Death of a slave, and birth of a princess

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

" Dear Darek,I miss you very much and though you said you would not write back, I know you read the letters. I am sending Awiti with this letter, but please, don't send her back. She is my sister now and I want her to learn like anyone from a royal family would. I want you to teach her skills, like a student and such. With her is a servant, someone who will help take care of her. Her name is Lana and she will at least cook and help Awiti get ready for the day, possible clean some. Turin and I have been talking a lot. He told me that he was sure Nayeli would be happy for me, though a bit concern because you are a vampire, but he knows I care a lot about you. Nayeli is gone this week, to Teirm for some business Uncle sent her on, so hopefully, she will return soon. I miss you and I hope a letter will be sent one day.

Love
Leilani"

As Darek read the flowery hand writing of his love for the tenth time this morning he could not help but think off how events had unfolded. He had fallen in love with a woman he could not marry, and then had to leave her after a day so that there secret relationship would not get out. It had been a week since he had last seen Leilani, or Awiti for that matter, and he was happy the young woman was coming. The servant not so much, he liked his house a certain way, and did not like things being moved around. But he would deal with it for her.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

As he waited at the only gate into Ilirea he looked out into the vast landscape outside of the city's walls. Would they be coming on horse, or maybe they would have some of the savage faithful guarding them. Now wouldn't that be a lovely visit. Darek thought to himself as he let the scents of the city fill his nostrils. It was rare he had someone to teach as a student. And never before had he trained a human in his life. He amused this would be interesting, but also knew this would be a new hardship for all of them. Awiti would be in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people, while Darek would be training a human. And Leilani, his precious leilani would be all alone. No not all alone, with Turin in the capital waiting to hear from them. It was a cruel world.

It was just around noon when he saw he first glimpses of something on the horizon and smiled happily. " Shall this be my little Awiti. What dose she wish to learn I wounder." Darek said to himself presenting him with a challenge. He could teach her almost anything she could learn, from fine dining, down to war games. But what she would wish to learn would b somewhere in between he as sure. He liked the small black child, she was sweet enough, though needed to open up more. " That is something I must teach her how to do. Socialize with people, and how to hold herself." Darek said with a smile as the group came closer, he could see the faint outline of Awitis face and right away joy filed his heart. Though neither would admit it, he knew Leilani had sent Awiti there for more then her to be taught like a royal.
>Word Count< five.eight.seven.
>Tagged< Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< excited to get the ball rolling its like a side mp ^&^

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

I was worried… No, not because I was riding on a beautiful horse, actually, the same one I had been brought onto for the first time with Leilani, but because of the mission she had sent me on. She wanted me to learn how to be a royal and to have a trade so when I grew, I could be a proper woman and I could do something with my life. ”I want you to go, open up, speak your mind and not be ashamed… You are a beautiful woman and I know you can make it big.”

[/color] Her words echoed in my ear as I rode the horse. She and Turin had set up a escort for me to ride with, along with a Servant who had been helping me since day one. She had been very please to come to the beautiful city, however, I was still scared.

As we drew closer, I could see thee beautiful city come closer and closer. My heart was racing faster and faster. I was not sure if I was ready for this, but I knew there was nothing I could do. This was going to be my new life and I would have to get over it. I glanced at the escorts, who all looked tired, but I was not. I was ready to get started, even though I was very nervous. I looked down at my hands on the horse… I did not wear a glorious gown, but instead, I wore a simple dress. It was a light blue, long sleeves and though it hugged my body, the bell of the dress did not stretch far out like my one at the ball had. In fact, I did not even need a hoop for this dress. My hair had been pulled back into braids and a silver metal hoop went around my head to show royalty. We had gained several stares on the way here, but I had tried to ignore them. I wore a black cloak to keep the cold from nipping at my bones and my hands were covered in a pair of black gloves so my fingers would not get cold either.

Soon, the gates were in sight and there in the middle stood the man Leilani had talked about non stop. She even wore a green ribbon around her wrist to remember him by. I smiled slightly, at least I was opening up a little. As soon as we were at the gates, I dismounted and smiled at Darek. ”Leilani sends her greetings.”[/color] And far more, I thought to myself as I looked at Darek. Leilani was missing him so badly, to the point she would look towards the gates of the castle in hopes he would come. She knew it had not been a dream, and so did we, but we really missed him. Now, I was here and at least I could send her letters about my life here and how Darek was. [/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count four. nine. nine.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

As the group grew closer Darek could not help but laugh at how odd Awiti seemed on a horse. " A Royal's steed. I got my work cut out for me on this." Darek laughed to himself, not being mean, but trying to loosen up. Ever since he had left Carval he had thought of going back there. Taking all he had said back from Leilani and just staying with her the night. O how peaceful it would be have her in his arms again. But no,he could not think of such things, and as he came back to the real world his eyes looked Awiti herself over.

Awiti wore a simple, light blue dress. Like Leilani the sleeves were long, modest he liked to call it. The dress itself hugged the child's body, not enough to make her growing body show anything, but enough to draw any mans eyes. Most after all when they saw a darker woman assumed it was a slave. The two guards on the side of him were such fools speaking about her in whispered voices. " Try it and you will end up dead, if the riders do not get you first." Darek said to them as he walked by them and greeted Awiti as if she was one of his own family members, but first kissing her hand as was customary of her rank and title. " Why my lady Awiti, it seems you have already started your transformation." Darek said with a smile as he kissed her hand which he held gently before listening to what she had to say to him.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

”Leilani sends her greetings.” Awiti told him, and though he wished to smile, such things were far to open around here. " And I shall have a messenger send mine back to her." Darek said as he hugged the child. " It is good to see you again Awiti." Darek said to her as he then looked to the servant with Awiti. " And you must be Lana." Darek said to the woman who had dismounted after Awiti. " I have only a few rules in my house Lana, and though I may not be cruel I expect them to be followed. As is lady Awiti being trained as long as yo are in the house you shall follow the same procedures. The rules are, no moving my furniture around, and food you must make on your own, for I have not cooked a meal in a long time." Darek said not harshly, but stern enough so she knew he meant what he said.

As he was finished speaking to Lana he took both women close to him and away from the prying eyes of the guards. " Your job here is done. Tell the lady that her sister shall be given the utmost care, and that she may come see her at any time." Darek said leaving an open invitation for her to come see Darek under the pretenses of going to see Awiti. Once the soldiers had left Darek quickly hurried the two women along until they got to his home. Not to hide them for how they were dressed, but so that he could let them unpack and get situated. If they wished to stop at a store as they passed he wold happily oblige. " If either of you need anything, just say so. While you are here you do not need to pay for any expenses. As long as they are necessary,and on occasion luxury items." Darek said with a smile knowing full and well that Awiti would be a hard cookie to crack. But he wished to know why, and so he would sit down with her sometime so that the two of them could speak openly.
>Word Count< six.three.four
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< Thought i would use some of what u had in her physical appearance to the benefit of the thing saying u stated she had been looked at already.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

I was not the most stable rider in the kingdom, but I did okay on the large white horse that Leilani did not let me borrow, but gave. This had been her horse for a long time, it had been trained to protect anyone on their back and it was mine. When she had seen me off, she had told me before watching me go off and I nearly started to cry. I had that night in my tent as we stopped halfway here for rest and dinner. I was going to miss Leilani more then anything, but she wanted me to learn and to be someone who people could look up to. I did not think anyone would here would take me serious and I could only hope that they would one day. I only hoped that I could live up to what Leilani wanted to see. She knew that I was strong, though, I did not know how… Maybe it was how she knew Darek was a good man? I did not know.

As I got closer, I noticed some of the Guard in Ilirea speaking, I could not hear their words, but from the look on Darek’s face, it was not something he liked. Once I dismounted, I smiled at him, allowing him to take my hand freely, unlike the first time he had, where I was scared. I had not spent a long time with him, but like Leilani, I felt comfortable with him. ”Why my lady Awiti, it seems you have already started your transformation." I smiled shyly, though he seemed quick to point out that I was standing out slightly, I was still unsure and scare. Each time I saw a white man look at me, it felt like I was about to be slapped and hit. I knew it would not happen, at least, not with Darek around, but the past memories were hard to get rid of, especially when my mother was in them, and I loved my mother dearly.

When I told him of Leilani’s greeting, I saw in his eyes a smile, but he did not smile. I knew Leilani really liked him, but I did not know why he had left to return here. ”And I shall have a messenger send mine back to her." I nodded swiftly, knowing he would do it. He took me in his arms. It felt nice to be hugged after a long travel. ”It is good to see you again Awiti." I could hear the guards whispering now, mostly from surprise, but I did not pay attention to them. The skill of ignoring others whispers had been gained during my slavery. He then looked to the Servant Leilani had sent with me. ”And you must be Lana." She nodded, looking at him with utmost respect. ”I have only a few rules in my house Lana, and though I may not be cruel I expect them to be followed. As is lady Awiti being trained as long as you are in the house you shall follow the same procedures. The rules are, no moving my furniture around, and food you must make on your own, for I have not cooked a meal in a long time." She nodded. She smiled, she did not mind these rules. In fact, I had told her before that she did not even have to clean, unless I was helping. ”Oh course Sir.” She did not seem at all hurt by the words or even surprised, she was kind. Which was why I liked her the most.

Once he was done, he grabbed me and Lana gently, moving us away from the guards that looked over our bodies. Lana was not as young as me, but she was just a little older then Lady Nayeli. ”Your job here is done. Tell the lady that her sister shall be given the utmost care, and that she may come see her at any time." The guards that had come with me bowed. They had talked about heading into town to rest and eat for the evening before heading out, so they went past and stopped at the first inn near the gates, which was within’ eyes sight.

After that, Lana and I followed Darek on home, talking about the travels some here and there. She made sure everything was good with me and asked if there was anything she could do. I shook my head. ”I could use some help unpacking some of my stuff and maybe something to eat would be nice.”

[/color] She nodded quickly, telling me that she could do that before kissing my forehead. She was more like a mother to me then Leilani. She was older and she was kind. ”If either of you need anything, just say so. While you are here you do not need to pay for any expenses. As long as they are necessary,and on occasion luxury items." I was not one and needed a whole lot, but I nodded. Lana opened my first back and started pulling out the three dresses I had brought that were four any formal occasions and then the four other simple ones that were for everyday us. I walked around the room, looking at everything before going to Darek. ”Darek? Do you have a Garden?”[/color] I liked being outside more then I did inside and it was nice out today, even if it was cold.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count nine. zero. eight.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

As Awiti offered Darek a shy smile he knew that Leilani's plan would work against him. She had sent the girl over to weaken him up, and already just the shy smile was doing it.What he would give to have her here as well with them. Awiti herself was a sweet girl, though he did not know her past he hoped to some day soon. To break down that wall that she surrounded herself with, and instead replace it with the perfect offense. He would train her in combat, he knew for a fact. Just by the way the guards spoke he knew her life would be difficult. And while she was alone, and had no one but herself, it would be good for her to know how to defend herself. Even if Leilani objected to the notion. Leilani did not have as much to worry about being raped as a woman from the Hardic did. While Leilanis skin was white, Awitis was still black making her in most peoples eyes a slave no matter if she was free or not.

