Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 9, 2009 16:08:37 GMT -5
The metal of my vambraces glinted in the hot afternoon sun as I walked the streets of the Temple District. Gods, it was as hot as Hell outside, and here I was, clad in the traditional drab gray of the Cassiline Brotherhood. My hair had been done up in the traditional club, it had grown longer since the last time I was here, and it was too unruly to leave to its own devices.
"Why, oh, why did I decide to come here today?" I wondered, using my hand to shield my eyes from the sun. I had to admit, it was a beautiful day for a stroll, if only my garments were not so stifling in this heat!
I strode over to a bench which was located beneath a shady tree and all but collapsed into it, sighing deeply. I had originally planned to visit Camael's Temple to thank the warrior for a safe trip, but I was not so sure that I could make it after all. Perhaps if I managed to make it to Eisheth's Temple, some kind soul would give me a drink of cold water...
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 9, 2009 17:08:25 GMT -5
A lovely day, I thought to myself as I walked through the cobbled streets of the City. I was entering the Temple District now, on one of my rambling walks, lost in thought. I was thinking on some of the family members I had recently met. Half cousins, full cousins, and a cousin so near to me it was like having family all over again. I really didn't need to be thinking right now, though, my thoughts always pummeling around in my head, but the fresh air was a necessity, and it had been a while since I had been out, stretching my limbs and taking in the sunshine.
The heat was dry, not terribly humid, and the skirts of my dress moved freely around my ankles, high enough so as not to dust the floor. The skirts gathered in voluminous pleats, two slits to mid thigh in front of each leg, which were not visible due to the amount of fabric, but allowed for the infrequent breeze to pass through and cool me. It looked mayhap a little bit warm, but the fabric was delicate, light and breathable, and an off-white colour to off-set the sun. The dress came across my chest, leaving my shoulders bare though my curls cascaded down over my shoulders and my back, shining blue-black in the sun.
My sandaled feet traipsed lightly over the stones as I continued forward. Then, my eyes caught the glimpse of sunlight off of metal just over in the distance. Glancing as I continued forward, I noticed a man sitting in full Cassiline regalia on a bench, looking as though he may very well faint from the intensity of the heat and the constrainst of his clothing. I couldnt help but smile at him as I approached slowly, quirking my head to the side as if enquiring about something. His seemingly black hair made me wonder if he was from Kusheth. And he was beautiful.
"Well met, my lord," I murmured with a curtsy, the smile still on my lips.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 9, 2009 19:46:56 GMT -5
I looked up at the sound of the woman's voice. Blue-black hair, skin like alabaster, ice blue eyes--one of the Shahrizai, perhaps? I was not so sheltered from the rest of the world that I could not recognize one of Kusheth's most prominent families.
I rose from my seat and bowed in the Cassiline manner. "Well met, my lady," I said, coming out of it with a smile that matched hers. Some part of me must have recognized that she was Kusheline, at least. The song that my blood was singing was threatening to become distracting if I did not focus on something else.
"It is a lovely day for a stroll, is it not?" I remarked, grinning broadly. "I am sad to say that it would be better for me were I not wearing this blasted uniform!" I was now experiencing a persistent itch in my lower back, just out of my reach. Silently, I cursed the man who had designed the blasted thing and I cursed myself for deciding to wear it that morning. "I don't suppose gentle Eisheth has sent you with a drink for me, my lady?" I asked. "Or is she before me now, comforting me with thoughts of home?" I chuckled softly. Perhaps it was the heat, causing me to say such honeyed words, but for all my training, I was still a man under my armor, and I knew a beautiful woman when I saw one.
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 9, 2009 22:22:20 GMT -5
His words were sweet, but all laced with underlying meanings that I could have taken full advantage of exploiting. But there is something to be said about a man who has devoted his life to the Cassiline ways, the oath of celebacy that tends to itch like shackles of confinement. I wondered at him, admiring how much it must have taken him to be what he was, especially with Kusheline blood running through his veins. If it wasn't evident from his carriage and looks, it was definitely evident from his sibilant voice, and that smile.
