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 Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2007 1:38 pm
Trelweny ((And found Rune!!! *glee* *giggles* yesh... I am such a FF nut... what better creature for hyper Zell than a moomba, ja? ^_^ Zell: O_o Selph's the one that was all "Sir Laguna" while the Moombas repeated his name... sweatdrop *shrugs & grins, liking the attention* Whatever. They were darn helpful in the Galbadian prison. *nods & grins, starting to shadowbox*Relm: *arches brow* oh no. *sighs* at least you're not a musclehead. You have chicken legs.O_o wha??!?! What'd you say?*realizes she can get a rise out of him and gets a twinkle in her green eyes* hm? Oh... just that you have chicken legs. Why?I do not!!*laughs*Amaryllis is a cait eibhilin, & I got Peter to be her familiar. *luffs them* I swear she has the most RP cameos... *laughs* I've only RPed her a few times in her own shop though. *sheepish* bad me. Sorry Seif's being difficult, Dji. Rune: *soft smile* Wouldn't want him any other way...*head shoots up* Say what?!!? O_o)) Trelweny ((*Gapes at Seifer's hotness* O_O hot da... O_O Rune: Oh... Zell: What! Oh no, not him! *makes face*Relm: *eyes the gunblade* Compensating for something?Seifer: *eyes narrow* Oh great. Chicken-wus and a perky little carbunkle-girl with a big mouth. Just Great.I am not!!!*huffs**smirks, then spots Rune & raises a brow in a predatory fashion* Okay. So maybe not a total loss. *ignores the other two and strides over to Rune**surprised to have caught his attention* o_oDanke Dji!!! heart )) Trelweny Yaruka Yays! Dji rules as the awesomeness. ((*looks at her minihorde happily & must totally agree* 4laugh Seifer: *gets into Rune's personal space and smirks cockily*Rune: *sucks in her breath sharply but does not lose her ground*Zell: *watches a second, shrugs, and goes back to shadowboxing*Relm: *still upset over what Seifer said, sees Rune's reaction and opening her mouth to say something witty finds she doesn't want to hurt Rune anymore than Terra & pouts* I'm not for it, girl.))
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Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2007 1:59 pm
.:Rune's Journal:.
[incoming].:Seifer's Journal:.
[incoming].:Zell's Journal:.
[incoming]
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Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2007 2:02 pm
.:Arrival:. "I really do hope you'll find you like it here." The woman pushed her long honey-blonde braid back over her shoulder, the tail of it swaying against her short red skirt. "Sure we will!" Piped up the bouncing shorter male, a grin on his tattooed face. The taller of the two blonde males behind her glanced between her and the curvaceous lunar moth anthro beside her, a predatory smirk on his lips as he adjusted his massive gunblade on his shoulder. "I can see some perks already."Gracefully the winged beauty turned and catching the look in his blue eyes blushed before turning back around. At the tail of the party, a short almost fae looking slender female hid a scowl just before smiling and waving her paintbrush nonchalantly. A branch from the nearby tree seemed to whip out and smack the arrogant male, who swore & scowled which caused the other male to hoot with laughter then sidestep quickly away as the gunblade was swung forcefully on him. "Watch it, Chicken-wuss." "Don't call me that!!" The fistfighter bounced in fighting readiness around his taller opponent and took a few well aimed swings as the girl artist behind them coughed into the edge of her red cloak held in her hands to hide her laugh, her mint green carbuncle tail flicking with amusement behind her. Green eyes flashed from the front, one pair hinting at brown & gold the other a lovely pale shade. The first pair glanced a warning at the lithe girl hanging back and suddenly the branch that was the culprit disappeared in a swirl of paint (and magic for those that could see) as the young woman gave a sheepish & impish smile with a quirk of her head and a 'can you blame me?' expression. "Seifer! Zell! That's enough!" The boys stopped instanttly at the force and authority in the woman's soprano voice. There must have been a magical quality to it, for it rang sweetly both in the air & in their beings long after her voice had stopped. The latent telepath smiled. "That's better. Come on. We're nearly home." ((to be continued))
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Posted: Tue Jun 12, 2007 2:09 pm
.:Rune's Journal:.
[incoming].:Seifer's Journal:.
[incoming].:Zell's Journal:.
[incoming]
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Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2007 5:21 pm
Trelweny Oh yeah. It was a good day. Well, it was now. Now that he had gone off on his own. Away from Seifer. Well, far enough away that rune could probably distract him before he was able to find Zell to bug him. The bigger male always had an uncanny ability to bug the fistfighter more than anyone else.
Actually, the moomba male was not quite sure where he was. Oh, he could find his way back easy enough... he had simply never been here before. It was... kinda nice. A cleared area of ground surrounded by trees on three sides, a beach on another, with a blue sky above filled with sunshine. He almost wished it was raining, as he bounced with energy from foot to foot -his moomba tail flicking energetically behind him. It was fun to swim in the ocean when it rained.
Can't let all this space go to waste... Booya! And on that thought, Zell Dincht, SeeD fistfighter started into a series of kicks, flips, punches and things that was his training regimen. Tartara >>Maryline smoothly walked from the forest, her silken garb flowing as the wind played with the ends of her golden hair. She stopped at its edge, a hand coming up to rest on a tree trunk. A man stood in the middle of the clearing, moving as smoothly as quicksilver and as strong as stone. She almost would have called out Mujaki, but...no. The physical differences were too much. Only the love of the fight the same. The butterfly sighed but continued to watch. It hurt but at the same time, she couldn't pull her eyes away<< Trelweny Zell loved what he did. Loved how alive his body felt when he pushed it to the limits and beyond. Loved having nothing but his Eirgeiz gauntlets for weapons. He finished his form and jumped into the air with a powerful upercut. "Booya!!"
The young man was grinning. A little flushed but not out of breath. Only then did he turn to the eyes that he had kind of known where there but sensed pose no threat. He grinned and waved to the unknown female before trotting over at an easy, unhurried gait. He was completely at ease, seeming nothing like the fighter of moments before save for a sense of being ready for anything. Hazel-blue eyes sparkled with good humor. "Yo! How ya doing?"
Amiably he held out a clawed hand in greeting, boyish smile warm & accepting. "Zell Dincht. Pleased ta meetcha!" Tartara >>She blinked, thoroughly surprised with his friendliness towards basically a spy. Slowly she took his hand, only just beginning to get ahold of the present times customs<< I am Princess Maryline Sang, a pleasure to meet you Sir Dincht. My...apologies for intruding upon your practice session, I did not mean to stare. Trelweny Zell shook her hand, his feeling warm and strong but gentle too. He knew his own strength. The brow half hidden by his tribal face tattoo raised slightly. Princess huh? Well the dragon medusa in their family tended to act regal, as did the elf that went in & out sometimes. Not that the fistfighter saw them often. Of course protocol with dignitaries had never been one of his best subjects at Balamb Garden. Still he could try.
"An honor, Princess Maryline. And Zell's fine. Sir Dincht makes me feel like you're Selphie, talking about Laguna or something." Giving a laugh Zell rubbed the back of his neck. "of course you're nothing like Seph. Maybe something like Rinoa... nah. That's not right either. You're like a real princess, aren't you? And I might have helped saved my world once, but I'm no knight or anything."
And the boyish grin was back, not really boasting or anything. "tck. It's cool. I don't mind people watching me train. Keeps me on my toes so I don't mess up."
He leaned back against the air casually, rolling onto his heals and holding the position with muscles alone. "So what're you doing out here alone? Aren't princess' supposed to have knights and guardians and bodyguards and things?" He had picked that much up from teasing Seifer in kind. Of course it did not work as well now that Seifer had Rune. Odd thing, that. Tartara >>a delicate hand rose to her mouth as she lightly laughed, a sound much like silver chimes in the wind<< I shall compramise then. Sir Zell. >>She lowered her hand, revealing a small smile that only seemed to compliment the regal air about her<< Once upon a time I had a knight by my side, but I fear that he no longer wishes to serve me. In love with a man...of course he would not wait for me Trelweny wow... that was pretty Zell blinked, almost teetering in his balance at her sweet laugh. But he didn't and soon his smile was going lopsided, as it dawned on him her compromise still made him sound like some kind of knight. That was Squall. Or even Seifer -hate to say it as he might. Or Laguna. Not Zell, so often considered Garden's clown.
Still... it felt kinda good.
Concern flickered in his hazel-blue eyes. "Now I find that hard to believe. That anyone would no longer wanna be with you. Serve you. Whatever." He shrugged his shoulders, at the terms not his feelings behind what he said. "Maybe he just needs to be nudged or something?" Like Squall. Hyne, I wonder how he and the others are doing? Would be nice to see one of the gang besides Mr. Annoying. But Hyne... what kind of knight would leave a lady like Maryline? Tartara >>The princess clasped her hands infront of her, giving the subtlest of shrugs<< I do not think a nudge would work. Again I fear that I have hurt him too much and been away too long. >>Maryline spoke softly, always keeping her eyes right on his in a delicate balance of quiet politeness with a hint of shy directness. She was very good at mixing thinkgs<< Trelweny Looking thoughtful Zell leaned back again into nothingness, hands clasped behind his neck as he kept the eye contact the princess offered. He hated to see anyone upset. Especially if they were nice. And Maryline was sweet and nice. "We-eell... I could not-so-nicely nudge him if you want." He grinned and winked. Moments later looking softly thoughtful & a little serious. "Look, it's probably none of my business, but how'd you hurt him? and how long are you talking? weeks? months? 'cause if he can't get over it maybe you need a new knight." Tartara Well...>>She softly sighed<< Before our last meeting, we had not seen eachother for about... 320 years. I suppose my reappearence is the thing that drove him into insanity. >>The female repressed another sigh, unwilling to let such a weakening guesture through again<< I...really did not mean to...I had only wished to see him again. Trelweny "320 years?!?" Hazel blue eyes went wide. He leaned back farther in shock, lost his balance, whirlwinded his arms a few times in an effort to correct ... and still fell onto the ground on his rear. Sitting there stunned a moment his expression slowly shifted to a sheepish smile. "Well... I guess after that long, things are bound to change."
Zell srood, shaking the dirt from his pants & tail. "Still... there's gotta be something. Anything's possible, if you put your mind to it, and don't give up." He grinned, that mirthful boyish grin of his. "I mean, look at me: No one in Balamb thought that I'd have the dedication needed to make SeeD but I did! You've just gotta decide what you want and go for it!" Tartara I...did mention that he is insane correct? 320 years ago in my kingdom we exucuted the mentally ill. >>Not something she believed in, but such an old practice that the people would not have been too thrilled with her should she change it. The princess smiled again, unclasping her hands<< and if you do not mind me asking...What precisely is SeeD? Judging from your fighting skills, I can on presume that it is some sort of...militant rank? Trelweny Hazel-blue eyes blinked. "Wait... you mean certifiably insane? not just temporary 'cause maybe he's been missing you for over 3 centuries?" The idea that a government might have such rules did not seem to phase him. He was a SeeD... and they pretty much followed orders.
"But naw... Don't mind you asking. SeeDs are a military force, trained by Garden. More like specially trained mercenaries than a government army. Each SeeD has a numbered rank, based on performance and stuff. Not that it matters much here, with no Garden to report back to. But I like to keep in top form."
Hazel blue eyes watched her thoughtfully behind the outward beaming grin. He'd helped Rinoa get Squall's ring once... maybe he could help here too. Tartara It is hardly certified but...he thinks a leaf killed me and I am a ghost out to haunt him because he could not conquer it. I ask you, do I truely look like a ghost? >>Then she fell silent, quietly listening before dutifully nodding her head in understandment<< I would ask if you would be my knight, if I were not so certain you would refuse >>She would also have to know him...alot...better. But that thought was trivial when it was to be no anyway<< Trelweny "Naw. You don't look like a ghost, and unless ghosts can suddenly up and get solid you don't feel like a ghost and... Wha?! A leaf? Hyne." Black tipped ears swung as he shook his head in disbelief. Okay... maybe that's beyond me...
Then... was this lady trying to get his a** in the dirt again? "Wait, wha?? Me? A knight?" Zell had to hold his sides, laughing. "Look... I know knights are different for others than they were in my world, the one I remember before showing up here mixed with one of those moomba things -which is actually kinda cool now that I'm used to it- but being a knight to us is kinda... a special thing. You could do better than me, which would be why I'd refuse if you did ask."
There was an odd look to the male's face as if realizing he was talking way over his head again here. He rubbed at his tattoo lightly, a thoughtful look spreading across his young face. "Look... I can't be your knight... but I'm a SeeD. We can protect. So tell ya what: if you want, I'll be your bodyguard til you find a knight suitable for you or mister thinks-you're-a-ghost gets over his leaf complex. Kay?" Tartara Yes...a leaf. I do not understand much beyond that, the details are vague at best. >>Maryline then nodded, looking almost a hint...angelic with her golden hair catching the sun. Her mind was still in the days of knights and royalty, untouched still by the modern horrors<< A knight is special as I would trust him with my life, however a bodygaurd is far too impersonal. If it is not too bold of me, would I ask if I could call you an aquaintence for now? >>Alright, so the princess was a little bit lonely. Not her fault<< Trelweny Zell shrugged, shaking his head with a start of his typical boyish smile starting to return in force. Personally he thought aquantance more impersonal than bodyguard, but then he wasn't her, was he? And he was starting to get antsy from mostly standing still for so long. Fall to the ground not withstanding. "Sure."
Grinning again, he reached over and casual as anything, thinking nothing of it touched her forearm and gave it a very gentle squeeze then let it go. "And maybe friends, yeah?" The look in his hazel-blue eyes glimmering & seeming to say if not now, soon. ((continued page 10691)) Tartara >>She jumped slightly from startlement and dispite all of her training and control of emotions...could help but have a hint of pink appear on her cheeks<< Y-Yes. Maybe. >>What an odd fellow she had come across...nothing like the handful of other anthros she had met. Decidedly a good thing but...still very odd<< Would...you care for a walk Sir Zell? >>The princess smiled again, the blush quickly fading<< It is simply such a beautiful day, and I would be sincerly honored by your company. ((continued page 10710)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He tilted his head with a smile, noting the pink in her cheeks but not placing the why. Or even thinking about why really. Nice look for her. Makes her seem less breakable. "Hey, maybe's cool." He loved meeting people, making friends. Yeah. Good times.
Zell flashed her a warm carefree smile and jammed his hands in his pockets. "Sure! Walk sounds fun!" With a bouncy saunter with a hint of a run the fistfighter stepped around until he stood beside Maryline and gave her a friendly grin. "Anywhere or anything in particular ya'd like to see?" Tartara You certainly are an energetic one. >>She lightly laughed again before she lowered the hand she had used to cover it and held it for Zell to take. Maryline warmly smiled back<< And no where in particular. I just enjoy the sunshine an company. For royalty, I really am quite simple. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "heh. That's the nicest way I've heard anyone say it!" But he grinned, taking Maryline's comment as a compliment.
Zell blinked at the offered hand, not quite sure what he should do in such a situation. Then he shrugged, pulling his hands from his pockets and taking her hand -then tucked it securely in the crook of one arm with a friendly pat before jamming his fists into his pockets again. Energy seemed to vibrate inside him as Zell tried to keep a sedate pace as he led her away from the forest and down across the clearing that still bore signs of his feet having moved there from his training. "Well for sunshine can't beat the beach today." That boyish smile. "Hope I'm 'nough company for ya. Unless you wanna meet some of my family. I bet Bella'd like you. Relm'd just try to paint you, which wouldn't be bad at all." He purposefully didn't mention Seifer or Rune or the 'rest' of the strange family they were now part of intentionally. Just didn't want to go there. Tartara >>She tossed the unusual holding of her arm up for weird commoner habits of today and bore it as she fell into an easy pace beside him<< The beach? Such a shame I possess no bathing suit. >>The princess then delicately nodded, golden hair glowing faintly<< And I am certain that you are all the company I could possibly need. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf All the company she could need? Him? The thought made Zell feel odd, in a good warm kind of feeling way. But he didn't know how to react to it. So he shrugged it off, keeping it to feel good over again later.
"Yeah... a shame. I've taken to carrying mine in a pocket with the warm weather. Coulda been fun." Turning his head, Zell flashed a grin. "You'll just have to have one on ya next time." Tartara Your pocket? Now you are simply making me feel bad. >>She smiled though, lifting her face up to look at the tree tops<< I am uncertain though that this time frame holds decent bathing suits for me... >>Maryline looked back down at zell<< everything I see shows so much skin... Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Hyne yeah!" Hazel blue eyes crinkled with his wide smile. "Ya never know when it might come in handy."
Zell tilted his head curiously at her as she looked off. "Why? I bet you have great skin." He gave a small shrug of his shoulders. "But if you're really set on something, like, specific we can always see if Myr will conjure it for you. She can get 'bout anything." ((continued page 10730)) Tartara >>She shook her head slowly<< It is simply improper for women to show much skin unless in front of the one they love. >>Perfectly logical to her. Why would you want to unless it was for the person you love most in the world?<< Forgive my rudeness however, who is this Myr? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Really?" The notion was foreign to Zell. "Most people I know just wear whatever they want." But he shrugged, the idea not really being a big idea to him. Back to that whole people wear what they want concept.
"Not rude at all!" He exclaimed with a grin. "Can't expect ya to know everyone I live with ever... much less on first meeting." Hazel blue eyes laughed playfully. "Myr's a GaiaCom. A very complex android. She also happens to be a witch. Specialties are conjuring & hexing. I don't recommend the hexing." Zell joked. Tartara >>She blinked. Wear what they want? That was an odd thought<< A witch? Would she mind? >>She didn't know what an android was, but she knew what a witch was. Could be dangerous, but Zell seemed nice enough...was it really safe for her to trust him? She barely knew him. The princess took a deep breath. Of course it would be okay and if not, Mujaki would go avenging her, leaf complex or not<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He laughed, a carefree thing. "Oh, she'll mind, more likely than not. Less if you ask her than if I do. 'cept for Aiden -he's an audio rhetoric- and Trelweny's dead husband Myr doesn't like males much, though she tolerates those in our family most of the time."
He glanced over at her with worry in his hazel blue eyes as he heard Maryline take a deep breath. Years of SeeD training plus his own kept his senses sharp for things like that. Not seeing any reason for such a move he was compelled to ask. "What is it?" Tartara >>She blinked and shook her head with a smile<< Nothing Sir Zell. All is alright. >>Maryline lightly laughed as well, softly glowing in the sunlight<< Though I do not wish to disturb her. I suppose that means no swimming, however...Have you ever gone horseback riding? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He arched a brow then shrugged off that she would not tell him. He had gotten used to that with Squall, before. "Yeah well, it's pretty far to the house from here anyway. So maybe another time for swimming."
"Horseback riding? Naw. Don't think I have. Ridden chocobo's though. And there's some nice ninau in my family that let us ride them. But no horses." Tartara Yes, perhaps. >>She nodded in agreement before tilting her head slightly in puzzlement<< Forgive...Chocobo...? >>What in the name of Arigon was a chocobo?<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell laughed, head thrown back. "Right! I keep forgetting others mightn't know. Chocobo's are huge birds, usually yellow, with long legs & necks and broad backs that can carry people from place to place." Tartara Like...a...really big chicken? >>She asked in awe, blue eyes slightly widened. Why had she not heard of this chocobo before?<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell winced the tiniest bit at the word 'chicken'. "Yeah. Kinda like a huge chicken Only more like a chick, with it's neck stretched." He grinned again. "I think Relm's been watching over our two. She's always complaining about being on pet detail but I think she likes it." Tartara I do wonder if it is anything like a horse...I brought one on the journey over here. >>Maryline lightly blushed again, just the barest hint of red<< and if it is no trouble, would it be too much to ask to perhaps see a chocobo one day? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Dunno. Not seen a horse." Zell said with a boyish crinkle of his nose. "Nothing's too much to ask, got it? But tell ya what: you show me this horse of yours, and I'll bring the chocobos sometime." Tartara Are you...certain? >>she spoke hesitantly, watching his face carefully<< Sounds like a fair agreement. The cottage I share is not far from here. I can show you now if you would be interested. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Sure! I'm game." He was bouncing in place a little from contained energy at this point, but Zell was trying to do things the proper way befitting someone walking with a princess..... it just was not his thing. Nothing he was accustomed to.
Then he paused, bouncing a little in place though somehow without jarring or even moving Maryline's hand in the crook of his elbow. "But you sure ya wanna take me by your place? I mean, I know we were talking about me protecting ya, but let's face it: ya just met me. It's cool you've been trustin' me & all... but you gotta be smart about this." Tartara >>Again she looked confused, looking up at zell<< What has taking you to the cottage have anything to do with intelligence? Many a time I had invited a lord or lady into my castle for a meeting... >>It wasn't that she was stupid, she just still hadn't...adjusted to the current day<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Castle? Sweatdrop. Zell pulled his free hand out of his pocket and rubbed the back of his neck nervously. This was so not his forte. Not even something he was good at. He was too quick to speak. "I'm just..." He laughed a little, in a way unlike his other laughs. Short and a little uncomfortable. "Look... Castles are hard to miss, right? And they're fortified, and you've guards and things there? Do you have those things at your cottage? We do, but our home's magic. Protected by & infused with anyway."
