Time is almost up Prophetess

Nye. Eet was dhe Midwinter Mont'...umm...January, I t'ink you calls it. Shall nye matter. I shall see him 'afore dhen.
 
I would not rush into love too quickly. Be careful Marcena.

Liddia
 
None of this dealing has to do with love - none of it! At best, these are political decisions, at worst it's indentured servitude. Winter Wind is looking for a thrall, a play-thing, not a companion.

Remember, this all began when Winter Wind traded its services for the life of that Biata maid; when she left, it, without a blink, transfered that yoke to another. There is nothing compassionate in Winter Wind's actions - all three of you would be best served remembering that.


Master Dramthin Hartsboon
Simple Keeper of the Tainted Grove
 
Dramthin, honestly.

...Why do you care? Marcena, myself -- both fully-capable creatures of formulating decisions about where to place our alliances. I know the Lord better than any of you, and human or not -- I assure you, he is capable of keeping his word. He has never brought me an ounce of harm, and protected me even in the Void, wherein I met the Lady FallingStar and eventually her really nifty bag o' holding, where I spent some time in a strangely altered sense of being. The Lord protected not only your Liege's love, but myself, and the dozens of others whose life she held while you worked on an exit strategy. Try hard to not make him out to be a monster.

Being etherial. It was... sobering in some ways. Opened my eyes in others.

But that's all digression.

No one's said word ONE of 'love' -- if such a thing exists at all is up for debate -- let alone whether a fae is capable of feeling it in the same way a mere 'mortal' creature can or does. It is political. The Lord himself has even stated this. So why are you so up in arms over what is basically a treaty between two beings? Isn't that what marriage is? Dramthin, I think you live in some sort of altered romantic elven state where everyone gets married for love. A little reality -- marriages are made every day for political gain. This is how the gentry works. This is how nobles remain so. Wake up and smell the roses wilting -- marriage doesn't have to have anything to do with love.

I assure you that I will not allow Marcena to be coerced or forced into anything. I am, despite what you may think, actually quite capable in several senses of the word. But perhaps that's not enough for you. Would you prefer to come along when I make the introductions? I promise it will all be very boring, *sigh* but you are more than welcome to tag along. Provided you can promise to keep your thoughts on the Lord to yourself.

I can trust you to have some decorum, can't I Dramthin?
 
Prophetess - I care because I name you friend and I fear you don't see Winter Wind for the caustic force that it is. This creature is balancing its personal amusment against tormenting an entire country. I find very little honour or compassion in a creature willing to doom thousands of innocent people to a cursed winter merely because it wasn't given a plaything. While it might be locked into action by its spoken or written statements, do not mistake this for honour - its merely good gamesmanship. Everything it does is outlined by rules, not ethics, morals, or spirit. But, perhaps even more so, I care because I fear that you see this creature's base cruelty and somehow feel it fitting for that torment to be levied against your own head.

As for my personal frame-work regarding Love - I would ask you not mock such things when you don't understand them. I have not attacked your person in any of this, nor have I used this discussion to debase your spirit or ethics. You do not know what I think of Love, Moonstar, and I would not have you thinking you do.


Master Dramthin Hartsboon
Simple Keeper of the Tainted Grove
 
Dramthin, it's lovely that you believe us to be friends and want to open my eyes to what you believe to be trouble headed my way. But I promise you, I am no spring chicken. I know what I am gaming at here. I knew what I was getting at when I made the deal with the Lord of the Winter Wind originally, and I entered into that deal wholeheartedly.

It was an easy choice, given that I couldn't bear to watch Elle cry anymore because some finicky fae had cursed Cumlo to forget her. Tell me you wouldn't have agreed to do the same, rather than watch her come to you with red-rimmed watery eyes asking you for advice. How do you tell a girl to forgoe love? You don't. I may not believe in the emotion's use, but something needed to be done. So I drank from the cup and I went to the only fae that would hear me given the season. I cannot say I regret the choice.

What the Lord needs a bride for, and what her "job" in that role will be I cannot say. I was of the opinion that those negotiations would be made and agreed upon once the Lord made his choice. I am not worried, for I am a wizened creature and suspect that my slew of dealings with the fae will manage to provide a deal that is not only ironclad but suitable to both parties involved.

