Sitting in a chair in front of the fireplace in Mistyvale Inn, Ysberin was staring at the flickering flames with blank eyes, troubled and worried. He was lost in his thoughts, thinking about who he was, what he had done.
I remember back when I was a young lad, on the family farm, located along the road from Dasar to Corda. Living was harsh, but yet so simple. I didn't have to worry about anything beside if I would find myself a wife, having my own farm someday, and eventually children too, just like my father did before me. I had only eyes for Fiona, the daughter of the landlord closest to ours. She was a fine girl, beautiful in her own rights, but more importantly, she was so kind. She had so much love for her brothers and sisters, for the animals on their farm. I was in love, but I was a shy lad back then, and I didn't dare to tell her my feelings.
Some years laters, when I turned nineteen, my father was pushing me to find a wife, as we were many living on the farm, and I was his older son. I had to make him proud and have my own land. I had wooed Fiona a bit, but I had so much respect for her, I didn't want to offend her, and some other men were also looking to have her as their own. Would she choose me over them if I have the courage to tell how I felt for her all these years? Mother said she liked me a lot, but why couldn't I see it? I had to have faith in mother's words.. mothers always know about these things. But we weren't rich unlike some of her pretenders, would her father accept if she'd choose me? I had my doubts...
Nearing my twentieth year, I had to take the risk, I had to take my courage with both hands and ask her. We had the habit to flee together to the river, watching the sun and the wilderness, chatting and laughing together. She had refused the other men so far, and she kept coming to see me, as much as I did go to see her. Was this a sign? I had written song for her, to express my feelings, and I had the intention to sing it to her, at our spot near the river. Perhaps she'd laugh at me, or would she accept my love? There was one way to know.
We were there, by the river and she was sitting on that big rock, holding her
curled up legs with her arms, her chin on her knees, watching me with her beautiful smile. She did that a lot in our last meetings here. I thought it was about time I'd tell her. When i told her I had written something for her, and that I wanted to sing it to her, I remember her eyes brightened. I had never seen such wonderful eyes before. My hands were shaking as she kept staring at me, as her smile was widening, my heart pouding in my chest like a hammer on an anvil. I cleared my throat, glanced quickly at the sunset, and began to sing awkwardly.
If you didn't exist,
Please tell me why would I?
To roam in a world without you,
Without hope and regrets.
If you didn't exist,
I'd try to invent love like a painter,
That sees under his fingers the birth of colors,
And that can't believe it.
If you didn't exist,
I would simply be another dot,
In this world that comes and goes.
I would feel lost, because I need you.
If you didn't exist.
I could try to be myself,
But I wouldn't be true,
Without you by my side.
If you didn't exist,
I'd have search for the secret of life,
To simply create you,
And watch over you.
I remember how shameful I felt when I was done. My voice was trembling, and I found these words so badly written that I could have ran away in tears. But she didn't wince once, she listened to the end. She kept staring at me, her eyes wide opened. Did I have made a fool of myself in front the the woman I loved? What would be her reaction, why was she stunned? I looked down to the ground, certain that she would either start laughing, or would just go away, embarassed. But she stood up slowly, walked in my direction, and once she was close, I could see her watery eyes, yet bright like the sun. She wraped her arms around my neck and pressed her soft lips against mines, turning it into a soft and loving kiss. She told me she had waited this moment for years, and that she loved me from the bottom of her heart. For a moment, I couldn't believe it. Did she really tell me she loved me? When I realized I wasn't dreaming, I hugged her warmly, my own eyes getting watery, as I told her how much I loved her for all these years.
That very night, she came to my window, and told me that her father didn't approve our love, but that she didn't care what he thought. She wanted to be with me, and nothing would change that. She had gathered her most important things in a backpack that she was carrying with her. Then I understood then what she wanted. We were to flee together, and make our own life. I did the same, leaving a simple note to my desk that I had found the woman I loved and I was going to make my life elsewhere.
As he remembered these moments, a warm smile did grow on his lips, as he kept staring at the flames, undisturbed by the movements and noises of his surrounding.
As the moon was high and full in the sky, we left together on the dangerous road heading wherever our steps would guide us. We had brought enough material to be able to live more than a week in the wilderness. We walked for days, heading southwest. Utu must have had blessed us, for the sun was shining over our heads for all these days, and we had met no danger on the road. After almost a week, sharing the road together, I was a happy man. I was with her, with Fiona, the most wonderful woman I had ever met. Her smile was giving me hope, we would find our little place to live in peace.
The next day, we finally arrived to a small village, but the sight was gruesome. It had been brought to ruins, and long abandonned. I remember father once said there was a village to the south called Corda, but that probably no one would be living there anymore. We didn't take the risk to search the place thoroughfully, since the sight was disturbing. We left to the southeast, making distance between us and this village. Another day had passed, and when the sun did rise, it was as if the Sun Lord had guided our steps: we had camped in a wide and beautiful natural field, with trees sparsed here and there. Fiona looked at me and said she'd want to live here with me forever. It was indeed a wonderful place, and I couldn't do anything else but agree. We had little ressources and food left, so it was the moment to settle.
As Fiona was gathering what she could to feed us, and gathered water from a nearby stream, I was slowly but surely building a small house for us, where we could take cover and warm ourselves. We wanted to have a family, cultivate the land, have our own little haven where we could be happy together, forever. We would have to work hard, but we were determinated to do it. After days for work, Fiona had found enough for us to survive for a while, and the house was finally built. We would have a roof over us that night. Exhausted, we cuddled in our new home, after feeding ourselves properly. And that night, Fiona honored me, gave me a taste of herself, as we made love together, sharing this love we had for each other all these years, but that none of us had told to the other...
To these last thoughts, even though it had been a happy moment of his life, he couldn't hold his tears, bringing his hands to his face.
((continues below))
Ysberin - Of love and sorrow
-
Asgaroth
- Commoner
- Posts: 45
- Joined: Mon Jul 19, 2010 12:24 am
- Main Player Character: Ysberin Vaughan
- Other PCs: Kalyndra, Velvana, Gabrielle Dawnstar, Maria Samavati, Eleanore Nuleivra, Providence Az-Kalla
- Location: Québec!
Ysberin - Of love and sorrow (part 2)
After a moment, he lifted his eyes back at the flames, as their forms were reflecting into his eyes.
