Ack, it's really been too long, Brian... LOL. This is our training ground, so we'll just muddle our way through, shall we? [img]tongue.gif[/img]

======================================

<font color=lightblue>She stepped forward cautiously, squinting as the occasional beam of light danced upon the surface of gleaming blades on display and into her dark eyes. Tentatively, she bent down and picked an abandoned longsword off the ground. It was light, thankfully, just right for one who had steered clear of battle for many years.

Inhaling deeply, she now gripped the hilt purposefully, and a spark seemed to ignite her face; it was aglow with life. Turning, she faced her adversary.

"Alright, then. I'm ready when you are."</font>

ooc: It has. [img]tongue.gif[/img]

<font color=lightgreen>A thoughtful frown crossed his face as he examined the blades on display. He wanted something equally fast to her lightweight weapon. Deciding on a simple shortsword, he turned to face his opponent. The leather binding around the hilt was unfamiliar and yet was comforting at the same time, reminding him of days long forgotten.

Smiling mischievously, he nodded to her and took a step forward. "Let us begin."</font>

<font color=lightblue>Oh crap, why am I shaking so badly?! The adrenaline sent the blood under her cool skin into into an epileptic flow as she forced an unfazed expression onto her crumbling face... with how much success, she dared not venture to guess. It's just a game, you fool... this is just a training ground.

Yet the sight of the youngster continued to threaten her a little. Everything they said about being in the full bloom of youth was so true. He looked better, fitter and she could sense the swirl of unbattered enthusiasm that sent him into a whirlwind of vitality and agility. At a moment like this, she could only rejoice that the upcoming duel was a friendly one.

Smiling uneasily, she tilted herself forward, balancing on her right foot with her left hand gripping the blade, the tip of which was now pointed in the direction of the youth's upper torso.

"Come then!"</font>

<font color=lightgreen> Taking a deep breath, he quickly slid the length of his shortsword against her own blade to focus her attention. Small sparks ignited from the metal as he withdrew and swung at her ribs. She blocked the attack, forcing him to retreat a few steps back. Grinning to himself, he made a quick jab at her shoulders. </font>

<font color=lightblue>Sidestepping, she heard the slight whistle of the blade as it thrust into the space that previously had been her left shoulder. Spinning around, she flipped her left wrist so that the hilt of her longsword was safely out of harm's way and reached out with her right hand to pinch the youngster's left ear.

"Easy, boy. Easy." </font>

[ 06-13-2006, 06:16 PM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

<font color=lightgreen> His face turned red in embarrassment as he took a step back. Taking up a defensive stance, he was about to wait for the older woman to attack when the door suddenly burst open. Standing in the doorway of the barracks was a man in his late forties.</font>

<font color=gold>Hard steel eyes took in the scene of the duel and he shook his head when he noticed the flushed face of the younger man.

"Getting beat again boy?" Not waiting for a reply, he made his way to a large table with several rolled up maps. Selecting an old one tinged with brown from age he waved for the two to follow him outside. </font>

[ 06-13-2006, 07:12 PM: Message edited by: Leafblade ]

<font color=lightblue>As the captain stepped out of the dusty room, she nudged her companion and cast him a conspiratorial wink.

"You've known him for long? He looks like he could do with some exercise himself." Clearly, she found her private joke hilarious, for she could barely contain a snort from emerging from her nostrils. Slapping her right hand on the lad's back, she sauntered forward, feeling better than any day in the years that had passed.</font>

<font color=lightgreen>He smiled faintly at her joke and shook his head. "I'm not too familiar with him. I've met him on occasion, but he's always so quiet until he starts barking orders at us." He quickly dropped off the weapon he had used in their duel, and hurried outside.</font>

<font color=gold>Captain Tarnik Orman stood in the bright sunlight of midday. His graying black hair was neatly in place, and his armor was polished to the point that the sunlight glared at anyone who looked at him. Clasping his hands behind his back he waited for the mercenaries at the encampment to make their way to him.</font>

<font color=lightblue>She cringed at the armour’s reprimand, avoiding eye contact with the captain. I’ll bet he spends more time polishing than wielding a sword. Briefly, she contemplated telling him the sad truth – she was but a hired help of the past, and could offer no guarantee of a successful return – yet there was a stirring within her that quelled this impulse. How do you know, until you’ve tried? Besides, there was something about the bright-eyed stripling next to her that warmed her heart. It would be something to see how he got on with the world.

“What do you want?”

