Legend of Guardians

by **xenolion** 16th August 2015, 1:46 pm

The Elven King looks at the reports that were placed before him. It is time. Time for the pilgrimage to begin. “Do we have any qualified summoners ready to go?” He asks his counsel.

“There is one in the Arabitylar family. A young woman, she is a mage as well.” The counsel answers.

“Perfect, send a message to the family and also to the human King. I know one of his sons is a mage. He will make a good protector. I cannot believe it already has been a thousand years. We will spread the word to the other nations later. I don’t want our summoner to be alone with the other guardians.” The King sighs. “I only wish there was a different way of doing this.”

~~~~~~

Caladhiel finishes up on the young patient. “Next time us some caution while exploring. It could have been a lot worse than a broken leg.”

“Cala, Cala…” A young girl’s shout is heard. Caladhiel knows immediately who it is. Only one person calls her that. The curtain is pulled open. “Atara nyare amin utu- lle. ta naa horme.*” The young girl pants and switches to common. “There is a royal summons for you.”

Caladhiel gasps, “A royal summon for me? I will be right there.” She looks at the doctor for his dismissal and takes off her labcoat. “Thank you for fetching me Kujara, shall we race home?” The grin on Kujara’s face is wide as she takes off to the house. Caladhiel waits for a few moments to give her sister a head start. She breaks into a sprint.

She lets Kujara touch the door first as she smooths her outfit. Not only is her family a mage family. It is a summoner one as well. It is rare to have a summoner who is both. They had royal visits before but mostly they deal with her parents not with her. She makes sure she is presentable before walking in.

A man in royal robes is sitting by the fireplace enjoying tea with her parents. They all look up as Caladhiel enters the room. “Milday, it is good to see you. I am glad you came quickly. I have a letter here from the king. He wants you to get ready for you pilgrimage. Yours will not be the normal one though. He needs you for a special one. With your parents’ permission of course.” He looks over at the couple seated together.

“But of course, we pledge our services for His Majesty, and that of our daughter.” The Father states.

“Don’t worry about packing too much. His Majesty will provide you with the necessities.” The man states. “However if there is anything personal you need, I will help you pack that. I recommend packing lightly, this is going to be a long trip. Primarily on foot as well.”

Caladhiel bows and goes to her room. She packs her flute, her toiletries, and her crossbow. She cannot help, but be a little nervous. She remember the bedtime stories of pilgrimages that all elves have heard. She wonders who her protectors will be.

*Mother told me to find you. It is urgent.

**********

Meanwhile, have the world away a message is received by the human royalty. They give it to King Frederick immediately upon arrival. He nods at his messenger. “So it begins. Get the Royal carriage set up with plenty of provisions. My son is going to the Elven Castle. Oh and someone fetch Kelani for me as well.”

Kelani is at the mage practice grounds. He is working on picking up his instructor. It is not going so well. “I know you can do this Prince, you have been practicing so hard. Just a little bit higher. I can almost reach the apple.”

“It would have been simpler to bring the apple to you.” Kelani retorts as beads of sweat glisten on his forehead. The door burst open and a guard enters. Kelani loses his concentration as he looks at the guard. The instructor falls on her butt.

“This better be important, can’t you see I am in the middle of a lesson.” The instructor glares at the guard.

“Sir, the King told me to come get you. It is important.” The guard bows.

Kelani shrugs at the instructor. “What can I say, I am a popular one today.” He turns to leave the room but pauses at the door. Only using his mind, he takes the apple from the branch and sets it in the instructor’s hands. “Enjoy.”

Kelani rushes back to the castle, making a stop at his room to dress appropriately. He is told that his father is waiting in the study. “Father, you wanted to see me?”

“Good, good you are here. I got a message from the Elven nation. They have requested you to be a protector for their summoner. I am readying a carriage and your bags as well. You will be protected on your trip to pick up the Summoner, and to bring her back here. I am so proud that you were selected for this pilgrimage. Now go quickly and may your travels be safe.” King Frederick hugs his son.

Kelani is excited, finally something to do. He loves being a Prince, but since he is not heir to the throne, life is a little boring. He goes to his room and makes sure the servants are packing the right things.

by **JerriLeah7** 24th August 2015, 1:28 am

The Spriggan live up in the trees, high up above within the thickest of branches. The houses and small, wooden bridges are never well hidden, but they never cared to be, either. Small bridges lead from tree to tree while lanterns hang about the region to provide accurate lighting for the small people that have made this dark forest their home.

Though they do like the darker lighting of this place, especially at night when there is even less sunlight able to reach through the darkened branches, they cannot see without at least a dim amount of light to guide them, so the lanterns are never sparse to be found.

Small, wooden ramps wind around tree trunks from the bases and into the sky, providing ways up into the higher regions where most creatures that are higher than five feet will be most uncomfortable. In the center of this place, there is the home of the Akltra, their clan leader.

The largest of this section of trees supports his abode with luxury in size and style when compared to the houses of all other Spriggan. Majet makes her way up the ramp into this particular tree house with mild intrigue. Never before has she been summoned by anyone other than her father, and especially not by the Akltra, himself.

With curiosity, she enters the home of Fenfear without knocking. No Spriggan ever knocked, here. Anyone was free to come and go as they pleased, regardless of the building or its purpose. Fenfear is waiting for her, seated at his table and already devouring some forest berries that await at its center. He seems quite nonchalant as he points to the seat across from him. She is uncertain of what to say, so Majet does as she is told and simply sits in silence.

After a few more bites of fruit, Fenfear looks up at her with a stoic gaze and speaks with a calm, smooth tone. "Jet. When you were young, I have no doubt that your father told you of the Summoner's Weight."

Majet does not respond, but of course, she has. Every child has heard of this story, and most remember it simply because of how different it is to the usual stories that are told and shared among the Spriggan children. Though most stories were of war and death and love and adventures, this one was quite drab, in comparison.

"The Pilgrimage is required to have one representative from each Nation to be present, in order to guarantee the safety of the Summoner and the success of her purpose. You will be there for the Spriggan. You will honour our kind."

Majet looks mildly surprised, "What? The story is real? ...Is this a prank?"

Fenfear simply stares at her as he munches on his fruit. His feet raise up onto the table's surface and his ankles cross as he leans back in his seat for maximum comfort as he relaxes in all of his mystery. He smirks and Majet wonders just what that smirk could mean.

Finally, she decides that he would not have summoned the likes of her to his very home for such a prank. It would be a waste of his time and energy, to be sure. Plus, this is the very first time they have ever directly spoken--why would the first words be a joke?

So...this is real. Why must they each have a representative? What was it about barriers in the story? How is this to prevent war, again? The childhood story was a boring one, and just like many of the Spriggan, she can barely remember the details of the Pilgrimage or of its importance. Why her?

"Why me?" Majet brings the last question to her lips with curiosity, but she expects the same response from the clan leader that she had received when asking if this were a prank. Taking the drink she is offered by a maid, she lifts the glass to drink some water and is relieved when he does actually reply with words.

"The Drow have chosen Syren for their representative."

Majet snorts, losing the water back into the glass as she almost chokes on the news. Syren is the one chosen to do this? What is the Queen thinking?! This is a peacekeeping mission and they send a woman that wishes for nothing more than a war with the Elves...and they will be traveling with an Elf!

Fenfear laughs as she coughs up the liquid with watery eyes. "You are the most familiar with the Drow, so you will keep her in check. I have no doubt that the Queen's intentions are of sabotage. It is your job, as the one who knows her best and the most capable of detecting her intentions, to keep this from happening. Do you understand?"

Majet's stomach sinks into the flood of dread and immediately wishes to have befriended another Drow--any other Drow but this one. Syren is a bitch, there is no other way to say it. And now, she is sent to babysit her and keep her from murdering others? What's more, if she fails, she will be screwing up a task given to her by Fenfear, the voice of the Spriggan.

"Yes, Akltra." Majet replies, "Me'kat Sal'jurr." **

With that, Jet gathers all of the additional information that she will need, such as who she is meeting and where, asks a few minor details, and then heads on her way back out towards her home. It is enough that she will have to re-read the most boring story of all her life, and now she will have to have the heaviest task she has ever before been given.

*As you wish it.

by **xenolion** 27th August 2015, 3:52 pm

It is a long trip to the Zordlon nation from the Milah one. There are extra drivers and arrangements with horses so they will cut down the trip. Kelani loves to travel though, and looks forward to visiting the Zordlon nation again. He does not get out of the Royal city enough.

He looks at as the carriage travels along. It is cooler in the mountainous Zordlon nation. He wishes he knew more about this pilgrimage. Maybe he will get more information from the Elf and Drow companions. “Sire, the castle is in view. We should be there within the hour.” He hears from the Driver. He is relieved three full days in the carriage is long enough.

