OOC: This is a private thread between winters-feather, myself and Moonie for this (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16012.msg167476#msg167476) event.
I think the title is fitting- what with Siana sneaking in as a maid and all :P
Also, just for reference in case any of us need it- FORT LOCATIONS are linked here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16012.msg172505#msg172505)!
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It was a cruel fate- and a cruel thing that happened to the City of Thaedes (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15915.msg164859#msg164859). To have fallen to the merciless God of War (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=14744.msg136491#msg136491) and his men.... and because of something so petty... the refusal of a woman- and a touch full of pain...
She never could have imagined herself so entangled in this web- it was like she was sinking in sand- and fast. And there was no way out for her. And all she could do was stare in silence and pray that her future, that her death would be swift.
But death was not to be, and it was decided she would be taken prisoner- after thoroughly 'examined' to be a mage- which left a certain General more than a little sore to find out. Such pretty eyes, a face so fair- and she- of all people... was the one who rejected him back in the city-
To think he hadn't knew it then- but who was he to care about political women- or the sister of a duke?
But once she was identified among the few fleeing from the city's after math, Kella Harmond (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=14367.msg128725#msg128725) was taken in- identified, and then beaten. There was more than that- but the men who tried to get more out of her were soon regretting it- their General included.
Now proclaimed a mage, she was marked and was being shipped North- personally, by none other than the God of War himself and once she was handed over to the General on site at Fort Dhagh, General Serenus (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=13798.msg116768#msg116768) knew exactly what was to be done with her and he commanded Krah away and once Lady Harmond was in his possession, he treated her wounds and was wary of what power they said she had-
And even knowing this- he sent out men to find maids to service her. She was a prisoner, but also a lady. She would be treated as such until he could figure out what else was to be done with her. But he would not forget her place here. She was still a prisoner, after all. And a mage in all of this.
But Kella Harmond said very little, and General Serenus could not blame her- but another action may have surprised his men when another lady of status was to be stationed along side with her. But it only made sense- considering one lady was a mage and prisoner- and the other, an adhara and Knight of the White Lilly. So Lady Lillian Coleridge (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16372.new#new) would remain as her primary ward and guardian, and would over see all care and report directly to the General- and to no one else.
And it was also noted to all soldiers and other knights alike that Kella Harmond was to be left alone- for he knew she needed it. There was no sense in harassing her- or even treating her like the other guilty mages. For even he could see in those frightened, tear-filled eyes of her that she was innocent. Or was that a part of her game? Or was he just grwing soft? He just hoped he'd be able to quell off any tensions this may cause- for it was rumored how agitated the current Duke of Turgall was ever since his twin sister had gone missing...
And he would not be surprised if her brother were to ever pay them a visit here.
The only question was- when?
So she was locked in the Old Stone Tower- her own private place among these men of war.
Lillian had been called from Reajh to duty at Fort Dhagh. All she'd been told was that she was to be guarding a mage taken prisoner. The request was slightly unusual, but not ridiculously so. Normally an Adhara would be sent to capture a mage, not to guard one. Transporting a mage to one of the camps should have solved the issue because of the heavy Mordecai presence around the camps. Still, it wasn't her place to question an order handed down by General Serenus - certainly not when he'd asked for her by name.
The trip itself was rather uneventful. It seemed unusually cold; everyone said that winter was coming early this year, and that it was going to be a long, harsh one. That was troubling. There wouldn't be enough food for everyone if things were as bleak as everyone claimed. Lillian didn't worry about Orchy, though. Her father was a good man and a meticulous planner. He'd never let his people starve – not if he could help it. Still the frigid ride had her chewing on her bottom lip in a nervous habit. Starving citizens could mean riots, and Calent would likely lose even more support.
So much troubled her about this war. It always had. The way the mages were punished when they had not even broken the old laws had never sat well with her, and her doubts about Calent's methods and policies only grew as the nightmare dragged on and on, with no end in sight. Not that she voiced such complaints that would be fool-hardy. No, her father publicly supported the Grand Duke, and she was a Knight of the White Lily, it was her duty to serve, not to question or doubt.
The further north she went, the colder it became, and soon her mount was trudging through snow, by the time she made it to the fort, her poor horse was laboring through a good foot of white powder at least. As soon as she arrived she found someone to take her horse for care, and the few belongings she'd brought with her were thrown over her shoulder. Lillian went straight to the Old Stone Tower, where she was told General Serenus would be.
Stepping through the door, she blinked a few times as her eyes adjusted to the dim light inside the stone walls. It was going to be a dreary station, but at least it was warmer inside than out. Spotting the general she dropped her bundle on the ground and stepped forward before saluting him respectfully. "Lillian Coleridge reporting for duty, General."
Siana tugged at her wool dress' collar. She walked with correct posture, keeping her steps small and her head bowed.
Not hard to keep steps small when you can hardly breathe, she thought, cursing her bodice. It made her breasts look swollen, which her escorts couldn't help but to cast glances at, now and then. Never mind that the dress over it covered her up to protect from the icy winds.
Why on earth would anyone like wearing such foolishness? she thought to herself. Tight collars, tight sleeves... and three skirts!! Tall as she was, the skirts hung only halfway down her calf instead of full length. Siana didn't even want to think about the colors. Grays and pink... She was a full grown bear of a woman who had killed men with her hands, not some blushing maid! At least the clothes were warm and the skirts allowed her to hide her knives and poisons. The thought of that along with the price she was being paid by Lord Harmond was what was getting her through with this job.
The woman walked stiff and close to her guard, as if scared and mistrustful of the soldiers that crossed their paths. Her escort, Thom, smirked.
"Scared?" he asked.
Siana met his eyes. He was a young, spry, and brave. However, the Connloathian lad was also boastful and naive, which was how Siana was able to seduce him and convinced him she had been a servant in Adelan courts, where she did everything from scrub floors, arranging flowers, to cooking delicious meals. Thom was her ticket in the fort.
"No," the disguised merc replied.
Find Lady Kella Harmond. Her face was sketched in Siana's memory, Lord Harmond had made sure of that. Find the noble's brat of a sister.
What a lotta trouble one child caused, Siana thought. It wasn't even confirmed that the child was even being kept at the Fort! Another secret to decyper. Siana didn't mind. Trouble meant money for her. Of course her life was on the line, but the thrill of it just made her heart beat faster. She was a spider.
Crawl in and crawl out, and don't get squashed or eaten!
Siana mentally mapped out the interior of the fort. She could sell this information
This , too, would be information useful to her employer, not to mention would help her if she needed to escape. She had been escroted into Fort Dhagh throguh the front gates.
"Who am I to be serving, sir? Where will I be staying? " she asked.
"Just follow me and do as you're told," Thom answered, as he usually did.
Young, brave, and rude.
