoughts ran along with a crackling swiftness like those bolts that shattered ancient trees and started fires.
“Evergreen where are you? I need your wisdom. Who is this woman with the Roman dress? Romans. Stinking Romans. What do they care for anyone..any creature. But Evergreen was part Roman. So was Leara. Did Leara have silver in her hair? I can’t remember. She never spoke up for anyone’s rights while we knew her, or even worked out her quarrel with her own sister. This woman speaks of danger for us. But how can I trust what she has to say if she lived so recently in friendship with Romans? And then there is the matter of the secret of the death of the Senator."
She sat up abruptly and slid off the rock to sit on the log. The flickering light of the torch played over her high cheekbones and black curls. With the toe of her boot she dug deeply into the dirt and in the sandy soil she softened, drew little pictures with a stick to help her mind focus.
Looking down she could see the hem of Vassaly’s garment and the fine leatherwork on her sandals. Quality work for a humble inkeeper, expensive work.
Zena took a breath and exhaled slowly before she spoke again. A frog chirped nearby and lept up to seize a firefly.
“So, you met Leara at the inn. Then what happened?”
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Vassaly
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Posts: 2
(9/23/03 8:09 pm)
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Shooting Star
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Zena took a breath and exhaled slowly before she spoke again. A frog chirped nearby and lept up to seize a firefly.
“So, you met Leara at the inn. Then what happened?”
Vassaly looked out to the lake contemplating just how to say the words as she relived the scene in her mind.
“She came over to the table where I had just laid out fresh fruit, cheese and wine. I remember her smiling at me as she placed her cup on the table for me to fill. She skewered a large piece of cheese on a knife pulled from her belt…grabbed a red apple and laughed as she tossed it in the air snapping out to catch before it hit the ground. I smiled and nodded back to her…I realized at that moment we had made an unspoken connection. I sensed that this woman was different from the women in the village.”
“Her carriage was strong and self assured but her smile conveyed a gentle heart. Her hands had known labor and her skin was tan from many days spent in the sun. I remember that her eyes were dark, but kind. I wished that we might have a time to sit and talk as I knew she had tales to tell of wonderful travels and a world beyond the boundaries of the village. It felt as if I had always known her.”
“It happened so quickly. The man she had challenged, came through the doorway,moved quickly across the room, and before I could shout a warning, raised a thick club and struck her from behind. The sound made me ill. Her eyes caught mine and shouted a silent plea for help. Before she fell, she lashed out with the knife in her hand, cutting his throat before slowly sinking to the floor as if her body had become liquid. I saw the man as the light left his eyes… he toppled backwards as old growth timber chopped down in the forest.”
“I had Cassius take her to my room. She was small and he carried her easily up the stairs. Her tunic was covered in blood, a mixture of her own and the man she killed. Everyone knew it to be self defense and thanked the gods for the favor she did the village in sending his likes to Tartarus.”
“My brother placed her in my bed…” Vassaly gazed off into the distant night and fell silent. She was back in time and had left the presence of the tall Amazon as she privately wandered through her memories. Smelling, touching, seeing, and hearing beyond the realm she shared with this other woman in the night.
Zena honored the reverie, stood, and paced a bit before returning to the log. The owl once again echoed in the darkness as a star shot a fiery trail before evaporating into the night sky. An omen she thought…but of what...of good… of bad… of who? It didn’t feel right. There was something beyond the words of the storyteller and Zena was willing to patiently wait out the night until the first light of the new day to see where the journey of words would take them.
"Love is desire raised to a higher power"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 9/23/03 8:21 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:06:20 GMT -6
EvergreenLM
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(9/24/03 7:43 pm)
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SAGE
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Wisdom is not a plentiful commodity. If it were so, the world would be a peaceful place without strife, hate, destruction of things that are good and right. The ability to weigh choices, to discern the right course, the find that one path paved with rationale thought and meaning is not equally distributed among mortals. Wisdom cannot be purchased and draped over the body like a warm cloak on a bitter winter’s day nor borrowed to be replaced when all but used up and needing more. Evergreen knew these things.
The dog’s whining pulled her attention from the map laid across the table. Candlelight flickered in the late hour and they had gathered to plan the advance, the taking of the prize they were sent to capture.
They were all there. The trusted ones, Apollinarius, Dionysus, and the handsome Antonius…all were gathered at the table. Sipping wine and dining on bread and fruit purchased from a villager, they talked in hushed tones, heads nodded in agreement or eyebrows arched at the questionable tactic proposed in the approach to the impending assault.
The crate had been brought in the preceding day and without notice sat among the armaments and supplies.
Why does this four footed annoyance persist in its desire to follow me?
The whine grew insistant when the food and drink had been laid out on the table. The small dog was covered by a heavy cloth and was out sight, but made its presence known by its incessant cries.
“Appolinarius…see to the dog…uncover its cage and once again turn it loose…open the flap of the tent and send it on its way. I have endured the noise enough and wish to hear no more.”
What is it about that little beast that invades the shadows in my mind?
The covering was pulled back revealing that the small creature was without food or water. Drool fell from its pink tongue as it panted for want of a cool drink to quench its thirst. The cage was opened and the small dog fell to its belly and slowly crawled to where Evergreen stood tapping a dagger on the very site the small cohort of Romans would soon subdue in its quest for the one they sought.
Dionysus stood with the intention of booting the small dog from their quarters. He raised his foot to strike,but the small dog continued its forward motion in determined effort to reach the woman he knew to be…would always be… his own.
“Wait!” The scene flashed as if in the present transporting her and the dog to the countryside where she saw herself camping by a slowly moving creek. The little dog crawled from its hiding place in the brush, inching forward with its fear of the human overridden by the ache of hunger in its belly. A small scrap was tossed out and greedily eaten by the little dog…Little Dog…Little Dog…
Evergreen went down on one knee crossing her arm over her right thigh. The small dog completed its short journey and nestled next to her boot. It felt instinctual repulsion at the smell of Roman leather and yet, reveled in the closeness of being near the one that was his very own. A hand came down to stroke its soft ears as a gentle voice spoke.
“Get this one some food and water…it belongs to me now and will be treated as such.” The little dog sighed and closed its eyes.
Sometimes wisdom comes crawling on its belly waiting for recognition.
"We're stuff of the soul, Gabrielle."
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 9/24/03 9:59 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:07:55 GMT -6
BhenRudha
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Posts: 24
(9/25/03 2:04 am)
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Hospitality II
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There is no such thing as silence in a house where many children dwell. After only a few moments of peaceful eating, Bhen Rudha heard children yelling and sighed. Growing up she had been around few other children, and was never fostered as her sister had been. She had told Phalon’s mother that she knew the nature of children, but it was true only in how they saw her.
In Eriu, where the gods called many into their service, her kind were still rare and received wide eyed looks of awe. In this land, she was alone . . . how much more strange would she look to a child? In truth, she did not know much about children at all she thought.
After she had attained her full priestesshood, she had thought to travel the island, letting the Goddess guide her feet and her sword. Perhaps should would have met a man who kindled delight in her eyes, and the fire would have sparked between them, giving her a daughter to teach the ways of the Morrigu to in time . . . just as her mother had done.
She sighed heavily. Thoughts of her mother were always hard, she missed the woman more than she could say. The bitterest piece of her sister’s betrayal lay in the fact that Bhen Rudha had finally come to a place where she could be sister as well as daughter, and never got a chance to discover what such a relationship might be like.
Looking down at her hands, she noticed that she had torn her last piece of bread into tiny bits. She shook her head and got to her feet, carrying her plate to the window, where she gave the spirits of the house and family a small offering. Kaisa entered the kitchen with Xendra and another girl just as she turned from the window.
“Ahh, you’re all finished then? Good. Give me your plate, and then I’d appreciate it if you could go get some wood and build up the hearthfire. If you don’t mind,” the matron said with a smile.
“I be Bhen Rudha, Seanmháthair. An’ I dinnae be mindin’. Fer tha room and meal, I be glad ta be helpin’ ye.” She bowed with her words.
The older woman nodded, her smile widening and said, “It is good to know you, Bhen Rudha. My name is Kaisa, though I suppose you know this already. I am curious though, what is it that you’ve been calling me? Shawn wheyhair?”
“Bein’ tha word for me mother’s mother. I could nae be usin’ yer name, if’n I hae nae gi’en’ ye mine.”
“Well, you can call me Kaisa or grandmother, as you wish, for I am both just the same.” The matron’s eyes twinkled with her smile, then she turned to get her kitchen in order for the making of dinner.
Taking the cue, Bhen Rudha went outside to the woodpile. For a moment, she could almost imagine that she was back on her Father’s lands, looking at the wood stacked for the winter. An old chopping stump stood proudly, its myriad scars testament to its many years of use. Leaning against the stump was a well cared for woodaxe, the handle worn smooth by many hands. There was a small pile of logs waiting to be split, and she sorted through them till she found one that would be easy enough to warm up with.
After setting up the log, she picked up the axe, testing its heft and balance. She set her bare feet in the sparse grass, then swung the axe in several large circles to her side, listening to the whistle it made. When she felt comfortable, she paused at the apex of the circle, then brought it down on the log with all of her strength. The wood split with a resounding crack.
She did two more before she set down the axe. As she bent to pick up the pieces, a male voice came from behind her, “You are very handy with that thing. I sometimes have to thump the log a couple times to get it to split.”
She turned to see who her audience was and saw a man who bore a resemblance to Phalon. “Ye be needin’ ta be learnin’ tha weight o’ tha axe, fer it ta make the deepest cut.”
“I’m Gelasuis, Phalon’s brother, by the way. You must be one of those Amazons she brought with her.” He smiled and held out his hand. “And if you wouldn’t mind, I’d like you to show me that trick with the axe.”
“I be Bhen Rudha, I be nae a Amazon, bu’ I be a friend o’ yer sister, aye?” She clasped forearms with the man, giving him a small smile. “Ye be kind ta be lendin’ me clothes. Be thankin’ ye.”
He chuckled, “Oh . . . I thought those britches looked familiar. Of course you’re welcome, though I have to admit that I was a bit surprised to find that one of the warrior women was large enough to need something of mine. What did Aldia say, ‘she be nae so big, but after being mighty tall’!” His high pitched, nasal impression of his daughter mimicking the Red Woman brought an honest laugh from her.
“I dinnae be soundin’ sae bad, dae I?”
Still chuckling, he shook his head, “No. Though I do admit that your accent is rather thick. Takes a minute to work it through the first time.”
“Well then, if’n ye be understandin’ me a’righ’, I cen be gi’en’ ye tha’ lesson ye be askin’ fer, aye?”
“I would like that, thank you.”
“Fer certain. Now, when ye be heftin’ tha axe, ye needs ta be settled o’er yer legs. Inta tha deep balance, as me teacher Sorcha used ta be sayin’.” She set her feet about shoulder width apart, bent her knees a bit and let go a deep breath. The pulse of the earth beat a slow rhythm beneath her soles as she settled. “Be tryin’ ta be pushin’ me. If’n I be in tha deep balance, ye will nae . . .”
“All right,” Gelasuis said, then gave her arm a gentle push. When she did not move, his eyebrows shot up. He tried again, this time exerting a bit more pressure. Again, she did not move. Finally he shoved, putting a fair bit of muscle behind it. Instead of sprawling, as he intended, she swayed a little and kept to her feet. “How is that possible?” he demanded with astonishment, “That last push should have sent you to the ground!”
“Tha deep balance be a connection ta tha Earth. Be like ha’en’ roots ta be keepin’ ye secure. Be tryin’ yerself. When ye be sure o’ yer footin’, be takin’ a deep breath. Lettin’ yer weigh’ drop ta yer hips when ye let it ou’.” She demonstrated for him again, watching with the a critical eye as he tried to copy her.
“Like this?” he finally asked.
“Be seein’,” she answered, then gave him a shove. He staggered back a step and frowned.
“What did I do wrong?”
“Be lettin’ yer knees be takin’ tha force o’ tha shove. Be tryin’ again, aye?”
“All right.” He settled himself again, and this time, Bhen Rudha could see a change in his balance. The man was muscular and seemed well familiar with the movements of his body. She was, in a small part, impressed that he grasped the technique so easily. When she shoved, he rocked back a little, but his feet stayed where they were set. His eyes lit and he exclaimed, “Ah! I felt it that time!”
“Aye, ye be after learnin’ quick. Sae, we go ta tha next . . . yer in tha deep balance, an’ ye heft tha axe. Be swingin’ it to be learnin’ tha weight o’ it. Be a rhythm ta tha swing, tha slower tha rhythm, tha heavier tha axe.” She fit action to words, letting the axe swing like a pendulum. “Be settin’ a piece o’ wood fer me, aye?”
“Sure,” he answered, moving quickly to place one on the stump. “Now what?”
“Ye now ha’e tha weight o’ tha axe, aye? Then ye be swingin’ tha full circle, ta be feelin’ tha arc o’ tha thin’. Ta be knowin’ where ta be puttin’ tha muscle.”
“Wait, I don’t understand . . . where to put the muscle?”
“Aye. If’n ye be puttin’ muscle ta tha swing ta early, ye be wastin’ it, tha axe be stealin’ it. If’n ye push ta late, ye dinnae be gettin’ enough. Ye want ta be puttin’ tha muscle jest a’fore tha axe be fallin’ itself,” she explained. While he bit his lip in concentration, she sent the axe into a wide circle, letting it rise and fall two times, on the third, she paused just at the apex, then brought it down to split the log clean. “When ye be puttin’ tha muscle inta tha swing . . . be gi’en’ it ta tha head o’ tha thin’ an’ nae tha handle.”
“The head of the axe? How can I do that with my hands at the bottom?”
“Ye be feelin’ tha likes o’ tha’. If’n ye be puttin’ tha muscle in tha handle, ye be wastin’ it. I cannae be tellin’ ye anamore, ye be tryin’ yerself.” She pulled the axe out of the stump, stepped to the side and offered the handle to Gelasuis.
He placed another log on the stump and stepped to where she had been. Settling his balance, he waited till she nodded before accepting the axe. He secured his grip and started to swing it back and forth. After a moment, he grinned, saying, “I can feel it, it’s like I can tell where it wants to start and stop, and I don’t have to put any effort into keeping it going.”
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:09:41 GMT -6
BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 24
(9/25/03 2:04 am)
Hospitality II (Continued)
“Aye, ye ha’e tha righ’ o’ it. Be takin’ a try at tha’ piece o’ log then.”
With a deep breath he sent the axe into the wide circle swing, two, three times, his lip between his teeth as he concentrated. On the fourth swing, he suddenly smiled and sent the axe blade squarely through the log. “By Zeus’ beard! I did it! How on earth did you learn something like this? Seems such a little thing, but what a difference it made!”
She chuckled and knelt to gather the split pieces, setting another log in place before she spoke. “Be part o’ me trainin’. We be ha’en’ ta be splittin’ much wood, fer tha winter months be long an’ verra cold. One be swingin’, another be gatherin’ tha pieces an settin’ more in ta place. Tha swinger be keepin’ tha axe in motion. Chop, lift, swing, chop.” She mimed the motions and continued, “Be times we be ha’en’ tests ta see who cen be splittin’ tha most withou’ missin’.” A grin lit her eyes. “I be tha holder o’ tha record when I be nearin’ me last tests.”
Gelasuis set the axe head near his foot and leaned idly on the handle. “How many times did you swing?”
“Twa ten o’ tens, twa tens, an’ seven.”
He frowned, trying to put the numbers together. Then he started, coughing a little, “Two hundred, twenty seven?! By the gods . . . what were you training for?”
“Ta be strong, an’ keen o’ eye an’ hand. Fer onla tha verra best be called ta serve tha Goddess as priestess.”
“So you’re a priestess?”
“Aye, tis sae.”
Shaking his head, he chuckled, “You’re not like any priestess I’ve ever seen. But then again, I have gathered that you’re not from Greece, and who knows what other wonders there are in the wide world?”
She laughed and said, “Ye dae me a grand flattery, I be thankin’ ye fer it.”
“Not at all, I figured it only fair after the lesson you gave me. You’re quite the teacher, by the way, thanks.”
“Tá fáilte romhat, ye are welcome. Alas, yer máthair be askin’ me ta be bringin’ wood, or I be happy ta be settin’ fer ye,” she said ruefully, gathering up the newly split wood in her arms.
He chuckled, “Not at all, it’s about this time of day when she sends me to the pile anyway. That’s how I found myself watching you.”
She grinned and moved over to the woodpile, adding to the load she already carried. “Then I be leavin’ ye ta be practicin’, be thankin’ ye fer ye help.”