~~~~~~~~

Caladhiel is staying at the castle under the King’s order. He makes sure that she has the proper attire to represent the elves and a summoner. She spends the time studying up on the pilgrimage. This is one that is taken every thousand years. The Elven library is one of the few that have records about it. She knows that she will need to travel with a member of each nation to the temples to obtain the guardians. She only hopes the Drow that is selected is at least decent.

A knock is heard on the door. Caladhiel opens the door “Lle presence naa requested e' i' mahalma room, Arwen Summoner.”*

“Diola lle, amin nauva right eller.”* She replies. She looks in the mirror quickly to make sure she is decent before following him to the chamber.

“The first member of your party has arrived. He is the Prince of the Milah nation. His name is Kelani. He will be escorting you to the first temple in the Milah Nation. The other two members of your party will meet you there. I would have gathered them all here, but I do not trust the Drows in our Nation just yet.” King Halon announces. “Please sit down in the chair as we await the Prince’s arrival.”

Caladhiel is excited. She is traveling with a Prince! He will be able to protect her very well. She takes the chair and waits for him to arrive. It is not that long before a guard approaches. “May I present to his Majesty, Prince Kelani Lunkeno.” She looks curiously at the young man who approaches. He is very good looking for a human. He is in a sweater and pants, but she can still see the tribal tattoos on his wrist. This is going to be an interesting trip indeed.

“Welcome Prince Kelani. I am King Halon of the Zordlon Nation. May I introduce you to the summoner you will be traveling with, Lady Caladhiel Arabitylar.” Halon swoops his arm out to Caladhiel and helps her into a standing position.

She bows to Kelani. “It is a pleasure to meet you Prince Kelani. I am looking forward to traveling with you.”

Kelani waits for Caladhiel to stand. “The pleasure is all mine Lady Summoner.” He studies the Elf. She is younger than he expected, but he knows that she is still many years older than him. “I hope to serve both the Zordlon and Milan nations to the best of my ability.”

“Well I hope the both of you are hungry. We are having a feast in honor of the summoner.” King Halon takes them to the room where a table is set up with food. There are some of the Elven nobles and Caladhiel’s family as well.

*Your presence is requested in the throne room Lady Summoner.
*Thank you, I will be right there.

by **JerriLeah7** 28th August 2015, 4:03 pm

It has been a full night since she was given her new task by Fenfear, himself, and Majet sits at her lone, central table in the candlelight with burning eyes. She is bowed over the table, pouring over the books before her with a deeper exhaustion that she has not felt in a long time. She has no doubt that Syren is waiting for her at the cave's entrance, but she can just wait.

