A Serene Peace

[mixedblood9]

Ethida wandered into the peaceful green of the meadow with her loyal friend, Torano, following faithfully behind her. They had just crossed a great deal of land to find this one and only piece of land which seemed devoid of marauders and bandits. They were both very tired and needed to rest. Ethida meandered towards the one lowly tree in the middle of the meadow. Torano worried nudged Ethida's left shoulder blade.
Yes I know it is in the wide open where anyone could see us, but we need our rest Torano. You could die if I push you any further and I do not want to take that risk. You know you are all I have left of our home. We must take care of ourselves.
The great beast nodded and continued to follow her. As always, he felt he needed to protect her. The two approached the lone tree in a weary and yet triumphant way for they had just escaped the raid and all the trials of the earth to finally have a moment of peace which the dutifully deserved.
Torano lied down to provide some sort of comfort to his friend who plainly urned for sleep. His chestnut colored coat shone in the sunlight passing through the young tree's branches. He motioned with his muzzle to his companion to rest on his lean, fuzzy side. Ethida recognized her stallion's fatherly care and took his offer of a place to rest thankfully.
"Perhaps we can rest here after all that has occurred,"
Ethida whispered to her horse. Finally, she closed her eyes for a much deserved rest. Torano, of course, would be watching over her as it always has been.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia travelled alone, without a companion. She had a stallion back in the cities, but she prefered to wander alone. She had little to do in this life, and the world was seemingly asleep. There were no war cries, no blood stained lands. But that was now, when the world was still resonably young. Things had been worse in the beginning, but now things were quiet... again that was now. The future held events that even the elves could not see.

Her travels had brought her here only upon a yearning to be anywhere, but somewhere. As little sense as that might mean to one person it meant alot to the mind of Ivalia. Her fogged and clouded thoughts seemed so scrambled at this moment, that all she searched for was escape. If that meant traveling over the open grasses, then she would oblidge herself. A poisonous glare cast over her eyes as she heard the murmurs of the grasses. They groaned with their usual complaints about being trampled, or being left to roast beneath the sun. But the few lonesome trees, did not speak so much. For they were few and far apart and did not have much to say. All but one... One was complaining, and its complaint's stormed the wind and were not at all enthused. For so long they'd gone undisturbed without complaint, and without passerby. They liked it that way, and above all, the trees hated their shadows. For they gave cool spaces for others to rest, when they themselves could not be cooled when the summer heat beat down upon their limbs. And thus this one complained :

Someone was using its shade. It's voice was harsh upon the winds, and the silence was cut short by its groans. Ivalia had not beepaying much attention to the road ahead and thus had not seen the pair that labored in the shade of the lonesome standing bark. Resting they appeared, though from a distance sight could be manipulated by the mind. And Assumptions were rarely something to be used to commiting. Shutting off her commune with nature, she ignored the whispers of nature's voice and focused more clearely upon the path ahead. Her dark lavender eyes were shadowed by the layers of black hair that curled around her face like a frame. The afternoon sun did not beat so harshly in the Spring time, and it in fact added a pleasurable warmth to the air around her, giving the breeze a comfortable feel. She didn't know why the plants were complaining about the sun. It was no matter however.

Slender form picked the shortest path to the double pair, and as distance closed she noted one equine and one female. Though the species of that female could not be determined. The tall slender body and graceful composition defined her elfin blood, though her body appeared human; Ivalia was an earthly goddess, an enchantress of course. For a Rose by any other name would smell as sweet - but the thorns often vary in size. If one fears the thorns, they should fear the rose as well. Like the snake among the thistle. This was Ivalia Atalopai; an elfin maiden with human blood. A miscreant to the eyes of some, but her alliances were not so shaky as her mind, and were rooted firmly in the beleif that elves were superior overall. But Ivalia was not a warlike woman. She did not fight, nor did she carry a weapon other than a slim blade tuck within the folds of her waist band; the thin material that clutched the fragile silken garment to her waist. Showing off the delicate curves of the female figure. It was a lustful dress, and the folds of the skirt fell barely beneath the knees in whisp of garment makings, thining out to an almost transparent state as it grew to the ends. The upper portion of her attire was simple, yet just as beautiful as the lower half. The garment was that of a halter top, silken to fall past the waist to make that of the skirt, with of course the single cloth material that bound it to tighten about her waist. The shade of the attire was that of maroon red. The color of blood to put it frankly. Though there was no correlation to the symbol of blood to the color. It was merely a hue of red that she prefered, which matched with her skin tone, ebon hair, and bright eyes with lavender shine. Her feet were bare as they usually remained, when they were not they were encased in high leather boots, nothing special. Her skin was smooth, unmarred by any scars or broken tissue. The radiant glow was upon it, giving her a seemingly unearthly shine. But enough.

Her steps led her to fell near the coupled pair. The woman was asleep - for she showed no alarm, but the horse she was not sure... and thus she kept her distance. Though she had a common dislike for the other races, she would hold herself NOT to assume, and leave her mind open. She was not a conflicting soul and did not wander about seeking a war or a battle. Until the fighting came to her, she would remain as passive as others would allow. Besides this other woman was obviously not male... so Ivalia had no interest in working her charms. She was merely curious.

Keeping a safe distance, she made no noise, but merely stood. Tempted to continue on, yet held by her curiousity. the sleeping one could be elfin, and as such Ivalia would perhaps... be inclided to be friendly. Though such emotions were rare for her to feel. She did on occasion meet someone worth being friendly to.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

A soft breeze descended upon the couple of friends from the heavens playing with Ethida's short, wavy hair. She rested though she was not totally asleep. She had felt a presence of magic approach but she did not sense any danger in the air. Perhaps it was just another wanderer searching for a respite from the sun's undying rays. Torano was restless however and he stirred. This made her suspicious. She opened her eyes and looked to her stallion's beautiful face. She found him gazing intently to the east towards a slender woman of great beauty. Gazing at the woman, Ethida tried to formulate an opinion of their visitor-friend or foe. Sitting up, she freed her stallion to stand ready to protect his girl. He walked forward and yet he did not leave her side. Torano went against his curious nature because of his sense of duty to protect his girl.

Ethida stood and felt around Torano’s saddle along the burlap covering for her ever-dependable sword. However she did not unsheathe her blade. She did to want to create the wrong impression for a possible friend but she had to be ready in case the woman proves to be a threat.

“Who are you?” Ethida called to the stranger. “I mean no harm to your people or your lands. I am but a mere traveler seeking shelter from the weather.” And a hideout from any bandits who followed my shadow, Ethida thought to herself. She was not going to let too much information leave her lips to an ally of her enemy. She planned to tell friends more but for now that will be all until more trust is earned.

[Promise Broken]

ooc: sry, I like the red, lol ;D

<sup>Ivalia though keeping her distance, watched as the equine was freed and was set to stand slightly in front of the woman. This other didn't seem like the elfin kind, but then again Ivalia could not be certain. She still had distance to cover in order to get any really description enough to determine a race. Besides. Some elves did not appear as elves should, and there was even an occasional human who had left their goddly alliance to join the fairer side of the spectrum. However, she didn't feel as if this was her bethren, but things could be misleading.

Keeping her position she moved neither forward, nor backwards. She had no intentions of seeming threatening, but then again - her eyes did not hold a very kind expression. They were like windows, so clouded and fogged over with uncertainty that she was hard to see into, other than the poison that leached from her soul in the form of her essence. She was a beauty of the sun, a damsel of the oceans... but her soul belonged to neither. She brushed her ebon locks away from her eyes, and let the sun shine upon her copper hued skin, the smooth texture taking on a sunlit glow.

Listening to the other's words, she couldn't help but smile. It was not a smile of kindness, nor understanding, but a smile of mockery? Not in the sense towards the other woman, but more or less to the silence that fell between them as Ivalia was expected to reply. The irony, of it all... that she should wander in hopes of being alone, when in fact she seems to meet a new soul upon each journey. Her voice streamed forth upon the winds, so soft yet cold. As if winter had fallen to coat the edges of a summer breeze. there was uncertainty in that voice as if it argued with itself as in its true intentions. Was she the enchantress, with a heart of stone... or was she the beautiful woman looking for love? Even she didn't know for sure anymore. But the words were not particularly over kindly, nor were ther venomously stated. She was inpartial. Secluded and dangerous. Some might call her a witch... some new her for what she was, and some had yet to see - and thus remained in a cloud of deception that she herself had made for them and cast them into. She loved her work, she loved her games. Why shouldn't she, she had lived for 3 centuries playing such fickle scenes, and playing with the lust of men, to gain what she herself wanted from them. Maybe she decieved for their gems, for their valuable possession, perhaps she decieved to gain informants for her peolple, but in her nature... she decieved mostly for the sheer pleasure of playing another the fool, and destroying their dreams. Perhaps she did this because she herself was left in such a cold dark place, that only now her heart and starting looking for a door to escape from it. But this was but a narative to this situation and not a true thought that passed through her conscious. Her subconcious? Perhaps it had lurked there, but she didn't notice the rampant thoughts.

I would not seek solitude amongst my own people, thus I travel not upon an errand of theirs. But of my own willingness to be alone. The elves tolerate me as much as I must tolerate them.

She spoke truth. Being a half blooded elfin maiden did not make her the most popular amongst the elves, and they were too wise in her tricks to be so easily manipulated. Some were, and those few would fall in time to her trickery, but she honestly wasn't in the mood as often as she usually was. Sweeping her skirts behind her, she took a single step nearer. Eyeing the large horse that stood protectively near the woman. There was no fear to Ivalia's step. Though there was no imediate cover, she had minute magics of human wizardry whilst still partaining a natural element to the nature's call. She had an art. The art of deception, she could play with the eyes of others. They could see her, they could not. They could hallucinate, they could be masked... it was all a matter about whether she wanted to and at this moment it was a last resort. Should she be considered foe and attacked; she'd prefer not to war with another. She'd rather dissapear, and leave them to wallow in their war like opinions. She wasn't a woman who enjoyed a fight. She herself did not fight. No matter... such thoughts were feeble and she cast them aside as she brought herself back to what was important.

She didn't mind giving out the nature of her being. She was an elf, she was in unclaimed lands... without an escort. People might be wary of such a woman of unknown qualites, though they had nothing to really fear. She wasn't immortal, and could be killed. Nor was she immensily powerful in physical magics. She played with the eyes and mind, not the body. With a sigh, she looked to the skies as the soft spring clouds floated overhead, occasionally hiding the sun, in a breif amount of masked shadow to cover the terrain - even as the pleasant breezes ruffled her hair.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

Seeing as the strange woman offered no reply or clue as to her identity, Ethida motioned Torano to back off a bit and let her leave his side. She kept fairly close but still she wanted a better view of the woman.
Who could this fair lady be wandering outside alone? Is she of Elvin or of human origins? Can I possibly trust her? What nation does she ally herself with? Ethida questioned herself. She did not want to let her suspicion run away with her.

