Arcane Union

Enlightenment

2009-09-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

A note to new readers: Thank you for reading my blook. If this is your first read please remember that you should start at the first post and read from there if you want to understand what's happening in the story. I will accept your comments so feel free to post.

The roof shimmered as Roane moved forward. All was silent in the long tunnel except for the drip drip of the condensation that gathered along the walls and ceiling. There appeared to be no sign of life inside the tunnel. She had been walking for about an hour now. Looking back to where she had come, she could see nothing but blackness beyond where the light from here staff could reach. She sighed as she looked forward and saw the same scene before here. The dampness from the floor of the cave had soaked through her soft leather shoes and made her feet feel as if they had been the target of an ice dragon.

Roane had tried to stay positive, but her optimism was waning. She began to feel as if she had made a wrong choice in leaving the comfort of her home. The tunnel was small and she needed a chance to spread here wings, in a literal sense. There was no sign of a rest anytime soon Roane, however, pushed forward step by step until she finally thought she saw the cave opening up ahead of here. Her heart lightened and a smile spread across her face. As she approached the opening to the tunnel, however, her heart immediately sank as the realization came that she was once again entering the tunnel where she had first began her journey.

She saw the same formations of stalactites appeared to be the same as she had left them hours before. As Roane stepped out into the cavern for a second time, she looked back at the tunnel where she had come from and watched the opening close up behind her. An aura of defeat set in and Roane found a large boulder to plunk down onto. She looked around the cavern and couldn’t find the door she had first been deposited from. The only opening present was the never ending tunnel that she had already explored. She bowed her head and placed her face in her palms. Tears began to silently slip through her fingers and splashed into the pool of condensation that had gathered at the base of the boulder. This must be a punishment for leaving, or wanting to leave, or disobeying her parents. She thought.

“What’s wrong Lady?” The tiny childlike voice startled her. The staff that was leaning against the boulder clattered to the ground and the cavern fell into darkness as the magical link between her and the staff was interrupted.

“Who’s there?” she demanded. Bending over she snatched up her staff and held it in front of her defensively. The crystal at the end illuminated once again. She peered around her and saw no one.

“It’s ok lady, don’t be frightened. My mum always says that things are usually more scared of you than you are of them. Of course I’m not really scared of you but I think it just means don’t be afraid.”

“Where are you? Who are you?” Her shoulders softened but she held her defensive stance.

“Down here lady.”

Roane looked own and suddenly at her feet stood a tiny little creature that she didn’t recall seeing in her kingdom before. A tiny arm came out from it’s body that stood no more than four inches high. The creature’s head, the size of an apple, appeared to be too large for its body and she wondered how on earth the tiny neck held it up. All together the creature was no more than six inches tall. Course hairs grew from the back of its hands and tops of its tiny bare feet. The skin covering its body had the appearance of old worn leather. A child like face was surrounded by fine golden hairs that were subsequently covered by a small acorn cap. Pointed ears poked out between his hairs.

“Where did you come from? There was no one here.” Roane pondered aloud.

“I’ve been with you all along.” He grinned up at her. “You see very little you missed what you were looking for I think light dwellers often miss it unless they know that’s what my mum says but we haven’t seen a light dweller for a long time I was beginning to think that mum was telling tales I just had to follow you!” He finally paused for a breath. “Why are you so big? Why do you have those funny things coming out of you back? Where did you come from? Do you really eat elflons for dinner? I don’t believe that one anyway, but if you do please don’t eat me.” The elflon continued on so fast with a barrage of questions that Roane hardly thought he was breathing. She squatted down and found a dry spot to sit and cross her legs. Roane felt that it was a good time for a rest anyway. Besides, she was fascinated by this new creature, Elflong, which was standing in front of her. She had never even heard of elflons. Without even a hesitation the elflon grabbed the folds of her robes and hoisted itself up onto her knee and perched blinking up at her. All the while the questions kept shooting out at her. “How come you wear those funny things on your feet? What DO you eat?”

Roane cut him off with a soft forgiving chuckle. Any despair she felt earlier was fading into the background and she was reminded once again that everything happens for a reason. “Slow down my friend,” she said, “I will answer all your questions, but first you must answer one of mine.”

“Really? All my questions?” he said gleefully.

Worried a little that she was making a mistake with her offer, she plunged forward anyway. “Sure I will, but first, you said something earlier that makes me curious. You said light dwellers often miss it. What do they miss? What did you mean by that?”

“Oh that’s an easy questions.” A huge grin spread across his face. Then he said matter-of-factly, “Turn out your light.”

Roane gave a puzzled look but complied with the elflons wishes. The cavern went black. Everything was silent once again and she could hear the rhythmic dripping of condensation falling all around her. “What good does THAT do?” Roane exasperated.

“Be patient, you light dwellers are always so impatient. That’s why you miss it. It’s the crystals” Roane waited in the darkness. She began to become aware of her breathing. If not for the weight of her knee she would have thought that she had imagined the whole encounter. After about two minutes had basses in the darkness all of a sudden it happened. All around her the crystals on the roof illuminated and the room was transformed. All around her things appeared that she had not seen before under the light of her staff. The stalactites that had appeared to be plain before were in fact covered with windows and doorways. A stairway wound all the way around each one leading to the doorways adorning them. Some of the windows were lit and she could see elflons at the windows. There were a series of rope bridges hanging from one another. The walls all around her transformed from bland rock faces to a series of detailed symbols and swirls. They became illuminated under the light of the crystals and glowed with hues of orange and gold. Along with the opening she first journeyed down, there now appeared to be seven other distinct doorways. Each doorway was surrounded by a different formation of crystals with a different series of golden symbols etched into each one. On each doorway was a set of writings. The village that appeared above her head was now a buzz of activity with the little elflons not paying any attention to the light dweller on the ground. Some pulled tiny carts stacked with roots and others busied themselves with other village tasks. Not one little person was idle. Even the children appeared to be played games with stones and pebbles they had found.

“see,” beamed the elflon perched on her knee. “It’s the crystals. They don’t like your light. They prefer their own. Your light is dull it doesn’t reflect the truth. In fact, I’m surprised you even saw the crystal, most light dwellers use the flames from above, your light must be special. I knew you were special, that’s why I followed you. Mum said I shouldn’t go but I snuck away.”

As if on cue a taller elflon with more feminine features approached. “By the true light, what am I going to do with you? Get down here this minute!” her hands were placed on her hips and she glared up at her son perched on a stranger’s knee.

“See mum, she is friendly.” He scuttled down and stood beside his mother. Not once did the smile on his face fade away. He appeared to be simply ecstatic with his actions and his ability to talk to a light dweller. “She even said she would answer ALL my questions.”

“She did, did she.” The female elflon looked up at her suspiciously. “well we’ll need to pack your bags then because if she was to answer all your questions you’d have to be with her for years.” She placed her hand on the young elflons shoulder, “Now run along.” The smaller elflon ran off and left his mother standing with Roane.

Turning to Roane she said, “Sorry for his bother, you have made him a very happy boy. I see you figured out the secret of the crystals.”

“Yes,” Roane responded. “Thanks to your son. I am very grateful”

“He is a very determined young one, forever curious about things. I trust you’ll be moving along soon, there are grumblings about the ‘light dweller’ stirring among the people.

“Yes ma’am, I had no desire to intrude. I’m sorry for any confusion or trouble I might have caused.” Roane looked around at the doors that now lined the walls. Not having any specific destination in mind she had no idea which door to pick.

“Where do they lead?” she asked wistfully as she gazed around the room.

“They lead where you need, each will be the right one for you. If you let it be.”

Out of nowhere came the young elflon appeared once again. Roane was pleased as she wished to express her appreciation before she departed. Taking the opportunity she looked down at him and said, “Thank you friend, for your help.”

The female elflon turned to the boy. “You’re ready to go then?”

“Yes mum!” he responded again with a beaming grin of pride.

“Go?” Roane questioned. It wasn’t until just then that she recognized the small pack on the elfons back. Suddenly taken aback she realized the young elflons intentions to go with her. “Um… I….” she stumbled over her words, “you can’t come with me.” She finally blurted out bluntly.

“You intend to go back on your word then?” the female elflon questioned, her eyebrows now raised. The young boy looked crestfallen.

