Post by Japic on May 31, 2007 13:23:44 GMT -5
Name: Ella Bladewhistle
Race: Halfling Female
Class: Fighter 6 / Halfling Outrider 3
Alignment: CG
Age: 29 years
Height: 2' 11"
Weight: 26 lbs
Speed: 20 ft.
HP: 77
Ability Scores:
Str - 16 (+3)
Dex - 16 (+3)
Con - 14 (+2)
Int - 14 (+2)
Wis - 12 (+1)
Cha - 12 (+1)
Saves: Fighter/Outrider (* +2 vs fear effects)
Fortitude – +7 (Base 5/1 + 1 Con + 1 racial)
Reflex – +8 (Base 2/3 + 3 Dex + 1 racial)
Will – +4* (Base 2/1 + 1 Wis + 1 racial)
Attacks: BaB +9/+4 (* +1 to thrown/slings)
Melee - +13/+8 (BaB 9/4 + 3 Str + 1 Size)
Ranged - +13/+8* (BaB 9/4 + 3 Dex + 1 Size)
Sample Attacks:
Lance Full Attack @ +15/+10 for 1d6+5 damage, crit 20x3
Lance Charge @ +17 for 3d6+5 damage, crit 20x3
Spear @ +14 for 1d6+3 damage, crit 20x3
AC: 25 (Base 10 + 3 Dex + 10 Armor/Shield + 1 Size + 1 mounted dodge)
Skills: (36 fighter / 18 outrider = 42 pts total) - (max, cross: 12, 6)
** denotes cross class skills # denotes outrider skills
Climb +3 (1 Ranks + 3 Str + 2 Racial - 3 armor)
Craft – X (X Ranks + 2 Int)
Handle Animal +13/+17^ (12 Ranks + 1 Cha + 5 Magic^) #
Hide +4 (X Ranks + 3 Dex + 4 Size - 3 armor) **
Intimidate +1 (X Ranks + 1 Cha)
Jump +3 (1 Ranks + 3 Str + 2 Racial - 3 armor)
Knowledge Local +4 (2 Ranks + 2 Int) ** [free]
Knowledge Nobility and Royalty +4 (2 ranks + 2 Int) ** [free]
Listen +14 (9 Ranks + 1 Wis + 2 Racial + 2 Feat) [** 6 used] #
Move Silently +2 (X Ranks + 3 Dex + 2 Racial - 3 armor) **
Ride +17/+22^ (12 Ranks + 3 Dex + 2 Synergy (H.A.) + 5 magic^) #
Spot +12 (9 Ranks + 1 Wis + 2 Feat) [** 6 used] #
Survival +1 (X ranks +1 wis) #
Swim +0 (3 Ranks + 3 Str - 6 armor)
Use Magic Device +3 (2 Ranks + 1 Cha) ** [free]
Feats:
1st - Mounted Combat (ride check to negate attack against mount)
1st Fighter - Mounted Archery (penalty for shooting on the move is halved [-2 double move/-4 run])
2nd Fighter - Ride-By Attack (can charge an enemy, attack and then move past, no AoO)
3rd - Improved mounted Archery (Penalty for shooting on the move is reduced by 2 [0 double move/-2 run])
4th Fighter - Spirited Charge (Mounted charge deals double damage with melee weapons, or triple damage with a lance)
6th - Power Attack (trade BaB for damage, double for 2 handed)
6th Fighter - Quick Draw (draw weapons as free action)
Outrider Bonus - Alertness (+2 to listen/spot)
9th - Weapon Focus Lance (+1 to hit with Lance)
Class Features: Halfling Outrider
Defensive Riding (When riding defensively [no attacking] she gains +2 on Reflex saves, +4 dodge bonus to AC and the Mount gains +20 feet speed and +2 to will saves and +4 dodge bonus.)
Unbroken Charge (DC 15 ride check to charge through difficult terrain or friendly creatures.)