The years had not quite changed her, unfortunately. How many times had she been advised to be more circumspect in her choice of words? Exactly the number of times she had laughed the well-meaning words of advice off. She wondered how he would respond to her brusqueness.</font>

<font color=gold> Tarnik turned his hard eyes to the voice of the woman in front of him. "It would do you well woman to address me formally. We are not a bunch of petty bumpkins who do not know how to speak to their commanding officer."</font>

<font color=lightgreen>Bristling for how the captain had spoken to his friend, the young man spoke up. "Sir, I didn't realize we had joined up with the royal guards." he stared defiantly at the captain.</font>

<font color=gold>Tarnik slowly moved his gaze to the blond haired young man in front of him. "Apparently you do not know how to address your commanding officer either. In that case both of you will be sent to investigate the southern marsh southeast of here. Villages in the area have reported of strange disappearances and odd things happening in the area. I made this mercenary company to keep the people of this area safe. Both of you would do well to complete this mission." Turning away from them he busied himself with the other mercenaries. </font>

<font color=lightgreen> Snickering and chuckles could be heard behind the young man after that captain gave them his orders. "What do you all find so amusing?" He asked as he turned around to face a mercenary who found the mission particularly funny.</font>

<font color=silver> "That mission is a fools errand. Anyone Tarnik gives it to comes back empty handed and with no success to report. Gives the old stiff an excuse to kick you out." Smirking, the other man left the two to dwell on what he had said.</font>


<font color= lightgreen> "You don't think that's true do you?" he asked the woman still standing next to him.</font>

[ 06-13-2006, 10:44 PM: Message edited by: Leafblade ]

<font color=lightblue>The situation was too rich to be savoured alone, and in any case, she could not have helped it. Out poured the torrents of anxiety that had half-strangled her. Mirthful tears ran unchecked down the apples of her cheeks as she took in the look of dismay of the young man.

“I don’t care if it’s true, my dear!” Chortling, she wiped away a wayward tear. “With such a crappy captain, I wouldn’t want to stay here for long.” Then lowering her voice, she hissed into his ear. “Besides, I don’t think I’d have survived a dangerous mission. This fake one is the perfect foil for me to have it easy, come back and report nothing, and get my butt kicked out.”

Drawing back slightly, she cocked her head sideways, eyeing him with concern. “But that’s not what you’re after, is it, my poor dearie? You want glory and tangible rewards.” Nodding, she spoke softly, this time to herself. “There was a time when I chased that foolish dream, too… let him find out for himself.”

Abruptly, she turned back to him and cleared her throat. “Now look here, whatever’s your name. We barely know each other, and if that blockhead of a captain had half the size of a pea for his brain, he’d have noticed that. You’re being dragged into this, because yours truly here doesn’t have even half the size of a pea for a brain, to mind her manners.” She paused, then looked him in the eye. “I’ll tell him to go to hell, but send you on a proper mission instead. How about that?”</font>

<font color=lightgreen> "We got into this mess together and we'll get out of it the same." Determination set into his features as he started for the Captain. Coughing a little to grab the older man's attention, "Sir, uh... captain?" He had to keep squinting his eyes against the glare of the armor in front of him. Tarnik ignored him and continued talking with two rough looking men. Impatience got the better of him and he stepped in between them. "Excuse me... sir..."</font>

<font color=gold> The old captain's face remained placid as he looked at the young recruit. "Do you not have any manners at all boy?"</font>

<font color=silver>"Don't you worry cap'n, I'll take care of this runt." The larger of the two men Tarnik had been talking to advanced on the younger man.</font>

<font color=lightgreen>Before he could move back, the mercenary threw a fist at him. The punch missed the target but managed to clip his ear. Blood slowly started to drip down the cut that had appeared from the larger man's gauntlet. Crying out in pain, the young recruit glared at the man in front of him, ready to recklessly charge at him.</font>

<font color=white>The Village of Lomton</font>

<font color=indianred>

Like most of the younger generation, Jared had lived here his whole life. It was a settler's village, home to a wide variety of peoples who had all chosen to leave the larger towns and settle back closer to nature and a more simple way of life. True, it was close to the Marshes of Vankin, but the people learned to take care and not fall prey to the sicknesses that come with living so close to still waters.

For years there had been no troubles and nobody on the outside cared to bother them until only a few months ago, something began to cause alarm. It had started with the disappearance of a little girl, and then her mother that had spent so much time trying to find clues of her whereabouts. Some livestock too began to disappear, but that was not all. Sometimes at night, the animals would become extremely agitated for no apparent reason. It had been rumored that maybe there was a wolf or some kind of predator out there, and trappers were called in to see what they could do. Two trappers had gone missing and the rest had seen nothing. Even the Royal Guard had come to take a look on a number of occasions. Nothing was ever found. All went quiet for a short while and people began to think that the worry had passed until just last week.