He had been looking at her, now Zell tilted his head back and stared up at the sky. "Look. Not meanin' to knock your intelligence or anything... but I offered to protect ya, see? I don't want ya to get hurt, Not everyone's as cool as me." still looking up Zell rolled his head to grin cheekily at his companion, hazelblue eyes laughing. ((continued page 11028)) Tartara >>she shook her head slowly<< Not...gaurds persay...but there is Sir Aki. A kind fellow with a high dedication. He stays with the house whilst everyone else is away. A bit...different though. >>Maryline smiled reassuringly at zell, all sweet innocence<< However, you have my deepest gratitude for your services. I may not be able to pay as much as I should... ((continued page 11036)) Trelweny Hazel blue eyes left the sky to smile at the pretty butterfly maiden. "aw... that's okay. I'm not really short on funds, if ya follow. Don't have a lot I spend on, see?"
"But your place and your Sir Aki... Like to see them. Maybe we can set you up with some nice security." The caredree SeeD blinked as a thought dawned on him. "Unless you wanted me around all the time..."
That could be awkward. Idiot! jumping into things without knowing more about it again! He laughed a little nervously, hand going to his tattoo & rubbing lightly. "Eh... how often do ya want me around?" Tartara Well...that is the way that we are headed >>she lifted a hand to softly laugh behind it blue eyes sparkling<< To show you my horse. >>slowly the hand fell back to her side, but the smiled remained<< Though I would never wish to impose on your time. Simply whenever it is convieniate for you. I suppose I can handle myself the rest. Trelweny Zell chuckled at himself. "yeah. I know. But seeing a horse isn't seeing a house. Not exactly."
He quirked his head at her. "Convenient for me? That might not always be safest for you. It'd be easier if ya gave me some times or called me or something when you really needed me or thought ya might. If you leave it to me, I might just be over everyday or something." He laughed. Tartara Well...my horse is at the cottage. Anon loves her dearly. >>Maryline at last looked away from him to look up at the blue sky<< And I would not fathom Sir Zell, that it would be so horrible. Trelweny "Anon? Another one in your home?" He seemed nonpulsed by this, as would be understandable to anyone who knew the massive amounts of 'family' the SeeD lived with in his own home. The question more rang with the information collecting of a professional. Zell Dincht might be many things, but he was still a SeeD and right now he was a SeeD with a mission. Even if it was not presented him from Garden.
But Maryline's statement caught him off-guard. Pulled him from his thoughts with a jolt of surprise. He laughed a bit nervously, hand going behind his neck to rub there as his moomba ears twitched. "heh. You'd be the first I've known to say that, but I'll agree it wouldn't be horrible from where I look at it!" Bouncing on the balls of his feet a little Zell grinned. Tartara Yes...Anon is the one who took me in. >>Well, she had sort of left it to little choice with her insistance on seeing Mujaki. That turned out just...lovely<< I do not see why honestly. You appear to be a very sweet man. Trelweny Zell nearly stumbled. Him? Sweet? Well sure, Ma always said he was, and Trel too now -but she as kinda in Ma's place in a way, wasn't she? Still, certainly none of his friends ever said that about him. At least never to him.
And almost all referred to Zell as a boy... not a man.
"eh, well... Thanks!" He was grinning ear to ear, bounce-walking a little bit taller. He was a sweet man! ^_^ Tartara >>maryline blinked, unaware that she had said anything out of the ordinary. The female subtly shook her head just as they entered a little clearing. A small wooden house was tucked away at the corner, a small garden outfront which the princess herself had taken upon herself to plant<< Welcome to Solstices Cottage. >>she spoke grandly, extending a hand outfront to encompas the area<< ((continued page 11187)) Trelweny Maybe to a princess like Maryline it was not anything out of the ordinary, but to Garden's own hyper-spazz it was. At least where he was concerned. 'Sweet man' was something one heard about a guy like Laguna, not Zell. Of course he was trying better not to let the negative things others might say about him affect him so much, but sometimes it was hard. Especially with Seifer around. but then... Zell had always been easily riled up by the larger male. Just how things were between them.
Hazel blue eyes smiled, the SeeD giving an appreciative whistle to the place. But then he liked cottages, his current home looking like a fair sized cottage from the outside itself. "Nice place. Solstice? Another roomie?"
He looked as carefree as ever, body and eyes bouncing as he looked around. Inside he was thinking, the mind that could work on machines skimming over what he would need to know about the place to protect Maryline here and wondering with her roommates how much he might actually need to protect her here, or if he was more needed when she went out. "Nice garden. Cottages always look cool with flowers."
He turned his boyish grin on her. "Let's meet your horse first, kay?" Tartara >>The princess nodded again<< It was origionally Solstices cottage, but anon tricked her into letting her stay. Anon then proceeded to bring aki in from a moment of a soft heart and I... >>she softly laughed<< I in a way invited myself into her home. Soon solstice however is moving out, leaving the cottage to anon concidering aki is only a guest. Soon things shall become a bit...lonely when they are gone and Anon is out with her romantic interest. Supposedly there was even a feline named Mia living here, but she eventually left as well. >>As she talked Maryline moved more towards the cottage<< Teranfire is this way. Trelweny The slightest hint of a frown crossed Zell's smiling face for a moment as he mentally filled in the blanks and sorted what the princess was explaining to him. What it boiled down to was that it would just be her and this Aki fellow living in a simple cottage soon. Not very secure, in the SeeD's eyes. He chewed on the thought beneath the return of his smile as if the frown never had been.
"Teranfire? Teran, like earth?" yeah, sometimes Zell remembered knowledge beyond fighting moves & when hotdogs were sold & actually made comments that showed it. Go figure. Tartara >>Which of course...Maryline didn't see the threat, or if she did, never let it show. She was a bright young woman beneath under it all...hence she was so set on finding a new protector. The method wasn't safe, but she didn't have the time to spend years picking someone out. They would be coming for her soon... The princess though smiled and clapped happily, obviously estatic that someone got the reference<< Yes, precisely. She is not the most flashy stead, but she is beautiful to any horsesellers eyes. >>Maryline moved around the cottage. Behind it a fence stretched on for their backyard, going about an acre of clear land before cutting off and the beginning of the woods started again. In it grazed a black stallion, white flecks on her feet and a white strip going down her chest before stopping abruptly at her stomach. Her little teranfire<< Trelweny A different sorf of smile, one bemused & slightly surprised, filled the fistfighter's face as Maryline smiled and clapped in a way that reminded him of Selphie, not a princess. But then... they were both girls so maybe it was a girl thing? Naw. Quisty would never do something like that. When it dawned on him that her reaction was from somethin he had said that pleased her. Now that was new!
"Yeah well, I'm not a horseseller!" Well, duh. Zell only laughed lightly following her around back. His head tilted at the, looking it over as one who had never seen its type. Which he had not. "Nice markings. Kinda like our ninau. Only smaller. Delicate. Without the horns & a different kind of foot & tail, but the base body structure looks similar. Bet she's loads easier for a lady to ride, with a back more leg sized." He spoke glibly, half randomly, half with trained eye of studying his opponent. "Pretty thing." Tartara >>Maryline curiously looked up at zell, hands lowering down to clasp infront of her<< I...am not familiar of this creature of which you speak of. Have you also brought with you this...Ninau? >>she pronounced 'ninau' very slowly, carefully as she did not want to mess up. So many odd creatures Zell had seen...she could only wonder if these animals were just as odd to him. She walked over to the fence gracefully, leaning forwars and softly whistling<< Ter-an-fire >>The princess almost sang. The horses head swang up and she immediatly started to walk towards her, quite the happy creature<< ((continued page 11202)) Trelweny Zell rubbed the back of his neck with a sheepish grin. "Brought with me? Naw. Part of our new family. More than humans mixed with animals like us in it, if you follow. They're good fellows. The ninau I mean. Guess you could call them domesticated, but they're pretty much their own guys, see? Well, the rest of the family too. Good group."
Then he was watching as Maryline called the horse, hazel-blue eyes widening with excited interest as the horse responded happily and came to her. "Wow. Can see she likes you. So um... how smart are horses?" Zell knew the ninau were more intelligent then often given credit for because their Audios could actually communicate with them, heard their whinnies & other noises as words. That put the Ninau smarter than chocobos, that was for certain. Which of course did not take much. Chocobos were not very bright. Teranfire was already showing more intelligent than their chocobos. Again, not difficult. Tartara A shame...I would have enjoyed to see this...Ninau. >>Maryline softly smiled as she reached up and gently stroked Teranfires nose. She nodded, looking up at Zell<< They are surprisingly intellegent. At times, one can train them to preform tricks and they fairly recognize people. Such as with Tarenfire, she will refuse to come to anyone but me. A bit odd concidering we have only been companions for three years. Trelweny "Train 'em?" His eyes sparkled more at the thought of training, not necessarily thinking of the training of animals. Machines were more his forte. Still he knew a bit about training animals... since chocobos had to be trained by someone. Not him... but someone. "Useful, that."
"You know... If I'm gonna be coming 'round to make sure you're okay & guard ya and stuff I'm sure I can get one of the ninau to bring me once in a while. They're pretty cool about things like that when you ask 'em."
His head tilted, and Zell turned around to casually lean against the fence as he watched the princess stroke the equine's muzzle. Petting... seemed everyone liked it. Maryline looked like a real person doing that. A real girl. Zell smiled. Always good for people to just be natural and themselves. Tartara >>At that, a truely brilliant smile came on her face, blue eyes sparkling. The princess loved to see new things, having an odd curiousity towards life. The land where Zell hailed from had already caught her fascination<< You have my gratitude Sir Zell, I humbly look forward to the occasion. >>With that maryline gave one last pat to her horse before stepping away slightly, looking up at him<< Would you be interested in partaking in riding Tarenfire? Trelweny His face fair split with a grin in response to seeing her dazzling smile. Real. That was cool. Then he was turning a little pink at being called 'Sir Zell' again. Dunno if I'll ever get used to that...
At the mention of riding Teranfire the SeeD got a shocked but excited look in his hazelblue eyes. "A ride? Booya! Sure!" He glanced at the horse, hopping lightly from foot to foot. "Kay... so, um... are there directions for this?" And what exactly had she meant by 'partaking' a ride? What an odd word. Tartara >>She delicatly nodded again, smile fading into her usual soft regal expression<< I shall be right back. >>With that, the princess walked back to the front of her house and dissapeared into it. Sure enough, she returned a few minutes later, wearing long brown pants and a pretty white blouse. Hair done up in a more simple bun, she walked over to him with the saddle, briddle, four carrots and two brushes<< First thing however...care to assist me in brushing Teranfire down? Trelweny Zell pouted internally at the shift in the female, feeling the oddness of not knowing how to deal with 'royalty' all over again. He felt much more comfortable with Maryline acting like a real person. He shrugged as she told him to wait, leaning against the fence and looking up at the sky, feet tapping to some unknown beat upon the ground.
A black tipped moomba ear twitched hearing her come back out of the house & the SeeD glanced casually towards the direction she would be returning. Zell flailed a little bit and blinked in shock at her change. Then he blinked again at her request before laughing and shaking his head. It looked like he was saying no, but soon it was apparant Zell was laughing at himself for something. "Yea! Sure! Circle motions, right? Relms've been asking me to help them brush the ninau."
Grinning he pulled himself upright, hazel-blue eyes still laughing merrily as Zell casually held out a clawed hand for one of the brushes. Tartara >>gently setting the saddle and briddle down, she picked up the carrots and brushes to hand him two carrots and one brush. Maryline blinked up at him, her now freed hand reaching up to brush a golden lock out of her face and behind an ear<< Is...something the matter? >>She of course was referring to the quite obviously shocked look she had gotten upon arrival. Did she forget something?<< Trelweny Zell took the carrots in one hand, brush in the other with a cheerful grin. he was bouncing happily again, kinda looking forward to this. It was like a different kind of work out for his hands. Always a good thing.
But that expression melted to pure perplexion at her question as he looked at her blankly, tufted tail flicking in his confusion. "No. Don't think so. Why? Should there be?"
The hand curled around the carrots went to rest on his hip, the one with the brush going behind his head where he rubbed at the back of his neck with the back of his hand while the brush bristles faced out. Tartara >>she lowered her head, shaking it<< You had looked upon me oddly...oh nevermind. >>maryline softly sighed<< The gate is right over here. >>The princess moved to the wooden gate to the side of the fence, Teranfire immediatly taking notice and walking over to her as she unlocked it<< Trelweny Zell just kind of... stood there a while. He made faces with his mouth after Maryline sighed. He did not like making anyone sad & for all he could tell... he'd done just that to her. It... didn't feel good.
Gate? Bah. Zell might not jump off cliffs like some crazy friends he had, but a fence was nothing. Besides, he felt like he needed the rush of movement right now. Clear his head up a bit. shoving carrots into one pocket, brush into the other, Zell put his hands on the fence while the females were down at the gate & vaulted over. With a whoop and a grin the hyper SeeD landed on his feet on the other side.
Now he could comment, casting Maryline a sheepish smile that crinkled his face in a cute way. "Well... you looked different. You look different. It's good." Another grin, this one accompanied by a laugh. "Just wasn't expecting it." Tartara >>The princess looked over at him, head tilting slightly as she closed the gate and walked towards her horse<< I very well could not attempt to ride in a dress. Not efficiantly in the least. >>She turned back to her black stallion, rubbing down Teranfires neck first and working down. Dirt and dust clouded up, revealing a very silky coat beneath<< Trelweny With a short laugh Zell trotted towards the girl & the horse until he was on the opposite side from Maryline. An easy moment later and he had fished the brush out of his pocket and was offering his hand to Teranfire to sniff, waiting for some show of acceptance before starting to brush the side he faced. It was kind of nice, not having to reach so much to get to all of the horse.
"Hey... ya never know. Rune rides Timex sidesaddle when her & Seifer go out sometimes. I'd no idea why you went inside."
A pause in talking, though his grooming continued. "Didja tell your roommates you brought me here?" It would have been a good idea. Zell hoped she had. Could make things less awkward later.
Huh? He was thinking ahead? Now that might be odd. Tartara How fast does she dare go? I could not imagine the horse running and I sidesaddle. It is...far too hectic. >>at the question she glanced at him breifly over the content stallion before resuming. A light frown graced her features, for once a breif flicker of worry flashing in her eyes<< I could not find anyone. Trelweny "Well... Seifer normally holds onto her, so I guess it's a totally different thing." Zell laughed sheepishly, pausing slightly in his work to rub the back of his neck before getting to work again. Concern softened his laughing eyes at the look he caught from Maryline. He tossed her a reassuring smile. "Well, it's a beautiful day out! I'm sure they wanted to go out & enjoy it as much as we did!" Tartara I suppose... >>she shook her head, the worry instantly hiding again underneath her royal facade<< Yes, you are probably right Sir Zell. Perhaps tonight I shall try my hand at cooking once more...Would you care to join us? >>Maryline bent over slightly to brush at Teranfires stomach<< Trelweny He did not frown, but his eyes lost a smidgeon of their smile to see the 'princess' barrier return. Zell supposed she could not help it, being a princess and all. He just did better dealing with people not having to worry as much about protocol & other such things.
Huh? Dinner? Zell blinked as he brushed at the horse's flank, subconsiously glad he did this often enough on the equu to be able to keep at it decently even when his mind was blown. Or when his stomach responded audibly to the offer and he started laughing sheepishly. "Eh... sure! I never turn down a meal! And I can help to, if ya want. Used to have to help Ma out all the time."
Zell was half tempted to invite her home to one of the kitsu Ginny's homecooked meals, but with the fiesty witch guarding her eggs the moomba anthro was not sure if there would be a meal. Not only that, but he just met Maryline today... might be best not to overwhelm her with the menagere of his family just yet. Even if she did seem excited to see the ninau. His other hand went to rub at his tattoo still thinking about that as Zell squatted down to better get the mare's stomach to hindleg area. Tartara >>She shook her head delicately, brushing up to the horses side. The mare was positivly LOVING all the affection it was getting, tail flicking<< You are a guest. I shall manage a satisfactory meal, I only hope I still remember my old recipes. >>her voice was a nice blend of soft and confident as she slipped back into her normal royal status. At times the more improper side tended to peek out, a side effect of playing with Mujaki when younger and developing such bad habits<< Trelweny Okay... that would be rather uncomfortable, wouldn't it? What was he supposed to do while Maryline cooked if he wasn't supposed to help her? "Eh... really. I don't mind helping." He was working his way along back leg and flank now. Tartara >>Maryline shook her head, moving the brush up to work on the mares back<< I sincerly doubt it...Cooking...cooking... >>for the first time in a long time, a hint of red actually showed on her cheeks<< Cooking has never been a strong point of mine. The cooks often forbade me from watching them or so much handling a pot. It shall be a sight you wish you had stayed away from. Trelweny Tilting his head Garden's class clown got a goofy grin before reaching across Teranfire's back to lightly knuckle the princess' blush with his free hand. "Which sounds like exactly why I should help. Could be fun! And maybe I'd have to save you from an overboiling pot. Rarr." Laughing the SeeD made an exagerated face, recoiling from an imaginary unseen horror that might have been in a pot or other such kitchen dilehma. Then returning to brushing the horse he winked. Anything Maryline could cook could not possibly be as bad as things the kitsu Miaka used to attempt. "I can stomach 'bout everything. So don't you worry 'bout me. Lemmie help ya. I want to. It'd feel wierd not to." Tartara >>That only made her blush even more as it was brought into attention, turning her head to cough into a hand<< Y-yes...if you insist I suppose so. I appreciate the help Sir Zell >>First thing was first though...how to stop blushing when she was blushing even harder for blushing in the first place? Arigon save her<< ((continued page 11240)) Trelweny A flicker of worry at Maryline's cough. Was she ill? No... probably just the dust they were stirring up brushing the horse. Of course Zell did not see anything wrong with her blush. If anything appreciating how it made her more 'real' to him. Of course everyone was real... but Zell enjoyed it when people were themselves. Less stress.
Making a playful face the fistfigher crinkled his nose at her, hazel-blue eyes dancing merrily. "Then I insist." He made another face, stopping just short of sticking his tongue out at her -deciding at the last minute that probably wasn't the best course of action.
"Do'ya have a comb for the mane & tail or're we brushing those with these too?" Tartara >>turning back to him, she brushed Teranfire a bit more before moving infront of the horse and offering her a carrot. The mare happily ate it off of her flat palm, chewing noisily. With that, Maryly walked back to the gate and set the brush down. She opened unlocked it again and walked to the saddle and briddle<< Feed Teranfire a carrot. The way to a horses heart is through her stomach. Trelweny Now that was something the hotdog-craving Zell could relate too. The brow over his tattoo rose as he chuckled at the notion. "Really?"
He was not waiting for an answer though, the question more something to fill the silence as he dug in his pocket for one of the carrots and held it out to Teranfire without fear. "Like carrots, do'ya girl? How 'bout hotdogs?" Tartara Just be certain that you keep your hand flat, the carrot ontop. Else...you may be short a finger or two. >>Maryline walked back over to teranfire just as the mare reached out and took the entire thing into her teeth, happily munching on it. Maryline shook her head with a faint smile<< And you shall never see her devouring a hotdog. Horses are herbavors. Trelweny Again, "Really?" Zell watched the horse eat, then patted her gently but firm on the side of her muzzle. "Sucks to be you then, huh girl? You're missing out on a treat." He was laughing. Tartara >>Fitting the saddle on the horse as teranfire ate, Maryline looked thoughtful<< I do not believe I have ever partook in eating a Hotdog either... >>She slid the strap under the mares stomach, gently tightening it<< Trelweny Zell reeled. Pinwheeling his arms to keep his balance as he stepped backwards away from the horse the SeeD wore an look of pure disbelief. "What? Never?"
Stupid! Princesses don't eat hotdogs! But it was a small inner voice, one that he hardly heard over others bemoaning her lack of supreme hot dog tasting. Tartara >>She looked over at him and slowly shook shook her head before continuing with the saddle<< It...really is not proper to eat food...with your hands. So I have never tasted a good deal of the commoner foods this age. Sandwiches, fried chicken, nothing like that. >>Maryline gently patted teranfires neck before picking up the briddle<< You possibly may want to feed her the other carrot now. She will not be able to eat properly once the bit is in. Trelweny His mouth shut abrubtly. What in Hyne's name could he say to that? Nodding, the bounce to his step was somewhat lagging as he fished in his pocket for the second carrot & offered it to Teranfire in the palm of his hand.
Then he blinked, coming around again a little. "What's'a bit?" Tartara >>She moved around the briddle a bit in her hands as teranfire walked even closer to zell, eating the carrot. Maryline held up the metal bar on the briddle<< The bit is put across a horses mouth to help with steering. Since you will be riding her, I thought it best. Trelweny Zell eyed the metal bar. "Doesn't look very comfortable for her..." Briddles he was used to. Much easier to lead a chocobo with one. Sometimes. Actually Zell found it easier just to hold the heck on. A few feathers pulled out as the creature tried to misbehave had it working better. A piece of metal in their beeks could damage their bite something fierce. "Well... Guess as she's yours and you know how horses work..."