They treked through the snow and ice until they reached the Old Stone Tower. They entered from the back, where they were greated with the roaring fires and the smell of broth from the kitchen. An old cook- siana thought it was a woman- and her assistent were the only two servents there. Both had a lean and leathery look to them. They said nothing, however, but glare coldly. Siana offered a brief, wide grin, before casting her eyes down at the boring old floors. Siana could hear voices in the room next over. Thom gestured for Siana to be quiet as he opened the door to the kitchen, revealing a greeting room. There, a petite young woman stood. She wasn't just a Lady or a lady-in-waiting, though. Siana took in a sharp breath with excitement with realization.
A Lilly Knight, she thought.
"Curtsy," Thom hissed.
Siana obliged, almost tripping in the process.
General Serenus was expecting a lot of 'new recruits' for their guest- and the most anticipated one was the knight, Lillian Coleridge. And not just any knight, as he noted the crest that bedazzled her armor as he nodded his head towards the lady and bent forward, taking her hand and kissing it lightly.
"Lady Coleridge, a pleasure to have you here at Fort Dhagh. I am glad to see you have arrived prompt and well, despite the weather. How is your father?" he asked, his voice jovial and belaying the scar and hardened face that years of war had molded. He only gave one small glance towards Thom in a gesture for him to hold off a moment- he wanted to address Lillian first, after all. Then he could brief the new maid.
He had a noble guest after all, and to think- an equally noble warrior to watch over her. He only found it fitting, after all. One lady to watch another. And it would keep both of them safe.
Lillian couldn't help but smile, and blush, as the general took her hand and kissed it. Such an unnecessary formality! He was her commanding officer, after all, it wasn't like they were meeting at court, but it was still a sweet gesture. The appearance of the maid and her escort barely drew more than a glance from her. They weren't her concern at the moment.
"My father is in good health and good spirits, all things considered." She carefully withdrew her hand, still smiling warmly. Being treated as a Knight of the White Lily was all well and good, but it was nice for someone to make a point to remember that she was also a Lady. "May I say it is an honor and a privilege to serve with you, General? Your reputation is legendary."
There was other business to be discussed, though. "Forgive me, General, but I spent the entire journey here wondering as to what nature of mage prisoner would have you calling me here by name. Now that I've arrived, I would greatly appreciate a quick briefing."
"Naturally, my lady," the General said, flashing her a toothy grin.
"And it's good to see you're eager for your orders, but yes, yes- I'm not sure if you have heard the rumors, but-" He carefully eyed the solider Thom and Siana before turning his gaze back to the Knight. "We have an... interesting guest. Well technically, she's our prisoner. You see, the Duke of Turgall's sister has been recently brought to the fort. It turns out she is a mage and well- I did not feel the camps were suitable for her." And he gestured with a sweeping motion of his arm towards Lilly. "And it is this reason I asked for you by name. One lady, to serve and protect another."
Siana listened real carefully to the lady and the general.
She almost smiled at Lillian's request.
Spunky brat, she thought.
Lady Coleridge. Siana ran the name through her head, wondering where she might have heard the like of it before. Oh, it came up in passing, she thought. Duke must've mentioned it once or twice. Still, Siana didn't know anything personal about the young woman.
Didn't so much as looked at me, Siana thought, proud of that.
She loved attention when she wanted it, and she demanded audiences. She kept her eyes fixated on the ground. Now was the time to be invisible.
Siana looked up at Thom at the news. The young man took it as concern. He gestured for her to be quiet with a stern expression. Siana nodded as meekly as she could, but inside, she was crowing like a rooster. This was the information she needed! A piece, anyway.
This is too easy, she thought, excited.
Couldn't get ahead of herself, though. She needed to find and actually see the girl.
Lillian had been prepared to have a particularly unruly mage put into her care, after all, that was what her order specialized in. She had certainly not heard the rumors that Kella Harmond had been captured an labelled a mage. The moment the words left the General's lips a sharp intact of breath echoed through the room, and a practical war stormed across the young woman's face. Only years of intense training allowed Lillian to school her face into something more neutral as she reeled over the information.
She didn't open her mouth until she was sure that she wasn't going to squeak out her response. She was Lillian Coleridge, daughter of Micah Coleridge of Orchy, and she was not going to sound like a timid mouse when addressing her superior officer. Her voice came out even, but strained. "Are you telling me that Lady Kella Harmond is being held in this fort?" Her jaw was working furiously, the grinding of her teeth only just inaudible.
"I thought she was dead, she's been missing for years." This was the craziest thing. Ansgar, no wonder Duke Harmond had been so upset when she'd spoken to him! He must have known about this. Her stomach turned ever so slightly, but she resolved to ignore it. "Tell me everything, General. And take me to her!"
The tone she'd used was that of a Lady issuing commands, not a knight requesting something of her superior. Taking a deep breath she tried again. "Forgive me, General, you understand my concern, of course. I would respectfully like to request all information regarding the capture and containment of my charge and would appreciate taking custody of Lady Harmond immediately."
The General chuckled at her words.
"Do not worry yourself," and he dipped his head to her. "The lady is forgiven."
And hesitantly, he turned back to Thom and Siana, and gestured for them to remain here as he offered his arm for Lady Coleridge to take.
"Then allow me to explain as I escort you up the stairs."
He wanted a private audience with her for the moment, then he could bring up the servant once Lillian was aware how delicate their situation was- and how she ought to handle not only Lady Harmond, but her new maid as well.
Relief coursed through her at the sound of his chuckles. Obviously the good General was not angry with the tone she'd taken. Lillian hated conflict, and she didn't want to make a bad impression with someone she was going to have to work closely with for who only knew how long.
She took his arm without so much as a glance in the direction of the solider and servant. They were of no interest to her, all she could think about was the woman she would be taken to. Her things were left where she'd dropped them, someone would bring them to her, she had no doubt.
"Everything General," she reminded him as they started up the stairs, "I need to hear it all so I know exactly what I'm dealing with." Sometimes women were treated poorly when taken by soldiers, Kella Harmond's status should have offered her some measure of protection, but she'd heard enough horror stories to be wary of what she was about to learn.
The General gave a more serious nod at her inquiry. And hear it all she would, but he waited until they were far enough up the steps from any spies as he went on to inform her that, not long after there was an attack on the city of Thaedes, Kella Harmond had been found by the General known as Krah- and Serenus even went into it enough to add Krah's alias as the 'God of War'- seeming how so many people identified him that way these days. That he big bad god of war was destroying towns.
But he went on, informing her how unfortunate it was how they found out she was a mage- and apparently, he took this moment to warn Lillian, Kella's powers revolved around touch.
"So no one is allowed to touch her. Understand? We must keep a careful watch on her." And at this, his dark eyes met to her's in hopes she understood- for this was a dire situation indeed- and apparently her touch, he told her, could be lethal.