Majet must be sure of what she is getting herself into, both for the mission's objective and for that of the Drow's involvement. She re-read the childhood story that she heard so long ago, as well as a few more historical books on that matter. They reveal much more about the fairy tale that isn't a fairy tale, after all.

After so much research and a lot of sleep deprviation and very little eating, Majet decides that the best that she can do is get up and face this task head on. Sure, learned procrastination is always practical, but only for so long.

Besides, Syren will only wait so long before she becomes impatient. When that happens? She'll probably comes through the Spriggan land, tearing through houses until she finds her to demand that they get a move on. She would definitely not be polite about it, either. And any damage dealt by the Drow would be placed on Majet's head.

With a scowl at that thought, Majet finally stands up and places away the books that are in their small library and grabs the pack that she has already gathered for her journey. Her goodbyes to her family were already implied, so she paid no visit to them before leaving the hometown for the darker side of the forest.

She is heading towards the entrance to the Underdark with a single lantern, a pack on her back, and her single weapon, Dinah. Dinah is a wooden staff that was taken from the largest tree of the Dinarian Forest. With, of course, the permission from various tribe leaders. She wouldn't have risked doing that and pissing off a bunch of Spriggan, to be sure.

It isn't too long of a travel, of course. She only walks for about three hours to reach the destination of the trail near the outer edges of the Forest, where she, Syren, and a few other scouts do their jobs and keep the place clear. And hunt. And travel. And watch. And other such mysterious duties that shouldn't actually be doing.

Inwardly, the Spriggan girl cringes, but her face is stoic and neutral. Surely enough, there is Syren, standing tall at the entrance to the cave with a matching neutral expression of her own. Her eyes are glowing dimly in the light with a saturated, threatening red. Had she been a child and unfamiliar with the Drow of Red, the look of Syren would probably creep her out.

Most drow have white eyes, no pupils or anything of that kind. Almost all have silver hair, as well, just like Syren, but they do not all have the red eyes that Syren possesses. Those are reserved for the more powerfully magical of the Drow, though most commonly in their royal bloodline.

As Majet approaches her friend, she notices that Syren is not only more darkly dressed, but obviously possesses a few extra things that she does not normally have on their "scouting" missions. The first of these is heavy, metallic shield that bears the crest of the queen.

A gift from her majesty, perhaps? The queen wasn't known for her generosity, though. Then her black gloves, which normally cover her hands entirely so as to prevent accidentally harming anyone that her magic is not meant for, have the fingertips cut off.

I guess that is a no to our customary hugging rituals, Majet thinks to herself with sarcasm. Is that a ring?

Indeed, a gold ring is worn over her glove on her left hand, with a black jet stone inside of it with a clean shine and a smooth texture. This one difference stands out most to Majet, because she knows that Syren is not one to wear jewelry or decorations of any kind. The woman is too lazy and practical for that sort of thing.

Majet, on the other hand, loves to wear jewelry, though her jewelry and other decorations are usually made from the forests. After all, her ability is over the wood of the trees, not over silver or gold--and why spend money on such silly things when you can get it for free in another form?

Still, she is mildly jealous, despite the fact that she has two necklaces that are metallic in nature. Those were gifts from two ex-girlfriends. Unfortunately, both are dead now, but that does allow her to keep the necklaces without offending any new dates of theirs in the present.

Finally, she makes it over to her "dear friend," Syren and nods her head with a silent greeting and Syren returns it. The two rarely speak on most terms, due to the fact that it is rarely needed. Syren is the scout leader and she directs, usually, with gestures and short commands as they do their daily tasks for their nations.

Following the group leader's wishes were an easy and understandable task without words and other such trivial pursuits of interaction. They have had little to no need for it, nor has any of the slaves and other scouts that have come along for the ride from time to time. Majet is the only regular person that remains on Syren's scout team--the rest change out regularly, whether they are Spriggan or Drow.

Despite the fact that Majet has noticed this trend, she has never once before questioned it or asked why. Mainly because she knows that if she did ask, she would probably not receive an answer. Also, she knows that if she wondered abut it, she would probably never understand or have an answer of any kind. Why ponder over the hard, answer-less questions?

"We will head to the meeting point." Syren says shortly.

With that said, the two head off on their journey, with one single male Drow following in the back. This male Drow, who also has matching silver hair, as a much darker skin color with hues of blue, instead of the purple like what Syren has. He is also riddled with black tattoos and is wearing only peasant's clothing. He is carrying a couple of bags, probably one for himself and another for Syren, herself.

It would seem she would be bringing a slave on the journey with them. This may or may not bode well, but only time would reveal a definite answer. Regardless, the male Drow has not introduced himself and has kept his eyes down on the ground. He doesn't speak, nor will he until he is spoken to. That is the life of a Drow slave. Majet is used to this sort of thing, so she barely takes notice of his presence to begin with.

And so Majet is off to meet with comrades for a journey to prevent war. With a woman who wishes to go to war and her slave.

by **xenolion** 28th August 2015, 9:20 pm

During the feast, servants pack the carriage with the items Caladhiel had packed. She was given an upgraded crossbow and a large supply of bolts. She also has a camping pack that will be easily carried, along with her clothing. The only things that are not packed are the items she will need the next day.

Caladhiel looks at the food placed in front of them. She speaks politely to the other guests and accepts their accolades gracefully. She is seated next to Prince Kelani as he is her protector.

Kelani is used to a setting like this, even though the Elves are stiffer than the humans. He is the picture of politeness as he speaks to the Elven nobility. He is thankful that the Summoner is easy on the eyes, it will make protecting her easier.
Soon the dinner ends and the guards lead Caladhiel and Kelani to their rooms. He offers his arm to her as they walk down the hall. “It is a pleasure to be of service to you. Since we will be traveling together, it may be easier to just call me Kelani. My magic is telekinesis, and I am talented with swords as well.

