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L'Aurel's Journal (A Kingdom of Ashes) -updated 3/23
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<blockquote data-quote="Laurel" data-source="post: 2083671" data-attributes="member: 17067"><p><strong>Chapter Eight: “New Flames”</strong></p><p></p><p><em>Day Fourty-Six- Hywrl</em></p><p> </p><p>We had pushed the people into plans yesterday, and Xath had spent the morning with Jaine ensuring she was ready. Justice and I joined them shortly after sunrise, composed and ready for the day. A few short hours later, Preston avoiding my eye told the others it was time.</p><p> </p><p>With the sun at her back Jaine rode into the small city of New Oceanus and finally into the walls of Hywrl all in the midst of glory. It had not been to hard to set everything up, and most had agreed it would be a good way to raise moral and introduce our Queen.</p><p> </p><p>Behind Jaines open carriage, Ohtar struts with pride knowing he is being ogled by new comers and praised by those who had seen him frequently over the past few weeks. I keep a firm hand on the reigns, just to make sure he didn’t get to cocky. </p><p> </p><p>Archonus and Jaine’s cousin, Lt. Rhynn, walked beside Jaine as personal body guards. We had uniforms hastily made and even clothes for Jaine hastily adjusted from the trunks and coffers of Hywrl.</p><p> </p><p>Riding in front of Jaine was Justice on Thane and at the head of the parade column was Farathier on Yoshi leading a group of his masked cavalry. Next came Arfin leading a small group of now Jaine’s elite infantry. While Kareth lead his group of monk warriors followed by more general infantry at the rear. Xath had placed some of her trained performers in between the sections to dance and excite the crowd. I smile and give a slight wave when I spot Michael amongst the troops. Looking around I realized how much the small city had actually grown. Even with all those involved in the parade through the city, people still lined the streets. They cheered, waved flags and streamers, while petals fell from above. The red and orange petals was a small magic trick the regent and I had been working on.</p><p> </p><p>The parade headed in a straight line down the main dirt avenue to the step’s of Hywrl’s ancient palace. As we entered, the rowdiness quickly died to a throb of anticipation. Most of the outer walls were crowded with people who pushed for position to be inside. The guards continued forward to form ranks on both sides of the aisle while Jaine, Justice, Xath, and I turned into a small room. The rest of the circle had another room on the other side where Father Dorn waited.</p><p> </p><p>Finally adjusted, cleaned, and ready we meet again at the now cleared front entry way. Looking into the room, I see Joshua on queue comes from the side to stand on the third lowest step of the raised dais. Across the dais from him stands the new banner of the Woodshadow I had commissioned, and on the top step the Phoenix banner we had commissioned. The Duke and Jaine both said this was needed with all the pomp and ceremony, so later no one could question our actions.</p><p> </p><p>I try hard not to shift in the stiffly formal dress, but again Jaine said it was necessary. Justice and Xath looked comfortable in their skirts of fluff. So trying to pretend I was not stifling, I look over at Jaine. Her expression is serene and she seems at ease in the ornate dress to set her apart from even us and the small halo of gold and silver that rests atop her head. With the barest of movements, I see Jaine nod to the front. Her head held high, Jaine and I walk side-by-side toward the dais leaving the circle behind, but not for long. Once at the first step, she continues up, while I stand watching from the ground floor. A total hush descend on the room, as she gains the top, and foolishly I think that this is the first time she has been higher then my shoulders. Bowing my head, I slid down to kneel on one knee, “I, Lady L’Aurel Woodshadow, Countess of Hywrl do swear my life and my bow to you, Jaine Ryhnn, true Queen of the Kingdom.” Silently I say it again, but as L’Aurel Woodshadow Dorn.</p><p> </p><p>Jaine looks to Joshua as he brings a small box forward. She takes one of six small gold ring from the box and then moves to stand in front of me. As I rise, I reach out my hand where Jaine places a small golden circlet of a bird eating it’s tail. A flash of red catches the light, giving life to the blood colored eyes. It is one of the rings Arfin forged with his own hand, and now would be our symbol to all, a phoenix circle. I had given up on the complexities of how to correctly curtsey to whom, how low, when and such, so instead I bend my knee and bow at the waist, my own compromise.