"But do not worry, she hasn't killed anybody yet. In fact, she's still rather shaken up over the whole thing...'
But who could blame her? The men had tried to rape her, but got a lot more than they bargained for. Rounding the bend, he cleared his throat to let her know perhaps some talk on Lady Kella should cease, as they were reaching ear shot of her and as they stepped onto the top most levle of the tower-
There she was, curled up in the corner, wilted, colorless and staring through the walls.
As they climbed the stairs and the entire story was relayed to her, Lillian's eyes became harder and harder, her lips pressed into a thin line and her expression one of pure fury. This so-called 'God of War' was a monster and a big problem. It infuriated her that he'd destroyed multiple towns and cities. The fact that Calent was allowing a rabid dog like that to run loose and unchecked in Connlaoth was beyond reprehensible.
The most troubling to the Knight was the White Lily was the attempted rapes. Whoever those men were, they obviously had no honor! Any man that would attempt such a thing was repulsive and should be punished severely for his crimes. The fact that Kella Harmond seemed to have a deadly touch didn't really even give Lillian pause - she assured the general with tight-lips that no one would be touching Kella Harmond. Her reasoning had nothing to do with this so-called lethal touch and much more to do with the fact the poor woman was probably traumatized from her ordeal.
The entire way up the steps Lillian had listened and said next to nothing, but when her jade eyes touched upon the woman huddled in her cell, those eyes might as well have been green fire. "Every man that touched her should feel lucky I don't have the authority to see them hanged like the filthy dogs they are."
For someone usually as pleasant and sweet as this particular young woman, her words carried a great deal of venom and malice. She cast Serenus an almost accusatory glance, and stepped forward until she was right at the bars of the cell - she crouched down so she wasn't standing over the poor huddled woman.
All the anger and heat melted from her voice into a soft, warm, soothing tone. "Lady Harmond? It's Lillian Coleridge, we've met before, when I was little, do you remember me? I'm here now, no one else is going to hurt you anymore, I promise. I'm going to serve and protect you."
For a while, Kella said nothing. Her stare remained as distant as the far away worlds. But after some time, it did seem to register to her someone was there. But she didn't look at Lily at first. She simply responded through a soft, broken voice.
"Y-yes.." She paused, swallowing the dry knot in her throat. "Ages ago."
Lillian waited very patiently for Kella's reply, scarcely daring to even breathe. The way the woman sounded broke her heart, but at the same time infuriated her. How dare someone harm Kella Harmond. She couldn't even imagine the pain and rage that would fill Blaith when he found out what those monsters had done - or tried to do - to his sister. The idea of that made Lillian feel even worse.
She turned her eyes back to the general. "I think supper and some nice hot tea are in order, wouldn't you agree General?" Her voice was tight, her eyes angry. Somehow she would have to fix this mess - for Blaith, if for nothing else.
Seeing her expression, he hoped he had made the right choice and bowed his head in a slow nod.
"I'll leave you two to catch up. But I believe we have a maid down stairs who needs the training. I shall fetch her for the tea." And just like that, he was off, leaving Lillian with the lady prisoner all alone, except the few guards posted outside, infront of the door.
Up here, on the top most floor to the tower, were a few slitted windows that allowed in the daylight as the light stretched across the room. THere were torch lights too that danced in scones upon the stone walls, so ample light was given, even as Lady Harmond's hair hid her blue eyes in a deep shadow.
The room was rather large, and the cell Kella was confined to something less than adequate for a lady, but it was evident some measures were made to adhere to her station. She had a normal bed, and better bed sheets, but nothing that a lady would be used to. And a meek curtain had been made in a half attempt to offer her privacy for a small bath situated in the back o fher cell, beneath her only window. Other than that, she had but one stool in which to sit, and a small, make shift wooden desk. All something someone of a lower class had once owned.
But it was better than nothing, and ten times better than the sort of treatment the mages received at the camps. But somehow, it all seemed to amount to nothing as Kella's eyes averted Lily's as she looked down at her skirts. The dress had been from someone else, far larger than her size. She appeared to beswimming in the thing and the gloves she wore, ridiculously over sized as well. They were men's gloves after all. But knowing what she was capable of, no one was taking chances. She even had a peculiar scarf wound around her neck and high riding boots- also those of a man's.
If not for the essence of her nature, and the beauty (albeit, even as she looked washed out and grey), there appeared almost nothing left of the quiet grace she had once been. But it was as her eyes took in her armor did Kella finally speak up, forcing a smile while brushing back a few tears.
"So.. so you've become a knight?"
It was a good thing the White Lily didn't know of the General's doubts, the young woman would have bristled at such an insult. She was more than capable of handling the situation at hand, and it was a very delicate matter, much too intricate for the rough hands of foolhardy men!
Lillian watched Serenus excuse himself and then turned her attention back to the woman in the cell. Sighing she wiped her forehead on the sleeve of her tunic, despite the cold outside she found a few beads of sweat had formed on her delicate brow. From stress or anger, she wasn't sure which. While Kella remained quiet, she took the time to let her jade eyes glide over their surroundings, trying to decide what would need done in order for the situation to become more acceptable to her.
Honestly she wasn't expecting Lady Harmond to feel much like talking to anybody, and figured she'd have to coax every few words from the woman, so when Kella spoke up she jerked her eyes back to the woman and broke out in a grin, one that turned sheepish when she realized the question.
"A rather unfortunate event, Lady Harmond, but yes. The White Lilies aren't known for taking 'no' for an answer." She smiled to soften the statement, but it was obvious her opinion on the matter wasn't a positive one. "Since my father is a duke, and your brother is a duke, they decided that I would be an appropriate guard for you. I'm...truly sorry, for what they've done to you."
The young woman was very sincere in her regret for everything that had happened. Lillian sighed and reached a hand up to pinch the bridge of her nose lightly, trying to distract from the pain gathering behind her eyes. What a headache, and they hadn't even warned her before getting here! "I'll do everything I can to make sure you're comfortable here, but please understand that I just can't really help you, even though I want to."
Those last words were a bare whisper, not meant for any other ears but theirs. Wanting to help a mage wasn't exactly something her fellow Knights of the White Lily would appreciate. Lillian didn't believe in making exceptions for those of privilege as far as how the laws applied to them. Kella Harmond was the sister of a duke, but she was a mage, therefore she should be locked up. Her status did allow for some leniency in her treatment, but not her captivity. Still...it was Blaith's sister, and she found it hard to view it so black and white.
Kella regarded the other woman with some reservation. Many years on the road made her skeptical of others, even fearful and easily mistrusting. But she was still Kella Harmond, the sweet girl she had always been, if not- even a bit more broken than she had been before. But now that her secret was out, she was worried for so many things as she dropped her gaze to her lap at the White Lily's last words.
