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The Return - Mirtoba's Story Started by Realmling at 08-23-2005 8:42 AM. Topic has 87 replies. RoS & Savage Ge... » Bob (or General... » The Library » The Return - Mirtoba's Story

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08-23-2005, 8:42 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 The Return - Mirtoba's Story From a long sleep I wake. Cold and hungry, with nothing to sustain me but the meager sustenance I manage to forage up. Through cold dark caverns I travel, till once again I find myself back amongst the trees of my home. Too long have I been away and I wonder if I will still be welcome here. A warm breeze drifts by, and the leaves seem to dance upon their branches whispering a welcomed greeting to my ears.   Once again I travel down those well known paths, coming upon that city I thought to never see again. The trees may have welcomed me back, but what greeting would await me at the guild hall? With reluctance growing, I slowly make my way through the city. Up and down these ramps and bridges I delighted so much in exploring during my younger years. I hesitate outside the guild hall. How can I bring my shame through these great doors? How can return to them in this state, with nothing but these rags upon my haggard form?   Cautiously I open the doors and step inside. Nothing seems to have changed since I left, though that brings me little comfort. I make my way to the inner sanctum and stand in the doorway like a small child awaiting punishment. Four pairs of eyes turn towards me, and it takes what little strength and honor still within me to not turn and run. Expecting the hard stern looks I remember well from when I started, I am shocked to find warm smiles of disbelief directed at me.   “This dirty urchin cannot be our Mirtoba.” My master says, slowly rising from his chair.   My legs betray me, and I fall to my knees. “I come to beg forgiveness.” I cannot bring myself to say their names or even look up at them. I have fallen too low for such an honor.   "Beg forgiveness for what my child?” Master Trueshot asks me.   “I have brought shame upon this house. I left in head strong defiance only to return a cold and dirty beggar.”   “Humility is the hardest lesson to learn, but we all have been there in one way or another.” Master Sunfire spoke, her soft words comforting. “Tunare has seen fit to watch over you and bring you back to us, one could not ask for more.”   “Were we to turn away every student that comes back to us in such states, our ranks would never grow.” Master Trueshot held out his hand to me. “Now come, get yourself cleaned up, and we shall talk of your training, and your adventures, over a nice warm meal.”   Whatever fears I had melted away, and I finally allowed myself a smile. I truly was home. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:43 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story I made my way to the training rooms at the back of the hall. To my surprise, the cubby-hole that had been mine was still there, and those few items I had left behind looked as if they had been recently cleaned and made ready for me. I sent a silent thanks to the Great Mother, as she must have somehow alerted the guild of my return. I laughed at myself in my rags for ever thinking they would refuse me or toss me out like a badly crafted arrow.   Taking my time, I indulged a little in a long hot bath. Cleanliness tends to fall by the wayside when one is wandering about cold and hungry. As I relaxed, my thoughts drifted back to my sister. She was safe at the moment with friends, but they too would be needing help soon. I would have to find a way to repair any damage with the Druid’s Guild before bringing her home. As independent as I, she had left to search for me, for reasons she keeps to herself. The memory of when she first found me brought a sad smile to my face.   It had been a particularly cold and rainy day, and I had found refuge in a small cave somewhere. I had wandered so far I no longer remembered what lands I had come through. Huddled under my cloak, and wishing the cave was large enough for a fire, I tried to catch a moment’s sleep. The sound of approaching footsteps put me on my guard, as I had not seen any other people or creatures for many days. Quietly I made ready to receive whoever, or whatever, was approaching. I almost dropped my sword in surprise when she pulled back the hood of her cloak.   “Finally! Do you have any idea how long I have been searching for you?” She grumbled at me, standing there in the rain with her hands on her hips.   “Lepticits! What in the name of the Great Mother are you doing out here?” I yelled, dragging her inside.   “I just said that I have been searching for you. Have you gone deaf while you were away? There were some rumors going around that you were lost to us, that you would never return. I did not believe them any more than Master Trueshot, but people just never stop talking. Especially if it be about something potentially terrible.” She said. My younger sister had always been a talker, and I was sure these months out alone looking for me had almost driven her crazy.   “But why have you come? What about your training? How will we ever explain what you have done to the Druid’s?” I demanded.   “Oh, I doubt there will be much trouble. It’s likely they haven’t even noticed I left.”   “Believe me, they know you left. They very likely know why as well. And they will take it out of my hide when we return.” I did not add, if we return. I was too tired for a lengthy argument.   “Why are you out here doing this anyway?” She asked me. “Why leave us all like you did? Did I do something wrong?”   “You did nothing wrong Lepti.” I put my arm about her shoulders. “I left because I was looking for something I felt I would never find if I stayed.”   “Well, did you find whatever it was you were looking for?”   “I don’t even remember what it was.”   “You dolt! Then why didn’t you come home? You’ve had us all worried sick!” She swatted at me.   “Because it hasn’t felt like time to return yet.” Was my cryptic reply. “Now, since you seem to have all this energy, you get to keep watch while I sleep.”   “But…”   “Later Lepi, I’m exhausted. Wake me if you get tired.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:50 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story "Mirtoba." "Just a few more minutes Lepti." "Mirtoba!" I jumped, sloshing the now cool bathwater over the edge of the small tub. It took me a few moments to realize it wasn’t cold rain and that I was back in the guild house. “I am sorry to have startled you.” Master Sunfire said, holding out a towel for me. “The others were getting worried and sent me in to check on you.” Hastily I took the towel she offered and got out. Hot baths are wonderful, but cold ones only serve to comfort after being in the desert for too long. My face flushed slightly at the embarrassment of being found asleep in the tub, and I tried to keep the worry from my brow if she were to ask about the scars. “I’ll let you finish getting ready. Dinner will start as soon as you join us.” She said as she left the room. I hurried to dry off and get dressed. There wasn’t much that could be done with the tangled mess of hair fighting to sit upon my head. I just hoped that now I didn’t look like a clean starving urchin. The table in the other room was set with normal fare, but to my eyes it looked like some grand banquet. Hopefully, I would be able to retain my manners somewhat, and not look like a wild beast engaged in a feeding frenzy. At the least, I prayed I wasn’t drooling all over myself. Master Sunfire nodded to me and I took the chair next to her. “I’m sure any talking can wait until after we’ve all had something to eat.” She directed a pointed look around the table. Master Trueshot said a blessing of thanks to Tunare, and finally the food began to make its way around the table. I’m normally very patient most of the time, but that hungry ache in my stomach was overriding everything else. I was well into my second plateful when I noticed they were all watching. The color rose in my face and I realized I must have thrown decorum out the window. That bite of food I’d just taken was suddenly very hard to swallow.  