“My word? But I never promised…”

Roane was cut off, “You said you would answer all his questions. I explained that would take a while.” She placed her arm around her son’s fallen shoulders. “Elflons keep their word always, I realize this is often a foreign concept for light dwellers, but I trust you will bring him back one day, as sad as I am to see him go.” She knelt in front of him, “Now you remember what I told you about the outside. “ He nodded. She straightened his sack on his shoulders and kissed his forehead.

Roane sat there blinking down at the pair in front of her. She was unsure on how she had gotten to this point, but she was sure that resistance would be useless. She had learned long ago that sometimes you didn’t need all the answers before moving forward. Not that she knew what this new partnership would entail but there was clearly no way out of it now and keeping her integrity.

Roane stood and held out her hand for her tiny companion. “You may as well ride with me.” He stepped onto her palm and scurried up her arm. Once again excited for the journey ahead of him he sat on his shoulder. His hand gently curled into a lock of her hair.

Looking around at the doors, Roane let out a deep breath. She seemed to have been holding her breath for some time now. She thought back to the words of her young companion’s parent. ‘They lead where you need, each is the right if you let it be.’

“See with your heart,” came a whisper in her ear.

Of course! She thought. Have I learned nothing for this encounter? She closed her eyes and began to center her soul. Her wings spread out behind her reaching their full width. She closed her eyes and began to steady and regulate her breathing. When her eyes finally fluttered open she felt the need to spin around to her left and noticed one of the doors had glowing crystals brighter than the others. The symbols glowed bright. She stepped toward it crossing the cavern. The words on the door began to glow brighter as she approached, as she came upon the doorway she began to notice the words on the door created a verse.

I am all about you,
but to see me is a trick,
You may capture me and wield me
but to hold me not a bit.
I do not have a throat,
But my song can still be heard
What am I?

Roane thought hard about her answer. Time ticked away. The small Elflon on her shoulder swayed back and forth as if trying to restrain himself from blurting out the answer. Suddenly it clicked. “The wind!” she exclaimed. The door in front of her dissolved and a corridor opened up in front of her. The difference between this corridor and the one she first entered was that this one was fully lit by the crystals along the walls and ceiling of the tunnel. Subsequently, there was an opening at the end that led to the forest and trees beyond.

The Journey Begins

2009-09-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

Oothus had no idea where he was going or what he would find. All he knew is that he needed to leave the watchful eye of his father. No man could truly be a man if he was always being told what to do. The King had once been a great father to Oothus. The days had been spent as a young lad going on journey’s and hunts. He would sit at his father’s side and look up at him from the floor as he performed his kingly duties. Together they would sit in the council of the knights and discuss future strategies of war.

When Oothus was six his mother fell ill, all the court physicians tried their best. None, however, could determine what the problem was. The King ordered his knights to ride to the outer lands. The outer lands were wild and dangerous, but the knights brought in the best physician they could find from each province to try and help the Queen. Still, no one could help her. She grew graver with each day that passed. Oothus remembered curling up in her arms asking her to get better. His tiny arm would wrap around her chest and he would listen to her rasping breathing.

“Tell me a story Oothus.” She would rasp, laboring with each word. A tear would fall down his cheek and he would begin to tell one of the wild tales he had made up while wandering through the castle. Her heart beat would quicken at the sound of his voice. He would look up at her every now and then and she would be smiling despite her situation. Her hair was spread all over her pillow in long scraggly strands from not being brushed. The King had told the maids to leave her be when it began to hurt her to have the course comb dragged through her hair. Sweat beaded her forehead and brow. Her eyes were closed and ever few breaths he could see them squint in pain.

He continued his story one night late into the night. When he heard his mother drift into sleep he stayed next to her holding her close and listening to the steady rhythm of her heart beat. His father, thinking his son was in bed, was talking to someone outside the door and Oothus listened intently.

“We can’t, I won’t it goes against everything the kingdom of Azure has known and stood for.” He heard his father in a forceful whisper.

“But sire, he says he can help. He says he knows the cure,” answered a more timid voice.

“There must be another way. If they know the answer then surely there is an answer outside of their ways.”

“We’ve tried everything Sire.” There was silence for a few seconds and Oothus could imagine his father was giving the look he often gave to people who came to him and challenged his authority.

“I will not accept anything from those heathens in Faere. Magic is forbidden and that’s final.”

“Yes sire, I shall convey your answer.” One set of footsteps echoed away from the door.

Oothus let the tears stream down his face. He believed in his father but didn’t understand his decision to refuse help, no matter where it might come from. As the tears streamed down his face onto his mother blankets he drifted off to sleep. The next morning he awoke not remembering where he had fallen asleep the night before. The curtains had been drawn around the bed for warmth and to keep out the light. He could see the dim glow and soon recognized and remembered where he was. He looked up at his mother and the smile she usually wore when he was around was gone. However, so was the wince of pain that came as she breathed. Thinking her asleep he whispered to her a good morning, which normally made her stir a little. She didn’t move.

“Mother.” He said a little louder this time. Panic began to build in his throat. “Mother.”He spoke a little louder. “Mother.” He all but yelled. The realization hit him like a battle horse given the order to charge. He sobbed as he clung to her lifeless body. He yelled her name and cried until the servants outside heard the commotion and came running.

“Summon the master.” One of them yelled to the other. She pried him back from the lifeless body on the bed and held him to her bosom. She cradled him and ran her fingers through his hair as he fought her to let him go. All he wanted to do was hold his mother. Why had this happened?

The King entered and told everyone to leave at once. Oothus was carried away as he fought to be let go. The last time he saw his mother, he saw his father’s back to him. Hs father was kneeling next to the bed her hand in his. The door shut and he was taken to his chamber. Oothus lay on his bed. The maid was always at the side of the bed caring for him. He refused to eat, refused to talk to anyone. He lay there for 3 weeks. One day his father paid him a visit. This was the first time he had seen his father since the death of his mother. He didn’t understand why his loving father hadn’t come to him, and all the while anger was brewing in his little heart toward the man who refused to save his mother.

The door to the chamber opened and the King entered. He stopped at the side of the bed.

“You will get up. You will stop this episode and you will get up and be a prince. You have duties. Your duty to your kingdom is greater than you own feelings.”

Oothus looked up at his father. He no longer saw the kind; soft, just king that he once looked up to as he sat listening to him make decisions for the court.

“This was your fault. I heard you.” He wiped the tears from his eyes and made way for the anger that had been bubbling up inside him for weeks. “You could have helped her. You could have saved her.” His voice grew louder. “There was a cure and you said no! I heard you! I heard you! You killed her! It’s your fault” his rant was stopped abruptly by the back of his father’s hand on his cheek.

“You will hold your tongue and you will learn your place. You start training in the morrow. Not that I think a crying sissy like you will amount to much on the battle field.” His father spun on his heels. His cape whirled around him and he left the room.

The next day, as promised, Oothus began to train with Magwin. He began to think of Magwin more and more as a father and his father more and more as just a king as the years rolled by. The distance between his father and him grew vast. His father’s words echoed in his head daily. ‘Not that I think a crying sissy like you will amount to much on the battle field.’ He was determined to prove his father wrong.

***

Their footsteps echoed as Oothus and Barthus stalked together down the corridor, Oothus in the lead and Barthus trailing behind trying to keep up. The last stop they needed to make was the kitchen before they hit the stables. With each thing they gathered there was another question from one of the servants. Oothus became more frustrated with the questions each time one was asked. Soon his voice reflected his frustration.

“Where are you off to today sire?” came the sweet bubbly voice of one of the cooks.

“None of your business.” He retorted, “I shall not have to explain my affairs to the help.” He regretted it as soon as it was said but there was no taking it back now. He regretted this as he had always been known as a kind and just prince to all the people in the kingdom n no matter what status they held.

The air was cool. The brisk breeze that came with the sun as it crested the horizon gave the men a shiver. They approached the stable with haste. He hadn’t expected his father to care that he was gone but he also knew that the King might want to assert his authority and send someone after him. The sooner they left the larger head start they would have. Both men worked at saddling the horses. Oothus picked two of the fasted mares for the journey. They mounted the horses and walked them out the castle walls so as not to arouse suspicion with anymore around them. Once outside the walls and under the cover of trees Oothus kicked his horse and dirt kicked up from beneath its hooves. Barthus had no choice but to follow his masters lead. Together they rode hard, wind whooshing against their faces and stray branches whipping their cheeks.