</p><p> </p><p>One by one my companions walk to the dais and pledge their loyalty, gaining their ring at the end. As each walk towards me, a soft, “Welcome” echoes in their mind. One of the powers of the rings is to allow us to talk without verbal words.</p><p> </p><p>At last we stand as one line facing Jaine, chosen weapons drawn, Arfin with his hammer, Xath with her blue dagger, Farathier with his lance, Archonus crossing his long sword with his short sword, and Justice with her long sword. Jaine with a smile of joy and ease, barely moves her lips saying, “Thank you.” Then she lifts her arms and her voice, “I give you my generals!” As we turn there is a happy commotion through the hall from soldiers to commoner.</p><p> </p><p>We encircle Jaine as we leave the hall, Preston leading us out. At the doorway, Father Dorn joins us, and we share a private smile. Our little troupe moves out the great doors and lining before Jaine she again pronounces us her Generals, as we kneel claiming her Queen. The crowd is more mixed outside though almost all are caught up in the events and happy mood so cheer. Quickly moving around the palace, we travel to a make shift set of tables in the attempt to prepare a banquet. Though this would never have been seen at any other Countess’ table it was the most we could offer. It was enough for a war torn people struggling to survive, however, and that is all I could tell myself.</p><p> </p><p>As the guard came out of the palace they had immediately dispersed to be with family or friends. I only got one chance to pull my father aside privately. Preston, Justice, Dorn and I had by action agreed that today was not the day to spring this surprise on everyone. I could not wait until tomorrow at the latest, having a hard time keeping this secret even for this day.</p><p> </p><p>Soon it was time for the evening festivities. After a whole day of this though all I wanted was just to be free for a moment, no more prying eyes, no more expectations, just some fresh air, peace and quiet. The others still seemed to be having a good time. Standing in a side doorway I look back into the changed throne room, and see Justice by the far wall in deep conversation with Joshua and Dorn. Family… it still seems odd, but comforting. People that I have chosen to care about and now have a blood tie to as well. I shift to look toward a tinkling of laughter, and see Jaine sitting regally in her chair atop the dais, easily maneuvering questions and comments from Seaborn and the Duke. Xath can be spotted on the ground level beside the dais, there is a small child at her skirts concentrating on something she is saying. Behind Xath, I can see the shadow of Archonus. I can only assume Archonus picked the spot since from there he could watch as one of her protectors. I let my gauze linger, but finally push on to see Korienne still lingering by as well, though staying far from Archonus’ position. I am surprised that Korienne’s gaze and movements still bring him closer and closer to Xath. Well, at least he should get points for determination.</p><p> </p><p>Arfin seems to be holding his own small court with the few dwarves about, which consists mostly of drinking and yelling. Kareth and Farathier stand close the doorway in which I stand trading remarks on what I think is the best way to strangle someone. Leave it to Farathier, when all else fails talk about bashing someone’s head in.</p><p> </p><p>I smile as I turn and head through the empty halls to the exit. I know I will be back long before I am missed. I pull the folds of the cloak about me to ward off the growing chill in the air. I walk toward the slowly growing Amastatian grounds knowing Ohtar is there. Ohtar had preformed splendidly today, and deserves some more pats to his ego. Since the first day he answered my call the bond between us has been growing. I can now distinguish his emotion from mine most of the time and our speech has steadily grown less stuttered. The small freckly man of Farathier’s acquaintance has designed a saddle for Ohtar, and though I can ride bareback for battle it will be needed.</p><p> </p><p>In a small circle of snow drift Ohtar takes a small leap to be beside me. I calmly stroke his feathers knowing this connection is worth more then words. He seems troubled, not understanding why I may have to leave him for so long… Tomorrow. Tomorrow I will try again to explain it. Tomorrow we will be back to the planning and worrying, but tonight I just want to see my breath on the air, watch the snow fall gently on the tree limbs, and not think of plans and facades.</p><p> </p><p>I hear the soft crunch of snow behind me, and turn to see a flash of gray eyes in a darkened hood. Smiling in greeting I quickly go to his open arms, “Father.” Already I can see his mischievous smile as he hugs me in return. To think he called Preston a rogue!