It is Ethida's move now. Her brother and father had taught her to make every move count - both in war and in social occasions. This was no different. She gazed upon the woman of seemingly pure beauty.
Elvin.the young female fighter whispered to herself. Hardened by raids and the unrelenting travels of her past, she decided to guess the race of her visitor. Or could she be human? It seemed here Ethida could not trust only her eyes.

Now she judged to take a risk. Against her better judgment in times of war, she would temporarily trust her. She looked to the sky and found the sun near noon. The sky is a pure, innocent hue of blue with a few soft, fuffy clouds floating on the breeze carrying smells of lavender and violet to each breathing being in the meadow. No wonder her stomach had prevented her from a completely rested state. It was near lunch time for her now usual routine of life. Ethida moved to Torano and removed hard bread from the saddle bag. She gingerly stepped towards their visitor.
Perhaps you would like to join me for some lunch. It is not all too great considering I have been traveling but it would seem you have nothing on your person.
The weather human female called to the woman. Torano snorted however in distrust of the fellowship his companion presented the stranger. This, after all, came out of the rations for the trip. He nudged his human in suspicion but Ethida merely stroked his muzzle and assured him all is fine in a whispered tone. Finally, she made her move and tossed the ration to her visitor.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia looked towards the woman as she voiced her invitation. Ivalia at first consideration would have prefered not to eat with this visiter. Something about her did not seem trustworthy, but then again. Ivalia problably was hardly any easier to trust. So when the ration was tossed so suddenly to her, slender fingers of grace and composition swept from their places at her side and gripped the parcel within her palm. Snatching it from the air, like a snake should strike; just as suddenly. It was natural reaction supposedly. Was it not ones first reaction when something was tossed to avoid the blow by stepping aside? But what does one do, when they expect the toss and stand ready for it? What else but lift one's arm to catch it. And that is what Ivalia did, moving forward to join the party she too looked glaringly at the horse. Perhaps she was trusting of the woman, but the horse itlelf seemed more of a different story. It's emotion were far from trusting. As was Ivalia. So she shared something in common with the beast. A gereral dislike for strangers? A form of it so to say. Ivalia did not by default hate a new face, she was suspicious of it, but did not loathe it upon imediate interaction. Handing the ration back to the woman, Ivalia gently shook her head. Her skin lifting off a fragrance of crushed rose and lavender mix.

The Enchantress forced a smile of politeness and readied her words to speak, "I'm afraid I have little appatite. My lust for hunger has already been recently satisfied. But I thank you for the offer." The words were not quite so cold. They were warming slightly. The woman was proving nice, and a fair company - but Ivalia was a secluded soul and did not converse on a friendly level with many. But she'd endure company. She had little else to do, and it seemed very impolite to refuse such an offer. As cold and deceitful as she was, she still had a soul. A soul part human in essence, and humans were known for their fragile emotions. Though she had the emotional calm and strength of the elves. The mix between her mother and father had left her emotional armor... cracked... in a sense. A leak in which some tear and heart break could be allowed. She wasn't perfect in mind, perfect in body perhaps. But her soul was a tattered rag in need of replacement. Perhaps that's what these contradictory thoughts were from. These thoughts that brought her to slid from her standing position to one of kneeling upon the ground, awaiting the other to sit as well. Looking up into the face of this other, she again forced a smile of politeness. "I will still join you though." The words again, not as cold as before. Perhaps it was because of her soul - so worn and tattered by the two beings she was created from - that made her yearn deep down within, for something new. Something that was different. Something warm. No. She wasn't warm, and she wasn't kind. She was an Enchantress a being never to be left to trust by any other. Then why did she find herself questioning this? With an inward sigh she discarded the thoughts so suddenly. Not having the will to consider them right now. She needed to focus, and keep herself true. She was an Enchantress... what she was doing by making the decision to stay in the wandering female pressence was somthing that she would question herself about later. For here it was present, and the present was so much more dangerous than the past or future.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

Pleased by the words spoken by the other woman, Ethida sat in subtle contentness next to her enchanting visitor. She did not easily trust new people. However, she trusted silence even less. Too much could be left out when silence takes hold and masks will never lift. Ethida knew this all too well from past experiences.

After hesitating, Torano took his place next to his friend. Though, he was not out of reach from the stranger in case his size and help be needed. He knew Ethida was on guard but still he believed she let her too close for safe interaction.

Knowing her companion was uncomfortable, Ethida stroked his neck and again assured him everything was going to be fine. At the same time, she felt under the burlap blanket for her dependable blade as a comfort of her own. She wanted allies. However, to find one so soon in uncharted regions is very unlikely. Accepting the new company, the human girl took the ration from the fair hand of the woman, put it back into the bag and began to chew on her own piece of bread. It was hard and bland but it was still substance for her human appetite quelling the rumbling in her stomach which began to act up. She tried to consume her food in a proper fashion considering her company seemed to be of a higher order of the land. Ethida needed not to disgust her new aquantence and scare her off with barbaric manners. Finally, a common question which had not yet been answered appeared in her mind. She finished chewing her previous portion, swallowed with a muffled gulp and opened her mouth.

I do not mean to be rude or crude in any fashion. However, I must know...By what name may I call you? I feel foolish to be talking to someone for whom I do not have a name.

Silence again over came the grounds under the tree while Ethida waited for a reply. The only sound to break the silence was of the leaves rustling above their heads. The sun peered through the foliage down onto the company of three. It emphasized the elf maiden's ebony locks and the stallion's brilliant chestnut coat. Also it betrayed the dirt and sweat which covered Ethida's fair skin and hair. The young human woman looked upon her fair visitor and turned red under the layer of dirt. She was ashamed of her condition in the presence of the fair lady. Still she waited. She asked a question and of course it is only polite to listen to the answer so she waited to finish her small lunch.

ooc: Sorry for any spelling errors in this or any of the previous posts.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia forced a smile as her sudden companion eventually seated herself nearby. Silence was the first thing to fall between the two, and the equine was silent by nature - though his attitude towards Ivalia seemed perfectly clear. The elfin maiden was not a being of words - nor was she of any high class amongst her people. There were the elfin leaders, but there was not real discrimination between the social classes of her race. So in truth it honestly could be more difficult to discern what level of society each citizen was a part of. Ivalia's beauty and seeming delicate figure and movements might confuse people to think of her within an aristocratic title. But she was not. in all truth she was looked down upon in her world. She wasn't of pure blood and the one of imperfection of the elves was their discrimination; finding those who were not of their origin to be abominant. Though the elves were a kindly race or more in a sence; merciful. But inner emotions and thoughts of course were not beyond any being or creation. No Ivalia watched her temporaryally eat her rations without any lflitting thoguhts of disgust. And thus the enchantress merely sat there, observing when the voice was directed to her in question form.

I do not mean to be rude or crude in any fashion. However, I must know...By what name may I call you? I feel foolish to be talking to someone for whom I do not have a name.

Ivalia waited until she had finished. In all respects she did not find the question intrusive or rude and her response came directly after-promptly and politely answering the woman's question.

"I am Ivalia, daughter of Atalopai - blood of Takin, Mage Lord - Maiden of the elfin tribes."

Ivalia had no fear in giving out her title. The war was at a current standstill and there had not been a serious spill of blood for a near 300 years. all seemed dormant for the moment. Thus she spoke with slight pride though at the admittance of the corrupt blood that fell through her bodice, enchanting mind and soul - it was this thought that brought slight anger to her eyes causing them to cloud and grow dark for a fleeting moment. However, it was gone as soon as it had come and her strange polilteness filtered back into her royal lavender shades. The mention of her father was a sore subject. She didn't respect him, didn't like, him and had been taught to hate him. He wasn't a loved man and she'd been fed numerous stories about the evil of his race - so that any natural rebellious motivation would be channelled towards the human race; his race. And so her alliance would thus remain with the elves and continue to remain pledged to the goddess of Water. And so she was...

... a half-blood ...

No. What was she thinking? She was not a half creation. She had become her own race, her own beginning. She had true blood, that of her kind. There were others like her, and all had a name of their own... all had a breed of their own, and she was one of them. Not half of this, nor half of that. She wasn't prone to bipolar moments. But then again... No. She would not even let the thought cross over her mind. She was an enchantress, nothing other.

Though he mind was in chaos and she jumped hastily from one subject to the next arguing with herself within her mind as she thought over the contradicting thoughts and that which she knew was true, she still observed the woman through cool blank face. Though hardened by suspicion and a cold balance to show she was still cautious and wary of deceit. And yet, even the creature that lives to spread lies and grow deceit can be deceived, and they fear it just as much as any other. Slipping her delicate hands through her longs black waves, she placed a polite smile onto her face after she asnwers. She expected an answer in return. For she felt that it was unusual for someone to ask of one's name, without intending to give theirs in return.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

Now as silence once again took over the conversation, Ethida became even more nervous and yet intrigued. An elf maiden...with a human father? How did this happen in this current time of war? She pondered over the topic for only a moment with an interested look overwhelming her tired, hazy eyes. Her father too was a mage as well as her beloved brother. Ethida wondered if the elfin woman also had extra magical abilities besides the ones born from elf-blood. If so, she was very curious as to what kinds of things they could share. But how would she feel about this? She obviously did not enjoy the thought of her father. She continued to wonder if this also meant Ivalia had a disgusted out-look of all humans and pondered if she should reveal her human heritage to her unexpected company within this moment of time. With blade at the ready for any attack, she decided to reveal her lineage--at the least the part she could remember.

My name is Ethida Tsukiri. I am from a human village called Saigoni village in the west. My father and mother were both great mages however I never knew my mother due to her death upon giving birth to me. Father also died only a few years past. Marauders raided our home and slew him while he protected the village and our people. I was there as well but falling debris hit me on the head and rendered me unconscious for the remainder of the slaughter. That raid is also the reason I unfortunately cannot remember the names of my beloved family. Even my beloved brother's name I cannot remember. Forgive me. It feels strange to talk to someone about my past and I am sure you feel just as awkward listening to it. It is just the memory of it makes me so angry. I want to kill those men. I want to see their blood spew from their necks and flow down my blade. Sorry. Please do not misunderstand. I am not a hateful being towards all, just towards those who do me wrong in the most evil ways. Do you have any family of which to speak? Any siblings?