Caladhiel takes Kelani’s arm. It is a strong arm. “You may call me Caladhiel. I am a healer, but have no offensive magic. Such is the curse of the summoner. I am talented with a crossbow. I thank you for escorting me to the Milah kingdom. It will be safer than traveling alone.”

The guard stops. “Your room is here Prince Kelani. Lady Summoner, you know where your room is. You will be leaving in the morning. Lady, your bags have been put on the carriage already.

Kelani bows to Caladhiel. “I hope you sleep well. I cannot wait for our journey to begin.”

Caladhiel curtsies. “Good night Prince Kelani, I will see you in the morning.”

They separate and go to their respective rooms. In the morning they awaken, have a light breakfast and begin their trip to the Milah kingdom.

by **JerriLeah7** 29th August 2015, 11:59 pm

Majet and Syren traveled for the full evening until nightfall, and then Majet chose to make camp. Syren resisted, and tried to stay out longer, but Majet politely reminded her of her lack of the darkvision that Syren is blessed with. After a bit of an unsatisfied sigh, they make camp.

Well, they is a term used loosely. Majet and the Drow slave make camp. Syren scouts the area to make sure they have chosen a secure site. There is a stream nearby, which is ideal. Syren even promises to return with freshly caught fish. That will mean that someone will have to cook, but Majet has no doubt that her companion would have picked a slave with such capabilities.

After an hour has passed in the darkness, Majet has her own bedroll placed out and a campfire started near it--but not too near to it. Pulling out a book to read, she begins to use the firelight to read up more on elves and humans. She knows very little about the elves, she will admit. At least, about their customs. She knows mostly only what a Drow would have to say about them.

She looks away from her book only long enough to notice that Syren has returned with the fish and has given it to her slave. She shortly asks him to prepare and cook it and the slave is quick to get to work. The slave has already placed up her tent for her in her absence, as well as a small bedroll for himself has already been laid out.

Majet reads while the slave cooks and eats the fish in silence with her two quiet comrades. The entire next hour or two goes on with only the sounds of crackling from the fire at the camp's center. She thanks the slave for his cooking, to which he bows to her and gives well wishes to her feet. This behavior doesn't surprise her. She learned during one of her first scouting missions with Syren that they are forbidden to look at a woman's face or into her eyes.

Of course, that usually only refers to the Drow women, but Syren commanded to many of her slaves in the past that Majet be included with this treatment--and it is obvious that this one was given that same command before she arrived. She's used to it.

Syren is already in her tent on the other side of the fire and the slave is cleaning up his cooking pots. Majet waits until Syren has closed the tent opening before she gets up to help the slave with his clean up tasks and to ask him for his name. She learns that it is Darrin, though extracting any words from him proves to be quite difficult.

After the cleanup is complete, the two travelers get settled into their bedrolls and begin to rest. It doesn't take Majet very long to sleep, particularly because they are still within more familiar territory and she doesn't have to worry about anyone creeping in on their camp during the night. In the nights following, they will be sure to have to keep a night watch in shifts.

It isn't until the morning breaks that Majet is jerked to her sleep as the sun rises into the distance on the skyline. A loud crashing noise brings her to the reality from her dreams as she jerks upright, looking around with wild, surprised eyes. She sees Darrin bent over and cleaning up scattered pots that are littering the ground, probably from a fall of some kind.

Syren is standing over him with a look of disapproval on her face, her arms crossed across her chest. Her face shifts from disapproval and irritation to neutrality as Majet stands up slowly and adjusts herself. Placing her book and bedroll back into her bag, she goes to the stream to wash herself off and groom herself before the day's travel. She can hear Syren saying chastising words to her slave in the distance while she is away and wonders what the Drow woman has to say.

Regardless, Majet shakes off her curiosity and heads back to the camp to find that everything is packed up. The only evidence left behind of their stay here is the remnants of the fire, now just a small pile of smoldering, ashen wood fragments. Finally, the three travelers start moving, heading towards the land of the humans to meet with the rest of their party.

Majet is not looking forward to it.

by **xenolion** 30th August 2015, 7:52 am

Caladhiel wonders at first why they didn’t leave just then. She is not used to other races and creatures needing rest. Elves don’t sleep. They rest, but they don’t sleep. She took the time to read up on this journey. The books she finds tell her more, but not everything. She wishes her grandmother was still alive, she would be able to tell Caladhiel firsthand information.

In the morning Kelani gets ready and is led to the carriage house. Caladhiel is saying goodbye to her family. He goes over and helps her into the carriage. “We will meet the others upon our arrival at the Milah nation. It will take us three days of nonstop travel. I hope you are ready.

“I have not been out of the Zordlon nation. This is so exciting for me.” Caladhiel explains in her usual cool manner. “The nonstop travel does not bother me. Elves have no need to sleep unlike humans.”

Kelani smiles. He has been warned of the cool exterior of the elves. It comes from their long lifespan. “It is my pleasure to accompany you on this journey, Caladhiel.”

The carriage moves on as the converse. Kelani is very talkative for a human prince. Caladhiel has learned that he is still third in line for the throne until his brother has kids. He is good with his telekinesis, and he loves to be in the water.

In turn Kelani learns about her family. She is the oldest of 4, which is odd for elves. However since they are a magi family, they are expected to have larger families. Her healing is good, but she does not have any offensive magic. So she basically skipped all those studies. She plays a little of her pan flute for him as they travel.

She looks out the windows as they cross into the different nations. She hopes they will have a chance to stay more in the nations while on the journey.

by **JerriLeah7** 30th August 2015, 3:59 pm

After another full day's travel, Majet has become comfortable with the silence of her companions. Though there are usually the occasional words said by their fellow scouts, even those missions are done with mostly quiet. It is because of all of these prior missions that she is already so well equipped to settle with it.

