The ride to the palace felt like an eternity, and with each passing minute, he could feel the heavy pounding of fear grip his chest. The intensity was almost too much to bear, but what little comfort was afforded when he was allowed to share a horse when escorting Solita to the palace was capitalized and as the city of Reajh pulled into view and the company of men passed through the great iron gates, he found himself squeezing an arm around her reassuringly as he breathed into her ear.
"Just stay calm, Solita. I know you must be terrified," he whispered. "But so am I. But we'll see this through. Perhaps... perhaps something good will come of this." Though as they neared the palace and soon were stepping into the late evening shadow that crept across the city, he couldn't help but feel fear tingling inside his veins, sweat lacing his palms as the fading sunlight sparkled off of his brow. Though it was chilling and still winter time, he felt as if his body were on fire.
And as they paused just before the grand steps to the Grand Duke's palace, he knew this was it. Halting his horse, he swung one leg off the saddle and dismounted, then turned to Solita and offered her out his hand.
"Just remember, think positively. At least we are in this together."A nd he squeezed her hand and almost stole a kiss- but thought better of it. Too many were watching- he coudl not risk either of their lives. So he simply helped her from the horse before tearing his blue eyes away from her and turned back his gaze to the towering Palace before them.
Solita found it hard to breathe on the way there, even the gentle sway of the horse and Killian being so close was little comfort. She was faced with the grim fact that she could be going to her execution, or something very much worse. She kept her face black though, a skill she had learned being with the soldiers. It's all about having the brave face on. Before she knew it she was before the palace and off the horse.
It was all moving so fast, almost as if she were dreaming. She desperately prayed she was dreaming. She also prayed that the Duke wouldn't take her away from Killian, she needed him there.
At this stage they were to dismount their horses and traverse the steep towering steps before them. But once they started, Killian squeezing her hand within his own, there was no going back. And he knew it.
Each step that took them closer to her destiny made his legs feel heavier, his heart beat- quicker, thumping as heavily as a war horse's hooves. By the time the pair made it to the top, stepping out onto the wide veranda and gardens before the towering structure of the opulent domain of the Grand Duke, Killian felt his heart nearly in his throat as he craned his neck upwards towards the massive front doors before them. He hadn't even heard the announcement that was made by General Serenus at their side, his heart beat was just too hard and heavy in his ears. But the second the gates were open, he was surprised to see who stood behind them- for it was the Grand Duke himself.
Solita eyes went wide as she saw the Grand Duke himself. Really she could have fainted right then and there so at least if he was there to condemn her to death she wouldn't have to hear it. Her mouth went dry as she looked from the Duke to Killian to the general before looking down at her toes.
"Is this the girl?" The Grand Duke asked, his tone even, though demanding, as he viewed the small trio with mild scrutiny. Bowing before the Grand Duke, and even so much as getting down to one knee, the General responded,
"Yes. I brought her as swiftly as I could when I heard your request."
Calent gave a nod, peering over the group before gesturing, "Come. Follow me inside. There is much to discuss."
And as the Grand Duke was turning to leave, Killian lifted his blue eyes up to watch. He released a held breath he hadn't realized he had been holding, before getting off his knees and moving to guide Solita inside to her new fate.
Solita followed, but was shaking. He said there was much to discuss, which meant at least he wasn't going to kill her right away, right?
The Grand Duke gestured for them all to follow him, leading the group silently into a massive study that seemed secluded from the majority of the castle. Though once Solita and company were brought inside, Zannrick's piercing gaze instantly cut into her, but the mordecai said nothing.
Something about the mordecai infuriated Solita, igniting a refusal to let him make her feel inferior. She stood there, looking at the mordecai with her head held high. She might be a Mage but she wasn't evil, her powers didn't make her less than anyone else standing in that room.
Once they were inside the room, the guards were positioned near to the woman, but not too over shadowing or imposing. The Grand Duke knew his life could be in danger, but as a mage, she could do little in the presence of so many mordecai. And as small as she looked, she appeared as no direct threat- but then again, larger men have been brought down by smaller ones, and he would not let her appearance deceive him.
"It has been reported you have healing properties of all kind, and have been willingly aiding the military," The Grand Duke began, wasting no time in formalities as he cut directly to the purpose of her journey here. But he still needed her confirmation and to witness her cooperation, to see if this silly idea of his would even, well, work.
But he was growing desperate, and if this woman could possible help cure nightmares, it was worth the risk to finally, after so many decades, finding himself with a proper night's sleep. It was tiresome to rule an entire country on only a few hours rest, and rest that was plagued with nightmares.
Solita's hand absently ran to the fresh mark she had been given when she had saved Killian an had been discovered as a mage. He eyes moved from Killian, to the general, to Zannrick, and finally falling on the grand duke. She swallowed, almost feeling antsy under his heavy gaze.
