Heroic Legends of Arslan
Untitled, unbeta'ed...and RB has a comma issue if anything.
Chapter 1
Disclaimers: I do not own any characters from HLoA, I am only
borrowing.
Feedback/CC welcomed.
Chapter Rating, G eventually, R
It was shortly after midday, the jolting three day ride on his weary
horse was coming to an end. Thanking every diety that ever graced
man's tongue as the last village came into view.
They had decided earlier on their return trip that they would stop
here and make themselves presentable before heading to the Palace.
There was nothing pressing to report, so the luxury of a bath and a
few tankards affordable. By nightfall they would both be sleeping in
their own comfortable beds after months chasing renegade Lithunain
soldiers across the border.
"Must be market day." Quishward mumbled, his normally booming
confidant voice dry as husk, as they veered away from the village
square to avoid the mass pileup of Noblemen, peasants and hustling
servants.
"Must be."
Reigning in the horses at the village stable Daryun slowly dismounted
as a stable boy came running. Every muscle in his thigh ached. Surely
he wasn't getting old already thinking to himself. Masking the
stiffening discomfort he felt and failing miserably.
"Brush them down and feed. Make sure they get plently of fresh
water." The stableboy silently nodded at their request as he took
their horses in hand. Daryun and Quishward headed into the crowded
inn.
"Isn't that Lord Narsus' mount?"
Glancing over Daryun followed Quishward gaze into the stable in
search of that familiar beige stallone that had served Narsus since
the beginning of the war. "Yes it is."
A low contempulating 'hmm' was all Daryun caught as he turned towards
the inn, perhaps they'd find his reclusive friend there.
"You know Daryun I have been thinking, our enemies knows of the
gigantic role Narsus played in winning this war."
"True he was legendary even before the war when his tactics won a war
for King Andragous." Quishward nodded at Daryun's statement, his lips
persed in thought. They were silent by the time they entered the inn
and made their way to a corner table.
"If you wanted to weaken a country what would be the first thing
you'd do?" Quishward seemed determined to talk about something
relating to Narsus well being.
"Well," Daryun thought a moment. "I would think I would make a go for
the highest ranking officials next to their King. Usually they are
not as guarded and I cheat when I say it because Narsus has used the
exact same tactic."
"Exactly." Quishward gave Daryun a knowing look. "When Narsus is out
he never has a guard. Maybe his servant Elam but what can a boy do if
his Master was being attacked from all sides."
"I have broached the subject with him but he just shrugs me off
saying he knows how to take care of himself." My opinion seems never
to matter to him, Daryun bit off.
"Well regardless of what Lord Narsus thinks I believe, my friend,
that Lord Narsus should not be running around outside the castle
walls without escort."
Daryun already well aware of the reception such a suggestion would
have with their freespirited Advisor. Indeed, Daryun thought, Narsus
would be whole heartedly against any such tactic preferring freedom.
But if anybody can make Narsus do something it was Arslan. After all
it was Arslan that had finally convinced Narsus to wear the Parse
uniform whenever they were out on the field.
"Well its been my experience that King Arslan has more influence on
Narsus then anyone. I don't think it is something that we should
broach with him directly."
Daryun returned to his memories as silence reigned while an
unnaturally large buxom woman served their ale. "I want to know where
all my key people are with a glance and black amongst so much gold
and red, helps." Arlsan made that degree only after Narsus had been
cutoff by the enemy while they had fought their main body, no one
missing him until he had been so worn down by injury and the enemy
preparing for the killing blow. They had barely made it to save
Narsus.
When all had been said and done Narsus had tried valantly not to let
the young Prince know that he was worse then he'd let on. He couldn't
help but remember Narsus fainting dead away into his arms from the
loss of blood. Narsus had received a slash that went from his
shoulder and angled down to his hip bone. The lower area had to be
stitched. An arrow had left its mark across his forearm. Arslan had
not left a man standing on the enemy lines that day.
"You are a friend of his?" Daryun started at the sound of Quishward's
voice so lost in memories.
Daryun shrugged. "At one time we were."
"hmmm. Then you probably couldn't tell me if Lord Narsus had a
favoring for any particular person."
"No."
