This scene immediately follows after "A Handful of Flowers". These small introductions are getting repetitive, so I'll start keeping them short after this one. Thanks to everyone who has been providing constructive feedback, it has really helped me a lot in making the stories better, as well as improving my writing as a whole. Please continue to provide feedback, as always!
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Kismet returned to Delphi’s room and knocked on the door, the cavalilies hidden by her side. “Delphi? It’s Kismet.”
Helen, Delphi’s handmaid, continued tending to the room when she answered, “The princess isn’t here right now.”
“Know where she is?” asked Kismet. The sound of footsteps clomped behind her. Kismet spun around and saw Delphi entering the sitting room. “Nevermind.”
Kismet stepped toward the young princess, whose hair was still down and damp from her bath. “Hey, Delphi. Feeling a little better?”
Delphi continued walking toward her room as she replied disappointedly, “Where did you go? I was looking for you.”
“You said you wanted to be left alone.”
The two entered the bedroom and walked to the full-length standing mirror with a wreath border. “When someone tells you to leave them alone, what they really mean is they want someone to comfort them!”
Helen draped a folded towel over the armrest of the chair beside the mirror, and closed the door behind her as she left the room. Kismet grabbed the towel and began drying Delphi’s golden hair one section at a time. “Oh? You mean like last time, when it just made things worse?”
“That…that was different, okay?”
Kismet chuckled. “Well, I decided to go out for a walk, and I was worried about you, so…”
Kismet brandished the bundle of cavalilies hidden at the back of her leather belt. Delphi slowly took the flowers in her hands, a bittersweet smile crossing her face. Kismet could see envy in her eyes, as she caressed a petal with her finger without saying a word.
“I know you would’ve rather picked them yourself.”
“It’s okay. At least now I can give some to Father. Thank you, Kismet,” replied Delphi, with a gentle embrace.
King Marcus, adorned in a red silk robe with silver embroidery, stood at the birdcages in the garden, listening to their song. Delphi approached her father while Kismet stood at a respectable distance, as she always did. “Father, I have something for you.”
“Ah, cavalillies. My favorite.”
Marcus closed his eyes, his whole body relaxing as he breathed in their sweet fragrance. “They’re absolutely beautiful. Thank you, Delphi.”
The king gestured for his daughter to sit with him on the nearby wooden bench. He set the flowers aside and placed his hand atop Delphi’s. He gave a small frown, partially hidden behind his neatly trimmed full-beard. “I thought you weren’t able to pick any before Sara brought you back.”
Delphi was surprised, and a little confused. “Wh—how’d you know?”
“Your mother told me when I spoke with her earlier. You know very well that you’re not supposed to leave the castle without our permission.”
“But Kismet was with me. Lydia always gets to leave with Nakita,” argued Delphi.
“Yes, but Kismet isn’t a member of the Royal Guard,” explained Marcus.
“But I’m going to pick Kismet to be mine anyway.”
“A member of the Royal Guard must be with you, that is the rule. We can’t risk having anything happen to you, Delphi. You’re still too young.”
“But Lydia has been able to leave the castle ever since she was ten. I’m older than that and I still can’t,” stated Delphi, her voice becoming louder with frustration.
“That is true, but we need to be more careful with you. Your lessons must come first, so that way you can become a fine Queen once I step down. Once you’ve finished with your studies, you’ll be able to leave the castle whenever you want,” encouraged Marcus, comforting Delphi in his arms.
Delphi gave up arguing with a frown. The king gestured for Kismet to come closer. “Kismet, I appreciate how you’ve always been by Delphi’s side, but that also means you need to know when to put her safety first. After all, rules are in place for a reason. And now that you’re a soldier, you really need to start showing some more discipline, especially if you wish to become Delphi’s bodyguard. You understand?”
Kismet nodded. “Yes, Your Majesty. I’m sorry.”
Marcus continued. “I trust you enough for the position, and you know that, but others won’t be as supportive. You have to prove yourself, beyond doubt, that you deserve that position.”
A messenger spoke before Kismet had a chance to reply, “Pardon my intrusion, Your Majesty. I’ve been sent to inform Kismet that General Devin has called for her. He said to report to the castle gates for her next assignment.”
The messenger bowed before the three, then took his leave. The king placed his hand on Kismet’s shoulder. “Don’t disappoint us, Kismet. Show everyone that our trust wasn’t misplaced.”
Kismet nodded. “Yes, Your Majesty.”
She quickly hugged Delphi and gave a small lick to the cheek before she left the garden.
