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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 17, 2012 20:42:48 GMT -5
That was a common phenomenon Yassia had come across throughout her journey here. Almost everyone had an opinion about this strict rules, but all were just voicing them sub rosa and with fear in their eyes. If Yassia’s mother had known what had become of Camelot she probably would not have believed it. Maybe it was good she’d never know. ”I have heard of many ghastly stories, yes”, Yassia commented, a little uneasy if she should proceed with this topic at all. It was not for her to judge, as she was not part of any kingdom in Albion, and she didn’t want Hunith to feel even more uncomfortable than she probably already did. But then it was just like she had thought: everyone had an opinion, and opinions were often enough very hard to conceal for long.
It matched with what Hunith seemed to have to say about opinions, and even though Yassia surely agreed to the thought that one should never trust in one opinion only, she more and more found Hunith to have a good point, and not just one. She seemed to be a wise woman indeed, in a way she reminded the young woman of her old nurse Suzanna, who had always been such a great support and adviser to her. For a moment, Yassia was overwhelmed by a wave of homesickness, but she forced it back. Now was not the time for sentimentalities. ”Oh, if I have learned anything on my journey, then that one man’s truth is another man’s lie”, she assured Hunith with a little sheepish smile. “I am convinced there is never something like ‘the’ truth anyway.”
Yassia’s heart was racing double speed as she tried to find a way out of the inevitable. Had she left such an obvious trail or did those thugs simply strike lucky? She could hear them getting closer, and muffled shouts echoed through the village, as they started to knock on doors. They hadn’t reached this one yet, but it was probaly just a matter of minutes! Hunith’s words came like a salvation, and Yassia immediately made for the little trapdoor she had noticed earlier. She probably would have to squeeze into the spot usually made for keeping good halfway fresh, but there was no time to be picky. “The stars bless your path!” she whispered as she threw Hunith a look of sheer gratitude and slipped beneath the trapdoor, holding her breath.
Not a moment too late, as she could hear the harsh banging on Hunith’s door now and a deep voice that bellowed: “Open, in the name of the king! Move it!” Yassia’s heart missed yet another beat. Oh how she knew that voice well! Shouts of this voice had chased her through the forest all day.
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 17, 2012 19:14:19 GMT -5
Was it a slight crack in Morgana’s confidence Yassia was experiencing right now, or shouldn’t she get her hopes up like that? Did she really wish for the people to love her?! Well that had to be the height of twisted opinion Yassia ever came across, and she couldn’t help but stare at Morgana for a moment, unsure if she just had heard her right. It was one thing to fight for the re-use of magic, and for that surely some sacrifices had to be made, but didn’t this woman see that she was going at this the entirely wrong way? ”How can they love you if you don’t show them generosity and concern?” Yassia asked incredulously. “Can’t you see that you’re trying to achieve the impossible with the completely wrong tools? You have just taken Camelot by force, killed so many of their loved ones and then you sit here like a spider in her web and wait for the people to accidently love you? Where should that love come from if you give them nothing to love you for?”
Then however Yassia thought better of Morgana’s sudden change of mind, and whatever breach she might have thought to dig deeper into with her, now it was gone. There was only dread left, and the fight against memories. She had to tell herself over and over again, that nothing would happen this time, that the worst she would encounter down there were rats and mouldering straw, but it was not an entirely succesful try. ”That’s what I meant”, she said, almost pleadingly. “Like this, you will never get anyone to love you. Fear is no subsitute of respect, it’s the opposite. Please Morgana, don’t do this!” There must be some way to convince Morgana she was rapidly running down the wrong path. Yassia still saw the hope for a different outcome, even though her prospects got darker by the minute. She couldn’t risk to reveal more of her weaknesses, or she really would be putty in this woman’s hands.
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 17, 2012 16:42:23 GMT -5
Sweet stars, this man, whoever he was, surely had a very elegant and yet truthful way to speak! Yassia couldn’t deny to be impressed, she might have stumbled upon a noble born and bred, someone who really held chivalry and justice in high regards. He had an almost royal streak to him, even, his humbleness was borne out of great strength and self-assuredness. All this was a thoroughly surprising revellation, but then what was it to her? To him, she was not Princess Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha, she could not be. She was nothing but a commoner to him, and as such she probably should feel a little less comfortable dealing with people of his kind.”Well spoken, Mylord, I should say”, she answered and lowered her eyes. “I am sure nature will appreciate your consideration and high opinion of her.”
Yassia was now torn between two prominent feelings. She had quite the mind to finally talk again to someone of her world, someone she understood and yet was not such a thug as Vortigern had been. Who knew if that opportunity would ever arise again before she reached Camelot? But then, she knew time was wasting in any way, and she could not allow herself to be held up, simply because she felt the need for a conversation. Her own needs didn’t have any say in this matter, and it was high time she learned that. For a moment Mircea’s face appeared in front of her inner eye again and she swallowed. He should not have died because of her. He would still be alive, hadn’t she given in to her personal need of company and comfort. Had she been more adamant, he would be back in Ailantha now, maybe fearing for her safety, but that would be the worst he went through.