“Believe me, it was my pleasure. See you later Bhen Rudha, and don’t let my mother run you ragged!” he laughed at his words and turned his attention back to chopping wood with his new found skill.
“Be mana hands ta be helpin’, I dinnae thin’ I be needed sae much,” she said over her shoulder. His continued laugher followed her back into the house.
gabbin
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Posts: 596
(9/25/03 2:18 pm)
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Re: Shooting Star
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The scent of wool and loom wood mixed with the cool evening air drifted with Frieda's thoughts. Her mind was buzzing with the fear and the excitment from the warrior-women encounter, and it continued now, as she was sorting out the loom threads. The soft brushing sound of the door handle's twisting movement and the almost silent hush sound of the hinges rotating alerted her to patronage. "Hellooo, Fireda", it was Metussa's lilting voice, Frieda was beside herself with excitment. She couldn't hide her curiosity and began peppering Metussa with questions about the wild women at Kaisa's store. She wanted to know what they looked like and wore. What type of weapons. Did they look scary? Did they have scars all over and wild hair? Metussa tried to keep up with the answers and did her best to describe them in detail. Metussa said they did look scary and were strong but, didn't seems to speak roughly to her, and, were in fact quite female in there admiration of fine fabrics. One of them even wanted some embroidery, but, Metussa said she might not have time with all the hemming jobs to do. Metussa looked sideways at Frieda and raised an eyebrow, knowing how curious Frieda was, "You, know....it is only a small job.....perhaps,......no, you wouldn't be interested, I am sure, silly me, I was just about to ask if you would like to help out....I could have it carved and you could embroider it from that, as we have done in the past...I doubt you would be interested, though", Metussa smiled slyly.
Frieda's eyebrows shot up, and her posture became bolt upright. "OH!" she readjusted her voice lower, I, I guess I could help you out on this a bit. It isn't like I would be working around them." Frieda was sure she shouldn't meet any of the women again, she knew it could be dangerous to do so. Being a blind person had been a mark against her. Some had thought the Gods had cursed her, others thought she had unnatural powers and she had heard some of their comments, she wasn't so sure herself. Still, she was having a difficult time ignoring her hidden desire to meet even one of them again and she wanted to know why one of them would want a design embroidered. What kind of design? Could that be a sign of sentimentality? Or a fear-inspiring design, perhaps. Frieda just had to know more.
She decided to do the job, have the design brought to her, but by whom?
Edited by: gabbin at: 9/25/03 8:23 pm
1itt1e dog
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(9/25/03 6:13 pm)
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When A Dog Loves A Woman
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He could hear her on the outside of the crate, there were other voices but as always hers stood apart in his acute hearing. Dogs do not worry over impending death, they are alive and then they are not and all is as is should be in nature’s plan. With the last of his strength he called to her, a low and insistent whine in a fading voice.
(w..h..i..n..e...here..I..am..here...let me o..u..t.....)
The fresh air that exploded in on him when the box was opened refreshed him enough to provide the strength he needed to crawl to her. He came to rest at her boot and he cuddled against it, Roman though it was.
(sniff..sniffsniff..Roman..no, my woman!...sigh)
Water and food came and a soft blanket for sleeping, but all was worthless to him save the caress she gave his soft ears. The men exchanged a glance behind her back as she bent to touch the dog and revoke the order to send the dog away. If she were not so controlled, so much in command they would have challenged her for the sudden shifts in her mood and intentions. “This is not the time”, Appolinarius thought to himself.
The dog fell into a deep sleep and his paws ran although his body remained in place. Evergreen looked down from her chair at his movements and wondered if she could walk into his dreamscape and join him, would she finally be able to grasp the shadows that danced at the corners of her mind.
(Run!! Run!!...my woman...run with me!! Here’s the pup..she runs too!...and the other woman...my pack!!..let’s play!...throw the apple!! THROW IT!!..)
Cave Canem
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:10:59 GMT -6
BhenRudha
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Posts: 335
(9/26/03 4:34 am)
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ezSupporter
An Luch Agus Bean (Of Mouse and Woman)
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The kitchen was already noisy with preparations for a large evening meal. Kaisa moved as a ship’s captain, turning what looked to be chaos into order. When the Red Woman was noticed, she was motioned toward the hearth to drop her load of wood and build up the fire.
Forgoing the tongs, she leaned into the hearth and stirred the coals with a piece of kindling, whispering encouragements. Next she placed several small pieces, blowing on the coals till a flame showed. She could almost feel the hunger of the tiny fire, so she continued to whisper as she placed two of the larger pieces onto the stack. The element leapt eagerly, quickly growing along its new source of fuel.
After a couple adjustments, to make sure the fire got enough air and that it did not smoke so much, she placed a whole log. Content that the fire would need little attention for the time being, she straightened just in time to hear a little girl ask Xendra, “Are you a boy or girl?”
Laughter bubbled up within her, light and free. It felt good to be laughing, it eased the knot of pain ‘neath her heart for a moment.
Kaisa alone did not laugh and said instead, “Of course she’s a girl why would you ask such a thing? That was very rude of you!"
Undeterred, the girl answered, “But Kaisa her clothes don’t look like a girl’s, her hair is short like a boy's, she has muscles like a boy, she carries a knife, and she doesn’t know how to cook . . . so how can she be a girl?”
Xendra’s eyes sparkled and she struggled to keep her laughter under control. Finally she said, “It’s ok little one. I can understand how you could be confused. I do look a little different from the people you know . . . we all do, don’t we Red?”
Caught up in the moment, she could not help but retort, “Aye bu’ we be nae sae funny lookin’ as ye!” The look the Amazon shot her only made her laugh more.
She reveled in the sweetness of the moment, content to listen to the conversation. Even when Xendra spoke of her lost children she let it wash over her, her attitude undiminished. It was not that she was unsympathetic . . . far from it, but they each carried their own pain, child, lover, mother, and for the moment she felt strong enough to carry it all. Such was the true magic of laugher.
When the girl, Vania, began to describe how to make some sort of bread, Bhen Rudha simply watched. The process was not that much different than the making of the holiday bread her mother used to make to share with the spirits on Samhain. Perhaps, if they were lucky and had the time, she could ask Kaisa for help in recreating those childhood treats.
From the corner of her eye she saw Puella enter, hauling a large cauldron, the center of attention for a pair of children. Kaisa grinned, gave the Amazon a large wooden spoon and set her to stirring. What a difference from just two nights ago, when poisonous soup was prepared to save their lives.
When she looked back at Xendra, she was working hard, but clearly out of her element. She cast a pleading look at Phalon, who laughed, apparently just returning from checking on Blackwolf and the stranger. Bhen Rudha felt a touch of embarrassment that she had not noticed the seeress leave. Ahh well . . . it was a compliment to the house she was in that she felt so relaxed.
Finding her daughter unoccupied, Kaisa grabbed up a large bowl of unshelled peas and handed it over. Then led the Red Woman to a seat and gave her a bowl of vegetables, saying, “Here, Bhen Rudha . . . did I say that right?” Without waiting for an answer, the matron then handed her a large knife. “You look as if you’d be pretty good at handling a knife. Cut the vegetables, please. About this big,” she finished, indicting the size with the space between her raised thumb and index finger.
Glad to be of continued use, she picked out a large carrot and began. Before she got very far, Xendra quipped, “Hey Red, be careful with those vegetables Vania and I worked hard to pick those, so I want them cut right!”
A wicked grin stretched her lips and she flipped the knife so that she held it by the point and made as if to throw. Before her bluff could be called, Phalon spoke up, “Mom, I think the girl who came in with Blackwolf last night might need your help with a bath.”
Kaisa left to help out and Bhen Rudha chuckled and went back to her chore. They all worked for a while in contented silence, though she could feel the seeress watching her. The woman was wise, and gathered the truth of people quickly. So it came as no surprised when she finally broke the silence and asked, “How are you feeling today, Red?”
“I be feelin’ fine, Phalon,” she said. Better yet, she meant it.
“Blackwolf seems to be doing a bit better,” the seeress offered, watching closely for any response.
Amusement flickered through her, though she kept her lips from smiling. “Aye,” was all she answered. Something caught her attention, something small and brown, crawling up the wall. She watched it from the corner of her eye, waiting, her arm tense . . .
Still Phalon pressed, “Her pain seems to have subsided . . .” Long years of training snapped her arm out, the knife flashing close to the seeress’ face, to thud into the wall, pinning the rodent by its tail.
Pleased that her skills were still intact, she was unabashed when Phalon all but yelled her name. Instead, she nodded to the wall, and explained, “Mouse. I dinnae be ha’en’ a keen fondness fer tha mice, Phalon.”
“Oh damn. Mom will have a fit when she finds a mouse in the house.”
She left the woman to worry about her mother and went to retrieve her knife. Xendra had pulled it out from the wall and was holding the mouse by its tail. The Amazon turned to talk to the girl, while the Red Woman went to the wash basin to clean the knife off. Before she finished, however, screams erupted from the guest room and the women moved as one, kitchen chores forgotten, to see to the problem.
The scene was more than comical, with mice, women and children scurrying around the room. Only Blackwolf seemed to be exempt from the excitement, and continued to slumber peacefully. Before wading into the mess, Phalon caught her arm saying, “Big eyes. We’re going to have to do this the hard way.”
Not quite certain what this meant, but figuring it had something to do with dealing with the children, she sighed and said, “I be really hatin’ mice, Phalon.”
As they entered, the seeress was almost immediately set upon by a wailing Alida. For her part, the Red Woman figured out the assembly line method the others were using to help Kaia and a boy gather up the mice, then moved toward a younger girl who spun crazy circles trying dislodge the rodents that clung to her clothes.
Once, when she was a child, she had been startled by a mouse, and her sister had witnessed the event. Forever looking for a way to humiliate her younger sister, she took it upon herself to make sure Bhen Rudha eventually became almost phobic about them. It was several deep breaths before she could bring herself to try and help the girl.
“Och, dinnae be swingin’ yer arms . . . I cannae be gettin’ tha mouse . . . be stoppin’ yer screamin’ . . . be holdin’ . . . Bandia!” she finally swore. Frustrated that she was not being heard, she simply grabbed an arm and dragged the girl toward her. The child looked in the stern face of the Red Woman and started howling in fear, not noticing that the offending rodents were being carefully plucked from her dress.
A shiver chased its way through her every time she picked up and tossed a mouse. Her jaw started to ache from keeping her teeth clamped so tightly together. And, it almost appeared that two more of the tiny critters appeared for each one she flung at Kaia and the boy. Luckily, the quiet, dark haired woman who had appeared with Blackwolf watched Bhen Rudha for a long moment, then visibly steeled herself and came closer, taking out and opening a fan.
After a timid attempt to brush a rodent away, the woman managed to pop it smartly and then sweep it toward the mouse “wranglers” as the others were doing. She spoke a strange language, one that Bhen Rudha thought she had heard once before, to the girl, trying in vain to calm her down. Soon enough, however, the girl was clean and let go to make a bee line to her aunt, who was still working to sooth Alida.
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:13:25 GMT -6
BhenRudha
Registered Member
Posts: 335
(9/26/03 4:34 am)
An Luch Agus Bean (Of Mouse and Woman) (Continued)
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She sighed in relief as she saw Kaia latch the lid and the boy take off out the back door. It was not a moment too soon, for the matriarch of the house came charging in, demanding to know what all the noise was about. Silence reigned for a few heartbeats, then the girls and a few of the women started babbling. Keeping her mouth shut, the Red Woman instead watched the foreign woman, who looked like she was trying to gather the words to say something. Of a sudden she looked down and stiffened. Before she could ask what was wrong, the foreign woman’s fan sliced the air, once . . . twice, and a mouse was sent sailing through the door.
The woman’s movements had been clean, precise . . . movements that someone trained as a warrior might make. Impressive. Perhaps there was more to the woman than what showed on the surface. Interesting.
When Zena walked into the room then, with a fish raised as a weapon, a mouse clinging to her tunic, and a flustered and fish line tangled woman behind her, Bhen Rudha had to hide a grin behind her hand. The Amazon had arrived just in time for Kaisa to make her exit gracefully however. Which was fortunate, since she figured the matron knew that something she would not have approved up had taken place in the room just moments before. “Well now . . . lets go. Dinner’s not finished. Wash your hands and back into the kitchen,” she said, bustling the children and a few of the women from the room.
As the group left, the Red Woman spotted a last pair of mice sitting on of the bedside tables. Without thinking, she leapt toward the table, grabbed up the pair, spun and flung them out the window, all in one motion. She grit her teeth as the shiver worked up her spine, so when Zena asked, “Hey! Dances with Mice! What happened here?” she growled, “Be tha wee lad tha’ let tha nasty beasties in.”
Immediately she knew she was being unfair to the boy, and tried to smile so that he would know she was teasing when she said, “He cannae be trusted.” She even winked.
But instead of sharing the joke, the boy turned forlornly to Zena and said, “I tol’ you somethin’ bad would happen if you left the house without me, Zee.”
So much for knowing the nature of children. With a heavy sigh, the Red Woman turned to go back into the kitchen . . . where at least she knew how to deal with a bowl full of vegetables and a knife.
Edited by: BhenRudha at: 10/14/03 2:07 pm
Zena 1
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Posts: 792
(9/26/03 5:46 pm)
Caught
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The shooting star took Zena’s attention away from Vassaly’s story for a fleeting moment. She saw it burn itself out in the inky sky as the other stars kept their eternal vigil. When she refocused she heard Vassaly say, “Cassius laid her in my bed, and I cut away her bloody tunic. She is a small woman, as I said, and I could easily turn her to remove her boots."
Zena put her left foot on the log and leaned over, resting her forearm on her thigh. The fingertips of her other hand slid over the sharp edge of the chakram at her waist. The chakram made the slightest clink when her ring fell against it. She tilted her head toward Vassaly and in the semi-darkness her eyes narrowed beneath their lashes.
“Vassaly..”
“Hmm?"
The woman seemed to be far away and unwilling to return to the lake and the evening dampness.
“Leara is not a small woman. She is tall and solidly built. When I last saw her she wore the dress of a woman of noble Roman birth..not a tunic. She preferred sandals for her feet, even in battle."
She waited to see how Vassaly would extract herself from the story which had obviously been a lie. By confronting her quickly she hoped to startle her into confessing both the deceit and what she thought to gain in the deception.
The frog harvested another firefly and fell back into the water and then there was a brief silence.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Vassaly
Registered Member
Posts: 3
(9/26/03 11:25 pm)
Greek Fire in the Night
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Sensing the doubt implied in Zena’s questioning of her, Vassaly drew a deep breath and continued. There was too much at stake to break off from what she knew she must say.
“But she was…she is…small in height…and yes, she wore a tunic…and doeskin boots…carried a sword sheath on her back… knife in her belt. I remember that she seemed particularly attached to her horse…even made the old man throw in food and stabling for it in the bargaining for the promise to fight the figment of his madness.”
Vassaly stood and even in the darkness, her face turned crimson as she lowered her head and spoke in hushed tones.
When I…her tunic…when I removed it…she had a long scar…here…” reaching around to her back, she turned away from Zena and drew a long crescent shaped line with her thumb.
“I later asked her how it came to be that she had such a thing…she could not say. It seemed like so many other shadows in her thoughts. Clear and lucid at moments they were, followed by gaps that troubled her. I assumed they were memories…those that we wish to protect from others…and from ourselves."
She resumed her seat upon the log and looked up into Zena’s face reading the confusion and the struggle to find a common thread of truth in what she disclosed in the now damp and cold night air. She shivered and rubbed her arms for a small trace of warmth. Fine Roman cloth did little to stave off the elements.
“I cared for her…cleansed her wound…watched over her as she slept the first days. I was certain that she might die, but the sheath for her sword…empty as it was…took the balance of the blow. In the night…as I sat next to her bed between sleep and listening to her breathing…she fought from where ever she had descended.”
“There were curses, and strange words. She spoke of the color red…a woman…an axe… apples…and three ravens. Nothing, you see, made any bit of sense…not any of it. And there were tears with pleads to be released from the darkness."
"I would hold her hand and softly sing a lullaby I remembered from my mother to quiet her. She would sigh deeply and return to a sleep without trouble…a commodity I now would pay a Roman ransom to possess.”
“But she did not die and when she rose from the depth of Hades, I fed her…even chided her for trying to leave the bed after saying to me she wished me no harm from the man she swore an oath to."
