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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Aug 6, 2011 22:15:17 GMT -5
The next morning, Swann was pleased to find that she had shaken off her nerves from the previous day. She stepped out into the cool, foggy dawn to retrieve her paper, even humming a little tune as she did so. She sipped warm borovan as her eyes scanned the headlines, and nibbled on toast with chokato jam as she perused articles that caught her eye. Yesterday might not have happened at all. She'd already made up her mind to stay inside until the Meridellian armies were well out of sight of Faerieland. Such a thing was not at all unusual for her; Faerieland's citizens were used to their reclusive playwright holing herself up for weeks on end.
She was just sitting down to begin brainstorming for her next work, however, when fate decided to have other plans in the form of a smart knock on her door. Sighing, Swann deposited her quill into its inkstand and clopped down the steps. May I be of assistance to you? the Uni asked tentatively, opening the oak door.
Hello. Am I speaking to Miss Iluni? The question came from a short plushie Kacheek, who was staring up at Swann. Her button eyes blinked as she poked at a small notebook in her paws. Next to her, a stout Feepit was holding a pencil and much larger notepad.
Iluni I am. How may I offer my service? Swann answered, becoming somewhat nervous.
My name is Alicia Wells, and I'm a reporter from the Faerieland Enquirer./i] We heard of the attack on yourself and a Sir Leonardo of Meridell last evening, the Kacheek said in her crisp manner. Would you mind answering a few questions?
Swann blanched. This was not how she wanted to conduct her morning! I dearly beg your pardon, Swann said after a moment, putting on her sweetest voice. But at present I am unable to entertain interviews. Good day, Miss Wells. After a moment of pleasantries, Swann was finally able to shut the door on the persistent little Kacheek. She leaned against the door, letting out a breath as she considered with annoyance how this whole affair was interrupting her quiet life.
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Kit
Youngling
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Post by Kit on Aug 8, 2011 22:50:03 GMT -5
Leonardo rose with the sun, dressing lightly with his armor and navy cape. He stepped out of his tent to watch the rays of sunlight filter through the trees and bounce of the morning dew, creating a sparkle of tiny rainbows through out the camp. For a moment he thought of Iluni and couldn't help but wonder if he would see her again or if her opinion of Meridell and him would ever change. Probably not, he had found her to be surprisingly stubborn and a little fiery under her polite words and manners. He took a deep breath of crisp air, blowing it out slowly through his nose. There was no time for idle thoughts, duty called. A loud ringing filled the air and soldiers filed out of tents like ants, some sleepily stretching and rubbing sore muscles from the hard labor the day before. The night shift guards reported a lack of activity as a new set replaced them. No new information was extracted from the prisoner. Leonardo had just finished the orders to escort and release the thug outside of the city limits when a messenger notified him of a request for his presence. Quickly deciding he was put together enough for a meeting he trotted after the messenger.
Leonardo could tell instantly they were from a local media group. The pens and paper in their hands, the hungry look in their eyes; he had dealt with this type before, they were relentless. Groaning inwardly but putting on a confident face he moved forward. "How can I help you?" he asked politely to the pair. "We're from the Enquirer and wondered if you would answer a few questions captain," the first asked, a rather plump Usul who tapped her pen to the paper on her clipboard. "As long as they are reasonable," he responded with a nod of his head. Noting to chose his words carefully. Reports were crafty and would easily spin his words into unintended meanings. "Very good. Now many are wondering why you and your troops are here in Faerieland." "We are here to assist those in need after the fall of this great land. From rebuilding homes and shops, to providing assistance in everyday tasks, my men and I are simply here to help." "And yet you are unwanted. There is a report that you and local playwright Iluni were attacked yesterday, can you tell me more?" "It was a small and isolated incident that has already been dealt with." "But you and Miss Iluni, a relationship in bloom?"