They walk with alert eyes, keeping sure to gaze at their surroundings from time to time. It doesn't take long before they have left Spriggan territory entirely. Of course, Majet is hardly paying attention that as much as she is paying attention to the noise of nature. It had lightly rained in the morning, leaving behind just a light sparkle upon the land from the water's reflection from the sunlight.

Though the rain clouds have dispersed and all looks beautiful, Syren seems completely unfazed by it. Then again, Syren looks unfazed by everything. She is most certainly not a creature of expression. Darrin stops briefly to pull out some small lunches that he had already prepared for them, barely stalling their progress as they move upwards on a steep hill.

Majet is sure to thank the slave before eating the small meal, grateful for the fruits and vegetables that are so finely cut and washed clean. They are quite fresh and even a few of the vegetables have a nice crunch between her teeth to take her mind off of her sore feet.

After lunch has been completed and the day switches over into the afternoon, the sun finds its new place in the sky behind their backs, allowing the day to be less bright and painful on Majet's eyes. She is relieved. Majet is not used to being out in the open for such a long period of time. A minor adjustment to make.

It is nearing Sunset before Majet ever suspects, for the first time, that they are being followed. She had believed that the sounds she was hearing from behind was just her mind playing tricks on her. It has been difficult to look back, towards the light of the sun, to confirm or deny anything.

Twice now she has stopped walking in the back of their small traveling line to look back and ask: "Did you hear that?" Both times, her two companions stopped to look back, only to shake their heads in quiet confusion.

Majet still believes she has heard more sounds after this, but she does not inquire about it to her companions any further. She doesn't want them to think she's crazy, or worse, weirdly paranoid. Regardless, she is quite confident that someone or something is behind them, afterall.

by **xenolion** 31st August 2015, 6:11 pm

The carriage stops briefly to change horses and drivers in the middle of the night. Caladhiel watches as Kelani sleeps. She cannot remember the last time she has actually slept. For her it is odd to even need sleep. This will make their trip longer than if she was alone. However it is less dangerous to have protectors as well. Plus only one guardian can be connected to a being at a time.

The carriage begins moving again. She wonders how Kelani can sleep during all of this. She looks outside at the darkness. She can feel that the air is warmer than her nation. She wonders if she needs different clothes.

The sun rises and illuminates the interior of the carriage. Kelani wakes and stretches the best he can. He sees Caladhiel reading a book. “I forget that Elves don’t sleep. I am glad you brought something to keep yourself entertained. He looks out the window. “We are in Milah, and should be at the castle tonight. I hope the other members to the party are there.

The carriage continues on stopping for a quick meal before going on their way again. They finally reach the royal city. The guard escorts them to the castle. When the door opens Kelai motions to Caladhiel first. The footman is waiting for her to exit. She takes the footman’s hand and exits the carriage. She looks around and smells an odd odor in the air. The colors are lighter than the Zordlon castle is. There is an older gentleman in robes waiting in front of her.

Kelani loves to watch people’s first impressions of his country. He notices Caladhiel’s eyes dart everywhere and sees the appreciation in her eye. He gives her a moment to look around before clearing his throat. “Lady Summoner Caladhiel, allow me to introduce my father, King Frederick of Milah.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you. We are expecting the rest of the protectors shortly. It is an honor to be hosting the summoner and her protectors. And even a bigger one to have my son a member of your group. If you need anything, do not hesitate to ask. For now, we will show you to your room. I know how dirty traveling can be. We also have some proper attire, seeing that our climate is warmer than the mountains. You will find them in the closets.” King Frederick announces.

Caladhiel bows upon meeting the King. “Thank you for the welcome. I am honored to be at the Milah castle. Thank you for hosting me and for all the trouble to accommodate me. I really do appreciate it.” Caladhiel responds. “Please let me know when my other protectors arrive, I will like to greet them.”

by **JerriLeah7** 31st August 2015, 7:42 pm

Nightfall has greeted the small traveling party as they reach they Royal City within the Nation of Milah. As they walk though the streets towards the Castle, many stop and stare. Very many. Majet watches her surroundings closely and suspiciously, careful not to let any passerby get too close to where she is walking.

She can tell that Syren is doing the same. Darrin simply stays between the women, slouched forward with the bags on his back and looking directly at the ground. That is, until Syren tuns back and corrects him. It is then that Darrin is once again standing tall and looking about like most travelers would. It would seem she has indirectly informed him that he "ranks" higher than that of the humans and occasional Catfolk around them.

When they get closer to the city, Syren stops walking altogether and gestures for Majet to take the lead. Part of her nervous at this. She's never before had Syren at her back. It isn't that she can't trust her, of course, she just isn't used to leading.

As they reach the gates, they are immediately met with an escort who instructs them to keep their weapons put away and to avoid any and all conflict. They politely (barely politely, anyway) inform them that they will be watched closely during their stay and that they are expected to stay on their best behavior.

Majet and Syren both simply nod in response, keeping eye contact until they are guided in by a shorter escort that isn't a soldier. Neither say anything, and Darrin simply acts as though his mind is elsewhere. Probably a safe thing to do, at this point.

The young escort before them begins rambling on the moment they get inside. He's talking so fast, Majet cannot quite catch what he is saying; his accent doesn't help with that, either. She isn't as accustomed to talking to humans on a regular basis. The escort has said something about a King, as well as something about the Drow and their mysteriousness, but that's all she can manage to keep up with as she walks behind him silently.

by **xenolion** 31st August 2015, 9:09 pm

Nightfall approaches and Frederick is informed about the interesting group in the city. He alerts his guards then remembers the summoner’s request. At first he is hesitant about fulfilling it, because of the tensions between the Elves and Drow. He figures they are on neutral ground and they do have to get along. He tells her guard to fetch the Summoner.