Just hearing what she had said, Ethida apologized for the intrusion into personal information and the inquiry. She thought of herself as a stupid child again.

She gazed down again at her fingers covered in dirt and holding her final piece of lunch for the day. Ethida decided she needed to bath soon before her entire body became black of filth. Movement caught her eye to their right. A fox bounded across the meadow, most likely in pursuit of its own meal. Its fur glistened in the sunlight wet. A stream or pond must be nearby.

Again she scolded herself for being rude. Her father had brought her up to be courteous to guests but the times had worn away her old mentalities of the past peace. She turned to Ivalia to listen to her reply, after all she had just spoken though she was ready to understand if the elf maiden felt no need to reply. After all, it is a very personal subject to speak about. Even Ethida could not believed how much she had spoken to a stranger in a strange land. She was alone in the world except for her companion Torano. Maybe she needed another person to talk to. Maybe the dam holding the intense memories in is finally being overwhelmed.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>It was rather forward and took the enchatress offside. She hadn't wuite expected such a long description of life and past. Memories of another, she often prefered not to take. She had expected a simple name, a title to go with it perhaps - but personal histories to her... were... well personal. It didn't really bother her though, she had to take a moment to consume it all into memory. she couldn't help it - she remembered what she heard and saw; all of it. No matter what it came too. Nowadays, even the littlest detail could mean an easy road or a rocky one. That was another reason she said little and listened much. Speach was just as dangerous as any weapon, even more so in some instances. Think about it. If the people of Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind would just shut up and cease the insults, cease the talking. There would not be such racial arguments and abuse. If lies were not spread about, beside rumors and assumptions - this world, though maybe not perfect, might improve. With more tolerance. Right now, there seemed to be some - but how long this would last Ivalia didn't know. Shaking away her own thoughts, her mind had settled some. Focusing once again on the fact of what she was. She knew she could never change, her ways - and her mind was satisfied by this motion for now; the contradictory thoughts remaining silent within the recesses of her subconscious. Preparing herself to speak, she shifted slightly and looked off to the horizon. The plains were wide, and the hills were gentle if any at all. A few trees speckled the landscape in the distance, but nothing that was anywhere close. With a sigh, she looked back to... Ethida. The first part of the name did not seem particularly strange, though the last part did sound very exotic. and Ivalia was surprised that the humans had any form of family at all. Of course, this was mock pride. Of course she knew they had families and she knew they had magics about them and intellect. It was just a hard habit to pass from when you were taught all your life to hate someone who gave the race a bad impression. She had slight discretion against the human race, but she kept it to a minimum. And Mostly it was only directed to their males. Their males were so weak and fragile in mind. So easy manipulated by a beautiful face, and words of praise and false love. So easily manipulated. In some sense her creation was the vengence of her mother, for her father had done the same. Played with the pretty captive Atalopai, then tossed her aside when her uses were nolonger and pretier face came around. He had toyed with her mother's emotions, and the stories she'd been brought up about him, left a hatred their to fester and grow. So yes, in some aspects she loathed men, all of them... she had been shown no better opinion of them. Thus only the females of any species really got any respect fromt he seductress. It was just that whole saying... Born with anger, raised with hate. It was sad how true it was. Though it didn't seem all were held to these aspects. From the story she had listened to, it seemed that if this young woman hated anyone, it was her own kind. The elves bickered amongst themselves on occasion - but warring within their own citidels and amongst their own villages? Never. But no; Ivalia had no hate for this woman. Atleast not much. There was a little bit, that cause her to draw herself up slightly, in an aprehensive catch of breath. But she released the feeling and let it float away upon the lustrious winds that passed through her ebon hair. Looking away again, the breeze pulled her hair away from her face, and blew it backwards as the gust blew upon her golden face. Her voice emitting itself softly...

"I'm afraid I cannot say the same. I do hate all, though not in the same aspect. I hate men, the patriarchs of each race. I hold no patience for them, nor any compassion. My father was a traitorous..." Her voice trailed off suddenly, as her voice had begun to rise. Though her body seemed stiff - her face did not contort in anger, nor did her fist clench. Though to anyone who knew how to look - her anger was evident; flashing within her eyes, as her face stiffened like stone. Pausing for a moment as she controlled the rage, that threatened to spill over. Not towards the woman, no. But towards humanity so to say. It couldn't be helped, it honestly couldn't. It was how she had been raised, but both her mother and her people. They had made her father out as a role model to the human's - thus placing in her mind a natural anger towards them all. This was anger that was passed through her blood as well. Her mother had hated him, and had taught her daughter well. Human emotion; the subjectiveness to incontrolable feelings and expressions. She could control them, but she could never appear as physically blank, as the elves seemed to do so. One could never tell the emotions passing through an elf's face unlessed they wished it to be seen. Ivalia was not so... she could hide it - but it always seemed to be noticable somewhere. She would never be able to hide it completely. Collecting herself, she continued. "Nearly 300 years ago, when the world was in chaos of war, before this seeming nuetrality, my mother was caught between two sides and brought to a small human regiment. It was a battle between an Elfin Citidel and a troop of human warriors and a few mage's. My father as their lord led the fight. He cought my mother, and... fickle love was born, as I was born from that love. It lasted as long as Atalopai did- my mother. A pretty face came and she was forgotten. When the fighting was over, she was regained by her people - and I was born. An abomination to them, but tolerable for my elvish characteristics. As for siblings. I'm sure I have a few half sisters and/or brothers, but of their names and their existance I know not. It's been 3 centures since then, and by now I am sure most of his line has died away; except for myself of course. I admit, I do not have as much understanding for humans - though to allow you peace of mind, I also admit that I feel no hatred nor aggression towards you. You're company has been mildly pleasant."

As for what she was, she decided to leave Ethida to think her of elfin magics alone. She could wonder, but Ivalia would prefer to keep her breed a secret. For many to know her as an enchantress closed certain doors of anonyminity, and rumors could spread of her name and occupation. She'd prefer it didn't. However, she did seem to relax with the words said, though her face was not really as kind and understanding as it had been before. She didn't lie when she said she understood, and held no anger towards Ethida herself. Ivalia held anger and hatred towards Ethida's people. If the young female had any problems or negative reactions to Ivalia's admittance of hatred, then the Ethida would have to deal with it. Ivalia spoke her mind when she thought it not of sever consequence. It was a part of her demeenor; solitary and sharp tongued. She was not exceptionally polite anymore, but she did unleash a fragile smile, that was hardly true. However - it did hold a certain easiness to alert the breif companion, that she DID NOT have anything to fear, nor worry. Ivalia couldn't stress it enough to her, she held no hatred for Ethida.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

Ethida was astounded. To have a past so...so full of chaos was just remarkable. It felt good to get things into the air and she was relieved to have the tension between them finally released. It was very good to hear she was safe in the company of Ivalia. Torano also felt the relaxed tension in the air however he was not going to leave his girl's side. Ethida sensed this about her stallion and motioned to him all was right in the moment and gestured to him to leave her side and get lunch of his own. He did so and yet he kept close to Ethida. Torano walked out into the meadow to grab something to eat. The long grass flowed to fill the path his strong legs created shimmering in the dimming sunlight. Clouds began to gather and the smell of water hung in the air. A shower was upon the travelers. Birds flew above them most likely to their nests for shelter from the on coming rain. The serenity of the moment was perfect. Now the natural orchestra of sounds was interrupted by a human voice.

I am sorry to hear of your past but I am glad you trusted me enough to tell me your tale. I know you do not have a decent relationship with your father and his race. Is that the same for your mother? Oops. There's my curiosity again. I apologize again. You see I have not had a speaking partner in some time because I have been traveling in search of my brother and the bandits. Speaking of which...you have not have come across him. My brother would be maybe a foot or so taller than I with dark brown hair. His companion is a black stallion with white socks just as Torano has. Oh yes. He is Torano. I do not remember giving you his name early. But any way. You didn't happen to come across him?

Unsure if she would like the answer or even get one, Ethida had to ask. However knowing of Ivalia's history with human men, the type of encounter may even have been an unpleasant one. So again, Ethida rested herself and prepared for an answer. She decided she was not going to finish her bread ration she still held in her hand and replaced it back into the small sack which hung from her belt. It would normally have gone into the saddlebag, but she did not want to disturb her stallion from his much deserved meal. Nature begins to rain upon them gently. Ethida did not mind the rain, but what of her new...friend?

Do you mind it? The rain that is. Well also my curiosity. If you like, I am sure a walk would be nice. We could walk while we talk. Or if you like, we could just stay here or seek shelter. Either way I'm good and I assure you you have my full attention which ever you choose.

Ethida turned to Ivalia and grinned a welcoming smile, strawberry-blonde locks blowing in the rain.

Also one last thing...May I call you friend?

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia listened to Ethida's reply, but had litte to say in retern. She was slightly astounded at the woman's forward attitude, but she found little to hold against it. However she did seem to tighten and withhold herself now. Was there reasoning to these questions? Beyond that of innocent conversation? Ivalia could not really be sure, and honestly - did not like the idea of falling into a trap. Was it possible that someone was seeking revenge upon her; possible that one of her victims left behind, could have pulled out of the fog she had left them in with rememberance of her and who she truly was? Was she marked? No, it wasn't possible, she had come and made this company... not the other way around. If she was being searched for, she doubted the plains would be so empty at this moment. She did have some trust in Ethida, but it was slowly starting to dwindle - for reason most likely misconstrued by stereotypes. But wasn't it safe to keep ones distance? She'd always thought so, she always beleived so. Give what is needed to survive, and take that which is needed or wanted. As an enchantress there was little trust located in such a heart as hers, but there was a fragile bridge there, that had been building since the moment she'd begun to question herself. like she'd mentioned before, she had not completely forgotten the enchantress that had been her way of life, her religion, for a near 3 and a half centuries. The contradicting thoughts were few and far between, but when they came... they hit hard - and added but one more stone to that unbeaten path, yearning for discovery.