Equipment: 200 gp 5 sp
Javelin x10
Spear x5
Lance +1
Sling (bullets x20)
War Dog
Military Saddle
Saddle BAG
Breastplate +2 [-3 ACP, +7 AC, 3 max dex]
Buckler +2 [0 ACP, +3 AC]
Efficient Quiver
Feather of Command {Grant +5 to handle animal and ride checks for Roc Antyca}
Gauntlets of Extended Range
Heartseeking Amulet {Swift: 3/day treat next melee attack as if touch attack}
Belt of One Mighty Blow {Swift: 1/day add 1d8 light, 2d6 one handed or 3d6 two handed to next attack.}
Gauntlets of Extended Range {Double range for thrown}
Wrist & Hock Wraps of Speed {As horseshoes of speed, +30 to mount movement}
Augment Crystals:
Iron Ward Diamond [lesser] {Armor: grants DR 3/- (30 max/day)}
Crystal of Life Drinking [lesser] {Weapon: Heals 3 pt of damage when striking living creature (30 max/day)}
Crystal of Illumination [least] {Weapon: Bright illumination 5 ft, shadowy 5 ft.}
Clasp of Energey Protection [lesser] - Fire {Shield: Prevents 10 damage of energy type (50 max/day)}
Clasp of Energey Protection [lesser] - Cold {Shield: Prevents 10 damage of energy type (50 max/day)}
Magic Item Slots:
Head -
Eyes -
Neck - Heartseeking Amulet
Arms/Wrists - Gauntlets of Extended Range
Hands -
Ring -
Ring -
Belt - Belt of One Mighty Blow
Body - Breastplate +2
Vest/Shirt -
Cloak -
Feet -
Augument Crystal Slots: (must be of MW quality to benifit)
Armor - Iron Ward Diamond [lesser]
Shield - Clasp of Pro. Energy Fire [lesser]
Weapons:
- Lance - Life Drinking [lesser]
Languages:
Common
Halfling
Gnome
Dwarven
Race Features:
Small +1 to AC, +1 to hit, +4 to hide
Speed 20 ft
+2 racial bonus to Climb, Jump & Move Silently
+1 to all Saves
+2 Morale Bonus vs Fear effects.
+1 On attack rolls with thrown weapons and slings
+2 racial bonus to listen checks
Description:
Standing just under three feet tall Ella is a raven haired beauty, whose good looks often attract the wrong kind of attention. Her raven locks are always brushed to a lustering sheen, and always kept in a perfect bun atop her head. Her fair skin is kissed gently by the sun accenting almond shaped topaz eyes. Despite her physical charms Ella is quick witted and hard to impress. Probably a by-product of the incredibly toned body that lies hidden beneath her dresses or armor. Anyone that has known her for more than a week knows that her life revolves around personal dicipline; every line of her body screams it, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
Sax
War Dog
Size/Type: Medium Animal (Poodle, of the hunting variety)
Hit Dice: 2d8+4 (13 hp)
Initiative: +2
Speed: 70 ft. (14 squares) [+30 from Wraps of Speed]
Armor Class: 16 (+2 Dex, +4 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 14
Base Attack/Grapple: +1/+3
Attack: Bite +3 melee (1d6+3)
Full Attack: Bite +3 melee (1d6+3)
Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft.
Special Attacks: -
Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent
Saves: Fort +5, Ref +5, Will +1
Abilities: Str 15, Dex 15, Con 15, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 6
Skills: Jump +8, Listen +5, Spot +5, Swim +3, Survival +1*
Feats: Alertness, TrackB
Trip (Ex)
A war dog that hits with a bite attack can attempt to trip the opponent (+1 check modifier) as a free action without making a touch attack or provoking an attack of opportunity. If the attempt fails, the opponent cannot react to trip the war dog.
Background:
The daughter of a respected halfling military hero Ella's life has always been of luxury and subtle discipline. From the time she was born her father had talked of war and his military mind could not fathom the concept of his own retirement.