First: Kismet vs. Bandits, Scene v1
Previous: A Handful of Flowers, Scene v1
Next: The Silhouette, Scene v1
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
A Gift for Father, Scene v1
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
A Handful of Flowers, Scene v1
This scene follows "The Great Outdoors", introducing a few new characters. As always, please leave comments and feedback!
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Sara began to walk off until Kismet’s skin crawled at the sound of the Queen’s yelling. “Where in heaven’s name have you been, Delphi?”
Queen Natalia and Princess Lydia entered the courtyard. The Queen scowled at Delphi and Kismet, with Lydia walking by her side. Natalia glared at the grass stains and dirt that defiled Delphi’s embroidered, white dress. “Look at you, you’re filthy!"
Sara grinned. “I found these two just on the other side of the river, Your Highness.”
The vein on Queen Natalia’s temple sprouted into view. “What? You left the castle?”
Delphi shrank behind Kismet. “I-I just wanted to pick some flowers for Father…”
Lydia watched indifferently, as her mother continued scolding and gesturing wildly. “Flowers? You left the castle for some flowers? Don’t you realize how dangerous it is out there? What if you were attacked by wild animals; or kidnapped? Honestly, sometimes I just don’t know what to do with you. First your studies, and now this?”
The residents of the castle continued about their business and forced themselves to ignore the spectacle. The furious Queen redirected her anger toward Kismet. “And you!”
Natalia slapped Kismet across the face. “Just what were you thinking? You’re supposed to protect her, not help her break the rules. And you want to become her personal guard?”
“Useless cat, just be thankful King Marcus is more forgiving when it comes to Delphi,” concluded Natalia, as she stormed off.
Sara left the scene, frowning in disappointment. Lydia shook her head at Delphi with a sigh. “My dear sister, such a simple rule yet you still ignored it. Rules are in place for a reason, you know.”
“Why is it only me that has to stay? Why can everyone else leave but I can’t?” questioned Delphi.
Lydia’s mouth twitched. She pondered a moment before replying, struggling to maintain her composure. “Complaining won’t change anything. You’re obviously still too immature to have the right to leave the castle. If you want to leave the castle so much, why don’t you try doing the things you’re supposed to, and earn the right? I swear; it’s as though you enjoy being a disappointment to Mother.”
Tears welled up in Delphi’s eyes. Kismet placed her hand on Delphi’s shoulder sympathetically. Delphi sobbed then ran off. Kismet snarled at Lydia. “Have you no shame?”
Lydia glared at Kismet. “Me? If I’m not mistaken, you’re the one trying to become a member of the Royal Guard. Even then, you still go about assisting my sister in sneaking out of the castle.”
The princess closed her eyes with an arrogant smirk as she continued. “You’re lucky, Kismet. If any other soldier did what you did they would’ve been discharged on the spot, if not worse, yet here you still are. If it weren’t for
Father’s kindness, you would’ve been left out in the wild, living off of scraps and being chased by hunters. So, try to show a little more respect. It’s bad enough that merely having you around has damaged our reputation.”
Kismet restrained herself as Lydia took her leave. The frustrated Cathera searched the castle for the saddened princess. Delphi sobbed in the confines of her room as
Kismet knocked on the door. “Delphi—”
“Leave me alone…”
Kismet gazed sympathetically at the bedroom door, wracking through her mind for a way to cheer Delphi up. A little disappointed, all that came to mind was to pick some cavalillies for the young princess, but it was better than doing nothing.
Wasting no time, Kismet quickly treaded across the bridge to the cavalily patch. The sound of terrified sobs and quick footsteps drew her attention away from the flower patch. In the distance, she spotted a little girl attempting to climb a tree, with three wolves closing in from a distance. Seeing no other option, Kismet sprinted to girls aid and called out to the girl to draw wolves’ attention. “Don’t worry, I’m coming!”
The little girl, too frightened to respond, trembled uncontrollably as she shuddered behind the tree. Two of the wolves snapped their heads and began surrounding Kismet, while the last one continued approaching the child. She watched the wolves intently, while inching toward the girl, ready to react. The wolves growled at her, as the positioned themselves to attack. One of the two wolves lunged at Kismet’s leg. She quickly countered its attack by jumping off its head. The wolf chasing the cowering child dashed toward its prey. Kismet swiftly threw one of the several throwing knives fastened onto the leather band on her thigh, striking the wolf in its side. The wolf fell in front of the terrified child, struggling against the pain to rise back to its feet. It ran away as the second wolf near Kismet attempted to bite her arm but she evaded the attack and swiped at the wolf’s torso with her claws, leaving deep scratches. The wolf whimpered in pain, signaling the pack’s retreat.
Kismet rushed over to the little girl who was shaking uncontrollably behind the tree. “Are you alright?”