"When I told her…when she knew…what she had done…that she killed him…I feared she would retreat back to that dark place that had held her captive for four days. We talked and I told her that the man was beyond redemption and if it not her, it certainly would have been another…in time…he would have found himself food not fit for the worms.”
Speaking of the bath was too intimate a morsel to share with this stranger. It mattered not and was of no consequence in the telling of the story…except to her…it was an act of deep kindness…of trust…of…
“She came to allow me to steady her hand with the meal and to help with a sip of cool water." Vassaly paused as if remembering causing a small laugh as she continued.
"Scoops...she said scoops when I handed her the flat spoon for the gruel. I remember her hands...strong and well defined...but gentle and caring as the opposite side of the same coin. Her palms were callused and her forearms also had scarring. I have seen such things on the arms of Roman soldiers that often stopped at the Inn…Roman soldiers…”
Vassaly’s voice struggled with the words, swallowed them as small daggers cutting off her story and bringing a void of silence between her and the Amazon. Blood now bounded through Zena’s temples like Greek fire readying for the explosion as thoughts ran rampant like a runaway chariot.
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 9/27/03 10:08 am
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:14:47 GMT -6
Zena 1
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Posts: 793
(9/27/03 4:26 pm)
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Fire and Ice
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The silence in the air about them had grown oppressively close without their notice. A storm was gathering to deliver it’s power with full force upon any creature who had the misfortune to be out and unprotected. Within, as well as without, a storm may rage.
Zena scarcely noticed the bolt that hit the tree just across the lake. The strong pine tree splintered, exploding into a glory of light and heat that it had not known in life, igniting the hapless bushes around it. She looked up slowly to face the fire. The flames colored her face with a dancing orange light that shimmered in the still water. Burning twigs shot into the sky to mimic the now extinguished shooting star that had previously arced over them. They sizzled as they hit the smooth surface, engulfed in the cool liquid, and disappeared below. Staring deeply into the distant blaze and embracing it’s heat, she spoke softly to Vassaly out of the fire that raged within her.
“Clothing is easily exchanged and hair may be altered. A name is held or forgotten but the marks upon the body that are gained in the struggle of life may not be lost.” Suddenly she pivoted on her heel, straddled the log and sat down heavily to face Vassaly with her full body. Vassaly felt the tension and leaned away. Zena spoke evenly with her eyes locked on to Vassaly’s, controlling the fears that scorched her heart.
“I have a sister, Vassaly, she is the aunt of my daughter. We bear no physical resemblance to one another, any of us, because we are family by choice and not by blood."
Vassaly looked confused by this revelation. “Why do you tell me this?"
Zena swallowed, her lips constricting to a thin line.
“By the scar on the back of the one you call Leara, and your description of her stature, this woman you knew is my sister. She is, along with my daughter, all that matters to me until we cross to the Elysian Fields."
The message flickered over Vassaly and flared into her soul. She could not move or break Zena’s gaze.
Zena reached over her shoulder and slowly, with great deliberation, she drew her sword from it’s sheath. Vassaly watched it slide from behind Zena’s back with the terror that a mouse feels when face to face with an uncoiling snake. The blade caught the light of the fire as it turned and shot out it’s own reflected sparks as it came to rest against Vassaly’s throat.
“If you harmed her..” Vassaly quivered a little, laying her fingertips against the razor edge. Zena pushed in lightly on the blade and spoke through her clenched teeth. “If you harmed her, in any manner, I will be her champion, her retribution, and there will be no mercy for you. Tell me what you have done with her."
They sat knee to knee, frozen in a tableau of life and death in the darkness while across the lake the blackened pine stood unseen as an empty shell for a brief moment and then collapsed into ashes.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Vassaly
Registered Member
Posts: 4
(9/27/03 9:47 pm)
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Crimson Rain
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“Harm her! I would sooner push my throat into your blade or call Zeus’ next volley of fire down upon myself. I would pay any price to have her here…safe…beside me.”
The clouds rumbled, the wind whipped through the trees… bending, twisting, as lightning cracked and thunder rolled across the lake. Waves lapped greedily upon the shore as the water churned inward.
Vassaly’s dress blew in the tumult that was growing all about them as the rain began to pelt them with stinging insistency for the two mortals to take notice of its presence. Both women stayed their position on the log. Lightning danced and reflected on the blade still at held at a delicate throat.
Her soft hands were no match for the sharp hone of metal. Grasping the blade gave a moment’s grimace followed by crimson droplets joining the cold rain dotting her breast. Zena recoiled in shock at the unexpected challenge to her authority as a warrior…protector…sister…
“Stop it!”
Vassaly loosened her grip and Zena pulled the blade away, twirled it up and into the air before slamming the point into the damp earth. Vassaly held out her hands skyward as torrents of rain washed warm blood over her forearms.
Zena ripped the bottom of the fine Roman dress and once separated from its whole, ripped it once again.
“Here…give me your hands woman…” She bound the cloth around the shallow wounds holding Vassaly’s palms upright knowing the bleeding would soon stop.
“Why did you do that…why?!”
Rain washed over them running through their hair and streaking their faces as they set staring into the depths of the others eyes. They knew it…they knew the connection… confusing and illogical, but true…so clearly true. They spoke of the same woman and with the sameness of a passion as crimson as the blood that now joined their hands.
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 9/28/03 8:08 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:16:09 GMT -6
Zena 1
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(9/28/03 3:53 pm)
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Maelstrom of the Heart
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Just as she wound the fabric around Vassaly’s bleeding hands the wind wound around the length of their bodies. The storm had grown in violent intensity and the rain came in sheets, beating over them at quick intervals with the gusts. When the winds picked up the sandy soil it was difficult to communicate for the sand bit into their flesh like hundreds of needles and they had to turn their faces from each other to protect their eyes.
Zena had seen, on her fishing trip, a small hill of stone and dirt just at the edge of the beach. Occasionally in dry seasons local shepherds would bring their flocks to the water to drink and graze in the fields beyond. On the side that was away from the lake there was a hollow place, a naturally occuring shallow cave that had been enlarged by an enterprising herder. It provided a safe haven, away from storms, for any shepherd who intended to remain in the area for any length of time. A rough sheep pen had been constructed of dead branches in front of it so that if he wished the shepherd could sleep at the gate, protecting his corralled charges from wolves.
Olympian sized blue bolts of lightening continued to fall to the earth around them, and seeing that the storm was increasing in it’s power Zena grabbed Vassaly by her upper arm and lifted her from the log. With her right hand she pulled the sword from the ground and pointed it ahead of her. Frightened, Vassaly strained to get away, thinking that perhaps Zena would kill her yet with her unsheathed weapon. Shouting an explanation was useless against the driving wind and so Zena simply dragged her charge along with her, heading toward the hill and the shepherd’s den.
In the soft sand Vassaly lost her footing and struggled to stand, growing weary in the power of the storm. Surely this was a punishment from some god for an unknown transgression! Zena shifted her grasp and clamped an arm around Vassaly’s waist who remembered in the familiar gesture how she had held Evergreen when she stumbled at the tub. The wind was now at their backs but the sand was pelting their exposed skin, stinging and forcing them to narrow their eyes to slits.
They crawled around the hill, through the narrow gap in the sheep gate and lurched into the cave opening. Falling together to the packed dirt floor they lay side by side gasping from the exertion. Long moments passed as their breathing calmed and the wind wailed outside. Zena rolled over and sat up slowly, now aware that she could once again communicate with her companion. She looked down at Vassaly and saw that she was suffering greatly from the cold and filmy soaked clothing that she wore. The latest Roman fashion was of little practical use. She had lost one sandal in the struggle from the beach and with the hem torn away for bandages the fine fabric was becoming an embarrassment to it’s owner.
Reaching for Vassaly’s white, chilled hands Zena satisfied herself that the bleeding had ceased and then quickly dropped them to pull her sword to her own side from where it had fallen upon their entrance. Vassaly shivered and watched the blade come to it’s owner. Zena followed her gaze.
“It’s all right. The shepherd must have taken his flock inland. He banked his fire into embers in case he needs to come back but for now we are his house guests."
She observed that in the back of the cave there was stored the rough blanket used as a bed roll. When she opened it to cover Vassaly the unmistakable sheep odor filled the air. Vassaly turned her face away from the smell.
“Sit up. Vassaly! Sit up!! Please. Wrap yourself in this until I can get the fire going again.” Zena pulled off her oiled leather sword sheath that resisted moisture like the feathers of a waterfowl, and the chakram from her belt. Piling the weapons to the side of the entrance she squatted low over the fire and blew life back into the dying embers, feeding it small twigs to enkindle the blaze.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Vassaly
Registered Member
Posts: 5
(9/28/03 8:12 pm)
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My Sister's Keeper's Keeper
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The blanket smelled and was coarse against her skin. Bits of hay and debris caught in the stiff fabric poked into her flesh. It immediately made her itch as she squirmed inside of it. At least she would not die from it…or apparently from the hand of the tall curly haired woman breathing life into the smoldering embers of the remnant fire. For these things she said a small blessing to Athena.
The tall Amazon stood up to her full height and towered over the woman shivering in the sheep blanket.
“Take them off…go ahead…give them to me.”
It was not a request but a demand for her wet clothing. She feared she should comply as ordered thinking it better to be unclothed than dressed and dead.
“Turn around…face the other way or I will not do it.” Vassaly pulled the course blanket up tight around her neck. The action stung her hands and she winced.
“That was a really stupid thing you did out there…coulda lopped off all your fingers and just where would you put that fine ring you wear?”
The ring was of thick silver and gold fashioned as two vines intertwined. It never left her finger and she often twirled it around and around feeling its weight…remembering the gift of it.
Zena turned around facing the fury of the storm pounding the land outside the entrance of the small cave. Vassaly slowly lowered the blanket, pulled her wet clothing above her head and removed her sodden sandals tossing them over near the now growing flames of the fire.
“Done…I am finished…you can turn back around now.”
Zena pivoted, stooped over retrieving the wet clothing. She held up what was left of the useless garment and threw it into the sheep pen landing it squarely on recycled hay.
“Ya won’t be needing that anymore.” She laughed as she walked to the back of the cave and began rummaging through two burlap sacks.
Vassaly withdrew her former thanksgiving to Athena and silently wished that the tall woman had put her out of her misery. And when she thought the intolerable situation could not get any worse, leather pants came flying her way followed by a dark blue tunic that reeked with sweat of its previous owner. She began to gag.
“Don’tcha dare…there not another thing in here for you to wear…unless you are comfortable being wrapped in the blanket. And by the by, it’s not your color.”
Vassaly found no humor in the curly headed woman’s admonishment. She would do whatever she must do. She needed to continue with her story for who knew what awaited this tall benefactor and her friends come the morning light.
She slipped on the blue tunic and pulled the doeskin pants over her legs mottled from the cold. At least the britches were soft and for that, and the now blazing fire, she was grateful.
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 9/29/03 4:24 am
Zena 1
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(9/29/03 1:42 pm)
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Keeping Watch
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At least the woman would not die of the cold. “I’m calling her ‘the woman’ in my own head”, Zena mused to herself. To deny a person their name is to insult them. She did not know enough of this woman to be insulting. And besides she was the keeper of the mystery of Evergreen’s whereabouts. Best to step lightly until all was revealed.
The stone arch at the opening was damp but gave support for her back as she slid down against it. The fire felt good and her boots were drying; the lonely sandal that Vassaly had surrendered was also toasting nicely. It was no worse here than daily life on the road: a fire, the wet, rocks, animals and strangers. For a time she looked out through the flames and watched the rain pound against the dirt of the sheep pen, beating the Roman dress into the muck. She felt the eyes on her, sizing her up, measuring her intentions. A branch popped as it died in the fire and it drew her attention into the cave. Vassaly sat across from her, in obvious discomfort, waiting for her chance to resume her story.
Silently Zena gathered herself again for battle. Her thoughts focused on Vassaly. “Wait there woman. Until I am ready. Ready? Can I ever be ready for this?"
This would be a long night.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:18:55 GMT -6
phalon1
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Posts: 1508
(10/2/03 12:07 am)
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Sounds and Silence
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What a strange evening, indeed, Phalon thought to herself as watched Lyndara offer her arm to the blind woman. The woman took the girl’s arm and let herself be led to the doorway. Frieda Rose had not eaten much during dinner, Phalon had observed, but had helped herself to a fair amount of mead. Perhaps too much mead was the reason for her rather hasty departure, leaving her samples of cloth and her seamstress, Metussa, here to finish taking orders and measurements from the others, who could be heard oooing and ahhing over the fabrics in the next room still. All but Vassaly, who looked as if she were in need of new clothing as much as the rest of them, and Zena, were being fitted. They had been led by Apollo on his quest to locate Sumire, who had not been seen since the dismissal of the run-amok-mice.
Phalon followed Lyndara and Frieda Rose to the doorway. As she neared the open door, she caught the soft, lonely sounds of a flute being played somewhere in the village, the melody choppy, as if the musician were out of practice. A shiver ran down Phalon’s spine, though the night air was quite warm. The music halted and was followed by a rumbling, far in the distance, then a loud crack as the horizon was lit by a strike of lightening.
If the storm were not so far away, Phalon would have cut a branch from the Bay tree that grew in the center of the courtyard behind the house and given it to Lyndara to carry as she walked Frieda home. Bay was a sacred tree, and its powers were immeasurable. Lightening would not come near it, and to carry a branch in a storm would ensure protection against lightening strikes.
Thinking about the bay now, Phalon’s mind wandered back to the evening meal. Throughout the dinner, she was very aware of the fire in the hearth crackling and popping. Yet, when she threw the bay leaves into it after hearing Vassaly speak of Leara and Rome in the same breath – silence. It meant misfortune was headed their way, she was sure. The leaves were supposed to make noise in the fire. To burn without sound, well…it made her uneasy.
Frieda stumbled a bit as Lyndara helped her over the threshold and into the street. The woman had mentioned something about hot springs when she bumped into Phalon before Lyndara offered to take her home, but Phalon had not really heard. The sensation she got from the contact with Frieda overwhelmed her and she did not quite know what to make of it. She was overcome with feelings of fear and sadness, and it took a few moments before the emotions subsided. She was as curious about Frieda Rose as Frieda Rose was about them.
Her curiosity got the better of her now, and she stepped from the open doorway into the street. The sounds from the flute wafted through the air once more, and the frustration of the musician was apparent in the broken melody. “Wait!” she called. She quickly took a few strides to where Lyndara slowly guided Frieda down the uneven street. “Wait, just a moment, please”, she said, grabbing Frieda’s elbow. Again, the contact brought a feeling of sadness, emptiness – something was missing. What? It made her uneasy and she was glad, when frightened, Frieda pulled her arm away and the contact was broken.
“Excuse me”, Phalon said, “Sorry if I scared you. I’m Phalon, Kaisa’s daughter. Uhm…you mentioned something inside about hot springs.” Phalon searched for an excuse to talk with the girl. “Oh, to have a bath that does not run cold! It’s been ages. And a leisurely, quiet one, without children barging in and out, chattering about this and that, asking all sorts of questions.”
“Hrumph”, came from Lyndara, all of ten years, and placing her hands on her hips, indignant to be placed in the same category as her younger brothers and sisters.
Phalon quickly added, “The much younger ones, I mean”, winking at Lyndara, meaning that no, she did not consider Lyndara to be what the girl considered pesky little babies. Lyndara straightened at the recognition. “And not that I mind the interruptions. Not from my dear nieces and nephews, never. But to soak as long as desired in an endless supply of hot water. I will think I’ve entered the Elysian Fields.”
“Well..uhm…yes.”, Frieda replied nervously. “I’ll arrange for it. Just send word to my shop when you’re ready. Hastily, she added, “Perhaps by way of one of the children. You needn’t come all the way to the shop yourself.” Oh, by the gods, no, Frieda thought. Please don’t come to my home.
“Okay, I will. Thank you for the offer, Frieda Rose.”
Frieda grasped for Lyndara’s arm, and finding it, gave a tug. “I, uhm, really need to be going now. Goodnight”, she said, rather abruptly, and pulling Lyndara, turned to leave.
“Goodnight”, Phalon said in return. “And hurry back, Lyndara. The storm will be here soon.” As they made their way down the street, she called out, adding, “Oh, and Frieda Rose… It’s really not an inconvenience. I’ll stop by your shop, perhaps in the next day or two, to arrange for the trip to the hot springs.”
In the dark, Phalon thought she saw Frieda Rose shudder, and a chill passed through Phalon herself as the musician finally found her melody and the sweet, haunting song drifted eerily through the night. The melody, as well as the night, had an underlying air of melancholy. The song finished, all was quiet, and Phalon thought to herself, “The calm before the approaching storm.”