Though his young wife had died at childbirth he did everything in his power to give his daughter the life that he felt she deserved. But with this priviledge came also a well organized mind and a structured home.
Rather than rebel as some children might she embraced all that she had known and began learning the martial arts from her retired father. Discipline in all they did was a way of life. From the way the ate and dressed to the way they drilled in the yard, there was a form to be followed for everything.
:CLACK:
"Good, but not fast enough. Again!"
:CLACK: :CLACK:
Came the sounds of wooden practice blades as a small pair of combatants moved quickly through their daily drills. The pair were dressed in well made suits of padding that served as their only armor. They used neither real armor nor weapons, but the bruises received would be real enough.
The smaller of the two, shorter by less than two inches, came around with a strike aimed for the larger's helmeted head, but grunted in pain as a sword caught them in the midsection. The original strike didn't even come close to landing.
"Again!" barked the larger.
"I still don't understand," :CLACK: "why I have to practice, with this stupid," :CLACK: :CLACK: "thing again." responded the smaller. "Give me a good," :CLACK: "spear any day." they finished.
:CLACK: :CLACK: :CRACK!:
With a heavy blow the first drove the small figure to their knees; the banded sword snapping under the strain. "You practice because you may need to use it someday. Even if it is not a preferred weapon; we must be properly trained in every weapon available to us. Lest there come a day on a battle field where you lose your own weapon and must rely on whatever is to hand." Answered the larger figure casually, while tossing the broken weapon away.
The figure then removed his helm, revealing an aging halfling, whose short dark hair was peppered through with gray. "It may well save your life one day."
"Were I ever, ngh, to have need of it then I hope to remember this lesson Father." Responded the smaller pulling off her helm mid speech. "Thank you for teaching me," she replied humbly, panting from exhertion. Her father it seemed, hadn't even worked up a sweat today, she must have been easier to best than she had supposed.
The pair bowed to one another, signalling the close of their training session. The older halfling then took his only daughter into his arms and kissed her brow. "I only hope I haven't given you any bruises to worry about tonight at the ball. It would be a shame to have them clash with your lovely gown."
"I don't think that will be a problem Father, I've chosen a purple gown for tonight. Even if they do show I will wear them proudly." She responded, returning his embrace. "Now lets go and have ourselves a snack Father, Shasta said that she was preparing your favorite for lunch."
"That would be scrumptious my dear, let us finish up here and be off." Cleaning up the messes they'd created whilst sparring the pair quickly gathered the discarded weapons from the days trials and inspected each for defect before storing them away in the yard's shed. It would not do to have damaged weapons; each would need be repaired if any defect were found.
Finding everything satisfactory Father locked the shed and then each whistled shrilly. On cue a pair of shaggy heads popped out of the grass, where two great hounds had been lounging in the shade. Coming as they were bade the halflings climbed upon their shaggy backs and began the trek up to the manor house. Though after the day's competition Ella could not help but to issue the challenge of a race to the house. Father was more than glad to oblidge and they raced, laughing like children all the way home.
"You have a lovely home," the courtier said smoothly as he led Ella through the formal dance steps, "but I would expect nothing less for a damsel such as yourself." HA! Ella thought. "A man would be considered very lucky to be by your side." the young fellow continued oblivious to her thoughts. To marry into my father's line you mean thought she, smiling prettily and feigning a blush. They are all fools who would use me to get at Fathers reputation and money. But I will not be had! He does not think I can see his scheme. "You're wrong," she replied aloud to her spoken thought.
"Beg pardon?" the young man asked, clearly confused.
Smiling again she spoke once more, "You think me a damsel; a woman in need of protection or rescuing. You're wrong." Taken aback by her reaction the young halfling glanced nervously around, suddenly not enjoying his dance with the host's daughter anymore. Still smiling and seeming quite pleasant to anyone watching she spake on, the ice in her voice unmistakable. "Maybe it's you that needs protecting. I don't take kindly to anyone who wants to use me or my family. So you'd better think twice about your intentions. Got it?"