"My abilities all have to do with healing and reviving, peaceful abilities," Solita spoke softly, her eyes humbly cast upon the ground. She didn't want to enrage the grand Duke, she knew that would spell out certain death for herself.
"A-and, yes," She stuttered, turning to look at Killian, the first soldier she had helped, the only reason she had helped either side.
"I have willingly helped where I could..." She paused, biting her bottom lip slightly, feeling as if she needed to add more to her case. She had only known the man as a monster, the man that had ordered the destruction of her kind, and he terrified her.
"I have even been able to help some soldiers with nightmares," She added quickly, seeming extremely nervous as her eyes nervously darted around.
The expression did not once change on the Grand Duke's features. This mage was nothing more than just that, but at her admittance, something changed in his look. Sitting back a bit more comfortably, the Grand Duke gave a nod.
"And how would you describe how your magic works?" the grand duke asked, evenly. Both his eye's, and that of Zannrick's, did not once leave the girl.
Solita took a deep breath before continuing.
"I don't know much about my capabilities with it, I have on done it once or twice in the infirmary. It takes more of a tole on me than healing the physical body. It drains me to complete exhaustion after doing it. It seems to completely mend the mental wound the same way my abilities completely heal the body," Solita spoke, stumbling over her words not knowing exactly how to explain it. Plus leaving out that part she in the one who get haunted by the nightmares though she doesn't die from them like the men in the infirmary were. They just plague her sleep for days.
At her hesitation, and at such a limited means of testing caused the Grand Duke to frown.
"I see."
Zannrick did not miss the disappointment and stiffened, wishing he could speak, but knowing his place, he remained beside the Grand Duke like a hungry hound.
With a sigh, the Grand Duke turned towards Killian.
"She will be spending the night here. You can return to your barracks now. I have enough soldiers to keep watch of her."
Solita head snapped towards Killian. Her eyes round and sad. She didn't want Killian to leave. She felt alone enough with him there, without him she didn't know if she would make it. Especially surrounded by people like Zannrick.
Slowly her eyes sank to the ground. She knew nothing she could say would effect the Dukes decisions. She was just a mage. She took a deep breath. She doubt she would go without in her new home, but honestly she missed the freedom of living on the streets.
Killian's eyes went wide, and Zannrick did not miss the expression there in. But after a moment of hesitation, he briefly nodded and glanced over at General Serenus as he rose to his feet.
"But could it hurt for her to have one more escort?" the General suddenly cut in, and Killian froze in his spot, blue eyes casting over towards the Grand Duke, who stared at the pair for a moment with some thought.
"Very well, it might be suitable to have him help her get adjusted," The Grand Duke relented, tiredly, and Killian spared a thankful,a nd semi-discrete gaze Serenus's way before the Grand Duke gestured for the boy to sit again. He did so promptly and stood at attention, with much more energy than he had before.
"Being that you are here, I have... some concerns of my own, nightmares I suffer that you've seen the soldier's similarly suffer by,"t he Grand Duke went on, looking a lot more tired as he admitted this. "I have been suffering by them for a time-" And by the pause in his voice, it was obvious it was quite a long time. "And though I do not condone the use of magic, it has been brought to my attention what you can do,a nd you have done such in aid to the army, and for that, I am grateful for your services, but-" And here he paused, hesitating only briefly before he told her, "Do you think you could help me?"
And part of the question was asked it almost sounded as if he might not believe it-
but part of his tone suggested he wanted to.
Some relief, he believed, was better than no relief.
Solita was relieved when the Grand Duke allowed Killian to stay, though she had a feeling it would not last long. She sighed looking down as the Grand Duke began to speak.
She felt so conflicted, the Grand Duke was killing so many of her kind, she had heard the stories of the mage camps and the horrors that were contained there.
She took a slow deep breath, her eyes still on the floor.
"I can not help you with Mordecia so close, as I am sure you know," She paused for a moment, her inner turmoil nearly bubbling over.
"But, I will try to help you... To the best of my ability," She finally spoke after a moment of silence.
"Naturally, it would be... a quiet affair," The Grand Duke went on. "That I'd dismiss the mordecai, only temporarily, from the palace for the nights you are to work."
Solita nodded.
It made sense, and considering she was a guest at the palace she had no plans on letting anyone know when the days were that the mordecai would be dismissed. She knew that if there was an attack on the palace most would consider her a traitor and kill her first, setting an example.
For a long moment, nothing was spoken. Calent simply studied the woman before taking a step back and gesturing towards Zannrick. "Zannrick will lead you to your room and will show you around the palace. You will only be allowed to move freely on the West Wing of the palace, no where else. Violation of this will have you imprisoned and sent to the camps. Do I make myself clear?"
Solita looked up at the mordecai, a chill running up her spine. Of course it had to be that man giving her a tour. She knew the tour would be nothing less than a form of torture itself. Slowly her eyes moved back to the Duke.