Leonardo sighed, he didn't want to talk about this, the Usul was becoming too quick and aggressive with her questioning. Collecting himself he gave decisive 'no' and politely excused himself, claiming he had work to do with his troops. He let out a breath of relief when he was finally was out of their sight.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Aug 21, 2011 9:03:54 GMT -5
Swann had returned to her writing desk. She had also been staring at her blank notebook for the past fifteen minutes, her pen hovering above the page, prepared for the moment when she would suddenly burst into words, as she had countless times before. This time, however, the words simply wouldn't come. Swann got up, paced the room, returned. Still nothing. She went into the kitchen and made some autumn herbal tea. Still, nothing came to her. She began to recognize the frustration welling up in her and knew that no writing was going to be accomplished today. Better to try and clear her mind and return later that evening, or perhaps even tomorrow.
Of course, that meant having to walk. Outside. Where likely hordes of Meridellian armies were still walking about her home. Ruefully, Swann swept a light cloak over her shoulders and stepped outside her cottage, being sure to lock the door behind her. The presence of Meridell in Faerieland, she knew, should not dictate how she normally went about her day.
Perhaps some time hiding - er, reading - in the Faerieland Bookshop would do her good. When was the last time she had browsed the new books? Her spirits lifting slightly at the thought of books, Swann managed to almost forget Meridell as she clopped up the busy main street into the city.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Aug 23, 2011 18:27:57 GMT -5
Between Faerieland and the brother kingdoms of Meridell and Brightvale lay a lush forest in which Leonardo and his troops made their base camp. Close enough to quickly assist those that called upon them but just outside city limits to ensure they did not disturb the locals unnecessarily.
Having sent the reporters back to the city, morning duties pressed on without further trouble or interruption. Groups were sent out to fulfill assignments, with some left behind to help newcomers. Satisfied, Leo left for the city to scout those in need while keeping eyes and ears open for the tone locals had towards him and his men.
Entering town with Ralo and Jay he had no trouble finding work nor attracting looks for that matter. Cautious and curious we most of the looks, but occasionally there was bitterness and distrust. Whispered words on every corner and approaching journalists quickly called for a new plan of action on his part. His appearance made it far too obvious who he was, he had never met these people yet his carefully braided hair, embroidered cape, armor and accessories gave it all away in one glance. Rumors and gossip were already spinning through about, it wouldn't help to be followed like some kind of hunted animal, every stop he made and local he helped analyzed.
Shedding the offending items from his person, the Meridell captain sent the boys back to camp with the assignment of helping the elderly shopkeeper they had spoken with earlier upon their return. Once again Leonardo found himself alone in Faerieland, but he did not journey to the gardens hoping to once again find the pretty playwright. Instead he moved with the crowds towards main street, this time blending right in without more than the customary glance and nod between passing strangers.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Sept 1, 2011 8:09:20 GMT -5
Along the way to the bookstore, Swann suddenly realized that she'd somehow forgotten to have breakfast. Or rather, her stomach reminded her of that fact. Tea was all well and good, but a meal it was not. She halted in front of some of the market stalls that were outside Faerie Foods, her eyes roving over the baked goods laid out especially for Neopets and humans on their way to work so early in the morning.
Lady Iluni! Swann's head turned, and she smiled. An elderly Faerie Shoyru, who had worked for time out of mind at Faerie Foods, was laying out some fresh Raspberry Faerie Crepes. You are out and about early, my dear. She offered a pastry to the Uni, indicating that it was on the house.
Some morning reading to stimulate the muses, dear Hera, Swann replied, taking a dainty bite of the crepe. Like everything from Faerie Foods, it was delicious.
Be sure to stay out of the way of those Meridellians, now Hera said warningly. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she continued placing down pastries with a bit more force than necessary.
Ah, yes, Swann said uncomfortably. Hera didn't seem to have heard about Swann's little adventure the previous night yet.
Hera sighed. I know they mean well, but Skarl is a fool, she murmured. Sending armies without word to the queen first? Fyora is not pleased, I'm sure. Swann nodded mutely, taking another bite of her crepe. Speak of the devil... looks like one of the nobles going by now, Hera said in an undertone.
