Metarie nodded at Alyson and gave her a gentle smile, "Alright, then." The salve was tucked back into the ever present courier bag. As Camulous barked at Tomas, Metarie turned her attention to the two men. On one hand, the harsh, cold expression on Camulous' face saddened Metarie on some level. She had hoped to he would be able to smile more. On the other, that expression meant he was not going to what he thought was right and although they might not always agree on what was right or wrong, fundamentally they both held to the laws of Marn.
When Camulous turned to Alyson, he put himself between Tomas and the girl. She seemed to be a little afraid of Camulous and had she been on the receiving end of beatings, Metarie might have been a little afraid of him, too. Instead, she put a steadying, protective arm around the girl's shoulder and offered a little squeeze of encouragement. It was on her tongue to murmur to the girl not to be afraid, but it seemed the baker's assistant had a stronger core than one might think.
“I have been his slave for the past nine years, Sir.”
Slave? Metarie cast her gaze on Alyson. Nine years?? By Theogious! Slavery was illegal! Metarie gave the girl a reassuring pat and focused her attention on Alyson. The girl's reply was a serious charge. One the man did not take kindly to. When Tomas tried to push around Camulous, Metarie stepped forward to put herself bodily in between once again - not that Tomas would get past Camulous.
“Ya don’t understand, Sir, I hadta take ‘er in… She was brought ta me – I didn’ ask to have the burden o’ keepin’ ‘er – but I didn’ have a choice!”
Metarie's brows furrowed, what did he mean he didn't have a choice? The man would have to provide information and answers no matter what came of this. She glanced to Camulous again and worried that Camulous would do the man harm. The look on Camulous' face was positively...
“I've heard enough.” Metarie tensed.
“Keeping slaves is illegal in Thar Shaddin by decree of the first edition of the Tomes. Physical abuse of anyone beyond self defense and protection of property is illegal in Thar Shaddin by decree of the first edition of the Tomes. Metarie nodded in agreement.
"Pissing me off is illegal in Thar Shaddin by my edition of the tomes, and if I don't see you scrambling your miserable self out of this market and out of my sight, I will personally haul you into jail where I will paint the walls with your teeth!” Metarie stared. Thank Theogios she had the grace to keep her mouth from dropping open. Emotionally, a myriad of them ran through her. She felt oddly proud and more attracted to Camulous in that moment. He was being a hero, even though most would not consider it such. Her gaze shone with respect and all those other emotions as she smiled at Camulous.
Metarie spoke. "Don't worry, you can accompany us back to Marn." Metarie had looked to Alyson, but glanced to Camulous for a moment before looking back. "There are many resources available for young women who have come from similar circumstances." Metarie ducked her head down enough to make sure she made solid eye contact with Alyson. "You are not alone."
Alone and Unafraid (April, 122PW)
Re: Alone and Unafraid
A story is like a tapestry; it is never finished until the final thread is sewn.
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Aramyllis Dae
- Citizen
- Posts: 78
- Joined: Sun Jun 15, 2008 3:36 am
- Name: Aramyllis_Dae
- Race: Human + Fae-Elf
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Aramyllis was content to let the others deal with the man and his apprentice--now ex-apprentice, it appeared. She felt bad for the girl: for her experiences of abuse, for her ostensible isolation, even for the fact that she was now going to be dragged off to Marn. Not that Myllis doubted the doctor was attempting to act in the girl's best interest; but the ex-apprentice, long cloistered as she seemed to have been, might well be as daunted by the city as Myllis always was.
The half-breed considered speaking up, to offer to let the girl stay with her here in Shim--her father would surely welcome more hands to work the earth, at least temporarily until the girl found another job--but she was reluctant to draw the attention of the group to herself again. As focused on the girl as they all were, Myllis could almost pretend she was just watching from afar like she preferred, as if they didn't even know she was there. Especially the Captain. How could she have been so foolish as to draw a blade around him? Clearly he was better prepared to deal with such situations than she would ever be. A slight blush spread into her cheeks at her own rashness.
The only person who seemed to be paying her any mind was the Easterner, who had bent to retrieve the fallen knife. A tingle prickled the back of Myllis' mind as the foreigner's fingers closed on the blade, so slight that the mix-breed wondered if she was just imagining it. She swallowed the protest that rose to her lips, a possessive urge. She was well aware that she didn't need to make herself any more suspicious than she already was. As the militant straightened to proffer the knife, Myllis met her eyes tentatively and murmured a quiet, "Thank you." She took it gently by the hilt, then slid it home into its sheath in one practiced motion.
The half-breed considered speaking up, to offer to let the girl stay with her here in Shim--her father would surely welcome more hands to work the earth, at least temporarily until the girl found another job--but she was reluctant to draw the attention of the group to herself again. As focused on the girl as they all were, Myllis could almost pretend she was just watching from afar like she preferred, as if they didn't even know she was there. Especially the Captain. How could she have been so foolish as to draw a blade around him? Clearly he was better prepared to deal with such situations than she would ever be. A slight blush spread into her cheeks at her own rashness.
The only person who seemed to be paying her any mind was the Easterner, who had bent to retrieve the fallen knife. A tingle prickled the back of Myllis' mind as the foreigner's fingers closed on the blade, so slight that the mix-breed wondered if she was just imagining it. She swallowed the protest that rose to her lips, a possessive urge. She was well aware that she didn't need to make herself any more suspicious than she already was. As the militant straightened to proffer the knife, Myllis met her eyes tentatively and murmured a quiet, "Thank you." She took it gently by the hilt, then slid it home into its sheath in one practiced motion.