Edited by: phalon1 at: 10/2/03 12:27 am
EvergreenLM
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(10/2/03 9:26 pm)
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An Ill WInd Blows
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The horses stamped and whinnied as they jerked on the halter ropes nervously sensing the approaching storm. Their eyes grew wild as the lightning flashed in the distance followed by the low rumbling of thunder. They could smell the rain. The soldiers took burlap and bound the horses’ eyes in an effort to calm them…to stop their bid to break free and run from what they knew was blowing in the wind.
The tents began to flap and shake as the air swirled down through the canopy of trees dusting itself along the ground. Candles flickered and the four gathered at the table ended their meeting with each leaving to return to his place among the others.
Apollinarius hung back seeking a chance to speak to her alone. He was to ask a favor of the Consul and did not wish to do so in front of the others as to appear to find favor not given to them. The Little Dog rose from its appointed place by her side and snarled at his approach causing him to stop short maintaining a wary distance.
He cleared his throat as to draw her attention away from the map. She seemingly was not cognizant of the impending storm blowing down from the hillside. Her focus was on the impending storm that would blow a Roman wind down upon the village that housed the one they sought. The plan was to raze it to the ground if one among them refused to turn over the object of their quest. And yet, only he knew the truth…the prize they sought was his for just the reaching out and taking. And that he would do in time…all in the precise time.
And as she looked up, the telling wind ushered itself into the world they shared within the tent extinguishing the light as an owl in a nearby tree sounded its portent to all that would hear its guttural message.
"We're stuff of the soul, Gabrielle."
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 10/6/03 6:37 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 2, 2004 0:21:14 GMT -6
EvergreenLM
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(10/6/03 7:18 pm)
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Bartering
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The extinguished candle light was, as if secretly bidden to return, replaced by the crackling torchlight in the right hand of Dionysus. Whimpering preceded the light, and tightly gripped in his left hand was the rotund merchant that sent the Roman contingent off chasing the wind that now howled with the storm's fury outside the Consul's quarters.
Dionysus tilted the torch rekindling the candle light and registered surprise in seeing Appolinarius stepping from the shadows. There was something registered in his face that quiet bothered the older soldier, but the man squirming in his grip was of first order.
"We caught him on the road that leads back to the village. I fear that perhaps he may have been returning to warn the others that we are nearby. He however, can sing any song for a silver token. He has information I feel may be helpful, but it does have a price..."
The soldier released the man tossing him in the direction of the Consul who stood watching the dripping wet man as she tapped the blade of a dagger on her chin. She stared at him as she traced the point starting from one ear, slowly moving under her throat, stopping at its matching counterpart.
Without words she began to circle the man and tapped the blade against the back of his round neck. The silence roared in his ears, and in his mind he said a prayer to his gods and a goodbye to his wife who would now never meet him at the edge of the village as planned.
He, after all, was a man, and well...she a woman...and well...it had been too long since he had layed down beside her. But no matter to that now. Regretfully, he wished that he had not offered up what he knew for coins and now knew full well it could be better bartered for his life.
"SIT down...you little man... and convince me why I should not hoist you to the tree tops and wait for Zeus to split you with that which he is now tossing from the skies."
He would sit if only his weak legs would move as his numb mind did order. He felt a surprisingly strong hand engage his shoulder and push him to the small stool. He looked at the cup of wine and wished for the want of just a drop to open his constricted throat which soon may hold no liquid whatsoever.
Perceiving his silent wish, the cup was slowly pushed to him as she sat down continuing her gaze. The gold and silver band on her sinewy finger reflected the flickering candlelight as she held up the cup motioning for him to drink. Never had he seen such a look in the eyes of a woman...but this one...this one was like no other he had ever encountered.
He knew what she and the others sought, and concluded that he would tell them exactly what the dark eyes of the woman wanted to know...and the weight of the silver he had hoped would again fill his pocket mattered not.
"We're stuff of the soul, Gabrielle."
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 10/6/03 7:28 pm
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Singed
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The storm continued to batter the hill but the shepherd who had dug the cave had chosen wisely. The wind and rain blew by the opening and although the sheep pen outside filled with water and mud the inhabitants of the interior remained warm and had begun to dry. The lightening crackled and Zena looked skyward as if she might see the hand of Zeus.
“I wish we had a bay tree branch,” Vassaly whispered in the space between the bursts of rolling thunder.
“I saw one in Kaisa’s yard.”
“Yes, they planted it as an offering to Aesculapius when Apollo was born. He was so small, they thought he would die but Kaisa wouldn’t allow it! She gave every offering she could to the gods for his recovery.”
“I’m surprised he made it.”
“Don’t you believe in the intervention of the gods?!!”
“Let’s just say I’ve seen them intervene enough lately, and I wasn’t impressed.” Zena turned away again to study the rivulets running down the stone archway and Vassaly threw little sticks in the fire. Neither knew how to begin the inevitable conversation that had ended with the breaking storm. They sat awhile longer and suddenly Vassaly sniffed the air.
“What is that stink?”
“Sheep.”
“No, I’m used to that now. The other smell."
Zena sniffed too and following the scent grabbed Vassaly’s sandal from the fire. It was darkened and crumbly at the tip. She handed it to Vassaly apologetically who shook off the sparks and sighed, “My fine Corinthian leather!”
“You’ve been to Corinth?? I hear it’s a really interesting place. We always wanted to go, for the Isthmean Games. My sister loves the foot race event.”
“I know.” Vassaly looked up at Zena with apprehension. “We crossed Achaia at Corinth to use the shorter, safer route to Rome.”
“It’s Greece, Vassaly. Not Achaia. We are a country not a Roman province.”
“I’m sorry. I have been in Rome awhile.”
Zena looked at the burned sandal in Vassaly’s hand.
“I thought the leatherwork was Roman. You are full of surprises."
Vassaly waited until Zena had gone back to staring out of the archway and tentatively asked, “Shall I continue my story?"
Zena turned her head slowly and gazing at her from across the fire and simply nodded.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Edited by: Zena 1 at: 10/6/03 7:29 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 20:57:45 GMT -6
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(10/8/03 8:56 pm)
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A Rainy Night in Greece
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The burning leather filled the cave with its smell and a black, smoky haze. The entire circumstance brought a smile to her face and she finally gave a nervous laugh in an effort to find a place at which to begin again.
How funny were the gods at playing their games that were no match for mortals. The whole situation smelled as badly as the charred sandal. She stared into the welcomed warm fire and let the dancing flames take her back to a different time…a time that was filled with discovery…with happiness and joy.
“In the beginning I guess she felt obligated to take me, she was grateful for my care, and after all, she said for me just to ask, and I did. Take me with you…a simple request with few words. But their meaning, and her answer, changed my life forever. I will never be the same.”
Vassaly looked up from the fire to see tall Amazon leaning against the archway of the cave.
The curly haired woman looked over her broad shoulder at the gray eyed story teller trying to read what was yet to come in her words. Turning back to face the storm, she stuck out her long arm with outstretched palm to the sky and allowed the rain to sift through her fingers.
“Please…go on…I need to know.”
The tone in the woman’s voice began to dissipate any residual fear Vassaly had as to being sent that very night to the Elysian Fields in borrowed sheep herder’s clothing and wearing just one sandal.
Pulling up her legs and embracing them with her arms, the blonde rested her chin on her knees as she again stared into the flames watching the logs glowing deep amber as they crackled and fell.
“I have never met anyone like her you know. One moment, she was happy, singing, or gently rubbing the ears of that silly little dog who stowed away in our wagon. And the next, well, she said her mind was filled with shadows that brought her discontented dreams and awoke her many a night long before the sun rose."
"The others either feared or respected her words, her presence, and prowess with the sword…the one I had given to her on the day we left the village together. She could not explain the empty sheath she wore over her shoulder so I…”
“Who others feared or respected her?” Zena left the archway and walked the short distance to the storyteller, hunched down on her heels as she reached out to the fire to warm her hands.
“Why the Roman soldiers she commanded…commands… of course. The old mother gave her what was rightfully hers…the inheritance of her father, Justinian. We wanted for nothing…you saw my dress…my shoes… but all I wanted…” her voice trailed off as she again began to twist the ring around and around on her finger.
Lightning crackled and struck nearby flashing shadows on the walls of the cave as the thunder rolled over the earth as a thousand chariots.
“It is a puzzlement to me in a way. Leara felt as if she belonged nowhere…was without allegiance to anyone…and yet, she was drawn back to Rome. When she recognized the Villa, it seemed that she indeed had found a connection…something inexplicable… just beyond her grasp.”
Vassaly released her legs, picked up a long slender branch and poked at the white hot ashes.
“And when the old woman reached out that feeble hand, touched Leara’s face, calling her daughter, welcoming her back after all the lost years…well, to her…to Leara…she was home. And, for a soft breath, it was mine as well. I think she was happy. We would talk into the night, the dreams were fewer and the shadows did not haunt her waking hours as before. But it was not to last…”
Vassaly turned her head looking over to the woman who obviously held the other half of a key that would unlock their shared Pandora's Box.
“Zena, tell me…have you ever missed someone so much that it feels there is a part of you terribly incomplete…an emptiness? Would you betray the only person that gives your life meaning for choosing to do the good and the right thing?”
The rain continued to pound the earth with its steady cadence washing away the surface to expose what lies beneath.
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 10/8/03 9:33 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:00:32 GMT -6
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Two paths
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The dilemma of a question that tangles heart and mind is that one may wish to answer swiftly and then regret that the answer was not turned over first in the mind as one turns a smooth river stone in the hand. The heart begs to be heard first but the mind urges caution and silence.
Vassaly had not proposed one such muddled question, but two. The cautious mind of Zena won over her heart and she remained silent while she turned over the smooth stones of her ideas and listened to the rain drumming on the hill above. At last she shifted her body from the crouched position to sit more comfortably by the fire. It had burned to embers and so she began feeding it again with a small stock of dry kindling tucked against the wall of the cave, just within her reach. When the fire was again providing the warmth and light they needed she spoke softly to Vassaly.
“I was born in a village by the sea. I have just a few memories that are pleasant from those days. We lived together in peace, raised a few crops and caught fish when we could. Life was quiet and without event. When I was seven a Roman Tribune came to our little village in his polished armor and riding a beautiful black horse. We gathered around him to admire his weapons, not knowing he was destruction itself. He told us that we would pay taxes for the use of the roads and taxes on the fish we caught. My father was a leader of our village council and they pushed him forward so he could speak for everyone. “Why do we owe you for what is ours?” he asked. I remember how he looked, tall and strong but not a warrior..just a working man. The Tribune told him that now luckily, we were protected by Mother Rome but it cost money to build roads and keep the Pax Romana. My father said we would not pay for roads we did not want and a peace that came by the sword. The Tribune shrugged and nailed a parchment to the door of our meeting place with the tools he carried in his saddlebag. When he rode away mother read it for the others. She was beautiful I remember, with my little brother always in her arms. Her hair was dark and curly and tied in the back with a silver clasp.” Zena sighed and stopped speaking for a little while and Vassaly did not intrude on her thoughts. When she began again her voice cracked as she stared through the fire.
“The parchment said that unless we paid the taxes we would be cut off from our fields and from the other towns. The roads were not ours to use. Roman galleys patrolled our waters and drove the fish out farther to sea, our nets came in empty. That winter we ate all our stored grain and then there was nothing. Babies chewed on bits of leather to ease their hunger after the animals were used up. Once I remember finding some mushrooms that looked good but my father slapped them from my hands before I could eat them because they were poison. Then one night my brother died and I felt so guilty that I was glad not to hear his little cries for food anymore. When we were so weak that even my father could hardly stand, they came again. To make an example of what happens to resistance in the Empire they burned our village and killed everyone who was not already dead.”
“But you are here today..”, Vassaly murmured.
“I had gone down the beach to see if anything had washed ashore that was edible. I saw the flames from there. I buried myself in the scrub bushes and when they rode by I closed my eyes tightly, thinking that they could not see me if I could not see them. A child’s belief that proved true. I remained hidden until the next day. The Amazons had seen the smoke and came in the morning to bury the dead and with their hunter’s eyes saw what the men had not. I was saved but in their camp I was lost. I was small and bullied by stronger girls. The Amazon’s let it go, thinking it would make me tough, but it made me angry and sullen and I stopped speaking. My sister found me and became my champion then, she drove them away when they taunted me. She was patient with my fears and explained what I did not understand when we were instructed by Amazon mentors. Best of all, she never left my side and even shared her food with me. She gave me hope, a home, a reason to be alive. Without her I am that eight year old child..homeless and in despair. I long for our reuniting and I dream that we will be able to settle again, away from the Empire, in a small home with a little vineyard..maybe by the sea.” Vassaly was without words for a response. Her second question still hung in the air between them and it took some time before Zena was ready to address it. She began again in low voice.
“We were taught the art of war, but we were also taught philosophy and Greek literature. Both of us can read and I sometimes even write down the stories of our life together. The centuries of great Greek learning have all been made available to us through the Amazon culture.”
“But I thought the Amazon’s were a tribe of wild women, living as beasts in the forest.” Zena threw a good sized chunk of wood onto the fire, deliberately making sparks. Vassaly pulled back and brushed the burning crumbs from the borrowed tunic.
“Your view of the world is narrow Vassaly, even if you’ve been to Corinth. Since you do not know, I will tell you this piece of Greek wisdom we were taught which is derived from Plato, Socrates and Aristotle. Above all we must think of the greater good, the welfare of the tribe surely but also of the villages we visit and the nation we love. As much as I cherish my sister and my daughter, I would leave them to defend that ideal. My sister holds the same philosophy and we will teach this to my child. Otherwise, life is a just a time of helpless existence in which the gods can inflict pain on you and then you die. No more or less.”
The rain had retreated to a drizzle.
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
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(10/9/03 9:18 pm)
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By the Firelight
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Vassaly listened intently to the Amazon’s words and thought they were as poetically spoken as any Bard that had entertained them in Rome. She sighed deeply now fully relaxed in the knowledge that this was indeed not a woman solely of weapons and war. The tenderness in which she spoke of her sister matched the place in her own heart she held for Leara. The woman they shared had saved them both.
They sat silently watching the fire as it rekindled to life after being fed when it had nearly dissipated…as apropos as it again was to the two of them. The thunder was now just a distance chorus and the breeze entering the opening of the cave smelled fresh with the earth being washed clean. Frogs croaked their appreciation for the celestial waterfall. Through the breaking clouds, the crescent moon returned peeking out from its hiding place knowing full well it would soon surrender itself to sister sun and the birth of a new day.
Vassaly lay down on her side, pulled the coarse blanket up around her shoulders before propping her head on the palm of her hand as she dug her elbow into the soft earthen floor. The sensation from the rough texture reminded her of her true self…who she was…where she came from…negating what she left behind in Rome. She too felt that she had been washed clean by the words of this stranger sharing with her much more than the commonality of the stormy night.
She viewed Zena as an anchorhold and recognized why she easily fell into the role of the leadership of the small tribe. She shepherd them all seeing in each woman a unique quality, nurtured it…protected it. Never had she encountered such devotion as this one conveyed in her recollections of where she had been and where she longed to be.
And yet, Vassaly also recognized that Zena would sacrifice it all for following a code…their code, by which they lived…and died. It, in an obscure way, was truly an act of love. Giving up what the heart values the most to follow what reason directs as the good and right thing may kill the body, but perhaps,afterall, redeems the soul.
“She is coming for one of your own…the one you and your sisters refer to as Evergreen. She is bringing them…the soldiers…and not one of you is to be spared…not one.”
And as the tumult outside the opening of the cave moved on into the night, the storm in Vassaly’s heart raged as her tears fell replacing the retreating rain.
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 10/9/03 10:35 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:02:14 GMT -6
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Illuminated
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At first she thought she had heard the wrong word. She turned her head sharply and her whole body tightened. The control was gone, old memories had softened her and she had let down her guard. Vassaly could not help but notice the reaction and she pushed herself up so that she was balanced on one arm nearly face to face with Zena.
“What is it? What made you jump?”
“Say it again,” Zena said in a low voice.
“ I said, she is coming for one of your sisters..for the one you call Evergreen.” Vassaly was truly puzzled. A Roman legion marching to capture one of these warriors, while not a regular occurance, was certainly not foreign to their existance.
Zena had held her sister’s name in her heart, far from her lips. To surrender it would be to give this woman ownership of her sister and she was not prepared to do that. But neither was she prepared to hear the name attributed to someone else.
“How can she come for herself??” Zena snarled and Vassaly drew back.