Everyday, we were slowly making of this place what we both had dreamed of: a peaceful haven, with our field and some wild animals that Fiona could tame, as she had a way with them like no other could. I had brought with me some grains to be able to grow wheat and vegetables. Everyday, I was praying to the Guiding Light for His warm embrace, so that the crop could grow, and his mercy would allow a day or two of rain so they could be fed. As months passed, we had been able to have a proper land. But also, Fiona had got pregnant and we were going to have a child, another of our dream. We were ready now, as was our land, to welcome to life a newborn.
It was making nine months since we had established ourselves, and our baby was about to see the light. I remember how panicked I was when Fiona had her first contractions, because we were only the two of us, and no midwife would come to our help. Fortunately, my love was a strong woman and she had gone through the labor courageously. I felt helpless, and I probably was, as I was trying to comfort her awkwardly in the process. But when the child was born, I couldn't help but cry from joy, as Fiona had honored me with a beautiful baby girl. She was small, but healthy, and unlike most newborns that have a few platinum hair covering their skulls, ours had already red hair. Fiona decided to call her Farosa, a variant of "Hair of Fire" in the divine tongue. The name was fitting, and I was proud of her inspiration, so I could only agree with her choice.
We had a fine living, the three of us, the field and the garden were prosperous, the animals were productive, we lacked nothing and we were happy with our new life. And so were we for a second year since we had first arrived. But not all the Gods are like Utu and Ki, since this peace wouldn't last, as if we had brought jealousy into a malicious heart.
One night, Fiona had awaken, startled by a strange sound resonating into the silence of the night. She woke me up, worried. We kept silent for a moment, trying to perceive every sounds of our surrounding, but nothing could be heard beside the wind blowing outside. As we were getting ready to lay down again, a drum roll echoed into the night. Then again. It was slowly getting closer, louder. It was the war drum of the Vokks, a sound we learned to fear in the past, a fear taught and shared to every generations. This calamity had found us to disturb our peaceful lives.
Trying to keep my calm, I took a deep breath and led Fiona and Farosa to the small cellar we had dug over the two last years to keep our food reserves cool, I mistake I still regret deeply today. I was ready to protect my family, to sacrifice for their sake. I kissed Fiona lovingly, as if it was the last time we'd see each other, kiss Farosa's forehead, trying to comfort her that everything would be fine and that daddy would be back soon... I took in hand a makeshift hoe, blew out the candle's light after closing the trapdoor over my dear loves, and have gone outside to see what was going on.
Into the distance, a trail of torches were making a serpent-like shape, as if dozens of red eyes were staring at our house, ready to devour everything on their way. How many were they? I couldn't say. Walking into the field, holding the hoe firmly, I would hold them away and distract them from the house, now seemingly a dark spot in the night, as if it was only a big rock. I stood still there, thinking that perhaps they weren't so many, that I could stop them if my will was strong enough. But I was a fool to think so. Vokk orcs are not to be taken lightly, and I learned it the hard way. As I saw them come to me, I realized my foolish mistake: they were heading for the house all this time, and I had left my family in there. They were a dozen of the Vokk heading my way, and I had no military training. I would stand no chance against them, and their objective was fixed already. It was too late to have Fiona and Farosa flee to the north, they were now too close. The orcs surrounded me who was in simple clothes and having a hoe as my only weapon, and them, hardened warriors armed with large swords and axes. Speaking in a gutural language unknown to me, they walked around me, keeping there vicious eyes on my every moves. I tried to calm down and show no fear, as I knew my end was near, but my face was betraying my worries. They began to laugh altogether, their wardrummer playing even louder. I've gripped my hoe firmly and made the first strike, hitting the head of the orc in front of me. They stopped laughing, and the orc brought his hand to his face, to see blood on his fingers. He let out an enraged scream and did thrust his sword into my stomach. I fell to the ground on my knees, bent from the pain. I can only remember they punched and kicked me afterward, until I fell unconscious in the field.
I am not certain what happened then. Perhaps I died. I most likely did. I was alone in the dark, in a wide and empty surrounding. I was trying to speak, but it was as if my voice was getting lost into the darkness, never to be heard. I tried to scream, call out for Fiona and Farosa, but silence was absolute. I was terrified, but even more worried for my family. I wanted to cry, but the tears wouldn't come out either. Why had I been such a fool? What did I think when I left them back in the house's cellar? Are they safe? Could they flee? Perhaps the Vokks didn't find them? My mind was filled with unanswered questions that were troubling me. Lost in nothingness, I was roaming, but yet never felt like I was going anywhere.
As I was going to lose hope, I started to pray. If I couldn't do anything, perhaps the Utu would hear my plea. I begged for his mercy, not for me, but for my beloved Fiona and Farosa. As I fell to my knees, tears finally came out. Then I heard a small voice behind me saying "Papa?". It couldn't be... My worst fear had become true. It was the same voice, the same word, that Farosa had said first a year back. I slowly turned to look behind me, hoping it was only a demon's trick, taking her voice to torture me. But I've seen her. It was my baby girl Farosa. I hugged her tightly, tears rolling down my cheeks. She patted by back gently and said "Why you cry, Papa?". I couldn't hold my tears, as I kept telling how sorry I was that I couldn't keep my promise to her, that it was my fault if she was here too now. But she simply answered innocently that it was okay, and that I should go because I had a role to take back there, a task to complete. How could my little girl know this? Was it a trick, or did she receive illumination? She pointed behind me, bearing a warm little smile on her lips.
"Do you see the Light, Papa? He came for you." she said after a short moment of silence, still pointing in that direction. I looked behind me, to see a spot of light that seemed so far away, but yet we could feel its warmth. As I kept staring at its beauty, it suddenly seemed to move, yet difficult to perceive, until I've seen a beam of light pierce my chest, all too late to try to evade. I felt the Light fill me, warm me, hug me. The darkness started to fade away around me, as if this empty world was crumbling down to leave place to a new one. Everything became so bright that I was blinded for perhaps a few minutes, or perhaps an eternity, i couldn't say. The last thing I heard was her small voice again saying "I'll see you down there, Papa..."
