Whispers

Subject: Whispers Sun Jun 07, 2009 7:58 pm

(This was a realm wide SL from several years ago I would like to share with you. I believe it gives a lot of insight into some characters you may not know all that well. Enjoy!)

"Didja hear Mabel?" the portly chamber maid chimed in as she ambled down the servant's stair to the spacious kitchens of the castle.

"Heard what, Abbey?" came an answer from an older woman sitting upon a stool mechanically removing feathers from a freshly killed chicken for the upcoming evening meal.

"The Queen!" increasing her pace, taking the last few steps with alacrity, causing her ample bosom to jiggle and sway along with her apparent excitement. "She's taken to some odd food cravings as of late! Youuuu know what that meeeeansss!" A smile as broad and sunshiney as morning itself graced her rather plain yet animated features.

"Oh pish, Abbey." The older woman paused from her work, holding the bird carcass between her slightly spread legs as she rolled her eyes to the eaves. "It don't mean nothing. Her majesty may just have wanted something different to taste. Don't go spreading rumors that there will be another heir on the wa..."

"It was haggis." Abbey interjected those three fateful words giving Mabel the eye which was immediately followed by the *plop* of the chicken carcass hitting the floor, the kitchen woman stunned into wide eyed silence as she digested what was said.

"Well," Mabel spoke at last, huffing out a breath as she, too, bought into the rumor that was started there and then. "Best I tell Hossipher to see if he can find the royal bassinet and such up in storage." She smiled wistfully, recalling the few times when the castle was alive with laughter of a wee child scampering about the kitchens making trouble. That look upon her face was short lived as she narrowed her eyes, waggling a finger at Abbey who was absolutely beaming. "Abbey... I don't want you to tell another soul of this! This is the Queen's time with child... and she will be the one to break the joyous news when the time is right for her. Understand?"

Abbey tried to look quite contrite, clasping her hands before her as she spoke. "Yes'm.... Mum's the word." There was a twinkle in her eye despite her best efforts.... and most likely she would blab to a few 'in confidence', which meant that soon the entire castle staff would know.

Subject: Re: Whispers Sun Jun 07, 2009 8:17 pm

(He he he, oh yes, this is a good one!))

Subject: Re: Whispers Mon Jun 08, 2009 6:52 am

It was evening, and Katie was to be found at her desk, reviewing the weekly ledger. It had been a long day, as usual, and she was looking forward to a nice quiet evening. A nice fire, perhaps a book and a glass of port....

"Lady Evermore! Lady Evermore!" A whirlwind burst into her office, roosting by the edge of her desk and resolving itself into a breathless child, Ian, her faithful stable lad, eyes alight with excitement.

"My heavens lad, you're all a flutter. What could possibly be so important that you'd come here at this late an hour." She chuckled, then frowned slightly. "Is all well with your parents?"

"Yes Lady. Yes all is well here and about. All is very well! Have you not heard the news?"

"News...? Oh, is that shipment of eastern spices here at last?"

"No, no Lady, not yet." He was finally catching his breath, but had lost none of his bouncing excitement.

"Well what is it, then?" She was on the edge of her seat now, and wasn't even sure why.

"My da sent me, Lady, to tell you that he heard from his brother, my uncle ye ken, that his wife's cousin's sister heard that the Queen... " he started bouncing more. "..the Queen.. .she..."

"Yes, Ian, the Queen? She what? Is she unwell? Is she finally giving the King what for? What is it?"

"Lady, they say she's to have a bairn!"

"A... are they certain?" She thought someone had just pole axed her. Stranger news could not be possible.

"I do not know, Lady. He just told me to tell you."

"Thank you, Ian," she said finally, smiling to him. Well, well, well, how very interesting. She would have to ponder on this for awhile. She closed the ledger, storing it safely and replacing her pen beside the inkpot.

"I believe it is time to open the Inn."

Lady Evermore

Subject: Re: Whispers Mon Jun 08, 2009 8:32 pm

Having heard the whispers and the sidelong glances by the staff, he overheard one as they whispered to another that the Queen was expecting. He hurried to her private chamber and into her inner office, opened the door to see her sitting at her desk, writing a letter. "Milove? Is there somethin' ye wish tae tell me?"

She looked up and over to him with a complete look of confusion on her face.

Weel milove, I jest 'eard rumor tha' ye were wi' child. Seems th' castle staff ha' it goin' aroun'."
"Oh... Oh!!... Oh!!!!"

"Oh, is there something you meant to TELL ME????"

"Now, darling...calm yerself. Ye know how rumors start," wringing her hands a bit.

"I KNOW 'ow they START!! Wi' a bit o' truth tae 'em. Eith'r ye ARE 'er ye AREN'T!"

Her eyes flared for a moment then the calmness returned. "I cannae bear more children if ye will recall," she said cooly.

"Weel th'n. 'Ow would these women know somethin' tha' could nae 'appen in th' first place? Ye ord'rd 'aggis?"

"I cannae fer th' life o' me think why." her cheeks turning scarlet. "I just ha' this yen fer it. An' in th' morn, I was sickened by th' mere thought o' it. I do nae LIKE yer damned haggis!"

"Ye ne'r ha' milove. 'Tis why I was a bit tak'n aback by it"

"A mere fancy," she shrugged lightly.

"Weel we'd best put a stop tae THA' rumor. Tho t'would ha' been wonderous news if ye were milove"

Her hand went up to her throat at the mere thought of haggis. Even the pressure of her delicate hand was enough to make the urge to vomit all too real. Again she turned back to him with the glare evident. "If ye wish another child, m'love...ye best take a concubine." The words shot like venom.

"Whoa. Um, I merely meant tha' if YE were wi' child, t'would ha' been wonderous news milove"

"Well, tis only "wonderous" prattlings by women who ha' nae enough tae do. I shall fix tha', trust me. I want this complete chamber aired, stripped an' cleaned. I wish tae see it repainted, new linens made... an' th' bed over THERE!" She pointed at the opposite end of the room. "An' tha' will be TODAY's project."

He made the attempt to hold her close. "I dae love ye, ye know. Oh my."

As his arms swept around her, she turned to him lovingly. "An' I love ye....even more than tha', m'love."

Turns to Anna who just happens to be on the other end of the room, by the doorway, listening in. "Anna, it looks as if th' Queen wi' be redecoratin' 'er her chambers soon. An' ye might pass th' word tha' th' Queen is nae wi' child."

"Now..." she cooed, "about that moonlight stroll ye promised me."

"Aye, shall we milove?" He escorted her to their balcony and the private entrance to the gardens.

Subject: Re: Whispers Tue Jun 09, 2009 7:39 pm

((this sl was such great fun. Thank you Karen. ::hushes and waits for the next post:: Smile

)

Subject: Re: Whispers Tue Jun 09, 2009 8:38 pm

Caillie stood watching the door as it closed behind Aiden after his visit this evening. Suddenly the all too familiar pain streaked through her temples. She stifled a scream and, as always, within seconds it was gone. Bringing her fingertips to her head, she massaged gently as she fell back a few steps. Finally feeling the seat of her chaise lounge press against the back of her legs, she sat heavily. What was happening to her??