Swann glanced back to the main street and nearly choked. Leonardo! Fyora's staff, could she go anywhere without seeing that stallion?
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Sept 1, 2011 14:54:21 GMT -5
The tragic truth was that even without is armor or cloak and coat of arms, Leonardo's appearance was that of Meridell. He had none of the dainty, flowing movements of Faerieland's natives who were used to life in the sky. While he still carried himself with a certain air of gracefulness, his movements were strong and alert. Well defined muscles that were hidden earlier by his cloak and armor, could now be seen rippling just beneath his coat, ready to spring him into action at a moment's notice. And as if his body's build wasn't different enough, his coloring certainty was. The brilliant gold shimmer of his tan and brown striped coat and the electric blue of his now free flowing mane and tail stood out against the soft pastels of most locals.
Still, while he attracted attention at least it was a slightly different kind. Recognition was not nearly as instantaneous and the bitter, distrusting looks came only from those who gave that look to everyone who passed.
Cobalt eyes scanning the busy street for those in need, he zoned in on a rather flustered Ruki trying to haul away a cart of debris. "Dear sir, I would never mean to offend, but it appears you are having a bit of trouble. Would you be so kind as to accept my assistance?"
Startled but more than willing to accept, the Ruki strapped the cart to Leonardo's middle. "Oh thank you, thank you. It would have taken me ages to clear this mess!" he said hurriedly but not before glancing at more of the piled up clutter.
Leo followed his gaze and smiled warmly, "Feel free to pile a few more items on the cart sir, I can handle it." From another this may have sounded arrogant, but it was clear from his words that he simply wanted to help.
Leonardo had yet to notice Iluni and Hera who stood at the market stalls not more than a handful of paces away.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Sept 3, 2011 12:28:21 GMT -5
Unbeknownst to Leonoardo, both Swann and Hera were watching him fixedly. They seemed to have forgotten the fact that the stallion could look up at any moment and see them watching. I suppose it's wrong to harbor grudges against them, really, Hera murmured, as if thinking out loud. They are merely following orders, of course, and with many it seems their hearts are in the right place. Still... it's natural to want to "kill the messenger," as it were. She smiled at her passing reference, not noticing the chill that went down Swann's spine as she said it.
"Kill the messenger." It seemed like some group in Faerieland had that exact idea. The words had sent Swann's mind turning with thoughts, as if they had been some kind of trigger. Well... I suppose I shall take my leave, good Hera, she said, sounding a bit distracted. Thank thee for the delicious pastries. The Shoyru nodded at her as she quickly backed into the street. She didn't notice, however, that she was moving right into the path of - who else? - Leonardo as he had begun to move the loaded wagon for the Ruki into the street.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Sept 4, 2011 0:05:15 GMT -5
With the cart loaded to maximum capacity, the Ruki excitedly moved ahead to guide Leonardo to their destination. To many, it surely appeared odd that the Meridell captain who was of a well ranking family would lower himself to the hard labor of pulling a cart of rubbish. It was therefore probably astonishing that he pulled the heavy load forward without any of the expected grunting or clenched teeth that one may have had if they gotten into a situation that was more than they had bargained for.
In that moment, Leonardo appeared to be every bit a typical Meridell born and raised farm boy.
A typical farm hand however would not have caught sight of the mare stepping out into the street, and if they had, surely they would have not been able to stop the momentum of the heavy cart they pulled in time and there would have been a disastrous crash.
But Leonardo did stop in time.
Sinking his back legs down and bracing his front, the stallion bumped the front wheels to the side so that the now angled cart instantly slowed as it caught on the stone paved road.
"Terribly sorry miss, I- oh Lady Iluni!" he said warmly upon recognizing the mare. He had been caught slightly off guard for he not expected to see her again, but years of training in etiquette from his mother quickly filled in the small pause of silence, "How lovely it is to be blessed by your presence again."
