.x.piece by piece|open

[chaos]

She was wearing a emerald green cloak over the simple outfit of a thin leather hunting dress. A pair of intense brown eyes peering under shapely black eyebrows and frame of thick ebony lashes made the people around the feminine elf look away. There was a very palpable sense of deep-set wisdom and the defiance of the world itself in general emanating from our dearest Phearalyn this day. But that in itself was characteristic of her, the usual persona of said uniqueness. Perhaps that was why she was top in the military, because she was her own person; sure, she was shadowed by the Riders and the Dragons, but as far as those of military experience, she was the most wanted and sought after. Well, one of them, anyways. Ah, what did it really matter, for she was content with her place. So, here she was now, sitting on the back of a big, white charger, a fine specimen though thin from the journey. Journey, you ask? Her homeplace was Ellesmara, the elven capital. Which just so happen to be conveniently placed on the opposite side of the Hadarac Desert. Detect my sarcasm, friends? I hope so. She had been sent for, so now she came to the land of the true homosapiens, the humans.

It's not that she truly had a dislike for them. Her withdrawn perception was due to the fact that after all these years of associating with them, she did not condone or distinctly understand their society. They elves plainly respected one another and didn't necessarily fight for the right of monarchy. There was a rule, an order, and that's how it was. Phaearalyn, pondering all this, urged the equine ahead, sending him a picture of what he was to do and which direction to take with a gentle question. A pleasant smile lit her facade, the naturally red lips stretching and pulling upwards to reveal to horizontal rows of white, blemishless teeth as she felt the responding eagerness of the horse's will to please. Phae had a love for all animals, simply because she understood them more than the human could. (Spiders were indeed far more frightened by people than people were of it; if it charged, then it probably had a nest that needed protecting somewhere.) They traversed through the maze of people, men stopping to stare at the feminine side of human-expected perfection. Our Phae could only bear to give them a slight nod and a smile. Kind enough, no?

The charger led them to a well-enough tavern, Phaearalyn sliding off with a superb grace few humans had ever seen before then. Pulling her horse to a nearby shelter for the other horses, she took care of Handron (aye, she did name him after her late husband), and then went into the tavern for a drink. If it was anything she had learned from the drinks of humans, it was that ale was indeed an inquired taste and when one acquired it...there was simply never enough kegs. Readjusting her garb after she found a small, isolated table, she was crudely addressed by what had to be the city drunkard. "Hey, lovely! Why is someone like yourself alone?" His tones were slurred and gravelly; his breath and perspiration smelled of a sickening sweetness. Phae chuckled as he tried to touch her, but she had other plans. Her mind, which must've seemed infinite compared to his, brushed his: a warning note. His hand immediately jerked away, his brown eyes foggy in confusion. "I wouldn't do that if I were you." Her voice was musical, beautiful. Like a song. But, the razor-sharp edge within was not veiled in the least. Grumbling something, the drunkard turned away saying something along the lines of "Damn...elf...swear to the drunks...I'm not that god."

The last parts made her laugh, her warm sounds floating in the heavily stained air. She ordered her drink, managed to drink half of it, and then departed, 10 crowns laying on the table. She could hear, even as she went out the tavern's door, the bartender gasp and then say something in an appreciative undertone. If she had paid closer attention, she would've grasped the words he said. But, she wasn't so intrigued. Her long, feline-like gait took her to get Handron, her hands running over his frame. "Kvetha Fricai." She sighed as she gave him a quick caress on his long cheek. Taking a quick look at his worn tack, she gave a slight chuckle. "I'm sure you'll be fine without it." Handron was a big horse, but she found herself suddenly on his back with no effort on her part. "Ganga fram." Although weary, he was happy to do his rider's bidding. Through the crowds of Surda, she gained an insight of what she'd have to deal through as well as what others had been going through. It had been many a season since she'd been here; the demeanor of these humans were quite different than last time. More wary, like a cat watching the snarling dog from its perch.

Her journey had been arduous, and all she wanted was to regain her peace. So, she lead Handron to the outskirts of Aberon into a small wood. Phae, used to the great forests of Du Weldenvarden, warmly welcomed the chatterings of all the life, the perpetual presence of the trees and even the little lives of the skittering ants, mice, and the occasional shrew. Her honey toned skin was illuminated by the light filtering towards the trees, and Handron's alabaster coat was highlighted as well as the scars he had obtained during their previous battles as they rode to a suitable enough place to harness the serenity of the vast vegetation. Finding a small open space, Phaearalyn's eyes sparked with interest. "Letta." The stud did as instructed and once off of him, she came to a fallen log. It was hollow, but sturdy. She balanced herself on the log and crossed her legs, hands resting on her splayed lap. With back straight and poised with her usual dignity, she watched with a kind smile as her friend wandered away in search of his favored grass. Thus, Phaearalyn closed her eyes and her mind raced across the wood, listening and finding herself intrigued by all the energy and life.

