New Life

[Fin]

Since Nimueh's death Fin been left on his own. Again. Just as his life was being given a purpose, just as he had found someone again they had been taken. He probably shouldn't be surprised, what with his parents and brother already dead or presumed to be, it was surely only a matter of time before Nimueh was taken from him. It wasn't just her though, it was his whole life that had disappeared. Without her there was no one to help him avenge his parents.

Two years now he'd been wandering aimlessly, but he always ended up back here even though there was nothing left for him. He was a blood guard with no one to protect, he'd sworn an oath, a life long pledge and he'd failed. He'd let a boy defeat her. He'd let a boy defeat himself. What good was he to anyone now?

Fin had tried, God knows he'd tried to find the boy, tried to make him suffer for what he'd done. Well, it hadn't worked. He was one man, without a purpose, without anything anymore. Nimueh would have been his revenge, would have been his new life, well, in theory. So instead of trying to find one on his own he remained on the damned Isle where everything had gone so badly wrong, simply because he didn't know what to do. When his parents had died he'd had his brother, when his brother had gone missing he found Corin, and when he'd left Corin he'd had hope and a plan but now he just had time and loneliness.

OOC - sorry it's so short, I'm horribly bad at starting threads.

[Deleted]

It still felt somehow unreal to be back. To not float in space anymore but feel the solid ground under her feet as she was walking across the island she had called her home for all her life. Now… what could she call this? Her new life? Her second life? Or would she simply try to forget this period of time she had spent between the Otherworld and the earth and come think of it as nothing else as a continuation of her old life. An unfortunate interruption, nothing more?
She would like that, but deep inside her Nimueh knew it wasn’t possible. She could not act like nothing had changed, because some things definitely HAD changed, including herself. The Isle of the Blessed, once a Stronghold for those believing in magic and fighting for its use amongst mankind, was all but deserted. Only a few most loyal souls had remained, and Nimueh knew it would take some time to build the army she had had at her disposal once back up to old heights. That stupid boy, Merlin, had thrown her years back. And it was not a pleasant awakening to realize that all the world had thought you dead and only one loyal and powerful sorceress had taken up the dangerous task to bring her back.

Still, Nimueh could feel the presence of SOME people still here, and one presence in particular she would always be able to detect amongst others. He apparently had not deserted her, had stayed true to his oath even though he could not be sure she was still amongst those to be brought back to life wholly and without the loss of her soul.
Her feet seemed to know which way to go and it was not long until she saw him, in the outer parts of the fortress ruins. Hiding behind a derelict wall and using the shadows to further cloud her appearance, she took an idle moment to examine her handsome blood guard. Why was he still here? Had he maybe felt that she was not completely gone and had hoped for some miracle to come to pass as he could not resurrect her herself? Or was it guilt that made him return to the place of her near-death? He had not been by her side when ‘it’ had happened, but then, he had only followed her command. It had been her fault to underestimate Merlin, though she of course would never voice that in front of him. She just would not ever voice any words of blame at all, let it drop.

Then she gave up her hiding and came up behind him. A mild smile played around her lips and her voice was almost soft, when she spoke, nothing but his name:“Finlay.”

[Fin]

On hearing his name Fin turned around, half expecting himself to be hearing things. But no, he was right. Someone had said his name. She had said his name. She was stood there, looking at him, smiling and saying his name like it was the most normal thing in the world. He stared helplessly up at her, his brain still trying to understand what was happening and how she could be in front of him.

“Nimueh...” He half whispered before remembering himself and scrambled to his feet in order to greet her properly: one knee on the floor, the other leg bent in front, one arm behind his back and head down, looking at the floor. He cleared his throat. “Mistress, you have returned.” He stayed in that position until told otherwise, having learned the hard way what happened when anyone showed Nimueh disrespect.

His mind was racing. How could she be here? She died. Two years ago. He had been alone for two years; his life had near enough been over for two years. He knew better than to say it was impossible, he had witnessed magic himself on many occasions but this really was...impossible. He had waited and waited, not allowing himself to believe that she was really gone, because there must have been something, someone who could bring her back. And now she was stood before him as if she’d only been gone a few moments. She was back. Nimueh was back. His sorceress was back. Still looking at the floor, he smirked. They were back.