Last edited by Aramyllis Dae on Thu Jan 01, 2009 5:05 am, edited 1 time in total.
Feathers on the fall.
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Camulous Smithson
- Guardsman
- Posts: 209
- Joined: Fri Jun 24, 2005 12:59 am
- Name: Camulous Smithson
- Race: Human
Re: Alone and Unafraid
The captain stood his ground, glowering at Tomas' scurrying form until he was completely out of sight behind a building. Camulous detested cowards like him. They didn't deserve to live in Thar Shaddin, benefiting from the protection of the brave just so they could continue on with their detestable lifestyles. Had Tomas done anything but run, he would have ended up with a broken nose at the very least.
It was not by the book. He needed to be arrested properly, put on trial for his crimes, and prevented from being able to do harm to someone like Alyson again in the future. The knowledge that Tomas was escaping without real repercussion nagged at Camulous, and it was going to nag at the back of his mind for the foreseeable future.
So much for a quiet afternoon.
By the time he turned his attention to the others, Metarie was doing her best to clean up the mess Tomas left behind. Representing the half of Marnian society that Camulous fought to protect, she was there for the girl, offering up physical and emotional support that a guardsman like him could not. He was grateful that he didn't have to deal with Alyson then. It would only make him feel hard and awkward.
In fact, just seeing the two of them still made him feel that way, so he turned his attention to the Tian Xianian and the girl who had drawn the knife. The Xianian was holding the knife, wondering if she should give it back to Aramyllis. He took one look at the way Aramyllis stood there, practically shaking with nervousness, and nodded. She was no threat - just an onlooker caught up in some excitement. That's how things went in Shim. Without the rigid legal infrastructure or the guard looking over them, Shimians had to take things into their own hands more often than not. He suspected that, despite her apparent meekness, the girl was quite capable of putting that dagger to effective use.
She might even have some magic to go with it. So many of them did.
With nothing valuable to contribute to the others by way of discussion, Camulous remained silent, and looked over the crowd that was slowly losing interest in the scene. The little boy who had been there earlier was standing in the background, having convinced his mother not to drag him all the way home in the hope of seeing a fight. His mother was still holding him back, but when Camulous saw the way the boy stared at him, it puffed him up with pride.
Next time, he told himself, he would put a few punches in the bad man and arrest him properly.
It was not by the book. He needed to be arrested properly, put on trial for his crimes, and prevented from being able to do harm to someone like Alyson again in the future. The knowledge that Tomas was escaping without real repercussion nagged at Camulous, and it was going to nag at the back of his mind for the foreseeable future.
So much for a quiet afternoon.
By the time he turned his attention to the others, Metarie was doing her best to clean up the mess Tomas left behind. Representing the half of Marnian society that Camulous fought to protect, she was there for the girl, offering up physical and emotional support that a guardsman like him could not. He was grateful that he didn't have to deal with Alyson then. It would only make him feel hard and awkward.
In fact, just seeing the two of them still made him feel that way, so he turned his attention to the Tian Xianian and the girl who had drawn the knife. The Xianian was holding the knife, wondering if she should give it back to Aramyllis. He took one look at the way Aramyllis stood there, practically shaking with nervousness, and nodded. She was no threat - just an onlooker caught up in some excitement. That's how things went in Shim. Without the rigid legal infrastructure or the guard looking over them, Shimians had to take things into their own hands more often than not. He suspected that, despite her apparent meekness, the girl was quite capable of putting that dagger to effective use.
She might even have some magic to go with it. So many of them did.
With nothing valuable to contribute to the others by way of discussion, Camulous remained silent, and looked over the crowd that was slowly losing interest in the scene. The little boy who had been there earlier was standing in the background, having convinced his mother not to drag him all the way home in the hope of seeing a fight. His mother was still holding him back, but when Camulous saw the way the boy stared at him, it puffed him up with pride.
Next time, he told himself, he would put a few punches in the bad man and arrest him properly.
Soldiers live.
And wonder why.
And wonder why.
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Mei Li nodded, the woman's words of thanks easily understood, one of the first phrases she had insisted on learning. Up close, the girl didn't appear any bit elvish, and the Gur'yeon inwardly puzzled what would have caused such a notion to cross her mind earlier. Perhaps it had been the slight aloofness; however, the young warrior didn't find any real desire to pursue the question any further and instead turned to the only person in the small group she had further interest in talking to. Not realizing this might make her appear dismissive to the others, she fixed her attention on Camulous.
"I am Ssaulabi... warrior. I looking to have occupation somewhere, here." She bowed her head, feeling slightly ashamed for being so direct but not knowing the language well enough to be otherwise.
"I am Ssaulabi... warrior. I looking to have occupation somewhere, here." She bowed her head, feeling slightly ashamed for being so direct but not knowing the language well enough to be otherwise.
Just because I'm losing, doesn't mean I've lost
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Alyson Rolfe
- Citizen
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- Name: Alyson Rolfe
- Race: Human
Re: Alone and Unafraid
If someone had questioned Alyson about her position with Tomas eight or nine years ago, her answer would have been far different from her response today. Still a child, frightened and naïve, Alyson would have only cowered and, had she found the courage to speak, it would have only been to concur with Tomas’s explanation of her status. Now, however, at the age of twenty, Alyson was no longer a child. She was intelligent enough to see that her treatment was not common… even for a servant. The abuse she suffered, along with the lack of respect – not to mention pay – clearly showed she was merely a slave to the man.