“It was this Evergreen that killed Leara’s father, Justinian the Senator. What are you talking about Zena? Leara is looking for Evergreen to kill her."
They sat as statues as Zena worked out the pattern of events in her own mind, turning over the smooth stones one more time. Then, with the scowl smoothing from her face, she reached out to gently touch Vassaly’s hand, “She has already seen her.”
“WHAT? Where?”
“Every time she sees her own reflection in a polished surface staring back at her.”
Zena
"Agere Sequitur Esse"
Edited by: Zena 1 at: 10/10/03 4:48 pm
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Riddle
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The words swirled into her mind and slammed into her thoughts sending her physically off balance.
Is this a riddle? , she thought. “Every- time- she- sees- her- own- reflection- in- a polished- surface- staring- back- at- her.”
She replayed it over and over trying to make some sense of what she already knew to be true. Zena’s sister is Leara…Leara is Evergreen! But how could that be?
“That day at the Inn…the blow to the head…I have heard of such occurrences…to forget all that one was… all that one did in another life. It does so explain the dreams, the shadows, and the veiled remembrances. It was you there…inside her mind… all along it was you and the others…”
Surely that must be the answer to the riddle. But in that discovery came no comfort as it became apparent that the one they both shared was now in grave danger…not from the Amazons, but from the very ones who now surrounded her, the Romans…if they were to find out…
“Zena, they will kill her if they discover who she is…I don’t know what to do… You cannot understand what she means to me…I could not endure the thought that she would d…” Vassaly latched on to a taunt forearm as her face pleaded her emotions.
“She will not die…I won’t let it happen!” The timbre of the voice resonated in the small cave as an oath was sworn that night to Vassaly…and to Evergreen.
And as Vassaly’s tears had only moments ago replaced the retreating rain, the hot embers of the now ebbing fire found a new resting place in Zena’s eyes. The soft demeanor took a back room to the tensed features of the Amazon who seemingly grew in stature right before the woman in borrowed clothing. She now clearly saw the warrior before her, and most assuredly one not to be made an enemy if you valued your life. This one could most likely eat a dog and form a necklace from its remains given the right reason.
“What can I do…tell me what I can...” A large pair of well worn boots flew like the winged Hermes from across the cave that was now cast in hazy shadows. Zena had rummaged once again through the burlap sacks stacked against the far wall and presented Vassaly with her prize.
“You mean what are WE going to do…put them on… they are not fine Corinthian leather, but your one sandal will not carry you far… unless you plan to hop all the way back to Kaisa’s…”
Vassaly wondered if this was also an Amazon Way…to make light of a dire situation right before you plotted your enemy’s demise. She would never understand them, but for the love of one, she would learn.
The sputtering fire died as Zena doused it with water drawn from a barrel outside the cave entrance as a new flame ignited in the very fiber of her being. Her thoughts were interrupted as she detected undue motion to her right.
Vassaly was struggling with the boots.
"For the love of Pearle…!”
Without resistance,Zena pushed the ridiculously garbed woman to the cave floor grabbing an ankle, lifting it into the air as she pushed on the leather heel as softer hands pulled on the boot straps.
“Did anyone ever tell you that your feet are as big as a…on second thought…don’t answer that…here… give me your other foot.”
And with the boots in place, the two unlikely cohorts left the cave of secrets revealed conjoined by their love for a woman with two names…
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 10/11/03 5:41 am
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:03:29 GMT -6
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(10/11/03 11:19 pm)
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A Mother's Dreams, a Daughter's Visions
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Phalon sat in front of the hearth. The house was dark, except for the light of the flames casting eerie dancing shadows upon the walls. The storm raged furiously outside, but here, the only noises to be heard were the occasional sounds in the next room of someone stirring in her sleep, and the crackling of the fire before her - and the latter ceased whenever she threw a bay leaf from dozen or so she held in her hand into the flames.
She sighed as she watched the leaf burn, and absentmindedly started to hum a tune to break the silence that followed. She stopped when she realized what she was humming. It was Sumire’s song. The one she heard wafting through the streets of town before the storm blew in, and the one, upon her return with Apollo, Sumire played for them all. A beautiful, haunting melody, and it didn’t seem right that Phalon should be humming it. It belonged to Sumire. Her face, when she played the flute for them, was more content, more relaxed, then it had been since she entered Kaisa’s home and was introduced into their lives. More content, and at peace, as if she’d come to terms with some kind of turmoil within herself. That bothered Phalon. And it worried her that it should bother her – why should she feel upset that the girl seemed finally at ease with them and herself? Something didn’t quite set right though.
She threw another leaf into the fire. Silence.
“What are you doing here in the dark by yourself, up so late?” Her mother’s voice in the stillness startled her for a moment.
“Oh, just listening to the fire, Mom”, she replied after she’d recovered.
“What a day, eh?” Kaisa said sighing, not expecting an answer. She settled down into a chair next to Phalon, mostly likely the first time she sat down with any intention of staying put for more than a minute all day. She went on, “Phalon, for all their rough appearances, and warrior ways, I really like your friends. They seem to be a very loyal, caring and kind bunch of women…so unlike the rumors that surround them.” She paused, and Phalon waited, knowing there was more…
“But, you know, dear, it’s not the life I would have chosen for you. I had hoped you get married, have children, and raise a family here in town. A few more grandchildren to spoil wouldn’t be a bad thing, you know.”
“It’s not the way I’d always imagined my life would turn out either, Mom. But, after the Romans killed…well, it was not meant to be.”
“Ah, yes, I know. I’m sorry to bring that up. I just want you to be happy. Are you happy, Phalon?”
Was she happy? Phalon had never really given it much thought. There were times of extreme happiness. Other times, though, she longed for what she didn’t have – and for that she’d lost, when a part of her seemed empty. There was a time when she'd thought she would wed her life’s one true love, have children, and nurture them in a loving home. To have what Gelasuis and Damaris had. But long ago, she had come to terms with what the Fates had handed her, and made the most of it. Was she happy? She was content, and yes, given it thought, she was happy.
“Though I’ve never settled in one place, Mom, I do so enjoy life. Traveling the countryside, with this group of women, encountering adventure at every turn, never knowing what’s around the next corner – yes, it appeals to me, and though I’ve seen some awful things….Horrible, unimaginable things, Mom…most of the time, though, yes, I am happy.”
“Oh, you do so remind me of your Great Aunt Eurayle. She had the wanderlust too. In this dim light, you even look like her. Or maybe it’s just my old eyes playing tricks on me.”
“Great Aunt Eurayle? You mentioned that name earlier…when we arrived. I don’t remember having a Great Aunt Euryale.”
“You wouldn’t. She’d already left before you were born, and returned only a few times after that….like you. Oh, wait….” Kaisa suddenly jumped up from her seat. “She left something for you on one of her visits. Her last visit in fact. She knew her time left in this world was short…she had a way of knowing things…seeing them before they happened…” Kaisa paused and looked at Phalon. Phalon shifted uncomfortably in her chair. To her knowledge her mother knew nothing of her visions, and she wished to keep it that way. After staring at her daughter for a moment, Kaisa continued. “She wanted you to have this. Something for her great niece…she named you, you know, on one of her rare visits.”
Kaisa fumbled through canisters and jars searching for this thing…this gift from an aunt she’d never met. Though Phalon was impatient to see what this mysterious aunt left her, she smiled watching her mother. Kaisa, normally a very precise, neat person, with a place for everything, and everything in it’s place, had her valuables…trinkets really, but things sentimental and irreplaceable if stolen, scattered and hidden in every imaginable hiding place about the house. A result, Phalon supposed, of the days when the Romans ransacked the town, taking supplies, not only from the shop, but all their personal items of any value, no matter how small that value was.
Finally Kaisa found what she was looking for in the false bottom of a small woven basket. She returned to her seat next to Phalon, and held the thing, enclosed in her fist, out to her. Phalon held out her hand and her mother plunked a small, heavy object into it. Phalon closed her hand around it, and without a glance knew what she held in her palm. She had to look though, just to be sure. Resting her forearms on her thighs, she bent over and opened her hand in front of the light from the fire. Yes, this was it. The Ring. The silver twisted knots etched in her mind with the same clarity as were the lessons learned from its wearer, though the wearer’s face was now only a blurred memory.
Phalon stared at the ring in disbelief. This surely could not be coincidence, could it? “So Mom…. tell me more about this Great Aunt Euryale.”
She threw the last bunch of bay leaves into the flames, and waited for the silence to end, and her mother’s tale to begin.
Edited by: phalon1 at: 10/11/03 11:30 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:04:32 GMT -6
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(10/12/03 8:45 am)
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Diverted Attention
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The group sighed a collective sigh of relief, after Zena’s dramatic entrance, thinking she had to rush in to save the group from an unknown enemy the day’s drama appeared over.
Zena seemed a bit perplexed, the place was no longer in distress…yet a chaotic feel hung in the air.
As Zena stepped further into the room to investigate, it became apparent that there was someone standing behind her motionless in the doorway.
Many eyes strained to see the figure, but none so curious as Xendra.Something about this stranger captivated Xendra’s attention, for had it not been for the fish strewn about her neck and shoulders the stranger could be mistaken for a high class citizen. Yes, this stranger appeared somewhat regal, Xendra could not dismiss the idea that she was somewhat out of place and perhaps even worse,... perhaps she was a Roman….
Once all the little eyes had seen who it was, they seemed to content to return to their laughing and giggling ways.
The woman, despite her obvious class difference did not appear to be a stranger or even an enemy to the residents of the household. for no one seemed concerned or distressed about this woman’s prescence in their house, for that reason alone Xendra was more curious than alarmed about the stranger.
Consumed with curiousity, Xendra started take a step forward to get a closer look at the woman to both confirm her suspicions and to introduce herself to the stranger.
However, ever mindful that it was Kaisa’s house, Xendra stepped back when Kaisa approached the women.
Every pair of eyes in the room focused on Kaisa and the strange woman. Kaisa did not seem to notice or even care that she was the focal point of attention, instead pleased with all the fish,Kaisa just walked up,broadly smiled and took the carp out of Zena’s hand..
As Kaisa took a long hard look at the two women bringing the catch it took but a moment for Kaisa to notice the mouse that clung to Zena’s tunic,Kaisa's broad smile began to fold up a bit as if confirming something to herself Kaisa uttered aloud “Ah.. Finally.”
With a slight twinkling in the eye Kaisa said in a fake stern voice said, “ Zena. Please. No mice in my house. Thank you, dear."
True to form Kaisa promptly turned back around and retreated back towards her kitchen, before she did, she gave the children and women alike a 'shoo' ing motion "Well now.. lets go. Dinner’s not finished. Wash your hands and back into the kitchen.”
Eager to plese and to stay in Kaisa’s good graces,all the children exacept Vania scurried of to get their hands washed .
It was a fortunate occurance for since they were preoccupied the children were all too far away to see one last pair of mice who were on the table watching, watching the hilarious show.
Red,despite getting rid of the other mice,still could not stand the sight of the mice and went into an attack mode course of action, as she did so the mice tried to scurry away much like the children had done after Kaisa’s orders, but Red was not to be out done Red spun and lept until she had them both captured and had dropped them out of the window.
Amused at Red’s efforts Zena waited for Red to returned back to the room when she did Zena poked a little fun at her friend and said, “Hey! Dances with mice! What happened here?”
Red not taking note of the playful sarcasm answered “Twas the wee lad let the nasty beasties in! He nae can be trusted!”
However, not even Red’s antics could not disuade Xendra’s mind from the questions she had about the stranger. More than anything she wished to ask why some one of her obvious stature would be amongst these simple hard working townsfolk? Xendra decided she would look for an opportunity to talk to this stranger alone.
Vania had stayed behind and stood just a few feet away from Xendra carefully and intently watching Xendra’s every move. Vania's big brown eyes scanned for any tell tale signs of emotions and carefully studided Xendra’s face and body movements and somehow perceived Xendra’s intention to talk to Vassaly.
Unfortunately,Vania having but a child’s understanding and perhaps feeling a little jealous, Vania, tried to distract Xendra by lightly tugging on her arm.
Vania was ascertain that if Xendra got to talk to Vassaly that it would be in the realm of possibilties that Xendra would not need or want Vania to hang around.
Xendra looked to see the source of the tug and smiled to see that it was Vania.
Curious as to what Vania might say Xendra bent down a bit and acknowledged her.
Vania stood on her tippy toes as she whispered “You can meet Vassaly later..she’s a nice lady but for right now I think Kaisa might need us in the kitchen still…"
Xendra laughed at the thought of being needed in a Kitchen as she said, “ I don’t think Kaisa needs my help although, she may want your help lil one.”
Xendra really didn’t want to go back to the kitchen, indoor cooking just was not her forte, nor did she have any desire to have to side step Kaisa if she asked any direct questions…besides she might get an opportunity to talk to the stranger Vassaly.
Vania pulled at Xendra. Xendra looked at Vassaly and then back at Vania and then sighed, she just couldn’t bring herself to dissapoint the child,so Xendra squared her shoulders and headed towards the kitchen as the approached the door Vania said, “Don’t worry Xendra, I don’t think Kaisa will give you anything hard to do now that she knows you can’t cook.”
Xendra shook her head, and put her hand to her mouth to keep herself from laughing as she thought “By the gods this child just says what ever comes into her head!”
Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 10/14/03 9:39 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:05:23 GMT -6
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(10/12/03 3:20 pm)
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stormy dreams
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Puella sat in the corner of the room and watched as the family settled in after a wonderful meal. Watching as the seamstress and her companions lay out some of the decadent fabrics upon the table. They will certainly lift the spirits of the women that have been through so much since we banded together.
I think of young Gabby and how she must feel as her recovery seems slow, especially from the perspective of a girl becoming a woman. Nothing is fast enough when you are growing into adulthood…so I was not surprised when she attempted to walk so early in her recovery. When I heard her cry I knew what she had done. I scooped her up off the floor and tried to think of something to help her through this trial but no sooner had I began to speak, that Zena had bolted through the door…I knew my place enough by now and though I was her friend I was not the mother that she needs at this point. I handed her over to Zena and nodded my head. Grabbing Kaia by the sleeve we left the two of them alone in the room to talk. I wish there is a way to ease her frustration. I leaned down to the young girl at my side and whispered…”Gabby’s recovery will be longer than her patience. I expect you to help distract her.”
Now the thought of new tunics made of such beautiful material made the girls giggle with delight… “This one…Can you make mine in this?” Gabbyfan waved a swatch of the material in the air and Kaia approved with an oooh and an ahhh.
I was drawn by their excitement to the table where all the rich fabrics full of vibrant colors lay out…the woman called Frieda displayed a great deal of tension, I am not sure if it is due to our presence or if it is her usual practice. I have not met a blind person face to face, other then the times my friends have suffered of temporary blindness caused by a blow, so it could just be the seamstress’ defense.
Nevertheless I take advantage of the wares before me. I am in dire need of a new tunic. I sift through all the vibrant colors and materials, fondling them between my fingers. Though I love the colors I will stick with a sturdier fabric. My fingers kept finding their way back to a soft leather amongst the pile. “Excuse me, Metussa…that is your name isn’t it? A tunic in this material please.” Pointing to the leather. She gave me a warm smile and nodded her head…
We both turn our head towards the door as we watched Frieda, Phalon and Lyndara make their way towards the door. Their conversation of hot springs caught my ear. I turn back to Metussa as she began to point out some colorful materials. “Wouldn’t this make a beautiful sash?” I stifled the laugh within, “Yeah right…Can you just see me on the hunt with that tied around my waist…I would scare the prey!” “No my dear, not for the hunt, but every woman needs a splash of color to brighten the soul.” They certainly had the power to do that very thing. “You have a good point Matussa, I will take this one, but only enough for a sash.” I pointed at a beautiful violet material with a smile. She winked at me as she sized me for the tunic. As soon as she was finished I turn and grasp her hand, “Thank You for brightening the room with your wares and your spirit.” I them moved aside to make room for others who wish to purchase new clothes.
As the rain falls upon the rooftop I excuse myself from the room. I slowly walk into the bedroom with a bit of a grin on my face. As I hear the storm I am thankful to be out of the weather for the night. I grabbed my bedroll and lay down for a moment of rest. With the house full of laughter and commotion I drift off to sleep…
My dreams come swiftly and are dark as the night sky with no moon or stars. I am filled with a yearning to once again wield again the Sword of Ares. What began as a fight against evil has become an inner conflict. The lust to feel the power within my grasp…my blood pumping with a passion, my heart racing. I watch as each action and reaction in battle with Red, turn the tides against evil and the light of goodness shone through the dark skies. I felt so alive, knowing what I felt was more than ordinary battle rage…the sword brought out the primal instincts in me. My breath becomes shallow as the visions in my head increase…Suddenly with the clash of the swords in my dreams I startled awake...