She shook her head to clear it as she thought back on their meeting. Aiden had entered her chambers with a purpose this evening. Unlike his usual nightly checks on her, where conversation was light and witty, he seemed far more formal and detached. Their conversation was stilted and each spoke without meeting the other's eyes as he checked her room thoroughly...behind curtains and tapestries. Perhaps he had heard the rumors but was too polite to ask. Still, his look was that of concern as he watched her movements. It was obvious each had questions of the other that were left unasked.

She stared at him, or through him. He WAS real. She had confirmed that when she requested he "hold her" as she shivered. She felt a "complete being" as they stood closely. Yet, she had SEEN his death as clearly as the light of day. The sighting had frightened her so badly she had lied to his grieving wife, assuring Ashly that Aiden's death could not be possible. Yet, inside, she grieved as well and told no one of what she had seen.

Had she angered the Goddess? Was this a punishment of some sort? Why would such a scene play out before her eyes if it were not true? Aiden had stood before her and the Court...alive and well. Ashly had shown no signs that anything was amiss with her returning husband.

The taper in her chamber sputtered softly and left her in the dark as the tears fell freely. She reclined on the chaise as the dull headache pounded. Something was wrong...horribly wrong. As she lay in the darkness, she had but one thought...Issotta! She must speak with her Sister. "Issotta," she called out as darkness overcame her.

Subject: Re: Whispers Wed Jun 10, 2009 6:41 am

Caillean........

The cool autumn night air blew past the window flaps and startled her, knocking a basket from beside her bed onto the floor. She sat up, her heart racing. She rubbed her face tentatively, letting the glow of the dying fire guide her vision until she could see clearly her chamber, her bed, her chair, her sleeping children.
She got up on bare feet and padded across flagstones to grab a mug of water from the sacred well. It was always cool. She tried to push down feelings of dread, which often came with evil dreams. She felt compelled to rush to Caillean....spirit sister.....
Taking a drink of her water, she sat down quietly a moment. Caillean's kingdom had been through a lot in the last year, and Caillie's nerves were likely worn thin. If Issotta went trotting into court to see if some imaginary thing were wrong, it would just cause the Queen more stress. It was probably just a bad dream, and that is all. Just in case, though, she got dressed. It was nearly dawn anyway. She would talk to one of the village women on the other side of the Lake and send somebody to ask around the castle discreetly. That Castle's staff were always ones to talk. If there were a problem, well, it was better to know than not.

Issotta

Subject: Re: Whispers Wed Jun 10, 2009 4:25 pm

She was screaming, screaming and fell down from her chair by the fireplace of her chamber. She could feel the soft carpet and the stone floor beneath and she could feel the hands of the maids and even hear their cries of alarm, their fussing, and their yelling for a healer, for the Queen and for a glass of water.
Siobhan lay dead still as pictures washed over her inner vision like flashes in a thunderstorm. She could hear what was happening in the room, but her thoughts were far, far away. She was scooped up and shaken by someone, she was unsure who, and she went from limp and still to thrashing against the hands that were holding her.

"Da!" she screamed hoarsely, "I want to see Da! Bring him....bring him....." and she melted into sobs.

Before long she could see the room again and her heart beat slowed. She could see the maids who were all white as a ghost and deadly silent, looking at her. She drew a shuddery breath and looked back at them. "I would like to see my Father. Please...bring him to me."
One of the women left the room, presumably to get her father, or who knew what else. They asked her questions; what was wrong, was she ill, was someone in the room, did she hurt anywhere, had she been sleeping, and so forth.

Very quietly, her hands still shaking, she told them, no she had not been sleeping, she had been reading and then her eyes got tired so she looked at the fire for awhile. No, she felt fine, no she did not hurt, and no, no one had been in her room.

Her only visitor had been Aiden, who had stopped in to say that he would be guarding her room all night. He had seemed quiet, tense and suspicious. She had told him, feeling silly, of the feeling of dread that had been growing in her heart. She hadn't told anyone else, not even Mum, and she knew that Aiden would not tell anyone; not unless he thought she was in danger. He had been kind and had given her a little elvish charm that he said might help with her nightmares. It was still clutched in her hand.

Now that she caught her breath she felt rather silly about the whole thing. "Please, I'm fine now. Just some water, thank you..." she took the offered glass. "No need for a healer. I'd just....I can wait to see Da until tomorrow, so don't wake him. Please, Meg, Tamera, I'd like to be alone now, all right?"
Tamera looked dubious and Meg looked downright mutinous. She was the one who spoke. "Pardon me, Princess but it's just not right if I don't say something to their Majesties. You gave us a fright and took a fall and I'm just...well.....I'll not be keeping it to myself. Forgive me, Highness." Meg trotted out of the room. Tamera fled behind her, giving her at least a few minutes' peace.

Subject: Re: Whispers Wed Jun 10, 2009 11:15 pm

A maid he knew to be from Siobhan's chambers flew into his office on a dead run and skidded to a stop just before falling over his desk face first. Startled, Mel instinctively slide back from the desk before she could fall on him.

"G'd Lor' Woman! Wha' th' divil is wrong wi' ye?"

He looked past her to see if there had been any guards outside his door. Both of them were standing in the doorway, eyes wide, confusion on their faces. One shrugged then moved into the room. Mel held up a hand to him then looked to the woman who obviously was overly excited.

"Wha' is it lass?"

"Lor' Meldrum, it's Siobhan. She's callin' for ye. She seems pretty adamant about it too."

Mel got up and followed her out the door, guards tagging behind as they went to the children's wing. He arrived at Siobhan's door and peeked in to see several women crouched around her, what looked like trying to soothe her. He stepped in and walked over to her. Leaning down, he touched her cheek softly.

"Dear child, wha' is it? I'm 'ere."

*************

Caillie, having fallen asleep on her own as Mel worked late into the night, heard a pounding on her door. "Majesty! Majesty...please!"

The voice sounded insistent, even panicked as Caillie reached for her robe and called out "Enter!"

The two maids nearly fell into the door as it opened, rattled off their tale, then followed the Queen as she raced from her Chambers to the Children's Wing.

Bursting past the guards and maidens, seeing her husband already at Siobhan's side, she fell in beside him. "There, there, my Princess...wha' is it?", she cooed softly.

************

Aiden quickly rounded a corner, soon to make his way towards the young princess' quarters while two other guards trailed in step with their Captain.

There, ahead, Aiden observed a crowd of curious servants, in addition to the few guards posted in the Royal wing that had already gathered near the room.

"Move, please. Out of the way..." Aiden ordered as he sifted his body through the crowd as to get to the door. He noticed that the majority of the servants gathered were caught in robes and night gowns, along with a few caps upon their heads. It would seem as if the Princess had awoken half the castle, but that was a greater exaggeration, for the number wasn't truly that significant. It just seemed as such with the scatter of people along the hall.

Aiden grabbed the sleeve of one of the guards near the door. "Where do these folks think they are? Get them out of here." After the command, Aiden opened the door quietly while the guards asked the others to disperse back to their quarters.

His eyes settled upon the King and Queen, consoling their frightened child. Not wishing to get in the way, but simply assess the situation as to make sure it wasn't a physical threat, he soon closed the door quietly behind where he would stand outside and let them have their quiet moment together.