"I don't think you can help me now.." she murmured softly before lifting her blue eyes to Lillian's green ones. "But I thank you for your concern." Her blue eyes wavered, uncertainty clear but the appreciation was there as well. But Kella could be nothing but meek now, so meek she remained.
~~~~
General Serenus had made it to the base of the steps where he approached Thom and Siana and regarded both of them with a brisk nod.
"I am ready to speak with the maid. I have a lot to go over with you. Are you prepared to meet your charge?"
OOC: Omg good plan with the going upstairs bit. X_X
IC:
Siana wanted to climb the stairs with the general and the knight, but to her frustration, the general told her to stay put. She curtsied when she wanted to roll her eyes and spit.
Maids don't roll their eyes and spit, so just stand still and wait.
Siana turned towards Thom, hoping he would provide entertainment.
"What do you young men like to do for fun here?" she asked, almost flirty. She couldn't resist.
"Games, maybe?"
"Sometimes," Thom responded, and fell silent.
Well, there goes that. She knew Thom wasn't much of a conservationist, but she had to try.
Siana looked around the room, observing its nooks and exists until the General walked down the steps. She curtsied prettily, swooping low as she had been taught.
"Yes, sir," she said humbly, when really she wanted to slap his face for forgetting his manners. Didn't he knew to ask a woman for his name first? Even soldiers she fought to death asked for that! For different reasons, maybe, but the principle was still there.
"This is a most prestigious job- and you will be compensated for such," the General began to explain. "I am General Serenus, and under my care here we have a noble woman, though I am uncertain how much you would know or recognize her, I can leave it at that. But she is the sister of the Duke of Turgall,- Kella Harmond."
He paused, his expression a bit stern as he nodded his head to her.
"Do you understand what I'm implying? She is to be treated as a prisoner, though with respect. So as a lady, you will obey her commands to some degree, but discretion is required. But you can turn to her guard, Lady Coleridge, who will be stationed there for most of her duration here at Fort Dhagh."
Now, after studying Siana more closely, he gave another nod.
"So your name, girl, so I know how to address you to Lady Harmond."
Lillian gave Kella an empathetic look, and sighed softly before pulling a stool over to sit in front of the cell door. This was the worst assignment ever, she thought miserably. It was bad enough holding mages captive, but this was Lady Harmond, Blaith's sister.
Unhappily she thought back to the afternoon she'd spent in the Duke of Turgall's company. He seemed a good sort, on the surface. The rumors of his hard attitude and reserved nature had seemed a bit unfounded to her. He'd been courteous to her. Dare she even say flirtatious?
"Don't worry, I know this situation looks pretty bleak, but I promise you'll be safe. I'll try to get you some more comforts." Lillian really wasn't sure just how much she could do for Kella, but she'd certainly try to make her life a little less unbearable.
Kella forced a smile, but it was evident there was no feeling behind it. Her eyes were dull, her body wilted and she, so tiny and thin from her time spent on the road. She was exhausted, and dark rings had formed beneath her eyes.
"Thank you.." she replied softly and adjusted herself upon her chair. "So how is your family? Your sister and brother?"
"Evelyn is as well as she ever is. Which is to say generally hateful and out to make everyone else as unhappy as she is. Gabriel is struggling with his marriage, but is otherwise fine." Lillian was cautious with just how much she shared of her brother's problems. Not even a prisoner needed to know how badly her brother was doing. She only mentioned his marital problems because they honestly weren't a secret. Everyone knew that Gabriel and Valia's marriage was a bit of a joke.
Kella nodded softly, regarding the information lightly.
"And your father? How is he? I'm assuming all of Orchy is well?"
Lillian sighed and shook her head, but smiled lightly.
"Father is father. He's always been the strongest man I've known. Orchy flourishes under his leadership, as it always has." It was obvious in the almost reverent way that Lillian said the words that she believed them utterly. She loved her father dearly and couldn't imagine him being anything but strong and solid. The same went for her duchy. She couldn't imagine Orchy as being anything but united and powerful.
Kella shifted a bit uneasily in her chair, nodding again, though most of her gestures were out of habit, or nerves.
"I see. It is good to see your family is well." And she grew quiet, her eyes dropping to the floor.
So much time had passed- she had to wonder about her own duchy- her own brother- and about the man he had hired to bring her home. Though Aryn the Iron hand was meant to bring her in for money- something... else had happened between the pair of them on their long journey, and now she found herself thinking of him.
Was he okay? Was he still alive? And was he thinking about her, too? She released a long sigh and shivered, hugging the meager blanket to keep herself warm. Though she wasn't entirely freezing because of the chilly weather- for a nice, warm fire was crackling in the room. No, there were so many other things that made her tremble- and for a moment,s he nearly forgot herself as she brushed away a tear.
Siana listened closely to the General's words, and curtsied as he demanded her name.
"Yes, sir. I confess, I've only ever heard of Lady Harmond in passing. I will do my best to serve her needs, sir," she said in a mild manner, as she was taught.
"My name is Kylo Barawa, if it pleases you," she said.
With a nod, the General stared this Kylo Barawa over.
"I've been told of your credentials. You will begin this assignment this evening. As stated, the primary guard Lady Harmond is in care of is another noblewoman who is also a Knight of the White Lily. She has come all the way up here to take on this position, so you will go to her if you should have any questions and can not leave this tower without her permission. Do I make myself clear?"
And once Siana was well informed, Kella and Lily would hear their approaching foot steps up the spiraling stone steps as Kella's gaze went from Lily's towards the door. When the door opened, the General, maid and two other soldiers stepped in, and with a small smile, he gestured towards Lily.
"Lady Coleridge, we've hired this maid to service both you and Lady Harmond during your stay at the old Stone Tower. She will wait on you day nad night, and is to obey your every command, is that understood? This position is yours alone to protect and serve, so do it with the utmost care." Turning now from Lily to Kella, he regarded her a moment before nodding his head towards her.
"This is Miss Kylo Barawa. She will see to all of your needs. You need to but ask. If she must leave this facility, see to it at least one guard is with her at all times. " Then to Lily, he turned to her and his smile broadened just a little bit more- but it wasn't the genuine kind, just the practice sort he always wore, but the warmth was still there in his attempt to comfort both these women in such dire circumstances.
"Lady Coleridge, if you should feel the need to ever leave the tower, please contact me first so we can ensure to replace you during your absence. The lady here is not to be left alone without an escort- or an adhara, or at least, a mordecai. Do I make myself clear?"
Small steps, small steps, Siana told herself, but felt awkward for doing so. She took in a short breath at the sight of Kella. Here was her objective. She wondered how much her bonus would be to kidnap the lass back to her brother.