"Crystal your majesty."
With a rigid nod, Zannrick stepped before Solita.
"You will follow me closely. Do not stray for one second, is that clear?" he told her, but when Killian took a step forward as if to join them, Zannrick's icy blue eyes cut like daggers towards him.
"You will remain here."
But it was the Grand Duke's voice that interjected now as he said, "Allow the soldier to go with you."
Zannrick turned to Calent with a bow.
"It would be wise he know the layout of the West Wing as well. He will be a guest here as well. And his position will be discussed once the mage is settled." And with a nod, he gestured for Zannrick and them to leave.
Turning around, Zannrick remained a cold figure head, leading both Killian and Solita through each winding hall. He pointed out the areas she could not go to, what her boundaries were, and all of the rules. They were simple enough- remain in the West Wing on this floor, and go no where else. There was plenty on this floor, though it consisted of guest rooms primarily, and a music room at the end of the Hall. Though the Grand Duke had many music rooms, as they passed it, Zannrick informed her, "This is the Grand Duke's personal music hall." And he looked to Killian as he said, "Neither are permitted without the Grand Duke's word."
Solita felt more and more like a caged bird, and she could feel her cage growing smaller and smaller. So many places she couldn't go, even within the floor and wing she was allowed to wonder she had off limit areas. What was she suppose to spend her day time doing? Dusting the other guest rooms?
Killian saw her expression and though she said not a word, he squeezed her hand discretely in attempts to comfort her.
"Don't worry. I'm sure it won't be hard to memorize this place and the places you're allowed to visit. Think of it as a vacation of some sort... you know, a vacation er.. in the Grand Duke's.. palace?"
Solita shot Killian a look. She couldn't see any resemblance to where she was and a vacation. She was in a prison, a place in which she was expected to help her captor. It wasn't anything like a vacation. She made mental notes as they walked the wing, she didn't want to make any mistake that would lead her to be thrown into the mage camps.
Killian sighed, wilted even as he saw that look.
"Look, I'm sorry," he went on, still following the mordecai who was showing them yet another guest room. "I didn't mean to make you angry."
Solita looked down with a deep sigh.
"You didn't, but I am walking in a field of boobie-traps, this is stressful for me, nothing like a vacation," Solita replied in a whisper.
Killian felt a knot form in his throat, but before he could say another word, Zannrick's voice cut through their moment.
"Are you two coming? There's still another hallway left for us to see." And he stood there at attention and waited for the pair to come follow, and as they obeyed, Killian followed silently, and apologetically, at her side.
Solita followed silently, she could only guess what was down the last hall. Probably only another guest room. She sighed, she could only imagine how drab her time at the palace was going to be. On the bright side though, she would be fed on a regular basis and get to sleep in a bed.
Killian followed silently behind the cold toned mordecai. He got the feeling, as much as the Grand Duke might need help from someone like Solita, she'd have a difficult time here. Much more difficult than when she was working in the army camp. He turned to Solita as they walked and offered her a small smile.
"Chin up. At least you know you'll be protected here," he whispered. "No place is safer now than the palace."
Solita nodded, "I won't have to worry about any ambushes, like at the barracks," she spoke with a nod, remembering how horrid it was. She shivered, almost glad to be locked in the maze of boredom.
"Yes," he told her softly, still smiling. "And you'll be treated well here, despite... well, despite that you know magic. Who knows.." he went on, his voice still low. "If the Grand Duke is pleased that a mage is able to help him.. perhaps... perhaps it'll be some means to the end of this war."
Though it seemed far fetched, he was still young, still hopeful- and the war had not quite yet destroyed who he was.
Solita sighed. She doubted what he said, there was so much hate from both sides, so much tension. She couldn't see the end of the war, not a permanent one that was. As long as mages were persecuted, they would rebel, and she couldn't see an end to that. She absent mindedly rubbed the mark, the scar that announced to the world what she was.
"Maybe," She finally answered back.
Zannrick paused before a pair of double doors, looking pensive as he announced, "And here is the western balcony. You can go out here if you'd like. But don't think about escaping. It's a very long drop down." And without so much as going outside, the mordecai continued down the hall briskly.
Solita stood before the doors for a long moment, staring at them. Her only time spend outside would be on the balcony. She found it hard to look away from the giant doors. She wondered why Zannrick didn't open them. She sighed, her hand brushing against the cool door before she ripped her gaze from them. She had to all but run to catch up with her tour guide, the man showing her her boundaries, a man who hated her simply for existing.
When the tour had concluded, Zannrick stood before the pair of them, his hands clasped behind himself and his chin raised high.
"I hope you were able to remember all of the places I've pointed out to you. But should you have questions, ask them now."
For he knew he had more pressing matters than her to attend to. But it was Killian that spoke up as he lifted his blue eyes' to Zannrick's.
"I have a question."