However, his mind began to wander, for something was definitely awry. The last time he had seen the Queen, she was rather distraught and he could not quite place her concerns. Then there was the Princess who told him of nightmares and the fact that she was afraid. That was all evident presently.

Hmmm. This was one concern he was going to have to get to the bottom of.

Aiden Reinhardt
Count of SeaCrest
Lord Seneschal for DMoS (SiC)
Captain of the Guards
Bodyguard to Queen Caillean
"Only the dead see the end of War." ~ Plato

Subject: Re: Whispers Thu Jun 11, 2009 6:23 am

Siobhan went immediately into her father's arms, sniffling. Her mum came in right behind him. In the hallway, she could hear Aiden shuffling people out of the hallway and she was glad for it.

When the door closed, she wept softly on her Da's shirt. "I saw bad things, Da. I saw someone trying to hurt you. You were.....you were going to die." Her slender form quivered in his arms.

"I was not asleep.....it was just....there were these pictures in my thoughts and I could not make them stop. I was just looking at the fire for awhile. My eyes were tired."

She looked up at her Mum. "Is something wrong with me?" It had been terrible and she could not even remember all of it, except Da, hurt and dying, and a shadow over everything. She shivered with the memory and clutched the little charm that Aiden had given her, with a shaking hand.

He watched his daughter as she told the story of why she was in tears then nodded to her and smiled. "Aye lass, ye've ha' some vision bu' t'won't come true fer ye see, I'm nae aboot tae die. There be far tae many thin's tae accomplish yet." He then turned to Caillie "Milove, I think ye would be able tae explain wha' Siobhan is goin' through bett'r th'n I could."

Caillie felt the room go dark around her as she struggled to keep from fainting. Dear Goddess...no! Her mind reeled as her voice kept a soothing tone to calm her daughter.

"There, there, my Precious," she whispered. "As ye can see yer Da is fine an' there is nothing in this world tha' could harm him."

It was a struggle for the words to become audible. She wanted to scream to the Mother...."How could ye?!" Was it truly possible her daughter had inherited the gift of Sight? It was a gift that Caillie had avoided as much as possible for many, many years. It had taken the love and patience of her Spirit Sister, Issotta, to show her the way. Long ago, during the ceremonies on the T or and given the name Ashea, did Caillie truly comprehend that she was not being punished for leaving the Isle before learning the Mysteries. She had been assured that she was serving the Goddess her own unique way. Vivianne had known this even when she was a child in training with Morgaine on Avalon. It had remained elusive to Caillie until she could bear the images no longer.

Bits and pieces of these memories flooded her senses as she embraced her daughter tightly.

"Let th' fear go for now, Child. Ye an' I shall speak o' it one day soon. For now," she added cryptically, "avoid staring into th' flames o' th' fire."

Whether or not Mel had overheard her, she could not say. She knew only that she could not remain in that room for another instant...and fled down the hallway.

He had heard some of what Caillie had said to their daughter then was surprised to see her leave the room so quickly. Instead of following her, he stayed to comfort Siobhan for awhile longer. He would find out what was going on with Caillie soon enough.

Aiden had remained in front of the Princess' door with arms hung down in front while a hand loosely clasped his opposing wrist as he kept to his guarding position.
As he could hear muffled words behind the closed door, his head turned slightly as to direct his hearing better, for he was certainly curious to know what was going on with the Royal family.
But then, without notice, there came the quickened pace of a Queen rushing past him. Glancing over to her, he did not speak, but only watched her flee down the hallway. This caused Aiden to poke his head back into the room to make sure all was well.
Catching the scene of a loving father with his frightened daughter, he once again closed the door, glancing back to the two guards with him.

"Y'or here for the night. Keep an eye on things," he calmly commanded before making his walk to find Queen Meldrum, if not just for the usual duty of keeping a watch on her.

Subject: Re: Whispers Thu Jun 11, 2009 8:41 pm

She had slipped away after dinner, heading, with a purpose, for the Bards and Bannocks Inn. Since she did not have her own bodyguard, she was easily overlooked by the average castle guards who had more than enough to do. No matter, of course, for she was going someplace safe.

Now that she was back at home, she thought about the conversation she had experienced with Lady Evermore. She had asked Kate, quite frankly, if she had ever seen her mother behave so strangely. Kate seemed somewhat troubled but not deeply concerned when Siobhan described how inappropriate her mother had seemed with Duke Eoin. Kate had told her that the last time she had seen her mother behave in any unusual manner was when she had experienced visions, and what was called "The Sight".

Siobhan knew all too well what it felt like. She remembered, even now, the feeling of terror and dread at the horrible vision she had experienced regarding her father. The dark figure over Da laughing, laughing and Da was dying. It had been horrible. Her eyes filled with tears just thinking about it again.

Yet, Kate had told her that the Sight could be learned, could be controlled and would cause her less fear if she could come to understand it better. Her mother had never said anything about it, and in fact, had fled the room when Siobhan had confessed her frightening vision. Siobhan felt sad and wondered why her mother would not help her; why did they not talk about it? They had always been so close before. Now, it seemed as if her mother was just not herself and they didn't talk at all. Poor Da, too....he was just bewildered altogether.

Siobhan caught herself gazing into the fire, deep in thought, and then quickly turned away with a gasp, terrified that it would happen again, this "Sight". Siobhan was a good Christian girl and her mother did not speak often of her faith. Truth be told, Siobhan just did not know enough about the older ways to know what she thought of them at all. She only knew that the Sight made her afraid. She hoped that her mother would not call upon the Lady of the Lake, for Siobhan was afraid of her too.

Kate had seemed willing to help Siobhan learn how to control her sight. The Princess had felt safe with her, like being with an older sister. She would call upon her again soon. In the meantime, she shored herself up, remembering that she had told Kate she wanted to learn how to talk to the Goddess. Kate had told her how....very simply.....just like any other prayer.

Siobhan slid from her chair to her knees and folded her hands....but no, this did not feel right at all. She stood up, then, and looked around. With a bit of inspiration, she lit a candle and put it on the windowsill. Through the panes she could see the countryside which lay in the rich colors of evening autumn. Sitting alongside her candle in the windowsill, she closed her eyes and whispered quietly,

"Lady........Kate said that I could call you Lady....."

"I don't understand what is happening to me. Or to my mother. And I....I don't know you. Are you the Blessed Mother of God? Or some other Lady? Either way, if you have sent the Sight to me, I do not want it. I see horrible things.
If I must see things, though, Lady, I ask you to help me not to be afraid, and to understand the messages that you have sent to me. I guess that is all that I can think to say to you just now.
Oh....and thank you for giving me Lady Evermore to be my friend. Maybe she will help me to know you better. And I ask, Lady.....since you are the Goddess of my Mother and her people.....heal her. She is not right or well. You know her heart and you know her spirit. Also, if there is kindness in you for those who walk other paths, please protect my father. I fear for his safety.
Umm....Amen. "

Siobhan had a look around her room again. That was an interesting experience. She wished she could have shared it with her mother. More than anything, she wanted things to be normal again. She was very tired after her evening jaunt and headed straight to bed, in hope of sleeping well and without dreams.