Jared's mother had been out tending to a sick calf at the barn, and that was the last Jared had seen her. She never came back in, and when he went to look for her, she was not to be found.

The village mayor sent another plea for help and Captain Tarnik Orman was handed down the assignment to deal with this mystery. </font>

OOC: I do believe I've posted more than I've done over the past year, LOL.

<font color=lightblue>Shaking her head, she sighed inwardly. Mental note, try to keep your mouth shut or if you really have to, count to ten before speaking. But this was no moment for soliloquy; the youngster would get his life beaten out of him if she stood by.

"'Ere, look here now." Clearing her throat, she threw a twisted smile at the captain. "He hasn't had the benefit of good manners, any one can see that. And no thanks to me, you've associated him with me." Her eyes roved up and down the blackguard's face. "I don't know him, okay? Don't take out on a boy... you were one, once." Turning to the mercenary, she spat at him. "Why don't you pick on someone your own size? You didn't even wait for your captain's orders... trying to usurp his position now, are we?"

A moment like this was decidedly not good. Not when one had spent the past years in dormant passivity, never even threw a punch into the air. But this crazy kid - the one who tugged at her heartstrings for some even crazier reason - was driving her into action.

At a moment like this, she knew that somehow their fates would be interlinked.</font>

[ 06-14-2006, 01:22 AM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

ooc: That's a good thing! [img]tongue.gif[/img] and thanks for joining us Larry. [img]smile.gif[/img]

<font color=gold> Tarnik shook his head and signed inwardly. Why do I always end up with some runt who thinks he can take on anything... Letting none of his inner thoughts show in his expression, the Captain waved the mercenary back. "I did not order you to hit the boy, nor did I say it was ok to interrupt me. Take care that both of you never do so again." He directed the last part at the blond young man. "Whatever you heard about the mission I gave you was not completely true. Yes, several mercenaries have gone down to inspect the area, but every time they return with no success. I have received word again that the village is having trouble. If the two of you are able to solve this riddle I may over look today." He tossed a map to the woman and walked away.</font>

<font color=lightgreen> The young man's gray eyes tunneled holes into the mercenaries back as he walked away with the Captain. "I was just caught off guard..." He mumbled to himself. Sighing, he reached up to touch his ear. It throbbed badly and blood continued to drip and slide down his neck where it started to stain his tunic. Glancing over at the older woman, he gave her a sheepish smile. "Looks like we'll be partners on this mission. I'm Rehan."</font>

[ 06-14-2006, 01:54 AM: Message edited by: Leafblade ]

<font color=lightblue>She exhaled as the nuisance-infested group left finally. “Well, Rehan, that didn’t go too badly, did it?” Despite the chuckle she threw in carelessly, the immense relief on her face was obvious. And there was something about the captain’s last few words that redeemed him in her eyes… not that he’d care for her opinion, of course but… Oh, get a grip on yourself, woman! Don’t tell me your desperation for a male companion has reached new limits!

Flushing, she smiled at the youth weakly. “Yes, it looks like it. Eh, you look like a fledgling chicken to me.” Nodding to herself, she continued. “I don’t mean it as an insult, really. It’s just that you’re so… so…” she was struggling for the right words. “… so trusting.” The word came out as if it were a handicap. “That’s how you’ll end up being thumped and whacked without knowing why. It’s the impulse that’ll get you into trouble.”

The sober expression on her face suddenly cracked and she broke into her raspy laughter again. “What am I saying here? A veteran you’ll make me out to be, eh? But know what, dearie?” Another conspiratorial wink. “I haven’t learnt a single lesson myself. That’s what got us into this, isn’t it?” Giggling, she reached out to pat his shoulder comfortingly. “I can tell that we’re in for a hoot, already. You and me, we’ll get along fine. Let’s just hope the people we come across with share the same sentiments.”

As they began to gather their equipment for the journey ahead, she found herself whistling an old nameless tune. Then, as an afterthought, she called out to Rehan.