[Deleted]

The look Fin bore on his face moved something in Nimueh, but she made sure not to show it. There was incredulousness, shock, but also something she read as relief and almost…happiness? Well, then at least SOMEONE was happy about her return, though the High Priestess didn’t lose herself in illusions of being liked. She knew she wasn’t and she never cared to be. She had allies and servants, not friends, and those who didn’t fit into one or the other category were enemy. Simple. Most likely Fin had been more shattered about the bursting of all his plans of revenge than actually losing his mistress. Perhaps he had even searched for another avenger to work with, and she could feel a little flattered he didn’t seem to have found one. But that was only because she WAS the best, not because he was particularly fond of her. Or was he? That was one thing that intrigued her about her Blood Guard: She never quite could fathom his motives and feelings.

Soon his bewilderment was replaced though by proper manners and Nimueh was pleased to see he had not forgotten anything she had taught him so long ago. His drop to one knee was smooth and almost elegant for a man, his back was just arched the right way. Flawless, like almost always. Just how she liked it. She let him kneel for a few heartbeats, then took a step forward herself, extending her bare right arm towards him. “Rise my loyal friend. I’m very pleased to see you here. Indeed, I have returned!”
The smirk he tried to hide by looking on the floor still but which she caught nevertheless was almost contagious. An inkling of it could be found playing around Nimueh’s own lips as she looked at him. She really had to be thankful for Morgause’s brave deed and she surely would side with the young woman, so eager to end Uther’s reign, but meeting up with Fin was a completely different thing. His approaches were different and him she could use for many things. It was always different to have your own blood guard by your side.

“Shall we walk a few steps?” she suggested. “I am intrigued to learn what has come to pass in my absence and I’m sure you are also eager to know who worked this miracle.”

[Fin]

At Nimueh’s instruction he stood up. It felt entirely natural to be taking orders again, almost as if she had never been away. It didn’t matter that he had been alone for so long because now she had returned, and this time he was going to make sure that nothing would take her away. He had already failed as her guard once, it would not happen a second time.

Fin nodded at her suggestion. Of course he had no choice but to agree, but the fact that it was presented as a suggestion rather than a straight command made him respected. It made him feel that he was more than just a servant, but a companion. He was by no means her equal and had far too much of a survival instinct to imply anything of the sort. He could still feel appreciated though.

“I’m afraid not much has changed in your absence. Uther is still poisoning Camelot.” He replied. There was not much to tell her, since she had been killed there were few challengers to the throne. He had heard rumours about the king’s ward, the Lady Morgana, but nothing solid. “No one has been able to take your place.” He added.

As they carried on walking he continued, this time addressing the latter part of her speech. “Indeed I am, mistress. Whoever has brought you back deserves much praise.”

[Deleted]

Being called ‘mistress’, giving orders – ah, it felt so good! It felt like being in control again, after such a long time without control, without even a grasp of what control meant. She had been floating in a timeless space, slowly forgetting who she was and what had been her purpose in life. Now she was back, but it still felt like a dream somehow, so it was good to fall back into old patterns. Slowly she would have to learn that her near-death time had been the dream and that THIS was reality. It would come, in time. All she had to do was not letting it show that she was still adapting. No one could know of this weakness. She was Nimueh Ó Liatháin, High Priestess of the Old Religion and she needed to fight her way back into the world of might. She had wasted enough time already!

Fin’s words were another reassurance that things more or less had stayed the same. Of course it would have been grand if Uther had found his death in one way or the other, but then Nimueh would have been most offended not to be the one giving him this well deserved end. This was a privilege she had reserved for herself long ago! But at least she didn’t have to battle her way through a line of wannabe-High Priestesses.
“I don’t know if I should be pleased by that fact or offended”, she mused with a little smirk, while she directed her pace to the meadows below the castle ruins. “I mean, it’s good to know no one dared to challenge me even in my… absence, but on the other hand”, she turned to him, still smirking. “I didn’t think either I’ve been breeding cowards.”

Nimueh couldn’t remember the last time she had spoken so openly to anyone, not even to him, put she waved it aside as leisure due to her… circumstances. He better not got used to so much familiarity, but for the moment - what did it matter? As soon as he assumed too much, she would knock him down again. They both knew that. Their relationship had often reminded Nimueh of a dance where she took the lead but was sometimes contested by his ambitions. It spoiled the rhythm and to make it right again, he had to yield. Simple.
She nodded to his comment about her savior. “Indeed she does. Her name is Morgause, and she was raised on this island to become a priestess. Until now I haven’t paid her much heed, but her actions clearly showed she is a force to be reckoned with.” Nimueh furrowed her brows in thinking. “She could be a powerful ally – or an equally powerful enemy.”