Still, she found it necessary to be polite to this interesting stranger. “Please, take as long as you need, Mylord, and don’t call me a lady. I am a mere wanderer myself”, she lied. It went more smoothly with every time she tried. “I am of much humbler birth than you, I am sure.” Stepping aside, she allowed him to lead the horse to the waterline, and as his mentioning directed her focus towards the animal, she took a few moments to examine and admire it. The stallions of Ailantha were said to be some of the finest on the continent, and as such, Yassia knew she had an eye for them. “That’s quite a fine mount you have there”, she commented. “Where was it bred?”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 16, 2012 17:45:27 GMT -5
Yassia didn’t know much about the things that were going on in Camelot or in Albion altogether, but she knew something very important had changed compared to the time when her mother had still been here. Magic was outlawed now, no longer held in high regards like it was also the case in Ailantha. In Yassia’s kingdom, magic was a very rare gift and those who actully possessed knowledge about it were treated with utmost respect. Upon coming here, Yassia quickly had realized the difference, but sometimes she still found it hard to understand.“Where I come from magic is not shunned”, she shrugged uncomfortably. “So I found it hard adjusting to the hatred everyone seems to have for it here. Your king must have a very good reason to prosecute it like that.” If this whole conversation was about magic right now, anyway. Yassia wasn’t quite sure.
Hunith’s words sounded again very wise, and were not in the least made to offend – at least from where Yassia came from. “You are far more than just a simple woman, I bet”, she commented with a smile. “You claim you don’t know the world like tht, but it seems to me you do. Have no fear of speaking your mind around me, I am but a wanderer and I don’t pledge allegiance to any king around here.” Maybe she would need to show sympathy for Uther if she wanted his help, but then she would have to gain the help of her uncle first. She could still be glad it was not Cenred she had to appeal to…
As if her thoughts had taken up a creepy life of their own, Yassia suddenly heard a noise in the distance, even through the wooden walls of the little hut. The neighing of a horse… and thundering hooves coming closer. The young woman paled and for a moment her hands cramped around the cup she was holding, then she suddenly jumped up, her eyes darting around like those of a hunted deer. ”I need to go… now!”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 15, 2012 19:35:59 GMT -5
It was a measure of just how tired and worn Yassia really was and how she still hadn’t gotten used to travelling alone that she didn’t notice anyone approaching, until she heard a voice right behind her. The water splashed as she darted up and turned her head, but then she felt slightly awkward for startling to much at a mere human voice. The song had died on her lips, and she was still holding up the ends of her worn riding dress with both hands, the cloth gathered over her knees, revealing her legs – how very unseemly! For a moment she didn’t quite know how to react, the man looked rather well off, nobility if Yassia’s schooled eye didn’t betray her. It was always said you could sniff out those of your kind.
What would he be doing here? Oh, right, he wanted water for his horse. Suddenly, Yassia felt even more stupid standing there like she was, and she quickly tried to get her act together. She hopefully would pass as a commoner if she showed him due respect. It was something Yassia had never been used to, but to hold up the charade she had gotten quite good in it during the last month, even at Mircea’s side. ”Oh, of course you can, Mylord!” she confirmed his request and bowed her head. “You probably own this brooke more than I do anyway.” After all, he could very well be the master of these grounds, however remote. How would she know?
All in all, he didn’t seem like company she had to run from right away, so Yassia slowly started to relax a little. You never knew, yes indeed, but there had to be some nice people in this island as well. Lorcan had been nice, he had helped her out. A few others had also been helpful so far. Come on Yassia, trust your stars!
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 14, 2012 18:40:11 GMT -5
Her feet were aching and she was cold. No, scratch that, not only her feet were aching, it was a pain that stretched from her tormented soles up her calves until it almost reached her hips. It was burning and aching at the same time. Yassia had always thought herself in good shape, but after one week of constantly being on her feet she had been thoroughly thought a lesson she most likely was never to forget. She simply was not used to be walking for so long, but there was no way she could help that. The horrifying storm that had hit their boat while crossing the channel had robbed Yassia of three most important things: Her horse, a decent amount of money (one that could help her out right now with getting her a new mount, even a mule would do!) and above all: Mircea! Yassia had never thought anyone could ever feel so lost in his entire life, and the most part of her misery was due to the fact that her mind slowly had to work around the possibility that her half-brother was dead. Dead or washed ashore somewhere far from where she was, unable to find her.
The very thought of him once again brought tears to her eyes and she hunched her shoulders against the cold wind, glad to have at least her woollen cloak with her. This and her bag full of herbs and done remedies were her most precious belongings now. Nothing was left of Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha, the proud princess and queen-to-be. She had reached the bottom of the line and she was very well aware of that fact. With that little money she had left in her soaked purse and with such a great amount of way still before her, with no idea where exactly to turn, she was a pauper now and had to call herself lucky if she even reached Camelot unscathed. Before crossing the channel, being followed by her uncle’s goons and taken back by force had been her worst fear. Now that almost seemed like a good way to end it all, in her darkest hours. Whenever she wanted to give up, she imagined talking to Mircea, as if he was still beside her. She told him of her sorrows and imagined to hear his voice, telling her in his calm and serious tone that she could not give up, that she was strong, that he knew she could make it. But that hurt so much, too, so she never could do it for long.
It was afternoon now and still Yassia dragged herself onward. As far as she could see, no village was near, and she hoped she would at least reach one by nightfall. The little coins she had left would suffice for a bed and some stew and that was all she needed. Interesting how basic your needs could become if you had to learn to survive by them. This, Yassia was sure, would be a lesson she’d never forget – ever assumed she lived to really learn from it. The low murmuring of a little brooke nearby pulled her a little from her miserable state, and she pushed herself to a faster pace, leaving the road and half-stumbled towards the welcome distraction. Sighing almost comfortably, she pulled off her boots and put her aching feet into the cold water. Sweet stars, what a luxury! Slowly the burning pain died down, and that alone was enough to raise Yassia’s spirit considerably. It even banished Mircea from her mind for now, and without any conscious thought a hushed song found its way on her lips.
