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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 2, 2011 9:11:48 GMT -5
Swann swirled the parasol around in her drink again. That hardly surprises me. It was very difficult even for Neopets who could fly to visit Faerieland, she replied after taking another dainty sip while Leonardo spoke. I do believe... this is almost for the better. A little napkin came up to her mouth to dab it. Not implying that the crash was positive, of course. It has caused much suffering to us in Faerieland. But... we have received such kindness from Neopia. And I feel that to be here, closer to them... is perhaps where we truly belong, instead of being removed and far above.
It was honestly easier to explain her own opinions to a stranger than to some of the friends she had made in Faerieland. Swann had no expectations of seeing Leonardo again after today, so she was not afraid to speak her mind. Rather, she was quite sure that she would be burying herself in her work at home until these Meridell troops were gone, Leonardo included.
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Jul 2, 2011 15:26:14 GMT -5
"Perhaps," Leonardo replied distantly. He glanced at her before continuing, "This new location promises Faerieland a grand number of visitors... Something that is great for business but will most certainly try the natives who have lived isolated for so long." He took a long drink before sighing, "I have traveled to many lands as both a knight and an individual. I do hope this land does not fall into a political chaos as soon as reconstruction beings to settle. It is a tragically common occurrence and it always pains me to see those who have just gone through so much, get thrown back into disaster."
Leonardo shook his head, though his neatly braided and tied back hair barely moved, and gave her a small, sad smile. "Forgive me Lady Iluni, I should not be speaking of such down heartening things. Let us move onto more enjoyable topics, are any of your works currently being performed at the theater?" His voice had brightened with his new question, something urged him to gain the lady's favor. He wasn't sure why, but is instincts all but insisted on it and so far they rarely let him down.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 4, 2011 18:26:11 GMT -5
ooc | Maybe it's time to introduce some interest? Swann could get pulled into the army's relief efforts or something... maybe have soldiers start reporting?
ic | Swann nodded in agreement, but decided not to say much further on the subject. She wasn't certain how comfortable she felt divulging the political status of Faerieland to a knight of Meridell. Thankfully, Queen Fyora had really taken charge after the crash - the faeries had taken Xandra's views to heart, even though her methods had been extreme. In Iluni's opinion, it was a step in the right direction, though the transaction was a little rough for Faerieland's population.
Thankfully, the next question was easy to answer. Unfortunately, there is a lull in any performances, Swann replied. The closing curtain fell upon my most recent not several days ago, and my next play is yet in production. I apologize that your interest must come to naught. Swann usually used this time in between her plays being on stage to brainstorm and become inspired for her next work.
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Jul 4, 2011 20:21:35 GMT -5
occ: My thoughts exactly. Oh and I leave tomorrow morning and won't be back until Friday. There is a small chance I'll have internet connection but probably not.
ic: "Ah, a shame," he replied, "I hope inspiration strikes you soon my lady."
Leonardo was almost thankful when he noticed one of his men approaching. Almost. Knowing how jumpy the mare had been upon seeing his armor and royal colors, he would almost bet on losing all progress on befriending her. But he wasn't a betting man. The one who approached was a young stallion, known only as Jay, who had relatives in Faerieland. He was a new addition to the squad, wearing only a blue bandana around his neck and knife strapped to his leg instead of a full uniform.
"Captian!" he called, trotting over to the pair at the cafe. "Ah, Jay, come to report?" he asked pleasantly before motioning to the mare across from him. "Jay, this is Lady Iluni, a well respected playwright in the area. My lady, this is Jay. He has family here and joined my ranks temporarily to assist in the reconstruction." The youth grinned, bowing his head politely, "Nice to meet you miss!" He straightened quickly, doing his best to appear like a proper knight as he gave his report, "Patrols A, B and C have successful assisted their assigned marks and have returned to base for the night." "And what of D?" Leonardo asked, trying to keep the nerves out of his voice. That was his most troublesome team. He frowned when Jay shifted nervously. "Ah, well, I know they were told to stay at base as back up, but a few members went into town.." he began to trail off, only to start again after being given a pointed look from Leo, "and they haven't been since." He finished quickly with a squeak. He was quickly dismissed and wasted no time in cantering back off towards their base camp.