Although the wolves were gone, the sight of the foreign cat-human left the little girl uneasy.
“Don’t worry, I won’t hurt you.”
The girl hesitated. A woman’s voice called out from the distance, catching the girls attention and calming her down.
Kismet offered her hand. “It’s okay.”
The child eyed the fur-covered hand with uncertainty. With a trembling hand, she slowly placed hers on top of Kismet’s soft, leathery palm. Kismet gently held the girls hand, and eased her away from the tree.
“You’re not hurt, are you?” asked Kismet, as rushed footsteps approached.
A disheveled woman with long, dark-brown hair, dressed in a ragged dress ran up calling, “Lita! Lita!”
The little girl ran into her mother’s open arms. The woman sobbed with relief. “Oh, my precious little girl…Don’t you ever run off like that again!”
Lita hugged her mother back and replied with a muffled voice, “Sorry, Mommy…”
Lita’s mother looked up slowly at Kismet, who watched from a few yards away. She quickly pulled her daughter away, never taking her eyes off Kismet. Her glare pierced through Kismet’s heart. “Stay away! What have you done to Lita?”
Kismet took a step forward and tried to calm her, “Please, calm dow—“
“Stay back!”
Kismet froze in her tracks. She watched Lita gaze back at her, confused at her mother’s reaction toward the one who rescued her. Lita squirmed out of her mother’s arms then ran up to Kismet.
“Lita!” cried her mother.
Lita opened her satchel and pulled out a handful of cavalillies. Her mother watched, paralyzed with anxiety. Lita offered the vibrant, white flowers with a smile that warmed Kismet’s soul and left her speechless. Apart from Delphi, no one has ever given her a gift, much less given her such acceptance. Her hands trembled when she took the flowers from Lita. Kismet stood there, frozen, as she watched Lita leave along side her mother, the child’s glimmering brown eyes still glued on her feline savior.
First: Kismet vs. Bandits, Scene v1
Previous: The Great Outdoors, Scene v1
Next: A Gift for Father, Scene v1
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Kismet vs. Bandits, Picture vFinal
Here it is! The finished product of the picture my brother has been working on for me! This is a shrunken down version.
Artist: Jason Chan (www.jasonchanart.com)
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Great Outdoors, Scene v1
This scene immediately follows "Delphi in the Gardens". Hopefully it gives a better idea of the different personalities of the characters and their relationships. Let me know what you think!
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With hooded cloaks Delphi and Kismet stepped out of the hidden stone passage into the late morning sun. Kismet lent a hand, and helped Delphi out of the passage hidden amongst the side of a rocky hill. Delphi shielded her eyes from the sun as she lowered her hood. She gazed out over the woods at the base of the hidden trail.
“Wow—” exhaled Delphi in awe. “It’s so beautiful!”
Delphi hugged onto Kismet’s arm as they strolled down the path carved into the hillside. Kismet couldn’t help but watch Delphi beam with excitement. The pair weaved through the loosely wooded base of the hillside. As they reached the narrow river, Delphi squatted down and gazed into the water. Her eyes followed a small school of fish swimming in the river. The sparkles in Delphi’s eyes put Kismet’s heart at ease, but she knew their time was limited.
“Come here.”
Delphi rose to her feet and followed Kismet to the bank of a shallow portion of the river. Kismet quickly swept Delphi off her feet, making her shriek with surprise. Delphi squirmed as Kismet stepped into the water.
“Kismet! What are you doing? P-Put me down!” cried Delphi.
“Calm down. If you keep doing that I might drop you.”
“Go back! You know I can’t swim!” she pleaded.
“You’ll be fine, I promise.”
Delphi screamed and whimpered as Kismet raised her above her head. Trembling with fear, Delphi glanced at Kismet below her, who was up to her chest in water, then quickly looked away and closed her eyes tightly. The chilled, autumn water flowed slowly, but strongly around Kismet as she treaded through the river. Upon reaching the riverbank, Kismet lowered Delphi to the ground. Delphi stumbled on her feet then pounded Kismet’s chest.
“Don’t ever do that again!” she scolded with tear-stung eyes, still trembling.
“Okay, okay, I’m sorry! But it's not like we could've taken the bridge; someone would've seen you,” she replied with a playful smile.
Delphi turned away and pouted, stomping ahead. Kismet looked back at the river and noticed a wispy, black silhouette gliding downstream. She stared at it intently but is unable to make out what it is.
Delphi turned around. “Are you coming or what?”
