Warriors;; Kory

[Gael]

-Gael of Caledonia-



They're the REASON for defiance,

We can't ignore

We're the PROMISEof a new day,



They were cutting through Albion once again, it always seemed that he was traveling through these lands now more than his own lands back home in the highlands. Albion was always such a strange place, how everything was broken up into kingdoms with leaders that believe themselves appointed by their single god and all of their warriors covered themselves in heavy fitted armor. No, it was not a land that he preferred traveling through at all, but after everything that had happened, Gael never argued when the council called upon him and the others to set foot into the lands again to find weaknesses against them. Perhaps it was being separated from his friend, Rannoch, that bothered him more than being away from home.

If Gael was rash, than his blonde friend was worse than that. He did not believe that the other thought very well, and unlike Gael, proved to fall very easily for foreign woman, something he would quite never understand. He was just never somebody that they should allow to be on his own, despite his great influence in the warrior's code and his own skills within the Pict's tribe. A snort escaped Shergar now and the flea bitten gray horse stopped dead in it's tracks now, glancing to and from the various bodies of woods, and it was not just him who did it, but the others as well. Gael turned slightly in the makeshift saddle towards the others, the dog on edge and hairs raised as the shadowmere pawed the grown, her ears flatten.

No sooner did he grab for one of his blades now, did something come out of the forest. It was rather large, perhaps the size of a dog, but it was a reptile of some sort with two bridges coming out of it's back. A cockatrice if he could remember correctly, damn Albion and it's odd creatures, Caledonia only ever had to worry about wolves and the people of Albion as a threat. The cockatrice took a lunge for him now and Shergar reared wildly, a whinny escaping him but the large animal still managed to knock both horse and rider over now. Freeing himself, Gael pulled himself free from the horse who wildly got up now, but the cockatrice could not care at all for the horse and took another lunge at Gael. The others let loose sounds and the dog, Ochulissa, took a snap at it as it swung it's tail towards her as if she were but a fly.

She and Saoirse continued to dance around the animal, enough to distract it as the man scrambled up to his feet now and ran towards the animal, his sword out and ready for damage. Taking a jump, he landed on his feet and his sword digging itself right into the center of the skull now along the flat of it's head, the deafening crunch of the bone against steel when it met, "Well, that was easy," he commented towards the others now, who simply stared at him, "I suppose we should go find Shergar," although, no sooner did he said that did the others react again, perhaps it was something that they could smell and that he could not. Glancing up, more cockatrice ahead appeared, many surrounding around the small group now, "And so the games begin..."

[/font]

This is a WAR

The BLOOD will spill,

The VOICES will be heard.
[/center]


NOTES: |Eh, not my best.|
MUSIC: |Wake Up The Voiceless - Story of the Year|
TAGS: |Kory|

[kory]

The day was high in the sky and it beamed through the cracks in the roof. Kory had decided for now to give up getting armour. She had tried some, but the weight was a little much. It restricted movements, but the thought of it still lingered. If it was easy to say she could wear it here and there. If carrying by hand was easy then maybe, but Kory seemed to be travelling more than she had thought. Such weight would just more harm her than anything. Besides, she wasn't one that liked to be covered. Though something to keep things in place was nice, although she had been known to fight with no clothes before. It was part of her training and in part the Valarian way. What if one was camping, naked and you were jump on. One needed to be prepared to fight no matter what position they were in. Even if captured, one needed to bide their time well until the moment arose. Which for Kory it had.

It had been maybe, what? A month. It felt like years. Since she last even glimpsed her grand city. Her people. The cell walls. The chains. Ok, she needed to stop trying to remember. Pondering was getting her no where. Where was she headed? That was the question, that she needed answering. So far everywhere. She had been finding help was needed vast across these lands. It usually did well to lurk in and around the woods. It seemed where many of it took place, although she was surprised how much actually took place in plain sight in some of the cities. Such a thing wouldn't of been tolerated in Valaria. Although there were still plenty wrong things about Valaria just as there were good things. Kory wasn't about to drag them out. Every city, every kingdom was flawed. Everyone seeking to better or learn from the last. She didn't think there would ever be a kingdom that would get it right, it was just a matter of, trying.

Though now Kory hadn't the stone walls to help fight her battles or the hundreds of valarian soldiers at her call. She was an alone warrior. Whom never needed to hide behind any wall. She was brave enough to face anything head on. In showing such strength and bravery, can actually result in scaring. For many bravery is an act. It isn't something that is so much on the strength on the outside, it was the inner strength. Death wasn't a reason to quiver. A reason fall to your knees and give up. Threats were threats. There was saying one thing, but it was the actions in the end. That truly showed who someone was. Kory was learning quite vast how people lied. How they hid, even from themselves. She just hoped such ways wouldn't rub on to her, that her ways would more or less remain. Again not all were maybe right, Kory was open to see things differently. Everyone had an opinion. Just as she had. She wasn't one to just play down who she was. If she could truly say who she was. Something spoke deep in her heart, that maybe the reason for living. She just wasn't all that spiritual, she guesses at times.

The sounds were the norm. The birds. The breeze in the trees. An odd sound here and there in the distance. Kory was learning quick that things were different here in a lot of ways. Then the stampede of hoofs fell through her path. The shift movements of light and dark grey, came first in a blur. Then the horse came into view. Something had spooked the horse. If hadn't been for her hands, Kory was sure it would have trampled her. As it stopped. Kory could still see the tension. The fear. From the rise of its lungs to the dead shot eyes. Its ears ever moving, picking up every sound. Its attention was maybe almost anywhere but Kory. Kory's hand tried to calm it by the stroke upon its hot neck. The muscles were tensing and the heat was easily felt. Though it relaxed. The horse bent its head to Kory. Seeking comfort. Kory smiled. The beast was safe. Though wondered where it came from. Kory let it nuzzle up to her hand which by now offered some of her seeds. Which then calmed the beast enough to trust her. Where was the rider? Where did it come from?