((continues below))
Everyday, we were slowly making of this place what we both had dreamed of: a peaceful haven, with our field and some wild animals that Fiona could tame, as she had a way with them like no other could. I had brought with me some grains to be able to grow wheat and vegetables. Everyday, I was praying to the Guiding Light for His warm embrace, so that the crop could grow, and his mercy would allow a day or two of rain so they could be fed. As months passed, we had been able to have a proper land. But also, Fiona had got pregnant and we were going to have a child, another of our dream. We were ready now, as was our land, to welcome to life a newborn.
It was making nine months since we had established ourselves, and our baby was about to see the light. I remember how panicked I was when Fiona had her first contractions, because we were only the two of us, and no midwife would come to our help. Fortunately, my love was a strong woman and she had gone through the labor courageously. I felt helpless, and I probably was, as I was trying to comfort her awkwardly in the process. But when the child was born, I couldn't help but cry from joy, as Fiona had honored me with a beautiful baby girl. She was small, but healthy, and unlike most newborns that have a few platinum hair covering their skulls, ours had already red hair. Fiona decided to call her Farosa, a variant of "Hair of Fire" in the divine tongue. The name was fitting, and I was proud of her inspiration, so I could only agree with her choice.
We had a fine living, the three of us, the field and the garden were prosperous, the animals were productive, we lacked nothing and we were happy with our new life. And so were we for a second year since we had first arrived. But not all the Gods are like Utu and Ki, since this peace wouldn't last, as if we had brought jealousy into a malicious heart.
One night, Fiona had awaken, startled by a strange sound resonating into the silence of the night. She woke me up, worried. We kept silent for a moment, trying to perceive every sounds of our surrounding, but nothing could be heard beside the wind blowing outside. As we were getting ready to lay down again, a drum roll echoed into the night. Then again. It was slowly getting closer, louder. It was the war drum of the Vokks, a sound we learned to fear in the past, a fear taught and shared to every generations. This calamity had found us to disturb our peaceful lives.
Trying to keep my calm, I took a deep breath and led Fiona and Farosa to the small cellar we had dug over the two last years to keep our food reserves cool, I mistake I still regret deeply today. I was ready to protect my family, to sacrifice for their sake. I kissed Fiona lovingly, as if it was the last time we'd see each other, kiss Farosa's forehead, trying to comfort her that everything would be fine and that daddy would be back soon... I took in hand a makeshift hoe, blew out the candle's light after closing the trapdoor over my dear loves, and have gone outside to see what was going on.
Into the distance, a trail of torches were making a serpent-like shape, as if dozens of red eyes were staring at our house, ready to devour everything on their way. How many were they? I couldn't say. Walking into the field, holding the hoe firmly, I would hold them away and distract them from the house, now seemingly a dark spot in the night, as if it was only a big rock. I stood still there, thinking that perhaps they weren't so many, that I could stop them if my will was strong enough. But I was a fool to think so. Vokk orcs are not to be taken lightly, and I learned it the hard way. As I saw them come to me, I realized my foolish mistake: they were heading for the house all this time, and I had left my family in there. They were a dozen of the Vokk heading my way, and I had no military training. I would stand no chance against them, and their objective was fixed already. It was too late to have Fiona and Farosa flee to the north, they were now too close. The orcs surrounded me who was in simple clothes and having a hoe as my only weapon, and them, hardened warriors armed with large swords and axes. Speaking in a gutural language unknown to me, they walked around me, keeping there vicious eyes on my every moves. I tried to calm down and show no fear, as I knew my end was near, but my face was betraying my worries. They began to laugh altogether, their wardrummer playing even louder. I've gripped my hoe firmly and made the first strike, hitting the head of the orc in front of me. They stopped laughing, and the orc brought his hand to his face, to see blood on his fingers. He let out an enraged scream and did thrust his sword into my stomach. I fell to the ground on my knees, bent from the pain. I can only remember they punched and kicked me afterward, until I fell unconscious in the field.
I am not certain what happened then. Perhaps I died. I most likely did. I was alone in the dark, in a wide and empty surrounding. I was trying to speak, but it was as if my voice was getting lost into the darkness, never to be heard. I tried to scream, call out for Fiona and Farosa, but silence was absolute. I was terrified, but even more worried for my family. I wanted to cry, but the tears wouldn't come out either. Why had I been such a fool? What did I think when I left them back in the house's cellar? Are they safe? Could they flee? Perhaps the Vokks didn't find them? My mind was filled with unanswered questions that were troubling me. Lost in nothingness, I was roaming, but yet never felt like I was going anywhere.
As I was going to lose hope, I started to pray. If I couldn't do anything, perhaps the Utu would hear my plea. I begged for his mercy, not for me, but for my beloved Fiona and Farosa. As I fell to my knees, tears finally came out. Then I heard a small voice behind me saying "Papa?". It couldn't be... My worst fear had become true. It was the same voice, the same word, that Farosa had said first a year back. I slowly turned to look behind me, hoping it was only a demon's trick, taking her voice to torture me. But I've seen her. It was my baby girl Farosa. I hugged her tightly, tears rolling down my cheeks. She patted by back gently and said "Why you cry, Papa?". I couldn't hold my tears, as I kept telling how sorry I was that I couldn't keep my promise to her, that it was my fault if she was here too now. But she simply answered innocently that it was okay, and that I should go because I had a role to take back there, a task to complete. How could my little girl know this? Was it a trick, or did she receive illumination? She pointed behind me, bearing a warm little smile on her lips.
"Do you see the Light, Papa? He came for you." she said after a short moment of silence, still pointing in that direction. I looked behind me, to see a spot of light that seemed so far away, but yet we could feel its warmth. As I kept staring at its beauty, it suddenly seemed to move, yet difficult to perceive, until I've seen a beam of light pierce my chest, all too late to try to evade. I felt the Light fill me, warm me, hug me. The darkness started to fade away around me, as if this empty world was crumbling down to leave place to a new one. Everything became so bright that I was blinded for perhaps a few minutes, or perhaps an eternity, i couldn't say. The last thing I heard was her small voice again saying "I'll see you down there, Papa..."
((continues below))
-
Asgaroth
- Commoner
- Posts: 45
- Joined: Mon Jul 19, 2010 12:24 am
- Main Player Character: Ysberin Vaughan
- Other PCs: Kalyndra, Velvana, Gabrielle Dawnstar, Maria Samavati, Eleanore Nuleivra, Providence Az-Kalla
- Location: Québec!
