(Archive) The Garden of Spam
From the archives of the Gondorian
Aka Spam fest<br />Aearwen, Caladrielinde, Delios, Melethron and Valgrim
Elendor - Tuesday, June 06, 2000, 10:32 PM
*Note - The first part of the RP with Delios and Aearwen was done earlier in the evening. Several others joined us when we picked up later for quite a spam fest as well as +os chatter/fun.*
Garden
Truly you are amazed at the sight which greets you here. The beautiful lush gardens of the Houses of healing are without compare in the city, including the Citadel itself. The ground is carpeted with tiny golden flowers fenced in along the paths by small, ankle-high bushes of pink, red and blue. Here and there small benches crouch beside the path beneath overhanging willow trees. Banks of rose bushes line the walls, the scent from their flowers wafting through the air gently, out of sync with the rush of the city outside these tranquil bounds. Tall irises and foxgloves sway slightly in the breeze, their purple and blue flowers just brushing the ends of the drooping trees above them. Along the low wall at the edge of the garden, purple and pink phlox creep, winding their way across the top of the stones, slowly working their way towards the ground. Beyond the wall, the entire plain beneath Minas Tirith is visible, stretching onwards towards the river to the east and the far city of Pelargir to the south. Directly beneath you, the hustle and bustle of city life continues, oblivious to the calm serenity immediately above it.
Contents:
Arnafel
Melethron
Valgrimm
Caladrielinde
Delios
Obvious exits:
Entryway
[Delios(#29016)] Noon has come to this Highday of Gondor, cloudy, but warm all the same. Through the gathering shapes of white high within the sky, rays of light from the warm sun burn through, shining their radiance upon the White City. It is a day of peace...rest. For no blade swings close to any mind that now sit here, within the Gardens of the Houses of Healing. A day of true peace.
Standing at the low wall at the edge of the garden, elbows rested upon the vines that creep over the side, is a cloaked figure of tall height and broad shoulder. Blonde billows of hair spill from atop his head and down to his shoulders, the light from the cloud-hid sun bouncing off of it as it would off of water. It is a great contrast to the sullen hues of green and brown he wears about him. Soft music, only audible at the level of a whisper, floats from his direction. It is the sound of a wooden flute, the tune it self sounding almost woodsy as it crosses through the garden\'s air. If one did not know better, the tune would sound as if it came from the depths of the forest itself, bred by the trees and all that live within it. Delios plays this tune with quiet heart, his eyes rested upon the plains below Minas Tirith, his back turned to the entrance for now
The lightest of breezes, barely perceptible to the skin, gently swirls the tendrils of hair around the face of Lady Aearwen as she steps through the door and into the beauty of the garden in full bloom. A frock of sky blue adores the form of the woman, the same colour of the sky on a beautiful clear day. One hand reaches out to lightly brush the velvetly lips of a red rose as the woman bends to inhale of its sweet fragrance. Rising from her position her eyes alight on the tall man standing with his back to the garden and a smile curves the soft pink lips. Quiet for a moment as a myriad of expressions flit across her brow, her steps finally ease towards the man with a soft greeting finally issued, \"Delios, how very nice to see you.\"
[Delios(#29016)] The music stops, almost in shock to here the voice sneak up behind him slightly. In sooth, he may have heard the footsteps fall in her approach, but he did not turn to greet her at first. Pleasant though is the voice as it falls on him, his eyes closing once before a small smile parts his lips, where the flute so briefly before presided. Then slowly does the scout turn, grey eyes leading him as he goes untill they lock upon the Ladies behind him. It is here, that his smile can be seen. For he had hoped to find her within these gardens today, and she has kindly pleased his heart once more.
Bowing his head slightly before her, Delios offers up a hand in his general greeting, for a gentleman\'s kiss upon her own. He is ever chivalrous for a Scout, almost to be mistaken for the kind and sturdy heart of a Knight. But he is no night and in his uncouth but wisened voice, it shows. \"M\'Lady. It is always a pleasure to chance upon you. It has been long...\" he sighs slightly, head still bowed towards her, hand still proffered.
Dimples appear as the smile of Lady Aearwen grows wider with the offering of Delios\' hand. Her own small, slender hand is held out in return, a blush of colour tinging the porcelain of her skin. A tinkling of laugher, almost ever present from this lady is heard floating across the breeze as cerulean eyes twinkle with delight. \"The ways of chivalry are never lost on a lady, my dear Delios.\" Serious doth her expression grow for a moment as she nods her head in agreement, \"It has been way too long since last we met. And admittedly, not the best of circumstances then.\"
A quick perusal of the man is done before blue eyes surrounded by thick black lashes once again raise to his face, \"And how fare thee since the battles in Osgiliath? My own time there is a blur as the healers were all so busy.\"
[Delios(#29016)] Only after the kiss delivered does Delios rise to meet her own eyes, a gentleness in his own reinstalled since the parting of war in Osgiliath. Had she truly seen them during those nights of the seige, perhaps she would not think him so gentlmanly and kind. For in them then was a light of fire and rage, a utter hatred. And now, it is gone, replaced only by the reflection of a fair healess before him haloed by the light of Gondor\'s sun. A soft smile parts his lips again, no seriousness left within his soul for the troubles of war at this time.