Kory didn't care to ride the horse. For she gathered there be a good chance she would need her feet before she knew it. Kory followed where the horse had come. It was far from any path, though the hoof prints it had dug were clear. The bending of branches and the misplacing of grass. The sounds of metal and voices could be heard. Faintly. Then in the distance in different directions. Kory saw dark shapes, the sound of the lizards passing swiftly through the woods to meet where she had heard the sounds. Kory tried to pace her steps to leave as little of a sound as she could. Until she was still well hid from any sighting, she could see the battle in plain sight. She was quick enough to catch the man's blade slide in place in the lizard's skull. It was so smooth and without much trouble. It was quite impressive. Though the true strength of these animals, Kory knew a part of. She saw the other lizards before even the group did. She saw the shadows make their way through into the small area. Surrounding the group. It wasn't a matter of questioning who any of them were. It was more just a matter they needed her help. An extra hand. The man appeared well skilled, but he still only had two arms. Kory could lend her own, plus the need of four weapons helped also.

Kory turned to the horse. Begged it to stay close by, but it was safer if it remained hidden. Horse listened to her trust and lingered by. Kory was sure this was more of a small group of animals. She heard word of the nest some yards away. It was maybe best to fight what they could and get this group of people moving before it truly became war. Kory knew just jumping out would be foolish. Before anymore thoughts. Her hands drove her up a tree. Feeling her skin get a little roughed by the bark, but her movements were well placed so very little damage was done. She sat at a good distance up. Kory could take the sight in much better. There was maybe six lizard beast, not including that laid close by the man. She knew she needed to come in and kill at least one within the first few blows. Make the numbers smaller. One down in a short time would help. As she scoured the tree she sat in and the area below. She could spot where a branch hung out above the warrior looking man and a beast that aimed before him. Her green eyes led her to the tip. She was lucky the branch was strong enough. Not a weak thin branch. There was a half of a second or maybe more she sat there. Waiting for the beast to be in as perfect position it could be. She heard faintly of what the man said and she smiled. It helped to have one just as brave. Though she wasn't about to walk off and leave him without helping. Even a warrior needed help on a occasion. Just many have to much damn, pride to ask it.

The large green scales came direct under her and a little further. So Kory took her dive. Feet first her body in almost a straight line, but soon made her body so it fell upon the beast's body in place. Just behind its neck. There wasn't a lot of time. For the second she touched it, the beast already was trying to throw her off. Kory took the dagger out which was strapped to her right thigh. Her right arm moved be in front of its throat. Running the blade deep inside dragging it from left to right, as Kory was grasped behind its head whilst the beast thrusted below her thighs. The cut was rather quick, but the skin and tissue was thick. Though her dagger was finely sharp, so it made it easier. Once after a little cutting the blade ran smooth and even smoother as the beast slowly sank. The blood streaming out, mostly missing her hand, but poured upon the floor of the woods. As the beast sank. Kory rolled of it before it did. Almost summersault backwards. Landing in a crouch position with the aid of her right hand in front which still bore the dagger under her palm. Her left hand was out from the side to balance her as she had landed. Her eyes at first hit the floor. They slowly came to see the man that had the pool of blood she had created at his feet.

Kory rose to her feet twisted the dagger in her hand before placing it back into its place. The breeze that had passed by hit her hair and it wrapped around her like fire before settling back down. Her hand never came up to fix any of it. Leaving her flames to move as naturally as they desired. For her body sang of the battle. The fire was already lit at her core. Her flames of her hair was only a hint of what simmered within. Her hands motioned to her back. If almost like slow motion the weapons show themselves to their champions as she presented herself to the warrior before her. She step towards him to fall beside him. Standing close enough. As the group was surrounded by the remaining five beasts.

"No! It begins and ends now!"

Kory called under her breathe as her eye caught sight of the man beside her and showed a slight smirk upon her lips. Now the games would begin. Although Kory wasn't one to just say games. This was life. She guessed in way life can be seen as a game, but it wouldn't be game over for her just yet. Though everyone seemed still. Was it her or were these men scarred. She let out a slight sarcastic laugh, for she knew neither be the case. Kory could tell just by how the man killed moments before. He wasn't one to give up, not so easily.

"Well, don't stop by my account."

She wasn't sure whom she was speaking it too. The man at her left or others behind. So the beast came closer. Before they started charging. Kory turned out of the way just in time as a mouth and claws head her way. The tail responding to try and trip her. She was half a second quick enough to jump it. The beast turned at its tail. Kory turned using her body swiping with one sword at a time for the first could of strides as she motioned around it as the beasts movements told her to do. Then as the beast swiped head on. Kory ducked her body. Allowing Kory as she came back up to run both swords along the beast's gut. The raws that had escaped its mouth before, were now piercing screams. As though the stomach was thick, Kory had enough strength to run them in deep. Spilling even more blood upon the ground. As the beast came back down with what little life that remained. It ran towards her. Making Kory fall backwards. Upon her back. Its mouth came so close she could almost feel its teeth. Though as it came to eat her. She had her swords ready pointed up and the beast had landed in place upon them. Allowing Kory little else than an extra push into the heart. The trickle of blood started and ran down the sword, her arm. Before marking upon her bare stomach. The beast gave one more attempt, but Kory pushed harder. Thus the beast grew more limp. Kory was quick enough as she pulled free her swords she rolled out of the way in time before she was crushed. Two down. She was maybe a little unaware of what took place for the others. Kory laid for a moment upon her stomach, with her swords upon the ground still grasped by her hands, the handles just under her chest. It helped to push herself up. Got to her feet as a beast came from behind. Kory twisted and ran a sword after another along its neck and feet. Though the wounds were only shallow. The beast ran a little passed her, but swung its tail. One of the men had ran into her. Causing her be tripped by the tail. Her head hit the ground hard, not to hard, but enough to leave her dizzy for a short moment. As another beast back at her whilst she was down. Her swords had escaped her. They laid close by, but enough that she was going to need to move to get them, which she wasn't sure she had a lot of time. Her eyes widened as the third beast didn't care. Kory rolled from her back to her stomach as she itched to crawl just the little way for her swords. She could feel and hear the steps of it closing on her. Which made her move quicker, but she was still dizzy which made it feel like miles. Even though her swords laid maybe a feet or few. Her fingertips were almost at the metal, before the claws swiped at her calves. A claw digging in enough to pull he back a little. Kory let out the scream from the pain that shot up her leg. As the beast retracted its claws to strike again. Kory turned and kicked at the beast. Nailed it straight between the eyes. Enough, but wouldn't hold it back for ever. Kory moved quicker to the grasp of her swords with the beast at her feet and another she could glimpse right now coming from the side. Kory finally felt them back into her palms. As she stood she made out to strike. Kory didn't have a lot of planning in her mind. She was sure she could take on two at once.