The first responce from Ethida was issued and finished, and Ivalia did not return a comment immediately. She was choosing her words wisely now, though she felt the woman's words true and intentions innocent... questions could be unnerving in an unfamiliar situation. Though elfin inuition was a powerful and dependable source. She had little dependence in her own people. She liked them and their company, and they had given her a form of respect - that she had to give them credit for. But truthfully, Ethida did not seem to be as cautious in her words, and Ivalia lightened a tad with this realization. As for the brother...? Ethida had seen him not. Well, atleast she had not seen him in any recognizable fashion as to remember him. Should he have been an aquaintance of hers, it in truth would not have been well. She would not have caused him physical harm, but he would be missing something - whether it be a valuable possession, or something else of worth that would cause him some form of great misery. But no - she didn't recal him nor a black horse. So it was safe to say, she had not crossed his path. As for the question towards her mother, she had little to say. She had grown under her mother's guidence and care, been taught the religion of the elves by the elders, but she'd grown up quite independent. Seeking peace in solitude and solitary wanderings. She was born an outcast and had lived as an outcast, though she was not shunned, just looked down upon slightly. She held no hate to the elves - she did like them. She did like their company on occasion. For she found little ignorance within their minds, though the younger of the elfin race could become slightly cocky in a sense. She loathed by one race, and all her hate was channeled towards them. Her mother had been kind, her mother was an elf - thus she loved her mother, and respected her people. Simple as that, though she felt no need to explain it to Ethida. She would perhaps give the explanation briefly; with little questions left to be asked.

"I channel all my anger and hate towards those who have betrayed me. The elves have yet to cast me out, and thus have yet to betray me. As for your brother, I have seen him not."

Simple, short, and to the point - one portion answered, but Ethida had more to say, or ask for that matter. Ivalia overall did like the human woman to some form of extent. Though she had been raised in a fashion that would lead her to hate all humans, as an Enchatress she was independent and followed only one law, and that was her own. As such her only real hate was for male breeds alone, yet with the stories of the human betrayal of her father - there was a certain change in her demeenor; her dislike focusing not on males in general, but in human men especially. It was a complex reality she lived. There was her physical world and then the world within her mind. Though calm, beautiful, elegent and devious in reality - her mind was jumbled. Yet she remained methodical and complicated so to speak. No matter... again she quieted herself to listen.

Rain? Yes, Ivalia felt it now, the cold water droplets hanging in the sky, waiting for the signal to call down with their attack. Rain was both blessing and curse, and Ivalia knew this. The elfin city of Hollaishea was near here and would be a short walk across the plains to the forest rim in the distance, the beginning of the elfin domain. The beggining of the Watered Corner. She assumed Ethida had not travelled thus far, and hoped for her own safety she had not been planning upon it. The elves though considered merciful, had little liking for outsiders - atleast most held this dispositionl. But it would be a good place to stop, rest, and escape from the rain. She knew a friend there, who had left to go to Rivenia and her home would thus be left unocupeid. But it would not be wise, to try and deceive the elves there, for looking over ethida, the young woman would not be easy to disguise as elfin blood. Perhaps an abomination like Ivalia? It was possible to try and pass off such a lie, and her own powers of manipulation could get through the gates with hardly any problems... Wait! What on earth was she doing?! No, they would not go to the city - she couldn't risk it, besides as much as she still felt Ethida could be a possible threat, she doubted the elves would be so ignorant. Pride in her people... was it such a useless knowledge?

Flitting eyes escaped to look at the canopy of clouds. The rain was of little concern to her, but shelter would be fine as well. However, a breif scan over the terrain brought a smile to her face as she gave a sideways glance to Ethida. Friend? ... maybe... Though Ivalia still beleive it was more of forced aquaintance, she would permit herself to allow such callings. It did not seem completely against her nature at this point, so she gave a short nod.

"Friend? Aye, I can be. As for shelter, I would not mind indulging the idea, but the trees are few and far between - and this one is hardly cover."</sup>

[mixedblood9]

Ethida was watched her new friend in awe, waiting for some answer. She sense a wary attitude towards the questions and she decided Ivalia must be condemplating and choosing her words. Ethida figured this was a very reasonable approach considering the war time their new found friendship was thrown into. Elf-kin and human encounters were always subjected to certain tensions and with hightened tensions between the corners only enhances the stress between the dominant races of the corners. Also considering elf-folk lived long than most human beings, it was only expected that Ivalia had more experience and more things to think about and more betrayals lived through than Ethida. Ethida now realized how unnerving her questions could be. Information concerning an enemy can be very dangerous in an opponents' hands. However, Ethida had thought she made it perfectly clear Ivalia had nothing to fear from her. Ethida was new to these lands and therefore had no definite alliances with any of the corners and their people. Even the people in the Corner designated to the Earth god, need to earn Ethida's loyalty and her trust and in turn a lack there of.

Hate...to have hate as the deciding factor in relationship...Ivalia must have much to consider when giving any answer. To begin a response with the idea of hate...

Ivalia made Ethida worried even afraid of the end of the elf-maiden's answer.

"As your brother, I have seen him not." With those words Ethida's soul sighed with relief and yet her heart still fell. An encounter with this woman may not have been the best thing for her brother Ethida thought. However, the hope of hearing some news of her brother would have been a comfort, even if the news is he has pasted on. Then she would at least know he is dead. The unknown fate of her brother was tormenting her heart and she yearned to at least know the truth.

The rain continued to fall upon them in rythm with their heartbeat. Together, it created music of tranquil silence and peace. "Aye, I can be." With Ivalia's answer, a smile escaped and appeared on Ethida's face. She had just made her first ally in almost three years. If the alliance would hold up in any battle however, would have to be tested in time. For the time being though, this friendship was welcomed greatly by Ethida at least. Torano's trust is much harder to gain him being a beast of nature and instincts were always so hard to go against.

Standing up, Ethida called to her stallion and friend Torano. He turned his head up, mane glistening in the rain and partial sun peaking through the clouds. Looking at him, Ethida remembered the peace she had once known in her home village of Saigoni. She gazed upon her travel companion and tried desperately to remember her father and brother. Ethida gently closed her eyes.

The little boy...a swordsmanship lesson...being so proud of him. A brother...he is saying good bye. Why do you need to leave? she had asked. "I need to learn more and I cannot remain here if I am going to increase my strength and knowledge. I can not stay. Please do not cry. I promise to return in a few years." He never did...She played with the little neighbor boy...screaming...where...what's happening...the military...Father?...Ethida!...Be ready...fight...take the children...save the women...I promise to return...canons...guns...spells...swords...too powerful...I promise...protect them...help...Why?...Return...Come back!...help us...save them...I promise...please stop!...I promise...Brother...Why did they attack?...We didn't do anything...Please stop!...I promise to return...Don't go...Stop!...Please...I promise...Kaiten...brother...please...I promise.

Blackness returns to Ethida's mind. Who was that? Why do I only remember fragments? Ethida's eyes return to a peaceful state from the furrowed presentation which had taken over during the memories. She opened her eyes. Torano nuzzled up against her breast knowing what she had just come out of. He remembered everything. He only imagined what it would actually be like to remember nothing. He could only stand and watch her. There lies the reason he is determined to protect her. It is because she is tormented enough by her own demons and he can not protect her from those monsters, only the ones on the outside.

Ethida turned to Ivalia. I wonder what she just thought of in that moment when I returned to my mind. Why did memories flood back then? Why?

Sorry. Anyway, shall we begin our walk? Where do you sugest we seek shelter? I am new to these lands and I am not sure of any safehavens around this particular area.

She turned and stroked Torano's forehead and brushed the hair from his eyes. The rain, as soft as it is, had now thoroghly ran through her hair as well. It felt relaxing in any case. Ethida again looked to Ivalia. What were they going to do now?

ooc: Yeah! 908 words! I'm improving. Cool!

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia tossed a sideways smile towards Ethida as she listened to the woman's responce. Where to look for shelter? Had she just not mentioned how there was little place to go, had Ivalia not implied there was nowehere else to go? Misconception... most likely. Thus Ivalia smiled and stood from her pace. The rain had yet to drench her, the droplets sliding around her skin, as if to touch, but yet standing alone.

She hated getting wet.

The soft patter of the droplets making music against the ground as the tree above them swayed slightly with the movements of the wind above. The thought of the wind brought to mind of the memories recently made between herself and the dragon, Kamila. Little had been said, and Ivalia beleived that there was little that had occured. Maybe a slight understanding, but things had remained pretty cold and still between the two until both had departed and left the other behind. It was of no matter right now though, however Ivalia's eyes did cast skyward for a moment as if to see betrayal fall from the sky.

Nodding off the thoughts she refocused on Ethida and her horse. Ahh... her horse. Malyc didn't like being alone for long periods of time, he got bored and he got bored fast. There was little that Ivalia could do about him now though and was quite happy to picture the view of her beautiful black stallion rampaging through the elfin streets. Something about the thought was just... satisfying.

Pushing her black hair out of her face, to sit behind her shoulders she looked to Ethida then scanned the horizon, though Ivalia could manipulate the falling water, Ethida did not seem to hold the same ability since the human woman's hair was drenched. Though Ivalia could sustain her own protection - she did not have the strength nor the power or will to maintain two such barriers, upon two seperate people - and thus she had little to offer the human woman. Yet she saw little near as shelter. Wait. There was the forest, that would be a denser cover and would serve just as well as out here, most likely better. Nodding towards the woodline she opened her lips to speak; her dark lavender eyes shining in the dim light of the dissapearing sun.

"The forest would serve better shelter then here."

Ivalia said as she unleashed a gentle smile, polite, and seemingly delicate. Standing in the rain, yet feeling not its fall. She could only listen to its chorus and the complaints of the trees as their leaves grew damp and heavy. She shook her head at their silliness. the trees always had something to complain about.</sup>

[Kyoko Oni]

Ko wandered through her world slowly. She knew nothing of the worlds outside her small rotting domain, the rotting flesh, the discusting bile. It made her stomach turn, but if she wanted to live, she had to bear it. She was in many ways a strong creature, even if she was lurking in the body of a 14 year old, ancient knowledge was built behind a thick wall, a wall that surely couldn't hold forever just as her crystaline prison hadn't. She had wandered in the misty spring warmth, feeling the waters rising in a stagnant shield over her home. She had to eat often, or at least feed off the blood of others often, the water was toxic, but blood became a source of liquid nutrition for her.. to keep her from dying of dehydration.

Something set her to wander. Her fox spirit wasn't settled here now. She felt akin to the land but she felt like something was missing. Something was wrong. She could somehow feel the old sadness that clung to the earth like the fog that draped it now. She knew that she would have to leave her home sometime. Something was gone from her life and she needed it, she had to find it....

She traveled outward, soft confused tears rolling down her face. The sorrow made her cry. She walked unsteadily, stumbling upon her clumbsy two feet. Slowly edging forward in the muggy soft heat. Rain would be comming soon, she could smell it on the air. She drew her daggar from her side holding it gingerly in her right hand as she stalked forward. Before she knew what was going on things had changed. Slowly as she blindly crept along soft grasses appeared under her feet, sprouting new delicate sprouts that seemed to scream as she walked upon them.