”En veure despuntar el major lluminar en la nit més ditxosa els ocellets cantant a festejarlo van amb sa veu melindrosa… "
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 13, 2012 17:16:12 GMT -5
Yassia had already met many wise people amongst the ‘common’ folk on her journey, and had long since stopped wondering, but Hunith was truly a remarkable woman. If the situation had been different, the princess would have thoroughly enjoyed this meeting. Like this though she was just tired and worn out, not much made for more in depth discussions about the peculiarities of life in general and menfolk in particular. It was certainly true that those who had power desired even more of that. Maybe because it was no visible gift, and very volatile. ”I think it is easier to lose invisible achievements than visible once, or at least the fear it greater”, she mused, cocking her head and taking another deep gulp of the wonderfully warm tea. Slowly she began to hope this all could work out somehow. “So they cling to it for all it is worth, on the expense of others.”
Only respect… sweet stars how her heart was racing! With that reassuring explanation though it was slowing down a little and Yassia could suppress the urge to jump up and dart out of the door. Hunith didn’t wish her any harm. There was enough instinct about her to suggest she had felt some sort of higher rank about Yassia without even consciously noticing it. And Yassia could try only so hard to mask her true self, she had been brought up to be a princess for nineteen years. Dearly interested, Yassia practically drank in every information Hunith was giving. Arthur… the Crown Prince. She had heard many fantastic tales about him while wandering Albion. His skills and good looks were surely renowned. And if he had a kind heart to match this good traits, then maybe he was the person she should appeal to once she had found out who her uncle was and if he still lived.
”That sounds like he will make a good king one day!” Yassia remarked. “And I have heard of such things often sadly. The bigger the kingdom, the more those who are on the edge of it get forgotten. I myself come from a very small kingdom, so that has never been a problem. At least I hope it never was, I can only speak for myself.” The more Yassia learned about different kingdoms, the more fervent her wish grew to make her kingdom into a role model once she took her place on the throne. She knew there had to be compromises made, and that some idealistic wishes could never come true, but that didn’t stop her from dreaming.
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 13, 2012 15:34:02 GMT -5
Yassia smiled inwardly as she heard Oliver’s answer. She should have known she would get an expert information now, and there was really nothing wrong with that. She loved the spark that seemed to light up his eyes when he talked about his favourite pastime. Such dedication was truly admireable! He might not be a match for his brother in swordfight, but he was a master with the bow, and frankly, Yassia liked this skill much more, as it mirrored her own. He was right, throwing knives and shooting arrows wasn’t so different after all, even though bow and arrow were far more elegant in Yassia’s eyes. Ramon himself had said once that he was teaching her a skill mostly mastered by thugs, which he had found highly amusing.”Not to mention the serious strength difference between men and women”, Yassia added with a little smile. “I am sure, I couldn’t do what you find relatively easy. One always judges from ones own abilities what seems easy and what seems hard, but I bet you could fight me and hold me down single-handed. I will have to see how much work the bow really does for me. Then again”, Yassia shrugged and held out one hand while the other was busy holding the skewer with her delicious hare, “you’re the expert, and I am most willing to try my luck. Caitrin once told me she’s good with a bow and I’m sure if she can do it, I can do it too, though probably not as gracefully.” Sometimes she almost forgot that Caitrin was Mercian too, as she seemed to be content to live in Camelot. It also brought back a quick flicker of rememberance about Caitrin’s and Oliver’s relationship back in those old days, but the memory was not laden with jealousy anymore. She gladly had moved past that.
Of course Oliver would not be offended by her unladylike behavior and that made it easier to dismiss the incident as well. Her apology had been born out of instinct more than anything, and had not been truly heartfelt. It would have been heartfelt in a different surroundings maybe, at a royal banquet or anything formal like that, but here she was only having a casual and delicious meal with a… with a friend. Out in the open and an absolute unroyal zone. She had done so many ‘unsuitable’ things today already, speaking with her mouth full would hardly unnerve anyone. It shouldn’t even unnerve herself. So she returned his smile with an almost mischievous one of her own and made a dismissive gesture. “You’re right, who should care! We can be the most royal brats we want today!”
He didn’t seem to have noticed her slip, and Yassia found herself relaxing again. Good. No explanation due, nothing that could tear open old wounds. It was better this way,and she vowed to guard her mouth a little closer from now on. Not that it ever would work, but there was no harm in trying and making good resolutions. Oliver’s promise was warming Yassia inside out, and she shot him a dazzling and heartfelt thankful smile. How wonderful that would be! Many more days as perfect as this one, but she probably shouldn’t get her hopes up. Something bad always happened when she did that. Still… the temptation to just let go was overwhelming and she would nothing ruin this wonderful day for her. The previous drama was all but forgotten. ”See, I’m the luckiest girl in the world!” she confirmed lightheartedly.
Oh how sweet he was, truly wanting to know more about her family’s history. She would have to ask him to do the same once she was finished, as she loved good stories at least as much as he did. Snatching another berry in preparation, she then shifted into a more comfortable position and began. ”This must have been one of my favourite stories when I was younger, and it was told every other year on my parent’s wedding anniversary. It has long since become a national legend and has been embellished beyond regognition. But this is how it was told to us, the royal children.” She flashed him a conspiratorial smile. “I am sure for my mother it was far less adventurous than it sounds, but she was born in Camelot, her name was Lady Rhiannon Griffiths, second child to Lord Cynewulf Griffiths, a former knight of the realm. On one day, close to her sixteenth birthday, she was captured by slave traders while collecting herbs and brought on the continent. They wanted to take her far far south, to the kingdom of Aragon, and they had to pass through France through that. Now, my father, young and adventurous Prince Diodore, was on a little journey beyond the borders of Ailantha and he encountered the party of slave traders. Now, guess what happened.” She challenged Oliver.