Noticing his new assistant was no longer behind him the Ruki doubled back but grinned widely at what he saw. "Ah the playwright! How lovely it is to see you ma'am," he greeted. "Good thing you can stop quick sir, wouldn't want to damage one of Faerieland's best!" he said in a hushed voice, nudging Leo with his arm.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Sept 9, 2011 15:27:40 GMT -5
ooc | Sorry Swann's speech is slightly different here than before. I just finished reading The Scarlet Letter, so I have some of that speech in my head, and it fits Swann well. I've been trying to balance her voice, so I'm still experimenting. ;^^
Swann let out a gasp as she found herself almost set upon by a cart. Though she tried to move out of its way, she would have been hit had it not been for the quick reactions of the cart's driver. S-Sir Leonardo! Swann exclaimed automatically, caught entirely off guard. So much for melting back into the crowd - he'd nearly run her over! (Though it was, admittedly, mostly her own fault.)
She tried to smooth over the flustered look on her face, however, and display the calmness that always accompanied her public persona. Yes, good sir, 'tis quite fortunate! she agreed, addressing the Ruki. She managed a smile and even a small chuckle. Thou art too kindly. It seems the good Sir Leonardo hath offered his assistance to thee. 'Tis a shame the debris still litters our fine main street. The mare felt a pang of guilt as she spoke these words, reflecting on what the Ruki had called her - "one of Faerieland's best." Yet after the initial destruction, she holed herself up in her cottage, not offering hoof nor horn to aid the clean-up as Leonardo was doing now.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Sept 15, 2011 2:03:16 GMT -5
((Not a problem! I'm still trying to get a grip on Leonardo's voice too, so sorry if it ever changes randomly. I'll be sure to warn you if it is intentional. ))
Realizing he was very close, most definitely too close by a gentleman's standards, Leonardo backed up and shuffled side to side. Not only did he but a bit of space between him and Iluni, but he was able to re-adjust the cart strapped to his body.
"Please do not fret my lady. My men and I have come to this grand city for the very purpose of returning these streets and buildings to their original glory," he told her warmly. Again his voice lacked any overly grand expression or hidden undertone of distaste and mocking. He simply wanted to help. Both a virtue and a curse.
Having been distracted rather easily by the various others glancing towards the little group, the Ruki missed all of Leonardo's words and motions of respect towards the mare. Innocent, yet dull, he chimed in with what he found to be, a brilliant thought, "Ah, I know! Miss Playwright, why don't you help us out. I'm sure this strong lad would love more than just my company." Leo started in surprise as the Ruki nudged him again, smiling at his own little inside joke.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Sept 16, 2011 10:45:05 GMT -5
Swann smiled, but it looked somewhat hollow. As I am aware, my lord, she said. She had had every intention of exchanging the usual pleasantries and being quickly on her way, but the Ruki chimed in before she could open her mouth. If Swann had been anything but raised as a lady, all sorts of foul words would have passed through her mind, but she resigned herself to merely snorting out of her nose with impatience.
Her guilt and general goodwill, however, made her answer clear. Why... I should be remiss to not offer my hoof for the sake of our fair Faerieland, she said a little slowly and haltingly. What task shall I, ah, put my muzzle to the grindstone for your sake, good Ruki? she asked the simple Neopet. My limbs may not possess the strength of my pen, but nonetheless I am capable of pulling such a cart as my lord here.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Sept 18, 2011 22:01:46 GMT -5
Leonardo was horrified by the Ruki's suggestion. Blinking quickly, his brain lack connection to his tongue as he stumbled on words of protest, his only saving grace being that Iluni decided to respond.
Of course her response did little to improve his preference of ideas.
"Oh no, no, my lady. I would never ask such a task of you!" he finally managed to protest. He drew another breath to more calmly mediate the situation, but the Ruki simply cut him off.