As I finished explaining my rules to Lana I was not surprised that she did not argue with me. After all the less work she had to do the better for her. Or so she thought. She was Awiti's servant not his own, so if Awiti still needed her to do stuff for her she would have to do it. And Darek would make sure Awiti's rules were followed.

As the guards left Darek spoke to the horse Awiti had rid own. " Come, I swear to you that no harm shall befall you in my care. Follow me and your mistress please." Darek said to the horse and it happily followed. It was a loyal horse, Darek had to admit and was surprised Awiti had such a creature, then again when he thought of it he knew Leilani would not let Awiti leave without a parting gift, or seven. This made Darek laugh as he, with Awiti, lana, and the horse made there way to his granite house.

Once they got to it Darek smiled to the two young women before saying. " Go in before me, I shall bring your horse around to my small stable." And Darek soon disappeared around the corner of his house. Once inside the stable he took the saddle and reins off of the horse and spoke to it once more. " Sleep where yo wish in here, all of this is yours while your mistress is with us." And with that Darek hung up all the stuff that had been packed onto the horse besides what Awiti needed as well as Lana and walked around his house once more. Going inside to see how the two lady's were making out.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

As Darek walked in he stayed off to the side, letting Awiti and Lana have some personal time while they sat in his living room. It was quite amusing to see them unpacking the dresses out of her bag. Seven dresses he counted before a huge grin came onto his face. Shopping would be a thing he would be doing very soon for the two of them, very soon indeed.But before he could think of where Awiti's voice rang out to him. ”Darek? Do you have a Garden?” Awiti asked him while she stood before him. " Sadly I do not have one as grand as the ones you are used to Awiti, but I do have a small garden in the back of my house." Darek said to her kindly. " If yu like I can show you it tonight. We have much to do, like you choosing your room first. Normally people who come here for training sleep in the training room." Darek said pointing to a large square room that had many circles in it, all centered around the middle of the room. " but you are not here for that kind of training thus..." Darek said leading her up a set of stairs to a long hallway that had many doors in it. " Every room but the last is free. I am in the last one. And shall leave the door unlocked until you become used to your surroundings here. That way if you are to ever need me, you can come straight to me. " Darek said as he kissed her on he forehead. " Why don't you go choose a room, I'll help Lana get your belongings up here Awiti." Darek said with a smile, looking into her emerald eyes. Before slowly walking back down the stairs. He had a good idea what room she would choose, but he rather her choose it then him give it to her. " Lana. It is ok if I call you by your first name correct?" Darek asked her as he came back into the living room where he and Awiti had left her. She was still in awe from all the simple beauty's he had inside his home. " Awiti is picking a room now for her to sleep in. You may wish to do the same. I'll bring the belongings up to the two of you ok." Darek said kindly to the woman, he did not want to scare her, or make her think she was being per say told what to do. He wanted her to be as comfortable as possible, though he would not allow her in his room like he did Awiti. Some things he still would not allow, servants in his house was hard enough, but letting her into his room as well would still be a no. Awiti was allowed to only because she was Leilani's sister, and was to shy that she would not bother Darek unless he asked her to as he had by letting her know she could come into his room at any time.

As he made his way back upstairs with all the belonging's he hoped Awiti had listened carefully to what he said, and had chosen a room she truly liked, instead of just a plain unlavished one. She was a princess now, and she would have to start acting like one.
>Word Count< one.zero.three.eight.
>Tagged< Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< Super muse to the rescue i hope u enjoy, and that forshadowing dose take place with darek saying to awiti she was free to come into his room whenever she neded to.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

I was still far from brave or even confident. I knew Leilani wanted to change this, but as I looked around the city, each step took me further and further into the beautiful city and it was beyond overwhelming. I stayed next to the horse as we walked through the city. My thoughts were on Leilani most of all, I wanted to see her. I missed her a whole lot, could not wait to see her again, but it would be a long time. She wanted me to have a great education and learning experience, which meant she was not there. I missed her so badly… No, more then that… I looked towards the people who we passed, seeing elves and humans alike. Slaves saw me and gawked at me, as if they had never seen a human before and white people were displeased that I wore beautiful clothing and a silver metal band around my head. To them it was mocking, but to me, it signaled my freedom and with who I made my home with.

I looked to Lana, who was smiling pleasantly and happy to be here. She had volunteered for the job and Leilani had given her enough money to quit and go on to a new job, but she said she would stay with me until I learned how to cook and how to take care of myself properly. Once I learned that, she would leave, get a new job and check in on my weekly. I would miss her when she left, but she was still getting paid by Leilani each month, who would send a messenger with not only a letter for me and Darek, but also a money back for Lana to be paid with. Unlike Slaves, Leilani had a say in things, she came to the castle voluntarily and she was paid to work. It was a reason why slaves had come to being. People did not want to waste money on servants when they could have free hired hands. It probably did not really help the economy either.

I had heard Leilani and Nayeli speaking about it over dinner, how if people were hired as Servants, number one they would have money and they would spend it on good, where as slaves have nothing and goods are being wasted. Nayeli understood, but she also saw Leilani as just wanting to protect me. I looked down. I did not want to tear her family apart. Mine had because Leilani only had enough money at the time to buy me. She at least stuck around for me to see my mother and ordered the man who owned her never to sell her and if he did, he would be imprisoned for life. Leilani had promised to go and free her one day, but I knew the man was lying, I could see it in his eyes. The promise had been promised before and those were always the first ones sold.

Darek had gotten the horse to follow with words I did not know and I was amazed that I did not have to lead it. The mare had been a stubborn horse, mostly because she was use to Leilani and not me riding her. But she had gotten us to me riding her after a few hours, realizing I was lighter then the woman who I had grown to admire and love. Leilani had given me new dresses and a horse for coming here. She knew it was not enough to help me through the many years I would be here, but I could get more when time called for it. As we looked around the livingroom, Darek voice rang out. ”Go in before me, I shall bring your horse around to my small stable." I looked at him beyond the door and watched as he left. I helped Lana pull my clothes out. The dresses were still new to me, wearing them and having them, but I had them and sooner or later I would get use to them.

Lana checked the dresses for imperfections and smiled when she saw none. ”Looks like we did a good job, Awiti.” I smiled widely at her, happy I had packed good. As a slave, we never packed anything, we were forced out, having to leave everything. I missed some of my stuff, but most of it was made out of nothing more then tree and dried Grass. I then saw Darek and went to him quickly, asking about a garden. ”Sadly I do not have one as grand as the ones you are used to Awiti, but I do have a small garden in the back of my house." I smiled widely. I did not care how bit it was, as long as it was outside and in private, where I could think and do what I wanted to do. ”If you like I can show you it tonight. We have much to do, like you choosing your room first. Normally people who come here for training sleep in the training room." I looked past him at the room. Training sleep? I thought to myself, but I tried to not to think to much of it, seeing the square room and all the holes.

”But you are not here for that kind of training thus..." He took my arm gentle and headed me up the set of stairs carefully. I pulled my dress up slightly so as not to step on it and then I saw a hallway with many doors. ”Every room but the last is free. I am in the last one. And shall leave the door unlocked until you become used to your surroundings here. That way if you are to ever need me, you can come straight to me." I nodded quickly and looked around the hallway. I wanted one with a good view, so I would have to go into all of them. I smiled as he kissed me on the forehead. ”Why don't you go choose a room, I'll help Lana get your belongings up here Awiti." I nodded again and then went to each room. All had a beautiful view, but the one at the end, opposite of Darek had two windows, both with wonderful views. I had found me room.

Down stairs, Lana was with Darek and I did not know what was going on, all I knew was that I was sure they were getting ready to bring my stuff. I should have been down their helping them, but I was here and not there. Soon, I heard them returning and I could hear Lana’s voice asking for something. ”If I could, I would like the room next to Awiti.” Even though she did not know which one it was yet, she asked so he could think on it. I let me head come from the window and smiled at them. ”This one.”

[/color] It was beautiful, with a wonderful view. I could get things set up carefully as well.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count one. one. seven. five.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Darek kept on looking back to Awiti. He could see the longing to be back with Leilani, he himself had the same longing, but when she wrote to her he would let her know that Leilani could come by any time to visit her. He did not want Awiti to be sad, the child was to kind to be sad. But as Darek began to walk past the elves and humans of the city he knew there would be trouble one of these days and this only made him more sure of his decision to train her in the arts of combat, that way when she walked alone, she would not be defenseless and worst. Though the elves were only surprised at how she was dressed and her green eyes so much like her own, the humans were all but outright hostile towards her. If not for seeing him with her, he was sure they would have attacked and taken everything she had and more.

Darek also kept a close eye on Lana. After all he knew nothing of the woman, nor why she had come. She said she was to serve Awiti, but he felt like there was something else behind it then that. As if she were only here, using Leilanis kindness to her benefit. A close eye indeed he would keep on her. He would make sure she did not take advantage of his loves kindness.

As they walked Darek bought to small meals from a vendor for Awiti and Lana. He did not want Awiti to be hungry while she was unpacking, and she wanted Lana to be ready for whatever she needed to be ready for. The vendor was an elf, so everything was something that could easily be grown, no meat was on the plates. Darek happily thanked the man, paying him for the two meals and kept on their walk to his house, and now theirs as well. All the time he listened about Awiti and her travels here.

Darek was happy when he saw the wide smile on Awitis face. It was so beautfiul to see. Now that he thought about it he had never seen her smile like this before and it warmed his heart. " Maybe you can help me make it bigger some time for you and when Leilani comes to visit I'm sure she would love such a beautiful place to sit and chat with her charming sister." Darek said, not caring that Awiti was not her blood sister. Unlike the others he understood what she had done. For he himself had almost done it not so long ago in the slave markets of Teirm. As he watched her look to the training room and the confused look on her face he smiled and said to her. " The way I train a warrior comes from an ancient culture. You are locked in a room, and that room has circles in the ground. Each year you can go outside of another layer. When you start you only have the center. You sleep eat, and train there. Only able to leave to take a shower and go to use the bathroom. It is very difficult training, but effective. No one has failed on the melee part of the riders training that I have trained." Darek said allowing her to look inside if she wished.

Darek watched as Awiti ran into the first room with such excitment and a small smile appeared on his face. What horrors had she faced. He wondered that such a simple thing could bring her so much joy. He would have to ask her when they were in the garden tonight. He wished to know about the young woman he was about to train before he did so. That way he knew what motivated her, and what did not. Slowly he went down the stairs and helped Lana bring up he bags.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

”If I could, I would like the room next to Awiti.” Darek heard Lana say and he smiled. " I assumed as much. You are free to take any room but my own or hers." Darek said as they got to the top of the stairs, Awitis face greeting them from the door directly to the left of his own. ”This one.” came her response so quickly that Darek almost laughed. " Then it is yours my lady." Darek said as he brought her belongings to her room. " And Lana, you can have the room opposite of Awiti or to the left saying the one directly to the right is my own." Darek was more eager to bring the two of them shopping then anything so though he was trying to be kind, he also seemed as if he was in a rush.

