Chap 49 Bloodline, color of allegiance

-Ever wondered what bloodtype is about? The way of classification is very different for elves. Haha. The Japanese have personalities associated with it. I was thinking his age should be older. haha

Crouching tiger soundtrack (found under Prince Nuada ultimate warrior elf vid)

Contradenza by Vanessa Mae


"Big wounds more mana is expended. Usually if the patient is conscious he helps to share the Price." Uriel removed the tube from Nuada's arm.

I thanked him for sharing this. "Do you have to ask them to share? Or it's internal?"

They told me it was internal and subconscious. Nuada remarked drily, "I cannot do magic. Takes so much effort. Later it makes me sleepy."

His friend chuckled and helped him stand up. "Want improvement lessons? I don't mind accompanying you. I will show…"

Prince made a chopping gesture. "No way. I want to relax on my leisure not do more. Come let's depart," he said, patting my head. Nuada had regained his active self. I did not budge. "Halfling."

"Didn't thank him yet."

Nuada pointed to his temple. "I did. You learnt something new?"

"DNA. Your blood is special. I like the goldie color. It looks as if it can be drunk." I grinned, gently pressing a bag of it. Uriel told me I could have it. "Hehe just kidding. Um how old are you? Nuada is around six hundred and fifty."

The elves glanced at each other and laughed. Nuada muttered- did you need to go and tell others? Uriel gamely told me. I almost jumped. Younger by a year! They were intent on their inner Speak. I gave up probing. Nuada repeated we should go. "I am younger than you. Actually you look like teenagers. Yay!"

"Yes we are grandpas. See you around. Enjoy." The doctor let me hug him. The prince sighed.

"Sorry for this rudeness. She always talks like this. Come eat with us tomorrow. I shall be free."

"Very well. Take care. Don't land in the ICU again." Prince laughed and waved him away.

My intrigue continued long afterwards. The chart of bloodtypes. N, P, J, R, plus the breakdowns. There are no pluses or minuses but elven types have four basic groups too.

Nuada touched a page. "I promised to let you read this. Sorry I forgot."

I did not answer. His breath on my face as he bent down. Pale fingers blocking my view. "Hey!"

"Don't be mad. My dearest one." I smiled and said I had been fine. Nuada beamed.

"Noowa chan, which one is yours?" His was P, the easiest to find. That was great. I studied the patterns of the platelets. Looks bigger and rounder than humans'. Nice to look at it under the microscope.

He asked me,"What color is your blood? Is it red?"

I had not cut myself for some time. Could barely remember. Nuada had a penknife on the table. I let the blade run over my left finger, since I'm right handed. The pain throbbed. Golden blood dripped on the table. Nuada passed some cold magic over the wound. "Are you mad? Why?" he snapped, grasping my hand tightly.

"I heal quite instantly." I didn't understand his anger. No more pain. Usually it's not for long, only a few seconds. Don't worry. I'm lucky then people don't realize my blood is not red.

My friend still scowled at me till I swallowed. "Don't do something rash like that again!"

I had to promise solemnly. He went away. Later, Nuada had forgotten the incident. To aid this, I ensured the charts were hidden somewhere.

"Most of us don't heal that swiftly. It depends on age and health."

"Okay." My voice was timid and slow. Would he blow up again? Nuada hummed to a Sarah Brightman song. I listened. He could be a singer if he resigns. We could make a band. "It's nice."

"What?" Nuada asked.

"Your voice."

He smiled. Peace around us. I combed his hair with my fingers. They felt oily. "Did you put something in your hair? Or not washed."

"Maybe. Both. Stop, come here." Nuada patted the chair beside him. I pretended to vomit. He rolled his eyes. Nuada clasped my left hand tightly and closed his eyes. There was a feeling of grogginess coming over me, circles of golden leaflets spun very quickly. I couldn't look at them directly or I would faint.

Noowa what're you doing?

I'm enchanting you. It reduces your impetuous behaviour.