For instance, two deer lurked nearby. A doe and a pretentious fawn. As they walked, the ants, which were tiny and should've feared the deer, were fiercely attacking the doe's legs because they were near their queen in the anthill. As it were, the doe was finding the bites itching and annoying and while flicking her legs to rid herself of the pests, the fawn was curious about her actions. What was wrong? Her mind then strayed to the trees...and her heart was heavy. Two trees were dying, and so young. To a human, the tree was just a tree; it was a piece of lumber to build a house or a barn. To an elf, or someone gifted in magic, the tree was a tree and had a life of its own. And two saplings were dying because their bigger neighbors, oaks, were taking their water sources. This stunted their growth severely and such, they were dying without their proper nutrition. Their pains were as loud as any child's to our dearest Phaearalyn. Externally, Phae let out a heavy sigh. It was like a miniature Alagaesia out here in the wilds. War was natural, and this was just an example: it was nature to war, it would never end. Elves, even the weakest ones, have the ability to know all things happening with an area and when another presence enters that area, it's felt.

And so it was when someone entered the woods. She needn't open her eyes. She just knew. A voice like music escaped her shapely red lips. "It's never nice to intrude on someone's private time." There was humor in her tones. She wasn't upset or distraught, not in the least.

[Kite]

*Ava sat in the Aberon tavern, enjoying the din and the smell, though she had been felt up by one too many human. That was the reason for her magically-induced pheromone-type change, but it got old being felt up by ugly Vardeners, men or women. She got some of both, but mostly she was annoyed with the drunk male ones. Especially this one extremely drunk male who was a regular, a street bum. He learned to ignore her after tonight because she wasn't in the mood to meet the advances of the tavern's signature drunk. There had been a serious poll about renaming this tavern after him, because he had poured almost as much money into the joint as he had drank in the place. But that as shot down by one vote. Ava thought that this would be a great idea. He would make a good bar pet. But that was beyond her power, one of the few things.

She sees the beautiful woman enter the bar, and smiles softly. There is something magical about this woman, and that tells her that she is different. Elven. She seems about 6 or 7 inches taller than Ava, and has beautiful, wavy black hair. It was an unusual color for an elf, but that doesn’t the deeply blue-haired Ava. As she sits down and readjusts quickly, the local drunk goes up to her. Ava smiles and watches the encounter, and notices that she got him away with only soft speaking and probably mental usage. She was a smart one, as all elves should be. The woman doesn’t seem too amused and starts to leave the tavern. Ava smiles and stands up, paying the tab and following the woman. She finds her horse as the woman does, and follows her as closely as possible without being too obvious, to the local “woodlands”. Ava watches her sit down on the log and begin to meditate. As her presence spread, Ava knows that the woman will feel her eventually, and just waits. She smiles and nods as she hears the woman’s tones and she steps out, smiling, and speaks quietly.*

Hello, comrade… I am sorry for intruding, you just looked like you were interesting. I especially like the hair, it’s a nice touch. Where are you coming from, friend? Why are you here, in a place like Aberon?

[chaos]

She felt her just as clearly as she felt the ants and the beetle beneath her log. Perhaps even more so because there was a bright light of energy protruding from this new being's entity. Ah. A female. By her scent, Phae could tell. Hearing the other's response, a pleasant smile came was written upon her fair features. She got up from her log and with superb ease, she met the other elf. She had to be elf, for her features her more...angled and refined than a human's and she felt full of music and magic. Phaearalyn would've seemed likewise to her though, if not more so because of her age, though she wasn't exactly old among the elven world. Coming to stand directly in front of the unknown elf, she touched her two fingers to her red lips, a sweet smile upon them, brown eyes warm. She wished to honor another elf as she did not know exactly who she was.

"Atra esterni ono thelduin." She gave a moment's pause so that the other could respond. And since she knew that this elf could not be on the Council or Islanzadi, as she'd met with both before, she decided it was best not to give the last line. "No matter. Do not think of it, for it does not bother me to converse with another of my brethren." Here, she paused and her smile became happier, revealing her pearly whites. "My name is Phaearalyn,"she spoke in the ancient language, her native tongue. Since she was in the presence of another elf, she made her voice build the fluid language. "What is your name? And if you don't mind my asking...why here in Surda?" Her gaze became intense with curiosity. But then again, Phaearalyn was naturally a curious individual.

