Calon
Man
Stablehand
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Posts: 145
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Post by Calon on Aug 18, 2009 21:53:42 GMT -5
”Though there are a couple of birds standing right over there.”
Calon had certainly grinned at such a statement. The woman, it did seem, had quite a lively personality. Just like he remembered from that morning at the market. Though, his blue eyes flicked to the couple standing off to the side before turning his attentions back to the dark-haired lady before him. “Yes, though lovebirds are not my area of expertise, you see. They never wish to be herded anywhere, and they do rather be left alone.” Now, Calon was having a good time.
“While often a chicken desires the same, what is different about the lovebird is that the male mate is often abrasive and defensive. If one is not careful when approaching a pair of them, one could easily find themselves injured.” His grin was quite playful indeed, and while part of him had certainly desired Faeldor overhearing the words, he was quite glad he hadn’t. For, he did not wish to anger that lovebird. Not only could it get physical, but it could cost him his position!
“My name is Beleth. Or… Narbeleth. Most call me Beleth though; but you may call me what you please.”
“Well then, Beleth. I rather think I shall call you Bel.” Calon mused aloud, for now he was quite certain that Faeldor was completely lost in the little woman and had not heard his slip of tongue from before. “I must say, I am quite pleased to know the name of the mysterious chicken lady from the market.” He had tried to recount the story to a friend of his, but it had been incredibly hard to understand for the other party. It had been well they were both at the tavern then. His companion had drank until he laughed with Calon. More than this, though, it did confirm that this sister was not the tyrant. Miriel was her name, Calon remembered quite rightly.
“As long as it is not ‘Witch’. Come now, Cal, why did I deserve such a title as 'Witch'?”
That had almost completely broken Calon’s masculinity for the apprehension and tenseness that he felt at such a question. Certainly not the feelings of a true hunter or man! Still, his outward countenance had stayed mostly well and sound. “I do apologize, I thought…I mistook you for someone else I had heard of.” He breezed over such a thing though, and moved on to explain how he knew Faeldor.
“I work here in the stables. It is quite often I will receive your brother’s orders.” It was a position that many would not care for, in truth. It was hard on the body, sometimes a bit smelly, and always a bit tricky. Still, the only thing Calon loved more than hunting was horses. Well, perhaps it was the other way around. The point, though, was that this man did adore the equines as much as any other member of the stable did. One would not devote themselves to such hard work if they did not desire it.
Beleth rambled a bit, about being pleasantly surprised and whatnot. Calon’s smile did grow as she talked through such a long chain of thoughts. This woman, like he had imagined after meeting her the first time those weeks ago, was quite a lively one. Pure gift by the Valar that she was actually going to be his company for the evening. Certainly with a lady so talkative and bright there would not be a moment at the frilly gathering that would not be too terribly hard to handle. “Ah, your grandfather. I must ask, was his pie to his liking? For I am quite sure that such a well exercised hen would have the finest meat.” His sparkling eye clearly displayed that he was amused by his own comment.
“Perhaps we should let them have a start ahead of us.”
“That does seem wise,” Calon commented offhandedly with a rather crooked smile. “For as my boss, there are just some things I need not know about your brother.” He laughed, to show that such was said in good spirit and leaned against the wall once more. “Do tell me, Bel, is this your first time at a ball as well? I was not looking forward to going, you see. I do find dressing up rather…frilly. Though, if you can convince me that something grand awaits, perhaps it shall change my mind.”
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 18, 2009 23:40:36 GMT -5
“You are quite the expert on birds, sir,” Beleth said laughingly at his descriptions. “The common ‘lovebird’ seems a thing not to be trifled with. It is quite interesting though. I have not seen such an… intense one before. Gracious, I don’t know what has come over my brother; he seems entirely out of character,” she shook her head. “But it is quite amusing that you should have witnessed it; for I will certainly find a way to hold it against him in the future, and though he is your boss, you will use it as well. I can already tell. He is too infatuated with that woman to deny it anyhow.”
Something about the young woman was pleased with the name Calon had gifted her… Bel. It was quite simple, yet none had called her by such before. She had always been Beleth to her family and friends. It was quite new to be called different. Then again, Calon was quite new as well. She had never been escorted anywhere by a man before; aside from her brother.