Startled she fell to the ground with a cry pawing at the grass with her hand. In her curiosity she placed some in her mouth after delicately sniffing it... but it didn't suit her like meat did. She spat and continued on. Then, she came across a smell. One that oddly reminded her of herself, and one that she hadn't smelled in the Cursed Waters before. Her curiosity was that of a child, after all these years, she hadn't lost her luster for the new.

She wandered, following this scent through the soft grasses, occationally bending her human body low to the ground when she couldn't smell it upon the mists. She moved slowly forward still cautious. The grasses hadn't gotten tall yet as it was still spring but she still stalked. That was when the rain started comming down, gently clensing her white hair and furrs that covered her body. The 14 year old girl held her daggar tightly as the scents got stronger, her face strained in concentration making her signature pointy incisors stick out through her lips.

Upon a grassy knoll she crouched and down below she saw two shapes sillhouetted in the haze and the grass. She approached out of the line of sight, slowly creeping down the hill. She didn't plan on comming too close, but she wanted a closer look. She readed her daggar just in case... These creatures looked fast, but she was skilled and she had a natural instinct to survival. She was cocky, but not too overestimating of her skills. She knew when to quit. These animals hunted in packs, she conlcuded mentally, they were together. SOlitary creatures wouldn't pair unless mating.. perhaps they were mates. She slunk a little closer and stopped on the hill still crouched. They were funny.... they looked very much like she did.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia's mind had been totally focus on Ethida, though it did wander slightly as the listened to nature harmonic conversations. Though they did not speek as one would assume as verbal communication they spoke through whispers and through the wind. Ivalia could listen, she knew how to listen and thus their secret were not kept from her.

For awhile all she heard of their silent cries was that of their complaints, like that of the trees. While the grasses swayed blissfully in the light breeze, the rain was a joy to them... as it fell upon their roots - and they seemed to sigh in blissful rememberance of the times when rain fell more freely.

But then there was more melody upon the wind, and her attuned ears picked up the sound resembling that of a scream... but not at harsh. It was more or less surprise, and she felt onedge by the sound. The trees were confused. The grasses in outrage. Someone was near. Ivalia could not be certain, but she had to beleive. Nature in general was stubborn, and would usually hold on to one beleif or emotion for a dear period of time; unless, forced to think differently - by a cause of some event.

Theif

Was the thought of the grass, and Ivalia could not understand why the grasses would acknowlegde a thief. So descriptive...

Turning her eyes from the side, at first she saw nothing. Scanning the area beside and behind her. But then as a second glance was beckoned she saw the form... so small lurking just below the grassline. She had no idea why the grass would call this one a theif. They knew nothing about the seeming her. And they didn't care about the relations of others to go so far as to give such a name. It left Ivalia slightly confused, but she ignored the emotion and tossed the wonderings aside. Her fingers tingled with the effects of the transistion, as the rain barrier she had created seemed to ripple, causing her fingers to feel the dank moisture for but a moment's breath before Ivalia strangthened the thin barricade. Her magics wished to ripple and disallusion her proportions. There was something about seeing a stalking like form slinking through the grass, that brought the term Savage to mind.

Crossing her arms, her hand slipped into the folds of her dress, and seemed to poise there, inconspicuosly behind the crossed arms. Her fingers flitting upon the hilt of a small thin blade, not the size of a dagger; larger. But nor was it the thickness and length of a sword. It lay between and was one of her comforts, when the thought of actually having to fight crossed her mind. Her attention now focussed upon the new upcomer. What intentions did they have? What was it? Other such questions demanded to be answered inside her head. IT was not that she by default hated this new creature, but there was a certain wariness that came to mind and enacted ones instincts. Thus the tall half elf watched with dark eyes and an untrusting frown. Her black hair still fell in dry bouncing curls as she protected herself from the rain, the thin barrier-like sheet, blanketting her skin. If need be she could dissapear within the rain; well she could appear to dissapait. It was her chosen form of escape. she wasn't a fighter, and didn't prefer to fight. she was an enchantress, one not to be meddled with for she still had the capabilities to do harm and she did now how to protect herself. How else would she be able to continue living... especially in a world like today - and especially when the men she victimize caught wind of her trickery and vile intent. But that was not the point, she felt she need not fight unless forced.... she much prefered to dissapear. Illusioning herself to appear as if she was shifting, and or changing slowly making herself scarce, but she was never gone, she couldn't shift and she couldn't physically effect much of anything, beyond a normal sence; but she played with the eyes of others, with their minds.... bending and attempting to influence when she thought it nessecary. But as of now, all she really wanted to do, was get away. Yes she didn't mind Ethida's presence, but that was one person to worry about - now there was a second, and Ivalia feared trouble. Of all things she feared death was perhaps one of them. She wasn't afraid of death in general - but she was afraid to die; to end her life here, and go to one she was unfamiliar with within limbo. It was of no matter.... she didn't want trouble - but couldn't toss the feeling that trouble might arise.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

Peering at Ivalia through Torano's mane, Ethida noticed her attention was not fully turned to her. However, it was turned towards the hills and the end of the fields. Yes, Ivalia had never had her full attention on Ethida, but she also never let anything have her complete attention, at least not during the time Ethida had known her. Scanning the horizon, looking for what had caught Ivalia's gaze, Ethida turned to the hill at the edge of the field. At first glimpse, she saw nothing. However focusing more caused her to also catch this creature sulking around at the edge.

What is that thing? Ethida whispered to herself hoping not to convey any suspicion of fear to Ivalia who seemed to not be disturbed by this new presence in the grass.

Ethida moved to Torano's side to retrieve her blade from the sack strapped to his side. Hidden behind her mighty stallion, she removed her blade from its brown, rough leather packing and slipped it into her old and ratty cloak she had received from her father many years ago. She does not remember exactly when she received the precious gift, however she does know the importance and connection to her late family it holds for her. Since leaving Saigoni village, she has never parted with it for the bit of sentimental value it holds for her. The blade now tucked into her cloak was not the usual sword she used for battle. It was shorter and much more easily hidden from peering eyes. Her Toraha, her regular length sword, remained at Torano's side in its sheath where she could easily find it. With her shorter katana hidden in her cloak, Ethida left the shelter provided to her by her stallion and joined Ivalia's side to further assess the danger presented to them by this new presence. She saw the creature again moving in the grass a fair distance away from where they stand now. Ethida took a step towards the skulking creature in order to gain a better view of its appearance at least. Nothing helped. No matter the prospective Ethida attained, she could not see the beast clearly. She did not want to attack something she had no hopes of escaping and a second friendly acquaintance in the Shephard's Fields is highly improbable. Her friendship with Ivalia was an unlikely meeting; however she had appeared to Ethida in the mists of her resting and she was not exactly prepared for any sort of battle at that time and she had no will for it either. Hence, she had tried to form an alliance with the elf-maiden that little bit of time ago. With this new being, Ethida may not have the same sort of luck with and thereby may be seriously injured or even killed if alone. Maybe, though, with Ivalia's help, both of them may escape from an onslaught which may soon approach. But then again, would the elf-maiden feel like protecting her. This thought had crossed Ethida's mind before and Earth god willing, this is not the time to test the newly formed alliance between human and half-elf women of the fields. Therefore Ethida kept her distance from the strange beast in the grass and stood ready for any surprise, friendly or not.

Torano on the other hand was full out ready for a battle. He would protect Ethida of course and he still did not trust Ivalia with her life and so her turned his chest towards the creature unknown to his eyes however known to his nose. The creature smelled somewhat like a human, female even, but there was something about the new scent. It was not totally human and it did not smell like the she-elf either. He wondered what sort of nature would create such a beast.

Ethida sensed the tension in her companion's spirit and placed her hand upon his shoulder. Perhaps she could create some sort of tranquil atmosphere in the fields and thereby making the creature feel a little more welcome to form a peaceful alliance with them but not too comfortable that it thinks it can have its way with them. She does not let many have her trust. Even Ivalia does not have all the trust Ethida has to offer. In this sense, Ethida calls for the beast to reveal itself to them.

Do not think that you can sneak up on us and do not think you can have your way with us. Reveal yourself and you may not create a battle field in this serene peace. However, if we must, we will fight to defend.

In saying this, Ethida hoped the theory went for Ivalia as well as her and her stallion. She hoped she was not assuming too much. Ethida allowed her vision to pass by the creature in the grass to scan the rest of the surrounding field for any other unexpected visitors. She did not desire to be caught in any ambush. Finding nothing, her eyes fell back upon the being still sulking in the grass. With her blade ready for a surprise attack, she focused on the creature and wondered about how Ivalia and her alliance will play out in a battle situation not that she wished for a fight. The adrenaline had neutralized any fatigue left from her travels but she was still not up to speed entirely.

[Kyoko Oni]

Ko inched forward slowly even as their eyes turned upon her. She could feel their gazes. Though she still approached, she grew more uncomfortable with each forward crawl. She hung low to the ground, crawling much like a deformed dog might, using her hands as front paws and her legs coiled as she rested upon her toes, ready to spring toward or backward. Small teeth poked through her strained lips as she sniffed. The rainy mists helped her sence of smell, scent seemed to hang in the air trapped in the small droplets of water.

In her hand she held her black daggar. One unique quality of it was the fact it wasn't made of a shiney metal, thus reflecting lights from the skies reflecting off of it wouldn't give her away. She assumed it was a gift of her parents, whoever they were.. whatever they were. She had wondered many things about them. Why weren't they hear now? Why did they leave her in the mud? Despite many days of waiting in the Cursed Waters they hadn't come for her... She knew of family somehow.

She remembered back at the banks, as she prowled for small pray she had come across a small creature, not much bigger than a large rat. It was frightened of her and she came to it picking it up with her dirty hands. She remembered how it shook and looked at her blindly. Imediately she felt pitty, she couldn't eat the small creature... rather she wanted to love the small creature. So, she sat on the bank softly caressing the tiny cat-like thing, licking its fur with her tongue untill a big cat came to her. Ko was frightened and backed away, but the big cat wouldn't leave her alone. Ko flead but in her running she had dropped the small cat creature. Turning around to rescue it she met face to face with with the big cat.. who to her startlement seemed to have no will to hurt the little one. So, she ran. Reflecting on it later, she figured the big one had to be its parent, the creature by which the little one had come from. That was how the world worked afterall. So... where was her mother? Why hadn't she come to save her yet?

