Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 1, 2009 21:36:30 GMT -5
“She does not have one yet. For she is yours, and you should be the one to name her.”
Haliel smiled brilliantly, beginning to think immediately of what she might call the little pert creature that was now cuddling against her and licking her hair. Oh how soft she was, and her little paws so delicate. It only took her a few moments to decide on the name, for Haliel was not one to let such a request linger. “Her name will be Lilotie,” Haliel laughed, “Because her little orange spots look like so many flowers.” The kitten’s little claws stuck into Haliel’s dress as she pulled herself up to bury upon her neck against the little girl’s hair.
“What a fine name for your kitten, Hali,” Faeldor smiled proudly. Indeed his sister had done quite well in choosing a name! “Lilotie shall be treasured within our household now, and you must care for her well,” the man instructed. Haliel smiled up at the man, and then looked to Gilwen. “Thank you,” she beamed at both of them, moving her face to press her cheek against the soft fur, entirely happy and comforted.
---
Narbeleth was watching meanwhile smiling at the little girl and the little kitten. It was precious for Faeldor to think of such a gift for her indeed. Haliel would certainly treasure such a thing, as there were not many responsibilities that she was allowed to have on her own. Feeding and taking care of the little kitten would certainly be something that she could easily manage though.
“Ah, then when I take you out it shall be quite a bit of an adventure.”
“If you should trust me not to ride wild,” Beleth replied quietly, but her eyes spoke loudly for her delight at the matter. She would love to go riding. She would love to go hunting. Well, she would simply love to do anything with Calon, she was certain. She felt her heart quicken within her chest at just the thought of it, and she bit her lip, smiling up at him. She would do whatever he pleased to, whenever he pleased to. There was no denying to herself that she was entirely enraptured by the man, though she would never say such a thing out loud. At least… not for a long while. “Or at least, you should ride wild with me,” she glinted.
Oh how tempting it was to lean up and kiss the man upon his cheek. She was certain that she would have fallen to it if not for the multitude of people about them. Or at least if not for Faeldor. Thank the Valar; she needed to work on her self control. Narbeleth took a long breath to cool her mind, and released it as a sigh, smiling, and eventually looking back to Haliel. She needed to release the man’s hand, she knew it, or else she would not contain herself much longer.
---
"I shall go see to helping your mother. Do excuse me."
Faeldor watched Gilwen walk away, and indeed his heart fell. With the strain that this day had on him, he needed the little woman by his side. He had been ever so glad that she was here for him and his family, and she had felt so firm and comfortable in his arm. As quickly as words had been spoken, though, she had distanced herself, and he frowned at Narbeleth. Still though, it had not rightly been his little sister’s fault, and he could not remain upset with her over the matter. It was his own quick tongue and reactive judgment that had sent her to speak in the way she had.
He did hope though, that the meal was nearly complete, and that Gilwen might come back soon. Perhaps she would stand with him again. Though, he inwardly knew that the argument with his sister had upset her.
---
Faelon and Diore had made their way back into the yard, running at a certain speed, but soon the both of them had noticed the little crowd gathered about Haliel by the stone bench, and Faelon led the way to inspect. Both children smiled at the sight of the kitten, and Diore had quickly gone to kneel by Haliel and reach out to touch her. Haliel was too happy at the moment to object, and so she let the little blonde girl stroke the kitten’s fur. Faelon however, wanted to pick the kitten up, and attempted to do so.
“Faelon, do not,” Haliel whined, “I am holding her.” The young boy pouted for a moment, for he was always good to his little sister. Though, he wanted to play as well. He was only a year older than the little girl, and much of the same things still took their interest. However, when he saw that all the kitten did was burrow back into Haliel’s hair as the little girl hummed to her, he soon became bored watching. He looked up at Faeldor, who was now standing alone, and he wondered that Gilwen was not by him. Even Faelon saw that the two were near inseparable when they were together.
Now, Faelon had lost his partner; even though she was a tiny little girl, he had been having fun playing chase with Diore. Haliel had never been able to play chase with him, and it was not as often that the older siblings would humor him with such a game.
Maeniel uncomfortably made her move to stand up from the bench and walk over to the others, and Almurdir stood up, following her. He felt some form of need to protect the woman from whatever form of retaliation that Rosiel would have upon everyone. It was not her fault that she had been brought into the pit of the serpent that his sister was.
---
The kitchens were a bustle of energy, where Meleth, Tinuves, and young Marileth were wrapping up the food in baskets to bring outdoors. Everything was finally finished, and the lot of them were excited to leave the kitchens to join the guests and the rest of the House of Faelon in the gardens. Meleth moved about so quickly that she did not even notice the quiet servant woman in the doorway, even dressed in the bright rose shade that she was.
It was little Eoric who first noticed the girl, as he tottered over to her. Another dark haired woman; he was quite used to the color by now. Never another but his sister had the light hair of his family, and though he was only two years old, he knew that he was different. However, he also was quite comfortable in his new abode, and well loved by all for his sweet demeanor.
The little boy obviously wished to be held, as he had reached his arms up to Gilwen, the universal request for such an action. Big blue eyes stared up at her, waiting for the loving response he was sure to receive. He had been closely watched, yet not picked up for some time, for all the adults and the other children were either busy or playing, and the little thing was rather lonely.
“Oh Gilwen,” Tinuves had noticed her first. “Meleth, Gilwen is here,” she turned to look at her daughter, who was packing up the hot rolls in a cloth. Meleth spun about. “Oh, hello dear! I did not even hear you come in!” The truth was that Meleth had been humming as usual, and she barely missed her children, for they went about so loudly and talkatively, yet Gilwen was so dear and quiet. “I’m so glad you could come today. Faeldor wished you to be here so. Oh, and have you met Eoric yet?” she asked, preening at the small boy, as she wrapped the last of the rolls.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 1, 2009 22:20:00 GMT -5
Gilwen could see the flash of sadness in Faeldor’s grey eyes as she moved away. For a moment the woman thought of lingering with him, though knew that her nerves would not be able to handle such a thing at that moment in time, and so she continued soundlessly into the house.
It did not take much thought on Gilwen’s part to find her way to the kitchen, though her soundless entry seemed unnoticed by all. Meleth, Tinuves and Marileth were working with biscuits, completely absorbed into their task. For a moment the woman wondered if she should announce her presence, but something caught her eye instead.
Her eyes flashed downward as a golden color snatched her attentions. Instantly, Gilwen’s face softened and her heard felt elated. A child! This must have been Eoric, for indeed he held the same blonde hair as his sister, and was clearly of the same blood. He certainly looked about two years of age, like Faeldor had said to her that day in the stables. Oh, and his eyes! However blue they were!
He approached her, his little face seeming as if he were pleased to see her, though Gilwen could not understand why. He had never before met the servant, though inwardly Gilwen was entirely pleased by this thought. His demeanor had been described as loving and careful. Faeldor had assured her she would love him. And already, his little hands had completely encompassed her heart.
He was at her feet now, and little arms raised, the child begging to be picked up and held. Gilwen’s face seemed to glow with joy as she stooped to comply, firmly though gently bringing the child up to rest upon her hip.
Just as she was complying to the child’s wishes, it seemed the rest of the kitchen noticed her as well. Tinuves alerted Meleth of her presence, and the woman turned to speak to her immediately. She was probably a bit startled; Gilwen was ever so quiet. “Good evening, Meleth.” She replied respectfully and quietly.
“I’m so glad you could come today. Faeldor wished you to be here so. Oh, and have you met Eoric yet?”
“The pleasure is mine,” the woman replied gently, and looked to the little blue-eyed boy that was now seemingly watching her face with quiet interest. “I do believe I have.” She added lightly in response to her inquiry about meeting the child. Well, he certainly had introduced himself well. The little darling!
--
Calon was increasingly amused by the way Narbeleth responded to his side comment, and his dancing blue eyes had turned far from the little girl and her purring kitten. He was completely affixed to the woman beside him, whose hand still comfortably laid in his. “Or at least, you should ride wild with me.”
“Well,” he responded quietly, though pleasantly. “That depends on what your definition of wild is, Bel.” He grinned a bit mischievously, his inner adventurer shining through his glinting eyes and facial expression. “I am quite certain that I can be as wild as you would desire. Though, tame enough to keep you safe and honorable.” He added as an afterthought, leaning himself nearer her to make sure his voice did not carry too far. He lingered by her ear a moment as well, silently enjoying their closeness, though removing himself from it shortly so as not to attract Faeldor’s attention.
He turned to watch as Gilwen moved away, and let his gaze linger on Faeldor for a moment as he seemed to grow a bit tense. Then, he let his eyes move over more of the scene, and glided over the scene of the small children and the kitten. It certainly seemed a nice enough atmosphere; though, the man was growing a tad hungry and did wish that the dinner would begin.
