A New Home - Chronicles of Rayne.

[Predatory Beauty]

"She must leave here Roane, send her away. For Cel will come to seek her soon. Aye, ye knew 'his to bea true." The drow do not age quickly, the myth that they do not age at all is just that... a myth. Time though does move at such a slow pace it could very much be seen as standing still. Either you gain power or lose it. The old crown Siun had gained in such power her body had mutated, twisted in to the grotesque form of half spider, half drow. Silvery webs shimmered in the low golden light of a single oil lamp. Roane leaned over a cut of black stone covered ion sticky wedding laying a golden box upon the crumbling alter. A tribute to the crown, for safe a safe meeting.

Clicking of her pointed and jagged limbs echoed though out the cavern that Siun made her hallow home out of. The snapping crunch of bone sent a chill along Roane's spine, knowing very well it was that of a large creature, most likely a drow or a dwarf that had angered the Crown. "Why? What would Cel want with Moririe!? She is no threat to her!" Moririe, the name meant Rayne in common tongue. Questioning the hag was a swift way to cut your life short! For her size, Siun moved with grace a speed. halting only inches from Roane's face spitting her words out with a fury behind each syllable. "She is a threat! Aye, aye a threat to the tyrant Lords plans. She is Sidhe! Cel is Heir under his mother, ah but so is your daughter." Siun spoke so fast! Mist of saliva sprayed off her tiers to lash upon Roane's dark ebony blue skin.

Her cackling, so ruthless and uncaring. The Crown took pleasure in conveying bad news to a mothers ears. "Secrets are told among the fae Roane. Cel knows, The queen knows. Unfaithful husband and father, his bastard child a threat she is! She must die! Send her away Roane, or she be found in a pool of her own blood... Aye, sweet crimson honey!" Love among the drow? One would ask how it was possible, twisted evil creatures! Monsters as much a goblins and orcs, with a beguiling beauty. Misunderstood were they of three different cultures. It is the down side of secret lives. Siuns eyes, they showed signs of faulter. Why bother saveing one Drow half breed when she could feast on pure blood flesh right now! Roane's hands flipped the golden box open to save herself! the heart, warm and fresh, cut from one of their own not but moments ago lay inside on blood soaked silk. Roane could tell from the sounds echoing in the cave what Siun was doing, she did not have to see.

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Moririe, (Rayne) sat upon silk pillows. Her years were few by the standards of the Drow, Common man would have seen her as old. She had lived a humans lifetime and a little more. A half blood, Roane kept her daughter away from most of the Clan. Books were her closest friends, the hallows her playgrounds, and the world above her secret craving. Not even Roane knew of her daughters trips out side the dark to learn of the world above them. When her mother came back in to their home. Her breaths were ragged and tattered and she moved in such a rush gathering things around the room.

"Mori, go to your cell, pack your things, take only what you can carry. Make sure you have your bow!" Rayne's tir colored eyes lifted from the pages of a book, confusion had set in. From behind ringlets of pure white she watched for a few heart beats before rising. "What's wrong? where are we going?" She was almost impish, slender and small, A delicate lass who under it all longing to be stronger then any one would allow her to be, to live up to what she knew where her capabilities. "You have to go, you must trust me I will explain on our way up to the surface! Now go!"

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Only what she could carry, She did as she was told, and listened to the story of her mothers affair with Niceven, Rayne's father. It spilled on to inform her of her half brother Cel, and a sister who's name Roane did not know. Must hurtful was why she had to leave. Would it really help? to leave one land, travel over open sea's alone to a new world? All to save her life? Good-byes are never easy. Roane and Rayne parted ways miles from the haven of home. She was not to tell a soul, stay safe, and someday maybe they would see each other again. Deep down Rayne knew she would never set eyes on Roane again.

The Ship docked, In Magincia. It would be the harbor Rayne would set foot upon away from the only world she had ever known. Books can only teach someone so much, adventuring made up the gaps of experience. How terrible with names she was! Not but moments off the boat had she been greeted by two strangers, Father and son who took care of securing her a suitable mount promising to hold on to a wild War horse till such a time she could handle the beast. They parted with the best wishes to each other, word given to find each other latter so a friendship could be struck up once more! From there a bit of exploring was in need. How she looked though the city! fascinated by the colors, kindness of others and the unity and carefree natures between so many people of different races!

It was Rease, and Biki that had caught her attention, And, was Chun his name? He had never been introduced but She was sure it was mentioned at some point! Arriving in the square, to see the two playfully arguing, even wrestling around with each other so those in their company could gain and smile and a laugh about it. The others wondered off, Rease offering to guide Rayne around a bit before he took to his sleep. In Buc's Den, they parted company, only to run in to each other once more in Marketvale! More fun, and laughter! and the play between new friends! The moment helped to offer a moment of forgetfulness in her melancholy mood and homesickness. They ran, picked on Rease!, Biki spreading hides around the tavern but her partner in crime, Oh his name started with a B! but he hide to keep from taking his end of the scolding from Rease!

It was after the men departed that Rayne had a moment to site and talk with Biki, so was such a playful sort. They spoke of the tavern and the new festive look it had been given. The need of a decorated tree and maybe even a bard to dance, tell stories and sing for the patrons gave Rayne an idea. Perchance she would obtain a job at the tavern as an entertainer/barmaid? Earn her keep and maybe find a lasting friendship with the citizens of Marektvale!

to be Cont.....

[Predatory Beauty]

The harbor docks were lively, Ships moored to the thick pillars being loaded and unloaded by the rough looking Dock workers. Passengers, though few among the crowd hustled to get their belongings on the pallets being hosted on board their hired vessels. Seagulls added their  touch to the surroundings, as did the smell of salt water and fish. Greedy birds they were nit picking at fishermen for the chance to steal a bit of innards tossed in the sea near the fish market waters. Rayne had been.... So fascinated by every thing! Asking questions under her breath... Questions Roane had no answers for. It was upon the Deck of a Frigget that Roane said her good byes, Keeping her tears in check so as to lend her only child the very strength needed to face a whole new world alone.

Roane stood on the docks, Wrapped in a heavy cloak, the hood pulled low over her head and light gauzy sash draped over her eyes. Fishermen and sailors, the harbor master and his rabble all watched her out of the corner of their vision. Stranger in the city, but more so her attempt in keeping her identity a secret only drew more attention to her. What did it matter? Roane knew her life would come to an end all to soon. The one good thing she had ever done was to give birth to her only daughter and protect her, even if it meant giving her own life. Knowledge that Cel was looking for her.... assured that in his quest, he would find Roane. Kill or be killed, And if she took his life it would mean War with the Sidhe.

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Wicked laughter still Filled Cel's head! The laughter of his Mother. Mave was a cruel and twisted woman. Much like all Sidhe of the Unseelie court of the Fae. How she had rubbed it in his face that he was not the only one She could pick to succeed her. "Oh my dear boy, I am not all used up yet!" Mave's face contorted with hatred, She may care for her son but it was not with the love of a mother. She saw only her own pride! She had conceived a child! and It that it had secured her a seat upon the throne. Her husband... well he would be easy enough to dispatch in time. "Shut up Mother! How dare you even think a half breed could rule over the courts! Who's to say I wont cut your life as short as you cut Niceven's" Mave, did not take disrespect lightly! Not even from her own blood. Before Cel knew it her hand went across his face leaving a small open wound below his eye. His head snapped to the left, But Cel was smiling when he turned to look at her. "Thank you Mother, May I have another?" That small crimson gash was already healing when he left her quarters.