"Ah well. I was thinking of asking him to the King's ball."
Asking Narsus to the ball. Daryun almost unseated himself. He looked
at his riding companion. "I had no idea you had a leaning in that
direction Quishward."
Quishward laughed loudly attracting the attention of several young
maidens scattered through out the crowded inn. Quishward interested
in Narsus!
"I have only meet one man who has given me pause Daryun and Lord
Narsus is that man. I have often found myself wondering what it would
be like to have the power to silence his sharp tongue with just a
knowing look or with my own plunged deep into his throat. Such power
is tantalizing to imagine. Honestly Daryun you can't tell me you
haven't thought of it."
No I can't. Daryun thought. "I have been rather busy Quishward
chasing down renegades."
"Excuses makes for a cold bed I say." Quishward stated dryly.
"What? You gentlemen sleeping in the barn again?" No one in the world
had a voice like the one that reached Daryun's ears. Deep yet soft.
An undertone of romanticizm behind it except of course when its owner
was being sarcastic then it became a 'bite you in the ass tone.'
"Good afternoon Lord Narsus."
"Good afternoon Generals. Mind if I join you?" Narsus eyes seemed to
linger on Daryun with a slight smile gracing his lips. If anyone
would decline Narsus company it would more then likely come from
Daryun.
"By all means. We were just discussing you." Narsus' slightly raised
eyebrow and the connection to their last statement of 'a cold bed'
not unnoticed. Quishward flushed slightly and Daryun found it hard
not to find some amusement in his look.
"Well one would think after weeks on the road you'd find something
more interesting to discuss then me. Perhaps a more interesting pass
time would be to find a way to warm a cold bed." Quishward's face
glowed a brighter red as Narsus chuckled. Seating himself in the
empty seat next to Daryun. "So how was your adventure?"
"Adventure? You sound as if you miss it."
Shrugging a slight shoulder Narsus turned to answer Daryun's
inquiry. "In a way I do. Court life can be worse then a battlefield
sometimes, no matter who is the King, the underlying politics amongst
the Noblemen are still the same."
"Like?"
"Oh hogwash like, 'The closer I am to Narsus would that get me any
closer in the King's favor?' or 'I wonder who Narsus is sleeping with
to gain his position.' I've heard it all before. Most but not all
Noblemen are rats in a race." There was a new tone to Narsus voice
that of loneliness which he tried to hide with a flashy smile.
"Well then I am glad I am a lowly General then."
"There is nothing lowly about you General Quishward." Perception is
everything, had a pair of ears overheard that comment and not knowing
the beginning of a conversation one would think Narsus was flirting
with Quishward. It was exactly how it was perceived by the dark
hair'd warrior seated next to Narsus. Daryun's chest constricted, a
cold grasp of fingers seemed to entwine around his heart making it
beat abnormally faster making him pale to Narsus innocent words. Or
were they innocent? He wondered as he watched Narsus and Quishward
exchange looks. Daryun didn't bother lying to himself as he
recognized the sharp pangs in his chest as jealousy.
About that time their table was approached, a young boy dressed in
the colors of the Royal house, in his hands he held a parchment which
he handed directly to Narsus.
Narsus seemed to drain of color himself as he stared at the paper
handed to him. It was then Daryun noticed his bandaged hand, a hand
that had been resting or had it been hidden, under the table on his
thigh.
"What have you done to yourself Narsus?"
Daryun watched as Narsus looked at his hand a frown marring his
features. "An overzealous student and my own stupidity. Which reminds
me I need to stop by the smiths to inquire of flat edged practice
blades."
"Have you had that looked after?" Daryun's nervousness and Quishward
forgotten as he leaned forward and grasped Narsus by the wrist, his
numbered years of acquintances with Narsus allowed it. He was pleased
that Narsus did not get offended by jerking his hand away. He began
to frown himself at the faint traces of blood outlined the bandage.
"It occurred yesterday morning so I am sure it will still bleed
slightly."
"Slight." Daryun inquired dryly. "If it still bleeds Narsus then it
requires stitching."
"Nonsense." It was then that Narsus tried to withdraw his hand but
Daryun did not allow it. He'd spent too many years on the battle
field not to recognize an injury not in good standing.
