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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 22, 2015 22:28:59 GMT
Manna gorge was a beautiful and dangerous place, even if one stayed on the well worn path through the pass. It was overgrown with trees and various vegetation with random plumes of pure manna expelling from the ground and unpredictable moments. There were plenty of animals, beasts, and outcasts that called the gorge home. The sounds of the birds, insects, and other various animal calls was relaxing especially as the guide had explained that quiet here was a sign of danger. At night, the stars twinkled high above the mountains and in the lull of sleeping daytime animals, one could hear the hiss and puffs of manna escaping the ground. The group had traveled this way for about three days, stopping at nights to rest, the soldiers taking shifts to keep up a vigil.
Five of the kingdom's best horses. Four soldiers, dressed in unadorned plate so as not to draw attention. Three regular looking, locked trunks, only one full of rations and supplies. A regular looking coach and one mage/guide for safety, thought the woman not-so-secretly riding in the coach. There wasn't a cover on the back after all, though that had been a difficult argument to win with her brother. She wanted to be able to see though and breath. Even he knew she was claustrophobic being that it was his fault. Lucinda's thoughts were interrupted as the coach rode over yet another hole in the road and she tumbled from her perch on one of the trunks with a little gasp. Luckily, the bottom of the coach had been covered in fur blankets and wool pillows. She fell face first, the movement muffling her cry of indignation, then worked to get herself back into a seated position. She blew a strand of hair out of her flushed face, sighed, and resigned herself to an undignified crossed leg position on the furs. She adjusted her dress over her legs appropriately. Her dress was long, almost brushing the ground when she stood and black with a red design embroidered along the hem and half-sleeves. Her hair was up in a bun, tied with a bright red ribbon, some strands left to fall naturally around her face. The dress had matching heels but her brother had talked her into black ankle boots, which she was glad the dress was long enough to hide.
Noticing that it was about sunset, the Princess poked her head out of the front covering of the coach and signaled to the guide. A moment later, the group had stopped, pulled over into a slight carved out area of the mountain just off the path. Two of the soldiers worked on tieing the horses to some nearby trees and giving them provisions. A third went off a distance to gather some fire wood and stones. The last stayed, helping Lucinda down out of the coach and then assisting the guide in putting up their tents. The princess of course would be sleeping in the coach as well but it was nice to stretch and take in the scenery, which is exactly what she did after making sure her hair and garments were in place. She thanked the soldier and turned to the guide. "How much longer until we reach the castle, sir?" she inquired of the guide, her tone polite and quiet. The older man thought for a moment, taking out a map and mumbling to himself before looking back to her. "About 3 days travel, your highness, provided we have no significant delays. Not counting nights, of course. The gorge is too dangerous to travel at night," he answered and she nodded, looking out into the darkness beyond their camp.
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Post by Deleted on May 24, 2015 3:05:00 GMT
Finn's ass hurt. It hadn't started out that way, but after four days in the saddle Finn found he could no longer totally ignore the pain. He adjusted uncomfortably in his saddle, This is why I hate new saddles, what's wrong the the good softened leather of my old gear. He grumbles to himself as he continues to bounce along the trail, each contact with the hard saddle shot a bolt of pain up into his brain.
Finn was being escorted by a quarter company, 25 armed soldiers, dressed in chain mail and following him with the purpose and wariness that Finn himself did not particularly seem to share. Fin was riding on the back of a gray gelding, his actual war horse would be brought to the capital later on, but there was no need to restrict his frisky companion to the city for longer than he needed it.
Fin wore a shirt of creamy satin that seemed almost loose on his trim and muscular frame, the shirt seemed to catch the sunlight a glisten slightly. His shoulder length brown hair was tied back into a ponytail and his pants were made of a fine wool died brown. At his belt hung a large horn full of his own special alcoholic cocktail and short sword. A large broadsword with a plethora of inscriptions and runic carvings was being carried across his back, and Finn trotted forward with slightly slumped, relaxed posture of someone who was used to the sadle.
