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Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

Amrylis could hear the loud shouts of the man pursuing her resonating in her ears despite the chaos as she tried her best to run along the sandy shores. Sand was kicking up as she moved, her skirts constantly getting in the way, causing her to stumble several times. Finally, she let out a shriek as she fell onto all fours. Her knees stung, no doubt bloodied from the tiny tumble. Looking up, her blue eyes rested upon the town burning in the distance. The screams of the people frantically running about, desperately fighting or seeking shelter were louder now than before as she'd neared the roads. And as she peered out at the mayhem that had unfolded, she found her eyes shifting to a familiar face in the crowd, one of someone she'd met at the inn the night before. Kagan? Amarylis whispered, but her words were cut short, as were her thoughts. The angry voice from behind was closer now and just as her eyes connected with Kagan's she looked away and over her shoulder. Amarylis could see the great warrior of a man hovering over the crumpled form of a woman and, from the looks of it, she was in a bad way. With eyes as wide as saucers, her heart pounding hard beneath her breast, she suddenly found her feet taking her toward the pair. She wondered if she'd suddenly lost her mind, all of her sense gone. Truly, this was madness. But she couldn't let the woman die, not when this man who only moments ago had been tearing Belbarren apart had literally been torn to pieces at the sight of his companion in such a way. No. She couldn't just stand by and do nothing, even if she didn't know what to do. Here, Amarylis said shakily, her hands trembling at the sight of so much blood. She handed the man her cape and began to unfasten her corset. Perhaps the fastenings will help? she suggested hoping that the cords would help act as a tourniquet. The moment she removed it, she handed it over. Kneeling beside the woman, she took a hold of her hand and smiled. He is doing what he can. Hopefully, you are comfortable. With her free hand, Amarylis pushed rested it against the woman's forehead. But it had already turned so cold, so very cold. She looked over at the man tending to his companion and bit down on her lip. She wasn't skilled in the ways of war or medicine, but it seemed as if everything they were doing was for naught. However, with the desperation he seemed to be exhibiting, she wasn't about to tell him that. All she could do was as he requested. After that, it was fate's will. She just hoped that he didn't blame her if things ended badly.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

Arzale worked swiftly, tying a tight tourniquette around the wound. Larethia groaned and turned to face Arzale, reaching up to weakly grip his hand. Both of Arzale's large hands curled around hers and he looked down into her eyes, willing the woman to hold on just a little longer. A great spasm of coughs racked Larethia's body, blood spilling from her mouth. It looked like this was the end for the mortally wounded woman. Arzale...I...I can see the Golden Halls. I'll keep a glass ready for you... The light faded from Larethia's eyes, her weak grasp finally slipping. Arzale's gaze lingered on the dead woman's face, unable to believe this had truly happened. Memories washed over Arzale in a torrent of grief, he thought of their bonding ceremony. Arzale thought of the battles he'd only survived because of Larethia's vigilance, and of the countless frigid nights she'd brought warmth and succor to. Pale, lifeless hand was brought to arzale's lips and he kissed it gently, whispering his farewell in the almost forgotten ancient tongue of his people. Thundering footsteps shook the sand as five Sunderfang warriors charged over to their downed companion. They surrounded the three and looked down at the scene, trying to gather what they could from the silence. One of the men spoke in a low, somber voice. The words would fall on deaf ears though, Arzale was too far lost in memory to respond. A tragic loss...But the legends will speak of her for centuries to come. With that two of the men bent down to pick Larethia up. Arzale pushed them away and retrieved her himself, moving to his feet. Arzale held Larethia's body with nothing short of reverence, keeping her close to his chest. Tonight would not be a night of feasting and celebration on deck, tonight would be a night of somber remembrance. Arzale looked down to his weapons and spoke. Grab my blades. Larethia is my burden to carry. The five sunderfangs formed an honor guard around Arzale and his charge, though they looked expectantly at Amarylis. It was fairly obvious that she was being commandeered from the wreckage of the burning town. For what purpose? Nobody knew. But there really wasn't much room to argue with men that large and well-armed.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