Her mind reached out to Handron as she felt him spook. Something had obviously been in his way or something. The charger was incredibly intelligent for that of a "dumb" beast. He was no dragon, but she found the simplicity of his mind enticing and lovely. Come, my dear. Perhaps you wish to meet a new friend? Come to me, Handron. In response, she heard a soft whicker, something her ears picked up and magnified even though he was a mile away. She listened to Ava's answer, if she was willing to answer, and then, a big white stallion, a beautiful specimen, came into view. He was for the most part white, but he had black socks, muzzle, mane and tail. The stark contradiction in colors would've seemed an oddity if only described, but seeing it was another thing. Handron was wonderfully equine, a beauty.

Phaearalyn looked at him, beckoning him to come to her with only her eyes. His eyes bright and ears perked, she reached long, thin fingers to lay on his neck. "This would be my friend Handron." She said in her native tongue. The stud was no shy. He reached out to sniff her, but put his head back with a sharp warning from his elven companion. Make sure she it is tolerable first, my lovely. She felt a solid wall of repentance on his part, but was replaced by understanding. He gave a loud whinny, which just alerted the birds to watch them wit their bright eyes. How wonderful the woods were. Well, now. So long as they went untouched by Galbatorix and his-ah, my apologies for pursuing such a negative topic. Now, let's get back to Phaearalyn and this elf, Ava...

[Kite]

*Ava smiles happily, and hers eyes close just slightly with it, absolutely happy to see one of her race that didn’t seem to need or want anything from her, and felt slightly sad for invading on her privacy. As the woman puts her finger to her lips in the greeting, she raises hers as well, mimicking the action, and is about to speak when the other elf speaks the greeting, and Ava replies lightly during her pause.*

Mor'ranr lífa unin hjarta onr.

*Ava nods slightly to Phaearalyn and grins at the other elf, and answers her after she finishes her thoughts, allowing her to say what she likes, content to wait*

I am glad you are not offended, Phaearalyn. I am Ava, from the city of Kirtan, in Du Weldenvarden…

*She speaks softly in the language she was spoken to. It almost felt alien to her, speaking in the tongue for conversation after such a long time without doing so. She hadn’t been to Du Weldenvarden in … decades. It was too long, and she decides to go back as soon as she was able and willing. She then continues.*

I don’t mind you asking. I have been working as a “human” mercenary, with a family of humans that are close to me, which explains my features being changed as they are. I am currently working for the Varden, so here I am. My family name in the human world is “Vorandeer”, although my true family name is “Marsados”.

And you? What brings you so far away from our homeland?

*Ava tilts her head as she hears the whinny fairly clearly, and turns to see the stallion coming up. She sees the oddly colored stallion come up and admires it, having not seen one in a long time. This one had an odd but appealing smattering of color, but did not look worse for the wear because of it. She smiles at the horse as Phaearalyn names him, Handron. She reaches out slightly as the beautiful animal attempts to sniff her, and smiles softly as he pulls back. Ava thinks that this is due to her companion warning her, and is therefore willing for the stallion to give it another go, stretching out through her mind and touching Handron’s mind reassuringly, and waits for an answer from the beautiful Phaearalyn and a reaction from the majestic Handron.*

[Alraunina]

The winter in Ellesméra had been bitterly cold even beneath the protective canopy on trees. Frost had settled, freezing the dew on the grass and the sap on the trees. Whilst it made the Elves lives much harder and required much more work when it came to spellweaving it was also a beautiful sight and the effort to keep the flowers blooming was more than worth it. However this year the spellweavers capabilities had been stretched thin, attempting to both keep the flowers blooming, the trees healthy, the animals happy whilst the combined commitment of trying to calm down the spreading infection, slowing the pending doom that lurked on the horizon whilst thinking of ways to cure it. It truly was an upsetting time, not just for Alraunina but for the whole of the Elvish society. Their sanctum, the one last thing that they treasured, Du Weldenvarden, was under threat and that was something they had never imagined.

Despite that, Alraunina had been under much more stress than she had for years. Being the most renouned spellweaver and magical user amongst the Elves had taken it's toll upon her, she had been called from her retreat under desperate measures and under the promise of Queen Islanzadi that she would be allowed to retreat to the place where she had remained for the past ten years since her parents death. Since then she had spent every waking moment near the infection, studying it, weaving around it, weaving through it, singing to it all in an attempt to understand it. For once she understood it and that knowledge could be passed on, maybe then the Elves would stand a fighting chance of combating the stress. Still, it had been hard work and she had twice been to Surda and back carrying samples of the infection for the Humans to study and to learn from what they found whilst sharing her own knowledge. It was not a trip that she took lightly, for it had been decades since she had breached the outer trees of Du Weldenvarden and left their protection.

