45 Nuala's window into the past

What have you done (W Temp) / Kamelot's Rule the World

Laira

Hmm, what should I write about today? A new page. I smelled the perfume of the paper. Stationery and a different set of colored pens are what I bring. So if I am inspired I can do the magic. I do drafts and if they are untidy, I will recopy them. Actually my friend said he did not mind if there was fragrance or color. Usually the elf used leaf-paper which is tougher than normal paper.

Nuada was bathing before leaving on tonight's mission. The bathroom door opened. His soapy smell wafted out. Ok I didn't want him to sneak up on me again. I prepared. But Nuada remained there. I turned in the chair. He had a towel to hide his bottom and was stroking the leaves of the nonni plant tenderly. Blond hair trailing, looking dark with water. His ears protruded. Before he noticed, I drew heart shapes on the borders of the paper. I heard splashing water.

"Halfling you're remaining here tonight? Have you informed Joe?" he asked, his voice muffled. Oh he was looking inside his wardrobe.

"Yep. Done."

"Remember to have dinner."

"Ok. What time will you be back?" I turned completely around and watched my friend.

He had his trousers on already and adjusted the belt. "Don't wait up for me. Will you stay till tomorrow? We can speak then." Then he dried his long hair with another towel, messing the strands. "Yep. Why don't you eat before you leave, Nuada? You may be hungry later."

I curled Dearest soulmate with green ink. He walked over to this side of the room. His black suit was laid out on the bed. Nuada settled on the throne. Wow like a royalty. "I cannot. When I see horrible things, they might come up. The snacks make me full."

"Hey no need to go into so much detail." I laughed. "It is hard to sit on the throne huh? I mean it's really painful."

He smiled back. Then the red light flashed ahead. "Goodbye for now!" Nuada wore his shirt and hurried out. I followed him to the door and said, "Take care." I wished he didn't need to risk his life. The elf stopped and returned to me. He held me for a while before he left.

Dearest soulmate Nuada!

Thank you for your wise words! I'm sorry we mentioned the humans things. It is good you're becoming open minded. But not to push our luck eh? Hahah. I want to be diplomatic, it has always been my way. Yay you like the music? Actually I translated the lyrics, will give you a copy when I have finished. Many of my friends like the Jpop stuff too. Music is universal don't you think? Smiley.

I suppose the transfers have their reasons. Yes mom will continue buying the herbs. She forgot your name. Sorry. We remind her, but she wants to call you 'the boy with golden hair' or ' young elf'. Hope you don't mind. When she sends them to you, what does she write on the letter?

Oh on the phone you said you wanted to be honest with her about your past. I think not, let's make it a secret. Fun! I really want her to have a pristine image of you. Don't feel bad. It is all right not to confess everything. You are so changed now. Have you told your twin about our mom? Maybe we could all have lunch sometime? That will be a great occasion.

I have got Nuala's letters, beautiful sister is virtuous. When I lay the papers side by side, hers really looks similar to yours. I can't believe you got disagreements. Other than music, both of you are very un-alike. Is there such a word?haha. Kawaii no da- super cute! You remembered the stamps, thank you. Have I mentioned that your attentiveness and responsibility are unparalleled. Yet another reason I'm so fortunate!

Write back soon.

Lots of love and kisses

Lirael (my elf name)

I sealed the letter in an envelope, wrote his name and set it in the centre.

As promised, he had stored all my envelopes with their stamps intact in an austere stack. His drawer was very neatly compartmentalized and labeled folders held papers. Only the desktop was a little untidy. A few Drizzt books(he read very quickly), a half open poetry book with highlights, schedule papers, cloth plant I had given him previously. The elf had clipped some cards. Oh one of it was Joe's music card. The pens were still in their casing on the shelf. Was my boyfriend reading poetry seriously now? I chuckled. He didn't like the allusions, probably his sis had highlighted them.

*********

I was going to the library. Cole escorted me. "No need. I know my way around," I said. He was the handyman, technician, admin all in one.

He smiled. "I should. Nuada said we need to ensure you're not alone. Gonna visit princess? Hello Your highness."