\"Aye, M\'lady. Times were not the best then. But I have rested and healed and have done much wandering \'neath the bows of Ithilien\'s trees.\" He chuckles again, for in truth, he has explored much more than he thought he might have ever seen. \"\'Tis a fair place only rivaled by this one, I must confess. You have tended her well.\" His eyes dart out once more to the Garden, the grin leaving his lips for only a moment. Then, turning those grey globes back upon her again, near laughter spreads through his soul. \"Have you been well? I know you were shaken by the delay within these walls...longing for your home. I hope though, that you have made well use of your time amongst this city. In truth, that is why I came. I was unsure if you had left as of yet for Dol Amroth. I cared greatly to have at least a few hours words with you before you parted our company.\"
The soft brush of lips upon her fair skin brings a shiver to the slight shoulders of Aearwen as she withdraws her hand with some reluctance. A gentleness not seen upon her own face in recent times is warm and inviting as she gazes at the tall scout. The tale of his wanderings is listened to intently, a nodding of her head and soft murmur as her blue eyes hold his gaze. A soft timbre is in her voice as she says, \"Ithilien would have to be fair to rival here, tis one of my favorite places, save my own home and the gardens there.\"
At the mention of Dol Amroth, the place of residence for the noblewoman, a nostalgic expression is seen as she says, \"My anger was perhaps a bit misplaced as I railed against our Lord Steward for sending me to Osgiliath. The misguided emotions of a woman longing for those familiar to her and home are oft not to be the reality of a situation. My hands and talent in healing were needed in Osgiliath and I am glad that I was of service to my homeland.\" An embarassed laugh sounds as she says, \"The Bragollach temper of mine was seen in all its full glory when last we met, was it not? I had almost forgotten how ill I treated you.\", a bright red flush of colour stains her cheeks as memory floods her mind. Both hands rise to cover the brilliance of colour as she laughs, \"Ever do my emotions show upon my face, where is stoicism when you need it?\"
Delios(#29016)] A hand reaches out, almost timidly to be placed upon Lady Aearwen\'s shoulder, only fingertips daring to contact with the blue tunic about her. Lowering his head only at small degree, his eyes are allowed to meet hers at the tops of his own, a soft and gentle deamenor but quite taunting and inviting shown within. \"M\'Lady Aearwen, think nothing of it. Passion can drive one to unspeakable things both of good and mallice. Do not appologise for passion, it is a trait so often forgotten.\" He chuckles slightly, removing his hand once more from her shoulder. After all, he would not want to be thought to forward or presumptious...to over bearing.
At last after perhaps a moment of awkward silence, Delios smiles again, his chin raised once more to show the angles of his soft face. He does not seem battle hardened at all at first glance, for scars run deeper than just flesh in those who fight Gondor\'s battles. And as he looks upon her, perhaps a little sadness may be found within those eyes...of a parting he knows to be inevitable or perhaps of something else he holds within a deep rescess of his heart. Whatever it is, he has done much to hide it before her, and now, even a tint of red may be seen upon his own cheeks.
A startled expression and a quick gasp issues from the lips of Lady Aearwen as the fingertips of Delios rest upon the top of her shoulder. Again, colour flares into the cheeks of the woman, crimson staining the skin quickly as her eyes drop and then hesitantly raise to meet the tall, blonde man. Without thought, her right hand moves from the folds of her satin gown and reachs to touch the side of the scouts face, offering the lightest of touches, velvetly soft as as looks at him almost with puzzlement upon her brow, \"Sadness?\", she asks gently. Leaning closer to the man, a hint of jasmine seemingly swirling around them as she lays the full of her palm against the red cheeks of Delios and inquires, \"What doth I see there? This sadness is not something that I have witnessed in those brillant eyes of yours before. Care you to tell me what should bring such a sad expression to your face?\"
[Delios(#29016)] Delios swallows heavily, his eyes alight again with lost feelings of both pain and hunger. How could she read him so well, see straight through every veil and every curtain? She simply touches him and every barrier he had raised is tumbled with careful practice and ease. Heavy is his heart now, for should he confess everything here and now, who knows which way the walls would fall. For if they fall inward upon himself, his heart will be crushed beneath. But if they open wide...then perhaps a space will be seen by the one that beseiges his heart so and perhaps she might fill it. But no...not now, for the winds blow to greatly inward upon his own heart.
Swallowing lightly again, Delios turns his hand into her own hand, his lips longing to touch it again with a soft kiss upon her palm. But he stays himself, his eyes closed and away from hers. A shakey echoe of his voice emits, the hand once lowered now rising to clasp the outside of her own hand. No words of his true feelings should he speak. But perhaps his non-verbal emotions should speak for themselves. \"M\'Lady...I know no sadness at this moment.\" And it is true, for the most part. For with that touch upon his cheek, a world of light is opened upon him. Delios torn between heart and mind...his heart begining to win over in the end
Delios swallows heavily, his eyes alight again with lost feelings of both pain and hunger. How could she read him so well, see straight through every veil and every curtain? She simply touches him and every barrier he had raised is tumbled with careful practice and ease. Heavy is his heart now, for should he confess everything here and now, who knows which way the walls would fall. For if they fall inward upon himself, his heart will be crushed beneath. But if they open wide...then perhaps a space will be seen by the one that beseiges his heart so and perhaps she might fill it. But no...not now, for the winds blow to greatly inward upon his own heart.