"It is, indeed, a gorgeous day for a stroll," I replied, my voice just as honeyed as his. "But alas, my lord Cassiline," I continued, a crooked smile coming to my lips as I peered into his eyes. It was hard to see the colour with the sunlight shining so brightly and right beside him,"I would more than likely have come to punish you, sent by Kushiel himself. Maybe we can find a midpoint and perhaps somewhere to get you somewhat to quench that thirst of yours," I bit my tongue, cutting my comment short. It was going to be hard, very hard, to try not to offend him, the sexual thoughts coursing through my mind one after the other. And I hadn't even gotten his name yet!
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 9, 2009 23:01:46 GMT -5
I found myself smiling at her. "Whatever sin I committed cannot be so severe that my lord Kushiel would send one such as you to punish me, my lady." I inclined my head towards one of the pathways that led around the district. "I imagine that there must be someone here who can assist me, and I would be remiss if I allowed such a lovely woman to wander the streets alone." Ah, what was the matter with me today? Cassiel save me, but I was acting like a love-sick schoolboy!
I coughed, ostensibly to clear my throat, and offered her my arm. "Are you bound anywhere, my lady?" I asked. "It would be my honour to escort you." It seemed as if her presence had lessened the harsh glare of the sun, so that I did not feel as uncomfortable as I had before she had arrived. I could always visit Camael's Temple some other time--I would bring him more than my usual offering to make up for my impulsiveness.
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 9:23:17 GMT -5
I smiled at him sweetly, listening to him. He was... well... adorable really. Good natured and seemingly sweet, and he had intrigued me. I had never met a Cassiline before. I had seen some about but had never approached one. I took up his arm in response, my body close to his, but making sure to keep myself in check. Company would be nice for a day like today, and my inability to socialize usually left me empty handed.
"I myself am headed nowhere in particular. I hope I did not disturb you whilst on your way somewhere important. I know you must be very busy. But... if you are not," I continued, looking up at him. My Gods he was tall. Then again, I was fairly short. "Then yes, I would appreciate your company... uh... I don't believe I caught your name..." I stammered. Usually that was the first thing in order.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 10:07:33 GMT -5
I sucked in a sharp breath as she stammered out that she did not know my name. Gods, what was wrong with me, it was impolite, to say the least, that I had not introduced myself. You need to stop thinking that the entire City knows who you are, Emile.
"Excuse me, my lady," I said apologetically. "My name is Emile d'Ames, and I hope you will forgive me for not introducing myself sooner. My mind tends to go on flights of fancy and I forget common courtesies." Unexpectedly, I grinned. "Is there a name I can call you, my lady?"
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 10:35:27 GMT -5
I smiled as he appologized, like a kind gentleman. I quirked my head again to the side, looking up at him. I gave him a lopsided smile as I replied. "I am Sarielle Shahrizai... but you may call me Sarielle." I put my hand up to my brow, shielding the sunlight so I might find his eyes with mine. "So, Emile," I said his name with a smile, "what are you doing out on a fine day like this, dressed in full regalia like that? Or is that omething that is required, rain or shine?" I hated admitting when I didn't know something, but I really didn't know a great deal about the Cassiline requirements, other than that they must guard their wards with their lives, and must remain... well.. chaste.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 11:39:07 GMT -5
"Sarielle," I repeated, testing the name on my tongue. Ah, so I was correct, she was a Shahrizai after all. It was strange, how I had only known of them for so long, and yet now I was finally meeting one in the flesh.
I sighed as she asked me what I was doing out here dressed like--well, like a Cassiline. "I'm afraid it was foolishness on my part, Sarielle," I admitted. "It was not so hot early this morning, and I did think that mayhap someone would notice my daggers and sword and wonder where I obtained them." I shrugged. "D'Angelines can be so obstinate when it comes to adhering to tradition. They expect certain things of the Cassiline Brotherhood..." I had no doubt that she knew what some of those things were, every D'Angeline knew something of my Brotherhood--and everyone expected me to match the image that they had in their head.
Well, excepting the Queen, surely she was used to my mannerisms by now...
I suppose I should have been grateful for tradition, as tradition was what bound me here in the first place, but I could not help but think that some traditions were best left in the past...
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 12:29:46 GMT -5
I smiled again, looking forward.