Metarie spoke. "Don't worry, you can accompany us back to Marn." Metarie had looked to Alyson, but glanced to Camulous for a moment before looking back. "There are many resources available for young women who have come from similar circumstances." Metarie ducked her head down enough to make sure she made solid eye contact with Alyson. "You are not alone."
Alyson’s eyes met Metarie’s and she blinked, then attempted a small smile of thanks. Her thoughts, though, continued to spin. Others like me… she considered the statement for a moment. Perhaps there were other women, like Alyson, who had been abused and mistreated as slaves. But those women likely remembered where they came from… perhaps had family they could return to… Alyson had no one. “You are not alone.” the elvish woman had said… but Alyson had never felt so completely alone.
Despite her recognition of Tomas’s abuse of her and the excitement that the thought of being free brought, Alyson had a nagging feeling that she should turn around, run back to the bakery, beg Tomas’s forgiveness, and return to her life – however pathetic it may have been. At least with Tomas she had a place to live, food – if scant at times – to eat, and a job – thankless perhaps – but it was all she knew. Now, she was dependent on complete strangers who might decide she was not worth the burden… after all, she had nothing to offer. The thread-bare dress and the two bishan in her pocket that Tomas had thrown at her that morning were her only possessions. (Considering the circumstances she did not feel the inclination to return the money.) She had few skills that she could imagine someone in Marn might be interested in.
The one thing that stopped her from leaving was a faint glimmer of hope that found its way into her heart. A hope that she might be able to discover the reason she was left in Tomas’s care, and that she might be able to break past the mental fog that shrouded her past and remember who her parents were… to learn who she really was.
Suddenly Alyson realized she did not even know the names of her rescuers – or they hers. She took a slow breath, and then caught the elf woman’s eyes again. “My name is Alyson… Alyson Rolfe.” she offered quietly. "May I know your name?" she continued, flushing at her boldness to ask.
Meanwhile, Tomas had returned to the bakery, which he had decided to close early. Nosy neighbors were hardly desirable company right now. He paced, mumbling to himself as he tried to figure out the situation he found himself in – and how he might escape it, or endure it with as little discomfort to himself as possible.
His first concern was the captain of the guard, who would be duty-bound to report the situation once he returned to Marn. Whether anyone deemed a simple baker in Shim worth the time to prosecute would be another story... Banishment or execution – neither a pleasant prospect – but there was another alternative, fleeing Shim before anyone could be sent to detain him. Tomas knew his wife would make that option difficult, however, so for now, he would simply wait. He knew enough people that should a warrant be made for his arrest Tomas should know in time to leave Shim before any of the Guard arrived... maybe...
Besides… there was another problem to consider, the mysterious man who had left Alyson in his care. Should someone come for her, that person might be angry to learn the scenario that led to her leaving the bakery. After all this time, though, Tomas felt that the Guard should be a deeper concern. He had thought about Alyson’s arrival off and on over the years, and his conclusion left him little to worry about.
Tomas figured that Alyson was the illegitimate child of some high-ranking person, perhaps from Marn, who was forced to sell the child into slavery to pacify a furious wife. The man had likely planned on retrieving the girl once his wife’s anger had abated, but eventually decided it was easier to forget the girl existed.
It was a solution that Tomas could live with, one that meant there would be no one coming after him, one that he hoped – to be honest desperately hoped – was the truth.
Metarie spoke. "Don't worry, you can accompany us back to Marn." Metarie had looked to Alyson, but glanced to Camulous for a moment before looking back. "There are many resources available for young women who have come from similar circumstances." Metarie ducked her head down enough to make sure she made solid eye contact with Alyson. "You are not alone."
Alyson’s eyes met Metarie’s and she blinked, then attempted a small smile of thanks. Her thoughts, though, continued to spin. Others like me… she considered the statement for a moment. Perhaps there were other women, like Alyson, who had been abused and mistreated as slaves. But those women likely remembered where they came from… perhaps had family they could return to… Alyson had no one. “You are not alone.” the elvish woman had said… but Alyson had never felt so completely alone.
Despite her recognition of Tomas’s abuse of her and the excitement that the thought of being free brought, Alyson had a nagging feeling that she should turn around, run back to the bakery, beg Tomas’s forgiveness, and return to her life – however pathetic it may have been. At least with Tomas she had a place to live, food – if scant at times – to eat, and a job – thankless perhaps – but it was all she knew. Now, she was dependent on complete strangers who might decide she was not worth the burden… after all, she had nothing to offer. The thread-bare dress and the two bishan in her pocket that Tomas had thrown at her that morning were her only possessions. (Considering the circumstances she did not feel the inclination to return the money.) She had few skills that she could imagine someone in Marn might be interested in.
The one thing that stopped her from leaving was a faint glimmer of hope that found its way into her heart. A hope that she might be able to discover the reason she was left in Tomas’s care, and that she might be able to break past the mental fog that shrouded her past and remember who her parents were… to learn who she really was.
Suddenly Alyson realized she did not even know the names of her rescuers – or they hers. She took a slow breath, and then caught the elf woman’s eyes again. “My name is Alyson… Alyson Rolfe.” she offered quietly. "May I know your name?" she continued, flushing at her boldness to ask.
Meanwhile, Tomas had returned to the bakery, which he had decided to close early. Nosy neighbors were hardly desirable company right now. He paced, mumbling to himself as he tried to figure out the situation he found himself in – and how he might escape it, or endure it with as little discomfort to himself as possible.
