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Post by megatude on Dec 15, 2008 20:50:48 GMT -5
Meg let a suspended breath escape slowly between her lips. "Finally." Now she felt she could relax. "I thought he'd never leave." She peeled off her dress, letting it fall into a heap upon the floor, and stepped to the lip of the pool, kicking off her sandals. She extended her foot, pointing her toes with the poise of a ballerina, dipping in her big toe to test the temperature. "Oooooh!" She jerked back. It was warmer than expected. With careful ease she slipped on leg in, then the other, discovering its depth. I actually wasn't all that deep, maybe 4 1/2'. She sat back on the stone seat and sighed, sinking down till the water reached her armpits. Her elbows rested on the edge. "What're you waiting for?" She aimed at Zebra as her head jerked back from where Torrin disappeared, still standing in her damp garments. "Trust me; the water's great!" Zebra shrugged, disrobed, and jumped right in, skipping the toe ritual, and situated herself opposite of Meg. "This sure beats that O'l tin bucket." Meg nodded, her eyes closed softly. "Now, if only we had......." A light knock came at the door. Startled, the two of them slipped further into the cover of the water. "Madams? I have brought fresh clothes and towels." I was only Marlena, the housekeeper. "Come in", Zebra invited. Carrying a neat pile of supplies, Marlena let herself in. She looked tired, her black/gray hair straying from her top-knot, but seemed in good spirits. "I also thought you might like some soap to cleanse yourselves", she smiled. Just what the doctor ordered. She presented them with a small Carmel colored block. Zebra studied the substance that she labeled; soap. She'd never seen a cleansing product of such color or texture. "Umm, Marlena?" She turned her attention to Zebra. Zebra had to think a moment, to word her question carefully without suggesting suspicion. "We're unfamiliar with the ways of the upper class. Might I ask what ingredients were used to assemble this soap?" She'd heard of some ancient cleansers containing animal fat. Which she would prefer not to slather over her body. "To the best of my knowledge; it consists of Lye and Olive Oil. Which is very beneficial for the lady's skin." Olive Oil? Zebra pondered. That didn't sound too disturbing. "Thank-you very much, Marlena." The weary housekeeper nodded. "No trouble. When you bath is complete, I will show you to your room. You both must be very tired." "Yes, well, its nothing a cushy bed couldn't fix", Meg agreed. Marlena bowed, dismissing herself. "I will be waiting in the main house."
When she disappeared, Meg snatched the block of soap from Zebra's hand. "If this doesn't get us squeaky clean we can, at least, use it on a garden salad", she joked. Zebra slapped the water, splashing Meg. "Would you quit making fun and just lather-up?" Meg clapped water right back. "Look who's playing", she charged right back. A good, clean, water fight ensued. Soon drenching themselves without fully submerging into the bath. Zebra caught a yawn, realizing how tired she really was. Which, apparently, was contagious, since Meg repeated the act. "What do you say we call a draw so we can fall into an unconscious, dreamless bliss?" Zebra wholeheartedly agreed and washed into the suds. When all was complete, they emerged from the water and dried off. The clothes Marlena had left them were just simple white tunics. But as they slipped the pieces over their naked bodies, they felt as soft as silks and as warm as fleece, sliding easily into place. The Olive Oil soap had a part in this as well, it had quenched their dry skin and they were already relishing the effects. They gathered their discarded clothes and towels, then exited the bath house, following the path back to the main building. As promised, Marlena was there waiting for them, holding a candle as the lit hallway flames had been dowsed. "You both appear to be in higher spirits. A good soak is the best thing to help you wind down before retiring." "You said it!" Meg agreed. Marlena had them surrender their load before they could object. "I'll have these washed so they'll, again, be suitable to wear. Now, if you'll follow me I'll show you to where you'll be staying." She led them down a long corridor, with only the light of Marlena's candle to guide them, its flickering flame casting long, ominous shadows against the walls. Meg stayed close and kept an eye on Zebra as she lagged behind to take-in all the fine art pieces on display. She hadn't realized just HOW big the Villa was. They passed several doors that framed the wall on their way. Who could tell which one was theirs?
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Dec 27, 2008 21:34:05 GMT -5
Cool.
