Post by The Master Tactician on Apr 12, 2013 23:58:55 GMT -5
The Grand General watched the exchange in silence. He lifted his brows in contemplation of the foreign compassion with which Sona addressed his servant. He did seem to take notice, returning her smile with his own--although the expression looked strange upon his drawn features. This point of curiosity was perhaps the primary reason he seemed at ease in her presence, immersed in subtle study of her tenderheartedness.
The plates were cleared away by one host of servants and new platters brought out by another. Tiny quails stuffed with goat cheese and plump cherry tomatoes and wrapped in a single strip of bacon were set out before them on a bed of tender spinach. Luminous eyes purposely averted from the fresh-cooked gourmet, lingering instead upon the musician's dainty pen hand and her pad. He pressed the tips of his fingers together in a contemplative star.
"Will you be staying in Noxus, then, madame?" Swain inquired politely. He cleared his throat again, a hacking cough that echoed through the hall.
The soft blues of Sona's eyes linger on the younger girl's own for much longer than any normal person would've ever bothered to remain, as did her hand, though it was light. The Maven's astute gaze pored over the other girl's steel eyes before breaking into a broad, caring smile, patting Alexis' shoulder delicately and giving her a nod of acceptance.
As she retrieves her pad and reorients it so that it can more easily be written upon, it's clear that her mood as brightened considerably from the soundless exchange. The kind musician's hope is that, as he was no doubt watching, Swain can perhaps appreciate the compassion in her gesture. Her cheerful face quickly turns back to the shrunken man before her, pausing a few moments before opening her mouth as if to speak, only to lightly click her tongue, the noise surprisingly pleasant for how sudden it is.
It was something she and her adoptive mother had found great fun in fashioning. With few ways to communicate quickly, the click was their way of expressing gratitude between them. It quickly developed as a second nature when she felt the need to genuinely express sincerity, even if the gesture was lost on most due to the startling rarity with which she tended to use it.
The smile Sona gives is echoed on the lips of the maid, though only at the very corners of them. With the General observing the interaction, she doesn't dare show too much of the gratitude she feels. Being so clearly acknowledged for her condition and her service is rare- it doesn't happen, actually- and it's hard to hide her happiness, but she manages, instead bowing deeply to the Maven before exiting.
As Alexis opens the door to leave, she hears the click that Sona makes, and a series of memories sparks off in her mind. My brother and I invented that sound so that I could say 'check' or 'checkmate' when we played chess, she recalls, and there's a wider, sadder smile on her face as she closes the heavy door, and heads quickly down the stairs to the kitchen. A quick series of written questions gets her the location of the wine, as well as a few recommendations on which one might be good, so she's back to the table in good time, perhaps three minutes after the Maven had made her request.
The aroma of more delicious food made the blue-haired lady look about expectantly, though her question as to where it came from was soon answered as the next course was laid out before them both. Her first bite took no time at all to reach her mouth, the flavors washing over her, eliciting a tiny wiggle of glee from the Maven. It took no time for her to realize what she was doing, her cheeks turning a subtle shade of pink though the embarrassment was short-lived.
A soft clink and her utensils were once more free of her hands, now lightly dabbing her lips and cleaning her fingers before she took up her pen once more to respond to the General's question, her swift strokes breaking what would otherwise be silence with the quiet scritch of pen to paper.
With the unrest in Ionia and the battle in Demacia, I think it would be safer to remain here for the time being. If it would not trouble you too much, I would like to stay with you, a political guest. Perhaps, if nothing else, it will keep tension between my home and yours at bay. What's more, I can think of no place safer than this at the moment, save perhaps the Institute. I do not particularly enjoy their decor, nor the memories that place holds though.
The message was crossing the table as the other mute girl returned with Sona's requested wine, making her glance over and nod in greeting. Truth be told, she had no idea the servant was also a mute, for none of the hands seemed all that likely to speak. Still, she had been the unlucky soul Sona had claimed to be the vehicle driving the plan to potentially open Swain's eyes.
A tiny flicker of impatience crossed her face as she was once again reminded of the limitations of pen and paper based conversation, already finding herself with more to say and ask. She supposed, however, that the question was one that could wait, as it hinged upon the last.
Post by Alexis 'Mute' Lindser on Apr 16, 2013 20:56:33 GMT -5
Alexis nods in return, her eyes on the ground for a moment before she remembers the Maven's wishes, and turns them up to her face. She uncorks the wine at the table, as she's been taught, and fills the crystal wine glass to its halfway point with one smooth pour. Her training is written in the efficiency of her actions, as well as the politeness with which she executes them.
Even in silence, she's able to communicate total subservience, and a willingness to carry out any wish. If she'd known of Sona's plan, it's just as likely she'd have chosen to go along with it, so long as it wouldn't take any power from the General.