Blink. "Wait... I'm riding?" Had he said he was riding? He must have. Probably forgot. Oh, Hyne. Tartara Only if you pull too hard back. Otherwise, the bit is only a nuisance. >>And then, she quietly laughed, moving infront of teranfire to slip the leather thing on<< Do not fret Sir Zell. I will not leave you alone at first. You must learn the basics beforehand. >>buckling it securely, she gently stroked the mares nose as it move the bit around in her mouth distastefully. Marylines voice dropped down almost inaudibly as she gently touched teranfire<< I know, I know. It is only for a little while, I promise.
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Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2007 7:39 pm
((continued page 11264)) Trelweny A nuisance? Heh. Seifer would have said it was fitting. Zell put a hand to the back of his neck, a goofy grin on his tattooed face. "Fret? Me? Naw. I'm good. Just surprised."
His ears flicked automatically to try & hear Maryline's quiet voice then he intentionally turned them away, looking a little sheepish. No reason to nose in on something between her & her horse. Besides. "So... Basics. Right. Well I can ride chocobos & the ninau & even the gryphon, when she lets me. Each is different though. Have to man-handle the chocobos, stupid birds. It's a breeze to ride the ninau, just tell them where ya wanna go or give them directions & you're there. No guiding needed, they're that smart. & Sterna... well... If ya can get her to permit a ride you'd just better hold on & wait for it to be over. Rush to fly like that though." His hazel-blue eyes never left them & looked concerned over Teranfire's discomfort with the bit. Tartara >>She raised her voice as she stepped away from teranfire, looking over at Zell<< With riding a horse, you must be firm, yet gentle. The horse may be big, but it is quite sensitive >>she gently reached up and took the mares reins into her own hands<< Alright...She is ready go go Sir Zell, may proceed to mount her. Then I may adjust the stirrups if necessisary. Trelweny "Frim but gentle. Got it." Zell nodded, stepping lightly towards the horse with a nod. Not as tall as the ninau, whose backs stood higher than he did, but higher than the back of a chocobo. Or thereabouts. He eyes the stirrup, studdied the saddle, and then with a nod of putting things together thankfully decided not to bounce of his own force into the saddle but instead put his outside foot in the stirrup & with a small bouce pulled the other up and ever the horse's back. He knew which way he needed to face. -_- Zell could seem dumb, but he wasn't.
Curiously he blinked at Maryline from the saddle, looking a little less comfortable there then when under his own power. Not a fear, just an uncertainty of how to proceed. "So, um... now what?" He didn't think Teranfire would appreciate him grabbing both sides of her head to direct her.((I'm guessing this is an English saddle, not Western?)) Tartara >>She nodded appreciativly as the male smoothly got up on teranfire, waiting until he was situated before speaking again<< Simply take ahold of her mane. First, it probably would be wise for you to become aquainted with the feeling of riding. It becomes quite bumpy the faster the horse goes. To move, gently press your heel to her flank and that will send her into a simple canter. However, let us begin with walking. >>Maryline spoke lightly as she gingerly pulled teranfires head around with the reins, having her circle back towards the gate<< If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask me. It is best for me to answer instead of finding out the hard way. Do your feet fit comfortably in the stirrups?OOC: lol, correct XD I am using my previous knowladge from horseback riding, so yeah Trelweny A hold of her mane... okay that was like when he rode the ninau bareback. Neither needed a saddle really. He nodded absently at her words. "Bumpy. Yeah. Got it. Is everything alive bumpy when ya ride 'em?" Ah, the blissfulness of not thinking about how what one says might come out.
"Heels, huh?" The problem with questions, is you had to be able to figure out what you did not know to ask them. Zell was still trying to figure out the differences between riding this horse & the other creatures. He felt the movement with his backside, rolling into it as he would with the ninau. No expert, but there was some small experience.
He flashed the woman a smile. "Aw... I'm used to doing things the hard way. What better way to learn?" Then, with a grin, Zell grabbed the mare's mane and lightly pressed with his heals.
This would be different. Tartara >>Maryline moved through the open gate with the mare as the male spoke, nodding<< Typically, yes- >>and something caught the corner of her eyes, widening them<< Zell! >>too late. The horse started forwards obediantly into its canter, pulling the princess with. She let out a gasp as she was pulled forwards, stumbling, and then jogging alongside her horse. She pulled her reins to the side, bringing Teranfire into a circle around her and slowing back down to a stop, a good distance from the cottage now. The princess let go of the leather reins to gently massage the unfortunate limb that had been holding onto the horse at the time. Her elbow and shoulder now stung, though she had been fortunate not to fall completely and really hurt herself<< Trelweny He had not been thinking about Maryline still holding the reigns. Or at least not the significance of the it. He heard his name, turned worried eyes in time to see her stumble and by the time Teranfire had stopped as hopping back down, youthful face full of concern even was he grabbed the dropped reigns -sliding his arm through them- and reached to massage the princess' arm for her. "Hyne! Maryline! I'm sorry! I'm used to only me bearing the brunt for me being me."
His touch was firm yet surprisingly gentle, not only massaging her arm but seeing where the pain and possible damage had been done as one who knows. Sheepishly he flashed her a little grin. "It got ya to use just my name though."
There he went, seeing the speck of good in the mess. It clearly pleased him, not being a 'sir.' The title was fun, but the hyper SeeD was more comfortable just being Zell. Tartara >>She winced as his fingers gently touched the pulled muscles, the faintest wisp of blush showing again. Curse her, but he could get a girl to blush<< I...I am alright Sir Zell. It mainly caught me off gaurd. >>maryline made a point to tack on the Sir again that time, positivly mortified at the thought of the lack of title<< I sincerly apologize however Sir Zell. I had not meant any disrespect towards you, it shall not happen again. >>disrespecting a kind man such as he...she nearly shuddered at the wave of self loathing<< Trelweny He did not stop, though a flicker of disappointment darkened his hazel-blue eyes. He was alsto worried about her wince, lightly working that area until he could see her relax. "No aplology, kay? I should be the one doing that. Nearly took your arm off with not thinking. 'sides you're missing the point. I don't find it a disrespect at all. Not big on titles... forget them all the time. I'm just Zell." His warm boyish smile, bordering on impish this time as he looked a little embarrassed himself. "Not really used to respect anyway. Too confining." Tartara I have encountered far worse. When I was learning how to ride, I once was tossed off of my training horse, and my broke arm on the landing. >>At the last bit though, she turned her big blue eyes up to zell, so light and clear it seemed almost as if he should be able to see right through them<< To shorten it anymore Sir Zell however...would imply that we are closer then what we are. Even Sir Mujaki, whom I have known since childhood...does not hear any less. Trelweny Zell was about to laugh at her antecdotes, remembering similar injuries and such both from training at Garden and just being himself when he was caught up short in her eyes and by what she said. A deep blush quickly spread over his face, thinking he had an idea what she meant. The fistfighter might not think on such things regularly himself, but he wasn't stupid. "Eh.... yeah. Culture differences. Forgot. Um... right. Guess we ah... don't wanna imply that, huh? I mean... being a princess and all you've got an image to maintain. So like, I'll deal, okay?"
Hyne... he'd really stuck his foot in his mouth this time. "So, ah... how's your arm?" Tartara >>At this, she lightly smiled and nodded<< You have my gratitude Sir Zell. I thank you. >>Maryline then slipped from his hands rolling her shoulder<< And you have quite the magical touch. A slight twinge perhaps, but it is better. Trelweny He let one hand fall as she slipped away, the other going to rub the back of his neck. The color on his face was fading ever so slightly, but he was still pretty red. "heh. Magical touch. That's new." But Zell was smiling agian, liking the idea.
"So... ah... we try again?" He stepped towards Teranfire, glad the horse had behaved the whole time. A chocobo would have probably pecked his shoulder. Stupid birds. Tartara I do seem to be referring to you in multiple new ways. Do your friends think so poorly of you? >>Maryline moved again towards him, fingers wisping against his arm as she took hold of the reigns and started to slide them off<< But yes. >>she softly laughed, looking up at him<< Though promise me you shall make sure I do not hold the reins before you urge Teranfire faster. Trelweny His ears seemed to wilt a fraction at her question, then the moment was gone. "Aw. It's not that." It wasn't though the thought had brought up times he was teased. But that was in the past. Shrug it off, Zell. A grin as she took the reigns from him. "It's just.. casual. First names or nicknames mostly. 'cept for Seifer, who often calls everyone but Rune by their last name." A dark flash in his hazel-blue eyes, before pushing that name Seifer used away.
Grinning, Zell lightly chucked the underside of her chin with a knuckle. "Promise."
Then a little more sure than before, Zell remounted the horse. Tartara And yet you insist that I drop your title. Perhaps I should revert back to your last name as well >>Her smile broadened at that before she fell back to the horses side. Most of the time, she was her normal distant nobility...but she could toss a joke once in a blue moon. Perhaps one of her quirks. The princess gently moved forwards, coaxing her well trained mare into a slow walk again<< Trelweny "Hey!" Zell sat up defensively but playfully, in the motion of reaching for the mare's mane again. "Said I'd deal, didn't I? Mean that." He crinkled his nose at her, feeling like a kid on a chocobo ride or something, being led around. But his tone was playful, a little. He was kind of at two minds about Maryline making a joke at him. On one hand... he didn't like to be the butt of a joke. On the other... it ws nice to see her normal.
He sighed. This was boring -riding a walking horse. A slow grin split his face. "How much can Teranfire carry easily?" Tartara yes yes Sir zell. If you insist. >>She slowly looked up at him, lightly smiling<< Teranfire? I...suppose around 300 pounds give or take. Why do you ask? >>More specificly...why was he grinning like that?<< Trelweny His grin fair burst. he knew how much he weighed... and no way Maryline would match that. He was a good judge of weight. Leaning out of the saddle, using his tail for extra balance, Zell swiftly reached out and caught the princess round the waist & set her onto the horse in front of him (bing mindful of the reigns & careful not to hurt her).
Laughing he wrapped one arm casually but firmly around her waist while the other returning to hold the mane. "Let's speed this up. Can't learn anything that slow." Tartara >>The instant she saw him shift, she knew. With a light gasp she was lifted up onto the pommel of the saddle, back pressed against his chest to share it. Oh...he didn't want to take it slow now did he? Maryline was indeed thankful that she wore pants<< Alright Sir Zell...simply hold on tightly...and push your heel into Teranfires flanks twice.OOC: XD I knew he was gonna do that... Trelweny ((lol! Is Zell that predictable? 4laugh Just glad she didn't slap him or something. xd )) He probably wouldn't have done it had Maryline still been in her dress. Or maybe he would have but kept her sidesaddle. Who knows. Impetuosity by its very nature was hard to judge.
"Hold tightly." Nodding, Zell complied. He was still grinning into her hair though Maryline couldn't see it. She would however be able to feel his silent laughter through where their bodies touched. "And push twice."
He did so, readying himself for whatever was after canter & grinning with excitement. Tartara >>The horse smoothly went into the canter at the first, but at the second, immediatly sped up to a gallop. Moving the best she could with the horse when pressed against Zell, she held the reigns in both hands to gently pull them to the left, curving the mare around so they wouldn't go back into the forest. Oh...it was too much. After not being riddin in a while, and now out...Teranfire gave a little kick and sped up after the curve, going into a full fledged bouncy run<<OOC: lol! well you see, maryline was eventually going to do that, hense why she put on pants. For riding. So it was kinda in my mind XD you just beat me to it Trelweny ((hey! not me! That was all Zell! *laughs* Bored Zell ish fuuun!)) The bounce of a horse was much different than that of a chocobo, although to Zell it seemed fairly similar to that of the ninau. More bouncy perhaps, but the rythem was the same. He rolled a bit in the saddle to match the movement to make the ride more comfortable. Again, not expertly, but not a total novice either.
He watched Maryline handle the reigns, tilting his head at the silent signal they gave the horse. Similar to when he had to jerk a chocobo's head the way he wanted it to go. Nice though. Of course Teranfire had already proven herself much more intelligent than a chocobo.
His grip tightened as they rounded the corner, giving an excited "Booya!!" as the horse picked up speed.Tartara >>While Zell got the hang of it, Maryline moved expertly. She had been with the horse long enough to mold with it. She flexed her back in, straightning her spine and moved the hipbones forward and back to upright together. She kept the reigns low, not wishing to apply a lot of the stress to the bit as she gently pulled back. Teranfire tossed her head but slowed to a gallop<< good girl...thats a good girl >>the princess murmered quietly, ignoring how zell must be loving this<<OOC: XDD gonna give poor Maryline a heartattack. She'd die of embarrassment right then and there if anyone from her kingdom saw this Trelweny ((*laughs* what? Riding a running horse, in pants no less with some strange, hyper moomba-boy having his arm around her? What's there to be embarrassed about? xd )) He felt her move in a smoother way with the horse and blinked. Then grinned as he studied it, starting to practice just a bit. Zell could be a pretty quick study when he wanted to, and moving with Maryline with the horse made it almost easy.
"Awww..." Zell pouted softly as she slowed the horse, probably only able to be heard by the princess because his mouth happened to be fairly close to her ear. It was more of a half-pout really, because he was still smiling. "Not much different than riding a ninau, 'cept ya tell her where to go with those. " He flicked his thumb from it's spot in Teranfire's mane to indicate the reigns. "Well... that and a horse is much more comfortable to have between the legs. Ninau's back's much wider."Tartara >>She pulled to the left again, this time also lightly pressing her left leg in to encourage the turn. Teranfire curved again but didn't speed up, keeping her easy gallop<< If you were not here, I would be able to ride bare back and without the briddle. But you do not know the proper leg movements or points to press for that. So we shall keep to the basics. Perhaps in the future, I shall even allow you to take her through jumps. >>she pulled on the reigns again subtly, slowing the mare even further into a trot. Maryline was just happy the horse didn't decide to rear on them<< ((continued page 11399)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "I can probably hold on with my legs fine, if that helps. Do that with the others I ride, no problem. But yeah. You're right. I don't know horse-riding leg movements or their points to press. Chocobos only have the one speed really which you just have to slow if you're wanting to look at something. But I'm a quick learn when it comes to things my body's gotta feel to learn. This seems to be one of those things."
His laughter in her ear was light & free, Zell not even seeming to show any reaction to how close they were on the single saddle. "I think I've half an idea now of what you were doing with your leg right now. Almost like leading in a dance? But firmer, right? And it's all about where and when to nudge, where you want to take her, am I right?"
Yes. Even Zell could dance. SeeD, remember? Tartara And if you fall should she rear, I would feel awful. At the very least, five months training and getting to know Teranfire before allowing you to ride her bareback. If done improperly, you could hurt her. At times...she can be quite fickle. >>At the second part however, she couldn't suppress a soft smile, hidden from zells veiw<< An interesting veiwpoint upon it. A dance. Yes, I do suppose it does hold its similaries, though I do not fancy the thought of being compared to a horse. >>The smile turned a touch...sad. How long ago had she ballroom danced in the soft candlelight of her castle, the aimless conversation of nobility rising high above to subtly battle with the sweet music? The princess lightly sighed and shook her head as she loosened her grip slightly on the reigns. An odd sort of 'click' sounded from the back of her mouth and teranfire shook her head happily in mutual understanding. She sped up a little only to be reigned back to her trot, her master ever the diligent rider<< Trelweny "Well I could take a tumble just fine, but I'd not want to hurt Teranfire or worry you." The arm around Maryline's waist tightened somewhat, almost reflexively accentuating his words as they dipped from playful to honest concern.
Zell flinched a little, realizing with her words he must have stuck his foot in his mouth once again. "Gah, Maryline! You've gotta know there's no way I was comparing you to a horse! I mean, I've never had to danced with you!"
His mouth fell open like a caught fish, hazel blue eyes widening just before his head fell forward & nearly rested on the princess's shoulder. "I just mean ... oh man... "
He couldn't see her smile, or the shift to sadness of it. Still he felt her sigh slightly with her back pressed to his chest. It pulled him nearly out of his own feeling like a fool. "Maryline? You okay?" Tartara >>Maryline's smile broadened slightly at the mans fumbling for words<< Sir Zell, I hope the day never sees you, where you shall have to converse with another noble. It is alright. It was an adequate comparison between dancing and riding. >>She turned teranfire back towards the gate, her face turning a very deep shade of red as she realized he had left out a title. She knew it wasn't on purpose, which just made it embarrassing instead of aggrivating. The name just sounded so warm alone like that<< And yes Sir Zell...I am alright Trelweny Zell hoped he never had to do whatever she had mentioned with nobles. he was feeling out of his league enough with her. He did not even realize how he dropped the princess from Maryline's name -probably not the first time nor the last.
He chuckled softly, a smile lightly touching his eyes & spreading to his face. "Yeah. Me either." Raising his head Zell's brows crinkled at seeing her blushed face, wondering what could have caused her to turn such a shade. He smiled. "Kay. If you say so."
For a while the SeeD focused on the feel of the horse, how Maryline led her, what responses Teranfire made. Tartara >>Well, at least he was fairly gullible and not all that stubborn. That was good for her. Maryline took a firm hold of the reigns with both hands and gently pulled as they came near the gate to have her slow to a walk, and then finally stop. She let out a long breath, feeling her face cool down. Honestly, with the added uncomfortable weight of yet another person, the princess was expecting Teranfire to cause more problems. The mare though only shook its head in mild irritation, bitting at the bit as she obviously wanted it out<< I hope that you found your first riding experience, to be a pleasent one. Trelweny As the horse stopped Zell swung his leg around and lightly hopped down to the ground, casually offering to assist the princess down with a smile though somewhere behind the automatic action he knew she could dismount on her own. "It was terrific! And learning anything new's always better with a great instructor." Tartara >>She smoothly swung her other leg around, sitting on the saddle before humoring the seeD member and taking his hand before sliding off. Maryline flashed another perfect smile, not too soft, not to bright<< Flattery shall get you nowhere Sir Zell, however I am pleased to assist you. It is a welcome sight when someone new to the saddle handles sudden intervels so well. >>The princess slipped her soft hand from his, the other lightly holding the reigns<< Quite enjoyable Trelweny Without a thought his smile brightened in the sight of hers. Then he crinkled his brow as something made no sense to him. "Huh? I'm not trying to get anywhere." Then he seemed to shrug most of it away & smiled once more. "Well..." One hand went to scratch behind his neck. "I do have some riding experience... and we use saddles on the chocobos sometimes & well, I'm used to sudden intervals."
Zell gave a wink, starting to show his energy in movement again now that he was off the horse. "Definitely enjoyable. Have to see how you do on a ninau." He grinned. "I wouldn't want to trust you to a chocobo though. Not unless we made it one of those bridles. I won't chance ya, princess."
His hazel blue eyes were for a moment intense upon the rider-dressed female. It was the studious gaze of a protector, but was slighly warmed by the earnest care of a friend. "Shall we giver her a bath and another brushing before dinner?" Zell reached over to gently pat Teranfire's muzzle. "Girl's done good." Tartara All animals are different however. Hence why I wonder if you shall ever allow me to ride your Ninau, or perhaps even a chocobo. However, I promise you Sir Zell, that I am not made of spun glass. >>Maryline then held out the reigns to the male<< If you would lead her in and close the gate behind, I shall get the hose and brushes. Trelweny He gave her a glance that was momentarily that of a chastised child. "I know animals are different..." It was slightly grumbled, but then the SeeD rolled his shoulders and the grumbles fell from him to show him smiling & happy-go-lucky once again. "You'll be safe enough on a ninau even if you were made of spun glass."
Zell accepted the reigns with a grin. "As you wish, princess." And with a jovial little wink the SeeD pulled the horse after him, after being a few paces away starting to talk sweetly to Teranfire. Tartara >>She nodded and took a few steps towards the house before blinking and looking over her shoulder. Maryline couldn't help but laugh ever so softly, a hand reaching up to cover the faintly musical sound<< And flattery shall get you no where with my horse! >>With that Maryline walked to the side of the house and started to unwind a green hose. Teranfire followed Zell obediantly, though did glance once at her master as if making sure that this was alright. She hit at the ground a little with a hoof, shaking her head with a desire to be rid of the blasted briddle<< Trelweny "But she is a sweet girl!" Zell shouted with a grin as Maryline disappeared inside. He opened the gate for Teranfire & led her through with a regal flourish that would seem comical simply because it was Zell doing it. "Sorry girl." The fistfighter said, patting her muzzle lightly. "I promise I'll try to learn fast as I can, to get that damn thing out of your mouth for good. At least around me. Worse... not sure how to get it off you now..." His boyish face looked pained. Only for a split second. Then he was studying bridle & bit, wondering if he should remove them or wait for Maryline. For he now saw how to remove the thing.