Chuckling lightly, the cart owners roughly patted Leonardo on the shoulder, "Of course we won't have you pullin' anything miss! Rather, I was thinkin' that if you were to accompany our dear lad, I could start gathering more of the clutter to load up when you get back."
Still trying to reason with him, Leo tried again. "Dear sir, that won't be necessary. I am sure I could manage -"
"Nonsense!" the Ruki cut him off with a shake of his head. "I can tell you aren't from around here so the miss here can show you the way and clear a path through those crowds."
Despite his attempts, Leonardo knew defeat when he saw it. Apparently the man was determined to have Iluni accompany him. Heaving a sigh, his cobalt eyes fell on her, awaiting her answer.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Oct 8, 2011 17:54:58 GMT -5
ooc | Oh, before I forget! Is Leonardo on Neo? I'd love to link Iluni to him. Swann smiled at the Ruki's offer, but inside felt a small pinch of frustration. She wanted to work, too! But she was far too mannerly to further interpose on the Ruki's good intentions, so she merely said, All right, as pleasantly as possible. I shall be most pleased to direct my lord to the kilns. She was rewarded with the Ruki's beaming face, but still the knot of frustration was inside her. Come, my lord, Iluni said a bit shortly to Leonardo, and turned down a not-so-crowded sidestreet, motioning for him to follow.
Pardon mine inquiry, my lord Leonardo, Swann said stiffly once they were off the main road and out of earshot of the crowds, but I did not expect to discover thee pulling carts this fair day. Didn't officers usually oversee, sit back and watch others do the work? Overseeing was very important, of course, but... the knot in Swann's stomach increased slightly as she thought of it. She'd never met an officer who wasn't high-and-mighty enough to acknowledge the grunt work of those beneath him.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Oct 9, 2011 0:37:53 GMT -5
((Sadly he is not. Feel free to link to my page if you want though.))
He said nothing, only giving a polite smile and nod of his head to the Ruki as they departed. Leonardo followed Iluni without trouble down the side street, the few people they did encounter stepped out the way without even needing to be asked.
When they had left the crowds, the stallion released a soft but long breath. Despite every thing, he could still feel eyes upon him. At least now it felt like they were only looking at him for his electric colored hair. Not everyone seemed to know who he was anymore. It went without saying that he was glad that when Iluni asked him her questions, it was out of earshot of everyone else. "It should not surprise you, however I am not offended and understand your curiosity in full. The fact is, I proudly work side by side with my men," Leonardo began gently. It was a terrible assumption and unfortunate truth that those of higher ranks did next to nothing when it came to actually working. Continuing, Leo explained, "Some may not share my philosophy my lady, but how can I expect my men to respect me if I do not understand their needs? Rank means nothing without experience and experience only means the ability to work more effectively. Simply put, a single man does not make an army, no matter how powerful or high ranking... a true leader is not one who puts others below him, but stands with them as equals."
He sighed, dragging his eyes away towards the sky, "Forgive me for my ramblings my lady, as I said, some do not share my thoughts." He turned his eyes from the sky to her; in those eyes was the fading echo of a hidden frustration - an old, deep seeded disapproval and fire to try and fix things.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Oct 14, 2011 16:30:34 GMT -5
Swann listened quietly. Despite Leonardo's claim that he was merely "rambling," she was actually very interested in what he had to say. She couldn't imagine that he was putting on a show for her; he had little reason to, and he hadn't yet given her real cause to distrust him, as much as part of her wanted to. Circumstances appear changed in the Meridell army from years past, she observed, looking over at Leonardo.