---

Music:Monster -- by Paramore
Notes:Its perfect. I just randomly said there is six beasts, you can change that if you wanted. I'm not overly sure whom Gael as with him, that part was only thing that confused me. so I figured one of his men knocked her over, not him or something... I sought of had in mind when she gets up in the end, gael slays the beast or something. Almost hitting air as she gets up I guess, lol

[Gael]

-Gael of Caledonia-



They're the REASON for defiance,

We can't ignore

We're the PROMISEof a new day,



Slate eyes just stared around at the cockatrices starting to circle in on him and the other two now. A nervous snort escaped Saoirse even though she technically couldn’t die, and a ugly growl escaped Ochulissa, baring her fangs in a dangerous manner even though those lizards were far bigger than her. There was some movement, off by a tree and both their heads snapped towards the sound, their brown and eye orbs eyeing something that the cockatrices were not paying attention too. Gael’s attention diverted if but for a second when out of the tree came somebody with bright red hair, landing on of the cockatrice and skinning a blade right into its skin. It took Gael a moment to realize that this was a woman and the whole situation just became a lot weirder. There were no female warriors in Caledonia, sure, some woman learned to spare incase of invading tribes or even Albion’s people as a way of defense for themselves, but never be brought into the battle.

She came to their little group now, glancing up after the blood had been spilled. Gael just eyed her as well as the other two now, hardly in trust and mostly in confusion or annoyance. He did not need any help, especially by that of a woman’s. If Rannoch was here, he’d be laughing his head off right about now. Gael surrounded by five monstrous lizards and a woman with odd red hair was helping him out. The thought alone brought a look of annoyance to his face. Neither Ochulissa nor Saoirse knew of what to make of her either, but they were hardly ones to take a liking to strangers, “Well, don’t stop on my account,” the woman stated now. That did it, it caused a snort to escape the man and he rolled his eyes, he did not need to put up with this right now. The two just kept on staring at her for a moment until the sound of the cockatrices moving forward though brought their attention back. Five left, and it would be easy enough. He had faced worse battles than this.

The group moved forward now, Ochulissa running forward and snapping at the feet of the gigantic lizards, proving to be as much of a nuisance to them as much as she was towards Gael the other half of the time. But she proved to be the distraction that he needed to get an open shot as he grabbed a dagger free from its small sheath and threw it swift and hard, lodging it right in the edge. An ugly roar escaped the animal and Ochulissa just continued to bark and snap, grabbing at its legs now with her fangs before darting away towards another while Gael finished it off with a blow to the neck, with one or two hacks, not enough to completely server the head, but enough to let it hang there half off. Quickly, he turned now to already see that two others were down, which only left two left which were on the woman now, a scream of pain escaping her. Figures. He hadn’t seen what happened as to why she was on the ground, but it wouldn’t surprise him if the dog or the shadowmere had caused her to trip in their antics.

Speaking of them, as the one cockatrice came racing towards the woman now, Saoirse blinded sided it, slamming her body into the animal. A screech escaped the cockatrice as it lashed out at the shadowmere now, it’s claws slashing into her haunches causing an ugly squeal to escape her, and kicked out, her back legs slamming into its head just as Ochulissa bounded up and her jowls and fangs sank into its scaly neck, clearly not letting go even when the animal began to thrash about. Gael knew that they could handle themselves even if they were just animals so he turned towards the last beast now that had bulked a little at something the woman did, but the man did not care as he sprinted forward and in the same fashion as last time, brought his blade crashing into the skull, crunching the skull down and the cockatrice dropped towards it’s stomach now, lifeless, just as Saoirse and Ochulissa brought down the other one. Slate eyes just stared at the woman now, “I do not know who you are, but I did not need your help.”

[/font]

This is a WAR

The BLOOD will spill,

The VOICES will be heard.
[/center]


NOTES: |That's fine. Lol, they're actually not men, the other two are animals. One's a large dog (Scottish Deer hound) and the other is a shadowmere (pretty much imagine the ring wraith horses from lotr, but they can be set on fire). Sorry I didn't elaborate that.|
MUSIC: |Wake Up The Voiceless - Story of the Year|
TAGS: |Kory|

[kory]

A man! A dog! A horse! No, two horses. What an unlikely party of a grouping. Though Kory knew to always expect the unlikely. She could just imagine the thoughts that run in his as her dagger ran along the throat of the beast. The blood gushing and Kory barely flinched at the sight. But she paid no heed to his thoughts. For now they did not matter. She wasn't about to bloom into some butterfly and be a woman she just wasn't entirely, but harsh. Strong. Hard. She wasn't just that easy to pin. For Kory even though she didn't much show it now as the back of her bloodied hand ran across her lips beside the man. There was a softness in Kory, probably more than there was of harshness within her. It was just, well hid for now. For she wasn't a woman trying to be a man. She was woman fighting as a woman. She did not wish to hide it. Whether this meant she showed the weaknesses of her gender, she knew his had weaknesses as well. No such man was that incorruptible.