***

The places had been set for formal dining in the large banquet hall in the center of the great tree. Roane had adorned the green velvet dress her mother had set out for her and pulled her hair back and up onto the top of her head. She was mesmerizingly beautiful though she wasn’t trying to be. She had not been looking forward to this dinner and refused to take any extra steps for the dolt of a man her parents had invited to dinner.

She entered the room and the Asrais fairies flew over and put a crown of flowers on her head. Her own wings were fluttering behind her. Fairy wings reflected the same color of their aura. Wings were and extension of the Fairy soul and you could glean a lot about other Fairies by the coloring in their wings. Only the most exported reader could glean all there was to see and over the year Fairies found ways of hiding the parts of their wings they wished others would not be able to see. Minor illusion charms soon became the norm around the kingdom and all the young fairies reveled in finding new ways to color their wings and make them unique. In the royal chambers, however, fairies wings could not be covered and a fairies true nature was open for display. Not many even remembered the art of wing readings anymore but Roane had found a book in her grandmother’s study that she had poured over for hours. It now adorned the shelves in her own quarters.

Another curious thing about fairy wings is that they cannot be seen by non-magical being unless a fairy chooses to reveal them. This gives Fairies the ability to hide among the human world with ease. Some fairies, born of one human parent, have even failed to learn how to extend and open their wings at all. They walk around oblivious to the fact that their wings sit there bound to their soul waiting to be released and their true powered revealed.

Roane’s own wings were a shade of brilliant yellow. The color was deep and rich and seemed to be feeding directly from her soul. The yellow color moved outward along her delicate and beautiful almost transparent wings. The color morphed to red as it reached the openings that appeared at various spots along the extensions. She had also learned that each placement of these voids was not by chance. No two fairies had the same wings. Each opening was like a celestial star chart opening up vast amounts of prophecy for those who wished to study them. Much like palm reading practiced by humans, the wings of a fairy had their own “fingerprint” so to speak. Roane had tried to read her own wings but failed many times. The brilliant and deep red color also surrounded the outer line around her wings. The bumps and valleys around the outer edge were then coated in the most elegant gold color that you could imagine. It was unusual to see gold in fairies wings, even among royalty. Her wings were the full length of her body and the shapes and symbols that showed up within them were detailed and beautiful. With each enlightenment, a fairies wings grew and changed.

A short slim fairy stood across the room as she entered. He bowed as she approached and she noticed his own wings. Bright pink in color, speckled with black throughout. They were extremely short and only extended from his body to cover his back. The detail on the wings was sparse. To the average fairy the wings looked regal and handsome but to Roane they showed a shallow man full of self love, speckled with unresolved karma, and lacking in enlightenment.

Roane approached the table and performed the expected pleasantries. She sat next to her mother and resigned herself to sit quietly and only speak when she was spoken to. She had no desire to get to know the man sitting across from her and had already formulated the plan to prevent the travesty from happening. The dinner was long and Roane watched the man across the table. Food fell from his lips to his chest and he talked with his mouth full. He was vile and Roane could not understand how her parents could expect her to marry such a man even if it would secure an alliance to help protect the kingdom. She was not a currency to be used!

That evening she returned to her room and grabbed the satchel that she had already prepared. She walked around the room letting her hands run along the spines of the books that had become her friends.

“Farwell my friends,” she whispered as a tear fell down her cheek. Her pack held a few of her cherished books as well as some she thought essential for a journey. She touched the wood of the great tree along the wall. “I need your help my friend,” a vine grew out of the wall and wound its way around her hand trapping her against the wall. “You don’t understand, but it must be done.” A tear fell from her cheek to the vine on her hand. As if the tree understood her pain it released her. A doorway opened up in front of her and she took one last deep breath and grabbed her staff before stepping through. The stairs appeared before her and closed behind her as she descended the tree. Her soft leather shoes moved quickly and silently, not that it would have mattered as she was completely hidden from anyone who might inquire. Lower and lower she descended until she began to wonder if she would ever be let out. However, just when she thought she could go no further downward a doorway opened up in front of her. She exited the door and came out into a large cavern. She appeared to be underground. The great tree must have deposited her in a secret tunnel at the base of its roots. It was dim and dark.

“Kalina Kanu Amin” she incanted, and the crystal on the end of her staff began to glow lighting up the cavern. On the far end she saw a tunnel. Looking around her there was nowhere else to go except forward. The stalactites shimmered with an element that she didn’t recognize and reflected the light from her staff. The element appeared to adorn the entire roof of the tunnel ahead.

***

It was one week from the first encounter. The fields of Shin’Tara were bright. The flowers were in full bloom. The wind swayed the grasses in the breeze as it looked down upon the fields. She waited for the two that had visited there a week earlier. The leaves at the end of the field began to rustle and she watched in anticipation for the stubborn man to appear. She was curious. However, instead of the young man, a squirrel scuttled out from under the bush. At the other end of the field the same thing seemed to be happening. The sun rose, travelled high in the sky again, and set in the evening. The fields were silent all day and neither the young girl nor man appeared.

Note to the reader: The world of Faeries is vast. At times you will see reference to the term Faerie and at other times you will see reference to the term Fairy. This is not indecision on my part I can assure you. The term Faerie or Faeries refers to all creatures of the Faerie world. This might include elves, dwarves, gnomes, pixies, and other such creatures. Thus the world of Faere is full of all kinds of mystical and magical beings. The term Fairy however, refers to the more traditional depiction of fairies in literature and history. Fairies are usually winged creatures. Some are small and some are human size. Some are referred to as angels and some as sprites. There are a vast number of fairy types. While doing my research I don’t find this as a necessary consistent view in the world of Faerie lore. However, I have chosen this depiction for my tale from the writings of Brian Froud whom I look up to and adore. If you’d like to read more about his work you may visit his website at http://www.worldoffroud.com/ . On a side note, inspiration for the fairies that choose to reveal themselves to me has come from the hours I’ve spent pouring over the work of Amy Brown. She is a talented and fantastic artist and I have some of her work in my own home. Her work can be seen at http://www.amybrownart.com/ .

Prophecy

2009-08-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

Barthus had known his position for as long as he could remember. He had vague recollections of the time before he was delivered to the castle, as hard as he tried to forget. His life before servant hood had not been a sad one wrought with turmoil. In fact, the memories he did have were of his mother's voice. She sang him to sleep every night. Her musical voice would call him inside for dinner. He remembered walking into the small cottage and being filled with the sweet and wonderful smells of fresh bread and stew. He didn't recall his father. Barthus would concentrate as hard as he could but his father was never in the pictures. Some days he wondered if he even had a father at all. Of course, as young as he was, he knew that it took a man and a woman to make a child, but he couldn't help but think that there must be something missing from his childhood.

Barthus never had the chance to ask about his father before he was sent to the castle as the servant to the Crown Prince. His first days were filled with sadness and confusion. At six years of age understanding would not enter into his mind. He resented his mother, hated her for giving him up. She had told him that it was meant to be. She had said that everything happened for a reason and one day he would know himself. Even looking back on this now he had no idea what she was talking about. In the years that followed he learned that pushing her out of his mind was always the best thing to do. The disappointment and betrayal that boiled in his blood when he though of her couldn't be healthy for anyone. Eventually he found his groove and surprisingly Oothus had been a kind man to serve. Together they did almost everything. He was present when Oothus awoke and followed him throughout the day whatever he may be doing. The exception was when Oothus left the castle. During those time Barthus had the opportunity to find his own pass times. These occasions didn't come along very often recently since Oothus had been training exceptionally hard these days. So when Oothus decided to go for a ride after a particularly troubling training exercised, Barthus prepared the horse as fast as his fingers would allow.

Recently he had been noticing changes. Muscles were forming on his arms where he didn't have them before. Hair began to spackle his underarms. Every now and then he would have the nerve to talk to a young girl in the market and undoubtedly this would be the exact moment that the voice he new so well all these years would betray him and cause her to giggle at his expense. Not to mention the activities that seemed to be happening below the belt. Even a stiff wind caused a tightness in his pants causing him to have to veer off into an alley way for a few minutes. Some of these unexpected detours had been rewarded however. One such time he came across a galley of laughter as he entered the back corridor between two of the nicer homes in the village. Curiosity got the best of him and he walked cautiously toward the laughter. As he neared he discerned that the laughter was coming from at least four females. Sure enough, as he approached and peered through a crack in the stone fence surrounding the yard he was rewarded. Barthus soon began to appreciate bathing day.

