High Tea for the Flowers of Cear

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Sun May 27, 2007 10:24 am

Something dawned on Latishe as she looked at Maeve. In her mind'e eye she could see the book in the Library in Old Varana.

Latishe thoughtfully tapped her lips with a finger and then smiled. "As a priestess of Brintha, I am expected one day to fulfil the pledge and bring at least one life into the world, but it will be on my own terms. I mean look at me, I have more curves than a banana! I am the quintessential she-female." Latishe stood up and theatrically ran her well manicured nails down her body, and then did a belly-dance for a few seconds when her hands reached her hips. Then she smiled saucily and sat down.

"As for who I fancy, well this is where I must be careful in my explanation. You see, many Varanian noblewomen are trained in the arts of giving pleasure. The reason for this is very simple. A noblemen in the thrall of his wife or mistress, becomes a puppet for his wife's or mistress' family."

Latishe then became more serious. "However most Varanian noblewomen are no more than breeding cows. I would have had no choice in who I married, and no legal rights, as I would have passed from the care of my father to the care of my husband. Chia has more freedom than your average Varanian Noblewoman. Also while it is permissible for a nobleman to have a mistress, a noblewoman who is caught having affair can be legally disowned by her family, and even killed by her husband. Can you now see why being a Priestess of Brintha is far more preferable? Also the current tastes at the court are for thin wives, as young as 15 years old." Latishe finished her tea, and with eyes downcast, glanced at the empty teacup. In it she saw seven tea leaves in a single line. The book in her mind's eye then rapidly flipped pages until it came to a picture. Well bless my tarnished soul, She silently concluded. She then looked Pylia.

Pylia Ju'ein · Post by **Pylia Ju'ein** » Sun May 27, 2007 2:59 pm

Pylia smiled in commiseration to Latishe, nodding softly. "I too was expected to wed one of the sons of my mother's friends. I do believed that my parents would have allowed me the choice, but my mother was very...pushy about her favorites. So pushy I chose to leave Rian to avoid marriage." An impish smile then crossed her face.

"However it would seem Teshalia had other plans for me." The bard smiled softly, remembering many conversations between Draco and herself on this same subject.

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Sun May 27, 2007 3:21 pm

"Plans Indeed." Latishe responsed with a raised eyebrow of happy approval. Latishe then glanced at Maeve and then returned an impish smile at Pylia. Pylia? do you remember that great story about the Eternal Champion?"

Latishe clasped her hands to her chest with girlish delight. "It was one of my favourite stories! a human being who is cursed by the gods to forever be re-born, but to never remember his or her deeds between the reincarnations. The crescendo of the tale is when a female incarnation of the Eternal Champion falls in love with a caring, gentle man, only to find after they had passionately kissed on the shores of a magical glade, they are soul mates of a love match forbidden by the gods. The ire of the gods is then roused, but the vibrant and heartfelt passion and love for each other, even in the face of inevitable death, moves even the gods, and they are granted a reprieve to live happily ever after in peace. Latishe sighed with pristine happiness on her face as she glanced at Pylia then Maeve, and Pylia then Maeve, until Pylia glanced at Maeve. Then she nodded at Pylia, smiled with seriousness and nodded again.

Rheia Althia · Post by **Rheia Althia** » Sun May 27, 2007 5:10 pm

Maeve smiled, thoughtfully following Latishe's explanation of the life of a noble woman. She placed a finger to her lips and pondered a moment before speaking.

"Well, I never knew much about the way the nobles lived. But I did know a tad about their views on love and marriage. It is good that you have made a decision that will make you happy," She glanced towards Pylia, "and you as well, because what is life without some measure of happiness right? We must make the best of the lot we are given in life..."

She smiled thoughtfully, listening to Latishe's tale. Bringing the small china cup to her lips, taking a long sip of the tea which was quickly cooling. Her odd eyes drifted to Latishe, their depths a churning jade ocean. An honest and warm smile appeared upon her mouth as her thoughts drifted in her head. Perhaps one day, Latishe, you will experience the happiness of finding the good in those you would least expect...

She raised her brow, looking to the both of them as their gazes fell upon her. Maeve shifted in her chair slightly, and an amused expression graced her gentle features.

"Er...That is a lovely story...I don't think I've ever heard that one before..."

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Sun May 27, 2007 9:32 pm

Latishe smiled warmly at Maeve, "well as a young girl, the Library was a great escape for me. Though I did neglect one small part of the story. Latishe cleared her throat and tried to remember the words:

And so they kissed in the magical glade,
And from its depths the dragon rose,
Fire and smoke from its nose,
And then the light of truth shone,
And made the dragon's fire begone."

Latishe then brought up the sword in its scabbard, and drew it out half way, tracing her finger along the runes. "And so the Dragon's fire begone." Latishe then looked at Maeve and smiled as she respectfully pushed the ancient sword back into its scabbard and then put it back on the floor.

