Breaking the surface in a flurry of arms, legs and gasping breaths Lucien finally gained his feet in the water all the time mumbling to himself repetitively “I can’t believe it was her, I can’t believe it was her”.
Actually seeing the goddess was not something he had even contemplated on his journey to Oracles Isle so the reality of it hit him hard, like a warhammer to the back of the head.
Coughing out the last of the water in his mouth Lucien couldn’t help but run his hands over his head and hair again feeling for water even though he had just emerged spluttering from its depths. He searched the room with his eyes for the old woman at the same time, the goddess’s description of her as ‘the old one’ had at last worked its way through to his addled brain and he was anxious to talk to her again.
The Dark Speakers also worked its way subconsciously through his mind. Ever since Lucien had heard about them and their practices back in The Citadel accidentally they had never been to far from his thoughts. He considered their practices personally offensive and a disruption to the natural cycle of life but had not been able to gather anymore knowledge about them than that initial snippet. Hearing the Goddess demonstrate his own concerns to their nature he now felt reassured that his initial reaction to them was justified.
As the old lady observed Lucien emerge from what had seemed like no more than a short dip to her, she was amused to hear his mumblings as he broke the surface.
“I see from your expression that you had an, um, interesting encounter?” A private smile played across the womans mouth, only barely reaching her eyes. “Did you find that what you sort young man? Have you been able to define your purpose, and what you goddess requires of you?” The questions were asked quietly, but with sincere intensity, which made it hard for Lucien to not answer. The old woman stood still, waiting for a response from the young man.
Looking into the face of the old lady, Lucien tried to discern an indication of why the Goddess had referred to her in what seemed to him an almost deferential sounding way. Obviously she was one to be respected but why had the goddess given her such treatment ”Who was she?”
Suddenly realising he had been staring Lucien replied
“I apologise for the hesitation M’Lady it is just that I was visited by the Goddess somehow just then and the way she spoke of you was….somewhat confusing.” Lucien blushed slightly realising what he had said but continued quickly “Maybe it would be better if I just answered your question. I must admit I still harboured lingering doubts as to my chosen mission even at this late stage, but now those thoughts have been dispelled. Meeting the Goddess has taken them from my mind and my purpose is now clear, with the Goddesses blessing one of my tasks will be to show the true nature of her worship to the masses. I have no doubts that it will be a difficult task to do as the Goddess has long been misunderstood, but I am confident there are those who will see past these mistruths if their eyes are awoken”. Matching the old ladies initial intensity and speaking in a slower voice devoid of emotion Lucien spoke again “If difficulty is a measure than my main purpose makes that first task pale in comparison to the task that will define me….the breaking of the Dark Speakers. Theirs is a faith that is an abhorrence and my main duty is to begin their downfall”
The lady looked at Lucien with a curious cast to her features. "So young man, you choose to challenge the might of the dark speakers. It is a hard task you shpulder my son, they are a fearsome adversary.
"But first, your lady has need of you in another sphere. I fear a great battle looms, and many with need the comfort of a priest as they prepare to depart to the next realm.
"It is a difficult task I set you, as Dominicus will be present, as will his preists, but not all fight on the side of good follow his teachings, and many will need the Ladies comfort before they pass this mortal coil.
"Do you accept this task? If so we must make preparations for your departure immediately." The speach seemed to weary the lady, as if speaking some much at once was an unusal task for her. She waited patiently for Luciens reply.
Lucien considered the old ladys request “A great battle looms?, priests of Dominicus? how can one such as myself possibly be of any use?’. Trying not to show any nervousness in his voice Lucien finally replied “I do not know if I would consider myself ready but I will go where I am needed M’Lady. If the Goddess would give me this task I will of course accept it and do my utmost to help those in their time of need” suddenly with a little chuckle and smile he then added “Besides as you alluded to before how hard can this task be compared to facing the Dark Speakers.” With a slight nod of deference towards the lady and wave of his arm “Please lead the way”
The old lady looked at Lucien with a look that was hard to place. A slight shake of the head preceded her next remarks.
"Your role may be more challenging than you think my son. But still, I sense you have the fortitude to endure.
"Come follow me, there is much to do and little time to do it."
The old lady led Lucien out of the room, and past several other smaller rooms before leaving the building altogether.
Ahead of then sat a small plain temple, predominatley of white stone. Well kept but substantially unadorned it struck the viewer as practical but basic.
At the doorway stood a stately looking woman of indeterminate age. She nodded briefly to Luciens escort, before talking directly to young man himself.
"I understand you seek service of the Goddess young man, and what's more I have the feeling you actually spoke to our Lady in the pool?" a raised eyebrow accompanied the rhetorical question of the woman.
"Tell me young one, what draws you to our Lady, most are afraid of the Goddess they see her as death, or something worse."
Still amazed at what had happened Lucien blurted out quickly “That’s right can you believe it I actually spoke to her, it was amazing I never imagined she would actually speak to me personally when I came here, its just overwhel……ming”. Again Lucien realized only after he had started that he was probably coming across as a gibbering fool rather than a composed follower of the Goddess ”Mother would faint in embarrassment if she saw how I was carrying on here after all those lessons” “Forgive my prattling M’Lady as I said I am still overwhelmed by what has occurred. If I may start again and relate why I am here”.
Lucien recited his story and again was surprised at how comfortable he was in relating it to a total stranger
“…and finally I have come to Oracles Isle, confused and still uncertain that I had chosen the correct path for myself I must admit, but the visit from the Goddess has eliminated any doubts. I am as wary of death as the next person but I realize that it is but part of ones natural life cycle. While caution and respect should be associated with death I do not fear it or the Goddess, indeed it is because of my profound belief in her benevolence and compassion that enables me to not fear death”.
Taking a moment to pause and consider his next thought Lucien glanced at the old lady he had met previously then looked back to the newcomer before continuing “The Dark Speakers I do fear, they who go against nature and prolong their lives and the lives of others through abhorrent means. I may make light of them but it is just my way to deal with the terror they actually bring to me. I have no doubt of their power and realize that I must be cautious in my pursuit of them. To that end I have decided to continue the martial training begun under my grandfather as a means to protect myself in some little form, which is why I now find myself here in front of yourself I am ready to move on to my next step”
Pausing again Lucien smiled to both women before laughing aloud “Ha ha ha I believe I must have some sort of head start after listening to that speech. Preaching seems to come naturally to me I’m thinking”
"You will have to face your fear of the Dark Speakers, maybe sooner than you choose, as you progress in the service of the "Lady".
"And although your martial training will be of no disadvantage, the fight with the evil ones in of the spirit and the mind, not of the body. But that you will find for yourself."
A pleasant smile spread over the ladies face. "But, for the moment, I have other tasks for you to accomplish, please follow me." And the turning the lady entered the temple.
This day had been both exhausting and exhilarating. Lucien had experienced a whole gamut of feelings ranging from extreme happiness at realizing he had meet his goddess, to absolute terror as the power of the dark speakers was hinted at by his guides.
“This has truly been an astonishing day” Lucien thought as he followed the old woman into the temple interior.
As they entered the hall, Lucien noticed that air was decidedly cooler than outside, and drier as well.
The hall was expansive, almost cavernous, whilst at the sme time he felt almost invited to enter.
Around the room, several people, almost exclusivley women he noted, where performing some sort of arcane rituals, or at least that was how it appearred to the young man.