"You will Lord Narsus have that looked after or I will have King
Arslan do it. As for practice blades," Daryun released his wrist, "I
recommend wood."
"And then what? Deal with splinters in my students hands?" Narsus
turned and in his agitation began opening the parchment.
"Daryun is correct Narsus, you should have that checked." Quishward
decidedly made his presence known once again.
Too easily Narsus sighed in relentment, "Fine gentlemen. I will have
it looked after as soon as I return."
Daryun knew that Narsus' preoccupation with the parchment had made it
too easy to get him to agree with anything he'd said. It was then he
became observant. Faint shadows under emerald eyes, a slight shake of
a hand which was only noticeable when his hand was still.
"And when my I ask will that be Lord Narsus?"
Noting Narsus frowning again, Daryun wondered if it had anything to
do with what was in his hand. "Well will know in a minute my friend."
Daryun and Quishward politely waited as Narsus rushed through the
missive. It had been sealed by the King's own insigna. Slowly a rare
geninue smile graced Narsus beautiful features. "Well gentlemen it
would seem that I'm a proud father of a three year old daughter."
"A father?"
"Yes. As of this morning. I have been waiting on this missive. Arslan
has approved." Turning to the Lady-in-waiting that mysteriously
appeared behind the courier. "My name is Beth your Lordship. I have
been sent by King Arslan, with your permission, to assist in anyway I
can."
"Splendid. There is much to do." Turning to Daryun and Quishward, "I
promise to explain later but for now if you'll excuse me gentlemen I
have a daughter that needs tending."
Quishward turned an expectant look at Daryun after Narsus'
departure, "Any clue?"
"It would seem that Narsus has adopted an orphan." It was no secret
that Narsus had a large heart when it came to children, he was a
natural with them. "When Narsus had found Elam, he had wanted to
adopt him but King Andragous would not approve. He stated that the
child was well below his Lordship status.
"Ahh. I am happy for him."
"As I." Daryun gave a shadow of a smile as his eyes followed Narsus
across the room.
"Well then, all the more for our argument in regards to Narsus'
safety."
"Very true."
Chapter 1
Disclaimers: I do not own any characters from HLoA, I am only
borrowing.
Feedback/CC welcomed.
Chapter Rating, G eventually, R
It was shortly after midday, the jolting three day ride on his weary
horse was coming to an end. Thanking every diety that ever graced
man's tongue as the last village came into view.
They had decided earlier on their return trip that they would stop
here and make themselves presentable before heading to the Palace.
There was nothing pressing to report, so the luxury of a bath and a
few tankards affordable. By nightfall they would both be sleeping in
their own comfortable beds after months chasing renegade Lithunain
soldiers across the border.
"Must be market day." Quishward mumbled, his normally booming
confidant voice dry as husk, as they veered away from the village
square to avoid the mass pileup of Noblemen, peasants and hustling
servants.
"Must be."
Reigning in the horses at the village stable Daryun slowly dismounted
as a stable boy came running. Every muscle in his thigh ached. Surely
he wasn't getting old already thinking to himself. Masking the
stiffening discomfort he felt and failing miserably.
"Brush them down and feed. Make sure they get plently of fresh
water." The stableboy silently nodded at their request as he took
their horses in hand. Daryun and Quishward headed into the crowded
inn.
"Isn't that Lord Narsus' mount?"
Glancing over Daryun followed Quishward gaze into the stable in
search of that familiar beige stallone that had served Narsus since
the beginning of the war. "Yes it is."
A low contempulating 'hmm' was all Daryun caught as he turned towards
the inn, perhaps they'd find his reclusive friend there.
"You know Daryun I have been thinking, our enemies knows of the
gigantic role Narsus played in winning this war."
"True he was legendary even before the war when his tactics won a war
for King Andragous." Quishward nodded at Daryun's statement, his lips
persed in thought. They were silent by the time they entered the inn
and made their way to a corner table.
"If you wanted to weaken a country what would be the first thing
you'd do?" Quishward seemed determined to talk about something
relating to Narsus well being.