Kismet slowly peeled her eyes away and caught up to Delphi’s side. Delphi forcefully gripped Kismet’s hand and pulled her along. Delphi’s mood brightened as they passed by squirrels and rabbits that scurried through the brush. She curiously chased after anything that moved with a large grin on her face. Kismet smiled as she watched the young princess happier than she had ever seen her before.
Their fun ended with the sound of crunching leaves. Kismet gently placed her hand on Delphi’s shoulder. Another snap broke the silence. Kismet’s eyes locked onto the source. The tabard of the Imperial Army, the loosely, but fashionably tied back light-brown hair, the ever-so-loved figure of the ever-so-popular archer, was that of the last person she wanted to see.
“Well, well, well. Look what we have here!”
“Sara,” Kismet growled.
“And what may you be doing out here? Kidnapping someone for a midday snack?”
Delphi peeked out from behind Kismet.
Sara sighed. “Princess? You know you’re not allowed outside of the castle.”
Delphi looked away in disappointment. Sara struggled to hold back her smirk after having thought about the punishment Kismet would receive from helping Delphi leave the castle.
“I just wanted to pick some cavalillies for Father,” explained Delphi.
“But to come out here yourself? You could’ve just sent someone else to pick them for you.”
The young princess’ expression saddened. “I wanted to pick them myself...”
“I’m sorry, Princess, but it’s too dangerous for you to be wandering around. I’m going to have to escort you back to the castle,” stated Sara.
“Please, they shouldn’t be far from here!” pleaded Delphi.
Kismet glared at Sara. “Just let her pick some flowers.”
Sara grinned evilly at Kismet as she continued talking to Delphi. “As much as I want to let you, I’m afraid I can’t. You know very well that you shouldn’t even be out here. Just be glad that I won’t go telling anyone I saw you out here. Your mother would be furious. Now, let’s take you back.”
Delphi trailed behind the Sara, gloomily. With her chin held high, and a grin on her face, Sara marched in front toward the bridge downstream. Kismet grabbed Sara’s shoulder as they kept pace. “What’s wrong with you?”
“What?” replied Sara, mockingly.
“Is your heart really so cold that you can’t let her pick a few flowers first?”
Sara violently pushed Kismet’s hand away. “Hey, don’t blame me. I’m just following the rules. She shouldn’t even be outside of the castle in the first place.”
Kismet snarled. “Don’t give me that crap. It wouldn’t have taken more than ten minutes to grab some.”
“Rules are rules, Kismet, and the Princess broke them. She’s spoiled enough as it is, and I won’t be one to encourage it. Think of denying her flowers as a sort of punishment, although that hardly compares to what would happen if people in the castle were to find out.”
Kismet emitted a low growl, slowing her pace to the side of a saddened Delphi. “I’m sorry, Delphi; I’ll collect some for you later.”
“But I wanted to pick them myself.”
“I know, and I’m sorry. I should’ve noticed Sara sooner so we could’ve avoided her.”
Delphi continued staring at the ground ahead as they approached the hidden passage back to the castle. The three reached the main courtyard when Sara broke the silence, “It seems you two squeezed by this time. I suggest you wise up and not press your luck again.”
Sara began to walk off until Kismet’s skin crawled at the sound of the Queen’s yelling. “Where in heaven’s name have you been, Delphi?”
First: Kismet vs. Bandits, Scene v1
Previous: Delphi in the Gardens, Scene v1
Next: A Handful of Flowers, Scene v1
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Delphi in the Gardens, Scene v1
Here is the scene immediately following Kismet vs. Bandits. This scene introduces Delphi and her relationship with Kismet. As always, please feel free to leave comments.
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The castle garden bathed in the morning sun, emitting a warm and gentle glow. The soothing sound of trickling water filled the air, accompanied by Princess Delphi’s soft song. Her long, white silken dress glistened in the light, as she sat on the fountain side pulling petals from a flower and tossed them into the water. Kismet felt her troubles wash away as the sweet fragrance of the garden filled her lungs, and the beautiful voice of the young princess calmed her soul.
Kismet couldn’t help but smile as she walked up to her dearest, and only, friend. Her paws treaded lightly on the walkway. Delphi stood abruptly, her hand drawn back to her chest. Seeing the fur-hide she knew so well, the long auburn hair she groomed so often, and the feline face she had always loved, Delphi knew that it was none other than her very own Kismet.
“You scared me, Kismet!” said Delphi with a smile. “Stop sneaking up on me like that. I hardly even heard you walk in.”
“Sorry, your singing was so relaxing, I didn’t want to interrupt,” replied Kismet as she sat next to Delphi on the fountain.
“You know it embarrasses me when people listen to me sing!” said Delphi, playfully shoving Kismet’s arm.