She then looked at Pylia. "Correct if I am wrong Daughter of Teshalia, but wasn't the Dragon in folklore a metaphor for evil? While waiting for Pylia's answer Latishe turned to Maeve and regard her with a quizzical look. "Kind. Gentle. Protector of the weak against the evil strong". Latishe then chuckled. "I have never been called evil before, but if I ever achieve half your empathy and warmth, Maeve, then perhaps there is hope for me to one day to bear a child into a loving family. That is my greatest fear."

Latishe then smiled gently. "So Maeve, were both your parents there to raise you? Apologises if you think I'm prying, I don't mean to offend if it is a delicate issue for you."

*edited for spelling*

Rheia Althia · Post by **Rheia Althia** » Sun May 27, 2007 10:53 pm

Maeve studied the sword as Latishe pulled it from it's scabbard. The runes reflected in her luminous eyes a moment before Latishe put the sword away.

"I believe some people also view the Dragon as a symbol of strength. The strength to overcome the things that would makes us falter where we would be strong. Some look to the dragon as a symbol of unyielding power to protect them from their fears.

A bedtime tale my mother used to tell me, I cannot remember the precise words, but she spoke to me of a King who ruled his kingdom under the symbol of a mighty dragon. The people of this mythical land admired and cherished their beloved King. He ruled with such strength, honour and valour that he led his people into a time of great peace that lasted for centuries.

I was indoctrinated into the service of Tharon at a very young age and thus only spent a few years of my young life with my parents. Enough for my mother to teach me how to cook, and my father to teach me how to swing a sword in preparation for my training."

Maeve would only give a little information about her childhood for she still didn't know what Latishe was all about, better to stay diplomatic and tread carefully. And what exactly that did that sword symbolize? She was always taught to be warm and empathetic with people, but to always protect herself in the process so that in the end she could still do the right thing. Never be to quick to trust...she remembered her mother's words...for there will be those who will use that trust against you, even if all you wish is to do good.

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Mon May 28, 2007 12:31 am

Latishe struggled to comprehend what Maeve was saying. A coldness crept over her. Happiness to a Varanian noble was something to be conducted in private, away from prying eyes. Or perhaps when an advantageous political alliance had been agreed, or a rival had met an unfortunate end. A happy kingdom was a noble and fanciful thought. Kingdoms, or Empires for that matter needed to be ruled by an iron fist first and a velvet glove second.

However Latishe nodded politely and smiled when the story was finished. You are hiding something Maeve, dear. Latishe thought. You extinguished my enchantment on the sword with just a thought. A sword that has drunk the blood of the enemies of Varana throughout the ages. I dare not tell her how the sword in my uncle’s hand gutted women and cleaved babies during the rape of Dasar. My poor uncle, who drunk himself to death rather than face his demons, like a true Varanian.

Latishe snapped out of her private hell, and looked into Maeve’s strangely luminous eyes. ”You would do well to be discrete about your abilities. And that Tiefling, Chia, will be your undoing one day.” Latishe moved to reassure Maeve by gently stroking her arm, but instead of tenderness, Latishe's hand felt cold and clammy, even to herself.

Rheia Althia · Post by **Rheia Althia** » Mon May 28, 2007 12:54 am

Maeve regarded Latishe with a calm expression on her face, not affected by the clamminess of her touch. She smiles to the woman, her eyes were gentle and warm, yet untrusting. She noticed Latishe's obvious discomfort at her story.

"I am sorry if the story bothered you Latishe, it was just a fairytale my parents told me at my bedside. Nothing to be taken seriously."

Her eyes churned deeply as she regarded the woman.

"I mean no offense, but I can assure you that I know how to handle my abilities. I have seen much larger displays right in town here. I have nothing to hide. I am simply a holy warrior in Tharon's name. What I did today was to prevent violence between the two of you here in Roggin's inn, since talking would not diffuse the situation. But Latishe dear, you yourself said you did not want to speak of this again right? Let us put it to rest and enjoy our tea and tales."

She offered the woman a warm smile, her incandescent eyes betraying confidence and strength.

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Mon May 28, 2007 1:51 am

Latishe nodded in agreement with Maeve."I am sorry for spoiling the moment. But joy is not something that comes naturally to me". She admitted. "You and Pylia just seem to breath empathy and life. And I must admit, I am a little jealous. My whole life, before being embraced with Brintha, has been one of plots, poison and pain."

Latishe's face began to burn with embarrassment, and then as her hand scrabbled for a hankerchief, a traitorous tear rolled down her cheek. "I am so sorry" she croaked as her voice quivered with sadness.

She wiped away the tear and regained her composure. "There much better now. So Pylia, are you still planning to go to the Governor's Ball?" Asked Latishe, quickly trying to take the focus away from herself.