"Well," Daryun thought a moment. "I would think I would make a go for
the highest ranking officials next to their King. Usually they are
not as guarded and I cheat when I say it because Narsus has used the
exact same tactic."
"Exactly." Quishward gave Daryun a knowing look. "When Narsus is out
he never has a guard. Maybe his servant Elam but what can a boy do if
his Master was being attacked from all sides."
"I have broached the subject with him but he just shrugs me off
saying he knows how to take care of himself." My opinion seems never
to matter to him, Daryun bit off.
"Well regardless of what Lord Narsus thinks I believe, my friend,
that Lord Narsus should not be running around outside the castle
walls without escort."
Daryun already well aware of the reception such a suggestion would
have with their freespirited Advisor. Indeed, Daryun thought, Narsus
would be whole heartedly against any such tactic preferring freedom.
But if anybody can make Narsus do something it was Arslan. After all
it was Arslan that had finally convinced Narsus to wear the Parse
uniform whenever they were out on the field.
"Well its been my experience that King Arslan has more influence on
Narsus then anyone. I don't think it is something that we should
broach with him directly."
Daryun returned to his memories as silence reigned while an
unnaturally large buxom woman served their ale. "I want to know where
all my key people are with a glance and black amongst so much gold
and red, helps." Arlsan made that degree only after Narsus had been
cutoff by the enemy while they had fought their main body, no one
missing him until he had been so worn down by injury and the enemy
preparing for the killing blow. They had barely made it to save
Narsus.
When all had been said and done Narsus had tried valantly not to let
the young Prince know that he was worse then he'd let on. He couldn't
help but remember Narsus fainting dead away into his arms from the
loss of blood. Narsus had received a slash that went from his
shoulder and angled down to his hip bone. The lower area had to be
stitched. An arrow had left its mark across his forearm. Arslan had
not left a man standing on the enemy lines that day.
"You are a friend of his?" Daryun started at the sound of Quishward's
voice so lost in memories.
Daryun shrugged. "At one time we were."
"hmmm. Then you probably couldn't tell me if Lord Narsus had a
favoring for any particular person."
"No."
"Ah well. I was thinking of asking him to the King's ball."
Asking Narsus to the ball. Daryun almost unseated himself. He looked
at his riding companion. "I had no idea you had a leaning in that
direction Quishward."
Quishward laughed loudly attracting the attention of several young
maidens scattered through out the crowded inn. Quishward interested
in Narsus!
"I have only meet one man who has given me pause Daryun and Lord
Narsus is that man. I have often found myself wondering what it would
be like to have the power to silence his sharp tongue with just a
knowing look or with my own plunged deep into his throat. Such power
is tantalizing to imagine. Honestly Daryun you can't tell me you
haven't thought of it."
No I can't. Daryun thought. "I have been rather busy Quishward
chasing down renegades."
"Excuses makes for a cold bed I say." Quishward stated dryly.
"What? You gentlemen sleeping in the barn again?" No one in the world
had a voice like the one that reached Daryun's ears. Deep yet soft.
An undertone of romanticizm behind it except of course when its owner
was being sarcastic then it became a 'bite you in the ass tone.'
"Good afternoon Lord Narsus."
"Good afternoon Generals. Mind if I join you?" Narsus eyes seemed to
linger on Daryun with a slight smile gracing his lips. If anyone
would decline Narsus company it would more then likely come from
Daryun.
"By all means. We were just discussing you." Narsus' slightly raised
eyebrow and the connection to their last statement of 'a cold bed'
not unnoticed. Quishward flushed slightly and Daryun found it hard
not to find some amusement in his look.
"Well one would think after weeks on the road you'd find something
more interesting to discuss then me. Perhaps a more interesting pass
time would be to find a way to warm a cold bed." Quishward's face
glowed a brighter red as Narsus chuckled. Seating himself in the
empty seat next to Daryun. "So how was your adventure?"
"Adventure? You sound as if you miss it."
Shrugging a slight shoulder Narsus turned to answer Daryun's
inquiry. "In a way I do. Court life can be worse then a battlefield
sometimes, no matter who is the King, the underlying politics amongst
the Noblemen are still the same."
"Like?"