Changing from the lonely solitude which she had mourned in, to a society, civilisation, commitments, dedication, conversations, social engagements... It was overwhelming for her, far too overwhelming to just get on with it anyway. After the first day back in the city of Ellesméra before moving further towards the infection she had spent days recovering, gathering her thoughts. For once a great thinker, and a true understander of people she had lost that touch and instead had grown closer to nature and developed further with her magic and array of spells. She in no way came close to a Dragon or Rider - Her power was restricted by the energy she had in her body as an Elf, the magic that ran through her blood. If she was quite honest, she had never seen a Dragon other than Glaedr and even that was at a glance. No, she knew her own powers and just how mighty they were, thinking of somebody posessing hundreds of times more, being able to master things she couldn't even imagine... It was frightening - to the point where she hadn't even visited the egg chamber for that was where those magical beasts dwelled, where they sat with unnatural patience and awaited with unnatural perception to find the one person they would truly bond with. Nina stuggled being close to other people with walls up around her consciousness... She didn't dare to think how she would fare sharing one single consciousness with another being, something with such intelliegence and might...

A shiver ran down Nina's spine at the thought which was strange considering she had just crossed the Hardac Desert and was in the warmest place she had ever ventured to. Surda. The great home of the rebellion against Galbatorix and now, the Varden. The people who her parents had died aiding, the reason she had disregarded her Kin and fleed into the fortress of the forests. That was of no business now though as she rushed towards the heated city on horse back. She had taken a steed from up north, a beautiful auburn shade in the sun that glowed orange. It stood at a towering height that almost matched Nina's six foot.

Though she was in a desert, Nina was wearing her Teal tunic that ran to above her knee. It's edges were woven with pure silver using magic. It truly was a masterpiece and on formal visits such as this she was rarely seen without it. She had debated whether to wear her leather armor which offered just as much flexibility as this however was much harder and sturdier however after considering the risks she had decided to just pack it into her saddlebags instead. Over her tunic and thin leather boots which were inlaid with the yawë in pure silver much like her tunic she wore a long white robe, attatched by a diamond broach of a feather and was stitched with swan and dove feathers. The boots and the yawë were of the highest quality, gifted to her by the council it's self and although she had refused to sit in such meetings after her parents death, she was still highly regarded and her services sought out for such desperate matters. Around her neck she adorned her usual necklace, a dove and her thick ebony hair that usually tumbled over her shoulders like water cascading over a waterfall was hidden beneath the attatched hood which was pulled up to protect her pearl skin and though she might not have chosen to wear armor her daggers were in place firmly around her thighs and sword attatched over her shoulder, hilt peaking like a nosy bird for both sword and dagger were designed after Doves and were shaped as feathers.

When she entered a small patch of wild woodland she felt a small and very brief sense of relief for it offered enormous shade from the hot sun. However that relief was short lived as two presences pressed themselves onto her senses. Immediately, her hand slipped to one dagger at her waist whilst her other hand shuffled down her sleeve and her hand poised awaiting the use of magic; many words were already forming in her mind. Unfortunately the horse was of Human breeding and as she gave it a gentle kick in the stomach it halted. Though it had sensed her worry it was easily calmed as she dared reach out with her mind to sooth it. Whatever or whoever it was she sensed was by far more than any mere Human or Animal. Yet surely it was too coincidential for three Elves to cross paths in such a strange place where Elves were rarely seen? With little hesitation she whispered a few faint words from the Ancient Language which distorted the sound of her footsteps that were already almost silent from within the trees. It took all the restraint she had not to let loose an onslaught on her minds, batter her way in and use all her prowess and experience to destroy them.

Stepping from the trees, her hands flinched. One poised to cast magic the other poised with dagger in hand though she knew it would probably have little effect against such a prodominent opponent. Her blood red lips parted, a smile rather than words of magic as she peered at her Kin as she attempted to Establish a sense of authority and heirachy between them before greeting.