Cel's tall slender form sat now mounted upon the back of a pure white beast. Every thing about his appearance screamed importance, screamed royalty. With him road Balder, Cronus, Galen and Kur'Rag. Members of his elite guard and child hood friends turned as dark and deviant as him. The clanking of hooves upon the packed sod trail echoed against the distance hum of wind and rain. A black horizon followed the treacherous lord on his Journey of seeking. It was near come a month ago he had sent out riders, Gathering information of the location of this Drow Clan his father had belittled himself by getting involved with. So what if they had come to the aid of the Sidhe in the time of war. He would cut them all down if they did not give up the worthless half breed.

A rider came trudging up to them at high speed. It was Brakus! He had ridden ahead to meet with the Goblin informant that had been assigned to locating the whereabouts of their quarry. Brakus' reigned in only a few feet from the others. His tawny charger pranced in place, spinning around so the Elegantly slender male had to spin his head from left to right just to keep eye contact with his Lord. The beast was unsettled, scent of the storm, the emergency of his masters drive to run, or the abuse of the whip so harshly used could have been the culprit. His deep voice rang out, filling the air with promising news to capture and do in their prey and be home before the winter snow fell upon the forest floor. "Yarnak watched them leave on foot two days ago. Heading due north towards Alselean. They make for a city of harbor. Safe to say the spider will try to flee by sea. Would will catch them soon enough. Unless they move non stop they wont make it to the city before we do M'Lord."

A fire of satisfaction glimmered in the tri colored eyes of the Sidhe lord. Cel's gaze was one of molten fire, amber and gold. His hair, pulled back in a tight braid like the others for the long ride went to his ankles. Men and women of the Sidhe alike whore that crown of ringlets as a symbol of their age. No other member of the Fae were permitted to let theirs grow beyond their shoulders. "Then we make for Alselean, We ride hard and do not stop till we find them. I want them both dead!" Lightning stuck across the blackened sky, Cutting a momentary wound in the heavens and her foreboding face mask. With its lash came the weeping drops of rain. First but a soft pat here and then till the downpour crashed upon the earth. Hate had opened the sky, and she was unforgiving of the emotion forced upon her! All at once the Sidhe men pulled in behind their Lord. Beating the rear flanks of teach beast till each showed signs of welts and bloody gashes. As if they could force them to out run the storm, Cel and his mean would drive the horses to death or the ends of the earth.

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Was that Rayne upon the deck of the ship so far out on the open waters of the Alselean bay? Roane's keen vision could not make out a clear image. For as sharp as it was, the light hurt, even when shadowed by a vale of gauze. For now... Rayne was safe, But for herself. A trail need be laid to lure Cel in the opposite direction of her daughter. "M'Lord.... You are the harbor Master? Aye?" Trus, That was his name, he was a brawny man of more then six feet and the kind that would sell his own mother to make a copper or two. "Aii, what da ye wan' crown! I 'ave werk 'ere ta do" A gloved hand came forth from her robes, with in her cupped palm she held a small fortune in Ruby's and silver coil." The ship that just left harbor, The one with the black sails. Remove all record of passengers aboard, and if any come seeking out a girl with white hair and ashen skin, you tell them you have nay seen any of her likeing or... Mine."

Trus peered at her,,, but his mouth was watering, He was damyn near drooling at the sight of such riches. Eyeing each fine shiny stone, the back of his hand rose to his lips to wipe away the dribble at the corner of his mouth. "Your forget, your men forget, and it is all yours... with another payment when I return in two hands hence to Join my friend at sea. Do we have a deal?" Was more then he would hope to see in a life time, In two life times! Trus was quick, moving his flange over hers to take every coin and stone. "Deal wench, deal." The first stepped was laid. That ship could be heading any where! The harbor master and his mean bought for a short time at at lest. She needed a fast horse, provisions and a hired merc, Someone to ride with her so others would see two leave the city.... not one.

To be Cont.....

[Predatory Beauty]

Uncle Marketvale... It promised a great many things, a change in her life, new friends all around and someone that had captured her eye from the moment they had said hello. Rayne found herself busy from the day she had set foot in Marketvale. JUst by change her path had Grossed Rease, Biki and Biden in front of the Tavern shortly after Rease had left her in Maginica. She had decided from that moment to make Marketvale her home.... At lest, a new home, though her heart longed so much to see the face of her mother, to see the dark once more,... or the gem covered walls of the cave beneath the falls back home in Dun'Mer. A room at the tavern was enough for her, Earning her room and board by offering to work at the tavern. Was something else that was new to her, serving drinks, cooking food, cleaning up each day when before now... Her days were spent with books, a coal stick and parchment. What could she offer, that would be a contribution to this place and its people that no other had yet fulfilled. In days to come she hoped to find out,... and find out she did.

Was the offer to play music, tell a story here and there, sing and dance for the patrons of the tavern that gave her that first sense of worth. Here it was... only a few days after that and so much had come to pass. Caly, an elven woman of all people had become her closest friend, aiding her in setting up a small place of her own. Rayne finally, for the first time in her life... was living completely alone. Though it was pleasure... each night Rayne found herself back at the tavern, curled up in bed beside the old wolf. Rei, and his son Tai, They were like no one else she had ever met! So open with their lives, and kind to her.... Colorful Biki and her zeal, always making a smile appear on Rayne's sable lips. All these though's spilled though her head and more! The sounds of every ones laughter filling the tavern playing like an old song in her mind. The broom moved a cloud of dust up in to the air, snapping her out of the day dreaming thoughts. All this time she had been moving around each table and chair brushing away the days dust, and humming softly to herself. But above all else... something that Rei had said to her played though her thoughts.

"I would rather I had died, then to have ever put her put her in danger." Two days back, alone just the two of them, talking about life, the past and relationships. Whiskers... (Rei) Had seen though her questions about Rease... to know the real reason she had been asking. An attempt to change the subject, and ease the blush from her cheeks. Rayne asked about something Tai has said to her. "Talk to my father, he can tell you more then I can." More about what? About the curse that plagued their family, that Rei had over come and his daughter now carryed.... She asked about where he came from, and the nightmare he had gone though to finally come to live in peace here in Marketvale. His wife, she had been poised by his cousin, Rei told the story with such deep emotions. His dear wife had been saved, The couplets behind the attempt on her life cut down. But it left such a heavy burden upon his soul. What was her right to be here... With Cel out there looking for her? What right did she have to come here to hide among these peaceful people and kep that secret of possible danger from them?

It had been the moment that story had ended that Rayne had put the gold eared that day in the chest for Rease... and she contemplated packing her things and leaving. If for any other reason but to spear those here... her friends from any danger of Cel's wrath. She had managed to get as far as the tavern doors with enough food to last a few days, gold for provisions and the necklace that sweet Guth had made for her before she stopped. Rease was coming down the stairs and... Seeing him stopped her dead in her tracks. With a smile, the Drow hide her intentions, hung her cloak and bag up beside the doors and acted as if things were as perfect as the day was long. Maybe she should have left... But it just did not come to pass. One more night spent among new friends. Chun, and the story of festivals in his homelands... They had compared the differences of their cultures for a short time before others joined them. And each night the ties only gerw stronger.... Vendim was another new face, Tawny, and Legih, Azreella and Kalador... Shakka and good old Storme. Every one treated her as family.

Shaking her head, her violet eyes moved around the tavern to spy any thing that still needed tending to. The old wolf, Rei and Storme were away training, The others she had not seen that evening. It gave her time to work, and make ready for the following days customers. "So much more to do... " With a smile, she took to the domestic chores with a off pleasure, while her free time she spent alone was spent in training, or gathering what was needed for the city. Rei needed help with metals, her word given to pay him back for the gift he had given by seeing two it he had what he needed. Her desire to open up a shop of her own... was closer with the plot of land Rei had secured for her to build upon. If any thing, She was thankful for the work, it distracted her thoughts away from... from her mother. Longing so much to see her, to know she was safe. Rayne found herself gazing out the window at the leaves of an apple tree in the yard. Leaning against the handle of the broom lost in thought once more... Why was life a cruel balance of give and take... Did she truly have to leave one life behind in order to find the one she had always secretly wished for. A place where she fit in. The Sidhe would not have her... the drow would not accept her. Yet here... no one judged her at all.