"Yes we tend to be rather obstinate in that," I replied, thinking on the Shahrizai and the plethora of acts we were known for. "And not to worry. I have no expectations, except that they do as they have always done in following Elua, and love as they should, as they want to. If that love means that you find yourself in sweltering temperatures dressed completely from head to toe, nearly fainting from heat exhaustion well," I said, spreading my free hand in a shrug, a sly smile on my lips, as I turned my gaze back to his "so be it, who am I to judge. Besides, I think it is rather honourable, what you do, and it seems something that would be very hard. Although I am not sure on how one gets inducted into the service. Something about being the second son, am I correct?" I queried, but continued on. "As much as I love our Queen, I personally would find it hard to make so many sacrifices..." I did not want to pry, but I wondered if he did follow the doctrine to the very T. I laughed then. "But then again, mayhap I am just far too selfish."
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 12:59:07 GMT -5
"No, not selfish," I replied. "It's just how you are. Perhaps I do not see it as such a great sacrifice, I suppose it is because I was fostered with the Brotherhood at such a young age, besides, I do gain other things...respect, admiration, a lovely set of blades..." I plucked one of my daggers from its sheath, holding it in my hand so that the sunlight glinted off its metal surface. "My paternal bloodline hails from Camlach," I explained. "The workmanship on these daggers is exceptional, if I do say so myself." It was strange, how readily I displayed my daggers to her when I had been so cautious around the Princesa Lola de las Aragonia, but I had a feeling that Sarielle was a different sort of woman. Ah, yes, seducing a Cassiline was probably near the top of every D'Angeline woman's fantasies, but I had a feeling that she would not compromise my vows as the Princesa had, with her brazen kisses.
At least, not without my permission...
"As for how I was inducted," I continued, smiling. "It is tradition among the peerage that the middle son is sent for fostering with the Brotherhood." I shrugged. "Sometimes I think that my parents sent me for fostering because they didn't know what else to do with me." I chuckled. "I doubt that they could have anticipated the sort of ward I would be assigned to..."
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 13:10:23 GMT -5
I listened as he spoke of his career, no his life adn dedication with such a light air, such admiration. He seemed to really love what he did. I could not fault him in that. I watched as he removed a dagger from its hold, twisting it this way and that, the sunlight refracting off of it gloriously, the metal was impeccably cared for. I almost felt to reach for it but stopped myself. They were sacred, as sacred as a Cassiline himself. I pulled my hand back, hopefully before he noticed my intention. "Yes," I agreed, watching him, but not really seeing the daggers as I looked at his profile. "Yes, quite nice indeed." I let my eyes glance back to the blades should I be caught out.
I listened as he continued on with his story, my brows knitting together in mild confusion. "You mean to tell me you were not always this amicable and sweet? I don't think I could believe you to be a hellion. I do not know you but you just seem too... good," I said with a sly smile. It was not meant to insult, but it could be construed as such. "And I am sure that they are very proud of you being the guard of who you are... and that would be the Queen... if I guessed correctly earlier?"
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 13:48:30 GMT -5
I nodded. "Indeed, I have the honour of warding Her Majesty, but I have leave to wander about the City today." I glanced in the direction of the Palace, wondering, even now, if she would send someone to fetch me if something happened while I was away.
Oh, stop that, Emile! The Queen is fine! I turned back to her, trying to smile to cover up the sudden worry that had started to gnaw at my insides. I managed to grin in spite of myself. "Alas, my lady, I fear you have me all wrong! I was quite an imp when I was a child, if my mother is to be believed..." It was at this point that I realized that I had neglected to sheathe my dagger, an oversight which I promptly amended. "My mother called me her petit diable. But if you think me sweet, who am I to argue with you?" True, I was different from my brethren, but the Cassilines were not known for selecting fosterlings who had such...agreeable...temperaments.
After all, there was always a change that we would have to kill to protect our wards, and it was hard to do so if one allowed one's emotions to intrude on the task.
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 14:47:34 GMT -5
"That must award you much satisfaction then, although it must also worry you to no end," I replied, watching how his face changed, the lines apparent from his knitting eyebrows before he smoothed over his emotions to smile back at me. I had seen the worry there and wondered how something so constantly worrying could be so enjoyable at the same time. I suppose it was the idea that he was keeping our Queen and, therefore, our very country safe. I smiled back at his assertions.