Zell sighed, chosing to wait for the princess. Teranfire was afterall herhorse. "Sorry girl. Hopefully she'll be back soon & we'll get that metal out of your mouth." He rubbed at her ears with scritching motions while they waited. Tartara >>The pretty mare blinked at him slowly as she was petted, moving a bit forwards before leaning down and nuzzling his pockets for more carrots. She wanted two things right then. One, get the annoying metal thing out of her mouth, and two, more carrots! Maryline walked into the house then back out again with a bucket of soapy water, some scrubbers and the two brushes. She tossed the scrubbers into the bucket, transfered brush hands and turned on the spigot<< Trelweny He chuckled as the mare went for his pockets, not having the heart to tell her he'd already given her both carrats. Sensing before seeing Maryline return (probably heard the door or something) Zell shot a glance over his shoulder. "Hey, can I get that bit-thing out of her mouth now?" Tartara >>The princess looked up from the spigot before nodding<< If you have figured it out, certainly. >>With her now free hand she picked up the hose and started back towards the gate<<OOC: XD you know what I just realized trel? Maryline better not get wet... Trelweny ((*blinks* wet? OMG! That's right! White blouse! *faceplants* well... I know what will happen if she does... 4laugh )) Zell grinned, managing to keep his 'booya' call calm enough not to startle the horse. At least he hoped so. He turned back to the horse beaming. "Okay girl. We're gonna get that thing out of your mouth."
It was not too hard for the trained SeeD to figure out. He had after all watched it be put in, and he checked it out just a moment ago, visually doublechecking. So he was careful, talking kindly to Teranfire as he removed the bit from her mouth.((totally blanked on proper bit removal or woulda probably been more descriptive. *laughs* nearly 20 years since I last handled one. lol)) Tartara >>Getting the bit free, she moved her mouth slightly, tongue licking her lips. No metal! Maryline smiled and stopped at the gate to see her horse nuzzel zell again<< either she likes you, or she simply is begging for another carrot. I do believe it is both. However...would you please assist me in opening the gate? My...hands are a touch...full.OOC: o_o and I'm kinda scared about that trel Trelweny ((*giggles & waggles finger* nownow. Zell doesn't think like that. wink )) He was grinning as he was nuzzled, stroking the horse's neck with one hand while stuffing the bit into a pocket with the other. "Wish I had abother carat to feed her." He said with a smile, leaving the horse to assist her mistress with the gate & giving Maryline the same 'regal' treatment he had done for Teranfire earlier. Amuzing if nothing else. "Lemmie take some of those for ya."Tartara >>She delicately bowed her head before slipping through the gate and shaking her head<< I am alright Sir Zell. >>Marline set the things down by the mare and started to unstrap the saddle as teranfire moved towards zell again<< I can only assume that she wishes you had another as well. I would have brought some out...unfortunatly however I only have so many hands.OOC: hey, maryline is a beautiful princess XD proving a stereotype true once again. I couldn't blame Zell ((continued page 11420)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Yeah, well, you'd look awful funny with extra arms." Zell teased in a friendly manner with a grin. Then he blinked, that of someone suddenly remembering something. "Hey... I've an apple I brought along to snack on for the way home. I won't need it if we're going to have dinner..." He knew the ninau liked apples, but were they okay for horses? "If it's okay for Teranfire to have it, I'll give it to her." Tartara >>Maryline moved with her horse as the creature moved, lightly frowning as she had troubles with the buckles because of it<< An apple? That is perfect Sir Zell. How coincidentual. >>Teranfire was now back to nuzzeling zell again, black tail swishing<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Coincidental? Naw. I always grab something on the way out the door in case I stay out too long & get hungry. Usually an apple, 'cause they travel well & if the only bruising they get is from any practice I get in they're still good." He grinned, happy to be able to make the horse happy. He held Teranfire still for Maryline with one hand, fishing the apple out of his baggy pants pocket with the other & having to unwrap it from his swimtrunks stuffed in there too. His boyish smile brightened as Zell withdrew his 'prize' and held the red & gold fruit out to the mare's muzzle. "Here ya go girl. Gala. Trel's favorite." The SeeD gave her a wink. Tartara It was to the fact that you had not yet eaten it, and that horses love apples. >>Maryline glanced once at him, but that was enough for her to freeze<< eek are apples typically gold around here or am I simply ignorant? >>CHOMP! Teranfire took a big bite out of it, nearly taking the entire thing with her<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf The moomba-man looked at Maryline in clear confusion. "Huh?" He managed, just as Teranfire took her bite causing Zell to grin before looking in confusion at the princess once more. "There's ones that're all a pretty yellow gold, but we normally have gala apples around our place." Then he laughed cheerily. "It's not real gold, if that's what you're worried about. But little Maree sure makes sure they grow the best they can and that makes their colors really come out. Not to mention the flavors."
He was smiling, lightly stroking Teranfire's neck as she chewed. "As for not eating it yet... I usually wait til I'm heading home. And since I wasn't heading home yet when we met..." Zell shrugged and flashed his smile at the princess. It was easier to think of her that way in her silken blue dress. In riding gear, he had to keep reminding himself of her position. "Soon as Teranfire gets the rest of this, I'll help ya wash her. Start at the head, work back?" He checked casually. Tartara >>she shook her head slowly<< typically, at my kingdom apples only come in green or red. are you sure that is alright for her to be eating? >>Maryline's clear blue eyes flicked with concern as her beloved horse finished off the apple happily<< as for washing...taking off the briddle first may be wise Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Okay. That just perplexed him further. "Well sure. Why wouldn't it be? I was gonna eat it, right?" Then remembering the horse being a herbivore didn't eat a lot of what he did Zell quickly added. "Gwen eats them, and she's what she calls vegan or whatever & 'bout everyone in my family eats them so she should be fine. They're just a different type of apple. Way I hear it, there's loads of types."
Then her comment on the bridle registered and the fistfighter looked sheepish, moving to take it off the horse's head now his clawed hands were free of apple. "Yeah. Bridle off. heh heh." Tartara >>She smiled in relief, nodding her head before sliding off the saddle<< I am glad. For a while, Teranfire was my only companion. >>Maryline shook her head and set the saddle down before walking back to the bucket and hose to bring it back over<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell looked mildly hurt, a soft sorrow in his hazel blue eyes. "Hey. I'm protecting you now, right? Well, Teranfire's included in that to some degree, see? I'm not letting either of you get hurt." Then remembering her pulled shoulder the SeeD winced. "Intentionally..."
Rolling his shoulders he held the horse still, not really sure how much he should offer Maryline his help, or how much he should let her do herself. Raised with Ma, then with SeeDs Zell was used to both. Tartara >>Maryline shook her head yet again, looking at zell softly<< I understand that you would never intentionally cause harm to either of us. It is just...I come from a time so alien to now, it is at times frightening. >>The princess lightly smiled, an almost sad combination with the words from her<< what was once safe will kill me and what was once a haven will distroy me. It is...a touch difficult. >>that in itself to admit was difficult. Weakness...it wasn't wise to show<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf His gaze softened, full of sweet concern. "Takes us all a while to get used to. Some more than others. Easier for those of us used to rolling with the punches." Zell flashed a playful smile with his attempted humor even as he reached to help Maryline start to clean the horse as she drew near. "I can hardly comprehend how this must be for you, used to castles & knights and servants and things like from some sort of fairy tale."
Then he searched for her bright blue eyes with his own hazel-blue ones. "But I promise... whatever you need -a new thing to be safe, a new haven, getting used to anything- if there's anything I can do I'll do it. Got it? I'll take care of you."
Hyne, but it was hard to see her sad. Zell grinned, trying to get the princess to smile once again. Too bad Selphie wasn't here. She'd probably have Maryline in stitches of laughter or something by now. Tartara It is interesting, if nothing else. I miss it occasionally...however I fear I may never be able to return. >>The smile faded slightly, the princess unable to keep it even at that soft brightness<< I thank you for your kindness Sir Zell, in all honesty. I understand how unfair I am being to you and wish I could do more. >>Maryline sent a light spray over teran fire to wet her down. The horse happily danced a bit, loving the water<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Her smile could be like the sun and to have such a cloud pass over made the fistfighter pout with a small frown for a brief moment before smiling again. "Well, if getting back's what you want, Maybe I can help somehow with that. Dunno. I've not heard of anyone going back... but just because no one's done it doesn't make it impossible." He yelped playfully, hopping to the side to get a bit further away from the water as if it had been closer to him. Zell was playing. Hazel-blue eyes danced. "And none of that about unfair. It's... nice just to feel needed."
That was it, wasn't it? Zell, clown of Balamb Garden, teased by friends & 'foes' alike, all too often overlooked in his skills and abilities because they could not or would not look past his hyper & energetic personality or thought that for one reason or another he would not be able to handle the responsibility. But he could! He would! Zell looked at the princess with determination. He was guarding her. He would. Zell knew it. Tartara >>She shook her head yet again, firmer this time<< I cannot. If I go back, they will kill me. >>Maryline turned off the water, this time bringing herself to brightly smile at Zell, trying to make what she was about to say a little bit lighter<< I truely was dead for 300 years Sir Zell. I do not believe that Sir Mujaki was the cause, but I was murdered all those years ago. And in that time my country grew, obtaining new rulers and different rules. I am the lawful heir to the throne...however they do not wish to relinquish their power. >>Well...she just fairly spilled about half of everything to a near stranger. This was just going swimmingly for the 'young' princess<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He smiled warmly. Sympathetically. No wonder she needed a bodyguard -her whole kingdom wanting her dead. How awful. "Their loss. Our gain. We'll just have to find you a place here where you feel as happy & safe as you did there before you were killed."
Zell washed and rubbed the horse as he talked, smiling as the mare seemed to like the bath quite well. That made it fun. Of course Teranfire's antics were getting water everywhere, but for the young man accustomed to the constant spray of the ocean in Balamb moistened clothes were nothing new. Tartara >>She blinked a bit at him, slowly taking up a scrubber and working at teranfire as well<< You...You are alright with the fact that I was deceased for three hundred years and currently am expecting to come back to the cottage each day to find it burned to the ground because of me? Sir Zell, either you have lost it more then Sir Mujaki or are simply brave to the point of stupidity. >>as teranfire danced and shook, her own clothing became damp in a refreshing way. Things were always changing but her mare seemed to stay the same<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Hazel blue eyes fixed her with a serious look none of his friends had likely ever seen in him. "Look, Princess Maryline. Where I came from we fought a Sorceress who first possessed the body & powers of the woman who raised my friends & me when we were orphans as children together. A lot of strange things happened, the oddest by far of which was the time compression in which all times in our world got smushed and otherwise messed up. And that was before. Now I'm in a family where there's two other 'me's' going around, only we're all different species. There's two more Seifers, two more Runes, and Hyne only knows how many Relms 'cause I've lost count. There's magic, science, creatures unlike anything I've ever known, but you know what? It all works. It's an odd family, granted, but it's home and we all take care of each other best we can. So you've been dead for 300 years. So what? The Kitsu Remus' best friend is over 200 years old or something. Rem's little girl's best friend died before too. So yeah, I'm all right with the fact you've been dead for 300 years. It makes sense that you're worried about your new home. You're here, now, and that's what matters. You're here, and I said I'd protect you. If that means I go round up my family and ask them to help me set up protections & security around your home like we have at ours, then that's what I'll do. I'm a SeeD. We don't back down. No matter what the odds. We do it."
He was a bit wild, hurt that Maryline would think him either crazy or stupid. Bad enough his friends often thought of him as a spazz or less than intelligent. Hazel blue eyes looked softly pained as Zell looked at the princess, lightly damp in her riding gear.
Damp white shirt...
Zell blinked, blushed, and quickly turned away. He dropped the soap & brush he was using back into the bucket & shrugged out of his jacket without looking back around. He'd be fine in his black muscle shirt. Holding his favorite jacket in one gloved fist Zell shoved it at Maryline over the horse's back. "Here. You'd better... just put it on."
His face was scarlet. He would not look at the princess again until his moomba ears could pick up that Maryline had donned the jacket & zipped it up. Hyne! And she was worried about the implications of calling him by his first name or showing skin in a swimsuit! It was just lucky no one else was around, he supposed. Tartara >>Her lips parted to answer when suddenly her bodygaurd held out his jacket. She blinked, looking confused at his bright red face<< are... you al...>>she glanced down at herself and deeply blushed herself. At least she had chosen to wear light blue instead of black of something...but it was STILL bad! Quickly maryline shrugged into the jacket to cover herself again, still blushing as hard as she could. But...she had to do one thing. Maryline moved up to zell and wrapped her arms around the back of his neck to give the male a hug, closing her eyes<< I apologize for questioning your motives...I apologize for doubting you...I apologize for having to add onto your troubles...and I thank you for not running away. It is not often...that I have anyone but myself to turn to. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Hearing the coat on Zell breathed a sigh of relief. He was turning his head to give her a smile, planning on picking up the dropped washing tools when his ears quirked at the sound of movement and suddenly Maryline was hugging him. Used to hugs, Zell easily enfolded his own arms around her & hugged her with a casual and easy warmth. He listened, quiet while she apologized. When she was finished he moved one arm to lightly 'cuff' the underside of her chin, the other still hugging her. She seemed to need that right now and he did not mind giving it to her. "Hey. No apologies, okay? We only just met, right? Reason enough there to question & doubt. You got me more on the crazy or stupid question."
It was weird, seeing someone else in his jacket much less hugging said person. But if he was her bodyguard now, Zell supposed he would have to get used to it. He didn't really mind. It was just... different. There was something nice about it too.
"As for adding troubles, don't sweat it. You're no trouble." He was grinning, eyes dancing merrily. "Interesting. Yeah. A new challenge."
Then he was oddly serious once again. "Don't sweat it. You're welcome. Seems to me you've carried the weight of your world too long on only your shoulders. So gimmie a call, anytime ya need a break, 'kay?" Tartara I lack the luxery of being able to have suspitions about my own protector. It makes all the difference later should I be forced to place my life in your hands. >>She lacked a lot of luxeries that even commoners possessed. But...she too in a way was used to hardships, and never once dared let any of those weaknesses out. Only what she had to reveal. Was it sad that she only completely trusted an insane knight and a horse?<< As for the needing of a break...I shall be fine. >>Maryline offered a small smile<< Once in a blue moon, a crack may form, but otherwise I am alright. I am a special type of spun glass that glues itself back togeather. >>She softly laughed at the light joke<< ((continued page 11440)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He held onto her gently, not thinking about how he held a princess in his strong & fit arms. Zell just didn't think like that. To him, it seemed Maryline needed his support. Just like that. If a hug gave her that, she'd get it. He hugged family, friends, strangers with the same selfless, caring warmth. Guileless. Not holding anything back. But then Zell had nothing to fear from sharing.
"Kinda figured as much, as you asked a complete stranger to protect ya. Just glad it was me you asked...." The SeeD's words trailed and he chuckled nervously. How could he tell Maryline in a way that would be believable that he was good, others might be bad, and he was just glad she hadn't asked someone completely evil to protect her? That she must be made of a special kind of spun glass indeed. His arms tightened protectively around her a moment more, letting his cheek press into her golden hair briefly. Then Zell pulled back, shaking his head with an odd smile to see her in his coat & let her go. "C'mon. Teranfire needs her wash-down & a certain princess said I could help with dinner."
Zell caught and kept her hand a brief moment as he scooted her back to the spot she had occupied when he had seen her shirt wet. His hand was firm, soft, & gentle, encompassing her slender lady's hand in a 'hug' of its own before letting her go completely & bending down to grab soap & brush -setting back to work on cleaning the horse.
There was a smile on Zell's tattooed face as he worked, and his hazel-blue eyes occasionally looking up from his work to smile at the princess. Tartara >>She deeply blushed again as Zell pulled away, gently squeezing his hand back before letting it slip out. It wasn't often that she let herself be touched, for back in the castle, it was highly improper if not done at the right time with the right people in the right situation. But...it sort of felt nice to just for a second, feel someone else there. Probably yet another luxery she couldn't afford...but she'd pay the tax for it later. Maryline delicatly returned to scrubbing at Teranfire, who had managed to wonder two steps away during the exchange between her and her protector<< Just do not be too terribly surprised if something catches on fire in my wake. >>Maryline shifted a bit in the warm jacket, catching the light essence of zell. Good thing he wasn't a vampire else they might have a bit of a problem with her mixing scents<< And sir zell, I cannot believe I did not ask beforehand. What do you feel like dining on tonight? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf The only things Zell knew about princesses came from fairy tales, and that sometime Remus' daughter Liliana was referred to as being treated like a princess. Which he thought funny, seeing as the winged crimson female trained with his kitsu self every morning first thing which did not mesh with his ideas of princesses.
But then neither did a princess washing a horse.
Zell winked cheerily at the fire comment, spiked hair bobbing lightly as his head indicated the hose. "If anything does, I'll douse it with the hose. Good for getting things wet." A bit of blush returned to his tattooed face but he didn't look away.
Nonchalantly Zell waved a clawed hand in a dismissive gesture. "Whatever. I can eat anything. Really. So whatever you were planning on making before we met up is fine, or just whatever's in the house. I may like hotdogs best but I'm not picky. 'sides, what if I picked something ya didn't have the fixings to make or didn't know how to cook? No way. Not going there. But I'll warn ya..." He waggled a finger around the brush at her. "I've a healthy appetite." Tartara >>it was true that washing horses wasn't exactly royal like, but someone had to do it and teranfire was her responsibility. So somehow in all that things made sense. Maryline put the scrubber into the bucket again and picked up the hose<< You may wish to stand back Sir Zell >>She spoke before spraying down her black and white mare, the new pressure making her dance all over again<< I do hope you enjoy soup then. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf At her suggestion Zell dropped soap and brush back into the bucket & with a playful laugh dodged with a zip to stand behind Maryline. Folding his hands behind his neck the fistfighter laughed merrily to see the horse enjoy the rinse-off, casually leaning back on his heals.
"Sure! Soup's great! Can put about anything in it too, without messing it up too much. Great for shifting amounts of people eating too. Good call." If his hands weren't behind his head, one could almost think he'd be giving the princess a thumbs-up gesture. ((continued page 11460)) Tartara That is what I was aiming for, yes. >>without warning she flicked the hose over her shoulder at him, a thumb going over the water so it was only a very light spray before returning to hose back on her horse. Hide behind her eh? She lightly smiled, one that if anyone could see, spoke of triumph. And that was payback for having her blush so much too!<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf he had not been expecting that in the slightest. It was a light spray, but a spray none-the-less and Zell took it straight in the face aimed like that. He sputtered, moved his arms in front of his face (too late), & because of the way he was leaning toppled over backwards onto his rump. Again. "aw man...."
Stupified, Zell looked up and blinked at the princess. First only stunned, then a slow, pleased smile took its place. Getting to his feet the SeeD laughed as he dusted off the signs of his fall. "hehehe. Good one!" Tartara >>Her smile only widened and she let go of the handle, teranfire glistening wet and soap free. She gently lowered the hose and picked up the bucket again<< This...falling on your rear...seems to be a common aspect with you, does it not? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Hazel-blue eyes gave her a wide-eyed look as his laughter cut off sharply. Was she teasing him? Zell shrugged it off, his smile returning. "Actually... no. Only today."
He continued to grin, a thoughtful look touching his eyes as his left hand lifted to idly rub at the tattoo on his face. Tartara Truely? >>Her smile softened as she at last looked at him, tilting her head with both bucket and hose in hand<< Shame...I thought it a touch cute. >>Maryline turned and started to walk towards the gate, golden hair glowing in the fading sunlight<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell blinked, coming out of his thoughts and shaking his body down like a boxer before a fight to clear his thoughts. Then he blinked, nearly floored again. Cute?
And why'd the black back of his jacket seem to heighten the way her hair caught the sun?
"Hey!" Trotting, Zell hurried around her to get the gate. Least he could do since she was carrying everything. "Wha'd'ya mean, 'shame'?" His head tilted at her quizically, water dripping a bit still from his face onto the black muscle shirt he wore. "That you seem to have this way of totally disarming me? 'cause I'm sure glad others don't share this ability of yours. Wouldn't be much of a fighter if that's how I always was, would I?" Tartara Mmm? >>she paused, blinking innocently up at the male<< Well...since you claim only today...that would mean I would not see it again. >>Maryline sweetly smiled, tilting her head a bit<< So yes...a shame indeed. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "eh..."
One arm holding the gate open, Zell rubbed the back of his neck with the free hand looking quite taken aback. Then once again his smile sneaked back in, curving crookedly with boyish charm. "Well... just today meaning I've not fallen before today. Not since starting to learn. I uh.... guess I can't really speak for tomorrow, huh? Gotta take things one day at a time."
He flashed a grin. "Ya sure you'd wanna see that more than one day? I'd think it'd impede with your protection." He was at once teasing & serious. Tartara >>She softly laughed, this time unable to cover it as she walked through the gate with her hands full<< I pray to Arigon that you shall never meet with the nobles back at my kingdom. I fear your rear would never leave the ground. In any case... >>Maryline glanced over her her shoulder at him, donning a serious expression easily faked<< of course I wish see you again. At the risk of my own well being, I must be certain you are kept out of trouble. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Somehow, he doubted the nobles of her kingdom would cause him to be often on the ground. Something in Zell was sure it was the Princess herself that was unbalancing him, with her stately ways one moment and playful teasing the next. The fistfighter didn't know what to think about it. Then again.... he as confused about how she had taken 'it' -where Zell had been referring to the very un-SeeD-like way he kept falling on his rear since meeting her- to mean 'him', not to mention what Maryline meant by keeping him out of trouble. Wasn't part of him protecting her that he would keep her out of trouble? So he didn't talk about it. Any questions he was too confused to ask anyway.