"Hey, don't think I'm deliberately mean or secretive or anything, but erm..." she gave him a wicked grin. "I haven't decided on my name for now." </font>

OOC: That was my last post for now, so you guys can go catch up on sleep ;) And yes, thanks for being a sport in joining us, Larry! We won’t whallop you… for now [img]tongue.gif[/img]

ooc: I'll probably be up for another hour or so. [img]tongue.gif[/img]

<font color=lightgreen>Rehan nodded vaguely at the older woman while he tried to bandage his ear. Grumbling and several choice words could be heard as he became frustrated with it. The cut was along the side of his ear and he could think of no good way to keep the bandage on. He was just about to give up and bleed all over himself the rest of the day when he spotted his inspiration.

One of the mercenaries had received a head wound a few days ago while repairing the north end of the encampment. The bandaged wrapped around the poor man's head was the perfect idea. Placing the start of the cloth against the wound, he wrapped it around his head bandana style, careful to tuck it behind his uninjured ear so it wouldn't cover it, and then finished it off. The result was a lopsided bandaged that went diagonal across his forehead. Proud of his achievement to cover his wound, he made his way over to where his companion was getting supplies together.</font>

[ 06-14-2006, 03:20 AM: Message edited by: Leafblade ]

OOC: [img]tongue.gif[/img] [img]tongue.gif[/img] [img]tongue.gif[/img]

<font color=lightblue>She grunted approvingly as she glanced to view his handiwork with the bandages. Molly-coddling him was the last thing she would do, knowing how life dealt out its cards at the most unexpected times. I might not live that long, and then where would he be? It must be the age that was affecting her so… there was a bittersweet feeling to all this, that she would have scoffed at years ago.

And yet, was thirty such an old age to be at? They had laughed at her over at the tavern, just the night before. <font color=plum>”You, answering the call of the captain? What’re yer gonna do? Make tea for him?”</font> <font color=indianred>”Do yer need glasses to go with that?”</font> <font color=limegreen>”Shouldn’t yer be at home with yer mister? Or is that the point of yer turnin’ up? I heard the guards are lookin’ for mistresses… but yer don’t quite fit the bill, honey.”</font> <font color=silver>”You might have slain a dragon in your time for all I care, but frankly, my dear, you’ll be lucky if you don’t get blown away by the wind at this age.”</font>

There must be some place where thirty is just the beginning of life. In her heart, she cried these words even as she shoved the rations and other travelling gear into her knapsack before swinging it across her back. Clenching her fists, she willed herself to stay focused as she unsheathed the longsword from its scabbard for a final look, before re-sheathing it.

“Let’s go, Rehan. I’m tired of this place, already.”

Tilting her head towards the doorway, she motioned for him to follow her. </font>

edit ooc: I'm off to bed now. [img]smile.gif[/img]


<font color=lightgreen> Rehan noticed the sudden change in the older woman. He gave her an awkward pat on the shoulder as they made their way to the stables. Two horses were provided for them as they loaded their items into the saddlebags. One of the young stable boys laughed when they saw Rehan's bandage.</font>

<font color=silver> "What hit you this time Rehan? I heard ol'Berand got you good earlier today.</font>

<font color=lightgreen> Remaining silent and scowling, he directed his horse out of the encampment and towards the trail they would be taking. "I heard the village can be reached in five days if we keep up a decent pace." He offered to the woman as she caught up with him.</font>

[ 06-14-2006, 01:42 PM: Message edited by: Leafblade ]

OOC>>>I am just glad to be a part of a little fun amongst long-time friends again.

If you ever reach Lompton in the Marshes of Vankin, Jared will seek you out to offer his assistance in your search for the disturbances.

I figured you'd like to have a real village set up with a real monster on the loose so you two could RP freely on your characters and not worry about enviroment. I'll take care of that if it pleases you.

The monster chosen to kill you is brought to you courtesy of Cyril Darkcloud...so yes...you'll die in style.

OOC>>> Aww... both you and Cyril are too kind ;) *Hugs and beer all round*

<font color=lightblue>"No rush now, is there?" She murmured, half to herself and partly to him as she eased herself onto the saddle and nudged her horse into a steady trot. There was no telling whether the map had been scaled accurately so some margins of error were to be expected. In any case... "I'm no rush to be slaughtered." There you go again... a wonderful sense of optimism you're imbibing into the fledgling chicken, aren't you?

Suddenly, everything seemed so surreal. Just two days ago, she had been minding her own business and not caring a hoot about whatever the people surrounding her did. But since yesterday... something had happened. A wave it was, that tore asunder the wall of detachment she had so carefully constructed over herself in the passing years. Apparently, there was a higher force that would not let her alone for long.

"This is going to be a rather boring ride, isn't it?" She spoke breezily, all the while casting sideway glances to watch out for her companion. "Let's spice things up a bit... " ... with a silly song., she might have added.