[Fin]

As they continued their walk Nimueh led Fin towards the meadows that surrounded the castle ruins. He hadn’t realised quite how much he had missed this. Ignoring their plotting and their hunger for revenge he had missed simply being with someone. He noticed that she was being decidedly more open in her conversation than she had ever been before. Perhaps her death had altered her, which it inevitably would have at least a little. Of course he knew better than to say anything. Nimueh was to be respected and never questioned. If she wanted to be open he would listen and take not and accept when she chose to be more guarded. His purpose was, after all, to protect her, not to befriend her. He was a man of action and violence, not a shoulder to cry on. Not that he suspected she would ever need that.

He smiled at the thought of a challenger. No one could match Nimueh – he had seen her power first hand, experienced it too and was quite certain that she could not be bettered. “Any challengers would be quickly thwarted.” He assured her, resting a hand on the handle of his sword that hung from his belt. They both knew that he would kill any contender in a heartbeat. He’d most likely torture them first, but the end result would always be the same. Bruised and bloodied they would no longer pose a threat, but they would give Fin the satisfaction of a job well done as he wiped their blood from his sword.

Nodding as she spoke of her liberator he thought to himself that he must find this woman to thank her. He was not normally one to show any signs of gratitude, it showed a dependence on others – a weakness, but this was an exceptional circumstance and he wanted this Morgause to be aware that he was indebted to her. She had, after all, given his purpose back. Fin matched her smirk, as he so often did. “If she’s as powerful as you say we had better get on her side. I suppose you already have a plan?” She always did, no matter how long she had been gone he was more than confident that she had something rather brilliant prepared.

[Deleted]

Fin didn’t show any reaction so far to her changed behavior and Nimueh acknowledged that with an inward not. He really still knew better. She vividly remembered times when that had not been the case, when Finlay the young bloodguard had still been some kind of rough diamond that still needed to be cut so size and polished before it sparkled in its full beauty. And everyone knowing Nimueh knew that her methods of cutting and polishing were hard and often enough merciless. It was a tough school to go through, but once it was mastered, the people coming out of it knew they belonged to the best.
Slowly she also started to get a grip on herself again, shutting the unsettling memories out and concentrating on the here and now. She would do everything that people expected of her and more, simply because it was who she WAS. This experience might have altered her, but certainly not beyond recognition.

Fin’s confidence made Nimueh smile. She didn’t need that reassurance, but it was good to have it anyway. She knew he would protect her, that was his purpose after all. If he failed, he would be punished, and she didn’t think a failure on his side would cost her her life once again so he would escape reprimands. Merlin had been a mistake, but if anything Nimueh was prone to learn from her mistakes.
“Exploited first, then thwarted”, she corrected him with another mean smirk on her part. “Challenge includes a rich amount of energy, and to cut it down immediately would be a waste of said energy. It can be channeled into a different direction without the person noticing a thing. Such, dear Fin, is the art of manipulation.” It would not be the first time Nimueh had taken on such means of defense and she piqued herself on being a master on this department.

Nimueh nodded thoughtfully as Fin shared his thoughts about Morgause. He never was overbearing or assuming she should share his opinion, and contrary to rumors and claims Nimueh did very well like to surround herself with people actually sporting brains and own opinions. As long as it was put to her with due respect, she even consented to foreign ideas once in a while.
“Don’t I always?” she asked rhetorically and a little coquettish. “Believe me, I know very well how to deal with her. She seems to be of a fierce nature and she knows how to fight. That much she did tell me. Maybe she can even best you?” she suggested with a meaningfully raised eyebrow. Always keep them on their toes. “Anyway, if she’s so determined to stop Uther with force I will let her run her head in a few times and when she returns to me then, a little the wiser, I can start to work with her.”

[Fin]

Fin listened to her words with a smile. She was right, of course, she always was. Besides, killing people quickly was always so boring and something he only did when there was no time for a little fun first. He was listening to her intently; she had such a way with words, such an inspiring air about her. It was one of the first things that Fin had noticed about her. On their first meeting he had been completely captivated by the woman, drawn in with no hope breaking free. Over the years these feelings had only strengthened and turned a blood oath that had been sworn as an act of revenge had become his sole driving force. He served and protected her with such fervour because he wanted to, he believed in her entirely. To him, she was beyond contestation.

“Of course you are right. But if I may say it would be so much more enjoyable just to torture and kill her. It has been such a long time.” Without Nimueh there had been no enemies, no one that needed to be taught a lesson and he was therefore rather out of practice. Still, lesser beings were challenging his mistress all the time, and while they were hardly great foes they would at least be something, if only a little light amusement.

She was challenging him, it was obvious, what with her sly suggestion and raised eyebrow. She did like to play on his vanity, especially when it came to his prowess as a swordsman. “Perhaps we will find out one day.” He returned. He was more than happy to challenge Morgause, if only just to demonstrate his own talents. With a smirk he added, “Any excuse to impress you.”