Nuala had come out to receive us. She beamed. "Hello Cole. Thank you. Come in Laira."

She had a pile of new clothes. Carefully Nuala unhooked the needle from one of them and cleared a space on her bed for me to sit down. "I learnt to embroider and make clothes. It is an art that is fading."

I felt a bit shy. Nuada was always with me when we talked. She was regal and cultured, and I felt quite clumsy. The she elf touched my hand. Don't be shy. I want to thank you for being kind to brother. He has been alone for centuries.

"It is cool. We're very close."

Nuala patted the shirt on her lap and began sewing a pattern. For a while there was peace. I relaxed and watched her. "Is he intimidating?" she was curious.

I recalled his bad tempers and our disagreements. How the bracelet burnt me. Yes he could be. He was always concerned why I withdrew and became silent. "Sometimes. Was he always like that? When you were young?"

She opened her palm to mine. Picture story. Not all the time. Brother used to be very level headed. He cares for people a lot. When mother passed, he changed drastically. He was not the same again. I was afraid when he would not let me go out alone. Then the wars led to the greatest pain in our life. Father and Brother had many many arguments. Brother never forgave what the humans had done. I don't know why exactly. He won't tell me. Now, I don't wish to upset him. Maybe he has amnesia?

I touched her hair reverently. Nuala sighed. I said, I know why. He said he watched bodyguards die. You were not there. But it's best we don't speak of it.

Right now, Nuala had the same calm look as her twin. She continued, Many wars. I was angry too. Why did these have to happen to us? It was not fair. One tragedy after the other. One day I saw kindness in humans. While I was out looking for herbs to take care of brother's wounds, a human boy saw us. He begged his friends not to kill the fey. He was ready to give his life, standing between my maids and myself. I commanded the trees to shield us. The boy struggled with one soldier. The gun missed my maid. He bled.

Later we ran away deeper into Bethmora. So I have mixed feelings toward the mortals.

"You were right to be mad at humans. Nuada was hurt? By a gun?" It was really long ago, but my stomach turned at the thought. How dare they!

"Fortunately no. An arrow. Not all of them possessed guns for that era. He was always enduring his agony, which you know. I could do nothing but collect herbs. Yet, Nuada would tell the healers to help his friends first." She smiled and urged me to sit down again. "I am touched you care so much for our people."

I Sent - I am your people. The boy was good, at least not all of them were evil… you saw other instances of kindness? But not all the elves understood. Some hate the humans.

"I am sorry to make you upset. It is not my intention. Do not feel pressured to take on this burden. The past is past. I forgot, want to show you how to make stitches. Want to try?"

She changed the subject. The crisscross pattern looked easy enough but mine was like shit. Haha. I can't do such girly stuff. Nuala taught me patiently. She is a natural.

"Here, you go over it like this. All right." I attempted to correct. My pattern on a spare cloth was very clumsy.

The elf completed her inspired gold lining pattern for Nuada's new robe. It shone brightly. I was sure he would be touched. My boyfriend won't mention these things but I know.

Turned out our bonding was meaningful and sincere. "One day I hope we will be able to find our path of happiness. Maybe it is now the present. Do you take after your mother?"

My mom? Demure and gentle, nah! "Haha. Not really she is not emotional, not gentle. (I summarized our dinner when I introduced Nuada) She can't remember Nuada's name and calls him the young boy with golden hair. She emails me letters with has the boy eaten well? What's he up to? To be honest mom drives me mad. I think she got like that when dad left us. She has to be tough."

We laughed. Nuala added, "Brother doesn't mind now? Last time he was easily provoked whenever any diplomat called him rash. Especially our chancellors. They would make the mistake of backstabbing my warrior brother with sugar coated words. They implied he should know his place. So Nuada would fly into rages. Numerous times we had to hold him and restrain him. He was too strong. Still is." A few times when the prince sent people flying, punching them.

One thing I wished to know if Nuala can be stubborn as he is. Yes! "It is in our blood. Elves can stay very firm on our stand. It is an honor code. But I can be soft hearted. You can treat me like a sister."

I accepted and she hugged me.