"Oh no Emile," I snickered, playing with him now, "I don't think you have a mean bone in your body. I may have to hear some of these 'impish' stories of yours. Although you are wise to just agree with me. Would it be in your best interest to have me think you a pure and good Cassiline and man? Or would it do your image better for me to think you may have a wild streak?" I asked, quirking an eyebrow.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 16:03:33 GMT -5
I shrugged. "You may think what you wish of me, my lady. I have long since given up on trying to conform to the expectations of others. The Queen has said that I am 'an odd Cassiline' and I did not dispute her. It is folly to argue with women, anyways." I grinned, I had witnessed this in Kusheth not too long ago. "My father is a confident man, but even he hesitates in the face of my mother's glare--but then, he did marry an adept of Mandrake House!" I chuckled. "Sometimes I wonder if he knew what he was getting into when he decided to wed her."
I paused, conscious of the fact that I was probably boring her, my mind racing to think of another topic of conversation. "Truth be told, I have not met many others from Kusheth, and even less from Camlach," I admitted. "Do you ever feel as if you do not belong in this City, my lady?"
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 16:21:01 GMT -5
I listened as he explained himself, his heritage. My eyebrows went up at his mother's background, and a man from Camlach marrying a Mandrake adept? That was quite the match indeed. "I suppose he did, and look at the product. A fine young gentleman whose demeanor even baffles the Queen herself!" I mused with a soft laugh.
"I have lived here for a great deal of my life," I explained in response. "Since my majority. I supopse I didn't really live 'here' per se," I explained, looking forward, composing my thoughts. "I have been a bit of a hermit. So you may have to excuse me if I seem a bit... abbrasive. I have yet to refamiliarize myself with being social with those other than my house members and my 'minor' kin. I miss Kusheth, though," I continued, thinking on my sister and the estate she was living in, now alone as I was. I frowned mildly before recalling where I was and who I was with, forcing a look of nonchalance to my face.
"How about You Emile?" I asked softly. "Do you ever feel you are out of place?"
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 17:48:22 GMT -5
I nodded. "I am a celibate in a country where the maxim is 'Love as Thou Wilt' and I cannot love in the way that my fellow D'Angelines can." I made a gesture that encompassed the whole of my body. "The clothes, as well, set me apart. You would not have been so inclined to approach me had I not been wearing them, would you?"
I sighed. "Do not misunderstand me, if I had not joined the Brotherhood, I would have found a battlefield to fight on anyways, but Cassiel's Way can be difficult at times..." I was hard-pressed to admit this even in Kushiel's Temple, and now here I was laying my soul bare to this woman who I had just met.
Emile, get a hold on your tongue!
My mouth snapped shut and I gave her a weary smile. "My apologies, I sometimes babble on without realizing that the other person might want to speak!"
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 20:07:04 GMT -5
"Tis not a problem, Emile," I responded, his apology hanging in the air. "I don't mind listening. And yes, I can understand that one might find such... strictness a little chafing at ones inherent nature. You have the blood of Camael and Kushiel... and that must be very trying for you at times. Even full blooded Kushelines find it trying. And to have one God who encourages your nobility, your fighting nature, and whose province believes in the Cassiline Brotherhood, and yet the blood of another, the Punisher, and the one at the base of Shahrizai nature... well... that must be even moreso trying." I raised my free hand to caress his arm. It was meant as a comforting gesture, though I still felt my fingertips tingle as I moved my hand away.
"And I will admit, the glint of sunlight off of metal did catch my attention, much like the magpie I am," I said with a smile and a soft laugh, "but if I had of stepped out of my revery for a moment to look around and had seen you there in normal garb," I said, pausing to look to him, imagining him in somewhat else, and willing myself not to go too far with my visualizations, "yes, I think I would still come to talk to you. But if you were not dressed as such, mayhap you wouldn't have stopped there to rest and catch your breath before moving on, and mayhap our paths would never have crossed." I mused on. I felt my cheeks heat mildly as I noticed I was doing the same thing he had accused himself of doing just now.
"It seems I have some appologizing for myself to do, Emile. I tend to go on tangents..." not usually with people I barely know, though I thought to myself.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 21:01:55 GMT -5
I shook my head. "It is no trouble," I smiled. "It means we have something in common, then." I was suddenly very conscious of how close she was to me, her touch warmed me in a way that the sun did not, but I did not find it uncomfortable.