Subject: Re: Whispers Thu Jun 11, 2009 10:48 pm

After closing the Inn for the night, Katie rested her head on her hand against the door for a moment. What a night. She knew the Princess had wished to speak with her, but she was not prepared for where that conversation would lead.

Pushing off the door, she lowered the lanterns in the room until they were barely glowing, then wandered back behind the bar, checking the lock on the till and then going through the door behind to her office. Once there, she made certain all was in order and tidy before retiring to her room.

Rather than lighting a candle, she shed her clothes in the darkness, sliding a linen night gown over her head. She then pulled a knit blanket off the end of her bed, wrapped it around her shoulders and moved to sit in the window seat.

The light of the waning moon shone weakly on the grounds, giving the woods an ethereal look and making the light frost on the windows seem to glow faintly. She rested her head against the glazed glass, the chill cooling her forehead.

She hoped she had given sound advice to the Princess this evening, without seeming like she was being overly cautious. It probably wasn't her place to discuss the Queen's abilities with the girl, but she seemed to be woefully unaware of what she seemed to be inheriting. More than that, it was dangerous for her to be untrained in at least the basics of control and understanding of what she had.

That the girl was afraid of the Lady of the Lake... Katie supposed that went along with all that Avalon represented, and the Power held within the Lady. She could be unnerving at best, and downright off-putting at times. Morgaine had been such, as had Viviane.

That the poor child was left unaware of her mother's faith, well... she had chosen to believe in a God that Katie did not understand, but she seemed willing to learn at least a little. Hopefully her bardic skills wouldn't fail her, and she could present an objective, coherent idea of what her faith in the Goddess was, and was based on.

If nothing else, she could give the girl some basic idea of how to keep her mind calm and aware of what goes on within. Although she did not have the Sight herself, she had been trained on the Isle along with Caillean, years ago. Her training had been more how to wield a bardic gift, how to use it to handle audiences and the like.

Thankfully, the beginning training was the same for all gifts. Finding a stable place within, building a mental wall around one's ~self~ ... mental protections dependent solely on the gifted person. She had already explained this to the Princess, and the girl seemed to take well to it. She hoped Siobhan would also take her advice and pray to the Goddess, perhaps find a way to relate Her with her own faith. She often found correlations between hers and other faiths she'd explored. It made it easier, sometimes. She hoped that was the case here.

Perhaps she would send a prayer of her own, asking the Goddess to watch over the girl.

And asking for guidance of her own, that her abilities be enough to help the Princess.

Subject: Re: Whispers Fri Jun 12, 2009 7:40 am

Caillie found reasons to keep herself secreted in her office, leaving orders not to be disturbed. She dreaded venturing out into the corridors. She despised the tittering of the useless maidens with their giggles and gossip hidden behind their hands as she passed. More than one of the 'wenches' had been sent back home to parents she hoped would bear the shame of their daughters being outcast from the Queen's service. The most ignorant of the lasses had retold an utter rumor of the Queen flirting with the First Knight!! She had been sent away on the spot and her wages unpaid. How DARE she!

The entire staff seemed preoccupied with lies and deceit. Those who seemed most loyal avoided her eyes when she spoke to them. Even the ladies who attended her bedtime rituals exchanged secret glances with each other as they brushed her hair. Did they think she was blind?? Did they think she could not see these exchanges as she sat before her looking glass?? They too had been dismissed. Something had to be done with this traitorous staff and soon! She would stand for no more!

As she paced furiously from end to end of her chamber, she could feel her heart beating in her temples. "Be Gone!!" she screamed to the empty room. She would NOT allow these headaches to return! They left her feeling empty, drained and not in control.

A sudden movement, caught by her peripheral vision, forced her to draw the deadly dagger she kept close at all times. Her hand flashed the silver behind her back as she saw her husband's startled look. "Good eve tae ye, my darling," she cooed though her eyes held no love. "I was certain I asked NOT to be disturbed."

Mel opened the door softly and peeked in to see his wife pacing the floor. She seemed preoccupied. As was his custom on occasion, he slipped up behind her quietly, ready to put his arms around her. With her swift movement, he caught the flash of steel as it slipped first from it's scabbard and then behind her back. He drew his arms back in a protective stance. This had been the first time he'd ever had to take that stance with her.

His eyes opened wide then drew down to slits as he looked at her, the love lost somewhere between those eyes and that brain that obviously was working overtime. Something had been bothering her over these past few weeks and she wouldn't tell him what it was. Dismissal of staff for speaking softly when around her, simply so they wouldn't disturb her, sent her into a frenzy of releasing the staff of duties. At this rate we might not have any staff.

"Milove, I came in tae find out 'ow ye were feelin'."

Subject: Re: Whispers Fri Jun 12, 2009 3:08 pm

Across the leagues, in the ruined castle secreted away in the depths of a dead forest, the sinister being that was known only as William continued to reach out to the Queen, gradually poisoning her mind. The setback visited upon him by the escape of Lady Blu as well as the destruction of his grisly parody of the gateway stones would not go unpunished. Revenge would be his as his necromantic powers would be plied against the regency until Caillean's will and mind shattered, making her an agent of Darkness.

Soon... bedchambers will be streaked red with the castings of a blade from the murderous rage born from insanity. A king killed by his wife, heirs strangled by what was once a loving mother, and as a last blow, a Queen lying broken upon the cold earth as she leapt from the parapets. This is the price of annoying the lich and letting his prey escape.

For the moment, though, the grisly act of the play continued to play itself out with none the wiser. All the better... Let them wonder... let them worry.... let them suffer.

Subject: Re: Whispers Fri Jun 12, 2009 3:58 pm

Her mother had been put tidily to sleep by the potion that Siobhan had secretly dripped into the Queen's tea as directed by the Mistress of Healers. She, however, lay in her own bed, wide awake, staring at the ceiling. Sleep was a frightening territory, but so was wakefulness. She had forbidden to have a fire lit in the fire place, fearing what she would see again in the flames. As a result, the room was cold and dark, lit only by the glow of the numerous candles she had placed around her bedside.

Aiden was standing outside her Mum's door and she was glad of it. She was ashamed to say that she was not so worried about someone hurting Mum as she was about Mum running out and doing something alarming herself. Her behavior in court had been beyond all reason. Ashly would see her in the morning, she said, to examine her.

She was so tired. Lying in the bed would only help her to fall asleep, and yet, it was too cold not to be under blankets and furs. What was happening to them all? She realized, all at once, how alone she felt, how she wished for strong arms to hold her, and the fact that she was on her own, for now. This is what it feels like to grow up....she thought, silently. To need a comforting touch and to find oneself alone, after all, in the night. She closed her eyes and drew to mind the face of someone who she wished would be near to her at this moment, in this darkness. But wishing would not make it so.

Her eyes drifted over the the trio of candles on her bedside chest. The candles offered softness to the severity of the darkness. She was trembling softly and growing weary. To comfort herself, she pulled into memory her usual prayer, her favorite one, and whispered it, watching the dance of the candles. She could almost imagine the tiny flames moving with each of her words.....

Salve, Regina, mater misericordiae,
Vita, dulcedo et spes nostra salve,
Ad te clamamus exsules filii Hevae
Ad te suspiramus, gementes et flentes
in hac lacrimamrum valle......