Sure, he's cruel. Cold. These days, I'd say that makes us suitable for one another. I've learned much given my time within his walls, and I think that this disposition suits me.

I think it strange that it was amusing to you before time began to run thin to call me his "consort", but when I planned to formalize any kind of arrangement you were suddenly all cries of accusation and caution. Why is that? Is it okay for me to "consort" with a fae, but not to engage in some sort of relationship with one? How is -that- any safer? Why suddenly is there a problem? As I see it, the dynamic between the Lord and I wouldn't have changed, it would just have been re-titled.

But I have retracted my offer for the while and will allow him to consider Marcena's offer, which was freely given. I have offered to broker the meeting, and even for you to come along. What more do you want from me?

Every creature plays by rules. We things of mortal fluff play by several sets, it is true.

But how does that make us better? I would not count being unpredictable as a complete strength in matters such as these. Emotions, morals, spirit -- these things are wavering. Changing. Sometimes I think we'd be better off without them, especially when it comes to dealings that require strict rulings and adherence to those rules.

I was not mocking or attacking you, Hartsboon. I would think you'd be wise enough to judge me better. I think we're all aware that I cannot harm a flea, and I will note that I was merely illustrating the fact that love has never once passed my lips during these discussions, despite your and Lyddia's attempts to make it about such. Love is useless, especially in this discussion, as this is about negotiations and politics -- too cool a climate for something that claims to be as firey-hot as love is supposed to be. And I know something of your views on love and Elven courtship. You're not the only one capable of eavesdropping.

I cannot keep repeating how this is business. Not love. I am beginning to feel like I am not being heard. It makes me irksome.

Well... more irksome than usual.

Are you soothed yet?

What can I tell you that will make this so?

Shall I hold your hand and pat your hair soothingly and promise it will be okay? Would you come along to the castle of cold, blusting wind and ice and see this arrangement for yourself? Do you want I should get it in writing? In blood? A pound of flesh?

Honestly Dramthin. You've done nothing but level accusations and filibuster on the subject.

What would you have me do?

What are our other options?

How can I make you happy, because obviously that is indeed what this is all about.
 
Belittle and attack me all you wish, Prophetess, I will not waver in my opinion: this creature is not worthy of your companionship, nor will it hesitate to consume you in pursuit of its goals. Nor do I believe these arguments you pose are what you find deep in your spirit to be the truth. You entered into negotiations with this creature for the right reasons but its touch has chilled your heart and your mind - your vehemance and flame herein give me hope that he hasn't frosted completely your spirit, but being with it will only lengthen the winter of your life.

But, in truth, I only know a scant portion of your mind and spirit. I had been seeking to help you based on actions I've seen you undertake and compassion you've shown, but if you say they belie your true feelings, so be it. If you find Winter Wind to align with your temperment and walk into its house with eyes open and embracing, I cannot and will not stand across your path.

You offered before for me to attend you when you speak with Winter Wind and if the offer was founded, I accept. I understand your edicts for silence and composure and I accept them. When will this meeting take place?


Master Dramthin Hartbsoon
Simple Keeper of the Tainted Grove
 
I'm not belittling you, Dramthin. Merely trying to suss out your purpose.

I am frustrated with the repetition of our verbal volley; forgive me.

The Lord has not touched me in any way, shape, or form -- despite what the rumor mill may claim. My chilly heart is a response to wrongdoing, and I shall leave it at that. It is just easier to maintain an icy countenance when one is in a place of frigidity and chill. Perhaps it is why I choose to reside here. It is not why I came originally, but -- these things never go as planned, do they? My original intention was to melt the place down a bit by being my usual, warm, happy self... But -- that girl is lost. Frozen. It's better, really. The time for girlishness is well behind my years.

I do not love him, it is true. I've never said such. He does not believe it to be so. But I respect and care for him as I do everyone else in this godforsaken place, for all the little that it returns to me.

The Lord, at least, returns my kindness -- albeit in his own way. You can call it what you want, but he has protected me and mine when I've asked, and offered help when I have been meek enough to ask.