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 12, 2012 20:19:01 GMT -5
Not even yet married, but already written in the stars, Oliver and Yassia will have a few kids of their own when time comes. We didn't settle on all faceclaims yet, but these are what we got so far. Also, the pics show them a little other already xD
Their first born:Theodore OlivierEstrella YasmineCaterina Núria
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 12, 2012 13:22:11 GMT -5
The topic of shooting bow and arrow compared to throwing a knife intrigued Yassia more than she probably let on, and more than it probably should have. She was not exactly interested in fighting arts, and taking up a sword had never been on her wishlist. It simply wasn’t befitting for a princess to use arms at all, and even if that hadn’t been a deciding factor, wielding a sword held no appeal for Yassia whatsoever. Her brother had taught her how to throw daggers simply because he thought it could be a skill proving useful one day, to give her a sure hand and a good eye. It had been their little secret, as both her mother and father didn’t know anything about it until they died. After Ramon’s death she had continued with the practice simply for his sake, to honor his legacy and become good for him. They hadn’t been that close except for those moments out in the forest, which had been seldom enough with his many duties as Crown Prince. Still, over the years the sport had grown on her, it had become part of who she was, and on her journey towards Camelot, it had proven invaluable. More than once it had saved her skin, because no one expected it of her. There was no weapon easier to hide than throwing knives.
”You really think so?” she confirmed, cocking her head. “I can see where you come from, but throwing daggers is all about the impact strength in the moment you let them fly. Don’t you need a different kind of strength for the duration of straightening the bow?” Not that she was in any way an expert on any of those topics, but she found them intriguing nevertheless. Oliver was probably the first person she had ever met with whom she could launch into talk about distance weapons without being given the odd eye. That ought to be exploited, right? And anyway, any topic that navigated around delicate issues while still keeping them in amiable company could only be a good thing. Like this they would manage to stay friends. Without constant conflict, and it was distant enough for her heart to keep itself in check.
The tender moment they had shared just now was irrevocably gone, and Yassia wasn’t sure if she should feel glad or sad about that fact. Probably glad was the better option for both of them, but she was even more glad it hadn’t ended in so much awkwardness like all those other moments before. The heart is slow to learn, wasn’t there that saying? Maybe they were slowly learning, both of them. They were seeing the boundaries now and even though they kept on toeing them, they both seemed to accept that going further was neither wished for nor allowed. At least that was how Yassia was seeing it, there was no way to tell how Oliver really felt. Once upon a time, he had been like an open book for her, as he hadn’t held anything back. At least she had thought he hadn’t. But if there was a way of understanding each other without the constant fallback into drama, Yassia would happily welcome it, as it meant she would not lose him. Maybe the time for moving on had come not even for her family issues, but also for love issues. Like she had said: Focus on what you had gained, not on what you lost.
The hare tasted wonderful, and Yassia savoured every bite, even though she burnt her tongue and mouth at first, not expecting the heat to be so immense. “Ow, someone’s biting back!” she joked with her mouth full, and then let it be followed by a quick: “Sorry, not very ladylike I know”, once she had swallowed the bite. Then she let her gaze wander over the beautiful meadow and the peacefully running river she had been inside just about an hour ago. This was truly an amiable place and she could understand Oliver’s love for being outside amongst all this. She gladly accepted the water to ease the slight stinging pain in her mouth, and then handed the waterskin back to Oliver. “I don’t be silly, I love this!” she chided him with a smile. “It is the best birth…”, quickly she caught herself and bit her lip. "I mean, the best day I had in a while." Maleeixo, she hadn’t meant to say this! He shouldn’t know! No one should know!
Gladly she took up the topic of her family, anything to distract him from her slip. It was far less painful thinking about them than she had expected. Maybe it was truly time to move on. “The Dyfrènes have been the ruling family for ages. My father was the fourty-seventh king ever since our records start, and the thirty-fifth that bore the name Dyfrène.” She paused and threw her head back to gaze at the clear sky, musing: “It’s quite a legacy. And I wish to honor the tradition of course. Did I ever tell you how it came to pass I have relatives in Camelot? I am sure you will love the story!”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 10, 2012 12:34:17 GMT -5
Oh dear stars, yes, the roads were cold!! Yassia had been numbed to the sensation before, as everything in her had been focused on running and not looking back, but now she was in a comparably cozy warm hut, near a crackling fire she only just realized the difference and her fingers and feet began to ache with the resuming blood circulation. It was truly a wonderful idea to never get up again… just stay here for the night without the fear of being pounced on by either wild animals or bandits and warm… finally warm again. But could she? Could she really allow herself to lower her guard before she had passed the border to Camelot? The warm cup of tea felt like heaven in her cold hands, and Yassia eagerly took a sip which of course burnt her tongue, but she couldn’t really care less. But even more warming than the tea were Hunith’s words. They were just what Yassia needed right now after her trust in mankind had been thoroughly rattled once again. ”Why is it that those who have nothing have a heart of gold, while those who have gold have no heart?” she mused softly, sighing. “Can you tell me that, Hunith? And this tea is delicious, really! Just what I need right now.”
Yassia listened to Hunith’s words and then couldn’t suppress a violent wince, which she tried to overplay with a cough and taking another sip out of the cup. Had Hunith just called her ‘my lady’?! What had given her away? Had she been too careless again?! She couldn’t risk that some kind of noble trail followed her here, then Cenred would catch her again in no time! “What makes you think I’m a lady?” she asked and laughed after she had caught herself again. “All you see is a frozen wanderer that got lost in the wrong country and now tries to trce her steps back.” She cocked her head in interest, when Hunith elaborated about King Uther. She would soon meet the man, so she better got as much information about him as she could. “So.. you mean to say King Uther is not better than King Cenred? Really?”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 10, 2012 11:17:27 GMT -5
When it came down to it, Morgana must be pretty convinced that Yassia knew nothing at all. She didn’t know a thing about how a Queen should act, she didn’t know Arthur well enough to judge him and she didn’t know bout Morgana’s plans. That was a hell lot of not knowing, and Yassia clearly begged to differ. What did Morgana, in return, know about Yassia? Even less! Much less! Morgana had been living a life full of luxery and love, and she had thrown all that away because she suddenly wanted to be queen. Yassia on the other hand had to fight for every step she wanted to push through, and so far her dreams and hopes had brought her through half the world, but further away from what she aspired each day. An outside observer may think that their fates were pretty similar, but in Yassia’s eyes, Morgana’s fate was nothing but a distorted picture of her own.