*******

Nuada trudged in late that morning. I heard him sigh. The air was cold and it was dark. He padded close, turning on the small desk light and stripping his uniform. Glimpse of the multiple scars on his body. I closed my eyes. He lightly covered me with the blanket.

Water ran. I woke again feeling a weight rest on the edge of the bed. I sleep on a mattress which is extended from his main bed. The tv was turned on, muted immediately. I used my foot to nudge him. Nuada reached back and held me.

"Hello man. Not tired?" I asked. My foot wiggled but couldn't budge.

"Too alert. Afterwards." I peeked blearily. A chess game? He watches that now? The elf used the remote to change several channels. Haha, he also toggles channels yet claims to feel giddy when I do it. His silhouette disappeared from my front view. Nuada settled beside me and urged me to sleep. His fingers were warm.

Late late morning. Sweat and saliva on my lips. I wiped my mouth and sat up. Nuada was snoring into the pillows, swathed in the blankets, lying on his side. Golden tufts blew from his cheek as he respired. Bareback, perspiring slightly. I searched for the aircon remote. Hot. Found it! The sound was loud. My friend did not awaken, must be too exhausted to care. I didn't know he would switch off the aircon.

I patted his shoulder until he tossed and freed him of the blanket. His skin was clammy. Nuada licked his lips. "Thanks," he said hoarsely.

"Welcome. It's hot. Don't turn it off."

Nuada's eyes were slitted in grogginess. He did not understand what I was uttering, adorable! "Too cold."

"You're sweating. And you smell Noo," I replied, fanning at him.

The elf took a thin white silk shirt and wore it. Slurry voice- "Whatsmell? Goaway." He turned his back on me. I was joking. Fruity scent of elf I meant. He doesn't stink unless he has not showered for days. Let me tell you, the hum of the aircon could not match the volume of Nuada's snoring. Research says people who snore are not sound, they're wrong. Not once did Nuada wake up, not even when I took his hand and squeezed.

About 2pm I ordered room delivery. He came to when I poured some water.

"What is for lunch?" he asked, rubbing his eyes.

"Chinese takeout. What do you want? I can tell them," I suggested.

Nuada shook his head and reached for the phone. Our food came together! He lay down for a while then sat up. I tasted mushroom cream. Yep thick and sweet.

"Like it? I too," he said, licking his spoon.

"Um yummy." I polished off the noodles in one felled swoop. Nuada found the remote, his finger on the 'off' red button. "No! It's too hot outside."

"I am cold." He complained.

"Can make it higher. See?" I tweaked the temp. The elf rubbed his hands together.

"How did you beat the heat at your house? It must be sweltering without AC. Got fans?"

I meant the handfans. I doubt there were electric fans.

Nuada chuckled. Some of his hair stood up. He leaned back. "No it was never hot in my… house. Our rooms are spacious, cooled by plants. Greens are natural heat repellants. Also our clothing is not tight and dries quickly. You're rushing? Wait for me."

I gestured at my almost finished dessert. Nuada nodded with a sad face. "Ok. Do you really want that? Can I have?" I used my fork to point at a stewed potato.

"No. You're greedy. I need to finish my meals." Nuada ate elegantly and slowly. I waited till he was halfway before I chewed on my jelly. Yea the doctors said he had to gain weight. I heard from the rest that elves are slow eaters, take almost two hours for meals. And they had birdie appetites. Nuada patted his stomach.

He asked me what was the lump of stuff. "Dumplings. Chestnuts and meat. Try it."

I shared my observation. You guys are so graceful in everything. I envy that. I'm clumsy. Nuala showed me how to make patterns, mine was bad.

He commented, oh you haven't seen me wolf down food when I'm ravenous yet. Well I think it can't be that awful, my art is atrocious.

One more strand left. I shook my head. He argued, "What? I don't want to vomit."

I glanced at the books. "Do you like the Paulo Coelho books?" 2 thick volumes- The Alchemist and Like a flowing river.