Thunder rolls and lightening bolts flash through the window casting a shadow upon the walls in the room…Covered in sweat I walk over to the window and look upon the storm.
My eyes gaze upon the stables where the horses are protected…I envision Amica warm and well fed. Amongst my saddlebags, wrapped tightly and hidden from all, the sword…I could not give it back to Ares for he will only use it to pit man against man…while I, now I can do such good with it. Besides he wants me to have it, he gave it to me. If he wants it back, he can come and take it whenever he pleases, yet he hasn’t called for its return…I reason with myself, knowing that each time I wield the weapon I lose a little more of myself.
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:06:09 GMT -6
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(10/14/03 6:29 pm)
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Excitement and disappointment
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Xendra followed behind Vania,Xendra couldn't help but notice that Kaisa’s kitchen once again in full swing, the aromas were fit for the Gods and everything was in its rightful place so Xendra was taken back to see that her host looked a bit perplexed and maybe even distressed.
Curious as to what could possibly be bothering her host, Xendra decided to volunteer to be of use yet again.
“Is there something wrong? I am willing to help if I am able.”
Kaisa smiled and said,”Dear, over the years I have entertained many people in this home but never so many in my home at once. There’s plenty to eat and there’s beds and floors to sleep upon but I am afraid I do not have enough table room for all of you."
Xendra looked confused as she said,”Wasn’t there enough room this morning?
Kaisa replied, “Yes dear there was, but only because you all arose at different times, there is no way I can have everyone seated at one time for dinner, there’s simply not enough room!
Xendra tried to calm her host and in the softest most soothing tones she could muster said, “Kaisa please don’t worry about us, we are used to eating and sleeping on the ground. You and your wonderful family should eat at the table we will gladly fend for ourselves.”
Kaisa replied with a tone of hurt and indignance, “Not in my house,you will not!! You are my guest and you will dine at a table!”
Xendra gulped at her hosts vehement response, she hadn’t expected Kaisa to be upset at her suggestion. Xendra hated seeing that something that meant nothing to her, could be distressing her host so badly.
Normally,Xendra wasn’t good at understanding the importance of things that “civilized people” held in importance. However, this time she could clearly see how much it meant to Kaisa so Xendra searched her mind for a quick solution. Finally, Xendra said “Is there a place in town that sells benches or tables?”
Kaisa “”Yes there is dear, but I don’t currently have enough dinars to make such a purchase.”
Xendra rested her hands on Kaisa’s shoulders and said, “Don’t worry, I think we’ll be able to provide our own tables and chairs, it’s the least we can do."
Kaisa was unsure of how to respond, it really wasn’t her guests place to have to provide their own table and chairs and yet to make them eat on the floor or in shifts was as equally rude so Kaisa reluctantly agreed but not without admonishing Xendra, “You cannot go into town alone, the people are frightened of you and may not sell you anything.. "
Kaisa looked around the room to see who, if anyone the towns people would possibly find more acceptable.
After a few moments of looking around and gently shaking her head no, as her eyes fell upon Boudicca she smiled a slightsmile as she motioned to Xendra. “ Take the one you call Boudicca, she looks less threatening than the rest of you.”
Xendra’s jaw locked at the mere suggestion. Xendra did not want to go anywhere with Boudicca but not wanting to chance offending her host again, she did not directly say no.
Instead Xendra gave Vania a playful but reassuring wink as she patted Vania on the shoulder and said” I have all the help I need right here! Don’t I Vania?!”
Vania beamed at the words and tried to wink back but it was more of an akward blink then a wink and once again Xendra was fighting to keep herself from fully laughing out loud.
Kaisa being the wise and gracious woman that she was, simply said,” You are right, you couldn’t ask for a better guide or barterer but the trades people of this town are not likely to deal with an Amazon and a child. I think Boudicca’s presence may make things slightly easier for you.”
Xendra nodded in reluctant agreement and motioned for Boudicca to join them.
Kaisa admonished them “Don’t be gone long, the townspeople are afraid of you. If you run into any trouble, forget the tables and hurry back…we shall wait til your return to eat.”
Xendra looked over at Boudicca and said, “I think we can handle any trouble that comes our way, can’t we Boudicca”?!
Boudicca nodded in agreement.
Vania had hoped Boudicca would refuse to go, when she didn’t Vania kicked the ground hard. Vania was mad and disgusted at having her alone time with Xendra so easily upended.
Vania’s displeasure soon evaporated as she sensed the obvious tension between the two. Cold silence filled the air as the three of them climbed up into the wagon and departed Kaisa’s. Vania sat in middle and kept darting her eyes between the two.
Vania couldn’t help but wonder what made Boudicca and Xendra so mad at each other, sure they were different but they had both done well with getting rid of the mice, so they must be a lot alike too. Vania wanted to ask why they weren’t friends but didn’t dare ask…least not yet.
Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 10/14/03 8:14 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:07:25 GMT -6
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Paranoid rumors...
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The three made there way through the village as Vania sat atop the wagon proudly giving directions to Xendra and Boudicca.Vania relished the abilty to tell them to go this way or that or even being able to point out the different shops and sights along the way.
With Vania being so proud and so vocal,it did not take the villagers long to realize that it was Vania seated between the two.
Both true concern and rumors spread like wildfire through out the village because of their ever present fear and growing paranoia they could not imagine a valid reason for the child to be riding with these two wild women .
Instead of approaching or directly asking them, new rumors were spread through out the village from store keep to customer tongues wagged, the Amazons had had kidnapped lil Vania, that they now had her held hostage and were parading her through the village like a prized possesion.
Woefully unaware of the unfound rumors, the threesome continued to weave there way through the narrowed streets.
It wasn’t until they saw mothers scooping up their children, store signs turning to be closed, once opened window shutters rapidly slammed shut, from behind doors that were bolted ,unseen voices yelled and screamed epithets at the three . After a few threatening words, they realized there was more than just mild paranoia happening.
Vania’s big brown eyes grew even bigger in fear as she saw people gesturing and shouting in anger at her new friends .Not wanting to show that she was feeling a bit frightened, Vania sought unspoken protection and shelter by inching closer to Xendra .
Not wanting to alert Vania to the possibilty of a dangerous confrontation, Xendra switched hands so that she could hold the horse’s reigns in one hand and be able to put her other arm around Vania’s shoulders to protect and comfort her.
Xendra looked over at Boudicca and Boudicca gave a slight nod, she knew she may have to be ready to be the only one capable to fend off an angered villager at any moment.
Xendra gave an extra strike of the reigns to move the horses along a little faster. As they picked up speed Xendra leaned over to Vania and asked, “How do you feel about having a little adventure?
Vania’s face lit up and gave an enthusiastic “I’d love to!”
Boudicca interjected, “Uh don’t you think this is adventure enough for a lil girl.”
Xendra scowled at Boudicca , “No I think this is good exposure to the real world for her.”
When Xendra finished speaking she gave Vania an extra squeeze to show how pleased she was at Vania’s bravery and excitement. Xedra looked again at Vania and asked, “Do you think we could buy a table from someone maybe outside of the village?!”
Vania’s with jaw dropped looked at Xendra in awe and disbelief,as she said,” You mean I get to go outside of the village?” I’ve never been outside of the village, Kaisa always says I will have to wait until I am older.”
Boudicca looked over at Xendra and said, “I don’t think going outside of the village is a good idea especially if she’s never been.”
Vania was staring hard at Boudicca, angry that she would try to take away their adventure so quickly.
Xendra sensing Vania’s anger and disappointment said, “Well, maybe we can save the out of town adventure for another day. After all,we are on an important mission for Kaisa and she would be very upset and disappointed if we don’t get back before dinner.”
Vania reluctantly agreed but then a few moments later excitedly added, "Oh I know where we could go Xendra!”
Xendra feigned equal enthusiasm and said “ Where?!”
Vani breathlessly said,”There’s a little old man on the edge of town- he doesn’t have a shop or anything. Kaisa says that he has no children so he has no one to support him.Once when she was really angry with us she threatened to send some of us to live with him, but she didn’t mean it though…
Anyway, I think he lives off the few chairs he sells that least that is why Kaisa said she bought one off of him instead of the furniture maker in town when Apollo broke his chair trying to use it as a ladder rather than a seat….but I think Kaisa might be a bit sweet on him but don’t you dare tell Kaisa I said that.”
Both Xendra and Boudicca laughed aloud at the notion of Kaisa having time or energy to be sweet on anyone besides her grandchildren.
With Vania’s direction and Xendra’s steering the three safely navigated through the unrest of town and were soon approaching the old man’s property as they approached a disheveled figure approached them.
“ Go away, I don’t want any trouble.”
“Sir we simply wish to buy a table and a few chairs from you.”
“I’ve heard all about you and your kind. "
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:08:53 GMT -6
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(10/17/03 6:41 pm)
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Unwanted visitors
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“Get off my property!"
The old man mustered his strength and yelled with a force and a sincerity he had not used in years. "You’re not wanted here! You’re dangerous. I warn you I am armed and will not hesitate to kill a woman if need be!”
Xendra instead of being enraged, felt for the old man’s position,after all he was old and alone.
Simply by looking at him, Xendra could tell the life and time had ravaged his body and he had not weathered life’s storms well. The wooden pieces around them spoke of a energetic robust man of his youth,not the old beaten down soul that stood before them yelling.
Xendra decided to once again extend herself and calmly said,“Sir I know our presence must be of some distress to you . I don’t know quite why but it seems our presence has upset the entire village but I promise you, we mean you no harm we simply wish to purchase a table and some chairs from you.
Timoleon looked at the two women and shook his head vehemently NO! Timoleon could not trust that they weren’t there to rob him or even kill him.
Using his remaining courage and energy Timoleon retorted “Tell me, what good is a promise or a vow from a murderous kidnapping dog eating creature like yourself?
I want nothing to do with the likes of you! Go now, before the villagers know that you are here !”
Vania upset at seeing her new friends yelled at,rushed forward and quickly said, “Their really nice women, why else would my grandmother Kaisa let me go with them? They wouldn’t hurt anyone, they wouldn’t even kill the mice that got into grandmothers house!”
Sure, that she had Timoleon’s undivided attention Vania began to swing her arms before she secretly but tightly crossed her fingers. With fingers crossed so tightly that they hurt, Vania said “I bet you didn’t know that Kaisa herself sent us here to buy a table a table and some chairs from you!”
The old man’s eyes that once glared in disapproving hate, instantly lit up and were replaced by a soft misted look as he said, “Kaisa, requested me by name?”
His countenance and demeanor changed as he spoke aloud Kaisa’s name.
Xendra and Boudicca not really knowing what else to say nodded along with the old man’s assessment of Vania’s story.
Vania smiled and said, “You know grandmother would never call you by name but I tell you true Kaisa herself told me to bring these two women to buy a table and some chairs.
The old man stood there, put his hand to his eyes and forehead and unconsciously squeezed the skin to help him think and concentrate.
What he should do? Certainly, he could use the money and to be in Kaisa’s favor would be an answer to many of his prayers to the Gods, but could he risk the anger and ire of the townspeople? And what if they were right, that these women were violent ruthless murders and kidnappers and they were simply playing him?”
The old man studied them and finally said to Xendra, “If you have met Kaisa and been in her home. How many grandchildren does she have?"
Xendra paused for a moment as she listed each off in her head and then answered “ Nine.”
The old man turned to Boudicca and said, “You have a different look about you from the other one, you seem to be a foreigner in a foreign land. How have you been treated in Kaisa’s home?”
Boudicca answered “Although I am almost a stranger to even the group that now resides in Kaisa’s house I have been made to feel like one of the family and have even been given chores to do.”
The old man grinned and said, “Yes,that is Kaisa’s way. Well if Kaisa has seen fit to welcome you,then so will I.
With a demonstrative hug to Xendra he said,”My name is Timoleon, welcome to my home! I am sorry I was trying to get rid of you but you must know the townspeople think you kidnapped Vania and by night fall could become dangerous if she is not returned.”
There was no time for either of them to respond to what he had just said about the villagers for Timoleon then turned and hugged Boudicca who thought he pressed himself a little too close aand too long but was not going to quibble the matter for the time being.
“Come, come inside and I will show you around and let you pick the table you should bring home to Kaisa."
Vania eagerly grabbed Xendra’s hand and pulled her as she ran up to the house and inside.
Once inside there were tables and chairs of every size texture and height. Xendra had never seen such beautiful craftsmanship in all her days.
Xendra ran her fingertips across the table tops they were smooth as silk not like the rough hewn tables she was used to.
Boudicca true to to her nature was drawn to the more ornate tables and chairs. Most had simple laurel wreaths or grape leaves carved in their legs .
Xendra ever concious of need and not luxury was about to offer most of their dinars for a simple table that would easily fit 6 adults or maybe eight or nine children when
Boudicca who had been wandering throughout the house yelled for her.
Boudicca had spied a huge table that was covered over with only the legs exposed,but what beautiful legs they were each looked like Timoleon had painstakingly carved and etched on each table and chair leg.
“Xendra! Vania! Come here! Come look at this table and chairs!”
When the three arrived Boudicca walked over and lifted the covering part way and gasped, “By the gods it’s exquisite!"
Timoleon had not meant for them to see the table but he still beamed with pride as he softly said, “ Thank you. I made that table especially for a very special lady but she declined my gift without ever seeing it.”
Xendra looked at the detail and workmanship in the table and then back at the old man’s eyes and ever so quietly whispered in his ear, “Was this by any chance for Kaisa?”
With tears in his eyes the old man simply nodded.
Xendra looked at him and asked, “How much is this table? We would love to buy it for Kaisa and her grandchildren.”
Vania squealed “Oh grandmother would love it!”
Timoleon lovingly caressed the top of the table and said, “ She’s not for sale…but I could give her to you as a gift.”
Xendra gently caressed the old man’s cheek and said, “That is very sweet and noble of you dear Timoleon but we were told to BUY a table and chairs and Kaisa will never accept a gift of this magnitude that was not bought and paid for, surely you know that. Kaisa is a kind but strong willed woman.”
Timoleon laughed heartedly and said, “Yes, that is surely Kaisa! Ok for her sake I will gladly sell you this table. 1 dinar."
Boudicca and Xendra looked at him and shook their heads No, they knew that they could not normally buy this table and chairs for all the dinars in their bag.
Xendra said, “We will buy it for the dinars we have in this bag and a days labor from her and I when all this trouble has passed.”
Vania piped in “and me too!”
Timoleon looked at them and said, "How about the dinars you have in that bag and a home cooked meal from Kaisa at this very table..I will bring the Ouso!?”
Xendra replied “Give us a moment.” and motioned to Boudicca.
Boudicca said, “ We can’t invite him to Kaisa’s without asking her first! It’s rude!”
Xendra said, “Maybe we won't have to…What if we can’t fit all the chairs into the wagon along with the table.. We could tell Kaisa he would deliver them the next day, she would surely invite him to stay for dinner… by the looks it might make them both happy.”
Boudicca looked at Xendra and said, “I don’t know, it might back fire. If she liked him why didn’t she accept his table, why didn’t she offer to come here with us?”
Xendra said, “ Because there’s no way in Hades she was leaving her eight other grandchildren with total strangers that the villagers hate!”
Xendra walked back to Timoleon grabbed his hand and said,”If you are willing to deliver any pieces we cannot fit into the back of our wagon, You have a deal!” and handed him her bag of dinars.
Vania directed them as the three adults carefuly yet quickly loaded the table and all but two of the chairs.
Once there purchase was secured into the wagon, Timoleon once again embraced each one and wished them safe passage home.
Out of ear shot from Vania he told Xendra and Boudicca to make sure to have Vania seen in plain sight and not seated in between them but seen as being free.They nodded in agreement.
Xendra called to Vania and said, “ How would you like to be in charge of making sure the table and chairs don’t fall off or get damaged?”
Vania eyes shone bright with excitement, “Really?! I can guard it all by myself?!
“All by yourself!”
Vania without saying another word scrambled up into the back of the wagon and perched herself near the end of the wagon so that she could keep a keen eye on its every movement.
Xendra grabbed up the reigns,made a visual check of Boudicca,Vania and the table and then said to Timoleon, “ We shall see you tomorrow at Kaisa’s!”