His first concern was the captain of the guard, who would be duty-bound to report the situation once he returned to Marn. Whether anyone deemed a simple baker in Shim worth the time to prosecute would be another story... Banishment or execution – neither a pleasant prospect – but there was another alternative, fleeing Shim before anyone could be sent to detain him. Tomas knew his wife would make that option difficult, however, so for now, he would simply wait. He knew enough people that should a warrant be made for his arrest Tomas should know in time to leave Shim before any of the Guard arrived... maybe...
Besides… there was another problem to consider, the mysterious man who had left Alyson in his care. Should someone come for her, that person might be angry to learn the scenario that led to her leaving the bakery. After all this time, though, Tomas felt that the Guard should be a deeper concern. He had thought about Alyson’s arrival off and on over the years, and his conclusion left him little to worry about.
Tomas figured that Alyson was the illegitimate child of some high-ranking person, perhaps from Marn, who was forced to sell the child into slavery to pacify a furious wife. The man had likely planned on retrieving the girl once his wife’s anger had abated, but eventually decided it was easier to forget the girl existed.
It was a solution that Tomas could live with, one that meant there would be no one coming after him, one that he hoped – to be honest desperately hoped – was the truth.
Alyson Rolfe
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Alyson tried to smile, but by the look on her face it was obvious she was overwhelmed and feeling a little lost. Compassion welled up in Metarie. There would be a place for Alyson, but Alyson would have to have a desire to have a place. "You do not have to come to Marn, unless you would like," she said gently.
For a moment, the resolve seemed to waver in Alyson's body language. The girl even glanced in the direction the man had gone, but then something changed as if the girl had found something good to focus on. Metarie felt relieved.
“My name is Alyson… Alyson Rolfe. May I know your name?" Metarie smiled. As long as Alyson seemed to need or feel comfort from her touch, Metarie kept a gentle hand on Alyson's shoulder. Sometimes, even the simple touch of another could work wonders.
"My pleasure, Alyson. I am Metarie Sehkhara, and he...," Metarie gestured to Camulous, "...is Camulous Smithson. I'm afraid I do not know the names of the other two with us, yet, but perhaps we will find out soon." WIth that, Metarie looked toward the other young woman, not the foreigner, but the one with the thatch of dark hair. "And you are?" Metarie asked this with a genial smile.
For a moment, the resolve seemed to waver in Alyson's body language. The girl even glanced in the direction the man had gone, but then something changed as if the girl had found something good to focus on. Metarie felt relieved.
“My name is Alyson… Alyson Rolfe. May I know your name?" Metarie smiled. As long as Alyson seemed to need or feel comfort from her touch, Metarie kept a gentle hand on Alyson's shoulder. Sometimes, even the simple touch of another could work wonders.
"My pleasure, Alyson. I am Metarie Sehkhara, and he...," Metarie gestured to Camulous, "...is Camulous Smithson. I'm afraid I do not know the names of the other two with us, yet, but perhaps we will find out soon." WIth that, Metarie looked toward the other young woman, not the foreigner, but the one with the thatch of dark hair. "And you are?" Metarie asked this with a genial smile.
A story is like a tapestry; it is never finished until the final thread is sewn.
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Aramyllis Dae
- Citizen
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- Joined: Sun Jun 15, 2008 3:36 am
- Name: Aramyllis_Dae
- Race: Human + Fae-Elf
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Aramyllis was uncomfortable under the intense scrutiny of the Captain, but it was the maelstrom of the ex-apprentice's emotions that really made her squirm. The corner of her eyes and lips drew down into concerned expression as she watched the blond girl, having momentarily forgotten the others in the strength of the sensations. Myllis did not even have to guess at what Alyson was experiencing; she could feel it, could detect vibrations imperceptible to others, like an invisible breeze stirring across her skin.
The crossbreed's uncanny compassion was sparked. Maybe I should offer her a place to stay.
She jumped slightly when the doctor turned to address her, mind having been pulled off in yet another direction. The response was a simple startle reflex from the interruption of her engrossing thoughts, but Aramyllis' frequent jerking had the effect of making her appear quite skittish. Her gaze slowly focused on her interrogator, and, after a long, hazy delay, an answering smile tugged upwards at her mouth. The relaxed grin was at odds with her earlier shakiness.
"My name is Aramyllis." She tilted her head slightly at the group and bent her knees in the suggestion of a curtsy, incongruous with her loose, practical leggings. "My father, Jo Dae, owns a farm here in Shim. Perhaps if Alyson here doesn't find the city to be to her liking, she could come labor for him until she finds something else to do. We could even arrange her a place to sleep in the house."
Grinning pleasantly, she seemed to have fallen into some sort of village hostess routine, all hospitality and good cheer. But then her eyes grew distant again, head cocked slightly and brow furrowed in concentration, as her thoughts required her full attention. Finally, Myllis nodded, apparently in agreement with herself. Her previous words all having been aimed at Metarie, she now turned and spoke directly to Alyson in a tone of earnest discussion.
"...Although, it might be a good idea to stay as far away from that boss of yours as possible. He didn't seem like the type to give up easily, once the guards go back to the city." She glanced up at Camulous, expression guileless. "Even if the Captain means to arrest him, once he's back, I don't expect he'll react well to seeing his former property walking about freely." There was a hint of scorn in her voice, but mostly it was just a bland observation.
The crossbreed's uncanny compassion was sparked. Maybe I should offer her a place to stay.