Once everyone was all situated Darek knocked on Awiti's door and with a wicked grin said " Are you ready to go shopping for some clothes Awiti. After all you will need more then seven outfits. And after that we can go shopping for food in the market. you and Lana can get what you need for the day. After all I only buy the freshest things, as does royalty. Thus we shall be buying our food daily, that way we know nothing is spoiled. Sadly we will have to wake up early in the morning to do this saying if it gets to late in the day not only will you miss a good breakfast, but you will also have to go alone. " Darek said for even if he had not been in the sun along time, if the sun was at its highest point it still had a critical effect on him. Thus they both would have to take care of each other during the days until they adjusted to the different time schedule he worked on.

In his mind he knew Awiti would be a fine student, she had the discipline and the figure of royalty. As well as the confidence, but it was buried somewhere deep, that would be his problem. Awakening the leader within. " Maybe I shall reintroduce her to her native tribes. They should help her." Darek thought as he thought back on the two chiefs who had looked to him as there god. This brought a smile to his face. " I wounder how they are doing out there?" Darek said out loud, forgetting for the moment that he was not utterly alone like he had been for the last week. It was just so odd for him to have humans in his home, and women no less. But it was a good change. He could learn something from living with the two of them about how his life would be when him and Leilani shared a home together. Just the thought of the idea brought a smile to his eyes as well as his face. " My lady's what do you think." Darek said as he brought his long braid over his shoulder. " Should I keep my hair in its braid, or should I let it fall freely?" Darek said as he untied the long braid he had in his hair for the two of them to see both choices.
>Word Count< one.two.one.two.
>Tagged<Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< long and coming

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

I had to get Leilani from my own mind, if I did not, I would never be able to focus on what she wanted me to do and that was beyond a woman with skills and leadership abilities. I knew it would be hard, everything was gonna be hard. Once I was freed by Leilani, I knew things would change, but never for the complete good… People would look at me as a diease… I would never be treated right and I would never be treated the same… Ever… It would take a lot to prove that I was worth anything and I was sure that Leilani would be in trouble by the King for freeing me, but then again, he seemed pretty busy with his own things. I had seen so many eyes on me today… ”Were the looking at me because I am different colored?”

[/color] I thought to myself as I looked at the city from my own room window. I took in a deep breath and looked at Lana who was smiling sweetly as me as she came to help me unpack.

”So, Lady Awiti? What do you wish to wear today? It is only halfway through the day and you need something else one… Cleaner.” I looked at my dress, which was a bit dirty, but I nodded quickly. She started hanging up the dress for me to look at. The only clothing she had yet to unpack was the house only clothes… The sleeping gowns and the robes that would only be allowed to wear inside the house and preferable my bedroom. I looked at each, all different colored, but I was still not sure. ”Can we get ready later? Not much, I just want to rest before going through that… Um… Hastle.”[/color] Leilani’s words were wearing off on me and I could actually talk to Lana like a normal person could. She nodded with a smile and walked over to the window and stood with me. ”I am Jealous… You have the best views of the house.” I smiled. She kissed my forehead and then went out of the room, to unpack her own I was sure.

The food that Darek had bought for me was sitting on a small table that was in the room. It was not much, but it would be home. I would be sure to make it as best into home as I could. I looked around the room for a moment, picturing my room the way I wanted it to be. I wanted to get some of the beautiful from my home… Well… The home of my past. I looked out the window again, wanting to cry slightly. I missed my mother so badly… I wanted her to be with me, but I knew such a thing would never happen. It had been a few months since Leilani had gotten me and she was probably already sold to someone else. I munched on some of the food, smiling at the taste. There was no meat, but it was still great, absolutely wonderful.

I tried once again to be as happy as I could be and could not help but be happy about the Garden. At least it was there and I looked back at Darek as he spoke again. ”Maybe you can help me make it bigger some time for you and when Leilani comes to visit I'm sure she would love such a beautiful place to sit and chat with her charming sister." I smiled even bigger and nodded quickly. I would love to make the garden bigger and nice, anything for Leilani. I pulled in a breath and then thought again. ”I need to remember that she is my sister, not my master and I don’t have to do anything, I wanted to do it.”[/color] I thought to myself before I went back to thinking about the sleeping training. I remembered Darek explaining it to me. ”The way I train a warrior comes from an ancient culture. You are locked in a room, and that room has circles in the ground. Each year you can go outside of another layer. When you start you only have the center. You sleep eat, and train there. Only able to leave to take a shower and go to use the bathroom. It is very difficult training, but effective. No one has failed on the melee part of the riders training that I have trained." It was odd to hear, but highly interesting. I would never be able to do, at least, I did not think I could.

I could hear Lana and Darek speaking quick words, mostly about her room, but as I said I wanted this room, I did not heard objection in his voice at all. He was laughing slightly and I smiled shyly. I was probably acting more like a child then any lady should have been acting. I was a young adult, as Leilani said and I did not need to be acting like a child. ”Then it is yours my lady." I smiled at him again, unable to contain the bit of excitement that was now in my own bones. I was still nervous, but the excitement was coming as well. I heard him talk to Lana again, but this time, I did not pay attention. I looked at the dress hanging again and then at the large Wardrobe. I smiled slightly and started putting them up on my own, looking at each before I did and picking a simple brown colored one. It was simple, nothing fancy. I did not want people looking at me again and if I wore something natural they would not. I wanted to take the small band of my head, but I knew Leilani wanted me to wear it.

I placed it on the plan bed that had no covers on it for the time being. It would have covers on it soon enough, but right now, the dress could cover it until that time. I put the rest up silently and looked back out the window again. I turned at the sound of knocking. ”Are you ready to go shopping for some clothes Awiti. After all you will need more then seven outfits. And after that we can go shopping for food in the market. You and Lana can get what you need for the day. After all I only buy the freshest things, as does royalty. Thus we shall be buying our food daily, that way we know nothing is spoiled. Sadly we will have to wake up early in the morning to do this saying if it gets to late in the day not only will you miss a good breakfast, but you will also have to go alone." Lana came up behind him slightly, waiting for him to move so she could come in and make sure things were put up neatly. She smiled at me for a moment and looked at the dress. ”That one?” She did not ask rudely, just wanted to make sure. I nodded and she smiled at me for a moment, before looking at Darek. ”If you would like, I can go to the market and you two and go shopping for clothes, that way I can pick out what we need for the rest of the day and Awiti can settle in.”[/color] I looked at Darek, wondering what we would think. I was sure he would not mind, but then again, he may want to have us all together.

I was still not sure about going out into the streets… I was scared I guess you could say… In fact, I knew I was scared. I did not want to be, but each time I saw a scolding eye, I felt like shuddering beside someone, in fear of being hit. I closed my eyes, trying to get the thought from my own mind. As I had my eyes closed, I heard Darek speak and opened them, turning back towards him. I did not want him to see my eyes closed, so I had turned away. ”I wounder how they are doing out there?" I was confused, though Lana was quietly looking at the dress, checking for anything like tears, I was curious. ”Who?”[/color] Lana looked up, realizing something had been said. After a moment, he had changed the subject to his hair and after a moment of thinking, I smiled. ”Down… I think it looks better down.”[/color] I had never seen it down, but it was true. Leilani would probably like it down too. ”Or… In a single pony-tail or braid like Lord Turin does… He has such long hair.”[/color] I said, thinking about it.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count one. four. five. seven.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

As Darek looked to Awiti and her puzzling expression he thought, I will have to train her to block her mind as well. Can't have royalty giving out secrets now. And with that he submersed himself into Awiti's thoughts. For awhile he could not get through. The thoughts of Leilani giving her strength, but unlike others I would not pound at her defenses, instead I would wait for them to go down. And sure enough not long after they did. ”Were they looking at me because I am different colored?” It was sad to hear the child say that, but she knew this world well and inside her mind he let his own voice ring out. " Yes and no Awiti. As a woman from the Hardic, your skin as I'm sure you know is much darker then anyone else. Most slaver take people from the Hardic, meaning when anyone sees a darker skinned person they automatically think it is a slave." Darek began explaining " But do not throw your looks out the window either Awiti. It is them looks that the guards and many others were looking at. And it is more your looks then your skin color that I worry about. It is why, I shall be going against lady Leilani's ideals to train you. If I do not use my head, one day you shall be alone and many men will try to claim you as there own and take things from you they should not." Darek said holding onto her check so she knew that he only wanted the best for her just like Leilani did. " Leilani gave you a dagger. But were you ever taught how to use it. I have livid among your people for a short amount of time, and would like you to try out a few, easy to conceal weapons, as well as a full bladed one called a rapier. If you show skill at it I shall teach you how to turn such a violent thing into an art. For swordsmanship is only a form of dance at its purest." Darek said kindly to her inside her mind. The image of him hugging the child now. " As long as you are in my house, and there is a way for me to protect you, nothing shall happen to you Awiti. I have sworn similar things to Leilani as well." Darek said with a smile for he knew there conversation was completely private.

As Darek watched from the hallway Lana unpacking he could not help but laugh. " How can you ask the lady what she wishes to wear today if you are only hanging up her house clothes at the moment." Darek was not making fun of the woman, far from it. He was merely questing her observation skills for no decent women, no no women at all, would walk around in their bedclothes outside. It was simply to funny to hear. ”Can we get ready later? Not much, I just want to rest before going through that… Um… Hastle.” " Speaking like a lady already." Darek smiled to her, a kind generous smile. " I do know your need for rest, but we can not do so yet, otherwise your room will be very much unfurnished and no bedsheets shall be on your bed for tonight." Darek then watched as Lana went up to Awiti and kissed her forehead, saying that she was jealous of Awiti. Lucky the woman was not allowed in his room then if he was jealous of Awitis room. Darek thought as he followed her out into the hallway.

As Darek followed Lana into the hall he kept a close mind to Awiti as he spoke to Lana. Though blocking what he said from Awiti, he did keep an eye on her thoughts. " The room is yours, and we are going shopping. So I do believe that means you can furnish it however you like, even paint the walls if you would like, though I do not suggest it, it could be done." Darek said for he knew that the proper person who knew magic could turn the granite slabs into works of art better than any painter ever could. But what shocked him must was how little training she would need in blocking her mind. She already had the raw skills to be a great one at it, once those edges were cleaned, but besides that he could not need to work on such things, even though he would not tell her this and would constantly be testing her barriers. " I'm happy you enjoy the food by the way. If you like that kind of meal I can teach you how to make, for I grow my own foods in my garden as well as have a flower garden." Darek said with a smile. If the girl liked elf food he certainly would not deny her such things. It was a healthy diet after all, not always the most filling, but healthy indeed, and easy to prepare.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Darek smiled kindly at Awiti as she shock her head and let a huge grin come to her face. The girl was still a child at heart and he would treat her like one. He would not deny her the childhood he was denied so long ago.He had known Awiti less than Leilani yet he was extremely protective of the child, anyone trying to harm her in any way would learn why his name was feared and praised as a master swordsman.The guards at the front gate had almost themselves seen why for there comments about Awiti and what they would like to do to her. He would not tolerate such talk. Leilani may have seen him as kind and caring, but it was his passion that made him so good at what he did. There was no room for kindness when you were protecting someone you cared for.