Kismet flinched. “A—are you hurt? I’m so sorry!” said Delphi, startled.
“I’m fine. It’s nothing to worry about,” insisted Kismet, as Delphi inspected the wound, which had almost fully healed.
The young princess pulled out a handkerchief, dipped it into the fountain, and began cleaning the blood off Kismet’s arm. “But it looks like it really hurts.”
“Don’t worry so much. It’s really not that bad.”
“I really wish you didn’t join the military and would just stay in the castle with me. Every time you leave I get so worried.”
Kismet gave Delphi a comforting smile. “You know I have to if I’m to become your personal guard, since you can only select someone from the military.”
“I know, but I won't be turning sixteen for almost a year. Couldn’t you wait until then, just before I get to pick?”
Kismet laughed. “People already don’t like the idea that you want to pick me. We don’t even know if they’d let you. I just hope that I can earn at least a little trust before the time comes, so that you actually can.”
Delphi hugged Kismet tightly. “I guess you’re right. But I still don’t like it. What if something happens to you?”
Kismet returned her embrace warmly. “I’ll be fine, I promise.”
The trickling of the fountain pierced the silence. Delphi rested her head on Kismet’s shoulder. “So, tell me! I’ve seen so many beautiful paintings. Is it really like that out there?”
“Apart from city life, it really is beautiful. The sweet scent of the trees swaying in the wind, the refreshing taste of a fresh stream, it makes me feel…at peace. But the outside life is in no way similar to how it is in the castle; I doubt you’d like it.”
“It’s because it’s so different that I’m so interested! All my life I’ve been stuck here. It’s been nine years since I’ve last left the castle.”
“The day you found me on the river bank.”
Delphi nodded. “Even then, I hardly remember what it was like, and it was with my family and the guards. To travel and see what life is like on the outside—even if it’s just for a little…”
After a moment of thought, Delphi leaned on Kismet’s knees excitedly with her hands. “Say, would you do me a favor?”
“Hah!” Kismet gave her a suspicious eye. “I can guess what you’re thinking, and you know very well that I can’t.”
Delphi frowned. “Aww! Please, Kismet? I only wanted to pick some cavalilies for Father. Karen told me she saw a patch growing on the other side of the river.”
Kismet sympathetically placed her hands on top of Delphi’s. “You know you’re not allowed to leave the castle without your parent’s permission.”
“I know, but it shouldn’t be far. We’d be back before anyone would notice I’m gone. Besides, you’ll be there to protect me!” Delphi looked at Kismet with sad eyes. “Please, just this once? For me?”
Kismet shook her head with a sigh. “Fine. Just this once. If anyone finds out, I’m going to lose my hide for this.”
Delphi cheered. She bounced with excitement and hugged Kismet tightly. Kismet flinched. “Oww! Calm down, you’re hurting my arm!”
Delphi jumped back in embarrassment. “Oops! Sorry, I’m just so excited!”
She quickly grabbed Kismet by the hand and began pulling her along. “Let’s go, let’s go!”
Kismet chuckled, “Alright, alright, just calm down!”
First: Kismet vs. Bandits, Scene v1
Next: The Great Outdoors, Scene v1
Monday, December 15, 2008
Kismet vs. Bandits, Scene v1
Here is the written scene for the picture my brother has been working on for me. Please leave comments on what you liked or disliked about the scene. Also, feel free to suggest changes, or what to add/remove.
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The dawn sky appeared as if stained with blood, casting an eerie red glow over the woods. Birds greeted the morning sun, filling the air with their morning chatter. Kismet peered at the bandit camp in the distance with her yellow cat eyes. Her tail waved with excitement, tapping Sara’s face as three more bandits enter the camp...
Sara flinched away, glaring at Kismet. “Mind moving your tail out of my face, you fur-faced freak?”
Kismet’s feline ears twitched as Sara’s hisses disrupted her focus. She squinted in annoyance and whipped Sara’s face once more with her tail before calming it. Sara snarled with anger and reached out to strike Kismet.
General Devin restrained her arm with a forceful grip. “Deal with it later on your own time. You have an assignment to focus on.”
Sara snapped her arm back reluctantly, and resumed watching the bandits below, mumbling to herself. Devin rolled his eyes and glared behind him at General Raze, who perched herself atop a tree root, watching amusedly. Devin backed away from the ledge. “It seems the stolen jewels have arrived at the camp. Lucas and Kismet, sneak around to the storage tent and recover the jewels. Sara, position yourself so you can provide assistance if necessary.”
Sara waved her hand in front of her face, “Yeah, yeah, I know.”
Devin sighed at Sara, “Go now, the patrol is leaving the camp. We’ll be observing from here.”