"Here is were we prepare to help out flock meet the Lady. We prepare our selves and our instruments.
"Your first task will be to learn to contact our Lady. You will need to do this in the role of helping others to her realm.
"If you like it's a type of prayer, so I'll let our leader of the Prayer, Mayte, instruct you in this part of your training."
As she spoke, a small petite dark haired girl approached them. Lucien could think of no other way to describe her. She appeared to only be in her late teens. Although young, she was startlinbly attractive, until she turned to face them full on, and Lucien saw a jagged angry scar that ran from her ear to her voice box. The skin around it puckered and pulled her faceinto a mildly unusual shape on the left side, where the scar ran.
But her green eyes seemed to flash intelligence, and humour, and compassion all at the same time, and once you looked past the scar they were all you seemed to see.
"Ah, a new intiate for our lady, my name is Mayte, and what might your's be good sir?" Her voice was soft, but at the smae time seemed to carry to the furtherest reaches of the hall. Melodic, but commanding, she seemed a person of impossible conflicting qualities.
Executing his now practiced bow Lucien replied to Mayte “I am Lucien Winter formerly of The Citadel, a pleasure to meet you Mayte……actually I must apologize for my informality, should I be calling you Mayte? Is there maybe another title that I should be using when speaking to yourself or others of our Lady?”.
While awaiting a reply he glanced around the hall trying to get a more detailed look at the rituals going on around him as he had been utterly fascinated from the first moment he had seen the other people in the hall. He used only his eyes so as not to appear rude but it was easy to see his wonderment at the rituals as it was written clearly across his now wide-eyed open mouthed face.
While Lucien had been exposed to some aspects and rituals of worship of the Lady because of his association with the sisters back in the Citadel, it had been limited to more inner, personalized worship principles that helped ease his own pain at the time. Seeing others dedicated to the Lady performing their own rituals was quite amazing for him and Lucien began to try to single out any gestures, body movements or even words and phrases that seemed similar to his own learning’s.
Realizing that his looking away may be misinterpreted Lucien looked back at Mayte and refocused his attention on her “Pay attention, there will be plenty of time to study those rituals later”
As Lucien returned to the present situation, and looked upon Mayte's face again, he saw a broad grin and a twinkle of delight in her green eyes.
"Well young friend, most people call me Your holiness, but as a chosen follower of the Lady, I think Mayte will be fine. As long as I can call you Lucien?" She smiled again as she spoke, and Lucien was sure he caught a quick wink from the girl in front of him.
"Now we have some work to do, tell me Lucien, what do you know of true prayer, and its power?" As Mayte talked, she led Lucien to a small alcove, containing a low table and several comfortable looking cushions. On the table a slim candle burnt, and thin stick in a earthern cup smoldered, giving off a pugnent, but not unpleasant odour.
Although he had of course witnessed the ‘other’ side of those who followed the lady before, Lucien was always delighted to see one of them again break the stereotype that was typically attached to them and gave back a large smile and laugh at her comment.
Perhaps part of my mission will not be as long a journey as I anticipated?
Lucien then reflected back on his time with the sisters after his grandfathers passing and replied “In all seriousness now I must confess I know little about the power of true prayer Mayte. Though my time with the sisters in the Citadel did introduce me to prayer, it was more as an accompaniment to the meditation and calming exercises they taught me as well.” A puzzled expression crossed his face then and he continued “Actually now I consider it a little more, whenever I had a discussion with the sisters or was led by them in a prayer session they did always seem to be hinting at the possible power of prayer, it was just never broached in an overt way and I did not witness any evidence of its power physically either.”
I can’t believe I didn’t pick that up earlier it was right there in front of my face the whole time
“Well it looks like I have had another useful lesson finally come to me, first the dangers of taking your eyes off your grandfather in a sparring match and now this”
Mayte cocked an arching eyebrow at Luciens last comment, but chose to let it lie for the present.
"Um, where to begin with prayer, well true prayer is a way of communing with a god directly, and therefore only those that a god favours can actually acheive a true prayer. It is said that the gods hear all prayers directed at them, but only in a true prayer does the communication become two way." The young girl stopped here for a moment, ensuring Lucien was paying attention to his lesson.
"As you have experienced already, communication with a goddess, or even a mere god, can be, how would I put it, a challenge. It is not something easily acheived, and really requires a step of faith by the penetant.
"I think we will start by centering ourselves. Once centered, it is easier to reach out to other planes.
Tell me Lucien, where is your center, and how do you think it might be reached?"
“My center?, I have never really thought about it in all honesty. When I initially began praying I know I asked for the Goddess to take care of my Grandfather for me, he was my only focus at that time“
Thinking back to that time Lucien began to elaborate on his thoughts
“With the Sisters help I learned to deal with his passing, after that initial period when I prayed I eventually realized that I had begun to expand that focus. My grandfather was still the most prominent figure in my prayers but they now encompassed the Sisters and the Goddess herself. Prayer at that stage gave me a sense of well being I had not encountered before, it was…comforting?.” Lucien had ended his statement in a questioning way as while he was not entirely sure it was the correct word to use it did seem the most appropriate.
“I guess seeing it that way you could say I used the memory of my grandfather initially to achieve a kind of centering. After the acceptance of his passing I used his memory and the kindness shown by strangers and their Goddess to a hurt boy to reach an inner peace.”
“Can the way I gain that inner peace be centering under a different name?”
As Lucien spoke, Mayte listerned carefully to the young man. "It may be that thoughts of your grandfather were a focus for your thoughts, allowing you to unconciously center your being.
"What you need to do now is to conciously focus your self awareness, and gather yourself into your center.
"We say that there are four states of awareness.
Unconcious incompetent, you don't know that you know nothing
Concious incompetent, you know you know nothing
Unconcious competent, you are aware that you know something
Concious competent, you know you know
I think you are an uncocious competent, and we need you to be concious of your abilities, so that you can use them whenever they are required." The young girl was watching Lucien to judge his understanding of what she was saying.
"I think to start, you should learn to meditate, and from there to relax your mind and find your center, or your balance. Come, take a seat and we will begin." Mayte sunk into one of the cushions that were on the ground and after Lucien was likewise seated continued.
"Relax you body, and your mind will follow, allow the stresses of the day to wash away." The young girl continued to talk quietly to Lucien, as she allowed him to try and find a quiet place in his
Although feeling slightly baffled Lucien thought he had at least a basic understanding of what Mayte was saying and let his body fold into the cushions. When he had first been introduced to meditation and relaxation he did find he had a difficult time as his head was generally babbling thoughts and ideas about everything and nothing which he found hard to clear (perhaps this is why he had taken to physical pursuits so easily previously as they gave him a distraction). Although he had made considerable progress since his beginnings with the Sisters it still was not an easy state for him to achieve.
This time though he found those usual inner ramblings drifting away much quicker than usual, perhaps it was Maytes soothing voice, perhaps it was his surroundings, whatever the cause Luciens body and mind soon reached a relaxed state which while definitely familiar to him from past experiences also seemed to be moving towards new thresholds.
It was a blissful feeling.
As Lucien's mind drifted towards a state of quiet stillness, he could still hear Mayte's quiet voice in the background.
"Find your center, the point where you have balance, quiet your mind, and remember what you feel,..." and the young girls voice faded as Lucien began to reach that quiet place ...