If Fin didn’t know better he would suspect a hint of jealousy in Nimueh’s tone when she spoke of Morgause. While both parties were against Uther and would do all in their power to see his downfall, it was clear from the way she spoke of her fellow sorceress that Nimueh would not let that privilege be taken away from her. After all, she had certainly been waiting long enough. Whilst did not know the cause of her hatred towards the king – he knew better than to ask – he did know that she was determined that no one would take that particular pleasure away from her. And if they tried to? Well, there were some things even magic could not protect you from. “She would be wiser to work with you now, but it probably would not be as much fun for you to watch.”

[Deleted]

Nimueh knew she
probably should feel at least a little bit shocked about this blatant display of cruelty, about this emotionless, cold-hearted talk about torture, and it was all the more significant that she wasn’t shocked. In fact, she felt rather amused. She knew her blood guard well, she knew his lust for blood and that he enjoyed nothing more than torturing his victims. It was not her own way of dealing with things, she rather had things done swiftly and without too much mess, but who was she to deny him the fun? She could do so anytime she pleased, and that alone was enough reassurance. The moment she was through with someone, it didn’t matter to her what became of him. Finlay didn’t demand much other payment, a little fun once in a while was enough for him.
”Awwww, my poor Fin”, she teased him, sounding her chiming laugh. “Haven’t you found anyone to harass while I was gone? Don’t worry, your time will come. Soon enough there will be ample victims for your sword and your cruel mind. I am back, and I am still ready to take what’s mine!”

Her laugh intensified when he spoke about impressing her, but it was no sweet or merry laugh. When Nimueh laughed there was always a timbre of the might she had been bestowed with resonating. A feebler soul might feel a shudder running down his spine at this laugh, but the High Priestess doubted Finlay would ever suffer from such sentiments. He was no coward, even if he respected her and had felt her wrath first hand a few times already.
”You think you still can impress me, my warrior?” she asked, with even a hint of genuine interest hidden in her voice. “Most of what you are I made you, never forget that. But… who knows”, now she shot him another of her trademark winks. “It’s been a long time. Maybe you have developed some skills you still have to show me? I would be intrigued!”
Alright yes, she was now almost openly flirting. Sometimes Nimueh just could not stop herself, flirting with men was in her blood. It was now Finlay’s turn to decide whether he would ignore that entirely or not, but in the end it still was Nimueh’s choice alone what would become of it. Such was the power the High Priestess had over men and she couldn’t think of anything else she enjoyed more.

Playing with one of her long braids, a gesture that would have seemed nervous coming from anyone else, but she somehow managed to make it look perfectly natural, she then nodded with another grin.
“How well you know me. Yes, the stupidity and stubbornness of others amuse me to no end. Some may call me weak because I still bide my time and have not challenged Uther openly. But I am not weak. Just wise and patient. Camelot needs to be undermined, not conquered!”

[Fin]

It had been such a long time since they had been able to walk and talk together like this, it had been such a long time since he had spoken to anyone, let alone someone he enjoyed talking to. But this, this was entirely natural and proof that everything was back to normal and the world had returned to how it should be. So in this instance he didn’t mind her teasing him, he enjoyed it especially as it was coming from her. If it had been anyone else he would have wasted no time in hacking off one of said person’s limbs. Nimueh was allowed, and that wasn’t just because he wouldn’t dare hack off one of her limbs, the fact that he would never get the opportunity was beside the point. “No one that would give me as much pleasure, mistress.” He replied, using the title simply because a length of time had gone without its usage. “You know nothing compares to killing one of your enemies.” It was true; nothing did give him the same satisfactory feeling than fighting for his mistress, probably as it was a mixture of being able to protect her, therefore fulfilling his purpose and because he felt enemies of her were the only people that were worth the effort. They were always so arrogant, so sure of their victory, until their blood was slowly being drained out by their feet of course.

When she began laughing he regarded her cautiously, worried that he had gone too far and would once again face her wrath. His comment had been an insolent one so he probably wouldn’t recover for at least three days from whatever lovely punishment she would think up for him. Thankfully it seemed Nimueh had not seen his comment as an act of disrespect, instead she almost seemed amused and, was that genuine interest? Fin was confused, still wary and bracing himself. Yet no pain was inflicted. She winked at him and Fin let out a breath he hadn’t realised he’d been holding. Now feeling at ease he smiled before replying, “I’m sure the time will come when my talents will be fully publicized. Unless my mistress would prefer a private viewing that is.” There was more than a hint of flirtation in his voice, but then Nimueh herself had hardly been subtle and they had known each other long enough to be able to indulge in a little repartee.