Master Fireshine smiled at me from across the table. “You must forgive our rudeness Mirtoba. We’ve never seen a person eat so fast and so diligently before.” “What Dill is trying to say is that he’s never seen a person eat so fast and not look like a wild animal.” Master Sunfire leaned closer, “it’s a problem he himself has.” “Please, everyone let her finish.” Master Trueshot said. I nodded gratefully and forced myself to finish eating a bit slower. Deciding against a third helping, I sat patiently in that warm drowsy feeling that often accompanies a good meal. Master Trueshot turned towards me again. “Mirtoba, I would like you to join us tomorrow on the practice grounds. We’d like to see where your skills lie.” I tried rather unsuccessfully to stifle a yawn. “And I’d venture to say we can all wait another day to hear the tale of your travels. I believe there is an extra bunk available at the trainee house. We shall call on you in the morning.” He said with a smile. I excused myself from their company and made my way from the guild hall. When I reached the trainee house, a startled young man looked up from his fletching attempts and directed me to a bunk at the back of the house. I think I was asleep before my head even touched the pillow. ************************** “She was dreaming of her sister when I went in to check on her. You don’t think anything has happened to the girl do you?”   “No, Ran. I doubt Mirtoba would have returned if something had happened to her sister.”   “Maeson, what could have happened to her out there? She’s covered with more scars than any veteran I’ve ever seen. We’ve had students go off on journeys of self discovery before, but none have returned in such a state and with nothing.”   “There is a first time for everything Ran. Like you told her earlier, she has returned to us. We cannot ask for more right now.”   ***************************** “Some new lady crashed in the last bunk. Let’s try not to wake her up.”   “Why should we worry about that? We’re not a homeless shelter.”   “The only people who can walk through the door are ranger trainees you idiot. Something odd about her anyways. Arms and legs all covered with scars, and I didn’t hear her approach until she was standing right in front of me and talked to me. Completely messed my arrow up I was so startled.”   “You’re not that good at fletching anyway. Why do they send us the old and decrepit ones?”   “Firstly, you don’t question the masters. Secondly, she didn’t seem very old and decrepit to me. And you're not any better at fletching than I am.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:50 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story A person never knows how much they have missed a decent nights sleep in a real bed until they have gone without for too long. I think I could have slept for a week, but first light was beginning to slowly filter down through the trees outside the window next to me. Slowly I roused myself and carefully made my way through the bunk house to not wake the young trainees. The air outside was crisp and cool, full of that wonderful fresh smell that comes from well kept old forests. I decided not to wait for the masters and slowly made my way down through the city to the practice grounds. Taking my time, I started what warm up exercises I could remember and worked the stiffness from my muscles. I certainly drew some odd looks from a few of the older trainees there early. If I allowed myself the time to consider such things, I supposed they were attractive young men. A smile tried to worm its way across my face. They were probably around the same age as myself, and I was thinking like an old woman. Things like that though had never been anywhere near my list of priorities. Clearing these errant thoughts, I put myself back on track. I had to pass muster with the masters this morning. A decent meal and actual sleep seemed to have worked wonders and I finished my warm up exercises quickly. I decided to see what practice weapons were available. I missed the enchanted whip a fellow adventurer had given me along the way. I hoped they had found their path better than I. Looking at the array of weapons reminded me that I would need to start working with other types, but I knew dual swords would always be my favorite. I chose a pair of nice, light scimitars and stepped back out onto the grounds. Some people claim that our muscles retain memories, I prayed that mine did. It would look rather bad if I sliced parts of myself off before the masters arrived. I started off slowly with one of the basic routines that every young ranger learns. Halfway through, I remembered something someone had shown me along the way. I launched myself into the move, and surprised myself by pulling it of unscathed. It certainly earned me a few new looks from the others around the grounds. “That was certainly interesting.” Master Trueshot said from behind me. The other masters stood beside him. I turned and just stood there a moment, trying to catch my breath. “Though fighting with the air around you is one thing. Might you be up for a small sparring session now Mirtoba?” “Yes sir.” I panted. I wasn’t completely out of shape, but I knew I was a little rusty. It felt like ages since I’d held a weapon. “Lycheas, could you join us please.” He called out to one of the young men I’d noticed earlier. The young man that came over had long dark red hair, and soft green eyes. He bowed to the masters and turned his gaze on me. I realized I must have looked rather pathetic standing next to him. His was the lean healthy musculature, and I, well I thought I probably looked like a slightly well endowed skeleton. “Lycheas, this is Mirtoba. She has recently returned to us from travels abroad. I think the two of you are about on the same level of training. I was hoping you would indulge us in a short sparring session.” “It would be my pleasure.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:51 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story He bowed to me. I merely nodded my head a little. The first few moments we spent circling slowly, waiting to see who would decide to strike first. I decided to wait it out, seeing if he would give in to the impatience I had witnessed so often in the men I had crossed paths with. He did strike the first blow, but I felt none of the impatience I had been waiting for. One point to him. I kept up my defense, trying to get a feel for whatever style or pattern he might have. I couldn’t fault him for going a little easy on me; nothing was at stake for him. To him this was just another practice session.   Seeing an opening, I moved in with a couple fast attacks, pushing him back a few steps. He might have been playing an easy game, but I was serious. He must have read the look upon my face, because I was now seriously on defense again. Our wooden practice swords clunked heavily against each other as we traded blows. We danced around each other, and I managed to tap him twice on the leg. We paused a moment, reevaluating each other, and he launched another attack.   