And Zannrick cut a sharp look to Killian.
"To visit her... what must I do? Who must I ask? I promised Solita I would watch over her- and General Serenus, he-"
Zannrick cut the man off with a sigh and said, "All requests must go through either myself, or the mordecai on duty on this floor. You could even ask the Grand Duke himself, but he is always busy, so it is wise to remain out of his way."
"I see..." Killian gave a nod, while Zannrick asked,
"Any other questions?"
Solita looked down at the floor with a gentle sigh. She had to see the positives in her captivity, she had to stay positive in general.
"No Sir," She spoke softly, her arms gently wrapped around her waist. She knew that things were once more going to change again. She doubted she would see much of Killian, Zannrick didn't like her, true she did nothing to gain is disfavor, but she couldn't change what she was.
"Good, then you may go to your room to.prepare. The grand duke has selected clothing for.you to wear while you are a guest. He will see you to speak again within the hour." And with a short nod, the mordecai left.
Solita nodded before turning towards Killian.
"I must go get ready," Solita spoke softly as she looked up at the soldier. She toyed with the ragged edges of her sleeves nervously. She didn't want to say goodbye. She didn't want him to leave but she knew him well enough to know he wouldn't go in her room while she was changing.
Killian gave a nod.
"Alright." And he gave a second nod, his eyes softening.
"Just be yourself, I'm sure you'll be fine." And he bowed his head deeper.
"I'll come see you again next chance I can."
Solita so desperately wanted to feel Killian's arms around her but she knew it was unwise. She didn't want anyone to be more suspicious of Killian that what they might already be so she kept her distance.
She bowed her head, she couldn't muster the words to say, and she refused to say good bye. She she waved awkwardly and made her way to her room where she washed up in the water basin in the room. She looked into the looking glass above. She didn't quiet look herself with no dirt smudged across her face, She sighed, staring at herself. She cleaned up okay, nothing too special, but not ugly. She brushed her hair with a sigh. Her hair would be all but impossible to do anything with. It was short, too short to put up. She sighed and pulled herself away from the looking glass and made her way to the large window in her room. It had a seat built in. It seemed like a good place to curl up and watch the outside world pass by. At least in the castle she would be fed and relatively safe. Looking out the window is where she spent her time, waiting to be called for by the Grand Duke once more.
As promised, Solita was summoned within the hour. It was Zannrick himself who knocked at her door. And stiffly, he asked her, "Are you ready? The Grand Duke awaits."
Solita jumped as she heard the knock on the door, it brought her back to reality with a jolt. She nearly fell over herself as she moved to the door. Finally, opening the door, a blush already building on her face. She looked up and had to remind herself to not frown. Oh how she loathed Zannrick. He treated her like she was something bad, and she didn't like it.
Zannrick's eye cut into her.
"I asked you a question. Do not make me repeat it."
Solita's eyes shot to the floor, "Yes, I am ready," She finally spoke after a moment.
She was growing to hate Zannrick. He made her feel so small, she could almost feel herself shrinking as soon as he entered a room.
Briskly he walked the halls, not waiting to bring her to the Grand Duke with any delay. If she kept up, good, if not, his tongue was quick to scold her. And by the time they made it to his room, Zannrick had to pause, and soon he was cursing under his breath.
Something was wrong. The Grand Duke's door was open to his room and the maids, outside, were all gaggling around, in distress.
Solita looked around, her face become concerned as she saw the concern build in Zannrick's own expression.
"What is going on?" She asked as she looked from Zannrick to the aids as they scurried around.
With a curt growl, he commanded, "Follow behind. And if you try anything funny-"
Well, she knew her fate.
The pair walked in a rush to the Grand Duke's chambers, where the mordecai demanded,
"What is going on!?"
One elder maid whirled around, and sighed with some relief.
"Oh, Sir Austengarde, it is the Grand Duke... he.."
And she became shifty eyed the second she spotted the girl.
It was here Zannrick's eyes narrowed.
"Go on."
And the maid snapepd her eyes back to him.
"He... he got upset. He... he had been napping..."
That was enough of an explanation, and before Solita knew what was happening, he grabbed her by the wrist and yanked her inside the room.
Solita was confused to say the least, and as the soldier grabbed her and yanked her in the room, one could say she became terrified. The look on her face morphing into something in between a deer stunned and a wild animal cornered. She kept herself from fighting though, just recoiling away from the soldier as the first given opportunity.
Inside the room was a curious mess. An upturned table with cold tea staining the rug, the bed sheets thrown half off the bed, a mirror, hanging on one hinge to reveal the mess on the other side of the room, and a few maids that hastily approached Zannrick.
"Go to the hall with the others until you are summon!" He snapped, and rigidly, the women obeyed, leaving the pair of them with the Grand Duke, who was now standing in a corner , back to them , as he rested a forearm up against the wall, and was pressing his forehead into it.