She jumped slightly when the doctor turned to address her, mind having been pulled off in yet another direction. The response was a simple startle reflex from the interruption of her engrossing thoughts, but Aramyllis' frequent jerking had the effect of making her appear quite skittish. Her gaze slowly focused on her interrogator, and, after a long, hazy delay, an answering smile tugged upwards at her mouth. The relaxed grin was at odds with her earlier shakiness.
"My name is Aramyllis." She tilted her head slightly at the group and bent her knees in the suggestion of a curtsy, incongruous with her loose, practical leggings. "My father, Jo Dae, owns a farm here in Shim. Perhaps if Alyson here doesn't find the city to be to her liking, she could come labor for him until she finds something else to do. We could even arrange her a place to sleep in the house."
Grinning pleasantly, she seemed to have fallen into some sort of village hostess routine, all hospitality and good cheer. But then her eyes grew distant again, head cocked slightly and brow furrowed in concentration, as her thoughts required her full attention. Finally, Myllis nodded, apparently in agreement with herself. Her previous words all having been aimed at Metarie, she now turned and spoke directly to Alyson in a tone of earnest discussion.
"...Although, it might be a good idea to stay as far away from that boss of yours as possible. He didn't seem like the type to give up easily, once the guards go back to the city." She glanced up at Camulous, expression guileless. "Even if the Captain means to arrest him, once he's back, I don't expect he'll react well to seeing his former property walking about freely." There was a hint of scorn in her voice, but mostly it was just a bland observation.
Last edited by Aramyllis Dae on Sat Mar 07, 2009 7:48 pm, edited 4 times in total.
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Camulous Smithson
- Guardsman
- Posts: 209
- Joined: Fri Jun 24, 2005 12:59 am
- Name: Camulous Smithson
- Race: Human
Re: Alone and Unafraid
"I am Ssaulabi... warrior. I looking to have occupation somewhere, here." Said the Xianian, which led Camulous to size her up. He liked the look of her... or him... and liked the way she handled the Xianian weapon. She had honest eyes. Straightforward and direct, the way he liked it. Not all on about funny business.
"Impress my men and we'll see how you fit in with the guard, outsider."
It was rare for an outsider to get a job offer with the guard so quickly, but Camulous was one of the few men around with the authority to fast-track the process.
"... and he is Camulous Smithson."
Metarie introduced the captain, which drew his attention away from Mei Li. Towering over Alyson's frame by a foot and clad in armor, he barely moved at all, nodding only slightly to acknowledge the greeting. He looked down at her, turned slightly to the side so that he could see the whole group, and not just her.
Adrenaline was still simmering down in his blood, and the inadvertent effect of it, combined with his usual stoic demeanor and the necessity to remain observant even after Tomas had left, was to make the captain look like he was uninterested in Alyson at best, vexed by her presence at worst.
It was unintentional, and Aramyllis wouldn't feel any such emotions coming from him. Only awkwardness and uncertainty. While the ladies tried their best to take care of the girl, he hoped to remain out of it.
Aramyllis' name was stored away in his mind, never to be forgotten. Her family name was of particular importance. There weren't all that many families in Shim, so if the Dae family came up again, he would certainly remember her. Her twitchiness did not impress much upon him. She wasn't strange compared to many people.
"He's a worm." He said bluntly about Tomas, with enough disrespect he might as well have spat on the ground after. "But you're right. I'll send for him, and we can lock him up for a few months, but he'll get out. I can't offer you the same kind of protection if you stay here in Shim that I can in Marn."
"Impress my men and we'll see how you fit in with the guard, outsider."
It was rare for an outsider to get a job offer with the guard so quickly, but Camulous was one of the few men around with the authority to fast-track the process.
"... and he is Camulous Smithson."
Metarie introduced the captain, which drew his attention away from Mei Li. Towering over Alyson's frame by a foot and clad in armor, he barely moved at all, nodding only slightly to acknowledge the greeting. He looked down at her, turned slightly to the side so that he could see the whole group, and not just her.
Adrenaline was still simmering down in his blood, and the inadvertent effect of it, combined with his usual stoic demeanor and the necessity to remain observant even after Tomas had left, was to make the captain look like he was uninterested in Alyson at best, vexed by her presence at worst.
It was unintentional, and Aramyllis wouldn't feel any such emotions coming from him. Only awkwardness and uncertainty. While the ladies tried their best to take care of the girl, he hoped to remain out of it.
Aramyllis' name was stored away in his mind, never to be forgotten. Her family name was of particular importance. There weren't all that many families in Shim, so if the Dae family came up again, he would certainly remember her. Her twitchiness did not impress much upon him. She wasn't strange compared to many people.
"He's a worm." He said bluntly about Tomas, with enough disrespect he might as well have spat on the ground after. "But you're right. I'll send for him, and we can lock him up for a few months, but he'll get out. I can't offer you the same kind of protection if you stay here in Shim that I can in Marn."
Soldiers live.
And wonder why.
And wonder why.
Re: Alone and Unafraid
The Gur'yeon warrior remained stoic in the face of the Captain's challenge. Although she humbly acknowledged her inexperience in real world application of her combat skills, Mei Li sustained a certain pride in her family's martial traditions and felt some measure of confidence that she'd be able to hold her own in a military unit. The notion of a collective of men who were charged with enforcing local laws was not entirely familiar- Gur'yeons depended on their own clansmen and kept an understood agreement between the holds, but it was employment for the time and would give her good grounds to learn the local customs and laws.