The person who told me muscles retain memories said they came both good and bad. The activity my body was going through must have triggered something, and another man’s face flashed in front of my eyes. I saw not the handsome elven features of Lycheas, but the dark, ugly, bent features of someone I had been trying very hard to forget. So startled was I that I lost my footing a moment and had to backpedal quickly to avoid the oncoming blow. I caught it in time, and I thought I saw concern flash across that face. All reasoning and rational thought left me. I felt that trapped feeling again and a quiet fury grew within. How dare that man suddenly show concern for me! Poor Lycheas had no idea what was happening.   I saw an opening and went for it. I feinted and he took it. Rolling around the other side I came up behind him, stopping with my swords crossed in front of his neck. Someone was calling my name, but I wasn’t listening. I would have my revenge finally. The scars upon my soul would no longer burn me nor keep me awake at night. Suddenly I felt hands pulling on my arms, ripping the moment away from me. I struggled against their grip, and there was a sharp pain across my cheek where someone slapped me. Blinking to clear my vision, I saw Master Sunfire looking down at her hand, this horrified look upon her face. Reality came flooding back, I almost wish it hadn’t.   I looked around me, aghast at what I saw. Lycheas stood off to one side, gingerly rubbing his neck. If our swords hadn’t been wooden, I most certainly would have killed him. Masters Trueshot and Fireshine were still holding my arms tightly. Master Sunfire was still horrified that she’d had to slap me. I felt cold, and not just physically. Air rushed back to my lungs and I heaved and coughed. Then the tears started. If they hadn’t been holding me up, I most certainly would have collapsed. Master Fireshine slowly led me away from everything. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:51 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story Master Fireshine had led me to a spot somewhere underneath the city. I was sobbing uncontrollably and hadn’t paid attention. He just sat there next to me, quiet and concerned. One by one the other masters joined us. I regained enough control to babble out a string of apologies. Master Trueshot held his hand up to quiet me.   “The blame does not rest on your shoulders. I should have had one of us spar with you privately. Join us in the guild hall when you feel you’re ready Mirtoba.” He motioned for the others to follow him.   “M-Master Sunfire, could you stay a moment with me please?” I asked between sobs.   Hesitantly, she came and sat next to me.   “I…I want to thank you for bringing me back to my senses.”   “I still had no right to hit you.”   “I don’t want to think of what might have happened if you hadn’t.” My composure was slowly coming back. “There are things,” I paused again, hot tears welling up as I thought of the memories that had come back. “Things that happened that I’m not sure I can rightly talk about with the others.” I turned to look at her, “things men don’t generally understand.”   A sickly unsettling look passed across her face as she waited for me to continue.   “Leptictis and I were making our way back after she found me. I couldn’t keep going wherever it was I seemed to be heading with her. She was leading me to a little outpost where she had met a young dwarven cleric so we could get supplies and rest. We came across a camp of men one night and tried to go around. I thought we had made it, when one of their watchmen spotted Lepti and raised the alarm. I rushed in and killed the man, and told Lepti to run and never stop until she reached the outpost.” I paused, recalling the disgust of my actions that night. Taking the life of some possessed creature is one thing, ending the life of a man, no matter their actions, is another.   “They were a group of bandits on the run. I held back to make sure Lepti got away. I tried to fight off the rest of them, but there were too many. They stripped me of my weapons and took me to their camp. Their leader was a vile disgusting creature. He stripped me of my armor, of everything. I was lying there naked on the ground with all of them looking on.”   Master Sunfire gasped, her face going deathly pale.   “He didn’t do anything like that,” I quickly reassured her. “I think I would have taken my own life if he had.”   She relaxed a little, but the color didn’t return to her face.   “Instead, he used the whip I was given on me. Every night he would drag me from the tent they kept me tied up in, strip me of what little rags I wore and whip me until I passed out.” My voice broke as I started crying again. “I lost track of how long this went on, they had to keep on the move. In the beginning, I prayed to Tunare to deliver me. As the days dragged on, I began to pray for her to just end it all, to stop the suffering. The whip scarred my body, as you saw, but he had some small amount of power, and with it he scarred my soul. Those wounds burn inside, the nightmares that come and go haunt my sleep. It was his face I saw again today.”   “How…how did you get away?” She asked softly.   “A group of guards from the various outposts had been put together to hunt down the bandits. One night, right before winter hit, they finally caught up with us. The bandits had become complacent, thinking they were far enough away. The guards didn’t take many prisoners. They discovered me and cut my bonds. One was even nice enough to give up his cloak for me to wrap myself in until we got back. Lepticis was waiting back at the outpost, and her little cleric friend did all she could to help heal me.”   “That you could keep going after all that. Does your sister even know what happened?”   “She might have her guesses, but I’ll never tell her exactly what I’ve told you. I want her life to be as happy as it can be. I will never have that chance now.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:51 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story We just sat there a moment, the quiet sounds of the forest drifting around us. I rubbed my face, knowing I must have looked terrible. My eyes were all puffy and I felt like a million orcs had tried pounding me into the ground. Master Sunfire slowly stood up.   “We should get back to the hall; the others will wonder what’s keeping us. I think you’ll be fine leaving out certain details.”   I joined her, and paled at the sight of who was walking towards us. I wanted the ground to open up and take me in right there.   “Ah, there you are. Master Trueshot asked me to see if everything was alright.” Lycheas said that same soft smile on his face as before. I noticed some slight bruising around his neck.   “We were just headed to the guild hall.” Master Sunfire answered.   I prayed he would just turn and go ahead of us, but he waited and walked beside me back to the lift.   “I just wanted to say no hard feelings about what happened earlier. I should have backed off when I saw that panicked look on your face. My mother always told me it’s never a good thing to back a woman into a corner if she knows how to use a weapon.”   I mumbled a thank you, and just let him keep talking.   “Figure we could call it even if you ever wanted to show me how to do that last move you pulled off. I need to teach a certain someone, I’ll not say how big his ego it, that he’s not the best just yet. Certainly worked on me, I have to say.”   I stopped and looked up at him. He looked a little embarrassed.   “I’m talking too much. My sister always complains that I talk too much when I’m nervous.” He blurted out.   “And I make you nervous?”   “You do and you don’t. I mean…I should just stop talking. I need to get back and keep an eye on the new kids anyway. They may be using wooden swords, but they’ll still probably end up hurting themselves.”   “I would be happy to teach you the attack, though not right away.” I told him.   “That…that would be great.” He smiled again before turning back in the direction of the practice grounds.   Master Sunfire was waiting for me a few steps away.   “I think you made a new friend today.” She said with a slight grin.   “Either that or I scared him witless. Death by scrawny woman tends to do that to some men.”   “There is little that is scrawny on you Mirtoba, and nothing that a few more good meals and rest won’t cure. Lycheas is a decent fellow. He’s trained hard ever since he joined us, and does great now helping out with the new arrivals. Not quite so head strong as others,” She smiled at me, “but I think you opened his eyes today. Perhaps even took him down a notch or two.”   “Just as long as I don’t ever have to do that again, with anyone.” I replied softly.   “I certainly have no doubts to your skills now, and I’m sure the others feel the same way.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:52 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story We made our way through the city in silence. Part of me regretted that I had told her what had happened, not wishing that burden of pain on anyone. Another part felt a bit lighter that someone knew the horrors I kept inside. Granted she could never truly feel what I did, thank Tunare for that, but I didn’t feel quite so alone anymore. I entered the guild hall with some trepidation. I didn’t feel like reliving things yet again, even with certain details left out. They were gathered around the table again, and Master Sunfire and I joined them. Master Fireshine offered me some fruit and I took a few pieces before telling them of my journey.   They listened intently as I told them of what I had seen, and what I had done. I think they might have noticed when and where I left details out, but to my relief they didn’t question it. They had certainly traveled through the lands I spoke of in their days as trainees, but had not left the Faydark in some time, and were surprised of some of the changes I spoke of. Certainly, my extensive travels through those dark lands where everything is unfriendly to wood elves gave rise to some concern.   “I have seen Nektulos Forest before, but only to make a quick journey through. It’s a wonder no dark elf caught you, all those visits you made.” Master Flamecaller said.   “I was more afraid of the woods of Kithicor. Such a sad thing to see a forest turned so dark.” I replied.   “Ah Kithicor. Did you by any chance speak with Leaf Falldin?” Master Trueshot asked me.   “He did not have much time for me when I did stop by their camp, but he bid me send you greetings when I returned. And that he would look forward to the day when I could help him with something.”   A knock sounded on the door before they could ask me anymore questions.   “Enter.” Master Trueshot called out.   Lycheas entered the room, followed by a scared young girl.   “Pardon the intrusion, but we have a new recruit that just arrived sir.”   “Well, we shall continue our talk later Mirtoba. Thank you for sharing with us.” Master Trueshot said. Master Fireshine leaned in close and said something to him. “Master Fireshine has brought to my attention that this new recruit will need the last bed in the bunk house.”   My stomach flopped. I had nowhere else to go, and no money to secure a room at an inn or anywhere else. Lycheas cleared his throat.   “Um, if I may. My sister and her husband just built a new home, and I’m buying the old one from them. Mirtoba is welcome to stay there until something else can be found.”   “I can’t take your own home from you Lycheas.”   “No problem there, my mother will love having me stay with her a little longer.”   There was that smile again. What was is with me and having him smile at me? My brain was too tired to try and figure that one out just yet.   “That is settled then. Thank you Lycheas.”   We took that as our dismissal, and Lycheas escorted me out the door.   “I’ll wait while you get your things.” He said.   I looked down at the floor. “I have nothing to get.”   I felt the silent pity he must have directed towards me, and anger fought to rush to the surface.   “Well, hey, my sister is the greatest tailor out there. I’m sure I can work a good deal out of her if you need anything. I’m sure mother would love to have some company at dinner tonight too, if you’d like to join us.”   I felt about as tall as a seedling right then, his kindness so deflating to my angered pride. Course, what pride could a person in my situation have?   “I would like that, after a little rest I think.”   “Certainly.”   He offered his arm to me, along with another one of those frustratingly wonderful smiles. I thought, without a doubt, Leptictis would have been rolling with uncontrollable laughter if she could have seen me. Me, Mirtoba, taken in by green eyes and a dashing smile. I ruled it up to the numbness I felt from everything that had happened earlier today, and let him guide me through the city to my borrowed house. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:53 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story Lycheas led me to one of the upper platforms and stopped in front of a small cottage.   “Well, this is home sweet home.”   “It’s lovely.”   “Lycheas! I’ve been looking all over for you.” a woman’s voice called from behind us.   “Arellat!” He turned and embraced the younger woman. “Hey, I want you to meet someone.”   “This must be the one I’ve heard about. I like her already.”   “Mirtoba, this is my sister Arellat.”   “It’s a pleasure to meet you Mirtoba.” She looked me over. “If you’re not doing anything important tomorrow, come see me. Can’t have the woman who bested my brother going around in clothes that don’t fit.” Her bubbly smile was infectious.   “Thank you, but I don’t have any money…”   “Pfft.” She came and slipped her arm about my waist. “Not only would I never charge you, mother would have my hide even if I tried. You have a place to stay?”   “I’m going to let her stay in the house here Arellat until she can find a place.” Lycheas said, left behind in the wake that was his sister.   “Oh, well, we should give you a tour then honey.” She led me towards the little house, talking every step. Leptictis would certainly like Arellat. “There’s two small bedrooms, sorry about the lack of furniture. Lycheas is a bit behind on that part. Everything works great in the kitchen there, and the bath is around the back. Not connected, but one could put a door in through one of the bedrooms.”   “That will be the plan eventually. Now, can we let her rest a bit Arellat?”   “Oh, of course. Will you join us for dinner at mother’s tonight? We’re eating there until I get everything unpacked at the new place.”   “Yes, Lycheas was kind enough to invite me earlier.”   “Good! I’ll see you then. Must be off to check on the kids. Can’t leave them alone with the husband for too long, the three of them get into such trouble.” She gave me one last little hug before dashing out the door.   I had to admit my head was spinning after all that.   “What was that you said about your sister complaining you talked too much?” I asked Lycheas.   “I think it’s because she can’t get in anything to say, but that’s only if something makes me nervous.” He said with a little laugh. “Well, you probably want some rest. I’ll be back to get you later.”   Suddenly I found myself not wanting to be alone. This was a new sensation. It hit me that I must have dropped a few points of intelligence and turned into one of those young simpering girls that fawn over any cute boy that gives them the slightest bit of attention. My sister would have slapped me silly and said it was about time I stopped ignoring that part of life. Then again, she was the more open and vibrant one. People of all sorts seemed drawn to her, liking her immediately. I on the other hand, always cold and withdrawn, had been happy that way.   “Hey, you ok?” Lycheas was suddenly looking at me with concern.   “Oh, I’m sorry. I was thinking about my sister.”   “You have a sister? She here?”   “No, I came back alone. She’s still somewhere safe with another of her new friends.”   “You so over protective you can’t say where she is?” There was that smile again.   “No, I don’t remember what the name of the outpost or what land it’s in.” I blushed slightly.   “Oh, I’m sorry…I didn’t…” he stammered out.   “It’s ok, you didn’t know.” My stomach rumbled slightly. I realized I hadn’t eaten anything but a couple pieces of fruit earlier. “I don’t suppose there’s any food in here is there?”   “No, but I know where they make a great mid-day meal. Nice and light and will only half ruin our appetites. Can’t have mother mad at us later.”   I smiled, not feeling quite so drained as before. I doubted I’d get any decent sleep anyways. Probably not again for quite some time since those memories had resurfaced. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:53 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story I made my way back to Lycheas’ house after our lunch alone; he’d had to return to the practice grounds for the afternoon. There wasn’t much to tidy up, so I decided to try and get a short nap. Hoping against hope that the nightmares wouldn’t come. The palate was small, but not uncomfortable. Staring up at the ceiling, I finally drifted off.   Everything around me was dark, and a foul stench filled my nostrils. There were sounds, but I couldn’t determine what or who made them. I tried to move, but something held me fast. I realized I was back in that rancid tent again. It was just a dream. I tried repeating that to myself over and over, but I couldn’t wake. I cried for Tunare to help me, but no sound came forth. It was always the same. I screamed these silent screams to no avail. The darkness was pierced as the tent flap opened, and once again he came for me.   He grabbed me roughly by the hair, pressing his scarred and twisted face towards mine. His hold was such that I couldn’t turn away from the foul air he breathed on me. Struggling was futile, that I had learned early. That only earned me more pain. I kept my eyes closed as he untied me and threw me from the tent.   “It’s play time again pretty.” He grabbed a handful of hair again, dragging me across the ground. “Though, you’re not so pretty anymore, are you?”   That sick gurgling laugh again as I was deposited by the fire. The taunting and the beatings were nothing compared to him stripping me bare, and all the other men in the camp coming to watch. Some of them most likely wanted to do me far worse, but they all seemed afraid of this brute that made himself their leader. Again I tried to wake myself, knowing it would do no good. The dream was in control, and I just had to go along for the ride. Over and over the same things.   Slowly he trailed the tip of the whip over my quivering form. I tensed, awaiting the coming snap and flash of pain. So casually did he work that whip, it was like he was sitting back along a river bank with a fishing pole in his hand. Again and again he ripped my flesh open, while driving his own mental lashes towards the inside. Those burned away everything, and often hurt worse than the whip. I twisted and turned, trying to wriggle myself out of the way. That was never allowed, he would always grab me and pull me back. I screamed again feeling his rough hands on my arms.   “Mirtoba, wake up.”   This dream went differently, this time he was shaking me. There was little energy left in me to try and fight back. I flopped there limply as he shook me and called out my name. Something caught my attention though, that creature had never known my name. I had never uttered it. In fact, I don’t think I had ever said much of anything while in that camp. How could he know my name? The shaking continued, and the darkness seemed to be drifting away.   “Snap out of it woman!”   I slowly opened my eyes to see Lycheas looking down at me.   “It was just a nightmare. I could hear you screaming all the way outside.”   I covered my face with my hands and rolled towards the wall. It was never easy waking up from these dreams and even worse if there was an audience.   “Are you…are you ok?” Lycheas asked quietly.   “Give me a moment to clear my head.” I muttered into the wall. I heard him leave the room, but didn’t move. Until today, these dreams had left me alone for a while. Foolish hope had thought them gone for good. I should have trusted my first instinct and not tried to sleep. Knowing I couldn’t lie here with my face in the wall forever, I rolled over and got up. Lycheas was waiting outside the house.   “You sure you’re ok? I mean you don’t have to come to dinner tonight if you don’t feel like it. They’ll all understand.”   “No,” I tried to smile. “It would be better to not leave me with myself right now. Let me try to look presentable here.” I made my way around the house towards the bath.   Once again, Lycheas escorted me through the city. I think I drew quite a few jealous glances from the girls we passed. It helped bolster my shaken image just a little. Ok, I admit it; I was now officially a simpering idiot. A simpering idiot leaving a wake of jealous girls behind me as I walked through the city on the arm of a man I had almost killed earlier. Oh for a normal day filled with the nothingness of a normal life. My brain felt scattered in every direction, and I wasn’t watching where I put my feet. Thankfully Lycheas caught me before I stumbled into a nearby loom.   “Whoa! Careful there, I think the loom has a good chance of winning this one.”   “I’m sorry. I was paying more attention to errant thoughts than I should have.”   “Lucky you have me around then.”   “My sister would say it will do me good to be a simpering idiot for a while.”   Lycheas gave me a stunned look, and what I said finally registered. I didn’t know if it was possible to pale and blush at the same time, but that’s what it felt like I did.   “Simpering idiot? I’ve never seen one of those. What kind of beast is that?” He said, a sly grin plastered on his face.   I couldn’t find anything to say. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:55 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story Thankfully we spent the rest of the walk to Lycheas’ mother’s house in silence. Who knows what other unchecked thoughts would come forth if I opened my mouth again. Everything whirled about in my head as if a storm was passing through. Being thrown back into this world with people again after such a long time away was a little too much at time. Kelethin was a relatively quiet city, but even those small noises bothered me more than I remembered. These conflicting sensations connected with Lycheas were no help to me either. The feeling of being pulled in too many directions was strong, and it felt at times that my brain would burst and dribble out my ears. I would have to get away again, just for a short time, before anything got any worse.   “We’re here.”   Lycheas’ voice pulled me from the mucky swamp of these thoughts. His mother was waiting there in the doorway.   “Good thing you’re finally here. Those kids ‘be going crazy hungery’ as they’ve been saying since they got here.”   “Mirtoba, I’d like you to meet my mother, Roeal.”   “You just call me Mama Roe child.” She said, taking my hand. “Get in there and help your sister boy, we ladies have some talking to do.”   I felt the bile rising in my throat. This certainly seemed like a woman you didn’t want to mess with. And I had inadvertently tried to kill her son earlier today.   “Now, don’t you be scared of me any. You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting for a woman to come along who was man enough to put my boy in his place. Tell me, you have any family left around here honey?”   “Just my sister, but she’s away right now.”   She sat there studying me a moment.   “Your face reminds me of someone. Who were your parents?”   “Miranne and Hulet.” I replied softly. I hadn’t thought of my parents in a long time.   “You’re Miranne’s oldest.” Her voice seemed to catch a moment. “I was friends with your mother when we were young. I was away when I got the news, and I never managed to find out what had happened to her children. Here you are, finally.”   I found myself engulfed in one of those breath stealing, massive motherly type hugs. I swear I heard a couple of my ribs cracking. I’d be lying though if I said I didn’t enjoy such a thing just a little. I pushed those memories aside again, that was a different type of pain, and I’d had enough for one day. Mama Roe led me to the house and we sat down to one of the best meals I’d ever had. They chatted amongst themselves of various things, I kept rather quiet. Anytime they asked me a question, I gave a short polite answer. Hopefully they didn’t think me rude, but the whole thing was a little overwhelming. When the meal was over, I helped Mama Roe clear the table and clean up in the small kitchen.   “You take this with you. That way you don’t have to worry about anything to eat in the morning.” She pointed to a small bag of food sitting on the counter. “And sneak out the back door there. Otherwise you’ll never get out of here.” There was a knowing smile upon her face.   I looked at her in wonder.   “Honey, I’ve seen that look on people before. You’ve been away from people too long, and all of this is driving you out of your mind.” She gave me another hug, not quite as massive as before. “Try and get some rest for me.”   I thanked her, and promised I’d come to visit again soon before slipping out the door she’d shown me. It felt nice to be mothered a bit again. Not feeling like heading back to the house just yet, I decided to take a walk through the forest and set off on my way.   *********************************************************   “Where’d Mirtoba go?” Lycheas asked his mother.   “I gave her some food for tomorrow and had her sneak out the back door.”   “Mother! How could you?”   “Son, sit down.” Roeal told him, more a command than a request. “Listen to what I’m going to tell you, and Tunare help you if you don’t take any of it to heart. Whatever that girl has been through, she needs time to adjust to life again.”   Lycheas glumly sat down on the small stool kept in the kitchen. When Mama Roe had something to say, you always listened—whether you really wanted to or not.   “I know you Lycheas, you live to help people. That’s a wonderful trait, but you need to curb that instinct around Mirtoba. She isn’t a damsel in distress, I’m sure you found out this morning she can take care of herself. You push her too much or too hard, and she’ll do worse than that bruise on your neck there.”   “But…”   “None of that now. She just met you, and I have the feeling it will take her a long time to really trust anyone.” Roeal patted him on the shoulder. “Now, you will listen to your mama right?”   “Yes ma’am.”   “Good, now go play with your nephews. I have work to do.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:56 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story I wandered through the trees for most of the night. The sounds of the natural world helped to ease the tension I felt building up inside. I'd only just returned to the city, and I was ready to run away again. More than once I asked myself why I'd bothered to return, if this was how I felt. There was only one answer to that-I had someone to take care of. I'd promised my mother, that day so long past, that I would do everything I could for my little sister. It wasn't as if I couldn't handle being around people again, I just felt so much like I was standing outside a house looking through the window. I wasn't a part of things, just barely hanging on to the edge. Sighing, I sat at the base of a small tree and looked up at the stars playing hide and seek amongst the upper leaves.   I needed to find something to keep me busy for a while, something to keep my mind occupied. Otherwise, well, I'd rather not think about what would happen then. There were too many things inside me fighting to get out, and I was too scared to share. Why should I force my demons off on other people? It's not like they could remove them from me, these things would be with me forever, no matter what I did. Sometimes it felt like they would torment me even after the spark of life left my body. I was standing on a path, and there were too many forks branching off. I couldn't go back, and had no idea which direction to go forward with.   I didn't realize how long I had been sitting there arguing with myself. The sun was rising, well if you could have seen it through all the trees. It was then I realized I had no idea exactly where I was. Strung out and exhausted from lack of sleep, I turned and slowly made my way back along my own faint path. Surprisingly I wasn't too far from the city, then it hit me I'd just been wandering in circles all night. Rubbing a hand over my face, I waited for the lift to reach the platform. I headed for the guild hall first, to see if they might have anything for me to do.   Master Flamecaller was the only one I spotted. He gave me a welcome smile as I approached.   "Good morning  Mirtoba."   "Master Flamecaller." I nodded, hesitant to say much more.   "Is there something I can help you with?"   "I…I was hoping there was something I could do, some task…"   "There's always something to do around here." He said, pulling a small wooden box down from a shelf. "It may seem a little under your skill level, but there is the armor quest we have started giving new trainees."   I took the box he offered me, and waited for him to continue.   "I usually only give this out one piece at a time, but since this will be rather easy for you, I'll go ahead and give you everything now. That way you won't have to come back and see me every day for new instructions." He then handed me a stack of armor patterns that seemed to glow slightly. "You'll have to come back for a second bracer pattern, the enchantments here tend to fight with each other if they're not kept apart."   "This is your list of materials to gather for each armor piece. When you have all the components, place them inside the box, and they will combine to form the material you'll use with the patterns."   He headed off towards one of the back rooms on the hall, and I followed. The store room was a little dark, and had that smell that most rarely used rooms do.   "When you've finished all the pieces to your armor, you can do another small quest for a sword. Until then, you can make use of the weapons in here. They might be a little old and a little rusty, but they're still in good shape." He pointed to a pile of swords stacked in a corner. The faint sound of young voices could be heard behind us. "I must be off to tend to my class, let me know if you need any other help Mirtoba."   I thanked him and stood there looking at that sorry pile of swords. Well, something was better than nothing. Setting my items down, I took my time sorting through the pile until I found a couple at the bottom that weren't too bad. It gave me a little warm feeling inside to have weapons again, even if they were a little battered and borrowed. I looked down at my ill-fitting clothes, and knew I would need something better sooner than I had anticipated. Arellat had said to come visit her shop, but it felt wrong to accept such generous charity. That and I had no idea where to find her. Oh well, I did have all day to walk the town and have another look around.   