Re: Ysberin - Of love and sorrow (part 3)
Taking a deep breath, his whole body trembling slightly from the rememberance of these events, Ysberin stood up a moment to order a glass of wine, before sitting back in front of the fireplace, where he sipped slowly at his wine's glass.
Her voice was still resonating in my mind, deep into my soul. What was the meaning of this? What was this horrible pain I felt in my heart and all over my body? I did feel so warm, and now suffering took over me... I was lying down in short grass, and the ground was warm. I opened my eyes slowly to see only ashes surrounding me, columns of smoke wavering up to the sky which they covered as a giant curtain filtering the sunlight. As I tried to move, I felt the intense pain again. This was proof enough that I was back among the living, but why me? Worried and troubled, I looked in the direction of my house, but I could see nothing. The smoke was too dense and wouldn't allow me to know the answers about my questions just yet.
Taking over the pain, I started to crawl in the hot ashes. I had to know. I had to reach my house and know the truth, although I had little hopes to find Fiona and Farosa still alive. The Vokks had completely burnt out my field, left me for dead.. or did they kill me? It's a possibility... I was still confused by what had happened. Burning my bare arms as I kept crawling, I did finally see it: the ruins of a burnt down house. I did let out a scream, one made of inner pain. Why did this happen? We were having a simple quiet life, disturbing no one, hurting no one.. why did this have to happen to us? Why did I have to see this? Tears started to roll down from my burning eyes as I slowly stood up, ignoring physical pain, for the one inside was far greater. Stumbling until I reached the ruins, I began to search the rubbles madly for the trapdoor to the cellar. When I finally found it, half broken, I slammed it open. The sight under my eyes was a gruesome one. I fell to my knees, my heart shattered...
His glass of wine slipped out of his hand and fell onto the ground to shatter into pieces. The noise of his surrounding stopped, as the people present at the inn turned their gazes at him. He brought his hands to his face to hide the flow of tears that now came out as the images of his past surfaced into his mind. Whispers started to fill the room, but Ysberin wouldn't hear them, lost in thoughts.
Before me were entwined the burnt bodies of Fiona and Farosa, curled over themselves. As the orcs had set fire to the house, they seemed to have stayed hidden until the very end, locked into the cellar when the roof started to crumble down and blocked their way out. The only thing that came to my mind and filled my soul was guilt, as I was the one who had doomed them to this painful and lingering death. I never wanted such a tragedy to happen, and yet I have been foolish enough to condemn them. I felt my heart being crushed inside of my chest from the pain as my only wish was to die and join them, but the overwhelming emotions tortured me so much that I lost consciousness beside my beloved family.
My mind wandered through the beautiful moments we had as a family, probably as a self-defense. But they made me realize that even if it didn't last forever, these moments were to be cherished. I was a lucky man to have been able to know such happiness. When these thoughts passed through my mind, I began to feel warm again. Something inside me was burning with a desire of vengence, but a strange but wonderful feeling was telling me that this would bring nothing more than anger, pain and tragedy. If I had been able to live though this, if I was giving this second chance, it was to prevent such things to happen again. They are what the feelings that filled me were telling me. It was not a voice, but only a warmth, soft and gentle, pure and loving. Suddently, I heard a small girl voice resonating into my mind again, the voice of Farosa: "Wake up, Papa... you slept for too long now."
When I woke up, my surrounding had changed. I was covered with pink petals and in place of my beloved Fiona stood a beautiful cherry blossom, over which the sun was shining in all of its splendor, piercing a hole through the thick clouds of smoke that were still floating over the field. At its base, a silvery sword was planted into the ground, which didn't seem to be affected by the red flames, red like my Farosa's hair, that were gently caressing the length of its blade. I stood there for hours, admiring the beauty of this new sight, as tears where sliding down my cheeks. But this time, they weren't tears of pain. I was filled with warmth, awed by the scenery, as if I could only see this, blind to the sad sight of the surrounding.
I had finally understood. There are things we can be certain when it's obvious, like love when it is openly shared. Some are more difficult to comprehend, yet still certain. But I had failed to realize the uncertainty of what is possible to come, as I had never thought such a tragedy to be possible, blind to the outside world. Now I knew. I would have much to learn and many ordeals to get through, but I would do all I could so people can know and experiment, one day, the happiness I had been granted for some years. if I had been spared, it had to have a purpose.
A voice in my mind took me out of my thoughts: "Bring me with you, Papa. Together we shall make of this world a better place..." This was part of what I had to realize. Was it really my daughter taking to me? Was she in my heart, in my soul? Or perhaps... I couldn't hold myself to stare at the red flames caressing the sword's blade. Could it be her? It was uncertain, but I'd have to go with it, accept and realize it. I brought my hand to the sword's handle, and pulled it out of the ground. It was so warm, so light, as it filled my heart with love. Was this sword my daugther, or not? This was a question that I wouldn't trouble myself with. I would simply believe it was her, as it was a comforting thought.
Now I had to go. I had much to see, and to learn. I looked behind me one last time at the cherry blossom with a heavy heart, before I began to walk to the north.
Ysberin did let out a deep sigh, but a faint smile had finally begun to draw upon his lips. As he noticed the broken glass at his feet, he gave a courteous nod to the people and cleaned up his mess, offering compensation with crowns to Roggins for the lost tableware.
((continues below))
Her voice was still resonating in my mind, deep into my soul. What was the meaning of this? What was this horrible pain I felt in my heart and all over my body? I did feel so warm, and now suffering took over me... I was lying down in short grass, and the ground was warm. I opened my eyes slowly to see only ashes surrounding me, columns of smoke wavering up to the sky which they covered as a giant curtain filtering the sunlight. As I tried to move, I felt the intense pain again. This was proof enough that I was back among the living, but why me? Worried and troubled, I looked in the direction of my house, but I could see nothing. The smoke was too dense and wouldn't allow me to know the answers about my questions just yet.