Upon being addressed directly the creature froze. She knew their language she spoke it. Though oftentimes she found it a rather unnecessary form of communication when you could say everything you wanted to say though gestures. Further, it wasn't like she had many to talk to. The Cursed Waters wasn't a place to find said 'good company'. She watched the two figures who looked very similar and then the third which was a fourlegger. She was drawn to the creatures who looked like her, but she found the four legger easy to understand. It made motions that told her to go away.. that ura that made her feel unwelcome. She cowered in the rain and grass, not letting down her guard but she felt afraid.
The one who spoke used harsh tones. But there was something Ko didn't understand... 'defend' ... They wanted to 'defend'... but you only did that if something attacked you. Did this mean they feared little Ko? Kyoko thought a moment on this prospect. She was much smaller then them, why were they afraid.

Slowly she rose standing like they did. For a moment she just stood there, arms tucked around her in an unthreatening manner though she held her daggar tightly in her right hand. Yellow eyes studied them more intensively from this hightened possition. The fact that they were 'afraid' of her put her slightly at ease, but she was still ready to run or strike if she had to.. if in the unlikely prospect this was some sort of trap.

She probably wasn't the monster they had expected, a small 14 year old girl with pale features and white hair, though caked with dirt was being cleansed by the rain. She wore white pelts as clothing, covering her top and bottom casually while leaving her midriff exposed. The aspect that betrayed her as 'not human' aside from her ura which could be senced more or less by the more attuned beasts of the animal kingdom was her eyes in their yellow brilliance which was far from typical in a human, occationally convulsing into cat-like slits in fear. But now her pupils were large, round, and curious.

"Ko won't hurt you!" He yelled out back. "Ko kills what she eats, no more.. unless Ko needs to ... 'defend'" She spoke rather primatively. Her understanding of language was lost with a alot of her memory, but this primative understanding remained.

She didn't move, standing ridged and tall, her ankles touching while she watched them. She masked her fear of them by standing so dominantly, if they feared her this might keep them from changing their mind and attacking her for food. But like things generally didn't eat like things. She had already determined at first glance that these creatures were like creatures and she wouldn't eat them. But were they the same? Or perhaps like some things they didn't like intruders. But she hadn't smelled anything to tell her that this sector was claimed, no distinct border.

All the same they were big, and so was their four legger. That was something else that sparked her curiosity. They were in a pack, but one of the creature was unlike them; the fourlegger. This was peculiar as well. THey didn't appear to be hunting it, and the fourlegger seemed rather adament about protecting them. They wore funny things too, things that she wanted to look at more closely. She wore things too, but she had never seen anything quite like that. Fear seemed to evaporate as these questions popped up in her mind.

What were they?... they were so much the same... yet so different...

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia looked sideways as Ethida came to her side, but she had little thought over it. It neither bothered her, nor did she find it crowding. Looking back up half-hillside she watched the intrusive being as it stood from the grass. Ivalia seemed to relax. There had been aprehension before due to the fact that the approaching being had not been clearly visible. How was Ivalia to know it was of little danger. Atleast now looking at the small girl of... maybe 13 - 15?... there was little to be feared. However, the black blade that she noticed clutched in the girl's hand did alarm her some, and she found herself wondering if the small child was disturbed in some manner. It made her very wary... and though the girl didn't seem to hold any open aggression - Ivalia could not be settled as long as that black blade remained in view. When one sported a weapon, it was hard to think any good could come of it. Ivalia had no words to say. What was there to say in honesty? Ethida had said what she herself had been thinking, there was no reason for her to repeat something already said and made clear.

She found her fingers rippling along the top of the hilt of the slim blade tucked within the folds of her skirt, where no prying eyes could see. But at the soft speech she seemed to lax, and uncrossed her arms to brush her ebony locks from her face, as the wind whipped them across her eyes. The rain continued to fall, but she had little concern for it since she herself was not directly affected by its damp waters. It was if it wasn't there to her.

The girl's words caused her fingers to slide down at her sides; forgetting the blade and the need to have to use it. it seemed she would not have to, since the girl seemingly meant no harm and Ivalia did not go out of her way to fight; unless it be of male origin. And even then she didn't often kill. Most times she merely intoxicated her victim to steal and take what she wished. Usually she left them with their lives, unless they were dispicably vile.

Looking at the young girl, she couldn't help but smile as she heard the words. They sounded so innocent. But looks could often be deceiving; Ivalia would know. Slipping a gaze towards Ethida, Ivalia smiled as well. Defensive had been a good term. Slipping her dark lavender eyes back towards, "ko", she parted her lips to speak.

But she soon closed them, no words seemed to fit. Looks really couldn't be a truth to be guided by. As innocent and harmless as the young girl in the distance seemed to be, why should one drop one's guard when uncertainty was high, and the stakes they were playing with were similiarly raised. Life was precious, more so now than before. Before war had been inevitable and one had known who was the enemy. But now in this silence, nothing was for certain - and alliances seemed to be a possibilty, which made the water even more dangerous. Who was friends with who? Ivalia didn't know. If she played her cards right, she would know - and perhaps have an ally or two for the elves. Whether the elves would aggree or not... well, that was a different matter. But atleast Ivalia would be safe perhaps, if she had friends within the enemy. Traitorous? most likely. Ignroant? No.

Thus she couldn't bring herself to do much of anything. Sure she might be considered sloth like or weak - but she prefered to think of it as....

Smart.

Say little, listen... and learn much.</sup>

[mixedblood9]

As the young girl stood some distance away, Ethida relaxed a bit. She also sensed Ivalia loose some tension as well. This fact also made the situation more bearable and the stress thin in the air. Ethida moved to Torano to calm him as well; he obviously did not get the impression that the little girl figure did not pose so much of a threat anymore now that she had revealed herself. But then again like always, appearances can be very deceiving. Be they male, female, human, elvish, or dragon, no one can possibly begin to guess another's personality or character. Under her tatted cloak, Ethida tied her short blade to her leather belt as to free her hands. The knot however was easy to break loose in case protection was required for either Torano or Ivalia. Ethida did not want to reveal her blade to the girl because she did not want to scare the girl into a defensive mode of some kind. She did not know of a switch or anything that could set the girl. Ethida turned to Ivalia wondering what was the course of action they should take. Should they make the first move like Ethida had with Ivalia? Or take the course of action Ivalia had taken at that same moment? There was always the third option of fighting however since the girl had not threatened them in any way and even spoke to them as to not pose any danger to their beings and so that option was now really invalid in this situation. Ethida averted her gaze back on the figure in the distance. The girl seemed to pose not a threat to either humanoid or horse-being in the fields.

Should I speak first to calm the nerves of our new visitor? Or should I take Ivalia's course of action? This is very perplexing and I'm not used to this type of interaction with others. This is so frustrating!

Ethida racked her brain for the best way to handle the new presence. Her meeting with Ivalia was so different. She had not snuck up on Ethida while the girl had. This action threw Ethida into an automatic defensive mode. Deciding to keep the silence Ethida waits for the girl to make the next move, whether it be moving closer out of curiosity, raising her black blade to their throats, or just speaking to learn more of these strangers. Friend or foe? must be on everyone's minds who are involved.

[Kyoko Oni]

The little girl continued to watch them, holding her blade still in her hand as her arms were crossed in a non threatening mannar. Her head tilted lightly as she watched them just watching her. Neither of them said anything, and the silence was making her a tad uneasy. She arced her head down a little, wiggling her nose as she saught to take in more of their scent. Her ankles remained locked surely below her, seemingly not wanting to take another step forward, while not calling for a retreat quite yet. They were stronger than she, especially the four-legger. They had absolutely nothing to worry about by her perspective, even if she was trying to be hostile. The only one of them she'd concider killing for food would have been the four-legger, but it was far too much meat and it was too strong. The laws of nature forced her to see things as strong or weak, for the rules were eat or be eaten. She hadn't known how the rules had varried for these creatures, but it seemed odd that they would hang out with a 4-legger. Perhaps they saught its protection, afterall these hooved four-leggers ate nothing but grasses.

She unfolded her arms softly, curious yellow eyes still resting upon the three figures. They were curious being indeed, and they still hadn't made any kind of motion to either ease her growing discomfort or hinder what comfort she had left. They just stared, perhaps summing her up some more. She didn't know why it would take them so long to do so, perhaps they weren't so good hunters and that was why they needed the four-legger to protect them. She had already come to the conclusion that she was no match, if they turned hostile she would run. She moved her hands down to her sides slowly, slipping her daggar into a loop at her side for easy holding. She could grab it in a flash if she had to. The tension wouldn't subside and the silence continued on, it appeared that these creatures would do nothing untill she did. She hadn't seen anything quite like them, she was mearly curious, curious but not stupid.

Then it hit her, just like that. She bent down low slowly her gaze still looking up at them. She didn't know what these things ate, the two-leggers probably ate meat but she was sure that the four-legger ate grasses. With a brisk motion she made a swiping motion at the grasses at her feet, much like a kitten and grasped a handful of it and held it out at arms length. To get to somethings heart, you have to aim for the stomach. Offering food was a very good sign of peace, at least in her book. She held it out lightly ankles still ridged in place.

"Ko no harm you."

She continued to hold it out, not sure why this would work exactly but it make perfect sence. It was her sketchy memory, her survival skills playing her.

"Food..."

She said softly keeping the hand with the grass held out sternly. They might approach her then, and if they did it would be a sign of peace. It all seemed perfect in her mind. To offer food was peace, to accept food was aknowleging peace. But what if they didn't? It surely didn't mean war.. it could mean she brought yucky food. Perhaps she would have to kill something for them. Something told her she couldn't leave them.. not yet... they were so much like her... the ones on two legs... perhaps they were what she was missing.. or perhaps they knew where her parents were...

[mixedblood9]

Wait! What? Food? This child must be just that...a child. But...what if this is merely a façade to throw us off guard. Ivalia wouldn't fall into such a trap...would she?... no... how could she? What if this is not a trap and this girl is just... a girl? However, there is something about her that is quite strange. I have this feeling...like... like something is hidden under a cloak or behind me waiting for the moment to strike. Something is strange here.

Ethida fought with her own mind and personality to find the best resolution again. She decided the girl had made the first move in attempting to make peace with the strangers in the field and now it was their turn to react anyway.

The rain continued its pursuit to make them thoroughly wet... well all of course except for Ivalia and her barrier. Ethida wondered what would happen if she let her barrier drop. The water left on the barrier's skin would most likely drop to her refined locks. However, Ivalia would find a way to escape even that water Ethida figured. Ethida had magics of her own however she did not wish to reveal them at any time soon. She would leave them hidden and present them to the others around her when it was absolutely necessary and most useful to her. They would be her most prized secret for the time being.

With Torano at her left and fairly in front of her, Ethida turned her head to her right to address Ivalia who stood stationed slightly behind her. Ethida wished to know Ivalia's take on their new visitor who now appears as a girl afraid in the grass.