[chaos]

Phaearalyn's mind was extremely perceptive. She usually made only one mistake per topic and once reprimanded, Phae was sure to never make it again. That's what made her deadly. That's what made her an expert. That's what made her Phaearalyn. So, all the while she listened to Ava speak, her mind was still wide and open. When Ava finished, Phae felt her reach towards Handron. The stud regarded the human-elf curiously. Then, he blew softly, and his mind welcomed hers. Phaearalyn's holly lips parted to create a dazzling smile. Handron whickered, and his muzzled sought out Ava's hair. Phae laughed and the sound made the plants stand up a little taller. "Hair is Handron's favorite playtoy! He's fond of it. If he does something you don't like, just let him know. He's a willing friend."

She gave a suitable pause, Handron's black lips grappling with the fine strands of hair. Then, his kissers went to her shoulder, sniffing and prodding the strange fur on them. Her tongue moved and pronounced the ancient words fluently, the beautiful sounds just rolling out of her mouth, seemingly of their own accord. "Ah! That does explain your unique appearance! Hmm...Ava. I do believe I know your parents. I think I've met them before, though briefly, if my mind does me proper justice... Now, as for my journey to Surda... that would be the queen's business. I do not even know. But my hometown is Ellesmera." She sighed and then, her mind was breached. She felt the presence of two other beings. She didn't hear them. Magic. And elf, she had a hunch.

She turned her head to find that Handron was already pointing in their direction. "Let's see who troubles us." She closed her eyes and sniffed the air, like some animal. A wicked, playful smile scrawled itself on her face. "You should've made a spell that disguised your smell!" She jested good-naturedly. A second later, another elf, who she had recognized from the first, came into view on a chestnut steed. Handron snorted. Seeing Alraunina, Phaearalyn's shapely kissers eased into an even wider grin. "What are you here for, fair friend?" She said in her native tongue, the words slipping out with perfect, practiced ease. "It's been a while." Phae eyed her newest company critically. "You're stressed." Phaearalyn skipped the preliminaries for once, her essence calm even though Nina's hands were raised to strike.

[Kite]

*As Ava listens to Phae and recieves the happy attentions of Handron, she feels the presence of yet another elf press against hers, then quickly slip away. Ava is not too terribly worried on it, but keeps her senses wary for approach. She turns and smiles at Phae, winking at her*

Ahhhh, which set do you mean?

The queen's buisness, eh? I've seen her around before. She is quite regal, is she not? You are a messenger?

*Ava smiles and bows her head slightly*

I would not expect one such as you to be her messenger. I would expect you to be home or on some field, aiding the cause, not a messenger.

*Ava then nods*

I mean this as a compliment, not a slight. However, it does raise the question of what are you actually doing without knowing it, as they would not have sent you as a messenger without some dangerous travel.

*She hears Phae speak and then sniff the air, and then turns the direction Phae turns, seeing another elf emerge into the clearing. Ava smiles at the obviously cautious elf, and nods slightly to her. Obviously, Phae knew this elf, as she was extremely close, calling judgements and skipping introductions. Ava pats the side of Handron's head gently, then slips towards their new company and speaks softly in the ancient language.*

Hello sister. How are you?

[Alraunina]

The blistering southern sun offered no reprieve even for the mightiest of people. It was unrelenting, a constant heat that beat down on your skin and drew rivulets of sweat from pores without effort. The worst was for people who never spent time in the sun, such as Alraunina who lived under the canopy of the trees and blossomed under their protection. So, it was quite a contrast to suddenly be under such a harsh sun, it was the one thing that stopped her from visiting these parts more often and if she was honest, just another reason for her to hate the Varden. Although, it paled in comparison to her parents dieing for them, sacrificing themselves for their cause and in place of their own fighters. How could she be expected to just put that behind her? To leave it in the back of her mind whilst she too fought for them. It was impossible. No matter how hard she tried it niggled at the forefront of her mind, working it's way into her conscious behavior and showing unadulterated contempt for them. Though it was true she had mellowed slightly, once just the name 'Varden' Had thrown her into fits of rage. A true Elves temper, though sometimes she couldn't help but show it.

Nina's arrival was turning out to be a little more interesting than she had expected. It was rare to find an Elf so far south, they preferred to keep well within the protective fortress of Du Weldenvarden and keep out of sight and out of mind. It was a cowards way of thinking but they had no other choice and quite honestly, there wasn't a single Elf that wished they could be doing something more productive to help the cause against Galbatorix. That said, to stumble across two was near impossible and it set her heart racing - she almost wished there was something going on, some action that meant she could bloody her blade and crush minds... Anything but the monotonous meetings and experiments on the infection. Nina had been against the transportation of the infection, after all it really didn't need help to spread, if it was to break out down south in Surda, where plants were rare and crops grew sparsely it could truly cause havoc!