Darek told Lana what she needed to know about the policy of his room and going in it, that no one was allowed in besides Awiti and the few others he choose to allow in, one of them not being herself. " You may find it odd and inappropriate for me o allow Awiti into my room and not yourself, but Awiti was sent here by Lady Leilani, thus if she is in fear of something I need her to not be afraid to come to me right away, compared to you who are...excuse my way of putting this but a maid. And there are no needs for maids in my bedchambers, nor shall there ever be." Darek then went back and spoke to Awiti. Once again the child came free and he was happy. Do not hide your inner child Awiti, you are still young and have three years to grow up. Time is something humans sadly do not have, use the most of it in happiness that way when your time comes you live with no regrets." Darek said from the doorway. Giving Awiti her space still so she could get used to him and her new surroundings. He then watched as she choose a simple brown dress and was amused. Though royalty would not wear such a color with her skin complexion, he would not argue with her today about how a noble acted and dressed. It still amused him himself.

As Awiti went around hanging up her clothes and looking out her window he could not help but let a small peace come over him. Everything was perfect the way it was and soon it would be better. Turin had thought on what Darek had said and had given him only small things to do that in turn would prove to Turin that Darek had the best intentions for his sister. Darek could hear Lana in her own room putting her stuff away and was not surprised when she walked up behind him waiting for him to move out of her way which he did in one fluid motion. ”If you would like, I can go to the market and you two and go shopping for clothes, that way I can pick out what we need for the rest of the day and Awiti can settle in.” Darek heard Lana say but he only shook his head. " No, Awiti must learn to interact with people. And the only way t do that is to bring he rout into the world, and bring the world to her. Plus Awiti shall need to see what she would like to eat, after all she will have to try many new and random things living in a castle, might as well get most of them out of the way now." Darek said with a smile to the two lady's before him. Lana was a women with a good heart Darek knew, but she was trying to counteract everything he was trying to teach Awiti.

" Then why do you not do it all three ways to see which yo like the most." Darek said with a smile as he walked over to Awiti and kneeled before her, his back turned to her. " When you are finished and have found the one you like it is shall I shall wear it." Darek said with the patience that only age could bring to someone. Darek lost track of time as he felt Awiti's hands working wounder with his hair, trying all different things until she was happy. " Are you happy with it now my lady?" Darek asked as she finally stopped and he got ready to rise. " If so I shall leave your bedroom so that you may change for our trip into the markets." Darek said. Though he knew she was afraid he would be right there with her. Nothing would harm her, and no one would dare be cruel to her. They knew of Dareks tempers and also knew that when they slept he stalked his prey.
>Word Count< one. Six. Eight. Zero
>Tagged< Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< This is a war of words XD who shall run out of muse first

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

As I looked out the window, I felt something, like my head starting to hurt, but then again, it was not really hurting, it was more like, something was there wanting me to think of something. As she stood there, she heard his voice and turned to listen to him, but his mouth was not moving. ”Yes and no Awiti. As a woman from the Hardic, your skin as I'm sure you know is much darker then anyone else.” I knew why, I did not know why I was being so touchy about it right now. For years I had known why. ”Most slaver take people from the Hardic, meaning when anyone sees a darker skinned person they automatically think it is a slave." I looked down for a moment, thinking of how true it was. I did not like it anymore then other slaves and Leilani for that matter. She hated her people for doing that to me, it made her so upset.

"But do not throw your looks out the window either Awiti. It is them looks that the guards and many others were looking at. And it is more your looks then your skin color that I worry about. It is why, I shall be going against lady Leilani's ideals to train you.” I looked at him quickly. I knew I was here to learn, but I knew her hatred of fighting and also of war in general. ”If I do not use my head, one day you shall be alone and many men will try to claim you as there own and take things from you they should not." I looked down for a moment, looking away once again. ”I know what you mean.”

[/color] And I did. There was a reason Leilani did not seem me dressed as the other slaves, in dresses that outlined my figure… I was in a loose fitting dress that day, I did not want men to see my body. ”Leilani gave you a dagger. But were you ever taught how to use it. I have livid among your people for a short amount of time, and would like you to try out a few, easy to conceal weapons, as well as a full bladed one called a rapier. If you show skill at it I shall teach you how to turn such a violent thing into an art. For swordsmanship is only a form of dance at its purest." A art? That would make Leilani happier, I knew it would. She thought it was a nasty thing, but I had seen her watching training sessions before and there was beauty in it. ”As long as you are in my house, and there is a way for me to protect you, nothing shall happen to you Awiti. I have sworn similar things to Leilani as well." I smiled at him for a moment… I was happy someone was protective over me, that someone was willing to look after me. Not everyone was like that, only Leilani and Turin.

”How can you ask the lady what she wishes to wear today if you are only hanging up her house clothes at the moment." I heard Lana laugh at this and I knew he was speaking out loud. I giggled slightly, not wanting anyone to hear me. ”Well… She knows what she has, but I guess you right. I should have pulled out her outside clothes first.” She was laughing and it was nice to hear her laugh at a joke that could have been taken wrong. I told her that I was not ready to get dress and she did not mind. "Speaking like a lady already." I smiled slightly. ”I do know your need for rest, but we can not do so yet, otherwise your room will be very much unfurnished and no bedsheets shall be on your bed for tonight." I sighed slightly and Lana nodded in agreement with him. I was so tired, but I figured the were correct. Darek went back out into the hallway with Lana and was speaking, though I did not hear it as well as Lana. ”No, the walls are perfectly fine… I like the natural color, the Richards’ family enjoy the dark color of castle walls… This is different and brighter then the castle sometimes.” I smiled, looking back out the window.

I had to agree, the castle was dark, not because it had to be, but mostly because it was strong. Leilani was explaining it to me. ”It is why we have pictures and curtains… The walls are protective, though not always pretty, when fire light shimmers off them, they glow, see.”[/color] I closed my eyes, remember the memory so easily. The fire had been glowing in the hearth and she was showing me how beautiful the dulls walls were… I liked these better. They were brighter… I took another bite of the food the elf had made and smiled. ”I'm happy you enjoy the food by the way. If you like that kind of meal I can teach you how to make, for I grow my own foods in my garden as well as have a flower garden." I turned back to him for a moment and smiled, but my mind was on the people once again. ”Darek?”[/color] I was nervous. I knew people, like Leilani judge me, but what of the elves. ”Will the elves judge me too?”[/color]

I wanted to feel equal somewhere, though I had a feeling such a thing was never gonna happen. I looked at my feet for a moment, my hair had been pulled into a pony-tail, but unlike the hair of many slaves, it was smoother and cleaner. It actually moved freely and did not stay oily like so many had before. I did not like the oily, un clean mess, not even when I was a slave. As I looked at my feet, I glanced up at Darek and could not help but relax, maybe it was because Leilani liked him and had told me he was a good man. He went on to talk to Lana, who was agreeing with everything he said, without problem and trouble. She seemed to understand policy and would not mind listening to them at all. I was not paying attention to any of it, until I heard his voice. ”Do not hide your inner child Awiti, you are still young and have three years to grow up. Time is something humans sadly do not have, use the most of it in happiness that way when your time comes you live with no regrets." I smiled and nodded. I knew elves lived a long time, sometimes, forever, so I did not want to waste what time I had. To me, it was a life time and I was okay with just that.

As I picked the brown dress, I glanced over to see the amusement on his face, along with the sound of Lana completely surprised I had picked such a simple dress, but she had learned that I liked simple compared to Leilani and her highly complex need to wearing things to hard to get on herself. As Lana said something about the shopping, and I looked at Darek for a moment. ”No, Awiti must learn to interact with people. And the only way to do that is to bring her out into the world, and bring the world to her.” I looked away. I just wanted to go and come back, now I realized I would be doing more and I felt my stomach rolling. ”Plus Awiti shall need to see what she would like to eat, after all she will have to try many new and random things living in a castle, might as well get most of them out of the way now." Lana nodded, smiling.

“Then why do you not do it all three ways to see which you like the most." I smiled slightly as he came over. I thought about it for a moment. His hair was already in braids, to I gentle took them out, using my skilled fingers to put his hair straight. I used my fingers to comb it out, getting all the tangles and then used bother the ribbons to tie it into a pony-tail. ”When you are finished and have found the one you like it is shall I shall wear it." The pony-tail looked good, but I removined one ribbon and braided it down that way, like Turin’s and I smiled. I liked that one the most. ”Are you happy with it now my lady?" I smiled. ”Yes, I am.”[/color] I smiled at him as he rose. ”If so I shall leave your bedroom so that you may change for our trip into the markets." I nodded quickly and looked to Lana who allowed him to walk by and then she came in and shut the door.

”Lets get you ready sweetie.” She pulled off the dirty blue I had worn, remarking how she would wash it tonight and get it hung to dry. I nodded to her, knowing she would have it perfect for the next day. She then checked my corset, happy that it was holding fine. She tightened it some, but only where it had come loose slightly. She then brought the dress over and pulled it over my body and fixed it up. It was simple, so all she had to do was fix the straps and it was done. ”It looks very beautiful on you sweetie.” I smiled at her and looked at myself for a moment and then nodded. I liked it. She then left and I followed, the dress was a perfect and though it was brown, it still allowed my beauty to show.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count one. six. three. five.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

Darek watched as Awiti turned to face him, while they had a mental conversation, even if it was mostly a one way conversation he could still feel her emotions of what he said. Like her acceptance at knowing people with her skin color were mostly slaves. It was a sad thing to think about, but in the end it was true. It was a surprise any still livid in the Hardic due to slave trading. Darek both hated and understood the reasons why humans did this. Though his own people did not due such things, they did understand companionships. He knew this because he himself had gone to the slave markets trying to buy such a companion. Someone to talk to for hours on end. Someone who understood him, but though he failed he had learned a new culture and though not healthy he did look at himself as that cultures protector in a way. This why he was even more surprised when Lady Leilani had surprised him so much by admitting that she had interest in him, as he did her.

“ I know what you mean.” Darek heard Awiti say, and this made him sad. “ Someone as young as you should not know such hardships Awiti. And if anyone tries such a thing they shall have much to pay for.” Darek said the last words coming out with a possessive growl. That of a father protecting his young. Any man who laid there hands on Awiti like that would have much to deal for, h may be an elf at heart, but the animal inside is what ruled when it came to such things. Hurting those he cared about led to much death as it had in his homeland when he was a newly turned vampire and the city had demanded his parents kill him to put him out of his misery. He had killed those who had come to take him away from his parents without even a second thought. Though he had a much stronger control on these short rages, they were still there. Her smile though calmed him slightly as he looked at her. Such a child still having kindness in her was suppressing, and he knew that whatever he could do to help her he would for he knew she had the right mind to use the skills he taught her.