"You should laugh more." Zell was grinning ear to ear, still able to hear a residual ring of her soft laugh in his head which made him smile all the more. "Really makes the day." Tartara I laugh when I find something something amusing. >>She set the bucket down by the side of the house and turned the spigot off. The princess then slowly started to wrap the hose back up, letting her gaze flicker over to him just once<< Otherwise...it loses its special quality. Would you not say so, Sir Zell? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell leaned against the house, looking for a moment uncomfortable to be letting her do all the work then shrugging it off so that it did not bother him -a look in his eyes seeming to say: let her, she's real. He rubbed his tattoo lightly as he watched her, not staring just thoughtful. "Dunno. Sunrise never stops being special, so I doubt it. Does it matter? Just'd be nice to hear your laugh more. And good for ya too." He was nodding, grinning a bit mischievously, though the serious look in his hazel-blue eyes was still strong. Tartara bouquet of roses everyday eventually loses its special quality, as with a favorite food if always eaten. >>Maryline smoothly stood with the bucket once more, all fluent grace in her seeD jacket and dusty brown pants<< Besides...I highly doubt my laughter causes much significance. >>She resumed walking towards the front of the house<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell chuckled giving her a disbelieving glance as he shook his head. "No way. I never get tired of good hotdogs, no matter how many or how often I eat them." His grin was huge as Zell rolled to his feet for walking, his body smoothly righting itself. He followed her at a casual pace, watchful & thoughtful while still smiling impishly.
Hyne, but it was odd watching his coat move ahead of him! The SeeD found himself following her graceful movements, wondering what Maryline would be like to train, what her weapon would be if she did quirking his head at his jacket above dusty brown pants. It worked better than he would have thought. He shook his head again and laughed. "Doubt it you want, Princess. Won't stop me from tryin' to get more laughs & smiles out of you."
With a wink he jogged around her, stopping at the front door and touching it lightly, ready to open it for her. Grinning, Zell wiggled his eyebrows at her playfully. His small impish grin waiting with his paused body, as if asking permission to open the door for her. It was her house after all. Tartara Hotdogs must truely be a wonder then. >>She didn't much press that matter though, just happy that he had settled on calling her princess instead of Maryline. She delicately walked up the steps, raising her head to him<< Try as you might however, I have been trained not to laugh if I do not wish it. Works well when the merchants come with their proposterous ideas about increasing their section or investing with them. >>At the top of the stairs she delicatly bowed her head for him to lead the way, breifly wondering if he had remembered to close the gate or not<<
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Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2007 7:51 pm
((continued page 11500)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Of course he had shut the gate behind him. Ma Dincht hadn't raised her boy in a barn. He laughed. "I dunno about a wonder but they're my favorite. Pretty basic. Not something you woulda had though, seeing as they're best when eaten with your hands." Zell's grin, the glint in his eyes, spoke that he was teasing her even with his honesty. Then there was a spark of challenge in his eyes. "Are you daring me, Princess Maryline? 'cause the trick when ya say it like that is to make you want to, and that's a dare I wouldn't pass up."
But at her indication that he should enter her home first Zell at first went into a 'no way! I can't enter your house first!' posture. Then it was gone, replaced with a more steely-eyed [removed](though it was still far too relaxed and laid back for any normal SeeD) as Zell turned serious, looking at this as protecting Maryline, not as a breach of the manners Ma Dincht had drilled into his head as a boy. Sure... some seemed to have sunk in better than others, but they were all there. Somewhere.
Giving her a reassuring and boyish grin Zell led the way. To where... he wasn't sure. He knew how deceptive small cottages could be. Tartara A dare? You must be becoming deaf on me Sir Zell! >>she offhandedly spoke back, walking into the small cottage to reveal a decent sized living room. The princess moved towards a open doorway leading to the kitchen<< Perhaps one day I can eat a hot dog like a sausage. Bunless with a knife and fork. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "You said that I'd have my work cut out for me, that you don't laugh unless you want to. Sounds like a dare to me." Slicking a hand across the side of his hair Zell winked. "Interpretation, not deafness."
He followed with a light jog, almost in place the distance was so short to travel. Trained eyes glanced around, taking everything in. It was weird to walk into a cottage and not be assailed by something small and flying and hyper. Weird but cool. Then he gawked and made an odd sound at her suggestion. "No way!! You'd take all the fun outta it!" Then he seemed to settle a little, or was at least laughing about a thought he had. "I could feed ya one... like Trel feeds Theron when he gets to the last bites. Or would that still be too 'common'?" His eyes were playful and teasing. Tartara So you DID hear everything clearly. Then by all means, yes, a misinterpretation. >>Maryline lightly smiled and stopped at the sink to pour down the soapy water. At the suggestion she immediatly shook her head<< Oh no Sir Zell...Not too 'common'. Too 'intimate'. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell laughed. "I still take it as a dare." He teased playfully. Then blushed sharply. "Oh. Right. No first names only. No skin. Can't feed ya, gotta use utensils..." His happy face softened to an odd sadness. "Hyne, sounds like 'cept for riding Teranfire you can't do anything fun, seeing as ya've got rules for everything."
He sighed, rolling his shoulders then stretching his neck lightly by moving his head from one shoulder to the other. "Gotta relax some. Gonna give yourself an ulcer or something." Hazel-blue eyes glanced around the kitchen. "Kay... scrub up then find a pot for the soup, right?" With a casual gliding step Zell reached Maryline's side, hands up & ready to get this dinner underway. Tartara Many people are not aware of how strict royalty can be. Along with our duties we must uphold our appearances, dispite where ever we may be. In fact, I am being highly improper now by wearing pants. >>she softly laughed, turning on the water but looking at him<< You shall not go tell on me now will you? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Being royalty sounds like a pain." It was more sympathetic than anything else. Zell noddded, arms folded across his chest. He gave her one of his boyish smiles. "Wouldn't tell on ya even if I had someone to tell on ya to."
"But I gotta wonder... if you're hiding from your country, why keep up the princess thing? Seems to me you'd be safer letting it go. Unless you think there's a chance whoever's in charge now will lose power and ya can have your rightful place back." Tartara I know...that it may sound a touch...ludicrous...but I hold little hope for that which is futile. Perhaps if I am lucky I shall still be alive when King Roman falls, however then I would have his son to address. I will not ever be able to return. >>Maryline gently rinsed out the bucket, eyes intent on the object<< All this must further confuse you as to why I do not attempt to become more...commoner like. You see...though I may be over three hundred years old, I do not recall it. The twenty seven years I was concious for, I was a princess, quietly studying for the day I would become queen. It is all I ever was...it is all I still am. I cannot renounce my title so easily. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "All?" Zell's brow quirked, disbelieving. "You said it yourself those pants aren't right for a princess."
He sighed, left hand unfolding and rising to rub at his tattoo. "Look. I'm not meaning you should stop being a princess or renounce it or whatever. Not at all! You're like a princess from a fairy story no matter what you do and that's cool, see? Just saying, why sweat the little things if they upset ya? Loosen up. Have some fun. Do a few things you've always wanted to but couldn't simply 'cause you're a princess. Cut it up a bit. Stress less. Enjoy living even if you're 'fraid for your life. Which ya shouldn't be, 'cause I'm here now." A break form the serious to grin with his not quite a joke.
"You're more than a princess. That's what's cool about you." His smile was sweet now, starting to border on thoughtful seriousness once more. When his baritone voice spoke again it was a trifle softer. "Don't worry 'bout the commoner thing. You'll never be common. Why just look at how you're washing that bucket. Can't get more common than cleaning, can you? But you do it... suddenly it's not such a low job. No. You'll never be common." Tartara I have already cut back on so many things...Pants, no escort anywhere, sharing a room with someone, cooking, cleaning... >>she warmly blushed, feeling the water gently wash down her hands and into the sink at gravities call<< If there is no clear cut seperation between commoner and royalty, the line shall become blurred. I shall end up compramising things and slowly drift away from what I am. >>at last she turned off the sink, slowly reaching to the side for a towel and drying off the bucket with detailed care<< For one...two years down the road...what would I have become then, granted I am still alive? A common princess? >>she blinked, tilting her head thoughtfully before letting a small smile on her face<< no, that is what I was. Though I now lack a witty combination of commoner and princess. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He listened intently, softly shaking his head. "All well and good. I'd say most of those changes you've made are necessity though. Survival. Which is cool. But..." Hazel-blue eyes holding an odd intensity sought out the princess' bright blues. "Answer for yourself whether ya tell me or not: is there something you've always wanted to do but couldn't simply 'cause you're a princess? Is it still something you want to do? If so what's holding you back? Is it something you can change?"
He sighed, giving the female in his jacket a grin. Her eyes were brighter than the blue flames that emblazoned the upper sleeves. "If you can do that thing, you should. It'd be you, coming out. A you that's more than the princess. Keep worrying about what everyone thinks..." Shaking his head Zell shrugged, then bent forward in an impromptu stretch to touch his toes. "A person could go nuts thinking like that and never have any fun." Tartara Riding teranfire is fun...reading is fun...I also highly enjoy walking. sweatdrop >>alright...why did those suddenly seem to become lame at the end? She sighed and flicked a hand at him, sending water droplets his way before drying off the hand<< Yes, yes. You have caught me. I would be lying if I said that there is not one thing on this planet that I do not wish to do, but cannot due to my status. >>Maryline smoothly crouched down and slipped the bucket and scrubbers under the sink cabnet. She gracefully stood once more and started towards the family room again<< Fall in love with whomever I so wish to...sleep in light cloth shifts instead of modestly long nightgowns...read something that is neither politicial or a mushy romance. I have always wanted to give Horror a try. >>The princess looked over at Zell, a genuine smile on her lips<< The first one in the least is something I know can never happen. >>she slipped through the doorway<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He had to agree those were fun. Well, maybe not the reading. Aside from Combat Kings, Zell wasn't much of a reader.
"Hey!" He exclaimed playfully, reacting as if 'hurt' by the water & yet looking totally thrilled at the small step into play.
Again listening. If there was a table between them and they were sitting down it would be a good bet he would have his chin in his hands as he gazed at her. But they did not. Zell's moomba ears shifted to catch every word. He was leaning casually against the sink, arms folded once more, watching her move as she talked. He wondered at the smile like sunshine partnered with such a sad, hopeless statement.
He thought that way for a moment after Maryline slipped from the room. Then he jogged to the doorway and leaned against it. Hazel-blue eyes flicked around the family room before settling on the princess. "Why's that? Who's going to stop you?" Tartara Because Sir Zell... >>she pivoted smoothly to look at him. The hair tie slipping out with the movement to send her golden hair cascading over her shoulders and down her back. Maryline blinked slightly, a hand reaching up to gently finger a peice. Whoops<< If I fell in love...I would wish to marry. And when I marry, my husband becomes king and I queen. Not only would the male have to be competant enough to be in such a high standing, but in my current situation, it would further complicate things. I...am not completely sure what would happen honestly, with someone else ruling my kingdom though the marriage pushing me back into the throne... ((continued page 11514)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "So let me get this straight: Fall in love, get married, you're no longer a princess you're a queen, dude's a king, except neither of you really are 'cause someone else is currently running the kingdom who wants you out of the way. Did I get it all?"
He hadn't moved since leaning upon the door frame. No part of his body tapped or jabbed or other wise fidgeted as the SeeD kept his hazel-blue eyes fixed on Maryline. It didn't seem right. She should be able to love whoever she wanted. Someone who'd enjoy the golden waves of her hair. He wondered idly if her hair was as soft as it looked. "Cause I think it sucks."
Sighing Zell looked at the floor a moment. The fingers of his left hand twitched, then moved up to rub his tattoo. Tartara >>She gracefully nodded, light blue eyes hinting at a bit of saddness...though she had long ago resigned herself to this fact<< Though royalty may seem grand, there are a few...downsides to it. However, I am fortunate in the way that if I was still in my kingdom, I would be able to choose my husband from the nobles there instead of an arranged marriage. The man I was supposed to wed was dead by the time I was ressurected. I always resented arranged the thought of being married to a man I never met beforehand. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf The sadness in her eyes... Zell couldn't stand to see anyone sad. Crossed Garden in the middle of a battle to get Squall's ring for Rinoa just so she would smile again. "Actually, I'm missing the whole 'grand' side of royalty."
With a fluid motion Zell rolled to the balls of his feet, no longer leaning in the doorway. In moments he was at her side pulling the princess into a warm, comforting hug. Her hair felt like gossamer silk against his bare arms but the SeeD tried not to think about it. "It sucks and you're gonna stress yourself out thinking about it. All the intricacies are making my head spin." He laughed softly into her hair by her ear.
"Look, until you fall in love there's no reason to stress over it, right? Who knows... maybe you'll fall for the perfect guy to get your kingdom back for ya that'll make a great king too." There was a smile to his voice. "One day at a time. No worrying. Got it?" Tartara >>her eyes widened as he quickly moved, arms wrapping around her small form in the display of affection. She warmly blushed before slowly hugging him back, softly sighing<< It is alright, I do not worry. As it stands, I do not plan on ever falling in love again. No love, no problem. So I am fine, really. >>He was strong, but gentle, a combination that confused yet comforted the 'young' princess. This hugging thing was starting to become a habit but...she'd let is slide...for now<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf She'd have to get used to the hugging -or keep reminding Zell to stop. Hugging was as natural to him as breathing. One black tipped moomba ear quirked. Again? So she'd fallen in love before. Poor girl. Not that she'd fallen in love, but that it clearly had not gone well. If it had, she wouldn't be standing here thinking about falling in love again, would she? Naw.
He chuckled softly, pulling back so he could see her face. "Hey. That won't work either. Can't plan something like that anyway, one way or another, can ya? C'mon." Zell stroked her golden hair across her back. Once. Twice. From the look in his hazel-blue eyes it seemed an automatic thing, not something planned or thought out. Still, his lips were curved in a goofy sort of a smile. "You need to eat. Whyn't you direct me to where things are in your kitchen & we can start the soup?" His stomach growled its agreement & Zell laughed. Tartara I can certainly try >>she murmered softly, one hand quickly moving from around him to reach up and take hold of the hand that was coming back up for its second stroke. Maryline gently lowered it down to their sides, nodding<< First however, I would enjoy a quick shower and a new garb. Though if you wish, I should show you where a pot is and you may start boiling some water. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Hazel-blue eyes blinked then grinned as his hand was caught. "Sounds good. Long as you don't mind me peeking about your kitchen!"
Which was a viable worry, the way the kitsu Ginny would hex him if he got anything out of place at home. Tartara Not at all. I will only be a few minutes. >>Smoothly she pulled away completely, slipping her soft hand out of his. The princess moved around him to walk back into the kitchen, a hand reaching up and pulling her golden hair all around a shoulder. She stopped in the center<< Pots, strainers and pans are in there >>The woman pointed to a cabnet inbetween the sink and stove<< oven mits are right by the stove. Glasses and measuring cups are uptop >>maryline pointed to a upper righthand nook<< and utensils are there >>She glided forwards and tapped a drawer with a knuckle<< any questions? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf A few minutes. Zell's body only chuckled silently. He guessed Maryline wouldn't be washing that hair of hers then, or it'd have to take longer than a few minutes. He knew because it took Trelweny & the Rune's a while to wash their own long hair. Of course a few minutes was enought time for him to get loads ready for a soup, now he'd been given leave.
His eyes were sharp as he followed the princess' pointing hand, nodding as he kept track of what was where. When she finished Zell shook his head with a grin. "nope."
With a crisp little salute & a wink, Zell Dincht trotted over to the sink, washing his hands to the elbows & splashing water on his tattooed face. Ma'd keeel him if she'd ever find out he didn't wash up before working in a kitchen! Ginny too. He laughed to himself. Tartara I trust then you shall leave my kitchen in one peice. >>she lightly smiled and slowly walked back into the living room. There she moved to the side of the room and up the stairs to the bathroom, quickly going into her room and grabbing a shower cap first<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Left alone Zell pouted slightly at her parting comment. Did everyone just assume he'd make a mess of things? It hurt... for some reason a little more than normal. Maybe because he thought that if Maryline could trust him with her life she sure as Hyne could trust him with her kitchen.
Sighing, the SeeD shook it off. Drying his hands he found a good sized pot, filled it about halfway with water and set it on the stove to boil. Bouncing over to the fridge he checked to see if there was any chicken stock and finding some released a short 'booya!' before bringing it to the pot & dumping it in. Hm... what to put in...
Humming to himself Zell pulled out some meats & vegetables, juggling them a bit to the counter as he started to cut them down to size. Princess... right. Nothing in big pieces then. Dainty. Zell grinned. Tartara >>As zell started to cook, Maryline sighed and decided to take a shower instead of a bath, having it be infinatly faster. So she quickly washed herself off, debating silently with herself with which sort of soap she should use. Minutes later, she stepped back out of the shower and wrapped a fluffy white towel around her. Now time to sneak on her her room and hope aki hadn't gotten back yet...<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Chopping everything onto the board. Soon as the water & stock came to a boil...
Hmm... He hadn't thought to ask about where the spices were. Durnit. Now, if he were spices where would he be...?
The pot came to a boil and Zell spun on it, momentarily forgetting about finding the spices. He lifted the lid, sniffing the scent the broth gave off before taking the contents of the cutting board and scrapping them in. Now.. right. big spoon to stir. Whistling, Zell looked in the drawers Maryline had indicated & finding one he liked stirred the contents of the pot with one hand & reaching to turn down the stove with the other. Tartara >>Maryline moved down the stairs and into the kitchen again. She didn't have that many clothes, being on the run and such, but she had managed to scrounge up another dress. A faded pink color, the dress was of fine silken cut and length, the ends almost touching the ground as the lacy sleeves came to her wrist. The neckline a modest scoop to show a small black ribbon chocker around her throat and golden hair done in a simple poly ann. Perhaps a bit fancy for cooking, but it was this or her nightgown. She gently held out his coat to the seeD member<< I do believe this is yours Sir Zell? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He looked up from stirring & blinked in surprise. Then a huge smile brightened his face as Zell let the spoon down on a plate by the stove, capped the pot, & accepted his jacket. "Sure is!"
Grinning he shrugged the jacket back on, pausing in confusion at the delicate feminine smell now on it. Nice. Then he met Maryline's eyes. "Feel better?" She certainly looked like a million. Tartara >>She nodded, smiling<< Yes. A shower is always very refreshing >>The female lightly sniffed the air, smiling broadening<< you did not wait for me Sir Zell, now I cannot catch anything ablaze. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf His happy face fell and he looked much like a disappointed puppy, his tail falling, his ears pressing to his blonde hair. "Aw man..... I'm sorry. I just kept going..."
Zell was bummed. He had been looking forward to making dinner with her. "There's still the spicing... and some other veggies..." Tartara >>She softly laughed, reaching out to gently take his hand and pat it<< It is alright Sir Zell, really. We simply will not be eating anything burnt tonight. I can live with that. >>Maryline let go of him then and walked over to a slim door. She opened it, revealing a neat little barray of spices, cans and a few random items<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Her hand felt nice, patting his and Zell's spirits easily lifted. Not that he ever let them sink for long. "Well, next time I really will help you with dinner. Not take over." The happy-go-lucky SeeD grinned, his other hand going behind his head to hold the back of his neck.
He gave a small whoop at the spices. "Booya! Oh yeah! This is gonna be nice. Okay..." Lips pressed together Zell scanned the spices with dancing eyes, then tucked four or five of the spices into his arm before trotting happily back to the pot. "Booya! Bit of this... some of that... oh yeah." Sniffs. "Yeah. some of this would be good. Only a pinch of this though." He was kinda bouncing as he added the spices. Then he paused, shooting Maryline a chagrined look. "Aw man... I'm doing it again. Um... lemmie think... want any rice or noodles or bread with it? Think of anything else you might like in it or something?" Tartara >>She watched him in awe as he added the spices, so energetic and...happy. Simply watching him made a smile curve her lips<< Sir Zell, do you cook often? You seem so in element. >>she plucked out a box of instant rice from the little pantry before closing the door again<< I almost wish I could keep you here whenever it is my turn to cook. Maybe Solstice would not glare at me so often then. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Naw." He ducked his head sheepishly. "I can really only do basic things. Soups. Stews. Sometimes can manage a weak pot roast. The usual mac & cheese or something. Ma always made me help out in the kitchen when I was home, 'fore I enrolled at Garden. Then whenever I stopped home. But that was before... don't really do much with it anymore. Sometimes pass something to Ginny so she doesn't magic it into the back of my head if it's behind me..." He set the led back in place after another turn of the spoon, grabbed a pot & a measuring cup then looked questioningly at Maryline. "How many are gonna be here? For dinner?" That would decide how much rice to make. Tartara Most likely it shall be me, you, Anon and Sir Aki...However, what is this...'mac and cheese' of which you speak of? >>she moved over to a cabnet and pulled out another, much smaller pot<< It sounds interesting in the least. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "So we can measure for five..." He grinned & winked. "Said I've a healthy appetite."