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 2, 2009 13:36:49 GMT -5
“That depends on what your definition of wild is, Bel.”
Narbeleth caught her breath as Calon replied to her light comment. “I am quite certain that I can be as wild as you would desire. Though, tame enough to keep you safe and honorable.” She glanced quickly to Faeldor, to be assured that her brother had not heard his statement. Despite the fact that he had assured her that their antics would be nothing but safe and honorable, her brother certainly would not have approved.
And in the same manner, Narbeleth approved wholeheartedly. A smile curled over her lips, and she tilted her head slightly to look at the man. He was very close to her. She was very glad. Even if her brother should choose to argue with her again, it would not dampen her spirits.
“To be what the others may call wild for me, is to do what heart or impulse desires at any moment. “Though it is all within reason,” she smiled. And with such a thing said, Narbeleth knew that her impulse would be beyond reason if she were to continue standing so closely with Calon, however she so desired it. She squeezed his hand once more and then released him, though not in a way to let him think that he had done wrong. Indeed, for fleeting moment before she moved away, she pressed the palm of her hand against the man’s back, almost in a half embrace, and smiled at him.
Before she would allow him to return the favor though, she skimmed past and moved down to be with Haliel and Diore. “Do you like the kitty?” she asked the little blonde haired girl.
“It is cute,” Diore said thoughtfully. “I like dogs better though. Will Faeldor get me a puppy?” the little girl asked in her pert voice. She knew not her birthday, so she did not know when she could ask for such a thing, nor did she deem herself too little to have a dog. In fact, in all her experience, a dog did not even need to be cared for. It was her dog who had protected her and her little brother for at least two years, though she could not remember further back.
Narbeleth laughed a bit, though nervously. She did not enjoy dogs, though she would not allow the little child to know so. “Well then, you will have to take that up with Fael,” she told the little girl, glancing up to her brother. Faeldor look down at her and gave her a half hearted smile. He was not about to give such a small girl responsibility over such a large animal, though he could hardly think on the matter at the moment, for he was still distraught over Gilwen having gone inside without him.
---
Meleth smiled for a moment, watching Gilwen with little Eoric in her arms. The little boy was much more sedate than his sister, and preferred to be held close and cuddle with whoever had the privilege of holding him at the moment. Meleth never denied him of that; at least when she was not as busy as she was at the moment! She stood now with her hands on her hips, and retaining her voice for the pleasure of watching young Gilwen with the baby. She almost sighed aloud. The girl was indeed fine with young children.
Eoric was a quiet little boy. He spoke a few words already, though rarely did he make a sound. Instead, he chose to steal the hearts of any of the adults with his pleasant eyes. He was quite entranced by Gilwen and comfortably clung to dress as she held him, though reached up toward her face with one chubby hand.
Meleth laughed lightly. “It’s your eyes, dear.” She watched for a moment, smiling thoughtfully. “I think I’ve figured it out. The other day my friend was over, and the little ones were just so curious about her. Eoric is always friendly of course, but even little Diore. She just wanted to sit with her, which was so peculiar for the little thing. Then she said that her Mama had brown eyes. Very stoic as she said it, but indeed, I think it meant a great deal to her.”
The older woman turned back to her work. Marileth was smiling fondly at Gilwen as well, though when she saw her mother turn back, she quickly went to gather the large stack of plates that she was to take outdoors, and made her way around Gilwen to carry the first half back to the gardens. Tinuves followed with a large serving tray bearing two very warm and large chicken pies, serving utensils, and silverware.
“Would you mind taking him out to the gardens and keeping an eye on him?” Meleth asked aside, knowing that Gilwen would agree. Gilwen seemed as entranced by the little boy as he was by her, and the Mother could hardly keep her eyes off them for a long while. Whatever a good mother the little woman would make for her Faeldor’s children. She would be proud indeed to see her take care of such darling little things. Her grandchildren would be ever as precious as little Eoric, she just knew it! Oh, she should hope to see Niniel again soon; the woman had not been to visit her since their move to the first tier, but she knew that the other Mother would agree.
“Papa, take these as you go,” Meleth interrupted her own thoughts, as Tinuves had called Melanir for supper, and he was passing by the kitchen. She bustled past Gilwen and Eoric with the basket of rolls, handing it off to her own father, who was smiling, as from a closer distance he had recognized Gilwen. He took the basket in one arm, but smiled in the direction of the little woman. “Are you coming out as well? I could use a hand down the stairway,” he said brightly to her.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 2, 2009 15:14:49 GMT -5
Calon certainly listened well as Narbeleth explained what her definition of “wild” was; such a thing brought a smile to his face that was far larger than the other he had held for the moments prior. “Though it is all within reason.” He laughed lightly, and nodded, “Oh, of course.” He agreed pleasantly. He tilted his head to look upon her for a moment, in the same space that the woman seemed to study him. He was about to speak further; perhaps even venture as far as to comment on how much he looked forward to seeing her desires, though was thwarted in such an attempt. Indeed, the woman moved away from him. Just like a bird, his Nightingale had gone away. A part of him was saddened by it, though he had certainly treasured the manner she had excused herself.
Well, she might have moved off, but that did not stop the young man’s eager and cheery gaze from following her. Nor did it prevent him from listening. “I like dogs better though. Will Faeldor get me a puppy?” This made Calon grin. He, too, preferred the playful demeanor of dogs over the haughty attitude of felines. Still he said nothing in response. It was not his place to encourage her to beg for a pet of such responsibility, and Faeldor did not seem to enthusiastic about it himself.
In fact, in that moment he did not seem enthusiastic about anything. Was it for the argument he had just had with Narbeleth? Calon wondered over it a moment, before crossing his arms and letting his eyes dance over the gardens once more.
--
Eoric’s pleasant little face had filled Gilwen’s heart full of warm feelings. Such a dear babe! He did not seem wary of her in the least, despite the fact that she had only just met him. Many children could be skittish and shy around those they did not know; she had somewhat expected him to be after all the new faces he had seen within the last week. But this had entirely elated the servant woman.
The little boy was clinging gently to her dress, keeping himself close to her side, clear blue eyes looking up into her eyes contentedly. And then, one hand released her garment in favor of reaching upward toward her face.
“It’s your eyes, dear.”
Gilwen glanced to Meleth as she explained what she believed to be the motivation behind the child’s action, before returning her attention to the little body against her side. If he recalled his mother having brown eyes, it was probably a comfort to see them; and in the house of Faelon it was rare to find dark eyes. Gilwen had never been more elated to have them than in that moment.
She could feel Meleth looking upon her, though was so enthralled by Eoric she did nothing to display nerves or unease. Instead, she smiled and said quietly and gently, “I would certainly watch him.” Taking the little boy out into the gardens would be entirely lovely; she seemed to have, by simply the color of her eyes, won the child’s affections. And he, by his sweet and pleasant face, had won hers. It did appear they were about ready to begin the picnic. Certainly they would need all hands to finish things, and it would be much faster without worry of a little boy’s safety or attention.
Marileth moved past her, and Gilwen turned to head toward the back door once more, though stopped upon being addressed by Melanir. “Are you coming out as well? I could use a hand down the stairway.”
“I am,” Gilwen responded sweetly, removing one hand from the child so as to have a hand free to take. Indeed, the child was not squirming, and as such she held no fear of him slipping or escaping her gently firm grasp. “I should be happy to assist.” She added with a smile.
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 7, 2009 17:56:47 GMT -5
“Thank you, dear,” Melanir smiled. Truly, it was not his physical ability that held the man back from his independence, but his sight. He had fallen before down the garden steps for lack of judgment, and so had avoided such a uneasy display since then. Meleth smiled, watching Gilwen for a moment longer with the baby, then resuming to her work.
And either way, he was very fond of Faeldor’s Gilwen. She was a kind and gentle spirit, and exactly what Faeldor needed to calm his own temper. The way she worked on him was quite amazing really. “You will have your hands full with the two of us,” Melanir added, his eyes sparkling. “Though Eoric there is pretty tame, I should say. Nothing like the family he’s brought himself into,” he chuckled slightly, pressing a worn finger against the little boy’s chin. “Though his eyes are just as bright, aren’t they, little one.” Melanir could be only pleased with his daughter, for taking in those two small children; they made this house even more pleasurable.
Eoric chose to cuddle and cling to Gilwen’s side, and after Melanir had spoken to him, he just smiled and buried his face against Gilwen’s dress. Now that he was being held, he had no trouble staying perfectly still within the little woman’s arm, and he gave her no trouble. Indeed, it had been her eyes first that had drawn him to the lady, and he knew not why, for he was too young to remember truly his mother. Instinctively though, he felt peaceful and happy with the woman.
