Two Killer Weapons [Elyan]

[kory]

It was late morning in the city of Camelot. The sun was mostly out, with some thick clouds around it. Perhaps some rain was coming later? Not that Kory couldn't deal with the water. She sure had dealt her fair share yesterday when she slipped off the bridge after rescuing the small boy. She did not remember much after that. Just remembered the falling part and kept falling. Then it was all a rush as the water tried to soak in her lungs. Her body twisting and turning with the rush of the water. Felt it pull at her hands, before her swords were knocked out of her grip and lost deep within the river. After that her mind had gone blank on most of it. Just remembered she struggled to survive until she was lent an extra large hand that pulled her to safety. She had again survived death. There was the faint moment when all was flashing at her eyes, she knew death was coming, but with all her might she tried to hang on. For her will to live.

Which eventually brought her to seek the blacksmith. She had her two daggers still strapped to her thighs, but she just felt incomplete without her swords. There was people to help protect. There was a small sense of belonging as she walked the streets. She caught some eyes, but nothing major. She was after all a warrior princess, usually can cause a little raising of a brow or two. Kory smiled softly as a pair of eyes lingered as she passed by. It was a little feel of home here. Which Kory hadn't set out to feel. She was dressed in her sensual warrior attire. Of embroidered leather cut off top and skirt. Arm and wrist bands alike. As well as the collar along with her silver pendant of her goddess X'hal. With the helpful direction to the blacksmith, she managed to easily find it. As felt the small pouch on her waist. She was sure she had more than enough. She had planned to save this as much as she could for dire means and well, this was in a way dire.

Kory walked with intent and purpose. With a touch of grace, as her hand motioned to the door. Gave it a rattling at the door. Before she opened the door and found herself within the blacksmith. It smelt of iron and coal. If she needed to be sure, she knew for sure now. As metal glimmered at her eyes. She wasn't overly sure how to go about this. She never been to a blacksmith personally, as she never had a reason to before. She found her swords on her escape out of Valaria. Her daggers were her own, crafted for her when she had been princess. She couldn't really see anyone, but thought she had heard something. As her green eyes looked around followed with the faint flow of her red hair.

"Hello? Is anybody here?"

Kory spoke as she motioned a little deeper inside her hand ran along different pieces of metal. Sure it was not a place a woman was much seen in, let alone intended on the need of weapons and which she did know how to use them. She could deal easy enough without them, but she knew that was much false thinking. She needed to be as prepared, even if Kory just simply never plans. There was someone out there. Needing of a hero. Perhaps several. Despite it being a tad dark in here, she liked the warmth it had. Must be from all the hot coals burning. As her hand clutched a little by her side, soon. She should have weight back in her grasp. Kory's voice was loud enough to be heard, but kept with the gentle touch. As her eyes looked for a friendly face that may lend her a hand. What was his name? She had been told. Elyan! Sir Elyan to be exact.

---

Music:Madonna - Die Another Day

[cherryblossom131]

Elyan couldn't remember the last time he had eaten. Had he even eaten today? His stomach grumbled, giving him his answer. He always forgot about eating when he was in the forge. He was too concentrated on his work. Gwen would occasionaly come in while he was working and give him a sandwich or just an apple, she was probably too busy in the castle now. He was working on a dagger for one of the nobles, she was a woman oddly enough. She had come to him telling him she needed a dagger but couldn't go to the royal blacksmith. Despite how curious he was at the reason for a noblewoman to require such a weapon he didn't ask any questions and obliged.

He had finished shaping it but the metal was still burning hot. He immersed it in the bucket of water he had already had prepared and relished in the sound of the quickly cooling metal. He had always loved that hissing sound when he was a child. He used to think it sounded like hundreds of snakes, and would use it to scare Gwen when they were children. He took the metal out and left it on his counter, it would still take some time before it fully cooled and he could smooth out the edges and sharpen it. He never rushed his work, so he decided that was it for the day. Maybe now he could finally have something to eat. Judging by all the work he'd done and the soot covering his hands and most probably his face, he's need a bath too.

"Hello? Is anybody here?" Maybe not then. "Yes." He saw a flash of red hair and then a girl...a woman stood in front of him. Were they planning to revolt against the men or something?! He chuckled at the thought. When he looked up at her, he couldn't stop the way his eyes went wide and his jaw probably dropped but he was too distracted to notice. She was probably the stangest person he'd ever seen. She was wearing leather...very tight leather, he hadn't failed to notice. He had never seen anyone with eyes as green as hers or hair as red for that matter. If he hadn't known any better he might have thought she was some sort of witch. She looked like a warrior. He could see in her eyes that she had seen battles and bloodshed and death, yet she was still alive. They had hardly spoken but he strangely admired her for that. He admired anyone who came out of battle alive. He'd had his fair share and he knew how hard it is, how it changes you somehow. He came out of his thoughts and remembered himelf, "Sorry, was there something you needed?"

[kory]

Kory felt very much deep in the cave of the forge. Could now hear the shaping and scraping of metal. Heard the sounds of it cooling as it echoed through the room. Seeing flashes of red glowing and it wasn't a reflection. As Kory's hand ran over some of the metal, some that seem to look on their way to being swords. Running over another felt the sharp burning of her finger just light enough as she quickly withdrew it. Cooling it in her mouth. Half knowing this was nothing. It was barely a mark. She had seen and felt much worse. It never stopped her before. As her hand then dropped to her torso. Lightly traced the newly closed scratch it was among a few. This one had been a reminder of her mistake. One she couldn't regret and wouldn't make it again. When she had mistaken Percival and as did he. Led to him giving her this wound. Had they not mistaken one another, would they still have been as victorious? Kory always believed there was hope. She also believed to live in the present not the past. What could have been meant very little if anything at all than what was.

Then came the footsteps and Kory knew she was not alone. She never got tired of having that feeling any chance she could get it. What came first his face or his voice? Kory was quite sure it was a little of both. A charming, kind face with strong eyes and a voice to match. A knight and a blacksmith. She was rather fond of the idea. Her eyes upon him were sharp with colour, but were gentle with touch. She smiled a little amused at his reaction to her. It was something to watch someone roll the idea of her in their heads. She didn't mind the eyes, she didn't mind this Elyan. Sir Elyan, Percival had told her. He hadn't told her much about him, he certainly left out he was extremely charming to look at. Even with the dirt. In his dark eyes Kory could see the fire within them and looking dead into her own eyes. She was maybe strange to him, but there was the sense he slowly figuring her out before she spoke. Was really looking at her, than some strange passing in the streets. She felt the rattling of her warrior heart as he already saw her truth. That she wasn't just pretend. Without even her name or much else in passing. Elyan had already offered so much that many do not. Respect. Admired whatever battles she had fought that led her to stand here. With scratches in toe and her chest still rising of air. Kory smiled softly as Elyan regrouped his emotions, which Kory was already vastly interested in watching them unfold. A knight that could feel, now that was a warrior to tremble at. Kory's eyes ran over his question. Wondering how poetic it almost sounded. Had she been any less wise she should have plenty to answer to that. For she had nothing. There could be so much she could ask for, but very little she needed.

"Sir Elyan? Is it? I'm Kory. Percival told me you were the blacksmith to go to. It is an honour to meet you. I lost my swords in battle, yesterday. Both of them. I am in need of new ones, would you be able to lend your skills to my cause, please? I have enough coin for your services..."

Kory then broke the distance as she lowered her head a little as she asked him. She was pretty sure this was Elyan. Tall, dark and handsome. Sounded almost like the perfect knight. Funny how she had been running into knights of camelot. As she reached out her hand for his own and she gave him her name. She felt already comfortable within his presence. Kory was like this, she was open to trust and didn't disrespect by being stand offish or seeking an enemy. She believed everyone deserved a chance and to be heard. Kory smiled a little more as she mentioned Percival. Whom she had gone into battle with to save the children and considered him a good friend. He saw Elyan as a friend, lent only Kory to trust Elyan more. Then Kory asked kindly enough if he could make her new swords. She was sure it wouldn't be quick. She wasn't in a great hurry to really leave Camelot. She quite liked it here. Soon she could be holding the craftwork straight from the heart of Camelot. Kory liked the idea of that. She had the most precious part of Valaria, her heart and that cannot be taken.