Images started to appear before Luciens eyes. There were many and in some instances they literally came and went in the blink of an eye but even so he soon discerned a common thread to them all, they were all moments in his life that had brought him happiness. One image after the other came and went, it was as if his mind was finding and rejecting images one at a time as it sorted through his memories. His grandfather congratulating him the first time he had broken through his defence while sparring was replaced by his first stolen kiss at one of his parents party’s with another political aspirants daughter, image after image after image, each bringing a smile (or even a laugh) of remembrance to Luciens face.
Suddenly the images stopped. Lucien found himself looking at a beautiful blue sky resplendent with scattered white clouds moving slowly across the sky but the colours seemed to be more vivid, the image sharper then he remembered. He smelt the fresh salt air in his nostrils, which was unusual as it was almost always overpowered by the Citadels smells of habitation, again it was strange as there was a crispness to the smell that he did not remember. He felt the suns warmth on his face and he sat back luxuriating in the feeling…….
Lucien mind though was confused Is this the memory I have chosen? but it seems so innocuous. The memory of the day slowly came to him and as he remembered things began to drop into place. He was young at the time, not long after he had first meet his grandfather. His grandfather had interrupted his morning studies and over the splutterings of his tutor had ushered him out the door to a day of walking and talking, two newly introduced strangers getting to know each other. This image was near the end of the day where they had managed to find a quiet place on the outskirts of the Citadel where they had watched the last part of the day fade away in silence.
Lucien knew now why this was the day he had chosen. That day had been a revelation to him the first time someone of his family had not treated him as an ornament for show to others, to be brought out on special occasions but seen and not heard otherwise. It was the first time someone had asked about him about his thoughts and feelings and immature and to be honest downright stupid some of his answers had been they were greeted with a smile and nod or hearty laugh of undisguised pleasure.
This was his quiet place, the image of blue sky, white clouds and yellow sun suffused with a quiet comfortable feeling.
And from far away, came the voice of someone he should know, was her name Mayte, ...
"When you are there, talk to the Lady, see if she here's you above the chatter of the other penatents. Find your way back to her side..." and the voice faded away again, in and out like the waves on the beach.
Lucien heeded the advice Mayte had just voiced inside his head and began to try to find the Goddess. He focused on recalling the voice he had heard during his first contact back in the pool room…..
Slowly a voice made its way into his thoughts, actually come to think of it there were many voices but Lucien could only pick up indistinct short snippets of sentences and individual words so it seemed to him as if they were one and the same. ”These must be the others Mayte alluded to” Lucien thought to himself ”Its pretty crowded no wonder it’s so hard to reach the Goddess. Right I just need to focus harder, show my commitment”.
Concentrating so hard he began to feel a headache coming on the image in front of Lucien suddenly without warning seemed to change, was it his imagination or were the clouds from his image starting to form a womans face and were the other voices vanishing from his mind? ”Is that image of?… wait…. no it is my imagination, your trying too hard now just calm down, relax and let it happen”.
Relaxing more the headache feeling eased from his mind and Lucien felt himself slipping into a more receptive state, the voices this time did slip into the background and ever so slowly they faded away. The image Lucien had conjured up didn’t change though and he glanced to his right expecting to see his grandfather. He was rather surprised to see that the person there was not his grandfather but the woman (or the form the Goddess had chosen to show him) from his vision…and bizarrely she seemed to be enjoying the sun.
Tale of Lucien, part 2
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Maeve
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Tale of Lucien, part 2
[i][b][color=orange][size=92]Smile and carry a big stick.[/color][/b][/i][/size]
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Maeve
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The woman of his vision spoke to Lucien, "Welcome again my son. I see you have found a quiet place to call me.
" I like this place, the sun is warm and gives life.
" Tell me, what troubles you, or can I help?" The smile was still there, but something else as well, a worry line, or concern?
“I have no real troubles Goddess just the usual insecurities and worries one gets when embarking on a new journey….although I must admit to thinking about the daunting path before me”. An apprehensive expression came over Luciens face “Its not going to be easy is it…?” then shaking his head before she could reply Lucien continued on “You don’t have to answer that, it is rather a rhetorical question the answers so obvious". He let out a sigh "What’s done is done, there is nothing more to do really than take in my lessons and do what I can to achieve my goals.”
Turning his body to face the Goddess with a look of mock seriousness on his face Lucien spoke again “Any advice for a young Paladin in training with fantasies of saving the world from the Dark Speakers?”
With a look as serious as Luciens, the Lady replied "You are right my young follower, much will be be before you.
"But remember, the way will be harder than you think, though easier than you imagine." And with a laugh like tinkling glass the vision of the Lady was gone, and Lucien found himself drifting away from his place of solitude.
"
Lucien opened his eyes suddenly and looked straight at Mayte “What a rush” he said to her the wonder evident in his voice at what had just happened. He had no idea what he really meant when he had said that it just seemed appropriate , he decided to store that saying away for future use.
“That was wonderful Mayte, I have not felt this relaxed in a long, long time…by the way did you know the Lady had such a good sense of humour?. The last thing she said to me also reminded me so much of the things my grandfather enjoyed teasing me with it was……. uncanny. But she is a goddess I guess”
Lucien had a huge smile upon his face, he was rather pleased that he had made what seemed such a massive step in his progress already.
Looking at Mayte he was also confidant that she was most likely having a chuckle over his ‘progress’ herself but he was incredibly elated nonetheless.
The young woman who sat opposite Lucien was more sober than the young man had thought. She nodded her head sagely at his comments. "What a rush, is indeed a good way to describe meeting with the Lady, and yes she does know more than she lets on.
"I am glad you have had such an experience," and her rare smile was back again, "it will hold you in good stead if things get dificult in the future.
"So tell me Lucien, what do you think you should ask the Lady for? It is all well and good to be able to pray, but what do you think we should pray for?" The tone of Mayte's voice had the feel of enquiry. Was she asking a simple question, or was there more to her query than the obvious?
Luciens brow furrowed as he pondered his answer. ” What do you think we should pray for? What do you think we should pray for?…. There are so many different answers, does one pray for ones self or does one pray for the benefit of others? I think both could be considered correct answers in different situations. How does this apply to the Lady? Do I have to relate the prayer to death or can it relate to any topic I wanted, what if I just wanted to say hello and make sure she was still with me?".
A multitude of questions ran through Luciens mind and he probably could have gone on thinking about it for quite a considerable time but he decided to guess some sort of answer to Mayte.
“Well Mayte being so new to the Order I would like to say I am not rightly sure and ask the answer from you, but that would be the easy way out so I will venture an answer despite reservations of embarrassing myself. I feel that when one in our particular position prays to the Goddess we will generally be beseeching her for help on behalf of another. This can be on behalf of someone who is on the verge of passing or someone who has passed away already, perhaps even someone who is fine and is just asking for her protection. This is not to say that we do not pray to her for our own, shall we say selfish reasons, it is just that our main priority as I see it is to help and assist others, reassure them, provide them with knowledge and comfort. Depending on the particular position we find ourselves in we will need to alter our prayer to that particular situation, I suspect the situation and how frivolous the prayer is will also determine how our Lady chooses to assist us.”
Lucien wasn’t sure if he had even come close to what Maytes view on the issue was but he did feel at least he was having a go and not bludging.