He turned another burner on, putting the pan he had gotten out away and measuring the water. "Mac and cheese? Just macaroni noodles made with cheese. It's good with hotdogs." Zell laughed. "But I'm biased." Tartara so...like spaggeti with cheese? >>She poured some water into the pot, simply eyeballing it and walked over to him. Maryline smiled at his measuring cup of water as she set the pot onto the burner. SHE was going to make the rice<< So many strange foods this country yeilds. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Yeah. Just another noodle really. But don't let an Italian hear ya say it." He was chuckling, catching the determined set of her jaw and dumping the water he had measured, shaking out the cup & putting it back away. It was still clean. Okay. So she wanted to cook the rice. That was cool. "Maybe after Ginny's eggs hatch you'd like to come over for dinner? Now she can cook. But ya gotta watch her temper." He laughed but looked a little frightened at the same time. Tartara >>she scanned the directions and opened the box to pour in the rice, still smiling<< I do not believe I have met an authentic Italian in years, so I am safe there. And I do suppose that if I will not be intruding... Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Actually, I don't even know what an Italian is, 'cept Ginny goes off on us not to dog the different noodles around one of them. Dunno how I could be frightened about one of them after Ginny's temper though." He gave her a smile then stirred the soup. It was starting to really start smelling good now. "And you'd not be intruding. You might be overwhelmed... but you could never intrude." Tartara Italians are short people...with odd accents. And something about the mafia. >>Maryline shrugged a bit and walked past him. She opened a drawer and pulled out a fork<< But surely Ginny cannot be THAT horrible. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Mafia? Nah. Zell didn't feel like asking about that. "Oh, she's awesome. Just has a temper and a way with hexing that's to be feared. And she's more quick to go overboard while worrying about her eggs is all. She's cool." Tartara eggs... >>She tilted her head slightly<< what type of anthro is she? >>Her soft blue butterfly wings fluttered. They were a pain for taking a shower, but not entirely impossible<< Should the father not also help protect them as well? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "She's not an anthro, though her guy is an anthro of their species. She's a kitsusagi. There's a lot of those in my family. Just the five like you and me. Humans with animals. "And he does. Harry's cool 'bout that. Thrilled they're having kits. But even he gives wide berth to Ginny's temper, though it's rare she ever uses it on him. No hexes anyway." A smile at her fluttering wings. Different then Rune's fuzzy moth wings. "Sides she keeps the eggs at our place. Just how she is." Tartara Kit...susagi? Is that another animal from the garden? >>Maryline asked in all innocence, clear blue eyes focused on him<< Kits sounds a good deal like kittens...but kittens are not born in eggs...I am afraid I do not follow this. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell stirred the soup and chuckled, keeping half an eye on Maryline with the instant rice. Surely she could not be as bad as Miaka in the kitchen, and even the priestess could manage instant rice. Most of the time.
He shook his head, his tail flicking back and forth between his legs. "No. Not from Garden. They've got three tails and most of them come up to about here." He put his hand to his waist. "They move on all fours, unless like Harry they've been anthro'ed. They lay eggs, from which the kits are born. Guess they're a lot like kittens. Went by the feather tailed adoption agency with a couple of the Relms the other day to check on our cat who's there with his mate & their kittens. Cute things."
He turned, caught her eyes and could not look away. Hyne. "It's confusing, yeah. And the Kitsusagi aren't the only species either. That's why I'm saying it'd overwhelm ya, Princess. Sometimes even in the family there's those who don't know who everyone is. And like I said before, there's others like me. One's a kitsu like Ginny, just... me. Same but different. Takes some getting used to." Blue flames shrugged with the shoulders beneath them. Of everyone in the family, the Zells were the ones quickest to assimilate to how it worked, quickest to know who everyone was. Just part of being friendly & outgoing. Tartara Ah, I see...I think. >>She smiled and looked at the pot, slowly stirring the rice with her fork<< It appears that this dimension we have enters is quite odd, would you not say Sir Zell? >>Maryline shook her head at that<< but, at least I finally am not bored. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "After time compression?" Zell laughed, turning the burner down a bit more. It was pretty much done. Soup was cool that way. So simple really. Long as you didn't put something together that totally did not work. "But yeah. I guess odd covers it. Like it." He gave her a grin. "And not boring. Not at all."
Reaching over Zell lightly made a passing rub across her back. Just something intended to relax. Then he pulled back. "Don't sweat it. You can learn all about my family in time if ya want. It'll be easier to explain then anyway, when ya meet 'em. One day at a time."
One day at a time... and this was the first day they'd met. Zell smiled warmly. It was a good day. Tartara I met you here, so I do suppose that this place is not all that bad. >>She glanced at the instant rice and nodded to herself almost done-Blush. Her back was fairly sensitive, having no one really...touching it. She took a slow breath<< One day at a time. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Okay... that made Zell feel about 10 feet tall. "Yeah. One day at a time." His stomach rumbled and he laughed. "C'mon. Let's do this dinner thing."
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Posted: Fri Jul 13, 2007 8:27 pm
.:Zell's Journal:.
Met an interesting girl today. Old. Maryline doesn't look 320 years old O_O but I guess that's kinda hard to tell here, huh? Anyway... seems she had a knight and he thinks he killed her because of this leaf or sumthin' which I guess after time-compression I shouldn't think is that odd but she seems to think he's certifiable and well, I've no reason to think otherwise. Unless I meet him. Sad really.
So anyway... I'm like her bodyguard now. biggrin Except she thinks that's too formal so wanted "aquantance" (gah! hate that word. stupid word so hard to spell & long & gah!). I think that's more formal, but whatever.
Oh... And she's a Princess. Princess Maryline Sang or something is the whole thing. Fancy sounding, isn't it?
yeah... I'm bodyguard for a princess. ^_^ Booya!!
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Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2007 1:29 pm
Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Juice then. Tea takes too long." Zell grinned and led her down the path, across the glade, then through the garden to the porch -introducing her to Maree & Peter in the garden with a laugh as the little cait gave the older kitsu an 'adult' frown that he always used her nickname. Of course he was still laughing when he opened the door and was bombarded by four winged female kits and a small gray soot all jabbering for play. One with a long honey-blonde braid refused to let him go even as he got the holiday girls off of him in time to be 'charged' by a blue-gray kunkun astride a bright yellow pursekitty. A pile of what looked to be tiny kittens gave them a few odd looks but otherwise decided greetings were not worth getting Tien's attention. Zell gave introductions all around as he steered Kitsyn towards the kitchen where the scent of hotdogs indicated that either his tala or AnthroBreedable selves were inside and the automatic cooker was on. His tummy rumbled at the scent and Zell kitsu gave a happy moan of expectation, licking his lips and hurrying inside the kitchen. "Yo! Save some for me!" "Ha! You know hotdogs wait for no one!" "Awww... c'mon..." "But we're hungry!" "So'm I!" "There's plenty for everyone." A female voice said above the back and forth talk of the three Zells, getting a sheepish look from all three & a laugh from the permakit that matched her, still clinging happily to the kitsu Zell. Soft laughter in her green eyes Trelweny flicked the moomba ear of the anthro then pet the heads of the tala & kitsu -being mindful of their hair. "Glad you could make it, Kitsyn. Juice? Tea? I just put a pot on a bit ago & it should be ready soon." Haisyn Fierra There was a lot of snickering and laughter on Kitsyn's part as she followed Zell inside, dodging the holiday kits with the ease of practice considering the set they had at home. She peered curiously around at the assembled Zells in the kitchen. Knowing they were there and seeing all of them together were alltogether different things.
Eyes still slightly wide she sidled over to Trel. "Ah... some juice, I think. Something cold sounds good after all that walking." She made a silly face and peered at the Zells again. "I guess we'll wait 'til you guys are done with the hotdogs before I go see the Training Center. Wouldn't want to deprive a Zell of hotdogs." She shook her head in a sage sort of manner to affirm the negativity of said deprivation. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Trelweny smiled and opened the fridge door. "Cranberry, Mango, green veggie, mixed berry, or orange?" Of course none of the Zells took her comment negatively, all grinning around full mouths that she would even think of of something as nice to do for them as not deprave them of hotdogs. "Dude. Thanks Kitsyn. I'll be good after a few. Ate before coming out, see." The kitsu grinned, shoving another 'dog eagerly into his maw. Leaning casually against the counter the anthro moomba Zell waved a half eaten 'dog in a clawed hand with a grin at the female kitsu. "You're going Training? That's cool."Haisyn Fierra Kitsyn's ears went up at the mention of mango. "Mango? Ooh. I like mango." She added, rather irrelevantly especially considering she lacked feathers, "Mango is good for growing feathers."
Kitsyn eyed Zell sideways. "Since when does the last time you ate have anything to do with you eating or not eating hotdogs?" She poked at kitsu-Zell teasingly before looking... up at anthro-Zell. "Zell said you guys had the Balamb center in there, I had to come see it." Her expression clearly said 'how could I not?' Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Laughing, Trelweny poured Kitsyn a bowl of mango juice and set it on the table for her. "Maybe that explains how Lily & Hemi both have wings." It was a jest, but a wave of sorrow spread out like a wave from the human that was nearly tangible even as she joked again. "I'll have to have more around for when Ginny's eggs hatch. I know it'll please her if they have their father's wings." Still the teasing sadness. "Hey, even I can't eat too much on a full stomache!" The kitsu said defensively, before taking another bit of hotdog that was half of it at once. "yeah... it's not like we're Naruto." The tala said with a grin, popping another himself. "Can't eat all the time!" "yeah! gotta train too!" "and make time for fun!" "Booya!" Moomba ears twitched with laughter, of course she had to. The training center was cool. "There's Luca's Blitzball stadium in there too, or's Zell not told you they're getting to be fair blitzers? A pair of identical cream female talaye with pastel faerie wings walked through the door which seemed to have widened to let them pass through together. One wore a sunrise scarf, which she just barely did not trip over, & laughter filled her swirling green eyes. The other wore an angelic scarf like Trelweny's and a hairwrap in her blue mane. Her eyes -one green one blue- smiled softly. It was the first that spoke, bouncing energetically from one Zell to the other in familial greeting. The boys looked a little embarrassed. "Mir-rage..." She giggled and nuzzled her 'little' brother tala who was slightly larger than the females were. "Must be all that training & energy." Mirage teased, mussing his hair. "Gah! Cut it out, 'Rage!" But he was smiling beneath his pout even as the other two laughed at him. Grabbing two spill proof cups Trel filled them with cranberry juice and headed for the door. "Zell, behave. No messes. Or I'll send Myranda in. Three spiked blonde heads looked at her with wide eyed horror at the thought, mouths full. "No way~ got it!"Haisyn Fierra Kitsyn laughed easily enough and lapped at the mango juice while the Zells made excuses about their eathing habits. She blinked and looked up at Mirage's comment, though, ear flicking as a thoughtful look crossed her face. "Luca too, huh? Wonder what Valefor and Ifrit would think of that. I don't think they'd blitz; Valefor isn't really built for it and Ifrit would probably boil all the water out of the playing field!" She snickered. "Ah... watching blitz is fun, but I'm not much on playing it myself. I'm not fish enough for it."
Kitsyn waved at Trel as she exited, wondering who Myranda was and why all the Zells seemed so adamant about not having her in here. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Well, we all play. Even Seifers & Runes sometimes." Zell kitsu paused to take another bite, as his tala self shook his head. "Nu-uh. Nim & Nihahiel don't play." "Or that gray pillow." The Anthro moomba added, wagging a new hotdog towards where they all knew Jezebel was sleeping. The kitsu scowled at being corrected and stuck his tongue out at his brethren. At which Mirage laughed. "Never a dull moment with you boys!" Her sister smiled, then turned politely to Kitsyn. "I'm sorry, We've not been introduced. I am Fidelity. My sister Mirage." Haisyn Fierra Kitsyn laughed at the Zells and shook her head. "Maybe I'll try it sometime... maybe." Listening to them banter, though, she knew it was going to be a long time, if ever, before she had any idea who all they were talking about.
Kitsyn blinked over at Fidelity. "Oh. Right. I'm Kitsyn, occupational hazard and oddball extrordinaire." She held a paw out, for a five or a shake or... whatever, really. Not having thumbs was akward sometimes. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf The tala put out her hoof and touched Kitsyn's paw gently. "Pleasure to meet you, Kitsyn." Zell kitsu shoved the last of a hotdog into his mouth and drained a bowl of milk. "If intros are over, ready to go kick some monster booty, Kitsyn? I'm stuffed." Laughing he patted his belly, ignoring the jibes of his fellows about only having four. Haisyn Fierra Kitsyn grinned at everyone and nodded to Zell. "One sec." She drained the rest of the mango juice, perhaps not so succinctly as Zell did the milk, and set in on the counter so it wouldn't be underfoot for anyone. "A'ight, lead on me bucko." Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf They left to a chorus of 'have fun's as he led from the kitchen to the door on the north wall nearly diagonal from them. Shaking off Trel-kit at last, Zell opened the magic door onto the red carpeted hallway that led to the Balamb Training Center. "After you?" He teased playfully.
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Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2007 11:29 pm
Trelweny Seifer Almasy if asked would never have expected he would come to this: strolling through the woods somewhere still mostly unfamiliar to him, but content to have a lovely young woman on his arm. She smiled at him softly when he looked at her, love in her soft green eyes. No. Seifer had not expected this. Not when his responding smirk held a similar expression of love within it. Both bore wings, another thing to which Seifer was getting accustomed. His great leathery bahamut wings responded by flapping once, then settling against his back like a second coat over his white trenchcoat. Rune seemed much more at ease with her fae-like moth wings. Perhaps in some of her dreams she had wings similar. Seifer always content with who he was had had no such apendages in any of his dreams. Leez0rz Gao Xing sat under a tree in the wood's vegetation. His bright green eyes wandered over to his side where his companion by force was laying against his shoulder. She may be the meanest and abusive anthro he's ever met, but it beats being alone. The liger only guessed it was her only way of showing affection. The girlish-looking-boy sighed softly, kind of bored. He hated the being tempted to wake up his companion at his side just to piss her off.
Risa was sleeping peacefully at Gao Xing's side. Her arms were drawn around one of Gao Xing's arms. Her head was resting on his shoulder, her mouth slightly open in her light breathing. She appeared sincerely innocent in that state. Trelweny The male scowled softly as they came across the pair, knowing Rune would want to pause to greet the awake child if nothing else. Which she did, gently laying pressure on her companion's arm. "Hello there." The female said in her soft and gentle way, feathery antenae on her head shifting slightly as she smiled at the liger child. Seifer huffed and grunted acnowledging the child's pressence. Leez0rz Gao Xing looked to the pair curiously. His head tilted slightly, gazing up to them with the biggest green pair of eyes. His striped lion tail wiggled behind him, flashing the two a small smile. What he could see was this dragony thing and a butterfly-like thing. His lips pursed slightly in thought wondering to talk back to them. He gazed down to Risa to see if she was awake to give him the okay. Usually she started the conversations, but it seemed like he would have to. "Morning!" He said in a chipper tone. Trelweny "Morning." Seifer offered gruffly, glancing at the child then away. "Good morning to you too. I m Rune Bivrow, and my companion is Seifer Almasy. I take it you wore out your guardian already?" Her smile was kind, showing that she was exchanging pleasantries only and not intending any harm. Leez0rz Gao Xing tilted his head gazing to the dragon looking anthro. His tail twitched behind him curious to why he was looking away. He looked up towards where he was facing trying to figure out what was interesting out there before turning his attention back to the lady. "Oooh. My name is Gao Xing but Risa calls me Xixi, but really I don't like that nickname." He shook his head, waving his finger. The liger pointed to the moth. "Rune Biv-- Birv.. Rune." Then he pointed to the dragon. "..." He scratched his head. "Erm.." It was too early for him to remember that. Maybe it's because Risa hit him so much on the head. "My guardian?" He tilted his head. "No-no. Not guardian, her name is Risa." He poked her on her cheek.
Risa felt something on her cheek and just growled. Her hands tightened around Gao Xing's arm, unconsciously telling him not to wake her up.
Gao Xing winced. "Okay, no waking up Risa. Or else she'll be very grumpy." He said with a defined nod to the end of his statement. Trelweny The female gave a light laugh. "Rune & Seifer is fine, young Gao Xing. And we would not want to disturb your Risa of her sleep." Glancing back at the sleeping anthro's sleepy comment Seifer snorted & nodded. "Sure." Blue eyes studdied the pair. "Not a guardian... sister then?"Leez0rz Gao Xing tilted his head. "Okay. I will try and remember that." He smiled again. The liger readjusted the headband on his head. "Okay. I'm sure she'll be more happier if she did sleep some more. I don't want to deal with a more grumpier Risa later." He nodded. The girly boy looked over to Seifer. "Nope. Do we look related?" He tilted his head. His blond hair stood out more than Risa's but Risa's black hair seemed more glossier than Gao Xing's blond hair. Trelweny "No." The male said shortly, then lowered his voice at Rune's concerned glance. Glancing at her tenderly he gave a resigned huff. "Look. Does she watch over you? If she watches over you she's like a guardian, isn't she? Siblings aren't always blood related." Leez0rz Gao Xing quirked a brow at the couple. "We looked over each other but I don't think of her as a sibling." He shook his head. "We're only together because we have to be." His tail flicked behind him, recalling the reasons why they had to stick together. Trelweny Rune shared a concerned glance with Seifer then looked to the young Gao. "You have to be? Why... don't you want to be?"Leez0rz Gao Xing tilted his head. "Both of my parents abandoned me and Risa was a run-away from her own family. We stuck together to prevent other from killing us. She didn't like me at first, and I can hardly say see likes me any more than she did then." His lips pursed before speaking again. "She's too mean to be a sister in my eyes." Trelweny A flash of something that might have been guilt in anyone else's eyes flickered very briefly behind the blue of Seifer's. Rune did not have to see it to guess what he could be thinking. "Well, sometimes siblings can be the cruelest to each other. Still they usually keep each other company & often come through in a pinch to protect each other from outside dangers." Seifer was glad Rune spoke more now that they were together, as he frowned once again thoughtful. He was only protective of his new family in a general way, joining the efforts to see that the home's security was always in top form. But only Rune did he really protect. Or so he thought. "So the two of you have a place to stay?" Rune asked in concern. Leez0rz Gao Xing yawned lightly, still looking up to the couple. "I guess so, but I can't see her as my sister. It seems a bit weird. I don't think she would like it either if I called her sister." He nodded. The liger's tail flicked idly behind him wondering why so many questions. "We stay in the forest or the woods." He said simply.
Risa started to wake up a bit. Her small hands moved to her eyes to rub the sleepiness away. Her caramel dipped tail with silver stars, which was an odd trait that came from her father, twitched. Her blue eyes looked over to Gao Xing wondering why he was talking. She tossed him a glare before turning her gaze up to the two adults. Was Xixi an idiot? Talking the strangers? It should know better! She scowled. Trelweny Rune's face showed honest concern. "You mean you have no where to go?" Fluffy feelers shifted, alerting her to the sleeper awakening even as her White SeeD training picked up on it though the other was her only outward communication of such a realization. Seifer however smirked to see the scowl on the girl's face and gave a deep, sharp laugh. "Whatever you are to each other, doesn't seem your companion's too thrilled about you talking to us." With oddly fast grace he shifted, dropping to a squat before the waking female and fixing her with his hard gaze. "Smart. Don't have to worry about us though. We're SeeDs." Yeah, so he was not officially a SeeD... that never stopped Seifer from claiming to be before either. "And what that means now is we protect." A wry smirk. "More or less."Leez0rz Gao Xing turned to looked to Risa who was awake now. He laughed hesitantly, looking at the scowl she was giving him. His eyes shifted back to Rune and tilted his head. "What do you mean?" He blinked. The sharp laugh from the dragonic male caught Gao Xing's attention. "She hates strangers."
Risa glared at the male who dropped down to her level. Was he saying she was short? Her eye twitched as she glared at him. "Did I ask you..?" She rolled her eyes. "We don't need protection." She huffed, sticking her nose in the air.
Gao Xing looks curiously at him. "Ooooh." His tail wagged behind him, really curious what Seifer was talking about. "I've never heard about that before!" Trelweny Now Seifer really laughed, head thrown slightly back. "Girl after my own thinking." He smirked, not otherwise moving but what he had to laugh. Rune rested her hand lightly on his shoulder which he then acknowledged by circling one dark leathery wing possessively around her curvaceous body. "Never said you did. Call it a stab in the dark to say we mean you no harm."Rune tilted her head at the small Gao. "Never heard about what before, Gao Xing? Protecting? Or SeeDs?" The White SeeD expected the later but almost suspected the former too. Not for the first or last time did Rune sharply miss the telepathic GF that had been her companion since she started training to be a White SeeD. Her skills without him seemed woefully unfocusable on their own. Leez0rz Risa looked at Seifer suspiciously. Was he crazy or something? Her eye twitched. "Ahehe... Right." She muttered, feeling like leaving the couple but dragging Gao Xing with her.