Boudicca said,” Thank you so much for believing in us and allowing us to buy such a glorious gift for Kaisa and her family- your kindness and generosity are much appreciated.”
Timoleon waved and said, “Tommorrow we shall all drink dance and eat together around Kaisa’s new table!”
With a swift snap of the reigns,they were off heading back to town with a very unique and special gift in tow.
As the the path from Timoleon’s house gave way to the gravel path Xendra noticed more hoof prints going towards his place then away, Xendra looked at Boudicca who had also noticed the heavy traffic, they then both looked at Vania, they had to get her home and yet there seemed to be the need to back track and check on Timoleon’s safety.
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:10:37 GMT -6
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(10/17/03 6:41 pm)
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Unwanted visitors (Continued)
Boudicca broke the silence and said, “I’ll go, she wont miss my presence as much besides the old man seemed to really like me.”
Xendra tried to make light of the situation , “Yeah I think he thought your chest was a pillow or something.Xendra paused wanting to say something significant but not emotional said,"Hey,despite our problems, don’t do anything stupid ok?
Be careful. If your not back before dark I’ll come back for you .”
Boudicca looked at Xendra and said,”I’ll be back before you can get this table unloaded. You be careful of those crazy townfolk, you don’t know what their liable to think when they see I didn’t return with you..”
With that the two parted ways, Xendra sat in silence making her way once more through the winding roads of town,with Vania hanging on and watching for any signs of movement from the tables or chairs.
Getting Vania and the table safely back to Kaisa was not the the only thing that was on Xendra’s mind but the only thing she could physically do at the moment.
Dusk was fast approaching and Xendra could now feel the unseen stares as she passed by, she could also hear the occasional shouts and door slammings but tried her best to ignore it all and keep driving towards her desination.
Xendra felt the weight of the world momentarily slide off her shoulders as Kaisa’s shop came into view and kids of nearly every age and size came running out to greet them.
Edited by: 1 Xwpfan at: 10/17/03 6:53 pm
Zena 1
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(10/19/03 7:33 pm)
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Night Visitors
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They were an odd pair, the tall armed Amazon still shaking water from her hair, and what appeared to be Jason the shepherd boy, walking carefully through the silent streets. The stones had a clean washed smell after the rain, and small puddles now reflected the clearing pre-dawn sky. A final clap of thunder rolled over the village as they parted, Zena to Kaisa’s and Vassaly back to the Inn down the street.
“Zena...”
“Not now.” Zena held up her hand as if to ward off a blow. “I need time to think. In the morning. We will think it through in the morning.” They turned from each other and Zena slipped down the alley to the back door. Almost at once she pulled her sword from it’s sheath as she felt someone close to her. Puella was at the window but Zena could see only her silhouette.
“Who is it??!!”
“Zena is that you?”
“Puella, why are you awake? Is everyone up because of the storm?”
“No..no..I was dreaming. Why are you out there?” she whispered.
“I’ll tell you tomorrow. We may have some trouble coming.”
“I’m ready. I’m always ready for a fight.”
“Well, let’s hope we can avoid that. Sleep now, I’m coming in.” There was a strange edginess to Puella’s voice. If they had to encounter the Roman army again Zena wondered how Puella as a former slave would feel toward seeing her masters once more.
Zena quietly entered the back door and finally felt the dampness in her clothes. The fire in this hearth had been banked and she crossed the room, which suddenly seemed crowded with chairs, to seek the kitchen fire. At the archway she hesitated for she could hear the low voices of Phalon and her mother in conversation.
Edited by: Zena 1 at: 10/19/03 7:40 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:11:32 GMT -6
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(10/19/03 8:32 pm)
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Lost to This World
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She took no offense at Zena’s quick dismissal, the raised hand and averting of eyes. The night revealed its secrets that continued to rumble and flash through her mind as the now retreating storm. She walked alone in the silence of her thoughts not caring of the remnants of the rain dripping from roof tops that splattered down upon her.
Plink…Plink…Plink…the water tapped out its last farewell as it rolled off from above into her hair and down her face. Or was it only her tears? The borrowed boots slogged through the muddy puddles as she slowly found her way back to the Inn. She would enter from the outer stairs that opened into a hallway that led to her quarters.
She turned the bronze latch as she pushed open the door to her room. Blessings upon you my brother, she uttered a quiet thanksgiving at seeing her bed turned down with fresh linens, and the hearth ablaze with a welcoming fire. Candles on the mantle washed the interior with a warm golden glow with their small flames dancing and casting shadows on the walls.
Laid out upon the bed was a crisp white tunic dotted with small embroidered vines that dangled blue flowers from the branches its tendrils embraced. She looked at the bed and smiled. Flashes of another such night of quite solitude flooded her memories as she slowly pulled the wet shirt up and over her head. Bending down, she removed the boots, picked them up and placed them side by side. A pair…two… that belonged together.
Moving closer to the fire, she untied the cord from the waist of her pants and the garment fell easily over her narrow hips. She stood without clothing before the crackling flames and wrapped her arms across her breast for what little warm comfort they alone brought to her.
She stood for a moment, and in her heart of hearts, hoped that she would soon wake and find that, like the storm over the land, her world too had been cleansed and renewed. Picking up her brush from the small hand hewn table, she tossed her head over and began stroking her wet blonde hair.
Her reverie was broken by a faint knocking outside her door…
“Who is there?” She whispered as she put down her brush, walked to the bed, slipped the night shirt over her body before moving toward the sound of the soft rapping.
The voice that answered in the stillness washed over her bringing a shiver far colder than the night rain as she slowly unlatched the bolt not believing who stood on the other side…
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 10/19/03 8:54 pm
phalon1
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(10/19/03 10:53 pm)
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Get on with the story...
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The storm continued. The wind, like a hungry wolf, howled at the shutters, angry that it could not enter the house and devour the occupants inside. Phalon worried about Zena and Vassaly, and hoped that they found shelter from the bite of the hungry beast.
She settled in her chair and propped her feet on the stone hearth. Straightening her legs, she leaned the chair back on its hind legs, rocking back and forth, and waited for her mother to return to her seat next to her and begin her tale.
Kaisa crossed the room, a bottle of wine and two mugs in hand, narrowly missing bumping her hip on the newest piece of furniture in the kitchen. In a room that she could navigate in her sleep and blindfolded, the large table threw her off kilter, not remembering it was there. She welcomed its addition, though, for it allowed everyone to be together for the evening meal. Her family, her daughter, new friends – everyone sitting down together to break bread and share in conversation. Togetherness was important to Kaisa. She relished this time – time spent with her daughter, for she knew it would not last. Phalon and her friends would move on. Too soon, she knew. It was their way, she supposed. She wouldn’t think of that now, though. Now was the time to enjoy the company for as long as Phalon and her friends were guests in her home.
She ran her hands over the smooth surface of the table, which shone a deep, rich honey color in the firelight, as she passed. Phalon watched her. “Beautiful, isn’t it?” she commented.
“Yes, it is. I only hope Timoleon doesn’t expect….” Her voice trailed off, and she sighed. “Ah well, I’ll deal with that when the time comes.” She filled a mug with wine and turning to hand it to Phalon, pursed her lips, noticing the way her daughter sat, balancing the chair on two legs. The look she gave her daughter said, “If I’ve told you once, I’ve told you a hundred times…do not sit like that or you will end up on the floor, with your skull cracked wide open on my floor.”
Phalon saw the look, and abruptly set the chair down on all four of its legs, not wishing to hear something she had heard many, many more times than just a mere one hundred while growing up in Kaisa’s house.
Kaisa poured herself some wine, sat the half empty bottle on the edge of the hearth, and settled in her own chair as Phalon made herself comfortable in her new position by pulling her legs up and sitting cross-legged in the chair. The look she now received from Kaisa meant, “Ladies to not sit like that.”
Phalon ignored the look and twisting the silver ring around the tip of her thumb, said, “Mom, Great Aunt Eurayle? Remember?”
Kaisa held onto the look just a moment longer before sighing and giving up on any hope she had of turning her daughter into someone with more proper lady-like manners. “Ah, yes. Aunt Eurayle. Where to begin….”
Edited by: phalon1 at: 10/19/03 10:59 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:12:28 GMT -6
EvergreenLM
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(10/25/03 12:22 am)
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Visiting Burned Bridges
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He knew what she and the others sought, and concluded that he would tell them exactly what the dark eyes of the woman wanted to know...and the weight of the silver he had hoped would again fill his pocket mattered not.
The little man kept close watch on the blade of the dagger that reflected the flickering candle light. She stalked him like prey, walking around where he sat studying him, making decisions about him. He valued all the fine things that Roman silver could buy, but he knew his life was forfeit and the truth he would tell could possibly buy his freedom.
“My wife tells me they all are at Kaisa’s. Came in one night the whole lot of them…carrying an injured young one and another with wounds. One of them is Kaisa’s own daughter. Left home many years ago after the Rom…” He swallowed the next words like a bitterroot knowing he perhaps would have said too much...as he finished speaking trailing off in a nearly inaudible whisper..."they eat dogs you know."
Sipping the wine put before him, he swallowed and continued as he fidgeted and knotted the cuff of his tunic.
“Perhaps… I could be of use…a ruse at it were…I know Kaisa and she would think nothing of my coming to her home…to see if she had anything she may want to trade or sell in my shop. She takes in young ones and strangers like fleas on curs. She does what she can to care for them all. My wife said such a burden…”
“Be quiet! Your words flow like an unchecked stream. I will decide of what use you will have for me.”
She sat down again straddling a chair gazing at him with dark eyes intent on finding some plan to serve their purpose. Turning to the older Centurion, she stated with an eerily calm and even tone…"bring me some parchment and quill.”
The man who towered above them all saluted across his chest, turned and left the tent to shortly return with all that was requested.
“Thank you, Dionysus.” She dipped the quill in the black liquid and in swirling broad strokes wrote upon the vanilla colored parchment. When finished she reached for a small cask on the table, opened it retrieving a metal crest denoting the Senatorial mark of Justinian Donatus Marco, tipped the candle, pressed the marker into the hot candle wax, and affixed the seal to the bottom of the parchment.
“Are you a man of letters?” She asked as she blew her breath on the parchment cooling the congealing hot wax.
Yes, he nodded continuing to pull at the now frayed tunic cuff.
She laughed at the small man whose dark hair was now ringlets of sweat in spite of the rained cooled air filling the tent.
“I am not going to kill you my friend because you are going to bestow a… favor upon Rome. I am returning you to your village…with escort of course…and you will post this at the Inn. I have no time for ruses. It is all very simple…” she said as she pushed the parchment towards him tapping the dagger on it indicating that he should read what had been written there.
His blunt pudgy fingers slowly picked up the declaration, and as he read the words contained therein, his eye widen and returned to the dark eyes that sat again intently watching his reaction.
“All of them…you will kill all the people in the village if they do not turn over this Evergreen…and the others that accompany her?” He knew the answer, but the words came out as his thoughts raced stopping at the edge of the precipice she had now brought his entire village. She had stood turning her back to him and was now staring out into the dark night as the last of the raindrops pelted the tent.
“Begging your pardon, Consul…posting it at the Inn…Cassias is a good man and his views…well, it is true he has a bitter taste for the Romans…since the time his sister left with one of them…with his god speed for her, but the other one… the other one brought trouble to his door and followed her inside…would have died if not for Vassaly…but now that she has returned…he... well...perhaps…”
She whirled around with such speed that he never saw the blade as she lunged and grabbed the top of his tunic pulling his neck into contact with cold deadly metal.
“Who… has… returned?” She demanded an answer with a fiery scowl and deliberate emphasis on each word spoken.
He tried to swallow, but the tunic was now as tight as a hangman’s knot causing him to choke as he tried to say the word.
“Va...va...ssss…ly…Vassaly has returned…she is back with her brother, Cassius…at the Inn. My wife said she has been seen at Kaisa’s…with the Amazons…came back dressed in fine…”
She tossed him back into his chair as she released her hold on his clothing. He watched her pace the earthen floor as she ran her hand through the silver streaks in her dark hair evidently in agitated contemplation over the words…his words…over the mention of Vassaly’s name.
Reaching to the far end of the table, she retrieved a scabbard and strapping it to her side; she again turned to the taller Centurion.
“My horse...bring me my horse…and turn that one loose with the daylight.”…she said as she pointed the short sword in the nervous little man’s direction before sheathing it at her side.
“Apollinarius, make sure he gets to the village and post the declaration as ordered. If I have not returned by the noon day sun, raze the village…to the ground…to the very ground if the one called Evergreen, those with her, and those harboring them… has not been turned over to the troops. Chain them all and wait for me…”
And before the younger soldier could vocalize his protest to her leaving, the tent flap snapped against its frame as her hurried boot steps could be heard squelching through the muddy ground.
"We're stuff of the soul, Gabrielle."
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 10/25/03 12:38 am
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:13:25 GMT -6
EvergreenLM
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(10/25/03 10:33 pm)
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Sub-Rosa
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He had waited too long in his life to gain what he knew he most deserved and would not allow her impulsivity over the woman sour his plan.
He waited until he heard the hoof beats slowly fade into the night before returning to the tent.
"Dionysus, I thank you for staying with the little worm. I...uh...well...too much wine and the dripping rain... well...thank you...you may leave now to sleep if but for a few hours until the dawn."
Apollinarius had returned from his feigned visit to the woods and was accompanied by two others from his ranks. The little man had breathed a sigh of relief at his good fortune in not being killed and left as so much discard on the road. But luck, like sand, can leak out of the hour glass that lacks integrity of form.
Dionysus left without comment other than snapping his leathers as he motioned for the little dog to follow him out. When both had moved beyond earshot, Apollinarius looked at the man relying on false bravado that he had somehow struck a deal with the Romans.
"Seize him...bind his hands and gag his mouth...take him far into the woods and chain him steadfast. When you have finished, report to Dionysus that the little weasel has escaped, and that I have gone after him. If you wish to receive all that I have promised,make no mistakes in your story."
The two co-conspirators did as ordered and as they fell into the shadows, Apollinarius mounted a great black stallion and rode into the dark of night determined that he would not be cheated of his rightful due...never again would his hands see the plow as his father's broken and callused reminders of much toil for so little in return. He was worthy of more...so much more... and she would be the prize that would be exchanged for all that was waiting to be his.
"We're stuff of the soul, Gabrielle."
Edited by: EvergreenLM at: 10/25/03 10:57 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:14:26 GMT -6
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(10/26/03 10:53 am)
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Re: Sub-Rosa
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A multitude of children gathered around as Vania was truimphantly telling her siblings her story of how she rode through town while people yelled at them and threatened them and that they almost had to go out of town but she suggested going to Timoleon’s and then how she had to convince Timoleon to trust them and how she got to protect the table and chairs all by herself!
Most of her siblings were astonished and practically gave her a heroe’s welcome, but true to form one of Vania’s older brothers was jealous of her new found bravery and adventure and tried to challenge her. In front of everyone he said, “There’s no way you did those things, your making it all up! You guys just bought a table and chairs from the furniture maker in town!”
Vania knowing truth was on her side stood her ground, jumped in the back of the wagon and lifted up the covering off the corner of the table and declared, “Would the furniture maker in town make a table like this!”
The children murmered amongst themselves and marveled at Vania’s new courage and of course, at the new table and chairs.
Xendra tried to enjoy Vania’s moment but her heart was not in it, for her thoughts were consumed by anxious concerns about Timoleon and Boudicca.
Kaisa who had stood at the back watching the events unfold, with hand over mouth and eyes wide opened stepped forward to get a closer look at the detailed craftmanship in the table.
Once close enough to touch it, tears formed in Kaisa’s eye as she queried, “ This Is Timoleon’s work isn’t it?"
Xendra nodded and answered, “Timoleon seemed like an extraordinary man Kaisa.In fact he wanted to offer the table and chairs as a gift but instead we bought it out right, he will deliver the two other chairs tommorrow.”
Kaisa appeared taken back as she asked “Timoleon’s coming here? Tommorrow?”
Xendra’s stomach churned as she answered , “As far as I know Kaisa.”
It was the look on Xendra’s face as she answered that made Kaisa realize that Boudicca was not with them .Kaisa quietly inquired,” Where’s Boudicca has there been trouble?”
Xendra stared at Kaisa and then in a whispered voice said, “ Boudicca went back to check on Timoleon, there were several sets of hoof prints leading to his place when we left, making us think, he may be in danger because of us.”
Kaisa nodded and quietly said, “ I see and now your worried about Boudicca?”
Xendra nodded and clenched her fist at the same time, she hadn’t wanted to admit it to even herself but the truth was, she was becoming increasingly worried about both Timoleon and Boudicca.