Before the young man could even reply Ella casusally placed her foot in the wrong place and sent her dance partner crashing to the polished floor. Mock surprise and concern etched on her face she quickly bent to help the fellow, though strangely he did not wish her assistance. Clamboring up on his own he brushed hismelf off and marched out, his face purple from embarrasment. Staring after for a brief moment she allowed a look of disappointment to rest on her features before turning away from the dance floor to find herself refreshment. It was hard to keep the smile from her face.
"That young man had quite the fall tonight; pitty, he looked so light on his feet," the old man mused. Not meeting his gaze Ella continued her stately march down the darkened corridor, lamp held high. "I Do not think that was an accident, my dear. Is there something you wish to tell me?" he continued, voice full of concern.
"Oh Father. I didn't mean for it to happen; he started talking about how lovely the house was and being by my side and ... I just couldn't help myself. I won't be used for these petty politics." she replied. "I know what you wish of me, but these slack jawed...milk maidens who seem so abundant are not to my taste. Are there no real men to which I might be introduced?"
With a faint smile the old man replied "You have turned down every noble that has dared to approach; I'm starting to think that you shall never wed and that I shall never see grandchildren or great grandchildren." Patting her hand he sighed, "I know what you want as well, my child. Though I'm not sure I could bear to see you go."
Stopping before her open bedroom door she turned to stare into the old mans watery eyes. "Oh Father, I want to make you proud; but I cannot bear the thought of being locked in this home, bearing children for a 'man' that is only a child himself. Let me go out into the world. Let me find someone that understands who we are and what we are about. Let me find a man that I will proudly stand next to... someone worthy of me."
Appraising his sole daughter and heir the old man was faced with a tough decision. His eyes drank her presence in, shrowded in shadows the young halfling reminded him of her mother. Yes, but for the bruise creeping at the base of her neck they looked very alike. "I could deny your mother nothing; your whole life the same has gone for you. How can I stop you now, when I know this to be your heart's desire? We will speak more of this at breakfast. Goodnight my child." He gently kissed her brow and shuffled off into the darkened hall, leaving her with tears in her eyes and hope in her heart.
"I do not feel comfortable with you loose with all this talk of War my dear." Father said, carefully cutting a wedge out of the grapefruit before him. "I know your skill and I know that you are no mere child; but there is much brewing in this world that I do not understand." He slid the piece of fruit into his mouth and began to chew, allowing Ella a chance to retort.
Unknoting her hands from the napkin in her lap Ella reached for some strawberries and poured sweet cream ontop, attempting to be casual and calm. When she had collected her thoughts she spoke, "What you say is true Father, and if that is the case the world can ill afford for those skilled with a blade to sit idle. I've heard the rumors as well and believe that trouble will find us at home or afield. Why then should the Bladewhistles be idle? You have taught me of war; taught me from your experiences from before the Peace. If war is upon us, then we can not stay idle and play at war; we must help the city."
"But we do not know if this war will involve us dear heart." replied the veteran. "I know how you feel; I too needed to get away from my parents at some point in my life. That's when I found the military and fell in love with its discipline. Were it not for my own leavetaking we would not be where we are today. Perhaps we would still be wheat farmers; as the Bladewhistles have always been."
Both chewed their breakfast in silence, comfortable in the opulence of their home. In a few minutes time Father spoke. "You have my blessing child... but please be careful. I could not live with myself if something were to happen to you."
With her Father's blessing Ella began to prepare for her departure. She'd never really been away from him and feared that she would miss him terribly. Fortunately the pair were made of stern stuff; things would be fine. Evening fell on their happy home, nestled on a hilltop overlooking a valley of wheat, and Ella Bladewhistle began to hum a melody from her childhood. As she readied her things she envisioned the grand adventures that she would have; perhaps she would even find a man worthy of her. Perhaps.