Gao Xing blinked. "SeeDs, silly." He blinked and tilted his head. "I know what protecting is because that's what Risa and I have to do with each other every day." He nodded once. Trelweny Seifer was content to smirk at the suspicious female, nodding slightly in an almost proud way. He had his say. For now. Rune could take her turn for a while. "You would be surprised how many do not know what it means to protect someone." The lunar moth female said with a soft sadness, hip and thigh pressed lightly into her mate's shoulder & upper arm. "But SeeD.. SeeDs are an elite fighting force trained in Gardens to protect the world from well... lets say evil, to make it simple." Yes. No reason to go into the Sorceress' of their world or time compression or any of those things. No reason to go in depth about Ellone's 'gift' or any of those things either. "As for what I meant before... A home. Usually a building where you dwell. Where you can return to when whether or other troubles cause you to seek shelter and where those that care for you are able to find you again. A place to live."Leez0rz Risa already felt like she hated the male. Her blue eyes shifted away from looking at the adults, flicking her tail. Of course, Gao Xing had to be sapped into whatever nonsense they had to say.
Gao Xing tilted his head. "That sounds interesting." He nodded. It's not something he could see himself doing. He never could imagine himself being a hero like anthro. "Oh. Well, I don't have one of those but I prefer the outdoors more." He nodded. "A building seems to confining compared to a whole forest." Trelweny "It can be confining, but there's no rules saying you have to stay there or be there all the time. Just tactical to have somewhere to fall back" Rune nodded as her mate's voice snapped back into the conversation as he stood to his full height and stretched. "But look... I'd be the last one to tell you how to live your lives. They're yours. Rune's just trying to look out for you 'cause we know what it's like to grow up alone." ((continued page 11205)) Leez0rz Gao Xing blinked and shrugged. "Doesn't it cost money to build a house..?" He asked curiously, his bright green eyes staring up at them. The liger watched every movement by the couple curiously. "But we're not alone?" He tilted his head.
Risa just stared at them. She wasn't sure what to say or do. One thing was for sure, she was bored listening to them. Trelweny Rune chuckled softly, a kind look in her eyes. "Seifer and I, and many of our friends, were orphans. Matron brought us together though, which was enough. For a while." Seifer frowned, wrapping his arms tightly about Rune's waist and letting her speak. His blue eyes watched the children, but at the same time they held a far away look to them. "And yes... a house can cost money to build. Much easier with friends to help you. But even a cave can be a home, if you make it so." Seifer tugged against her, mildly urgent. He was uncomfortable with children, and Rune wondered why -her feelers inadvertantly conveying her concern. Concern for both him and the children. To leave them alone... "I'm sure you already know, as long as you have each other you're never alone." Lightly her arms rested over Seifer's. If only she felt more at ease for the children's safety. Leez0rz Gao Xing just nodded. "I see." The liger blinked. "What's matron? Is it a machine..?" He scratched behind one of his pigtails. His tail flickered behind him. "Well, a cave is technically outside and sometimes we go to one if it's rainning or really, really cold." He nodded his head.
The liger tilted his head, noticing the slight movements by the dragonic male. "What's wrong with Sefer?" He immediately pointed out before redirecting his attention to what Rune was saying. He just nodded.
Risa rolled her eyes. Gao Xing was such a dimwit, she didn't even know why she allowed it to follow her. She sighed softly, trying not to doze off. The young lioness rubbed one of her claws over her stomach, feeling the urge to go hunting and maybe taking her energy on any prey that crosses paths with her. Trelweny "Wrong with him?" Rune blinked for a moment, before catching on and giving a light almost tinkling laugh. The male's frown receeded slightly, but not his hold on her. "It's just how he is. We're not around children often. And never before children like us. Humans with animal characteristics that is." "Gotta at least have a place to meet." Seifer finally remarked, though it came out almost like a growl. "Claim a house or a cave or something if you want. Or find someone to take you in, like Matron -the woman who looked after us for a while when we were lost orphans- to to take care of you. Don't care." Seifer frowned. Clearly he did care and it was sitting oddly with him. "You need a place you know to go if you're seperated." Hard blue eyes flicked from liger to lion. Why was he still talking to them? Oh right. Rune. And then he had a thought of if they were their children & his mouth made a fine line as he frowned even as his hard eyes softened slightly. Setting his chin on Rune's shoulder the gunblader kept his thoughts to himself, though his eyes flashed with a certain fierceness. If they ever had children... their children would never be abandoned. Leez0rz Gao Xing just nodded when she asked. The liger blinked. "Oh. Well, we're usually around other lions or prey." He nodded. He wasn't sure if he at Rune's kind (insect). Maybe chased, but not food.. unless they were desperate. He was definitely sure that Seifer's kind wouldn't taste good.
The liger's attention shifted to Seifer. "A place to meet?" He thought about it. It sounded good. He looked to Risa, she seemed like she didn't care. Well, he'd make one if he needed to. "Well, aren't we too small to be claiming things?"
Risa rolled her eyes and hit Gao Xing in the back of the head. "Of course not you idiot. We're never too small." She sneered. The lioness hated being called small, or a child, or anything that might degrade her. Trelweny Seifer snorted at the girl's response, a smirk crossing his face. In an odd way he liked her. Probably because she reminded him of himself in a way. Except for her long moments of quiet. He had not been that way as a child. At least not where others might see. "She's right. Never too small." Lifting one hand he gave the two a light salute before returning said hand ot its place around Rune's waist. "You two'll be fine, long as you stay together. Though if you want..." Was he adding this because Rune's hands tightened ever so slightly on his arms or for his own reasons. "...you can always stop by our place. Beyond Bass'ken Lake, to the woods to the east. Can't miss the path. I'll warn ya though, we don't live alone & it can be quite overwhelming." Rune relaxed lightly into his chest & Seifer actually smiled, a slight look of peace making his safe soft & sweet. Her head of strawberry blonde nodds as she smiled at the young ones. From the look of them, the couple would likely leave upon hearing how the offer was taken. ((If I fall asleep... lets say they left, okies? *Hugs* thankyous for the RP!))
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Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2007 11:31 pm
.:Rune's Journal:.
We met two darling children today. It was so hard, leaving them alone. I know they are likely capable. I know that children can be quite able to make it on their own but... they should never have to do so. Even we had Matron, though few of us remember it well.
The boy Gao Xing seemed cheerful and affable, loyal to his companion in a sweet way. Perhaps like Zell without the hyper energy, in a poor attempt at comparison. The girl, Risa... it was clear she did not wish us around. Distrustful. but then Gao Xing said she was a runaway... perhaps that has something to do with it.
Oddly enough, Seifer seemed moved by the youngsters as well. Not so surprisingly, he does not wish to talk about it. Whenever I bring them up he gets this wonderfully strange look in his eyes before pulling me close... and seeing to it that I think of nothing but him... but us... for quite some time afterwards. .:Seifer's Journal:.
Kids. What in Hyne's name two kids are doing out there alone I'll never know. Damn stupid. Seem to be able to fend for themselves but...
And dammit! The hell'd seeing a pair of kids go and get me thinking about... gah. Don't want to think about it. Damn kids.
Did like that girl though. Risa. Tough. Mouthy. heh.
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Posted: Thu Jul 26, 2007 2:15 pm
.:Alchemist finds a home:. It was mid-morning when he found the pretty path in the woods, uncertain how he had come there. The young man looked at the flower lined path, a soft smile on his face for the natural beauty. That the path itself was lined with green growing things other than frail grass amused him. Someone here liked nature, put the right plant in the right place so that it would thrive. He wanted to meet that someone, if he could. A detour in finding his brother again. He turned down the path, following it into the woods. A cool breeze seemed to always blow here, perhaps drawn in from across the lake he had recently passed. It played lightly with the end of his red coat, whipped his ponytail a little from his neck. Behind him his striped tail flicked, something he was still getting accustomed to. Like the matching ears upon his head that caught sounds he never had heard before. ((to be continued))
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Posted: Fri Jul 27, 2007 9:38 am
.:Rune's Journal:.
[incoming].:Seifer's Journal:.
You could almost feel sorry for the poor kid. hehe. Almost. Does seem to fit right in around here. Can tell we're a little ... much for him though. heh.
Who knows.... maybe he'll find his brother. Hyne the look on his face when the audio Rikku showed him the automail room! hahaha! .:Zell's Journal:.
So this is the Alphonse our Lily's Ed is looking for, but in the wrong species, huh? That's gonna be interesting, when Lily gets home. Sorry she missed it. Kitsu-me seemed to think so too. ^_^ The guy's cool. On the quiet side. I think we overloaded him a bit. oops.
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Posted: Fri Jul 27, 2007 1:36 pm
AB Zell Reposted RP Tartara >>Clad in her old riding gear, Maryline rolled her hips with teranfire. She was in a different clearing, further away with makeshift jumping gates set up. Zell probably would be showing up soon, so she wanted a quick one on one with her mare while she could. Her hands entwined in Teranfire's midnight mane, and her body shifting slightly with each jump without the saddle, the woman made each movement seem easy and fluent. And of course, her horse was just loving this<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Sooner than she thought, for today Zell rode. The mount was easily larger than a clydesdale with a much broader back. He had odd white horns near his ears marked with pale blue crescent moons. His feet were not the hooves of horses, but a splayed three toed thing half covered by fur. The mane Zell clung to as he rode bareback was glistening shades of blue. The beast's tail was first white like its body with long hair like the mane growing and hanging down from it in a cool cascade. His base coloring was white, but three of his legs bore mismatched gray 'socks', one with an added band near the knee.
Leaning over the great neck to the ear Zell whispered. "Kay, Timex... we're here." The ninau tossed his head in acknowledgement, coming to a stop just outside the clearing his blue eyes large and watching. On his back, the fistfighter casually leaned upon him, hazel-blue eyes watching the jumping with interest. Tartara >>Right before each jump, she made a soft 'clicking' noise in the back of her throat, keeping teranfire at a quick pace to make it. Turning about, her sharp blue eyes caught something blue...something big...and blue. Her eyes widened and she sharply pulled in, something she knew never, ever to do while at full speed. Teranfire responded easily, more sensitive now to her commands without the use of saddle or briddle. She halted, bucked and rose up onto her back legs, threatening to fling the princess in. This was one of the BAD sides to no saddle. Nothing to hang on to. Maryline lost her grip on the mane with the buck, falling backwards harshly with a soft gasp to the ground again<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Hazel blue eyes widened sharply as the princess started to fall, slipping from Timex's back and rushing to her side. The ninau followed, large blue eyes fastened on the horse, nickering in the equine way to 'still' & 'calm' even as he made ready to protect the humanoids from potential trampling hooves.
Zell fell to his knees beside the princess, checking her over for injuries with his eyes while gingerly touching her head with his hands while careful not to move her. "Maryline! You okay? What hurts? Anything?" Worry filled his eyes, showed in his tattooed face. She had been riding beautifully... what had happened? Tartara I...am alright...>>she spoke softly up at zell, lightly smiling as he dropped to his knees. The princess slowly sat up, a hang going to his shoulder to help support her at a rush of dizziness. The woman forced herself to stand, her other hand going to her head before making her way to her dancing horse, freaked that the BIG THING was trying trying to talk to her. The smell and size more so then anything else<< just...was caught off gaurd. Panicked- >>as she put weight on one leg her eyes widened and she fell again into a kneeling position. Must have landed on it wrong, pulled on something<< Nothing...broken...I believe. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He helped best he could, trusting Timex with Teranfire hearing the ninau huff softly in his calm way. Of course the great equu was more accustomed to beings with more intelligence, still the chocobos had learned to trust them. Him at least.
He did not want her to get up right away. Zell wanted someone to look her over better than he could. But while he was accustomed to treating ladies with respect, he was also used to not getting in their way when they got stubborn. Most of the time. When Maryline fell to her knees that crossed his line.
At her side Zell lifted the butterfly anthro in his arms without waiting to let her put in a protest. He held her tight to him a brief moment before swinging her up onto the ninau's broad back. "No more walking for you. Not till we see to that. Just hold his mane. Timex'll take care of you. Right, big guy?"
A nod, blue eyes still on the horse, wondering why it did not calm.
The SeeD sighed. "Okay. Lemmie see if I can get Teranfire to come with me..." He would have liked to carry Maryline back to her house first thing, but knew the princess would not like to leaver her horse behind. Squaring his shoulders, Zell reached to stroke the mare, murmuring light reassurances, reminding Teranfire that she knew him. He walked before her face, clutching a bit of mane on either side of her face intending to walk backwards while leading her ahead of the ninau.
He could ask Maryline how she was caught of guard later.
Blond spike nodded to Timex, indicating he follow. The ninau would, provided the horse was able to be led. Tartara I am fine, honestly Sir Zell. I doubt it is even fractured. >>so...it was his animal. She breathed a sigh of relief, taking the white mane into her hands. The princess tried to ignore the little twinges of pain snaking up her right leg as she looked up at teranfire. Which of course, stepped back from zell as soon as she saw he was trying to lead her closer to the big thing. Maryline softly whistled, making her ears swivel. She stopped her dancing and looked at the male warily before allowing herself to be led. She wasn't a very happy mare though<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Fine doesn't have you falling to your knees, princess. I;m not taking chances with you, kay? I'd look at it right now but Teranfire's freaking and that's not cool." He had sighed with relief as the hourse came with him, leading her away from Timex and towards the house and coral there. Softly, the large ninau padded behind them being mindful not to get to close and upset Teranfire more.
Alternating looking behind him & keeping the horse's eyes Zell paused to flash his boyish grin up towards where Maryline rode on the ninau's back. He winced a little, thinking he saw pain in her blue eyes and hoped it wasn't so. "I'm sure you're right... but even if it's only sprained or bruised... it's worth it to play safe." Tartara So I am not used to injuries. >>She buried her head into the ninau, feeling embarrassed and a burden. It was her fault that she panicked. She KNEW not to pull in so hard regardless of speed. Maryline sighed into the soft white coat, listening to her horse obediantly following zells lead. It helped take her mind off of her leg. The limb wasn't broken...but who knows what she actually did to it this time. Hopefully it was just some nerve damage<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Hazel blue eyes darted back to regard Maryline softly. "You're a princess. I'd hope you weren't used to injuries. I'm a SeeD... for us they go with the territory." He paused at the gate. "Door's that way, Timex. I'll be right there."
The ninau nodded, keeping silent. Zell released one hand from the horse's mane to dig a carrot out of his pocket & open the gate. He grinned crookedly, wishing he'd thought of the treat earlier. But he'd been to worried about Maryline to do so.
"C'mon girl. into the corral. Then the carrot's all yours." Tartara >>She closed her eyes, nodding slightly<< intellegent creature... >>He instantly had teranfires attention. The horse pressed her nose forwards, trying to get a nibble at the carrot. She'd follow him to the ends of the planet now<< Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Timex huffed gently, taking the lady's words as a compliment as he took her to the front door. Zell meanwhile was grinning at the carrot's success, using it to lead Teranfire inside the corral. once inside, he relinquished the treat & patted her head with a soft 'I'm sure you didn't mean it, girl' before slipping through the gate. He made sure it was fastened behind him then jogged after the others to gather Maryline from the ninau's back. "Don't worry... I've gotcha."
Then to Timex. "Stick around if ya want. I'll pop out in a bit to tell ya how she's doing." Then with upmost care, Zell carried Maryline inside. ((continued page 11572)) Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Concern creased his young face. "Dangit, 'Line..." Whatever he might have been about to say never was finished as he gave her a reassuring smile before gently putting sure fingers upon Maryline's hurt leg to see if he could figure out what was wrong. Or at least what was not. "Hemi's Rem's youngest. Has some of his mother's healing gift. He'd be able to tell what was wrong, and probably heal it too." Zell's boyish grin was a little short of his usual joviality. "Didn't notice anything really out of whack, so at least nothing's broken."
A sheepish look. She had said nothing was broken, but as much as he trusted Maryline he had to be sure. Tartara >>As his fingers lightly pressed on the back of her leg she stiffened, clenching her teeth until he moved on<< As I said...Sir Zell...probably just tore some nerves. No need for Hemi. >>she leaned her head back on the couch, closing her eyes<< Tomarrow I should be as right as rain again. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "But..." Indecision clouded his hazel-blue eyes. "You could be right as rain now..." Zell knew better than to call for the lovable wizard-healer if Maryline did not want to be healed. It would upset the kitsu too much to have his gift turned down. Especially with how much he was missing his older sister. Seeing her wince & noting where it had been Zell moved the veggies there. Tartara >>The princess softly sighed<< I am being practical Sir Zell. Hemi would have to come all the way over here, a place he has never been to before, simply to heal a tiny bit of nerve damage that will clear up on its own. I am a big girl...I can take a bit of pain. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "I guess it would be... he's not as good at apparating to one of our signals as Rem or Lily..." Zell sighed, shoulders slumping as if in defeat. "I know. Just don't like to see you hurt..." Tartara >>She lightly smiled, reaching out and gently touching his shoulder<< Appearently then I am doing a horrible job at hiding it. >>her hand slipped away at the light bit of humor, settling back down<< I will be better again before you know it Sir Zell. Why, it does not even hurt if I do not put any pressure upon it. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf He seemed to relax almost instantly to the touch, sinking to kneel on the floor beside the couch. A sheepish sort of smile. "Naw. You're doing a pretty keen job of it. I'm just watching for it." Then he chuckled. "SO you won't put pressure on it. Take it gentle, work the pain out slow."((okies... would massaging this hurt or help? I'm sure Zell would know, but I'm drawing a blank tonight. *brain is mush*)) Tartara ah, I see. Then you will simply have to close your eyes. >>She took her own advice, her blue eyes fluttering shut<< And that is the plan Sir Zell...Never rush things.OOC: help...if done right. You know, like physical therapists do. But if not careful, it could really hurt. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf But he did not want to close his eyes. Never rush things... Right. He thought about some things he'd learned from Dr. Kadowaki. He looked at his hands. Moomba-ish. Hm. Zell hadn't tried any of those techniques with these hands yet. Normally his body responded just how he wanted it to, not being much different then 'before'. But could he rub the princess' hurt leg the way he would need to do to help it? Sitting back on his ankles Zell sighed, left hand rubbing at his tattoo. This wasn't something he was willing to mess up on. Tartara >>Simply relaxing, she focused on the cold of the bag instead of the twinge of the leg. It was almost nice...well...until her bright blue eyes opened again, lighting on her protector with a faint smile<< Did you not promise your faithful steed that you would report back to him, dear sir zell? Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf the hand he was looking at lifted sharply to smack his forehead. "Dude! Timex! I totally forgot!"
Flashing Maryline a grin he hopped up, trotting to the front door and stepping out side. His voice could be heard carried back into the room as he spoke to the ninau outside. When Zell's voice stopped there was a whinny & a huff, followed by the sound of a large foot pawing at the ground. "Aw. C'mon, Timex. Ya know I can't tell what you're saying away from home & without one of the Audios to translate. Gimmie a break." There was a 'umph!' sound from the SeeD as he was shoved firmly but gently back inside by the massive white head before Timex' steps could be heard clattering off.
Sheepishly, Zell shut the door. One hand went to the back of his neck. "heh. That was different." Tartara >>she relaxed again as he went out, feeling a bit sorry for the poor creature. The princess lightly smiled as he came back in, shaking her head<< If I did not know better, I would say that Timex is jealous. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf Zell blinked then laughed, sticking his hands in his pockets before making his way back. "Timex? Jealous? Naw." His head was shaking, hazel-blue eyes laughing. "I don't even think he gets jealous of Keme, and the big guy's tight with Audio Relm so Keme'd be the first one he'd be jealous of. He's closest to Audio Relm, Aiden, & Trel. More like he was probably trying to put me in my place or somethin'." Another laugh, this one a little sharper. "Why not, everyone else does."
The faintest trace of a frown. Zell tossed a few shadowboxes until he was smiling again, then plopped casually to the floor beside Maryline's couch. "Bet he was giving me great advice or something. Dude can be pretty insightful sometimes." Tartara Typically that is what teranfire does when jealous. She headbutts you then runs away. It grows on you. >>Slowly Maryline forced herself into a sitting position, glaring slightly at her leg as it twitched<< Everyone does that to everyone else Sir Zell...sometimes we all need a little reminder of the world around us. Trelweny RosePhoenixWolf "Really?" Not having known a horse before Teranfire Zell did not have anything to compare it to. "Even so... still doubtful. Timex's a pal. Everyone likes him. Even Seifer. Everyone respects him." There was a little sigh as he looked of towards the door.