The three recruits headed toward their positions. Raze walked to Devin’s side, both watching the three first-timers descend the hillside. “Is this your idea of some sort of payback?” asked Devin.
Raze chuckled. “Maybe.”
“I still don’t understand. You just had to give me these three, didn’t you?”
She smirked. “I have my reasons.”
Devin, rather curious to Raze’s reasoning, began thinking aloud. “Sara I can maybe see, since she’s proven herself to be the greatest marksman around since last decade, but let’s face it, her personality is impossible to deal with. Not only that, but forcing her and Kismet to work side-by-side? Anyone can see that’ll cause a world of problems.”
“A perfect way to test their determination, is it not?”
Devin laughed. “You really are a sadist, aren’t you? Alright, how do you explain Lucas then? He’s definitely not an ideal candidate.”
Raze turned her attention back to the trio cautiously descending the slope. “I guess I really am a sadist.”
The three recruits came to a stop and reassessed the situation after descending halfway down the hillside.
“The Great Goddess must enjoy watching me suffer, placing me in the same squad as your sorry hide,” snorted Sara. “Why don’t you go back to fawning over Princess Delphi like you always do?”
Lucas watched Kismet nervously as she grit her teeth. Kismet exhaled heavily. “Let’s go, Lucas.”
Kismet and Lucas darted off toward the rear of the camp while Sara crouched in waiting. As they approached the camp, Kismet and Lucas slowed their pace, stepping lightly around loose brush. Sneaking behind the patrol, they reached the storage tent. Kismet crept behind the guard, and snapped his neck with one swift motion. She quickly dragged his body out of sight as Lucas slipped inside the tent. He flinched when he saw another bandit inside who was hunched over a small table, sifting through the stolen jewels.
Oblivious to who actually entered, the bandit continued his inspection. “Hey, come take a look at this ‘ere diamond. It looks kinda fake to me, wha’ d’ya think?”
Lucas remained silent, trembling as he slowly inched his way closer. The bandit turned around slowly, calling out behind him, “’ey, you hear me?”
Panicking, Lucas drew his sword and lunged forward. Seeing his attacker through the corner of his eye, the bandit instinctively rolled to the side. A thin line of blood sailed through the air as the cold, steel blade sliced the bandit’s arm. The stolen jewels shower over the floor as Lucas lost his footing and crashed into the table.
The bandit stared wide-eyed at Lucas as he backs against the tent wall, grasping his wound. “Empire!”
A blood-curdling scream pierced the air as Lucas’ blade pierced the bandit’s heart. Bandits throughout the camp rushed out of their tents toward the scream with blades in hand. Crouching out of sight, Kismet swore under her breath with frustration at Lucas’ carelessness. Peering around the corner, Kismet waited for her moment as two bandits approach the tent, with archers at the ready across the camp. The bandits close in on the tent as Lucas scrambled about, picking the jewels off the floor.
Kismet pounced on the nearest bandit, causing his head to slam against the ground, which rendered him unconscious. The second bandit panicked at the sight of the feline body before him, unsure whether to fight or run. Kismet wrung the confused bandit’s arm behind him, spinning him around as arrows were sent flying in her direction. The bandit screamed out in pain as arrows pierced his body, one of which penetrated through his arm and into Kismet’s.
The enemy archers became distracted when birds took flight from the trees to the West. An arrow pierced through the sky and killed one of them, sending the rest into a panic. Kismet yelled into the tent, “What the hell is taking you so long? Are you trying to get us killed?”
“S—Sorry! I think that’s all of them,” stammered Lucas.
Another arrow sailed through the air, sending another archer to his grave. Kismet dropped her human shield as Lucas ran around the corner of the tent. As they approached the rear they become surrounded. Swinging his sword wildly in fear, Lucas cut down the foe before him, and kept another at bay.
Kismet rammed one of the bandits into the one close behind him, knocking them over. “What are you waiting for? Go!”
Kismet darted in front of a panicked Lucas and cleaved the interfering bandit across the face with her claws, leaving him screaming in pain. She shoved Lucas toward the trees as a bandit’s blade grazed her back. A heavy kick followed that knocked her to the ground. Kismet quickly rolled to the side, avoiding the bandit’s stab, and got back on her feet. She bared her fangs at her attacker with a threatening hiss. Fear struck the bandit as Kismet darted toward him. He swung his sword, but Kismet ducked under the attack and elbowed him in the stomach. The bandit collapsed onto the floor. Kismet escaped into the woods, pulling Lucas behind her.