Mei Li felt sorry for the poor girl who had been the attention of that cruel man. Although another foreigner might have likened their situation with Alyson, the same feeling of isolation and distraught in a strange, new environment, the Gur'yeon trusted in her faith and that she would be provided for as long as she maintained the path chosen for her. Slight guilt nosed its way into her gut for not feeling like she could share her strength with the girl due to the language barrier. She frowned, but was temporarily soothed when Aramyllis offered a solution to Alyson. Her intentions translated better than her words and Mei Li gave a tiny nod of agreement to the proposed course of action.
She watched between Metarie and Camulous, waiting just a bit longer to see if she could determine their immediate plans before she would attempt to convey that she would have to gather her belongings prior to leaving Shim.
Mei Li felt sorry for the poor girl who had been the attention of that cruel man. Although another foreigner might have likened their situation with Alyson, the same feeling of isolation and distraught in a strange, new environment, the Gur'yeon trusted in her faith and that she would be provided for as long as she maintained the path chosen for her. Slight guilt nosed its way into her gut for not feeling like she could share her strength with the girl due to the language barrier. She frowned, but was temporarily soothed when Aramyllis offered a solution to Alyson. Her intentions translated better than her words and Mei Li gave a tiny nod of agreement to the proposed course of action.
She watched between Metarie and Camulous, waiting just a bit longer to see if she could determine their immediate plans before she would attempt to convey that she would have to gather her belongings prior to leaving Shim.
Just because I'm losing, doesn't mean I've lost
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Alyson Rolfe
- Citizen
- Posts: 77
- Joined: Wed Nov 19, 2008 8:12 pm
- Name: Alyson Rolfe
- Race: Human
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Alyson stood uncertainly for a moment, realizing those around her were waiting for her to make a decision... or at least comment on the offers made. Her first instinct was to flee to Marn under the protection of Camulous - after all, he had saved her and under his watchful eye Tomas would not dare to interfere in her life again. On the other hand... what could she do in Marn? The thought of leaving Shim for the big city was a frightening prospect.
She finally drew a slow breath and addressed her new... friends? Acquaintances at least...
"I think... I think it would be... best... if I accept your offer..." she nodded at Aramyllis, "and stay with you in Shim. I know I could be a help on your father's farm... and I do not want to become anyone's burden..." Her voice trailed off as she met the eyes of Aramyllis, Metarie and Camulous, seeking their approval of her decision.
She would run the risk of facing Tomas again... but he had no power over her now. Alyson had seen his cowardice and would never fear him in the same way again.
She finally drew a slow breath and addressed her new... friends? Acquaintances at least...
"I think... I think it would be... best... if I accept your offer..." she nodded at Aramyllis, "and stay with you in Shim. I know I could be a help on your father's farm... and I do not want to become anyone's burden..." Her voice trailed off as she met the eyes of Aramyllis, Metarie and Camulous, seeking their approval of her decision.
She would run the risk of facing Tomas again... but he had no power over her now. Alyson had seen his cowardice and would never fear him in the same way again.
Alyson Rolfe
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Metarie approved of Aramyllis' suggestion and nodded at the girl for her offer. She hadn't wanted to remove the girl from familiar surroundings, but did not have any other options. Yes, the baker might give some trouble, but hopefully Aramyllis' father was not the type to side with someone who broke the law so outrageously.
Metarie thought on it a little longer. Perhaps if she sent a small stipend to help support the extra mouth while Alyson established herself. A few extra bishani a month wouldn't harm anything, would it? Metarie decided she would talk with Camulous about it, should Alyson decide to stay. When Alyson actually stood up and took the offer, Metarie beamed at them both. Alyson was given a gentle hug.
"I'm proud of your decision, Alyson and of your offer Aramyllis. Should you need the Captain or I to speak with your father, please do not hesitate to call on us." Metarie stepped away from Alyson, giving her the physical room to stand on her own as well.
"When you are ready to establish yourself, Alyson, please let me know." Metarie thought, now I can put aside a small account for the girl just as any of the young women would get, which will be waiting for her when she is ready. And, should Jo Dae balk, Aramyllis has an opening to speak with us and I could make my offer to provide a supplement from that account until then.
"My, what a busy morning... I smell good things to eat. I think it's coming from the Red Chalice's outdoor tavern. Is anyone hungry? My treat!" Metarie smiled at the assembled group as she moved back to Camulous' side and softly touched his hand with her fingertips, seeking to ease him back, before curving her hand into his. His tension was palpable and his stance was one with which she was familiar. Metarie chose to move things back to more mundane, normal things in the hope that it would diffuse his tension.
Looking to Mei Li, Metarie continued, "Besides, from the sound of things, it seems that we may have a new guard in the ranks tomorrow. I suspect you may need some time to gather your belongings, no? You could do that after we eat and while I look through some of the market stalls."
Metarie glanced at the assembled group, "What do you think?"
Metarie thought on it a little longer. Perhaps if she sent a small stipend to help support the extra mouth while Alyson established herself. A few extra bishani a month wouldn't harm anything, would it? Metarie decided she would talk with Camulous about it, should Alyson decide to stay. When Alyson actually stood up and took the offer, Metarie beamed at them both. Alyson was given a gentle hug.
"I'm proud of your decision, Alyson and of your offer Aramyllis. Should you need the Captain or I to speak with your father, please do not hesitate to call on us." Metarie stepped away from Alyson, giving her the physical room to stand on her own as well.
"When you are ready to establish yourself, Alyson, please let me know." Metarie thought, now I can put aside a small account for the girl just as any of the young women would get, which will be waiting for her when she is ready. And, should Jo Dae balk, Aramyllis has an opening to speak with us and I could make my offer to provide a supplement from that account until then.