[cherryblossom131]

Her eyes were kind, kinder than he expected from someone who had been in battle and probably witnessed death. He noticed now the scratches and scrapes on her skin. She must be very brave. He was surprised to hear that she knew Percival. He listened to her confirm his theory that she was a warrior and that she lost her swords. "Hello Kory. So you know our Percy then." the way she spoke of him told him they were quite close. "The honour is all mine. I will gladly offer my services." He smiled warmly at her. "Money won't be a problem I'll take what you give me, I relish in the work not the pay."

He watched her reach out her hand and he took it. She was a strange woman he had already gathered, but if she was a friend of Percival then she must be alright. He was aware that he probably smothered her hand with black soot, but it wasn't at the forefront of his mind when he looked at her. She was a very beautiful woman, he wasn't blind, but she looked confident and strong, and she was quite kind to. It was an occurance and combination he's rarely seen, except with his little sister Gwen of course, but she was no warrior, not in the literal sense at least, like Kory seemed to be. He wasn't naive enough to completely trust someone when meeting them, but she looked like the kind of person to be open with their emotions. He dropped his hand and brought himself back to Earth.

"Are there any specific sizes you wanted, or any measurements you need to give me?" He arranged his thoughts back onto blacksmith mode. He really needed to stop daydreaming, which he seemed to be doing a lot lately. "I'm afraid two swords may take a while though, maybe a week at the very least." He'd have to work on them daily if he was to be finished with them in a week. They were bound to take longer with the several pieces of armour he needed to fix as well, thanks to the recent tournament. He didn't want to rush the swords either, he had always taken pride in the quality of his work, and rushing would hinder that. He knew he'd never be as good a blacksmith as his father was but he would try to make him proud, of both him and the forge. He would try to make sure these swords were works of art, because he had a feeling this girl...Kory was going to need to use them soon.

[kory]

It felt like the world had stood still for just a little moment in time. Only Kory wasn't so sure she was up to really getting it started. Kory wasn't the rushing type. When she felt anything, it was best to let them come as they wished. If they then passed on it was time then to let them go. There was certain things that lasted forever. Least in her kingdom, but then there was many things different within her kingdom than well anywhere else. He was admiring her eyes. This wasn't a new thing, but with a different set of eyes looking back at her, it was different. He was different. She was loved once throughout Valaria. Born to be queen. She always had eyes upon her. Even when she was taken as a slave by her own sister she had eyes upon her, just not with love in their eyes, but hate and lust. In everyone she has met so far Kory was sure she left a little spark in each.

Death? Battle? Kory was trained since she was a small girl to always fight to the death, which was why she was also taught to avoid fights unless absolutely necessary. Kory's eyes searched his own gentle strong eyes. They moved from her eyes to her skin. To her marks of battle. He hadn't much the reach in his eyes to shame her because of it or think she was less of a woman. Kory was a strong as she could be, but it was in her bravery where her strength truly was. That was what a hero was made of. To carry on whilst others could not. She was pleased to catch the change as he heard Percival's name, Percival was one of the most bravest and willed men she's ever met. For someone as big and tough, there was a gentleness that was never damaged. Percival simply cared.

"I do. I had the honour to fight along side him a couple nights back, to bring the children home and together we succeeded. Then yesterday I was pushed off a bridge in battle and Percival came to my rescue. Where I lost my swords."

Kory was proud to speak of the battle Percival and herself had been successful with. As well as when Percival saved her life. She would walk into any danger along side him with no questions asked. It had only been a couple days past, but she already considered Percival as a close friend, maybe even a best friend. There was something even from the first moments she met Percival, they just understood each other. It wasn't until that Kory knew what it meant to be a knight of Camelot. That she could see in Elyan's eyes. Her eyes shone warmly as he gave her a smile that warmed her heart. Were all the knights this charming? Kory could tell with Elyan he was much his own man. It strung her a little loop as he spoke of money. There was once a time it did not matter. She was royalty. Though now there was little, but when it came to saving lives there was never to high of a cost.

"Thank-you most kindly Sir Elyan... This is all I took before Valaria was destroyed, but there is no cost too high I wouldn't pay to save lives."

Kory thanked Elyan as he reached out his hand. Whilst her other hand pulled at her coin purse at her hip. Felt the weight of the coins. She always figured there was enough there to live off of for about two years. depending how she spent it of course. She was even feeling the need to find a home. Even though she was a hero. She was also human capable of many things. She couldn't be a hero if she did not in a way live her life. She felt the grasp of his firm grip. He was taking advantage of the situation, which Kory could not object. Where she was unusual there also was that awestruck look in his eyes. Perhaps the word he was looking for was unique. Her lips brightened with a friendly smile as she felt her hand rather encased. His hand was covered, a little rough and a touch warm. There was hardly anything wrong with that. So he messed up her hand a little. She was used to being covered in blood and dirt. She can manage with a little unsettling. So he was a strong knight. A very strong knight by the feel of his hand and really a man in the end. Able to be undone with the company of a wondrous woman. Then he let go and Kory's hand lingered the memory. She was a little disappointed it did not last longer, but as it were he needed his feet planted back on the ground. Kory blushed a little with his admiration of her in just a matter of seconds. Not that she was coy type, was a more friendly blush. Rubbed her covered hand on her skirt a little.

"I'm not too sure. The last swords I had I found when Valaria fell. I haven't had swords made for me since I was about thirteen... What would be you best guess, Elyan?"

Kory wasn't really sure about size, weight any of that really. The swords she lost weren't made for her. She took them when her kingdom fell. Before that she was a slave for least six years, she barely held a sword let alone had one. Any sword made for her was much when she was a kid and still growing. Somehow she managed to get a hold of her daggers. She thought it best Elyan decide. She was sure if needed she could take on any sword in her grasp, but there probably was a difference in the end.

"I have the time Elyan, the wait will not be a problem. I have my two daggers still with me I can use them to my advantage until the swords are ready."

Kory read the concern that she was in real need of the swords fast, but truthfully she could wait. As she responded as her hand flipped faintly the flap of her skirt to pull free one of her valarian daggers, twisted around in her fingers. Letting the coal fire in the room allowing the weapon to glimmer just a little. Had its own style and almost grace to it. Whilst it held a powerful strike. As did the other one still strapped to her thigh. They were which she was better skilled with. She preferred them more hidden than seen and she liked the two swords because they offered a challenge because they were the more difficult to use to some. Perhaps she just liked the two weapon feel. She just wasn't much into shields. When she put herself into battle she put everything on the line. She had considered getting armour, but it probably just weigh her down. For now she just needed two swords how ever long they would take. Having met Elyan, she knew she would be holding on these swords for a long time to come and she rather liked the idea about that.

[cherryblossom131]

He listened to her speak of her battle and how she met Percival. By the gods, she certainly got around, didn’t she? “That’s very brave of you to risk your own life, to save others.” It certainly put any curiosity as to why she'd need new swords to rest. It seemed she was some sort of hero maybe? Elyan had no objections to that whatsoever, on the contrary, he rather admired it, and it didn't come as much of a shock now. They lived in a cruel world; there could never truly be enough heroes. Someone would always need help. It almost saddened Elyan slightly to think about how cruel and unjust the world could actually be, but he still had faith that it could change, he always had, apparently so did this strange girl. He smiled at the thought of Percival saving people; it was just like him. He was a big strong man but with a surprisingly gentle and caring heart.

Elyan noted the far off look of awe in her eyes when she spoke of saving lives. Valaria! That was it! He had been trying to place her accent over the course of the conversation. He had visited the place a few years ago, only for a week; he had just been passing through. He had also heard of its unfortunate fall. "So you were from Valaria, I thought I recognized your accent. I'm very sorry for the loss of your home." He truly was. Even though he had been eager to leave her a few years ago, Camelot was his home. He didn't know what he do if she was destroyed...like Valaria had been. The poor girl, she must have lost everything. "There will be no need for you to pay too grand a price, in fact if the purpose of these weapons is to save lives then I will gladly charge you nothing." He didn't need her money, and now knowing where she was from, he was certain she probably needed the money a lot more than he did.