She was reading in her room when the knock is heard on her door. She opens it to the guard who makes his announcement about the rest of their team. She has to admit she is a little nervous knowing there is a Drow in the mix. She only hopes that he or she is not a complete ass. She takes a deep breath and tells herself that they have to work together for the safety of the world. Drows are chaotic creatures who thrive on destruction. They do not care for anyone but themselves. She only hopes her Drow protector is better than most of his or her kind. “Please alert Prince Kelani, we should meet the remainder of our team together.

The guard rushes off as Caladhiel gets ready. Kelani just got done with some last minute training. The guard approaches him and informs him of the guests’ arrival. He does not have any bad feelings against the Drow. Their Queen can be a jerk at times, but she is smart. A little too smart sometimes. He is glad he does not have to deal with her diplomatically all the time.

He is pleased when Caladhiel requests his presence. She is very smart to have a buffer when dealing with a Drow. The Drow and Elf feud, if you want to call it that has been going on forever. Longer than even the summoner has been alive. He only hopes the he and the Spriggan can help squelch the fighting spirit within the two.

Frederick assembles a welcoming party for the group. It not only contains himself, the Summoner, and his son, but some guards as well. One cannot be too safe when welcoming strangers to the castle. There is also a buffet ready for all of them after the new arrivals get cleaned up at least. Frederick sends a quick prayer that they are able to stop the war.

by **JerriLeah7** 31st August 2015, 9:32 pm

Majet, Darrin, and Syren are lead into a great hall where several people await. Majet can tell who the King is, but she is rather uncertain about the rest--well, except for the Elf, that is. The ears kind of give that one away. And the facial bone structure. Wow, it's been a while.

Darrin lets Syren pass him and stands a bit behind them as Majet looks about somewhat awkwardly. It's definitely been a while. She feels quite out of place. Her ears are bigger than anyone else's in here. She never had realized how much bigger the ears were for a Spriggan than they were for a Drow or Elf. Why am I thinking about ears?! Majet thinks to herself nervously.

Majet clears her throat, keeping a neutral face. "Hello. I am Majet Fallaenkaedth and this is Lady Syrendross. It is a pleasure to be meet you."

Syren's face does not change for a second. She doesn't speak or gesture in any way and for the first time, it drives Majet a little crazy. How can she be so stoic? They are a little out of their element here.

by **xenolion** 1st September 2015, 9:08 pm

Kelani approaches Majet with a bright smile on his face. He holds out his hand to Majet first. “It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Majet and Lady Syrendross. I am Prince Kelani Lukeno of the Milah nation, and this is Lady Summoner Caladhiel Arabitylar of the Zordlon nation. On behalf of the Milah nation, I bid you welcome. We were not expecting a fifth person on this trip. May I have your name as well?”

Caladhiel appraises her other protectors. Majet seems alright. It is obvious she is a bit overwhelmed. Not that Caladhiel blames her. This too is her first time out of Zordlon. She chooses to see it as an adventure. “It is a pleasure to meet all three of you. I cannot wait to do this pilgrimage with you.” She is a little disturbed of the appearance of two Drow protectors. She will have to contact the Zordlon King to get his opinion.

“I am King Fredrick Lukeno, this trip must have been hard for you. I have a rooms for all of you. We also have food for you as well. Guards show them to their rooms first. We will meet you in the dining hall.” Frederick welcomes them before walking away.

by **JerriLeah7** 1st September 2015, 11:17 pm

Majet shakes the Prince's hand as he offers it and introduces himself politely. The small size of his hand makes Majet feel slightly less intimidated, which admittedly, is the whole point of why she had taken her large form, rather than her natural, small form. Being eight feet tall can definitely improve a Spriggan's self-esteem, even if it is only temporary.

She watches as the Prince moves to Syren to shake her hand, but rather than taking it, Syren looks down at his hand with her usual, stoic gaze and slightly frowns. Exuding a cold atmosphere from her body language, Majet looks over at her with a hard gaze, wishing she could scream at her with her mind.

The Prince then turns his attention to Darrin, the servant. Majet notices that he looks the man in the eyes and finds the sight to be somewhat...odd. She simply isn't used to the Drow treating another as his equal, as she has not seen that behavior from a servant in so long.

Darrin shakes hand with a firm grip, answering his question with a short response, but a hard gaze of disapproval. "You may not have my name. It is Lady Syrendross' to give."

Majet cringes on the inside, but she understands. He belongs to her and by their culture, to introduce himself would be to step out of his bounds and disrespect her, as well as be an undermining claim that he is a free man when he is not. She can only hope the humans understand something about the Drow culture as a whole. Otherwise, this may not go smoothly.

The Elf introduces herself and Majet simply nods her head slightly in confirmation as a quiet greeting. Syren does what Syren does best in response. She ignores it completely, just as she had practically done to the Prince.

Finally, the King introduces himself and offers them rooms and food thereafter. The King does not wait for their response before walking away and Darrin mumbles approval at being able to wash up, first, saying something about wanting to wash his hand.

Majet cringes again on the inside, knowing this to be a slight against the Prince. They move to follow the guards to their rooms, where each of them are able to wash up from their travels and change. Majet puts on something slightly more leisurely and decorative, adding a bit of jewelry.

Syren places on her usual, dark garb, suitable for both garb and casual events. Nothing at all suitable for the formal dinner that they are about to have, the Majet doubts that she really cares about such things at all.

After all is ready, the small group heads back out into the great hall where the table of food awaits and the two women seat themselves. Darrin is careful to sit to Syren's left, so Majet sits on his other side. She is relieved to finally be able to relax in the comfort of the indoors.