Race: Halfling Female
Class: Fighter 6 / Halfling Outrider 3
Alignment: CG
Age: 29 years
Height: 2' 11"
Weight: 26 lbs
Speed: 20 ft.
HP: 77
Ability Scores:
Str - 16 (+3)
Dex - 16 (+3)
Con - 14 (+2)
Int - 14 (+2)
Wis - 12 (+1)
Cha - 12 (+1)
Saves: Fighter/Outrider (* +2 vs fear effects)
Fortitude – +7 (Base 5/1 + 1 Con + 1 racial)
Reflex – +8 (Base 2/3 + 3 Dex + 1 racial)
Will – +4* (Base 2/1 + 1 Wis + 1 racial)
Attacks: BaB +9/+4 (* +1 to thrown/slings)
Melee - +13/+8 (BaB 9/4 + 3 Str + 1 Size)
Ranged - +13/+8* (BaB 9/4 + 3 Dex + 1 Size)
Sample Attacks:
Lance Full Attack @ +15/+10 for 1d6+5 damage, crit 20x3
Lance Charge @ +17 for 3d6+5 damage, crit 20x3
Spear @ +14 for 1d6+3 damage, crit 20x3
AC: 25 (Base 10 + 3 Dex + 10 Armor/Shield + 1 Size + 1 mounted dodge)
Skills: (36 fighter / 18 outrider = 42 pts total) - (max, cross: 12, 6)
** denotes cross class skills # denotes outrider skills
Climb +3 (1 Ranks + 3 Str + 2 Racial - 3 armor)
Craft – X (X Ranks + 2 Int)
Handle Animal +13/+17^ (12 Ranks + 1 Cha + 5 Magic^) #
Hide +4 (X Ranks + 3 Dex + 4 Size - 3 armor) **
Intimidate +1 (X Ranks + 1 Cha)
Jump +3 (1 Ranks + 3 Str + 2 Racial - 3 armor)
Knowledge Local +4 (2 Ranks + 2 Int) ** [free]
Knowledge Nobility and Royalty +4 (2 ranks + 2 Int) ** [free]
Listen +14 (9 Ranks + 1 Wis + 2 Racial + 2 Feat) [** 6 used] #
Move Silently +2 (X Ranks + 3 Dex + 2 Racial - 3 armor) **
Ride +17/+22^ (12 Ranks + 3 Dex + 2 Synergy (H.A.) + 5 magic^) #
Spot +12 (9 Ranks + 1 Wis + 2 Feat) [** 6 used] #
Survival +1 (X ranks +1 wis) #
Swim +0 (3 Ranks + 3 Str - 6 armor)
Use Magic Device +3 (2 Ranks + 1 Cha) ** [free]
Feats:
1st - Mounted Combat (ride check to negate attack against mount)
1st Fighter - Mounted Archery (penalty for shooting on the move is halved [-2 double move/-4 run])
2nd Fighter - Ride-By Attack (can charge an enemy, attack and then move past, no AoO)
3rd - Improved mounted Archery (Penalty for shooting on the move is reduced by 2 [0 double move/-2 run])
4th Fighter - Spirited Charge (Mounted charge deals double damage with melee weapons, or triple damage with a lance)
6th - Power Attack (trade BaB for damage, double for 2 handed)
6th Fighter - Quick Draw (draw weapons as free action)
Outrider Bonus - Alertness (+2 to listen/spot)
9th - Weapon Focus Lance (+1 to hit with Lance)
Class Features: Halfling Outrider
Defensive Riding (When riding defensively [no attacking] she gains +2 on Reflex saves, +4 dodge bonus to AC and the Mount gains +20 feet speed and +2 to will saves and +4 dodge bonus.)
Unbroken Charge (DC 15 ride check to charge through difficult terrain or friendly creatures.)