*edited for clarity*

Pylia Ju'ein · Post by **Pylia Ju'ein** » Mon May 28, 2007 2:07 am

Pylia looked at her in bewilderment a moment. "Governor's ball? Heavens I hope no....ohhhhhhh" Py started laughing prettily. "Oh latishe, I do believe you misunderstood me. It is not the Governor's Ball, it is one of Draco's business associates' daughter's wedding ball" Pylia actually looked visibly relieved. "And you just managed to make me feel much better about it. When I start feeling overwhelmed again, I can tell myself that at least it isn't something as grand as the Governor's Ball."

She looked at Latishe and smiled warmly. "If it was the Governor's Ball , I do believe you would have to sedate me because my nerves would have me too worked up to attend. Although I was told that he heard one of my ballads and thought it inspired. I am not sure how true that tale is."

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Mon May 28, 2007 3:23 am

Latishe was visibly relieved and laughed."”Oh praise the Earthmother, I am so glad you are not going to the governors ball! Latishe then looked conspirationally at Pylia and Maeve. " You do realise that the governor wears a hairpiece?

Latishe chuckled and then continued. "And yes, your voice is inspiring, Pylia, with a heartfelt resonance.”

Latishe then began to giggle. "I just have this scene in my head with you, Pylia, singing the ultimo of the ballad, and the Governor's hairpiece flying across the room due to the strength of your voice!" Latishe continued to giggle naughtily, and a healthy glow returned to her pale skin.

”I honestly thought you were going to the Governor's Ball, Pylia, so well...errrmm, my instincts for intrigue got the better of me and I did some investigation, and found something unusual" Latishe smiled thinly at Pylia, hoping to receive some reassurance to continue.

Pylia Ju'ein · Post by **Pylia Ju'ein** » Mon May 28, 2007 3:28 am

Pylia tilted her head, looking at Latishe curiously. "A hairpiece?" The bard's eyebrows arched and she giggled. "Oh my, you do realize if he ever comes to a performance I will be hard pressed not to stare."

"But now I am curious. What could be so unusual about a Ball?"

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Mon May 28, 2007 3:51 am

"A hairpiece..I know, I know" Latishe smirked as she continued in a low conspirational voice. "But I digress. Pylia, I checked the roll of Noble Honour and discovered that your betrothed is not on it. That could only mean one of four things."

"One. That your betrothed, as is required under Paragraph 4, sub-paragraph 3 of the law of Travel of Important Personages, failed to present himself to the Governor's secretary when he entered the Province of Dasaria. The Empire understandably, can't have nobles wandering about doing whatever they please. Business and politics, must be carried out in an orderly fashion. This is an offence by the way, and your betrothed should rectify it immediately in case someone else notices."

"Two. That a clerk was bribed to remove his name from the roll of Noble Honour for some nefarious purpose."

"Three. That your betrothed is officially known by another name."

"Four." Latishe looked at Pylia and swallowed. I pray that I am wrong she thought. "That your bretrothed is not a Varanian Noble."

Pylia Ju'ein · Post by **Pylia Ju'ein** » Mon May 28, 2007 4:11 am

Pylia actually smiled and reached over to pat Latishe and smiled warmly. She leaned close to speak low so she was sure only Maeve and Latishe can possibly hear. "If I had to guess, knowing Draco the way I do, I would guess it is the second...but that Draco paid the clerk himself."

Pylia smiled warmly at Latishe as she straightened. "Draco and I are very much in accordance that we dislike most pomp and circumstance. Draco prefers a quiet social life, as do I. And...he would not attend such functions without me, and he knows that I would be absolutely mortified at the thought of attending something like that at this present time."

Pylia shrugged then took a sip of her tea. "I am sure after the visit with Draco's mother and lessons in decorum given by Draco's half sister Faen, and of course, the actual wedding, I will feel more comfortable in attending such functions."

She then gave Latishe another small smile. "But if it really troubles you, you could pose your questions to him yourself."

SnorriHT · Post by **SnorriHT** » Mon May 28, 2007 9:19 am

Latishe leaned to catch Pylia's words. She felt a little clumsy in the intimate company of the petite Pylia; she was ever conscious that her well developed hips or bosoms always seemed to lead the way before the rest of her body, like the bow of a ship. Latishe nodded. "I think I would like to meet...Draco."

Lastishe then looked Maeve and Pylia with a sense of finality. "I have enjoyed the High Tea. I would like to thank you for attending. I would also like to thank you for your understanding and kindness.”

Latishe then lightly bit her bottom lip before continuing. ”I realise I am not the easiest person to be with. I am hopeful that the Earthmother will allow me to see a different perspective; to broaden my narrow upbringing.”

“Maeve, You certainly have unique talents and I recognise that you are not comfortable without a sword in your hand. Thank you for your patience.”

“Pylia, thank you once again. I promise I will not disturb you anymore with my own problems.”

Latishe then clasped her hands in her lap and smiled fondly at Maeve and Pylia.