All the spoils of war, she thought, entertained by the thought.
She cursied again before her charge.
"It will be my honor to serve you, Lady Harmond," she said, careful to pronounce 'my.'
Siana offered a genuine grin, letting a little mischief slip through her humble disguise.
"Please call me Kylo," she said.
To be told that she had to leave with a chaperon at all times... Well, that did make things a little more complicated, when it came time to escape, but Siana appreciated a good challenge.
I come and go as I please.
Kella gave a delicate nod of her head before letting her blue eyes drop, almost shamefully.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Kylo," she spoke softly.
The General watched with a brief nod himself before turning to Lady Coleridge. "Is there anything I can get for either of you?" ANd he was surprised when Kella was the one to speak up first.
"Perhaps a few books. Something to read."
As the sound of footsteps reached them Lillian stood from where she had crouched by the cell bars, appearing rigid and straight-backed when the General entered with the maid and his two guards. Everything about her just then spoke of a hardened knight, and that is what she needed the General to see. Her duty was deplorable and she loathed to be assigned it, but she had to be sure that her superior would trust her to see it done. If not they would just send another, and the next might not be as forgiving and sympathetic to Lady Harmond as she was.
Impassively she watched the exchange, expression neutral as she regarded the made with complete disinterest. Of course they had hired a maid to see to Lady Kella, and herself, apparently. Not that Lillian really needed a maid. Five years ago she would have thought herself lost without one, but she was a Knight of the White Lily now, and knights could do for themselves.
"The maid goes nowhere without an escort and Lady Harmond is never to be left without an Adhara, or at the very least a Mordecai guardian. Sufficient orders, General. Leave everything to me, you could not have placed Lady Harmond in finer care or under better guard." Sufficient orders indeed! More like common sense. Did he think her daft?
Scowling softly she glanced at Kella, who had spoken up with a request. Well, time to play guardian. It would be her duty to screen all requests Kella made and determine if they were acceptable and allowed. "Books are an excellent idea. Idle minds tend to wander to dark and, in this case, perhaps dangerous thoughts. If there are books to be found, General, please have one of your men escort Miss Barawa to fetch a selection for the Lady Harmond's enjoyment. If there is nothing else, I would not wish to keep you from your duties any longer."
Lillian offered Serenus a polite bow, but was obviously dismissing him.
"Right away, Lady Coleridge," Siana said with a curtsy before leaving the room. She chewed her tongue as she walked down the stairs. Out of all her first tasks, this one had to be to fetch books.
Definitely annoying, but not something she couldn't work across. She walked up to the soldier who had been leaning against the wall. She relied to him the order, to which he irritably sighed and gestured for her to follow him.
They were greeted with the cold wind , which caused Siana's eyes to sting. Together, they silently trekked across the fort's streets until they reached the Keep. Siana stood up straighter, excited she was able to see more of the Fort. She was escorted down the hall and up a flight of stairs until she reached a plain oak door.
"Be quick," her escort said as he opened the door to allow her inside.
The library was dimly lit and smelled unpleasantly dank. Siana squinted as her eyes adjusted.
"Hello?" a voice called out before breaking into a fit of coughs.
"Yes, hello," Siana replied.
Shelves were neatly organized, with giant volumes neatly upright next to jars and drawers of rolled parchment. Siana's eyes roamed the room, soaking in the strange sight. She had never seen a library before... but she wasn't much impressed by it. It did not look pretty or interesting. Just sad and orderly.
"May I help you?"
A balding, middle aged man appeared from behind a shelf. The right sleeve of his coat hung limp at his side, though the man extended his left hand for greeting.
"I lost my right arm in battle,' he explained cheerfully at her look.
"Really?" Siana said with interest, breaking character for just a moment. "I mean, how awful."
The librarian chuckled.
"Yes, but unfortunately for the poor man who took it, I was left handed," he replied. "My name is Woart."
"Kylo Bawara, at your service, sir," Siana replied. "I'm here under orders by the Lady Coleridge to bring books back for the Lady Harmond."
"Ah," said the librarian, thoughtfully. "I think I have some things that might be appropriate for a lady. Epics, poetry, history... please follow me."
"Yes, sir," Siana said.
The General had more important business to attend to, and was soon leaving everything in Lady Coleridge's capable hands. Though as he was leaving the old stone tower, he chanced but one look back at it before heading off into the Stone Keep. It was time to attend to his other duties anyway.
Now that Kella found herself alone, she drew in a careful breath before peering up at Lily.
"Thank you for taking this post. I.. I know you were ordered to, but it's nice to see another lady." After all, she, like Lily, had been so far from her own real, royal reality, that it almost seemed like a dream. But to see pretty little Lilian Coleridge in full armor- well...
It was as surreal as it could be. It brought back more of the realities of the war, and how it was taking it's toll on so many levels.
Lillian watched first the maid and then the General take their leave, not relaxing at all until they had, and even then only slightly as her jade eyes turned back to her charge. This was a huge mess. How was she supposed to make it through this? With irritation she was reminded once again that she didn't even know how long she was going to be forced to stand vigil over the delicate Lady Harmond.
"I wasn't told it was you." She said quietly, shoulders slumping finally. "They just said I was to come guard a particularly dangerous mage. I had no idea..." Lillian trailed off, eyes becoming distant as she recalled her day with this prisoner's brother so very, very recently. What would Blaith think of this? Oh, the cruel irony! Duke Harmond was sure to be livid to know his sister was being kept like some common criminal. Well, perhaps a bit better than a common criminal, but the principle was the same.
Shaking her head to clear her mind of thoughts of the twin not at hand, she managed to smile encouragingly at Kella. "Don't worry, Lady Harmond. This will all work itself out...somehow. I just know it will. I bet your brother will find a way to have you released to his custody. If not, maybe I could entreat my father to keep you as a...special guest. They'd still want you guarded, but maybe, just maybe..." Lillian shook her head sadly and found a stool to sit heavily upon. She was grasping for straws. Calent wasn't going to let a mage, no matter their birth or station, just waltz out of this tower.
"Forgive me, I've been told that I can harbor false hope and optimism. I should not. Lady Harmond your plight is grim. It is unlikely you will leave this tower alive to go anywhere except perhaps a more secure prison. At least as long as our current Grand Duke holds power. I'm so sorry." And she really, sincerely was.
Kella forced a delicate smile after the woman's words, though before that, her emotions were all over the place, and fear was prominent. Though fear still remained, sparkling in her eyes, she tried to ease it away by a soft laugh.
"I do not think my brother could retrieve me here. Turgall has not much in the ways of powers to persuade." Considering their history of mage support....