Nuada smiled, opening the second one. "Yes! They are so easy to read. I'm almost done. In the short story collection, I love the poems and quotes. Robert Frost, I took the road less travelled and it has made all the difference…." My elf continued reading his favorite parts. Same with me. The food list we both like very much:

Chocolate (anything from cake to pudding)

Nuts, caramel, almonds

Peanuts

Sushi

Bullseye and egg stuff

Tiramisu

Jasmine tea

Apple

Sweet stuff

Nuada did not take to roti prata. It was a flat dough with oily taste and fried quickly on a pan. His other friends did, so he brought a few to give them. I love these peaceful times when we see each other. Face to face, we will be lighter in mood. In letters whatever we debate on does not affect our conversations. Nuada's voice was more intense, passionate in writing. I wished he would say them verbally but somehow it didn't happen. Such as- you're so mature in your thoughts and expressions. Impressive! If we don't know each other, I would think you're an adult elf my age.

I smiled. "Noowa, I adore your inner voice. If only you say how much you love me. You are very different."

"I am? No I feel shy saying mushy things. What is your opinion of my style? Do you like replying me?" he enquired eagerly. His ambers shimmered.

"Wise guy. Very advanced and outstanding. My bff."

"bf is boyfriend. What is the other f for?"

"Best friend forever."

Nuada was delighted he understood these terms.

Dear Laira and Joe chans,

Good morning! Don't know if I can write with s. Haha she forgot my name. It's comical. I do not mind, it is hard to remember my name. Next time shall re-introduce myself again. I think the boy with golden hair is a compliment, meaning your mother likes that. I stand out from other normal people. Do not be upset.

You mean we will have disagreement about the humans? It is all right now, let us steer away from that topic. Sure I will not tell her my past then. I think the poor woman would faint. Thank you for your suggestions. I will listen to the songs again, forgot which is which. No hurry, please. I understand if you're busy, Laira.

Jonathan, your elven name is Findecno Carnesir. It means the Stable Guide. I think you are an excellent guide. I am truly honored (hug). Nuala is very excited (psyched up I learnt this new word) to meet Sharon. I will be less worried. If it is anyone who can be tactful my sister is. She always settles things well.

Hey virtuous? I am equally honorable as well. My ego is hurt by that remark, obstreperous (unruly) halflings. How could you make me feel that way? Taste for clothing is also different… I suppose you will conclude that twins brought up together are on vastly contrasting polemic ends. Also we are male and female. Biologically it would make a whole lot of difference. However female warriors can match our strength and speed. I've had the chance to spar with them when a few came. At the end of the day, the girls went to change into pink and red. I hate those and must refrain from running away. I was not the Only animal speaker, not like how Anarin and the rest phrased it. They are full of rubbish, do not take heed. It is in all of us.

I need to be responsible and meticulous. Father taught me those qualities. My teachers ensured I would never forget them. Caring for women and the weak is also part of my values. (plant budding) This week I learnt how to tap other sources for mana. It drains my energy faster than my doctor friends. They've made me promise not to heal serious wounds. But I cannot simply stand by and watch while a person bleeds. I must try harder.

So the other name for mana is chakra? Close!

Since I have time, I wish to continue with our elf creation story. Once I read the Bible of how God made mankind. Relax, I am not angry here. In the beginning, the Ultimate Creator made all the elements, stars and the forests. There's no name for the Main god in our tongue so I changed it. Then She was intrigued by the vastness of the plains and magical lands, so from space and sky, stars were introduced to the earth. Nymphs, dwarves, pixies, fairies etc were sprung from the falling stars. And the creatures who were not one species but a mix such as pookas (rabbit shaped and can alter form), unicorns, pegasi, dragons, kelpies, giants and miniatures. Every kind imaginable. She favoured the winged people most.

But Her sisters and brothers found they lacked one thing, who would be the guardians of these wild creatures? These people were either too small or crude to care for them. The pookas were crafty and wanted to turn to their own gains. Hence the elves were born. Our old name was Alver, and we were in the likeness of man, but gifted with magic of the earth, grace, strength and tongues. But our bodies are said to be a Light of the universe, the moons and stardust. Mortals are from sand I believe.

Hope you like it. I wanted to make sure it sounded smooth, so I edited the details and asked scholars to translate it. We have many gods. I personally do not believe in them, nor prayer. I want to control my destiny, my life. What about you? For us goddesses are prominent, and more famous than the male deities. Our ancestors bless us with the Hunter and Gatherer. My drawings are terrible. Next time you come, remind me to show you the paintings.