When asked about the use of the term ‘witch’, the man seemed to falter slightly. “I do apologize, I thought…I mistook you for someone else I had heard of.” Narbeleth nodded, with a questioning look, but said no more. She thought that she knew of whom the man was speaking of, for the simplicity of it all; it was likely her sister. Perhaps she would ask again later, though he almost seemed flustered at it being brought up again. It was likely well that the topic was turned back to chickens.
“Grandfather did announce that it was the tastiest hen he has eaten in all his years; and I must say it was certainly so tender for all the added exercise. And I am quite lucky that it fell on the day declared by the Steward for free hen catching, for I had no spare change in my pockets. Tell me though, what price do you usually take for catching such creatures, on days the Steward bids you ask your clients to pay? I have been wondering, in case I should come upon the same predicament again, and need your services.”
“It is my first time going as well… and as I have never been there, I don’t truly know what it is like. But I imagine plenty of music and dance, and colorful clothing. Perhaps it is rather frilly, though, I’m sure most of the men feel that way and put up with it. Aside; it would only take a true man such as yourself to wear such a lovely velveteen tunic,” she grinned, looking at the cloth that he was adorned in. Was he embarrassed by its frilliness then? It amused her so, though he was a rather dashing man and would likely look good dressed in anything.
“Come though, let’s us go now; we will walk slow, so as to stay behind the others, and while we go, you must tell me who you are. I do know your name now, but you are still a mystery to me. Who is your father then? And where do you reside, for I have never seen you here before, save the one day I required your services in the market. I do come to the stables often to visit my brother though; I am surprised I have not seen you here either.”
“But you must adore horses then?” Beleth added lightly, hoping the man would say yes. She had a fondness for the creatures, though she did not spend so much time with them. Her family was quite intimate with them though; Faeldor, and her father before them, so all of the children had grown up riding.
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Calon
Man
Stablehand
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Posts: 145
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Post by Calon on Aug 19, 2009 14:38:14 GMT -5
”Gracious, I don’t know what has come over my brother; he seems entirely out of character,”
Calon laughed lightly and stole yet another glance at his master over with his lady. “Well, I might say that she has come over him, or perhaps he has been like this all along, and you knew nothing of it.” He had known nothing of it either. Certainly Faeldor proved himself the strongest of men in the stables. To see him be so gentle? And further with a lady? That seemed strange indeed. It did appear that Faeldor had a soft side, and it greatly amused young Calon.
“But it is quite amusing that you should have witnessed it; for I will certainly find a way to hold it against him in the future, and though he is your boss, you will use it as well. I can already tell. He is too infatuated with that woman to deny it anyhow.”
Calon certainly was amused by that. “Bel, I do believe that how your brother handles his lady is none of anyone’s concern,” he paused for a moment to grin widely and childishly. “Though, that is what will make it amusing to speak to him on it, isn’t it?” The ocean eyes did look over to Faeldor once more, for indeed the man was quite infatuated. “So infatuated, it seems, that proper introductions will not be found.” He was referring to Beleth, of course, though also the mysterious lady that the Stable Master’s hands were roving over.
He raised his eyes at the sight of such touches and motioned with his head to his sister and asked, “Now do tell me if we should need to keep your brother in line this evening.” His lilt was light, and pleasant. He doubted that much would need happen by way of babysitting, though it was an amusing thought. As a man, though, Calon was quite well understanding of impulses. Though, his never seemed to be sparked by a woman, but rather himself.
Beleth’s cheery reply to his question on her grandfather’s pie relaxed the man enough that he could drop his arms from their crossed position. “Well, then. I am glad for it! Your grandfather deserved the best for his birthday.” He chuckled lightly, and then continued. “Yes, it is a strange thing that the Steward’s day of free chicken catching fell on that day. I am quite glad though, for if it had not, and you had been unable to pay…well, I would have had to take the chicken from your basket and let the bird loose again.” His eyes were quite sparkling, now with a newfound energy. “Though, I am sure the payment would have been acceptable enough. I simply require that I get some hunting arrows or perhaps a meal prepared for me.” He smiled somewhat playfully.
He inwardly sighed when he learned it was Beleth’s first time. It must have been the fact she looked to have been born for the dress she was wearing that made him think she was a veteran to such practices. Though he did not offer a reply. Instead he listened as she worked her way though her thoughts and finally inquired as to himself.