Kory wondered if their pride in their such greatness was a huge weakness, that with the slight knock of it the man would crumble and wouldn't be able to deal with the weakness. Were their eyes upon her? For she only could see the 5 lizard's eyes upon her. She figured the slight attack of a dog bite was highly unlikely, right now anyways. Her eyes averted to the man's direction as he snorted to her words. Causing her to smirk. She couldn't tell whether he was amused by her or annoyed. For the battle at her feet was more taking her attention.

As she took her prey and in the heat of battle. There was the echoes of barks, metal scrapping and bone crunching. She hadn't focused upon this. Mainly just on her targets. Which probably helped cause her tripping. After the digging in her leg and her kick into its skull. As her head turned to make heed to her swords. To replace them back into her hands. She heard the sounds of the beast being finished off. The blur vision of another lizard from the corner of her eye. Kory came to her feet as the beast came towards her. Twisting herself that her blades moved, but missed. Cutting air. As the beast's skull crumbled before her feet and one of her blades came to aim at the strange man's neck. Stopping just in time. She froze a little. Her blade froze upon his neck. Her eyes finally grasping the man before her more clearly. Her face softened slightly as her eyes traced his kill then back to his face. The blood upon his hands, that had sprayed upon his body much as it had done upon her own. Her eyes shifted towards the large dog and dark horse. Intrigued by them. Her eyes then replayed upon him. After hearing his words. She kept her blade there, for a few seconds. Then her mouth smirked slightly, her gaze dropping a little and she withdrew her sword.

Regaining its stance upon her back along with the second one. She contemplated his words. The meaning. Need? Maybe, not. She had offered none the less and would have done it whether she knew he needed it or not. She wasn't about to argue her reasonings nor that he had needed help. Was there a point to that? She returned her gaze her head turned off slightly as she eyed him again. Letting out a slight breath of amusement and it was slightly out of her kindness.

"Kory!"

She extended her right arm to his. As to give some heed of a response to the his words that he did not know who she was. Her face softened more as her hand stretched out and her muscles flexed at the movement. Showing both a hint of beauty and strength. Although covered somewhat by blood which she had ignore still at this moment. She withdrew her hand. Placing her fingers between her lips. Sending out a slight whistle from her breath. Only a small whistle. The movement rustled with in the trees as her hand extended towards it. As the shrubs parted and out came the grey mare. Her eyes watched as it came towards to meet where they stood. Then ran her eyes back towards the man.

"She found me, I thought it only best to return her, home. Such a beauty to be lost in the woods. You should be more careful next time. There's a nest not 10 yards east from here, I wouldn't linger for long!"

She spoke as the mare came close to their sides. Her eyes looking towards her as she mentioned she found Kory. The mare's eyes looked to Kory a little differently than the man or the others did. The mare held what they didn't. A trust in Kory. An Understanding, Kory believed. She smiled to the animal as she was sure the animal was in a way returning the gesture. Happy to be home. It was maybe a strange grouping to others, but Kory could see the bond. The sweetness between them that tied them together. It was a family in a way. It was anything than Strange to her. Her eyes lingered over the mare as she spoke of her, her features soft as was her voice. Her eyes regained upon the man that loomed before her. He was a sturdy man. Standing his ground. Holding on his believes and what he thought was right with this world, that maybe not what Kory fit in for him. She didn't mind. She was in her own world, for now.

Her voice remained soft, but let out the seriousness as she extended her hand pointed in the direction of the nest. She knew it was there. Kory had heard of the whispers of the folk than knew about it. Also the signs around the area pretty much hinted at it. It was best not to linger for long, to attract even a larger battle. Kory was sure that was just a taste of the rest of the beasts. The next lot maybe a bit more aggressive. Her face softened again. As she was just offering her kindness and that on some level cared, even if he was stranger. She had no right to just be rude. To place Judgement on someone she did not know. From what she saw with his gifts so far she saw, he was a sought she could keep in her tight circle of trust. A friendship! An Alliance! It made her smile. For where did this man come from? That gave him such greatness. He was maybe a little too proud, but she like his certainty. She wished to learn how he came to have such a thing.

"I know there is a safe place a few miles from here. If you guys need, water?"

She extended her words to the group, particularly the animals as her eyes played upon his with her kind expressions. Maybe the animals would answer the question for him. How he'd take her kindness, Kory could only guess?

---

Music:Monster -- by Paramore

[Gael]

-Gael of Caledonia-



They're the REASON for defiance,

We can't ignore

We're the PROMISEof a new day,



At the last battle, the woman seemed to get herself back up on her feet to strike a beast, but missed it’s skull and Gael found her weapons of choice coming near his neck. His muscles tensed as his slate eyes narrowed as they continued to come near his neck now, but just in time, she had managed to freeze herself. If those blades had come another inch near him, he would have knocked them out of her hands well as the red head on the ground. The way Gael saw it, if she didn’t know how to fight with somebody else on the field, then she shouldn’t be wielding weapons at all. But no harm came to either of them, unless the blood caked on him meant something, “Kory!” she stated cheerily enough, extending out her own bloodied hang towards him but Gael simply stared at her and ignored her hand now, still displeased with her appearance, “Gael,” he finally replied flatly, hoping that would be the end of that.

But a whistle escaped her and the foliage rustled a little before out came the flea bitten grey horse. He honestly had no idea of whether he should smile or continue to frown. Gael was annoyed that the horse had taken off like that, clearly finding it hard to prove his worth as a warrior’s mount. At least out in Albion, Shergar proved to be fearful of the wild magic that was far different from that of Caledonia. His gaze flickered back towards Kory now as she explained how Shergar had come to her and then went as so far to say that he should be more careful. Gael felt a glower appear across his face, and he did not care. Interacting with anybody but his own people proved to be difficult, and he would not argue that he could get rather emotional, especially when it comes to somebody telling him what to do when they were hardly equal in his eyes, “And if I stumbled upon them again, I would take them down just as easily,” he replied, reaching out now and grabbing his steed by the reins and pulling her easily away from the redhead as Ochulissa and Saorise came up by his side now.