Today however, he was anxious to explore some of the other changes that had been happening to him of late. He had not shared these changes with anyone for fear that he may be thrown in the dungeon. One particularly regular day Barthus had been polishing a sword in the armory. He had become frustrated when he realized the cloth he was using had been left on the other side of the room. As it was bathing day he had been rushing to get his chores done as fast as he could. Upon yelling some unmemorable curse at himself he went to set down the sword only to find the cloth he had been frustrated about only moments before suddenly appear next to him on a chair. Barthus blinked and furrowed his brow in confusion. He had shaken his head, continued with his chores, and thought nothing of it until similar things began to happen. He noticed in his moments of frustration, sadness, and extreme happiness objects would move on their own accord. Today he was going to try and will it to happen on his own.

Oothus rode out of the castle gates and Barthus turned on his heals. He grabbed a sack and filled it with some bread and cheese and set out to find his own way into the forest. He had been concentrating so hard at the task before him he didn't notice the woman crossing the path in front of him. He smashed head long into her and he noticed her stiffen at his touch. He looked up at her and saw that her eyes were rolled back into her head. As quickly as a humming bird in flight she snapped her head downward to look at him. Her fingers gripped around his arm like talons and the face that he had first thought was relatively handsome now looked old and weathered. Her eyes burned into his soul and teeth clenched.

"Fire, Air, Water, Land the fate of the world is in your hand. Two shall meet and one shall spawn. Divisions comes and peace is gone." The woman spoke through clenched teeth. Her voice was low and nobody around her appeared to be noticing the strange encounter. As quickly as it had started it was finished. The woman snapped upright and loosened her grip. He looked up and her in shock and noticed she was looking down at him in confusion. Her appearance returned to the handsomeness he had noticed just minutes before. She looked down at him in confusion.

"Well what is it boy? Run along." she shooed.

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

Roane floated into the room and gazed around to find it empty. It was unusual for no one to be around even as early as it was. The great tree had been her home since birth and was the center of the kingdom of Faere. The hundreds of rooms inside the tree where not cut into the tree but rather grown in the tree as needed. The great tree of Ysondra was said to have been planted by the creator himself. The three seemed to have a life of it's own. When a home was needed a room would magically grow over night. When someone passed on the life force was absorbed into the tree and what was no longer needed would simply transform into what was needed. For this reason Ysondra was the hub of all activity in Faere. People lived, worked, loved, and created within the great tree. Not all creatures of Faere lived within the great tree. Some preferred solitude to the buzz of activity that was always present within the great city within thus they moved to outer villages. Some creatures of Faere.

In the very heart of the tree was the throne room. Each time a new king or queen was chosen the thrown room would reconfigure itself over night. The branches forming an new thrown fit especially for the leader of the time. The pillars, fireplaces, and chairs all designed to the liking of the new leader with seemingly no communication at all with the tree itself. Of course the people of Faere knew the tree as a mother. Living within the being their whole lives they became one with the great tree and the tree learned to anticipate, care for, and love each member of the kingdom that it house.

Each spindly branch held winding stair cases within reaching upward to the sky. Each gnarled knot in the tree formed a new dwelling for the residents there in. This symbiotic relationship was one that needed no explanation to anyone who knew it.

Roane plucked a piece of fruit of a vine that was growing just outside the door to her quarters. The bright red and orange fruit shimmered with a velvet peach skin.

"Where have you been young lady!" bellowed a deep and angry voice from the corridor behind her.

"Oh father, there you are I was just wondering…." Roane was cut off

"I don’t want to hear another word from you. You had us worried sick. The entire kingdom is in a uproar. Since when do you think you can decide to not come in at night. Do you have no regard for your people. Do you have no idea what might happen to a young girl, let alone a young princess!"

"But father…"

"Don't you but father me! You're mother and I have had enough of this nonsense. I fear we have been much to lenient with you. From now on you will learn what it means to be a princess. You will start to prepare yourself to take the throne one day."

Roane stood dumbfounded by this sudden outburst. Never had she heard her father with such anger in his voice. She had had disputes before, but those were different. Nothing that sounded this serious. There had been many nights when she decided to stay out at her grandmother's cottage over night and there had been no problem. She was in Faere for goodness sakes. What could go wrong. It's not like every eye in the kingdom didn't watch her every move. If there was trouble it was sure to be reported. The stars had been so beautiful in the Fields last night she had spent the whole night looking up at them and imagining what may lay beyond her own world.

"I was only at Shin'Tara. I'm fine father." Roane rolled her eyes.

"You will return to your room at once and prepare yourself for this evenings meal. Lord Alberich will be joining us this evening and you will begin to show him the respect he deserves. He will be your future husband."

"But…" Roane didn't get a chance to finish her sentence before her father turned on his heals and left the room. Tears began to sting her eyes as she turned toward her quarters. As she approached the landing, what appeared to be a solid wall of wood and knots began to untie itself. Each line in the grain of wood began to curl backward and knots turned into branches and vines. Slowly an opening formed large enough for her to walk through, revealing the staircase which lead to her room. As she stepped through the newly formed portal the vines and branches magically began their work again in reverse, essentially closing the door behind her as she ascended the stairs.

Lord Alberich, she thought to herself, is a complete and utter dolt. If my parents think I'll marry a man like that just to make everyone happy they will be sadly mistaken. He's old and musty. He couldn't crack a smile if his life depended on it. I've never seen a man as uptight as he is. There is no way I'm spending the next six hundred years with a man like that.

As she entered the room at the top of the stairs everything came alive. The dark faded away as a large window opened up on the far end of the room. Her bed was as she left it, unmade from the day before. She had a small vanity on one wall and a the rest of the room was covered with books. Every time she brought home a new book that didn't fit in her bookshelves, a new bookshelf would form itself in the wall next to it. It would then be her mission to fill up the new shelf since she hated to see wasted space when it came to books. Roane grabbed the book she was currently working on and sat on the window seat beside the large window. She opened it up and decided to lose herself for a few hours. As her eyes moved over the first few sentences of the book she began to recall the day before

Such a curious man he had been. Oothus is a strong name. She smiled remembering how hard he came down on his rump after the wind had picked him up. I wonder if he'll come. I am rather curious to find out more about him.

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

"Tell me my son, what makes you think that you are above consequence? Why do you think you can wander off all day long, shirking your duties, and not be held responsible."

"You noticed I was gone?" Oothus replied to his father in an obstinate tone.

"You would do well to remember who you are talking to." The king glared down at him.

"And who might that be?" Oothus retorted, "Am I talking to the king or my father? As you wish sire." Oothus bowed before his father exaggeratedly, stood, glared back and walked out of the room.

Walking into the corridor he met Barthus who had been waiting for him just outside the doors. "Come along." he ordered more forcefully than he intended. "We have things to prepare."

"Prepare?" asked Barthus, "Is there to be a feast or festival sire?"

"No." Oothus paused in his stride and looked out the window in the corridor he was standing in. "we're leaving."

Alas we come to the end of this installment! You now have another choice to make. All you need to do is comment or email me (librarygoddess2@gmail.com) your choice. Your choices are again listed below.

1. Oothus meets Roane in the field the following week.

2. Oothus forgets about Roane and doesn’t return to Shin’tara

Though a simple choice, both choices will lead to vastly different and exciting outcomes. The next segment will come next Sunday. You will have until Friday to submit your votes to me.

Stupid

2009-08-16T19:34:00.000-07:00

Oothus awoke as the sun peaked between the curtains which hung around his bed. The beams of light cut through the small part in the lush red velvet fabric. He pushed the heals of his hands against his eyes trying desperately to wipe the sleep away. Head throbbing as if from a long night of festivities, he could hear people on the other side of the curtains scurrying around preparing his room for his awakening.

The wash basin had likely been placed out hours ago, and he heard the sounds of fresh warm water being poured into the basin. Magwin would have his head when he finally arrived at training. Shaking his head he remembered the day before.

"Stupid!" he mumbled under his breath as he furrowed his eyebrows.

"Sire?" came a timid voice from the other side of the curtains. "Is that you?"

"Of course it's me you dolt." Oothus spat as he pushed the curtains aside. His feet touched the cold stone as he stood from the bed. Looking up he saw a young boy in front of him, head now bowed in sullen shame for being reprimanded.

"I'm sorry." Oothus apologized, "I did not mean to be short with you. My night was less than fare." With his hand he reached up to his neck trying to squeeze the tension out of it. Whatever had transpired the day before there was no need to take it out on the people who served him with such dedication.