"I'm not too sure. The last swords I had I found when Valaria fell. I haven't had swords made for me since I was about thirteen... What would be your best guess, Elyan?" Swords made for her? She must have been a noble back in her home, and quite a rich one at that, to have swords made for her. That was certainly a shock to him. He'd never have guessed she was a noble. Elyan guessed there were probably a lot more surprises around this girl to come, and he should probably just expect the unexpected where Kory was concerned. It seemed she was quite literally one of a kind. "Well then, if it's alright with you, I'll just have to take a few measurements." That way he could make the swords fit around her specifications; so it wouldn't be as much of a burden to carry and wield. He'd make them uniquely for her in regards to height and most importantly weight. They couldn't be too heavy or too light. Although, she did look strong, so she could probably handle a bit of weight on the swords "I take pride on the quality of my work, so if it's not too bold to say, these swords will probably be much better than your others, a lot easier to use and less of a burden." He smiled warmly.

When she pulled out one of the daggers strapped to her thigh, he was instantly drawn to the precision of the blade. It was obvious, well at least to him, that a lot of care had been put into making it. The proportions were very near flawless and judging by the way she held it, it was almost perfectly balanced. He looked at it with awe. To a blacksmith like him, the weapon was practically a work of art. It looked stunning. He held out his hand slightly. "May I?" He motioned his hand toward the dagger. He wanted to get a feel of it. Although he was constantly praised for his work, he still hadn't created that one weapon he'd say was the best he ever made, for the rest of his life.

[kory]

There was very much cruelty in the world. Spread across these lands. Kory saw it in all kinds of ways, but there was still a great deal of good. Of hope. Of even joy. What little there maybe was enough to protect. As Kory stood in the middle of Elyan's world. Surrounded by all kinds of weaponry. Of metal. The smell of coal. Even through this darkened place, there was a light. Kory smiled at Elyan's words. Of her bravery to save others. Regarding her as if it had been some really great sacrifice. When really for Kory it was a rather simple one. A warrior? A hero? A saviour? Kory was all of these and above. She was whatever one considered hope to be. The beacon. As Kory watched in his reactions, a hero didn't fall short from him. As long as there was one hero in the world, then there was hope. Kory knew the strengths of having a brotherhood like the knights. The power could come in the numbers. The true nature in a hero was to be able to go through anything alone as well as with another. A hero is made in the moment.

"It's a simple sacrifice to put my life on the line to save so much more. You wouldn't understand, I watched my entire world crumble, I will not let it happen again."

Kory couldn't second guess any of her reasonings. She was here that was the reason. She had lived. After watching and unable to stop others from falling. Though Kory wouldn't simply lay down and die. Kory had survived a great deal, she would fight until her last breath. She did want to live and she wanted others to have that choice. To have some chance in this world. As Kory had lent her heart in through her words. Felt her strength in her own words. This was who she was. As her eyes ran over Elyan. Kory then jolted back in surprise. As she could almost see the reflection of Valaria in his eyes. She hadn't expected he would know of Valaria. She didn't expect it from most people. For a while she thought she would be all that was left to remember it even existed, but perhaps she was wrong. Whatever brought this blacksmith to Valaria, it seemed to have left its mark. As she span the joy from his words. Felt the thudding of her heart. She had so many possible questions that was running through her mind to ask. Then perhaps he didn't know it to well, if he didn't recognise who she was.

"I am! I am Princess, Kordelia Anders. It was unfortunate what happened, I was unable to help stop it... But Valaria still lives in my heart. It always will. Though I am pleased to hear you know if it. It must mean you have seen it, very few outsiders have. Those who have never seem to forget it."

Kory then spoke her true name. There was never anything hide and she was still princess in her mind. She probably be queen, but her sister had stolen that title now. Kory had another path now. Kory smiled softly as Elyan spoke of the loss, even if he needn't really be sorry, it was just one of those things. One in which Kory wouldn't let it happen again, not so easy. Especially not to Camelot. She was finding it rather like home away from home. Which was Elyan's home. It was that thing no one knew what to do until the kingdom would fall. Kory was prevented from trying to save Valaria after being bound up literally, that by the time she did escape the kingdom was far gone from saving even if there was billions to help it. It was too late. Kory then motioned around a little in the shop as her hand toyed over the work. As Valaria was alive in her heart. She turned her red locks a little as she was interested in how Elyan knew of Valaria. He must have seen it. It an ancient kingdom and very well hid, that many forgot it existed. That it fell many decades even centuries ago. It was small, but still extremely powerful. She turned her lips slightly at her last words. Kory was confident Elyan would never forget it. Valaria was hard to forget. The joyous kingdom of old. Kory was finding how shut off these other kingdoms were. Where in Valaria everything was embraced openly. Although as Kory lowered her head. Where there had been good in Valaria there was still plenty bad as well. Kory smiled again feeling perhaps she was a little to lost in remembering Valaria.

"That is very kind of you Elyan. Please allow me to pay you in some way... Maybe if you care for something to eat? My shout. It's the least I can do and you can tell me more how you came to Valaria."

Elyan's words of payment was far too kind. Though with little money she did have, giving him nothing just didn't sit right for her. But if it was his wish for it, then she would respect that. As her eyes looked around, he must have been in here for a good few hours. He must be needing a little bit of food of some sort. In fact Kory was rather liking the idea, would give chance to talk to him a little more. About Valaria of course, but of other things. About him. Make a new friend as she could tell he was good company to keep. Having offered her this much. Kory wasn't sure why Elyan was in shock, he was full of surprises ready to be unravelled. Kory had never been measured before, well not like this. The last measure meant would have been when she was still a child. She gathered much would have changed. She admired his words, his honesty that these would be better. Kory imagined they really would. She couldn't doubt it. Her swords just weren't hers, but with Elyan's gifted hands, she could be fitted with something spectacular. Worthy for Starfire.

"Sure, I trust you have a gentle touch... It isn't to bold. I am sure they'll be exceptional to say the least."

Kory motioned closer as she agreed to allow him to measure her. As she lightly remarked his gentle touch if he accidentally perhaps on purpose lingers his touch, as Kory eyed him playfully. As she stood tall roughly 6 feet. As far as weight, that he'd have to be careful to figure out. Kory couldn't agree more to his comment. Her swords just weren't hers. Not that she couldn't wield any weapon, it sure would make things better if they were better tailored to her needs. For now she had her daggers. In which after pulling it out, hadn't expected Elyan's great interest. They were quite beautiful for weapons. Exquisitely marked and detailed. With precise proportions. Of course came down to the skilled hands behind them. They sat in her hand like a glove. Kory lightened her smile as Elyan asked. With a little twist in her hand and held it out for him to take it by its handle.

"Beautiful aren't they? Crafted by the warlords of Valaria. Each blade tells a story in the Valarian culture."

Kory remarked as she remained close as Elyan admired the blade. As she pulled the second one free as well. With markings and symbols. As each hand is different so is the blades. There is something that separates them, whilst keeps them together. As Kory toyed lightly at pendant at her neck, the symbol of her goddess and much the culture of her kingdom. Elyan may never made something like this. These were one of a kind made for only Kory, they aren't meant to be duplicated, but she was sure something will truly speak to Elyan. He would make something that spoke who its maker really was. Something exceptional. Maybe her two swords? She couldn't say.

[cherryblossom131]

She was a princess! His eyebrows shot up, and he failed to hear the rest of her sentence. He had been on the right train of thought then. That only made him feel even more remorse for her. She must have lost more than just her home, but her people as well...her kingdom. He should have known she was a noble before, because no matter how strange she was, all nobles carried themselves the same way; with confidence that could be seen as borderline arrogance and with grace. It was just how they were all raised. This girl...princess definitely walked with confidence in her stride. How could he have failed to notice? He was usually very observant. He smiled at her offer to get him food, and to be honest he was rather hungry. "That would be nice."

"Beautiful aren't they? Crafted by the warlords of Valaria. Each blade tells a story in the Valarian culture." He watched her take the other blade out and slowly accepted them. Now that he held them he could truly inspect at the intricate designs on the blades. He didn't recognize some of the symbols but the designs were beautiful. The blades themselves were also different, but they fit with each other like puzzle pieces. He marvelled at the craftsmenship like only a blacksmith could in regards to tiny differences in weight and length that his father had trained his hands to notice. "I have only visited Valaria once many years ago, so I don't know much about it." It was an unforgettable place, even though he'd only spent such a short time it made an impression on him. "Maybe you could also tell me what the blades say when I take you up on your proposition to get me something to eat," he chuckled. He had been completely distracted by the daggers but he quickly remembered his manners. Just because Valaria fell, it didn't make her any less of a noble. He bowed down. "Thank you, my lady."