Kismet came to a stop after traveling a safe distance from the camp. Lucas collapsed to his hands and knees, out of breath, as Kismet sat against a tree. After catching his breath he looked up at Kismet and cringed. Blood trailed through Kismet’s thin fur as she gouged into her already-healing wound with her claws. She winced in pain as she continued digging through her flesh.
Lucas stared with disgust and confusion as Kismet’s blood dripped from her fingertips. “What the hell are you doing?!”
“Don’t bother me,” snapped Kismet, never taking her eyes off her wound. “We could have finished the mission flawlessly if you weren’t so careless.”
Lucas clenched his fists in frustration. He knew she was right. He rose to his feet as Sara approached them. Sara shielded her eyes and looked away from Kismet with disgust.
“That’s disgusting!” she blurted. “For heaven’s sake, do that when people aren’t around.”
Ignoring Sara, Kismet painfully pulled a large splinter out of her arm and flung it on the ground. She twisted open her water canteen and poured it over her wound as Devin and Raze arrive. The young recruits watched them anxiously, anticipating a dreadful evaluation. He glared at each of them, and then at Kismet’s arm, which began a new trail of blood.
“That—“ Devin shook his head. “I don’t even want to know what happened down there.”
A subtle grin of confidence crept onto Sara’s face. Devin looked over his subordinates once more before continuing. “I’ll commend you all on escaping with so few injuries, but that little mistake nearly cost two of you your lives. It seems we’ve overestimated the three of you.”
“General,” interjected Sara. “You mean just the two of them right? I did exactly as I was told and —“
“The three of you are a unit,” interrupted Devin. “The mission either goes well, or it doesn’t.”
Lucas lowered his head in shame as Sara continued to plead, “But, General—“
“That will be all,” declared Devin, ignoring Sara. “You are all dismissed until further notice.”
Devin and Raze departed toward the castle, speaking softly amongst themselves. Sara welled up with anger, watching them walk off.
“I can’t believe this. On my first assignment—I mean seriously, what the hell happened?” yelled Sara, swinging herself around.
“Sorry, I—“
“No, you know what, I don’t care. I just can’t believe the two of you had to ruin my big debut. Even General Raze, leader of the Elite, was here watching and you had to mess it up! At this rate, the two of you will just keep dragging me down and ruin my chances of being invited.”
Kismet sighed as she began walking off. “All you ever do is whine.”
“Why don’t you just go lick yourself? I can’t believe I’m going to have to put up with your ugly face. It almost makes want to quit just to save myself from the misery.
Kismet rolled her eyes and quickened her pace back to the castle.
Next: Delphi in the Gardens, Scene v1
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Kismet vs. Bandits, Picture v4
Today my brother sent me the color scheme for Kismet vs. Bandits. I can't wait till it's all done! Please leave comments on what you think of it, and what changes you think would improve it.
Artist: Jason Chan (www.jasonchanart.com)
Kismet vs. Bandits, Picture v3
Here's the next comparison image for Kismet vs. Bandits. The right is one with spots, and the left is the same image without. Which do you think looks better?
Artist: Jason Chan (www.jasonchanart.com)
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Kismet vs. Bandits, Picture v2
Here's a progress image of the next picture my brother is doing for me. I can't wait till it's finished, it's looking pretty awesome. This picture allows you to see Kismet's full body structure (legs, feet and tail which weren't in the pond picture). I will be posting the scene by next weekend, hopefully.
Artist: Jason Chan (www.jasonchanart.com)
Feel free to comment, and point out what you like or dislike between the two!
Sight Unseen: Happy Follow-up
For those of you who hate sad endings and wanted a happy one, here it is. This is a follow-up to the original ending that I purposely omitted because I felt that the sad ending was more memorable, and makes the story deliver a different message.
Anyway, here's your happy-ending, let me know what you think!
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After several months had passed, Kismet returned to the very spot she first met Ced. She sat there, staring out over the pond as it glistened in the setting sun. The time they had spent together was so brief that she began to wonder if she imagined it all, but it didn’t matter to her. She could never forget his warm smile, the smile that once brought her to the pond every day. However, every time she remembered his smile, she would also remember the terror that tore them apart...
Kismet, lost in her memories, turned to the tree that Ced sat at the day they met, the same tree where Kismet was no longer the person he imagined, but instead a monster. She lowered her gaze to the spot he used to sit at every time they met. A letter lay atop the bare patch at the base of the tree. Kismet furrowed her brow as she crept toward the letter. Her hands trembled as she picked up the sealed envelope, which had her name written awkwardly across the front. She carefully sliced open the envelope with her claw, and opened the letter. The writing, hardly forming straight lines with some words overlapping, made Kismet’s heart skip a beat.