Swallowing lightly again, Delios turns his hand into her own hand, his lips longing to touch it again with a soft kiss upon her palm. But he stays himself, his eyes closed and away from hers. A shakey echo of his voice emits, the hand once lowered now rising to clasp the outside of her own hand. No words of his true feelings should he speak. But perhaps his non-verbal emotions should speak for themselves. \"M\'Lady...I know no sadness at this moment.\" And it is true, for the most part. For with that touch upon his cheek, a world of light is opened upon him. Delios torn between heart and mind...his heart begining to win over in the end.
A gentle summer breeze circles around the couple in the garden, rustling the leaves of the tree above them, the sea blue frock of Lady Aearwen swaying slightly as she awaits the response from Delios. The softness of her palm again knows the touch of his face as he turns his head against her skin, the shakiness of his voice emitting a sound unlike the normal strong voice of the scout. Cerulean eyes hold the gaze of Delios as she again questions, \"If not sadness, what change do I see inside of you?\"
Concern mars her brow as she says, \"Your injuries in Osgiliath, they do not bring you continued pain. Do they?\" Eyes practiced in the healing arts again glance over the scout with a quick appraisal before blue eyes raise to his face. \"The time in Osgiliath was one of the most busy times I have had as a healer. Did you see Lady Kerowyn or one of my apprentices while you were there?\" Motioning to the bench just under the tree she says softly, \"Shall we sit in the shade and talk more?\"
[Caladrielinde(#17847)] \"Ahem\", sounds from behind the pair, as the young woman Caladrielinde becomes visible as Aearwen motions towards the shade. Her hands clasped in front of her torso, Caladrielinde shows no sign of how long she had been standing there except perhaps the slightest of curl of a grin on her pursed lips, \"I hope I am not disturb,\" she cuts herself off, noticing a small stain on her gown from some of the work she had just returned from that Aearwen had put upon her. Any sign of a grin disappears as she looks back to the touching scene with the couple, \"Disturbing anything? You appear that you wish to be in,\" the slightest pause, \"Seclusion.\"
[Melethron(#29344)] Though the sun has traveled but half the distance to the horizon, where it will there draw close to the day at hand, the light covering of clouds places themselves between the golden light and those who dwell below, shading the world for a span of seconds until these harbringers of rain have passed once more through the heavens. The day rest warm, for in the heat of the afternoon of this fine summer day the scent of the flowers fills the air, making those that dwell within this place feel the fumes of the plants rushing to their heads as if the swirling mass of scents were some type of drink, something akin to the wines and ales served within the walls of Drover\'s Arm.
And in this place there lurks those, the healer and her scout, and another, but to join this group there comes another, a figure tall, yet stooped at the shoulders as if bearing some unseen weight. His body is clad in a lightweight robe of the deepest gray. Save for a belt about his waist, and the boots that flash from beneath the edge of his garment from time to time, there is little else about this one\'s clothing to draw attention.
His presence comes with a fit of coughing, the muscles about his chest and shoulders spasming with the strain of his ailment. With time, the coughing subsides, and he looks around for a minute with feverish eyes, then his voice comes in a soft whisper, \"As with this one,\" he speaks with eyes that are drawn to the woman standing near the pair, \"I hope I do not bring myself unwanted to this place?\"
[Delios(#29016)] Delios would have perhaps answered in truth everything that weights upon his heart, a tumultuous mass of emotions, desires, pains, pleads, wants and needs. As with all hearts in these growing days of war and weariness, it is tired of holding such loads, and now seeks to unload them upon the first hearing soul. But, it can not be tonight. It simply can not and will not beat least for now.
His lips part, bidding words to exit with all his will. Sound emits, but words are soft if any and hard to interpret. It is almost as if a hallucination of fever and fire has taken himfor he would near babble out all that weights upon his soul, should it not be for the two new comers to the garden. Slowly releasing her hand, Delios turns his head higher, rising his chin again. And then, his eyes open upon the Lady Aearwen\'sstill a sadness in them that she might detect, for she had broken down that veil once before followed by a sigh and a feigned smile reach out to both new patient and healess. \"Nay,\" his voice still shaky, though holding more dignity than before, \"I shall not keep the Lady\'s time long today, should she need to seek other business.\"
And now his voice lowers, his eyes still upon Aearwen with a wish behind them, unintelligible save by wizard or wizened mind. And with this soft voice he speaks to her, though others may hear should they wish. \"I hold no pain of the bodyonly heart.\" And then, the near constant mirth of the scout returns, his eyes casting up with smile to the newly arrived.
The \"ahem\" catches the attention of Lady Aearwen and her glance whirls quickly from the blonde scout to the young woman from Dol Amroth. Nervously, her hands smooth the material of her dress as she looks back to Delios for a minute and then back to Caladrielinde and replies in earnest, \"Nay, you are not disturbing anything. Come join us. Have you met Delios since coming to Minas Tirith?\" Turning her gaze back to the scout a smile curves her lips as a soft laugh trickles out, \"Seclusion seems to be a thing not easily found in the Stone City.\", this is muttered so softly, no one but the scout hears these words.