</p><p> </p><p>After a few joyful recounts of the happenings of the day, I ask, "Father, I first met you in the Apectin Temple in Oceanus, before the attack. Justice had met you before that and learned... some sort of power from you. A power you learned on the Isle of Mourning, a power over the dead and undead. You also... you brought Xath back from…from her death. Do you still posses these powers, or with you returning to us do you sacrifice this knowledge?"</p><p> </p><p>Dorn lays a hand on Ohtar side, nodding his head and answering, “I do, but using such power is gravely taxing for me....they come with a great cost that cannot be measured in health, or power, or even gold...as Xath can tell you, her rebirth has been difficult for her, and for the people around her. But no, I have not lost it.”</p><p> </p><p>Unwanted tears form in my eyes, “Finally getting you and having time with you has been so wonderful. I would rather have you father, then any strange magic. I would desperately hope that it never has to be asked… that a need will never arise, but as you know far more is at stake then what I want… but I had to know if they ever ask it.”</p><p> </p><p>Reaching over he pats my hand, “Of course, my daughter.”</p><p> </p><p>Wiping the tears from my face, “Father… I have decided to enter the Amastatian temple. If they will have me at least. I am not sure why, but I think I have always been headed that direction. In Greenwood the priestess at the temple was the one to visit our small cottage. She always had something for me, normally books on the order. She made sure Fa… Michael never saw her give them to me, but they seemed to have their own friendship. She taught me many things, and each time I have encountered those of the order I feel more of a…. a calling possibly.”</p><p> </p><p>My father shifts uncomfortably, “Ah, I don’t think I can guide you on this, but I do think with your blood it is not surprising.”</p><p> </p><p>I am not sure why I brought it up or why I told him before anyone else, but I did. Now to see what the abbess has to say, and to see what this fully entails. Dorn and I talked of other things just enjoying any chance to be father and daughter for next few moments. At least until the happy squeal of two lovers chasing each other came out of the darkened ally.</p><p> </p><p>“I guess we should return,” I say looking to the night sky one last time. Reaching out to grasp my shoulder he simply responds “Yes.” So with that we return to the throne room, and I can smile a little easier.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Laurel, post: 2083671, member: 17067"] [b]Chapter Eight: “New Flames”[/b] [i]Day Fourty-Six- Hywrl[/i] We had pushed the people into plans yesterday, and Xath had spent the morning with Jaine ensuring she was ready. Justice and I joined them shortly after sunrise, composed and ready for the day. A few short hours later, Preston avoiding my eye told the others it was time. With the sun at her back Jaine rode into the small city of New Oceanus and finally into the walls of Hywrl all in the midst of glory. It had not been to hard to set everything up, and most had agreed it would be a good way to raise moral and introduce our Queen. Behind Jaines open carriage, Ohtar struts with pride knowing he is being ogled by new comers and praised by those who had seen him frequently over the past few weeks. I keep a firm hand on the reigns, just to make sure he didn’t get to cocky. Archonus and Jaine’s cousin, Lt. Rhynn, walked beside Jaine as personal body guards. We had uniforms hastily made and even clothes for Jaine hastily adjusted from the trunks and coffers of Hywrl. Riding in front of Jaine was Justice on Thane and at the head of the parade column was Farathier on Yoshi leading a group of his masked cavalry. Next came Arfin leading a small group of now Jaine’s elite infantry. While Kareth lead his group of monk warriors followed by more general infantry at the rear. Xath had placed some of her trained performers in between the sections to dance and excite the crowd. I smile and give a slight wave when I spot Michael amongst the troops. Looking around I realized how much the small city had actually grown. Even with all those involved in the parade through the city, people still lined the streets. They cheered, waved flags and streamers, while petals fell from above. The red and orange petals was a small magic trick the regent and I had been working on. The parade headed in a straight line down the main dirt avenue to the step’s of Hywrl’s ancient palace. As we entered, the rowdiness quickly died to a throb of anticipation. Most of the outer walls were crowded with people