I cannot say everyone else has been so careful with my heart. Perhaps it is the nature of a creature of ice and snow to understand that which is painfully and excruciatingly brittle.

...

I -- uh, the... the meeting. It was my intention to introduce Marcena to the Lord at the Hallow's Eve market day. If you would like to attend, it is of no matter to me. I can take you with as well.

I was not errantly mocking you when I invited -- I meant it.
 
I have listened to your volley of pleas and rebuttals for quite some time, and however much it pains me to see a friend of mine, whether it be you Elysia or Marcena, join in a union for purely political reasons I will stand by in support. If there is any harm done at any time however, I will act as I always will...in defense of my friends and those who cannot protect themselves. I have not met the Lord of the Winter Winds, but I know that he will have to try hard to chill my bones. So it is this that I offer: My humble service as friend and protector in this introduction, whether it is the journey or the Lord himself I offer to stand guard. I have no judgment of the Lord of the Winter Wind, as I have never had the opportunity to meet him.

May the Mysts be merciful I shall be in Wayside with you all at Hollows Eve. There is much to catch up on Elysia, I hope that you can make time for a cool night stroll with an old friend.

May you find warmth from Winter's sweet embrace,
Kevar Byrne, Member to the Order of the Earthen Fist.
 
Master Byrne,

Are you quite sure you understand the implications behind your offer? I myself would be glad to look past the implied insult and accept your offer protection for myself and reciprocate with my oath of defense for the one you name...Make you offer.


Dearest Child Elysia,

I see no sense in having to meet this nit, I have perused her dreams and find her far wanting... Have you learned nothing of my desires this past year? I don't seek the shrew, nor to tame her...

I for one, forgive you your chilled heart and though I am oft publicly and wrongly blamed for such by errant fools and foolhardy boys, I shall remain patient to you.

It does, however, recall a certain conversation about passion that you and I once had...And I do promise, that I had no hand in these happenstances and wrongdoings against your spirit. You were simply naive and the nature of folk proved itself in short time. Of course it begs the question... are you quite ready to concede the point?

Child Dramthin,

Though a powerful orator you have shown yourself to be in times past the shrill nature of your argument airs close to that of open insult. I have no intent upon Elysia's harm nor have I set to do her injustice....I can see your way of thinking and though beleive it false I will allow for it for you are a creature of free will. I will however, not tolerate any further denigrations of my honor or my intent to keep my word... I beg your kindness to retract any such and make no further disgrace upon yourself, your house, and your kind.

My Regards to All,

Lord Galleous
 
Lord Galleous,
I apologize for the implication of an insult in my words. I only go from what I have experienced before, and did/do not assume that you would be violent in this meeting. I merely meant to offer to be a guard were anything to happen. I have been to a few places where Fae reside and have experienced some hostility while there, and not from the host of the visit either. There are always those trying to exploit or harm anyone who is in contact with Fae, and that Lord Galleous was what I was offering to protect against. When I stated, "...whether it is the journey or the Lord himself I offer to stand guard..." I merely meant to show that I would be devoted to the task. After all if I would stand guard against someone of your might then surely I would stand guard against assassins, bandits, or whoever else finds themselves committing violence towards my friends.
Unless there is more to my offer then I realize, I still am willing to be a guard for this meeting with Marcena. If indeed it still takes place. If there is more you wish to discuss please send me a pigeon.

May you find warmth from Winter's sweet embrace,
Kevar Byrne, Member to the Order of the Earthen Fist.
 
Master Byrne,

You have yet to answer my question... Do you understand the implications of your offer?

Lord Galleous
 
Lord Galeous,
I apologize for being naive but it appears that I do not. If there is more the my offer then what I have simply written I revoke it, until I understand the full implications. If you would please elaborate on the implications of my offer to me via pigeon I would be most appreciative.

-Kevar Byrne
 
Master Byrne,

You offered your protection at this meeting. I in turn offered to accept your protection and directed you to choose the one whose protection you would have me guarantee to the fullest extend of my abilities. Choose one Master Byrne...

Lord Galleous.
 