Sound of a familiar chuckle brought her out of that distance thought, Was Rease... The old wolf looked a bit disheveled, hat on lop sided, armor smudged and in need of mending, Sword in hand being drug along the tem wood floor behind him. How long had he been standing there watching her? "Not 'ettin 'n ta troble 're ye lass?" (attempt at Reasey speak! lol) "Well that depends on what you call trouble old wolf? I should be asking you that question though." A smile for hmm leaning against the broom handle to listen to him... keen eyes moved along the man in front of her noting the state of his armor, but more so the weary look on his face and how just being back here and talking started to perk him back up again. " No' wha' kin' o' trouble 'ould I be 'ettin 'n ta?" "Oh you know right well the kind of trouble I mean. Out chancing skirts when you have one here at the Tavern waiting for you to chase her around the place." That conversation moved on, playfully so but she knew what her own feelings where behind it. "Come on Old Wolf, Let me help you out of that armor and in to a bath then bed." Before long... they were headed up stairs side by side... She could finish up in the tavern in the morning. ......

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Dun'Mer lay half a world away, across vast seas, Roane had to believe that her daughter was safe. Her actions had to be made in hast, but carefully minding every course of action. Covering the trail Cel would defiantly be looking for. The cloaked form of a Drow woman moved along the back allies, and hidden low rent distract shadows in order to secure her passing as unseen as possible. Who cares about another cloaked form moving though the unseen nameless? The Bores Head Tavern, Marked by a worn down weather wooden sign hanging from rusted wire upon a few rickety nails hammered at a crocked angel in the wall.The smell of stale ale, soured liquor, sea salt and sweat permitted out the door that lay open to let in some measure of fresh air. The scent nearly made Roane's body jerk in rejection of suffering such a foul order. But she need find someone for hire, A merc, who was not only good with a blade, but female. Not the easiest combination.

Stout determination drove her inside. Holding herself as some person of means... and power to assure her passage was unhindered. A crunching sound emanated with every step she took. Gaze drifting down to find herself walking on broken glass, dirt, peanut hulls and small fish bones that had been spit from every direction. Stopping in the middle of the room her voice rose. Demanding almost that her request be answered and with hast so she could leave this stinking filth behind. "I am looking for a sword for hire... Female, and good with a weapon. Was told I could find one here.. " No one said any thing... that was till Roane lifted her gloved hand and let a heavy coin purse danger from her fingers. "I say again. I am in need of a sword for hire." A mug clanked upon the wooden table top, and a rough but feminine voice filled the air. Her accent was mixed, some one of low breeding, from the Shefts of the north near Nibrie Roane assumed. " Ya 'ffer a 'evy pusre Lady... ya 'ust bae in dier 'eed. name 's Jaliza... 'n I bae who ya 'ooken 'or."
"Then meet me at the stables on north-east end of town in one hour. And Pack light... we ride hard.. and fast." Roane turned... left the tavern in need of fresh air,.. making way to the market to gather rations for the journey. In one hour she wanted to be mounted and leaving the city in enough of a rush to grab the attention of those in the high distracts, Cel would look at the Docks first. The deal made with the harbor master would point him in to the northern end of the city... Provisions, bread, dried meats, cheese and wine, canteens of water and the last item was a hooded cloak all paid for in copper coins. She would meet Jaliza at the stable... with hope, it would be before Cel made it to Asalean.

to be cont....

[Predatory Beauty]

Cel and his men road hard! Racing with the wind and rain fast at their backs.To Cel this was his right of passage, and those first steps just before you win a great victory. Even the Sidhe could not out run the rain, and it was nature that Roane would owe the growth in distance she had gained on Cel and his men. Despite the wind and rain of the highland storm Cel refused to slow their pace. Not even his horse Lord Beldar could persuade a rest till the storm passed over head. Every hoof beat send glops of mud and black clay scattering in to the air covering each rider in layers of soaked earth. The rain drenched each silk tabard, the fine crafted leather armor, and colored mane of each Sidhe rider. The leagues Roane and Rayne had traveled in their two days time took Cel and his men only half a day upon the backs of elven horses. Their race had begun on one edge of the storm, and ended on its passing tail. Black clouds cut across the sea in the distance darkening the horizon and blurring all sight of sails. The ship, with its shadowy rigging was lost even to the keen sight of the Sidhe Lords.

"Da, got Cus'mer, Elveish travels o soome sort." Jacob, Son of Jaraxe keeper of the Asalena Livery stables. Sound of clanking hammer upon iron drowned out the sound of riders approaching. Jacob, always the attentive young lad kept his father well aware of business opportunities. Steam rose, the crisp hiss of heated metal dipped in to a bucket of water, and the clanking of tools being set down proceeded the Stable Masters appearance to his waiting clients. Expecting to see Forest elves, Maybe by chance even merchants from the Desert clans far to the north who come down to trade spices. Each man looked well traveled from a distance, muck covered and drenched from the passing rain. "Hi'On Ma'Lords... Was' thigh Needs dis day... I ca..." Jacob held the reigns of three horses, the others tethered to hitching posts being watched and given only small rashions of water by the stab;le masters son. Jaraxe stopped dead in his tracks in front of Cronus peering up in to the tall mans face. Jaraxe had see Desert eleve, wood eleves, Even crossed the paths of some High Eleves. But these Men, he had not exspected to see.

Jaraxe's stubbled jaw dropped, he was gawking at the three rings of color with in the eyes of each Elven Lord. Unlike any other Elven race, The Sidhe, purest of blood lines held one distinct feature over all others. Tri colored eyes, mixers of complementing shades, Rings of vibrant color around the onyx pit in the center. "Stop gawking old man, Fed, water and shoe the horses. Have them ready to ride before night fall." The pouch of coins Cel tugged from his belt was tossed on the ground in the soppy puddle at the humans feet. No request in the tone he used. Cel gave orders, even to those he paid to do the menial tasks and labor. Beldar stepped from the group, tossing a solid and heavy leather pouch to the boy, Jacob tried to catch it, only dropping it upon the ground. "Mix it with the grain boi, break it down, one lot for each animal. And do not over feed them, we have a ways to go still." Not so much as a please came from any of them, Cel picked men who's attitudes matched his own. Ruthless, self-centerd, and conceited. Every thing a Noble Sidhe was brought up to be.

" Galen, Kur'rag, you take the Docks and Western quarter of the city." Galen, his blue green eyes flashed with anger, Galen's power was for the sea, and Cel tended to set him as close to it as possible to tempt him to distraction. Cel's temper was high, though his fight and anger did not lay with his men, he would use them as an out let for his rags. Thus he went out of his way to make any of them slip to give him reason to beat them. Before Galen could accommodate the Sidhe prince, Kur'rag, who stood in silence running his hands over the downy breast feathers of the gold crowned hawk on his wrist urged Galen off. "Cronus, Baldar, Take the Southern districts, They would try and keep to area's no one would care about another stranger. Brakus, you see to the east market, She will have to had picked up rations for travel if they kept to the land. Galen and Kur'rag will weed out the docks. I will speak with the guard watch in the high distracts... At lest have some semblances of civilized atmosphere." Not one of them argued with Cel, each one of them walked on Egg shells to avoid any confrontation with the man who would sit upon the Unseelie throne in time. Was only a matter of time before they picked up a trail.