The other two animals remained slightly wearing, especially the shadowmere who hid her head behind Gael now, only allowing herself to peer over him with her red orbs on occasion at the new comer. The dog on the other hand, did not hide and very much like her master, stood her ground. There was no wag in her tail, but she was not bearing her teeth either. For her, it was a very much a stand still, the same that Gael seemed to be in at the moment with the current situation, “I know there is a safe place a few miles from here. If you guys need water?” The man remained quiet for a moment, as much as he did not want to admit to her, they do need water. He glanced over at the animals for a moment. Saorise had a mar on her hide that was already healing itself up, and Ochulissa and Shergar looked nothing but tired, “You may show us the way,” Gael replied, but distrust still hung heavy in his voice, after all, he was an outsider in these lands.

[/font]

This is a WAR

The BLOOD will spill,

The VOICES will be heard.
[/center]


NOTES: |Sorry for that long wait. Sports and school work are eating me alive.|
MUSIC: |Wake Up The Voiceless - Story of the Year|
TAGS: |Kory|

[kory]

Kory had extended her arm out of much of kindness. There was reason for her to not be. She had no right to judge him in a matter of minutes. Whether he trusted Kory, was his deal. She saw how his eyes sketched over her. Not fully seeing who or what she is. Was he expecting someone else? A more type of woman upon her knees. Hugging them tightly in fright? Her eyes looking to his. Hmmmm, though again who was she to judge. To Kory it had nothing to do with being equal. She did not seeking to be anyone but herself. Her best wouldn't be his. His wouldn't be her own. It came to her more a general matter of respect. Kory just wasn't one to just assume all the badness in someone. To give a chance to prove themselves. To be seeking an enemy in a stranger, was nothing but a deep desire to seek it. Why would she seek an enemy? Nor create one? She could easily stand her ground if such things came to pass, but it just lingered little thought to try and provoke someone out of little reason. Just from looking upon his eyes, there was a softness she could see, but she knew it was a false hope to be seeing anymore.

As he did not reach to meet her hand. She questioned whether a lack of respect. Though really she did not know this man. Gael. Perhaps it took a little more to gain respect in such a man. Her lips smiled. As her green eyes ran down his form coyly then back to his face. Noting the blood stained upon his flesh. It for some reason did not hinder his appearance nor did it hide his expressions. His emotions. Wow. She could feel a plentiful brewing just behind his eyes. As he didn't express a lot out of delight at her presence, but there was at least a hint of a thought. She nodded her head gently at his name, not too displeased he did not take her hand. Kory was sure it wasn't so much out of rudeness, more out of not a lot of trust.

Her lips smiled as the mare came to meet them. Kory's eyes fluttering to Gael's, her eyes looked in curiosity that he did not seemed overly pleased. This she found quite odd. Also a little unsure what about this he was displeased with, but he took the animal well enough. As her eyes faintly studied him as the breeze tossed gently at her hair. Her hand moved to brush the loose hairs from her face. Her lips smiling again as her eyes searched for where such things were leading. There seemed to be an intriguing motions in Gael's movements, reacting to her words. Kory just not so much noting the negatives, just focusing on the positives, which was a bit hard, but not impossible. His reply was very much more a statement. This she couldn't argue with. From the faintness of the skill she saw in him, she was sure he'd deal well in most cases. In most battles. She merely thought he wasn't seeking another. Despite his skills he could possibly just wish use his time upon an endless fight. Kory was prepared for all and every fight. Unlike others, she did not seek fights unless completely required. Kory was trained to fight until the death, to always fight the end fight. How it was for him? Kory was sure be different. It always was.

Kory's eyes moved to the motions by his side. Two horses and a dog. It was oddly a sweet picture. A sweet thought. Who was this, Gael? Where were they from? Her head turned to its side slightly. As her green eyes gazed upon them in leather covering very little, scattered in blood and feeling not so much the only outsider. Her lips smiled towards the animals. She could feel the connection that laid somewhat between the group. It was a fair thing. They had each other. Her eyes traced to the ground before her. Who did she have? No one. Alone. She let out a breath. It was much a sacrifice Kory was sure she was willing to give. Though a hint of doubt set inside her. It didn't need to be like this. She knew that. Perhaps loneliness didn't need to be curse. Kory had all the hope in the world. Faith in herself, that she could really find a place somewhere in this world. She was certain she was beginning to feel it. Not so much a place, but a need for her. Maybe it was just best to let things come, more than just find, but Kory doubted she'd contain herself forever. She would latch on to the first sights of this hope. She smiled again. Her eyes sparkled. She really just didn't want to be alone forever or die that way. Kory just had to go with it. Her emotions taking the lead as always. That she had to trust in more than ever before.

Her hand ran over her other arm. Wiping the blood a little. She was in need of water just as much. It seemed the general state these past weeks. Blood. Blood. Blood. Oh and dirt. Her eyes looked up at Gael and his group of four legged friends. Each one beautiful and unique. Making her smile gently as she saw Gael take in her words. Almost a hint something caught at his tongue, but Kory didn't seek this. Her eyes following as his eyes motioned to his friends. Was he speaking to them in some way, Kory couldn't hear? She wasn't sure it surprise her. A lot of things was surprising her these days, more generally in a good sense. As Gael returned his gaze upon her and spoke. Kory was well, delighted. To have their company for just a bit longer. Her eyes shone brighter as she caught sight of his own and her lips smiled very friendly.

"Oh certainly, it be my pleasure... It's just a small walk this way, it shouldn't take too much of your time..."