As it was, the party began. The women came out of doors bearing the food in two trips each, and eventually all the children and adults, with the exception of Miriel, who was still feeling rather ill, had made it outside.
“Where is your sister?” Meleth had asked Narbeleth, and Beleth shrugged, looking about, and noticing that indeed Miriel had been nowhere to be seen for some time. In truth, she did feel a bit guilty that she had not noticed Miriel’s absence. She had been a bit too distracted with Calon. Though, she knew what had likely drawn her sister inside, and said nothing else. It would be Miriel breaking the news to her mother, and not herself, she determined. Miriel would have to take her own responsibility for her actions.
Tinuves meanwhile was spreading blankets out upon the grass for everyone to sit, and Haliel had moved to the first with her little kitten upon her lap still, while Faelon and Diore were sent inside to wash up after all their romping about in the garden. Narbeleth stood up and moved to help her grandmother, but shortly returned to her guest. “Cal, go sit by my pretty little sister over there, and I will bring you your plate. Are you very hungry?” she questioned, grinning and knowing that he could be none other after such a long day at work. She admired him for a moment; eyes cheerfully looking over his handsome face. “…my huntsman,” she finished shortly, and quietly, smiling. Then she turned to look back to the bench, where Meleth and Tinuves were now setting up the food and plates, that they would not be upon the ground. “I suspect the chicken will not be so tender as you are used to. It required no herding, the lazy thing.”
As Gilwen came outside with Melanir, Faeldor’s eyes fell on her again, and he smiled gently at her. He had grown rather tense and become quite silent when she left. Of course, he was not upset with her wishing to help his mother. If it had been different circumstances he would have been glad that she enjoyed helping the others, and carried on in conversation with his family and friends while she went to assist. He wished her to build a good relationship with his mother, after all, and that could only be done with time spent together.
This time though, it was the slight uncomfortableness that had fallen between them that had been so upsetting. In fact, he was uncertain as to how to handle this situation. In all other cases, Faeldor had comforted Gilwen by holding and assuring her. Perhaps holding her was not the most well intuned thing for him to do at the moment though. It was indeed the comments that Narbeleth had made that had set his lady so ill at ease.
Yet, the Stable Master did not understand entirely the matter. Gilwen knew him better than that, did she not? True, there had been the night of his drunken display, and they had come close to breaking their celibacy the night upon the mountain. But had not Faeldor shown his own restraint in not allowing such? Heavens, he had not even kissed her since the night of Midsummer’s eve.
Of course, Gilwen had been at the brunt of the rumors, and perhaps such slanderous talk had brought her to question her own virtue and his. He knew that she did so often enough. Oh, that he would put his arms around her in a loving shield and dispel the rumors again, but now seemed not a good time. Such was the poor man left in the dark. He would never truly understand the things that warranted a woman’s fears. He tried not to let his face show his confusion though, as he left a smile upon his face and walked toward his lady.
“There now, Faeldor,” Melanir started. “I’ve only borrowed her for a time to help me outside. Do not worry, you may have her back yet.” Oh, she did look fine with a child in her arms! Gilwen would be a wonderful mother, it was certain; little Eoric seemed so content with her. Faeldor reached out to place his hand atop the little blonde head, and the little boy smiled. Where usually, Eoric would have wished for Faeldor’s attention and reached to go to him, he did not this time. His little hands did nothing other than continue to grip at Gilwen’s lovely dress. However, it did not upset the Stable Master in the least. He was only more pleased with the attachment that the little boy must already have for his Gilwen. He knew that she would adore him, yet he had not thought on the fact that the little one would certainly pick favorites. The man let his hand move from the blonde head, to his lady’s shoulder. Then he let his hand slide down her arm gently, as if to test her for a reaction.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 7, 2009 19:10:08 GMT -5
“You will have your hands full with the two of us.”
Gilwen smiled gently at the man and pressed the little boy closer to her side. “I think I shall manage,” she replied quietly. Indeed, the little Eoric was giving her no trouble, and Melanir seemed quite fine. She could spare a little bit of assistance to the both of them. The little boy smiled and buried his face against her shoulder. Gilwen’s heart warmed. Oh, children were ever so blessed!
It was with this smile that stayed with her as they moved toward the back door once more.
--
Was he hungry? Calon grinned at the question. But what made him the happiest was when the pretty Narbeleth added quietly, so only he heard, the words, “…my huntsman.” “Well, my Nightingale,” he countered equally as quiet. “I am quite famished,” his blue eyes danced happily, though the words he spoke were truth. It had been a long day of hard labor.
“I suspect the chicken will not be so tender as you are used to. It required no herding, the lazy thing.”
Calon laughed lightly. “I am sure that it shall be fine. Though, it is disappointing that it was a lazy thing. Something like that just seems a waste of a chicken, you must understand.” He grinned. “I am sure that it shall be marvelously prepared, though.”
He looked back over his shoulder down at the blanket that had been laid out by Narbeleth’s grandmother, where Haliel was now lowering herself to the ground. “I shall, however, allow you to help where needed. I shall go keep your sister company.” He didn’t move right away, though. Indeed, he was quite captivated by her; Calon, though, would never admit such a thing. He was for too concerned with his manly image to truly show himself.
---
“I’ve only borrowed her for a time to help me outside. Do not worry, you may have her back yet.”
Gilwen could see that Faeldor’s attention had gone to her immediately. She felt his eyes before anything. He approached them, though Melanir was quick to slip away. Her brown eyes looked up to him, though after a moment alone she dropped her eyes to the little boy tucked to her side. Faeldor’s eyes were so serene and soft, it brought a light color to her fair cheeks. Still, she remained still while he reached for the child’s head.
However, she caught her breath as his hand moved to her shoulder, and slid down her arm. What was he doing? Was his mind still where Narbeleth had claimed it was? She stared at him wide-eyed for a moment. It was not that she did not love him. Indeed, she was certain her eyes still showed such feelings for him.
It was that she was unsure of what to do now.
She did not wish to let him think that she was going to be willing to be a skirt for him alone. Her eyes dropped away from his lovely grey eyes and fell back upon little Eoric. The picnic was beginning to settle down and begin. It was in Gilwen’s finest interest to set herself down on the blankets as well. So, ever so slowly she moved passed the Stable Master, bringing the little child with her as she went.
"For your sister's birthday," Gilwen whispered to the blessed little boy. "Come."
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 7, 2009 20:55:47 GMT -5
The tone of voice that Calon had used with her elated the woman. To be called his Nightingale almost made her cheeks to turn the color of the roses, yet she willed it away with a smile. She had easily become accustomed to the name that her huntsman had given her, and she was certain she would not go the whole evening without singing a song for him. “I am sure that it shall be fine. Though, it is disappointing that it was a lazy thing. Something like that just seems a waste of a chicken, you must understand. I am sure that it shall be marvelously prepared, though.”
Narbeleth beamed, and laughed lightly. “The lazy thing; that is why I have set it into a pie. Chickens of the sort deserve to be in pies. Not conducive for any herding attempts whatsoever, otherwise I would have put you to good use in helping me. Though, this bird was so fat it would have hardly been a challenge. You would have seen the thing right from the start if you had perched on your hen watching post on the beacon tower. Though, I’m certain that either way, you will do a great deal in helping me eat it now.” Narbeleth prattled on for some moments, her voice bright, though quiet enough that she should not disturb the others with her ramblings. As the young woman spoke, she had moved decidedly close to the man, as if the short time she had stepped away to play with the children and help her grandmother had only spurred her desire to be near him. As she went on, she had come to idle her hands upon one of the clasps of the man’s tunic, pressing her fingers upon the engraving of it, and smiling, though eventually as she finished speaking, she looked back up at the man.
---
With the way Gilwen had looked at him Faeldor was certain that she had calmed and held nothing against him for his little sister’s teasing. After only a moment though, she had dropped her eyes once more, and was looking down to Eoric.
Faeldor helplessly pressed his hand to his forehead after Gilwen had passed by him. He did not know what to do. Surely Narbeleth had simply been teasing; she knew that Faeldor did not have poor intentions for his lady. Then again, Gilwen was a sensitive woman, and even more precarious since the rumors that had started small in the palace had become more spiteful and diminishing of her. Faeldor could say nothing as she went, and he stood back for a moment. His distress was evident on his face.
He turned eventually to look toward Narbeleth. He would have to have his sister assure Gilwen that she had been jesting in her accusation perhaps. Though, as he looked to his sister, he frowned again, for he saw the way she stood once more with Calon. It was not entirely his disapproval that had caused him to frown, though moreso the fact that that was what had set his temper off the first time, which had then led to this.