Solita slowly took the room in, her eyes slowly moving over the destroyed room. Could what she be seeing be a reason the Duke needed her? Finally her eyes landed on the Grand Duke's back, where they lingered for a few moments.
Solita took a step forward but didn't dare to get any closer than that.
"A-are you alright?" She asked softly, her voice timid. She waited her muscles tense, she half expected him to turn around and strike her.
But it wasn't the Grand Duke that would strike. Zannrick was upon her in seconds. His iron gloved hand nearly crushing her wrist as he grabbed it.
"Stand back. You were not ordered to approach his majesty!" the mordecai snapped, blue eyes blazing like fiery ice.
Solita yelped as Zannrick grabbed her wrist. She couldn't help it, it was instinct as the pain from the soldiers iron like grip shot up her arm.
She looked down.
"I am sorry, I just wanted to help," She answered softly, in more of a whisper than anything.
"You're help will be given when asked for!" he told her sternly. "Are you so easily able to forget your place here? Your before the Grand Duke!"
And at such a statement, Calent turned around.
"Zannrick... that is enough."
The mordecai looked up, and dropped his grip on Solita. "Sir!"
"She can't do any harm with you around. And I think my room has seen enough chaos."
The soldier gave a curt nod. "I understand and we are both are your disposal. We await your command, your grace."
The Grand Duke gave a small nod and turned his green eyes to the girl.
"So you're an elf? Foreign, or naturally born in Connlaoth?"
Solita cradled her delicate wrist against herself gently. She looked down at the floor submissively as the Grand Duke began to speak. She knew her place in the palace, she was no more than a slave, something disposable. She was only shown any favor by the man in front of her because she was useful to him. She also knew that if she was more trouble than her worth she would die.
"I don't know, really your majesty. All I can remember is Connlaoth, so I assume this is where I was born, but I never knew my parents so..." She trailed off, her eyes never leaving the floor.
The Grand Duke gave a nod, then tuned to Zannrick.
"As you can both see, I'll need a moment. Please, wait here." And he moved past them and disappeared into a back room.
Solita looked up as he disappeared once again taken in about the amount of destruction that had happened to the room. She wondered what truly happened. A chill ran up her spine, she was thankful she wasn't in the room when whatever happened, happened. She wouldn't want to be in the path of the Duke when he was set off like that.
Zannrick's eyes bore into her form.
"Don't look surprised. I told you our Grand Duke needed some assistance," he growled beneath his breath. "Just do as he asks and don't ask any questions."
Solita looked at Zannrick and frowned, crossing her arms. She couldn't see how she liked the grand duke, the man killing so many of her kind, more than the soldier beside her. She of course, had never seen the Grand Duke as a person before, but as a monster. Just seeing him, giving a face to him made him more human. She wondered what was going on in his head and why he had decided to rule over Connloath with such an iron rule.
When the Grand Duke returned, his hair and clothing were no longer disheveled. Though his age still crept through on his features, and only at this moment did some of the grey hairs begin to show in his hair. Though he was still handsome, it was evident the war had paid it's toll on him, and he turned his tired, green eyes on the pair of them and nodded to Zannrick.
"That will be all, Zannrick. Please wait outside the door." And with a nod, the mordecai dipped his head and stepped outside, closing the door behind him.
Solita stood silently in her place as she watched Zannrick leave the room. She grew nervous, she had never liked being alone with someone, well, other than Killian. The thought of Killian warmed her heart, bringing a soft hint of a smile to her face as her eyes looked at the floor.
She was all to quickly snapped back to reality as she saw the destruction of the room around her. Still she didn't dare to look up at the man in the room with her. By a simple spoken word that mad could had her killed or worse. She she stared silently at his shoes. She knew her standing in that palace.
"You look nervous. I presume this is your first time in the palace?"
Solita took a deep breath before answering, her eyes venturing up the Duke's form.
"Yes, I have never gotten anywhere near the palace, well, until now," She spoke timidly.
"Not many without political standings have set foot in here," he began with a nod. Though his tone was even, there was still something about him that seemed... tired. But he held back a sigh.
"Come... sit. I bet you're wondering the real reason you are here."
Solita did as the Grand Duke said, and went and sat. She was beginning to notice how tired he looked. Of course she was sure war, especially civil war would exhaust even the most energetic ruler. She casted her graze around the room once more.
"Would it have to do with this somehow?" She asked softly, timidly, scared of offending the Grand Duke and losing her head.
Studying her, the Grand Duke nodded.
"You could say that. I know it's an... odd request, but the rumors I've heard.... are they true? The way you heal, I mean."
Solita was silent for a moment, picking her words carefully.
"The first time I have ever healed someone's mind was at the barracks.... So, not even I know how it works yet. I can tell you though that when I heal a persons body it works in two ways. Being close, like in the same room will speed up there healing process, and then I can heal them directly by touching them," Solita explained slowly.