[Predatory Beauty]

This was going to be close. Roane stepped back out of sight just in time to miss being spotted by none other then Cel himself. The gasping breath left her lips, knocked out of her only by the impact she had with the wall when she slammed her back in to the wall of a building. Ally ways served for more then just colleting trash and rats. Hiding places, and escape routes. He was here all ready! Panic set in sending Roane's thoughts in more directions then she cared to deal with. If Cel and his men were hear, then she needed to leave... and fast or he would be on Rayne's trail and on the fastest ship in the docks, And Roane would be dead. Watching the mans back... Roane waited till he vanished in the crowd to duck out of her hiding place and make for the livery. The fresh scent of rain still hung in the air, a smell that would normally have drawn her eyes closed and her hands in to the earth. It smelled like Siobhan ( SHE- oh- Van) Rayne's father. If there would be any gift that her daughter inherited from her father, Roane hoped it was that gift for magic and his closeness for the earth. A wilting flower found new life in that mans hands. But she could not steal that moment, to savor a memory of a dead lover. There was just no time. The livery stable was only a few yards away when her eyes lifted of the cobble stones to greet the stable Master. "Vindue Good Sir... I need two horse's... Fast runners and I need them ready to ride right away."

Jaraxle looked puzzled at her request... Was every one in a hurry today. his son was still tending to the Sidhe riders horses. So Jar himself took care of this business arrangement. "Ready so fast Mizz? Will be costly, two horses I have right now ar..." Jar's jaw dropped when her gloved hand came forward holding a small cluster of gem stones in her hand. It was a small fortune, She could have bought 10 horses for what she held there... and good ones. The stable master was swift to snag them from her hand. Having to bend down to pick up the few he dropped on the soggy ground. "Aye Mizz... right away... right away" Watching him start to scurry off, Roane's wanring sounded. "And Stable Master.... if any one asks who bought your horses... you will not mention my passing." The old man nodded, but she knew, if enough coin was danged in front of him he would sing like a song bird durinoing mating season. The heavy bag Roane carried was dropped on the ground just inside the smithy, Using the table inside to sort though every thing she had just bought. Bit by bit things where packed in to two sets of saddle bags that would both reside upon her mount. No trust for the woman she had hired... But a decoy was needed. Thinking of that Jaliza made her entrance as if on que.

The woman's swaggering step was more manly then ladylike, a touch to much to drink mixed with the weapons she wore and her over all attitude, was hard to tell she was a woman at all save for her female figure and the suppleness of her body. Not so much as a hello, Roane tossed a hooded robe at her. "Put that on, pull the hood over your head and sit down... when we ride... you will have to hunch a bit... I want people to think you are shorter then you really are." Rayne was only a wisp pf a girl, short, and light standing at all of 4'10 while Jaliza was an easy 5.5. The robe would hide her build as well as her features... but height was still an issue. The swaggering woman seemed to take offence to things, But when she opened her mouth to protest, Roane lifted a hand to silence her. "We are riding out of her robed, of you do not like it I will take back the payment i gave you and I will go alone." Risk of losing the prize gem stones Jaliza spied her lip and sat down to wait for the Boss lady's next order. Provisions were carefully stuffed with in the confines of leather bags, Lembas bread, a small amount of cheese and some dried meats. Traveling as light as possible, to stay ahead of Cel and his men they would have to ride out of here hard and fast with out stopping for a few days. Jar pulled two mounts around, Roane was no judge of horse flesh, but these two looked sound, lean and swift. Muscled build with sleek coats, on sight they appearedto be two very fine animals. "Best I got Mizz, brought dem 'own in Darmisher dis past summer... Fine stout runners they be. " He need not say any thing more... Roane mounted up weaving Jaliza to do the same. "Remember your silence Stable Master..." Together they road out, diverting from heading due north as planed. They would leave by the east gate and head north once out of sight.... With Cel surely soon on their tail.

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So much to learn here, every day held new fascinations and new wonders. Rayne had grown intoxicated with the world around her. It had been only a few months she leaving the dark for a life in the very world she had longed to be part of for so long. Friends and family anew here in Marketvale, with a job, a place to call home and someone to sleep beside each night. With the bakery, and the Tavern along with all the training and schooling she had to keep her busy and occupied her mind. Rayne still found herself feeling lost and confused, hiding it behind a bright smile day after day. How often she found herself standing at the tip of the Marketvale Bay looking out over the water or sitting in the middle of the woods upon a fallen log with a book in her hands writing her thoughts down on slips of parchment. Today was like the previous, Waking early in the morning to the sound of the birds out side the third floor window, Cherrpering out their happy little melody while dinning on seeds left upon the ceal for them. The sun light spilling in though the curtains casting a soft amber across Rease's face so he snorted and rolled over to burry his face in to the pillows. The little things like that started her days off with a smile.

Chore are chores though, Taking only a short time to bath, and dress for the day, still running a Fish Bone comb though her hair in the short walk downstairs to check on guests. Once all wear fed, Rease got his breakfast in bed, a light kiss with his coffee before she left to see to the bakery. No one seemed to be about at this hour, at lest not out on the streets of Marketvale, Many homes sported smokey clouds billowing from chimneys, the smell of dew on the grass and bacon cooking near by filled the air along with the fresh scent of orange blossoms from the trees in the garden. Walking along the fence line of the garden, her finger tips lightly grazing along the smooth wood grates and sand stone posts. She made note that the garden needed to be weeded and the plants needed to be harvested today. Another thing to add to her already growing to-do list. Grapes, watermelons, corn, tomatoes, fruit trees and more all weighed down by a bounty of delectable delights. Isalentia was already hard at work, Caring in the milk buckets, taking them upstairs one by one to be stored in the cold box. "Good Morning Isa... "

Leaving the dark had brought many new and wonderful friends in to her life. Among them was Isalentia. Who had come to Marketvale to work in the bakery as a favor to Rayne. They had met on board the ship when Rayne had left Dun'Mir for Sosaria fleeing her elder brothers wrath.  From that moment, they had been good friends, both delicate and found enjoyment in the more feminine activities, the common ground helped their relationship to bloom. So one task had been taken care of by her dear friend, Shortening the list by one... though having to weed the garden already filled the empty slot before it became empty. Right to the morning baking, Rayne spent a few hours meading dough, filling pie crusts or baking lembas bread while the cheese fermented in its molds. After the cooking was out of the way, in to the garden, restocking what she had used that morning, and out in to the forests of Yew to find the small white leaves used for making elven breads. But it was in her wondering's that she found a over grown grove with a single throne at its most north wall. Seating herself upon the ground in the center of the structure, the brown leather bound journal was brought out of her bag, along with the delicate quill and sealed ink bottle.

 

I find myself missing home again. Worrying over my mothers safety. Has Cel caught her? Has she found haven with another clan? Did he fall for her ruse? or is he ship bound in their direction seeking me out upon each shore he lands upon? I don't understand why he would care one way or the other if i was dead or alive... I do not seek his throne or any thing at all to do with the Sidhe and their courts.

There is a life for me here in the Vale, people i care for, a man I am falling in love with, a home and even a job in my own shop. A way to contribute back to the Vale...How I wish  Ilhar (mother) was here to see this all... to share it with me. But she would never be happy here I know this. Still I can not help but long for her, or need her advice now more then I ever did... So many confusing emotions running though me its hard to make scene of any thing...

A pray each day and night, with every breath that I will see her again... but I fear, that will be an unanswered prayer. Cel will never let her live, even if she handed me over to him.... So I do as she told me, I keep the secret, and stay away from Dun'Mir.... But even keeping those secrets are hard to do. Rease is asking questions, how can I expect him to tell me any thing when I must hide who I am... Was I wrong to reveal what little I have to him? Does it matter any more...?