It was doubly unlikely indeed. "But thank you for trying. I should find it very nice here. It... it is a bit better than the fearful path of the open road." At least here she knew she had some protection, but even she fidgeted, knowing that somehow, that could not last. She just had a hunch, something bigger might happen, and the fear surrounding her brother finding her out weighed the fear of remaining here in this tall, dark cell.
Lillian smiled and shrugged her shoulders. She didn't really know that there was anything Blaith could do. There really wasn't anything that anyone could do, as far as the young White Lily knew. Turgall wasn't a particularly powerful duchy, and their military paled in comparison to many others, so the idea that Blaith could really pressure Calent into allowing even one mage some small amount of immunity was unlikely.
"Well, it isn't a palace, that's for sure, but I do promise to do everything I can to make you more comfortable and to keep you safe." Now there was an idea. Maybe they could arrange for some form of alternative prison, a small manse would not be so hard to post a guard for. Mordecai and Adhara even included in the consideration.
Lillian mused over such an idea before shaking her head. Lofty dreams and ideas, but it didn't hurt to think about it, although entertaining such fancies for long was probably not good for anyone. "At least they haven't left you up here all alone with none but hostile soldiers keeping watch."
"It is a lovely idea to consider, but they made it explicitly clear to me why I am here." And here, her blue eyes raised to meet with Lily's green ones. "The powers I possess can kill. And it requires nothing, no thought. Just touch." And the last word she spoke was on barely a whisper, and the tears behind the pain of such a power were evident by the growing sparkle of tears in her eyes.
"It would be... unwise for me to be anywhere else."
Fort Dhagh was the most prestigious and well guarded of all the mage camps, after all.
Lillian nodded her head slowly. Serenus had informed her that Kella's power was deadly and involved touch. Her family was devout and followed Ansgar's teachings without falter. Magic was dangerous and wrong. That did not mean that she agreed with the way things had become. Not at all. Ansgar bid people be merciful and pity those with the burden of magic. As long as mages did not use their power then they were to be allowed to live peacefully. It was no different than if a normal person were to cause harm to another, they would also be punished for their crime.
Many of the mages here now had committed no offense, but were punished anyway for something they could not help. Sighing she rubbed her face tiredly. It had been a long, cold ride to the fort and she was feeling rather miserable over all. It didn't help that her charge was Kella Harmond. Just looking at Blaith's twin made her feel odd. A strange sort of twinge and ache.
"I know why you're here. I know why they fear you. It isn't your fault, you know. You didn't ask for this, no more than I did." Lillian hated being Adhara, she'd come to accept her new role in the world, until Blaith had swept into her life seemingly by chance. One day with him had made old aches and longings return with a vengeance. "I guess we're both doomed to become dusty old maids." Lillian jested, though there was little life or mirth in the words, more grim irony than anything.
Kella tried to smile, but the smile never reached her eyes.
"I think I should like to rest now, if that is okay. The day has been long and trying."
Lillian nodded glumly and rose to her feet, taking a moment to explore the small floor that held Kella's cell. There was a room adjacent to the cell and she figured that setting up a cot for her to sleep on would be the best course of action. It was a tiny room, but she really didn't need much space. She was only there to guard Kella, after all. Her only purpose was to negate the magic that had everyone so scared of the mousy noblewoman.
Epics, poetry, history... Siana's head was swimming as Woart keenly searched through volumes and scrolls for items he deemed acceptable for the Lady Harmond.
"Ah, this scroll recalls the legend of Sir Knotwood the Fierce," he said as he brushed off dust from a leather bonded book.
"Oh?" Siana asked. She knew the Adelan legend by heart, having heard it told over and over again. Somewhere in the locked memories of her mind, she had retold passages to her husband, their babe warm in her arms.
The librarian smiled at her intertest.
"Ah, you know it then? I knew you would," he said as he carefully placed it on top of the stack of five volumes and three scrolls in her arms.
"This, though, is one of my favorites. Make sure the Lady takes good care of it! It was penned by a knight thirty years ago, Lady Hawkflight. A most fantastic artist, too. You should see some of those pictures. I don't think I've seen a more fiercesome or bloody dragon battle than that in there... Ah."
He hesitated and reached out for the book again.
"Then again, I don't think her chaparone would quite approve," he said.
"No, don't do that. Please," Siana insisted with a sly smile. She was keen on seeing those drawings.
"Her chaparone won't have to know."
The librarian chuckled.
"Fine, then I'll leave you be. I think that'll be enough to content the lady for now," he said. "It was very nice meeting you, miss."
"Just Kylo," Siana said.
She attempted an akward curtsy before heading out the door, happy to find someone to be friendly with.
---
Escorted by a different knight than the one she had been sent with, Siana entered the tower. She was careful to dust her boots before climbing up the stairs with the books in hand. She stood in front of Kella's door and let out a little huff. Under normal circumstances, she would have knocked with her boot, but nobody considered that lady like.
"Miss," she called, almost pitifully. She never realized how heavy and cumbersome books were until she ferried them from one end of the fort to the other. Of course she didn't ask for help, but after climbing all of those steps, she was looking forward to spilling them all over the floor. "My lady, would you please open the door. I have books."
Lillian stepped from her little side-room and moved to the door, opening it to peer at the returned maid cautiously before pulling the door open wide and stepping to the side, allowing admittance to the small floor. "Set them anywhere. Lady Harmond may go through them at her leisure."
The door would be immediately closed and locked behind the woman, of course. Everything had to be completely secure up here. Both to keep people out and to keep them in. The three women would only really have each other for company much of the time. Lillian sighed irritably. This was going to be a pretty awful assignment. Not least of all because guilt nagged at her mercilessly. She was imprisoning a perfectly sweet and innocent person because she had been told to. What a joke.
"I would make yourself as comfortable as possible. I'm afraid you've been given a rather boring and restrictive post Miss Barawa."
Before Kylo had returned, Kella had curled herself up in the corner, had taken to a moment of prayer before finding herself drifting off to a silent slumber. Even when the door opened and Kylo returned, Lady Harmond had not stirred. She had been exhausted, perhaps too much so, and had no idea how much she needed sleep until it became her, and though she seemed to be sleeping peacefully, internally, she was writhing in her own nightmares of what was to come.
Siana nodded cheerfully at Lillian's advice, though inwardly, she groaned. She was going to have to figure out how to do her exercises in secret. To be trapped like a bird was NOT the spider's style.
"Well, we'll make do," Siana said. "Perhaps we three could play cards, though it is only fair to warn you, my lady, that few have bested me."
She couldn't help but to boast. At the sight of her temporary mistress, fast asleep, Siana silently placed the books by a bedside table before creeping out of the room after Lillian.
"I think Lady Kella has the right idea," Siana mused. "Forgive me, but I was not told where my sleeping quarters would be."
And there better be no fleas.