As he advanced he noticed another group stopped on the road, cupping his hands to his mouth he calls out. “A'hoy there, my name is Finn Talrin, one of Teair's Dukes and son of Fergus!” he calls over as he trots the gelding towards the unexpected travelers. “I wish to parlay and exchanges some goods, unfortunately we brought little in the way of food but hard tack and basics, but I would love some fresher food.” He admits as he takes a bottle of red Talrin wine from a case, an excellent vintage as well and begins to walk towards the group.
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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 24, 2015 3:29:22 GMT
The soldiers all tensed as the sound of horses approached. One of them ushered Lucinda back into the wagon. She wasn't happy about it, but it was beneath her to protest as they were only doing their job. Besides, she could still peek through the covering without being obvious about it.
Luci watched as the company came to halt. And it was a company. 5,10,15,20,25...my goodness,she counted quickly, impressed and feeling somewhat foolish. She could hear the lead man announce himself as a Duke. A duke had 25 armed men escorting him and her, a princess, had only allowed 4? She shook her head at herself. She could see her soldiers whisper amongst each other before nodding and one was sent to help her out of the coach. He also pulled out their trunk of provisions. The guide set about digging about in said trunk, muttering to himself.
In the meantime, Lucinda came around from the back of the coach and gave the young duke a curtsy. "Duke Talrin, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Princess Lucinda of Palico. We would love to have you and your company join us, if you are bound for the castle as well, she said in greeting, her tone polite and ringing like bells through the evening air. She gestured at the trunk, an apologetic look on her face. "I'm afraid we don't have much in the way of provisions either, your lordship, but we are happy to share what we do have. Perhaps between us we can come up with something more suitable," she offered politely, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear and clasping her hands in front of her.
A moment later, her guide came up and whispered something to her and she nodded, giving him a gesture to go ahead. "What are you and your men's feelings about a stew?" We might have to get creative for bowls and utensils, though, I'm afraid," Lucinda asked, looking expectantly at the duke before her.
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Post by Deleted on May 24, 2015 13:23:28 GMT
Finn watches at the soldiers fuss about putting someone into the back of the carriage and gathering around it. Good soldiers at least, they did not flee despite the much larger force.He thought to himself taking stock of each man. They seemed sharper than he expected for some random noble's body guard, and whoever this was must not be that high ranked, if they were they'd have a bigger escort.
Finn found himself thinking back to the time his majesty had visited their duchy. Ahh~ what a grand sight that had been, two full companies for an escort, dozens of supply wagons, and a mobile pavilion. As boy Finn had though it was the most ostentatious display he would ever witness...he certainly had been naive.
He leans down in his saddle to get a better look at the person who they went to retrieve. He blinks several times as Lucinda steps out of the carriage and feel his cheeks light up slightly, though this was mostly obscured by his bread, proving once again a well maintained beard was a noble's greatest ally.
We certainly did not have any women like this back in the duchy...well Sheila...maybe. He finds himself thinking and then once again he was grateful for his sister sending him to the capital. This will be interesting.
As the girl approaches him Finn swings out of his saddle landing in a stiff posture and feeling every muscle in his legs simultaneously scream out in pain. After a bit of a wince Finn gingerly straightens out and gives Lucinda a bright smile showing a mouth full of surprisingly white teeth.
However when the girl announces herself as a foreign princess Finn's lax manner immediately straightens and he gestures to his men causing all of them to swing out of their saddles. Several of them managing to land with most grace and straighten quicker than Finn himself. As they do this Finn bows his head and drops to one knee.
“It is an honor to meet you your majesty. I am Finn Talrin, Duke of Northern Reaches and First Sword of the Legion of the Hawk.” Finn introduces in a formal tone. “These are twenty-five of the finest men of my legion, and if you would so do me the honor of allowing us to accompany you the rest of the way to the castle.”
When the princess mentions the stew he nods his head and turns to his men, smiling but with command in his voice. “Alright the five best trackers go out and bring back some game! We must show the Princess Teair's hospitality.”
Several of the men grin while they pick out the best trackers and hunters of the group. They hadn't had leave to hunt since this ride had begun and frankly most of them were excited by the idea of a hot fresh meal.
Talrin bows again to Lucinda and goes back to their supply wagon, replacing the bottle of wine with a case of much finer vintage. He also brings several mess kits and some tin mugs with him. “I apologize for only having simple tin utensils and cups, crystal is a bi-I mean takes too much space to transport.”