Post by The Master Tactician on Apr 16, 2013 21:45:49 GMT -5
The quail placed before him, the Grand General averted his eyes, choosing to linger instead over Sona's slender hand as it scrawled her neat request--and afterwards upon the page. His fiendish familiar eyed the fresh-cooked meat from her perch upon his shoulder, but she--like the servants--was thoroughly trained to sit in silence while her master attended to business. "Of course, Maven, you are more than welcome," came the general's hoarse invitation.
A two-fingered wave of his gnarled hand accompanied his veiled command, "A suite will be prepared for you at once." Conscious of their household's queues, two maids immediately stepped forward from their posts, curtsied low and excused themselves from the dining hall, their black flats falling in perfect rhythm upon the marble.
The general brought his knuckles to his shroud and watched his guest as she relished her meal, as she cheerfully interacted with the maids. Her aura of grace and joy stood in stark contrast to the grim atmosphere of Darkbourne Hold. Rather than inspire a similar mood in Swain, it served as an ironic reminder of the gravity of recent events. Luminous eyes dimmed slightly as they fell to the table in thought.
The moment Sona was certain Swain had finished reading and replying, she set back into writing, sparing time only to give the dutiful servant a kind smile and nod while she took up her pen. Her pen seemed to move faster as the words spilled onto paper and it was made obvious in the last few words, ever so slightly messy, in contrast to her usual penmanship.
And if it is not too much trouble, I would like to request if this particular girl could assist me while I stay within your borders. The quality of her work is quite satisfactory and I am unfamiliar with the layout and exact etiquette in this building.
The Maven turned her pad around for Swain to read, gesturing to Alexis at her side while her newly freed pen hand gave her wine a quick, tiny sip. With the glass placed carefully upon the table once more, the Maven simply awaited an answer, a single long glance cast at the meals before both of them.
Post by The Master Tactician on Apr 21, 2013 15:57:46 GMT -5
"But of course," came the Grand General's rasped reply. Hands clasped before him, he waited for Alexis to read Sona's request, supplementing, "Alexis." This was perhaps the first time he had spoken her name--and with such natural imperiousness that it might cause her hair to stand on end--with the air of one accustomed to giving orders, and to having them carried out precisely. "You will attend to the Maven during her stay. See to it that she is comfortable and entertained."
His blazing eyes passed over the servant girl as she approached, bearing a flame of high expectations. With his command, it seemed to fall to Alexis to uphold the Hold's pristine reputation. Along the wall, flickers of jealousy perhaps flashed over the other girls' faces. How unfair that the new girl be selected to serve such a prestigious guest! But they remained silent, still, their hands clasped dutifully before them. "Whatever will make your stay most comfortable. You need only ask."
Post by Alexis 'Mute' Lindser on Apr 22, 2013 5:56:20 GMT -5
After offering Sona a smile in return, Alexis turns her gaze to the quickly-writing hand. The speed with which she puts down her words is impressive, greater than anything the servant could manage. Her skinny fingers are stronger than they look, but Sona's prowess is supplemented by an unknown number of years bringing music from taut strings.
"But of course, Maven. Alexis." Her name from the General surprises her somewhat- he hasn't used it before, though she understands why he does now. 'Mute' as a form of address would not be the most diplomatic in this room. Why-? Her grey eyes flicker up.
"You will attend to the Maven during her stay. See to it that she is comfortable and entertained." The expectations in his tone bring a heavy weight to Alexis' still-bony shoulders as she nods quickly. Her slim hand dips into the pocket of her apron, fetching her notepad and pencil in a single motion.
Of course, sir.
Maven, please inform me if there is anything you wish me to do, in the duration of your stay.
She places the pad on the table with a slight bow before straightening up again, and looking to Sona's face. It goes against the training of the house, but she's under the etwahlist's orders, now.
Fingers entwined with their counterparts before Sona's lips, barely managing to hide her smile, as broad and warm as it ever had been. She would have a perfect excuse now to observe Noxus in its natural element, Swain as well. Now that she'd secured an assistant, one who seemed both skilled and friendly, she could begin probing for the more important details. A quick, smiling glance at the girl, Alexis, confused Sona in the slightest.
She seemed incapable of talking, or was perhaps trained to communicate through text. It was certainly not what the Maven had expected, but it was hardly a hindrance. They would definitely have a chat about that soon, insofar as either could truly 'chat' with one another. Words would be exchanged, in some fashion.
Her attentions turned back to her meal, which she set into heartily, the beneficial outcome raising her spirits enough to set her back onto her meal, nothing pressing occurring to her in the meantime. When she sat back as if to break, she found her plate cleaned of anything resembling food, her wine glass drained of its contents, matched by what was once a glass of water.
Her hand found its voice again, quickly scribbling out a short message for her host.
How have the people been faring? I've heard that you've been industrious of late, your wall is any indication. It worries me, that perhaps you are drawing yourself in too closely. I have never seen Noxus as being a particularly withdrawn Citystate.
Post by The Master Tactician on May 1, 2013 0:38:57 GMT -5
One brow rose above the other, only slightly, in response to the familiarity of Sona's address. "Withdrawn, madame?" He shook his head, correcting, "Prepared. We are fortunate not to have an army of dead upon our shores, but Noxus has suffered her share of tragedies this year."