"Thank you for your hospitality," Majet says to the King when she looks to him at the end of the table, "We really do appreciate it and you have a wonderful home."

by **xenolion** 2nd September 2015, 7:19 pm

Caladhiel watches the Drow’s introductions. The male would not give his name, nor would Syrendross even acknowledge him. Well they aren’t along to be friends, rather just to protect her. If they want to be antisocial that is fine by her. Better than being aggressive. She was hoping the rumors about Drows being jerks were overstated, but realize they are in fact understated.

Kelani on the other hand is impressed with the Drow’s attitudes. The servant did speak to him and shook his hand. He did hear the washing hands comment, but knows that it is just the Drow culture. He too is thankful for the lack of hostility.

They all reconvene in the great hall. King Frederick is seated on one end of the table. Prince Kamuela is at the other end. Prince Kelani is on his right and Caladhiel is next to him. “Thank you so much for your compliment Lady Majet. I hope you all rest well tonight. We do not know of the challenges you will face in the temple.”

Caladhiel is seated and notices that Majet is wearing more jewelry. She knows that she packed some herself. Maybe she will have a least one friendly face. She misses her family. She has not been away from them for so long before.

Kelani is watching the dynamic of all his teammates. This trip is going to be quite interesting to say the least. The Milah kingdom is one of the more accepting of nations. He knows that the Drow cannot be trusted, and the Elves are more isolationists. He will be the bridge between them all.

by **JerriLeah7** 2nd September 2015, 9:33 pm

Majet chooses to eat in silence, following the suit of her Drow companions. After a few moments, she is able to relax. The quiet eating is just as her scouting parties usually dine and it sends her back into her comfort zone just a little. Of course, it doesn't take her long to finish eating, but it does take her longer than it does Syren.

After they are finished, they simply sit there and Majet admires the room around them after thanking the King kindly for the delicious food. To be honest, the food is all quite odd. Humans make their meals oddly, but she's eaten their foods before, so she was prepared.

They cannot stand or leave until the King is done and leaves himself, but he may also wish to speak to them. They have no way of knowing. Thus, they are just sitting their after finishing their meal and looking about with curiosity at the building.

by **xenolion** 3rd September 2015, 2:49 pm

Caladhiel is not used to the quiet dinners. There is usually some conversation going on, sure it is quieter, but not like this. Hopefully this will change as their trip goes on, or else the underlying discomfort will drive her crazy. She finishes up her meal as well and waits to be dismissed.

“I hope you enjoyed the dinner. If there is anything you need at all while you are in the castle, please feel free to ask Kelani, myself, or a guard. I recommend that you get to know each other, the trip you are about to embark on is not a typical one. I don’t even know all the trials that may be involved.” King Frederick states. “I wish I could help you more. If you don’t have any questions, feel free to rest for the evening.”

“Thank you majesty for the food and for your advice.” Caladhiel bows her head. “If you have a library available, I would love to visit that.”

“It will be my pleasure to show you to the library. First though, Lady Majet and Syrendross, will you need my assistance?” Kelani asks politely. His father is right they should at least have a working relationship. He knows a little about Caladhiel, but nothing of Majet, Syrendross, or their male companion.

by **JerriLeah7** 3rd September 2015, 6:55 pm

Syren looks up at Prince's speech, nodding her head in confirmation. "Yes, I think I would love it if Darrin could go with the El--with the Lady Caladhiel. He loves books and he will need to acquaint himself with her in order to better serve her as our servant."

Darrin quickly stands and bows to Caladhiel, but says nothing as he smiles at her politely and looks her in the eyes. Majet knows just what this means. Honestly, she wouldn't mind looking at their library, herself, but still, she's not comfortable with walking around too much, for now.

Majet stands, as well, looking about the room with curiosity as Syren finishes speaking. Then, she looks over at Syren as the woman looks at the Elf expectantly. She's waiting for the girl to resist having Darrin as his servant, as well. Majet watches to see if this will be the case. No doubt they are surprised to hear the Drow speak. This is the most Syren has said in a long time.

by **xenolion** 3rd September 2015, 8:05 pm

Caladhiel is surprised when Syrendross actually speaks. She offers her servant to Caladhiel. “I appreciate the sentiment, but I do not need a servant. I have never had one before, and I don’t want to break any rules. However if you still want to accompany me to the library, I am not going to stop you.”

Kelani cringes when Caladhiel makes her statement. Although he is not totally surprised by it. Drows kindnesses should be accepted carefully. Is this Darrin a spy? Even he does not know. “Please, come with me. Are you ladies going to be alright? I will return after dropping them off.”

by **JerriLeah7** 3rd September 2015, 9:03 pm

Syren is not surprised at the Elf's response and most certainly expect it, as Majet had suspected. Still, she does not appear offended or upset by this fact. Instead, she remains neutral and quiet as she replies with a tone of nonchalance.

"You will have a servant and that is Darrin. He is all of our servants, though primarily mine. He cooks, he cleans, he carries. What he can do for you will honour him. And you should honour him, just as any summoner would." Syren says with finality.

Majet clears her throat, trying to change the subject with a forced smile, "Of course, we can wait here until you are finished."

by **xenolion** 4th September 2015, 8:45 pm

Caladhiel listens to Syrendross. She can tell that this is going to be a long trip. She feels for Darrin even though he seems fine with his role. Caladhiel is fine with pulling her own weight. She will treat Darrin as a member of the group. It is how she was raised. She bites her tongue though. “I, we are ready to go to the library now.”

Kelani nods to Majet. “Ladies, I will be right back.” He walks with both Darrin and Caladhiel to the library. “I am sure that our library has no comparison as far as some Elven ones, but my father is quite a history buff. I know you will at least you will find something that will keep you entertained.” They arrive at a double door which Kelani opens. Inside there are several three stories of books. There are ladders that slide to get to ones at higher levels.