It made him smile when she remarked on how well Fin knew her. She was acknowledging their relationship, which was always welcomed. But then she spoke of weakness and his smile instantly fell. “No one could ever think that, and if they do they are quickly shown otherwise.” The thought that anyone could think of Nimueh as anything but commanding and powerful was utterly preposterous. “Oh but it will be conquered. Soon Uther will fall, and you yourself may sit on his throne.”

[Deleted]

Nimueh chuckled lowly, as Fin spoke about her enemies. Oh yes, he was right! Those who dared to challenge her were not of the faint-hearted and dumb sort. Okay, sometimes they were dumb, because they didn’t know exactly who they were dealing with, but the vast majority were enemies you could almost feel some sort of respect for if you happened to be in the right mood. They were a challenge, but as long as nobody proved to be TOO much of a challenge, she would still prevail, just as it should be. And she knew that Fin was up to many a challenge as well. Maybe he would have even be able to stop Merlin, had he been present. But as disturbing as almost dying and being resurrected had been, it was a lesson she would not regret to have learned come the right time. Nimueh was clever enough to realize that.
“Well, that is reassuring to here, my warrior”, she commented. “Like I said, your time will come very soon. I will need you at my side when I strike out against those who thought they could mock me. And I soon will make the world know that I am back to haunt those who need to tremble before me!”

Those were dark words, but true words at the same time. If anything, being taken to the Otherworld had not made Nimueh a softer person, and she was glad for that. She was still ready to strike down like an Avenging Angel and do whatever was necessary to get what was hers by every right.
His cautious gaze was another reassurance. For some people it might have felt uncomfortable to be viewed with so much fear that every ounce of kindness was seen as a cruel joke or a hidden threat, but Nimueh like it that way. Better being taken two times too seriously , than one time not at face value. That was far more damaging to a reputation than fear ever could be. With fear, respect was always intended, not the other way round.

That didn’t mean though she didn’t enjoy a little refreshing banter once in a while, and gladly Fin, though he feared her, had cheek enough to not deny her the fun. She rewarded him with a sly glance and a slight nudge on the upper arm. “Private viewing?” she dragged the words out gamily. “Well, when THAT time comes I will let you know as well. Until then… try to make yourself worthy of such a … grace.”
A simple, yet effective way to keep men on their toes and always eager to give their best: Promise them a reward they would not readily discard if they were not complete idiots or eunuchs. And Fin, she supposed, was neither. Not that she specifically WANTED something from him, but she would not refuse him either, given the right place and time.

His words about her sitting on the throne made her laugh outright and shake her head. Truly, no! Whatever her ambitions were, she did not desire to sit on the throne of Camelot. She had far more important duties than that! What would she do with a petty crown?
“Me, on the throne? Oh Fin, those ideas you have”, she still laughed, genuinely amused this time. “I am the High Priestess, which is more than a king or a queen ever could be! I don’t have time to deal with the demands of petty lords or even peasants! My realm is the spiritual world, I demand spiritual leadership, not military one!” She cocked her head in thinking. “Whoever ascends the throne though once Uther is no more, it will be someone following my orders. He or she will rule for the Old Religion, and nothing else. And he can also do the dirty work.” She finished with a smirk.

[Fin]

It always made him smile to be called her warrior. The term made him feel appreciated, but then he always did feel appreciated by his mistress. Nimueh commanded great authority, but also great loyalty. He could say with quite some certainty that there was nothing he would not to for her. “And tremble they will, the strongest of men will fall at your feet.” It would be glorious. All the world would see just how powerful she was, just how much she was to be revered. And he would be there, in his rightful place. He was glad to see her death and resurrection and not changed her. Despite her absence and experiences beyond this life she has returned the same woman he had known, still with revenge in her heart and a scheme in her mind.

His bravery in being so outspoken was rewarded as she gave him an appreciated nudge on the arm. She was flirting with him far more openly than she had ever done before. Maybe being away for so long had allowed her to realise how invaluable he was to her and her cause, or maybe her return had given her a greater lust for life and all it had to offer. Either way, Fin was confused, and a little hopeful. It was no secret that he had great admiration for her, and not just because of her prowess as a sorceress. He was quite certain, however, that her flirtation was no more than a game. Still, that did not mean that he could not enjoy it and participate. “As usual I will be ready and willing...whatever you ask of me.”