A fit of coughing again turns the head of the healer as she peers over the shoulder of Caladrielinde and sees Melethron enter the garden. Wide do her eyes grow as the man strains and coughs with each breath, her voice is softly chastising as she says, \"Melethron, what brings you out of doors when you are ill with fever?\" Her hand reaches out to touch the hand of Delios momentarily as she says, \"Let me see to getting him seated before he stumbles or passes out.\"
Caladrielinde merely stands out of the way, nodding to the lady\'s response, \" I may have met him since my arrival. I have been negligent in keeping a journal of those I\'ve met and fear I shall forget a face or name of one I\'ve met.\" She frowns slightly but then shakes her head slightly, switching her tone slightly to one of curiosity, her face one of seriousness, \"Is there anything I may do to assist you milady? Perhaps fetch some herbal tea for either of the sickly men? Do either have stomach pains? Perhaps something to soften their stool?\"
[Melethron(#29344)] Her words, both those directed at him and those that fall upon the ears of he that is near her causes a flash of anger to form within the eyes of Melethron, and it is only then that his voice lashes out at her like a whip, \"Am I so feeble and useless as to not know the very limits of my own body?\" comes the words in a dangerously calm voice, though as they draw to a close another brief spasm wracks his body.
Then his angered stare turns upon this other woman, eyeing her dangerously for a moment but saying nothing, only sliding his gaze back again to the Lady Aearwen, much the same as a snake my slither through the grass, not even bothering to acknowledge the other man further.
[Delios(#29016)] The scout is not shaken, his eyes remaining upon the two new comers with perhaps less of a smile than before. Melethron\'s words hold edge, of course, but perhaps that veil Delios still holds up is thick enough to deflect the blunt of the strike. And once the angered glance is turned off of the young heart of the scout, only three silent thoughts run through his head. But no words emit to their meanings.
A sigh again, then a shake of his head and a upheld hand to the lady in waiting. \"Nay. Again, thank you. I am not ailed by any sickness. But please, do not let me keep you from him.\" A quiet nod is thrown to the man, but no smile. \"I\'d hope sir, that you show at least the respect for these two that they might deserve as ones so concerned for your well being. I will aid as well, should they find a task suitable for me within their art.\" And then, a smile, for no cloud holds over the scout\'s heart long. \"I am Delios, soldier of Gondor, a Scout of her borders. You must be Melethron of whom I have heard some.\"
A burst of laughter, perhaps nervous laughter springs from the lips of Lady Aearwen at the question from Lady Caladrielinde, \"Nay. Neither man is in need of herbal tea or something to soften their stool.\" Quickly she asks in an effort to change the subject, \"How are you finding your duties here in the House of healing?\" Amusement crinkles the corners of her eyes until the voice of Melethron lashes out. Quickly all manner of happiness is gone from the lady as her eyes dull into dark, blue orbs. \"Nay Melethron, you are not feeble and helpless. My offer was only one of concern.\" A deep sigh issues from the depths of her bosom as her glance remains on the Swan Knight, eyes narrowing slightly as if sending him an unspoken message. Delios speaking to both Caladrielinde and Melethron does not deter the look from Lady Aearwen, quietly with hands folded in front of her she stands eyeing the Swan Knight.
[Caladrielinde(#17847)] The young Bragollach glances at Melethron as he looks to her, her face not betraying any emotion. Turning to look back at Aearwen, she pauses and looks back at Melethron once more, her eyes tightening in examination of the man. Aearwen\'s words shake her of her gaze, focusing back on Aearwen, \"I am able to complete them with little effort of mind, milady, and still their use in my education escapes me,\" she says simply, adding, \"I have hope that it will come to me soon, as I have no wish to be a burden longer than necessary.\"
[Melethron(#29344)] About this man the air crackles with his anger, eyes burning both in fever and anger as his gaze holds that of the healer for long moments, only until the very words of the scout filter their way into his mind. It is then, and only then, that the full fury of the storm that brews within the mind of the Bragollach turns upon the man.
\"Odd, I did not know the border of this fair land could be guarded so well from this place.\" The words come yet again, soft, yet full of venom, \"May the shadow engulf us all if I am wrong, but are not the borders of this land much further to the east? And if so, why does one who professes to be a guardian and a scout of that border rest idly here widdling away his hours while even now the strength of that Shadow grows, while the very might of Gondor dwindles?\"
The words of the man end in another fit of coughing, so fierce is this that he nearly doubles over before rising once more turning his gaze to the young Bragollach healer, \"You will find, My Lady, that this one,\" he says nodding towards Aearwen, \"..is in favor of sending those whom she deems beneath her time off upon useless errands.\"
[Delios(#29016)] Still, the scout holds firm in both stance and smile. Yes, even as the tempered filled words of Melethron cross Delios\' ears, no flare of retaliation rises within him. For if one there is one thing this scout can poses as claim of heritage, it is his fathers thoughtfulness. To leap before looking could be fatal.