Look forward to more replies. Hey Joe please write me back. I really wish to hear from you abrateir.

Yours always jubilant and eager:

Nuada-sempai (not chan! haha)

I was so touched that he had given us the full story, and taken so much time to read up on the ancient texts. He really is detail oriented, very rare in males nowadays. Modern males are mostly like Rojo, crude and rough. I do not mean Red is all that bad, he has good moments. But Nuada exuded gentleness and charisma if he was in his serene moments. Those people were wrong about him, he was not the dark side of the twins.

I vowed to care for him more.

"Joe write back to Noowa. This time you should. He sounds hurt." I chided my bro.

"yea yea I will. I wanna email my handwriting sucks. Nah puzzled not hurt."

I pestered him to reply Nuada, not email! By snail mail, even if it looked ugly.

Hello Nuada Argetlam,

Sorry man! Just that this boy's scribbles are unreadable. I prefer to do online. I sent u stuff online, did u see? Why not try that once? Please.

Love the creation story. Thanks so much. What else… I think u are a noble kind alver. The way u tame animals is awesome! Yup, Salem told me about that too. Hahaha. I think u must be better than them. Or elves praise a lot. I don't doubt your ability. My name is long. Thank u.

How to improve telepathy? Mine is painful, if I project hard, my head hurts. When u couldn't speak, I was almost deaf to ur inner voice. I can't tame animals. Got a charm to work on this defect, Nuada?maybe a chain or something. Hey no fair, u give Lyra a bracelet and lots of jewellery. Where's mine? Mwahahaha. Joking. U should be careful, if wounded Again, I really will smack ya. Seriously rest easy. Leave the medical stuff to the physicians. And sleep more. When we come, u look sleep deprived. Sorry we'll wait outside till u get 6 hours at least. How is there enough sleep when u get back late? And training too! Last time I visited, your eyes very tiny.

Rem the piyo chick? Is it lost? We want elves to hug toys, it is therapeutic. Don't think it kiddish ok! For the toys ur fans gave and fan notes, maybe can pack to give away. See all have the same ideas of therapy. Yes celeb xmas! Will u have long holiday this time? We'll have a lot of fun. Too bad u were not free last time, brother. It's been 3 yrs, our friendship is still ok. My sis is so lucky. As for our ma, she does accept u in her cranky way. Here's sis:

Hey Noowa I miss you. I know can see you every three to four days, but not enough. Mwahahah evil laugh. Really? You wished I had called you virtuous too. All right I shall. In psychology I read that self + (plus) ego leads to forming identity.

Is it the same as your picture?

Glad the lyrics are going ok. No prob, I am free this week coz bro is on site. I'm supposed to classify and inventory, yawn. Boring. My project is finished so I'm super free. I made new sketches which want to show when done. one is of you, with the meridian green. My favorite!

This weekend, my penpal was upset with me. she cried for an hour of what I said to her.

Heck do u think I'm tactless? I think I just asked- what is her true self? surely doesn't warrant crying and ranting. I shall cool off here, still steaming. I don't understand also why she thinks I attack her religion. We used to be great friends. She has moved to another country.

Some advice nin mellon? Uriel told me when you hold someone in high regard, it will be nin mellon right? Cool! Actually have never asked u for emotional advice before. won't tire you, have good sleep.

Love: Lyra n Joe


Nuada

It was a hectic week but my spirits were high. I had more endurance than normal. I picked up the Piyo chick they had given me as a present, cuddling it. No I haven't lost it at all. Usually I place it under the blankets for fear someone will tease me for behaving so. When I was a child, I hugged my pig pillow. How long have I missed something soft. I sat piyo on the bed close by and tickled its stomach. My sister and close companions also have one each. Abraham Sapien, Liz and the children said it was to 'get in touch with our inner selves'. So endearing.

Opening the thick envelope was the next set of lyrics and Joe's words! I have missed the boy. They did like my story. It was worth all the effort. Not all can directly change to english. Lyra needed advice. Why did Joe need me to go online?