"I need not hide my scent when your, truly horrible stench masks it as good as any charm or enchantment." Alraunina spoke with the familiarity of a friend and yet in the same smooth eloquent tone that demanded a sense of respect from around her. Her poise relaxed and she slipped the dagger away. It was rude to point weapons who pose no threat and Phae truly wanted no harm. It had been over a decade since they had seen each other, the years that Nina had excluded herself from the world and become her own woman. Those vital years had not only supplied her with the time to master her skill and prowess in battle but she had managed to retrieve a mildly peaceful mind set from it and her view of the world had changed drastically - although she presumed some of this came from age. There was a time though before it had all changed and before the death of Nina's parents that they had been close, when the women would share thoughts and feelings with each other freely. That had been ruined though and now that Nina has emerging from her secluded life she could only hope that the past ailments would be forgotten. "I come with a duty, for I would not face such disgusting weather for pleasure. I'm carrying samples from Osilion to Aberon and hoping... Deeply hoping that where Elves have failed the Varden have somehow succeeded. Although I doubt it. I fear they would have sent message sooner rather than awaiting a formal visit."

Phae still managed to percieve Nina's emotions correctly, noting that she was carrying a burden so heavy that she felt it physically weighing her down with each passing day. The passion to succeed and prove herself was far beyond that which she had initially imagined. Still, she was a long way from giving up and the thought of a challenge inspired her and fuelled her both mentally and physically! "And you, are too relaxed. I could have been Galbatorix himself coming to destroy you." She answered with the same unslipping elegance. "Alas, it is just me." A smile broke her lips then, blood red parting to reveal teeth so white they resembled pearls. It was then that she overheard the other of her Kin speak, she didn not know her though posed no real threat. But what she said was enough to tease a chuckle from her throat, like the whistling of the wind and of flutes, the chime of clear metal bells. A peal of laughter, so to speak. "Phae is no messenger, no steed. You stand before one of Ellesmera's greatest warriors, sister." Nina touched her lips with two fingers, a brief welcome though she had no intention of speaking first. Authority was not something that she simply passed on, especially since she was one of Ellesmera's greatest spellweavers and magic workers. "I am travel weary and tired of nothing but dried fruit and vegetables." She admitted finally, a sigh escaping her lips as she stepped forward with all the grace of a gazelle and speed of a cheater. "But, I am good." Nina smiled at that. It had been a long time since she had been even 'good'.

[chaos]

Hearing her old friend's words, Phaedra's dark eyes became flinty, but for only a moment. She hit her second's temper with a flawless grin. Things had changed since she had last seen Lady Alraunina. Many things. There was a emotionless part of her now where there used to be life, even happiness. Something must've happened that Phaearalyn had not yet caught wind of....which must've meant it was something people hoped to be quiet about. And the only reason for that would be if someone died. It struck her like a shard of lightening. She laid a hand on Nina's leg, and for the first time since they'd been united, Phae's eyes held the own soft kinship. "I'm sorry, Alraunina." Her words were so soft and so sweet and so sad that the birds around them seemed to weep.

And then the moment was gone, as it was often with elves and their most intense feelings. Phaearalyn then spoke after all was said and done. A sly, incredibly cat-like grin came to her features. It gave her a feral look, like that of a crazed predator hungry for blood. "I could not have defeated him, if it was him, but I would've lopped off at least one part of his body and in my last breaths, transported it to the queen." It was made clear in that very moment what made Phaearalyn such a fierce opponent. She was fearless, selfless. And then, the partial insanity vanished like a speck of sand in a dust storm. "I cannot stink! I am an elf!" At this, she burst into warm laughter. After this died down, she sighed and looked, suddenly, her age. "Nina....I am not too relaxed. I am most definitely not too relaxed. Just as you, I carry too much on my shoulders to be. I knew you could not be an enemy because I doubt you'd have made it this far without any noise from the city. Especially if you were Galbatorix." She drew a hand through her thick, black tresses. Turning to face Ava, a sweet smile crawled upon her face.

"Ah, you! I've not forgotten your question. I'm not a messenger, as Alraunina said. I may be a warrior, yes, but she is a grand spellcaster. One of the greatest. And I met your real parents, my friend Ava! They were fine elves. I'm pleasured to have known them." At this, she gave a slight bow and dipped her head. "Nina...the weather isn't that awful!" Another wicked grin, mischief glinting in her auburns. "Have faith. There's a meeting discussing the dilemma, I'll have you know. If you didn't know already."

[Kite]

*Ava touches her fingers to her lips in greeting towards the newcomer to the group after she speaks, and nods, her feelings of good cheer a little strained.*

I meant no offense friend. I just wondered. Thank you for your... correction.