"I am most apologetic my lady, but I must depart from your company. May I have the honor of escorting you to your next destination?" he asked.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 7, 2011 10:09:40 GMT -5
Swann watched with interest at the unfolding scene. She nodded to Jay when Leonardo introduced her. She fancied she had perhaps seen Jay once or twice in Faerieland, but she wasn't nearly social enough to be familiar with all the families in the land. She frowned when she heard of this "Patrol D" that had abandoned their assigned post. Why was she not at all surprised? Fyora only knew what trouble they were likely getting into, goofing off in Faerieland, she imagined. Far too many Neopets in Neopia's various armed forces filled the unpleasant soldier stereotype.
Why... yes, I would be most appreciative of your escort to my cottage, my lord, Swann replied. She took some neopoints out of her bag as she stood, placing them on the table with a light clink. If there were soldiers running amok in town, Swann did not want to run into them by herself on her way home.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Jul 9, 2011 21:32:55 GMT -5
"It is the least I could do for troubling you this day," he replied with an elegant nod of thanks towards her. He stood smartly and though his identifying colors were hidden it was obvious the handsome stallion was of high class. Attentive towards his companion, he allowed her to direct the way.
For him the silence was peaceful as they walked along, but still it was edged with the tension and awkwardness of strangers. Just as he attempted to remedy that, a distant commotion caught his attention. His pace slowed momentarily, ears flicking back and forth before flattening on his neck altogether. "I do sincerely apologize my dear lady," he said gently, dark hooves suddenly quick stepping in front of her while the side of his body and haunches firmly maneuvered her sideways.
The telling swoosh and a wet, dull thud filled the air not a second later as a rotten apple pierced by an arrow stuck out from the ground where the pair had just stood. Within the same moment and in a single movement, Leonardo had drawn his own bow and fired two silver pointed arrows. Dark wood curved and twisted gracefully to create the bow, elegant markings and designs carved into it. Just as quickly as it appeared, it was gone, hidden again beneath the folds of his cloak.
"If I do not ask too much my lady, might I request a slight detour from our course? I would prefer to deal with out troublemakers promptly for I fear there may be more to come," he asked politely as he glanced back at her, not keeping eye contact too long before looking ahead. He hoped it would look like he was merely keeping an eye for more trouble, but Leo knew his eyes often gave away more emotions than those of a knight should. Exhaustion, frustration, embarrassment; how could he possibly change this mare's opinion of his kingdom for the better if his own feelings were not of pride and joy?
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 10, 2011 20:54:20 GMT -5
Swann went from being slightly perturbed to letting out a small gasp as she saw the arrow and apple. Ah -- why, yes, of course -- she heard herself saying as Leonardo continued to lead her off of the main road and down one of the side paths. Suddenly, Swann was regretting having agreed to let Leonardo accompany her home. In fact, she should have sent this knight on the high road the minute he'd introduced himself! The minute she had sen his uniform, she knew he'd be troubled. And yet she had allowed herself to be pulled in by his manners, which had been that of a true gentleman. Well, she'd certainly learned her lesson.
At this point, however, would it be wise to take her leave and head home herself? Whoever these mysterious enemies were now had their eyes on her, certainly. Or at least, Leonardo certainly made her think that way. Goodness, how confused she felt! The quiet life, that was what Swann desired. Not this crazy being pulled around, unsure, distrusting of everyone. And she resented that.
May I inquire as to our new destination, my lord? Swann asked, her voice as cold as the wind on Terror Mountain.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Jul 11, 2011 18:33:18 GMT -5
He cringed visibly at the tone of her voice. Things certainly aren't getting better, he thought glumly. Still, he was a gentleman and would do his best to be pleasant towards her even if the feeling was not mutual.
"Not far my lady, our attackers are perched in this tree up ahead," he explained, glancing to her before examining the large oak tree they were closing in on. He fully expected the troublemakers to be of his disastrous Patrol D unit and his eyes narrowed darkly at the thought. It was one thing to fire upon civilians such as Lady Iluni, but to fire upon their own captain was treason.
Of course things were never that simple. Leonardo was not terribly shocked to see Jay cantering up to him again, but the words that excitedly fell from his mouth caused Leo to freeze and nearly trip in surprise. "Come again?" he asked quietly to the young black stallion who responded cheerfully. "That's what I said captain, the missing members of Patrol D were found passed out drunk on the street, everyone's accounted for sir!"