Her voice overly expressing the joy in her voice. Her hair blowing a little more in her face, but didn't bother this time. Kory extending her arm to point to a faint path through the trees. Away from the direction of the nest. Just a small walk, to a waterfall pool surrounded well by trees. It wasn't so easy to find, but once found hardly forgotten. In her short time in and around these parts. Kory learned a lot about everything, there was still plenty to take in. She then turned on foot to lead them through the path. Her footsteps at a pace that she wouldn't mind Gael to meet with his own. There was a faint stir within her, an excitement for their company. More than joyous. Her hand then brushed her red locks behind her ear. It was much in a blaze of flames, but not too tangled. Running her hand through from the top shook her entire locks. To loosen them up. Feeling the dried blood at some of the ends that seemed to almost blend in colour. Then her hands dropped. Moving her eyes to try and find Gael with a smile.

"Gael, where is it you hail from? Is this where your heading? You have to forgive me, I'm still learning about these lands, outside my own. Its strange to think it has only been a month and yet it seems too long. But, there is something about these lands. Don't you think? What brings you to these parts, may I ask?"

Kory asked Gael, maybe too many questions. As her joy sort of over took her excitement and a need to know. Almost laughing at herself and her cheeks blushing. Acting a tad of the child in her heart. Instead of totally shying away, Kory just tried to embrace these emotions. They were who she was. To be ashamed, would be ashamed in herself. Her eyes passing between her words towards Gael's direction. She was just assuming he wasn't from around these parts, but she was still wishing to know. It wasn't a lie she wasn't overly familiar with most of these lands. Kory as heir to her throne, knew of these kingdoms, but it was must different now that she actually was now much in these foreign lands. There was hearing and there was experiencing. It was quite different. They had always fascinated her, but she hadn't been expected to leave Valaria all that greatly unless needed. Considering how well hid and separate it was in many ways. It really was something to think how long or short really it had been since she had little choice, but to leave. It was in these moments she missed Valaria the most. But, there is a good thing to be in these new exciting lands. Kory couldn't ever know if she could find something else to call home, it may always remain Valaria, but there was comforts to be found. A life to be shared. Her words not seeking to cause so much as trouble, but just kind curiosity. She had really nothing to hide. As her eyes looked upon the trail ahead. It was faint. Leaves scattered, it was even barely a path. Mostly man made without meaning to be made. At the signs it didn't get used much. Feeling the shrubs play upon her lower parts of her legs. Tickling her gently, her lips escaped a giggle. It was quiet and soon passed. Yet her joy remained. As they were itching closer... Hearing the faint echoes. Of the water. Bringing more joy to her lips. To how she even walked. She was not a mere weak woman, hopelessly lost. She was strong, because she embraced all she was. Even without direction, she had faith she'd find her place. Feeling a little out of place, really wasn't such a bad thing, but for the most part. Kory was very much put together. She wasn't trying to be anyone else. No one but herself. There was no point running down a path that did not belong to her, not try and make the path more easier or safer. Whatever road blocks would come, Kory was sure enough to take them all head strong, head first. There was no reason to ever back down.

---

Music:Monster -- by Paramore

[Gael]

-Gael of Caledonia-



They're the REASON for defiance,

We can't ignore

We're the PROMISEof a new day,


It was a silly game that he and this woman were playing. They were standing there simply trying to read into each other, although, Gael had no idea of what to make of this redhead other than the fact that he hadn’t needed her help, and why she thought that he had, well, he wasn’t certain as to why other than bringing Shergar back. Either way, now they were both covered in sweat, blood, and dirt, a matching pair that they would almost make, two warriors. Although, the idea of a female warrior was beyond him. His culture, while women knew how to fight, it certainly was not their job. Their skills in swordplay and other such means was a way to defend themselves if outsiders traveled into the tribe and try to take advantage of them while their man was not around to protect them. This woman, this Kory, on the other than, while a little odd in her fighting style and planning, still knew how to fight, and the way that she had done so, proved that she had been fighting for herself for quite some time.

She was overtly friendly as well, since when did the people of Albion decide to point out to complete strangers were a water source was? Although, perhaps, like himself, was not of Albion. Unfortnetly for him though, his animals were in dire need of some water after the attack that had just happened, and he found himself asking for her help in getting to this water source, as much as it pained Gael to ask for help from a woman, “Oh certainly, it be my pleasure…it’s just a small walk, it shouldn’t take too much of your time…” Kory trailed off for a moment. Slate eyes simply stared at her flatly as she pointed to a faint pathway that could be seen through the trees. Funny how if those cockatrice had not attacked him when they had, a few more feet and they probably would have been on that pathway without her help at all. It was Kory who set the pace for them now though, Gael followed and kept up easily with his stride, giving a sharp whistle to his animal companions to follow.

His gaze remained over his shoulder for a moment, to make sure that the three were following him and this odd, redheaded woman when she started to speak, “Gael, where is it you hail from? Is this where your heading? You have to forgive me, I'm still learning about these lands, outside my own. Its strange to think it has only been a month and yet it seems too long. But, there is something about these lands. Don't you think? What brings you to these parts, may I ask?" she asked with a smile. Gael simply stared at her for a moment, she was full of many questions, “You ask a lot of questions,” he replied flatly, his gaze turning ahead of him now. It reminded him of Maeve in a way, how she had been full of so many questions as well. What was it with him and running into these over emotional women lately? Or at least, they were very in tune with their emotions, something that Gael was not, not when he was here in foreign lands to him at least. She did not seem like one of the woman from the five kingdoms though; perhaps she was not of Albion at all, especially if she was still learning about the lands, she probably did not even know of his homeland.

“I come hail from up North, Caledonia, the people of these lands call it the wild country,” he replied now, figuring that if she had heard of his land, that from anybody in Albion would have referred to it as that, after all, not a lot of people dared to step foot in it until just recently. Just the mentioning of it made him miss home slightly. Scouting was fine and all, but he missed his tribe, the Picts, and scouting proved to be boring sometimes when he was separated from Rannoch, the fights in the wild stretched thin. A snort could not help but to Gael at the thought of her other question, that there was something about these lands, “These lands are foreign to me, and there is nothing special about them. They are full of people who are blind and fear magic, stags show more bravery in facing a hunter with an arrow pointed at his face than these people do,” he replied sourly now, “And I am here merely to collect information, nothing more. I got separated from my scouting friend,” his eyes glanced over towards her now, “Why are you here? I believe you and I have different ideas of life as it is, let alone traveling through this area.”