Lillian grinned at the idea of playing cards with someone that boasted they tended to win. She wondered what kind of card games the maid would know. Probably some good ones. Cyrus had taught her some of the games they played in low-end taverns. Gabriel and her father had scolded him for teaching her low-born games, but she had always liked learning from her "scoundrel" half-brother.
"Maybe we will test that later." She said idly before waving at the small room to the side. "I'll have a couple cots set up for us. The luxury of a real bed is for the Lady Harmond, for now." After years of sleeping on the bunks in the barracks she really couldn't say it mattered much. Not that she wouldn't love a real bed, but you took what you could get.
Siana smile at the prospect of a challenge.
"I think you would be a most interesting match. I look forward to it," she said.
Siana nodded at the prospect of the cot. She would have to find some place to do her make up to hide her face tattoos when Lillian was asleep. The waterproof paste for her face was strong stuff and could outlast the rain or snow, but needed to be reapplied at least once or twice a day. On her lips, Siana used a subtle lipstick. There was enough for three weeks if she rationed, though Siana planned to be gone long before that.
In any case, a cot sounded perfect, especially after as harsh a journey as she had made. Beds of any sort were a luxury for her kind, anyway. They were almost too soft for her back.
"Would you require help with getting undressed, Lady Coleridge?" she asked, the ever dutiful maid.
"Would I require help? No, I would say not. Perhaps if you had asked me some five years ago I might have needed a maid simply to dress or undress, but they don't exactly coddle us in the barracks, Miss Barawa." Lillian replied with a soft, short laugh. She doubted many people had any clue what they did or didn't do with White Lily Knights.
A soft knock at the door announced the arrival of their cots and her belongings which had been left downstairs in her hurry to see to Kella. Lillian let them in, directing them where to place them in the small room. She ordered tea for three before seeing them out and shutting the door.
Looking around one last time she gave a satisfied nod before working at removing her armor. Somehow she didn't think she'd need it much up here, but for appearances she'd wear the damn suit during the day. For now, though, she would rather just relax, a day in the saddle really sapped the energy right out of a person for some reason. She hoped they were taking good care of her horse. That animal was worth more than a soldier's allowance in a year. "So Miss Barawa, tell me about yourself."
Siana had to smile at that.
"No," she replied. "I suppose not."
Siana nodded politely at the men who carried in Lilllian's gear. They said gentle 'hellos' but virtually ignored the woman. Siana almost pouted. Those damn grays and pinks, hiding her muscles and dulling her complexion.
Siana sat down on the opposite side of a simple wooden table. She shyly smiled at the question, glad for the attention. She had been rehearsing this.
"There's not much to say," she said. "I grew up in Ketra. My mother couldn't afford to keep me. I was lucky, though. I became a maid in the Lady Algoma's house. She was kind and loved to ride horses. But, oh... well, it's not very polite to say."
Siana sighed.
"She had the misery sickness and was consumed by it. Dark times, dark times... "
Siana smiled as if it was her duty to cheer Lillian up.
"But best not to dwell on it," she said. "Especially in such a dark and cold place like this. You know, when I was a child, I wanted to be a solider, too. I wanted to ride dragons."
She laughed as if that thought was preposterous.
Lillian was methodically stripping plate and padding as she listened intently to the maid's story. It was quite a tale, she thought idly as she threw a last piece of gear on the pile she'd discarded near the wall. The soft wool clothing she remained in were simple, if finely made, and she didn't look as much a lady or a soldier as she turned jade eyes on Siana, studying the woman carefully.
Finally she shrugged and found a stool, settling on it carefully. "I had no intention of dwelling on it. I don't know what ladies you've served in the past, but you needn't concern yourself with upsetting a frail little woman liable to faint as soon as look at you."
Indeed, she didn't seem to much care about this "misery sickness" Siana spoke of, or all that interested in who the maid had served before now, for that mater.
"If you wanted to be a soldier and to ride dragons then why didn't you? I was under the impression that women in countries outside of Connlaoth had more freedom to choose the life they wanted."
OOC: my geology is derp. siana is supposed to come from adela, so it's ketra not arca. XD
IC:
"Oh, miss," Siana said, bowing her head in embarrassment.
"In some ways, yes," she said, slowly, "But family is very important. Even though my mother gave me up, it was her wish I did not."
She sat up straighter in her chair.
"Besides, blood makes me feel faint," she said sheepishly. "Still, have you ever been to Adela, miss? The dragons are beautiful."
Duty to family, seems country hardly mattered on that front. It was a sentiment Lillian could understand, her entire life had been devoted to trying to do well by her family and to make her father proud. Too bad she'd been an adhara, that had disappointed her father beyond words. Truthfully, she didn't like it any better. Instead of serving her father's needs, she was serving Calent's whims, twisted as they were.
"I've never left Connlaoth, and I've no desire to ever do so. I'm sure your dragons are impressive, but they are something I can live without ever seeing." Dragons, the word almost made her shudder. Magic creatures of enormous size and ferocity? No thanks!
Sensing Lillian's discomfort, Siana substituted her normal hearty laugh for a brief, sympathetic chuckle.
"Yes, Lady Coleridge," she said, agreeably.
Suddenly, Siana felt a little stuck. It wasn't like she could jump into a story about battles or that time she laid the Serendipty's army general and stole his trousers. For once, she had to think about manners and polite conversation. She had almost forgotten how that went.
"And what about you, miss?" Siana asked. "What's it like where you're from, if you don't mind me asking."
"Where I'm from? Orchy is the greatest duchy of them all, but my opinion is highly biased, you understand. In all seriousness, Orchy is beautiful, though a lot of the land is orchards. There's a heavy military influence in my duchy, and warfare is a way of life. You can't go a day without seeing men training, running drills, and this is all over the duchy, not one area." Lillian spoke of Orchy with great pride, she had always been very proud of where she came from, as any Coleridge should. As any Orchian should.
"Family. Duty. Honor. There are no more important things in life than those. Ask any Orchian man, woman, or child and they'd tell you the same."
Lillian's passion for her duchy did not surprise Siana. Still, it was rather charming to see Lillian speak with such pride about her people- also amusing.
Family. Duty. Honor.
Siana was reminded of a travelling priest she had seen on her travels. He stood in the street, obviously penniless and hungry, but he spoke of his deity with such vigilance. Siana had forgotten which it was- there were so many.
"Well, I promise you, my lady, that I shall if I meet any," Siana said in a faux solemn voice. "Though I doubt that'll be any time soon. Perhaps one of the soldiers, though they don't seem very conversational."
It was about this time Lady Harmond had begun to awaken, making a soft noise as she stretched upon her bed. At first, she was in a foggy haze, uncertain what to make of her surroundings, but then seeing the two women outside of the bars she was stuck within reminded her of her plight as she silently peered over at the two from over her shoulder.