“My father is Istor, he is a blacksmith of Dol Amroth. The reason that you have not seen me before is probably because I am relatively new. I have not lived here for more than the summer. I came to live with my grandparents, for they did need someone to do the heavy work about the house.” Calon recounted cheerily as he began to walk with Beleth rather slowly and casually out of the stable. “I was offered a job here, at the stable, and I took it to help provide financially. Blacksmithing runs in the family, you see, but it is not to my liking. I am more interested in horses.”
“But you must adore horses then?”
“Aye. They are grand creatures. Fine for taking on hunts.” The glint and boyish grin he gave clearly displayed his love of the activity. He would never admit it, but Calon did think that they were rather pretty; but a man did not dare speak on such things! “They are strong and loyal. Swiftness, though, is quite important as well.”
He looked to her. “And you, Bel? What is it I should know about you before we delve too far into the evening?”
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 21, 2009 15:37:16 GMT -5
“I should hope my brother can keep himself in line!” Narbeleth exclaimed at the question Calon presented her with. “But if need be, we can certainly cut in on them. He handles himself quite well in public, I would presume. Although, he did not seem to care in front of you; I am certain he will care in front of the Steward and his sons themselves.” Though Beleth said the words, she was uncertain herself. To see Faeldor behave in such a way was new to her. He loved Gilwen, that was quite certain, and she was happy for the two of them, for Faeldor was well old enough to be moving on and beginning his own family. Though, if the man behaved the way that he was, he would do nothing to quell the rumors that were circulating of her friend.
Though Calon mentioned that he had not been introduced well, as Faeldor had been quite distracted, Narbeleth considered as to if she should mention Gilwen’s name. Of course it would be appropriate, as if Calon were escorting her, it was certain that they would at times speak to Faeldor throughout the evening. But then, if Calon had heard Gilwen’s named mentioned lewdly among the stables, then she should not wish for him to have a poor impression of her brother by it. Especially after the way he had just left them. “He did seem distracted from introductions though, it is true. Her name is Gilwen, and she is a fine and modest woman,” was all that Beleth said. He need not know everything about her, afterall. That should do well enough for a half introduction.
Narbeleth’s eyes were alight at the next words of Calon’s family. Of Belfalas! Of course they were! She took in once more the features of the man standing in front of her. Tall and handsome, he was, with dark hair, and light eyes. He was certainly the image of the line of Dol Amroth, now that she thought on the subject. The young woman crossed her arms comfortably in front of her as they walked, eyeing the man as he spoke of his family. She had never met a man of Dol Amroth who did not carry some of the nobility of their ancestors in his blood; it was common trait of them to be strong and proud, and it pleased young Narbeleth that she had such a past in common with the man.
“You must know that our family is from the countryside near Dol Amroth. My papa’s father was a shipwright, and mama’s was a shepherd. But my father took interest in the horses, and our family moved here some years before I was born. I never did live in Belfalas, but I spent all the summers of my youth there; swimming in the sea, riding, climbing the cliffs, playing in the forest. It was the loveliest place to grow up. I regret that my younger siblings have missed it, though someday I am certain we shall visit again.”
Then he spoke of the horses! “Oh, glorious, for I too adore the creatures.” Narbeleth was not certain why she found it so exciting that Calon enjoyed horses so. Perhaps, just for the sake of shared interest, though, they were going to a ball, not to a riding show. “I expect that you have your own loyal and strong mount?” the woman asked. “Perhaps a grand stallion… nothing too frilly. Someone to take you swiftly to the wood for your hunts, and bring you speedily home with your prize.”
“And I always knew that you were a huntsman… your technique with the chicken did give it away. Though, tonight you are not dressed the part,” she humored, now well aware that the man did not seem comfortable in his dress clothes.
“And you, Bel? What is it I should know about you before we delve too far into the evening?”
Beleth gave the young man a bemused look. “Am I not supposed to remain elusive? I am a woman after all.” She said nothing more for some moments, though her tone of voice was quite teasing, and she soon continued.
“Though I should admit; although I am quite excited to attend this ball, and I do take pleasure in dressing up as I have; dancing is much simpler in common clothing. At times I should envy you men, with your breeches and velveteen tunics… who ever decided that yards of cloth were significant of gracefulness?” Narbeleth sighed slightly, uncrossing her arms to smooth her dress.