Mayte continued to eye Lucien with speculative face she had looked at him with earlier.
"Your answer is very good Lucien, and covered more than I had intended.
"Your last comment held the meaning I sort, although your whole answer contains much of the truth as well.
"My concern was that you do not beseech the Lady with small matters that we can solve without divine intervention. Do you know the story of the boy who call wolf too often? If so the use of prayer can be similar.
"Now to more practical matters. In your answer, you talked about comfort for the dieing, and the dead. This is a major part of our work. We help those who are crossing over to face the voyage, and to those who are left behind, how to face their lose.
"Tell me, how might you think to deal with someone about to die, say an old man who had lived a full and complete life, how would you comfort such a one as they embark on their final journey?" She was asking a pointed question, and was very serious in her approach to the young man.
They were not easy questions Mayte was asking but buoyed by her praise Lucien contemplated this new query with renewed relish.
It was a question that would never be straightforward to answer but as he pondered it Lucien decided to leverage off his own experience. He turned the old man into his grandfather and put together a scenario in his head of how he could have dealt with that passing using the little knowledge he had gained since then.
Speaking to Mayte he could not prevent a hint of emotion entering his voice and he become conscious at that moment of the fact that in these types of situations, he had to take into account that people would be tense, afraid and their emotions would be incredibly high.
“Well Mayte I think I would do my best to soothe his fears by asking him about moments in his life that brought great happiness and joy. By getting him to focus on that it would hopefully ease his mind and help reinforce the wonderful life he has been privileged to, I would help accentuate the positive so to speak. I would tell him that this life was just one small part of a great journey the rest of that great journey still lies before him”
The smile that Lucien was becoming accustomed too beamed back at the young man from his young mentor. "Well answered my young friend, well answered." The fact that Mayte could well be younger than Lucien did not seem to faze her at all, and she continued to talk too him as she would have talked to a younger brother.
"It is always of value to remind us of our acheivements. To stress the positives of our lives. And you are right, death is but a wayside stop, on the journey we begin when we are born. The Goddess asks that we remind our brothers and sisters of this inestimable fact.
"Now I have a harder question for you. How do you comfort a mother, or a father, or brother or sister, of a ten year old fatally wounded, dead or maybe dieing, as a result of a wagon accident? Their life has not been full, they have not acheived all they could. Can you help them as well?"
For Mayte, this was the question she often asked herself, maybe the young man before her had a answer she had yet to conceive,
This was a extremely difficult question for Lucien, whether by fate or chance he had been lucky enough to never have had to face a situation like the one described by Mayte. He realized though that this was the reality of his new chosen path. Not all situations he faced in the future would be pleasant, easily explained or easily dealt with but he had to have the fortitude and confidence to face them, if he did not he would be of no use to those around him.
After pondering his answer Lucien was still not convinced as to its strength but he proceeded anyway.
“It is not a situation I wish to face Mayte but I know it is one I will.
For a start I would have to show empathy for the relative. They will be experiencing many different and powerful emotions, two of the main ones would be anger and pain. When a child of such a young age, or anyone to be honest, has died tragically there is usually not much one can say to those that loved that child to alleviate this anger and pain. Only time can bring about a lessoning of that anger and pain nothing else.
I think I would approach it like this.
I would explain that what has happened is a tragedy and they have every right to be angry and hurt over what has happened this is a natural reaction. I would stress though that The Goddess does not choose those that join her but she cares for and loves those that do with all her being. This would be my main emphasis, that the child may have passed on but is in a place where they will be safe and cared for.
I would then move towards helping the grieving relative saying that although angry now do not hold onto the anger forever as it will eat away at them and eventually dishonor the memory of the lost loved one. Instead try and cherish the impact the child had on their lives, do not forget the tragedy but do not let it dominate their memories.”
He then looked at Mayte “That is what I have come up with but I actually do not think there will ever be a right answer to that question. The unique way in which someone reacts to that type of tragedy necessitates that it be that way”
The young girl over from Lucien smiled gently at the young man, beginning to make his way in the service of the Lady. "I can only epathise with you Lucien. It is nearly the hardest situation we ever find ourselves in.
"You answer was well thought out, and I believe would be appropriate to most cases. You are right of course, that the situation would vary from person to person, but I think you solution was a good one.
"I would ask you too ponder these issues in your own time. think of alternative approaches, and when they might or might not be appropriate.
"Now enough deep thinking for one day, would you like to see how the sisters prepare a body for burial? It is an intricate part of our order, after all." A rather impish grin played over Mayte's face as she asked Lucien the final question.
“Oh… OK” Lucien replied an uneasy look on his face “Keen to start.”
He knew this part would come eventually but was still quite apprehensive about the situation. The only dead body he had seen previously was that of his grandfathers and then he had never actually had to watch its preparation for the burial, the Sisters had thought (quite rightly) that he would not have been able to deal with it in his state at that time.
Never the less Lucien realized that like the previous question this was a part of his new life he would have to deal with, he was silently glad he had not overindulged in his eating previously that day though…….
The young girl who was Luciens mentor for the day smiled at the young man encouragingly. "I realise this will be a big step. I think this part of your training can wait until tomorrow.
"I suspect you've had a full day already, come I'll take you to your domitory."
The young girl stood, inviting Lucien to join her.
Leading the way, Mayte led her proterge towards the rear of the temple where a series of rooms became visible.
Showing Lucien a sizable room, accomodating seveal sets of bunks, Mayte invited Lucien to enter. "The novice dorm. There's not many here, as the girls have their own dormatory, and few men come to our order. " Reaching down, she retreived a small sack from behind the door.
"Your gear from the beach, and a change of cloths, if I'm not mistaken. Find yourself a bunk, and join me at the enterence to the temple. We shall take supper together at the refactory."
The bag contained not only Luciens possessions from the beach, but also a linen shirt, dark fitted breeches of finely woven wool, some undergarments and a rough woollen cape.
Lucien was glad to see a bed. Although still excited about what he had experienced and achieved it had been a long day for him and he was beginning to feel rather weary.
He walked slowly around the room before selecting the bottom bed of one of the bunks that coincidentally had a space large enough around it for him to perform simple physical and martial training exercises. He placed his possessions both old and new on the bunk above and then stripped down to his undergarments leaving his dirty clothes in a pile on the floor (he would pick them up later of course…). He didn’t want to keep Mayte waiting but his muscles felt quite stiff and unused so he performed a basic kata his grandfather had first taught him that would help warm, stretch and loosen his muscles. He flowed through the movements concentrating on working the various muscles groups in his body as he executed the techniques.
Upon completion he felt a little more alert and quickly changed into the new clothing that had been provided (excluding the cape) and pulled on his faithful comfortable boots. The fresh clothes felt luxurious against his skin and he marched himself off to the temple entrance to meet Mayte for supper and ask where one bathed and washed their clothes around here.
Mayte was standing quietly at the entrance to the temple, her hood pulled up covering her disfigured face in shadow. As Lucien approached, a smile could be seen gleaming back at the young man.
"Glad you could join me Lucien," she began, a twinkle of a smile in her voice, "come, we can walk to the refectory together."
They walked west for a short distance until they reached a path that headed south. Ahead was a domed building to their left, and a large low rectangular building to the right. "Over there is bath house, maybe you would like to visit there later, and too our right is the refectory.