I inclined my head towards one of the pathways that eventually led one to come into close proximity with each temple--although I had never tried to walk the entire way myself. "Shall we walk this way?" I asked, knowing exactly where our path would take us. My blood was doing a fiery dance through my veins. I had long since forgotten the heat of the sun, now a new heat was coursing through me. But it was not, I thought, looking at Sarielle, one of lust.
Or perhaps I was being a little naive...
"You certainly do not look like a magpie, my lady." I commented, grinning. "I would say you are more like a swan, with apologies to Her Majesty, but I cannot think of a lovelier bird--"
It was at that moment that something landed on my head...
I stopped, gazing up at the sky just as a dove--no doubt one of those from Naamah's Temple, flew past us...
Carefully, I reached up and ran my free hand through my hair...
"Elua's Balls!" I exclaimed, following that up with a few choice words that I had learned in Kusheth. "That bird--that--" I stared at my hand, feeling my blood boil in anger. "That bird just...relieved itself on my head!" I sputtered, glaring in the direction of Naamah's Temple. I couldn't go wandering around town with bird leavings in my hair!
"My lady," I said softly, hearing the sound of my teeth grinding together. "I need....to stop....a moment....please...."
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 10, 2009 21:37:38 GMT -5
We were walking up the pathway leading to the temples, and I still wondered where it was he was headed. I didn't mind, of course, and I felt safe with him. I doubted he would pull me into some alleyway and.... enough! I shook my head then came back to the present as he spoke to me, complementing me, but stopping short. I glanced over at him inquisitively as he looked to the sky. I glanced up and spied a dove. Then as he put his hand to his hair a smile started to creep to my lips. Oh no, it couldn't have ... and right on his... And before I could finish my thought the silent air was filled with Emile's voice, angered and explosive with expletives that would put a sailor to shame.
I stepped back, my eyes wide as I looked at him. Not out of fear, but rather shock as I tried to stifle a laugh. "I think what you meant to say was 'Naamah's Doves'," I joked lightly, hard put at not laughing. But the look of despair, disgust, and anguish that flashed across his face was too much. I started laughing, a sharp burst coming from my mouth in a rather awkward guffaw, then I ended up laughing at my own laughter. "I..." I stammered, trying to catch my breath. "I am sorry. I think you may have just gotten retribution for likening me to the bird of royalty." I dislodge from his arm for a moment, looking for something to help him with. I spotted a tree in the near distance and traipsed quickly over to it, taking a broad leaf from a twig and returning with it.
"Here," I said offering it to him, "to get the worst of it off. Mayhap one of the temples will let you in to freshen up?" I suggested, my lips still smiling though my words were in ernest.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 10, 2009 22:10:12 GMT -5
"Naamah's Doves indeed!" I muttered, taking the leaf from her and running it through my hair. "My thanks, but I think I will have someone shave my head bare before I return to the palace!" What would the Queen think if she saw me like this? For the next few minutes, I carefully wiped the remainder of the foul stuff, throwing the leaf on the ground and crushing it with my boot. I glanced up at Sarielle, my anger evaporating as I noticed her expression. She was still laughing at me! I could see it in her eyes even though she was smiling now.
Well, I had to admit, it was very amusing...
"I suppose I deserved it..." I admitted, trying to maintain what little dignity I had left. "As for visiting one of the Temples, the only one close to here is..." I turned to look across the way at the single, solitary building. "Ah, perhaps not the best place to claim respite..." I finished. "Perhaps Eisheth's Sanctuary would suit..." I couldn't see her Temple from here, my eyes kept being irresistibly drawn to those honey-coloured walls.
"Why does everyone avoid this sanctuary like the plague?" I muttered, casting my gaze about as if a merchant's stall would magically materialize in response to my needs, preferably with fresh water so that I could quench my thirst.
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 11, 2009 3:11:42 GMT -5
I raised a hand to pat him on the shoulder. "You better not cut off all that gorgeous hair, I think our Queen would be very upset to have a bald Cassiline at her side." I took my hand away for a moment, listening and then looking in the direction he was looking. A smile came to my lips of memories of time I had spent there. I was not one to frequent it, but when I did it was always good for a respite.