Amarylis knelt by the woman and watched her slip away to another realm. Her blue eyes darted to that of the large man kneeling on the other side of his companion, fear washing over her body causing it to tremble and quake like the leaves of the aspen in springtime. His face showed despair of the worst sort and she hoped it didn't turn to anger. At the moment, she was the only one there he could potentially lash out at and already he'd spoken angry words that had made her frightened of a wrath that could potentially be unleashed given the delicacy of this particular situation. All too soon, however, Amarylis, found herself surrounded by more large warrior-men and the one who'd been tending his companion picked up her dead body and began carrying her off toward their vessels docked on the shores of a town that had once happily buzzed with life, color and song. Now it just burned with orange flame and the shrieks of many filled the air as they cried out in morbid despair. Amarylis noticed that her way back toward the mayhem of Belbarren was blocked and barred, a calculated move by those with man carrying his dead companion. She could tell by his tone that he'd meant for her to follow, but... why? Panicking, she tried to peer around the Sunderfang, but there was no way around them, nowhere to run. She'd lost sight of Kagan amidst the chaos and now knew she was truly alone, on her own. Looking back over at the large man she'd helped, Amarylis swallowed hard, her eyes prickling with tears at the thought of leaving the shores of solid ground for a fate unknown. But, she'd had no choice... Picking up her skirts with her tiny hands, she stood up upon the sands and began to follow, her head hung causing her ash-colored hair to hang in front of her face. She didn't bother to fix it or move it out of the way. What point was there? Slowly, she followed, her feet feeling like lead as she walked, her ankles no longer twisting with each step, somehow working efficiently, no stumbling now... before she knew it, she was on board a strange vessel, her body feeling the rocking sway of the ocean waves as they crashed against the ship she'd just boarded. Now what... now what would become of her? Amarylis had no idea. She could only hope that somehow she'd stay alive, stay in one piece... but what darkness! Who knew that this sunrise would bring such sorrow?
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

Amarylis' blue eyes widened at the words she'd just heard. Had she indeed heard this man correctly? She was to take the place of the woman who'd just been killed in battle? He couldn't possibly be serious! She wasn't skilled in the ways of war, had never held a sword or spear. Blood made her... queasy... Didn't it? Of that final though, she wasn't certain, watching the woman die and sputter blood was her first experience in seeing such a thing. It had hit her hard to witness such tragedy, but she'd just reacted when told to... No. No. The very idea was ludicrous to say the least! Blue eyes locking with the warrior's steely gray, Amarylis' mouth began to open and close like that of a fish. She knew what she wanted to say. She wanted to protest, to shout out how wrong a choice she was. She was nothing like the woman they were all mourning. She'd been terrified at the sight of them all as they'd made anchor and run ashore, burned Belbarren and taken it without a care. No! She could not do this. Would not... But his eyes... Amarylis could plainly see that she could not defy them. A strange wave of fear, or was it something else? It washed over her completely and as she trembled she suddenly found herself nodding, her mousy hair hanging about her face in a tousled manner. Slowly, she raised her hand and pushed it out of the way, so that she could look upon his face properly. Her face was dirty, her eyes stinging with tears. But it was no use. She was outnumbered, surrounded by strange people on a strange ship bound for places she could only begin to dream about or imagine. Her fate was no longer hers to decide. It was his. Again, Amarylis nodded, her eyes closing as a tear fell down along a pale cheek. She looked down to the floor, feeling helpless and hopeless, terrified that a fate of death was now her future and that the sea her would-be grave. She wasn't ready for this and she didn't think she ever could be. At that, she brought her hands up to her face and began to weep against them.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

She is soft and meek, of inferior stock! Malya will break her in two! Arzale, you are mad with grief. Go below deck and get some mead, get your head together. A woman spoke out, stepping from the silent crowd. Short for her people and lithe, the woman was clad in blood soaked chain-mail with shield and longsword in hand. Arzale turned, standing as tall as he could. The warrior seemed to loom over even the tallest of his peers, sudden wrath amplifying his presence. Arzale held Larethia's spear and spear tight, weapons drawn for battle. Arzale did his best to respond in an even voice, though he could not keep anger's strain from the measured words. It was obvious he would accept no other solution. You know as well as I do that Malya has not even started her first training with the Younglings. You also know that Larethia's spirit will live on in those that saw her pass. Or do you not believe that Larethia will guide the one that follows in her footsteps? Do you believe she would abandon ME? The color drained from the chain-garbed woman's face as she realized the unintended implications of her words. Amarylis was chosen because of faith, of belief in the Warrior's Spirit. Speaking against such a choice was denying generations of custom and casting tradition to the dogs. Despite the confrontation there were murmurs of agreement running through the crowd, surely no outsider could adapt to the life of a Maiden! Especially not one so small and fearful. Arzale heard the whispers and grew more enraged, stomping a clawed boot hard on the deck to stifle the chatter. I will stand alone against any who defy my choice in the Ring of Sorrow. Dishonor Larethia's memory and the soil will drink deep of your blood. A dire challenge, and one issued without intention of bluff. Stunned silence fell over the crowd at Arzale's words. The Ring of Sorrow was the Sunderfang's most sacred way of settling disputes. A simple ring twenty feet in diameter for two parties to settle their differences with steel when words failed. A fight in the Ring of Sorrow was a fight to the death. A few of the observers shifted uncomfortably, quickly moving to take care of anything that could get them away from this situation. Arzale then once again offered shield and spear to Amarylis, waiting for her to take the objects.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