It took him a moment to collect his thoughts, whispering to himself, "Then who is in this tree?" Trotting swiftly to the tree he saw a darkly dressed figure pinned to the trunk by his arrow, ripped cloth stuck to the other arrow remained the only evidence of a second figure who had escaped. A true frown creased his face, his demeanor shifting to that of a military knight as he gave a sharp whistle. "Jay, Ralo will be here momentarily, assist him in retrieving and restraining our troublemaker. I have a few questions to ask." "Y-Yes sir!" Satisfied, Leonardo turned back. "Lady Iluni, are you aware of anyone who may be 'out to get you' so to speak? A jealous ex or rival playwright perhaps?" he asked calmly, a serious tone to words that could be taken humorously.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 14, 2011 7:53:55 GMT -5
Swann stared rather contemptuously at Leonardo as the soldier from before - what was his name? Jay? - reported further news. Swann hadn't heard the exact words, but it was something troubling, by the look on Leonardo's face. She wondered whether it was wise for a general to wear his emotions as clearly as Leonardo did - it seemed a recipe for disaster. She could already imagine the play she would write about such an officer. It would be a tragedy, certainly, probably with romance, betrayal, and rampant death at the end.
She was already starting to get caught up in the idea when Leonardo suddenly turned to her, blustering with questions. Her purple eyes narrowed. I am unsure of your meaning, lord knight, she said coolly. Certainly I have never acted in a manner to create such a grudge in any human or Neopet. Her mind, of course, instantly turned back to when she had been a mere filly... the war. There was no gain in killing her now, of course, but Swann knew as well as anyone that half of Kass's forces had been nothing more than insane.
Still, the idea was highly unlikely, and besides, to mention it would mean revealing her true identity to Leonardo. Impossible! Swann would sooner take her own life. (Well, perhaps that was overdoing it a bit, but the fancy was still there.)
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Jul 14, 2011 20:34:18 GMT -5
The serious expression that adorned his face was one not often seen, it softened momentarily as he sighed, "Never would I accuse a lady such as yourself as having acted in any display of disgraceful manner that would warrant this type of reaction. I am sure you are aware however, that at times others can become offended by actions we have taken and see no evil in ourselves."
Leonardo unflinchingly met Iluni's narrowed gaze, behind him he could hear Ralo arriving and assisting Jay with the mysterious troublemaker. "Perhaps someone you have not directly met," he tried again, his voice thoughtful and calm. "They may have attacked you to get to someone else such as a dear friend or family member..." his voice trailed off, urging her to speak, but he added in a mumble one last thought, "You have built quite the reputation after all."
Yelling, a loud thud and the short lived sounds of a scuffle signaled that Jay and Ralo had gotten the stranger out of the tree. Leo was very interested as to who he was.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 14, 2011 23:06:14 GMT -5
Swann drew herself up. It was time to quell these questions once and for all; though his questions were meant well, Leonardo was treading on thin ice now. I have no one, my lord, she said firmly, her voice deepening slightly with the tenor of her words. Swann wasn't normally a liar, but she would deny anything that might hint as to her past and shatter the peaceful life she had acquired in Faerieland.
My life's memories have been all of Faerieland; my dwelling is humble, as is my public figure, she continued without hesitation. Swann had had plenty of years to perfect her alias as Iluni; the words slipped naturally off her tongue. I know of no motive that wouldst drive someone to end my existence upon Neopia. Though she maintained eye contact with Leonardo as she spoke, she couldn't help but look over his shoulder with interest as his soldiers wrestled the thug out of the tree. She narrowed her eyes, trying to get a closer look.
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Jul 15, 2011 1:32:45 GMT -5
Leonardo believed her words, how could he not? To question her further would only be of great insult and discredit him as a gentleman. He sensed a reluctance in her but he assumed it to be only emotional for despite her insistance to remain distant and cold, he refused to abandon her. Call it pride, proper manners or just plain curiousity but something drew him to her.