He suddenly felt very stupid due to her laughter. She had never been forthright with her exact motives for wanting to remove Uther from his power, or what she would do after she had achieved this. Fin had always assumed she would take the throne for herself; after all, she more than deserved it. Clearly he had been misinterpreting everything because when she explained why she would not have the throne it all made perfect sense. He could no longer imagine her ruling over Camelot, it just wasn’t her. Her next words, however, allowed his hopefulness to return, although he tried to hide it. As he had just proved he had been wrong about her motives before and did not wish to show himself as a bigger fool so he tried to keep his reply as vague as possibly. Surely she could not be suggesting what he thought she was. “Such a ruler would certainly be a fine thing and no doubt can only benefit the kingdom.”

[Deleted]

Nimueh didn’t need to be reassured of Fin’s loyalty, she had seen nothing had changed on that aspect the minute he had bowed before her, and she had seen the look in his eyes. If anything, his fervor to serve her had become even more prominent and visible. That was a nice thing to know. It was a good start when just a few hours ago it had seemed like she would have to start from scratch. The island was well-nigh deserted when it had once thrived with the life of the resistance fighters. It would need some time to summon them again, and she was glad to have at least her sworn blood guard at her side. Him together with Morgause, that was a start worth acknowledging.
“Just where they belong!” she replied with a satisfied smirk to his simple yet powerful statement. “You and me, Fin, we have a grand pile of work ahead of us, so we best start as soon as we can. Do you know what happened to the other priestesses and the druids who followed me? Only few have remained on the Isle.”

Ready and willing… she savored the sweet taste of those words on her tongue. Perfect. He might just be joking, like she did, but they both knew that there was always at least some truth to every innuendo, a tiny core that gave away that while they might just be playing a game, the needs and desires might be there. Such desires were forbidden fruits especially for a High Priestess, but it would not be the first time for Nimueh to bend this brazen rule. Exceptional times called for exceptional measures after all…
“Just as it should be, my warrior”, she concluded with a nod and left this thread of conversation like this – for now. But for a split second when she looked at him, her eyes lit up with a searing fire, perceptible for the keen eye as at least an inkling of an invitation. It was odd, but having her body back in the solid world, feeling again at full force, was something Nimueh craved to appreciate to full extent… a few days might need to pass before she was fully in control of her needs again, like she should be.

There was an undertone in Fin’s voice that made Nimueh wonder. He had always been a man with high ambitions and a calculating mind. Could it be he thought he might have a chance with being said ruler? And, more important, would SHE think him fit for such a position? He first choice would always be a young, easy to lead Arthur, a man who didn’t share his father’s crazy hatred of magic, yet had every right to the throne without starting an unnecessary war and also knew what he was doing. In one aspect Uther had always been right in his ramblings: Ruling an entire kingdom was never an easy task. But recent events had shown Nimueh that Arthur’s soul might be lost to her cause already. So… who else was there?
“Such a man or woman would not be easy to find”, she mused, cocking her head in thinking. “I will always keep my eyes, ears and mind open to any possibilities though.” There, not a clear declination, but also no obvious invitation. She might have Fin’s absolute loyalty, but it took more than that to successfully run a kingdom so it could prosper.

[Fin]

Finlay nodded as Nimueh spoke of what they had ahead of them. It had been so long since his life had had a purpose, a direction, a driving force, but now she was giving him one. Now they could continue what they had been working towards. It was going to be difficult, there was no doubt about that, but he had absolute faith in her, he would follow her to the ends of the earth and do all that she required of him, and gladly too. “I am afraid not, mistress.” He replied, it was a small failing, but it was a failing nonetheless, something he had promised himself he would not do, and even though it would not be long until they found her true allies once again he was still almost ashamed at himself for not being able to provide her with the answer she wanted. At least, there was plenty of time for them to remedy the situation and forge new alliances, ones that would not disappear so quickly. No doubt she was already formulating a plan to do just that.

Her answer was rather irritatingly vague. Nimueh was neither giving nor taking any hope, but merely playing with it, as she often did. He was certainly not going to ask her outright whether she was speaking about him specifically. Firstly, it would be the height of disrespect to question her like that, secondly, it would show himself to be assuming and full of his own import, and thirdly, because he would not put it past her to deny him solely because she knew he wanted it. Indeed, the more he thought about it the more he felt he should be the obvious candidate. He was loyal, in possession of his own strengths and power, and he was certainly happy to do his own dirty work, a quality she had mentioned specifically. Not only was he suitable, he had more than earned it. Uther had taken all that he had away from him; he deserved an opportunity to return the favour. “I am sure whoever you choose will be perfect. You do have a talent for that sort of thing.”