Onward she wrote, some of her deepest feelings, desires of her heart and love for friends, her flirtatious wolf and the Vale itself. The story seemed so unended... With hope... She prayed it would be.

[Reasey]

It has been a while. Far longer than he can remember that these feelings of his have tooken root and came to the surface of his memories.

First, all these years ago it was his abusive marriage to his wife Artemis Hunter. However, it had ended in tragedy with her dissapearance, and the dissapearance of his own children. Then to a one Kiara McNamara whom he planned to propose to, but she as well dissapeared on him on the eve of his wishes on nuptials with here.

And now, comes the new face of Rayne. How can it be with such a strange mix of emotions and confusion that causes a war within his own mind whenever he brings the issue to the front line of conciousness and and forced action. He enjoyed her company, far more than he realized he would have, or should have origionally, falling into her charms. However, on the other hand of his thoughts and feelings he knew that these sort of feelings might possibly be fleeting. How it split his ego.

But lately, these thoughts have tokoen a backburn to an issue that surprised even him on what he felt: Concern for Rayne. He started to notice it almost at once as she cringed from his touches and nearly, almost irrevocably finding some form of work that she has to do in the name of buisness and the Market. He had also tooken note of her almost daily trips throught he woods, always with parchment and some other such instruments of calligraphy. He had sat as if he couldn't care, and at first he hadn't as her buisness was indeed her own and he wished not to interfere with whatever she needed to transcribe onto parchment. But it dug at his thoughts and floated in his daydreams and daily thoughts, niggling him more and more everyday untill one day not to long ago she had mentioned a peice of parchment that she had received. He had been slightly happy, hoping that she would share a little bit more about herself that he wished to know about, and has been asking about, but she soon left the topic to die on their tongues.

He wanted to know, it drove him to the brink and angered him somewhere within the deep recesses of his allready chaotic mind that she dare drove him into revealing information about him best left to sages that he himself would rather have forgotten, but withheld information about her, her marks against her, and of her blood. So when she gave him his daily kiss upon the cheek, a wink, and a nudge with paper in hand, he simply smiled and nodded at her and carried after her through the woods. Hoping the black of his countenence would keep him hidden amongst the foliage and evergreens and within the shadows.

He had hoped to surprise her that eve, and at last have a more private place of conversation than in the barroom of the Pretarian

[Predatory Beauty]

Sidhe Nobles stood out like a sore thumb in Asalean... Though Elevs came and went, buying and selling goods in the market, transporting goods from the docks, Or even those who came down for the city festivals to bring in the spring catch. But to see the Sidhe.. and in full armor on rode weary horses, shocked the citizens of Asalean. Cel's men found the people to be very corporative, out of fear mostly, stories of what the Sidhe did to those who crossed them were beyond the fables told to frighten children. They frightened men and women of all ages. Only a fool would make light at a Sidhe curse. At the market Brakus found only bit of information of a cloaked woman shopping in the square. "Aii, Sir" The old woman could not bring herself to meet the Horse-mans eyes. Holding her hand before her as if to look upon him would blind her. "A woman, small but harsh worded, She bought dried meats from me Sir, enough for two" Brakus said nothing else. Only searched out the market for others, leaving silvers behind as payment.. If word got around that the Sidhe were looking for information on a hooded woman and paying for that information in elven silver.

Galen Kept himself away from the water, To drawn to the salty blue, to trust himself. The people of Asalean were a meticulously clean people, even the waters around their docks still held the pristine blue of clean deep waters. He stuck to speaking with the dock workings and merchants transporting goods from the packing freights to their designated ships. Only a few remembered seeing two cloaked women, but none could be sure if they left together by ship or by land. Kur'Rag had better luck, Though it had cost him a great deal of coin to pry the information out of the Harbor master... when the coin stopped working... He had resolved to using his fists as bargaining chips. "You have cost me a great deal water rat, For information that could not be all that hard to remember." Kur'Rag was a large man, Even for a Sidhe pure blood he was taller, muscled and powerful. A strong as the very elements of magic that he held with in his grasps. Trus's men had been bared from the small building at the end of the docks that served as a customs office. Was not just the wood and mortar that kept them bared from their Boss' office but something unseen that kept them at bay. As if stone had formed inside the pores of every board forming the door and walls. Sound was muffled, only the sharp cries of the Harbor master broke the dead silence that had over taking the office.

The burly man Trus was, still did not hold up against each swing of the Sidhe lords fist,. Kur'Rag had grown tired of Trus's valed responses. Remembering only bit and pieces of the women Kur'rag spoke of... and not being able to produce any records of them traveling or sending any thing off by ship. Fed up, Kur'rags fist balled together, each finger folded in around a sake of silver coins and lifted back. When he let lose on the harbor master he did not stop. Was it not Protical to hit a few times then ask for an answer? Kur'rag must have missed that class... When he stopped, Trus's face was bloody and swollen. The big man fell to the floor limb and begin for the Sidhe lord to stop... to take pity. He gave him every thing he knew! One left on horse back... the other left by Skip... which he could not say. Kur'rag knew... No way Roane would leave her daughter on the Shores of Dun'Mir to fend for herself....  No Doubt, Cronus and Baldar would find another bit of the puzzle... Thus only kept his word to a point to the drow woman who made him a very rich man. He did not tell the Sidhe what ship she left on or where it was bound... Any ship fling the black sails, no one asked questions. "Lets go Galen, Have to find Cel, The girls not here any more...."

____________________________________________________

The scent of dew on each blade of grace, the earth freshly watered by a soft rain and the fragrance of wild flowers filled the air. Was unlike any thing she had ever smelled before... If she could trap that smell in a bottle... and bath herself in it each day she would. Time passed... She wrote more and more... avoiding opening the letter that had been scent to her. Roane must have scent it the day after putting Rayne on board the Black Sailed Ship, For it knew the lands in which to reach her... but not where to find her. Was with a heavy heart she put her journal aside, tucking it back in to her bag so she could bask in the warm golden glow of the suns rays before dampening her spirit once more with another piece of the story, of the secret that had been kept from her all her life. Laying back upon the soft damp grass, on a bed of white hair with scattered blue flowers clinging randomly to the thick locks.  Out of the corner of her eyes she could see the diff rents shades of green, speckled with reds, blues, pinks and yellows of wild flowers. Her pointed ears picking up the sounds of birds singing, and the crickets cheerping, staying hiddn in the tall overgrown weeds. Some where close by a deer feed carelessly on clover while the waves whispered sweet nothings to the shore line.

The Scene of being watched was there... But when her gaze turned about to scan the wood she found herself alone as she had been each day before here in this small grove. Rolling over on to her stomach, she finally dug the letter out of her bag, sliding the leather pouch out of the way to make space to lay the old parchment on the ground. Something slid against the paper... fell out in to the grass flickering against the soft glow of sunlight. It was a ring, forced of silver, with no fancy gems or precious stones. The band was smooth to the touch, Despite the carved ivy that formed the band and the small runes carved on the inside lining. But it was the formation of a butterfly with midnight blue wings speckled in silver dust. Looked so much like the marks upon her back. Maybe what was in the letter would tell her more. It crackled, like parchment folded for decades, cracking at the edge threatening to tear if your hands did not take tender care in opening it. She read... carefully and slowly over the words written... It was from her father... Siobhan... She finally knew his name... and the ring inside was a gift to her.... What was said with in brought tears to her eyes... Forcing her to slowly sit up on her knees having to read over it a second time. There was not much said, it was the manner in which he had formed each sentence that carried his heart felt emotions in script.