Ivalia, what are you thinking on this little situation we have found ourselves in? She may merely be a little girl who has lost her way or worst maybe even her family. This is a war period in this land's history, is it not? I know I am new to realm in this area at least but I think I have figured that much out at least. I would greatly appreciate it if you would tell me any course you believe is better suited. I am planning to communicate with her as I would a child in my village and hope this is not a trap of a sort. I am not sure what she means to use that grass for but she has mentioned food. I think I heard her right? Perhaps she is searching for something or someone and is hungry. I am thinking she may want a piece of bread... instead of grass that is.

Waiting for Ivalia to reply with her opinion of the encounter, Ethida moved forward slowly as to not startle the girl in the distance. When she reached Torano who had moved a fair distance away from Ethida towards the girl due to the grass in her hand and his own curiosity, she again opened the rough sack on his saddle just as she had at the beginning of her meeting with Ivalia and pulled out the bread ration the elf-maiden had returned in honest and polite terms. Then she left Torano's side slowly reassuring him she would be fine. She again check her blade by her belt to see it was ready if the occasion to use it arrived. Ethida then, before approaching the girl, turned her head in order to see Ivalia in the corner of her eye. She waited for any sign of a objection or approval to her proposed course of action not that she would necessary take that word wholly to heart. Ethida merely wanted to now the ideas of a veteran elf-woman considering Ivalia's claimed age.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia had been deceiving in her thoughts. There was no physical barrier protecting her from the rain. It was more or less her commune with the water that kept her dry. More or less manipulating the falling moisture to fall around her, instead of upon her. Complicated as it may seem and more difficult than a solid barrier it might be assumed.... it was not. Her gifts were within natures bounds, and she had slight physical magics passed down through the blood of the mage lord. Honestly sometimes she wished she didn't have them. With her human emotions she felt torn more times than not, and though the contradicting thoughts that had been plagueing her mind where somewhat silenced now, she could not help but remember the dissalusion in herself that they brought. Slipping away from the chaotic thoughts she listened to Ethida. But Ivalia didn't have much to say in reply. There wasn't any responce she had in mind, other then approach. But obviously as the other woman stepped forward, that had already been a plan of action. Moving her legs, her bare feet skimmed through the mid shin grasses and followed without worry. The black weapon had been sheathed and tension had been releived slightly. But Ivalia didn't feel comfortable walking directly beside Ethida, as their trust was a frail thread, that still needed proof and binding before it became anything sturdy enough to hold faith. Thus as she walked, she drifted slightly away off to the side; following slightly behind Ethida and Torano. Ivalia had nothing to offer the young child.

As they came closer, however - she did not feel so comfortable. Something was strange about the young one. Something was different. Ivalia couldn't place it but it made her uneasy. Natural? of course. If one wasn't cautious, one wasn't smart. Ivalia was starting to feel slightly alone. She had no allies, so what was she to do when she became cornered. Yes, Ivalia was slightly paranoid at this moment. she didn't know or understand why, she merely was. And she rarely questioned her feelings. Her emotions were a different story. She questioned them constantly worrying over this that or the other. She had to, she could never trust her emotions - human emotions were frail.

// They lead only to disspair. //

~ You've never listened to them, so how would you know? ~

// Enough! //

The final say, Ivalia was an enchantress nothing more, nothing less. She was her own breed and her way of thinking would never change. She was cold and she was hard. Her heart made stone and bound by her own laws of being. She was not allowed any warmth. Not allowed any at all. She couldn't feel love and never had. Her mother had died in disspair, losing the will to live. There had been little time for Ivalia to grow to love her mother, before the elvin Atalopai took the journey up into the silver clouds of the divine. And her father... for him there was only hate. No love, no compassion, no mercy. There was no room for such emotions. She loved him not, and never would love man. End of story.

Part of her waited for the contradictions... but they remained silent and she let her inner mind relax, to refocus on the present. So lost she became, so often. She was a confused soul deep down - and it seemed she always would be. She hadn't been before. She had been sturdy in her beleifs once. What the hell had happened to her?

She was growing frustrated with herself, and dispair seemed to lurk beneath the surface on occasion when she felt so torn between two worlds. Was the curse of the half breed - being pulled towards one side, while living your own. How did one survive in such a state. How could one make decisions. It had to be her, the person who she truly was. Was she really Ivalia, or just a part of the woman she thought she was? Why now... why now? She didn't know - didn't understand, but with a sudden silence, she cut herself off, driving herself away. Deep she fled into the resesses of her mind. People asked why she was a woman of little words... but they would never truly comprehend.

Ivalia smiled as she watched Ethida offer the child the rations, that she before had refused. This was a timid moment, balanced upon the edge of a knife. Things could turn hostile with any false move. Though the girl was harmless... and she said she meant no harm - deceit was thick in times like this and trust was few and far between.

Ivalia could hardly trust herself... thus, how could she give trust out, easily to others?

What a tangled web we weave, when we practice to deceive...</sup>

[Kyoko Oni]

Ko held the grass out carefully watching the four legged creature intently. It had taken a couple timmid steps toward her, seemingly to be slightly more trusting of her than the two leggers were. She didn't move, simply waited. She didn't want to frighten them off afterall. But why was she so scairy? It was something the small creature couldn't understand quite yet, but her views of the world were slowly broadening with each small experiance the catacombs of her mind were slowly reopening, it wouldn't be too long before her mind would return to her.

She remained still watching the two exchange glances and some words. She smiled lightly as they slowly began to traverse toward her. One of them was carrying a small something in her hand. Perhaps she wished to make a trade. What was it? It looked interesting. The little girl had grown accostomed to eating raw flesh of which she had to harvest herself. She tried not to move, but twangs of caution sprouted in her mind as they got closer, the will to flee became more apparent as the seconds droned on. Her curiosity matched her will for flight, keeping her ridged and stable but forcing her eyes to light up frightfully. Her face strained taking a good look at them as they got closer, but other than that she didn't move.

Finally they got really close. They were taller than she imagined from looking at them at a distance. She cowered a little, still holding the grass out as a sort of offering. Her eyes fell upon the white spongy looking thing that the one of the woman were holding. It sparked her curiosity, while normally she might have simply taken it for herself, she wouldn't from these creatures who might be easily angered if something was taken from them. She gaged them continually, looking between one and another wondering if they would take the offering she held out or not. None of them spoke, perhaps they didn't speak much, perhaps they were quiet creatures.

Ko gingerly put the grass out toward the four legger which out of all of them seemed to be the one most likely to display interest. She held it palm up with the small clump of grass as an offering. He nudged it out toward him, beconing him to take the offering from her hand. In a way it was a sign of peace, but also a sign of submissiveness. To eat from the palm of another was to aknowledge their dominance and that you wouldn't hurt them. If the creature would eat it, she concluded she would be safe. perhaps it was the four legger that mastered over the two creatures like her, afterall, it seemed much stronger.

"You like?"

She asked the four legger still holding the grasses out, ignoring the two legged creatures for now. SHe mentally kept her mental sights on her daggar, ready for a quick springy motion to defend herself and run if things didn't turn out the way she wanted it too. It was kind of a defining moment, if the strongest creature trusted her, the rest of the group had to. Her yellow eyes rested unwavering from the beast.

[mixedblood9]

Ethida took her final steps towards the young girl in front of her bringing her to about a few feet from the girl, from this ‘Ko’ as she referred to herself. She watched Torano as he sniffed the grass presented by the girl. He sniffed and he sniffed and he still could not find what was so special about this grass, what made it different from the grass he was eating only moments ago. Why would a two-legged want to eat this grass and not the grass closer to that tree behind him? He continued to sniff and found nothing intriguing about the grass in the girl’s hand. He turned his head from the girl and looked to Ethida as if asking, “Must I?”

Ethida watched him and chuckled to herself. “Stubborn horse,” she whispered under her breath. She shook her head at his reluctance to trust the new scent on the new hand and she placed her hand on his neck right behind his ear and rubbed. “Take it. Make her feel welcome,” Ethida whispered to her mighty stallion. And so he stretched out his neck to Ko’s hand to retrieve the grass freshly picked from the ground even though he much preferred choosing his grass himself. He had always been a proud chestnut stallion with his white socks and Ethida knew this to a great extent.

After Torano was finished with his extra snack offered by the girl in front of them, Ethida decided to make a move towards a friendship with the girl. She had noticed Ivalia did not make any motion towards the girl, which would suggest an open train of thought regarding the girl in their presence. She opened her mouth to speak and then closed it again to better consider the words she would use and the extent of the girl’s vocabulary she presented early upon her appearance. She mostly likely would not understand any expensive words or strange dialects from her village and so Ethida decides to use a plain tongue known by most in the land.

She looked down at the girl and knelt down on one knee to be at her own level. Ethida remembers when she was young and small, everyone intimidated her when she was forced to look up at them from the ground. Besides, she had heard that when making a strange child comfortable, it is best to allow them to look you in the eyes or look down at you so they feel they have things under control and are not overwhelmed by size.

“ ‘Ko’ is it? It is a very nice name. I think it is exotic, to my ears at least. Ko, are you lost? Are you looking for something? Please trust us and tell me why you are out here in the forest by yourself. I promise we will not harm you.” Ethida said in a gentle tone attempting to comfort Ko hoping the course of action she had just taken was the right one.

Ethida extended her hand in a peaceful gesture motioning for the girl to take it and feel safe in her hands. She knew this was not the smartest thing in the wild considering all that live in the forest and the number of types of demons who take on the outward appearance of a human in order to trick their prey. Thinking of this Ethida, kept her silver blade, giving to her by her beloved father whose name and face still escapes her, in mind and at her side. She continued to look at Ko’s face and she peered into her eyes…those bright yellow eyes? And yet, Ethida was not afraid of her yellow eyes which were sure signs of a demon. Instead, she saw that boy again. She saw the face of that little boy. He brandished a wooden training sword and was looking up at her with a familiar brilliant smile, which spanned the wholes of his face. Ethida felt warm. She felt as though things were right again. Her father, her village, her brother, the boy… they were all alive and well. But how? They all died three years ago in a raid, except for her brother that is. What was she seeing?

That boy…what is it?… why am I seeing his face?… who is he?… I feel so…right. She continued watching her vision in her mind. He smiled the most serene, innocent smile she had ever seen. His light brown hair appeared dirty blonde the top of his head. He appeared to Ethida as an angel now. But why am I seeing him now when I meet this girl? Must I care for her and help her? I feel as though I must. So if that is my destiny at the moment I will.