The boy busied himself helping Oothus prepare for the day. The two worked in tandem as they had done for practically all the child's life. The boy had come to him when he was still but a babe, but had served him well even at six years of age. Though there relationship had never evolved to anything more than court protocol would allow, Oothus felt a kinship with this young man. Barthus was more than just a servant to him. Over the past seven years Barthus had become like a brother to him.

As the two continued their daily morning dance, Oothus let his mind wander to the fields. Images flickered through his mind. He remembered how the fabric of her dress flowing around her legs as she crested the hill. Her eyes had been such a deep shade of violet with lashes as long as any he had ever seen before. With each blink of her lids she had been peering into his soul.

Only a coward would have gotten on his horse and ridden away from a woman! He had to follow her, he reasoned with himself. However, curiosity had played just as much role in Oothus following Roane. He had read many stories about the people of Faere, and heard many tales told around the fire. Drawing left by court artisans had be a part of his regular studies growing up, but he had never encountered anyone from Faere himself. He had so many curiosities that he wanted answers for. Further, she had been the most beautiful creature he had seen in his entire life. Even now his heart began to palpitate as he thought of the curves she clearly had but seemingly refused to accentuate. It was as if she had no idea how beautiful she actually was, which Oothus was not accustomed to.

"Idiot!" he cursed aloud without realizing it. His fingers immediately moving to his eyes and pressing them inward toward the center of his brain, as if this action would wipe the images from his mind.

"Sorry Sire?" once again came the timid voice of Barthus as he strapped a belt around Oothus' waist.

"Oh," he paused, "nothing Barthus… carry on."

It must have been some form of manipulation, he reasoned with himself again. She had been the princess.. THE PRINCESS! The minute Roane had revealed that she was a member of the royal family, every instinct he had kicked in. Oothus knew that if he could take her captive it would be a horrific blow to the royal kingdom of Faere. All Faere people would be plunged into a state of shock and despair. This would force the battles to begin again, but not before Azure had the time to strike. This was the opportunity he waited for his entire life. Once and for all Azure would have the chance to conquer Faere and defeat their rivals. Oothus would be a hero and a worthy future king. It was a perfect plan, orchestrated in his mind just as Magwin would have planned it, he was certain. Not only would he be a hero among his people but he would finally gain the respect from his father that he had so longed for. There would be no doubt that Oothus was prepared to take the thrown and carry on the legacy as grand king of Azure when the time came to pass on the thrown.

Oothus, however, had not calculated the winds interference. How was I to know she had forged a friendship with the winds themselves! He knew of great flashes of light that would blind a man before he could draw his sword. Stories of the various powers of Faere had reached the court documents as well as campfires around the kingdom. The Faere people had many great powers. Some could manipulate a mans mind and make him think he was in dire peril when he was merely standing in a field of flowers. Some could move objects without setting a finger on them.

Likewise, Faere people came in many shapes and sizes. Some were as small as your finger, and some as large as the mountains themselves. Elves, dwarves, pixies, and giants all with unique magical powers and all followers of the Fairy king and queen of Faere. The Royal family, he knew, was of the Fairy race. Their powers were vast and diverse making them unpredictable. This was the only reason he could think of for why Azure had not crushed the delicate creatures decades ago. Oothus knew they could shrink to be as small as a honey bee and hide among you without your knowledge, which is how he believed Roane was able to sneak up on him in the first place. He had calculated every possibility before he drew his sword, so he thought. However, what he had not counted on was the whirlwind. He knew that Fairies did not have power of the elements. Nature was the holder of it's own destiny. The Goddess of wind, not to mention the Goddesses of fire, earth and water would bow to no one and had refused to take sides in the war when it first began. If there was a friendship forming between the elements and the people of Faere he needed to make sure he warned Magwin.

As Oothus lay flat on his back looking up at the Fairy princess, his cheeks burned with embarrassment at being bested yet again by a woman. She was of course no regular woman and was a spitfire to say the least. Dusting himself off he conceded to sit on the open grass and satisfy his curiosity. The more she talked to him, the more relaxed and let down his guard. Soon his shoulders were completely relaxed and she appeared as nothing more to him than a young lady sitting in the field. With no one around for miles to view them Oothus began let himself enjoy the encounter. They talked of random travels, and herbs. He found out that Roane had been a master potion maker and soon came to learn of her vast love for her grandmother. Both were carful not to bring up the war and the political differences that they had been born into. That's when it happened.

"You’re a strong, independent and well traveled young man. You must have dreams. Tell me Oothus, what do you want to make of your life?" Her voice was like music. He had become increasingly intoxicated by it as they spoke. Even the birds had been drowned out by her melodic conversation.

"One day," he looked off into the distance across the fields as if staring into his very future, "I hope to lead my people as a king who brings peace to the land." His words had been casual and he hadn't realized what had been revealed until looking up he saw the moment of shock then contemplation on her face. The tension immediately returned to his shoulders and his jaw became rigid. A smile ever so slowly crept come across her face and he was certain this had been her plan all along. Now that she had exposed him she was sure to betray him. But this time she would not best him. This time he was prepared for anything she could throw at him. He readied himself by hoisting himself to his feet and bending his knees in a semi crouch. His eyes darted left and right then down again at the woman who had moments ago seems like no threat at all.

Roane was still sitting there staring up at him. Her eyebrows had raised and a crooked smile now adorned her face. She was clearly amused by his actions. Her jesting at his expense infuriated him even more. Is this all but a game to her?

"Are you always this high strung?" a small giggle left her lips. She plucked a sprig of blue mallow from the earth and held the soft petals to her lips. Puckering her lips, she blew. The petals and the seeds of the flower floated on the breeze. He saw her lips mouth an incantation. The faint song floated on the breeze along with the petals. Kaima mellon ilos tyelima fea. As the petals floated toward him and circled in front of his face, the scent of the flower and mixture of the music in his ears inebriated him. He felt the tension begin to leave his arms and he could no longer hold up his sword. He fought the enchantment, but there was no use. Soon he stood there looking down at Roane who still had not moved from her spot.

"You are a good man Oothus." her voice chimed. "I can see that you are in turmoil and there is clearly no use in continuing our encounter. I thank you for your honesty with me and hope that soon our paths will once again cross. You are truly a great man and I believe you shall make a fine king one day. Much to my disappointment, I fear it is time that we said our farewells. As a token of my friendship I give you my scarf and a promise that I shall be here in this field again in one weeks time. I sense that you shall not betray me with this knowledge and hope that we can continue our conversation when you feel as if it is your choice."

With that, Roane stood and walked down the path leading to the next tier. He watched her until she was at the bottom most tier and crossed the line onto the Faere side. The enchantment faded and Oothus felt all the tension from his previous stance slingshot back into him. His body resumed it's battle stance and his neck jarred with the action. He exhaled in a puff of frustration and turned to see his horse grazing in the field behind him. He took one last look at Roane before turning and climbing onto his horse. The sun was low on the horizon and he knew he should be home before dark so he didn't raise an alarm. He rode hard not caring about the branches that whipped against his shoulders and cheeks.

"Stupid!" he curse. "Stupid, stupid, stupid!"

Alas, there is no choice for you this day. The story has yet to unfold. Join us next week to find out what happens to Oothus and Roane. You may even meet a new character or two! Thanks for reading.

I am still accepting comments and suggestions of where YOU think the story should go next. Looking forward to hearing from you. Feel free to comment on this blog or email me at librarygoddess2@gmail.com

Translations: Kaima mellon ilos tyelima fea - Peace my friend calm and surrender your soul

Shin'Tara

2009-08-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

Roane smirked as she looked over her shoulder at the curious looking human who had fumbled upon her. As she crested the top of the hill he was glancing at his horse, contemplating whether or not to run away, she chided quietly to herself with a smirk. After a few moments hesitation she saw him untied his horse and follow behind her.

As the top of the hill disappeared before her, she could feel a peace returning to her that only the closeness of Faere could hold. Shin'Tara had been a part of Roane's life for as long as she could remember now. She recalled the many trips to the meadow to gather herbs and flowers. Her Grandmother's elixirs and potions were some of the most sought after in the kingdom. Roane preferred her grandmother's company more than anyone else in Faere. Many days, when she was expected to attend to the kingdom with her parents she would sneak off before dawn leaving her parents no choice but to leave her behind. Later in life when more justification was needed for her absence she would spend many hours coming up with imaginative reasons why she should be allowed to stay behind. "Grandmother will only be around for another few hundred years" was her favorite excuse because it worked every time. She suspected that her parents knew better than to believe her pleas of sentiment, however, they more often than not conceded because it was easier than arguing.