"Kushiel's Temple," I said, my voice holding a note of wonderment, of desire and nostalgia. "I have not been there in... well... a very long time." I looked over to him then, into his eyes, hoping mine betrayed nothing. "And I suppose they avoid it for the same reason that most people give people like me a wide birth in a crowded lane, Emile. They don't understand it. Then again, you should be able to answer your own question, the way you are looking about for a saviour. So... tell me... why do you?" It always bothered me that people equated Kushiel with such terrifying things when it wasn't about terror... at least not for those of Kusheline decent.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 11, 2009 22:50:41 GMT -5
"I am most certainly not afraid of that temple!" I snarled, incensed at the implications I saw in her words. Before I could stop myself, I was moving towards the structure. I knew on some deep level that I was acting childish, like a boy who tries to impress his friends with some act of bravado that is guaranteed to cause him some injury.
A sip of water, that was all I wanted. There was no law that mandated I had to make a confession. I did not even have to go inside, there had to be some sort of well where someone would draw water for me.
Ah, I was in luck. As I passed through the gates, heedless of whether Sarielle had chosen to follow me, a dark-robed figure stepped in my path. Was he an acolyte or a stable-hand? I assumed that acolytes performed such laborious tasks, but the boy before me seemed younger than I'd deem was proper for an acolyte, although I could not tell his exact age.
And, gods above, he had hair as red as the flames of Hell. It was long, framing his face. Ah, I thought, recognizing something of the hellion I had been in him. This one will break many a heart when he is older...
His mouth was set in a hard line as he looked me up and down, but I could see the shred of curiosity in his eyes. "Lord Cassiline," he said softly, inclining his head slightly. "Be welcome here..."
I returned the bow, a small smile on my lips. "My thanks for your hospitality," I replied. "I was wondering if mayhap I could have a drink of water..."
A look of utter confusion crossed his face before he nodded. "Of course, Lord Cassiline." He said carefully. "I will gladly fetch you some water." I watched as he retreated from sight and returned bearing a pail of water and a ladle. "Drink your fill," he instructed, offering me the dipper.
By now I was so thirsty that I couldn't have cared less that he had not offered me a cup. I drank down the cool liquid, sighing contentedly as I finished. "Gods, I needed that..." I let the ladle fall into the pail as I tossed the boy a gold coin. "For your trouble," I explained, watching him run his fingers over it, as if to make sure that it was genuine. Satisfied, he made a fist, hiding the coin from view, and bowed once more before melting into the shadows of the stables.
It was disturbing, how some of them were able to move so silently...
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 12, 2009 9:51:19 GMT -5
I watched as his face controted in a bit of anger, raising my eyebrows at the sudden change as he stormed off. The whole thing made me giggle as he entered the gates. Slowly, I followed, watching his display amusedly. Not like most Cassilines, indeed!
He had read what he wanted from my words, which, in turn, revealed something about him to me. Mayhap he was, indeed, afraid of the Temple. I watched as a young acolyte, red haired and beautiful, stopped to speak with Emile. I was within earshot now and heard the exchange plainly. The boy fetched him a pail of water with a ladle for him to drink from. He did so deeply, probably finishing most of it. I had reached him by the time he tossed the boy a gold coin, returning the pail, and having not even given a second thought to the fact that he had some dove's mess still drying in his hair as he spoke. Standing silently behind him, I sighed.
"You know Emile," I started as the boy disappeared into the distance, "I never said you feared the place, but it seemed like you might have been avoiding it for some reason." Then I smiled, coming to stand beside him. "Also, it seems in your haste you forgot that you may have wanted to use some of that water to remove the remainder of the little dove's delivery." My lips were curved in a wicked smile, noteable in the tones of my voice.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 12, 2009 11:24:45 GMT -5
My tone was curt as I replied. "It was odd enough that a Cassiline came begging for water. I did not need to suffer the humiliation of having to pick bird droppings from my hair while an acolyte was watching!" So saying, I pulled the band that held my hair in its club and began to pick at the mess that the bird had left behind. Thankfully, I had managed to clean most of it off before I passed through the gates, but I still cringed as one particularly dry section took a portion of my hair with it. Her words, though now I suppose they were friendly enough, had brought out my temper, and once it was out, it was hard to leash again.