----
It had been some moments that Beleth stood charmed as such by Calon, but finally she broke her eyes away once more, and patted the man on the side towards the blanket that she wished him to sit upon. “Go then and amuse my little sister for a time. I shall join you shortly,” she smiled. “Your pie awaits,” she said happily as she moved off to where her mother was beginning to portion up servings for the children on plates. Tinuves had started with the guests, already bringing plates to Almurdir and Rosiel, who had taken a space near Maeniel. Rosiel was certainly not pleased to sit upon the ground, and to not have Miriel present, though, she was having a ball as she admired the forlorn look upon Gilwen’s face.
Faeldor had eventually followed Gilwen to where she took seat with the little boy, and did sit beside her, though this time without touching her. He would not stay far from her certainly; she was his guest here, and Rosiel was too near for his comfort. If he could not comfort her with his arms, he would certainly still offer his protection against the onslaught of stupidity that Rosiel would set off if given the chance.
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Finally the plates were made, and the family and friends were all together seated. Narbeleth had brought Calon an entirely large plate of steaming chicken pie, and two buttered rolls on the side, and the serving she had taken for herself, though not as large, was not entirely dainty. Faeldor sat quietly beside Gilwen, eating his pie, and Meleth had settled near the two of them, allowing Eoric to stay upon Gilwen's lap, where he was enjoying himself, yet feeding him bites from her own plate. She frowned slightly at the silence between her son and the young woman beside him, though there was not much to do for it. She had no idea of the previous conversation.
Indeed though, Meleth had made a heaping plate of food for her own son, and though Gilwen was a small woman, she had given her a nice quantity as well. The little thing was far too thin, as far as Meleth was concerned.
Haliel's little kitten had attempted to lap at her plate, but Narbeleth made her put it down and shoo it aside when it did so, though all three of the youngest children still had eyes on it. Marileth, however, who was sitting near them as well could barely eat, for her eyes were still caught on Calon, as they had been before. Maeniel and Almurdir had found themselves in amiable conversation, and it seemed that Rosiel was mulling over the fact that nobody was paying attention to her.
"So," Rosiel started, in her bitter voice. She was bound and determined to make the others as unhappy as she was. She leaned past her brother, and spoke loudly to Narbeleth, who was not far away from her. "I hear your Calon there is a stablehand. Must be a pleasure to spend time with those who muck stalls all day," she drawled. Though Narbeleth had done nothing to Rosiel, it was the woman's fate to be bitter and pick confrontation where there was none.
"You refuse to be civil today, do you not?" Narbeleth asked, her voice remaining sweet, though her eyes were not pleased.
Faeldor's hand once more went to his forehead in distress at the woman's words. There was more than one guest here today; and certainly the embarrassment was just as hard on his mother and grandparents as it was on him.
"Your family doesn't look far past the bottom of your own boots, do they?" Rosiel asked smartly. Or, at least what she thought was smart. "He cleans up horse feces, and that little servant girl over there cleans up chamber pots. What fine taste. I wonder what the next little one will pick," she glanced at Marileth for a moment, frowning. "Does he live on the first tier too?" Rosiel asked, smiling lightly.
"No," Narbeleth answered. "And if he did, it would not matter to me," she said, her voice shaking a bit.
Narbeleth was utterly embarrassed at Rosiel's words. She had not even given a moment's heed to the thought that handsome Calon cared for horses. Horses were her family's pride, and it had not troubled her in the least, though, now she felt rather defensive once more. This was supposed to be a fine evening to have Calon over and meet her family, and he had been insulted by both her brother, and this shrew of a woman. She was frowning visibly now, and almost on the verge of crying.
"What a foolish woman you've turned out to be. I had better expectations for you, Narbeleth. I think you've taken too far after your brother than is good for you. But... I suppose there is nothing I can do if you wish to spend the rest of your life in the arms of a man who smells of horses and manure." Rosiel was bitter indeed, and perhaps jealous at the same time. Though, her words were as much meant to hurt Narbeleth, as they were to incite Faeldor's anger again. She knew how much it troubled him that Narbeleth had eyes for the man, and to bring attention to it once more would be quite priceless.
"I like horses," was the little response that the young woman offered. She felt a lump in her throat, and strained to look away from the woman, her eyes lowered upon Calon's hands.
"Cal, do you like the pie?" she asked a bit desperately in a small voice, trying to ignore Rosiel, for if she paid her more attention, she would surely either shout or cry, and she wished to do neither. "I can get you some more," she offered, biting her lip, her eyes wet. She suddenly had added respect for her brother, to be able to put up with this so often.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 7, 2009 23:11:40 GMT -5
Gilwen had seen the look of loss in Faeldor’s eyes, and a part of it broke her heart. Still, she was so unsure of what to think that she found it better to occupy herself with the quiet little boy at her side. Oh, how little Eoric was already such a great comfort!
She had lowered them to the blanket easily, brown eyes discretely flicking about the area to watch as the others sat as well. Rosiel’s eyes were indeed set upon her, and the hatred was particularly astonishing. Still, the gentle woman did nothing to incite anything further, and instead let her eyes drop back to the blanket before her. It was a relief that Faeldor sat himself beside her, if only that she was now unable to be bothered by Rosiel from a close vicinity. Would she be so bold as to speak out amongst such a large gathering of people?
Calon was seated now beside the little girl, and he looked down at her for a moment and eyed the kitten. “That is a fine gift you have,” he mused in a rather laughing manner. “Do you think she is hungry as well?” It was pleasant conversation for before the plates began to come. But indeed, his attentions were completely drawn away as Beleth brought him his plate and the meal began. He was so hungry!
"I hear your Calon there is a stablehand. Must be a pleasure to spend time with those who muck stalls all day.”
Calon’s blue eyes flashed upward, and then around the table quickly. Was it truly a problem that he worked in the stables? He tried to calm his temper, indeed it was not going to be a lovely thing to display before Beleth and her family, but he had to admit it was hard. “Well, I do not think she should mind it much,” he laughed nervously, though his eyes were still somewhat cheery. “At least I do work and am not a useless member of society.” He grinned a bit. It was, after all, his job as a man to provide for his family.
"He cleans up horse feces, and that little servant girl over there cleans up chamber pots.”
The poisonous words drew Gilwen’s face upward, too, and her cheeks flushed in embarrassment and a bit of anger. Calon and she exchanged a short glance before the young man continued with his words, “I would think someone like you should be thankful for our work.” His words were light, and he took a pointed bite of his food to give himself enough pause to form the rest of his thought to words. “After all, if it were not for us, your life would be quite a bit more unpleasant.” He smiled slightly at the timid young woman across from him, who seemed to be at least somewhat thankful behind her flush and nerves.
Though, the remark that scathed Marileth broguth Gilwen’s cheeks to quell in color, and her brown eyes to set firmly and angrily on Rosiel. Indeed to insult anyone in this family was out of bounds; Marileth was a dear child. Any man who won her would be blessed. No matter his class. A bit of her blood ran hot, and the long fuse that Gilwen held for herself was lit.
“But... I suppose there is nothing I can do if you wish to spend the rest of your life in the arms of a man who smells of horses and manure."
Calon’s eyes turned ice cold, and he looked to Beleth concernedly as she muttered her response. Indeed, he was just angry enough to speak out against that foul Rosiel, though it surprised him that someone spoke before him.
It was a strange sound to hear; Gilwen’s voice so angered and firm. Still, it was disguised in a rather polite tone for the sake of the children that were still around the blankets eating away. This was Haliel’s day, and not for Rosiel to ruin. The motherly protection she felt within her to help the children enjoy their day, and the confidence little Eoric was giving her was enough to make her speak out, however reserved the volume was. “The smell is not to be minded.” She said quite matter of factly, looking with a rather firm glare toward the woman at the end of the blankets. “It is the arms that matter; and the man.” She looked to Faeldor for a moment before pointedly turning back to Rosiel. “I do believe you agree.” After all, it was no secret that Faeldor worked within the stables as well. And Rosiel was not shy with her affections toward him. None of the adults would be able to misunderstand her meaning. Aside, she loved Faeldor dearly, and any slight toward him and his family wounded her own heart as well. Though, it seemed to shock many that had gathered. Oh, but how dare she attempt to ruin this meal! Haliel was but a child, and her birthday was to be pleasant!
Calon was shocked. He had not heard the lady speak much more than a few words. Indeed, he looked upon her a moment in a sort of awe before his attentions were drawn back to Beleth, whose eyes were brimming. Such a sight set his blood to burn. "Cal, do you like the pie?" “Yes. It is delicious.” He said, trying to add a pep to his voice. It certainly was, and the man had near cleared his plate, though his appetite was hardly at it’s best.
He looked upon her a moment longer and then said, “It has been prepared quite well.” He smiled at her a moment. “I must say, I have never had a better chicken pie.”