*Ava turns to Phae, who seems more cheerful, and smiles a little more, appriciating the mood a bit. She wasn't honestly looking forward to going to the conference in Feinster, but you never knew. Hopefully, she would be seeing the interesting one. Remy. However, that was not of concern at this time. She was more concerned with Phae's few words to her.*

I am honored by your presence then....

*She bristles a little at them heaping honorifics on each other, but again pushes it back with no real reaction. She smiles at the mention of her parents, and nods.*

They are indeed. I'm sure they would delight in hearing that.

*She listens closely, hough not intrudingly, to the rest of her comments towards "Nina", and smiles softly.*

Actually... The meeting has not begun yet. If it had, I would not be here. it should begin soon however...

[Alraunina]

[Sorry for this taking so long. I've had a constant migraine for the past 2 days.]

Phae's confidence was as much a consuming part of her as Alraunina remembered. It was strange seeing such an open expression of emotion without witnessing such complete and utter restraint. In actual fact, it had been years since such a carefree presence and been around her and it was truly enlightening. Almost like a glimmer of hope for their prudent race. "As am I." She responded in an almost muted tone, hoping to clip any form of sympathy in the bud. Whilst she respected it and her appreciation was plain on the innocent smile on her face, it was the past. Nothing could be done to rectify the situation and she had enough sympathy from others who did not know her. From those who truly knew her, from those rare few she considered friends such as Phae, she simply needed their presence and to be treated as they always had done. "I am thankful though, Phae. I should have come to see you sooner instead of such a coincidential meeting."

What concerned her was that all the introductions and greetings were in the presence of a stranger to Alraunina. She was shorter but thicker too, though there was no air of hostility or contempt. "Accept my Apologies, Ava." She began after picking up the name from Phae's words. Though Nina had spent some time alone in the forests of Du Weldenvarden she had not forgotten the social dynamics, the workings of the Elves and how to be generally polite. Especially with her job and current standing, she couldn't risk being seen as a delinquent. "My name is Alraunina Zephyra, the Feathered Mistress of the forest." She touched her fingers to her lips, the words of the ancient language forming on her tongue filled with her strength and authorative tone. It had been a long time since she had introduced herself with her true name rather than a cover, a disguise. It felt good, though she was in no hurry to admit it.

Upon the subject of the rotting forest, filled with infection and bleached white. A pang of hurt rushed through her. The forest was alive, it was breathing, pulsing, growing. She knew this because it had been her life to pour her energy into, to nurture it. Seeing her own personal work as well as the work of the other Elves was devastating. Like taking all the tools of a carpenter and burning them to a crisp. A shaky sigh left her lips as she nodded. "As would I. Such a meeting can not exist without the samples to be presented. Besides, I have news on just how deeply troubled we are." She smiled half heartedly, setting herself down upon a tumbled tree trunk, luxuriating in the small ounce of relaxation and comfort.

[chaos]

Phaearalyn was a master of sensing all in her surroundings. Even the slightest of changes in the environment. She had a sense of people's feelings, though she didn't interrupt or plow her way into their thoughts. Phae wasn't anything special, she just had more control over her powers than some. But the pressing matter, my friends, is that Phaearalyn saw Ava's feathers ruffle and she offered ehr a sideways glance. Eager to fix the situation, Phae turned her attention to Nina and Ava both. "If you didn't here, Ava is also important. She's a merchant in disguise as a human." She smiled broadly. "She is part of the Varden, aiding the cause." And here, she tread carefully, being as she did not know all of what had occurred with Alraunina.

Phaearalyn watched Nina settled under the tree. Perhaps it was really hot and she just hadn't noticed it. Hmm.... well, seh would dwell on that later. Relaxing, the elven maid sat down on the log she had been earlier and looked back at Ava and patted the spot beside her. She closed her eyes for a moment, her balance was failing a bit. Our Phae may show much of her emotions, but showing weakness could get her killed. So, she did not. Her large, slanted eyes snapped open. "So, Ava, Nina...what's this infection doing to us? Any suggestions? I've been at war....so I've never really been into the topic." She regarded them curiously and then turned her eyes forward. There was a reason she had yet to greet Alraunina.

It was simple politics. Phaearalyn considered herself different, but their positions in the hierarchy were much the same. If she acknowledged Nina as the higher positioned elf, it might cause problems later one. All elves, no matter how kind they seemed, had a real knack for using earlier words and actions against one another. Phae thought that perhaps, Nina was thinking the same way. At 177 years of age, mine character was no where near a newborn in this game. The reason she acknowledged Ava, was for two reasons: for caution, as the elven widow did not know who she was, and second, she was genuinely concerned about how she appeared at the time. Alraunina was different: the other elf knew her games. Phaearalyn's mind once again wondered away, though her ear was open and listening.