There were only a couple of things that would get it under control. At the moment, all I could think of was one thing: violence.
"My lady," I said softly, sucking in a sharp breath. "Have you ever felt the sudden urge to kill someone?" My veins felt as if they were on fire. This was not how it went, I did not usually lose my temper so! Or at least I was able to control it when I did! My brothers had not been so cursed, only me. No, Emile, no! She has done nothing to deserve your rage... I gazed at her, wondering how I looked...feral, perhaps? I sucked in another breath, then another, with every exhalation my rage seemed to lessen.
When I was sure I could speak again, I bowed my head, shame forcing me to avert my gaze. "My apologies, I have a rather...explosive...temperament atimes. 'Tis part of the reason that I come here." I was willing to admit that I also came because of those sins I believed I had committed, but to attain mastery of my urges--that was something that I had never admitted to anyone, not even the Queen.
"What is it about you Shahrizai that makes others bare their souls so easily?" I wondered. "I feel as if you have stripped me naked in a matter of minutes!"
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 12, 2009 12:15:05 GMT -5
His tone had not lessened in intensity, in fact, it worsened in its severity. As he turned to speak to me, I looked at him. His brows were knitted together, his voice was low but dangerous, and it caused something inside me to stir. That animalistic side that called out to all of Kusheline decent, especially the Shahrizai. I kept my mouth closed for a moment, schooling myself, the ire and desire that seemed to rise within me within an instant. I watched as he visibly calmed himself, his dark locks around his shoulders, down his neck and passing over one eye. After his soft spoken apology, after the storm had blown over and the calm settled in, I moved my hand to his chin, moving his gaze from the ground to meet my eyes, a half smile coming to my lips as I let that same hand brush his hair away from his face. It was soft against the back of my hand. My fingertips tingled from the contact with his flesh. I schooled myself, my emotions, withdrawing my hand, but letting the smile remain.
"Emile," I started. "Yes, I have had that urge, and ofttimes I felt terrible about it, until I learned to live with it. Have I acted on these urges? No. But I can say this. It is alright to be angry. I understand you feel you are not supposed to be," I offered, trying hard not to read the lines he was so blatantly delivering up to me. I shook my head, closing my eyes then opening, focusing on his gaze again. "I know that you want to be... good. I know that it must be hard, sometimes, with the blood that courses through your veins, and apparently your very touchy temper," I smiled apologetically, hoping he did not take that as an insult.
"But we are only human. We are not as Elua and his followers, in their divinity. No, we are their children, the bloodline trickling down, becoming less and less pure, more and more human as it were. We make mistakes, we have emotions that cannot be perfectly schooled. There's no shame in being what we are. There is no shame in seeking solace in any one of these temples. You have, I have, many have before us and many will after us.
"And sure," I continued, still standing close to him, keeping my eyes on his, "the acolyte may have thought it odd, a Cassiline coming here of all places, but it is not for him, nor any one else, to judge. At least you are not so high above in your station to turn yor nose up to the idea of being humbled and asking for help even where you would least expect it."
Then I smiled a little wider, my eyebrow raised flirtatiously. "As for the Shahrizai," I started, shrugging mildly, "one may say we are very good at reading people... it seems our very presence demands it. And as you stand before me here," I murmured, my gaze falling to look him over once, despite myself. "I have not stripped you naked, you are still probably sweltering in your garb. Besides, there are still mysteries I have not unravelled, not yet anyways," I said with a smile.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 12, 2009 12:57:18 GMT -5
"Your touch and your words are a balm to me, my lady." I admitted, the raging fire in my blood had lessened, and now it was simply smoldering beneath my skin, exhilarating rather than enraging. "I only wish I could reciprocate, but I fear that any action I would take in that direction would compromise my vows!" I grinned playfully. "I am a mystery even to myself, my lady, but I do not doubt that you could manage to unravel any mystery that you set your mind to solving--even such a puzzle as an odd Cassiline."
I glanced at Kushiel's Temple, and then I reached out and gently clasped her hand. "You have given me much to think about," I said. "But I cannot think straight with a lash biting into my back!" I managed a small smile. "Besides, I wouldn't want to abandon such charming company, and I do not know if the priests would allow you to accompany me to the post. Perhaps it is best if we continued our circuit around the district?"