Taking over the pain, I started to crawl in the hot ashes. I had to know. I had to reach my house and know the truth, although I had little hopes to find Fiona and Farosa still alive. The Vokks had completely burnt out my field, left me for dead.. or did they kill me? It's a possibility... I was still confused by what had happened. Burning my bare arms as I kept crawling, I did finally see it: the ruins of a burnt down house. I did let out a scream, one made of inner pain. Why did this happen? We were having a simple quiet life, disturbing no one, hurting no one.. why did this have to happen to us? Why did I have to see this? Tears started to roll down from my burning eyes as I slowly stood up, ignoring physical pain, for the one inside was far greater. Stumbling until I reached the ruins, I began to search the rubbles madly for the trapdoor to the cellar. When I finally found it, half broken, I slammed it open. The sight under my eyes was a gruesome one. I fell to my knees, my heart shattered...
His glass of wine slipped out of his hand and fell onto the ground to shatter into pieces. The noise of his surrounding stopped, as the people present at the inn turned their gazes at him. He brought his hands to his face to hide the flow of tears that now came out as the images of his past surfaced into his mind. Whispers started to fill the room, but Ysberin wouldn't hear them, lost in thoughts.
Before me were entwined the burnt bodies of Fiona and Farosa, curled over themselves. As the orcs had set fire to the house, they seemed to have stayed hidden until the very end, locked into the cellar when the roof started to crumble down and blocked their way out. The only thing that came to my mind and filled my soul was guilt, as I was the one who had doomed them to this painful and lingering death. I never wanted such a tragedy to happen, and yet I have been foolish enough to condemn them. I felt my heart being crushed inside of my chest from the pain as my only wish was to die and join them, but the overwhelming emotions tortured me so much that I lost consciousness beside my beloved family.
My mind wandered through the beautiful moments we had as a family, probably as a self-defense. But they made me realize that even if it didn't last forever, these moments were to be cherished. I was a lucky man to have been able to know such happiness. When these thoughts passed through my mind, I began to feel warm again. Something inside me was burning with a desire of vengence, but a strange but wonderful feeling was telling me that this would bring nothing more than anger, pain and tragedy. If I had been able to live though this, if I was giving this second chance, it was to prevent such things to happen again. They are what the feelings that filled me were telling me. It was not a voice, but only a warmth, soft and gentle, pure and loving. Suddently, I heard a small girl voice resonating into my mind again, the voice of Farosa: "Wake up, Papa... you slept for too long now."
When I woke up, my surrounding had changed. I was covered with pink petals and in place of my beloved Fiona stood a beautiful cherry blossom, over which the sun was shining in all of its splendor, piercing a hole through the thick clouds of smoke that were still floating over the field. At its base, a silvery sword was planted into the ground, which didn't seem to be affected by the red flames, red like my Farosa's hair, that were gently caressing the length of its blade. I stood there for hours, admiring the beauty of this new sight, as tears where sliding down my cheeks. But this time, they weren't tears of pain. I was filled with warmth, awed by the scenery, as if I could only see this, blind to the sad sight of the surrounding.
I had finally understood. There are things we can be certain when it's obvious, like love when it is openly shared. Some are more difficult to comprehend, yet still certain. But I had failed to realize the uncertainty of what is possible to come, as I had never thought such a tragedy to be possible, blind to the outside world. Now I knew. I would have much to learn and many ordeals to get through, but I would do all I could so people can know and experiment, one day, the happiness I had been granted for some years. if I had been spared, it had to have a purpose.
A voice in my mind took me out of my thoughts: "Bring me with you, Papa. Together we shall make of this world a better place..." This was part of what I had to realize. Was it really my daughter taking to me? Was she in my heart, in my soul? Or perhaps... I couldn't hold myself to stare at the red flames caressing the sword's blade. Could it be her? It was uncertain, but I'd have to go with it, accept and realize it. I brought my hand to the sword's handle, and pulled it out of the ground. It was so warm, so light, as it filled my heart with love. Was this sword my daugther, or not? This was a question that I wouldn't trouble myself with. I would simply believe it was her, as it was a comforting thought.
Now I had to go. I had much to see, and to learn. I looked behind me one last time at the cherry blossom with a heavy heart, before I began to walk to the north.
Ysberin did let out a deep sigh, but a faint smile had finally begun to draw upon his lips. As he noticed the broken glass at his feet, he gave a courteous nod to the people and cleaned up his mess, offering compensation with crowns to Roggins for the lost tableware.
((continues below))
-
Asgaroth
- Commoner
- Posts: 45
- Joined: Mon Jul 19, 2010 12:24 am
- Main Player Character: Ysberin Vaughan
- Other PCs: Kalyndra, Velvana, Gabrielle Dawnstar, Maria Samavati, Eleanore Nuleivra, Providence Az-Kalla
- Location: Québec!
Re: Ysberin - Of love and sorrow (part 4)
Once done with cleaning up the mess he did, Ysberin sat to a table this time, taking out a silver medal on a chain, marked with a lion head over two crossed swords. It was a memento from his time with a band of mercenary he worked with for some years back in Solace. Rubbing its surface, he did get lost in thoughts once more.
After I had left behind what I'd consider the most beautiful days of my past, I met on my way north to Dasar a small band of mercenaries. They were about a dozen wearing silvery armors and shields, shining under the sun like knights. I was impressed by their sight, as I had never seen true warriors before. As they came across me, who was wearing dirty clothes and leather sandals, with, as my only possession, the fiery silver sword I had brought back with me, which I was pleased to believe was my daughter Farosa. Uncertain of my intentions, as I looked like a vagabond back then, they asked me where I was going like this, and where I came from. Who would believe what had happened back at my farm? I told them half the truth, but skipped the parts about my possible death and how I came to have this sword. The men seemed impressed, as they told be I had to be blessed to have survived an encounter with the Vokks. They kindly offered to escort me to Dasar, as they were heading to Solace themselves. I accepted their offer, but still unsure about their own intentions.
On the way north, they stopped to help people on the way, with different tasks, asking for little compensation for their work, most of time simply to be fed and have a place to rest for the night. Since I was with them, I asked to participate as well, as I didn't want to be a burden, or to be abusing their kindness. As we did help the folks, we had to fight from wolves to small raiding orc bands. As the weeks passed, I started to learn by watching them how to wield a sword properly. We were sharing stories during evenings, what made me realize many of them where also of humble lineages, but could become people on which others could count. They were called the Silver Lions, and seemed to be well-known in these parts, since they were welcomed like heroes wherever we stopped.