"Come let us take some supper." As they entered the refectory, the various smells of different foods cooking assailed them. A counter ahead held a plethora of platters, all loaded with various types of food from cooked meats and vegetables to fruits and cheeses.
"Take a plate and help yourself Lucien." Mayte took a small plate, and placed a selection of fruits and a small portion of fish onto her plate, before taking a seat at a quiet table in the corner. Several other people were also in attendance, most in like groups clustered around tables, talking in a variety of hushed, or somewhat excited voices.
Ahh the aroma of food one of the most pleasant experiences in Luciens life.
Unlike Mayte Lucien took a large plate and began to pile it high with meat, cheese and bread layered with butter. To keep up appearances he also filled a small plate with fruit and then balancing the precarious load struggled over to the table Mayte had seated herself at in the corner.
“One must keep up their energy if they wish to serve the lady” Lucien said with a large grin to Mayte as he seated himself.
He then attacked his plate with gusto. Unlike the frowns he usually received at dinner from his parents while nibbling on his New Citadel gourmet cuisine food, his grandfather had introduced him to the wonderful world of culinary destruction where one showed his appreciation of fine food by shoving down as much as possible in a short span of time. It wasn’t elegant, it wasn’t pretty but his grandfather had said that a warriour does not have time to linger over polite dinner conversation and needs to feed himself quickly and efficiently.
Looking at Mayte Lucien thought to be polite he should start up a conversation so he interrupted the rhythm he had established that involved his fork and hands going to his mouth alternately.
“So Mayte how long have you been in service to our lady?”
The young woman watched Lucien help himself to a sizeable supper, and shook her head in mock disbelief.
At Lucines question regarding her tenure in the order, Mayte's head slowly came up from her food, and a strange look shimmered across her face.
"Why all my life Lucien, my mother died at my birth, and this scar is my reminder of that. The order took me in and cared for me, giving me comfort and a purpose. It is very hard for an orphan, and a disfigured orphan? It would have been almost impossible.
"But I was lucky, The Goddess was looking over me, and took me in." And Mayte lapsed back into silence whilst they ate.
" I like this place, the sun is warm and gives life.
" Tell me, what troubles you, or can I help?" The smile was still there, but something else as well, a worry line, or concern?
“I have no real troubles Goddess just the usual insecurities and worries one gets when embarking on a new journey….although I must admit to thinking about the daunting path before me”. An apprehensive expression came over Luciens face “Its not going to be easy is it…?” then shaking his head before she could reply Lucien continued on “You don’t have to answer that, it is rather a rhetorical question the answers so obvious". He let out a sigh "What’s done is done, there is nothing more to do really than take in my lessons and do what I can to achieve my goals.”
Turning his body to face the Goddess with a look of mock seriousness on his face Lucien spoke again “Any advice for a young Paladin in training with fantasies of saving the world from the Dark Speakers?”
With a look as serious as Luciens, the Lady replied "You are right my young follower, much will be be before you.
"But remember, the way will be harder than you think, though easier than you imagine." And with a laugh like tinkling glass the vision of the Lady was gone, and Lucien found himself drifting away from his place of solitude.
"
Lucien opened his eyes suddenly and looked straight at Mayte “What a rush” he said to her the wonder evident in his voice at what had just happened. He had no idea what he really meant when he had said that it just seemed appropriate , he decided to store that saying away for future use.
“That was wonderful Mayte, I have not felt this relaxed in a long, long time…by the way did you know the Lady had such a good sense of humour?. The last thing she said to me also reminded me so much of the things my grandfather enjoyed teasing me with it was……. uncanny. But she is a goddess I guess”
Lucien had a huge smile upon his face, he was rather pleased that he had made what seemed such a massive step in his progress already.
Looking at Mayte he was also confidant that she was most likely having a chuckle over his ‘progress’ herself but he was incredibly elated nonetheless.
The young woman who sat opposite Lucien was more sober than the young man had thought. She nodded her head sagely at his comments. "What a rush, is indeed a good way to describe meeting with the Lady, and yes she does know more than she lets on.
"I am glad you have had such an experience," and her rare smile was back again, "it will hold you in good stead if things get dificult in the future.
"So tell me Lucien, what do you think you should ask the Lady for? It is all well and good to be able to pray, but what do you think we should pray for?" The tone of Mayte's voice had the feel of enquiry. Was she asking a simple question, or was there more to her query than the obvious?
Luciens brow furrowed as he pondered his answer. ” What do you think we should pray for? What do you think we should pray for?…. There are so many different answers, does one pray for ones self or does one pray for the benefit of others? I think both could be considered correct answers in different situations. How does this apply to the Lady? Do I have to relate the prayer to death or can it relate to any topic I wanted, what if I just wanted to say hello and make sure she was still with me?".
A multitude of questions ran through Luciens mind and he probably could have gone on thinking about it for quite a considerable time but he decided to guess some sort of answer to Mayte.
“Well Mayte being so new to the Order I would like to say I am not rightly sure and ask the answer from you, but that would be the easy way out so I will venture an answer despite reservations of embarrassing myself. I feel that when one in our particular position prays to the Goddess we will generally be beseeching her for help on behalf of another. This can be on behalf of someone who is on the verge of passing or someone who has passed away already, perhaps even someone who is fine and is just asking for her protection. This is not to say that we do not pray to her for our own, shall we say selfish reasons, it is just that our main priority as I see it is to help and assist others, reassure them, provide them with knowledge and comfort. Depending on the particular position we find ourselves in we will need to alter our prayer to that particular situation, I suspect the situation and how frivolous the prayer is will also determine how our Lady chooses to assist us.”
Lucien wasn’t sure if he had even come close to what Maytes view on the issue was but he did feel at least he was having a go and not bludging.
Mayte continued to eye Lucien with speculative face she had looked at him with earlier.
"Your answer is very good Lucien, and covered more than I had intended.
"Your last comment held the meaning I sort, although your whole answer contains much of the truth as well.
"My concern was that you do not beseech the Lady with small matters that we can solve without divine intervention. Do you know the story of the boy who call wolf too often? If so the use of prayer can be similar.
"Now to more practical matters. In your answer, you talked about comfort for the dieing, and the dead. This is a major part of our work. We help those who are crossing over to face the voyage, and to those who are left behind, how to face their lose.
"Tell me, how might you think to deal with someone about to die, say an old man who had lived a full and complete life, how would you comfort such a one as they embark on their final journey?" She was asking a pointed question, and was very serious in her approach to the young man.
They were not easy questions Mayte was asking but buoyed by her praise Lucien contemplated this new query with renewed relish.
It was a question that would never be straightforward to answer but as he pondered it Lucien decided to leverage off his own experience. He turned the old man into his grandfather and put together a scenario in his head of how he could have dealt with that passing using the little knowledge he had gained since then.
Speaking to Mayte he could not prevent a hint of emotion entering his voice and he become conscious at that moment of the fact that in these types of situations, he had to take into account that people would be tense, afraid and their emotions would be incredibly high.
“Well Mayte I think I would do my best to soothe his fears by asking him about moments in his life that brought great happiness and joy. By getting him to focus on that it would hopefully ease his mind and help reinforce the wonderful life he has been privileged to, I would help accentuate the positive so to speak. I would tell him that this life was just one small part of a great journey the rest of that great journey still lies before him”
The smile that Lucien was becoming accustomed too beamed back at the young man from his young mentor. "Well answered my young friend, well answered." The fact that Mayte could well be younger than Lucien did not seem to faze her at all, and she continued to talk too him as she would have talked to a younger brother.