Nuada Silverlance

Just like Uriel to talk nonsense. It was only a small wound and could heal without transfusion. Sleepiness was normal, as I always feel sleepy during that time. I didn't realize the Halfling had golden blood too! When she cut herself my heart almost stopped. The youth are so rash! I had been rash as well in the past, but have not done self inflicting of wounds. I should spank her. However it is not in my code of honor to hit a child. It is abusive to do that.

The next best course of action would be a counterspell. I placed a restriction of impetuousness spell on Laira. "I feel so dizzy. Is it done?" she asked again.

"Not yet. You can lie down."

"Don't overstrain yourself. I won't, I promised not to cut myself again." Done. Other than the initial blurring of vision, I soon recovered. Darn if only I had paid more attention to the module of magic casting. My friend smiled. Her small fingers tickled my hand. Laira had done much for my twin, taking care of her and using visualization to sooth her nightmares. In this type of illness, we will get hallucinations and sometimes the sick don't recover because their mental defenses were down. Millions of our kind perished. I think one of my cousins did. When would I suffer the illness?

Every time I slept much more peacefully with the child beside me. Surfaced the better moments of my past, with Mother, my cousins,berry picking, the maze.

Such lovely insight. You're welcome. She said lazily.

I won't stop you from fulfilling this talent. Do you really wish to continue finding more? I suggested.

"Huh? I do, but you said I should enjoy my time more now and think about that later on. Nuada you were uptight about it." She sat up looking at the hand I had placed the enchantment.

"When?" She showed me. "Oh. That was then. You have been talking to Empaths. Tell me." Another change was our ability to transcend ordinary telepathy since our relationship was longer than a year now. Without probing, I had access to Lirael's thoughts and memories. I focused on the blue orbs shining excitedly. My heart pulsed. I want to share in this life with you. Why wasn't I aware? I had been too preoccupied with my own problems.

"Yea, some time ago. Haha, my secrets can't escape from you now. (sigh) Abe showed me some of his style of this skill. I am able to tell who was the owner of the object. Visualization was something I just picked up. I did it, coz she was so ill and scared. The Empath was cool, man! She could practically float on top of the table. All the things in the room moved on her command. She says I can do that too and make people afraid of me. But Abe nagged me. He said: with great power comes great responsibility. Don't lead me astray blah blah blah(she sighed dramatically). So instead of the fun stuff of levitation, attacks, scaring people, Randy showed me visualization. But it's freelance. She isn't always available, but I can practice on my own."

I beamed. "That is wonderful. And when were you going to reveal these to me? Till next winter perhaps." I inserted some wounded pride in my voice.

Laira pouted. "So much happened. It was a secret, I didn't want you to be mad. I want to try being a good elf."

I said heatedly, "Good meaning honor. White lies by the way are acceptable, and I will be reasonable. I wish to share in your excitement too." Then I hugged her tightly.

She patted my back. "No you won't be, Noowa. Also, Uriel says I can watch him healing people. I can't wait."

"You're a sadist, want to see people get bloodied in the wards. Yes I get to see someone vomiting lunch and dinner." I chuckled at the image. My soulmate said I was being negative. "Realist is the better word."

We relaxed in the lavender scent of the free candles, dreaming. I was meditating with the picture of flower gardens. It helped me de-stress. Meditation is an innate skill of our people, only I have not been in the presence of mind to do so, unless I was feeling calm and collected. Remembering how the palace gardens used to thrive could focus concentration. It does not equate sleep. I was still much aware of things going on around me. Now the pages were being flipped close to my left side. I opened one eye. She read so quickly.

Tomorrow I planned to do a brief demonstration for the new students. It was a mystery to me, their eagerness to be on the warpath when they can do normal things in regular hours. The nonhumans would be interesting. I heard svylhs and nixes would drop by. My people!

"Psst are you sleeping, Tel' quessir ?" she combed my hair. It was the ancient name for elf.

Elendil don't need to be so formal and distant. "No I'm not. Want to learn staff fighting?" I felt generous.