A deep sigh crosses his lips once again, for it does take some effort none the less to restrain from confrontation. \"M\'Lord Melethron, you are ill. Allow them to at least attend to you some, before you lash your frustration upon me.\" He does not dare explain his doings within the Houses of Healing, for in sooth, they are informal if not strictly for rest of weary feet. But other duties he does have within Gondorsome open, others not free to ears save those who have taken their oath. But I digressfor Delios stands, remaining motionless save a blinking of his eyes and the rising and falling of his chest beneath the dark hues of green and brown that now wrap around him. He does not appear to be departing, at this time.
Oddly enough, Lady Aearwen casts aside the emotions crackling in the garden long enough to reply to the youngest Bragollach, \"If you find your duties are not what you expected, speak to Valgrimm and request that he give you more to do. Busy hands will fill your mind and make use of the education of which you profess.\" A sweet smile turns her lips but does not warm the stormy blue eyes as they turn their gaze upon the Swan Knight.
Incredibly, the Bragollach temper is held in check, even though a nervous tick in her right cheek is apparent as one tiny foot taps the ground impatiently, the hem of her dress jiggling as she asks softly, \"And would you have Delios leave now to patrol the most furthest of our borders to suit your wishes? You are not well Melethron and surely not suited to mentally fence with this scout, much less physically. Now come, let us see to getting you back into bed before you drop over.\", her voice holds censure as Aearwen moves closer to the sickly man.
[Caladrielinde(#17847)] \"I would make a point of disagreement with your words, milady, but,\" Caladrielinde motions towards Melethron with a quick movement of her hand, \"You have your own duties to take up your time in dealing with the sick. Perhaps I shall bring up the point of contention at another time,\" she says more to herself than to any other in the room, \"Until then, I will speak to Valgrimm on my duties.\" As Aearwen moves towards Melethron she cautions, \"Be wary, Lady Aearwen, his words are rabid and I would assume he had the ability to so physically despite her appearance.\"
[Valgrimm(#29910)] The afternoon breeze wafts about the courtyard, bringing the sweet scent of blooming flowers with it, carrying it like a thousand row boats aloft on the sea. The chirping birds from the vibrant trees lends a feeling of tranquility to the garden, the sound seeming to float upon that same light breeze. Yet a dark cloud passes quickly across the sky, obscuring the bright, warm sun and casting the garden in a fleeting shadow.
A soft thumping sound echoes from the stone steps leading to the Hall and a quick glance in that direction finds a large man descending them, his footsteps landing softly, but surprising loud upon the stone. His head is bowed, his eyes seeming to bore into the ground, as if the light within them could reveal some secret from the soil. His head nearly brushes the low hanging leaves of a tree as he enters the garden, unaware of the individuals already gathered there.
[Melethron(#29344)] Yet another flash of anger wells within his eyes at the words of the apprentice healer, turning to her he sneers in contempt, \"Maybe,\" he speaks heatedly, \"Maybe I am rabid, crazed\" the words falter with a cough that Melethron strains to hold back. Not turning to look upon the approaching healer, the man\'s hand raises, \"Stay yourself apart from me Lady,\" then he looks upon her, face smoothing to a mask of neutrality while his eyes do burn with the fire of passionate anger, \"Stay here with your newly found lover, for what am I to this man?\"
He turns from her now, walking slowly, his steps faltering somewhat as he moves, only to stop after a short distance, \"To think that I would still be within your heart after all this time?\" He speaks again, his eyes not bothering to turn and look upon her, \"Well, it would seem that my heart has err\'d where my mind has not.\" His steps begin again, \"Go, play with your new toy Aearwen,\" then his voice raises somewhat so that they might find the ears of Delios, \"Pray that she does not tire of you quickly.\" With that said, the man moves on, making his way slowly into the House itself.
Anger in check no more, Aearwen practically flies across the garden, skirts awhirl as her steps take her to where Melethron slowly makes his way out of the Garden. The coldness in her voice would freeze the Anduin solid as she replies, \"Stay here with my newly found lover? How -dare- you Melethron. How -dare- you.\" The words hiss from her lips like a coiled serpent as she says, \"To question my devotion to you, when my own mental stability was in question at the news of your demise. Month after month of anguish, recalling the words spoken on the stairs in the citadel.\" Stormy eyes flash in pain and livid anger as she replies, \'You know not of my relationship with Delios, choosing to accuse with no knowledge of the reality.\"
Her finger points in the direction of Delios with an angry stab, \"He has been good to me while you were gone. Bringing a smile to my face for the first time in more months than I care to remember.\" Crying out softly her voice pangs with the emotion of rememberance as she says, \"Ask Gweneth. Ask our dear cousin about the state of your -dearly- beloved after your -death-\" Saying her piece, Aearwen stalks to the wall overlooking the city, shoulders quivering with her emotional state of mind. Quietly, she plucks a flower from a nearby bush and angrily rips it apart petal by petal the stone wall littered with the broken flower.
[Delios(#29016)] If the Bragollach temper would not shine through from Aearwen, it might just nearly be carried over to Delios. His eyes burn now, now sadness behind them, but a sea of passion and near unruliness that would shock those who have known Delios well. For it takes much insult to phase the scout into nearing confrontation, beyond that deserved all ready by the Enemies of Gondor. A sneer crosses his face, but not \'afore the insulting Knight strides awayDelios\' own fists clenched with restrained urge.