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Calon
Man
Stablehand
[Mo0:0]
Posts: 145
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Post by Calon on Aug 21, 2009 16:55:47 GMT -5
“But if need be, we can certainly cut in on them. He handles himself quite well in public, I would presume. Although, he did not seem to care in front of you; I am certain he will care in front of the Steward and his sons themselves.”
Calon chuckled pleasantly, his blue eyes once more taking on the glittering enjoyment that he felt. “He certainly did not mind me,” Calon agreed. “Though I can think of none that would pay the Steward or the Captains so little regard. However, if the lovebirds must be separated for the evening, I will consider it a call of work. Hen herding is actually quite similar.” He grinned boyishly, letting his eye drift back to the road underfoot. It was leading them, surely and truly, to the great stone palace. How close the evening of finery seemed! And how well Calon had come to dread its arrival!
”Her name is Gilwen, and she is a fine and modest woman.”
Even Calon’s carefree and easy way of attitude was not fooled by such an introduction. Narbeleth seemed to have changed her tone a slight, as if the second part had to be added in all seriousness. The stableman had heard of the name before; perhaps even from Faeldor’s own lips. Though, a few others had used it as well. Such talk, though, was petty and annoying; Calon did well in avoiding it. He did so rather the subject of horses or sport. Curiously, he eyed the grey-eyed woman and decided he should do something to make her know he did not hold such a display of her brother’s affections against the woman—that was what spurred such a comment, was it not?—and immediately countered with fine and cheery words. “Gilwen. I do believe I have heard her name by your brother’s tongue.” He stopped to laugh a bit before continuing, “She is clearly modest and gentle; her cheeks did turn the same color as a cherry, I do believe.” He grinned once more, recalling the image. “And with the way your brother’s hands did roam, I can see why it would startle her so.”
She continued with explaining her own family’s heritage. “Yes, I have heard rightly of your family.” He replied easily. “Though even if I had not heard of it, I would have seen it. You do look of the blood.” It was not meant to be in anyway insulting, merely an observation.
Then, the bright and lovely young lady spoke of her love for horses. This perked even Calon’s ears and he flashed amused and intrigued eyes at Beleth. “You love horses as well? Then this evening cannot be wasteful.” He playfully smiled and looked back to the road ahead. “I do have my own stallion.” He added brightly. “Talagor. Now he is a right handsome thing. I would show him to you, but he is boarded in the lower stables.” Now, that added an extra pep to young Calon’s steps. Horses were a good conversation piece. His own? It brought him exceeding joy.
“And I always knew that you were a huntsman… your technique with the chicken did give it away. Though, tonight you are not dressed the part.”
Immediately Calon sighed. “Velveteen is fit for a woman’s dress.” He uttered quietly. Beleth prattled on a bit more, and immediately his spirits were lifted.
“Come now, Bel. You look as If you were born for such a dress,” he said lightly. “Though, I must say I do not envy a woman for their dress.” He laughed a bit at the thought. “In fact, I would say more fabric leads to less grace.” He looked to her once more, and then added. “Especially for a person who adores to ride. Tell me, how often do you go?”
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 21, 2009 23:49:07 GMT -5
Narbeleth was glad when Calon spoke kindly of both Gilwen and her brother. She felt bitter for the sweet woman’s reputation, that, for most, had been ruined. And she was disappointed that her brother’s name was often mentioned as well. Though, it as decidedly all a rumor; for her brother would not have lied to her. Anyone could look at Gilwen and see from the blush upon her cheeks that she was a modest woman; goodness, quite more modest than Narbeleth, for though Beleth was sweet, she could barely hold her tongue if she needed to say something.
It seemed that the topic of horses and riding pleased Calon immensely though. When a person had a passion for something, the woman could hardly keep herself from listening. She adored people who were passionate about anything; whether it was horses, or books, or any type of craft. Yet, the ones who stood out to her were those who had a passion like her own, and could go on for hours about a subject. For Beleth, one might sing or dance, and she would join along; yet horses were always of great interest; and it seemed that she and Calon shared the same.