With the ring in hand... She rose, feeling the warm wet grass below her bear feet. About to slid the ring upon her finger when she froze. Hearing the creaking of twigs snapping under foot. Was the last person she had thought she would follow her... though she had hoped some times he would. Rease stood there on the edge of the small clearing by the vine covered frame of what you could call a door way. Small hands slid over the front of her dress... dusting off the grass and twigs clinging to the fabric. So careful not to drop the ring she had been given. Those deep tri colored eyes held him with in her vision, never stepping from the line of sight... worried he would disappear if she let him. "Rease?... What are you doing here?" Small steps, carried her closer, while tucking the slip of old and tattered parchment in to the pocket of her dress. She kept secrets from him... it was wrong maybe when she pushed to have him open up to her... Was just she did not know what he would think of any thing... and the fears of Rei's words came back to her.... "I was just about to start back home... care to join me?" Was she avoiding things again?

[Predatory Beauty]

Day light was fading on the horizon so the sun appeared as a melting glob of molten fire sinking in to the sea. Crimson glow gave way to shades of purple fields and pink wisps of clouds upon a vanishing powder blue skin. The line of night in midnights spotted stary gown was once more winning the battle of time. What beauties this world above ground could hold, but there was little time to stop and appreciate them. Two hooded figures had road silently out of Asalean, leaving whispers of their passing that Roane only hoped would cover the escape of one white haired girl upon a black sailed ship. Three days now she had road, hard, fast with little sleep. The hours taking their toll upon her constitution sending causing her to slump in the saddle clutching to the hilt of an onyx dagger. Jaliza kept only a few paces ahead, scouting the path till there would be no light to travel by. Was only a scares few hours of rest for Roane, it would have to tide till the sun rose on the coming marrow. "Mizz... ya got ta rezt, Som' cave's nay far from 'ere. Half hour ride at da mos'. Wa should sleep Mizz, The crags along the west'n sea board nay ta be traveled in dead of nigh. Horse's be libel ta spill, and take ua wit them" That rough accented voice wafted back to rain down upon pointed ears. Jaliza held herself like a man, spoke like one, walked like one and even forced her voice to hold that edge of masculinity. But under it was a woman's femininity that no amount of swagger could hide.

Gloved hands tugged back on the reigns, jarring the metal bit against the horses gums. The Beasts protest was to bit down, licking and chewing at the slobbered on instrument of domination. Trying to stop it from cutting in to his jaw and controlling his movement as much as possible. The pounding of hooves trod upon the ground, announcing their triumph in stopping for a moments rest. "Where? Can it been seen from the road? Can we bring the horses in as well?" More questions formed on her lips and died before they could be brought to life. Jaliza took hold of the leathers that slipped free of Roane's gloved hands drawing her own ash colored stud up along side the Dark Chestnut mare her employer road. With the light fading so fast, time was of the essence. Roane had drifted out of her conscience state in to a world of darkness and dreams. When she woke... her eyes found themselves strangely at home deep with in the cave works with the smell of the ocean rising up to meet her senses. She could small salt, taste the ocean air on her lips but there was no light, none but the glow of a fire along the far wall... How long has she been sleeping?

Jaliza sat near the flames, hovering over a small kettle filled with water, dried herbs and meats mixed in mingling the smell of sweet fresh ocean air with the aroma of a hot meal. "We canna stay 'ere fer few hands pass'n M'Lady... Rider's don poss'd us by few hour's back... why ya was sleepen. Ye got food for a spell, fresh water ya can fin' o'er der." She pointed to the fall wall, trickles of water ran in crystal rivets in to a smoothed basin that nature had created over time. Roane slowly rose to sit with in her bed roll, letting the surroundings form in ti imager. Jaliza was right, they were far enough back light did not escape the cave mouth, nor did it come in from the outside... The smoke from the small fire's dissipated in to the rocks so not even the smell of burning would will permeate the air out side the cavern. "We can 'ven fish in da tide pools down on da beach after dark M'Lady... Till ya sure doe's men bea gone... Sidhe Riders... Not ya typical Lot round 'ere... and on da heels of a Drow Nobel.... Som'thin a'miss from da looks of th'ngs... Just thought mae advice would 'elp... Sidhe wont journey under ground... an we bea in preddy deep Miss" Hide? Roane had not thought it possible to hide.... She knew it was not possible... "The Sidhe will follow underground Jaliza... these Sidhe will, they are allied with the goblins.... We stay for a while... then we go back to Asalean,"

Roane kept watch at all times as weeks passed... A moons passing now, since putting her daughter on a ship, How such a short time could feel like an eternity when you do not know... When you are in fear for your life and the lives of those tyou love. This rag tag warrior woman and the Drow living together, four weeks by the sea, wondering if Cel and his men would back track, find them in their dark haven and end their lives. Rations were stretched, Jaliza harvested fish, and muscles, sea weeds and crustaceans at early dawn, she was not out of place along the coast, blending in with the random strangers or fishwives that trailed the coast hunting in the tide pools... They could not hide forever... someone saw something,... It was the dead of night when they heard voices... and the hiss of steal leaving leather sheaths....

_____________________

Holidays came and went, Friends and family gathered around the tavern sharing gifts, song, food and drink. Love was in the air, blooming in all corners... Her relationship with Rease was growing by the day, the fear they both felt for finding out about each others pasts melted the moment they shared it, spoke openly with each other in the grove that one night... so much passion came from that evening, and so much understanding. Together they worked as a team, taking on each day with a smile knowing at its evening end they would be together, curled up to sleep and share their dreams. But even the days that made dreams seem envious of their splendor could hold heart ships. Tri colored eyes looked out the thrid floor window, Gazing out towards the sea watching for the sails of a ship that may never arrive. Truth had come out at last, she really was not home sick for the darkness and security of the underground world she grew up in. But more for the one person who had sacrificed to protect her. Roane.. mother, how was she? Was she safe? Was she alive? There were so many questions... but also... there were two others out that she was growing to love... even if she had never meet them.

Rease had his children ripped from him, had over come but still...he looked for them. watched the horizon at times with hope he would see them again. Out of so much darkness can come the greatest of all gifts. Love... and Hope renewed. Cool wind rose from the flower covered grass below, carrying with it their sweet perfume. Seated upon silken pillows, resting her head upon the window pane her gaze drifted from the far off shore to the ring that now rested upon her finger. With out saying a word to her, Rease had brought such tears to her eyes when he gave it to her, when he slipped it upon her finger with a promise to stand beside her for the rest of their days. Married... in less then a month she would be married to a man who had simply swept her off her feet... That thought made her laugh... Who swept who off their feet? Rease, the forsworn bachelor for life settling down after all this time? What ever it was that had brought this about... Rayne would not nit pick to find it out... Just bask in the knowledge she had his heart.

Upon the tip of her finger landed the most peculiar creature she had ever seen... A sable winged butterfly, so much like the one on the ring that she wore around her neck at all times... A gift from her father... that matched the markings upon her back... It lighted there, slowly fanning its wings back and forth unafraid of those tir colored eyes that gazed upon it with such curiosity. A sense of calm washed over her, as she peered in to those tiny eyes lifting her sable winged friend closer to her face. So tender a kiss was lit upon its head, and her gaze caught the flakes of gold and silver powder upon its dusty wings... With but a whisper she spoke... " I miss you to." And off it flew... catching the rising breeze and headed out towards the sea vanishing from sight. A fathers gift to be treasured always.