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 8, 2009 0:45:11 GMT -5
“The smell is not to be minded. It is the arms that matter; and the man. I do believe you agree.” Those few short sentences caused the entire table to turn and look at Gilwen where she sat. Even Meleth’s mouth gaped a bit at the words that the woman spoke, and Faeldor nearly smiled; though still for the dourness of the situation could not. Gilwen had looked upon him so softly, that it seemed his heart would tear, and he could not but take a moment to press her hand lightly.
“She is right,” Narbeleth said softly; though not for a moment had she doubted her mind. She simply wished to affirm Gilwen’s own words to Calon, that he would not think her to judge him wrongly for anything. He was the finest man she had ever laid eyes upon, or desired after all. And the fact that he worked with horses… well, that had only made her to adore him all the more!
Meleth did her best to break the staring eyes from poor Gilwen, and she as well concluded, “She does speak wisely. We are a family of horsemen. Faeldor, and his father, all my children, truly, Rosiel.” She frowned at the young woman at the end of the table as she spoke. “If you do not approve of this, you would find your pleasure outside of our home.” The grey of her eyes had seemed to darken against such insult to her household. Here on her lovely daughter’s birthday, a token day of Meleth’s life, was her family insulted once more.
“Your very brother is of the Calvary,” she added, looking to Almurdir, though her eyes were not condemning of the gentle man, who seemed highly embarrassed over his sister’s words. The family was silent again.
“I must say, I have never had a better chicken pie.”
Narbeleth bit her lip hard, restraining herself from any further word or action. She could not even smile in response, though her eyes told her that Calon’s own smile was strained. “I will get you some more,” she said nervously, reaching for the man’s plate, though he had not quite finished his first helping. She needed a reason to stand up though, and did so quickly, returning to the bench where the pie and serving utensils had been left. She stood for a moment hovering over them without doing anything, and wiped her eyes upon the sleeve of her dress, catching her breath. Eventually though, she put another fair sized serving upon the plate, and taking a deep breath, returned to her dear Calon.
“Do save some room for dessert though,” she said quietly, unusually not herself. She sighed a bit, hungry but unable to eat at the moment. The young woman wished sincerely that she were not at her own home right now. The mountains would be nice. The woods. Belfalas… Valinor. Whichever place was furthest from this very place. Calon would have gone with her, she knew, and that thought was at least comforting.
“I suppose you are right,” Rosiel said bitterly, still a bit in awe that Gilwen had defended anyone, and that she had spoken so openly against her! It had only infuriated the woman further though.
“You could not have done much better anyhow,” Rosiel added, looking back to Narbeleth. It was quite amusing for her to bring the younger woman back into the conversation, as she obviously wished for no part of it. “You always have been quite ugly and repulsive. I suppose he means to simply use you. Faeldor, it is the truth is it not?” she turned her eyes to the man furthest from her, who had been steadily avoiding her gaze. “You very well said so earlier. Though I suppose you put Gilwen to use for your own stunts. You could have done better than that uncomely, nasty, vile little servant girl. If you wished for a real woman, you should have your finish with her and I will show you what you are missing.”
Narbeleth was entirely distressed once more at this point, and had completely moved her seat to scoot in between Calon and Haliel. She was an adult, yes, but she could not draw herself to take comfort on her own and the situation had left her rather ill at ease. She gripped at Calon’s arm with one hand, afraid that his temper would rise more and he would leave. She did not wish him to go anywhere and leave her now at this moment.
“For the love of Eru,” Almurdir shyly spoke up. “You are a guest in this home,” he muttered to his sister, who promptly avoided him.
“I see how you look at her,” Rosiel continued. “She’s holding that baby there as if it were her own. There is no doubt that you would bed her tonight and try to have your very own. Horrid little things they will be though. Faeldor, you could do so much better. Truly, just because she is holding the child does not mean that she could ever care for one. See now, he would sit with me just the same.” Rosiel stood up, and walked near Gilwen, kneeling down on the ground as if to take Eoric from her. She reached for the boy, but he clung to Gilwen’s dress.
“Come here, little one,” she said, her voice syrupy sweet, though the little boy did not move into her waiting arms. If anything, he looked frightened, and cuddled against Gilwen as he began to cry.
“Incorrigible little brat!” Rosiel shouted at the little boy, only causing him to cry all the more. She stood up haughtily, and Meleth stood as well.
“Ignorant woman, you will leave our gardens at once,” Meleth stated firmly; taking control of her household. “How dare you insult my children and guests in such a way.” She had had it by now. To insult the dear, little child had been over the edge.
Eoric was left in tears against Gilwen, and cheerful Narbeleth had moved to openly bury her face against Calon’s shoulder, sobbing quietly, though audibly, and stressed beyond her limits.
Haliel and Diore even had looks up fear upon their face, and had once more returned to petting the kitten and attempting do distract themselves from the raised voices, and Marileth was in awe that Rosiel had insulted handsome Calon. Faeldor was certainly angered, and Gilwen looked ashen. The woman had been over the edge, to cause distress to each of her children.
Rosiel looked as if to argue, but realized that she could not argue against the head of the household. Miriel was not here to defend her, and she frowned. “Fine,” was all she could bear to answer, with no apology for anything she had said. She stood tall and prideful.
“Almurdir, we will be going,” she stated to her brother, who made no move to rise with her.
“He is our guest for supper,” Meleth said. Faeldor agreed, finally speaking up and adding, “Almurdir, you need not leave on account of your sister. You have been gracious to my family and we would be glad to have you.”
Almurdir nodded. “You may walk yourself home, Rosiel,” he answered his sister. He was not proud in the least.
Rosiel shrieked for a moment, waiting for her brother to change his mind, yet it became apparent that he would do no such thing, as he lifted his fork to take another bite of his chicken pie, though his eyes were affixed downward. Eventually, Rosiel began to walk past the others as she took her leave, though she stalled for a moment as she stood behind Gilwen, drew back her boot, and kicked her hard in the lower back.
Faeldor was beyond able to handle his temper at this move, and leapt to his feet. His fist grasped Rosiel by the back of the dress and he began to walk her at his pace toward the gate. “You wish for your time alone with me, and now you should have it,” he growled, taking her to the white stone gate that led to the small walkway on the side of their home. The man ripped the gate open, and shoved Rosiel through it, not giving the woman a second look as he once more slammed it shut. “Savor it,” he muttered, his back to her, as he returned to his dear Gilwen’s side.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 8, 2009 14:37:40 GMT -5
Immediately everybody’s eyes were on her, and Gilwen finally began to feel the weight of what she had said upon her. Her cheeks began to burn a bit with embarrassment, and she did well to lower her head to look at the child at her side. Oh, thank the Valar that he was there with her! Little Eoric was the must-needed distraction.
Meleth spoke out against Rosiel, too. She used words that seemed to touch at least Gilwen and Calon, though for different reasons. The young lady was overcome by the mention of Faeldor’s father, and her heart seemed to drown for a moment in sadness over the thought of such a loss. The stablehand, however, let the words console him a slight. Well, if he was alike to Narbeleth’s father, he doubted she minded the smell, and his mind had begun to fret on the matter. Certainly that would still the wench’s voice! There was no use to hear her any longer.
“I will get you some more.”
He didn’t need it. In fact, Calon almost had the right mind to protest. But Beleth was quite quick, and she obviously needed the distraction, so he smiled to her and allowed her to do as she wished. It seemed for a time that Rosiel’s foul displays were finished, though it became immediately apparent as Beleth returned to sit beside him that that was not going to happen rightly at that moment. However ridiculous this was becoming! “Do save some room for dessert though.” “Dessert as well?” He mused lightly to Beleth, trying to bring back his cheery voice. “My, you do wish me to eat myself to sickness. I shall try my best.” He grinned at her, though became aware that Rosiel was once more speaking.
“You always have been quite ugly and repulsive. I suppose he means to simply use you. Faeldor, it is the truth is it not?”
Calon immediately stiffened, and his flaring eyes darted directly to the speaker. Repulsive? He thought to himself. Narbeleth was anything but foul on the eye. It was the woman who was speaking that became fouler by the moment. Each word seemed to speak out against her. And she had wondered earlier why Faeldor did not love her over Gilwen? The entrie matter seemed darkly ironic; still, the man had to bite his tongue for the moment. Oh, and he had to bite it hard. Would it be wrong to speak out?
“Though I suppose you put Gilwen to use for your own stunts. You could have done better than that uncomely, nasty, vile little servant girl. If you wished for a real woman, you should have your finish with her and I will show you what you are missing.”