Kaisa smiled a sly smile and said, “Let’s get this table and chairs unloaded and as they try to place it for me, you can maybe slip out unnoticed and go check on our friends.”
Kaisa clapped her hands and said, “ Let’s get this inside, before dark!”
Both children and adults scrambled to volunteer to carry in the majestic table and carefully crafted chairs.
Kaisa stood at the sidelines and gave implicit directions as to where and how she wanted the table placed.
Xendra smiled knowing that Kaisa was purposely appearing to change her mind for the fourth time,so that Xendra could quietly slip out the back .
As the kids groaned and picked up the table yet again, Xendra took full advantage of the opportunity and did slip out the back.
Xendra ran as fast as she could through the hostile and unfamilar town, not worrying for the moment about the townspeople in their homes but rather the people whose hoofprints had been heading towards Timoleon’s.
As Xendra approached the outskirts of town ,the sun finished setting, there was but a momentary hue of amber left before nightfall would fully set.
Xendra swallowed hard and started to move forward when she heard the faint sounds of a bird call, she looked around for it’s origin and found crouched in amongst the bushes Boudicca badly cut up and a very brusied and battered Timoleon slumped on the ground and his head resting precariously in Boudicca’s ample bosom.
Xendra knelt down looked at their wounds and said, “What happened to you two?" As she looked a little closer at Timoleon she said," I guess that question will have to wait, I have to get you two back to Kaisa’s now.”
Timoleon weakly but admantly said,” No, I cannot let Kaisa see me like this !”
Xendra said, “Timoleon,I know you don’t want her to see you weak but I have no where else to take you.”
Boudicca said,” What about the inn? We could get care rest and food there and join you tomorrow.”
Xendra said, “ That would be a great idea except we no longer have any dinars!”
Timoleon smiled weakly as he patted his cloak and said, “Don’t worry, thanks to you two.” I have plenty of dinars.”
Xendra shook her head and looked at them both and said, “Ok Timoleon, You are going to have you stay at the Inn ,Boudicca your going to clean up there and then your coming with me.”
Boudicca started to protest but Xendra held up her hand and said, “That way the children , don’t realize there’s any trouble or danger..ok?!”
Boudicca nodded.
Boudicca and Xendra then hoisted Timoleon so that his feet did not touch the ground on the way to the Inn , once there, Xendra let Boudicca do all the talking and stayed in the background .
Once Timoleon was settled and Boudicca had cleaned her cuts and gashes, Boudicca emerged from the inn to meet up with Xendra again.
Xendra not wanting to show the true measure of her concern simply said, “ You clean up pretty good.”
Boudicca grinned and said “Only when I have to.”
After walking several paces in silence Xendra finally queired,” What happened back there?”
Boudicca stopped and said “ The villagers thought that he had betrayed them and they were ready to beat him to death for helping us.”
Xendra looked at her in disbelief, “ You mean for simply letting us buy a table and chairs?”
Boudicca nodded, “ They thought that we had kidnapped Vania and only the Gods know what else.
When I got there 5 men were kicking and punching poor Timoleon, they refused to listen to reason, so I jumped in and tried prying them off of him, at first the men were shy about hitting a woman, but the more I bested them the more violent they became.
After awhile they grew weary of being flung to the ground and me trying to explain to them that we are not here to hurt or kidnap anyone.
Once a few of them ran off,I took the opportunity to grab Timoleon and get out of their. I honestly don’t know if I made things worse for us or not."
Xendra looked at Boudicca and said,“ I think we need to tell Zena, we may want to leave Kaisa’s soon before we bring this kind of trouble to her family.”
The two walked the rest of the way in silence each thinking how much they did not want to leave the home and refuge Kaisa had so warmly gave them.
Xendra and Boudicca did make it back to Kaisa’s but did not have a chance to tell Zena or Kaisa of their concerns for Kaisa was waiting at the door to greet them and promptly told them that dinner was waiting for them on the new table and that they may want to eat quickly for Methussa was bring over her friend Freida and they wouldn’t want to miss the fabulous fabrics they would be showing.
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:15:20 GMT -6
Vassaly
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(10/26/03 4:53 pm)
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Twice in a Lifetime
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The rapping became more insistent and the bronze latch rattled as the visitor tried to open the door. Vassaly shook her still damp and tangled blonde hair away from her face as she released the long bolt that secured the lock. The opening was not but a small crack when the visitor forcefully pushed inside, shut the door and quickly relocked it.
“Oh by the very gods!” she quietly exclaimed as she took the dark haired woman in her arms.
Standing back she brushed her fingers through the silver streaks as she began to softly cry.
“I thought that I would never see you again but in my dreams, but you are real…you are here.”
They again embraced before the visitor grabbed Vassaly’s upper arms pushing her back and out at full length while never letting go.
“You are not safe here…in this place…in the village. You must leave…and quickly.”
Vassaly broke away from the one holding her, turning her back as she walked to the window and stood looking down on the rain soaked road below. The street was deserted and houses dark with those sleeping unaware of what soon would come their way. A destructive visitation from the past was to unfold. How could this be in twice in a lifetime?
“Did you not hear what I said, Vassaly?” The tone of the question was of pleading concern.
The visitor closed the space between them, reached down taking a soft hand into her own calloused palm. Fingers were freely intertwined as their lives had become. Pulling the taller woman away from the window, she led them both to the edge of the bed as she gently pushed down upon warm shoulders until Vassaly was seated in front of her. She stood for a moment looking into gray eyes, smiled, and again gently pleaded.
“You must leave this place…” she looked around the room remembering… “please…do as I say…I could not bare it if harm were to come to you.”
“Harm come to me!” The woman seated on the bed cried in a restrained whisper.
The interlocking connection was broken as Vassaly pulled back with her hand moving quickly up and away from between them.
“You think I do not know why you are here…do you think that I could simply walk out the door and leave my family, my friends…the women at Kaisa’s…for your troops to slaughter like diseased livestock?”
“How do you know about the women at Kaisa’s…have you had contact with them? It puts you in such great danger to…” The visitor joined Vassaly on the bed and again captured her hands into her own.
The conversation continued in hushed tones as not to alert others of the visitor’s presence.
“Put me in danger…from who… the Amazons…your soldiers…you?”
Gathering up both hands she lifted them and softly kissed each finger.
“You’re shaking…shush…no, never from me… never…but for you to associate with them…the women at Kaisa’s…be present when we find the one we are searching for…Evergreen…I cannot promise my troops will…”
Vassaly looked deeply into dark eyes searching for a way to say the words…to warn…but she then would have to disclose her betrayal.
“You really don’t know do you…the peril you have brought to us all…to yourself. What is your name…tell me…your name?”
“My name…?” she raised her voice, but quickly brought the tone back to a hushed whisper… “you know my name…I still hear you calling it as I lie awake in the night…hear it reverberate through the boughs of the pines … wondering where you are when you set it upon the wind.”
Silence filled the room as they sat staring one upon the other.
Softly, Vassaly again asked. “Your name…please, tell me what you are called.
“Stop this…I will hear no more of it…get dressed and come with me…there is little time before…”
The shorter woman had stood up and began searching the room for Vassaly’s clothing. She brought a warm wool tunic and skirt to the side of the bed where the gray eyes had remained watching as the other woman frantically gathered her clothing.
“Here, put this on…” she reached for the under the night tunic to pull it over Vassaly’s head, but found her hands stilled.”
“No…no…I cannot go with you…our time, as it once was, is over and we cannot go back. I want you to go to Kaisa’s and asked for the one they call Zena, and after you speak with her…when she tells you what I cannot…if then…if only then…you decide you can return to me, I will leave with you.”
Dropping the hem of the tunic, the visitor stood in silent defeat.
“I don’t understand, Vassaly…please…help me to understand what is happening here…with us.”
The tall woman had moved to the door and slowly released the bronze bolt from the latch on the wide planked door.
“Kaisa’s…go now. I will be waiting for you if you choose to return.”
And the visitor left as quietly as she had entered hearing the snap of the lock with the door perhaps closing forever on their lives.
"We make our own choices...we pay our own prices"
Edited by: Vassaly at: 10/26/03 5:01 pm
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Post by Joxcenia on Jul 3, 2004 21:17:18 GMT -6
BhenRudha
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(10/27/03 2:08 am)
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Silence and Firelight
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The preparations went smoothly after Kaisa had settled everyone to their appointed tasks. Small conversations buzzed through the room, which Bhen Rudha listened to with half an ear, her concentration on her hands and the knife that flashed as she worked. She moved quickly through the bowl of vegetables, enjoying the precision with which she cut.
From the corner of her eye, she saw Phalon’s hands move rhythmically, nimble fingers making quick work of the unshelled peas. Unspoken words hummed between them and the Red Woman was about to say something when sudden, blinding pain flashed down her legs. Blood pounded in her ears, darkened her eyes, and she tightened her jaw on a wail that did not come from her body. Gabby . . .
Breathe in . . . recognize the pain . . . breathe out . . . remember the wound . . . breathe in . . . cast the pain aside . . . breathe out . . .
Her vision slowly cleared and she saw that she had continued to work. Neat slices of carrot were piled, waiting to be moved to the bowl, which she did so to cover the quaver that slid down her hands. She thought to go make sure Gabby was all right, and saw Puella turn and stride quickly down the hallway that led to their shared bedroom. Perhaps she should have a talk with Gabby later to see what happened. She did not think she could be completely coherent now.
She sighed and looked up, noticing Phalon’s gaze sliding back to the peas, a frown tugging at the woman’s mouth. Bhen Rudha shook her head slightly, gave a small smile and went back to work. She stayed that way, working on whatever Kaisa put into her hands even after the seeress took her peas and moved on to other things.
Dinner that night was an event of nearly heroic proportions. The room, which had seemed large and inviting during the day, became strained and a little cramped, though everyone accepted this with grace, and there was much good-natured grumbling as elbows inevitably dueled. It reminded her of the four great holidays, when the farmers and ranchers came to her parents’ home for feasting and games. She could almost imagine hearing the men speak of their prowess in the wrestling ring or on the battle field, while the women either consoled or congratulated, all the while sharing a secret conversation with their kinswomen.
She sat at the end of the new table, next to the hearth, and ate food that was both familiar and strange . . . feeling a desperate ache for her home and family, and an intense sense of grace that she was sitting right where she was, with these people. Serving bowls and plates passed through her hands, she ate till she was stuffed, and remained silent, to better take in the experience.
It had been so long since she was able to eat in the company of others. While a slave, she had been required to sit on display near the table, stock still, in some muscle wrenching pose, her stomach growling its displeasure at being empty. She felt keenly the blessing of the moment, and did not want to shatter it with wasted words.
When guests arrived, baring clothes and uncut cloth, Bhen Rudha continued to sit in her chair, sipping wine, while the others poured over the beautifully woven fabrics. The weaver’s eyes were glassy and unfocused, and the scar of her forehead told the Red Woman that she worked with her fingers alone. It was more than impressive. She wished she could have ordered a square of wool for a great cloak.
It was soon obvious that Frieda was nervous and not used to the mead she had drunk. Flushed and flustered, she made a hasty exit, throwing a few words to her partner, speaking quickly to Phalon and finally letting a child lead her out the door. Bhen Rudha felt empathy for the woman, and resolved to speak to Kaisa about working out something so she could afford that cloak she wanted. She sipped her wine . . . tomorrow was soon enough for that.
She continued to sit contented in her silence, watching the fire, till a small commotion brought her attention around. The boy Apollo was leading the foreign woman into the dining room, announcing to his grandmother that everything was ok, he had found Sumi, and she could have dinner because she liked fish.
The matriarch nodded sagely, thanking and grinning at the boy. Then she grabbed up a plate she had warming and began to steer the Jappa woman to a chair near the fire.
Before moving, the woman nodded to Apollo saying softly, “Thank you, my little Lord.” When the boy smiled and scampered off, she allowed herself to be led, though she protested gently, “I am so sorry. I did not intend to stay out so long as to miss your dinner.”
Kaisa waved a hand, saying, “Think nothing of it . . . I’m sure you’re not used to having all these little ones running around underfoot. Can get overwhelming.”
“You are so gracious to put up with me. And the children . . . well, they are well meaning, aren’t they?”
With a knowing chuckle, the matron showed the woman to her seat, placing the food before her. “Yes they are, that’s one of the joys of children.” She gave the dark haired woman’s shoulder a friendly squeeze before continuing, “Now, you enjoy your dinner, take your time and don’t worry. If you need any more, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
Eyeing her plate furtively, thinking that she could probably eat five servings for how hungry she was, the Jappa woman said instead, “Oh . . . I could not possibly . . .”
Kaisa clucked and shook her head, “Nonsense, you have as much as you want, there’s plenty. Speaking of which, she turned to the woman sitting across from the Jappa woman, “Bhen Rudha, would you like more wine?”
With a smile and a nod, the Red Woman held out her mug, and knew that her silence was about to break. But she also knew that it was all right. When her mug was full and passed back to her she lifted it in salute and murmured, “Go raibh maith, agat.”
“Oh, you’re quite welcome. By the way, have you met Sumire?”
“Nae formally, Seanmháthair,” the Red Woman said with a smile.
“Well then, Bhen Rudha, this is Sumire. Sumire, this is Bhen Rudha. Why don’t you keep each other company for a while?” Without waiting for an answer Kaisa bustled off, leaving the two women at the end of the table.
Sumire glanced to the woman walking away from her, reached for a fork and said with smile, “Itadakemasu.”
Bhen Rudha lifted her mug in salute, saying, “Slánte.”
“Oh,” the dark haired woman said, reaching for her own mug. She lifted it in kind and said, “Kanpai.”
Tilting her head, the Red Woman considered the words, deciding that “ee-tah-dah-kee-mas” was a blessing for the food, and not the salute she had originally assumed. To make sure, she asked, “Kahn-pai? Bein’ tha same thin’ aye? Be wishin’ ye health...”
“Yes. To health,” she said, taking a sip and putting the mug aside to begin her meal. She did not bother to offer that the origin of the phrase meant “to the Emporer’s health”. Several months with Falkan had not erased a lifetime, and it still felt strange to drink her wine with dinner, instead of savoring it afterwards.
“Dinnae be lettin’ me be keepin’ ye from yer dinner. I be enjoyin’ tha fire, an’ dinnae feel ta be movin’ yet,” Bhen Rudha said, stretching her legs out and wiggling her bare toes toward the fire.
Smiling, not quite laughing, Sumire said, “Thank you.” Ven Rua’s accent was thick, but she was able to at least work out the proper rely before the actual meaning was sorted out in her head.
“Bein’ welcome,” she replied, a grin tugging at her lips.
Although Sumire was comfortable using a fork, she secretly wished for her hashi to pick out the thin slivers of fish bone. Instead she used a trick she developed while with Falkan. Separating the white meat into sections, she uncovered the layers where the bones lay, and with a quick subtle maneuver, she could weave the slivers between the tines of the fork, pulling them away from the meat, one by one. Once finished removing the fish bones, she commenced eating. She ate slowly, concentrating very much on not desperately shoveling the food into her mouth.
The Red Woman watched, grabbing up a piece of bread. She broke off a small piece and threw it into the fire before breaking off another and popping it into her mouth. After swallowing it with a mouthful of wine, she said to the other woman, “Be a handy way o’ doin’ tha’.”
Pausing on briefly to arch a brow at the tossed bread, she looked at her fork and sighed, “Ah. It is not hashi . . . but I learned to eat without them while with Lord Falkan. It was difficult at first . . . this . . . fork . . . it is not so precise . . . more like a small shovel,” she paused when she sensed the other woman’s reaction.
At the name, Bhen Rudha stiffened, the smirk she had falling as her expression closed. Turning back to the fire, she said, “Aye, ye be ha’en’ tha trick o’ it nae.” She started to pop another bit of bread into her mouth and stopped. With a sigh she threw the last of it into the fire, then ran a hand through her short hair.
Not sure of the change in the expression on the Red Woman’s face, Sumire simply nodded and took another bite. Perhaps she had not used the utensil correctly. Talking to this woman was actually helping her from rushing through the meal, so she decided to continue. “It is good, isn’t it? Flavorful. Did you have some?” When the other woman did not answer right away, she arched a brow. “Perhaps not . . .”
Memory swirled through Bhen Rudha as she stared into the fire . . . Falkan . . . she blinked at Sumire’s question and turned back, letting go a long breath before answering, “Aye, I be ha’in’ some. Be verra good. Dinnae be ha’in’ fish like tha’ since me childhood.”
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