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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 24, 2015 15:10:08 GMT
Lucinda watched as the duke jumped down from his horse, noting the obvious pain he seemed to be in. She thought he must have been riding a long time that way to be that sore, since he was too young to have any other reason for such pain. He smiled at her though, in spite of it and she smiled back. Though his demeanor changed abruptly as he heard her introduction and she flushed as he and his men all bowed. She knew it was common and respectful, she was a princess after all. Still, this was such an informal setting.
“Rise, please. All of you. I accept your offer and grant you this honor,” she said quietly, pausing and then dropping into a more informal tone, “I do appreciate your respect, but this is no place for such decorum. I’d rather not the whole of the gorge know what I am. There might be vandals about,” she said, slightly flustered but still keeping her posture. Her statements making it clear why her accompaniment was so small compared to that of most traveling royals. “I hope you won’t think any less of me, mi’lord,” she added.
The princess smiled as he ordered some of his men to go hunting, one of hers looking mildly interested and she nodded discreetly for him to go as well. “Bring back plenty of water with you,” she added, after a moment’s thought.
As Finn brought her attention back with his apology, she smiled, waving a hand in a dismissive gesture. “Don’t apologize for such a thing! We’re in the middle of Manna Gorge, after all. Such things are to be expected. My company only has tin utensils as well. Crystal is for the palace, not the woods,” she said, laughing.
Her other soldiers were busy continuing to set up the camp as the guide brought out their big cooking pot and arranged it to hang over the fire pit. “What brings you through this part of the world, your lordship?” Lucinda asked, settling down on a rather large log that one of her soldiers had split for seating. She offered one to the duke. “It’s a bit rough, but it’s better than the ground,” she said kindly, though she didn’t expect him to take it after being so sore.
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Post by Deleted on May 26, 2015 1:28:09 GMT
As Lucinda asks him to rise Finn promptly gets to his feet. His men follow his example a few moments after showing due courtesy to their leader. As Lucinda explains her reason Finn's eyes widen slightly and he seems to consider his words before speaking. He wanted to ask why a lone cart with a few guards was less likely to be attacked by bandits than a royal procession with dozens, but this was neither the time nor the place to bring up such questions, and besides now that his group was with her they would likely be a larger force than any bandit group in the area.
When Lucinda says she hoped that he would not think less of her he shook his head and said. “Of course not your highness, one's procession is not the thing that defines a noble, it is their poise and bearing.”
He bows again “both of which are apparent with you your majesty.” He says, not that he had seen the girl it was clear she as not a simple noble, and he regretted not being more careful before their encounter. Several of his men look at him when she calls to bring water and Finn nods causing a few more of the men to go off to fetch water.
When Lucinda sits down and pats the log for him to sit as well he walks over and sits down gingerly. A brief flash of discomfort crosses his face, though more from a sore rear end than anything else and she smiles again at Lucinda. He found he liked the girls more relaxed down to earth demeanor and wondered if the king would also be like this. Though Finn was careful not to stare at the beautiful woman.
I've heard the men say not staring is impolite, and indeed Finn had found on campaign that an appreciative stare in a tavern could net a fellow some goodwill. I cannot imagine that would be proper for a lady of such high bearing though. Finn decides, realizing this was the first time since he had become Arch-Duke that he had interacted with someone of a higher station than himself.
No wonder I am nervous. He decides though as she looks at him expectantly he realizes that she was waiting for him to answer her question. “Ahh~ yes, why I am here. Well...”
Finn clears his throat and glances at the men, several of whom were grinning at him which caused Finn's cheeks to heat up slightly. Maybe bringing men I was this familiar with was not a good idea. He wondered though did not want to delay his answer any longer.
“Well your majesty, I am coming to the city after a brief scuffle, I had heard that there were dangerous people in the area and my men and I thought that dealing with the troublemakers would be a good way to begin our time in the King's court. However we have not run into anything but a few small groups of bandits...and you of course.” He says and then looking up at her again finds himself asking.
“Your majesty, if you are trying to be incognito then what would you like me to call you?” He asks hoping he was not offending her grace.