\"And to say that the Knights of Dol Amroth hold a tongue more fair than anywhomever spoke that lie must surely have not met you, Sir\" near whispered are the words. Perhaps, even through all the rage and temper Delios still would rather not confrontation. Not for fear of the man, nofear does not strike a Scouts heart easy. It is not that he finds the cause so unworthy either, far from it. Quite an insult did he lay upon Aearwen that perhaps this anger is flared solely by that alone. Ah, that must be it, for his next words carry high in volumethough they may land upon deaf ear. \"Insult me how you will, Knight, Sire, _LORD_ Melethron. Do not raise your tongue to two who care for you in such a way, though perhaps you are blinded only by rage and ill,\" and louder still, though calm his voice seems, \"Your tongue should fall upon their ears like flowersNOT iron blade, _LORD_ Melethron!\" Yes, an apology seems demanded, though, in not so simple words.
[Caladrielinde(#17847)] \"Lady Aearwen,\" Caladrielinde begins, allowing Nials to pass as Aearwen and Delios\' words lash out towards him, \"I must point out that while your anger is understandable, I was taught and hold it true that a lady does not show such a weakness of emotion pubically if it can be avoided and that I would recommend holding such a heated conversation in private with Lord Melethron. As for the scout Delios, I would hold him to the same standards as I doubt he has had such education in etiquette as you or I have had and would expect such outbursts from someone untrained to deal with such emotions,\" she finishes, her tone and bearing suggesting her words mean no mallice and in fact she appears to be giving honest advice.
[Valgrimm(#29910)] His feet slowly shuffling along the stone path, Valgrimm\'s toe catches on a small pebble, tripping his footing momentarily and twisting his feet among themselves. He quickly hops to try to untangle his feet, looking every bit like an uncoordinated rabbit, but finally manages to extricate himself from his own clumsiness. Still his head is bowed toward the ground, like a pious monk fulfilling his vow of silence.
The angry words of the garden inhabitants reach his ears as muffled mumbling, the words and tone unclear. It is only the deepening cloud which casts a further shadow upon the garden that forces his head up, followed quickly by the shouting words of the Lady Aearwen and the angry scout. Trying desperately to slink away unnoticed, Valgrimm slouches his shoulders and tries to step into the canapy of a tree and the concealment of the tree branches, though the words of the young lady Caladrielinde cause a tiny chuckle to escape from his full lips.
[Melethron(#29344)] He stops, not for the words of the woman, for those hold as much concern to him now as would a gnat buzzing about his head, though he turns halfway to speak once more to the scout, \"Tell me not how to live my life or speak my mind,\" he snarls, \"For I will say and do that which I judge to be in my best interest, for I have earned that right time and again, while you,\" he strains to not cough yet again, \"You dwaddle here in this place while others are wounded and die in the defense of the country they love, for what?\"
Then as he turns once more to make his way indoors, his eyes stop now upon Aearwen, and for a moment he is silent, the feverish look in his eyes giving way to a moment of clarity, and there in that look which she cannot see with her eyes turned out upon the city is visible the heartbroken love that even now drives him on. But this is only present for but a second before his anger burst forth anew, burning in the heat of that broken heart, \"Why now should I concern myself with the Lady Gweneth,\" he stops for a moment to breath, \"Unless you turned to she for\" he stops, then continues again sneering, \"\'comfort\'.\" But his words falter there, a storm of coughing breaking his voice and causing him to double over, quickly turning his face from all but the one who approachs.
Once passed, Melethron struggles to continue in his path once more, drawing closer to this lumbering figure who crowds the path in his blind wander. Yet as he draws near the man is left barely enough room to pass, which he widens by slamming his shoulder into that of the man thus forcing him from his path. With out apology, without pause, the Swan-Knight continues on, his steps faltering and slow even after they have passed beyond the doorway into the place of healing, wherein his form disappears from view.
[Delios(#29016)] A quick change o\'er comes Delios, hardly after the anger driving stake of this Garden had been removed. His eyes, only seconds before burning with temper wielded, now reduce to calm and understanding darts of grey amongst white globes. His fists uncleanch, the white of their tension being released to be replaced by the fair color of his skin. And to add, the tone of his voice, directed to Melethron with a calm anger driven by insult, now suddled to that near musical tone that many know it by. Here, is Delios as he truly is, unstrained by the harsh words of a ill heart.
Quietly his feet shift him around, slow and cautious steps approaching the Lady Aearwen from her side(the lady in waiting being shrugged off for now). He does not gather himself farther than within arms length, unsure of how or at whom the Brag\' temper will fly. And then, his cool voice issues forth again, his eyes rested upon Aearwen\'s long tresses of hair. \"If he shall not, then I will. My most humble appologies M\'lady. I...I have caused much greif unneeded and unlooked for.\" A deep sigh, his eyes now turned upon the plains of Minas Tirith over the edge of the wall. \"I shall take my leave if you wish it.\"
The mutilation of rose after rose, continues until the stone wall overlooking the city is awash with the petals. The hands of Lady Aearwen pause in their actions as she replies over her shoulder to Caladrielinde, \"Your point is well taken. I would assume that the blood in your veins is tainted by other than Bragollach if you are unfamiliar with the sudden flame that runs in -our- family.\", her voice cool and calm in response.