His writing did not suck. He wanted to hit me.

My brother,

Thank you for replying me at last. I am really happy, piyo is here with me. His fur smells nice. What did I read wrongly? You dare to mention hitting me. An elder? You lack a mercy, I am already injured you intend to worsen my pain? Ah I will get you for this.

I sleep well enough. My eyes were tiny. Haha are you sure you didn't mix me for someone else? I only need four to six hours every few days. And as an agent I need to be prepared to go anytime. I am accustomed to the hellish hours. Yes I will pack the toys for an orphanage maybe save a few for my future nephews and nieces. I want children to play with. They are so rare. The humans wasted money on buying gifts. They ought to know I don't collect toys. Sometimes I just want to hurt the docs for makinga fuss, and fan notes what a bother! (grin)

You want a gift Joe? I shall have to ask the vendors what charm is suitable. Give me some time, I will be sure to. What's with all that laughing? Anyway I apologize for not keeping you in mind. It seems unfair. You're my close younger brother, and I will care for your needs better. I remember we went to that nice place your friend had reserved? Can we go again someday? May I ask sister and my close friends along? Not likely the accident will recur, so I will speak aloud for your benefit. Be patient. I can hear you perfectly.

Sometimes I sleep so deeply that I don't wake up, no need to wait outside you are silly.

Here's a voucher someone gave me but I won't be shopping. Take it as a gift. What do you like? Would you like more action figures? Perhaps I can pay for those you want. Every weekend is fun for me. Your antics are worth it, I have to admit haha!

Now the alarm went off. I kept the papers, changed and went to the vehicle facilities. Liz waved at me. Manning shouted at some agents to rush. He gave me a new thing, a kind of device. "What is this?" I shook it. A box with buttons.

Liz smiled. "For installing. We do it to monitor movements."

I sighed. "Can you fix it? I don't know."

"Will show you. Then try it. It's pretty easy." She briefed me. I tried not to be lost.

The wolf case last time, now was a followup. Red shook one by its scruff. "Tell me where your boss is!"

Its red eyes gleamed. I saw the penis, so a male. Krauss kept him under control. The red eyes became yellow. He shuddered. Calmly he said, "You will never get him."

Demon growled. "Nuada any ideas? Or I'm gonna fist him into smithereens."

The wolf growled. "Elf! I know you. How can you betray us like this?"

I was incensed. But Liz was quick to defend and set herself on fire. Krauss commanded her to stop. I was shaking with fury. "I do not know what you are. Your kind is evil. I suggest you talk or be set afire."

The stubborn beast tried to suffocate itself. Krauss' essence smoked around us and forced him to go limp. Demon laid him on the ground. It whimpered. I touched its cooling body. "Shit he's trying to die." Not so fast. I poked some acupoints to delay the process. "Truthspell loosen his tongue, make him speak."I cast it over.

Red told him with big gun, "Ok who's your boss?" I drew my blade to rest on his body. In between foul curses we got the necessary information. I had hoped no one would ask me what he'd mentioned but as soon as the boss was found and confined, questions poured in. I did not know!

The demon was first. "Hey what did he mean? You were with his gang?"

I walked faster. "Silence. I know not what he meant!" We have been together for a long time, they should trust me. In the vehicle, Abe and Liz were eyeing me timidly but also burning with insatiable 'answer us'. I pretended to sleep.

Manning asked me to go with him back at HQ. "Prince I am sorry. The boss wants to kill himself. " A goblin was restraining him with a magical harness.

"Don't worry. Once the harnesses are in place he cannot do it," I replied.

"He said you knew them?"

"No. Perhaps it was another elf. We look the same." I invoked a forgetful spell on him, watching the man.

Manning said, "Hmm I see. Thank you. Guys guys help him!" he began rushing to the other side. When I came out from the prison, Liz held my arm. "Please tell us! You can talk to wolves?"

Thank goodness she was not pressing what the foul thing had mentioned. I nodded. "I can understand them. It is simple."

"Aww fairyboy you didn't take that fucking guy to heart do ya?" Red commented when I passed by. I smiled.