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Days moved on,... so did the hours of training, time spent on day to day chores of gather food, herbs and hunting for the vast treasures monsters hoard to themselves. She came home to find hr husband to be, Rei and Caly gathered out side the tavern... All talking but growing quiet as she came closer..."Shall we all go inside for a drink?" They followed, yet tension had been so thick, you could cut it with a knife. Rease cuddled up to her,... But Rayne, smiled, kissed his cheek and moved away not wanting to flaunt things in front of her... Maybe it was wrong of her, but her friends feelings had always been important to her.... Maybe it was the wrong move... with in the short span of time... Rei has stormed out, Caly was leaving, and harsh words were spilled between the Rayne and Caly... One woman stormed off... the other ran upstairs to shed her tears and find comfort in the arms of her betrothed.

Was not so much anger that was cried out that night, but the feeling of being foolish, of being called selfish and all the self doubt in herself. Had she really done the wrong thing? Sleep came, dreams swept in clouding vision with troubled things. The story told by Lord Tiad, of Anu and the battle of Trinsic, the fall of the leader of the Order of druids... the staff the survives had found, the anger Gaia still felt that bleed in to the land though the animals and elements. This was the first unrestful night of sleep that she had, had since shortly after arriving in Marketvale.... An early day, spent cleaning the tavern before heading out on her ritual walks to gather herbs, tend the garden and see to restocking the stores at the market.... Caly came by, to repair some armor so badly in need of stitching... Thanks given for the apologies she expressed for the harshness between them. True friendships can over come the little tifs.. or even the big no holds bard, knock down drag out fights.....

When Caly left...Rayne watched the water front again, Leaning over the counter top letting her thoughts take her.....

[Predatory Beauty]

Time will never stand still... this is just an unstoppable reality of the world. Everything must keep moving forward no mater what the turning of the tides may bring forth. The previous month had brought with so many changes and new faces. Some good, some hurtful but all for the better in the end. Sitting with in the small Library at the Hunter Estates her violet eyes scanned over the many records of events for the past weeks. Rease could not do it all on his own, that inevitable fact made Rayne feel even more needed and useful with in the Ranks of the growing township. Changes to the citizen records had to be made, and acting as secretary to he Soon to be husbands business this feel upon her hands to tend to... as did the duties of their former general who had abandoned his post giving them little time to train a replacement. But that seemed to be something he had to do.

Oh No Matter, Rayne herself had picked up the reigns of leadership and adored the ranks of Head of the Marketvale Militia with Rease's blessings. Till such a time someone could be trained to take over releasing her to focus more so on the clinic and stores for Marketvale. Writing letters to the new recruits, distraction came with the sound of men shouting, Stone grating against stone. Draft horses snickering in protest to the weight they hulled up on pullies to lay another line of stone in place. The Castle that had once stood was no more. With Vendim's leaving it had been demolished under his order, packed up and hulled away. That center point of the city laid empty for only a short time... that was long enough to caused a pang of pain in her chest. It was another one of those inevitable changes that comes with time.

Rising from her seat behind the stone desk, her slender form leaned out the side window to look south of the estate to watch for a few fleeting moments the work that went on in laying the foundation for the new castle. Despite it all, all the heart ship that came in resent weeks, they endured, overcame and made the best of every thing that came their way. It set a smile upon her lips to see the men at work, Rei acting as supervisor on the Metal works that would play in to its construction, Rease pointing out a number of details and Iolani snapping at one of the men about something... but the dwarf was smacking him over the head with rolled up blue prints that Rayne had handed off to her for the work. Laughing she leaned back inside claiming her seat at her desk once more waving the message boy over that waited dutifully by the library doors.

"Thank you for waiting lad... Take these to the men, see to it that you place them in to their hands directly and tell them I will speak with each of them soon." A few gold coins sweetened his work, and a soothing hand rustleing his hair put a wider smile on the lads face. The letters went to A number of the Men, Angus who still laid up in the clinic getting over his wounds.  Dani, Silvao, Yami, Ryo, Kamui and Alek all received their letters by mid day... some knowledge of their skills was a necessity in order to better place them all.

Greetings & Salutations.

   I wish to express once more how happy we all are to have you here with in the ranks of CMV. I am requesting a Meeting with you all in order to better get to know you and the skills you possess so it will aid us in better placing you with in the ranks of the city. There are many different aspect of the city in which you can contribute. The Order of Druids, Crafter's, The City Militia & the Smithing Guild are only a few things offered to you here. First and formost we are a family and stand by each other no mater what comes to pass. I look forward to speaking with you all very soon.

Sincerely.
Moririe "Rayne" Hunter.
General of the Marketvale Militia.

As much as she would have loved to personalize a letter to each of them, it was one scroll that they would all see in turn but other duties beckoned and demanded their slice of her time. First was to make note of all the new faces and the return of old friends from their journeyers that kept them away. Amras had returned to them once again! Welcomed home with open arms, he had been greatly missed. Stroem came home only for a short spell, to visit his wife and see to any thing the guild needed before once more he had to depart on his question.  Angus still rested with in the clinic, healing from wounds sustained in battle, gorged by a daemon his wounds were healing slowly but he would live to rejoin the militia soon enough. Biki's short break came to an end when how mush she was missed and needed became very apparent. Every one had been thrilled to have her once more lay her name upon the Home Stone of the city. Rayne moved her small hand in smooth elegant strokes across the parchment. Goose feather quill scratching at the surface with the design of each persons name being set upon it.

New faces, This always brought a smile to her face, Dani, and his wife Ania, Silvao, Yami and Alek all had moved in to Marketvale in the last week following Ryo joining a week before them. Marketvale was forever growing, and would forever do so. Isalentia was being promoted to aid Rease and the City as the Town Treasurer and Secretary. Her diplomatic skills would become of great use in the days ahead as each change came in to affect for those who lived with in the Vale...  She and the Young Druid Alek got along very well with hope they would become life long friends or more... With paper work done and filed away Rayne rose, brushing her hands down over the crimson gown so she could see to things around the house. Dinner was being cooked downstairs filling the house with the scents of fresh breads and exotic spices. The chirping of birds in the garden wafted in to the house to mingle with the music being placed upon a standing harp in the dinning hall. Each day brought a more intense feeling of home.

So much had changed in the past two months.... Leaving a place she had once thought of as home... It seemed so long ago. Walking though the house, checking on each room as she went. the gold chest with a number or unexplained items rested under lock and key. Each one in there worried her greatly... but she could not spend her days fretting over those... not with the wedding only days away. Basha had dinner well in hand. and Daphnie was seeing to cleaning up the upstairs bedrooms. Rayne walked up stairs in to the master suite and out on to the balcony picking up the pains and brush she had been neglecting as of late while thinking hard on a suitable gift to give to Rease on their wedding night. So much out there that was possible to get ones hands on if you only worked hard enough... She was sure to find something he would greatly adore. But nothing could be as fulfilling as the possibility of his son coming home to live with them soon enough... or ending the Bruit Talon's Life for the trespasses he had played in resent days against the Citizens of Marketvale.

Can not have Good in the world with out the evil. For there is a delicate balance that must be maintained or the emotions of happiness, joy, pain, and sorrow would become nothing but lifeless fleeting sensations with out any true meaning any more. This was her time to think, relax before for a break before she returned to the heavy duties that lay upon her shoulders at times. No mater how stressful it all may have seemed to every one, or as worn down as she felt when the days sunlight faded in to crimson and lavender tinting against the powder blue of the western sky, there was nothing more rewarding then the knowledge that all they accomplished during the day and those that would follow, all added up to a much greater good for every one in Marketvale...