One evening, as we were setting up camp on the hills, we began to feel the earth shaking under our feet. This is when the captain told us to stay quiet and be prepared. According to him, these were the footsteps of hill giants and that we were in their territory. I was scared to death, as I had never met such creatures before. I could notice the men were also nervous since I had become friend with some of them on the way, one more than the others, who was named Lastair. I got closer to him, and asked if they were really going to stand and fight. He nodded to me with a kind smile, telling me to not worry, since it wasn't the first time they would encounter such foes. As little comfort as it could bring to me, I was still a bit relieved.
According to the band's scout, there were about three of them, coming our way. Every men stood still, holding a defensive stance, ready for when they would clash with the giants. Lastair told be to stay behind as they used to throw rocks before charging in. As he told me this, a rock fell between us, fortunately hitting no one. They were close, the battle would begin. The whole band charged, splitting in smaller groups so each of them could take on a giant. They were strong and made short work of them, but one of them was tougher and would still stand, and it was Lastair's group that had faced it. With a wide swing of a tree trunk, the giant did hit Lastair hardly as he was thrown away, badly wounded. In a momentum of courage, or rather, of foolishness, I rushed to the giant, jumped with my Flametongue in hand, as the men used to call it, and pierced the giant's chest, falling back with it to the ground. It was lying dead under my sword, and I was standing over it, still uncertain of what had just happened. The men looked at me, surprised, then cheered up for the victory. But I had now one thing in my mind: Lastair had been badly wounded, and we had to do something for him. Taking out my blade from the giant's chest, I ran to Lastair. He had started to cough blood, his state starting to aggravate. The only thing I could thought of was this warm light that once saved me from the darkness. I pressed my hand over his wound, my lips mumbling a prayer by themselves, and a halo of light started to glow around my hand. Lastair looked at me with wide eyes, but also with a relieved look on his face. The bleeding had stopped. I stood up and took a few steps back, staring at my own hand. Did it really save him? Remembering my own prayers, I had instinctively begged for Utu's mercy once more. And He did answer my plea again. The men surrounded me and cheered me up. Lastair made a smile to me, as I answered the same way.
The captain came to me later during the night, and asked if I'd be interested to join the band. He could have use for someone with courage and blessed by the Healing Dawn. I had nowhere to go, and I had promised to myself, to my daughter and to Utu that I would do everything I could to make this world a better place. Here was my chance, since the Silver Lions were a honest band of mercenary, with the same goals as mine. I accepted his offer, honored by his confidence. Captain Baelwyn was a tough man, but also had a generous heart. He granted me with the Silver Lions' armor and shield, and welcomed me into the band.
With them, I learned how to fight properly, and builded up courage to face adversity. Together, we have fought many battles to protect our lands, as I got closer to the Lord of Light with every day that was passing. Captain Baelwyn seemed invulnerable at time, as we would always fight to the front, but never get wounded, as if blessed by Marduk. That was until we fought against a raiding platoon of Vokk orcs led by one of their warlord, to protect a tiny nameless village on the road between Dasar and Solace. We have been victorious, but with a great loss. Captain Baelwyn did take one-on-one the warlord as we fought the others, as he was about to finish the orc when this one called upon a dark prayer and blasted the captain with lightning stikes. As anger took over us, we overwhelmed the orc and finished him, but it was too late: the captain was dead. We mourned his death that night, brought his body back to Solace, where we was born, and gave him a proper burial. Baelwyn had led the Silver Lions for over two decades with bravery and honor, that was the least we could do.
As the days passed after this, none of us had the lack of respect to take over leadership of the Silver Lions. The Captain was the founder, and none would be as fitting as he was. As such, we decided, as a whole, to disband the Silver Lions, in a way that people would remember their great deeds under Captain Baelwyn leadership. We vowed to perpetuate the mindset of the band, each on our own, and someday, that we would meet again to share our stories, or if in time of great need, to take arms again to fight together against the threat. And so we sealed this vow, with prayers, blood, and wine.
If it hadn't been for the Silver Lions, I would probably have ended dead, either from hunger or from the blade of a bandit. They have made of me the warrior I am now, and I am grateful to them. And when the time comes, I will uphold the vow I made with them, even if I have to travel thousands of miles. I was alone again, but with pride, honor and courage in my heart. From there, I began a new trek back to the south, making my way by foot and by ship, to a city called Cear.
Ysberin took the medal away, giving a look at his surrounding. Here we was now, in Cear, where he made wonderful encounters. He released a long sigh, but bearing a smile as he remembered these moments with the Silver Lions.
((continues below))
After I had left behind what I'd consider the most beautiful days of my past, I met on my way north to Dasar a small band of mercenaries. They were about a dozen wearing silvery armors and shields, shining under the sun like knights. I was impressed by their sight, as I had never seen true warriors before. As they came across me, who was wearing dirty clothes and leather sandals, with, as my only possession, the fiery silver sword I had brought back with me, which I was pleased to believe was my daughter Farosa. Uncertain of my intentions, as I looked like a vagabond back then, they asked me where I was going like this, and where I came from. Who would believe what had happened back at my farm? I told them half the truth, but skipped the parts about my possible death and how I came to have this sword. The men seemed impressed, as they told be I had to be blessed to have survived an encounter with the Vokks. They kindly offered to escort me to Dasar, as they were heading to Solace themselves. I accepted their offer, but still unsure about their own intentions.
On the way north, they stopped to help people on the way, with different tasks, asking for little compensation for their work, most of time simply to be fed and have a place to rest for the night. Since I was with them, I asked to participate as well, as I didn't want to be a burden, or to be abusing their kindness. As we did help the folks, we had to fight from wolves to small raiding orc bands. As the weeks passed, I started to learn by watching them how to wield a sword properly. We were sharing stories during evenings, what made me realize many of them where also of humble lineages, but could become people on which others could count. They were called the Silver Lions, and seemed to be well-known in these parts, since they were welcomed like heroes wherever we stopped.
One evening, as we were setting up camp on the hills, we began to feel the earth shaking under our feet. This is when the captain told us to stay quiet and be prepared. According to him, these were the footsteps of hill giants and that we were in their territory. I was scared to death, as I had never met such creatures before. I could notice the men were also nervous since I had become friend with some of them on the way, one more than the others, who was named Lastair. I got closer to him, and asked if they were really going to stand and fight. He nodded to me with a kind smile, telling me to not worry, since it wasn't the first time they would encounter such foes. As little comfort as it could bring to me, I was still a bit relieved.