He smiled gently, a certain air of relief sneaking out of the seriousness as he spoke, "I'm glad to hear it my lady for I would much prefer the target to be my own skin rather than yours." He followed her gaze to the ruckus behind him, bending his neck in a curve of muscle. "You are welcome to accompany me in questioning our villian or I can finish escorting you home so that you may forget all this in proper time. The choice is yours my lady," he said, tilting his face back towards her.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 15, 2011 8:52:20 GMT -5
A sort of steel entered Swann's eyes. She knew that she couldn't go straight home now - the curiousity of who this assassin was would certainly drive her mad. She simply had to know for certain - was it about her, as she feared, or was another target involved? She would never wish killers on Leonardo's life, of course, but she would do nearly anything to preserve her life in Faerieland.
I shall see this desperate assassin with mine own eyes, Swann declared proudly, nodding to Leonardo to lead the way.
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Jul 15, 2011 15:09:16 GMT -5
"Very well," he nodded. Turning on the forehand, Leonardo straightened himself and tucked back his cape just far enough to display the adornments of his high rank. He stepped forward at an even pace, looking over the darkly dressed figure as he did. Jay and Ralo had tied his hands behind his back and feet together to keep him from running off. The two soldiers stood on either side, eyes never leaving their mark except to give a curt nod of salute to Leonardo as he approached.
"Good day sir, care to explain why you are shooting rotten fruit from trees?" Leo asked, looking down at the fellow. "Not particularly," was the snappy reply. "Well could you at least reveal who it was you were not so skillfully aiming for?" The captive growled at the taunt, words venomous as he replied "Mostly you scumbag, but it never mattered if I hit you, it was just a warning." "Oh? A warning, what for?" "To get your barbaric soldiers out of here that's what!" Leonardo frowned and lowered his face to look directly at the darkly dressed male, "I do not see anything wrong with helping those in need sir. Tell your employer that if he has a problem to speak with me personally instead of sending a thug to fire upon a Meridell knight and a Faerieland civilian."
"Anything you wish to ask my lady?" Leo turned to Iluni, ignoring the glare the tied up thug now gave him.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 18, 2011 9:23:02 GMT -5
When Swann stared at the rather rude Neopet, she felt like a heavy weight had been taken off her shoulders, though her face remained impassive. So it wasn't someone out for her. Though, of course, it wasn't her life that she was worried about so much. She took a few steps closer to the assassin - though she thought he was a poor excuse for an "assassin," considering how coarse his language was - so that she was only a few feet in front of him. She couldn't tell what kind of Neopet he was from underneath the dark cloak, which he was apparently making sure was covering all his features.
Only one thing, sir knight, Swann replied coldly. Her tone was deadly enough to make even the strongest warrior flinch. That I would beg of you to understand that not all Faerieland's citizens are so impertinent. The word choice was rather strange, considering the gravity of the matter at hand, but Swann continued. However, also comprehend that an equal number are not so rashly desperate. Her eyes flashed over to stare at Leonardo; considering that this Neopet out to "warn" Meridell represented some group of Faerielanders, it was an obvious warning.
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Jul 18, 2011 23:53:38 GMT -5
Leonardo stood his ground under Iluni's cold tone and eyes. He may have a tendency to 'wear his heart on his sleeve', but his was still a high ranking knight. Nodding deeply in silent understanding, he held eye contact and gave a slight smile, "Very well, if that is all, I shall resume my previous action of escorting you home my lady."
Glancing back to his soldiers he gestured at the thug, "Keep an eye on him until I return, see if you can get the employer out of him." He walked a few steps forward before pausing and quickly adding, "Oh, and remember to play fair boys. We don't want to give ourselves a bad name after all." There was a slight quirk to his smile and a crinkle in his eyes, an inside joke at which the two soldiers laughed easily. No real jokes or attempts to break the tension were made, but for some reason Leonardo retained a calm and cheerful air about him. There was more depth to him than many realized for it was impossible to tell if the reaction was faked or true.
Looking down to Iluni he remained as polite as ever, though the faint laugh could still be found on the edges of his words, "I will do my best to keep any further delays at bay my lady, for I am sure you are quite tired of my company at this time."