Calon’s temper was boiling. He was certain it was evident in his eyes, he flashed a look to Gilwen, though the woman seemed to barely be handling it herself. Her dark eyes seemed saddened and wet much like Beleth’s, though she was still holding the child calmly and with a great gentleness. Would Faeldor not speak on her behalf? He looked to the stable master, and found himself a slight upset over the matter, though it was clearly his temper jumping to strange conclusions.
Real woman? Gilwen thought, barely raising her eyes to see the foul woman speaking. Well, if Faeldor was attempting to use her for such “stunts”, he was going to be refused. Nonetheless, she kept her attentions to little Eoric, with only a peripheral look to Faeldor himself; it was a desperate attempt to keep herself calm. Was she truly that horrid? She was not lovely like Narbeleth, Miriel or indeed Rosiel. But she knew to hold her tongue. Did that do nothing to elevate her? Did Faeldor truly think her beautiful? She was plain; but that did not make her vile and uncomely.
“She’s holding that baby there as if it were her own. There is no doubt that you would bed her tonight and try to have your very own. Horrid little things they will be though.”
Gilwen blushed and blanched all in the same moment. Indeed, with the rumors about her lewd behaviors, this was hardly what Faeldor’s family needed to hear. Though a part of Gilwen seemed to be devastated by the thought of her children being “horrid little things”. What weight could she place in those words? Rosiel was speaking out of jealous hatred. No doubt Gilwen already adored Eoric as if he were her own. Was it wrong? The little thing was so ever so gentle and sweet. Gilwen’s eyes burned with tears, though she kept everything closed; hopefully none would see her slight shaking and distress. She could handle herself before the family.
But then! Oh, that wretched woman stood to try and take the baby from her. While part of Gilwen was pleased that the child refused the loathsome female of any time with him, she became increasingly distraught by the tears he began to shed. Immediately, every mothering instinct she held came to fruition. “Incorrigible little brat!”
“All right, sweet one. It is all right.” Gilwen murmured to the child, pulling him closer and pressing a soft and quick kiss to the top of the little blonde head. Indeed, she thought for a moment of stroking his hair and cheeks with her fingers, though thought of their roughness. Instead, she brushed her knuckle against his little wet cheek. Her voice was soothing, though. And the way she coddled the little thing would surely do well to quell his little tears. Oh, Rosiel had frightened him.
And Calon couldn’t blame the child for crying. Indeed, Rosiel’s very presence disturbed him as well. And he was fully grown! It had all gotten well out of hand; Meleth was quick to dismiss the woman. And it was well, for Calon was beginning to open his mouth to utter something far worse than what had come from Beleth’s mother. So, he worked to calm himself. Though, this was beginning to be a chore.
As soon as he felt Beleth against his shoulder he started, growling under his breath, “Does the wench still wonder why Faeldor does not have her?” Though it was quiet, and only audible to Beleth, he worked silently and cautiously to calm her tears. The lovely woman should not have to suffer in such a way. He muttered a few other things as well, though was careful to avoid being heard for they were not fit for the ears of the small children, and he was not sure Beleth would find them appealing either. “Nightingale,” he said after a moment. “Do not shed tears. You are far lovelier than she could ever hope to be.” And it was the truth. Still, he glanced to Faeldor a moment before taking her hand into his discretely and pressing it warmly.
It was then the woman began to leave. Almurdir refused; which was quite well, for he had done nothing wrong. Her parting, though, was not easy. Indeed Gilwen felt the frustration and hatred in her lower back after only a moment. She had never thought that such a thing would over take Rosiel in the presence of all of these people, and as such she was highly unprepared to handle it. The serving woman made a small whimper of a sound, though did best to bite her tongue and not make much else of an utterance for her discomfort. She shifter her weight though, as the wind seemed to have left her with the shock she felt, and the child in her arms did not need to know of her displeasure, else his tears would not cease. Instead, she pressed her forehead to Eoric’s and let a few silent tears fall from her brown eyes in what she hoped was a well hidden way.
Faeldor seemed to jump up immediately. Calon, as a sheer instinct to get the woman away from the entirety of them almost did as well. Though, the fury in the stable master’s eyes seemed to be enough to handle the situation. Instead he continued to mutter foul, sporadic words to alleviate his tension. “The swine….real woman?...by the Valar. In Eru’s name, if I shall ever see her again…” he caught himself, though. He did not wish to further agitate the situation. Lovely dinner.
All of it seemed to be in ruins. Not a single person was smiling now. Not even little Haliel. And it was her day to smile all she wished. Such a resentment toward that woman had risen within Calon. He knew not he had the power to hate someone so much.
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 8, 2009 16:52:25 GMT -5
Faeldor was in a bit of a daze, and it took him some moments to readjust his temper before he was able to move to the ground beside Gilwen. He sat for a moment, not sure of what to do. Could he comfort her? Might he touch her? He did not know what she would allow from him, though in this moment he was beginning to grow tired of guessing, and was simply ready to console the woman he loved.
“I am not concerned for what she thinks of me,” Narbeleth muttered against Calon, relishing the way he pressed her hand, and burying her face against the arm of his shirt. “Tonight was supposed to be pleasant. I did not mean to bring you here to face insult… and… this,” she frowned as she spoke, her voice thick with emotion, though she could not still herself, and she gulped in air to steady herself from trembling. At least Calon had not left, though he surely must have wished to. Now she was embarrassing herself, by crying so.
It seemed that Miriel had found her way outside after all of the commotion. She had rested her eyes for some time, and thought that perhaps she would not eat, but at least she would be present for her sister’s birthday supper. Faeldor had certainly given the little girl her present by now, and even Miriel had acquired a little gift for the girl, and though it was not to the effect of Faeldor’s gift, the little girl would certainly like to have it. It was in fact, a pretty cloth she had woven while her mother had sewed the little violet dress, that she might tie a bow around the fluffy kitten’s neck.
She stood for a moment at the edge of the garden. Well, the others certainly did not look to be enjoying themselves. She would have thought the lot of them to have a pleasant time without her own presence, though most were frowning considerably already. Fingering the bits of braided silk in her hand, she sighed and continued forward.
Meleth was standing still, and wringing her hands, looking in the direction of the gate, shaking her head and muttering to herself. Faeldor had sat upon the ground near Gilwen and had let a gently arm around her shoulders as she consoled little Eoric, who was quite easy to please and had already stopped his crying. He simply sniffled, his blonde head resting against her chest.
Faeldor was far too concerned with his Gilwen than he was concerned over the fact that Calon had taken his sister’s hand. In fact, he would not have said a thing to the man for comforting his sister in such a way. To comfort a woman was not beyond propriety, indeed. However, his eyes and ears were not upon his sister’s crying, but upon the tears that had fallen from Gilwen’s lovely brown eyes.
“Dearheart… your back… do you need to lie down?” he muttered to her, entirely angry, but now within control. She was in pain, he knew, though he also knew that she would not admit such a thing. Nothing could contain how angry he was at the moment; he should have thrown the woman out upon her first breath. Gilwen deserved no abuse. She was perfectly lovely to Faeldor, and he wanted no other. Rosiel was an abomination. The Stable Master took a deep breath, and turned his eyes to Eoric, who was happily curled into Gilwen now, his eyes closed. The man moved his opposite hand to stroke the blonde head of the little child, letting it eventually come to rest across the little boy’s back. Gilwen indeed had the mothering instinct, he mused.
“Cal, I wish to go,” Beleth finally said, readjusting her grip on the man’s arm, and finally raising her eyes to look at him. She had stilled her crying mostly, though she was still devastated, and her eyes were wet. “Do you wish to go somewhere else?” she asked hopefully, and pleadingly. She knew he would go with her. They would… well… she did not know. She certainly would not control her own emotions if she stayed here any longer though, and Calon’s face was set as stone. His eyes were colder than she had ever seen him, and he was not enjoying himself at all.
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 8, 2009 19:55:50 GMT -5
“Tonight was supposed to be pleasant. I did not mean to bring you here to face insult… and… this.”
Calon almost growled once more at the very thought of Rosiel, still he did his best to control himself. The woman that was buried against him certainly was better than the other, and deserved his attentions more. So, instead, he began to slowly move his thumb across her hand. “I was not insulted.” He said this rather shortly, for the young man was not sure if she would take it as truth. Indeed he did not take to heart the slanders against himself. The anger he felt rose from the slights against his Nightingale. None should ever speak foully of such fair a lady as she.
Miriel had appeared upon the outskirts of the garden, though Calon paid her little attention. “I would not have left you with that…woman alone.” His voice dropped low, and he quietly fumed over the attendance of Rosiel again. Though, his movements stayed gentle. “I needed to be here for you,” he finally concluded, squeezing her hand once more. Oh, he did hate to see her cry! Not because she was weak, but because it tore at his heart. She was a joy; until now, Calon was not sure if Narbeleth knew any other emotions. He desired her smile to return. Oh, but he would make sure she smiled again this evening. If he could manage to find a way without angering her brother.