Black tipped ears twitched. That wasn't what he meant... but why elaborate into something he didn't like anyway. Zell rolled his shoulders, shrugging it off. Slowly he turned to Maryline, catching her eyes. He had a feeling he knew what the Ninau had been trying to say to him. Zell cleared his throat. "Um... look. I've... not tried it in a while -haven't needed to- but I used to know some techniques that might help with your leg. Massaging techniques. But... dang. If I mess up it might hurt more. Not sure I want to chance it, but. Well thought I should give ya the option." Tartara Then tell me if you may...why look so forlorn? >>Maryline smiled, a soft bit of sunshine with her golden hair shining from around her shoulders<< The leg can wait, it does not concern me as much. And besides...I do not believe that it is going anywhere. >>Proposition of massaging...had she ever gotten a massage before? Come to think of it...she probably hadn't<< ((continued page 11588)) Trelweny A flash of getting 'caught' quickly melted away into a warm smile. "Forlorn? Me?" Zell laughed easily. "If I am, maybe 'cause I feel bad I've not kept up with what Dr. Kadowaki taught me. But then I guess they're not as easy to practice as just getting out & doing some forms or tossing some punches around. Like Hemi joking the other day that it's hard to practice healing if no one gets hurt. So Tien -fool bug- flew into a wall to get hurt for him. Had us all worried sick! Locke & Trel worst of all, but even Shippou was beside himself." Zell shook his head. "It's a kunkun. Never been sick or hurt. To hear it cry not understanding what pain was just broke our hearts. Poor thing." A laugh. "But Hemi fixed it right as rain and Tien was all flying around again as if nothing had happened."
The laughter melted softly and Zell was serious once more. A glance at her leg, as if saying 'I know it's not going anywhere, but I still wish there was something I could do.' Tartara >>She slowly nodded, the smile fading a bit<< I understand. I am glad that Tien is alright, though I understand how difficult it must be to keep something sharp that involves another person or circumstance. >>The princess lightly blushed then, looking at her leg as well<< And though it may not...be completely proper to do so, I see no harm of letting you practice what Dr. Kadowaki taught on me. That is, if you would be willing to try. Trelweny Her faded smile seemed to strike him harder than anything she could have said. A flicker of chagrin for picking the smaller of two things bothering him to tell her. But Zell could not bring himself to say aloud how Seifer's constant digs grated on him, how though he could usually shrug it off it hurt how everyone called him a spazz or thought he was less intelligent because of it. He had fun hanging with Maryline, even if it was a job. She never treated him like that.
"Proper?" Zell had not quite fully gotten it into his head that showing ankles was probably improper for the princess. "It's not like you hurt your thigh." Good thing his moomba ears were black because they were hot now.
"I'm willing to try. Not 'cause I want to practice... 'cause I want you not to hurt." Tartara >>She nodded again gracefully, the blush giving her cheeks a light rosey coloring<< Improper to show any sort of skin. Why do you think this dress too has long sleeves? However if it is to further your knowladge on the subject, and no one learn of it, I do not mind. It is afterall... >>Maryline almost smiled again<< an ankle. Trelweny Zell tried to hid his own blush with a chuckle. "oh yeah! Right! Sorry. Guess it's hard to think like that. I mean, I see skin all the time, friends' & family's. Even 'before'... well all the guys used to talk pretty happily about the length of the girls' uniform's skirts." He gave a shrug, indicating that though he saw such things he rarely really though about them himself. As he talked he very gently rolled back the pantleg of Maryline's brown riding pants one as far as he needed, checking that the roll it made was not too tight were it stopped. His blush deepened. Why? He had seen other ankles before. Seen most of his fellow cadets and SeeDs in Garden in their swimsuits at one time or another. Maybe because they were talking about it? yeah. That must be it. Zell flashed his boyish grin, the one that spoke of no worries. "I won't tell anyone if you won't!"
Pressing his lips thoughtfully Zell yanked off his Ehrgeiz gloves and shoved them into a pocket. Then, very carefully, he proceeded to set to work on Maryline's ankle. Very carefully. It felt delicate in his hands. Special spun glass, right 'Line? Zell couldn't help what he called the princess in his mind, had he even thought about it. He was nearly as bad as any Relm when it came to nicknames, though for a totally different reason. Tartara >>she softly laughed while laying back down, settling again<< The drawback however, is that it gets quite hot during the sum- >>the princess cut off with a delicate gasp as he lightly took hold of her strained ankle, a deep blush spreading over her features now. Safe to say, the only parts of her people touched were her hands, shoulders and occasionally her face and arms. It was odd to say in the least...but...didn't hurt<< Trelweny "I bet." His grin seemed back to normal even through his concentration. It seemed like everything was coming back to him. As if he had just done this kind of physical therapy yesterday. Maybe it was like learning to ride a bike, you forget... but your body still remembers. Zell did not think he would be able to explain how it was done to anyone else though. That would require practice again and figuring out how to word everything. "But you can stick to lighter clothes, right? Long as they cover?" Tartara >>She closed her eyes, relaxing again. No...didn't hurt at all. It actually felt...good<< As long as they cover and there is no chance of seeing through. I am fond of cotton. Light weight, durable, cool and appropriate. >>And he needed to practice this? The trickster<< Trelweny He started to relax seeing that Maryline did, his smile becoming more open again. Not so relaxed that he lost focus of what he was doing. He had to focus, both on what he was doing and keeping only to the spot he needed to. Normally that would not be a problem, but he wanted to be extra certain since it was something that bothered Maryline so.
A chuckle. "yeah, well, something see through would kinda defeat the purpose, wouldn't it? But I like cotton too. Moves, ya know? Gotta keep things loose or there's rips when I fight." A wink. Tartara But...I also highly enjoy silk. >>Slowly the blush lessened a bit. If she didn't directly think about it, it wasn't so bad<< It does not breathe as well, but feels wonderful on skin. And is very flattering if you obtain an appropriate cut. >>the princess lightly smiled then, thinking quietly<< I do hope that it is a long time yet, until I must see you in battle. Trelweny "Your skin's like silk." Zell commented glibly with a smile. "Knew it'd be great." He was referring to the comment he had made when they met near the beach.
He quirked his head at her, his face curious at her comment. Then he grew thoughtful too. "Yeah." Because most likely the way she'd see him fight more than perhaps sparring with Seifer (unless the jerk really pissed him off) was if her life was in danger. That wasn't something the fistfighter looked forward to. Tartara >>And just like that, her blush was back full swing. Why'd he have to call attention to it?<< I...thank you. I try my best to keep my skin in good condition. I cannot be developing wrinkles now can I? >>At that she softly laughed, again those silver chimes in the wind. She did not wish to think about the day where they would catch up with her again<< Trelweny He didn't intentionally call attention... just usual Zell randomness. He smiled at her laugh, glad simply to hear it. And that they did not linger on the matter of the princess being hunted. Above the smile he wiggled his eyebrows at her as if to say 'oh, so now you want to laugh.'
Lightly Zell smoothed his hands over the skin beneath them. "How's it feeling?" Tartara >>She would have grinned at him, but missed the look with her eyes closed. Instead the princess just relaxed back, feeling her face try to burn itself off<< Wonderful actually...you have a real talent. Where were you three hundred years ago after a night of paperwork? >>Maryline couldn't even feel the light twinges of pain anymore, it would have been wonderful after hunching over in the dark, scouring documents. Not like...she would ever let him...touch her bare back. The mere thought made a hand go to her heated face, covering her eyes even further. Never ever, never ever!<< I do truely thank you Sir Zell...and sincerly apologize for being a bother. Trelweny His smiled shifted, pleased at the praise. "Aw... I'm out of practice, but seems my hands remember a bit more than I do. Like training with my body... most of the time it reacts 'fore I have to think about it. Which is good." Zell wondered why she was blushing this time but laughed at the question. "Not even a thought in some ancestor's eye on another world, I'd say. Night of paperwork? Backrubs then. Not as out of practice with those. Could say its a family specialty." He grinned, hazel-blue eyes dancing. "I'd'a thought you'd've had a servant or something for backrubs back then. Still... you ever want one now just say the word & I'll see to it, kay?" Tartara Um...well...you see...though my back is sensitive...cloth would simply get in the way. >>It was simply killing her to explain this through, the princess lightly massaging her forehead<< And if barring an ankle to my protector is borderline inapropriate, showing my back to a servant would be...not...good. Trelweny Zell blinked, not looking at her, his face flushing slightly. "oh. um. yeah. Makes sense." He gave a goofy laugh. "Guess you weren't one of those 'draw my bath, scrub my back' princess back home, huh?"
Hazel-blue eyes seemed magnetically attatched to her ankle. Which considering the subject might not have been a good thing. "Uh. right. Paperwork. Guess 'cause you were the heir, huh? Just 'cause, most I've hear about princess' from hearing the fairy stories it', well, not paperwork."((*huggles all, pokes Zell for own backrub* wink how tall is Maryline, Tartara? I don't think her bio said.)) Tartara >>She lightly frowned, shaking her head as she at last let her hand slip away<< I detest those types of royalty. They learn no sense of self effeciancy and just make more work for their faithful servants. >>Maryline took a slow breath and opened her eyes to sit up once more. This time without flinching<< And fairy tales always overglorify things and often make us seem less intelligent then we are. Not to mention that if we get into truly a terrible position, there is seldom a happy ending. >>Maryline lightly smiled, now only a bit of pink to her<< I am afraid it is not too grand of a reference to me.OOC: mmm...seeing the time frame she was in...people were fairly short...so I'd say... Five foot two/three? Trelweny ((booyaka! *grins* cool. Zell doesn't have to look up to her. lol)) Zell sat back, letting her ankle slip from his hands as she sat up & smiled to not see her wince. "Well, Princess, it's the only one I've got." He rolled his legs out from under him, setting his knees up & leaning back on his hands as he looked at her. "Not everyday anyone meets a princess 'round here. Asked the others. No one else's met one."Tartara Well...democracy seems to be the main government these days, it is not too surprising. >>Maryline slowly moved her legs over the edge to better face him before rolling down her pants leg<< However...just think of me as you would a sheltered woman. Whose parents have died so has to do the paperwork. But was popular enough for parties...on second thought, you may wish to stay with the fairy tale princess. Trelweny Zell lifted a hand, leaning back at an angle now, and scratched his neck. "Uh... okay." Probably wouldn't be a good idea to say how back when they'd first met Rinoa 'princess' was not exactly a title used with respect. Yeah. Besides ... that would take a heck of a lot of explaining.
Idly Zell's thoughts wondered & he wondered if any of the others from their 'gang' were here. Would suck to be just him & Seifer. Well, Rune too, if she could be believed. Well, she could be believed he doubted the girl could lie just that maybe ... well those thoughts got complicated. Weren't for a time like now. "Yeah. Guess so. I mean... I don't hear of many kingdoms, 'cept when talking with you 'bout yours. Actually... my family kinda keeps out of most political stuff. Which is kinda nice. Odd, after SeeD training & stuff where we were mostly hired by governments & things, but sure nice." Tartara I think it would be nice to be at the garden...so many creatures I have never heard of before >>And then, she slowly stood, stumbling a bit at her first step as of course, the pulled nerve came back with a vengence. The princess winced, straightened, and took another step, knee bending slightly, but not exactly hindering her as much<< Trelweny A puzzled look, his eyes graying slightly as if covered by clouds. "Garden's really only part of the world I came from... don't live there now..." his voice trailed off as he watched Maryline stand & try to walk. He was up in a flash as she stumbled, ready to be there for her but waiting... trusting in the strength of her spun glass self. "Princess..." Not quite a worry, not quite a plea, hazel blue eyes filled with concern. Tartara I am alright. >>She lightly smiled to him, heading for the stairs<< just...if I fall...make sure you catch me so I do not snap my neck? >>going up stairs. Not the smartest of moves all in all. But she started up them, tightly taking ahold of the wooden handrail<< Trelweny Trotting he followed Maryline to the stairs, staying a few steps behind. Zell was uneasy, but more than ready to catch her should she fall. "I'd feel better if you just let me carry you up..." Tartara I am a big girl Sir Zell, I can climb a set of stairs. >>She spoke gently, but firmly as she moved up. Her foot slipped on the edge and she fell onto the next step, clinging onto the rail before slowly starting up again. Her heart was racing, and was a bit uneasy...but in one piece<< see? fine. Trelweny "I know you are..." Zell hopped the steps between them to be at her elbow when she slipped. His whole body seemed to sigh in relief as Maryline caught herself with the railing's help. "Look... you don't have to prove anything. It's not worth you really hurting yourself." Tartara This is really something I should do myself. >>Maryline reached the top of the stairs and turned to Zell with a light smile<< Would you wait down there for me? I shall only be a minute. Trelweny His eyes flickered, double checking that Maryline was not simply going to slip and slide back down the stairs. He gave a nod, then a smile. "Yeah. Sure."
Zell gave a little flick of a salute & half trotted, half hopped down the stairs. He shot a quick glance back up, then began bouncing in a small circle in the center of the room (safely away from anything he could hit) and started shadowboxing. An intense look upon his tattooed face. Tartara >>she warmly smiled, plainly happy to have not recieved resistance. The female waited until he was out of sight before slipping into the bathroom with a soft sigh. Pull a nerve and the male acted as if she'd shatter if she was poked....Decidedly...cute<< Trelweny Okay... so maybe he was being a bit overprotective. He was her protector, right? Zell jabbed at an imginary enemy, almost smiling again as he imaginced Seifer's face on it. Then the smile faltered, thinking how Rune & Trelweny would be sad if they fought. Again. Of course the Relms were good at egging them on... but those girls were even more difficult to understand than regular girls.
Hazel-blue eyes glanced up the stairs a moment only, then returned to the invisible sparring partners. One minute Maryline was all modest princess with this is proper & that is not, the next she was as 'I can take care of myself' as any SeeD. It was certainly different. Unnerving but neat at the same time. So he would have to figure out better where his 'protection' line should be. Or something. Tartara >>Maryline was as confusing as any woman. She was delicate, modest, serious, carefree, independent, reliant and much much more, each shifting to suit her current situation. And of course, five thousand different faces to put on infront of nobles if need be. She washed her hands in the sink to lightly splash her face and dry it off. Slowly she exited the bathroom again<< Trelweny His ears flicked at the sound of running water upstairs. On. Off. hm. Sighing Zell continued his shadowboxing, not really knowing what else to do.
He didn't 'get' girls. Like why'd Rune like Seifer so? How in Hyne's name did she put up with the jerk? Cool that she did. Cool how he responded to her. Wasn't always starting fights. Well... as much. No. Zell did not 'get' girls. Never really bothered him before. Tartara >>Slowly Maryline started back down the stairs, tightly closing her eyes as she forced her leg steady with every step. She wasn't going to fall this time. She wasn't going to fall. The princess opened her eyes again, glancing to her right to see zell bouncing around again<< Quite the energetic one >>The princess lightly spoke again, going all the way back to when they first met<< ((continued page 11720)) Trelweny The fistfighter stopped mid jab, craning his neck to look over his shoulder at Maryline. Zell grinned. "Yeah. You could say that."
When he slept Zell slept hard but he could wake up anytime with as much energy as he ever had. He relaxed from the frozen pose & turned around looking like he was simply containing all the energy he was just displaying. "Feel better?" Tartara >>Her feet delicatly touched the bottom step as she nodded<< Yes, much. I thank you for your concern. >>Maryline lightly smiled, tested her weight on the hurt ankle without the railing and walked back towards the couch<< I do hope I have not ruined any previous plans... Trelweny "Ruin plans? Naw." Zell looked too relieved, watching her with a kind of intense casualness. A smile and a roll of his shoulders. "Have to be able to roll with things, right? More sorry it's cut into your riding time. Poor Teranfire." Tartara Do not be. It was all my fault afterall. >>She sat down onto the couch, feeling suddenly very tired<< I did not mean to distress you Sir Zell. My humblest apologies. >>This last was spoken with a small bow of her head<< Trelweny Smiling, a flash of concern raced across his hazel-blue eyes. Did she look tired, or was it simply another princess thing. "Aw." He rubbed the back of his neck, a crooked smile curving his mouth. "Can't be helped, right? I mean, I'm here to take care of you, aren't I? So there's nothing to appologize for, got it?" Tartara >>she slowly shook her head<< From outside dangers yes, but not from my own stupidity. >>The princess smiled up at him, a nice, soft curve of the lips<< You worry about me too much Sir Zell. >>A delicate hand rose to her chest, lightly resting on the spot over her heart<< I feel terrible about it, and yet at the same time, I am happy. It is...nice...to be honestly concerned for, however...please refrain from obtaining gray hairs all because of my misjudgements. Trelweny The princess sure had a way with a smile. "No way." Zell just sort of stood there, smiling at her in his boyish way and rocking a bit on the balls of his feet. "Nothing doing, worrying 'bout you too much. Stop caring, I'd be like Squall back when he was a cadet." His grin broadened. "Don't sweat the gray hairs though. I'll be fine."
His smile softened, a serious look flickering a moment across his face. "Just keep that happy, kay Princess?" Only his expression & body language conveyed how his 'honest concern' for her was not likely to wane & as such she should always have reason to be happy if that was a cause.
Then the seriousness faded into happy hyperness once more. "But you were looking tired. Wouldja like me to see about dinner or take care of Teranfire for ya & let you rest?" Tartara But Zell-! >>She blinked, swallowed and lightly touched her forehead. She MUST be tired<< Sir Zell. You were not in any way, shape or form connected to me until just a few days past. It is unfair of me to have you worry so. I have yet to even give you your first pay. >>At that she lightly winced<< Which reminds me that I really should... >>Her clear blue eyes drifted to the staircase where her large purse sat on her bed. So close...and yet so far away<< I shall get it after brushing teranfire down, if that settles well with you? Trelweny His grin fairly split his face, hazel-blue eyes dancing at the princess' slip. Oh he knew it wasn't 'proper' in her kingdom & all that... still he couldn't help but like it when she forgot that silly title. "Nothing to do with fair or unfair. And don't sweat the pay, kay? I said i'm not hurting for funds, and Hyne take me if I'm gonna let you head back up those stairs for that!" A flash in his eyes, set & determined, oddly no-nonsense. Then it was gone. "You're gonna eat & rest & I'll take care of Terranfire, okay? I know you weren't hurt bad. I know you're a sturdy spun glass. It's just easier to get hurt after you've gotten hurt."
A pause. Zell rubbed lightly at his tattoo. "On second thought... maybe you should see to Teranfire. You'll likely get less hurt, she won't be as upset, and then you won't go sneaking up those stairs for pay I don't need." Tartara >>She softly laughed, shaking her head<< You are completely set on keeping me from damaging myself further. Your stubborn hide Sir Zell is going to make me feel as if I am wrapped up in foam and then covered in bubble wrap. Next time I see you however, you shall finally recieve your pay. Arigon knows, you have worked enough for it. >>Slowly she stood up and took a step forwards. Again her leg gave a twinge and gave out on her, causing the princess to reach out and steady herself. By means of grabbing onto Zells shoulder. The woman softly sighed, feeling it dully throb<< Sometimes it keeps up...others it gives out...This shall be an interesting week. Trelweny His eyes danced as he chuckled at that, then flashed to worry when Maryline had to latch onto his shoulder. Zell shifted so he could get his arm around her. "Look, I'm probably the first to go off & do my own thing when I get hurt. I'll try not to wrap ya too tight in that bubble wrap if you let me help, kay?" There was a new twinkle in his eye, as if Zell was imagining the princess in bubblewrap.
"I'll walk you out to Teranfire. Lean on me as much or as little as you need. That way you can work the problem a little without taking a header. I'll get the cleaning stuff. Outta know where it all is by now. Then I'll come in & get something ready to eat. And let me come out to see you in, okay? Cause the hide you keep over that spun glass is just as stubborn as mine." He perposefully didn't comment on the pay, grinning. They were both pretty stubborn. It was cool. Tartara This is not letting you help? >>Maryline slowly straightened, the hurt foot held an inch over the ground as she kept herself steady with the hand on his shoulder. Slowly she lowered it to test its durability again<< Yes Sir Zell...I shall be careful. But what you can hardly control what I do at night when you are gone. >>She lightly smiled. Oh yes...she was stubborn. You had to be in the face of greedy merchants and sneaky nobles. At night, she was going right up those steps to bed again. The couch wasn't all that appealing<< Trelweny Zell frowned slightly. No... he couldn't control what she did when he was gone. His arm tightened reflexively around her, his gaze on her ankle. "Yeah. As long as you don't go out of your way to be stubborn." His grin was returning, eyes playfully teasing. He adjusted then so his hand was just supporting Maryline at the small of her back & was letting her walk pretty much on her own, just being there if she needed him. They could get to Teranfire pretty soon. "And don't make a gazillion trips up & down those stairs 'cause you've forgotten something."((I so don't wanna figure out supper. maybe wrap it up?)) Tartara >>she warmly blushed at the reflex, nodding again<< As I said Sir Zell, I shall attempt to be careful. Sometimes I believe you worry just to worry. >>the last was spoken with a smile, small and gentle as she slowly walked towards the door, her hand but a feather light touch on his shoulder. A long week indeed<<OOC: well, we could always just leave it at here and pretend that they brushed up teranfire and ate dinner XD
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Posted: Tue Jul 31, 2007 11:34 pm
.:Zell's Journal:.
Stubborn special kind of spun glass... ^_^
But it's cool. Just hope she doesn't hurt herself worse with that.
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