Right, on to work! He grabbed an old balance and lifted it from a clutter in the corner of the forge. It was made of a large rusted pole with weights on either side of it and a platform at the bottom for a person to stand on. It wasn't extremely accurate but it would do. He also had a thin lenth of rope that his father had manually graduated, it also wasn't extremely accurate, but it was better than nothing. He mind was solely on the work now, it was his only concentration at this point in time. He held the rope against her and scribbled some measurements on a piece of parchment on his work table, as he made some calculations in his head. He then motioned to the balance and looked at her. "If you could step on the platform? The balance will help me get a rough idea of what your weight is."

[kory]

There Kory felt the room suddenly change and she wasn't sure she was overly surprised. Though to this extent just a little. Princess was much the life she left behind. She hadn't truly been a princess since she was in her early teens. She was given up by her parents in order to save her kingdom, which ended up falling in the end. Not that Kory saw the karma in that, for Kory understood the sacrifice in it all and she would never seek revenge. It was too easy and even harder to return from. She saw his eyes change. As if her entire image had changed. She didn't regret telling him, but hopefully she could lend him a chance down the track. To simply regard her as Kory. Maybe Starfire. She had no kingdom to govern. What was left of the valarian people, Kory wasn't really sure where, but they were being led by Kalysta. She had thought to go find them, but if there was one good trait in Kalysta is her desire to rule Valaria including its people. They were probably safer with Kalysta. Even if Kalysta was still set on destroying Kory, her hate could lend her to go to any lengths, Kory was sure. Of course to some extent she would always be a princess, it was what she was born, but it wasn't all that defined who she was. She defined herself and those lives she saved. Though she was born a princess, she was also trained as a warrior and from Valaria gave Kory her joyous nature. Just as she was sure Elyan wasn't just a blacksmith or a knight. Did he not define himself? A certain someone told her he was a good man. A great man. Perhaps all said and done. Friendship is forged as well as her two swords.

"Where would be best? "

Kory asked with a smile for where he would like to get something to eat. She just wasn't in that much of the know other than the tavern. Surely there were other places, but the tavern could do. It really was Elyan's choice. Although Hunting wasn't a great skill of hers. She managed to net two knights instead. Well a knight and one future king at the time. In some aspects it was an success. As she settled on her heels in her slight gladiator boots as Elyan looked over her daggers. Some truly underestimate size. Though small, they lent for a great deal of damage. Of course could come down to how you use them. They were even good for long distances. In some ways fighting was almost like dancing. To find the swift motion between blocks and strikes. Each step mattered. Her face softened as he spoke of Valaria. Not enough to know it a great deal, but enough that Elyan would remember. Valaria was an ancient kingdom it wasn't so easy to sum it up, but she sure could share a few things. In ways it much asking how does someone breathe? You just do. Just as Kory just knew. Valaria was renowned for their warlords there were long time when Valaria was at peace, no war. That they simply kept with the training to keep the tradition and for ceremonies.

"Sure and maybe you could tell me more about Camelot? I've only seen so much, but I feel I've barely entered the gate. I'd be interested to know how you came to be a knight. I think Percival told me vaguely. There wasn't any knights in Valaria. We had warlords and Warriors similar I believe. Maybe different training."

Kory expressed happily. There was nothing she needed to hide. Although there a lot to cover, but a couple of stories regarding her daggers was enough. As she also extended a desire to know more about Camelot and his knighthood. It was something not familiar in Valaria. She gathered their warriors were similar, but she was almost sure it would be different training. That's not to say either was better of course. She had already seen the skills they had. There was some strength in there being a brotherhood and to have a leader like Arthur. Then Elyan bowed. As Kory motioned closer. As her fingers motioned to his chin lightly. Offering a smile.

"Thank-you, but you can call me Kory."

Besides she was technically banished and stripped by her sister in some points. Then came the measurements. Kory was glad Elyan knew how to do this, because all Kory saw was a length of rope and not much else. Felt as he held the rope against her in odd places and heard the faint scribbles. Felt as he did brushed the side of her bare torso unaware she was slightly ticklish. As she let out a little soft laugh. As her eyes lightly ran over him, she was glad it was a light touch. As she then smiled and a nod. As she then stepped onto the platform. To help get an idea of her weight.

"It's not everyday a woman allows to be sized up. Luckily I have nothing to hide."

Kory lightly joked as women can be touchy about their weight and generally anything to do with how they look. Though Kory didn't worry overly about her weight, in shape enough to keep on fighting. She also embraced every inch she had. In Valaria they were taught to embrace who they are and be open in how they expressed themselves. Kory was comfortable in her skin. She felt beautiful. She didn't carry it in a stuck up kind of way, it was really a matter of embracing who she is. This was the only face she had and it was her own. Kory embraced as much on the outside as she did on the inside. As she wore her emotions on her sleeves. Although Kory can been known to like a little attention and make others jealous, though generally oblivious that she does it. Between her perfections and imperfections, Kory was simply born this way. Open to the fact everyone else was born to be who they were.

---

Music:Brian Littrell - Angels and Heroes

[cherryblossom131]

"Where would be best?" "I'm sure the tavern would do." The Rising Sun was usually the place where most of the knights would grab something to eat. The food isn't spectacular, but it's alright. The ale isn't too bad either. It would be a great place for them to talk. There were few other good places to eat in Camelot, but the tavern was the place to just relax and have a nice cold tankard of mead. He knew he needed one after the work he'd done today; just to unwind a bit. Company would be nice too, so he was definitely up for it. She seemed like a friendly person who would be great to have a conversation with and he was definitely up for some food. God knows he's needed something to eat since the morning. He was rather looking forward to it. She was an unusual person, he was sure there was more to her than meets the eye...even if what meets the eye was strange in itself. "I'd love to tell you more about Camelot. The story of how I became a knight is a long and interesting one, I'd be glad to tell it to you." But first there was work to be done!

"Thank-you, but you can call me Kory." He'd known many noblewomen to prefer being referred to by their titles; they probably thought it gave them a higher authority and the right to look down on people. Few nobles allowed others to call them by their names, Arthur being one of them, who asked him to call him by his name a while ago, and now Kory. "If that is what you wish, Kory." He guessed that probably told him a lot about her then. She was different, kinder and less stuck up than the stereotypical noble. He knew titles were important to most nobles and she was still a princess even if her kingdom had fallen. She was very odd, but in a good, unique kind of way. As he was measuring her height he heard a small laugh, he looked up to find a smile on her face. He blushed slightly, realising she must be ticklish.

She stepped on the platform and gave a little comment that made a familiar red tinge stain his dark cheeks. He didn't fail to notice the mirth in her voice. He had completely disregarded the fact that she was a woman, while he had been taking her measurements. He had put all his concentration on the work and calculations and had completely forgotten how inappropriate pressing rope to her side must have been. How embarrassing! He'd never had to make swords for a woman before, it was usually men who came to him, so he had taken her measurements the way he would have for anyone else; he should've been more considerate. The blush refused to fade. "I'm so sorry, I get a bit carried away and distracted while I work," he quietly said, while scribbling down her average weight on the same piece of parchment as before. "You can step down now. Your measurements are done, I just have to work out their proportions to your swords; just a few calculations."

[kory]

"Then the Tavern it is. Somehow I feel a drinking game is in our future."

Kory pleasantly agreed to the tavern. The Rising Sun. Never had tavern had a better name. As Kory lightly jested there be drinking involved. Why else go to the tavern. It wasn't until her freedom did Kory experience the tavern life so to speak. Found it rather filled with fun if you stood clear from any of the bar fights. As she could tell from the sweat and dirt that must have consumed most of Elyan's day. He was in need of unwinding. Kory couldn't disagree she was maybe in need as well after all that had gone down. Risking her life and all. Didn't Percival insist on the celebrating? No wait. That was Kory. She smiled. With these new swords on the horizon could lend to another reason to celebrate. That and a possible new friendship. Found it endearing how he looked upon her. He had a kind look in his eye and something that set himself apart. She couldn't help wonder if he was the quiet type. He was utterly charming, but she could almost see there was a lot more he was thinking about. Perceptive was maybe the word. More about Camelot and a knight story. It could be a long conversation, perhaps he could talk more. Maybe with the help of some ale. Somehow she didn't think he was that type, but then you can never guess about someone under the influence.

"Oh, you already have me interested, but first things first..."