“Wow this is impressive for a private collection. It makes me wish I had more than overnight to explore it all. I thank you and your father for opening this up to us.” Caladhiel looks around. “This will definitely keep me busy until morning.” She is wondering if they have any books about the pilgrimage.

“I will pass along the compliment to my father. If you guys need anything, there should be guards on their patrol who will be more than happy to assist you. I do have to get back to the others.” Kelani bows his head and leaves them. He returns to Majet and Syrendross. “Thank you for waiting ladies, is there something that interests you?”

Caladhiel does not mean to ignore Darrin. She immediately goes to an enclosed case. She pulls open the door and finds slips of paper. She begins to look in it, impressed that they would have a catalog of all the books. It may make her search easier. She smiles at Darrin. "Forgive me, I didn't want to seem rude. I love books. They have the library cataloged. Is there anything you are interested in reading?"

by **JerriLeah7** 5th September 2015, 2:44 pm

Majet sits in silence as the Elf, Darrin, and the prince all walk away and head towards the library. Servants begin to mill about, cleaning off the table and removing the left over food and dirty dishes. They are rather quick about it--so quick that Majet is rather amazed. The humans here are very quick and adaptive in their surroundings, she suspects. The way that they serve is far superior than most other servants that she has seen ever before.

When the Prince returns, Majet smiles and shakes her head politely, looking as friendly as she is able. The Bleaching has made it difficult for her to understand a lot of what is going on around her when it comes to other species, but Syren has helped her a great deal with this matter when it comes to dealing with the other Drow, just as she is about to do now.

Taking her cue from Majet's uncertain gaze, Syren looks over at her with her usual expression of neutrality, "He wishes to ensure that we are entertained during our stay here. It is the Prince's job as our host. This is the mannerisms of a human, but you are not missing any emotions, here."

Majet nods her head, now understanding, "Ohh, I see. Thank you, Syren, as always, I appreciate your help. I--I do not know of your customs or how you entertain. Syren is a simple woman; she brought her own books to read and will be happy to retire to her room, I am sure. Are we leaving in the morning?"

by **xenolion** 5th September 2015, 5:31 pm

Caladhiel starts to look around the library. She watches Darrin. She wishes she was stuck with anyone but a drow. She finds the area where they have historical books. There is a book about guardians. She goes over to the ladder and slides it to where the book should be. Then she climbs it. She is half tempted to slide the ladder around, but knows that is a little childish. She finds the books she wants and goes down the ladder. She goes to the nearest table and begins to read them.

Kelani smiles as Syrendross informs Majet of the customs. “Forgive me Lady Majet, it is not too often that we have Spriggans here. I know that Elves don’t sleep, so she will be happy in the library. If there is anything you are interested in, please let me know. The Milah temple is closeby, so we will be leaving after breakfast.”

by **JerriLeah7** 6th September 2015, 11:08 am

Darrin simply stands there as Caladhiel begins to look through the catalog of the library. She leafs through the pages for a few minutes before she looks up apologetically and asks if there is anything he would like to read. Rather than replied, the servant simply shakes his head to decline.

As she moves up to get the book she desires and eventually sits to read, Darrin also moves to sit down across from her as he looks about the library with quiet intrigue. The servant continues to say nothing and simply sits there to allow the girl peace to her reading.

The Prince's reply reminds Majet that elves and drow do not sleep. She looks over at Syren and wonders what she will do at night when she has finished the reading book that she brought with her. Still, Syren looks as stoic as always.

Majet says, "Thanks. Spriggan do not eat breakfast, but I'll be sure to meet everyone at the gate in the morning after your meals."

"I'll be in my room." Syren states before walking away.

Majet looks after the woman with a blank expression o her own as her mind wanders. "I suppose I'll go sleep, then. I like sleep, anyway."

by **xenolion** 6th September 2015, 1:02 pm

Caladhiel finds Darrin’s silence a little unnerving. If he had a book, it would be different. She wonders if he is illiterate. It would fit the Drows not to teach their slaves to read. That bothers her slightly. Even servants in Zordlon have a basic education, it would be more insulting if they didn’t know how to read. She tests her theory by sliding a book over to him.

One thing she has to commend the humans on is the upkeep of their library. There is hardly any dust on the books and they appear to be in pristine condition. While she is as freakish to cleanliness as some of other elves, she does not like it when things are poorly kept.

Kelani walks with the ladies to the royal hall. “I will bid you goodnight. If either of you need anything, my room is right there. We also have guards on patrol as well.” He slips into his room. This is going to be an interesting trip. Kelani can feel the underlying current from Syrendross. There is no hostilities though. He was truly afraid of having a Drow and an Elf on the same pilgrimage.

The night passes quickly and quietly. The shift changes as the sun rises. There are servants bustling about with their daily chores. Some are preparing the morning breakfast for the guests. They will be heading to the temple for the first guardian. Not all the humans understand the importance of this pilgrimage as they don’t live as long as the other species. Most of their stories have been highly exaggerated to myth status now.

Caladhiel sees the sunbeams drift in through the few windows in the room. “Oh it is morning already. I must get ready for the trip.”

Just as she states that, a servant enters the library. I was told you would be here. Just leave the books on the tables and we will make sure they get replaced. I wish you luck on your pilgrimage Lady Summoner. Breakfast will be in the great hall in about an hour or so.”

Caladhiel nods respectively. “Thank you so much. I must get ready for the journey.” She rises and stacks the books neatly on the table. She goes to her room and gets prepared for the day. She is thankful that the Milah castle is a building with indoor plumbing. It is a newer technology. It makes getting cleaned up a lot easier. She takes advantage of the baths they have.

by Sponsored content

Legend of Guardians

Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians

Re: Legend of Guardians