I ran into Lycheas as I was leaving the guild hall. Fate it seemed was against me.   "Oh, good morning." He said, seeming a little bit distant. Ah, what happens to us when the lust of the moment is gone.   "Good morning Lycheas. I want to apologize for last night..."   "Don't worry," his smile wasn't quite so warm as before. "It's impossible to argue with mother."   Men can be so frustrating at times. And Leptictis wonders why I've not had much to do with them. I felt myself go cold. I'm not even really sure what about his behavior bothered me. We'd only just met. Tunare save me from myself please, I pleaded quietly.   "Well, I'll not waste any more of your time. Good day." I couldn't quite hide the steely edge to my voice.   I turned and left, not looking back. The righteous indignation I was feeling certainly wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of seeing my head turn again. The sooner I got out of the city, the better. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:57 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story I left my things in the bank, somehow it didn't feel right going back to that house again. It didn't bother me much, I had less chance of nightmares when I was only half asleep out in the wild. Arellat came into the bank as I was finishing up. The scene this morning with Lycheas had me on edge still. I hoped I could be polite enough. "Mirtoba! It's wonderful to see you again. Mama told me of your escape last night." Her smile at least felt genuine. "Lycheas would have insisted on walking you home and standing guard outside your door most likely. Give me a second to drop this stuff off and we'll head to my shop and get you set up." One nice thing about people like Arellat and my sister, they could talk forever, and not feel slighted if you only answered with a smile and a nod. This I could deal with. She led me out of the bank and through the city, chattering on about anything and everything. Much more of this and I would know the entire history of that family. "Here we are. I think I should have some leathers that will fit you already made up. Probably be wanting a couple packs as well." I waited patiently inside the door as she bustled around the small room searching through various piles. She piled some clothes in my arms and ushered me off behind a curtain in one corner. "Might have to make a few adjustments to some pieces there, but that won't take too long. Think I might have something for those swords too." There was a crashing sound as she rummaged through the shop. "I've got to get more storage set up in here." I heard her mutter. The craftsmanship was wonderful, and against all odds, everything fit nicely. I stepped out from behind the curtain. "I'm a better judge at sizes than I thought." She beamed. "Everything but the hair looks great. Have a seat." "Oh, you don't have to…" "Nonsense. I'll be able to give you a decent trim. My boys always end up looking awful because they never hold still long enough." A pair of scissors suddenly appeared in her hand. "And if it doesn't turn out that great, I make wonderful hats." Knowing I wouldn't get out of there without giving in, I took the chair she pointed at and waited for the worst to happen. I took her silence as concentration, and said nothing myself. Quite a few minutes later, she pronounced it was finished, and rummaged around again looking for a mirror. "Well, I think it looks ok. You'll be the final judge, it is your head after all." She held the mirror up in front of me. "Hope I didn't take too much off, you looked like a short hair person." I was pleasantly surprised, I no longer looked like something that should have been in a cage. I ran my fingers through the soft layers now framing my face. It felt like this huge load had been taken off me, to look this good again. Well, except for those dark circles under my eyes. Not much could be done there. "Thank you Arellat, for everything. I feel I should really reimburse you for this though." "Not a word of that now, already told you that. Now, here's a couple packs and a double shoulder harness thing for your weapons. It's not that great, I'm still working on the best way to make those." Looking at it, I couldn't see anything wrong, but I wasn't a tailor. The only thing wrong with these types of harnesses was the fear I'd slice an ear off or something pulling my sword out. I'd have her make me a couple belt sheathes later when I had something decent to fight with. Taking a pack in each hand, I made ready to leave. "Don't be a stranger now. We'd all love for you to join us at mother's again." I assured her I would stop by to visit again and left the shop. Returning to the bank, I left behind one of the packs, and found a couple empty water skins in the other. Arellat had either forgotten they were there, or more likely snuck them in on me. I slipped my list of items from Master Flamecaller under a wrist bracer, and headed off to start hunting. I missed having a bow with me, but could make one again soon. If I hadn't forgotten how. My steps were a little lighter at the prospect of being back out there again, even if it was just the forest around the city. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:58 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story I lost myself for the first few days. I’d forgotten how fun it could be tracking down small creatures, gathering materials for this armor. It always made me wonder though, just what those spiders ate to get as big as they did. I had even run into an old acquaintance outside of Felwithe, a wizard that like me had lost his way at times. He’d even remembered a bet we’d made so long ago I’d forgotten it completely. Of course, I think he only remembered because I won. He had grudgingly handed me a small coin purse and turned back to the city. The only thing that possibly dampened my spirits was the thought of having to venture into Crushbone again.   I hadn’t enjoyed being there when I was young, and even though there was little in there for me fear, I wasn’t going to enjoy being there again. These orcs tended to use their noses before their eyes—it was much easier to catch a young elf that way. I decided to go in prepared. A few orcs were brave enough, or stupid enough, to wander into the forest away from their camps. I waited in ambush along a path they used, and soon had enough dead orcs lying around to make any elf proud. Gritting my teeth, I took the rags and skins they wore and covered myself with them. I was no longer an attractive elf, but I hoped I made a convincing orc. The stench filled my nostrils and made my eyes water, but I walked right through the group of orcs guarding the tunnel that led to the inner hold.   Nothing much had changed inside the orc’s lair. Of course, why would they go and waste their time making improvements? Killing them is the fun part. Their bodies decay at such a quick pace that looting them is stomach turning. I lost track of how many days I spent inside, probably around four or five if I had to guess. Needless to say, I got little sleep. Having become as dirty and smelly as the orcs I crossed paths with, they ignored me if I wasn’t attacking them. I took advantage of this to climb up on top of a small hut and rest a moment. Eyes closed and ears open, it felt good to not be moving. After a while, I heard voices drifting my way.   “Looks like someone has been through here, tracks are very fresh.”   “But what are we supposed to hunt then? There’s no orcs here!”   “There are plenty of orcs, they are too numerous to count.”   