<font color=white>A fev'rish heart sets out today
Sets out to where? No one can say

A foolish pair in search of clues
What sort of clues? My blood-stained shoes

An ounce of sense tis what we lack
What, sense you lack? No turning back

A pack of wits twould serve us well
They'd serve you well? Aye, fend Death's knell

A dance for peace we badly need
How bad's the need? Desirous greed

A happy day; the sun shines bright
Oh, why so bright? It brings us might

A hopeful duo, a force for good
Ah, righteous good! Still, we need food...</font>

As the day wore on, the singing grew softer until at last, the last note hung in the air before silence engulfed it.

She was tired and could sing no more.</font>

ooc: I love typos. I didn't even realize last night that I had wrote "he directed his HOUSE out" and not his horse. :rolleyes: Also, thanks again Larry and you too Cyril. [img]smile.gif[/img]

<font color=lightgreen> Her song cheered him up as he idly watched the scenery pass by. This is my real first chance at proving myself! I can't let down the Captain, no matter how much of a... His thoughts continued to ramble on about his opinion of Captain Orman.

Several hours had passed and night came upon them. "We should find a camp soon and continue on the morning." Scanning the area offered him a small clearing not far from the trail. Tying the reigns to a nearby tree, he started to build a small fire pit. Some branches and several flint strikes later resulted in a little campfire. "Maybe I should have gotten more wood..." Rehan commented, slightly embarrassed that his fire was looking pathetic.</font>

<font color=lightblue>"That's alright, Rehan. Save your energies for tomorrow." The flames which danced before her gleaming eyes were not the same ones that choked before her young companion. "Why don't you get some sleep? I'll take the first watch."

And she turned away, to show that she would brook no opposition.</font>

<font color=lightgreen> Retrieving a blanket from his saddlebag, Rehan wrapped it around himself and laid down near the fire. The heat was welcoming even though the flames were small. In the dancing firelight he studied his companion. He knew nothing about her, not even her name. Was it fate that the two of them crossed paths on this mission? Shaking his head and yawning, he rolled over and soon fell asleep. </font>

<font color=silver> Back at the encampment a man in his mid thirties argued with Tarnik. "Captain, why did you give the Vankin Marsh mission out again? You know those villagers are crazy. We've sent countless mercenaries down there and no one returns with information. It's a waste of resources."</font>

<font color=gold> Rubbing a hand across his tired face, the Captain showed emotion for once today. "The villagers must know that we are here to help them no matter how many times we come up empty handed. I do not think you realize what is at stake here if they remain terrorized." </font>

<font color=silver> "Yes, but why send some kid and an old woman to do it? They're both new recruits and obviously lack any sort of skill from their show earlier." </font>

<font color=gold> "Exactly Lieutenant... exactly."</font>

[ 06-14-2006, 06:45 PM: Message edited by: Leafblade ]

<font color=lightblue>What it her imagination, or was she hearing distant rumblings? The night air, crisp and clear as it was, seemed to tingle with unknown activity. Activities of which no one knew about, and which, if they resulted in Rehan and herself dying, no one would ever know about.

It was not a comforting thought.

Idly, she glanced at her snoozing companion. What was the fledgling dreaming about, on a night like this? Did she want to know? She wondered exactly how experienced he was... perhaps his blundering ways were, but a cover.

The flames continued to leap and prance before her dark, onyx eyes.</font>

<font color=lightgreen> The sun shone brightly in the sky as Rehan ran in circles around his father. It was his eighth birthday and his father had promised to take him out to the main town today. Rehan had never been there since his parents cautioned that it was dangerous for one so young. They lived on a farm on the outskirts. It was a peaceful life but terribly uneventful. Days were filled with chores and playing in the woods. It was hard during the harvest to make a living sometimes since Rehan was an only child, and his mother and the baby she was caring died during birth. Ever since then it had just been him and his father to run the farm. Adair, his father, was very protective of his son, and even more so after the death of his wife and daughter.

After much pestering and using his birthday as an excuse, Rehan was able to get his father to take him to town. The town wasn't too large, but it was a whole different world then the simple life Rehan had known. Streets were filled with conversation and the heated debate of price on trade goods. Staring wide-eyed with fascination, Rehan tugged at his father to follow him to a market stall. The peddler sold amulets and was in the middle of telling his customers they all came from far away lands. Sunlight reflected off the polished surfaces causing them to glow with inner light. Rehan was entranced as he stared at all the shimmering colors. "Can I have one daddy? I really really want one!" Adair smiled fondly at his son but shook his head. "I'm afraid we don't have the money for those. We need to save up until the next harvest." Rehan started to sulk and turn away when the peddler behind the stall called over to them.