Her whispers faded out as she was drawn into the sight of the dancing candle light. Before long she was lost in another state of being, a sleepless dream. The castle lay before her and there was blood, blood everywhere and she could not breathe. The shadow was there again, looming over her as it had over her father, and laughing, laughing, until she could not bear the sound. Blood! Help! She grasped at her throat, gasping for air.

Suddenly, she started to scream and flailed at the bed covers. "Keep her away from me! Keep her away!" Her screams faded into sobs, trembling, racking sobs. She sat quickly, flinging aside her bedcovers and standing on the cold flagstones of her floor. The coldness roused her from the vision and she immediately stifled the sounds of her crying. If the maids came in, they would want to wake her parents and she did not want to disturb them.

She was ashamed, and knew the truth behind not wanting her parents to know; she was afraid to see Mum, did not want her mother's touch and could not bear the innocent look of confusion on her father's face. She crawled back under covers, drawing them up over her head fully. What will I do? I need help.......

Salve Regina, mater misericordiae......

Subject: Re: Whispers Fri Jun 12, 2009 5:28 pm

There were days where Aiden left her guarding up to others, assigned and posted to her. Guards who would stay back and only observe when need be. He thought this to be a way of giving her breathing room, as not to always feel smothered. Being a Queen already had it's stress. To be constantly followed and evidently watched with her well knowing it and feeling the presence of it was not the way to go. Even Aiden kept his distance in the castle from time to time.... but with eyes and ears open. However, this time wherever she may wander or go to, Aiden was a known presence. He may have kept several feet behind her, but he would basically stroll along with her. And when she went into her office chambers or bedroom, he would stop just outside the door. And this was how it was going to be.

Ye need tae be wi' yer lovely wife, Aiden," she chastised him as they made their way up to her chambers. "I shall be fine, I promise."
His formal Captain's cloak swayed gently against him as he calmly strolled behind her. "And be it you shall, Majesty. However, the guard and friend in me shall be right here. Besides, I don't spend as much time with you as of late. With everythin' that has been goin' on it has been difficult to keep my full attention's to you. And for that I apologize. I not only wish to keep to this duty, but to spend time with my close friend."

She turned to him with loving eyes, " Ye spoil me, love."

Ohhh...he was going to observe this woman so watchfully. In matters of the heart, this was his dearest friend. As much as Aiden could be a friend and keep to his professional mannerisms. He hoped she would get use to him because she had no choice this time.

A good night's sleep was all I needed last evening," making excuses.

He smiled a soft one. "I only wish to keep you safe from harm, Majesty. And this, in fact, is a Kingdom of magic and wonder. Just because you are within a well guarded castle, never means that you are completely safe from ones doin's of malcontent."

"Ye worry far too much. However, if ye insist, would ye care fer tea?"
Be it as it may...you just...best get use to me. Perhaps more than anytime that I have been y'or guard." He then thought a moment as he continued to walk along. "I do say, bein' y'or guard has been the best service I have ever encountered. It is rare that a bodyguard can guard a member of Royalty who he truly admires and believes that his possible death for that person would truly mean somethin'. It is getting' cooler out there. Perhaps some tea would do some good."

"Ye scare me wi' yer lamenting, my friend. Do ye sense something I do nae know about?"

"I only speak of which I have thought these many years, Majesty. And just because we are at a' time of peace in this Kingdom, does not mean I should slacken on my duties with you."

"Ye must admit, however," she added, "I ha' nae caused ye many problems o' late." She laughed. "There ha' been times when I would ha' quit had I been ye!"

He chuckled. "Majesty, I have fought in three different wars. My life before this was a harsh one. Acts of piracy, bein' on the choppin' block for cheatin' at cards and gamblin' away my Captain's ship. You are a' picnic durin' a day of clear sky in my world"

"Ahhh..." she laughed gaily, "bu' remember th' infamous shopping trip I made wi' Llynia? We were nearly beheaded in th' town square! I cannae count on one hand th' times ye ha' come tae my rescue," shaking her head as they neared the Castle.

He smiled warmly as he listened to her. "Ah, well those days can be quite difficult. I train on hours a' day to keep myself in top health and shape. To keep myself prepared and ready for even the utmost difficult of enemies.....or dumbest. And I seem to have the lives of a' cat. The person who dares harms you or the King, should truly worry of their own safety. Although, you can never keep y'or guard down. A fool's blade can be sharper than his brain, I'd say."

Bu' now tha' I am older an' wiser," she nodded to the guards as they passed, "I could ask for no one more loyal Aiden...an' I mean tha' wi' all my heart."
He too nodded to the guards upon passing before his eyes finally shifted back to her.

"I ne'er even consider being in harm's way wi' ye near. I know, tha' is foolish o' me," shrugging as she slipped her cloak from her shoulders and handed it to Anna. "Tea, please...", she smiled at her favorite handmaiden, "in my chambers."
He simply glanced to Anna as he fell quiet. He then politely nodded to her as he moved on by.
She led the way and was pleased to see a small fire had already been laid. Anna reappeared with the tray, curtsied silently and lit the fire before she disappeared from the room. "There seem tae be so few ladies around o' late. I wonder why." She absently poured the tea for them both, adding a bit of cream to her own.
He remained quiet as he stood near the fire and the Queen. However even the flames were blocked by his long, flowing cloak of deep blue, which draped fully around him with the end only inches from touching against the flooring. "Hmmm. Perhaps they are busy with their personal lives or tendin' to multiple tasks."

"Perhaps " she replied simply.
This was strange to him. He didn't really quite know how to act. What happened last eve really threw him off guard for he was never prepared for this...extreme difference in personalities. He did not know if she would keep to her usual personality this night, or suddenly turn into the stranger of last eve.

"I was thinking," as she sipped the steaming brew, "we should do something for All Saint's Day. Perhaps...a masquerade. Y'know...an' unmask at midnight?" She smiled as she remembered previous year's antics.

Emerging from his distracted thoughts, he spoke, "I am quite sure that would be a' grand idea. I am never able to attend the nights of these celebrations and activities, but from what I hear, they are quite good indeed. They always seem to keep spirits lifted. Besides, All Saint's Day is always an interestin' one." he grinned.

"Actually," her smile disappeared, "I do nae care for th' day."

He turned his eyes from the trance it had on the fire those moments. "Truly? And why is that? "

She stood and walked toward the fire. "I find it verra eerie...people dressing tae fool one another."

"Ah, yes...I suppose so. But you know it is only to carry tradition. Some villagers even today have great superstition. They believe in ghouls and evil entities. So, they place on such costumes as to keep their identities sealed and protected from the evil spirits that may try and claim them. Although here, ghouls and evil spirits are not always far off," he smirked.

"All th' talk o' ghouls an' goblins." She put her arms around her chest as she shivered lightly.

"Come now. Even you can use a' good scare." He grinned a moment before tilting his head only to look at her as a curious thought came to mind. "And...what about the winter holiday? The decorations, the gifts, the roundabout joyous atmosphere....."

"Th' celebration o' th' Christian Christmas an' my celebration o' Yule are a happy time with many fond memories for me. Tis my favorite season...an' tha' of th' King," staring into the flames. Her voice became strained. "Th' evil ones shall die," she murmured.