Lord Galleous,
It seems as though we did not take the same meaning from my offer. I directed towards Elysia or Marcena, as they are friends of mine who would be partaking in this meeting. I am not trying to back peddle my way out of this. Merely offering an explanation in hopes that you would understand. Please let me know if the circumstances of your offer have changed. My apologize if you are growing short on patients with me, I have had a long journey and need time to comprehend the proposal.

-Kevar Byrne
 
Master Byrne,

I did most precisesly understand your desire, to defend your friends, and in turn took the offer in hand in order to both increase the generosity of your offer while also removing any implications that would cast me in a harsh light. I would consider my ability to defend greater than yours. Not as a mark upon your prowess but rather as an observation of the truth.

I do not find you backpedalling your way out of this only your manner most peculiar.

Lord Galleous
 
Lord Galeous,

Thank you for understanding, and there is no doubt indeed that you have a greater ability to defend. I have told you that I meant know offense or implication, but I understand your desire to remove any of the such from the situation. So I have made my choice, I ask that you assist the the protection of us all (as we are traveling as one group) in this meeting for the duration of it, and the journey to and from the meeting. If this is not a possibility due to the nature of the wording of your question, I ask that you ensure my protection for the duration of this meeting, and the journey to and from the meeting. If I am not mistaken that would in hand insure the protection of all parties involved. If this does not satisfy your offer then I will rethink my decision. As I said, it has been a long journey.

May you find warmth (of perhaps in your case, chills) from Winter's sweet embrace,
Kevar Byrne, Member to the Order of the Earthen Fist.
 
Master Byrne,
I understand the ache of long journeys and such. I would then accept an offer to defend me spirit, shield and sword and in exchange solemly vow to protect you spell and spear from any harm while on this journey and for the duration of the meeting including the travels back to your world. I assure you no harm shall come to you body, mind, or spirit, while you are under my protection and honor your pledge to allow no harm to come to me.

I welcome you into my world...

Lord Galleous
Lord of Winter Wind
 
This is certainly most interesting.

Do I truly hear the Lord of Winter Wind, the great man know as Lord Galleous actually offering his protection, and for the mere cost of his own protection?

Most interesting indeed.
 
Lord Galleous,

Then lets compile the agreement into a more concise form, so that we are both equally in understanding. I hope you are in agreement with what I say.
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If a meeting takes place between Elysia, Marcena and the Lord of the Winter Winds (Lord Galleous) so that Marcena may meet Lord Galleous.

Then Kevar Byrne will stand guard for Elysia and Marcena as they journey to the meeting between the previously mentioned three individuals.

Then Kevar Byrne will stand guard to better ensure that no violence is committed during the meeting between these three individuals.

Then Kevar Byrne will stand guard for Elysia and Marcena as they journey back from this meeting.

AND

If a meeting takes place between Elysia, Marcena and the Lord of the Winter Winds (Lord Galleous) so that Marcena may meet Lord Galleous.

Then Lord Galleous will protect Kevar Byrne (Body, Mind and Spirit) as he in turn stands guard for Elysia and Marcena as they journey to the meeting between the previously mentioned three individuals.

Then Lord Galleous will protect Kevar Byrne (Body, Mind and Spirit) as he stands guard to better ensure that no violence is committed during the meeting between these three individuals.

Then Lord Galleous will protect Kevar Byrne (Body, Mind and Spirit) as he in turn stands guard for Elysia and Marcena as they journey back from this meeting.

This is an agreement is limited to the journey to, during, and from the meeting between Lord Galleous, Elysia, and Marcena.

This agreement can not be used in any other situation besides the previously described one.

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I feel that this covers the entire agreement, stating clearly what is expected, as well as what situation the agreement can be applied to. If you feel that this is satisfactory than I think we have an agreement. I did not add or remove anything to this agreement, simple compiled to so that each party in informed. So, Lord Galleous, do we have an agreement?

I must admit that I do find it interesting how this all came about, but I think that this clears up any and all assumptions and implications that may have been made. I await to here your reply.

May you find warmth from Winter's sweet embrace,
Kevar Byrne, Member to the Order of the Earthen Fist.
 
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