"No money? Well you two are just in luck! Come around to the back here, come come!" Adair looked doubtful, but followed at the encouragement of his son. The peddler pulled out a small wooden box. Nestled inside was a small amulet. The silver chain led to what appeared to be a small golden tree. Coils of silver and ebony wrapped around the tree criss-crossing each other. The silver coil was loose and almost appeared to be comforting the tree, while the ebony coiled looked like it was trying to strangle it. Adair looked at it warily. "These aren't enchanted are they?" The peddler clicked his tongue against his teeth. "Now what would a simple farmer know of magic?" Moving Rehan back a little he replied. "I come into town to sell the food we grow every year. You hear things in a town such as this."

Rehan moved past his father and faced the peddler. "Will you give that to us sir? It's my birthday!" He said proudly and puffed out his chest some. His father couldn't hide a small smile but continued to watch the peddle with caution. "You can have it boy, it was meant for you!" Before Adair could protest, the peddler slipped it over Rehan's neck. The metal was cold to the touch as he lifted it up some and showed his father. "It was made just for me!" Rehan smiled happily and jumped around.

Six years after that Adair was killed in a fire that had started on their farm. He had stayed behind to watch over the farm while Rehan went to town to sell their crops. No one was sure what caused the fire, and could only offer their apologizes to the young farmer. With no family and no home to call his own, he was forced to live on his own. Four years had passed and only recently did he hear of Captain Tarnik's Mercenaries and how he paid well.

No longer able to sleep, Rehan rolled over to look at his companion. He could tell a few hours had passed and he offered to keep watch now. Sitting up he draped the blanket around his shoulders and reached inside his shirt. His hands found the comforting metal of the amulet he had gotten with his father so long ago. He was lost in his thoughts while he watched the fire crackle and didn't hear whether she agreed to him taking watch or not.</font>

<font color=yellow>Amid the chattering and animated whispers that flowed freely around her, she pressed her shivering hands against the folds of her white satin dress. Cold were her fingers, as they slowly raised to adjust the neckline that showed off her pale collarbone, and the puffed sleeves that made her feel so womanly.

Swallowing a gulp, she lifted her head and looked into the mirror. A stranger stared back.

The onyx eyes were gleaming, but the eyelids were flickering with unusual rapidity. The soft pale lips bore teeth marks, trembling and curling uncontrollably.
The nose was quivering with horrid anticipation… what was that? Horrid?

Was this a word to describe one’s wedding day?

Her heartbeat was quickening, with each moment that passed. Around her, people continued to mill around and shout their congratulations. Hands reached eagerly to touch the fabric of her gown, and children squealed with delight as they gazed upon the shimmering effect of this painted version of herself.

Yet it was awfully, awfully wrong. She knew it, but knew it too late.

What was there to do but go through with this ritual?

And yet…

The world was spinning in front of her. Gasping, she flailed her arms and grasped at the nearest object to steady her line of vision. It helped momentarily, then passed. For the world was blurring in front of her. Veiled by the film of tears that sprung against her will.

At that moment, she knew.

<font color=white>”I don’t want to get married!”</font> Screaming, she ignored the shocked cries echoing against her ears. <font color=white>”Never, never, never! He’s not the one for me!”</font> And she sprinted away from the stunned audience, leaving a trail of messiness behind…</font>

<font color=lightblue>Instinctively, her feet jolted and she moaned, awakening from the sharp pain that blasted her mind. Hurriedly, she arose in a bath of perspiration and surveyed her surroundings in a wave of panic. Ah… it was, but a nightmare. But oh, how real it had seemed…


How long had she been sleeping all this while? Groggily, she roused herself from her sleep and saw Rehan watching her with concern. “I’m alright.” Muttering, she dusted herself as she got up. “Just another one of those dreams within a dream.”

He must think I’m loopy. Shrugging, she made her way towards the horses. </font>

[ 06-14-2006, 11:16 PM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

<font color=lightgreen> He was about to ask if she was ok, but then thought better of it. The small gold tree fell back against the bare skin of his chest as he tucked it under his shirt again. Stretching, he stood up and gathered his things together as he made his way to the horses.