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 12, 2009 14:29:09 GMT -5
I listened to him with a soft smile. He was sweet, indeed, there were demons that lay beneath his calm demeanor, but everyone had something to hide. I looked up at him, my head cocked again to the side as he took my hand in his. It was warm, comforting, although I could still feel the tingle in my own flesh from the emotions that had arisen in me earlier.
"Emile, if you feel the need to... visit... the Temple, by all means, please do not let me hold you back from your spiritual release. We could always meet up again afterwards," I said with a smile, "I do not believe it would be hard for me to find a Cassiline like yourself about the City if I asked, especially dressed as you are and on a day like today. But," I continued, offering another alternative, "if you do indeed wish to continue with me, then I would be very happy for that. What can I say, you are interesting company, regardless of which mood you are in." It was true, even though I had only known him a few scant minutes, he seemed to be good company, even though I would find it very difficult to school myself to goodness. I never backed down froma challenge, even one I imposed on myself. He was absolutely stunning, and stood before me like a forbidden fruit, which he knew he was, mentioning it as though to tempt me. I bit my tongue. "And," I added, "if you are to continue with me, please, call me Sarielle." I gave his hand a gentle squeeze as I waited for his decision.
|
|
Émile d’Ames
Military
Anathema Cassiline; Guard to the Queen
"To conquer oneself is a greater victory than to conquer thousands in a battle.?
Posts: 463
|
Post by Émile d’Ames on Feb 12, 2009 22:57:28 GMT -5
I looked back at the temple and let out a long sigh. She had termed it a 'release', and I suppose that is what it was for me, a release--giving up, surrendering.
And yet, I knew I would be more at peace with myself were I to undergo the ritual. Some D'Angelines went to Eisheth for such solace, but as Sarielle had said, there was no shame in seeking that same solace elsewhere.
When I needed solace, I sought out Kushiel--the mighty one who held a whip of fire in one hand and boundless compassion in the other....
After what seemed like an eternity, I nodded, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "Come in with me?" I asked. "I am sure the priests will allow you to sit and wait..." It didn't occur to me that she might have other things to do besides listen to the inevitable sounds I would make as the lash bit into my back.
Ah, yes, Emile, a fine way to take a break from a stroll--a visit to Kushiel's Temple! The lady will no doubt be impressed with your taste in destinations...
I pushed that thought out of my head and glanced up the way to the entrance. "I have always walked this road alone," I said. "The Queen knows of my habits, but no other..." My eyes met hers, and I hoped she understood the silent plea which was reflected in them. I knew that the Shahrizai were nothing if not discreet, but if even the slightest word about this was exchanged...
The Queen's Cassiline seeking penance for his sins in Kushiel's Temple, it was absurd!
|
|
|
Post by Sarielle Shahrizai on Feb 12, 2009 23:08:51 GMT -5
I watched as he thought for a few moments, passing the idea back and forth in his head, but I could see the need there, the want to seek out what he needed, and understood it. When he spoke, though, his words surprised me. Me? He wants me to be there? I thought to myself. It was enough to make one weep. The trust that he was giving me, hardly knowing me but for an instant in time. I moved towards him, not to kiss him, no. I had far too much respect. I placed my hand against his cheek, his flesh warm against my palm, and looked into his eyes.
"Yes, Emile. I will come in with you, and I will wait," I stroked his cheek, my eyes searching his. I wanted to ask him why, why he trusted me with something he only ever entrusted to the Queen. I smiled softly up at him. I wanted to kiss him in thanks, for giving me so much trust, but of course, did not. I would not let him down. "I understand," I said nodding at his need for discretion. "And..." I hesitated then. I didn't want what was to be said next to be construed as some sort of alterior motive. "And, I am very good at ... applying salves, and the members of my household pride themselves on their discretion... should you need a place to clean and eat before heading back..." then I remebered myself, blushing. If he had done this many times before, I am sure he already had that part of things planned out. I averted my eyes for my own foolishness. I patted his cheek before looking back into his eyes and withdrawing my hand, though I kept my other hand in his. I looked to the temple as it waited for us and smiled softly again. "Let's."
|
|