As both Awiti and Lana laughed a small smile escaped his lips. So they found this funny, he thought. “No, the walls are perfectly fine… I like the natural color, the Richards’ family enjoy the dark color of castle walls… This is different and brighter then the castle sometimes.” Darek let a small smile escape his mouth. “ Maybe if you can learn magic.” Darek said thinking to himself. “ And you choose to have a room here to always come back to when you wish I shall teach you a spell that will allow you to make a picture on the walls that is better than any painting in the world.” Darek said with a smile to Awiti, letting her know she always had a home here if she wanted. And with that she went back to looking out the window.

”Darek?” he heard Awiti call to him and quickly turned to her, his cape he wore gliding against the floor as he twisted about. “What is it my lady?” Darek asked her only to hear the most depressing words come out of her mouth that he had ever heard. “Will the elves judge me too?” He heard Awiti ask and with a sad smile he looked to her eyes. “ In Ilirea we do not believe in slavery. No elf dose here. In my homeland though…I am not sure, I have not been there for many years. I would believe they would not, sure they will look at you differently for a short time, but to judge you for that beautiful skin. No.” Darek said letting a hand hold hers, that was so much smaller then his in his hand. “ Unlike humans, we do not enslave each other. Most of us find it barbaric and rude.” Darek said reassuringly to her.

Darek was extremely amused at the simplicity of the dress Awiti choose and was indeed saddened she had chosen this, but it was her style and he would accept it in the end. “ Do not worry Awiti, it shall not be to long, and soon you shall be able to come home and rest as you wish. Tomorrow we shall begin your training, you may choose any extra things you would like to learn but I do have some orders I must follow. Some I can almost guarantee you shall not like, while others…I’m sure you will, like dance for example.” Darek said with a smile on his face. “ And I believe you shall be a natural at that with such beauty, the two do go hand and hand most of the time after all. Darek said with a smile.

As Awiti began working her hands through his hair he knew she enjoyed hair very much just by the skill and the concentration she put into it. “ Awiti, concentrate on something to do with hair and do not let this go until I say to no matter what ok.” Darek said, and with that he plunged himself against her mental barriers which he could not for the life of him seem to find a way to get through. After two attempts at his hair he was graced with her reply of being happy with how his hair was. “ And then so it shall stay this way.” Darek said with a smile as he let his hair down, wondering if Awiti had a crush on Turin because as he looked at his hair she had done it in the same way he himself had his own. Soon I left the room though for her to change, as well as for myself to get ready.

Once outside of the room I unlocked my door and went inside picking up my cane that I had let Dantie use for the Gala, it had my family crest on the top and it was one of my prides and joy for also hidden inside was a sword. When he was finished he went back out into the hall way and greeted both Awiti and Lana. “ We best be off now young ladies.” Darek said with a evil grin for he was after all over two hundred making both of them like children in his eyes.

1107

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

Yes… it was all true… people would always look at me as the lesser woman, I would never amount to much, yet, why did Leilani see so much in me. My mother saw the same thing in me… No, I did not need to think about my mother, it would only bring up bad memories, of whips and knifes they used upon her skin and many like her. I had gotten lucky, I did not have any marks from such things, because she protected me, she took my punishment, saying it would help me learn not to disobey anyone. I wished so badly all the memories would go away, or that they would determine me more, but it seemed that they only held me back. I closed my eyes for a moment, turned back towards the window and looking out at the window. I wanted to be someone with great stealth, that was more then just a woman, someone who could do things others couldn’t. ”Darek?”

[/color] I looked at the land outside my window, how the afternoon was only a few hours away and I then turned back to him. ”I want to be more then just someone who knows how to use weapons… Like you plan on teaching me… I want to be able move across the ground silently and escape without a sound.”[/color] I had heard Leilani talk about her sister, Nayeli being able to do it… I wanted to do it.

After that, I felt the memories of things coming back. In my old life, the words would have gotten me slapped, or the action gotten me beaten or killed. I was not in that life anymore, but the memories did not help me one bit. ”Someone as young as you should not know such hardships Awiti. And if anyone tries such a thing they shall have much to pay for.” I turned back towards him and smiled slightly. He was protective and someone I felt safe with, completely safe with. Soon, I had that feeling, that I would be able to take of myself, but the thought of being alone only made me shudder. I did not want to be alone, I never wanted to be alone. I looked out the window again, my mind on my memories, though, they were clouded slightly. I only thought of the smiles from the others who I had been around, I did not want to remember everything.

I wanted to be the change in things, that was it! I was going to do everything in my power to change how things were. If it meant working with everyone, especially the riders, I would. Leilani looked up to them, in fact, she had told me of wanting to come to Ilirea and helping them, being their Diplomat and not the Kings. She loved her uncle, I could see it, but she wanted to help the world and not harm it. I wanted to do that for the riders, I wanted to help them, because it would help me and also I would have a say in something, or I hoped I would.

It was then that things went on about the walls and I let my hand touched them slightly. ”Maybe if you can learn magic. And you choose to have a room here to always come back to when you wish I shall teach you a spell that will allow you to make a picture on the walls that is better than any painting in the world.” I smiled, touching the wall softly with my finger tips. That would be very nice, but I wanted to see the world before I picked a picture, at least, part of the world that I came from. I closed my eyes at the thought and once again, pushed it out of my mind. I did not want to face those memories, not for a long time. He turned back to me when my thoughts went once again to the idea of being judged and I asked him quickly. ”In Ilirea we do not believe in slavery. No elf dose here. In my homeland though… I am not sure, I have not been there for many years. I would believe they would not, sure they will look at you differently for a short time, but to judge you for that beautiful skin. No.” I smiled slightly, looking at my dark skin. I was happy they would not judge me like those of Leilani’s race did. ”Unlike humans, we do not enslave each other. Most of us find it barbaric and rude.” I nodded to him and smiled slightly. That was good for me.

I could tell that Darek was surprised by my simple dress, but I was not a complicated person and I didn’t want to be. Even at the Gala, my dress was something I hated. Sure, it was pretty, but I only wore it to make Leilani happy. I had picked out one that was simple and delicate and it was the same color. ”Do not worry Awiti, it shall not be to long, and soon you shall be able to come home and rest as you wish. Tomorrow we shall begin your training, you may choose any extra things you would like to learn but I do have some orders I must follow. Some I can almost guarantee you shall not like, while others…I’m sure you will, like dance for example.” I looked at him. I wondered what kind of dancing it would be… My thoughts went on the dance I had danced with Turin. It was nice and smooth, but it was not something I was use to. I had danced at my old home with children, to the sound of beating drums and a few flutes here and there made of wood. ”And I believe you shall be a natural at that with such beauty, the two do go hand and hand most of the time after all.” I felt my face darken from a light blush, but on my dark skin, it would be hard to see.

As I began working his hair, I felt something, but I was not sure what it was. ”Awiti, concentrate on something to do with hair and do not let this go until I say to no matter what ok.” I was confused, but I nodded quickly, my mind going straight to the hair. Working my fingers in his hair was easy compared to working the hair of the slaves I onced lived with. Our hair had been think and oil, which was not the case for me anymore. Leilani had it cleaned nightly and it was smoother now. It moved freely and it did not stand in one area. ”And then so it shall stay this way.” I smiled at him softly, watching as he left. Lana started helping me with my dress, which did not take very long. It was sleeveless, being held up by my chest and I held my back straighter then normal. It was beautiful and covered everything. Lana started working her own fingers in my hair and we laughed some here and there. She changed the style of my hair, now it was pulled into a simple pony-tail, with some hair in the front to move freely.

As we came out, so did Darek, who greeted us sweetly. “We best be off now young ladies.” I nodded and we headed down the stairs and out the door. We walked for a little while, Lana staying behind us as we walked. I looked around, wondering about everything and seeing the beauty that not even the city where Leilani lived held. I had never seen such a beautiful city.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count one. two. nine. two.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

As Darek watched Awiti go to the window he could feel her past was being brought up, but of what he did not dig for, instead he stayed standing where he was so when she needed him he would be there. Sure enough a few moments later she called his name. ”Darek?” He watched as Awiti first looked to the sky to judge the time, and then back to him. “ Yes Awiti?” Darek said in the kindest voice imaginable. Only concern was in his voice, and that concern was directed at her for the moment. ”I want to be more then just someone who knows how to use weapons… Like you plan on teaching me… I want to be able move across the ground silently and escape without a sound.” Darek thought for a second. It was well within his ability to do such a thing, but why would be the reason he needed to know. “ Why do you wish to know such a skill Awiti?” Darek asked her. “ It is not something many would wish to learn after all. Most people who do know the skill are cutthroats, or spies. Either way they both end up dead.” Darek said to get his point across, if she wished to learn it he would teach her, but only if the reason was just.

Darek saw the involuntary muscle spasm as her body seemed to get ready to be stricken as he was talking and slowly he walked over to her, went down to her eye level and said, “ I will not hit you Awiti. I understand this is an involuntary action, but for your training you must know that what I do is to help you. If you think when we begin with weapons training that I hit you for punishment, or make you do things because of the color of your skin, you shall fail my training and become an abomination. You must see what you wish to be, and understand that there is a road you must follow to become it. If you stray from that road even slightly you shall end up dead, and your skills useless. That involuntary movement alone, leaves you open for death.” Darek said explaining to her what she had just done. But in his mind he began to truly wonder how bad of a life she had had before Leilani had saved her. “ Flinching is a sign of fear, and you must not fear anything while in battle or when you are with people you do not know. For when they see that fear they shall use it against you Awiti, turning you into there slave no matter how high up you are. Everyone with fear is a slave.” Darek said hoping she would understand what he said and did not take it the exact opposite way he meant it.

As he let this sink into her head Darek himself began to question some of the training he had been asked to give to her. Some of it seemed obsolete, while others that had been overlooked now seemed to be in drastic call. Building up her trust would be the hardest thing, for to build it up he would have to teach her friend from foe. And to do that he would have to let her choose her own friends and make her own mistakes, it would be a life lesson, not one that she would fully learn until she was much older. While basic skills like cooking and cleaning really did not need to be taught to her in his mind.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

It was when I spoke about the walls once again that I saw real interest in her eyes. As her fingertips ran down the walls and she looked at him he could not help but think back to the two tribes he had saved and brought to a new home where hopefully being so close to the elves would protect them from slavers. “ One day perhaps, I shall bring you to meet two tribes of your people. They are very kind, but mistake me for their god, or at the least a messenger of him.” Darek said with a smile. “ Wont they be surprised when they see you come there with me. Maybe it might even be one of the very tribes I’m sure you came from, unless you were born into slavery. Then I am sorry.” Darek said as he took a seat and let her do his hair.