Damn. He knew of her thoughts on it and only wanted to make sure that she was herself. This was going to be tough. But he smiled to this and nodded. " As it is mine. Especially those times where you and I would sing a' few songs..or we would go out, trudgin' through that snow to find the perfect tree..." Hearing that rather clearly, he froze for only a moment before looking back to the fire as if unaware of what she had said.

She remained silent but her hands balled into fists as she clenched and unclenched them. As the fire snapped, she turned to him, "Remember th' ice angel ye made fer me?" the twinkle back in her eyes. "I shall remember it as long as I live," she smiled gaily.

Aiden stepped closer to her before squatting down in front of her, with his hands gently falling over her fists as he looked up to her. "Caillie. I am not goin' to sweet coat my thoughts of concern. For I am concerned for you. But I want you to know, that no matter what is goin' on..even if you do not understand....that everyone cares for you and is goin' to be there for you." He then smiled and nodded as he heard her. "And for good reason did I create such a' statue for you."

She looked down at him as tears formed on her lashes. She quickly wiped them away. "Ye are th' truest friend I shall ever ha', Aiden."

"Well just know...that...if you feel somethin' or...think somethin' that is unusal and concerns even you...that if you tell me, I shall believe you. No matter how strange it may seem."

"Aye...an' I know ye believe in me. Some pretend tae believe...bu' I see in their eyes they are merely vying fer th' attentions o' th' Queen. Wi' ye...I can be myself...be tha' good or bad...an' ye are always beside me, Aiden." She leaned down to kiss his cheek gently. "Thank ye does nae seem tae be enough...bu' I do thank ye...wi' all my heart."

"Ahhh...then you are just not onto my plan, for I am here for the kisses to the cheek by such a' vivacious, pretty woman. It be good reward." He winks playfully as he remains in the squatting position before her. His eyes then shift away before looking back to her. "Will you do me a' favor?"

Her laughter filled the room and she caught her breath before she replied. "Aye...o' course!"

"Keep a loggin' of y'or thoughts. A nightly journal that you fill each night. Or do you this already?"

"Some days I do." She looked at him oddly. "Ye would consider this a favor?"

He nodded. "But you need to fill it out every night. Or...when you feel angry. Just a place to vent y'or emotions of the day."

"It is a verra strange request, Aiden." She started to pace a bit. "However, if it makes ye happy." She stopped with her back to him.

He slowly stood upright as he glanced back to her. "It would, my Queen. It is but a' simple request..."

She picked up her forgotten tea. Her voice again took on a strange tone as she spoke without turning to him. "Tis time fer ye tae return tae yer wife. An' time for me tae think about retiring for the eve."

He nodded. "That it be. I enjoyed this eve with you, my Queen. Have a' pleasant night," he stated as he made his way towards the door.

"An' ye, M'lord."

He took one last glance back to her, before stepping out and closing the door behind him.

As he left, she took her teacup and threw it at the closed door then raced to turn the key before he attempted to reenter.

Hearing the explosion of the cup, shattering against the door, he quickly turned and went to open the door only for it to be locked. That had startled him..but this....well, he just shook his head. "I'm not leavin', Majesty," he stated through the door before turning and sticking to his post.

The crashing of the saucer followed but after that....silence.

Listening, he continued to just shake his head as he gazed ahead. He hated this!

Subject: Re: Whispers Fri Jun 12, 2009 9:50 pm

Aiden approached the King's door. He gave a few firm knocks, then waited.

Mel looked up and lowered his specs to the desk, leaning back. "Come!"

He opened the door and stepped in upon the King's words. "M'liege." Were the only words he would say before quietly closing the door behind him before approaching the King's desk. There was some concern evident across his face. He even forgot to bow as he normally does. But there was no time for formality at this point.

"Aye, Aid'n lad? Ha' a seat."

He nodded in thanks before shifting his scabbard before taking a seat. However, he leaned forward rather than slouching slightly back. "I would like permission from you to have y'or wife transported to an isolated room. A room that is locked and secured by guards. And one of which has very little furniture and no objects that can truly do harm to her or anyone else. I am concerned for her safety as well as y'ors."

He raised BOTH eyebrows at the suggestion. "Ye'd ha' be incarcerate m'wife?"

"There is somethin' not a'toll right with her." He looked at him with the utmost seriousness. "Certainly you must see these unusual sides of her...."

He lowered his lids to slits. "Wha' is it ye suspect m'wife o' doin' lad?"

"She is troubled, m'liege. Her mind has fallen ill." He actually wished to be somewhat vague, for he did not know if the King was under the same unusual spell.

"Wha' I see is a woman wi' much on 'er mind, wha' wi' th' 'olidays comin' up an' th' strange behavior o' Siobhan lately."

"She will be well taken care of and Ashly shall come to check up on her progress everyday until we can figure out what is wrong..."

"Da ye realize th' implications o' incarceratin' th' Queen? Wha' t'would mean tae th' rest o' th' realm?"

"Oh majesty..." He shot up from his chair and calmly began to walk around it with his hands upon his hips. "These violent outbursts are unusual even for her....no matter how stressful life may seem. You know this. I even fear for y'or safety for when she speaks of you at times, there is this hiss...this distaste to her voice, as for the paranoid mind that the servants are talkin' about her behind her back. "

"Ye'll keep a close watch on 'er bu' I'll nae allow 'er tae be lock'd up like some common criminal."

He took a breath as he looked at him. "Majesty. Please. As her guard...I recommend this be done. She would not be treated like that of the common criminal. She could even remain in a room somewhere here." He frowned. "Maybe it is stress. But this could elevate and get worse."

"Now I've said wha' I've said. She's nae dang'r tae me 'er anyone else. She's jest und'r stress lad. She'll come out o' it in time."

He nodded slowly and glanced down a moment. "Yes, y'or majesty. Sorry to disturb you..." He now bowed before turning upon his heel and slowly making his way towards the door.

"Ye don't see wha' t'would involve. She's nae a dang'r an' if th' rest o' th' realm were tae find out she's been put und'r lock an' key, there'd be riots."

He stopped at the door and slowly turned. "We could say she is on leave somewhere. There can be ways around this." He opened the door as he spoke calmly. "I only hope that you are right on this, My King. For y'or safety...and hers...."

He nodded to Aiden. "Lad, yer 'er most trust'd frien'. An' th' most trust'd bodyguard she's e'er ha'. Think on it 'ow this would affect 'er stability."

"Well..." He glanced down to the door a moment before looking back to him. "I care for her very much. And I care for you just as much. I am tryin' not to think as a' friend, but as only a' bodyguard would. I think her stablity is already affected. I have conversed with her. I have seen her shift in emotions.They are so...." Just shakes his head. "...violent..as if she is suddenly filled with this immense rage. Then she'll turn and be the woman we all know her to be. She does not seem to recall even gettin' so angry or spoutin' out certain words. Now, I do not know of y'or accounts with her for you have not told me. But from what I see....this is more than just y'or runabout stress and worry."

He nodded again, concern on his face. "I too ha' seen this in 'er. P'haps if ye make sure there's a 'ealer wi'in 'ailin' distance so's they c'n see 'ow she's actin'. There may be an 'erb tha' c'n calm 'er."