As the two came to a fork in the road, Swann turned one way, continuing to lead Leonardo. They were now out of the main city and going into more rural land outside of town. Here was where debris was being brought, sorted, and removed by other teams made of Neopets and humans from various lands, overseen and aided by the faeries. Swann brought Leonardo to the back of the line where others with carts and wheelbarrows were dumping their loads to be taken care of. Trying to sound as removed from the question as possible, Swann couldn't help but ask, My lord... is it forward of me to inquire... were you at all invested in the Meridell-Kass war of many foregone summers? She wasn't sure of his age; she guessed around her own, give or take, which meant that he may not have battled. But the question nagged her nonetheless.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Oct 14, 2011 19:33:06 GMT -5
In return he watched her curiously. Was she beginning to change her mind about Meridell? He still knew not what grudge it was she held, but Leonardo refrained from pushing the subject. A memory flashed through his mind, his commanding officer offering last words of advice, which upon arriving made more and more sense: "We are lucky in more ways than one to have you and your team chosen for this Leonardo." "I do not follow your thoughts sir." "The faeries are a rather snooty bunch, but we need to be back on good terms with them. You're good with people Leo, make some friends."
The stallion's thoughts were broken by Iluni's question. Though unexpected, he was not surprised she asked, most did eventually. He sighed slowly, creasing his forehead and cringing ever so slightly. "I did, but I should have not for I was far too young." he began. His voice was quiet as his mind traced back the years. "Let me clarify by saying that I was enrolled in the Academy at a young age through my parents. Archery came naturally to me, as did leadership tactics, and as a result I climbed rank faster than most."
Leonardo wasn't the type to brag about such accomplishments, he hated to think about what had driven him to work so hard. It surprise many to hear the way he sounded almost disappointed that he was becoming a military prodigy. His next words however, made it rather clear as to why, "At first, students were not allowed to fight, but as things turned for the worse they began to take select students to the field. The most obvious choice was the older students about to graduate to close to it. I wasn't to graduate for sometime, but I was selected none the less because of my outstanding performance with in the Academy."
He paused again, collecting his thoughts carefully before continuing again in a soft voice, "War is no place for a child. I was not near the front, as a long range specialist and special teams leader I was awarded that comfort, however I what I did see was plenty." He refused to speak further, for it would have become a list of the horrors he saw. A lady like Iluni did not need to hear about such tragedy. Besides, it was likely she cared not about the war, he doubted she had any personal connection to it.
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Oct 15, 2011 9:28:44 GMT -5
Swann stared at Leonardo, trying to mask her shock. A child, on the battlefield? Then again, why was she so surprised? No, she wasn't surprised Meridell would do taht at all, especially in the desperation of the Meridell-Kass War; it was just that the mere idea was so abhorrant. But far be it from Meridell to consider their means when they were reaching an end.
I... am deeply sorry, my lord, she murmured, looking down at the ground. I have overstepped myself. I am certain thou has witnessed terrible sights. She was grateful he did not ask her the same question; it would have been his right, really, seeing as she had brought up the subject out of nowhere. That was probably proof enough that he did not at all recognize her or connect her to their homeland.
The line was efficient enough, and soon Leonardo was being relieved of the debris on his cart. Thank you, sir, a young Earth faerie said, curtsying quickly to Leonardo. Good day, Miss Iluni, she added to Swann before returning to her work.
As they stepped out of line, Swann asked, I hope my lord has not been bothered by trouble since last night. Didst thou discover if the vagrants have a leader of some kind?
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Oct 15, 2011 14:48:43 GMT -5
"Please do no let it bother you my lady, the question is a common one I receive" he offered gently, a smile coming to his face. Leonardo did not want pity, others had seen far worse than he had. Many would question the morals of Meridell for sending a child to the field, but if your people were dying and a military prodigy was available, wouldn't you take the option? "War is a breeding ground for miracles and tragedy, it is natural and difficult to stop once it has begun. I do not resent my kingdom for what happened and I hope will not either."
He dipped his head thankfully to the earth faerie and flashed her a warm smile, "Thank you." Turning away and moving out of line, he was glad to move with the pressure of the cart eased off his back. He was by no means weak, but that did not mean the task was not hard work.
At Iluni's newest question he gave an amused smile, "It depends on your definition of trouble my lady. I have been questioned by your local newspaper, but otherwise things have been very quiet."