As Darek spoke of dancing he saw Awiti seem to drift away into another time and place. So she dose like dancing. He said to himself as he continued speaking to her, soon though he had to bring her back to the real world and said with a smile. “ We will start off with the dances royalty should know…” Darek said before giving her a wink and going to tickle her sides before lifting her up into the air and twirling her around. “ Then you shall learn those that you wish to learn. Dance is an art no matter the form.” Darek said as he let her feet go once again down to the ground. Kissing her forehead as he let her down. “ Maybe you can teach me some you know as well. No one ever knows everything. After all.” Darek said with a smile before he sat in front of her so she could do his hair.

As Darek saw Awiti come out of her room he could not help but be surprised, she was right. That simple dress did look beautiful on her. “ Maybe I wont have to help you dress like royalty after all.” Darek said teasingly as he held out his arm for her. It was up to her if she wished to take it, either way he would stay close to her. As they made their way through Ilirea to the market place Darek explained all the different kinds of buildings they passed and who made what where. All the way to the market he spoke, explaining all the wonders to both Awiti and Lana. “ If you wish so you do not have to get up so early tomorrow you can buy tomorrows breakfast materials as well.” Darek said as they finally entered the market district, so far not a single incident had occurred, but here would be where most problems occurred, saying most elves had no need for a market so it was overrun by humans.

>Word Count< one.Zero.Nine. Three
>Tagged< Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< well i have some muse hope it works for u nayeli

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

I wanted to learn something that would help me, but I knew that stealth and silence was something used by people such as Nayeli. As I spoke, telling him what I wanted, I looked at him. “Why do you wish to know such a skill Awiti?” I looked down for a moment, having the thought he would ask. ”It is not something many would wish to learn after all. Most people who do know the skill are cutthroats, or spies. Either way they both end up dead.” I looked at him quickly and shook my head. ”I am not someone people wish to listen to… I am a slave to the eyes of many… People are gonna try and take me and if I am caught, those skills can come with use… A silent escape, a step so light it is not heard by even the mice inches away.”

[/color] I looked at him. I did not want to be a killer, I wanted to know how I could escape and kill if I must.

As I has a spasm through my body, I saw him come over to me and he came down to my level. ”I will not hit you Awiti.” I looked away for a moment. I knew this. ”I understand this is an involuntary action, but for your training you must know that what I do is to help you. If you think when we begin with weapons training that I hit you for punishment, or make you do things because of the color of your skin, you shall fail my training and become an abomination.” I looked at him quickly with my green eyes. I knew he spoke the truth, but I did not want to fail. ”You must see what you wish to be, and understand that there is a road you must follow to become it. If you stray from that road even slightly you shall end up dead, and your skills useless. That involuntary movement alone, leaves you open for death.” I looked down at my hands and feet for a moment. I could not believe I had done it. It was true, if someone saw this, I would be a dead woman.

”Flinching is a sign of fear, and you must not fear anything while in battle or when you are with people you do not know. For when they see that fear they shall use it against you Awiti, turning you into there slave no matter how high up you are. Everyone with fear is a slave.” I looked at him for a moment and closed my eyes. I did not want to be a slave again. I wanted to free slaves, I wanted to be the woman who changed that, but I knew that it would probably only make a small dent in something bigger then I would ever become. I looked at him for a moment and then glanced back around the room. Even though I trusted him, I found myself holding back on the complete trust. I wanted to have friends, wanted to find love, but some how, I had a feeling such a thing would never happen, or would not happen for a long time.

As he spoke of the walls, I could not help but allow my fingers to run over the smooth stone. ”One day perhaps, I shall bring you to meet two tribes of your people. They are very kind, but mistake me for their god, or at the least a messenger of him.” I smiled slightly at him and could not help it. ”Wont they be surprised when they see you come there with me. Maybe it might even be one of the very tribes I’m sure you came from, unless you were born into slavery. Then I am sorry.” I looked away for a moment. ”I was born into a small group of people… My mother… She was rapped and her father wanted to kill me, but she would not allow. She was sent away and the whole group was captured… I remember being on a boat before I came to this land.”[/color] I said to him. I was not from this land at all, I was on a boat before I came here, I know it. But then again, could it be possible that we had been on a boat before I could remember?

”We will start off with the dances royalty should know…” I wrinkled my nose at such thought, my smile was gone. I did not want to learn the dancing of white people, I wanted to dance the dances I remember watching, though it was only quick flash backs. I could not remember it all, but I remember dancing, jumping, beating of drums. ”Then you shall learn those that you wish to learn. Dance is an art no matter the form.” I laughed as he picked me up high, spinning me slightly. ”Maybe you can teach me some you know as well. No one ever knows everything. After all.” I smiled slightly and as he put me down, I shook my head. ”It has been a long time since my feet danced… I barely remember.”[/color] I said to him quickly.

As we came from the room, he offered his arm and I saw some bit of surprise on his face. ”Maybe I wont have to help you dress like royalty after all.” I smiled, taking his arm gentle and walking out the house. Lana listened intently to everything, but I was lost in the world around me. Looking at all the buildings and the beauty. ”If you wish so you do not have to get up so early tomorrow you can buy tomorrows breakfast materials as well.” I looked at Lana who nodded. ”That may be better… She can get some good sleep in before she starts her lessons.” I smiled and nodded, but soon, we were within’ the market and I found myself being watched by many people.

The eyes of nobles looked on me, seeing my simple dress. Women were doing the same and even some looked at me with shame, along with Darek. I gulped quickly, but I stood as tall as I could and walked. The silver band around my head told people I was royal and I had been told by Leilani to hold myself up with pride.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count one. zero. six. five.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Darek watched all her reactions carefully for he wanted to know she was telling him the truth and nothing that came out of her mouth was a lie. Even as he spoke, he analyzed her every body movement. “I am not someone people wish to listen to… I am a slave to the eyes of many… People are gonna try and take me and if I am caught, those skills can come with use… A silent escape, a step so light it is not heard by even the mice inches away.” “Nor by the man you silently kill who was only following orders to guard you Awiti. Not everyone is bad. Some people are to afraid to stand up to those more powerful then them and so they follow orders like a good little dog, in turn making them selves in a way slaves. Do you understand the difference between the ones who hurt you out of anger and lust, and those out of fear of being hurt themselves?” Darek asked her as he looked into those emerald eyes. Awiti was a smart young lady, but even the smartest ones did not understand everything in the world. “ I will gladly teach you how to escape, and how to move silently, but that means your skills with a blade shall be something I teach you much more slowly. Due to the fact I wish to make sure you do not let your emotions rule you. For then you become a killer and not a dancer of the shadows, or of the blade.” Darek said happy she was looking into her eyes as she was his own.

When Darek was done explain that a small spasm she did could lead to her death he watched her look down to her hands and her feet. Slowly he took her small black hands into his own pale ones and while crouching down said to her, “ Do not be ashamed of yourself Awiti. You have had a hard life. And well it is not easy to forget old habits. I say it only so you are aware of it.” Darek said comfortingly as he massaged her small hands with his calloused pale white ones. He felt bad for what Awiti had to endure in her short life, but knew it would get better and it would only strengthen her in years to come. She was a strong woman and in time she would become a great visionary. But for now she needed guidance, and he would be there to give it to her until she no longer needed it.

As Awiti looked up at him, her eyes finally opening he saw the determination, the inner fire that Leilani spoke of. He could see that she did not wish to become a slave again, and would do all in her power to make sue of it. But what of the other slaves? Would she try to free them and give them back there dignity, he wondered as he looked into her emerald orbs of light. “ You shall become what you need to be Awiti, and will have a faimly of your own one day. Remember this and all shall end well.” Darek said with a smile, finally letting go of her small hands that were delicate, not the hands of someone who would fight wars, but of someone who would stop them.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Darek watched as she smiled at him as he spoke of what he believed to be her people, it was if she was laughing at a joke he did not know he had even said. Then as she looked away he understood. ”I was born into a small group of people… My mother… She was rapped and her father wanted to kill me, but she would not allow. She was sent away and the whole group was captured… I remember being on a boat before I came to this land.” She is not even a native. Darek thought to himself as he heard the small bit of her history she shared with him. “ Awiti you have suffered more than I could possibly imagine I’m sure at the hands of humans and there sick fantasies, but don’t let them destroy you and who you are, for that is when they win. When you become just the same as they are.” Darek said with a reassuring smile, as if saying that she held the key to her destiny. “ And since these people are not your own…well then you may learn of people like your own then. I at the moment can not begin to travel over sea on a ship, but one day you could go back to your home and find a place for your people and start anew. Or perhaps you could even free them. As royalty you have much sway now, but do not let this power go to your head either or you shall become corrupt.”

Darek could not help but smile at how cute Awitis little face was when she wrinkled up her nose like a litte child at the thought of dancing like humans danced. “ Is there something a matter with learning how to dance from an elf on how elves dance. Humans have no grace when it comes to dancing. You can tell by how they walk. I’ll tell you what, next time you see one of my kind, watch as they walk, how they almost glide over the ground they stand on. Grace and dance are a part of everything an elf dose. And though I know few human dances, I can teach you many elven ones.” Darek said with a smile a she set her down. Just her laughter brought joy to his heart, it was like having a child that was not yours but was all the same. . ”It has been a long time since my feet danced… I barely remember.” "Dance can not be forgotten my little one. Only the rhythm. It looks like we will have to visit the tribes after all if I am to get you to dance.” Darek said with a smile as he looked at her, confident she would pick back to the art easily.

As Awiti took Dareks arm he could not help but smile as he walked with the two ladies out of the house and into the city. Lana listened to me as I spoke and I was happy that at least one of the two would know there way around the town. But he would not ruin Awitis first trip to Ilirea. This was her time to learn all the beauties, there would always be a next time for explanations. As they came to the market Darek saw the faces of the people and with a simple glance to them all said with a smile “ I’m sorry my lords and ladys but do I have my shirt on backwards? Or perhaps I still have fresh blood on my lips from my latest kill. Come if you got something to say, then say it. Or perhaps a cat has your tongues.” Darek said, his words like daggers. He kept both Awiti and lana close to him, but let it be seen that Awiti would not back down from them, and that he had no problem with her.

“ Why do you treat that slave so kindly, she thinks she is a princess yet dresses like that. She should be in rags.” One man said and Darek turned an icy face on him. “ Why this is a princess, and she is a mighty beautiful one at that if I say so myself. Unlike you porky belly. Did someone have to much rum perhaps? Or has your fairs gone sour for the day?” Darek asked as he wrapped his wings Around Awiti, and Lana who had walked up to his opposite side. “ Show them no fear Awiti.” Darek said to her inside her mind as he let his wings make a small shield around them,
>Word Count< one.three.four.six
>Tagged< Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< Im back

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

”Nor by the man you silently kill who was only following orders to guard you Awiti. Not everyone is bad. Some people are to afraid to stand up to those more powerful then them and so they follow orders like a good little dog, in turn making them selves in a way slaves. Do you understand the difference between the ones who hurt you out of anger and lust, and those out of fear of being hurt themselves?” I nodded. I knew the difference, I had seen it myself. I had watched as young men beat people, the guilt in their eyes. I knew the difference and I did not like to kill anyone. I would not kill anyone unless they were hurting me or trying to take advantage of me and I had to defend myself. I looked at him for a moment, before looking down slightly. He was not going to teach me, I could feel it. ”I will gladly teach you how to escape, and how to move silently, but that means your skills with a blade shall be something I teach you much more slowly. Due to the fact I wish to make sure you do not let your emotions rule you. For then you become a killer and not a dancer of the shadows, or of the blade.” I looked at him and smiled, giving a quick nod. I understood and I would do anything to learn that. I would not be just that, a killer… I would be a child of the night, a shadow and a dancer.