According to the band's scout, there were about three of them, coming our way. Every men stood still, holding a defensive stance, ready for when they would clash with the giants. Lastair told be to stay behind as they used to throw rocks before charging in. As he told me this, a rock fell between us, fortunately hitting no one. They were close, the battle would begin. The whole band charged, splitting in smaller groups so each of them could take on a giant. They were strong and made short work of them, but one of them was tougher and would still stand, and it was Lastair's group that had faced it. With a wide swing of a tree trunk, the giant did hit Lastair hardly as he was thrown away, badly wounded. In a momentum of courage, or rather, of foolishness, I rushed to the giant, jumped with my Flametongue in hand, as the men used to call it, and pierced the giant's chest, falling back with it to the ground. It was lying dead under my sword, and I was standing over it, still uncertain of what had just happened. The men looked at me, surprised, then cheered up for the victory. But I had now one thing in my mind: Lastair had been badly wounded, and we had to do something for him. Taking out my blade from the giant's chest, I ran to Lastair. He had started to cough blood, his state starting to aggravate. The only thing I could thought of was this warm light that once saved me from the darkness. I pressed my hand over his wound, my lips mumbling a prayer by themselves, and a halo of light started to glow around my hand. Lastair looked at me with wide eyes, but also with a relieved look on his face. The bleeding had stopped. I stood up and took a few steps back, staring at my own hand. Did it really save him? Remembering my own prayers, I had instinctively begged for Utu's mercy once more. And He did answer my plea again. The men surrounded me and cheered me up. Lastair made a smile to me, as I answered the same way.
The captain came to me later during the night, and asked if I'd be interested to join the band. He could have use for someone with courage and blessed by the Healing Dawn. I had nowhere to go, and I had promised to myself, to my daughter and to Utu that I would do everything I could to make this world a better place. Here was my chance, since the Silver Lions were a honest band of mercenary, with the same goals as mine. I accepted his offer, honored by his confidence. Captain Baelwyn was a tough man, but also had a generous heart. He granted me with the Silver Lions' armor and shield, and welcomed me into the band.
With them, I learned how to fight properly, and builded up courage to face adversity. Together, we have fought many battles to protect our lands, as I got closer to the Lord of Light with every day that was passing. Captain Baelwyn seemed invulnerable at time, as we would always fight to the front, but never get wounded, as if blessed by Marduk. That was until we fought against a raiding platoon of Vokk orcs led by one of their warlord, to protect a tiny nameless village on the road between Dasar and Solace. We have been victorious, but with a great loss. Captain Baelwyn did take one-on-one the warlord as we fought the others, as he was about to finish the orc when this one called upon a dark prayer and blasted the captain with lightning stikes. As anger took over us, we overwhelmed the orc and finished him, but it was too late: the captain was dead. We mourned his death that night, brought his body back to Solace, where we was born, and gave him a proper burial. Baelwyn had led the Silver Lions for over two decades with bravery and honor, that was the least we could do.
As the days passed after this, none of us had the lack of respect to take over leadership of the Silver Lions. The Captain was the founder, and none would be as fitting as he was. As such, we decided, as a whole, to disband the Silver Lions, in a way that people would remember their great deeds under Captain Baelwyn leadership. We vowed to perpetuate the mindset of the band, each on our own, and someday, that we would meet again to share our stories, or if in time of great need, to take arms again to fight together against the threat. And so we sealed this vow, with prayers, blood, and wine.
If it hadn't been for the Silver Lions, I would probably have ended dead, either from hunger or from the blade of a bandit. They have made of me the warrior I am now, and I am grateful to them. And when the time comes, I will uphold the vow I made with them, even if I have to travel thousands of miles. I was alone again, but with pride, honor and courage in my heart. From there, I began a new trek back to the south, making my way by foot and by ship, to a city called Cear.
Ysberin took the medal away, giving a look at his surrounding. Here we was now, in Cear, where he made wonderful encounters. He released a long sigh, but bearing a smile as he remembered these moments with the Silver Lions.
((continues below))
-
Asgaroth
- Commoner
- Posts: 45
- Joined: Mon Jul 19, 2010 12:24 am
- Main Player Character: Ysberin Vaughan
- Other PCs: Kalyndra, Velvana, Gabrielle Dawnstar, Maria Samavati, Eleanore Nuleivra, Providence Az-Kalla
- Location: Québec!
Re: Ysberin - Of love and sorrow (part 5)
Night had fallen, as Ysberin had been thinking about what he had gone through. Customers were slowly getting back home, and the common room was now almost empty. The wide free space in the middle of the room brought back some more memories.
When I first arrived by ship and placed foot on the wooden docks of Cear, I took a deep breath, looking at my surrounding. The city was alive, a captain giving orders to the dock workers, a small group of tan skinned men at the end of the docks doing their business. It seemed like a peaceful place at first, but as I kept walking around the city to get a feel of it, the citizens were plagued with troubles of all sorts. This place would definitely keep me busy for a long time. A guard brought me out of my thoughts with some questions about my whereabouts, and pointed me out to the ministry to get registered, which I did, following the directions. I would now be a citizen of Cear.
For about a week, I gave as much assistance to the people as I could, and in the process met some adventurers that were also striving for work, some to simply fill their pockets, while some had more pure motives. The first one I met that offered to assist me with some tasks was a lady named Hara. There had touch of wilderness to her, but yet was quite polite and kind. As we helped the citizens with various things, I got to appreciate her company. As days passed, I would dare to say we had become friends.
Later, I met a priestess of Farallis named Kora. There was something strange about her, but not unpleasant. Her eyes were golden and her gaze was piercing the soul. She had requested some help, and I had been much obliged to accept. We became good friend over time, and I'd say she is one of my closest friend now.
But the most important person I've met, to my great surprise, was a Lightbringer named Celestia. Night was falling, and it was rainy outside. I had made a long trip from a village called Tristan back to Cear, and I was exhausted. When I opened the door of Mistyvale Inn and stepped into the common room, she was there, sitting to a table near the bar's counter, sipping to her glass of wine with such respect that it was a beautiful sight. I made a few steps in her direction, uncertain how I would approach such a fine lady. I awkwardly asked her what wine she'd suggest me to order since she obviously was a connaisseur. Her answer stunned me: she invited me to her table to share a glass of wine with her. I didn't know about her title yet, but there had something about her, a warm light that I had experimented before. Much obliged, I couldn't refuse. I must have been looking like a fool as I was in awe in front of her. Her beauty, her grace, her voice, her words... Was she an angel?