Roane's favorite pass time was daydreaming. She would lay for hours in the open meadows of Faere staring at the skies, willing the clouds to take the shapes that she wished them to take. Some days the clouds would form simple lazy shapes. Some days a more complex creation was in order. Some of her creations resembled great gnomish machines with all sorts of moving and complex parts. Whatever there shape, they were sure to reflect her mood that day. She had been doing this for so long that it was second nature to her. In fact, she didn't even have to look at the clouds anymore for them to shift and dance with her thoughts.

Today however, the skies were clear. The crystal blue ocean above their heads spanned for miles in each direction as the forest opened up into the vast open fields. The area had been called the fields of Shin'Tara because of the series of ridges that segmented each one like a set of gigantic stairs. If you stood at the top you would see each ridge dropping about 20 feet before leveling off and producing yet another unique meadow. Each meadow was strewn with wild flowers and low lying foliage. Further, each bore a unique explosion of colors as if the flower from one tier refused to let their seeds be carried on the wind to another. There were seven distinct tiers with three steps ascending on each side of the fields and joining in perfect union with the last and lowest tier. On one side of the fields lay Azure and on the other side was Faere. For this reason many of the battles that had been fought between Azure and Faere met in this place. Many a valiant Faerie man and woman lost their lives on the soil which in turn transformed their life force to beauty that stretched before them today.

To Roane this was simply the circle of life. One had to die before benefiting another and continuing the circle. As she contemplated the rather awkward human behind her she wondered how the humans had ever been able to take the life of a citizen of Faere. Such simple and clumsy creatures they were. She noticed the awe that splashed across his face when they stepped through the opening in the trees. However, she wasn't naive enough to believe that the fates could only shine toward one side in any battle. She truly didn't believe that one side was wrong and one was right. Every Kingdom, every society, every person, and even every tree, flower and shrub had a dark side and a light side. Each also had the choice of which to let shine. Roane also knew that everything happens for a reason and all one can do is wait to see what is to come, for instance, who was this clumsy man stalking on behind her as if he were leading an entire caravan through the woods, and why had the fates brought him to her today?

Roane led him onto the first tier. She had not often ventured this close to the "human" territory but had coveted the larkspur flowers that so often grew on this tier of the fields. Though this rare plant was not often used to make elixirs or potions she often had warriors ask her for sprigs to place in a pouch at their side. It was once used to heal wounds and when the battles still waged it was used in the field, to kill parasites, which prey especially on those living under difficult conditions. Most importantly, larkspur was believed to protect warriors and ensure that they came home to their families. Bending down she picked up the basket she had been filling.

"Is it custom to ignore a ladies questions where you come from, or are you just rude? Do I need to ask again?" She asked in a flat and matter of fact tone then paused. "What business do you have in Shin'Tara?"

"Excuse my reluctance to share my life story with a sorceress who sneaks up on unsuspecting travelers, that for all I know could be a spy." He said haughtily obviously taken aback by her question. "You hold a dagger to my throat, don't so much as introduce yourself, and walk away expecting me to… to… what is it you are expecting of me exactly?"

"Oh dear," she raised one side of her mouth into a crooked grin and gazed at him, "I have forgotten to introduce myself. I am Roane princess of Faere." With this she place her palms together in front of her and pushed the tips toward him as if cutting through the air. Her hands flowed smoothly back toward her chest and rested both upon her heart. This was the standard greeting between citizens of Faere. It symbolized the giving of oneself to the other and receiving their offering back to you and placing it next to your heart. She bowed her head in acknowledgement. She grimaces slighting thinking of what her mother or father would have said if they had been here to witness her outright confession about who she was.

"You are of Royal Blood." they would say, "This is valuable knowledge to anyone wanting to deal a great blow to our kingdom." Of course she knew by "anyone" that they really meant the humans, for everyone in Faere already knew she was the princess. Roane, however, believed in being true and hiding the truth to her was just as bad as lying. If it was the fates wish for her to be discovered then there would surely be a reason for anything that may happen no matter how tragic the outcome may be. This attitude led her to be much more casual than her parents would have liked. It was the source of many battles during her youth. They soon resigned themselves to the fact that their daughter was her own person and there was only so much they could do to protect her. Besides she thought I can sense that there is something more to this young man than I have yet been able to discern. I am not sure of where this path will take me just yet, but it's sure to be an exciting journey. He is a bit rough on the outside, but his eyes tell me more than his voice ever will.

The shock of her introduction visibly registered on the humans face. He appeared to be thinking about something with great dedication. This tempted her once more to delve into his mind to see what he was contemplating so intensely. However, she had promised him and thus respected her commitment. She did, however, set herself to observantly read the signs his body was giving away. His eyebrows furrowed and his eyes narrowed. She could see the beads of sweat begin to form along his temples. The forest had gone silent, and time slowed as if standing still. Her well conditioned ears picked up the slight increase in his heartbeat. His hand twitched at his side for a split second before it grabbed the hilt of his sword.

Instantly she closed her eyes and drew on the powers around her. This poor human was much too easy to predict. The trees at the edge of the clearing began to sway and churn violently as a whirlwind swooped down upon them. Swiftly, it picked up the man and crashed him against a moss covered rock just a little ways into the field. She almost felt sorry for him as he grimace. He was then flattened onto his back by the air around him as it became a dense, invisible mass weighing his shoulders and wrists to the ground. She looked down on him as she approached and he glared at her. She was sure the look was meant to pierce through her very soul, she actually felt a faint shiver casting his gaze aside.

"Do you always use trickery and witchcraft to win your battles?" he spat.

"Trickery? What manner of trickery are you referring to? I simply rely on the friends I have made over the years who graciously answer in my times of need. The wind is very clever you know. She speaks and whispers to you if you are willing to listen. I have been talking since I was a young girl and she owed me a favor." She tilted her head to the side. "Do you always respond to people you meet with such aggression?"

He stared at her, but did not respond.

"Well, are you going to answer my question from earlier or not? If not, then I fear that I have misjudged you and would like to continue my work." She waved her hand over him and the weight on his shoulders and wrists immediately gave way. He sat up and rubbed his wrists as if he had been restrained for days "I believe this is the standard way to bid farewell in your kingdom." leaning forward she offered her hand.

"Oothus," the man spoke.

She smiled, "Oothus? That is a strong name. You must be a great man where you come from." Then sarcastically she said, "was that so hard?"

"Do you always wander off on your own without protection?" Oothus asked. As if forgetting what had just transpired.

She smirked, "Clearly we have not gotten off on the right foot. Let's pretend you didn't stumble up to Shin'Tara like a big oaf and I didn't best you… twice." She held out her hand again. "It's very nice to meet you Oothus."

This time Oothus took her hand. The muscles in his jaw were still visibly tight but his shoulders were relaxing. She sat next to him in the grass and together they surveyed the scene. The fields were in full bloom at this time of year. The tier they occupied was full of purple blooms and deep green leaves. Each tier was a burst of color. The more plain looking blossoms, as Roane thought them to be, were on the Azure side of the field. With each step toward Faere the flowers became more beautiful, more complicated, and more bizarre. All were equally beneficial however, hence her trip to the other side of the fields. Scents of many different flowers wafted toward them on the now calm breeze forming a variable soup of fragrances that danced around their heads. The moment was almost euphoric.

"I'm sorry." came a deep voice from beside her. She was almost startled by the sudden baritone that filled the air. She quite often found it easy to fall into daydream and forget what she was doing just moments before. "I had no right to treat you with such… I mean it's just that..." Another extended pause fell between them. "Are you actually the princess?"

"Why of course I am," she replied. "Clearly it's rather dangerous to go around claiming to be the princess if you are not." She grinned back at him. "Why would anyone take the risk."

He exhaled in frustration. She sensed he was holding something back from her. What would have caused him to attack her upon hearing that she was the princess? He didn't appear to be a blood thirsty brigand out for a reward. His eyes showed a quiet and contemplating nature, yet the frustration registered on his face clearly as she watched his eyebrows twitch.

"Many things in life can be complicated if you let them be. I find though, that if you look at it one segment at a time you can work out how most things come together." She looked over at him. He had turned to gaze out at the fields and was physically calm now. She knew that the fields had just as much to do with his mood change as anything else did, they tended to have that affect on people.