Dear Kismet,
I truly hope you find this letter, although I suppose you would have already found it if you are reading this. Ever since the last time we saw each other, I have been thinking more and more about the time we spent together. I realized that what I did was terribly wrong and unfair to you. I know you probably hate me for reacting the way I did, but I really wanted to let you know that I am truly sorry.
At the time, when you showed me who you really are, I was in complete shock. Twelve years ago, during the massacre, my sister was killed by Cathera before my very eyes. Despite the time we spent together, all I was able to think about was how my sister was killed. I was angry, confused, and frightened. But ever since that day, I started to regret how I acted. It was unfair for me to blame you for what happened in the past. I just wish I were able to take back the way I acted.
I also wanted to thank you. You’ve been nothing but a good friend to me since the day we met, and I’ll never forget the words you said to me that night. Your words opened my eyes, so to speak. I’ve been doing my best to accept my accursed fate. A little over a month after the last time we saw each other, Allie came by for dinner and I told her how I truly felt about her. After a long conversation, we decided to try again. My family and I moved back to Lesai, so Allie and I could be near each other again. Thanks to your words, it’s been four months now and we’re living happily together, so again, thank you.
I wanted to apologize and thank you in person, but I no longer live in Levan, much less did I even expect you to visit the pond anymore. Even if you have read this, I still do want to thank you in person for telling me what I needed to hear. I hope that one day you’ll find it in your heart to forgive me. It would truly be a blessing to hear your voice again.
- Ced
An overwhelming array of emotions flooded over Kismet. She had given up hope in hearing from him again. She looked at the corner under his signature where a date was written. The date was that very day. She stared at the date more closely in disbelief. She sprung to her feet and ran toward Levan.
Kismet surveyed the village from the trees near the main road. Ced was nowhere to be found. She peered down the road toward Lesai in hopes to spy any hints to his whereabouts, but there was nothing. A door opened from one of the homes.
“Thanks again for the lovely lunch!”
“Yes, thank you, it was very delicious.”
“Any time! It was great seeing you again.”
A young woman walked out of the house leading a man by the hand. Kismet held her breath as she watched the couple make their way to a small caravan. She made her way ahead of the caravan, down the road toward Lesai, out of view from Levan. The couple smiled as they shared a conversation. Kismet walked out onto the side of the road, no longer caring if anyone saw her. The young woman stopped abruptly, mid-sentence, and drew the horses to a stop.
“Allie? What’s wrong?”
Allie stared at Kismet in disbelief, obviously fighting back her initial instinct of fear and hatred. “Is that her?”
“Who?”
Kismet clenched her fists, conquering the anxiety that left her speechless. “Ced…” she said softly.
Ced snapped his head in her direction in disbelief. He slowly descended from the caravan and took a step forward. “Kismet?”
She nodded in reply. Even though he couldn’t see, he knew it was her from the sound of her voice. “I…I’m so sorry I—“
“I read your letter,” she interrupted.
He persisted, “I’m so sorry. I just…I—”
Kismet embraced him, no longer able to restrain her happiness. Ced froze in shock as tears welled-up in his eyes. He returned her embrace, fighting back the memories that haunted him.
“Can you forgive me?” he asked.
“Of course…”
Allie stepped down from the caravan and tapped Ced on the shoulder, clearing her throat. Ced broke his embrace, cleared his throat, and gestured toward Allie. “Kismet, I’d like you to meet Allie. I’ve told her all about you.”
Allie extended her hand hesitantly in greeting, “I’m glad I was able to meet you.”
Kismet stared at the bare hand before her. The only other person who greeted her so sincerely was Ced, only now there is no veil of darkness. Kismet shook Allies hand cautiously.
Kismet averted her eyes, well aware of Allie’s discomfort when she gave an awkward smile.
“Sorry, I just never would’ve imagined a situation like this,” assured Allie with a nervous laugh. “Besides, I have you to thank for bringing me and Ced back together.”
Ced sighed in relief with a smile. He took Allie’s hand in his. “Thank you, Kismet. You have no idea how much you’ve helped.”
Allie smiled softly at Ced. “Would you like to join us for dinner?”
Kismet was speechless. She couldn’t believe that the couple before her was accepting her for who she was, and even inviting her for dinner.
Kismet grinned, unable to contain her happiness, “I-I would love that!”
Ced extended his hand. Kismet left her’s in his care, as he guided her onto to caravan, followed by Allie. Kismet trembled with excitement. Never has she felt such acceptance, such happiness. After leading a life of being ostracized, she never expected that one day she would be invited for anything. She grinned helplessly at the couple. Allie chuckled as she took hold of the reins. She set the horses in motion and the three rode down the trail together.