who pushed for position to be inside. The guards continued forward to form ranks on both sides of the aisle while Jaine, Justice, Xath, and I turned into a small room. The rest of the circle had another room on the other side where Father Dorn waited. Finally adjusted, cleaned, and ready we meet again at the now cleared front entry way. Looking into the room, I see Joshua on queue comes from the side to stand on the third lowest step of the raised dais. Across the dais from him stands the new banner of the Woodshadow I had commissioned, and on the top step the Phoenix banner we had commissioned. The Duke and Jaine both said this was needed with all the pomp and ceremony, so later no one could question our actions. I try hard not to shift in the stiffly formal dress, but again Jaine said it was necessary. Justice and Xath looked comfortable in their skirts of fluff. So trying to pretend I was not stifling, I look over at Jaine. Her expression is serene and she seems at ease in the ornate dress to set her apart from even us and the small halo of gold and silver that rests atop her head. With the barest of movements, I see Jaine nod to the front. Her head held high, Jaine and I walk side-by-side toward the dais leaving the circle behind, but not for long. Once at the first step, she continues up, while I stand watching from the ground floor. A total hush descend on the room, as she gains the top, and foolishly I think that this is the first time she has been higher then my shoulders. Bowing my head, I slid down to kneel on one knee, “I, Lady L’Aurel Woodshadow, Countess of Hywrl do swear my life and my bow to you, Jaine Ryhnn, true Queen of the Kingdom.” Silently I say it again, but as L’Aurel Woodshadow Dorn. Jaine looks to Joshua as he brings a small box forward. She takes one of six small gold ring from the box and then moves to stand in front of me. As I rise, I reach out my hand where Jaine places a small golden circlet of a bird eating it’s tail. A flash of red catches the light, giving life to the blood colored eyes. It is one of the rings Arfin forged with his own hand, and now would be our symbol to all, a phoenix circle. I had given up on the complexities of how to correctly curtsey to whom, how low, when and such, so instead I bend my knee and bow at the waist, my own compromise. One by one my companions walk to the dais and pledge their loyalty, gaining their ring at the end. As each walk towards me, a soft, “Welcome” echoes in their mind. One of the powers of the rings is to allow us to talk without verbal words. At last we stand as one line facing Jaine, chosen weapons drawn, Arfin with his hammer, Xath with her blue dagger, Farathier with his lance, Archonus crossing his long sword with his short sword, and Justice with her long sword. Jaine with a smile of joy and ease, barely moves her lips saying, “Thank you.” Then she lifts her arms and her voice, “I give you my generals!” As we turn there is a happy commotion through the hall from soldiers to commoner. We encircle Jaine as we leave the hall, Preston leading us out. At the doorway, Father Dorn joins us, and we share a private smile. Our little troupe moves out the great doors and lining before Jaine she again pronounces us her Generals, as we kneel claiming her Queen. The crowd is more mixed outside though almost all are caught up in the events and happy mood so cheer. Quickly moving around the palace, we travel to a make shift set of tables in the attempt to prepare a banquet. Though this would never have been seen at any other Countess’ table it was the most we could offer. It was enough for a war torn people struggling to survive, however, and that is all I could tell myself. As the guard came out of the palace they had immediately dispersed to be with family or friends. I only got one chance to pull my father aside privately. Preston, Justice, Dorn and I had by action agreed that today was not the day to spring this surprise on everyone. I could not wait until tomorrow at the latest, having a hard time keeping this secret even for this day. Soon it was time for the evening festivities. After a whole day of this though all I wanted was just to be free for a moment, no more prying eyes, no more expectations, just some fresh air, peace and quiet. The others still seemed to be having a good time. Standing in a side doorway I look back into the changed throne room, and see Justice by the far wall in deep conversation with Joshua and Dorn. Family… it still seems odd, but comforting. People that I have chosen to care about and now have a blood tie to as well. I shift to look toward a tinkling of laughter, and see Jaine sitting regally in her chair atop the dais, easily maneuvering questions and comments from Seaborn and the Duke. Xath can