After so many threats Yassia had already received in her life,it was nothng short of a mircle she was still in one piece. Vortigern had nearly stabbed her eyes, she had once nearly lost a hand as a supposed thief and now Morgana wanted to cut out her tongue. This was by far the worst threat so far, as Yassia needed nothing more seriously than her tongue to argue her case. Without a tongue she was a helpless puppet one could push here and there, because she had no means to protest. Oh, she had to be careful, really careful.
”Whatever dream world it is you’re living in, Morgana, I surely don’t want to be part of it”, she muttered and shook her head. Where would this lead? Was it really possible for Morgana to get a hold on Arthur? And when she did, wouldn’t she rather kill him straight away, because there was not even the slightest chance Arthur would ever let her be queen? He would fight against her with his dying breath… but maybe it was better not to mention these things aloud… Yassia winced as Morgana grabbed her so roughly, and for a moment she expected to be hit. But then, what followed was much much worse in her eyes. Darkness… that brought a few of her dearest fears and most horrible memories to light…
”You want to throw me into an oubliette?” she exclaimed, more panicked than furious. “How dare you! You can’t do this!” And yet Yassia knew she could. Suddenly she had difficulties breathing as vivid images came crashing down on her, of complete blackness… and strong, searching, triumphant hands that seemed to know what they wanted and where to get it even without light…
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 8, 2012 11:04:18 GMT -5
(banner made by Cait <333) She wouldn’t have expected such a bright reaction from Oliver by agreeing to his offer, but Yassia found herself getting even more excited now. If it didn’t make him feel awkward or anything, then she would not have to feel guilty in any way, she could savour it. But of course, this open excitement shown by him held its down sides. Of course her treacherous heart and mind started to overinterpret again. Why was he so happy to teach her? Could it be he really wanted to spend more time with her? Maybe even more in just the usual ‘friends spend time with friends’ way? Oh dear, she should not go down that road again! It would only end with the next rebuke and, truth be told, she could do without that. She had her pride did she not?! She would not jump at his every call and whim! For a moment Yassia was even tempted to reject the offer again just because. Just because she wanted to appear strong. Wanted to show him that he could not have it all without commitment. But of course she didn’t. The temptation from the other side was too strong.”Don’t worry, this time I won’t use you as a target”, she tried a joke, but it sounded lame even to her own ears. Was that he reason he didn’t look up and rather focussed on the fire? Because he as well suddenly remembered the last time she had shown him her skill with a dagger? How to save the situation again? “I guess it needs much strength to even just straighten it, yes?”
Yassia nodded, content with his answer, and also not quite sure if she could trust her voice to speak without quivering. Everything in her ached to prolong this moment, just keep her fingers in place, or even – what a thought! – caress the skin around the scar. Yassia had to fight hard even keeping her mind in check and in action, without being reduced to a melting puddle on the ground. Why could Oliver have such an effect on her? He wasn’t even doing so much, and yet she could not help herself! After what seemed like an eternity, and yet could not have been more than a few heartbeats, she finally mustered the strength to both draw back her hand and say something. So occupied with keeping a level head she was, his own difficulties to do the same completely escaped her. ”Alright then, but let’s eat first! Every huntsman needs his strength!”
And Oliver just kept on tearing at the walls she had built around her heart after their big fight, which she had sworn never to let be assaulted again. He made it seem so effortless, as if they were not even there. A single tender word out of his mouth let her forget everything she had decided on. That was by no means to be called fair, but apparently that was her lot in life. She couldn’t help feeling like washed over by a gentle, warm spring rain as he told her she would always have him as a friend. This simple sentence made the sheer thought of departing from him almost unbearable. Why couldn’t she take them all with her? She would be very lonely in Ailantha without her friends, that was for sure. And yet, there was more… or was there? Oliver took her hand and he held her gaze, probably not even knowing what he was doing to her… and yet for the blink of an eye it seemed like he had drawn back a veil from his soul, baring his all before her in one simple look of his eyes, telling her… Yassia’s breath caught in her throat at what she thought to read in his eyes. Could it be?! Involuntarily she squeezed his hand tighter, moving her thumb over the back of his hand – but as soon as she had seen it, it was gone again, and Oliver broke the spell by focussing again on their meal. To occupy her hands, Yassia snatched another berry, then eagerly extended a hand for the skewer. “As long as it doesn’t taste like squirrel, I’m fine with everything! Pleeaaaase, let me have some? I’m starving!”
No, of course she wasn’t, she knew by now how that felt, and she had had a hearty breakfast in the castle. But there were two – no, three reasons for her eagerness on the food: First, anything was better than mulling over her emotions right now, second, she was interested to see the result of Oliver’s cooking and third: the sooner they ate, the sooner they could start practicing.