Equipment: 200 gp 5 sp
Javelin x10
Spear x5
Lance +1
Sling (bullets x20)
War Dog
Military Saddle
Saddle BAG
Breastplate +2 [-3 ACP, +7 AC, 3 max dex]
Buckler +2 [0 ACP, +3 AC]
Efficient Quiver
Feather of Command {Grant +5 to handle animal and ride checks for Roc Antyca}
Gauntlets of Extended Range
Heartseeking Amulet {Swift: 3/day treat next melee attack as if touch attack}
Belt of One Mighty Blow {Swift: 1/day add 1d8 light, 2d6 one handed or 3d6 two handed to next attack.}
Gauntlets of Extended Range {Double range for thrown}
Wrist & Hock Wraps of Speed {As horseshoes of speed, +30 to mount movement}
Augment Crystals:
Iron Ward Diamond [lesser] {Armor: grants DR 3/- (30 max/day)}
Crystal of Life Drinking [lesser] {Weapon: Heals 3 pt of damage when striking living creature (30 max/day)}
Crystal of Illumination [least] {Weapon: Bright illumination 5 ft, shadowy 5 ft.}
Clasp of Energey Protection [lesser] - Fire {Shield: Prevents 10 damage of energy type (50 max/day)}
Clasp of Energey Protection [lesser] - Cold {Shield: Prevents 10 damage of energy type (50 max/day)}
Magic Item Slots:
Head -
Eyes -
Neck - Heartseeking Amulet
Arms/Wrists - Gauntlets of Extended Range
Hands -
Ring -
Ring -
Belt - Belt of One Mighty Blow
Body - Breastplate +2
Vest/Shirt -
Cloak -
Feet -
Augument Crystal Slots: (must be of MW quality to benifit)
Armor - Iron Ward Diamond [lesser]
Shield - Clasp of Pro. Energy Fire [lesser]
Weapons:
- Lance - Life Drinking [lesser]
Languages:
Common
Halfling
Gnome
Dwarven
Race Features:
Small +1 to AC, +1 to hit, +4 to hide
Speed 20 ft
+2 racial bonus to Climb, Jump & Move Silently
+1 to all Saves
+2 Morale Bonus vs Fear effects.
+1 On attack rolls with thrown weapons and slings
+2 racial bonus to listen checks
Description:
Standing just under three feet tall Ella is a raven haired beauty, whose good looks often attract the wrong kind of attention. Her raven locks are always brushed to a lustering sheen, and always kept in a perfect bun atop her head. Her fair skin is kissed gently by the sun accenting almond shaped topaz eyes. Despite her physical charms Ella is quick witted and hard to impress. Probably a by-product of the incredibly toned body that lies hidden beneath her dresses or armor. Anyone that has known her for more than a week knows that her life revolves around personal dicipline; every line of her body screams it, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
Sax
War Dog
Size/Type: Medium Animal (Poodle, of the hunting variety)
Hit Dice: 2d8+4 (13 hp)
Initiative: +2
Speed: 70 ft. (14 squares) [+30 from Wraps of Speed]
Armor Class: 16 (+2 Dex, +4 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 14
Base Attack/Grapple: +1/+3
Attack: Bite +3 melee (1d6+3)
Full Attack: Bite +3 melee (1d6+3)
Space/Reach: 5 ft./5 ft.
Special Attacks: -
Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent
Saves: Fort +5, Ref +5, Will +1
Abilities: Str 15, Dex 15, Con 15, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 6
Skills: Jump +8, Listen +5, Spot +5, Swim +3, Survival +1*
Feats: Alertness, TrackB
Trip (Ex)
A war dog that hits with a bite attack can attempt to trip the opponent (+1 check modifier) as a free action without making a touch attack or provoking an attack of opportunity. If the attempt fails, the opponent cannot react to trip the war dog.
Background:
The daughter of a respected halfling military hero Ella's life has always been of luxury and subtle discipline. From the time she was born her father had talked of war and his military mind could not fathom the concept of his own retirement.