The brush gave off this faint whisper as it moved against the canvas dappling the last few touches of gray to form the shading of features along a mans jaw line. Just someone she had seen... captured their likeness to memory and now in oil paint and hide to be immortalized from that one passing glimpse. "Time to get back to work... so much to do around here." Daphnie was a dear girl and as if she had been standing there waiting all this time... She was a vision of smiles offering a hand out to take the paint covered brush from her employers hand. "I canna clean ya brushes for ya Madam. Do have a good day." Blessed in so many ways, Rayne nodded and gave the girl a pat on the shoulder in passing. "Thank you Daphnie, I will return soon... if you see Mr. Hunter please let him know I went out on my daily errands and will be home soon." Leaving the house she peered down the street to see Isalentia's new home. Rayne insisted that she move in as close to the Hunter Estates as possible. It had taken a great deal of effort to contact Isalentia's uncle and negotiate a suitable deal from all sides to appease the demanding Duke.

Alek Zakery was the name of the man he mentioned as suitor for his Niece in the letter sent back to Rease and Rayne.... with word in only a few days the young Count would be sent on his way to take up a residence with in the City of Marketvale. Was not uncommon at all for those of Royal rank and status to be set upon by arranged marriages... Though with hope, the pair would find themselves more suited to each other so that some happiness could be found in the match. What they knew of the lad was he was a Compromising political sort, who found a type of comfort in the woods with animal and magic. With the right training he would make a fine druid someday... Already Ardin had offered the young man a helping hand in the right direction. All those thoughts filled her head with in a few seconds... Just looking down the pathway to her friends new home. Snapping from her thoughts, She ascended in to the saddle of the stoic red hided beast that Glab had been kind enough to tame for her a few days ago he needed a little training. In order to get to know the beast and find a fitting name, they after all had to get to know each other better.

Prancing nervous hooves clicked against the cobble stones the moment Rayne had positioned herself upon her perch. Gripping leather reigns tightly, a firm kick of heels against the apex of the beasts flanks sent him forward with a rough jerk as he launched himself in to a full run... That exhilarating sensation of freedom rushed up inside her... tucking herself down against his muscled neck feeling the feather silken caress of mane brushing against her cheek. The scent of a horse and salt water washed over her as they hit the shore line and road along it in to the woods heading east out of Marketvale...


cont.....


[more to come on what is taking place with Cel and Roane very very soon. Working on that most vigilently!]

[Predatory Beauty]

Story post is being rewriten! *dances* me back and will have something juicy up to read about where the little drow princess has been! hehe

[Kydaer Shol]

*wipes a tear and runs to the docks to wish her a farewell, not a goodbye since their paths would cross again she hoped.........* We will miss ye sweet one *hugs* ...... may your journey bring you back safe and sound......

[Predatory Beauty]

Marketvale was so still and so quiet. For months it lay in a dormant state as if nothing but ghosts inhabited the small sleepy township. Rayne walked the streets, checked on all the tavern and even on citizens homes.  But it was the same as the day before, no one was home, not even Rease had been around in weeks. No word from her husband set a feeling so cold to grip her heart. Worried where he was, if he was all right, or if he had just left.... The last time they had really talked had ended in a fight.... Had been so silly really, or had it? The nuersy had just been completed, showing it to the old wolf started them bickering at each other. Rayne wanted children, Rease... he did not seem happy or thrilled about the idea.


Had she driven him away, No they has seen each other and after that fight, had made up and stilled the worries. Agreed to wait on adding to the family. Then things went still. Rayne stood behind the counter of the tavern taking inventory of an empty establishment when she heard the door open behind her. A Customer? The sound gave her a sense of hope at first, till she turned to see three woman standing in the door way. Simple in their attire, no flars of color, all three so  really in deep grays and blacks. It was peasant garb they wore, which made Rayne wonder where they were from.

"Greetings Welcome to the Pratertian Tavern... can I get you ladies any thing to drink?"

"A bottle of wine would be refreshing after our long journy."

The woman who spoke, her voice seemed worn by time, she was not young but she was not old either. Lovely enough to look at but still, there was something that did not feel right about the small group. Watching them move closer sent a chill down her smile, gave her the desire to reach for a weapon and protect herself.... What had happened next came to fast. Rayne had turned around to get a bottle out of the wine rack, wedging three wine glasses between her fingers of her free hand. When she turned to the bar, setting their order in front of them, she looked up and every thing became very hazey. A puff of powdery smoke hit her in the face, it smelled of herbs, and had a sickingly sweet scent that lingered just before the world went dark.

--------------------------

"Come on dear, lets get you packed up, you have been away long enough its time to get you back home"

Packing up everything she owned, it seemed to odd, these woman who where they, Who was she. Rayne's mind seemed to blurry. Nothing mad scene yet she could not stop herself from doing just as she was told. Men came with pack horses and mules, everything she owned was taken to a boat in the harbor. Every time she tried to ask where they were going, fingers tapped her lips and a all to pleased smile rested upon the eldest woman's face.

"We are taking you home, back to the snowy shores, You will be just fine, we wont let any one hurt you."

"But I don't want to go... "

"Yes you do. Now get back to work, we will be done here with in the hour and away we will go."

A few hours latter she was on a ship leaving the docks... looking back to see a woman standing there in blue waving. Just did not... make any sense. Why was she leaving? Who was she? why did it feel like her heart was breaking to be pulled away from this place? The three witches took her below deck... there was much to tell her. Her mind still traped in a fog, she followed, blindly entering the small cabin below deck. Another puff of powdery smoke hit her in the face and all went black as she felt herself falling.... Everything was gone after that....

[Predatory Beauty]

Laughter crisp as a winters morning so full of life played on the wind blended in to the symphony of crickets merry chirping. Somewhere behind the curtain of trees cat-tail reeds whistled, split or broken by natures never changing gown. They added their own melodic woodwind note of the master piece nature itself had written. Every leaf, blade of grass and twig; Every insect, the spider on her silver wed, every feathered and furred soul to the very earth itself had its own voice to add in the unending act of creation. But the laughter she heard while standing out on the veranda over looking the front garden of the Hunter home was not real. It was but a Ghost of a hope for the family they wanted to start. Work for the Festival had greatly kept her mind off the fact that despite all attempts, there was still no child's laughter in the house and Seldom was Rease or her even home anymore. The doors behind her had been closed, and locked after the room had been packed up. Maybe it had just been a bad day, or it was just to hurtful to pass by it everyday when walking upstairs and getting that sense of how empty it was.

Which ever the case, it was done and she could try and put it out of her mind and focus on the up coming holiday. Yes there was a lot to plane for the Christmas party and maybe a few events for the fun... But mostly she wanted to spend more time with her husband. She wiped her eyes with the silk handkerchief in her hand and rolled her shoulders back as if to brush the pain and worry away. There was always the future and hope for those small dreams to come true. After all she was still trying to regain all her memories, shuffle though the lost months and weeks, try to put the puzzle together again. Glancing in though the arch way to see him sleeping soundly just beyond in their room. They had had only a few fights, or arguments in their time together, but it did not make them easier to deal with.

Sleep was once more evading her, as much as she wanted to curl up under the covers with Rease and let the dark hours of the day fade away. Rayne's mind would not stop reeling over and over again with the doubts and fears playing havoc on her mental state. "Enough sulking damn it, the evening had a pleasant ending." It was not only the things said between Rease and herself tonight that had her stomach in knots. Somewhere out there her Mother was still in hiding... Or was she dead by now, Did Cel catch up to her? would she ever see her again? Isa was growing more and more distant. Her dear friend, had been the only strength Rayne had, had on the ship that carried her to these lands. Who were the witches that little pumpkin was  running away from and where did that little cat go? Was she all right?

Moonlight filled the evening with an ivory glow, it was a beauty few really put much time in to seeing. Rayne thrived in the darkness, enchanted by the calming and soothing mother moon. Winds whispering sweet nothings in her ears, and the could of a scissor tail some where off in the distance singing drew her thoughts beyond the flood of stressful images and ideas running at high speed though her head. For the first time during the course of the day she felt still and at ease.