Little Eoric had quieted immediately, those his small nose still continued to run, and his blue eyes had to finish blinking away the tears. He seemed to fall back into his silence, which was fine by Gilwen. Silence was a solace for her, and she knew the child was comforted with the way he buried his head against her chest. The warmth that gave her and muted happiness brought her attentions away from her own discomfort, though her cheeks were hardly dry.
Faeldor had returned to her side; a soft and loving presence. Instinctively the servant knew he could see her tears and knew of her distress. If only she could have found a way to conceal it properly. His arm wrapped around her, slowly as if he were cautious of her reaction; and while Gilwen had a right mind to quell their contact, it was a comforting touch. “Dearheart… your back… do you need to lie down?” “No, I am well enough.” Her voice was equally as soft, and a bit shaky through her own discomfort. She had to fight to keep it so even, for indeed everything seemed to beg her to break into a hysterical ball of tears. Still, the woman strove to remain level headed, and accomplished such a thing with little problems. Faeldor stroked Eoric’s head for a moment, and Gilwen watched such ministrations with a calmness. The very motion seemed to calm her. He was so well with children. “Poor little thing,” she whispered quietly, tightening her hold upon the child for a moment before returning it to normal. “He is precious.” She murmured quietly, looking at the blue eyes that were now closed and the calmed child.
Her back hurt fiercely, but still the woman managed a small smile. She raised her eyes to look into Faeldor’s a moment, a deep rooted longing within them. She liked the feeling of having him near. She liked also the feeling of the small child curled up against her. That Faeldor was so near to them both was beyond any happiness she could hope for. Someday; someday maybe it would be their own child she would hold.
“She’s holding that baby there as if it were her own. There is no doubt that you would bed her tonight and try to have your very own.”
The words flooded back to Gilwen, and her steadiness faltered. Oh, her eyes had been asking for such things mere moments before! She sheepishly dropped her eyes to the child once more. Blessed little thing.
“Cal, I wish to go.”
Calon couldn’t say he blamed her, though he was a bit surprised. Haliel’s birthday seemed to have finished early for the foul company of Rosiel, and it seemed entirely ideal for the young woman to escape the gardens for a time. “Then let us.” He said, smiling slightly. “Anywhere.” He added as a prompter.
Heavens, he would take that lady to the ends of the earth at that moment if she had asked for it. “I shall take you to the tower once more, though I am sure the guards are there tonight!” He mused, trying also to still his own temper. “Let us see where we end up.” He looked to Haliel for a moment and to Meleth.
“Will they mind terribly if I take you away?”
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 9, 2009 0:50:19 GMT -5
“I would not have left you with that…woman alone... I needed to be here for you.” How comforting Calon was to her. His thumb was brushing over her palm and she closed her eyes for a moment, her breath slowly steadying. “I am glad that you are here. I need you with me,” she muttered into the man’s sleeve. He was wonderful it was certain; and especially to put up with such an evening as tonight. The woman found herself stolen away for some moments by the simple comfort of the man’s hand which encompassed hers, and the warm smell upon his clothing. There was nobody to say that she despised the smell of the horses on a hard working man.
---
“Yes, he is a fine little one, is he not,” Faeldor mused, still angry, but beginning to calm himself, with the sweetness of Gilwen and Eoric infiltrating his hot blood. “It is a blessed thing that he has come to our family.” He squeezed the woman’s shoulder lightly and added quietly, “Our own will be just as beautiful; not horrid.”
Of course it was meant as a comfort to his sweet Gilwen, to override the horrible things said. Faeldor had not done much to intercede; for arguing with Rosiel was of no use. Though, he had taken each of the words she said, and hoped to assure Gilwen of her loveliness. He adored the woman, His eyes were for only her, and now he only wished to comfort her. The man had almost turned to kiss her upon the temple, when little Diore walked over to join the three, and kneeled on the ground, her hand upon Faeldor’s knee. “Might we get a puppy, Faeldor?” she asked, questioning.
---
“I shall take you to the tower once more, though I am sure the guards are there tonight! Let us see where we end up.”
“We should not disturb the guards. I do not feel like entertaining anymore tonight,” Beleth said, finally moving her hand within Calon’s to return his gentle touch. A brief glance to Faeldor showed her that nobody was paying attention anyhow, and for a moment, she rubbed the man’s shoulder with her opposite hand. He was very tense, indeed. “Yes, let us see where we end up.” In all truth, Narbeleth would simply be glad to be outside the garden and alone with Calon. Her spirits were always so high with him, and it could not be otherwise. They would cheer each other again yet.
“Will they mind terribly if I take you away?”
“No, I think the kitten will be enough for her this evening.” She was of course referring to Haliel. The pleasure of such young children was that it never took such a long moment to distract them back to their pleasurable state. “And they should not worry if I am with you,” Beleth answered slowly, taking a few deep breaths to calm her tremulous voice. “Take me away,” she agreed, whispering close to Calon’s ear.
“Mama, Cal and I are going to take a walk,” she announced to Meleth, who was still wringing her hands apathetically. She glanced slightly to Faeldor, who was near enough to hear her statement, though he had made no move to say anything. The Stable Master had lost the urge to glare at Calon for the evening. Narbeleth deserved to have someone cheer him afterall, his sweet sister had certainly been crying over the whole matter, and he could not blame her. For now though, he was to comfort Gilwen, for Narbeleth had her own comforter it seemed.
“That is well, dear,” Meleth answered, coming out of her daze, though still wringing her hands. “But here, you must take some desserts with you,” she mumbled, quickly moving to take a cloth napkin and wrap up two of the little cakes within it.” Narbeleth at first opened her mouth to protest, yet she saw the way her mother moved. She was unstoppable, it was certain. Meleth had finished wrapping the desserts before Narbeleth and Calon even had the chance to stand.
---
“Perhaps someday,” Faeldor answered little Diore, comforted by the fact that her question had nothing to do with the distress that Rosiel had caused, but she had returned to the former subject. At first the little girl seemed fine with the answer, and she smiled at Faeldor. She had not been one to enjoy strangers though, and for the first moments that she moved to sit upon Faeldor’s lap, she had ignored Gilwen. Though, seeing the way that Gilwen treated her brother caused her to look up at the woman.
It was only moments before her little hands had moved to touch the woman’s still-wet cheek, for it seemed she was just as pleased by the lady’s eyes as Eoric had been. “This is Gilwen,” Faeldor said softly, watching as the little girl seemed to be in awe of the woman. “You have met her before,” he added. Diore smiled slightly, staring at the woman’s face, and Eoric smiled at his sister. And then, as if the serving woman had any more room upon her lap for another child, Diore climbed upon her, cuddling in next to Eoric. “I can sit with her too?” she asked Faeldor, and the man almost laughed at the child’s innocence. She was by all means already sitting with the lady. “Of course,” he answered. “Of course, we can all sit with her.”
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Gilwen
Man
servant
There are times when silence has the loudest voice.[Mo0:0]
Posts: 593
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Post by Gilwen on Nov 9, 2009 9:47:38 GMT -5
“I am glad that you are here. I need you with me.”
Calon could not help but let a smile slink across his face. Indeed, such words were more comfort to him than he ever could have imagined. He needed to be with her; her soul was so lovely and right. A perfect fit, it seemed, for the young huntsman. Never had another woman caught him in such a snare. But this one! It was welcomed and cherished.
It also gave the man immense hope that his desire of wedding her and keeping her close would not be hastily rejected. Though, even if she did, he mused that he would still adore her the same. No other would even be able to hold a candle to great torch that was this lady.
“And I will be.” He finally answered. “As long as you desire me to be.” And even if she did not, perhaps he would find himself lingering still.
--
“Yes, he is a fine little one, is he not?”
Gilwen listened to his gentle tone, still cradling the child close against her. It was a blessing to have Eoric. Such a dear addition to the House of Faelon. Indeed, he seemed quite opposite of all the natural members of the household. Though he was quite alike to herself. Gilwen smiled slightly. “Yes. A blessing,” she repeated ever so gently. Undeniably, Gilwen could have sat with that little boy upon her lap for hours and felt contented. Eoric was a treasure for certain.
“Our own will be just as beautiful; not horrid.”
Gilwen blushed, and her heart seemed to pointedly ram against her ribcage. Though as Faeldor squeezed her shoulder she looked to him, however nervous such a comment made her. She had nothing to say; Faeldor could take her words so easily. Her mouth had gaped a bit as if she were about to utter something in response. Instead she took her eyes from him and bashfully lowered her head.