Thinking back to the thug his men had questioned and kept for the night. Blowing a slow breath from his nostrils, he explained what they knew, "The one we questioned insisted he and his partner acted alone." Leonardo paused before continuing. It was curious to see as his voice and mannerisms changed, suddenly he was a military analyst instead of a mere gentleman.
"I believe him, however, this unfortunately means the most likely situation is that he is part of a larger group that is against me and my troops or against Meridell in general. If that is the case, then he and his partner would be the hotheads who act on emotions without thinking." He had seen this before, it could only go two ways, which he explained to Iluni as well. "There are two options now, they will either go back and be criticized by their group for foolishness or they will rile up the group to take further action." Leonardo could only hope the firm but fair treatment of the thug they had imprisoned had influenced him against taking further action.
As he spoke it dawned on Leonardo that he was sharing quite a bit of information with Iluni. It was nice to share intelligent conversation and he was surprised by how ease she was to talk to, especially after everything that happened the other day. "What of you my lady? I do hope you have not encountered any trouble."
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Post by Eruanna's Menagerie on Oct 27, 2011 19:49:58 GMT -5
ooc | We need to introduce some conflict. I'd like for Leonardo to eventually learn who Swann is, but I'm not a hundred percent sure how. I was thinking something along the lines of these rebellers against Meridell kidnapping Swann but I'm not sure why they would do that. XD HELLLLLP lol
Swann stared at Leonardo. He didn't resent "his kingdom"? For thrusting him into such a horrible situation at such a young age? Could Leonardo have really moved on like that? She set the matter aside, however, to concentrate on Leonardo's reply to her question. Suddenly, Swann felt a small smile crossing her face; her mind had once again started to wander off. She wondered if it was be impudent to mention it, but she simply couldn't resist.
My lord, she began, hast thou considered that mayhap I am a spy of this supposed gang? What if, indeed, I am not thy friend at all, but merely an enemy in the guise of friendship who plots to wrest from thee thy weakness and exploit it in our diabolical schemes? Swann simply could not help thinking a bit ridiculously - after all, her own plays often consisted of such plots. It was second nature to her.
It did not escape Swann's notice that she was, once again, becoming very comfortable around Leonardo. It was far too easy to forget her prejudice when speaking with the stallion. Swann felt her stomach turn slightly as she thought about it. Had her grudge against Meridell eased over her years in Faerieland without her realizing it? But who was she without her hatred? To lose that would be losing a force that had sustained her since she was young. She couldn't afford to forget how Meridell had wronged herself and countless others.
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Kit
Youngling
Posts: 95
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Post by Kit on Oct 28, 2011 11:50:28 GMT -5
((I'll see what I can cook up! Feel free to take control of the rebels too!))
Leonardo was certainly surprised by the mare's next words, for he hadn't expected such teasing humor from her. Then again, she wrote plays, certainly she had to have some amount of imagination. A true smile graced his face as he replied with, "Have you, Lady Iluni, not considered that I may already know of your diluted alliance and, with the help of this wagon's owner, brought you out away from the city for capture and questioning?"
There was a boyish gleam in his eyes revealing the playfulness he hid behind a gentleman and knighthood etiquette. "My dear lady, there is high chance I may be insulted by the thought of having not considered all possibilities," he continued teasingly. It was his nature to consider every and all possible outcome for a situation. Yes, Iluni's alliance had crossed his mind but he had given it little thought really. "Alas how can I suspect such a beautiful woman of wrong doing? It is the tragedy of my nature."
His eyes lingered on her face for several moments, longer than they should have if he was to be proper. But there was something about her when he looked closely, something familiar. His gaze was broken, not by his own accord, but by the faint creak of a overhead branch. Leonardo slapped himself mentally for allowing his mind and senses to be clouded and ignored as he foolishly bantered with Iluni, she probably disliked him anyway. Continuing to walk as if nothing had occurred, he leaned his head over and whispered gently into his companion's ear. "I do hope your words were said with a light heart my lady, for it seems we have potentially unwelcome company among us.
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