"It is always of value to remind us of our acheivements. To stress the positives of our lives. And you are right, death is but a wayside stop, on the journey we begin when we are born. The Goddess asks that we remind our brothers and sisters of this inestimable fact.
"Now I have a harder question for you. How do you comfort a mother, or a father, or brother or sister, of a ten year old fatally wounded, dead or maybe dieing, as a result of a wagon accident? Their life has not been full, they have not acheived all they could. Can you help them as well?"
For Mayte, this was the question she often asked herself, maybe the young man before her had a answer she had yet to conceive,
This was a extremely difficult question for Lucien, whether by fate or chance he had been lucky enough to never have had to face a situation like the one described by Mayte. He realized though that this was the reality of his new chosen path. Not all situations he faced in the future would be pleasant, easily explained or easily dealt with but he had to have the fortitude and confidence to face them, if he did not he would be of no use to those around him.
After pondering his answer Lucien was still not convinced as to its strength but he proceeded anyway.
“It is not a situation I wish to face Mayte but I know it is one I will.
For a start I would have to show empathy for the relative. They will be experiencing many different and powerful emotions, two of the main ones would be anger and pain. When a child of such a young age, or anyone to be honest, has died tragically there is usually not much one can say to those that loved that child to alleviate this anger and pain. Only time can bring about a lessoning of that anger and pain nothing else.
I think I would approach it like this.
I would explain that what has happened is a tragedy and they have every right to be angry and hurt over what has happened this is a natural reaction. I would stress though that The Goddess does not choose those that join her but she cares for and loves those that do with all her being. This would be my main emphasis, that the child may have passed on but is in a place where they will be safe and cared for.
I would then move towards helping the grieving relative saying that although angry now do not hold onto the anger forever as it will eat away at them and eventually dishonor the memory of the lost loved one. Instead try and cherish the impact the child had on their lives, do not forget the tragedy but do not let it dominate their memories.”
He then looked at Mayte “That is what I have come up with but I actually do not think there will ever be a right answer to that question. The unique way in which someone reacts to that type of tragedy necessitates that it be that way”
The young girl over from Lucien smiled gently at the young man, beginning to make his way in the service of the Lady. "I can only epathise with you Lucien. It is nearly the hardest situation we ever find ourselves in.
"You answer was well thought out, and I believe would be appropriate to most cases. You are right of course, that the situation would vary from person to person, but I think you solution was a good one.
"I would ask you too ponder these issues in your own time. think of alternative approaches, and when they might or might not be appropriate.
"Now enough deep thinking for one day, would you like to see how the sisters prepare a body for burial? It is an intricate part of our order, after all." A rather impish grin played over Mayte's face as she asked Lucien the final question.
“Oh… OK” Lucien replied an uneasy look on his face “Keen to start.”
He knew this part would come eventually but was still quite apprehensive about the situation. The only dead body he had seen previously was that of his grandfathers and then he had never actually had to watch its preparation for the burial, the Sisters had thought (quite rightly) that he would not have been able to deal with it in his state at that time.
Never the less Lucien realized that like the previous question this was a part of his new life he would have to deal with, he was silently glad he had not overindulged in his eating previously that day though…….
The young girl who was Luciens mentor for the day smiled at the young man encouragingly. "I realise this will be a big step. I think this part of your training can wait until tomorrow.
"I suspect you've had a full day already, come I'll take you to your domitory."
The young girl stood, inviting Lucien to join her.
Leading the way, Mayte led her proterge towards the rear of the temple where a series of rooms became visible.
Showing Lucien a sizable room, accomodating seveal sets of bunks, Mayte invited Lucien to enter. "The novice dorm. There's not many here, as the girls have their own dormatory, and few men come to our order. " Reaching down, she retreived a small sack from behind the door.
"Your gear from the beach, and a change of cloths, if I'm not mistaken. Find yourself a bunk, and join me at the enterence to the temple. We shall take supper together at the refactory."
The bag contained not only Luciens possessions from the beach, but also a linen shirt, dark fitted breeches of finely woven wool, some undergarments and a rough woollen cape.
Lucien was glad to see a bed. Although still excited about what he had experienced and achieved it had been a long day for him and he was beginning to feel rather weary.
He walked slowly around the room before selecting the bottom bed of one of the bunks that coincidentally had a space large enough around it for him to perform simple physical and martial training exercises. He placed his possessions both old and new on the bunk above and then stripped down to his undergarments leaving his dirty clothes in a pile on the floor (he would pick them up later of course…). He didn’t want to keep Mayte waiting but his muscles felt quite stiff and unused so he performed a basic kata his grandfather had first taught him that would help warm, stretch and loosen his muscles. He flowed through the movements concentrating on working the various muscles groups in his body as he executed the techniques.
Upon completion he felt a little more alert and quickly changed into the new clothing that had been provided (excluding the cape) and pulled on his faithful comfortable boots. The fresh clothes felt luxurious against his skin and he marched himself off to the temple entrance to meet Mayte for supper and ask where one bathed and washed their clothes around here.
Mayte was standing quietly at the entrance to the temple, her hood pulled up covering her disfigured face in shadow. As Lucien approached, a smile could be seen gleaming back at the young man.
"Glad you could join me Lucien," she began, a twinkle of a smile in her voice, "come, we can walk to the refectory together."
They walked west for a short distance until they reached a path that headed south. Ahead was a domed building to their left, and a large low rectangular building to the right. "Over there is bath house, maybe you would like to visit there later, and too our right is the refectory.
"Come let us take some supper." As they entered the refectory, the various smells of different foods cooking assailed them. A counter ahead held a plethora of platters, all loaded with various types of food from cooked meats and vegetables to fruits and cheeses.
"Take a plate and help yourself Lucien." Mayte took a small plate, and placed a selection of fruits and a small portion of fish onto her plate, before taking a seat at a quiet table in the corner. Several other people were also in attendance, most in like groups clustered around tables, talking in a variety of hushed, or somewhat excited voices.
Ahh the aroma of food one of the most pleasant experiences in Luciens life.
Unlike Mayte Lucien took a large plate and began to pile it high with meat, cheese and bread layered with butter. To keep up appearances he also filled a small plate with fruit and then balancing the precarious load struggled over to the table Mayte had seated herself at in the corner.
“One must keep up their energy if they wish to serve the lady” Lucien said with a large grin to Mayte as he seated himself.
He then attacked his plate with gusto. Unlike the frowns he usually received at dinner from his parents while nibbling on his New Citadel gourmet cuisine food, his grandfather had introduced him to the wonderful world of culinary destruction where one showed his appreciation of fine food by shoving down as much as possible in a short span of time. It wasn’t elegant, it wasn’t pretty but his grandfather had said that a warriour does not have time to linger over polite dinner conversation and needs to feed himself quickly and efficiently.
Looking at Mayte Lucien thought to be polite he should start up a conversation so he interrupted the rhythm he had established that involved his fork and hands going to his mouth alternately.
“So Mayte how long have you been in service to our lady?”
The young woman watched Lucien help himself to a sizeable supper, and shook her head in mock disbelief.
At Lucines question regarding her tenure in the order, Mayte's head slowly came up from her food, and a strange look shimmered across her face.