The body of the noblewoman stiffens as the tirade of Melethron lashes out cruelly, quite ruining the loveliness of the sun setting in the distance, as streaks of gold and purple slash across the sky with brilliance. Her bottom lip quivers slightly as both arms fold across her chest, refusing to dignify the accusations with a response, save one softly spoken statement heard only by the wind, \"Believe what you will Melethron, believe what you will. I will no longer fight for something that is as unattainable as your affection.\"
Aearwen shrugs her shoulders indifferently as the scout makes his way to her side and offers words of apology. Continuing to watch the disappearing sun, the increasing shadows casting darkness around where they stand, she says, \"Your apology is not necessary, you did nothing but offer kindness and warmth, something that is unfamiliar to some. Stay if you like or go, I fear I am no company for anyone this evening.\"
Caladrielinde does not reply to Aearwen\'s remark on bloodlines, the only sign of her hearing it is the tightening of her jaw. Other than this, the young woman remains still.
[Valgrimm(#29910)] Finally hearing the words of the angry inhabitants of the garden, the furious words impossible to avoid as they fly about the flowers like barbed arrows, Valgrimm takes a few awkward steps onto the path and deeper into the garden. His ears perked to take in the remaining words, Valgrimm directs his large feet toward a bench just off the path, seating himself there until the discussion settles down.
[Delios(#29016)] Stepping lightly again closer to the hurt Aearwen, the scout ventures a fingertip touch once aain upon her shoulder. Kindness is in that hand now, no longer the words of Melethron driving hot blood through his veins. With caution does he allow the hand there, as if to protect himself and help the Healess at the same time. Of course...a switch of fates. \'Oft have the hands of Aearwen been placed upon his wounds of battle, and now, his own hand seeks to heal hidden wound and pain. A true twist of fate.
Sighing once more, Delios steps near her side, though not entrapping (should she find need to leave herself). \"M\'lady, your company is always welcomed by meand long missed as you know. I would not dare leave, should you be in such hurt still. Allow me to sit with you awhile? If it be music, or teaor even quiet you desire, allow me to provide it?\" His tone is soft, and near sweet as he speaks, quite fair tongue for such a simple Scout of the Eastern borders. But his eyes show moresomething unknown of him and his woodsman life, a hint of the Rovacil blood that runs rich upon the noble seats. Perhaps, it is within his touch as well
Aearwen whips around suddenly, the anger flashing across her face as the fingertip of Delios is felt upon her shoulder. Her hand rises up as if to slap away the smallest of touch as the last vestige of melancholy is cleared and replaced by livid rage. \"How dare you touch me? Do you think that I am some pawn to be used to further your career or that I enjoy this display of tug of war? Nay! I am a woman, fully grown! Voicing my thoughts has never been a problem as I know my own mind and can speak clearly.\" Pointing to the rose petals strewn upon the stone wall and around her skirts she says, \"A flower is a flower, easily destroyed, but a woman....the heart of a woman is known to be strong and able to stand up for what she believes in.\"
Pointing back to the house of healing she says with an angry jab, \"Think you not that he believes in his feverish mind that there is more than the innocence of friendship?\" A bitter laugh sounds, \"The months of anguish. The -many- months of anguish, hearing his voice and seeing his face in my mind to end like this.\" Laughing again she says, \"And you. You, an innocent bystander who has offered nothing but a kind word and warm smile. Quite humourous, isnt it? Ironic how life can turn out.\" Plucking another rose from the bush beside her, Aearwen inhales deeply of its rich scent and an odd smile curves her lips, an expression that has not been seen for many a day.
[<#17847>] Caladrielinde turns to Valgrimm and whispers, \"... ... ... ... I ... ... ... seek ... ... as well? ... ... ... ... ... ... today of ... who do ... .... It ... ... quite .... Despite her ... ..., ... ... ... be some ... ... the ... on the ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... quite large. ... wonder, ... my ... close ... ...? And if ..., do ... ... ... it ... as well? ... men ... ... ... ... ... behavior ... ... woman?\"
Melethron pages: I think your pose will hurt him more than my entire little tantrum
+gpoll The Name Game [Minas Tirith City ZMO(#81)->Aearwen] GPOLL set.
[Minas Tirith City ZMO(#81)->] Announcement: Aearwen has changed the GPOLL to: The Name Game
[Valgrimm(#29910)] Slowly the deep shadows formed by the darkening clouds overhead fade away, the clouds passing from before the brightly shining sun. The heavenly beams of sunlight filter again into the garden, bouncing through the tree limbs and lighting finally upon the lush foliage. Yet the anger of the Lady Aearwen still lingers in the garden like a dark storm, the words of Delios the lightning bolt that sparks the deluge.