[/font]

This is a WAR

The BLOOD will spill,

The VOICES will be heard.
[/center]


NOTES: | I LIVVEEEEE. Kay, the end.|
MUSIC: |Wake Up The Voiceless - Story of the Year|
TAGS: |Kory|

[kory]

It wasn't so much a game to Kory, rather more just life. Though she was defiantly trying to make him out at least a little clearer in her mind. For now there was very little other than she hadn't much reason not to like him. Or not trust him. It was just her nature to seek friend than foe first. There wasn't so much in Kory that she had helped him in the fight just simply because he needed it. Kory did it because she could. Why would she just stand aside, when she could act. It really wasn't something Kory had overly thought about, she just did it. It was just not in her to sit on the sidelines. Her hand brushed her hair out of her face. Eyeing them both out. They really did need a bath. Covered in blood, sweat and dirt. Seemed more often these days. Kory smiled, which why it helped knowing where such places to bathe existed. For now she did not have a single place to call home. Or linger. For now Kory was everywhere. Searching just where she slotted in. It seemed only nature that it be at the aid of others. She wasn't complaining. These skills she had were a blessing. They had been set for when she would be queen, but that was long out of reach. With Kory's heart and knowing she could help. It just was the natural thing to do. She didn't really choose who she helped or saved. Who was she to say who deserved it? Kory's eyes watched his own upon her etching through her skin. Her every being. It really was only natural to try and understand one another. Was he maybe not sure why she stood before him? She escaped a laugh. She wasn't in any hurry to make herself disappear. There was something impressive about him. A mystery she herself wished to learn. She could use his company if he would allow it.

She wasn't what everyone expected of a woman. As she wasn't pretending to fight, Kory could fight and would. Just because she was a tough warrior, she was still a woman. She just wasn't every woman. She was kind and she was tender. Honest and Positive. Joyous. It just wasn't in her nature to be any other way. He maybe but a stranger to her now. How was she expected to know him if she was just played coyly. She had nothing to hide. Not that she hadn't made mistakes. Kory just wasn't so above herself not to admit them. Kory just wasn't so easily placed in a nicely build box. She did not fit in the so called slots. Did this mean every about her was wrong? Who knows? She was just who she was. Or at least who she was trying to be. Just like now. Her eyes could linger over him and easily admire him. Taking in how ever much she could. As her lips smiled. Build like a warrior. Was he in any of these boxes? She wondered. Not that there was anything wrong, at least it meant one had a placement. Though in Kory's heart believed everyone had something that defined who they were. Something unique and beautiful. As Kory wondered. There was once a time for some sort of placement in her kingdom. They certainly had their ways. They were much like her. Just a different culture.

It was something as Kory began to read these places. It seemed in the forest where she was most of the time. She had merely stumbled upon such places and people. She hardly knew where she was going. Lost just meant to her in ways freedom. How was she suppose to know exactly where she was meant to be. Such things had been overwhelming and at times it is just best left to just see how things unfolded. There was still tons she was left to really learn. All before her kingdom fell had almost been but of stories. It was entirely different now and these lands were vast. She was pleased Gael had agreed and followed her. There was few places she knew, but this one she defiantly did. Knew? Well, as much as she could. Still yes a lot to learn. It was oddly nice how he followed her. Kory knew it was out for the need of water, but she half felt a hint of trust. Just maybe he didn't realise it. In time she could earn, but yes it was all about time for these people. The forest was set in a nice light. The breeze was gentle enough. It was almost a rather still day. Maybe having something to do with the fight just before spooking the life around it. It allowed the faint sounds of their feet crunching on the ground. Allowed to feel him walk with her a little in zinc. There was a need inside to latch on to him. Her eyes lowered. It could almost be anyone. She just wasn't in a hurry to just let him slip her fingers. As her fingers now ran through her hair a little, pulling at the simple knots. It was maybe poor judgement to act so friendly and seek so much, but she was up to taking the chance. A chance she may sway him to even hinder a pleasant thought about her.

Kory lowered her head a little more again. As Gael spoke. Amusing her. Yes, perhaps she was asking a few to many. Maybe this was her coy side, causing her to ask so much, but she paid it more be out of excitement. Kory was open too all questions and she was merely open to ask herself. To understand perhaps. Though she had to agree she did load him with a few all at one time as if the battle had happened many weeks ago and slipped her mind. for it had. She doesn't linger very much in the past, just for the present. Kory's eyes lifted to his own as he had spoken and sought her out. It had seemed to struck something inside him. It may have intrigued him or well, maybe amused himself. Kory isn't after all that serious all the time. She is many things. Joyous is the main part. She did wear her emotions on her sleeves. They came and they went. Better than over thinking them. Her eyes softened and her lips smiled.

"I did, To bold of me? Though I am interested to know. Seems a good way to see if you are as good company to keep from what I've seen so far. "

