Thread: The General and the Warrior Princess (Starlet and Vladimir)

Vanya was busy with her task. As she waited for her required number of helpers to arrive, she raised her hands and a small village of large tents appeared semi circle around his men. Each containing luxurious, comfortable quarters for four men, with more than enough room for their comfort and privacy. The tents were of various colors, making it easier to identify which one is yours. Next, at the opening of the semi-circle she created a huge kitchen and eating area, fully stocked with the best meats, wines and beer. She wanted the men well fed. Off to the west, she created a training area. She didn't want them to think she was trying to make them soft, she merely wanted them occupied and comfortable. As she finished up, her people began to arrive. She turned to look at them, and instructed them as to what they were needed for. She could see how nervous they were. Their eyes were filled with fear. My good people, do not fear. Nothing shall happen to you. Each of you will be given protection from harm. No matter what these men do, they cannot kill, maim, hurt or touch you in any way. You are to serve them, prepare their meals, fill their cups, do everything within your power to attend to their every need during their stay. IF any of you feel you are unable to perform these duties and have little faith in the royal family, take the stones and return to your village. Otherwise, bring the stones to me and place them in my hand. Her eyes, like her fathers, were soft, her voice gentle, as she waited with her hand stretched out. The group looked at each other until slowly, one by one, the leader of each group came forward and placed their stone in her hand. When the last stone was safely back in her hand, they magically disappeared. Smiling at the group, she raised her hands again, and just in front of the invisible wall, came a huge tent. Large enough to hold them all as comfortably as the warriors quarters behind her, but with one simple difference. As her hands lowered, she said, This is your safety zone. There is a barrier around the tent and 100 yards around the entire closure. Only you can pass through this barrier. No one, but one of your kin will ever be able to. If at any time you fear for your lives, come in here and you shall be safe from all harm. Fear not, the love of the royal family will protect you, this I promise you. Another wave of her hands and each was suddenly clad in special garments of fine silk in various colors. You will find a number of these clothing inside your quarters within the tent. They are covered in a magical spell to protect you on the outside of your safe barrier, but only for one day. Each day you must change into a new set of clothing, and burn the one from the day before. When this time is done, all of you and your families will be rewarded for your service to Fae. Now, stay within the safety of your barrier as I wake them from their slumber. A look of unsteady faith crossed the faces of the men and women before her, as she turned. Releasing the men from their slumber, she greeted them with a smile and calm exterior. As far as she could see, the men seemed in a daze as they looked from side to side and at all that had been created around them. A few lifted their heads to the sky as the aroma of cooked meats, fresh breads and open kegs of wine hit their senses. Vanya patiently waited to see their reactions. But small handfuls at the front of the line were not as easily appeased by the comfortable surroundings and excellent food. One in particular fiercely looked at the woman standing so serene before them. My name is KASIMIR what have you done with Argarth, witch!!! For we will slaughter you all before we enter your world and kill every man, woman and child.!!! A roar of approval filled the air like a wave of thunder. Vanyas face did not change, and her soft smile and ways continued with confidence. Your leader is safe within the palace of Nevrath with the King, my father, who is entertaining him as we speak. But there were not enough accommodations for his entire battalions, so we have created a place for your comforts and enjoyments while he is away. This did not sit well with Kisimir, as he and two other burly warriors began to walk towards her and eventually ran. She could hear those behind her gasp and the sound of shuffling feet moving back into the tent could be heard as Kisimir reached her and swung his great sword towards her to cut her in half. Vanya was still smiling at him, as the other two men ran past her to attack those behind her. As the sword of Kisimer came into contact with her, it simply bounce off, vibrating so fiercely, it knocked Kisimir off balance and to the ground. His comrades experienced the same fate. Vanya turned slowly so she could see all three. Her voice was gentle as she said, Honorable Lieutenant Kasimir, and your fellow officers, please know that nothing you do will harm me or my people. But I promise that your General is safe and would ask that you wait for his return. All we wish, is to make your wait as enjoyable as your General's. This I swear. There are quarters for all your men, and a wonderful banquet being prepared in your honor. To your right is a training arena to keep your men in tip top shape for battle. All I ask is that you accept our hospitality and accept my peoples assistance in making your stay comfortable. Kasimir stood back up, his dignity left on the ground, his face indignant and as angry as Vanya was sure Argaths was after he arrived at the castle. Do not think all this.., he said with disgust as he swept his arm towards all the amenities, will soothe our desire for blood? It means nothing. For when the battle begins, it is YOU I shall be killing first! Vanya gave the Lieutenant a slight bow as she said, As you wish. Turning towards her people she commanded, Come out and serve your guests. Even though the fae were timid and scared, they dared not defy her. As they left the protection of the shield, one of the officers tried to kick one, but was left with a very sore foot that would be difficult to walk on for days. Seeing this, the fae realized all that their Princess had said was true and walked among the enemy with confidence. Nothing could harm them as long as they obeyed the rules and changed their clothing each day, burning the ones they had worn the day before. It was as if each knew exactly what they needed to do, as they milled out into the various locations, the kitchen, the cleaning, and the serving of the men. Once she saw that all was well, and their men, after a nod from Kashmir, were milling in for the food and drinks provided, she looked back at Kashmir. Walking over to him, she reached out her hand and placed a small amulet into his hand and said softly, If ever you need me, simply hold this and say my name, Vanya. I shall return as soon as I possibly can. Now, I shall take my leave. Stepping back, she disappeared into a mist and was gone. Kasimir turned to his men and said, There is more than magic at work here. Until such time we can break these shields, or Argath returns, we shall enjoy the fruits of their labor, but keep the men working on their battling skills. He turned and joined his men at the feast. ------------------------------------------------ Vanya was not use to using so much of her powers. As she left the scene behind her, she decided to retreat to the gardens before meeting with her parents. She did not want to come face to face with Argath the Terrible. Within seconds, she was visible in the garden. As she materialized, she became dizzy, not realizing just how much power it had taken to accomplish a safe and peaceful place for her people to exist in. She felt like she was as weak as a baby, and as the weight of her feet was under her, her body collapsed to the cobbled stoned walkway. Little did she know, she was not alone.