I recognized the man’s voice. It seemed Lycheas was leading a group of young rangers through Crush. I didn’t feel like moving, and hoped he would be able to tell the difference between a dirty smelly elf, and a dirty smelly orc.   “Look! There’s one up there!”   I slowly opened my eyes, and tightened my grip on my swords. Please tell me this next generation of rangers wasn’t that dull witted.   “That is not an orc.” Lycheas’ voice was dull and flat. You did have to admire his patience.   I left my rooftop perch, and walked towards them. I stopped and removed my ‘disguise’. Lycheas knew I hadn’t been an orc sitting up there, but he must not have looked too closely, for he seemed surprised to see me.   “You stink like the orcs.” One of the youngsters said, slowly backing away from me.   “When you’ve spent a great deal more time in here, you may notice that the orcs use their noses more than their eyes.” I answered, my voice tired and cracked. “But you seem to have a teacher already, so I will take my leave.” I nodded slightly, and trying not to look too clumsy with my overweight pack, turned to leave.   “Wait a moment if you will, please.” Lycheas said softly.   I stopped and looked back. Lycheas had turned back to the small group.   “This is as far as I can take you. Remember what you’ve learned, and help each other in here. The orcs are just as intent on taking you out as you are towards them. You may even come across other adventurers in here, treat them with respect, and don’t rush in to help unless they express a need for it.”   The young trainees grudgingly moved away on their own. Lycheas made his way towards me slowly.   “I do have to agree you don’t smell very attractive, but you are by far the most attractive looking orc I’ve ever seen.”   “Flattery will get you nothing.” I began to wonder what exactly he was up to, though his compliment wasn’t totally unwanted.   “Oh, right…I wasn’t trying…I mean…” He seemed less unsure of him self than before, stumbling over his own tongue. “I…I wanted to apologize for the other day. I was, well Arellat said it best when she called me a stupid blundering oaf.”   He stood there looking down at his feet. Whatever I should have said never came out, instead, I found myself laughing. His face turned a deep red, and I saw his entire body tense. I tried to calm myself.   “Please forgive me, but I just pictured her face, all scrunched up calling you names.” Another fit hit me. “I honestly do not mean to laugh at you. I guess I’m more tired than I thought.”   I guess that did the trick, as he relaxed and finally looked back up at me. Those eyes hit me, and somewhere inside I realized I’d missed them just a little. That sobered me quickly, and the laugher died away. He came over and took my pack from me, one of those soft smiles on his face again.   “Here, mine is empty. I’ll help carry some of this for you.” I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

08-23-2005, 8:58 AM Realmling Joined on 05-08-2005 Out there...way out there Posts 2,677 Re: The Return - Mirtoba's Story I stood by in silence as he redistributed the contents of my pack. The deep tired ache reaching through me to my bones quickly over-rid any objections of pride. Besides, I found myself wanting some company other than orcs. It seemed I’d had my fill of being alone again. Lycheas stumbled slightly as he shouldered his pack once more. My eyes narrowed as I realized he’d loaded himself down with most of my stuff. His gave me a shy guilty smile as he waited for me to join him. I decided it would be in bad form for me to open my pack to see what was left.   We made our way from Crushbone in silence. I felt half asleep by the time we reached the city, and had to fight to stay awake on my feet. Tunare knows, he didn’t need to try to carry my exhausted form through the city as well.   “You look exhausted.”   I looked up at him while we waited for the lift to come down.   “It’s been a long past few days.”   “Few days? You’ve been gone for a couple of weeks Mirtoba.”   I hadn’t realized how badly I’d lost track of time. Wearily I passed a hand over my face. Lycheas helped me onto the lift.   “We’ll head to the house first. You look dead on your feet.”   “Not to mention I need a bath.”   “That too.” He smiled, still propping me up. I was too tired to move away, and rested my head on his shoulder. Gingerly, he put his arm about my waist.   We certainly drew some curious looks, and a few glares from those close enough to catch a whiff of my orc perfume. I’d never felt so happy to see a house my entire life. Lycheas took my pack from me and shooed me away towards the bathhouse. Soap and water were my best friends again. I wrapped myself in a warm robe and returned to the house. Lycheas was there, busying himself in the small kitchen.   “Mother sent this over in case you were hungry, and Arellat sent over some clothes. I put them in the bedroom.”   I had expected just a couple pairs of shirts and pants. Piled in a corner of the room were enough clothes for a small army. Looked like Arellat had been busy. I grabbed whatever was on top. Never really having worn anything silk before, I was amazed at how soft it was against my skin. It was certainly welcome after my orc smelling leathers. They could probably be cleaned, but most likely would just have to be burned. I returned to the kitchen. Lycheas had everything laid out on the small table. Then I realized there was furniture in the house.   “You’ve been busy.” I said, looking around.   “Yeah, I found some furniture. Some of it needs a little work, but it’s the best I could find that agreed with my coin purse.” He pulled a chair out from the table for me.   Mama Roe had sent over a selection of cheeses, fruit, and a loaf of freshly backed bread. I nibbled slowly on a little bit of everything. Lycheas did most of the talking.   “I talked to the building committee, and they’re letting me expand the house a little. I figured I’d make the kitchen, one bedroom, and the bath bigger. Won’t be happening right away, but soon I hope. I’ve been thinking of turning the other room into a library or a workshop. I hate doing my fletching outside.”   “Why don’t you do both.” I mumbled around a slice of bread.   “I thought about it, but I’m not sure if there will be enough room. Good thing it’s still in the planning stage.”   I sat there, warm and content after the meal. I must have started to doze off, because I found Lycheas gently pushing me back into my chair.   “You should get some sleep.”   I was too tired to argue, and he helped me to my feet. We stood there a moment looking at each other. I kissed him gently on the cheek, muttered a thank you, and stumbled off to the bedroom. That action alone showed just how much I needed sleep.   *****************************   Lycheas stood there a moment in shock, one had on the cheek Mirtoba had kissed. The shock slowly melted into a sad smile, as he realized she probably would have never done that in any other condition. Slowly and quietly he cleaned up the kitchen before giving the closed bedroom door one last look. He had no idea what drew him to Mirtoba, just so recently they’d met. Every time she looked at him with those aqua-blue eyes, he felt small. He wondered quite often just what those eyes had seen, where she had been, and what had happened to her. Her screams from that night he’d woken her haunted him. Anytime he caught a glimpse of the scars she carried made a quiet rage burn deep in his heart. He hoped someday she would trust him enough to tell him, to let him into her world. And he hoped if that day ever arrived, she would allow him to stay. I R NUCKING FUTS! Yes, I know...I know what you always say - You trap, you kill, you eat - that's what a good spider does. You trap...you kill...you eat.... ~~    Report

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