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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 26, 2015 2:27:48 GMT
Lucinda blushed lightly at the duke's remark. "Of course, I didn't mean to imply that a procession could do such a thing, forgive me," she said quickly, worried she'd made a fool of herself. Surprise crossed her face as he took her offer to sit, though she noted his discomfort. This close he looked even more handsome, the beard suiting him very well though not hiding the flush his men caused. She looked at him curiously, wondering what that was about but not asking as it would be rude.
Instead, she listened as he answered as her question. "We also heard about the dangers but we haven't run into anyone else, thank the gods. Except you of course, which is either a stroke of good luck or a blessing," she said, a thoughtful look on her face. As they talked, her men came back with water and some plants, which she assumed were either herbs or wild vegetables deemed safe for the stew. The guide started the broth and after a while it began to smell pretty good. Now all they needed was some meat.
His next question took off guard and she looked at him, surprised but then she smiled. "That's a good idea and I hadn't even thought to perhaps introduce myself that way instead," she said, blushing at her own stupidity. "My family usually calls me Luci. That would be acceptable," she answered, her tone sounding pleased.
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Post by Deleted on May 27, 2015 23:11:40 GMT
Finn blinked at Lucinda's apology. She does that a lot huh? He finds himself wondering. Most nobles he had met were very reticent to make a genuine apology since actual admittance of fault was something that tended to lose one status in the social setting of nobility, or so he had been told.
Finn noted her curious look and decided waved his hand at the men. “You see your majesty, it appears that I have made a foolish decision in bringing men who don't know when and when not to make jokes at their commander's expense.” He explains, shooting a glare at his men who had all suddenly become very interested in brushing down their horses, or maintaining their weapons.
Finn finds he cannot help but smile at the men's reaction. He supposed this was the actual reason he'd brought them along, nothing quite like camaraderie on a journey. As her men and his come back with water Finn pops open the wine bottle he'd brought over and poured a bit of it into two tin cups, actually giving Lucinda slightly more. “I would like to finish the bottle with you in circumstances were different, but unfortunately I would be a poor commander if I got fall down drunk in a place like this.”
Then holding the cup out her her he nods “that being said nothing to say I share a bit with a foreign monarch.”
He smiles as raises his cup to clink as if in a toast. “Well then, to new friends.” He a toasts “Lady Luci.”
As he takes a sip his men return with what appeared to be some kind of boar. “Well then boys, put it on the fire and let's enjoy our first hot meal in a long time.” He says expectantly.
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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 28, 2015 0:17:51 GMT
Lucinda mentally kicked herself as she stared at the fire. Openly apologizing so freely was very uncharacteristic of any noble, despite the fact that it was in her nature. She reminded herself that etiquette took priority over nature. It's just the way things were supposed to be. Looking back to Finn, she couldn't help but smile and then laugh as he explained what was going on, noting his men's reactions as well. "Aah I see. It's good to have some humor and men you can count on out here on a trip like this," she commented lightly. The men she had with her were just some random soldiers from Palico whom she had no connection to. Likewise for the guide. Her trip had been long and mostly silent, completely joyless aside from the occasional movement of her egg responding to the loose manna in the gorge. Finn's company then was more than welcome.
Lucinda smiled warmly when he handed her the tin of wine. "Thank you, Duke Talrin," she said politely, nodding as he made the statement about not being a good commander if he was drunk. She raised her cup with his for the toast, "To new friends," she agreed, taking a sip. Her eyes lit up as the liquid warmed her center, enjoying the the vintage. "This is very good wine, sir," she complimented, assuming it was from his dukedom.
Her enjoyment of the wine was interrupted briefly by the arrival of a boar his men had killed and she looked surprised to see it. "That is a fine boar and will be a great edition to the stew. Thank you, Duke Talrin, and your men as well for their efforts," she said graciously.
Her guide and men helped to prepare the boar as well. After a span of time, it was ready and some of the meat was cut off to add in the pot. The guide gave it a stir and then dished out bowls for herself and the duke, offering them to the two royals with a bow. The soldiers were left, and encouraged, to serve themselves. Lucinda accepted her bowl, thanking the guide, and stirred it. She waited politely for everyone to have a bowl before taking a bite. "This is actually pretty good," she said, somewhat surprised considering the current situation.