Amarylis composed herself, but only just as she listened to everyone shouting about her. Some were just as apprehensive as she was and for good reason. She was no warrior, but a humble maid from Merrowdown. Oh how far away it seemed now that she was aboard this strange vessel filled with oddly dressed people speaking of strange customs and dark fates that made her blood turn cold. So many faces seemed to be staring upon her in wait. What they were expecting, she wasn't certain, but she knew what she needed to do even if it terrified her and even if she felt doomed to failure before even beginning. She looked over at the man called Arzale, her heart pumping hard as she watched him. He held a presence unlike any she'd ever come across in her nineteen years. Then again, she'd never been so far from home... Biting down on her lip, Amarylis looked up into those piercing eyes of Arzale's. It was as if he was looking straight into her heart, judging the worth of her soul. Was it possible for another human to do such a thing? If so, she was sure that this man was capable. Amarylis then reached out, her tiny hands shaking as she allowed her slender fingers to take hold of the shield and spear that had once belonged to the fallen woman who now belonged to the seas. She swallowed the lump that had formed in her throat as her fingers made contact with the strange weapons, items of such she'd never touched before. Her mouth went dry and knees began to wobble. Feeling dizzy, she felt as though she'd faint. But she couldn't do that. Not now. Not in front of everyone. Carefully, yet awkwardly, Amarylis brought the shield and spear close to her body. She licked her lips in vain. It was pointless. Her mouth was a desert. Trying to find her voice, she opened it only to close it again. Finally, mustering up what little courage she had, she spoke in a mere whisper. My name is Amarylis Maylin. I'm sorry for your loss. I... I'm not sure if I'll do justice to these weapons, but... Amarylis' voice trailed as she looked into Arzale's eyes. She could see his grief and sorrow. His pain. I will try... She had no idea why she'd said such words. She was terrified, wanted to go home. But her fate belonged to him now and the pain she saw residing within those eyes seemed raw and real. Turning her head slightly, she looked down at the floor, her expression one of reluctant acceptance.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

The way this man spoke of weapons, the way in which he gazed upon them, touched them. It was as if he'd bonded with them in some fashion she could only hope to understand. It was all so foreign and strange, such customs and traditions that were so different from the softer ways of her life back in Merrowdowns. Amaryls' mind drifted in that moment, her thoughts dwelling on those of the forest, the rivers and groves she'd explored over her lifetime. She'd always thought she'd seen much in her youth, but the reality was that she'd truly seen so very little, her world so narrow in all that she'd not just seen, but been witness to. Who knew that a girl who loved fanciful stories, could hum and sing the most romantic of ballads would find herself now standing where she was. But fate was cruel in her web-weaving, unforgiving as she knotted each thread in the most intricate of patterns. Amarylis just wished she understood it, could see the picture on the loom... Courage, sir? Amarylis asked, almost reciting. She gulped, her blue eyes staring at the weapons she held so awkwardly as her knees wobbled ready to give way. She bit down on her lip and looked up at Arzale, her body feeling the weight of the stares of those still watching. I... I was taught that courage is being able to face your fears despite all obstacles. She felt her cheeks grow warm with embarrassment at being watched. That no matter what, you will do what is needed to persevere. Amarylis felt silly answering the question, her answer seeming more than simplistic. As she spoke the words, she felt as though she herself had no courage. None. How was it that she, a girl from Merrowdowns, could become a shield-maiden? It was clear that they were held in high regard, were brave, skilled... Where did she fit in all of that? In truth, she felt as though she didn't fit at all.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

That is a better definition than I would've expected from one of southern blood. The Sunderfang believe that courage is meeting death with readied blades. There is no more sacred way to die than fighting for the tribe on the battlefield. Arzale was quite pleased with Amarylis' answer. She at least understood the concept of survival and that was a step in the right direction. Next he would ask Amarylis a more difficult question. Who'd have thought 'barbarians' had philosophical conversations? There were many misconceptions about the Sunderfang tribe, as Amarylis was bound to find out in the days that would follow. She would learn their history, their spirituality, their traditions and laws...And learn of their deep-seated prejudice. A rough road lay ahead for the young maiden. Now tell me...What is fear? One could not define courage without defining fear, nor could they define fear without speaking of courage. Fear was the single greatest obstacle barring any warrior's path, an ever-present hindrance that fought it's hardest to break one's resolve and wear away their defenses. It had been fear that had paralyzed Amarylis, fear's wicked grasp had bound her firmly into the situation she found herself in. The girl had set out to learn of the world and find herself, hopefully life with the Sunderfangs would prove to be a crucible rather than a curse, the life of a warrior would shape her to be more than she ever could have been wandering and singing at Inns to earn her bread. Arzale noticed how awkwardly the spear sat in her hand and recognized it as an immediate problem. Did the Southerners not teach their daughters to fight? Were they so delusional to the harsh realities of life that they did not raise their children with at least a basic understanding of combat? Even Sunderfang scribes could hold their own in combat for a period of time. Before a Sunderfang learned to write they started learning the forms, even children's games were nothing less than combat exercises.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