"Why all my life Lucien, my mother died at my birth, and this scar is my reminder of that. The order took me in and cared for me, giving me comfort and a purpose. It is very hard for an orphan, and a disfigured orphan? It would have been almost impossible.
"But I was lucky, The Goddess was looking over me, and took me in." And Mayte lapsed back into silence whilst they ate.
[i][b][color=orange][size=92]Smile and carry a big stick.[/color][/b][/i][/size]
-
Maeve
- The Dragon & Game Designer
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Lucien replied
“I am sorry if I made you uncomfortable or brought up anything you did not wish to discuss Mayte it was not my intension.”
Lucien digested the information Mayte had provided as he ate. He could not imagine the hardship being an orphan would bring as while his parents were not the most loving they did not leave him wanting for anything material at all. It was a lesson (although an inadvertent one) that not all persons he would meet in his duties would be accustomed to the privileges he had received growing up (or even have a mother and father) and their different circumstances would also need to be taken into consideration when dealing with them.
Looking at her Lucien finally said
“Well Mayte I am incredibly glad you’re here teaching me and to have made your acquaintance.”
He then settled back and continued his eating or perhaps stuffing of his mouth would be more appropriate and tried to engage Mayte in a more pleasant less specific conversation.
As their supper wore on Mayte and Lucien discussed many things. Lucien discovered that Myte was just over 19 Yarens of age, and had spent her time exclusively with the order.
She enjoyed helping people, and counselling them in their grief, and well as celebrating the lives of their loved ones. She loved animals, as they didn't notice her face and seemed to love her unconditionally. Her spare time was spent studying the history of the Isle, and she had real intention to ever leave her safe santuary.
As they neared the end of their meal Mayte was talking to Lucien again. "At the end of the day we usually meet at the temple to offer a prayer to the Goddess, to thank her for her guidance today, and seek her blessing for the night ahead and the coming day.
"Would you like to join us? It's not very formal, but most of the order will be there."
“That sounds great it would be my absolute pleasure”
As he rose to accompany Mayte Lucien thought back to their dinner conversation. Although she was only a little younger than himself Lucien was quite taken aback when she had said she was only 19, perhaps it was because he was used to older people teaching him like his grandfather and his mind always naturally assumed someone was older?.
”More inadvertant lessons Lucien”
It sounded like Mayte had also experienced trouble because of her face. Whether this was outright hostility and taunts or covert glances when people thought she was not looking he was unsure of but he knew it saddened him that a person so obviously kind and devoted to the helping of others had to experience that.
Thinking about it he realized that he had not even thought about Maytes physical appearance since meeting her, it just had not been an issue. I was not as though he was better than others and above that sort of thing as generally he also would have looked upon Mayte with a sense of pity if he had meet her ... but here for some reason on the Isle it just didn’t cross his mind.
”Well I can’t do much about other people all I can do is make sure I treat her as I am doing”
Looking at her and holding out his hand to help her rise he gave a wide smile
“Thanks for looking after me Mayte”.
Mayte took Lucien graciously offered hand. Was that a slight flush creeping over her yourthful face? My what next.
"Thank you Lucien, " she replied rising gracefully with the assistance of Lucien.
"Come let us retire to the temple, and we can join in the evening prayers." And with that Mayte waited for Lucien, to see what, if anything, her surprising young charge would do next.
With Maytes arm in the crock of his elbow Lucien guided her toward the temple and the prayer session, actually he hoped he was leading her in the right direction, everything was still quite new and confusing so he was a little unsure.
Trying to keep things pleasant he again started up a conversation, nothing serious just something to pass the time as they made their way there.
Lucien finally arrived outside an entrance he thought was to the temple, a bit nervous he looked at Mayte and said with conviction “Well here we are then shall we go in so we’re not late?”
As they walked, Mayte subtley guided them, ensuring Lucien retained the correct path to the temple. It would seem her young companion was still nervous and finding his way, so she ensured he received all the confidence she could offer him.
"Indeed Lucien we have arrived in plenty of time for the evening prayers. The Lady is not such a harsh mistress as others would wish to believe."
As she spoke, she led Lucien up the stairs, and entered the temple doors, sliding majestically across the floor, she led Lucien to a quiet part of the temple where several of the Ladies followers had gathered to offer their prayers.
Prayers at the temple were quite informal, and each follower offered up their own silent prayer. Some knelt and some stood, Lucien even noticed one sitting quietly, looking almost asleep.
Mayte for her part knelt quietly, and bowed her head in earnest concentration, it appeared she assumed Lucien knew what to do next ...
Lucien did indeed know what to do but he decided to try something different after observing some of the other followers in prayer. He knew that during his travels he may not have the luxury of pleasant and comfortable surroundings so he decided to try standing while he prayed to the Goddess.
Using the techniques Mayte had shown him earlier Lucien tried to calm and center himself to communicate with the Goddess, he didn’t find it easy. Standing up he found that he actually felt a little unbalanced with his eyes closed and after awhile an ache in his legs was quite noticeable. Opening his eyes he took a few deep breaths and completed a few stretches to loosen up his body particularly his legs (which probably looked quite unusual in a prayer session if one was honest) then again tried to reach the Goddess.
Lucien definitely felt more comfortable on his second attempt, although not completely tranquil (the aching legs reappeared) he decided that with more practice in this position he would be able to pray to the Goddess just as at ease as if he were in the more comfortable kneeling or sitting position. He was quite chuffed when he emerged from his prayer session to see the candle he had seen before his second attempt had actually melted down a fairly generous amount of time.
As Lucien came back to himself and noticed the puddle of candle wax, Mayte was quietly watching him from the floor. She silently lifted her hand towards him, a silent plea his help in her rising.
Not that she actually neede his help, but the idea of such a noble gesture form Lucien tickled her fancy.
Lucien immediately reached down to assist Mayte to her feet, it was almost an unconscious gesture as one of the first things he was taught regarding etiquette was to assist a lady in distress or need. Of course it was also Mayte and he felt even though he had just met her he was already forming a close bond with his youthful teacher. Perhaps he was also beginning to discover within himself what his own ideals of being a Paladin involved. Courtesy, respect and a desire to help others were definitely near the top of his list.
“There you go Mayte” he said as she he helped her to her feet.
Mayte accepted Luciens gracious offer, and rose gracefully to her feet. A smile bow towards her gracious benefactor, and the play of a smile on her mouth preceded her responce. " Thank you kind sir, your assistance is greatly appreciated.
"Come, the day is over, and I would retire, perhaps you would escort me to my rooms before you too retire?"
A small mischievous smile came over Lucien as well at her first comment “Your very welcome M’Lady of course the pleasure is indeed mine”. He finished with a slight bow of his head.
At the conclusion of her second comment Lucien offered his elbow to Mayte to take. “If you show the way I would be happy to escort you back to your room Mayte”.
Mayte giggled at Luciens gallant behaviour, "Why my rooms are right next to yours good sir. We ladies share a common room similar to the mens, but somewhat larger, due to there being more of us."
And taking Lucines elbow she allowed he to guide her in the direction of the end of the hall, where he had earlier been shown his own room.
“I am sorry if I made you uncomfortable or brought up anything you did not wish to discuss Mayte it was not my intension.”