The Grand Duke gave a thoughtful nod.
"What about... injuries, illnesses you can not see?"
Solita looked down, she didn't want to give the Duke bad news, but she knew better than to lie as well.
"I am not sure, I rarely used my abilities up until I was discovered to be a Mage and brought to the barracks to help. It seems I have some abilities to at least alleviate such ailments but I have little experience doing so. I don't want to tell you I can, then not be able to do such things, but I also don't want to tell you I can't and then actually be able to at least ease your suffering," she spoke, slowly, hoping he wouldn't decide she wasn't worth the effort.
"Carefully chosen words," he replied. "So you can't confirm or deny what men have said about your healing then?"
"Well, what have they said?" Solita replied simply.
His eyes locked upon her.
"That you can heal those nightmares many wish to repress from war. You ease not only their body, but mind. That, is what they are speaking of you."
Solita looked down quickly, she was not bold enough to hold the Dukes gaze.
"I have eased some of the soldiers nightmares, seeming to completely remove them. I don't know if it will work for you though, I, I will try of course, but I don't want to promise results that I cannot guarantee."
Calent set his jaw, but his features softened, but only a little. He supposed it was no secret of his nightmares, or his horrible sleep. Most stipulated... but they could never know the truth...
In fact, even he didn't realize the truth.
Nodding, he gave a look around the room.
"Well... there are never any guarantees in life, are there?" And he looked back over at her.
"So how does it work?"
"Well, as I mentioned, I have only done this a handful of times, so I am not completely sure. So far though, the times I've done it, I usually touch them while they are having the nightmare and they go away completely. One man I touched his head while he was awake and he said that it eased the nightmares but didn't take then away completely, and the soldiers said that me being in the room lightened the nightmares as well," Solita explained slowly.
Calent was intrigued. If this were true, years of suffering could be eased away, and it was hard for him not to suppress his thoughts about it as his expression softened, and appeared slightly hopeful, even though he still looked worn.
"Not only soldiers suffer from nightmares. War is difficult on us all."
Solita looked down. She knew that it was hard on everyone, and not only those in politics. It was especially hard for those caught in the middle, those who had no wish to be in it but because of what she was she had no choice.
"Oh, yes, I know," She spoke softly.
He supposed she did- considering her current position. And he was well versed about the potential relationship between her and her 'escort'. Though that could prove invaluable further down the road. One could never be too certain around these mage sorts. Sure, not all were bad- but if that were the case- they'd understand the dangers of their powers long ago.
"Tonight then... you shall remain here. I will have the servants set you up in my wife's adjacent chambers." Not that Kathryn used it at all that often- but he might have some explaining to do since it was to be taken by another female....
Never the less, he would do so- with or without her approval. He just wasn't sure if that would be close enough for Solita's magic to work. So he gestured for her to follow as he made his way towards a large set of double doors in the back of his room.
Solita stood, she wasn't exactly comfortable with it but she didn't see any other way. Even though she had questions she dared not ask them. She didn't want to anger the Duke even though she could clearly see that he wanted relief from whatever dreams tormented him.
"Yes your majesty," She spoke simply.
"Good." He gave her a nod and moved into his wife's chambers. THe place was pristine and as immaculate as his own room- only slightly smaller and had a few more accommodations for a lady.
"Feel free to make yourself at home, but know my wife's things are off limit. Only her bed linens can be shared. For clothing, my servants will bring you a pair acceptable to wear, daily. And you will be expected to bathe as well. Though we will have you do so in a separate area."
Couldn't have him using his wife's bath, after all.
Solita's face had started to turn red. She knew that it was all necessary stuff that needed to be said, but she didn't really want to hear the man say it. She definitely didn't want to be staying in an adjoining room to a man she barely knew, to a man that was at the head of the war.
Seeing how she went quiet, he gave her a moment before speaking.
"Is that understood?"
"Oh... Sorry, Yes your majesty," She spoke as her blushed darkened. If she was just going to stay in his wife's room she didn't understand why she was given a room of her own.
"Good..." he gave a rigid nod and looked her over. "Is there anything else I should know? Like... in regards to you... casting your power. You are aware there are mordecai about... how does this effect your magic?"
"Well it depends on there area of influence, if I am in it my power is all but null and void. Just like with any other mage... your majesty," Solita spoke, keeping her eyes on the floor. She wonder if she was expected to say in the room or if she was free to roam about the area she had been given permission to during the day.
Calent gave a nod.
"I presumed as much from Zannrick's report. He doesn't seem overly fond of you or your presence, but I do trust his judgement, and even he said this was worth a try." Studying her for a moment, he went on to ask, "Are you thirsty? Icanoffer you some Allarrian wine."
"I have definitely noticed his distaste for me," Solita spoke softly as she released a deep breath.