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 6, 2012 10:19:17 GMT -5
The greatest palace on earth couldn’t be of any more comfort for Yassia now than this simple hut she was entering, slightly bowing her head so she would not bump against the wooden browpiece. After having slept many nights out in the open or in lousy taverns the clean hut of this woman resembled heaven. It was out of the cold, and it was out of danger for now. Relief washed over Yassia and she felt like a whole lot of weight was lifted from a shoulders at once. At the same time she felt extremely tired and worn, wanted nothing more than to sit down and get a warm soup on top of it. This must be the first moment in days she finally managed to take a breath and slow down, both physically and mentally, and only now she realized how needed it was. She was no machine, she couldn’t go on forever.”Indeed, I have”, she agreed with a weak smile, moving a hand through her greasy hair. “You have no idea about the distances I’ve been covering.”
Then Yassia realized she was talking far too much out of her relief. It would not be good to go around telling her story when she still was in Cenred’s realm, ready to be snatched off her path. Any indication to her whereabouts might be her undoing. But maybe it was too late already? ”My name is… Remei”, she answered hesitantly, not daring to sound her first name, but also unwilling to lie flat out. “And I thank the stars for your kindness, Hunith, a drink would be… just wonderful.” Only now she realized how parched her throat really was, as she had been going without a gulp of water for quite some time. Clearly, Cenred in all his kingly glory had not been as generous as this poor woman.
With a heavy sigh, she lowered herself on the nearest chair and stretched her sore feet. Over the weeks she had become used to a steady walking pace, but she had been stumbling through the woods for hours, as fast as she could. Only sheer willpower had driven her on. ”I need to tell you though”, she started to speak as her bad conscience didn’t let her come to rest, “it might be dangerous for you to take me in. I was being followed, and I don’t know how far I could leave them behind.”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 6, 2012 8:10:35 GMT -5
(banner made by Cait! <333) Yassia didn’t even have to follow his gaze to guess what was going on in Oliver’s mind right now, but she couldn’t help it, trying to see the bow and quiver with his eyes. They surely were more than just a few pieces of wood and steel. They must symbolise his way of life for him, his freedom. When she saw that longing gaze, Yassia vowed to herself that if there was the slightest chance of the wound not being damaged by such actions, she would allow him to use it today. She wanted to see him happy and free, see more of that lovely soul she had met in the Forest of Balor a year ago, to finally forget the ugly side of him that had ruined their reunition so thoroughly. Some things would never be fixed again, and yet they had already agreed to be friends. It was not all you could hope for, but it was more than she had feared to be granted, and she knew she had to thank the stars alone for that.
"If you say I'm good to go, I'd like to teach you some things...with a bow and arrow, I mean...that is if you want to learn...no worries if you don't want to..." She couldn’t help her breath accelerating a little bit at his first few words. It was truly a shame to even admit it, but there was just this slight, probably unwanted innuendo in his words of ‘teaching her’ that brought back memories from times long gone… when she had her true first kiss of love, in his arms. She had been so unsure and shy at first, felt even clumsy, but he had taught her well – but she could not allow her thoughts to go astray like that. It was in the past now, he was solely referring to shooting a bow. And yet it was a wonderful idea! Yassia knew she shouldn’t be so eager, as it probably would only bring her more pain, but there was only so much she could do. Everything about Oliver had long since turned out to be her weak spot. So, before he could change his mind, she quickly said: “I do want to! The bow always fascinated me a s a weapon, and I would be interested to see what’s the difference between aiming an arrow and aiming a dagger.” But all thoughts of shooting arrows or not were wiped away by a far more prominent… issue, the minute Oliver took off his shirt. Yassia had tried to prepare for it in the only way she could,trying to ignore it as if it was nothing, but that did not quite seem to work.
Praying to the stars her hands would not tremble, she disentangled the knot that held together the bandage and slowly, carefully took it away. The skin underneath was a little damp and crumpled, but as far as Yassia could see there was otherwise not much wrong with it.A final test would have to reveal it. ”I’m going to apply pressure to the scar now”, she explained while moving one hand on his shoulder blade as counter pressure and then prodded the scar gently with three fingers of the other hand. “Does it hurt in a piercing way or a dull throbbing way?” she asked, having to focus really hard NOT to think about she was touching Oliver’s bare skin right now. She was a healer, she needed to do this… and yet it felt like both her hands were on fire. “Be honest please! Lying will do you no good.” She almost expected the pain to be only dull though, as everything else seemed to suggest a good and fast healing. But she could err, and she would never forgive herself if she gave him her permission just because she was bias. She WANTED him to be able to use bow and arrow today.
It seemed like nothing she said would change Oliver’s mind about her supposed grandness, so Yassia gave up and flashed him a thankful, yet still slightly uneasy smile. When he began to apologize once again though, she had to interfere. Goodness, would he ever stop feeling bad? It was HER who was to blame here, with constantly killing the mood! ”No, Oliver”, she protested softly, taking a deep breath. “We will NOT change the subject. I finally need to get to terms with this, it’s been long enough. I have to move on. Mircea is dead, and so are many I once knew and loved, but I can’t keep on focussing on what I lost, but on what I gained.” Her smile turned warm. “I am the richest and luckiest girl in the world to have friends that care for me. Like Caitrin. Like you…”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 6, 2012 4:37:20 GMT -5
Why was it a compliment by Morgana sounded more like an insult? It might be the tone she used, but somehiw Yassia didn’t feel too smug about having outwitted the wannabe queen for now. She claimed not to be powerhungry, or that was a laugh indeed! Since when did strength have to be established by fear and threats?”Only the weak need to resort to violence to appear strong!” she scoffed, shrugging as if she hadn’t expected anything less coming from Morgana. “Those who are really strong know that respect is not acquired through fear. THAT is why they are respected. Because they respect others. I have yet to find this vital quality in you.” The way she was talking to Morgana had something of the air an elder sister would show towards the younger one, even though Yassia wasn’t even sure who was the elder one of them. Good-natured, yet patronising. It was risky, but the calmer one in a conversation was always the winner, and Morgana was getting more riled up by the second.