Alas we come to the end of installment two! As before, YOU can directly influence what happens next. All you need to do is comment or email me (librarygoddess2@gmail.com) your choice. Your choices are again listed below.
1. Oothus will reveal his own secret of being a prince.
2. Oothus will excuse himself and return to the castle.
Though a simple choice, both choices will lead to vastly different and exciting outcomes. The next segment will come next Sunday. You will have until Friday to submit your votes to me.

Meeting Places

2009-08-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

Sweat dripped along his cheekbone and down to his jaw line as he lifted his blade once again to block the blow. The clank of the practice sword rang in his ears as he easily pushed off the advances of his attacker. He could hear distant shouts in the background to which he paid no heed. He was in a zone, his mind clear and empty thinking only of anticipating his opponents lunge. The weight of the armor pressing down on him as the hot sun blazed heating him from within like a roast pig in a cook pot. His opponent was also covered in chain mail. Oothus squinted as he examined each chink on his opponents chest. His examination detected exactly four weaknesses on the chest alone and he made a mental note to talk to the blacksmith when he was finished.

Forward lunge… dodge... thrust… forward lunge… swing. His opponent was being pushed further backward with each successful swing. His steps were quick, quicker than his opponent and he could feel the pressure he was placing build gradually as the challenger stumbled backward with each step. The Gods had not blessed them with rain for some time and the land was dry and barren in the kingdom. Dust swirled around them with each and every step. The fight would soon be over and he would be the champion… again. A small grin appeared on his face while dust whipped up all around them.

It took only a split second but with his highly trained senses he took one last look around him . To his left a set of targets lined the wall of the castle and valiant men in training practiced their skill. The corner of his eye caught a glint from the sun on a dagger as it whizzed toward the target. All around him people watched the battle he was engaged in. Each with a grin on his face or a chuckle. One man held no grin but instead displayed a blank and analytical stare. Dark locks surrounding the man's jaw line and sharp eyes squinted to take in the scene before him with strict unbiased criticism. A group of females tittered to his right to which he paid little attention except to notice their bodice lines were rather low this day and their breasts heaved out of their dresses with each giggle.

A final push forward and his companion lost footing. Oothus lifted the sword above his head and plunged it downward toward the man now laying on the ground in front of him. A small scream escaped his opponent as he watched the blade glide swiftly downward sure to soon have warm blood pumping around it's silver craftsmanship in just seconds. Without giving a second hesitation the blades tip stopped just millimeters from his opponents heart and with that everyone froze. The fight was over and there was a clear winner to this battle. Nobody around the practice ring had any doubt who the winner would be, yet a deep sigh of relief passed over the entire crowd of onlookers. As if giving the signal for everyone to resume movement once again, Oothus straightened up. A grin spread across his face as he reached down and offered his arm to his comrade.

"Well done my friend", Oothus complimented as the armor clad man was raised to his feet. "See the blacksmith, give him your chain, and tell him I will be in to see him later this day." With a nod the young man who had fought so valiantly walked off toward the inner gate of the castle to do what he had been tasked with.

Oothus approached the tall dark haired man, for this was the only man whose opinion he cared to hear. Silver hair became more visible the closer Oothus got to the man. The stern look on his face had not changed since Oothus had noticed him earlier during a quick glance around the practice ring. He stood with his shoulders held parallel to the ground. His gaze was not set on Oothus as the panting student approached, instead he was looking off into the distance at the lower practice rings. With each cock of his head Oothus could tell a mental note was being recorded for later. As Oothus approached his teacher made no indication that he was in a hurry to receive the young man or even acknowledge him. To this, Oothus was not upset for he had learned a to hold a great deal of respect for him over the years.

Magwin was the commander of the king's army. His skill and proven heroism in battle gave him the right to trained all the young noblemen who wished to serve under the king and he was truly great at producing young men worthy of knighthood. It was a privilege to be his student. As young boys, men were told stories before they closed their eyes for the night about the great Magwin and his battles against the people of Faere. Though their magic was strong an equal number of the battles were won after days of planning and strategy. To Magwin strategy was key. A battle was won through thought and not strength. The battle between Azure and Faere had gone on for so long that most didn't know why it had begun in the first place. On any given day at the local market, one could hear stories of how a young knight had stolen a powerful amulet and hidden it away or how tree spirits had ambushed a party on their way to the port leaving none dead but a small baby whom they whisked away never to return. Each story, however, was more fantastic than the last and no one really believed them. The hate between the two races had faded long ago and battles became fewer and fewer. Now most days were spent training rather than fighting, and some had trained for years never to see a battle.

"He let you win" Magwin remarked as Oothus finished his approach. The older man continued to watch the distant rings and did not meet Oothus' eyes. "Your attack is becoming slower, and you refuse to acknowledge your opponents skills. Prince or no prince, you're becoming much too cocky and if that had been a battle in the Fields of Shin'tara you would have surely had your gullet cut in two and your insides displayed for all to see." Magwin's words were firm but not condescending. Even so, Oothus felt every bit of the sting that the words dealt out, but he refused to acknowledge that he'd been bitten. He held his head up high and nodded.

"what do you recommend teacher?" he inquired.

"The same thing I recommend every time you win a battle under the good graces that you are a prince." he scoffed back "get your head out of your ass and think about the battle for a change." With that he walked away leaving Oothus standing there, a glare forming on his face. Oothus turned on his heals and walked back to the armor tent to remove his gear. He was done practice for the day and he meant to ride out to the forest and be alone. The armor melted off him quickly as his servants busied themselves unlatching, unhooking, and removing each peace in sequence. Let me win? Oothus shook his head. How could he say that my opponent let me win? That's ridiculous! The last peace of armor slid off his shoulders and Oothus was free to go. He moved swiftly out of the tent and stalked straight toward the stables. Frustration with what had transpired earlier was building, as was his desire to be out of the castle walls as soon as possible. He respected Magwin and his opinion with the utmost of regard but he was still a proud young man who didn't wish to retaliate where anyone could see him. Is there no pleasing that blasted man? He fumed to himself as he climbed up onto the horses back and kicked it a little more fiercely that it deserved. Soon the steady sound of the horses hooves as it galloped along the road and through the meadows brought a methodical peace over Oothus. He knew that Magwin was trying to make him stronger and had resigned himself to the fact, long ago, that many things said between the two of them were simply for that purpose. However as the horse moved onward he resolved to work on his "cockiness" the next time he was in the ring. His horse began to slow as his mood began to calm almost as if he and the horse were in unison.

Oothus began to sit upright in the saddle as the gallop became a canter and the canter thus became a trot. Soon his horse was walking and Oothus began to look around. He had never been to this section of the forest before, but this was no surprise to him as the forest was seemingly endless and there was no way one could explore each part of it in a lifetime. He knew he was heading East away from the ocean and deeper into the forest. His course veered slightly northward as he reached a ridge that was impossible to ascend with a horse. In the back of his mind he navigated the terrain. Maps popped into his mind as if they were sitting directly in front of him. These were the very same maps he had studied for many days in his youth with his tutor. Though he had never been to each part of the forest and beyond he knew them well, the parts that had been documented at least. If his calculations were correct he was heading toward the Fields of Shin'tara themselves.

Many a battle had been fought on those fields, though none for some time now. Oothus was well aware of the history between the Faere people and the human kingdom. While other only had stories to occupy them on a trip to market, Oothus had documented facts. The battles had first begun not because of some silly ambush or a hidden amulet, but because of the one thing that caused so much passion in man, a broken heart. Oothus recalled the story as the trees creaked and groaned around him.

Years ago, the young prince of the Faere was betrothed to the princess of Azure. Their union would secure the ties between the kingdoms and produce an heir. This heir would be a true king of both nations having the blood of both kingdoms coursing though his or her veins. The prince new his duty to the throne, but one cannot help who one falls in love with. Tragically, he held no love for the princess of Azure and his heart instead belonged to another young maiden of the Azure's court. The prince was carful not to betray his heart by speaking of such a scandal. He knew his duty and had resigned to carry out the task, but the princess could not help but notice the glances, the smiles, and the attention that the young maiden received and that she did not. The young maiden too noticed the Princes attention and couldn't help but return the favors the prince had bestowed upon her. A tragic love never to be realized, yet the joy it brought to each of them when they were in the same room was hard for anyone to miss. The princess' jealousy consumed her. With each glance the prince gave the young maiden or subtle nod across the courtyard her heart became harder. One morning after walking with the prince he bid her farewell without so much as a kiss on her hand. She was furious as she sat in her room she began to scheme. The next morning she went to her father and accused the girl of conspiring against the crown. She told of how she had overheard the young maiden talking about disturbing making a move at the royal wedding. Poison was to be slipped into the princesses wine and once dead the young maiden could have the prince for herself. She cried and said how she feared for her life. Unfortunately the young prince and maiden had not hidden their affection for each other well and the king believed his daughter immediately. The king ordered to have the young maiden executed and invited the entire royal family of Faere to witness the execution. .