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Post by Deleted on May 28, 2015 21:52:06 GMT
Finn nods as she mentions how it must be good to travel with reliable and friendly companions. He looks out over his men and takes a swig of his drink and contemplates this fact. “Yeah...yeah I think it is good.” He acknowledges with a bemused smile. As the guide bustles around preparing things he raises his cup to the man and asks. “You there, what is your name?”
He nods after hearing the man's reply that his name was Reuben and then turns to Lucinda who complements the wine. His chest puffs up a bit. “The Reaches have the finest vineyards in all of Teair is not the world. I would give you some of our snow fruit wine, but unfortunately that must be served cold or it is not as good. That being said this is a fine vintage from my personal blood berry vineyard.” He explains looking upon the bottle with pride. In truth this one had actually been made and aged by his father, but the vineyard was his now.
“I will be hosting a banquet about a week after I arrive, and I would be honored if you would attend.” He says making a small formal bow to the princess before straightening again and waiting for her to answer.
After she does the food seems to get served and Finn smiles and cracks a few jokes with the men who come to get food. “Well then, everyone gather around.” He calls then hands the bottle of wine to the next man over and nods. It took two bottles but each man got a taste of the excellent wine, and Lucinda would find her cup refilled, though with a smaller portion and the bottle in easy reach to allow her to finish it without needing to drink too much.
Finn eats hungrily and a satisfied smile appears across his face. “This is quite good, so Sir Reuben, tell me a bit about yourself, if we are to be traveling together we should venture to learn about each other.” Finn's manners slip a bit as he reaches into his soup and takes a piece of boar then puts it into his mouth.
Realizing what he had done Finn straightens a bit and carefully uses the spoon to cover his previous lack of manners.
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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 28, 2015 22:55:41 GMT
Lucinda listened as he told her some of the wine's heritage and she smiled, looking impressed. "We're not known for our wine in Palico. This is actually one of the best I've had, sir," she commented, taking another sip and finishing off the delicious beverage.
As he informed her of the banquet and asked her attendance, the princess grinned. "It would be my pleasure to attend," she answered politely, though it was obvious that she was already looking forward to it. Lucinda loved any kind of party or get together and having one so soon after her arrival would be a wonderful way to meet some more of the nobles.
Lucinda opted to finish her meal in silence, content to listen to the chatter of the men. She quietly thanked whoever refilled her glass the second time, but declined a third. This was actually kind of nice. Easily the best night she'd had since they'd left Palico and that was days ago. She wouldn't mind adding 'camping' to her list of hobbies if it wasn't so unsafe and messy.
She watched as Finn ate and talked with her guide. Sir Rueben told him about his family and job back in Palico, how surprised he was to get this assignment, and how he couldn't wait to get back, no offense to her majesty of course. Lucinda laughed as Finn worked to cover his slip in manners, the tone light as silver bells. It amused her that he had dropped them, even only briefly, in such company as this. Though she had been the one to point out the informal circumstances first. A faint rattle came from inside the coach and the princess smiled. It was a very nice night and to top it off, they'd be in the capitol in a few days. "How long do you think we have left until we reach the city?" she questioned Finn, careful not to interrupt the conversation.
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Post by Deleted on May 29, 2015 16:00:03 GMT
Garza sat quietly on his horse, a mantle draped over his broad shoulders, covering most of his frame. He tried to stay upright and steady in the saddle with his legs firmly set in the stirrup. He also did his best to hide his displeasure from the five men from his unit that he had brought along for the trip. The large man hated riding on a horse. He felt out of balance on the beast, and his feet were not grounded for him to defend himself. Still, it was a necessary evil; he needed the speed the mounts provided to reach the gorge as quickly as possible. He knew the dangers of this place, as well, having tracked and hunted many fugitives and bandits in these lands. His men were equally vigilant, and had been chosen for their trustworthiness personally by Garza. Two were seasoned magic users, one an archer, and the other two were adept footman, all proven warriors. He noticed they were on edge as well, and uncomfortable with the environment. "Good." he thought. Pretty as the scenery was to look at, he knew it could kill unwary travelers. It was better that they were uncomfortable and alive them complacent and dead men walking. And that was just the journey. He still had to find the Princess and escort her safely to the castle.