“Come now, Bel. You look as If you were born for such a dress. Narbeleth had no comment for the man, for she was not a vain woman, and though she did enjoy dressing up at times; it was mostly for the pleasure of the softer cloth upon her skin. Yet, she felt slightly pleased that he should think so. He was her escort afterall, and it would not do to disappoint the man. She pondered for some moments before deciding to continue to speak on the man’s tunic. She had made it sound indeed that
“I do believe I once had a dress of velveteen… and it was fine. But you, Cal; only a true man could don such a tunic. I am quite certain that even in such attire you could settle the most spirited horse. It may get a bit dirty at times… but such is the way of true labor, correct?” she smiled. “Though, that dress is long gone. I had a strange habit as a youngster of ruining my dresses. And I knew it well. When gifted a beautiful blue one once, to wear for a dinner party, I remember a summer in Belfalas, I took my dress off and ran about playing in the woods and picking berries, and wading in the shallows of the river; and in just my chemise. I hung the dress over a tree branch to keep it clean; that I might sneak home in time for the dinner. But it started to rain, and it did blow off the branch into the muddy water. How embarrassing to walk into supper wet and muddy, and in my undergarments.” Beleth recited the whole story in an amused manner. There was nothing about her that was not laughing, it seemed. Her eyes were well aglow, and her steps radiant. “That was the last garment of velveteen I owned, and I will keep it as such. It is not my preferred cloth. The dirt just clings to it so well.”
Speaking of horses again. Back to horses! The man must really have a passion for them, and Beleth simply loved the creatures so it was not difficult for her to talk on the matter. “Tell me, how often do you go?” Narbeleth thought for a moment… well, it had been a month at least since she had been riding. “Not as often as I would like,” she admitted. “It has been trying these past few years to go out, you see. Faeldor deems it too dangerous for a lady to ride alone, and I do not have my own mount. I should hate to ask my brother for his horses often, or pester him to take me about with him. He is quite busy as is. But I do visit the stables here often. It has been ages though since I’ve been at the boarding stables of the lower tiers. “You must tell me of Talagor. Handsome, yes? And likely one of the most swift, I am certain. Do you often have chance to ride, even among your work?”
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Calon
Man
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Posts: 145
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Post by Calon on Aug 24, 2009 9:33:07 GMT -5
At the first words of Beleth's own dress of velveteen, Calon grew completely ashamed. “I do believe I once had a dress of velveteen… and it was fine." Yes, such a fabric was not fit for a man like himself. Nothing frilly, soft, flowery or otherwise feminine would ever rest in Calon's own closet. If anything like that had, he would have certainly tossed it in ith the garbage. That was, probably, why his grandmother kept the tunic in hers. Beleth's next words, though, brightened his smile immediately and bolstered his pride a bit. "But you, Cal; only a true man could don such a tunic." He grinned boyishly, but proudly. "Yes, I very well could wrangle a horse down in these. Labor does seem to make things dirty, though I do believe that this tunic would be much more befitting of me if it weren't so...pristine." He let the topic drop, though.
He did not wish to think on what he was wearing. Instead, he turned his attentions to Narbeleth and her story of what she wasn't wearing. His eyebrows raised as her story continued, and the man crossed his arms in amusement. "How embarrassing to walk into supper wet and muddy, and in my undergarments.” "I am sure your family was quite surprised and embarrassed themselves," he chimed lightly. He fell to silence, for a moment the picture of a soaked and sodden chemise upon his accompaniment flashed through his mind. He couldn't help it---he was a man, after all.
She did not seem too embarrassed by such a story now, though. My, what a strange thing! Most women would have blushed and never spoken of such a disgraceful happening. Though, ever since that day at the market, he had known she was anything but ordinary. It was much to Calon's liking, in truth. So, with glistening eyes he took another moment to speak on it a bit more. "Has this habit of shedding clothes been beaten, or should I expect to bring you home in naught but a chemise? Indeed, I do not think I should be able to explain such things to Master Faeldor." He was making a very bold jest, though Calon was not worried. It seemed Beleth was quite free-spirited. Any woman who would streak about would surely not take such words too horribly.