Lucien digested the information Mayte had provided as he ate. He could not imagine the hardship being an orphan would bring as while his parents were not the most loving they did not leave him wanting for anything material at all. It was a lesson (although an inadvertent one) that not all persons he would meet in his duties would be accustomed to the privileges he had received growing up (or even have a mother and father) and their different circumstances would also need to be taken into consideration when dealing with them.
Looking at her Lucien finally said
“Well Mayte I am incredibly glad you’re here teaching me and to have made your acquaintance.”
He then settled back and continued his eating or perhaps stuffing of his mouth would be more appropriate and tried to engage Mayte in a more pleasant less specific conversation.
As their supper wore on Mayte and Lucien discussed many things. Lucien discovered that Myte was just over 19 Yarens of age, and had spent her time exclusively with the order.
She enjoyed helping people, and counselling them in their grief, and well as celebrating the lives of their loved ones. She loved animals, as they didn't notice her face and seemed to love her unconditionally. Her spare time was spent studying the history of the Isle, and she had real intention to ever leave her safe santuary.
As they neared the end of their meal Mayte was talking to Lucien again. "At the end of the day we usually meet at the temple to offer a prayer to the Goddess, to thank her for her guidance today, and seek her blessing for the night ahead and the coming day.
"Would you like to join us? It's not very formal, but most of the order will be there."
“That sounds great it would be my absolute pleasure”
As he rose to accompany Mayte Lucien thought back to their dinner conversation. Although she was only a little younger than himself Lucien was quite taken aback when she had said she was only 19, perhaps it was because he was used to older people teaching him like his grandfather and his mind always naturally assumed someone was older?.
”More inadvertant lessons Lucien”
It sounded like Mayte had also experienced trouble because of her face. Whether this was outright hostility and taunts or covert glances when people thought she was not looking he was unsure of but he knew it saddened him that a person so obviously kind and devoted to the helping of others had to experience that.
Thinking about it he realized that he had not even thought about Maytes physical appearance since meeting her, it just had not been an issue. I was not as though he was better than others and above that sort of thing as generally he also would have looked upon Mayte with a sense of pity if he had meet her ... but here for some reason on the Isle it just didn’t cross his mind.
”Well I can’t do much about other people all I can do is make sure I treat her as I am doing”
Looking at her and holding out his hand to help her rise he gave a wide smile
“Thanks for looking after me Mayte”.
Mayte took Lucien graciously offered hand. Was that a slight flush creeping over her yourthful face? My what next.
"Thank you Lucien, " she replied rising gracefully with the assistance of Lucien.
"Come let us retire to the temple, and we can join in the evening prayers." And with that Mayte waited for Lucien, to see what, if anything, her surprising young charge would do next.
With Maytes arm in the crock of his elbow Lucien guided her toward the temple and the prayer session, actually he hoped he was leading her in the right direction, everything was still quite new and confusing so he was a little unsure.
Trying to keep things pleasant he again started up a conversation, nothing serious just something to pass the time as they made their way there.
Lucien finally arrived outside an entrance he thought was to the temple, a bit nervous he looked at Mayte and said with conviction “Well here we are then shall we go in so we’re not late?”
As they walked, Mayte subtley guided them, ensuring Lucien retained the correct path to the temple. It would seem her young companion was still nervous and finding his way, so she ensured he received all the confidence she could offer him.
"Indeed Lucien we have arrived in plenty of time for the evening prayers. The Lady is not such a harsh mistress as others would wish to believe."
As she spoke, she led Lucien up the stairs, and entered the temple doors, sliding majestically across the floor, she led Lucien to a quiet part of the temple where several of the Ladies followers had gathered to offer their prayers.
Prayers at the temple were quite informal, and each follower offered up their own silent prayer. Some knelt and some stood, Lucien even noticed one sitting quietly, looking almost asleep.
Mayte for her part knelt quietly, and bowed her head in earnest concentration, it appeared she assumed Lucien knew what to do next ...
Lucien did indeed know what to do but he decided to try something different after observing some of the other followers in prayer. He knew that during his travels he may not have the luxury of pleasant and comfortable surroundings so he decided to try standing while he prayed to the Goddess.
Using the techniques Mayte had shown him earlier Lucien tried to calm and center himself to communicate with the Goddess, he didn’t find it easy. Standing up he found that he actually felt a little unbalanced with his eyes closed and after awhile an ache in his legs was quite noticeable. Opening his eyes he took a few deep breaths and completed a few stretches to loosen up his body particularly his legs (which probably looked quite unusual in a prayer session if one was honest) then again tried to reach the Goddess.
Lucien definitely felt more comfortable on his second attempt, although not completely tranquil (the aching legs reappeared) he decided that with more practice in this position he would be able to pray to the Goddess just as at ease as if he were in the more comfortable kneeling or sitting position. He was quite chuffed when he emerged from his prayer session to see the candle he had seen before his second attempt had actually melted down a fairly generous amount of time.
As Lucien came back to himself and noticed the puddle of candle wax, Mayte was quietly watching him from the floor. She silently lifted her hand towards him, a silent plea his help in her rising.
Not that she actually neede his help, but the idea of such a noble gesture form Lucien tickled her fancy.
Lucien immediately reached down to assist Mayte to her feet, it was almost an unconscious gesture as one of the first things he was taught regarding etiquette was to assist a lady in distress or need. Of course it was also Mayte and he felt even though he had just met her he was already forming a close bond with his youthful teacher. Perhaps he was also beginning to discover within himself what his own ideals of being a Paladin involved. Courtesy, respect and a desire to help others were definitely near the top of his list.
“There you go Mayte” he said as she he helped her to her feet.
Mayte accepted Luciens gracious offer, and rose gracefully to her feet. A smile bow towards her gracious benefactor, and the play of a smile on her mouth preceded her responce. " Thank you kind sir, your assistance is greatly appreciated.
"Come, the day is over, and I would retire, perhaps you would escort me to my rooms before you too retire?"
A small mischievous smile came over Lucien as well at her first comment “Your very welcome M’Lady of course the pleasure is indeed mine”. He finished with a slight bow of his head.
At the conclusion of her second comment Lucien offered his elbow to Mayte to take. “If you show the way I would be happy to escort you back to your room Mayte”.
Mayte giggled at Luciens gallant behaviour, "Why my rooms are right next to yours good sir. We ladies share a common room similar to the mens, but somewhat larger, due to there being more of us."
And taking Lucines elbow she allowed he to guide her in the direction of the end of the hall, where he had earlier been shown his own room.
[i][b][color=orange][size=92]Smile and carry a big stick.[/color][/b][/i][/size]
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rhoddin
reposted
Hi Rhoddin
That looks like as good a place as any to wrap up Luciens first day (phew its been a long one) and it fits in nicely with the move to the new site.
Please just get back to me if you agree and where to from here.
Thanks
And it looks like I'm having the same issue as the old boards posting in the wrong place. Please delete and save me yet again
Last edited by Ngatai on Mon Feb 17, 2003 5:25 am, edited 1 time in total
That looks like as good a place as any to wrap up Luciens first day (phew its been a long one) and it fits in nicely with the move to the new site.
Please just get back to me if you agree and where to from here.
Thanks
And it looks like I'm having the same issue as the old boards posting in the wrong place. Please delete and save me yet again
Last edited by Ngatai on Mon Feb 17, 2003 5:25 am, edited 1 time in total
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rhoddin