He nodded slowly. "I shall look into that. And I shall watch her well. As well as y'orself." He then opened the door wider, but paused in case there was more from him.

"Bu' I'll nae put m'wife in a room, wi' little o' th' thin's she sae much ha' grown used to. Keep me inform'd lad."

He nodded once more. "As you wish, m'liege." He then stepped out and quietly closed the door behind him. However, he shook his head as he walked down that hall with only one word coming out within whisper. "Shit...."

Mel went back to his paperwork then looked back up to the door and shook his head. He knew all too well how Caillie was acting lately.

Subject: Re: Whispers Sat Jun 13, 2009 7:29 am

It was beautiful......the sword seemed to balance perfectly in her hand. It was slender and lovely, and extremely sharp. Siobhan practiced with it in the dark of her room after everyone else went to sleep. What had Eoin called it again? Espeda ropa? Espera ropa? Hmm......

A very distinctive name....she forgot which one it was, for the moment, but she remembered that he said it was very similar to a rapier. "You can poke some holes in someone with it if you're quick enough," he had said. She hated to think of that, and yet, the feeling of the blade in her hand did make her feel slightly less afraid.

She turned her wrist and felt how the weight pulled on each tendon and muscle in her hand, wrist and lower arm, at each angle. Of course, she had no idea what to do with the blade yet, but she knew she would learn. Eoin would teach her a few things, and then, whatever came of the strangeness happening now within the family, she would be prepared. A terrible creeping sensation trailed along her spine, shivering its way up to the back of her head. She pushed the thoughts away and went, tucking the sword into its stunning scabbard and hid it away in her locked chest, as Eoin had instructed. Truth to tell, she wanted to keep it in her bed but that was not only dangerous but would also give away her secret. She did not want her mother to know she had the weapon. Da either, for he would certainly tell Mum.

Siobhan shook her head, thinking of her father. He would not listen to anyone about what was happening. Eoin had said that her father sees the good in everything. It was true. It was what made him kind and what made his people love him. She could not bear to think what was happening to her mother, and though it seemed, to others, like an illness or a confusion, Siobhan was afraid it was worse. It was, sometimes, like her mother went away altogether and someone else was staring out through those eyes. She could weep from the sorrow of it.
She locked the chest with her blade and put the key on a chain around her neck. It fell loosely down inside her undergown, away from prying eyes. Eoin said he would also see about assigning her a body guard. Where before she had balked at the idea, she now craved the comfort of knowing that a well trained and strong person could shepherd over her for a while. If that happened, maybe she would sleep at night.

She sat down slowly on the bench at the foot of her bed and started to feel hands of fear gripping at her heart. It was always like this, before the pictures in her mind started to come. She drew on what Bard Katie had told her and drew into her mind a tall and strong brick wall. She built her brick wall all around her mind and in her mind's eye, she crouched down within it, where no one could hurt her. She pictured her sword in her hand. Safe.......
Hot tears slid slowly from her closed eyes.

Subject: Re: Whispers Sat Jun 13, 2009 7:34 am

Issotta was already in Solurius for a healing with which she would assist and it did not take long before rumors reached her ears regarding Caillean, her strange behavior, and something about her daughter. Druid citizens of Meldrum's kingdom, as well as those of the old tribes in the area were quick to tell her what they had heard, as soon as it was known that she was in the region. "So," she thought, "I should have followed my instincts after all, and come sooner." There was some talk about memory lapses, the Queen dismissing all of her ladies and some wild talk about her smashing things, angry speeches and it was hard to say what else. Regardless, something was not right and no one had called her. For Caillie not to call upon her at all was not a terribly good sign.

She had some time yet before the healings she would be involved with, and so she rode to the Castle in her robes of state, and even, with her crown. She hated to dress so officially when she was making a family call, and yet, she did not want a lot of fuss, trying to get in to see the royals. She figured she was not likely to be challenged in this state.

She figured wrong. The guards to the outer gate had allowed her through with little fuss. One of them bowed to her and she made a gesture of blessing over him. More difficult was the pair of guards at the actual castle entrance. One prepared to step aside but another, a young looking one, stepped in her path. "I am sorry, Mistress, but unknown guests should linger here a moment while I see if the King and Queen are at home to visitors."

The other guard knew who she was and widened his eyes at his fellow.

It was obvious that something was wrong in the castle, for no one had ever stopped her at the door, and for what she had heard, all visitors seemed to wander in and out of the castle with impunity, in the past. She understood, but did not have time for the fuss. Issotta shook her head. "No, that will not do. I am the Lady of Avalon. I am here to see the Queen. Let me pass." She started walking on her way.

The young guard put his hand on her shoulder. "One moment please....Mistress....er...Lady. I will have to be certain that you can be seen. The Queen may not be ....expecting company."

It was obvious to Issotta that this young lad was simply trying to do his duty and the very manner in which he spoke of the Queen made it apparent that something was not right within castle walls. She sighed. "Very well then.....I would rather not wait out in the yard. Please show me to a sitting area, and then do what you must."
The guard looked uncertain, "Very well, Lady....to the outer court then, and I shall ask if the Queen can see you."
After a good half hour or more, someone came to greet her. It was just a maid, who had dark circles under her eyes and looked worried. "M'lady, I must see if the Queen can receive visitors or not."
Issotta was not waiting any more. "Bring Aiden Reinhardt to me, child. Enough of this."

Subject: Re: Whispers Sat Jun 13, 2009 2:44 pm

"Well, well, well....I never thought I'd be so pleased as to see the Lady of the Lake here," came Aiden's familiar rough voice as he now approached her within uniform. His eyes moved up and down along her before he spoke again. "And so formally I might add."

He glanced back to a guard who had at once come to retrieve him and lead him to Issotta. The guard kept his distance, however, before Aiden finally looked back to her. "You didn't have to dress so lovely for me, m'lady..." He smiled warmly.

Standing and looking at him with an expression of relief. "Well, thanks be to the Goddess, Aiden! I have never seen such a fuss in all of my days. Tell me...." Looking around. "What is happening here?"

His brows narrowed to her question, for it was not simply answered. "I am hopin' that perhaps you can tell me, eventually. I am truly worried for the Queen. She is not herself. And I don't buy the thought of it bein' stress. Her mind does not seem to be her own at times. One moment she is sweet as can be...her normal self. The next, she may throw a cup at you or start lashin' out in immense anger. She's paranoid and....very angry."

Looking down at her gown, she looked back at Aiden with a smile for just a moment before she finished hearing what he had to say. "I am surprised she did not call upon me. Has she...harmed anyone?"

"Well be prepared for more surprises along the way. Come...." He bobbed his head slightly to the side, "I shall take you to her." He then began to slowly walk at her pace as he would answer her. "Not to my knowledge. But honestly, Issotta, I wouldn't count it out of the realm of possibilities quite yet."

She walked along with him. "Is it because of her condition that nary a soul would let me see her? I knew the best way to her was through you." Smiling sadly. "Someone said something about her daughter. What's she to do with all this?"