A sudden heat rose to Amarylis' cheeks. She hadn't expected to be praised for her answer, though honestly it would probably only be her words that rendered her anything that remotely resembled such a thing. It surely wouldn't be her skills with the weapons she held so awkwardly in her hands. As it was, she could feel them constantly slipping from her grip. So as not to drop them nor dishonor them, since she was certain that dropping them would cause everyone to gasp and become infuriatedespecially Arzaleshe constantly readjusted her tiny hands so that she could hold them better. Amarylis still didn't like the feel of so many eyes upon her. It was overwhelming, made her feel like some strange creature that could be poked and prodded and ogled. Needless to say, it was unsettling to be so judged. Though she tried her best to imagine those eyes were turned elsewhere, that it was just herself and Arzale. But even that great warrior... he made her the most nervous of all. Fear. The man wished to know her definition of fear. In some ways, Amarylis found that almost amusing despite the nerves that coursed over and through her slight body as she held the weapons, desperately trying not to drop them. Fear was one thing she knew, especially after this day. She'd faced it head on, saw her own death more or less and now fear seemed to be ever present by her side as she stood there. Yes, it was her companion now, that faithful friend that didn't seem intent on leaving any time soon. Fear sir? Amarylis began, her voice still soft. Well, I was taught that fear is an emotion evoked when we face the unpleasant. Anything that would cause us pain, apprehension or give us threat can evoke fear, sir. Amarylis swallowed, her head hanging in shame as her mousy hair fell in front of her face, blocking it from view. Fear. She had a lot of that and probably always would. There was no way she'd ever rid herself fear. She could never be a shield-maiden, She would fail before any amount of training even started. Just then she sucked in a sharp breath and glanced at the weapons she didn't even know how to hold. This was beyond hopeless. How could this man think she could succeed? All it would bring to her was an early death.
Thread: Another Life (Cheshire Smirk & darkangel76)

I was looking for something more spiritual. Fear is the cowl that shrouds death's face. Take away the cover and all that remains is the inevitability that every person must meet eventually regardless of their path in life. Had it really been this long since Arzale had last bandied words with a Southern-blood? Amarylis' definition of fear had left a fair bit to be desired. It was hard not to sigh at the answer she gave, a petty answer given by the meek. Pain? Pain was nothing to be feared...'Unpleasant'? If one was to look at the larger picture every single aspect of life in the Northern Wastes was unpleasant. Were they really this soft of stock? Had those nurtured by the Land of Plenty been robbed of all strength? Arzale could not blame the girl for her words. It was the way of her people that had made her soft, she had been swaddled for far too long. Survival instincts were tenacious though, Arzale doubted they had been completely bred out of her people. Amarylis was still young and malleable, surely the cold would help toughen her up physically and mentally. At least the girl had the courage to speak it would be simply unbearable if she just sat in terrified silence, stilled by self-pity. They also had time, the spoils of this bountiful raid would certainly bolster the food and other material stores for quite awhile. That and there were other raiding parties waiting at home for their chance at glory. The Sunderfang tribe was one of the largest of the north, numbers now cresting two thousand adult souls. Vis'karr's war-party would be given ample time to rest. Why be afraid of a crossroads we must all come to pass? The fear of death was such a foreign concept to Arzale. It was absolutely illogical to be afraid of something that was guaranteed. Great warriors had succumbed to sudden blizzards, or been taken by a simple fever during a harsh winter. To be afraid of death in the North was to be afraid of everything. Getting Amarylis to embrace the reality of death was the first and most important step towards starting her training as Shield-Maiden. She would need to fight without reserve, to never retreat if her stand would save the lives of others. Had Amarylis seen the moments leading up to Larethia's death? Had she witnessed the way the two warriors fought as one as a nigh unstoppable force? That was the future that awaited Amarylis if she embraced the Sunderfang way of life. When Amarylis next set foot on southern shores she would hopefully be a changed woman, a Sunderfang Shield-Maiden. Arzale did his best to focus on the lesson at hand, battle philosophy helped keep memories of Larethia at bay.