Well, all children were beautiful; naturally hers would be as well. Though she wondered a moment on her own children’s temperament. Indeed, her own blood would lead them to be calm, just as little Eoric. Though Faeldor’s would lead them to be bold and excitable. Such thoughts brought the woman’s cheeks to flood greater in color, and she was thankful that before she could bury herself further in distress and embarrassment, Diore approached speaking to her beloved. That child was clearly a gift as well.
--
“We should not disturb the guards. I do not feel like entertaining anymore tonight.”
And Calon surely did not desire to be a guest. His gentle blue eyes were still rather taut and strained. Nonetheless, he was quite calmed by the lady beside him. More so as she began to return his gentle touches. Though, as a man, he never would have admitted such out loud.
Calon looked back over toward the kitten as Beleth made mention of her. Indeed, it seemed to be keeping all the younger children quite occupied. “Yes, I do suppose the kitten shall be plenty. I would think that I am hardly seen as that cuddly or precious to a child.” He grinned a slight, his playful demeanor slowly inching its way back into his tone. “I presume Haliel will not mind if I take leave, then. And she should not mind that I take you.”
The woman had come so close to whisper the last portion of her own rambles into her ear that Calon was a bit surprised. It was a pleasant feeling though. Beleth was quite enchanting. And she had not the slightest clue the power she already had over the stablehand. It was altogether amazing. For if Calon would have admitted such a thing to any, and he had not even made note of it to himself, they would have thought it strange. For someone who so valued and adored freedom should not be so easily snared.
But Beleth’s soul was freedom as well.
“But here, you must take some desserts with you.”
Calon was pleased that Meleth had said that it was all right for them to leave. But he could hardly bring himself to eat dessert now. His nerves had been far too strained, he had lost all appetite. Still he was not one to be rude. “Thank you,” he began easily, adopting his bright eyed and pleasant air once more. Calon never stayed truly down for long. “It has been an honor to come sit at your home.” He added genteelly before glancing to Faeldor to see if he was too busy for a farewell. Indeed, he looked to be preoccupied, so he said nothing and instead stood, and offered a hand to Beleth as well.
“Come then, and we shall let our feet lead us.” He said quietly.
--
“Perhaps someday.”
Gilwen glanced over to the little girl as she moved in close to Faeldor. It did seem the little girl was quite attached; Diore was not one to sit with anyone. Perhaps save for Meleth’s friend from the other afternoon and Faeldor. It was a wonder to Gilwen, who was quietly paying all three of those around her mind, that she had warmed to him so quickly. Though, part of it she could understand. Gilwen had been entranced by him quite quickly, too.
Her eyes had stopped in their shedding of tears. Indeed, there were too many around her for her to wish to keep such a display up, and as such she had reined in all of her anxieties over the now departed Rosiel. She offered the little girl a smile, though quickly found that she was being ignored in favor of the stable master.
So it was a slight surprise when she felt a hand that did not belong to Faeldor against her cheek. She turned her attentions back to the little girl, who was ever so gently touching her cheek. The little thing looked to be entranced! My eyes. Gilwen said thoughtfully to herself. She smiled down at her.
“This is Gilwen.”
Gilwen did not let her eyes drift from the little girl. Indeed, she felt as if this were the moment of their first meeting. The stables had long drifted from the girl’s memory; for indeed she seemed to have never seen Gilwen before. Instead she just smiled gently down at her. “You have met her before.”
“It is nice to see you again, Diore.” Gilwen murmured quietly. The little girl seemed to smile, and then began to move. Gilwen was surprised by such a thing; indeed somehow the child had found room in her own lap to sit herself as well. It took a moment for Gilwen to understand what had happened. She had not, in truth, thought that she would be able to have two children upon her lap at once, seeing as she was so small. Still, it elated her that Diore finally seemed to take her notice, and she slowly wrapped an arm about that little girl as well.
“I can sit with her too?”
“Of course, of course, we can all sit with her.”
Gilwen was beaming. The tear streaks upon her face seemed alien against the smile she was wearing and the joy that sparkled deep within her brown eyes. She had not the slightest clue what to say to the child; Eoric was contented in silence, Diore was likely not. Nonetheless, the woman did not fret over it in that moment. The pain in her back had subsided considerably, and while she was sure it would bruise, at that moment it was not going to worry her or trouble her.
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Faeldor
Man
Head Stablemaster
Do we walk in legends or on the green earth in the daylight?[Mo0:1]
Posts: 556
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Post by Faeldor on Nov 9, 2009 12:12:18 GMT -5
“And I will be. As long as you desire me to be.” These words caused the distress on Narbeleth’s face to lessen considerably, and she could not help but lend her eyes to smile slightly at them. “I hope that is a promise,” she answered quietly, looking to the man’s eyes for affirmation, but it seemed that only a moment later she needed to look away for the blush that would spread upon her cheeks at such a bold statement. Rosiel had indeed stated one fine and truthful thing in her afternoon here; and it was the fact that Narbeleth would have no reservations to spending the rest of her life in the strong arms of the horseman beside her.
Calon did so well though to lighten her mood. He seemed to continue, and as he spoke, his voice became brighter, and his eyes warmer. “Yes, I do suppose the kitten shall be plenty. I would think that I am hardly seen as that cuddly or precious to a child. I presume Haliel will not mind if I take leave, then. And she should not mind that I take you.” The woman shook her head, in agreement. “None will mind at this moment, it is certain,” she answered. “And I do doubt the fact that Haliel would wish to cuddle with you. The kitten is much more adorable than you are. And softer as well… perhaps if you had worn your velveteen you would have required more attention,” she teased lightly, her hand still kneading gently upon his shoulder.
“Come then, and we shall let our feet lead us.” Narbeleth nodded, taking Calon’s hand and rising to her feet, as Meleth came forth to hand her the wrapped cakes, looking slowly between the two.
“Thank you for coming today… Oh, I should hope you do not hold this day against our family, Calon,” Meleth said, slowly, looking curiously up at the young man. It seemed to the wise mother though, that this meal would in no way affect negatively the fondness between himself and her daughter. The both of them seemed lower in spirits perhaps than when the dinner had started, yet oddly calm now. Meleth moved forward for a moment to wipe the forgotten tears from Narbeleth’s cheeks with the palm of her hand. Then managed to smile at Calon, “Do have an enjoyable time,” she said earnestly, before allowing them their leave.
---
Faeldor was a slight in awe of little Diore, for though she was affectionate with himself, and with Meleth, she had truly not branched out to be close with any others yet. However, the girl did not snuggle in with closed eyes as Eoric did, but sat herself in a way that she might look up at Gilwen’s face. She was quite pleased with it, and she could not take her little hand from the woman’s cheek, where it traced along the countours of her face, and ended up near the corner of her eyes. Her mother had been older, it was certain, and held creases there, where Gilwen’s face was still young and smooth, but it did not matter to Diore.
The Stable Master had moved slightly, to give Gilwen her space, for indeed he knew that though perhaps Gilwen had been pleased for a moment by his comment of their own children, she was shortly embarrassed by it. Her eyes had fallen once more, and turned to the children upon her lap. Faeldor’s arm was no longer about the lady, but he still sat near, facing her now though.
“She is very pretty, Faeldor,” Diore continued, as if it were a sin to speak directly to the woman who she so adored already. “Is she your wife?” she asked naively. At least, Diore knew as much that she was not one of the sister’s of the family. There were so many sisters. But Gilwen was different. She did not have the light eyes that all the others held. Even Eoric had light eyes, and he was her brother by blood.
“She is the loveliest woman,” Faeldor agreed. “Look, her eyes are beautiful are they not? The same as yours, little one. Brown and deep as her love; the color of the earth, and innocent as the very beginnings of life which came from the ground and music of Eru’s hand. Through them I can see the voice of her soul…” The man let himself to ramble quietly, beginning as he looked to Diore, though shortly affixing his eyes upon Gilwen’s face. His words were an answer to Diore’s comment, though they were spoken in truth and as a comfort for the lady herself. He would not have said such a thing in front of another adult, to be sure, for his words were for his lady alone. Yet, Diore would not understand, nor would she repeat back what was said. He sighed slightly, his heart rate having lowered. “No, she is not yet my wife,” he finished.
“What is she like?” Diore asked, full of questions. Faeldor laughed slightly, his mood lending way to Diore’s precious voice, “Perhaps you should ask her, she can speak as well, beloved. Though she is quiet as Eoric, she is old enough to know her words." Diore looked thoughtful for a moment; not apt to knowing how to converse with adults for her five years. So, she did come up with another question for the woman. “You are from Gondor too?” Diore asked, feeling bright about the idea that there were two different nations; Gondor, where she was now, with all these dark haired people, and Rohan, where the people were blonde and of fairer skin.
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