Kory spoke light hearted to Gael. It just didn't vase her. Even in ways she had asked a lot of questions even in her own mind. It was just the direction of the moment she gathered. These people in these new areas were more closed off. Not as open as Kory and once Valaria had been. Her valarian charm so to speak. Asking these questions or any questions just seemed a simple way to understand. To extend interest. Well really to just start conversation. Which these days Kory doesn't get a lot, so which may have caused a few more questions at once. But the intentions had been good. Kory wasn't so above herself to poke fun at herself. Her emotions were much a ride in itself. Really as her green eyes looked to his eyes, she sort a conversation from him. Why give up a chance such as this? Everyone deserves a chance. So far she did like him. He was stand offish, he was from a culture all his own. It was fascinating, but here he was. Beside her. Something he just couldn't completely deny. Now Kory wasn't expecting they'd go skipping in a field of flowers had they been children. Just seeking a chance herself. Why shun away someone with little reason? Her eyes ran over his again as he spoke. Let how the words rolled off his tongue and played at her ear. It was a name she had heard of. As her eyes set away to look upon the path before them, as they got closer and closer. Whatever the reason. She liked he was opening up. That he wished to speak to her. Led her a bit down his world, how ever vague it had been. It was what he allowed thus far and Kory was pleased. She knew these kingdoms and lands almost as if they had been stories. They were real, but Valaria stuck by itself so much that it really seemed worlds apart. Caledonia. Kory smiled. It sounded beautiful off his tongue. Now with so spare time, this may cause for a visit. These tribes sounded almost so fictionally wonderful. Kory was always accepting of all. Not one to put an action on some one as a reason to judge the entire race. She was a little more well headed than that. She could admire the tone in his voice and the glance in his eye. Gael loved his home. His tribe. The land he was from. It was in ways how she would always love Valaria. Even at the thought her heart beamed, though knowing if she returned to simply rubble it wouldn't be an easy site to see. Whether Valaria stood or not, it would always be in her heart. She was Valaria.

"Caledonia? The land of the many tribes I was taught. Filled of passionate people seeking claim over what is theirs, Strong folk I've heard and now I can see it. I never heard it referred to as wild. How I was told about such places. Even Albion. Was almost like stories. Some fairy tale like and some well not so much. Just always seemed worlds away. What is your tribe like and called?"

Kory sort to sound a little like she knew what she was talking about. She had heard tales of Caledonia as if all these places were all surrounded by myths and legends. Valaria was just worlds apart. An ancient kingdom, that was well hidden. Known for its warlords. For such along time there had been peace in Valaria. Hardly any battles anymore. They trained still in the art of war simply more for tradition and ceremonial ways. It was the decent attacks that oddly started when her sister was born and later when her own sister took revenge on Valaria. That the kingdom saw war again after so long of joy and peace. They had dealing with other kingdoms, though those most closest but not as often as one would imagine. From what Kory had heard Caledonia sounded interesting. At least adventurous. Looking to Gael, she proud to have met one. She was interested in this tribe he was from. Kory lowered her eyes from him with a smile that slowly died. As her mind faded of the images of Caledonia. As Gael spoke of the lands they were now in. Kory could understand. She had heard of the rifts between places. The destruction albion had caused his lands. She still wasn't sure it was so right to blame the entire land for it. She was sure if he truly looked in these lands he would find others that would agree with him.

"They are also foreign to me. I've hardly seen it all, but there is good in these lands. I believe there is always good and hope to be found even in the darkest corner. Sure there is things wrong about these lands just as even in my own there was plenty wrong just as there was good. Though is doesn't make how you see it wrong. Albion I believe effected a lot in Caledonia, correct? So I understand the need to protect it."

Kory wasn't so sure how she was suppose to respond to his words. It was his opinion. Not her own. She saw the negativity in his words. Her nature called to see what was positive. Though if this is how he saw it no wonder why he saw nothing special here. The attacks she heard probably hit pretty deep. She understood that, but to blame the entire land was just not in her ways. She was sure even in people Albion would agree with him. They walked at a decent pace. Despite the little heat, just the fact they were talking was just pleasing for Kory. So her mind can think and just be in someone else's company. Soon the water trickled in her ear and soon the path met just a few feet from the water. It had that calm soothing effect. It was rather beautiful. Kory was half guessing it wasn't places like these Gael disliked so much. Though in ways places like these belonged to the land nothing more. Who would want to claim this? Seemed something best shared. Kory smiled. As stopped. His question stopped her more than just the water. It was something she barely knew herself. For there was so many ways to answer it. Even then how was Kory to know. Kory's eyes pondered over the question as her eyes shifted. Then her lips half smiled as he spoke of life. The difference is, Gael could return home. Where as Kory couldn't so much. Life. He just didn't know how much Kory valued life.

"I'm from Valaria. A very ancient kingdom that for many centuries had been left in peace after the wars that took over the kingdom. Many I have come across Valaria is but a myth. For me, Valaria was real. Like I said there was a lot of things wrong with Valaria. When my sister Kalysta was born it caused a war and eventually she was stripped of her position as heir. When I was born and made heir, she well she sort to take revenge on Valaria. Brought war to Valaria. Only would surrender if I was handed to her. My parents of course chose to save the kingdom and I endured the years of being my sister's slave. Some weeks ago, war broke out and caused the destruction of Valaria. I was able to escape with my life. As the kingdom fell around me. That's why I am here. Because I chose to survive. I value life a great deal, Gael. I survived so much and I just can't let what happened happen to another. Not when I can do something about it. I will always keep Valaria in my heart. "

Kory spoke of many things about Valaria. Or well a quick of what had happened. She couldn't know if the whispers of Valaria circled in Caledonia. Anything could happen. Though as she spoke, she could still see Valaria clearly in her mind. As if it was just yesterday she saw it last. It was her, it was her blood. She was of course more than just her kingdom, but it was very large part. She just needed to keep on living. It was more than just the destruction. For six years Kory was forced to live in a way well, it caused her to not see a great deal of Valaria. She was locked up a lot. Restrained. She was now free and tied with the fact her entire kingdom was gone. Kory was lost in ways, but she had so much to live for. She had a life. She had to live it. Had to use it. Save those who need it. She wasn't queen of Valaria, but she could find a duty to the people. If Kory could she would aim to save the world. So not to see another lose so much. Especially their lives, for they were so important. Fight for those who can't. Kory wasn't so much in sad speaking of Valaria. It joyed her to remember it. It just yeah, brought a couple of mixed emotions, but she was all for remembering it. Kory smiled. As if this was to able Gael to understand her more, but it could take a little longer than that. As her eyes then fell towards the water and motioned towards it. Feeling the breeze cooling her emotions. As it blew through her red locks. She bent down to the edge and let her hand play at the surface ripples.