Kory expressed joyfully before setting down to work. Of being measured. One step closer to new weapons in hand and fully equip for future battles. Kory smiled softly as Elyan spoke of Kory's wish. It wasn't so much her wish. He could refer to her as princess, but he didn't need to. Princess/Queen for Kory meant to protect people. She still could protect without that title. In ways princess and warrior was what she is or was, but Kory was WHO she is. Even if that question Who am I? Wasn't so easy to answer. Nor Why am I here? Was she not here to save lives? To help and protect.

"You can really call me what you like, I won't stop you. Some have dubbed me, Starfire. Though my friends call me Kory... When I became enslaved to Kalysta, I sort of unofficially lost my title. It is still there, but I guess not in use."

Kory extended her words to Elyan, not that she had a great deal of friends, but she was intending to make them as she went along. Life was meant to be enjoyed not seek enemies around every corner. Even though she did consider herself a princess and she was born princess. Her parents were left with either handing Kory over or the destruction of Valaria. So more or less her title was taken. This is if Elyan knew who Kalysta was if he hadn't known who Kory was. If it had been only a couple of years back would have been much in the midst of being a slave to her sister. Or underground as it were. It was a complex little thing. Princess just wasn't her path anymore, but possibly trying to save the world was. Of course from time to time the inner Princess came out, it sure was half the reason she stood with such confidence and assertiveness. She was left a little amused as Elyan blushed. She was glad he didn't take advantage and really tickle her. Can set a few tears in motion and hiccups. Although she did not mind that shade of colour to his cheeks. Even more so as he blushed even more at her comment. Kory likes oddly breaking the tension, also speaking her mind. She liked really feeling the moment and emotions. She found his little embarrassment sweet and kind hearted. Although wasn't sure he was saying sorry, he wasn't making her uncomfortable and his blush wasn't fading.

"You don't need to say sorry, Elyan. I'm not uncomfortable by any means... Call it an ice breaker Elyan. Only I feel I may have broken more than ice... In Valaria we were accustomed to being open and comfortable in everything, even our bodies. So I don't have much of a prudish nature as it seems accustomed here."

Kory expressed as she pointed out slightly amused that she caused him to blush a great deal. Keep him on his toes a little. It was much the reason she stood before him in little attire, because to her it was much like breathing. If it wasn't for the prudish nature, she could be easily standing here nude, Kory was always more than what she wore and in Valaria it was just the norm. Not so much here. As it was amusing to see reactions like this. It was rather sweet as well. Any emotions given shouldn't be shunned, but embraced. Kory then nodded as Elyan told her to step down and so she did. Admired how he took this seriously and to heart. She was sure from the look in his eyes, he also sat back and enjoyed what he was doing.

"What made you decide to become a blacksmith? Have you always wanted to do it?"

[cherryblossom131]

"I have no qualms with that," he chuckled. A good drink was definitely something he hadn't had in a while, but was very much needed. After trying to reach deadlines and finishing fixing armour and such, a drink would be pleasantly accepted, and food too. And later, a bath was thoroughly needed. They set down to work and he paid attention as she spoke of how she lost her title. "And Kalysta would be?" He enquired. Enslaved? It sounded like she'd been through a lot, but she was still standing, which is of course something to be admired. Kalysta sounded rather ruthless though. Maybe this Kalysta was the reason Valaria fell; it sounded that way to him.

He listened to her speak about how her people were comfortable in their bodies. He had certainly noticed that about her. It was just an odd sight to see in Camelot. The women here, whether they were noble or not, tended to be thoroughly covered up; unlike Kory and her people apparently. She was right though. She seemed very open, even with her emotions. "I have definitely noticed that about you." That had sounded better in his head. "I mean you being comfortable with your emotions and such, not," he motioned his hand to the uncovered part of her abdomen. "I mean I have noticed, but in not in that way." Great! He was digging himself into a deeper hole. "I think I'll just stop." He laughed awkwardly. He never really had a way with words a lot of the time, which was why he tended to just stay quiet, instead of landing himself in more of a predicament. Why couldn't he just keep his mouth shut?!

"What made you decide to become a blacksmith? Have you always wanted to do it?" He was caught off guard by her question. Not many had asked him that because they were afraid it would be too painful for him to answer, with his father's death. Kory, of course, didn't know about that, but he answered diligently enough. "Actually my father was a blacksmith; it's all I've ever really known." His father was his role model, his idol. "He taught me everything he knew, but I fell in love with it anyway." It was beautiful if you thought about it, like an art form. "I think I would have always been a blacksmith. I just love the art in changing a slab of metal into a weapon, or a piece of armour," he said with awe in his eyes. "It's almost like magic," although he'd never say that out loud to anyone. "Sorry, I get a bit carried away when I talk about it." He brought himself back to Earth. "What about you, did you always want to be a hero to the people?"

[kory]

Kory lent Elyan a pleasant smile in response to his chuckling words. A drink was nice and more was better. A good amount. She was rather good at holding her own with the substance, generally a game just made it even more fun. Being shut away as long as Kory was, well yes she was experiencing life now. There was the overboard line she needn't cross, if she just happened to trip and fall well, an accident? Felt the slight change as he watched her as she spoke of her enslavement. There wasn't anything to hide, Kory had much moved on, but of course she still remembered it all. It was best to not let it consume her life. She could have laid down and died, but she knew through all the pain, she could survive and not surrender. Kory lent her head down a little as he asked who Kalysta was. There were a few ways to describe who Kalysta was and Kory barely understood most of them.

"My older sister. She was the first Queen born in over 100 years, but her illness caused her title to be passed to me when I was born. Kaly has never forgiven me for it... She's Queen of Valaria now, what's left of our people at least."

Kory answered honestly to Elyan. It was plain and simple. Kalysta always hated Kory. How did she put it? 'You made the mistake of being born' Yes. Something Kory had little control of. Nor was it Kory that took the title. Kalysta just had hatred in her heart and she took revenge. There was little choice Kory could do to find her people if she even wanted to. It came down to whether Kalysta wanted to be found. Though if anything they were safe with Kalysta, it was what she wanted. To be queen. She had it now, what was left of Valaria. Kory had recently learned Kalysta was still trying to kill Kory when she had the chance.

Then as Elyan fussed over his measurements, his work. As Kory stood as still as she could between the slight twitch of her muscles. As she spoke of what was rather normal to her, she hadn't expected what his reaction was going to be as her general ways were well. Not General in the main scale of things here. She defiantly didn't expect this reaction. As Kory stood a little amused. It was Elyan that was spinning his words, not Kory. As she watched. Wondering if he was expecting to offend her with his words. Really he was just a little awkward. Kory gathered Elyan noticed a lot of things and she wasn't going to blame him. Who was she to tell him where to put his eyes? Felt the small flinch of her belly as he touched it, her scratch Percival gave her. Almost half the thought as Elyan was the second knight to touch her stomach, but they were completely different set of hands. A little smaller, but rather pleasant touch despite a little rough. Kory then softly laughed as she found it all rather endearing and smiled a little as she shook her head as said he should stop.

"It would take a lot to offend me Elyan... I know what you meant... Besides words are the expression of who we are, actions speak a great deal more."

Kory said directly to Elyan as her eyes looked to his, he shouldn't be ashamed at expressing who he is. Only many fail to put actions behind their words. Least with his little fluster Kory saw a brighter glimpse as to who this man was. There was just a shell that maybe needed a little extra tapping, but was it really up to Kory to find that out. Or was it really his journey to discovery? As she motioned a little around the arrange of weapons. Pieces of metals. Her eyes looked to him as her words seemed to almost jolt him as if there was underlining meaning in what she asked, that Kory simply wasn't aware she had done. There was a deeper meaning in this? It made Kory want to know even more. Kory wouldn't stop asking if she had known. If it was painful it was best to talk about it, least in Kory's world. Things were best not bottled up and left to rot. Life was meant to be lived not lost in memories of the past, full of regrets and hopelessness. Thinking what if? I should have? Why did this?

Then Elyan spoke and Kory didn't see the fault in his words. She didn't see any regret in having asked it. His father? She found it sweet. He wasn't a blacksmith because his father was, it just reminded Elyan of his father and he was a blacksmith because it brought him joy. Which was exactly what Kory's kingdom was about. Joy. Simple as that. She rested her hands upon the cool metal. As she listened as he went on. It had started with his father, but this was all Elyan. As her fingers toyed at the said metal he spoke of as art. She hadn't the eye he had, but she understood passion. Love and will was all one ever needed to survive. Then expressed a sort laugh as he spoke how he gushed. Again apologising for speaking and expression his emotions. Almost ashamed, when it was who he was.