"What, can't I use the knife? I think you were helping me one day at my home. I want to continue with it not start over."

I had no inkling. "Sorry, friend. I can't remember. The staff is equally formidable, don't despise it. You can train stamina, and learn how to wield a long weapon properly. Method is similar."

Laira looked sad. "Aw, please." I paused. I wish I can discourage her completely from this notion of battle as fun. Hadn't I explained many times in letters? I think it was the week before Nuala's wedding. Even if healing is fast, her talents lie in a different direction.

"There is no actual need for you to get bruises and suffer, halfling. Your talents are not in physical combat," I said.

You're thinking along that pattern, I can't do it because I'm a girl. I want to. Like Naruto, he couldn't do it properly and people looked down on him. But in the end he mastered all the jitsu. And Sakura too.

Who are they? Did not see those names before.

They're from the anime. I feel really determined to be like them. Is it because I look weak to you?

I walked to the windows. "No I respect women. Our female comrades are just as strong as we are. How can I not? You are far from weak."

She was happy. Without turning to look at her, I could sense it. Give and take.

I replied, "They are from a show. It is not easy to watch them do things and actually do it. Their resilience is stupid. It gets them killed." I searched for my black silk shirt to put on.

"They didn't die, Nuada. Everyone has strengths in different fields, I know what you're talking about. Warrior fights, melee, range. Scholars study. You mean stick to what is given?"

"Yes. It is best," I said absently. She gasped. I smiled, straightening.

You're hot!

No. I feel okay. I Sent. I laughed at the meaning. She means I was dashing and will make girls swoon. "What is your argument then? I'm willing to show you the staff. That's it."

"Ok taken. I want to learn for fun. Warriors will be taking the heat. I'll just hide," she said. I agreed.

*****

I could not sleep though I had lain down for an hour. "Please read me a story. Today should be rest day." I poked her.

Her voice carving out words and weaving magic. This is why the people wanted Nuala and I to read them the stories before? I suppose. That is a regular highlight, weekly, when we are off. Yuck. All the attention, when I can be sleeping or watching movies. I think I fell asleep. Had a funny dream. A woman in red and pain on my face.

"I recall how I was slapped by a woman. Accused me of being heartless," I said softly. Laira lay on my stomach. I stroked her hair. "Hmm go to your bed. I won't be still."

"Yay story! Please." She scooted to the bed and propped herself on elbows. My heart melted. All right. I had been slapped for refusing to dance with that woman. After she tried to once more, I grabbed her wrist. Her suitors were furious. We got into a long fight with fists. Crap, it was such a humiliation. Father lectured me after I got belted for smearing our reputation. Nuala was laughing hard. Then he told me son from here, choose a woman. Get married. Surely you can pick any girl here? Every elf male needs a mate. He always spoke in elven, so much more refined and intimate. Myriad colors of gowns and ladies dancing.

But I don't like any of them. They talk of themselves. So emotional. I don't need a mate.

How long will I wait for your marriage son? I am sure a girl from so many can love you. He replied, stroking his beard.

Till my sister is my soulmate. It is all I could ever want, Father. I was determined to stop this train of thought.

But Nualacame forward. We are only twins. You cannot be my mate. Go and find someone else. I got a shock when I opened my eyes. The girl was so near we were face to face. It is a strange habit. "You look so cute when you tell stories. You went out with some girls right? Can't be totally zero."

I found it funny. I gasped for breath. "I did. So many accusations of 'heartlessness', 'boring' 'violent and predictable' I gave up. How can they understand me? I am a very frank person. If you can't bear or accept it, don't continue. Some of them kicked up a fuss when I wanted to leave. But not all were selfish. One of them was older than me, a woman…. I don't know if that was a relationship we had. (I let her See) She told me we could be friends but her life was much shorter than mine. But we lost touch."

I had an idea… "Am I your ideal elf?"

"Yep."

I gestured. "More. What would you look for? I told you, it's fair you show me something in return."