Handron was curiously sniffing the other horse, his ears pricked. The black and white stud was naturally a good-natured horse, but there were his times where he was quite, predictably, a stallion. Phae quietly trilled with laughter, her laughter returning back towards her company.

[Kite]

*Ava bows her head to Alraunina and smiles at her, notice the titles but having no reaction to them. They must be important, but she had never heard of or met either one before today. She speaks softly, in greeting.*

I am Ava. Marsados, if your elven, or Vorandeer for humans.

*She feels uneasy using the greeting as their people. It acknowledges people as superior, but honestly, that may not be true. She feels secure in knowing that they are masters in what they do, that Nina here was a superior spellweaver and that Phae was a beauty with a sword, but Ava was probably right square in the middle. She is by no means a "decent" or "good" fighter, she is a menace. She also is no one to trifle with in spellweaving, having a particular knack for it. She, however, has probably chosen to be much more balanced in both areas. This made her less "skillfull" in the tests of skill versus skill, but the more flexible you are, the more use you are. Someone who excels but is not a true artist at both areas is almost more useful than an artist of one area or the other. An artist is amazing at what they do, but usually totally out of their element in other ways.

Not that she would put it past them to be "out of their element" on either side.

She chuckles softly at Phae's introduction and nods*

Merchant fits, if you count "Merchant of Death"... I much perfer "Mercenary" though... I work with a human Mercenary family, the Vorandeer. Technacally, the head of the family and his wife adopted me, so I am both Marsados and Vorandeer.

*She turns to Phae and thinks for a moment as Phae asks about the infection. Ava gently shakes her head, coming up blank.*

I honestly don't know what the Infection is doing. I have not personally seen it as of yet, I have been busy around Aberon, and I have been on a mission or two. However, I will be at the meeting, so I will likely find all information there that I will need. Alraunina will probably be a better source of info on it than I.

[Alraunina]

Alraunina struggled to push back the veil of anger that threatened to encase her so completely that she could no longer see. This Elf, Ava, stood there before her. A minion of the Varden, 'aiding the cause'. The very same cause which had caused her parents to perish at the hands of the Forsword, the very cause that was going... nowhere! Her hands tightened around the daggers hinched at her waist. Fingers turning white, knuckles red and she strained against drawing them more out of habit than need. Before the girl could react she would have destroyed her with a single death word. She would perish under her might. Within her, she could feel the magic pulse, vibrating against her very soul. She felt it stronger than ever, aided by the adrenaline that ran though her veins. A deep breath was all it took for her to smooth out the frown lines, her shapely eyebrows forming a perfect V along her brow as her cat like eyes - though softer and more attractive than most Elves - softened slightly, though keeping their usual hard composure. "A friend of the Varden. Tell me, Ava. How does that Hopeless cause go?" She asked, her tone biting and so filled with grandeour that it was completely demeaning. Though, not purposely. Her parents death had filled her with an uncontrollable rage, a passion that filled her so completely that sometimes she could barely feel herself for it.

The forest seemed to bristle, sway and move around her more than ever as if it had sensed her unease. Slowly but surely that hatred was slipping away, leaving a sense of accomplishment for merely being rude towards Ava. She smiled, as honestly as she could manage at that moment in time before bowing her head slightly, for she was giving no room for her Kin to take the higher ground over her. Magic may not be the most honest way to fight a war but without it the Varden, the Elves, Galbatorix. They would all be doomed. Dragons and Riders would be nothing and the world would be a much emptier place, wonderless, lonely. "I have... Old wounds. They weep with bitterness at times of great strain." She explained, withdrawing her hands from her daggers before turning to Phaearalyn.

"The infection is much more than we expected. It spreads with every day, destroying anything it touches. We dare not inspect it properly for fear we will fuel it's progress or spread it further into Du Weldenvarden. The great forest is slowly being consumed and we must sit by and watch for everything we know. Everything we have learned. It's... Nothing." The explaination came as swiftly as the anger had just previously. After all, the infection seemed to consume every waking moment of her life for days, weeks, months. Who knew how long it would be her duty to try and protect the forest - who knew if it would consume her entire life? "The meeting is not until this evening, we will eat, I will rest and then we will speak." She said wearily, a fresh wave of exhaustion washing over her brought on by the energy consumed simply being angry.