He clasped his hands on the table before him as the dinner plates were drawn away to make room for dessert: crème brûlée and fresh berries, a tray of delicate cookies dusted in powdered sugar. New platters replaced the old ones in seamless order, their bearers moving gracefully through the hall, as though conducting a dance. Swain's eyes remained affixed to Sona's face, burning with the flames of calculating purpose that sprung up in him at her proclamation about his country.
"Whatever storm befalls my nation with the Institute's failings, madame, we will weather." His tone was hardened, though not harsh; imperious, though not rude; grave, though not overbearing. "The unemployment rate sits under two percent. The economy flourishes. My people are proud to be Noxian again." He lifted his chin slightly, as though mildly affronted by her previous assertion. "Industrious, yes. Withdrawn? No. Noxus will reach out to those who need her." The light in his crimson eyes blazed particularly bright as he concluded, "But my country's wellbeing comes first to me--and every decision I make is to that end."
Post by Alexis 'Mute' Lindser on May 1, 2013 1:27:43 GMT -5
Alexis notices the look Sona gives her, and wonders if perhaps she hadn't communicated her muteness effectively enough. It seems she's confused by the fact that she's writing, and, well... given the silence of all of us, I can see where she might imagine it's training, rather than a condition.
Her eyes fixed on Sona's hands, Alexis doesn't nod, or smile- but it's a close call. She's proud of her leader- more so than my father, certainly. Her chest puffs up a little, despite her desire to hide her emotions in front of the General. It's not protocol to express personal things as a servant, after all.
Post by Maven of the Strings on Jun 20, 2013 16:34:36 GMT -5
The tone of the General's voice was well-composed, showing Sona exactly what he meant to communicate. He'd seen much in his years, and, regardless of his position, he would not use it to overwhelm those who didn't need intimidating. It's true that Noxus blossomed under his rule- but to hear him speak of the Institute's recent follies in such a disparaging way concerned her. It made her mission here all the more important, she felt, though speaking against him would be incredibly foolish. Calm blue eyes met with his as she wrote; the well-practiced motion of her pen on the page didn't require her attention.
/My apologies, then. I'm glad to hear it; among the other cities and their dignitaries, there have been rumors about the state of both./ The flickering sound of graphite on paper pauses as she considers her words. /You have much to be proud of here, General./
Post by The Master Tactician on Jun 23, 2013 19:59:09 GMT -5
Crimson eyes closed briefly as he gave his reply in the form of a single nod: a gruff acknowledgement of her compliment. In his mind, it was a statement of fact and did not warrant thanks. "Is there somewhere you should like to visit during your stay?" He inquired, dutifully prolonging their polite exchange until she had finished her dessert.
The conversation was beginning to wear on him, not to any real fault of present company, but because his work weighed heavy on his mind--and because the sights and smells of the table's bounty made him at once starving and nauseated. More than once during their dinner he had swallowed back the urge to gag, and now the need to vomit manifested as a nagging pressure in his core.
"An entourage and transportation can certainly be arranged, if you so desire. I shouldn't expect you'd like to spend the entirety your time in Noxus holed away here." He turned his head to cough again, his withered fist clenched before his shroud. Then drew a deep, steadying breath and leaned back in his chair, crimson eyes lowered to her pad in expectation of her scribbled answer.
Post by Maven of the Strings on Jun 24, 2013 3:27:28 GMT -5
Sona's fork cuts delicately into the burnt surface of her dessert as she writes with her other hand. /I believe I would like to visit the Ivory Ward, and perhaps the downtown, as well- though a tour of the city-state itself would be most ideal, if possible. Alexis should be all the company I'll need outside of a coachman, however./ Her lips curve in a smile to the maid, who smiles back, her silvery eyes still seeming hesitant to meet the Maven's.
The General's apparent tiredness is something that both of the women notice, but neither of them may comment on. With more speed than she ordinarily would, Sona finishes a bite of the crème brûlée, then puts her calloused hand over her mouth to draw in a long, wavering breath. It cannot be mistaken for anything but a voiceless yawn.
Post by Alexis 'Mute' Lindser on Jun 24, 2013 3:51:22 GMT -5
Alexis tries to hide her surprise at Sona's suggestion- would I really be all the company that such an important woman desires? Hopefully, her muteness wouldn't discourage the Maven. A speaking person could have half of a normal conversation, but the two of them... at least Sona could use her Etwahl to express more complex sentiments; Alexis could only hope her companion were able to read faces.
At the General's coughing, she has to fight to keep her concern from showing- it's not something she's seen before, not as often as she has tonight.
Welcome to Maelstrom, Original Characters, Summoners and Champions alike. We are a divergent setting roleplay forum for the ever-popular MOBA by Riot, League of Legends. This means we are based in Riot canon, but your characters' actions can have a real, lasting impact on the world. Together, the Maelstrom community endeavors to bring the League of Legends setting and characters to life through collaborative storytelling and meaningful development. We welcome you along for the ride.
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