"Well, your brother is wise to not let you ride by yourself," Calon replied airily, as if he was saying it offhandedly. "I went out not but two weeks ago and found myself racing a Nazgul back to the city. I do not know why I escaped with my life," he looked to her. "But, if ever you should desire a ride, I will be happy to accompany you. I am sure your brother has less time off than I. I have far less responsibility, you see." He grinned.
"Talagor is a fine mount indeed. Chestnut, with a blaze. A mane and tail the color of coal. Fiery thing, no doubt. Swiftest horse that ever I saw." He smiled proudly. "He has a hard time listening at moments, but loves me just the same."
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 24, 2009 20:26:09 GMT -5
"I am sure your family was quite surprised and embarrassed themselves." Beleth agreed, smiling. “They certainly were. All of my aunts, uncles, and cousins were in attendance. Mother took quite a fright at the sight of me and sent me to the bath, and then to bed without supper. They did expect such of me, although I’m certain they thought I would know better on a night such as that.”
Then the young hen-herder took Beleth’s breath away as he continued. She cast him a sharp look even before he had finished his statement. "Has this habit of shedding clothes been beaten, or should I expect to bring you home in naught but a chemise? Indeed, I do not think I should be able to explain such things to Master Faeldor."
“Gracious, Calon!” The young woman exclaimed, speaking rapidly. “That you would presume to suggest such a thing to happen. I was in fact only ten years old at the time. I promise that I am quite improved at keeping my own clothing on these days. And at the palace no less.” Beleth was not certain if she should be flustered or not at such a statement. It was obvious that the man was teasing with her, and she was fond of the way he chose to joke. Though, she was a lady afterall, and dressed as she was to attend a ball! Her arms once more crossed in front of her.
“At least when it is necessary,” she thought sheepishly, remembering all the times at night when she would take out to the gardens in just her slip, even now at the age of eighteen. But there was nobody to see her there!
“My brother would certainly… well… he would not be pleased, that is certain. He would have your hide, and send you out of the stables, I am sure. And then! Well, he would send you out of Minas Tirith. And south. Not to Belfalas, but all the way to Haradwaith! And there he would let those savage men have you. Yes, that is what would happen; you would have no time to explain a thing.” The woman attempted a disgusted look, yet it seemed to no avail, because she broke out into smile once more as she eyed Calon. “To even think of such a thing… that would earn you certain contempt. I may be bold with my words at times, with those who appreciate it, but I tell you now that I would not disregard propriety, my lord.” She raised an eyebrow at the man pointedly, as if to get her message across. Though, she did not worry that he would be hard at taking it.
Afterall! Her family was far enough in trouble with those rumors of Gilwen circulating. It had not truly affected her brother, though it had the power to do so. And now her sister! Beleth knew Miriel’s secret, though she had not revealed such information to anyone, and would not! That was Miriel’s own trouble to announce; though Narbeleth would not shun her for it. But this young woman would have nothing to do with denting the reputation of her family.
Narbeleth was quite taken though, at the next words that the man spoke of his encounter with such a horrible creature as a Nazgul. Her face contorted slightly. “Oh, Cal, it did not harm you, did it?” she asked, her voice now laced with concern, and once more using her affectionate name for the man. He was already grinning though, having invited her to ride with him. “Are you mad?” she asked, quite in awe that he would mention a Nazgul, and a leisurely ride in the same breath. “I would enjoy to go riding with you, but I should never like to see one of those creatures up close. Nor to think that you have.”
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Calon
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Posts: 145
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Post by Calon on Aug 25, 2009 23:26:21 GMT -5
If Calon had ever been ashamed of his tongue, or his forwardness, it was not at this moment. In fact, the brunette was rather bemused that it had caused such a reaction from the lady. Indeed it was her own tongue that had made mention of it to begin with! She did keep prattling on until it seemed that young Beleth had quite countered herself and caused him to laugh quite wholesomely. “At least when it is necessary.”
Then, the woman continued by weaving in her elder brother, and how he would surely exact some sort of retaliation had he known of his utterance. For a moment, Calon pondered the idea. Though, it did not stay with him long. He was, after all, quite flippant and carefree. "But, Bel, you must see that I only said such a thing for propriety." He paused a quick moment to allow a smile to flash across his face. "I was merely trying to make sure that I would have no fault in appearances that would cause Master Faeldor to be bothered by me, or indeed to lose our social standing." His words were light, and it was clear the young man from Dol Amroth had seen that Beleth's words had not been heavy with accusation or disgust.