Several hours later he turned to his companion. "So, what is your name? It feels odd to keep thinking of you just as woman." Rehan wasn't sure if he would offend her with this question. He never was the best with words...</font>

<font color=lightblue>The horse snorted as its passenger’s guffaws sent her feet digging into its flanks. “And what’s wrong with thinking of me just as a woman?” She retorted good-humouredly. Then, tugging away her cap with one swift movement, she extracted a single, large pin. A stream of black hair with some hints of burgundy, tumbled down her back. Pursing her lips, she made a self-deprecating laugh. "Does it bother you so much?”

Stop teasing the poor boy, even if his red cheeks are quite becoming. Smiling to herself, she looked at him with some degree of tenderness.

“To be honest, I like to change names a lot, Rehan. It’s my way of starting afresh, of getting away from the past.” A sudden twinkle appeared in her black eyes.

“Why don’t you give me a name?” Smiling, she continued. “How’s that for a sign of my trust in you?”</font>

ooc: I'm horrible at coming up with female names by the way. [img]tongue.gif[/img]

<font color=lightgreen> Rehan stared at her for a few seconds with his mouth slightly agape. Feeling his cheeks redden he looked away quickly and thought of what to say. She wants me to name her... I'm no good at this, she'll probably just laugh at me... Coughing a little at the awkward silence, his gray eyes looked at her again. "Well um... what about Acacia? I've heard stories that it is a beautiful tree that's covered in thorns." He didn't comment that the Acacia Tree was the name of the small golden tree around his neck.</font>

<font color=lightblue>"Acacia." The syllables tripped off her tongue comfortably, and already she felt at one with the name. "I'm so glad I entrusted you with this task, my dear. Couldn't have come up with anything better than that."

Clearing her throat after a momentary pause, she continued. "Well then, now you'll be happy thinking of me as a thorny tree rather than a bristly woman." And broke into another of her crooked smiles.

"What is your purpose in life, Rehan? That is, apart from flinging your life into the wheel of fortune, seeking your share of fame and glory."

Perhaps one day, he would reveal his story. But she would not press him to, not when she was unprepared to share her own.</font>

<font color=lightgreen> His face reddened again when she mentioned that he could now think of her as a thorny tree. ...or a beautiful one that uses her thorns to keep to herself. He thought with an amused smile.

When she had asked about what his purpose in life was, Rehan could only look at the trail ahead with doubt. His life had always been a simple one. Back on his farm he would have inherited it, gotten married, and continued on his small line of family. Now it was just picking odd jobs here and there to survive, and hoping his reckless behavior didn't get the best of him.

"I... I don't know." He said truthfully and avoided her gaze.</font>

<font color=lightblue>There was something maddening about the way he spoke, that continually drew her away. Away from the desire to remain aloof.

You were like that, once upon a time. She did not know whether to laugh or cry at this realisation.

And the continual tug of war taking place between mind and heart was draining her.

Maybe there's no harm offering a little more than these superficial remarks. Indeed, clamming up was proving to be a draining task, especially in the face of his red cheeks and stammering.

"Oh, that's quite common, I assure you." SHe replied casually, looking ahead. "I don't think I can safely say that I've a grand plan myself, and I've had the benefit - or is it curse - of at least a decade of experiences more than yourself."

That had been the closest ounce of truth she had uttered since she first laid her eyes on him. The light in her eyes flickered furiously as she grappled with the enormity of what she had said.

Relief and regret raged on as she held the reins of her horse tightly and clucked her teeth to urge it onward. This is too tiring... maybe I should just leave. But almost immediately, she could hear an echoing laugh - not a pleasant one at all. If you had wanted that, you shouldn't have asked him to name you.

Yes, there was something irresistible about being named by someone that one couldn't just walk away from. That, and his boyish mannerisms.

With a sigh of fatality, she rolled her eyes at herself and shook her head, as if the vengeance of doing so would eradicate her inner turmoil.

"Are you any good with maps?" She thrust the parchment to him the captain had shoved at her earlier. "How far do you reckon we are, away from our destination?"</font>

[ 06-15-2006, 02:30 PM: Message edited by: mistral4543 ]

<font color=lightgreen> Using one hand to unroll the map with a shake, he quickly scanned it for the trail they were taking. "It looks like we'll reach it by tomorrow night." Frowning, he started to grumble about how he shouldn't have trusted the man who said it was five days away.

As the sun started to set in the sky, Rehan picked up the sound of rushing water nearby. "We should make camp early today. There's a stream close by and I really need to get rid of this bandage." He pointed up to his lopsided handiwork with a sheepish grin.