I felt his hands take my own. They were cold and pale and I looked at him for a moment. ”Do not be ashamed of yourself Awiti. You have had a hard life. And well it is not easy to forget old habits. I say it only so you are aware of it.” I nodded to him, feeling how he massaged my hands softly and I smiled slightly. I was happy I was gonna have his guidance and knowledge to lead me until I learn everything that I needed. I knew I had that bravery that I would have to step up one day and be use that bravery, but the thought still worried me. ”You shall become what you need to be Awiti, and will have a family of your own one day. Remember this and all shall end well.” I smiled at him, nodding my head to him and then looking at my hands again as he released them. I clenched them tight before we changed the subject once again.

”Awiti you have suffered more than I could possibly imagine I’m sure at the hands of humans and there sick fantasies, but don’t let them destroy you and who you are, for that is when they win. When you become just the same as they are.” I smiled at him slightly. “And since these people are not your own…well then you may learn of people like your own then. I at the moment can not begin to travel over sea on a ship, but one day you could go back to your home and find a place for your people and start anew. Or perhaps you could even free them. As royalty you have much sway now, but do not let this power go to your head either or you shall become corrupt.” I looked at him and nodded. ”Well, as I said, I came over here on a ship, but I don’t remember if I was on a ship before then.”

[/color] I said to him and that was the truth, I had no idea where I had come from.

As we talked about dancing, it was the truth. I had not danced in ages, except for them I was at the party a week ago. I had danced with Lord Turin, Leilani’s older brother and he had lead me around. He was a nice man and I liked him, but he was still a white man and he still did not look to me as a sister. ”Is there something a matter with learning how to dance from an elf on how elves dance. Humans have no grace when it comes to dancing. You can tell by how they walk. I’ll tell you what, next time you see one of my kind, watch as they walk, how they almost glide over the ground they stand on. Grace and dance are a part of everything an elf dose. And though I know few human dances, I can teach you many elven ones.” I smiled at him and nodded quickly to him. Learning to dance like elves would be a wonderful thing. I wanted to learn that dance, it would be something that would help me for real. As I mentioned how I could barely remember my own dances, he came back to speaking. “Dance can not be forgotten my little one. Only the rhythm. It looks like we will have to visit the tribes after all if I am to get you to dance.” I wanted to visit the tribes, I really did.

My mind wondered as we went out the home, my eyes taking in everything all the way to the market. I would never remember the way home, or I would one day, but right now, I was too overwhelmed with beauty. As we came to a slight stop, I finally was able to look around, seeing all the people looking at me. ”I’m sorry my lords and ladys but do I have my shirt on backwards? Or perhaps I still have fresh blood on my lips from my latest kill. Come if you got something to say, then say it. Or perhaps a cat has your tongues.” I looked at Darek and then at everyone else, seeing how they looked at me with disgust and as if I was nothing more then a rat within’ their home.

”Why do you treat that slave so kindly, she thinks she is a princess yet dresses like that. She should be in rags.” I gulped slightly, glancing down at my dress, one of the many Leilani had given me. ”Why this is a princess, and she is a mighty beautiful one at that if I say so myself. Unlike you porky belly. Did someone have to much rum perhaps? Or has your fairs gone sour for the day?” I looked at Darek and Lana, who stood proud beside him. I looked at the man, feeling his wings come around the three of us. ”Show them no fear Awiti.” I looked at him a nodded. I took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. I could not allow him to defend me all the time, I had to step up and it was either now or never. ”Princess? Of what? The land of slaves?! I would not mind getting ahold of this princess myself.” I heard Darek growl slightly, but I put my hand on his arm and stepped forward, slightly out from his wings. ”I am Awiti Ekere Richards, the sister of Leilani Richards, High Diplomat, the sister of Lady Nayeli Richards of Carvala.”[/color] I looked him dead in the eyes, my hands clenched slightly, but I held myself up, looking at him.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count one. two. two. one.
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

As Darek saw the defeat in her eyes, thinking he would not teach her he could not help but smile as he let the last of his speech out. A huge smile I saw come onto her face and a quick nod was her reply. Probably to excited to even think of an answer, Darek thought to himself as he thought of how he would train her. The way he trained most would not work on her, but instead make her come to fear him, so he would have to do it much differently. “ This shall be a learning experience for the both of us. All those I train have the natural ability to do what you ask me to teach. And my teaching methods would be counter productive with you.” Darek said making sure she understood. As he waited for her reply he began thinking of ways he could train her in the art of stealth. Escape would be easy, for all he would have to do was bind her a few times in simple ways and then slowly come to more exotic ways which most human man would do to her. This way she would be able to escape any predicament and not have to worry. “ Know though that I shall start at escaping for it shall be the easiest thing to teach you. But as you get better, I shall teach you some that the men of your race who look at you as a slave for their pleasure will use.” Before she could answer or be afraid he also added , “ And do not worry, while doing every exercise you shall be dressed completely. But the form shall not change. This way if you are captured you will still be able to escape from a new and strange way.” Darek said once again waiting for her answer, he wanted as well as needed her input on these maters. After all he could only teach someone so much if they did not wish to learn everything he had to teach her, he could not force her to. He would make the dancer, but it was up to her to how far that ability would go.

Darek watched as she clenched her hands into small little fists of determination. Though she still did not speak much to him, she still showed much from her body language. Thankfully she was not an elf, otherwise he would have to drag conversations out of her. At least with her body language he had the gist of what she was thinking without going into her mind. “ You know you can speak freely here Awiti. You do not need permission to speak from anyone Awiti.” Darek said kindly to her as he looked to Lana for support. “ Isin’t that right Lana.”

”Well, as I said, I came over here on a ship, but I don’t remember if I was on a ship before then.” “That is ok Awiti.” Darek said with a smile. “ You do not need to remember where you came from, just knowing that you are new here is enough. Maybe we could find some of your people here perhaps? “ Darek said with a smile hinting at a grand design, of her perhaps even standing up to those she feared the most, the slave traders.

Darek watched as Awiti shook her head quickly nodding with a big smile. “ I see now I have your interest now.” Darek said with a smile as he looked into her large green eyes. “ Perhaps a demonstration is in order.” Darek said as he began to walk with the grace of the mighty panther. Back and forth towards her from the door. Every step leading to the next in an elegant pattern. “ It is not that hard when you get the hang of it. Its like teaching yourself how to walk, once you know how you can do it unconsciously.” Darek said as he twisted on his back foot and came down to bow before Awiti. “ For you my lady.” Darek said as a yellow flower came to his hand from no where. “ And do no worry you shall meet the tribes, after Leilani and Turin visits of course that is.” Darek said with a smile letting her know that both were allowed to come at any time, though he could not ask Leilani himself to come.

”Princess? Of what? The land of slaves?! I would not mind getting ahold of this princess myself.” This made Darek see red, but he kept his composer and all you could hear was a small growl come from his mouth, barely even audible. Soon he felt Awit’s hand on him and saw her step forward and speak. ”I am Awiti Ekere Richards, the sister of Leilani Richards, High Diplomat, the sister of Lady Nayeli Richards of Carvala.” “ And I’m a rider.” The man laughed back at her and all the human men joined in. “ And I am a elf.” Darek said looking down at the puny humans. “ Disrespect your queen or the riders again, and we will see how forgiving I am.” Darek said as he finished he kept his eyes on everyone in the vicinity. Soon an elf stepped forward and looked at Awiti. After looking over her for a few seconds he held out his hand and said with a smile “ So you are his new student I presume my lady. Well do not worry about these old fools, well young fools.” The elf corrected for he was far older then the humans. “ Come I have a shop not far from here which serves much better food then these ones do, and I grow it, so you can be assured its fresh.” He said to Awiti before turning to Darek. “ Why is it every time I hear a corruption it is you I find in the markets.” He laughed as he looked at Darek. “ Because,” Darek said, “ Those who do not know how to speak have not learned how to hold their own tongues yet.” Darek said as he caught the hand of a man going to try to lift Lana’s skirt. Bending it back till he heard a snap he also added. “ Or for that matter their hands.” And with that he let the mans hand go, broken and mangled.

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

I knew his reasonings were solid, he did not want me killing someone in my heat of emotion, he would rather me hurt no one and though, it would possible be harder to do in the end, I knew I would have to try. I could not answer him back, I was highly excited about learning something to protect myself from those people! I wanted to stand up to them, I wanted to... But even as I thought those things, I still felt like I was being brought down by those memories. I had seen so many people standing up before our old masters and the only thing they got was nothing more then a hit across the back and a laughing master who did it again and again. Blood was all I could remember, but it was also the drive that pushed me. I had to help them! "This shall be a learning experience for the both of us. All those I train have the natural ability to do what you ask me to teach. And my teaching methods would be counter productive with you.” I looked at him for a moment and then thought about it. I had never seen any of his other students and I wondered for a moment. Would he be the only one to teach more, or would he send me to others to teach me something he was not completely sure on? Would he allow me to go where a lot of others were so I could learn from others? "Know though that I shall start at escaping for it shall be the easiest thing to teach you. But as you get better, I shall teach you some that the men of your race who look at you as a slave for their pleasure will use.” I looked at him...

I knew of the ways, I had seen them do it before on other woman who had been their slaves. I could remember their necks have rope marks from where their necks were bound to keep them from moving and their wrist and ankles. "And do not worry, while doing every exercise you shall be dressed completely. But the form shall not change. This way if you are captured you will still be able to escape from a new and strange way.” I nodded. I wanted to learn and if meant being bound in many different ways, she would take it. As my fist clenched, I felt my mind going to all the memories, but I pushed myself away. I did not want to remember the memories yet, I could not face them, not yet anyway. "You know you can speak freely here Awiti. You do not need permission to speak from anyone Awiti.” I looked at him for a moment. I knew this, Leilani had even said it. "Isin’t that right Lana.” The woman nodded and I let out a simple sigh.