All were gathered to watch in the market square. A seating area had been erected for the Royal families to sit and watch. The young prince was distraught. He knew that the accusations were absurd for he had not so much as talked to the young maiden before. Still, he feared that the burden of her death would be his to bear and his heart was thumping with an dread of anticipation for the worst. Whatever feelings he held for the princess turned to a dark tar stain on his heart and his hate for her grew with each moment. As the crowds gathered the prince grew restless. Guards stood around a large stage like structure, and the walls around the square were lined with archers ready to stop anyone who would come in the way of the orders of the court. The prince began to wring his fingers as he sat impatiently trying to think if anything that could stop this tragedy. The executioner sharpen his axe partly for ease of the kill and partly for an added show to the crowd. Not willing to let his true love die the prince lunged forward, jumped the barrier between the noble and the common folk and ran toward the stage. He pushed through the crowds trying desperately to reach the stairs. Drums began to play as he reached the bottom step and the executioner raised his axe above his head. A young guardsman saw his movements. Before there was time to think about who was crashing upon the stage the already notched arrow was sent flying. The arrow whizzed through the air as time began to slow. Time seemed to stand still as the prince reached the last step. The arrow struck him in the back piercing through his heart. At that same second the axe moved easily thought the neck of the young girl. Seconds before each took their last breath, their eyes met one last time. "I love you" was still on his lips as the Faerie prince crashed to the hard wood of the stage. Gasps arose from the crowd. A scream from the Faere Queen. People rushed forward to aid the prince or to see closer with their own eyes what had just transpired. It was too late.

A flash of light filled the square. The light appeared to come from around the prince himself and sent everyone around him flying across the yard. "Do not touch him!" the Faere king roared. Another flash and people were sent backward in a torrent of bodies. The blast of energy had been so strong that all who were touched by it immediately fell dead on the ground. "You shall pay for this!" The Faere king and queen were instantly beside their son. The next second they and their son were gone and nowhere to be seen. Thus the battle between Faere and Azure had begun.

All but a handful of people had forgotten the real reason for the battles. All were weary of fighting battles that they did not believe in and thus the battles became less and less. There had not been a battle on the fields of Shin'tara for over 10 years and not since Oothus was a child.

Oothus' intuition told him he was getting closer to the fields. The map in his mind told him he would enter the clearing just over the next hill. Dismounting, he decided to walk up the last rise into the fields. As his feet touched the ground almost soundlessly, his ears perked up. His eyes darted left and then right again as he strained to decipher the sound that was suddenly reaching his ears. It was coming from the Fields themselves. The sound was a low, soft, musical humming. He stepped slowly up the rise carful not to disturb the branches strewn across the forest floor. The many hunting trips he took with his father had taught him stealth. As he approached, the humming became louder and almost enchanting. Never had he heard anything so beautiful in his life. Closer and closer he came to the crest of the hill. Tying his horse to a tree just below the peak, he crawled upward toward the crest. By his calculation the sound was coming from someone or something just over the top of the hill. His head peaked over and there before him he saw… nothing. The song continued to play as if coming from a spot no more than six feet ahead of him. He cocked his head in disbelief and stood up preparing to walk forward. Just as he took his first cautious step he felt the tip of a dagger press against the back of his neck.

"What business do you have at Shin'tara?" came a musical voice from behind him. In fact he was certain it was the voice that had produced the music he was just investigating.

Suddenly it occurred to him, A woman! I was bested by a woman! He cursed to himself. Maybe Magwin has a point, I need to work on my arrogance if a mere woman can best me! Then he heard a voice in his head that was not his own.

Maybe a mere woman I am not. You presume too much when you assume that one's gender dictates ability.

"What is this trickery?" Oothus swung around grabbing the wrist of his attacker. "Who are you and how dare you point a dagger at me. Do you not know who I am?" His anger was stopped dead in it's tracks as he met her gaze. She allowed him to hold her wrist as she cocked her head to one side contemplating him. Her eyes were as gray as moonlight reflecting off a pool at twilight. Her hair was dark and flowed around her slender neck toward her breasts. Her cloths were different from what he was used to seeing. These cloths, though the colors seemed to indicate nobility were not adorned with jewels and cinched as tight as they could be. Instead, they flowed along the length of her body accentuating each subtle curve. Her lips were a brilliant red color, but natural and not enhances with berries as so many were doing these days. In short, she was perfect.

The question Oothus is not if I know who you are, but rather do YOU know who you are? The voice returned to his head as a small smile rose from her perfect lips. Oothus was stunned and the young woman took advantage of her opportunity and swiveled her wrist around grabbing Oothus' wrist instead and bringing his arm around behind his back. Her dagger dropped into her other hand, and in one fell swoop it was instantly resting at his throat. Do you yield?

Oothus struggled momentarily before realizing this young woman's grip was stronger than he had anticipated. By the Gods how is this possible?

Maybe it's not your God's that give me strength.

"I yield," Oothus conceded more out of curiosity than defeat. He was released and he turned once again to gaze upon his attacker. "If it pleases you to stay out of my head." he glared at her trying hard to clear his mind lest his thoughts be read again.

"If you insist." the young girl said and she casually tucked her hair behind her ear as she sheathed her dagger. At that moment Oothus understood his opponent. Her ears were as pointed as a writing quill and her skin was as pail as parchment. She was a Faerie. He was sure of it. He had never met one up close but had seen pictures in the stories and histories he learned as a child. This explained the power she had to keep him from moving. She had magic on her side. If he had anticipated he could have beat her easily he told himself.

Don't be so sure of yourself, came the voice in his head one last time. She smirked at him "One of the first things I learned as a child was to throw my voice. It comes in handy from time to time when you wish people to look in another direction." She had a queer way about her, but it was interesting and Oothus was spellbound by each movement she took as she walked toward the clearing. "I bid you no ill will. Come on then, Shin'tara was where you were heading so here we shall go together."

This is the end of the first installment. YOU can directly influence what happens next. All you need to do is comment or email me (librarygoddess2@gmail.com) your choice. Your choices are simple, one of two things can happen at this point.
1. Oothus will follow the young Faerie in to Shin'tara or
2. Oothus will jump on his horse and ride home to report the news to Magwin.
The next segment will come on Sunday. You will have until Friday to submit your votes to me.

A Look at a Blook?

2009-08-05T12:56:00.001-07:00

As a writer I am constantly experimenting with my writing styles. While writing my most recent novel I began to think about other ways to explore the history of the world I was creating. I pondered one morning over a Latte. It struck me that I could used a blog to explore my characters and the history of my world. All the while I would be able to create a story rich with excitement for readers to enjoy and give feedback on. Further, the concept seemed like the most fun way to explore the history of Azure and Faere.

I had come across serial novels before in my experiences as a Librarian and always thought they were a rather novel idea, (pardon the pun). The more I looked into this concept the more I fell in love with it. Thus I have created this blog or 'Blook' so to speak, for your enjoyment.

How does it work?
Each week, on Monday, I will produce another segment of the story, (I don't wish to call them chapters at this point as I don't know what form they may take in the future). At the end of each segment you will find a choice. You will have the option of emailing me, (librarygoddess2@gmail.com) or posting your vote on the blog itself. The voting will end on Friday. From these directives the worlds of Azure and Faere unfold before your very eyes. As a writer I also welcome constructive comments from fellow writers as well as my readers. I would love to know what you think of my writing and will do my best to improve upon my skills through your comments and suggestion.

The first installment will be posted tomorrow. It's written but it needs some refining so if you're looking at me today and would like to get my post then follow me on RSS and you'll get notified as soon as I post. The time line this week is going to be shorter than others for comments but I will get into my rhythm soon enough. Thanks for visiting!

Sincerely,
Lesley Winfield
LibraryGoddess2