Something that he found rather intriguing. This woman seemed to have no end in surprises. Excitement was something that Calon greatly enjoyed; still, he found it curious that he had seen such impulsive and adventurousness in a woman where he had never before sought it. This could, he concluded silently, be quite an evening. Surely no dull moment would pass if he stayed in this woman's company.
Unless the ball was as utterly dreadful and draining as it seemed.
“Oh, Cal, it did not harm you, did it?”
Calon's smile faltered for a moment, though he did well to bring back his charming grin as he began to speak light of his experience. "It was uncomfortable. The creature did let me escape by his own accord, I am certain. Though why I cannot say. I surely went straight to the Steward with such news, and now a few of the people of Gondor are aware of his presence. Which seems entirely counterproductive. Though, I assume he had a plan in such things. Or the Valar simply smiled upon me."
“I would enjoy to go riding with you, but I should never like to see one of those creatures up close. Nor to think that you have.”
Calon shrugged, letting his arms drop to his sides once more and turning his gaze back to the now looming palace. "Then do not see them up close." He said flatly, though clearly that was not all that was left to pass from his lips. "Though, if you keep such a mind, you may not be able to leave the city gates for some time." Aside from this, a bit of danger was always exciting. He had not thought so at the time, of course. Though, now, it seemed to speak amply to his manliness.
The child in him still longed for action and excitement! It was as if his childhood games had come to light.
The lights and music from inside the palace seemed to reach his ears from outside, and the man inwardly sighed in discontent. It was calming music, clearly to underscore chatter and introductions; entrances and seating for the feast. If the Steward wished to begin with such a thing. He mused offhandedly he had never attended a ball under his own roof. The way Lord Denethor treated the crowd was sure to be different than the hospitality of home.
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Narbeleth
Man
Midwife
Laugh as much as you breath, and love as long as you live.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 143
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Post by Narbeleth on Aug 30, 2009 17:44:05 GMT -5
"But, Bel, you must see that I only said such a thing for propriety…I was merely trying to make sure that I would have no fault in appearances that would cause Master Faeldor to be bothered by me, or indeed to lose our social standing."
“Then you are indeed a gentleman,” Beleth returned the smile. “And Faeldor should give you no fault. He sent me with you afterall. Indeed, it would not do you well to lose your job for my foolish behaviours. I will take all the blame if my brother is to question you, it is certain. Though, he should be just as fault as I for sending me off with you in the first place.” The young woman thought amusedly on the fact that her brother had traded her off so quickly. She was not hurt by the fact, as she could fend for herself quite well, though she was surprised. Though, Faeldor deserved to have an evening with his Gilwen. Those two had been through quite a lot.
Beleth nodded silently for a moment while the man spoke of his encounter with the Nazgul. "Then do not see them up close.”Though, if you keep such a mind, you may not be able to leave the city gates for some time." “You are very brave,” she said slowly, and for a moment her voice had lost it’s teasing tone and she was speaking seriously. Shortly though, she lost herself again, and smiled. “And you must be careful, or Lord Denethor will realize such, and send you out Nazgul herding instead of hen herding. The city would lose a fine asset.”
The man’s words did strike her slightly though. She could not always live in fear of such darkness; for fear was not a residing force in the noble Gondorians of Minas Tirith. Fear would lose them a war, but to be brave and content in the face of the darkness was what would bring them out ahead. “I suppose… I could not bear to wait a long time to leave the city. I rarely have the opportunity as is.” Beleth would not be herself if she did not admit such.
“Perhaps… well, I should ask for your accompaniment sometime. To go riding,” she added quickly. Gracious, to agree to such a thing with barely any thought on the matter. And she did not even know Calon! The young woman inwardly scolded herself, but at the same time was content. He was an amiable man, afterall. And she had met him once before. Although she had not given it much thought.
The hall was near; they had only to ascend the steps now. “Come, are you not my escort? We should enter properly then.” Narbeleth motioned for the man to take her arm, her eyes holding a teasing glint. Of course he had never been to a ball, and it had likely not crossed the man’s mind. She bit her lip slightly in anticipation for the evening. The festivity of the ball would be quite lovely, but Narbeleth now had another amusement right at her side.
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