Patience, common interests, virtuous,courageous. In other words, lots and lots of criteria. I concluded, "Oh dear so many, girl. I don't have much in common with you. Is that all right?"

"I don't mind, Airgetlam. It's more challenging. Just my type. We both like animals, writing, Drizzt. Aha food too." She kissed my callused hand.

"Yes. And the other criteria, do I pass them?"

"Not that you care." Laira spoke. The first time she underestimated me.

I did! Indignantly, I let her understand the depth of my emotion. My indifferent face was the opposite of the intensity inside me. I need to improve on my patience and temper. Let's see, this month I didn't shout at people. What do you think?

"Sorry. I see I see. Very good. I watched this documentary, men like us to respect and admire them. But I don't mind your imperfections. They are fine to me! Oh yes I wish to emulate your loyalty to friends and bodyguards, also how detailed you are in attending to our needs."

I nodded, leaning back on the soft pillows. I could get too used to this materialism in the human world. She started a tale on how her ex boyfriends deserted her. "…I beat him up. His name was Tim I think. Idiot, he said I won't find anyone to marry. Just coz he didn't want to! Argh."

I turned on my side to watch the breeze flutter a potted plant. Its yellow and red leaves flapped merrily. "Um hm."

She made some hitting sounds. I chuckled. "Nuada don't you think he's so mean? And evil! Alex was a cool guy. But he was obsessed with his motorcycles, he didn't care about me. But I can't stand chauvinists most."

"Why? He couldn't commit?" I asked. Free stories. Sidhe cannot resist trading stories. I used to scoff at the gossip. It is not bad at all!

"Yea. Human guys All are scared of commitment. See stories of them everyday, or months at least. Some abuse them, yet they still wanna marry them! Ridiculous. Utada Hikaru, the singer I like, broke up with her husband. She wants a strong man. What the! He was nice and gentlemanly."

"Yes, it was silly of her. Which songs are those?" I got up to face my friend. Halfling ticked off a list. I like Automatic and Time will tell. The beat is nice.

She looked determined. "Hey this is the moment you can help me. offer to kill him."

I tried to keep my face solemn but failed to. "Seriously which one? I need their address and a location. Do you want me to do it now?"

We both laughed. She said if the word is 'mwahahah' it means evil laughter. "Please torture them with jabs and cuts."

"You are cruel my child. Very well. I oblige you. But shall start later." I kissed her hand.

Of course it was just jest. I knew Laira wanted me to support her. An unknown side of my girlfriend--- I thought she was a gentle and forgiving person. Not with men.

Laira

-Take a few months to know one another. Starts with bows and curtsies.

-later can hug

-siblings and relatives may kiss on cheeks

-wait to be invited into house.

This was part of a list ELF ETIQUETTE. Nuada was translating the text to English. By hand, he wouldn't type. I think it's easier to type and print out. "Oh I invited you over for the first vacation. You did not come in until I opened the door."

"Yes precisely." Nuada flipped to a new sheet.

"But it's ok. You're my family. Next time don't bother to wait. Sit down right away." I reassured him.

"All right. Thank you." He told me of the times the process took so long. "When I go to someone's home in Bethmora, the people lower in rank will bow, talk about many things first, then address me by title. It is such a hassle."

I understood. The prince is not like the royalty on tv, he hates the waiting. "Just tell them you're tired. And cut them off."

Nuada rubbed his shoulders. He paced to and fro. "Indeed. That embarrasses the subject. I feel bad for their sadness. Propriety is not important to me. As long as they listen to what I say. In some cases, I want to rest when I feel so tired. But they take too long."

I nodded. I held his hand. Surprised ambers. It must be hard for him, I did realize but now it was more obvious. It seems easy and glamourous, wow princes get to boss people around, so on and forth, walk grandly, are rich, have life easy. But they are people too. Nuada said, "I'm relieved you don't do that. It'll certainly make me feel distant and a stranger. The first time you looked at me so closely was culture shock."