"Oh hogwash like, 'The closer I am to Narsus would that get me any
closer in the King's favor?' or 'I wonder who Narsus is sleeping with
to gain his position.' I've heard it all before. Most but not all
Noblemen are rats in a race." There was a new tone to Narsus voice
that of loneliness which he tried to hide with a flashy smile.
"Well then I am glad I am a lowly General then."
"There is nothing lowly about you General Quishward." Perception is
everything, had a pair of ears overheard that comment and not knowing
the beginning of a conversation one would think Narsus was flirting
with Quishward. It was exactly how it was perceived by the dark
hair'd warrior seated next to Narsus. Daryun's chest constricted, a
cold grasp of fingers seemed to entwine around his heart making it
beat abnormally faster making him pale to Narsus innocent words. Or
were they innocent? He wondered as he watched Narsus and Quishward
exchange looks. Daryun didn't bother lying to himself as he
recognized the sharp pangs in his chest as jealousy.
About that time their table was approached, a young boy dressed in
the colors of the Royal house, in his hands he held a parchment which
he handed directly to Narsus.
Narsus seemed to drain of color himself as he stared at the paper
handed to him. It was then Daryun noticed his bandaged hand, a hand
that had been resting or had it been hidden, under the table on his
thigh.
"What have you done to yourself Narsus?"
Daryun watched as Narsus looked at his hand a frown marring his
features. "An overzealous student and my own stupidity. Which reminds
me I need to stop by the smiths to inquire of flat edged practice
blades."
"Have you had that looked after?" Daryun's nervousness and Quishward
forgotten as he leaned forward and grasped Narsus by the wrist, his
numbered years of acquintances with Narsus allowed it. He was pleased
that Narsus did not get offended by jerking his hand away. He began
to frown himself at the faint traces of blood outlined the bandage.
"It occurred yesterday morning so I am sure it will still bleed
slightly."
"Slight." Daryun inquired dryly. "If it still bleeds Narsus then it
requires stitching."
"Nonsense." It was then that Narsus tried to withdraw his hand but
Daryun did not allow it. He'd spent too many years on the battle
field not to recognize an injury not in good standing.
"You will Lord Narsus have that looked after or I will have King
Arslan do it. As for practice blades," Daryun released his wrist, "I
recommend wood."
"And then what? Deal with splinters in my students hands?" Narsus
turned and in his agitation began opening the parchment.
"Daryun is correct Narsus, you should have that checked." Quishward
decidedly made his presence known once again.
Too easily Narsus sighed in relentment, "Fine gentlemen. I will have
it looked after as soon as I return."
Daryun knew that Narsus' preoccupation with the parchment had made it
too easy to get him to agree with anything he'd said. It was then he
became observant. Faint shadows under emerald eyes, a slight shake of
a hand which was only noticeable when his hand was still.
"And when my I ask will that be Lord Narsus?"
Noting Narsus frowning again, Daryun wondered if it had anything to
do with what was in his hand. "Well will know in a minute my friend."
Daryun and Quishward politely waited as Narsus rushed through the
missive. It had been sealed by the King's own insigna. Slowly a rare
geninue smile graced Narsus beautiful features. "Well gentlemen it
would seem that I'm a proud father of a three year old daughter."
"A father?"
"Yes. As of this morning. I have been waiting on this missive. Arslan
has approved." Turning to the Lady-in-waiting that mysteriously
appeared behind the courier. "My name is Beth your Lordship. I have
been sent by King Arslan, with your permission, to assist in anyway I
can."
"Splendid. There is much to do." Turning to Daryun and Quishward, "I
promise to explain later but for now if you'll excuse me gentlemen I
have a daughter that needs tending."
Quishward turned an expectant look at Daryun after Narsus'
departure, "Any clue?"
"It would seem that Narsus has adopted an orphan." It was no secret
that Narsus had a large heart when it came to children, he was a
natural with them. "When Narsus had found Elam, he had wanted to
adopt him but King Andragous would not approve. He stated that the
child was well below his Lordship status.
"Ahh. I am happy for him."
"As I." Daryun gave a shadow of a smile as his eyes followed Narsus
across the room.
"Well then, all the more for our argument in regards to Narsus'
safety."
"Very true."