Though his young wife had died at childbirth he did everything in his power to give his daughter the life that he felt she deserved. But with this priviledge came also a well organized mind and a structured home.
Rather than rebel as some children might she embraced all that she had known and began learning the martial arts from her retired father. Discipline in all they did was a way of life. From the way the ate and dressed to the way they drilled in the yard, there was a form to be followed for everything.
:CLACK:
"Good, but not fast enough. Again!"
:CLACK: :CLACK:
Came the sounds of wooden practice blades as a small pair of combatants moved quickly through their daily drills. The pair were dressed in well made suits of padding that served as their only armor. They used neither real armor nor weapons, but the bruises received would be real enough.
The smaller of the two, shorter by less than two inches, came around with a strike aimed for the larger's helmeted head, but grunted in pain as a sword caught them in the midsection. The original strike didn't even come close to landing.
"Again!" barked the larger.
"I still don't understand," :CLACK: "why I have to practice, with this stupid," :CLACK: :CLACK: "thing again." responded the smaller. "Give me a good," :CLACK: "spear any day." they finished.
:CLACK: :CLACK: :CRACK!:
With a heavy blow the first drove the small figure to their knees; the banded sword snapping under the strain. "You practice because you may need to use it someday. Even if it is not a preferred weapon; we must be properly trained in every weapon available to us. Lest there come a day on a battle field where you lose your own weapon and must rely on whatever is to hand." Answered the larger figure casually, while tossing the broken weapon away.
The figure then removed his helm, revealing an aging halfling, whose short dark hair was peppered through with gray. "It may well save your life one day."
"Were I ever, ngh, to have need of it then I hope to remember this lesson Father." Responded the smaller pulling off her helm mid speech. "Thank you for teaching me," she replied humbly, panting from exhertion. Her father it seemed, hadn't even worked up a sweat today, she must have been easier to best than she had supposed.
The pair bowed to one another, signalling the close of their training session. The older halfling then took his only daughter into his arms and kissed her brow. "I only hope I haven't given you any bruises to worry about tonight at the ball. It would be a shame to have them clash with your lovely gown."
"I don't think that will be a problem Father, I've chosen a purple gown for tonight. Even if they do show I will wear them proudly." She responded, returning his embrace. "Now lets go and have ourselves a snack Father, Shasta said that she was preparing your favorite for lunch."
"That would be scrumptious my dear, let us finish up here and be off." Cleaning up the messes they'd created whilst sparring the pair quickly gathered the discarded weapons from the days trials and inspected each for defect before storing them away in the yard's shed. It would not do to have damaged weapons; each would need be repaired if any defect were found.
Finding everything satisfactory Father locked the shed and then each whistled shrilly. On cue a pair of shaggy heads popped out of the grass, where two great hounds had been lounging in the shade. Coming as they were bade the halflings climbed upon their shaggy backs and began the trek up to the manor house. Though after the day's competition Ella could not help but to issue the challenge of a race to the house. Father was more than glad to oblidge and they raced, laughing like children all the way home.
"You have a lovely home," the courtier said smoothly as he led Ella through the formal dance steps, "but I would expect nothing less for a damsel such as yourself." HA! Ella thought. "A man would be considered very lucky to be by your side." the young fellow continued oblivious to her thoughts. To marry into my father's line you mean thought she, smiling prettily and feigning a blush. They are all fools who would use me to get at Fathers reputation and money. But I will not be had! He does not think I can see his scheme. "You're wrong," she replied aloud to her spoken thought.
"Beg pardon?" the young man asked, clearly confused.
Smiling again she spoke once more, "You think me a damsel; a woman in need of protection or rescuing. You're wrong." Taken aback by her reaction the young halfling glanced nervously around, suddenly not enjoying his dance with the host's daughter anymore. Still smiling and seeming quite pleasant to anyone watching she spake on, the ice in her voice unmistakable. "Maybe it's you that needs protecting. I don't take kindly to anyone who wants to use me or my family. So you'd better think twice about your intentions. Got it?"