The quick step she took forward and the following hesitation just further proved Yassia right. She had fought against the instinctive wince that followed the near-slap at least halfway succesfully, and now felt a little more smug. She was starting to get the upper hand on this conversation, and that was something not to be underestimated in her current circumstances. How long it would last though, was an entirely different matter. ”A paper signed under duress is not worth the parchment it is made of!” she pointed out, her eyes gleaming. “And I am sure Caitrin very well knows that as well. We’ll just bide our time, you won’t stay on this throne for long.” That was the plan of course. By now Yassia had made it too clear that she would not side with Morgana willingly, so she could only hope her reign wouldn’t last long. For if it did, Yassia knew she would have to leave Camelot unaccomplished. That would be bitter indeed, and yet better than getting help from such a person as Morgana.
There they did go again. Threats. This time not for her wellbeing, but for that of others. In a way that was far worse, and much more complicated to shrug off. ”I can hardly believe my word of allegiance is so important to you, so that you risk the wellbeing of your hostages”, she brought out between clenched teeth, forcing herself to stay calm when all she wanted to do was leaping at Morgana, trying to engage her in a very unladylike punchfight. She had reached that stage of not caring. The mentioning of Arthur being tortured brought a heap of most unwelcome pictures to the forfront of her mind, and she couldn’t suppress a shiver. The body language clearly gave away her unease, even though her words were fake confident. “For that you’d have to capture him first, and I doubt that will happen. He’ll rather catch YOU by surprise!”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 5, 2012 17:08:03 GMT -5
Even though Yassia should have probably expected some kind of repercussion for her boldness, the slap she was given took her completely by surprise. It was simply too out of question for her to be laid hand on in such a way. The only other person that had struck her in her whole life had been Vortigern. Vortigern and Morgana, oh what a lovely pair they would make, Yassia thought numbly, as the impact of the strike made her topple to the side. If not for the brutish hands of the guard holding her and dragging her back into a the kneeling position, she would have landed on the floor. For a moment, Morgana had surely achieved her goal, as Yassia was not saying another word, but was glaring daggers at the wannabe queen. In the presence of royalty, indeed! SHE was more of royal blood than Morgana ever would be, and she would not bow to her! Yassia knew very well that her continuous rejection of Morgana’s threats and other means to sway her was not born so much out of mental strength than more of stubbornness. It was a dangerous trait to have, and yet it had gotten her very far until now. The streak of good luck that had followed her seemed to be at an end though, as there seemed to be nowhere to move forward from this point. She would have to watch Arthur being tortured, and only a miracle could save them all. Stubborness could only get you so far after all. There was nothing worse than feeling helpless, and her wrists already started to burn as she chafed them raw in her futile attempts to wriggle free of her bonds. But she kept on trying, stubborn as a mule. Doing anything at all, however futile,seemed so much better than doing nothing.
She could only admire Arthur’s strength. Even though all seemed lost he had lost nothing of his dignity, and he also didn’t even so much as moan when the first whip lashes came. Morgana knew very well what she was doing, as having to watch this was as bad as receiving these strokes for yourself. Yassia’s head was kept in place so she could not turn it away, but even if she had been able to, she would not have. Wincing with every crack of the whip as if it was striking her own body, she bit her lip until she tasted blood, while her eyes filled with unbidden tears. Sweet stars… give him strength… she prayed with all her might. It is not his destiny to be treated like this, it is not our destiny to end like this… do something! If you ever needed to do something, do it now! I forgo all my wishes for you for all time to come, let them be moot and ground to dust… just, help him!
And just when she thought she couldn’t bear it any longer, she heard Caitrin’s voice pierce the horrible silence. Caitrin, sweet passionate Caitrin seemed to have awoken from whatever state she had been in, and offered herself in his place. This was too much. Yassia knew she would not be able to bear this sight. She admired Arthur, and she would have given her life for him if that would change anything, but Caitrin… Caitrin was like a sister to her soul. This could not happen. ”NO!” her voice quivered with desperation and yet she had never voiced anything with more conviction. “Caitrin, don’t do this! Not you as well, please!” She turned her face to Morgana while tears now ran down her cheeks. “What does it take for you to stop this madness? What do you want?”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 4, 2012 11:18:28 GMT -5
The shade spoke and it was the voice of a woman. That reassured Yassia at least to an extent, as she wasn’t really in the mood to trust male company now. Too many men had exploited her weakened state in the last few weeks and had reared their ugly heads whenever there was something to gain for their own pleasure. It was oh so very predictable, but sadly that didn’t make it easier to avoid. In her state, she really had to accept any help that was offered to her, even though no help usually came without a price. The question had long since ceased to be wether there would be a price or not, it had become the question of whether she was willing to accept this price. Sometimes the cost was just so much more than could be beared, but sometimes you also had to sacrifice your pride if you wanted to live.
And yet, danger could hide behind every caring mask, another lesson she had had to learn. Yassia took only hesistant steps towards the shade, until the receeding light showed her the outlines of an elderly woman, a clear mother-type with eyes glowing warmly, kindness radiating from her very being. Some of Yassia’s tense muscles relaxed as she took in the woman’s features. ”Could I?” she hesitantly asked, not because she didn’t want to be a burden, but because she still didn’t know if she could trust her completely.Peaceful people she had said… and yet this country was ruled by a ruthless king and seemed almost petrified in fear. “It’ll not be long, I promise”, she said, having made up her mind this instant.
Whoever this woman was,she could not risk staying for long, not even if the woman herself did not mean any harm. For now she had managed to throw them off her track, but they had horses and they knew these lands better than her by half. If they came here and found her in the company of this woman who had obviously helped her… what would happen to her?! But the prospect of a warm soup after having gone on without any proper food in days was simply irresistible. “That is truly very gracious of you, ma’am”, she replied and waited for the woman to lead her inside.