Ethida was not sure why, but she had a feeling that she was obliged to take the young girl before her under her wing. If this was not the case, then so be it. However if the child truly needs Ethida, she will protect Ko just as she protected that boy in the village. This is what her heart has told her and she follows her heart whenever and wherever it calls.

[Kyoko Oni]

Ko concentrated on the horse. Not paying much attention to Ethida, even as she spoke. As far as Ko was concerned, this creature was the boss of them two, it was bigger and stronger, if it took her offering it accepted her peaceful nature and wouldn't let its subordinates attack her. It all made perfect sence to her. As the horse began to nibble the grass out of her hand Ko smiled lightly and waited untill he finished. She didn't reach out to pat it like what might customarily be done rather she turned to the creatures that had displayed that they could communicate with her. Her yellow eyes continued to study them more intensively as they were up close. She wondered at their garments most of all. They were so... complicated. Ko was born clothed, being a demon she was at one with everything created with her. She wondered if they were born that way too.

Her head met with the eyes of the one who spoke to her. Some of the words were not ones that she could easily understand, but she got the basic gist. The word that had her stumped was Exotic.. but telling by her tone and the rest of her speech she could understand, it was probably a good thing.

"Kyoko Oni" She said softly "It is my name" She tipped her head lightly. Mirror Demon was how the meanings translated out. Indeed, she had been a mirror demon, sprouting out of her mother's stomach as a fox demon much like the fox demon who killed her mom... Except in color. But that was a long time ago, the past had been long lost, now Ko was naught more than a 14 year old girl who crawled from the mud of the Cursed Waters.

"I am looking for something. I am alone because I was alone." She answered. Perhaps to them they didn't make much sence. "I came from the dark place with the poisoned water. I came here to find something that wasn't there... but I don't know what..." She looked down lightly. There was something so refreshing about talking to these beings. "I think I want to find my parents... but I don't know where to look." She looked up again at the horse and then at the other two, especially at the one who enquired. She didn't much care about their names or why their were here, what did it matter?

She yawned lightly her bright yellow eyes still studying them intently. Perhaps she did wonder at them, but they weren't as important to her as eating or perhaps just simply existing. THough she was curious to them, they were the first of something remotely her kind she had seen thus far...



(Sorreh about the shortness)

[mixedblood9]

ooc: don’t worry about the shortness of your last post… I even forgot all about the bread in my hand from the previous post when Ethida approached Ko… oops.

bic:

Ethida continued to watch Ko. For some odd reason, she was content in being with the girl. The interest Ko displayed for Torano and the curiosity in their clothing and themselves amused Ethida and again reminded her of the little boy she had once taught in her village. The human woman who once again felt the tugs of relaxation in her usually tense body calmly smiled when the girl formally introduced herself as Kyoko Oni. Her name was strange to Ethida and as she thought before, it was exotic to her ears. However, it seemed in a tiny way familiar. Mirror demon? Is that not the translation for “Kyoko Oni”? Ethida pondered it for a moment. She faintly remembered there once came a man of a foreign tribe who used that particular term. Wondering if her guess was correct, Ethida wanted to ask the girl however, she began to speak once again and the human woman decided to let the question go for another time. It could be true but for now it was not the most important thing to Ethida. The strange girl was a demon – her eyes had given that away – but the kind of demon she was could be left for another time to learn if it is essential to their survival.

As Ethida listened to Kyoko’s explanation of her lonely search for someone, she became more confused about her origins.

Who would abandon this child in the wilderness or was she kidnapped? From her description, she must have come from the Cursed Waters. What would cause her to be in that particular area? She does not seem to have any leads as to where her parents are and where to search to find what she seeks.

Listening to the young girl’s voice, Ethida found herself wanting to help her in her quest to find her parents or some form of a family. The human woman grinned and gently looked upon the yawning child and found herself again speaking to Ko.

If you desire company, I offer my help to aid in your quest. My name is Ethida Tsukiri of Saigoni village in a distant land while the woman behind me is called Ivalia, maiden of the elfin tribes. Also my friend and stallion here bears the name of Torano. Oh! Yes… I almost forgot about this. Here, this is for you if you wish.

She pulled the bread ration from her cloak and offered it to Ko. It was a bit hard to chew but it has more taste than grass may demonstrate to have. No harm if the girl declines the portion. Ethida figured she would offer the food in case the girl proved hungry. She looked into the young girl’s face and smiled, hoping she was more comfortable than her earlier impressions exhibited.

[Kyoko Oni]

She looked from creature to creature as the woman told her who and what they were. After the woman was done speaking she offered a strange thing to Ko. She leaned forward lightly looking at it in her hand. Tiliting her head as she studied it from different angles. It was a return peace offering. With her milky white hands she gracefully accepted the piece of bread and nibbled on it. It really wasn't that good, it had none of the qualities of her usual diet of fresh fruits or meat. Bread was something new to her.

She nibbled on it, eating it as quick as she good. The flavor was horrible and the texture was quarky. It almost melted in your mouth, grew wet and slimy with her own spit. She ate it none the less, she didn't want to seem hostile toward tham, not after they had proven to her that they wanted peace by having the largest one eat from her hands. She ate every last crumb before looking up at the woman again.

Any uneasiness as faded away and she felt a certain comfort among them. There was a mutial understanding that they wouldn't tried to hurt or eat each other. She didn't thank for the food, it wasn't costomary, the act of offering peace was the reward that they should have gained from the encounter.

"Ko no need help."

It was almost contradictory how she could understand every word that this creature said and yet couldn't speak the complexities of their language. It was something of the brain, she could comprehend, but not reproduce exactly. It's kind of like singing your favorite songs... You'll forget the lyrics if the music isn't playing for you. Their speach was like that music.

"Ko is happy that you want peace, Ko offers peace too." She smiled lightly, her yellow eyes watching all three of them "Ko needs to find what is missing" She looked around lightly, a perhaps slightly saddened look upon her face.

Her parents.. thats what she felt was missing... there was an urge to do something.. to do anything.. something.. find someone.. find something... She didn't know, her mind was fluttering with a sort of panicy chaos. She wanted something.. that one thing on the planet that would make her happy and whole. She would find it.. she knew she would. She would find the thing that was ment to be, find it.. and then her life would extinguish finally... and her last breath would be a happy one.. but first she had to find it.... Afterall.. life was a journey toward death, that was something that the little child could understand... death.

[mixedblood9]

Watching the child, Ethida chuckled quietly to herself, amused with Ko' apparent curiosity and innocent behavior. Not knowing of her lifestyle in the wilds, the human woman could not begin to imagine Kyoko's thoughts on the bread. Ethida grew up and survived on it and so she was used to the texture and taste of it. The ration was bland and usual for her, however it was sustenance and she had not seen any fruit trees or had time to search or hunt during the course of her travels. She is not properly nutritioned and soon Ethida's body and strength may fail her, but for now she was content with her condition and in being with company and possibly strong allies.

"Ko no need help," was the young girl's reply to Ethida's offer of assistance. The young woman of Earth knew full well Kyoko's mentality. She remembers refusing help many times during her life in Saigoni village. As a feisty human girl, she had always felt she needed to prove her strength and so during any of her tasks or chores, she never asked for or accepted aid. She has continued to be determined to complete her job, any job, fully; Ethida has proven many times she is devoted to herself and her responsibilities.

Once Kyoko finished speaking, Ethida noticed a saddened expression appear on her face. The human woman's hazel eyes took this feeling in and Ethida Tsukiri's face also took on the shape of sorrow, remembering once again the loss of her home and family. She inhaled a breath of fresh, tranquil air now doused with the water of rain and began.

What is missing? Ethida asked in a gentle, instinctively mother-like tone.

Now reminiscing about her missing brother, she remembers that glimmer of hope shining everywhere the sun reaches. Losing the saddened expression, the face becomes optimistic and almost light of heart.

I will not force you to do anything and I will not force my help upon you. I am happy you wish peace between us. My friends and I were about to embark on a small journey to find some shelter from the rain when you happened upon us and now I would like to know if you would like to join us for a time.

Still crouching at Ko's level, Ethida turned her head to Ivalia for a sign of approval in case the elf maiden wanted nothing to do with the child anymore being as she had stood behind her and merely watched Ethida speak with Ko. She did not want to leave the girl however she did not wish to alienate Ivalia by not including her as well. With the rain still steadily falling and running through her dark strawberry-blonde hair, Ethida turned back to Ko after Ivalia's reply. One last minute thought came to her mind. She saw no harm in asking considering her company already of an elf woman who is obviously pledged to the Goddess of Water and so she pursued a short answer to her short question:

Kyoko, you wouldn't happen to know... which of the Gods and Goddesses you are pledged to?

ooc: I didn't mean to power-play in this post by assuming Ivalia responds... I merely meant to finish my thought which would come after a response... I still gave you room to respond Promise... I hope that is okay.

[Promise Broken]

<sup>Ivalia had stood off to the side, pretty uncaring in this situation. As much as she found the young girl's presence... intrigueing, there just something about the small child that didn't seem right. That didn't seem... safe. Ivalia wasn't one who often called something seemingly barbaric, for she wasn't of any high social class like she might be assumed and she had her demons and her secrets. She'd seen things people didn't think a woman such as her would. To put it simply... she was hardly squeamish.

But something about those wolfish yellow eyes, warned of some danger, that just didn't make Ivalia feel comfortable. Thus she kept her space, and left herself self reserved and quiet. Though it was more or less the wind that was really putting her on edge. The environment seemed to grow more ominous as if the sky was falling inwards, but it was not the storm... it was the air. So thick and suffocating. Ivalia was feeling mighty uncomfortable here. Maybe it was her utter aloneness in this situation. Yes Ethida and herself had claimed friendship, and this new aquaintance said she meant no harm... Ivalia just... Oh she didn't know.

It was almost as if this tranquil nuetrality between all four corners would never last. Perhaps it was that fear. For the past few years all had seemed well and she had gone throughout the world without any fear... traversing through the regions uncharted. But there was a form of impending doom that seemed to hang, overcast over everything. The rain only brought out this feeling. And the young child's appearance in such a startling fashion.

A chill wavered down the woman's spine as she sheltered herself from the rain, the water seeming to meat her skin to the eye, but not one drop reached the copper toned tissue. Not one ebon lock of her finely curled hair lay damp and pinned to her skull. She was still the perfect image of refined beauty as she had always been... and always would be.

Collecting herself and her state of mind, she merely nodded to Ethida as the woman seemed to ask for confirmation of her elf... as if to make sure it was alright with the half-blood. She did not hold eye contact long, but instead looked up towards the storming sky. How much worse would it get? She couldn't be sure... she hoped not too terribly.</sup>