"You looked up to him. He's passed? It's a good thing to have fond memories of him. I'm sure that is how he would like you to remember him. The Joy... No, don't apologise. It is really quite fascinating. Expressing what brings you joy Elyan, you shouldn't feel the need to be ashamed to do... Maybe sometime you can show me a little what you do?"

Kory took it his father had maybe died? She wasn't much the kind to say sorry. Though tragic it wasn't her fault. Nor was it anyones fault. As she spoke, she was sure his father would prefer to be remembered fondly than sad. Not that it was bad to miss him, but you can't hold on too tightly. Which she could tell Elyan was dealing fine. Then as she spoke much what she thought. Yes she generally speaks her mind. She is honest and positive thinking. Then extended a possible offer he may lend to show her this so called 'MAGIC' at play. Something other than burning her finger. She asked with a smile. Then her eyes looked off at his question. It wasn't so simple. She was set to be Queen and protect her people. Had she expected to be standing here no, but she was? It was a bit like asking did she want her kingdom to fall otherwise she wouldn't even be here. So really what she wanted was. Exactly Simple.

"A hero is what I need to be. All I've wanted is to live and allow others do the same."

Kory simply wanted her life. To Survive and it wasn't easy to be given. She earned and sacrificed. She did survive. She just didn't believe nor wanted to simply give up, it wasn't in her nature. She simply wanted life to live as it should as she helped others to keep doing just that. Though a hero wasn't what she was born. She was made in the moment. Possibly several moments.

[cherryblossom131]

It was very near heartbreaking for Elyan to think that a sibling could ever want to harm another. He could barely imagine it. In his wildest imagination, Elyan couldn't bare to think of ever betaying his sister like that. He loved her too much to hurt her in any way. No matter what Gwen did, he'd always forgive her just like she'd always forgiven him. He'd thought that was a given in most families. Appartently, not in Kory's. "I'm sorry." It was all he could say. All he could think of to say to her, though it probably wasn't enough. She seemed alright, which in Elyan's opinion, was pretty outstanding. He could hardly imagine what he'd do if Gwen ever betrayed him like that. It was almost painful to think about. But he knew in his heart, she could never do that, no matter what happened between them.

"It would take a lot to offend me Elyan... I know what you meant... Besides words are the expression of who we are, actions speak a great deal more." He smiled at her words. "That's rather poetic actually." It was beautifully said. He decided he keep a note of it in his head for the future.

His heart hurt slightly when he spoke of his father. He may have died many years ago but the pain of his loss would always be there. He had just learned to deal with it better over the years. She had guessed that his father was dead; he had made it rather obvious. Her words sounded almost poetic once again. "I'm not ashamed, I'll never be ashamed of what makes me happy." He was so very proud of being Tom the blacksmith's son, he always would be. He smiled at her question. "It would be my pleasure to show you some of the basics." He loved his work and sharing that with someone would be wonderful. "I can almost promise you'll love it." She seemed like the kind of person who didn't mind a little hard work. He hoped she'd maybe find it fun.

Her answer to his question was rather beautiful he thought. "Well said." So she loved what she did, just like him. "I used to be the same sort of," he said referring to his younger years. "Live in the moment, trouble maker, that was me." He chuckled when some memories of his many predicaments over his travels and life surfaced to the front of his mind. "I guess I sort of calmed down a bit, when I came back to Camelot." He'd become more responsible, finally acting like the older brother Gwen deserved. "But I think I'll always be a free spirit at heart." He knew he'd always want to relish in his freedom. It was one of the most important things to him. But he had to give it up, if only slightly, when he came back to Camelot. For Gwen's sake; and he didn't doubt, not for a second, whether it was worth it.

[kory]

There came another change in Elyan's eyes and in his expressions. As he took Kory's words of her sister. It was something sure was hard to imagine, but it was what Kory knew. It hadn't been an over the night thing. Kalysta just hated Kory it was simple and Kory made the mistake to keep trusting her. Until Kalysta enslaved Kory in a horrendous part of Kory's life. Kalysta had believed she had suffered as she was stripped and the valarian people never seemed to give her such devotion as they did Kory. So she lent Kory to suffer undoubtedly. Was there that hope Kalysta would change, Kory wasn't holding her breath, but she knew there the possibility. The difference was Kalysta sought revenge and Kory sought forgiveness. For Kory though suffered physically Kalysta was unable to cripple Kory to her knees for good. Why else was Kory standing here? Out of pure determination to live. Call it her positive nature. As Kory pondered Elyan perhaps never had such family drama, but Kory couldn't regret how her family was. There was no point in allowing the past mistakes to cripple her now. Not when she had gone so far. Kory smiled softly as Elyan simply apologised again for something out of his control, but she liked how he cared to say anything at all, when he barely understood it.

"It is just how things are Elyan. I can either ponder over why or accept what is. Only Kalysta can change. I cannot do it for her. It's not Kalysta's fault what happened to her, but it is her fault how she let it rule her life. I may not trust Kaly, but I don't hate her. Even if she's still after my head."

At times sure she missed Kalysta, but not a great deal. It was hard to miss your master so to speak. Mostly it was by other hands, but they were clearly under the command of Kalysta. She wanted to humiliate Kory in any way she could, but still Kory never gave her the satisfaction. To surrender meant giving power and Kory was anything but weak. Kory spoke softly of Kalysta. It was just how things were. She would never hate her, it was what Kalysta wanted. Kory just wasn't a hateful person. Picking up something that almost rendered a sword. As he spoke of poetry. Kory smiled. She wasn't aware she was speaking riddles, but she meant it how ever Elyan took her words. Kory merely spoke of what she knew it didn't always meant she was right, but she did have rather strong opinions.

"It's what I know to be true."

Kory spoke softly admired how he took them as if they were so beautiful. Though her eyes then saw how the mentioning of his father sort of brought him some kind of pain. Kory may not be the apologising type, but she was the comforting type. She wanted to comfort Elyan and make him realise it was all ok. The most important thing, he was alive. Her eyes then moved off a little as he mistook what she has meant when she said he shouldn't be ashamed. She didn't say he was ashamed that he enjoyed this or that it was his passion. Kory meant he shouldn't be ashamed to express it nor apologise for speaking how he felt. How else is someone else going to know and joy was best shared. Everything was best shared. If Kory had a weakness it was she didn't want to die alone. Perhaps it was part effect from what happened to her being enslaved and betrayed by her own family. Even if Kory would never admit it. Kory just wasn't aware of the contradictions her life had been filled with. She motioned a little closer to Elyan. As she motioned to place her hand upon his to comfort him from his lose, from whatever it was that had caused even a glimpse of pain. She wanted to get rid of it, but somethings took a little time.

"I know your not ashamed Elyan. You made that clear... I only meant you shouldn't apologise for speaking about it."

Kory spoke a little pointedly to Elyan softly. As he had made it clear as he gushed. Though shouldn't be ashamed to do just that. To express what was in his heart. Then her smile brightened as he agreed to show her a couple things. Maybe not right now. If they had a date at the tavern and drinks waiting to be drunk. Somehow she figured it may take her a few tries to get the hang of it. She half rolled her eyes as she slightly elbowed Elyan as he spoke about her loving it. It was probably a given Kory would love it. It was rather easy for Kory to enjoy most things. He should see her when it came to Christmas. Like overload of joy.

"After a couple of burned fingers I'm sure I will. Besides I have Sir Elyan to make sure we don't go up in smoke..."

Kory remarked happily. She be honoured to see the master at work. Lending a hand or two was no difficult task. Especially the amount of joy he got from it and the passion he put into it. It seemed impossible she wouldn't love it. As he put it watch melted metal turn into art. Rather usable art. Kory then laughed softly as Elyan commented on her words again. Felt it oddly endearing he thought to do that. Even if she really was speaking she wanted life. To simply live how ever it came. She didn't want to surrender and die. But she sure appreciated her freedom. It took sacrifice to get it, but things in life just wasn't entirely free. Her eyes watched him as he again gushed on. Was wondering he wasn't really so quiet once he had a reason to speak. Trouble Maker? Kory wasn't as such. Was she? She was just a joyous person. She did like the idea Elyan as a trouble maker. As he chuckled as if he had a fond memory of it.