[Deleted]

So he hadn’t heard about any of her followers? Hmm, that was indeed bad news. It meant they most likely had gone into hiding, spine-less lot! Lying low instead of doing anything to get their mistress back… apparently she should be glad at least Morgause had had the guts to do something about that unfortunate state, but even her it had taken two years! Precious time lost and for what?! Because apparently she had misjudged her followers, they were the weakest lot imaginable. Nimueh had a hard time not to unleash her wrath onto the head of the only person in reachable distance, Finlay, but then again, even through her rage Nimueh had always been reasonable. Pushing away her only follower as for now would not solve anything, it would only throw her further back.
So she took a deep breath and gave him a slightly pained and forced smile. “Then we might just have to seek them out. Over some I still have a hold, be it magical or otherwise. It will only take one day to prepare myself, and then we can go ally hunting.”

Nimueh didn’t even think twice about the ‘we’. Finlay would stay by her side, right, like he always had had in the past. He could add the necessary… persuasion to her offerings, should her old allies be reluctant to join her again. She had much to offer, far more than a wimpish life in hiding anyway. She didn’t like this feeling, having to start over, it was much harder than she had thought it would be. If she had had not reason to make Merlin pay, she would get him for making her step out of character so mucg. Helpless, unsure – it simply wasn’t her!

Fin probably was suggesting she took him into account, at least superficially. Nimueh really had to be careful not to raise his hopes. After all, he should be content with his position of her bloodguard, now shouldn’t he? Not running around asking for more… and far more than was proper. Still, his flattery pleased her, he always knew what to say to make her smirk, and he at least gave a very good impression of meaning it. The High Priestess liked nothing more than men fawning over her, but Finlay was not only doing that, he also had some kind of practical wit which made him a perfect man to assist in her plots without him becoming too overbearing.
“Why thank you, Finlay”, she answered sweetly, rewarding him with a dazzling smile and a light brush of her hand over his strong arm. “You really have a way to welcome me back on this earth. Rest assured, you will not go unrewarded for your unwavering loyalty. What about I”, she took two swift steps forward and turned to face him, the wind playing with both her hair and her dress, “grant you a wish? Ask something of me, and if it’s not too overbearing, I will grant it.”

It might be nothing but another game, but she enjoyed it. She really needed to keep her allies happy, and what better way was there than to grant favors? She also was curious what he would ask, how bold would he be? Nimueh had left the door wide open for him, if he was daring enough he could ask even for a very… personal favor. It was all up to him now, and she would see if she was in the mood to grant it.

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OOC: Sorry that took so frigging long, I sincerely apologize!!

[Fin]

It was stupid of him, but Fin almost felt a tinge of jealousy as she spoke of finding more followers. He had been the only one who had remained loyal to her, who had stayed, hopeful and trusting in her return. And now she was just going to find new people. Besides that, he liked to think that they could easily achieve their goals by themselves, they didn’t anyone else. It was a naive thought, but it was one that he long since held. He was a more than accomplished swordsman, and Nimueh was easily the most powerful sorceress he knew of. No, he was quite adamant that they didn’t need anyone. Of course he would never voice such an opinion, she would only laugh at him, chastise him for being so foolish, and then surround herself with as many followers as possible just to anger him. As with many things, it was better if he kept his feelings to himself. Instead he nodded, and said “You know I will be ready whenever you are, mistress.”

After her next speech he regarded her carefully. It was probably just another trick of hers and nothing good would come of it. She was going to raise his hopes of fulfilling such a wish, only to completely crush such a wish, and probably Fin with it. He had known her too long to know that he should be cautious, she could be using such a suggestion so she could punish him for having ideas and ambitions above his station. He should not have mentioned anything about the crown, or Camelot. He should have never even allowed such thoughts to enter his head. She was his mistress after all, not his ally. He thought about his answer carefully, convinced that it wall some trick of hers, but at the same time hoping that she was being true. After a minute or so he replied, “There is nothing I would wish more than seeing Uther pay for his crimes, and to see you achieve all that you wish. And so I shall be contented with nothing more than being in your service.” He was sure she was going to question this, but at least she could not accuse him of being overzealous with his own goals and desires.

[Deleted]

Ready when you are… that was a simple sentence indeed and a much used one at that, but for Nimueh it held a few questions indeed. The first and foremost was: when WOULD she be ready? Could she allow herself to go at it with full swing starting even today, or should she rather take it slow, put out her feelers and observe how her body took to life again? She would need nothing less than finding out in the midst of a crucial situation that her magic was failing her because her body was too weak. Had saying she only needed a day been too rash? But taking it back was impossible, Nimueh never changed her mind! She would have simply make do with what she got, and let this day be a test as to what she was still capable of. Maybe Fin could help her with that… a little cruel smile played around her lips when she imagined him to be the guinea-pig of a few spells and curses. Or she could assault him with the elements, to see if she still mastered them. Which of course she believed she did, but better safe than sorry.
“Yes I know”, she agreed, grazing him with a sweet smile. “Let’s dedicate this day to preparation then, but also a little celebration. After all”, she winked. “It’s not every day someone returns from the In Between World.”