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 24, 2011 15:02:31 GMT -5
Swann found herself unimpressed with the lightheartedness in Leonardo's voice. No, not unimpressed... perhaps annoyed was the better word? She was unable to gauge if her own words were having any effect at all on him, adn though Swann was no bully, one always wanted their words to have proper impact upon others. Of course, actions speak louder than words, and Swann knew that if she truly wanted to make herself clear, she would ahve agreed to a solitary walk home instead of allowing Leonardo to continue to accompany her. Still, as much as she detested admitting it, the attack had made her nervous, and she, embarrassingly, had no means of defending herself if the situation came to that.
Oh no, my lord, Swann said graciously, if a bit stiffly. She nodded her head. I should still appreciate your presence until I reach my home. She took a final look at the Neopet being dragged away by the Meridellian soldiers as she turned to continue her way to her cottage. As much as she disliked the the kingdom's occupation in Faerieland, she would never have gone as far as to attack them. What sinister group could possibly be behind such reckless, dangerous games? Hopefully, whoever they were would allow the rest of the walk home to be a quiet one.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Jul 24, 2011 23:07:10 GMT -5
And a quiet walk it was. Leonardo kept his senses on high alert as he escorted Iluni the rest of the way back to her cottage, though his smooth, easy-going gate may have lead those watching to believe otherwise. Perhaps the thug and his partner had been working alone, possibly the warning was just and only that for the day or maybe Leonardo's dangerous accuracy with a bow and arrow had been a clear enough message to back off. No matter the reason, the pair arrived quickly and quietly to the entrance of the cottage.
"I shall take my leave now Lady Iluni," he bowed deeply, stepping back slightly so that she was between him and her home. "I know you have some quarrel with my kingdom, and therefore, perhaps, with me, but I would feel most terrible if something were to happen to you," his eyes and voice were kind though his smile faint. Despite her polite manners and words, he was no fool in the game of appearances. He knew that if it were up to her, she would never see him again. Looks like I still have a think or two learn huh Feng? he thought.
"If you ever find yourself in need my lady, I will always be at your service," with that said, he bowed a final time. Pulling himself up sharply with military fashion, the tan stallion with electric blue hair and matching eyes, trotted off towards his camp and soldiers.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Jul 28, 2011 22:22:37 GMT -5
Swann stopped at the door before turning back to look at Leo. For a half second, she was almost tempted to explain exactly her grievances against Meridell. Sense, however, took hold of her immediately. This Meridellian soldier had no business knowing who she truly was. She had closer friends in Faerieland who didn't know Swann's true identity - why should this stallion be treated any differently? Further, why should he be treated better than her friends? That was ridiculous. Curse his handsome appearance, his smooth manners; they would not get past Swann's defenses so easily.
Instead, Swann replied, I thank you, my lord, in her low, melodic voice. She nodded her head to match Leo's own bow, then quietly shut the door behind her as he turned and left.
...Finally.[/i]
Once inside, Swann hung her bag on a hook by the door and set her notebooks on the desk in the sun room. The day had been interesting, to say the least, and though it was early evening, Swann was already feeling exhausted. Too many wild emotions in one day for such a composed Uni as Swann. With a sigh, she pushed herself through brushing her teeth before curling into bed. When she finally gave in to sleep, she found it was a restless one.[/color]
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Jul 29, 2011 14:21:46 GMT -5
Leonardo trotted briskly to put a fair distance between himself and Iluni's home before he slowed to a walk. He had just entered the forest where his soldiers camped, the cool shadows wrapping around him as he left the warm light of the setting sun.
He released a heavy breath, glancing back in the direction he came for the first time since departing. It has been a long day, but as his ears flicked forward at the sounds echoing from his camp he knew he still had a long night ahead of him. Steeling his features once more, Leo trotted forward again into the shadows.
Jay and Ralo hadn't gotten much out of their captive. The thug insisted that he and his partner had acted alone, no high employer. Jay refused to believe him, saying it was crazy and down right dumb to attack a knight on a whim, but Leo believed him. He could see it in his eyes, his body language, and Leo knew first hand how one could do utterly ridiculous actions on the whim of raging emotions. He ordered to have him kept overnight none the less, but allowed him food and basic bedding under guard. He would see in the morning if they could get anything more out of him.
Until then, Leonardo needed to rest. Finishing his rounds and checking on the squads prepped for night watch, the Meridell captain retired to his tent. Shedding his armor without bothering to light a lamp or candle in the darkness, he all but collapsed on his bed and fell asleep.
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