Solita looked a bit suspicious as the Duke offered her a drink, growing up in the streets one became especially suspicious of men. She knew he needed her there to help him, but she still decided against it.
"No, I am fine, but thank you."
He gave a nod.
"To those not used to it, its an acquired taste." And he studied her a moment before informing her, "Tonight will simply be a test. To see how this works. As you are aware, the.mordecai are to stay.near at all times. So we will have to see how far away they'll need.to be stationed for this to work."
Solita rested her eyes on the floor as she felt the Duke's eyes on her. She felt like she was half in a hangmans noose since she had walked into the castle, and it was exhausting. She yawned, covering her mouth as she did so. She had had a big day and everything was starting to weight heavily on her. She knew that she would probably see Killian even less than she did at the barracks, and they wouldn't really be able to show any affection. She frowned slightly at the thoughts.
With Solita being so unvocal, it made him frown.
"Do you understand?" he said, impatience laced in his voice. "Being as this may be only a test... you might find yourself with little rest. If that's the case, I will allow you to rest during the day. But it is best you are aware what this entails."
"I understand your majesty, I grew up on the streets, I will probably sleep more here than I ever had the luxury of on the streets," She spoke, her eyes still locked on the polished floor. She felt a ping of regret, how had she found herself in such a predicament.
"But if I must sleep during the day, what does it entail, sir?"
Calent studied her with a cool gaze for a moment before dropping his green eyes towards the floor.
"The only duties you have here are to see what your magics can do for me. Everything else.... you're simply bound to the rules that I'm sure Zannrick has already briefed you on."
"Oh yes, in full detail. I am vey aware of my boundaries. He made them crystal clear," Solita spoke softly, more to herself than to the Duke.
Calent gave a nod, studying the woman for a good long while before finally speaking again.
"These... dreams I have. They're not like normal dreams," he informed her, softly.
She finally let her eyes wander up the mans form to his face.
"What do you mean?" She asked softly, concern filling her voice.
A frown set upon his lips as he looked at her.
"You've seen the mess." And that was all he said about that. "The evening is still young, if you'd like to rest before the night comes, you may do so."
It was true, she did see the mess, but that didn't mean she understood it. She took a slow, deep breathe.
"What should I expect to see while you are having a nightmare?" She asked slowly, she hoped her question didn't upset the Grand Duke too much, but she wanted to know what to expect in case her powers didn't work.
THe Grand Duke simply frowned, saying nothing for a time as he studied her.
"They say I call out in my sleep. Sometimes I wake up so riled from my dreams, whatever happened within it makes me throw a tantrum.... and it results, on occasion, on messes like you had seen."
"If you wake up in such a state will..." Solita looked down, "Will I be in danger?" she spoke, her voice soft, almost a whisper as she began to prepare herself for what she felt would be a long night.
Calent frowned. It would not be easy for him to answer her- for he knew not the answer, but her being in danger was definitely a possibility.
"If your powers are what they claim, no danger shall come. There is a... small chance I might harm you on accident. But I wager it would be obvious, and could be a situation you could evade."
Solita nodded silently. She knew that if she woke up and the Duke was going mad she wouldn't simply run the other way, she wasn't that type of person. She had a bad habit of running right into the heart of danger when she felt someone needed her help. Even though the Duke was a big part of her problem, the one pushing for the war on her kind, she would do everything she could to help him.
"What will become of me if my ability works immediately, or if it doesn't work at all?"
Calent stared at her for a while, his finger's thoughtfully drumming at his side.
"We shall see about it when the time comes." And he moved to stand. "You may do as you wish now. I'll be in my music room." AN dhe stood there and waited, expecting her to leave.
"We'll have the servants call you when it is time for bed."
She knew exactly what that meant, she would be cast aside like trash, he just didn't want to tell her that.
She nodded then turned, walking out of the room, walking to the little balcony that she was permitted to visit.
When Solita left, Zannrick moved in. Though he knew he had to leave, and to do so soon, he knew it was only a matter of time before Solita would have free reign again before the night. And as she moved out onto the balcony, he simply stood in the shadows of the hall and watched her.
Solita looked out over the view she had. It was pleasant enough but didn't stop the sadness she felt. She was a captive, no matter how you looked at it. No, she wasn't kept in a dungeon instead she was tortured with the sight of freedom everyday. She quickly wiped away the single tear that dared to fall before taking a deep breath and trying to suppress the sadness.
She could feel the eyes on her, the hair on the back of her neck standing on end, she ignored it though. She had a feeling she would have to get use to it there in the palace.
Zannrick remained watching. He didn't think it was against her to do something foolish like leap over the balcony to her death. He'd rather not have to explain that sort of mess, but either way, he allowed her just enough freedom for him not to be breathing over her shoulder. But then again, if she were so inclined..
It was really no skin off his nose.