I then went on about me possible being from here, but I did not know at all. "That is ok Awiti... You do not need to remember where you came from, just knowing that you are new here is enough. Maybe we could find some of your people here perhaps? “ I smiled. It would be nice to reconnect with people I knew... Like my mother and the friends we had in our small tribe. I would one day, I would find them if I had to go to each place and free each slave to find them. I had that power now and though people did not always take me seriously, they would when they had guards around me. As we went on, he had grabbed my interest. "I see now I have your interest now.” I could not help but smile up at him. "Perhaps a demonstration is in order.” I watched as he walked with more grace then even Leilani walked, though, her's was very graceful. I had heard Nayeli call her a elf one time, not as a insult, but because Leilani was just so beautiful. The emerald eyes and the silky smooth hair, who would not mistake her as a elf? "It is not that hard when you get the hang of it. Its like teaching yourself how to walk, once you know how you can do it unconsciously.” I nodded to him slightly. Leilani did not even have to think about it, I had seen her, even just getting something in her own bedroom... She did it quickly and effortlessly. "For you my lady.” I was surprised to see the Yellow rose and I placed it in my hair, right behind my ear. I smiled slightly at him. "And do no worry you shall meet the tribes, after Leilani and Turin visits of course that is.” My smile brightened! I could not wait to see them. "Okay."

[/color]

And, with that we were going to the Market. "And I’m a rider.” I narrowed my own eyes now. He mocked my Sister and Nayeli. "And I am a elf.” I looked up at Darek for a moment, who was look at the others before me. "Disrespect your queen or the riders again, and we will see how forgiving I am.” I did not like seeing Darek like this, but I did not stop him. He was protecting me and soon, the men were silent for a moment. Quickly, a elf was before me, looking at me for a moment. I held his gaze and then saw his smile. "So you are his new student I presume my lady. Well do not worry about these old fools, well young fools.” I nodded as he said I was his student and then glanced around myself. "Come I have a shop not far from here which serves much better food then these ones do, and I grow it, so you can be assured its fresh.” I looked at Darek for a moment and then nodded to him. "Why is it every time I hear a corruption it is you I find in the markets.” I glanced at Darek. "Because... Those who do not know how to speak have not learned how to hold their own tongues yet.” I watched as he grabbed a man's hands who was grabbing at Lana's dress and I heard a crack. I jumped slightly at the sound of breaking bone and at the man's yelp in pain. "Or for that matter their hands.” I looked at him for a moment and fixed my silver hoop that was around my head slightly and the yellow flower.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count Not counting
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

[/size]

[dantieduurden]

||Darek Von Cleft||
Give me strength to face the truth, the doubt within my soul
No longer I can justify, the bloodshed in his name
Is it a sin to seek the truth, the truth beneath the rose?
Pray with me so I will find the gate to Heaven's door
I believed it would justify the means, it had a hold over me
Blinded to see the cruelty of the beast
Here is the darkest side of me... Forgive me my sins
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Darek watched as Awiti let her eyes fall onto him as she fixed her silver circlet on top of her head as well as the yellow rose. He did not know why humans made such odd crowns, but if it kept them happy to fiddle with something that did not fit correctly it was not his place to argue. Slowly Darek turned back to his elf friend who had begun leading them away from the area, babbling away to Awiti as if they were the best of friends. “ You got your work cut out young lady, I have seen this man make war machines. He graduate in the top of his class did he tell you that? Probably not, he’s to modest.” The elf said speaking of Darek as if he were not even there. “ His sister was just as good, sadly she did not have the discipline to succeed to his heights. But the wonders she worked with magic…Simply remarkable. Did you know…” The elf began but Darek cut him off. “ I think that’s enough about my sister for now Tontoe.” Darek said with an uneasy smile. “ You don’t want to scare my charge after all.” Darek said looking at Awiti, and then to Lana. “ Watch out for Tontoe girls, he may be nice and friendly, but its all to get you to his shop buying only his wares.” Darek said with such a stern face even Tontoe laughed at the joke.

Not long after they found themselves in front of Tontoe’s shop and he bowed. “ Well my lady’s I must bid you all a due.” Tontoe said before he glided behind the counter to the both that held many different kinds of nuts, and vegetables. “ Welcome to my shop, I am Tontoe.” Tontoe said bowing slightly. “ And what may I do for you today? Perhaps some nice nuts that I just got finished picking from my trees at home? Or maybe you would like some potatoes. I swear it’s all fresh.” Tontoe said with a smile that showed he was playing with them. And so he went on describing every single morsel in his both to them until he was sure even they had forgotten some of the names. “ So what is it I may interest you lady’s in?” He asked kindly.

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The veil of my dreams, deceived all I have seen
Forgive me for what I have been... Forgive me my sins.
Pray for me 'cause I have lost my faith in holy wars
Is paradise denied to me 'cause I can't take no more?
Has darkness taken over me, consumed my mortal soul?
All my virtues sacrificedm. Can Heaven be so cruel?
I believed it would justify the means
It had a hold over me... Forgive me my sins.
----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Darek watched the whole encounter, laughing away as Tontoe did his normal routine. Though the man was not trying to be funny, it was extremely funny to see an elf switching between brodding and elven every few words. “ Don’t mind him, hes crazy, just choose what you want ladys.” Darek said with a reassuring smile and a little shove from behind. After all he knew Awiti would be the hardest to get to talk and if Tontoe couldn’t with his randomness, that she would take a lot of work indeed.

In his mind he hoped her and Lana would end up succeeding in their individual plans that they had come to Ilirea for, but one never knew until the day came. And with Awiti it would be much harder. Most of the things he was asked to teach her were things you had to beging learning at birth, while others just took years of training to master. He had much confidence in the young woman to eventually learn all that she was required to learn, but by then she may be to old to even marry, thus defeating the purpose of even training her in some areas. But he would not deny her the training that had been requested, at least not yet. When Turin came himself, or even Leilani he could speak to them about her training in more detail, but for now, he could only do as he was told. And as he came to the conclusion he lifted his eyes up to watch the two women and how they encountered with Tontoe. It was Sunset now, meaning must humans would be stepping into the bars all around soon. And drunk humans was never a good thing in his eyes. Hopefully they would make this quick, but then again he did not wish for them to rush either. This was a learning experience after all.
>Word Count< seven one one
>Tagged< Nayeli
>Theme< The Truth Beneath The Rose *-*-* Within Temptation
>Status< done
>Comments< If i had more time i could probly come up with more but im disappearing till like friday afternoon to go take care of my aunt so this was the most i could come up with. I hope u enjoy it my queen. Your loyal knight Darek Von Cleft

----- ----- ----- ----- -----
I'm hoping, I'm praying, I won't get lost between two worlds
For all I've seen, the truth lies in between
Give me the strength to face the wrong that I have done
Now that I know, the darkest side of me
How can blood be your salvation
And justify the pain, that we have caused throughout the times
Will I learn what's truly sacred. Will I redeem my soul
Will truth set me free

[Nayeli]

’introducing
{awiti ekere richards*}
featuring--! --! ---! ---!
For once in my life I have someone who needs me
Someone I've needed so long
For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me
And somehow I know I'll be strong
For once I can touch what my heart used to dream of
Long before I knew
Someone warm like you
Would make my dreams come true

Maybe I was a bit nervous, I had never had anyone approach me before like he did, unless he was a slave driver and then, there was no privacy. The crown on my head, it was one Leilani have given her. It fit Leilani's head perfectly, but I had not been made one, so I had to wear one that was a bit to big, but I made it work. Sometimes, it just took me fixing my hair perfectly so that it was tight or secretly wrapping a view pieces of hair around it that could not been seen. I followed the elf who had joined us, Lana followed Darek, probably going over everything we would need tonight for a good dinner. "You got your work cut out young lady, I have seen this man make war machines. He graduate in the top of his class did he tell you that? Probably not, he’s to modest.” I looked at Darek for a moment and then continued to follow the man. "His sister was just as good, sadly she did not have the discipline to succeed to his heights. But the wonders she worked with magic…Simply remarkable. Did you know…” He started, but something cut him off and I had to look back to see Darek giving a stern look at his friend.

"I think that’s enough about my sister for now Tontoe.” I was guessing they were not on good grounds, but I did not ask questions, I kept silent, my fingers rubbing against each other as they started to sweat. My hands were not smooth, they were rough from years of hard work. I did not want them to become any different, I wanted to keep them rough because it told people who I was. I was not some princess, I had been a slave and I was going to work until I freed as many as I could or died trying. "You don’t want to scare my charge after all.” I glanced up at Darek for a moment. "Watch out for Tontoe girls, he may be nice and friendly, but its all to get you to his shop buying only his wares.” I smiled slightly at this, hearing Tontoe laughing slightly at this himself.

After some short walking, we were entering a shop. "Well my lady’s I must bid you all a due.” I watched as he glided behind the counter and I looked at all the wonderful things. Food was everywhere and even Lana was smiling with happiness. "Welcome to my shop, I am Tontoe.” I smiled at the man and could not help but start to walk around slightly, still listening to him as he spoke. "And what may I do for you today? Perhaps some nice nuts that I just got finished picking from my trees at home? Or maybe you would like some potatoes. I swear it’s all fresh.” I looked over at him as I walked, looking at everything until I came to one fruit I knew and had not had in years... It was a yellow thing, looked like a Orange, but was what the slaves called 'Sour Fruit'. I did not know the name, but I knew that they could last for days and still be good and fresh. "So what is it I may interest you lady’s in?” I looked back at Lana and Darek, my hands on the basket that held the Sour Fruit.

I glanced first to Darek, who was smiling and laughing slightly at his friend, who seemed to be normal, doing what he did the best, which seemed to be talking. Tontoe, saw this slightly, could not help but smile slightly. He was going back and forth between words I knew and words I didn't know. "Don’t mind him, he's crazy, just choose what you want ladys.” Lana was more then happy to get what we needed for the evening. She seemed to like it here a lot, there was not meat, but she did not mind at all. She could get that on the way back, to make it fresher then it would have been traveling with us. "Hmm... Maybe some lettuce and Tomatos." She said, mostly to herself as she walked around, grabbing a few things, checking their freshness and making sure none were bruised.

I ran my hand over the Sour Fruit, thinking about where I had come from and where I was now. I did not know what the name of this fruit was, but as I thought about it, I was determined to be different. This fruit was nameless to me and I was nameless to many people as of this moment, but one day, I would not be nameless... This fruit would have a known name to me and it would be known to me. I smiled slightly, looking at it for a moment. I was determined to make a difference! Now and for the rest of my life. Lana came over to me, looking at the other fruits. "I want some of these... Um..."

[/color] Lana looked down at me for a moment and looked at me in confusion. "Lemons?" She sounded surprised. I looked at the fruit and nodded. I wanted some Lemons. She took a few, checked them and nodded. She did not like the idea and took them to Tontoe. As he went over the amount, I waited until the Lemons had been counted up and I took one, looking at it and working my hand over it to peel it. I wanted to eat it now and as I got to the eatable layer I popped some in my mouth. It was really good and I smiled slightly, the sour barely effecting me anymore.
[/blockquote][/blockquote]

For once in my life I won't let sorrow hurt me
Not like it's hurt me before
For once, I have something I know won't desert me
I'm not alone anymore
For once, I can say, this is mine, you can't take it
As long as I know I have love, I can make it
For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

’word count Not counting
’tagged Darek Von Cleft
’song For Once in My Life --! Stevie Wonder
’post status done
’template creator nayeli

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