The large boxer would not have to wait long. Upon reaching a certain part of the path, he looked down and noticed obvious markings. He frowned with concern. It was evidence that a large group, around twenty to thirty men, had passed through not long ago. He had heard that the Princess' guard was small, even hearing the words token force being used. His men looked similarly concerned. He whipped his horse into full gear, his men following as they galloped behind him. It was not long before he saw the camp....and took a sharp intake of breath. They flew a banner for one of the noble houses, and the soldiers seemed to stand on their own well enough. Garza had served long enough in the military to know the stances and demeanor of soldiers. Still, he could not take chances. He dismounted on his own, shedding the mantle. His men stayed mounted, tensed and ready for action, despite the overwhelming numbers in front of them. Garza's uniform was clearly on display, a black military tunic with a chain vest, with the clear emblem of his military police unit, and standing as a Mage Guard officer. He saluted at the edge of camp, his feet clamped together as he put a clenched right fist over his heart in a firm salute, standing up straight, his metal gauntlets shining in the moonlight.
"Forgive the intrusion. I am Mage Guard Lieutenant Anthony Garza, leader of the Blood Hounds division. My men and I were scouting the area when we noticed your camp. Have you seen anything or anyone out of the ordinary?"
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Post by Deleted on May 30, 2015 22:53:35 GMT
Finn puffs up with pride at the complement to his wine, after all it was what his duchy was famous for. His pleased smile widens even further when she accepts his invitation to his banquet. I hope Sheila sent someone who knows how to plan formal events to the manor. He thinks to himself realizing he had no idea how to throw a party for nobles on his own. He continues to smile as he half listens to the story from Rueben. Though he sneaks a glance at Lucinda as the story is being told.
If even a quarter of the nobles I meet here are half the woman Princess Noru appears to be then I am not sure if my heart will take the banquet. He realizes, and then tries to put the thought from his mind. They might have hit it off, but the Princess was just that, a Princess, and if she was not already betrothed then every noble in Nova was probably beating down her door to change the fact.
Finn feels his cheeks heat up as Lucinda laughs in amusement at his mistake, and he shoots a glare at several of his men who's shit eating grins were clearly directed at him. He raises his wine cup to drink before realizing it was empty and placing it down again. “Well if I had to guess, I would say it will probably be another two or three days to the city depending on the pace we set and if we run into trouble.
Then as if summoned one of the men who was not part of the original 25 runs over to the group and drops to one knee. “Arch-Duke Talrin! Several riders are coming, they are about a minute out.” The man wore leather armor as opposed to the chainmail or breast plate of the other soldiers and he had a bow slung along it back, he appeared to be a scout.
Finn and his men immediately grabbed their blade which had all been kept within easy reach and the men get to their feet. As Garza approaches they form into 4 lines of 5 soldiers setting up a defense facing each of the four cardinal directions. The men's hard eyes bespoke the cool professionalism of well trained soldiers. The final group of 6 men form up on Finn and Lucinda facing outwards to protect them from attack.
As Finn hears Garza speak though his face lightens up and he raises a hand indicating that his men should stand down. With a delighted laugh Finn walks over to Garza with a fluid and languid stride, Garza would probably recognize the walk as Striped Coat's Saunter a style of movement where the walker stayed on the balls of their feet and rested a hand on their sword. It was used when one needed to remain vigilant for potential attacks, but could not carry a bare blade.
As he reaches the man Finn brought his feet together and placed his right fist over his heart. “Arch-Duke of the Northern Reaches Finn Talrin, First Sword of the Legion of the Hawk. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Finn says relaxing his posture. Finn had heard of this man when he had come to the palace in his youth to receive training from the King's Master of Arms. He was one of the King's “guard hounds,” or at least that's what many nobles called him and Roland.
“I have not heard of the Mage Guard Lieutenant, last I heard the Blood Hounds were a wing of the Royal Guard, has something changed?” Finn asks, his eyes scanning over the big man. He shot a glance over his shoulder to Lucinda and took a deep breath.