"You grew up you mean? Just because we're heroes doesn't mean we aren't meant for so much more. How are we expected to save lives if we can't live our own to its full extent... If there's one thing I don't want, is to live and die alone... I don't think freedom can ever really be taken unless you let that happen. Though life isn't without its sacrifices..."

Kory spoke whole heartedly though really feeling she was maybe going to far expressing the reason she valued her own life, but she couldn't be ashamed to express that. With the amount of times her life could have been at the brink the more she valued it. The more she valued life in general. When ever something went bad what could be worse than death really in the end?

"Where were you before coming back to Camelot?"

[cherryblossom131]

He listened to her speak of her sister's choices. She appeared to have a very forgiving heart, but he could comprehend it. "I understand. I have a sister and no matter what she did I could never hate her," he explained. He truly believed in what he said. If his little sister did anything like that to him, he barely wanted to even imagine it; he couldn't even perceive hating her. It was like the emotion just couldn't be directed at her, even if he tried. He just physically wasn't capable of ever hating her, especially after everything she had done for him, everything she had forgiven him for. He would never be able to express how grateful he was for her forgiveness for abandoning her to be selfish. He'd never make it up to her, but being there for her would just have to be a start. "God knows she's forgiven me for more than her fair share."

He was attentive as she spoke on, he had sort of begun noticing now that he had been apologising quite a lot in this conversation. He feared it may be something subconscious or something like that. Elyan was never really interested in how the mind worked. There was one person Elyan truly wished he could apologise to, it was probably a big contributor to why it was almost painful to think about him. He couldn't shake the feeling that had he not been so selfish and left all those years ago, his father wouldn't have died. Like he could've prevented it somehow. The last time he had spoken to his father hadn't been on good terms and if there's one thing Elyan regrets in this life, that was it. But, although he knew it was selfish, he couldn't bring himself to regret his travels; he hadn't felt so free in his life. As crazy as it sounded, Elyan would speak to his father in the forge sometimes, it was like making up for lost time. It just made him feel a little better, as if his father could hear him. Elyan just hoped he was proud of him.

He laughed at her elbowing him and her remark. "Quite right, Sir Elyan the Great will protect us all," he said mockingly puffing out his chest. It would be great to finally have some company in here, people rarely came and stayed for long, it used to usually be just Gwen when she wasn't busy. People just couldn't withstand the high temperature. "I hope you can stand the heat," he said raising an eyebrow in mock challenge while chuckling slightly.

He listened on, she was right. Although it wasn't so much about him growing up, it was more about him accepting the responsibility he had so blatantly refused. He guessed in a non-literal way, isn't that what growing up truly was? He knew with his whole heart and soul that he'd never give up his freedom, not totally. It was too important to him. "Is that not everyone's fear?" He agreed. "Even those with the blackest of hearts fear being alone." He wanted to live life to its fullest. That was something he thought they both had in common. He definitely agreed with that last part, everyone who had ever lost anyone would agree.

"Where were you before coming back to Camelot?" He thought for a moment before answering. "I was in the Kingdom of Escetia actually; I was working as a blacksmith in one of the villages, just learning new things." He fondly remembered the people he had met there and the new things he had learned. "It's actually a rather interesting story of how I came to Camelot, but a rather long one." He smiled at the memory of reuniting with his little sister. "Would you like to hear it?"

[kory]

Passing between her hands what was almost a sword. Felt the handle in her grip and felt the weight. Before setting it back upon the table. Looking across to Elyan as he spoke of his own sister. Kory was quite sure they had very different sisters. Smiled as he spoke he could never hate her. Though Kory didn't trust Kalysta nor was there a great deal of love anymore. Kory knew a little by ear who Elyan's sister was. Never had Kory met her or had any dealings with her. Kory then smiled as Elyan spoke how his sister forgave him. As her eyes traced over his face. Wondered how someone couldn't. From what she could tell he made up for it.

"Your sister is Guinevère...? We all make mistakes, we can always rise above them."

Kory asked having heard vaguely about his relationship to Guinevère. Whom she had never met nor had she seen. From what she had heard she was quite a woman and Queen. Although she had met Arthur, though it seemed so long ago. As Kory spoke of mistakes, which was just something you learned from and forgave. You can either let them hinder you or rise above them. From what she could tell Elyan hadn't been defeated by them, so it was no wonder why his sister forgave him, that and a family bond. She was sure they had, was also key.

Kory could only begin to guess what was at the heart of Elyan's family. His own life. Kory could simply speak from what she knew and what she believed. Call it a strong tongue and a strong opinion. Doesn't always mean she was right. As Kory also knew things took time. Not everyone was the same and perhaps she was at fault trying to make others see more how she did. Still Kory couldn't regret. Besides Elyan was utterly charming and had so much to give. Kory was sure she had barely seen most of him, but she wasn't in any rush to be anywhere else.

"Sir Elyan the Great, might need a bath before he heroically escorts me to the tavern."

Kory softly laughed as Elyan puffed out his chest, watching a little dirt come off as he did as Kory expressed he may need a wash. As her hand then motioned to his cheek for her thumb to brush a little dirt off his cheek. Kory was sure up for a little fire. Did he over look her red hair? Dropping her hand with a smile as Elyan spoke of the heat. Kory laughed softly with the shake of her head at his challenge and felt suddenly already warmed by his chuckle. Can't be that bad, Kory figured.

"There! Already extra handsome... I can sure stand the heat, can it stand me is another question and I'm not afraid to play with some fire... "

Kory expressed as she motions to rub a little dirt off of his extra handsomeness. As if he wasn't handsome already she smiled. She might have to be careful not to be barrelled over when he is clean... Kory perked up her head proudly to stand the heat and softly amused through her voice. The playing with fire was half the fun, but possibly dangerous. But it didn't frighten her. Least Sir Elyan would be there to put any fires out that shouldn't of been there.

Kory was suddenly feel how quiet this room was and oddly really liked it... Had anyone actually walked in through that door she wasn't sure she would have noticed. Surprisingly Elyan stood out so beautifully. He actually listened. Before she was freed, Kory barely had interaction. For six years all she had was hate pointed directly at her and hardly any bit of kindness. So when ever she got it since, Kory wanted to latch on and not let it slip away. She didn't want to be alone. For she never had felt more alone than she did for those years under her sister's control. Kory looked up to him as Elyan spoke how it was everyone's fear. She believed he was right. Perhaps everyone wanted somebody, just a lot of the cases that someone wanted somebody else. Then she perked up when he spoke of black hearts. Was he meaning someone particularly? Kalysta? She defiantly had a black heart. It sure could. Although Kory was quite sure mostly on Kalysta's mind was herself and power.

"I believe you maybe right, Elyan... Loneliness and isolation... There just isn't anything more crippling. Its what I fight from ever happening again."

Kory spoke humbly to Elyan. Having felt it so heavily Kory wouldn't full in the same trap, even if she could end up doing it with out realising it. Settling back on her feet feeling the shear warmth next to the Blacksmith. As she listened to him tell her about Escetia and a village. Found it fascinating that he had adventures under his belt. Sounding almost like another life. She was pleased they were fond memories or at least that was how it sounded, but he seemed pleased to be where he was at now as well. Kory brightened as he said it was a long story. Kory liked stories and having started it, Kory be thinking non stop how it ended. Although if it was going to extend through the night. Maybe when they were seated more comfortably with some drinks.

"If it won't damage your tongue, I am all ears... Although would it be best to stop our stomach's from rolling away, first?"

[cherryblossom131]

"Yes Gwen is my sister," he answered. "I guess it's no surprise you've heard of her then." His heart swelled with pride when he spoke of his sister; of how far she had come. Elyan knew of no one who deserved to be where she was, than her. She was truly happy now and he knew she made a fantastic queen. She was humble and responsible. She never backed down from what she believed in. She was one of the few people in this world that Elyan admired with his whole heart. Although thinking of his little sister Gwen as Queen of Camelot and wife to King Arthur Pendragon, would never cease to shock him. The thought of his sister on the throne, it was quite a sight to behold.

At her next words he outright laughed. Looking down at the dirt and soot on his clothes and hands, he definitely agreed with her. "I'll have to say I agree with you there, I could definitely do with a good wash," he chuckled. He could already imagine what the water would feel like. His muscles felt tense after a hard days work; the warm water would do wonders for them. He was already smiling at the thought. And with the tavern to go to afterwards, it would be great. She wiped a little bit of dirt off his cheeks and her comment made a light blush appear on his cheeks. What was he doing? Men don't blush! But here he was blushing at the actions of this strange woman he was already beginning to consider as a friend, despite the fact they had only just met.