Before the young man could even reply Ella casusally placed her foot in the wrong place and sent her dance partner crashing to the polished floor. Mock surprise and concern etched on her face she quickly bent to help the fellow, though strangely he did not wish her assistance. Clamboring up on his own he brushed hismelf off and marched out, his face purple from embarrasment. Staring after for a brief moment she allowed a look of disappointment to rest on her features before turning away from the dance floor to find herself refreshment. It was hard to keep the smile from her face.
"That young man had quite the fall tonight; pitty, he looked so light on his feet," the old man mused. Not meeting his gaze Ella continued her stately march down the darkened corridor, lamp held high. "I Do not think that was an accident, my dear. Is there something you wish to tell me?" he continued, voice full of concern.
"Oh Father. I didn't mean for it to happen; he started talking about how lovely the house was and being by my side and ... I just couldn't help myself. I won't be used for these petty politics." she replied. "I know what you wish of me, but these slack jawed...milk maidens who seem so abundant are not to my taste. Are there no real men to which I might be introduced?"
With a faint smile the old man replied "You have turned down every noble that has dared to approach; I'm starting to think that you shall never wed and that I shall never see grandchildren or great grandchildren." Patting her hand he sighed, "I know what you want as well, my child. Though I'm not sure I could bear to see you go."
Stopping before her open bedroom door she turned to stare into the old mans watery eyes. "Oh Father, I want to make you proud; but I cannot bear the thought of being locked in this home, bearing children for a 'man' that is only a child himself. Let me go out into the world. Let me find someone that understands who we are and what we are about. Let me find a man that I will proudly stand next to... someone worthy of me."
Appraising his sole daughter and heir the old man was faced with a tough decision. His eyes drank her presence in, shrowded in shadows the young halfling reminded him of her mother. Yes, but for the bruise creeping at the base of her neck they looked very alike. "I could deny your mother nothing; your whole life the same has gone for you. How can I stop you now, when I know this to be your heart's desire? We will speak more of this at breakfast. Goodnight my child." He gently kissed her brow and shuffled off into the darkened hall, leaving her with tears in her eyes and hope in her heart.
"I do not feel comfortable with you loose with all this talk of War my dear." Father said, carefully cutting a wedge out of the grapefruit before him. "I know your skill and I know that you are no mere child; but there is much brewing in this world that I do not understand." He slid the piece of fruit into his mouth and began to chew, allowing Ella a chance to retort.
Unknoting her hands from the napkin in her lap Ella reached for some strawberries and poured sweet cream ontop, attempting to be casual and calm. When she had collected her thoughts she spoke, "What you say is true Father, and if that is the case the world can ill afford for those skilled with a blade to sit idle. I've heard the rumors as well and believe that trouble will find us at home or afield. Why then should the Bladewhistles be idle? You have taught me of war; taught me from your experiences from before the Peace. If war is upon us, then we can not stay idle and play at war; we must help the city."
"But we do not know if this war will involve us dear heart." replied the veteran. "I know how you feel; I too needed to get away from my parents at some point in my life. That's when I found the military and fell in love with its discipline. Were it not for my own leavetaking we would not be where we are today. Perhaps we would still be wheat farmers; as the Bladewhistles have always been."
Both chewed their breakfast in silence, comfortable in the opulence of their home. In a few minutes time Father spoke. "You have my blessing child... but please be careful. I could not live with myself if something were to happen to you."
With her Father's blessing Ella began to prepare for her departure. She'd never really been away from him and feared that she would miss him terribly. Fortunately the pair were made of stern stuff; things would be fine. Evening fell on their happy home, nestled on a hilltop overlooking a valley of wheat, and Ella Bladewhistle began to hum a melody from her childhood. As she readied her things she envisioned the grand adventures that she would have; perhaps she would even find a man worthy of her. Perhaps.