“I have not seen anything strange on the road my good man. We happened upon Lady Luci and she has graciously accepted our offer to escort her to the palace.” Finn's manner lacked some of the pomp and dignity that many of his ranked carried themselves with, but in its place was an absolute assurance and confidence that had not been there when he had talked with Lucinda. He stared directly into Garza's eyes and then motioned to the bowl and the matts and logs the man had been sitting on.
“If you and your men have not eaten, would you like to join us for a meal before we turn in for the night?” He asks making it clear that it was a question and that not offense would be taken regardless of whether Garza decided to join them or not.
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Posts: 266
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Human
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Heterosexual
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Single
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Princess of Palico
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Crypt Resident
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Post by Lucinda Noru on May 31, 2015 0:17:14 GMT
Lucinda was enjoying her meal and the wine, which seemed to pair pretty decently. Smiling as she noticed the duke's blush, half hidden behind his beard and the coming darkness. She found herself thinking that his company was rather enjoyable, including his camaraderie with his men. It was nothing like the mostly quiet castle she was used to. She nodded at his estimate of the time, frowning a bit. "I was afraid of that, honestly," she admitted, clearly dreading the thought of continuing the journey much longer.
Their not so cozy evening was soon interrupted as one of the duke's men, a scout she supposed by the looks of him, came running with a warning. She tensed, but there was no time to climb back into the coach as Finn and his men quickly took positions against the approaching party. As Garza introduced himself though, she breathed a sigh of relief. She didn't know much about the Mage Guard either but at least he was from the palace, so he was friendly.
As Finn introduced himself though, Lucinda gasped slightly. Arch-Duke? That was a lot higher up the rankings than she thought. Surely though, he'd be betrothed. He was young, capable, handsome. Shaking her head, she stood and moved forward. "Lieutenant Garza? It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Lady Luci, of Palico. Please, join us. There's plenty to go around," she said politely, managing to introduce herself and offer dinner. She held herself in a posture appropriate to her position and raising.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 2, 2015 7:00:36 GMT
Garza managed to relax some of the tension he felt at the meeting, though his face did betray a bit of surprise when he heard Finn's name and title. He'd heard stories of the man; he was an unconventional tactician, loved by the common folk for his demeanor. He did not know what to think of that, being an upright soldier of the law, a war dog of sorts, but he knew that Finn was an ally. He raised his left hand in a fist to signal the "all safe, all clear" signal to his men, the half shield symbol on his metal gauntlets reflecting off the moonlight. His men breathed sighs of relief as they dismounted and lead their beasts over to the group, smiling. No doubt they were glad to be in a large company; scouting with small numbers in the Gorge was dangerous work, even with Garza in their company. He did not blame them, though he did not share the same relief. He would not be satisfied until the Princess was within the castle walls.
Garza's attention turned back to addressing Finn. "I've heard stories, of you, Lord Talrin. Reckless, but brave. You do your country proud in battle." Garza's compliment was genuine, even if it sounded back handed. He was not one to mince words or use fluffy speeches to cater to the nobles. He did give a wry smile, however, when Finn asked about the Mage Guard. "The Mage Guard, for all intents and purposes, IS the Royal Guard. It was formed recently to help....contain the Fated problem, particularly rogue elements. The Blood Hounds were highly requested for the unit." The Blood Hounds were well known to those familiar with the military structure at the palace, a military police unit that specialzed in posses and tracking down and arresting criminals of high profiles. Garza spoke with pride when he talked about the unit itself, but there was a small tone of displeasure in his voice when he referred to the Fated hunt.
His mind was taken away from that thought when Lady Lucinda was introduced, both by Finn and herself when she offered a place by the camp. He immedietly dropped to one knee, his right fist touching the ground as he bowed his head. His men followed suit almost in sync. He felt a little more relieved that she was here; now he could complete his job. He spoke to her, but did not raise his head, as he had not been instructed. "Your Highness. It is good to see you safe. This is a dangerous territory to travel. Truth be told, we were ordered by Sir Roland to be your escort and bodyguards for the remainder of your trip. If you will allow us, we shall closely guard your wagon and person until we reach the castle."
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