As the young lady whispers her words in Valgrimm\'s ears, a gigantic grin rises to his lips, stretching the corners of his mouth to reveal his white teeth. He quietly replies, though his voice rises above a whisper, just barely, the words rolling softly from his lips. \"No lady, I do not seek her favor. I imagine her unattainability makes her appealing though. It certainly adds a bit of a challenge, does it not.\"
Turning back to watch the Lady Aearwen and her hands as she butchers rose after rose upon the wall, Valgrimm speaks, his voice rising to a more sonorous tone, almost booming from his lungs, though the tone remains conversational. \"Lady Aearwen. I believe we have enough rose petals in the stores. Plucking more will only diminish the supply in the future.\" With a surpisingly sarcastic tone, something rarely heard from this young squire\'s mouth, Valgrimm continues. \"Though I am sure you enjoy being treated like a child from this young scout, there are patients that are asking for you. Can I tell them you will see to them soon?\"
[Delios(#29016)] Once more, her sting bites deep, Delios stepping back a step perchance to bow his head low slightly. God how the stake is driven into his heart, but it is not a feeling come new. His eyes sink to the ground, his voice still clear as he speaks out once more. \"No disrespect have I meant nor will ever mean to you, M\'Lady...and no appology will be too great.\" And still, the sadness grows within those grey globes, for that wall which he held up for so long before her begins to tumble once more...inward. Raising his chin slightly, his eyes turn to her again, unabashed...unashamed. \"I seek not any growth of myself...save perchance in friendship and heart...by knowing you. I mean not ever to tread your thoughts...I mean not ever to trample your voice. They are your\'s and your\'s alone.\"
And then he pauses...for as the last of her words come clear to him, he is no longer pained. It is simply concern...a solid concern. \"And yet, M\'lady, I offend you with just those words. Perhaps you do not want an appology from me...or from Melethron. But know this, M\'lady,\" and still his words are calm...quiet, \"know that I do not seek more from you than you are willing to give, or willing to take.\"
Valgrimm\'s words fall deaf upon his own ears...for he is in his own frame of mind. \"If you seek a friendship...it is here. If you seek an ease...it is here as well. I can do no more than what you allow, M\'lady...and yet, I shall try for better or worse.\" And with hand held to pause her most certain words, \"Nay! I do not wish to treat you with uneededs, for you have both more fire and passion and strength than most could hope for. But if you _do_ seek what you lack in your heart of hearts, that is what you shall find. If you seek nothing, M\'lady, then I shall go and leave you for now with just that. I pray, it not be so.\"
[Melethron(#29344)] Into the gardens comes one, a timid and shy young lady of homely looks and baring, her eyes searching through the flower lined paths for a lady, the Lady of the House. Spotting her, standing thus beside the wall near the scout, she hurries forth to stand just behind her, though stops as she senses the anger about the woman.
Lowering her eyes to the ground, she speaks meekly, \"My lady\" her words come softly trying to draw the attention of the woman
The voice of Valgrim -- the -tone- of his voice jerks the chin of Aearwen up from her perusal of the rose petals strewn everywhere and a laugh sounds, a hint of respect shining in blue eyes as she raises on brow in question to the new squire. \"Enough roses in the stores, do we? Tsk tsk, what a waste of precious flowers then.\" Tapping one finger against her lips she says suddenly, \"I know! We shall have Caladrielinde gather the petals and make a rose essence fragrance.\", again, a knowing smile dances across her lips as she replies, \"Yes. Tell them I amon my way.\"
To Delios, the scout, Aearwen says little after his flowery, grand speech is complete. Her words are softly spoken, meant only for his ears as she admits, \"Truthfully, I have little left to give. I would not leave you with hopes of anything more. I am sorry.\" A soft touch of her hand upon his arm and she turns to leave, just as the homely young girl calls to her. A whisper of satin marks the exit of Aearwen, that and the essence of roses staining her fingers.
Caladrielinde blinks at Delios\' words, speaking softly in an awe of near horror, \"I did not know that people ever spoke like that in real life. I thought it was saved for bards and storytellers.\" As Aearwen passes her she snaps out from her gaze of disbelief at Delios and curtsies, \"It shall be done milady.\" She then glides over to the scattered remnants of the roses and begins to slowly pick the torn petals from the ground.
[Melethron(#29344)] As the lady walks off, the girl follows closely, speaking hurriedly to the Lady Healer as they make way back to the house, though her voice is soft a few words can be heard, such words as, \"blood,\" and \"calling,\" but little more can be heard, apparently the girl speaks the words so only Aearwen may hear them.
[Valgrimm(#29910)] Following upon the heels of the Lady Aearwen, the faint scent of crushed rose petals floating in the air behind her, Valgrimm glances back to Delios. His gaze lingers for a moment on the young scout, an expression of pity upon his face as a silent sigh escapes from his lips. His attention returning to the Healer before him, Valgrimm drops his head again to the stone, his footsteps echoing in the small garden as he mounts the steps to the House.
[Delios(#29016)] Delios\' eyes follow after her, a deep concern within them for her...and just about her alone. But so heavy have the nights events weighed upon his heart, that he can do no more but stand there watching...the weight nearly collapsing him to his knees. Once gone, his eyes turn back towards the wall...and the darkening fields of Minas Tirith. And then, the hand sinks back into his satchel producing the wooden flute he had played here in quiet not long before. Oh, but it does seem to be ages. Alas...that song he played filled with mirth, has changed, now a wavering tune of emotion and heartache. Home, seems much farther away.