"Do you have nothing else to do Sir, than to stare over me like I will leap over the edge. If I was going to do such a think, I would have done it long ago, I have been in much worse states I can assure you," She finally spoke, still never looking his way.
Zannrick, at first, said nothing, simply watching her from afar before daring to take a few steps forward, but he had yet to join her on the balcony.
"It's my duty, my lady," he told her coldly. "To ensure your presence here is.... well suited to the safety of the leader of our country."
"With all of the mordecai my abilities are null and void. She hesitated before asking her next question.
"Why do you hate my kind so much, or even just myself? I have done nothing to anyone, have I committed such a sin just by being born? I didn't ask for it, to be born or to have my abilities."
"You needn't ask for it, nor should you," he told her coldly. "You were condemned on birth. Perhaps before birth. That is all you need to know. You can blame your family line... the tainted genes that run through it, for that."
"That seems silly to me, that would be like condemning someone for being born with blonde hair, or blue eyes," Solita replied, keeping her back to him.
"IF it is the will of the gods," Zannrick went on, evenly. "Then it shall not be questioned."
"More like the will of men. I have never had a god come down and tell me I was an abomination," Solita spoke her voice soft, almost a whisper.
"And you never will. Angsar wouldnt waste his breath." And he went back to silently guarding her.
"If that is how you rationalize it. I forgive you for all the horrible things I am sure you have done to my kind, though I know you will never ask for forgiveness. Just in case one day you find the atrocities are weighing on your soul, look back to this day, "Solita whispered.
At such words, he silently condemned her with his smoldering blue eyes. But he said nothing, simply watched her, continuing to remain a silent and brooding sentry.
Solita turned and offered the man a kind gentle smile before dropping her gaze down to the floor and moved past him and into the hall. Were she walked slowly. Taking in the beauty around her, trying to see the best of her situation, trying to be happy. She shortly found herself staring at the door to the off limits music room. She dare not enter, she wasn't one to push the rules, she was still curious though. She stood silent, listening to see if she could hear anything.
And she'd hear the soft, single hum of a dying note from the piano. Then silence, and the ticking of a nearby clock went on for twenty ticks before another note chimed out, and faded away, just like the one before it. And then silence again. And it was peculiar..
For the room appeared to be cold..
And dark. And possibly vacant.
But when the third note resounded and faded like the rest...
It was obvious there was no mistaking that someone was in there.
Solita frowned softly as she stood like a statue, her ears tuned into the lone haunting notes. Finally to moved, sitting beside the door with her back against the door.
A few more notes came out of the solitary darkness before a cord was pressed, and the soft, slow beginnings of a song chimed out from behind the closed door.
Solita sat in silence, her eyes closed as she let the sound wash over her. It was beautiful. She knew she could sit there and listen for hours.
And it must've been hours he played- completely undisturbed and songs of a soft and somber note. Nothing was quirky or peppy, though sometimes the songs might have went on with stretches of serenity, but even those had a sadness lingering behind the notes. And then, when it was nearly midnight, only then did the music stop.
The music was beautiful and it spoke to Solita in a deep way. She felt as if it were a mirror of her soul, and it brought tears to her eyes several times, but she held them back. When the music finally stopped she had her head leaned back with her eyes closed.
Zannrick's attentions were needed elsewhere, but the guards were ordered to be vigilante. And though they were stationed at the end of the hall, their eyes never left her form, as if they were statues more than humans.
Solita had grown use to the ever present eyes, she was much more interested in the music. She sat unmoving, praying in the silence that notes would once again ring through the halls. She grew tense, her body yearning for the music as much as her mind.
The wind was howling, rattling the walls while they were being pelted by rain. Storms and heavy winds were hardly unusual for Connlaoth, perhaps it was why despite that, a soft note resounded, and a quiet song that felt of sadness and peace came from the other room. But as the song progressed, the tempo increased and the notes fell deeper and soon peace was replaced by despair and hatred, and pent up rage.
The atmosphere created by the storm and the music made Solita think of when she was running through the battle once she escaped from her jail cell. It made her heart pump a little harder, her pulse move just a bit quicker. The song could easily be the background of battle, of war. Since the war, she had seen so much death, so much destruction it almost made one numb to the sight of it all.
The song ended on a few soft, somber notes that faded with the lull of thunder. And when the song was done, he simply sat there, staring out thoughtfully in heavy silence.
Solita stood to her feet slowly. She peeked into the room but didn't dare to enter.
"Sir, could you play more?" She spoke, her voice just a delicate whisper as if she was scared to break the silence.
Calent remained quiet for a good long time after her request. BUt he said nothing, and the soft noise of another song, no louder than the whispering rain, began to play. The song was as equally mystifying, tranquil, and also lonely as a rainy scene- for not many lingered within it- too afraid to get wet. Perhaps that's how he felt about a lot of things, and it was how he was able to convey such emotions through piano keys alone.