It's then that I recognized the symbol on her cloak, the brand of a Lightbringer, a champion of the Guiding Light, as we were enjoying a glass of her excellent wine. How could I have dared to be so blunt to Lady of Light? I had been filled with shame for my lack of due respect regarding her. I kneeled in front of her, demanding for her forgiveness. But she simply giggled and told me to sit, as such reverences were unnecessary, and to be of company to her, as it was a lonely night. Such kindness, elegance in humility... I was again in awe in front of her. Had I been blessed by fate to cross path with such a wonderful Lady of Light?
I couldn't hold myself to compliment her about her ways. I was so honored to meet someone like her, I could barely believe it wasn't dream. We shared our stories, good ones, but also the tragic ones. A lady named Gene had joined us at this point, a bit silent, but seemed to have a good heart. As the atmosphere was getting heavier from the emotions we felt by bringing back memories, I suggested jokingly that we should sing and dance to cheer up a bit. To my grand surprise, Celestia said it would be nice and stood up, taking my arm and brought us to the center of the common room, under the chandelier. I was but a humble farmer, and I knew no dance with which I could honor her grace with. I told her so, a bit embarassed although I tried not to show it, but she said she knew a dance called a "Waltz". My words came out by themselves, asking if she'd be willing to teach me. After they came out, I have to admit I was slightly troubled by my own request. How would I dare to ask a Lightbringer such a thing? But she accepted with a cute smile. She definitely had to be an angel sent by Utu...
We began to dance as she taught me the positions and steps. I was clumsy at first, but I finally made it properly, to my own surprise. And so we danced together, under the light, along with the smooth melody Émilie was playing on her lute in the background. I'd have to see her again. Her warmth was comforting and her company more than enjoyable. As the night progressed and that we were holding close to each other to the point we were dancing no more, simply standing there, in each other's arms, she told me she'd want us to meet and see each other again. I had no doubts anymore, she was angel...
Ysberin stood up suddently as his face was adorned with a determined look, taking up his things, and left by the front door.
((The End))
When I first arrived by ship and placed foot on the wooden docks of Cear, I took a deep breath, looking at my surrounding. The city was alive, a captain giving orders to the dock workers, a small group of tan skinned men at the end of the docks doing their business. It seemed like a peaceful place at first, but as I kept walking around the city to get a feel of it, the citizens were plagued with troubles of all sorts. This place would definitely keep me busy for a long time. A guard brought me out of my thoughts with some questions about my whereabouts, and pointed me out to the ministry to get registered, which I did, following the directions. I would now be a citizen of Cear.
For about a week, I gave as much assistance to the people as I could, and in the process met some adventurers that were also striving for work, some to simply fill their pockets, while some had more pure motives. The first one I met that offered to assist me with some tasks was a lady named Hara. There had touch of wilderness to her, but yet was quite polite and kind. As we helped the citizens with various things, I got to appreciate her company. As days passed, I would dare to say we had become friends.
Later, I met a priestess of Farallis named Kora. There was something strange about her, but not unpleasant. Her eyes were golden and her gaze was piercing the soul. She had requested some help, and I had been much obliged to accept. We became good friend over time, and I'd say she is one of my closest friend now.
But the most important person I've met, to my great surprise, was a Lightbringer named Celestia. Night was falling, and it was rainy outside. I had made a long trip from a village called Tristan back to Cear, and I was exhausted. When I opened the door of Mistyvale Inn and stepped into the common room, she was there, sitting to a table near the bar's counter, sipping to her glass of wine with such respect that it was a beautiful sight. I made a few steps in her direction, uncertain how I would approach such a fine lady. I awkwardly asked her what wine she'd suggest me to order since she obviously was a connaisseur. Her answer stunned me: she invited me to her table to share a glass of wine with her. I didn't know about her title yet, but there had something about her, a warm light that I had experimented before. Much obliged, I couldn't refuse. I must have been looking like a fool as I was in awe in front of her. Her beauty, her grace, her voice, her words... Was she an angel?
It's then that I recognized the symbol on her cloak, the brand of a Lightbringer, a champion of the Guiding Light, as we were enjoying a glass of her excellent wine. How could I have dared to be so blunt to Lady of Light? I had been filled with shame for my lack of due respect regarding her. I kneeled in front of her, demanding for her forgiveness. But she simply giggled and told me to sit, as such reverences were unnecessary, and to be of company to her, as it was a lonely night. Such kindness, elegance in humility... I was again in awe in front of her. Had I been blessed by fate to cross path with such a wonderful Lady of Light?
I couldn't hold myself to compliment her about her ways. I was so honored to meet someone like her, I could barely believe it wasn't dream. We shared our stories, good ones, but also the tragic ones. A lady named Gene had joined us at this point, a bit silent, but seemed to have a good heart. As the atmosphere was getting heavier from the emotions we felt by bringing back memories, I suggested jokingly that we should sing and dance to cheer up a bit. To my grand surprise, Celestia said it would be nice and stood up, taking my arm and brought us to the center of the common room, under the chandelier. I was but a humble farmer, and I knew no dance with which I could honor her grace with. I told her so, a bit embarassed although I tried not to show it, but she said she knew a dance called a "Waltz". My words came out by themselves, asking if she'd be willing to teach me. After they came out, I have to admit I was slightly troubled by my own request. How would I dare to ask a Lightbringer such a thing? But she accepted with a cute smile. She definitely had to be an angel sent by Utu...
We began to dance as she taught me the positions and steps. I was clumsy at first, but I finally made it properly, to my own surprise. And so we danced together, under the light, along with the smooth melody Émilie was playing on her lute in the background. I'd have to see her again. Her warmth was comforting and her company more than enjoyable. As the night progressed and that we were holding close to each other to the point we were dancing no more, simply standing there, in each other's arms, she told me she'd want us to meet and see each other again. I had no doubts anymore, she was angel...
Ysberin stood up suddently as his face was adorned with a determined look, taking up his things, and left by the front door.
((The End))