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 2, 2012 14:42:34 GMT -5
(banner made by Cait <333) There would be many reasons why Yassia shouldn’t feel comfortable in this situation at all, and many good reasons at that. If you looked at it with even just a little ounce of sense, she ought to feel all on edge, awkward and sad at the same time right now. This was her birthday, a day that reminded her of everything that had gone wrong in her life and had burdened her with a destiny that hadn’t been hers in the first place. Then there was the fact that she was sitting here with Oliver, whom she still had feelings for however much she tried to fight these sentiments. He had just seen her all but naked, even though he had no claim on her like that and didn’t want that. Hence the awkwardness. And then of course there was that little incident from just half an hour ago, where he had tricked her to kiss him. Hence being on edge.But fact was she DID feel comfortable, and almost happy, and she did NOT feel anything like she should given the situation. At least they were nearly negligible, the feelings. How was she supposed to make sense of any of this?
"Really? You are not joking? Wait--you said 'might.' What do I need to do to make it official?" His excitement was moving, and Yassia couldn’t hold back the bright and fond smile that was tugging at her lips. Oliver seemed to live for his bow and arrow and his freedome as well, of course. It must have been so restricting to let go of these things even for just a few days.It probably would be the same with her, should anyone tell her she had to stop practicing her healing work. There had been a time when she thought she could give it up just like that, but over the years it had grown so much on her, even though some might think it unsuitable for a woman of her status. Like her mother Rhiannon, she once would be the queen that healed, and she would never let anyone tell her to refrain from it. But his question was also valid, and for a moment Yassia cocked her head in thinking. The easiest thing would be… but then how could she?! That was so very scandalous… and it would lead only to more pain… to sweet pain… to a moment of what-could-be….
She could not hold herself back. She could not abstain from the easiest solution just because it was the one that would also please her most. Wasn’t that something the people here called a win-win situation? ”That is relatively easy”, she explained with a smile. “A simple demonstration will do. I’m here if anything should go wrong.” Now it became a little more delicate. “But I… would need a … clear view on the wound to judge.” Goodness, why was this so awkward?! He was her patient, yes? Nothing more… nothing more indeed…
Why did he have to speak of admiration? And why couldn’t she stop herself from dreaming more to these words? Being ‘just friends’ shouldn’t be so difficult right? She simply had to accept his words as words of friendship. She had spoken towards Caitrin of admiration as well once before, after all. It was all just between friends, like it should be. Friends could admire each other without any difficulty. ”You make it sound so grand”, she tried to evade his praise with an awkward hunching of her shoulders, “while I was only looking out for myself. There are people in this world who have to do more difficult things day by day.” It intrigued Yassia that he really seemed to have read a book about her country. Oliver had promised her help, but she had not imagined such an amount of dedication. Well… he was trying to be a good friend. There could not be more to it.
”Well, until I crossed the sea I was on horseback, though we couldn’t travel very fast. Mircea and I…” Now she had done it, the memories came crashing down on her and she swallowed heavily. “We didn’t have time to plan our route and our knowledge was far and few between. I am sure we lost a great amount of time… and then the sea took him… and everything else I possessed.”
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Post by Yassia Dyfrène de Ailantha on Feb 1, 2012 17:19:27 GMT -5
Yassia had lost track of time. How long was it since she had started running again, after she had escaped from the mean claws of that one man she didn’t even know the name of. In a way, he had been as bad as Cenred, maybe even worse. He had reminded her of Vortigern and everything that came with this name. Once again she had been at a man’s mercy. Would it ever stop? Slowly she began to think all men were like that, brutal, only looking for their personal gain and driven only by their physical needs. And that was putting it nicely. And yet she had known other men, there had been a time when they were kind to her, speaking with soft voices like her father could when he was not in one of his angry moods. Or like Mircea. Her half-brother had always been kind, and loving in his own way. But they were gone now, dead. The time for good men seemed to be over.
She could only be thankful for her strong physical condition she had trained by the last few weeks walking on foot every day in a quick and determined pace. She was hardly out of breath, even though she must have been half-running for quite some time now. There was nothing she could hear in her back, no yelling, no thudding of horsehooves, and yet she could not bear the thought of slowing down. Yassia knew the border must be here somwhere, but it could well become next morning until she reached it, and she knew she couldn’t go all night. Already she started to stumble over tree roots and got a few nasty scratches on both her arms by overlooking thorned branches sticking out from the underbrush. And what if they found her while she was lying down, completely exhausted? She would be helpless then!
But as she had no idea, if there would be a village or a farm nearby, all she could do was keep on running. There, up ahead… wasn’t that light shimmering through the trees? Weren’t the trees themselves thinning out? Would there be a clearing? Her breath had accelerated by this sudden revellation and she had to pay the price immediately. Her sides started to sting like flaming knives were driven into them and she gasped and doubled over for a second, before she stumbled further forward – and saw her dearest hope come through: a village, little more than a hamlet rose up in front of her eyes, guarded by a little slope. Had there ever been a more welcome sight?! Yassia’s eyes started to water as the exhaustion and relief washed over her like a mighty wave. Maybe someone would take her in for the night? She had nothing to offer than a few healing herbs, though… and times were bad. This was a kingdom ruled by a bad man, how would his subjects react to strangers?
Still holding her sides and trying to catch her breath, Yassia slowed down her wild pace to something more moderate and dignified, and then shielded her eyes, thinking to make out a motion between two of the nearest huts. ”Hello?!” she called out in a hushed voice. “Is somebody there?!”
Tag: Hunith Timeline: End of the s2/s3 gap Time of Day: Evening
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