Finding the clearing to be decent enough, he made a quick fire pit then rushed off to the stream. The setting sun caused the water to glow a golden orange as Rehan approached. Removing his boots and rolling the ends up his pants up to his knees, he sat down at the bank and dropped his feet in. The water was cold and caused him to inhale sharply. Reaching up for the bandage, he started to slowly unravel it. Dried blood caused the cloth to stick a little to his wounded ear, forcing him to slowly peel it off. He dunked the clean end of the bandage into the stream to quickly clean off his wounded ear. Satisfied with it, he glanced down at his reflection in the water.

A young man of eighteen stared back. His sandy blond hair was shaggy and he briefly thought of what his mother would say. Smiling sadly at the memory of her, he remembered how she would comment that he had her eyes, gray tinged with blue. Leaving his feet in the water, he lay back in the grass and watched the sun set.</font>

<font color=lightblue>She watched him make his way toward the stream, breathing heavily at the thought of what the morrow might bring. This was probably a game to him, just like it once had been to a young girl of sixteen. The naive child had crossed a stream similar to this one, splashing among the waters shamelessly and chasing away the poor unsuspecting ducks that had trespassed her little holy pool. Artless was the laughter of that lass as she pranced about, flitting her glances at her companion. How tall he was, and how lean! The fact that he was six years older only raised her estimation of his wisdom. Oh, he was everything to her, and she was sure the world applauded each time her heart soared into the air, whenever he returned her smiles.

Blinking, she realised that her gaze had shifted to the skies, which carried a sheen of orangish pink. Heartachingly beautiful, indeed. Involuntarily, she sighed again. </font>

<font color=lightgreen> Rehan woke up with a start as he glanced around quickly. It was the middle of the night. I must have dozed off... Picking up his boots, he walked barefoot back to camp and gave his companion a rueful smile. "Sorry about that..." He sat down across from her and looked up at the night sky. "We'll be at the village tomorrow. I wonder if we'll actually run into anything out there." </font>

<font color=lightblue>The night air caressed the two huddled figures; its fingertips alternated between iciness and warmth. Above, the stars played hide-and-seek amidst the drifting clouds. What was it about companionship that triggered her raw feelings so?

"You seem very eager to run into something, Rehan. Ever stopped to consider if you're up to the challenge?" What was she doing here? Why had she even left her village? How on earth could they ever achieve their mission? Doubt suffocated her viciously, no doubt taking its revenge where it had failed many years ago. Help me, Grandma. Show me a sign that I'm doing right.

But there was no sign. Not in the stars above, not in the surrounding darkness.

"I'm sorry if I'm such a wet blanket." Dolefully, she turned to look at him. "I'm not the sort of companion a young lad like you would fancy." Wryly, she picked up a twig and started drawing circles on the sand. "I'll bet you never expected to bump into a person like me. Not on your maiden adventure, anyway."

As an owl hooted its agreement in the distance, she snickered softly.</font>

<font color=lightgreen> He watched her thoughtfully, wondering why she was being so hard on herself. "I'm honestly not sure if I am up to it, but I know I'll try. That's what makes life so exciting. You never know what it'll throw out at you, or what twists and turns will open before you." Reaching inside of his shirt he pulled out his amulet. The firelight reflected brightly off it and appeared to give the golden tree inner life. "I got this with my father ten years ago. The gold tree in the middle is the Acacia tree." Blundering ahead, he continued. "It is a beautiful tree covered in thorns like I mentioned, much like yourself." He watched her across the fire and then realization crossed his mind. "Not... not that I think you're thorny... just you seem to like keeping to yourself." Groaning inwardly, he fell back into the grass and stared at the stars overheard. She must think of me as a dumb child...</font>

<font color=lightblue>I have to try and see things from his point of view. Toying with the twig, she twirled it between her fingers. That shouldn’t be so hard, considering I once felt that way.

Then, at the sight of the accessory that dangled before her wistful eyes, she snapped back to attention. This time, the laugh was more genuine. “So that’s the culprit behind my latest name.” The golden hue of the trinket, combined with the glow of the crackling fire before them, highlighted the blond streaks of Rehan’s hair. “Well, I’m glad you didn’t get a moose head pendant back then.”

Staring at the fire, she continued. “You’d keep to yourself too, if you’ve gone through what I have.” Why do I feel so old? Anyone would think I were a decrepit octogenarian. “When you make mistakes like I have… mistakes that you’re not sure whether you should forgive yourself for… “ Her voice trailed off wearily. “… you’d try your best to talk less, and do more.” Her face contorted slightly before she uttered her last words.

“Not that I’ve talked less… look where my few words have led us.” The caustic laugh won, and bounced off the swaying trees. </font>