"My, what a busy morning... I smell good things to eat. I think it's coming from the Red Chalice's outdoor tavern. Is anyone hungry? My treat!" Metarie smiled at the assembled group as she moved back to Camulous' side and softly touched his hand with her fingertips, seeking to ease him back, before curving her hand into his. His tension was palpable and his stance was one with which she was familiar. Metarie chose to move things back to more mundane, normal things in the hope that it would diffuse his tension.
Looking to Mei Li, Metarie continued, "Besides, from the sound of things, it seems that we may have a new guard in the ranks tomorrow. I suspect you may need some time to gather your belongings, no? You could do that after we eat and while I look through some of the market stalls."
Metarie glanced at the assembled group, "What do you think?"
A story is like a tapestry; it is never finished until the final thread is sewn.
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Re: Alone and Unafraid
Mei Li watched Metarie carefully, impassively, trying to determine the meaning of her words from her body language as much as the actual syllables. Since she had been trying to form the phrases in her mind, she had an easier time translating the last part of the doctor's sentence about her gathering her belongings. The Gur'yeon warrior offered a small but genuine smile at the proclamation of taking a meal- her culture would consider refusing such an offer to be rude, though in the same vein, she made a mental note to return the honor if her fortune ever allowed it in the future.
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Camulous Smithson
- Guardsman
- Posts: 209
- Joined: Fri Jun 24, 2005 12:59 am
- Name: Camulous Smithson
- Race: Human
Re: Alone and Unafraid
There was nothing for Camulous to add to what passed between the women. They were taking care of Alyson far better than he could, and offered her something more than he knew how to give - compassion and friendship.
Now that the moment had passed, he wondered why he hadn't done the right thing and pulled Tomas in to jail on the spot. Was his plan to spend time with Metarie so valuable that he was willing to skirt his duties? Being off-duty had never been an excuse in the past.
Things were certainly changing for the captain. If his negligence ended up putting Alyson at the mercy of Tomas again, or anyone else in harm's way, he would not forgive himself. The best he could do was rush to send someone to arrest him as soon as he was back in Marn.
And while they spoke, this was what Camulous thought about. How soon could he fix his mistake, and how likely was it to explode in his face. Alyson was grateful, but that wasn't enough. She had a right to live in safety and a right to expect him to do his job, whether she knew it or not. The lingering feeling that he had screwed up would not go away.
"Is anyone hungry?" Metarie asked, and touched his hand, pulling him away from his wandering thoughts.
He didn't answer right away. Instead he examined Aramyllis, trying to see where she stood in all of this. What kind of a person was she? Could she be trusted? Should he insist that Alyson go with Metarie, where he knew she would be safer, or should he just keep his mouth shut and let them make the decision they felt most comfortable with?
Holding her in a studious gaze for some time, he eventually decided that he was being paranoid. She was intimidated by him, and not in the way that criminals were. On top of that, she lived in Shim, if what she said was true. Most of the Shimians were honest people.
"That's a good idea." He said. For some reason, he wanted to get all of them out of the open market, and learn something more about what was going on. If Aramyllis was going to join them or not would tell him a thing or two. "Shall we?"
Now that the moment had passed, he wondered why he hadn't done the right thing and pulled Tomas in to jail on the spot. Was his plan to spend time with Metarie so valuable that he was willing to skirt his duties? Being off-duty had never been an excuse in the past.
Things were certainly changing for the captain. If his negligence ended up putting Alyson at the mercy of Tomas again, or anyone else in harm's way, he would not forgive himself. The best he could do was rush to send someone to arrest him as soon as he was back in Marn.
And while they spoke, this was what Camulous thought about. How soon could he fix his mistake, and how likely was it to explode in his face. Alyson was grateful, but that wasn't enough. She had a right to live in safety and a right to expect him to do his job, whether she knew it or not. The lingering feeling that he had screwed up would not go away.
"Is anyone hungry?" Metarie asked, and touched his hand, pulling him away from his wandering thoughts.
He didn't answer right away. Instead he examined Aramyllis, trying to see where she stood in all of this. What kind of a person was she? Could she be trusted? Should he insist that Alyson go with Metarie, where he knew she would be safer, or should he just keep his mouth shut and let them make the decision they felt most comfortable with?
Holding her in a studious gaze for some time, he eventually decided that he was being paranoid. She was intimidated by him, and not in the way that criminals were. On top of that, she lived in Shim, if what she said was true. Most of the Shimians were honest people.
"That's a good idea." He said. For some reason, he wanted to get all of them out of the open market, and learn something more about what was going on. If Aramyllis was going to join them or not would tell him a thing or two. "Shall we?"
Soldiers live.
And wonder why.
And wonder why.
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Alyson Rolfe
- Citizen
- Posts: 77
- Joined: Wed Nov 19, 2008 8:12 pm
- Name: Alyson Rolfe
- Race: Human
Re: Alone and Unafraid
With the excitement finally abating, Alyson breathed a sigh of relief as Metarie gave her a gentle hug. Alyson's decision had been made - and for a little while she would be able to try and forget the pain Tomas had inflicted as she tried to get to know her new acquaintances.
As she looked around, Alyson suddenly noticed a strange, barely tangible feeling that seemed to come from Metarie and Aramyllis. It was faint... so much so that she had not noticed the feeling before. The feeling did not extend towards Camulous though... to him she felt gratitude, respect and a sense of awe... Alyson quickly dismissed it, however, deciding it was merely appreciation for the two women who had come to her aid and offered her shelter. Being unable to remember her past - including her mother - Alyson was unused to being around women, especially ones with compassion.