"Hopefully it won't be too dangerous," he laughed. "You get used to the heat after a while," he said, referring to the hot coals. After years of growing up and working as a blacksmith, Elyan wasn't fazed by heat and burns. He had been burned many times over the years with dozens of scars to prove it, but now the pain wasn't anything new. He guessed that was probably quite a good thing in the end, it helped slightly in battle and in training with the knights. He could withstand pain much better now, all because of his profession. Yet another great thing about being a blacksmith; he smiled.

At the turn of conversation to loneliness and isolation, he had a sombre face. "Hopefully neither of us will have to suffer it," he said sincerely. He never wished to live or die alone, but hadn't really spared a thought yet at settling down or starting a family. He wasn't sure if he was ready for that kind of commitment. It was the kind of commitment that required the sacrifice of something that was so dear to him. His freedom. But the cost of having his freedom was being alone; he had paid that price gladly all those years ago. He had practically abandoned his family. But now he wasn't sure he would be so willing to pay it. He didn't want loneliness. He decided now wasn't a time to think about these things, he was never the type to think over the future too much. It was too much work.

"If it won't damage your tongue, I am all ears... Although would it be best to stop our stomach's from rolling away, first?" At her words, his stomach decided to grumble loudly, as if to emphasize them, he laughed awkwardly. "I think that's probably a good idea." He remembered how hungry he was feeling. Food would be a good idea, but he wished to be clean first. "I think I'll have a bath first, so I can truly enjoy the meal." He was looking forward to it already. "And lets not forget the ale," he added. No, they could never forget the ale. "I could meet you at the tavern, if that's alright with you."

[kory]

"The Queen of Camelot, it's hard to miss... From what I've heard she's an astounding woman. Though I did have the honour in meeting the King, well more like I tripped him up, but it was really was an honest mistake... Oh and a knight named Gwaine."

Kory smiled at Elyan's remark that she had heard of Gwen it would be a little hard not knowing, though she admired how proud Elyan sounded of his sister on the throne. Nothing like a little family support. Kory had heard here and there about this Gwen, but mostly here say, but most of what she had heard was someone incredibly kind and strong heart. She did meet Arthur and a knight named Gwaine. Whom were quite entertaining. Though through all these titles and connections. Kory's eyes and attention wished to solely be upon Elyan. There was just something about him that made him stand on his own, that he was here mostly because he put himself here and quite down to earth. Plus she liked the faint glow of his skin even if it was a bit hard to see through the dirt.

Felt as almost like stars he pulled her in with every expression. Every word. Every action. Even every blush in between. His laugh hit her with such joy it was quite a wondrous sound and almost hit every nerve in her body. Rising out her own laugh. It always felt good to laugh, somehow it was completely different with Elyan and then he was so completely different. She half imagined Valaria reborn so she could truly show Elyan the places he may have missed, but she didn't need it nor even could she. She could still lead him into her world. As Kory felt her place beside Elyan as his chuckled warmed her bones and caused a little rosy to her cheeks as she two laughed.

"I believe we both could."

As her green eyes watched him with a faint squint. As if he was day dreaming of the bath and some how Kory found that incredibly endearing. Smiling to himself, finding it hard not to fall into this safety trap. Kory softly laughed as Elyan blushed at her touch, having felt a little spark herself through his skin glowing underneath. Amused it seemed he was also blushing because he was blushing. Kory light shook her head at the thought.

"A little bit of danger can be fun... If its like the heat I'm feeling now, I can defiantly get used to it."

Kory remarked as Elyan spoke of danger, life wasn't meant to be all walking a straight line, on occasion one had to adventure of course to know whether you were on the right path and of course to have fun. Kory then mentioned the heart very close by almost at the touch as she smiled to Elyan, he was enough to heat up her little fire. In which set off a laugh within her blood stream. She was actually excited to watch to learn. Really to be distracted. Expand her life. Have fun with Elyan, though doing that without making him blush might be a challenge. Or maybe see how much she can make him blush was the challenge?

Kory's eyes diverted a little as his awe changed as she spoke of loneliness and isolation. The thing was Kory knew what it did feel like. She felt it for six years practically her entire teen years. But she was above this now and as Elyan spoke it only made it set firm inside her that shouldn't allow herself to be trapped again. Even if without knowing it she may easily fall victim. As habits we are unaware of can be difficult to break. Kory was up to eventually having a family and having children to raise. Kory wanted as much out of life as she could. Peace, who didn't want some form of peace. Kory didn't see it so much a lose of freedom, for even with freedom comes responsibility. Kory didn't fear the future, but she lived for now. So she might be alert when her soul mate came into her life. There was no way of telling for sure if it was the blushing knight.

"For now we have each other."

Kory smiled softly. Then faintly heard Elyan's stomach speak. Kory laughed alongside him almost sure she understood what it said. 'FEED ME'. Rolling her eyes. 'Well of course'. Her face lighting up as Elyan spoke, as she was also a bit on the hungry side and she was not in the mood for charcoal for dinner. Although the licking of his face was in itself weirdly a fond idea it was, to weird for her taste. That and she may knock him out with an over load of blushes... Kory pondered where this bath was. He had a bath? Or would he be needing the forest river? Half wondering why bare it alone?

"It is then your stomach won't interrupt your stories, to tell it's own... I do need a bath myself, if you wanted some company?.. Though I may never get a word, maybe save joining of baths another day. Huh?"

Kory joked about his talking belly, as her finger gently poked it and she swore it responded. Was kind of freaky, but kind of neat. Her eyes then trailed to her own appearance as pointed out she wanted to be cleaner. She generally covered in blood, dirt and sweat, so the chances to keep clean she was taking. As she offered to join, somehow she liked the idea of playing in the water with Elyan. Making bubbles. Surely she wasn't having a flashback, but she still liked bubbles. Kory then smiled as she had seen Elyan blush enough that a bath together may leave him without a tongue or cheeks for that matter.

[cherryblossom131]

He smiled as she complimented his sister. It was always nice to hear that people appreciated her for the wonderful woman she was. It was about time, in his opinion. His eyebrows shot up when she mentioned tripping the king. "You tripped up Arthur?!" He was obviously surprised. He guessed only this strange woman in front of him could meet the King by tripping him up. He inwardly chuckled at the image. "So you met Gwaine, I imagine that was fun." He said when she mentioned meeting him. It must have been entertaining; he was certainly...unique. That was definitely a way of describing the man. He wanted to know more, but decided they could discuss it at the tavern. After he'd had a bath and felt significantly cleaner.

Speaking of baths...He chuckled at her comment. He noticed the specks of dirt and soot on her now, no doubt from this place. It always managed to get everyone who entered it a bit dirty. He couldn't help but also notice the scratches on her; it made him feel concerned for her. "Have you had those checked out?" He asked motioning his hand toward the scratches. "We have an excellent court physician if you should need him." He didn't want to push her, but he thought he'd just make sure she was aware. She was beginning to be a good friend; he wouldn't want her be harmed or suffer pain. Elyan knew how stubborn some warriors could be in the face of treating an injury. Heck, he was a knight, and knew what it was like! "A little bit of danger can be fun... If its like the heat I'm feeling now, I can defiantly get used to it." He looked down at the once hot coals; they were merely burning embers now. "Then I can't wait to teach you."

At her words to their sombre turn of conversation, he smiled warmly. "It is always a comfort to know one is not alone." He would be lying if he said that Kory was not his friend now. He knew it was foolish to trust everyone, but he had seen how sincerely kind she was and...well, unique. He decided it wouldn't be too bad to take a chance on her, or a risk. He had always been the spontaneous type, so why should this be so different? He decided it wasn't.

His jaw dropped almost comically when she mentioned joining baths. Joining baths?! This woman wasn't just odd; she was completely insane! His cheeks couldn't even blush. On the contrary, the colour had drained from his face. It wasn't all that noticeable though, due to his dark complexion. He shut his mouth, and decided to take her words as a tease. He'd always been easy to tease, even when he was a child. Which his sister never failed to use to her advantage. "I think it would be a good idea to have separate baths for now," he winked. But of course, he wasn't completely horrid at teasing