"Somethin' to that nature. For the safety of others, I am keepin' visitations at a' limit. But without the Meldrum's knowledge. His majesty, the King, seems to be in denial about his wife's true condition. And as for the Queen, I do not think she is aware a'toll of her condition. She is of two different people. Now as for Princess' Siobhan, she does not seem to be under the influence of the condition as that of her mother, but she has been quite fearful. Mainly due to nightmares I believe. But I have not much inquiry on her. Only from what I see. " He stated as he continued to walk along, looking ahead as he spoke.

"Nightmares?" She was thoughtful for a moment. "I will speak to the girl. So, you say that Meldrum will not hear of your concerns? That is no good at all. Have there been any strange persons in the Castle? Other than me, of course." Smiling ruefully.

He nodded to a few guards as he passed by. "I see strange persons come and go on a regular basis. Who is to say? There are a' few people that I am watchful of, but I do not think that is in relation to these troubles with the Queen." He ascended up the stairway, towards the hall that would lead them to the Royal's Chamber. "I am hopin' that after you see her for y'orself, that perhaps you can speak to the King and help to open his eyes to the situation."

"You know I will do what I can." Resting her hand on his shoulder. "Thank you, Aiden. Will you be nearby while I see her?"

"Well, I am certainly glad that you are here. And I hope that you are here to stay until this problem is smoothed out." He slowly turned to her. "I shall be right outside this door. You only need to call out my name and I shall be in there with haste." He looked her in the eyes. "Be leery of what you see and hear in there."

She looked worried and nodded her agreement. "I shall, and thank you."

He nods and tries to give her a reassuring smile. "I shall announce of y'or arrival."

Nodding firmly. "Very good."

With that, he opened the door to the Queen's chambers and stepped in.

Subject: Re: Whispers Sat Jun 13, 2009 9:46 pm

She was laid out prettily on a surface so very cold. The soft rustle of flower petals was around her and touched her cheek gently.

"What a shame," she heard a quiet voice say, "she was a kind one, a lovely young thing."
Another, lower voice, "God grant her the peace in heaven that she did not know in her dying moments. See how the flowers cover her bruises...like the angels' own mercy."

She was panicked then, and struggled, but she could not move. The pain in her throat, like a vice, it squeezed her. She could not breathe! Red eyes glowed down at her struggle, laughing at her....laughing.

The sound of her own voice crying out awakened her from the evil dream. She sat up in bed, straight as a pike, clutching at her throat. She flung away the coverlets of her bed and breathed heavily, taking in the air with gasp after gasp until her heart slowed again and the thunder in her ears went away. Tears streamed in hot trails down her cheeks until she could calm herself again. She went to the window and saw the sunrise staining the sky in low streaks of red and gold.

She was in no danger of maids interrupting her this morn, for her mother had dismissed nearly every personal attendant in this side of the castle. Many had fled in fear. She dressed quickly in a simple gown and warm cloak, making her way down through the empty hall, skirting the areas where people might be starting the day, and made her way through the front entrance toward the city. She would go to confession and walk about the market a bit, to clear her thoughts.

******************

Siobhan took off all her jewelry, save her little gold cross and lay it inside the little jewelry chest in her dressing room. With a nervous but steady resolve, she donned the simple garments she had purchased in town that morning, along with the riding boots and a warm cloak. Her pack, including her sword, was ready and hidden away with her mare.

She looked at herself in the mirror. There were dark circles under her eyes from lack of sleep and anxiety. She drew out the note she had prepared and rolled it up, tying it with a ribbon and laying it upon her bed to be found by whatever servants still remained in the residence area.

Dearest Mum and Da,

I want you to know that I am safe and well cared for. Do not be afraid for me. I can say no more, except that I love you and my brother. I will return, I promise.

Yours always,
Siobhan

Tears stained her cheeks as she left her chamber and headed for the stable under cover of darkness.

Subject: Re: Whispers Sun Jun 14, 2009 7:01 am

And so, the whisperings continued...

Sleep eventually claims even the most troubled mind, and that was when the menace from beyond would seek to poison her very thoughts against those that she loved so dearly. In the darkened room, a seemingly benign mirror hanging upon the wall did more than reflect Caillean's trappings illuminated in the ghostly moonlight. Two pinpoints of angry red shimmered from beyond the pane.... and within the queen's very mind the dead wizard's grip tightened upon her mind.

Daughter of Avalon, how far have you fallen? Your very existence has become an affront to the goddess. In wedlock you embrace a king that worships the one God that had sacrificed his son upon the cross.

Daughter of Avalon, how far have you fallen? All around you the beginnings of the end of what you supposedly hold dear are there before your eyes. In the west, your beloved duke's land have converted to Christianity, abandoning the old ways. In the south, another from Constantinople brings forth the notion that the One God is above all. And even in the very heartland an Irish knight even now schemes to villify those faithful to the goddess in the name of religious intolerance. These are all being done before the eyes of your beloved king, and he does nothing.

Daughter of Avalon, how far have you fallen? The very fruit of your womb has set the one God above your own, and yet you do nothing to bring to her the light and wisdom of the old ways. She will blossom and grow in power and influence, and woe to those who still hold faith in the earth and nature, for they will be hunted down due to your indifference.

Daughter of Avalon, how far have you fallen? Your beloved husband has even now put a guardian at your door? Guardian?, or jailor whose sole intent is to keep his watchful eye upon you due to the king's fear that you now realize that you are but a lapdog showpiece meant only to have your fertile womb used to diminish your faith until it is lost to the world.

Daughter of Avalon, will you do nothing?.....

Daughter of Avalon, will you not be the bringer of winter upon this castle? For in winter the old must wither and die in order to make way for Spring. The goddess will blanket the lands in white, and if you are truly faithful to her you will spatter your bedchambers in splashes of crimson. Bring what is to an end, and prepare for the renewal of beliefs in the goddess.

Daughter of Avalon, heed well what you know to be true.

Daughter of Avalon, do not turn a deaf ear to the goddess' plea

Daughter of Avalon, purge what is corrupt at the end of a blade.

This the goddess commands you.......

The flicker of angry red within the mirror intensified for but a moment before fading into nothingness.

Subject: Re: Whispers Sun Jun 14, 2009 3:20 pm

(I am SO loving this!)

Subject: Re: Whispers Sun Jun 14, 2009 8:50 pm

(( Very educational ))

Subject: Re: Whispers Sun Jun 14, 2009 8:56 pm

There was something unwholesome happening in this castle. Issotta wandered quietly throughout, observing, listening and thinking. She had managed only a brief conversation with Caillie, but she would see her again very soon. Some of the household staff gave her looks of relief and some of total distrust.

She would ask Meldrum to let her take Caillie away to Avalon for a while, but she was not sure what was happening or if that was even advisable. A little time spent with her would help and would surely be able to tap into the queen's deepest spirit. She was as deeply connected to Caillie as any other person, if in a different way.

Issotta herself had a nagging sensation at the back of her thoughts. She felt intruded upon somehow. She felt unclean when she walked through the castle, as though no washing could fix it. She was not afraid of evil, but she had to know what was happening before she could confront anything at all. She was very soon going to burst in to see Caillie and she rather doubted she would get any objection from Aiden or the others.

» A journey, a test of ones spirit (what started Whispers)