be spotted on the ground level beside the dais, there is a small child at her skirts concentrating on something she is saying. Behind Xath, I can see the shadow of Archonus. I can only assume Archonus picked the spot since from there he could watch as one of her protectors. I let my gauze linger, but finally push on to see Korienne still lingering by as well, though staying far from Archonus’ position. I am surprised that Korienne’s gaze and movements still bring him closer and closer to Xath. Well, at least he should get points for determination. Arfin seems to be holding his own small court with the few dwarves about, which consists mostly of drinking and yelling. Kareth and Farathier stand close the doorway in which I stand trading remarks on what I think is the best way to strangle someone. Leave it to Farathier, when all else fails talk about bashing someone’s head in. I smile as I turn and head through the empty halls to the exit. I know I will be back long before I am missed. I pull the folds of the cloak about me to ward off the growing chill in the air. I walk toward the slowly growing Amastatian grounds knowing Ohtar is there. Ohtar had preformed splendidly today, and deserves some more pats to his ego. Since the first day he answered my call the bond between us has been growing. I can now distinguish his emotion from mine most of the time and our speech has steadily grown less stuttered. The small freckly man of Farathier’s acquaintance has designed a saddle for Ohtar, and though I can ride bareback for battle it will be needed. In a small circle of snow drift Ohtar takes a small leap to be beside me. I calmly stroke his feathers knowing this connection is worth more then words. He seems troubled, not understanding why I may have to leave him for so long… Tomorrow. Tomorrow I will try again to explain it. Tomorrow we will be back to the planning and worrying, but tonight I just want to see my breath on the air, watch the snow fall gently on the tree limbs, and not think of plans and facades. I hear the soft crunch of snow behind me, and turn to see a flash of gray eyes in a darkened hood. Smiling in greeting I quickly go to his open arms, “Father.” Already I can see his mischievous smile as he hugs me in return. To think he called Preston a rogue! After a few joyful recounts of the happenings of the day, I ask, "Father, I first met you in the Apectin Temple in Oceanus, before the attack. Justice had met you before that and learned... some sort of power from you. A power you learned on the Isle of Mourning, a power over the dead and undead. You also... you brought Xath back from…from her death. Do you still posses these powers, or with you returning to us do you sacrifice this knowledge?" Dorn lays a hand on Ohtar side, nodding his head and answering, “I do, but using such power is gravely taxing for me....they come with a great cost that cannot be measured in health, or power, or even gold...as Xath can tell you, her rebirth has been difficult for her, and for the people around her. But no, I have not lost it.” Unwanted tears form in my eyes, “Finally getting you and having time with you has been so wonderful. I would rather have you father, then any strange magic. I would desperately hope that it never has to be asked… that a need will never arise, but as you know far more is at stake then what I want… but I had to know if they ever ask it.” Reaching over he pats my hand, “Of course, my daughter.” Wiping the tears from my face, “Father… I have decided to enter the Amastatian temple. If they will have me at least. I am not sure why, but I think I have always been headed that direction. In Greenwood the priestess at the temple was the one to visit our small cottage. She always had something for me, normally books on the order. She made sure Fa… Michael never saw her give them to me, but they seemed to have their own friendship. She taught me many things, and each time I have encountered those of the order I feel more of a…. a calling possibly.” My father shifts uncomfortably, “Ah, I don’t think I can guide you on this, but I do think with your blood it is not surprising.” I am not sure why I brought it up or why I told him before anyone else, but I did. Now to see what the abbess has to say, and to see what this fully entails. Dorn and I talked of other things just enjoying any chance to be father and daughter for next few moments. At least until the happy squeal of two lovers chasing each other came out of the darkened ally. “I guess we should return,” I say looking to the night sky one last time. Reaching out to grasp my shoulder he simply responds “Yes.” So with that we return to the throne room, and I can smile a little easier. [/QUOTE]
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