What exactly she had in mind as a celebration Nimueh didn’t know, but she DID know that eventually she would come up with something. Only two people to celebrate did make this a tiny feast indeed, but that didn’t matter. She didn’t want the whole world to know all at once that she was back after all. For some it would come as a shock soon enough, but the rest would only be greeted with her full force, and then it would be too late to prepare a resistance.
Finlay didn’t react to her suggestive behavior and Nimueh didn’t know whether she should be pleased or offended. Oh he knew his status very well, and knew her enough to know that this might just have been a trap – and maybe it had been, who knew – but his total lack of compliance irked the High Priestess just the tiniest bit. Shouldn’t any man jump at this chance? But then, what was she thinking indeed? This whole coming back to life business had made her head a little woozy as it seemed and it was high time to get a grip on her aloof, detached self again.
“Very well, my faithful warrior”, she commented and bowed her head slightly. “I almost forgot how content and easy to please you are. It’s a rare gift in this world, and I should encourage it. Because it makes your service to me so very easier.” The last thing she had said with a mischievous gleaming in her eyes. Oh yes, she liked to tease him.

[Fin]

OOC - apologies if Fin's a bit off.

Fin matched her smile briefly, before quickly lowering his eyes. It was not his place, after all. He was pleased, more than pleased, to find her death and subsequent return had not changed her. She was still the Nimueh who had found him, made him stronger and given him a purpose. Her death had certainly affected Fin, not only because his chance at revenge against Camelot had left with her, but he found himself missing her. But that was all in the past, she was here, and if anything she seemed more determined to accomplish all her plans, and he would willingly help her.

"As you wish, mistress." He replied, they certainly had a lot of work to do, and that was just to regain what strength they had once had, but he would hardly say no to a celebration. It was, after all, a day to celebrate.

He felt a lot more at ease after she replied. It seemed his answer had been a satisfactory one. He was more than used to her teasing, and although he sometimes hoped there was something more, he would not dare voice such a hope. He had seen Nimueh turn against people in the blink of an eye and was more than determined that fate should not befall him. He tried to ignore the look in her eye, she was only teasing him after all, and compose himself. They were trying to begin where they had left off, now was the time to be proactive, now was not the time for such thoughts. "I am your servant," he began, more as a reminder to himself than anything else, he doubted she needed to be told such a thing. "I am content to be in your service."

[Deleted]

What Nimueh liked about Fin was that he knew his place without being servile. The High Priestess hated those suck-ups who always wanted to please her just so she didn’t curse them. Finlay was a good servant without licking her figurative boots, he knew how far he could go and even if he sometimes tested his boundaries and got them showed again, it was never in his personality to annoy her with bowing down too low.
Already her mind was running two miles a minute again, planning, revising, calculating, just like she liked it. Finlay’s presence had also always been the most inobtrusive, he didn’t distract her and sometimes even added valuable thoughts to her own thinking. You could very well say there were an excellent team, though of course never to be called equals.

“Very well then, Fin, I am glad we still understand each other so perfectly”, she said with a smile. “I will first make a round around these grounds and down to the caves as well, to check if everything is where it should be, above all my ‘mirror’ to the outside world. You can accompany me if you like. After that I might have to test my abilities… do you want to help me with that?” she suddenly decided to go through with her initial idea, but was in a graceful enough mood to warn him beforehand. “It might hurt you know…then again, you ARE a warrior, are you not”, she smirked. “You should be used to pain.”

Wasn’t he sweet how he apparently tried to ignore her suggestive behaviour? He probably tried not to get his hopes up in fear of getting them crushed, which might be more the case than actually not. Now that Nimueh got a grip on herself again, subconsciously using the tools she had been taught by the priestesses of this island ages ago, the previous thoughts she had had seemed more and more away from reality. It would never be good to load their comfortable relationship with something so… testy.
”That is true”, she nodded slowly, regarding him with a very pleased look. “It is good you never forget that. I would hate to give you the odd reminder every once in a while. I had that before, you know, and it is just a needless waste of energy.”

She didn’t know if he would realize who she was referring to, but as he had been around at that time, he might very well remember Wolf, the cursed man she had allowed to get close to her. It had ended with her having to ban him from her side, as they had always battled about superiority.