"I doubt you'll find a soldier from Orchy outside of Orchy. Father doesn't send many that far away from home." Lillian said with a shrug. Her father had a strong military and he wasn't handing it over to Calent, no matter what political affiliation he might claim.
A soft sound came from the cell, causing Lillian to look up and notice the woman she was there to keep an eye on. Not that she thought it was necessary. Kella Harmond may have been a mage, but she seemed resigned to her captivity and showed no indication that she was going to cause problems. "Lady Harmond, there are books for you now."
Kella delicately tucked back her hair and lightly brushed the sleep from her eyes. She regarded Lily, then Kylo.
"Thank you, Lady Coleridge." And she nodded to Siana, "And Miss Kylo." And quietly she observed the books, browsing through their titles to see what sorts of things she could bury herself away in. It seemed this Kylo had some interesting choices, and some very good ones as well. And after inspecting them all, she gave another nod to the pair of women before drawing her finger nails to her lips. She felt exhausted, but also anxious, and longingly, her eyes drifted over towards the barred window- which seemed all but a world away.
Siana stood up in Kella's presence and curtsied at her gratitude. She watched as the young lady quietly flipped through the books. Whatever that librarian had given her was a good selection- Siana could see the curiosity in Kella's eyes. Siana felt a warm, fuzzy feeling inside, pleased at her accomplishment. True, she was a sellsword... but if she was going to do a job, it was gonna be well done. Always.
That was it. The lady inspected the books, and left, just like that. Siana lowered herself back into the chair, careful not to plop down, as she normally would.
"Not much to talk, poor child," Siana observed, turning back to the lady knight.
"Probably still exhausted. Forgive me for saying so, miss," she told Lillian. "But you look like you need some rest, yourself. We should rest tonight and be prepared for the new day to come."
Lillian watched Kella flip through the selection brought for her, curious herself at what the maid had brought, but curbing the desire to inspect the books, she merely bowed her head slightly in acknowledgement of the expressed gratitude. "We are here to serve you, Lady Kella. Do not forget that."
Those jade eyes turned to Siana as she spoke, a frown crossing her lips. "Given her position I understand her lack of interest in chatting with her jailers. Still, rest is something we could all do with. It has been a...trying day."
She still couldn't quite believe that she was guarding Blaith Harmond's twin sister. Standing with a sigh, Lillian went to the spare room to set up the cots properly for herself and the maid.
At Lily's words, Kella gave a simple nod and kept it lowered towards the pair of them. Nervously, she squeezed her hands over the blanket on her cell bed, but then returned to staring over at the window, becoming once again, lost in thought. Day dreams were at least a place she could escape, because even her sleeping dreams could produce nightmares. At least if she were awake... she had some semblance of hope. But when her eyes closed shut at night...
So many fears stirred awake-
and the one primary being that her twin brother would come to rescue her, and carry her off to a fate worse than this.
OOC: I thought they were in the side room speaking...
IC:
"Oh, you don't have to," Siana told Lillian, rushing in to help the knight fix the cots.
"Thank you. You ought to get some sleep and stay warm in the blankets."
Siana went to the fireplace, and fixed the flames low so that they wouldn't escape the hearth.
That should do it for the night, she thought. Next job I take is in Essyrn.
With a sigh, she got back to her feet, and undid her bodice, embracing the air rushing into her lungs.
That's better.
Within moments, she was in her woolen under-dress with a shawl over her shoulders.
"Good night, Lady Coleridge," Siana said as she slipped into her cot and squirmed until she could find a proper position. She fell asleep the moment her eyes shut.
When the morning came, Kella was awake before the others. But she was quiet, and the only noise that was heard was from the dying crackle from the fire. She was up on her bed, just a grey figure nestled against a grey wall, and from there, she had before her one of the books. Though she had her back towards the iron bars, the title of the book was at least visible. It was penned by Lady Hawkflight, The Dragon's King.
OOC: I didn't see specific titles for the books she brought but if I'm mistaken, I can fix XD
Lillian has settled into her cot almost as soon as it was ready, curling her blanket around herself like a cocoon. Even then it was likely not to be exactly hot in this tower, she'd settle for warm, or hell, not freezing would be pretty great too.
Closing her eyes she again thought of how ridiculous her assignment was, and wondered if she was being punished for something her father had done to annoy Calent. Wouldn't surprise her if that was the case, but that thought brought the hint of a smile to her lips as she drifted to sleep.
Morning came far too early, and much too cold. Even wrapped in her cocoon of body heat, Lillian awoke stiff and chilled. It was only with great reluctance that she slid out of her uncomfortable cot, but as soon as she was out of her nest she hurriedly dressed to try to make up for the small amount of warmth she'd lost.
"Time to get up, Miss Barawa, stoke the fire, if you would. Let's see if we can't get a little heat in this drafty birdcage." Walking out she moved to the bars of the cell that held Kella and peered in curiously. Her green eyes examined the title of the book her prisoner was holding and arched a brow slightly. "An interesting choice, Lady Kella, but I do hope you enjoy it. The soldiers will bring hot breakfast for us all soon."
Probably porridge and toast, she thought with a grimace. Better than whatever the mages down in the camps were getting, certainly, but she wished she was home to sit at breakfast at her father's table. There'd have been a positive bounty laid out to select from.
"I am enjoying it, thank you," she told her with a humble bowing of her head. "There are more than enough books here.. If any of you would like to read as well, please..." and she gestured to the pile. "Do not hesitate."
For what else were the three girls really to do for the rest of their days? Did the world really seek to keep her locked up in here, forever? It seemed a dismal fate, and she appeared a bit more grey for it.
Siana had rose before both of the woman. She had stayed a moment, wrapped up in her blanket, reflecting on her dreams.
I was a bear who slaughtered many wolves, she thought.
It made little sense, especially since she was a spider, after all, and not a bear. Still, she WISHED she were. Siana fancied having a suit of fur, but that wasn't meant to be. Even so, she shivered violently as she rose from her cot and quickly, but silently, got dressed. Practice with the laces made Siana's fingers nimbler. She took care that all her tattoos were hidden.
Better cold here than freezing in the wilderness, Siana thought, remembering her journey.
At Lillian's order, Siana politely curtsied.
"Certainly," she cheerfully replied.
As she worked, she listened carefully to the women's conversation.
"The librarian will be glad to hear of it," Siana said as she finished her work.
"He took great care with them. There. That's nice and cozy, isn't it?" Siana continued, trying to avoid the subject of reading.
"Have either of you ever read any of these titles?" Kella asked, feeling compelled to at least offer her companions some sort of lighter conversation than their task at hand. But her voice sounded so... different to her, so forced, so fake...
So far away. Perhaps it was just her own self being critical, but she tried to shake her doubt away. Too bad it clung to her, along with her fear, like a wet towel.