"When you are ready to establish yourself, Alyson, please let me know."
Alyson smiled and nodded, acknowledging Metarie's request. Someday maybe she would be ready to truly be on her own... and it would be nice to have one such as Metarie as a friend.
When Metarie asked if anyone was hungry Alyson's stomach rumbled quietly, reminding her how long it had been since her last meal. Having never had the experience of eating in a tavern, the offer was more than a little tempting. She turned to Aramyllis to see if the girl would accept... after all, Alyson would soon be working for the girl's father and therefore felt she should follow Aramyllis's lead.
As she looked around, Alyson suddenly noticed a strange, barely tangible feeling that seemed to come from Metarie and Aramyllis. It was faint... so much so that she had not noticed the feeling before. The feeling did not extend towards Camulous though... to him she felt gratitude, respect and a sense of awe... Alyson quickly dismissed it, however, deciding it was merely appreciation for the two women who had come to her aid and offered her shelter. Being unable to remember her past - including her mother - Alyson was unused to being around women, especially ones with compassion.
"When you are ready to establish yourself, Alyson, please let me know."
Alyson smiled and nodded, acknowledging Metarie's request. Someday maybe she would be ready to truly be on her own... and it would be nice to have one such as Metarie as a friend.
When Metarie asked if anyone was hungry Alyson's stomach rumbled quietly, reminding her how long it had been since her last meal. Having never had the experience of eating in a tavern, the offer was more than a little tempting. She turned to Aramyllis to see if the girl would accept... after all, Alyson would soon be working for the girl's father and therefore felt she should follow Aramyllis's lead.
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Aramyllis Dae
- Citizen
- Posts: 78
- Joined: Sun Jun 15, 2008 3:36 am
- Name: Aramyllis_Dae
- Race: Human + Fae-Elf
Re: Alone and Unafraid
Alyson's acceptance brought a flutter to Myllis' stomach, a melange of excitement and apprehension. She and the ex-apprentice seemed to share several things in common even beyond their similar age--a fact Aramyllis registered unconsciously without pausing to consider exactly what those things were--presenting a good potential for a growing friendship. It was a rare occurrence for the introverted hybrid with few close companions. Most of her village peers had fallen prey to suspicion and begun shunning Myllis after rumors of her uncanny abilities started to circulate, back when she was a girl of only seven or eight years. Since then, she had found it easier to keep to herself, rather than risk exposure to their cruelty. Now, the hybrid was unaccustomed to having much contact with anyone outside of her family. Furthermore, on most days she split up from her father and sister to work on separate chores, so that Aramyllis had become more comfortable alone than with others. She had come to value the time alone, with nothing to distract her from the internal workings of her mind. Having Alyson around, having to teach the girl how to maintain the farm, would be a big change for Myllis.
Alyson appeared just as nervous. "I do not want to become anyone's burden..."
Aramyllis shook her head slowly, a small, knowing smile curving her lips. "Strong hands that are eager to work are never a burden, not on a farm." Hoping to alleviate the ex-apprentice's worries, she flashed her teeth and reached out a hand to briefly brush her fingers against the girl's arm in an attempt at comfort. The hybrid was not very used to physical touch, either, and the gesture looked and felt unnatural. Yet it was sincere.
The offer of lunch was more unexpected, and the hybrid's face quickly suffused with a flush. She knew she could handle one-on-one interaction with Alyson, but a meal as a group was more daunting. Myllis' silence was prolonged as she considered, rationale warring with anxiety, until, unable to decide, she turned to Alyson for a cue. The girl was looking back at her, waiting. Aramyllis felt her face heating again, and, dropping her gaze to the ground to hide her discomfort, she toed the earth, tongue darting out to wet her lips. Her unease was apparent.
Finally, she submitted to the sensation of Gabi'Rel pushing at her back, urging her to accept the invitation. "Fine," Myllis rasped, irritated at him. At the echo of the words in her ear, she realized she had spoken aloud and reddened yet again. Glancing up through her eyelashes at the reassuring doctor, she nodded. "I mean, yes, thank you. We would like that."
Alyson appeared just as nervous. "I do not want to become anyone's burden..."
Aramyllis shook her head slowly, a small, knowing smile curving her lips. "Strong hands that are eager to work are never a burden, not on a farm." Hoping to alleviate the ex-apprentice's worries, she flashed her teeth and reached out a hand to briefly brush her fingers against the girl's arm in an attempt at comfort. The hybrid was not very used to physical touch, either, and the gesture looked and felt unnatural. Yet it was sincere.
The offer of lunch was more unexpected, and the hybrid's face quickly suffused with a flush. She knew she could handle one-on-one interaction with Alyson, but a meal as a group was more daunting. Myllis' silence was prolonged as she considered, rationale warring with anxiety, until, unable to decide, she turned to Alyson for a cue. The girl was looking back at her, waiting. Aramyllis felt her face heating again, and, dropping her gaze to the ground to hide her discomfort, she toed the earth, tongue darting out to wet her lips. Her unease was apparent.
Finally, she submitted to the sensation of Gabi'Rel pushing at her back, urging her to accept the invitation. "Fine," Myllis rasped, irritated at him. At the echo of the words in her ear, she realized she had spoken aloud and reddened yet again. Glancing up through her eyelashes at the reassuring doctor, she nodded. "I mean, yes, thank you. We would like that."