I wondered why. Nuada explained that it is not ubiquitous and habitual to be nose to nose when the fey first meet. When I had touched him, he thought it was intrusive on his personal space.

"Yea! You pulled away when I tried to help. I guess so. But it should have an exception, elf. I have to help you. Goes for Anyone."

Nuada smiled, continued his work. I listened to my mp3 and walked around. Normally I don't mind the silence. But now the Elf was completely absorbed. I wanted to talk. Are you writing for us?

It is for reference. Each of us is in charge of a section. I have one more to go.

Then you'll paste it up on the noticeboard?

Nuada was very quiet. He spoke carefully, "Not really. Some people don't read gaelic. Can I be alone now? I have to concentrate."

I wandered around. the throne's runes were good study. I spent some time there, then I stood on it. Could not reach the ceiling. I'm short! Then I turned on cable. Nothing there. Nuada was so intent he didn't speak to me for so long. How long will he take?

Finally I decided, "Nuada I'm going outside. Come back later." I stood at the door. Usually he allowed free access in the evenings when people were likely to come ask about stuff or settle matters. He would lock it when he needed sleep. I poked the door. Perhaps I could try to nudge it with telekinesis.

"Wait Halfling. I'm almost done," he replied, a little forlorn. Hurt?

I glanced at him. Nuada rested a paperweight of a blue stone on the papers. It was nice! "I am hungry. Want to eat together?" He touched the keypad to open the door.

Nuada had not noticed my attempt.

Am wide awake. I may collapse on someone afterwards. he Sent wearily.

I observed him. Yes because his eyerings are dark fatigue is not immediately seen. But his ambers were smaller. Joe's theory was right. "You should lie down later. The aircon can help, we sleep better with coldness."

"Really. I shall try to change the temperature. I find it too cold sometimes."

I said I'd help him with those. His ambers deepened.

During our meal, I was curious. Nuada pondered my question. "So do you like being an agent? It's really exciting and challenging. Are you happy?"

He stared at me, then seemed to zone out. He smirked. "I am not completely happy. Still there are satisfactory moments, Lyra. It is not perfect. I can talk to the others about life, they joke. Like Demon is full of crap. He takes life so easy. Abraham can give advice. Sometimes, I dream. Didn't have the luxury of daydreaming when I was busy fighting." He tilted his head.

I laughed. Imagine him sitting with Red and talking about dreams! Their friendship has firmed and become stable. Except when they disagree, where the whole place will reverberate with their debates. The elf and him would spar in the free times and exchange tips. Next one he told me was shocking in a humor way!

"I'm no expert. But I have become an advisor for relationships. Can you believe it?" He shook his head.

"Love guru! So cute. But you have experience. Tips for me?"

He sat back. "You females classify us as one simple entity. Too high expectations. The moment both genders don't agree, arguments start. It is impossible. We cannot be gentle, nor soft. It is not masculine. Crudeness is normal. Do not try to change that. It is the same thing." He rubbed his nose.

I thought. "Wow you're sugoi! Means great. I think elves can do better than humans."

Nuada frowned in disapproval. "Are you deaf or daft? Why is it?"

"You guys are senior, older than homo sapiens. Tel'qessir are also more sensitive. It's all listed in the fey book of lore you got me for my birthday. It is a nonfiction. I love it. Is it all true?"

Nuada seemed impressed. He remained silent and not going to tell me right or wrong.

Aww. "Silence means it's yes. Ok I shall presume it. I will refer to it faithfully like a bible." I nodded firmly.

Nuada touched my nose. No silence does Not mean I agree nor is it yes. Bad assumption. Silence for me is maybe. Or vague answer.

Oh well same.

It is not! You rude child. But his lips tipped upwards.

On another day Nuala was free. The twins arranged to talk to Mom. She was curious about elf's sister. Mom they are twins and connected. It is so interesting.- I had emailed her.

I have to meet her! This girl elf is nice?

Mom please remember to call them by name. Nuada is my guy. Nuala is her name- I typed in a vexed manner.