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Post by megatude on Jan 1, 2009 19:26:14 GMT -5
As they walked on, a question quelled within Zebra's mind. She was almost too embarrassed to ask, but her curiosity wouldn't let her just be. "Marlena, uhh, is Torrin still around?" Without a falter in her step, the housekeeper spoke as they turned down another hallway. "Mr. Torrin is catching what little sleep he can before Sir. Hercules returns." Now all Zebra had to wonder was, which one of these many doors led to his room. Meg rolled her eyes. 'We're in BIG trouble', she grimaced to herself. At last, Marlena halted before their intended room. "Ahh, here we are", she announced, opening the door. Inside were two, elegant, full beds, set against either side of the large, square room. "It was determined that it would be in your best interest if you were to share a room." The girls stepped inside. "This is great!" Said Zebra. "We don't mind sharing a room." "We've been sharing a room for nearly a half dozen months", Meg added. Marlena nodded. "Then I'll leave you to rest. Good evening to you, ladies." She walked past the girls and gazed out floor-lengthed window. The moon was in the process of calling it a day. The rain had lightened to a slight drizzle. "Or rather, 'good morning'", she chucked, as did the others. She then slid the sheer drapes into place, where the two pieces met in the middle, blocking out the incoming day. "Thank you, Marlena, for everything." "It's no trouble", the housekeeper insisted from the door. "Though it is not me whom you should be giving your thanks." Meg and Zebra looked at one another, realizing what she'd meant. "Sleep well, then." The door closed, leaving the girls in a gray darkness, with the small light of dusk peering lightly through the curtains. They easily navigated a way to their own bed. Without giving it much thought, Meg slithered between the soft, cotton sheets. Her pillow drew her in like a magnet, lulling her to a dreamless sleep before her head made contact. "Have a good sleep, Meg", Zebra yawned broadly. "Meg?" The only response she received was a deep satisfying snore. She laughed, then snuggled into the sheets, to experience the sensation for herself. It was a dreamless slumber, just mind-numbing darkness. The sun was climbing the Eastern sky. At about 7 A.M., Meg felt a familiar annoyance down in her bowels that wouldn't let her be without action. Reluctantly, Meg opened her eyes and kicked off the covers. She winced as her bare toes came in contact with the cold tiles. Opening the door, she wandered aimlessly into the hallway. She had no idea where she was going. It also didn't help that she still felt drowsy, but the urgency down below wouldn't subside until relieved. Surely these people knew of a bathroom, or at least a latrine of sorts. At last, a door met the end of her path. Crossing her legs, locking them in place, Meg plunged through........putting herself outside. She groaned, doing a little distractive dance. Then shrugged. Beggars couldn't be choosers. The rain left a low, cloudy mist upon the grounds. She shuffled behind a patch of shrubbery, raised the hem of her skirt, and let'er rip. "Finally......" She sighed in relief, her breath mingling with the hovering mist. When she remained empty, she quickly dashed inside to escape the cold. Again, she was faced with her previous disorientation. How was she suppost to find her way back? There was no use in standing around waiting for someone to direct her, so she blindly retraced her steps. Somewhere along the way she must have taken a wrong turn, because her current course brought her to the Common Room. 'Great. Now I'll never find......' Her inner complaining halted when her ears picked up the sound of someone breathing, loud and evenly drawn. Curious, Meg followed the sound to discover its source. The early morning dawn cast a faint ribbons of light into the room, streaming from the window. Splayed across the couch lay an extremely tired, Hercules. His chest moving rhythmically up and down, unconsciouses and exhausted. A blanket lay draped over the head of the couch. Unsure of what compelled her next actions. Pity, perhaps? Gratitude, probably. Retrieving the blanket she inconspicuously layed it over the hero's sleeping form. He shifted slightly, causing Meg to panic. She did not want to be caught in this situation, especially by him. She prepared to flee. But to her relief, Hercules merely clutched the blanket close, moaning in the new comfort. 'Good', she observed. 'Nobody will be the wiser.' She returned to her search for her room. Eventually, after painstakingly investigating every door she came across, she found the correct room, and not a moment too soon. Never wanting to experience such an adventure again, she fell back into her lovely, warm bed. 'First person to wake me will be sorry.'
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Jan 1, 2009 20:36:01 GMT -5
Funny and sweet. What will happen next?
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Post by megatude on Jan 10, 2009 18:47:10 GMT -5
When her eyes opened a second time, the pale glow of the sun lit the room in a haze, filtered through the sheer, gossamer curtains. Thankfully, the storm seemed to have passed, though it wasn't without incident. Guessing it must have been mid-afternoon, Meg reached out her arms in a long stretch, followed by a yawn, trying to decide whether to be lazy and sleep-in, or rise and face the day. But there was no point in debating, for the choice was, essentially made for her. The door opened and in walked, Zebra, up and sporting her daily dress. Meg hadn't even noticed her absence from the room. "Well, well, look who finally woke-up. Afternoon, Meg. Feeling a tad lazy, today?" Meg swung her legs out of bed. "In case you've forgotten, I almost died this morning. I think that justifies me from rising when the rooster thinks it appropriate." Zebra's expression changed dramatically, frozen with guilt, her eyes glistening with moisture. She ran to Meg and tightly embraced her. "I'm sorry......." That wasn't the response Meg was going for. She just wanted to make a point, help her see the reason for her weary condition, not to make her feel guilty. "Promise you won't ever leave me!" Zebra demanded, pulling back and staring, unflinchingly, into her eyes. Meg felt slightly uncomfortable, but answered in all seriousness, gently gripping her shoulders. "We've always stuck together, and that is how we'll always be. I promise." They remained in their friendship huddle for a moment longer. "C'mon. Marlena's prepared a late-lunch. I'm sure you're hungry." Meg looked down at herself. She was still in her white undergarments. "Like this?" "Of course not." Zebra produced Meg's lavender dress, completely cleansed. "It's like new!" "That Marlena is a miracle worker", Zebra marveled. Also making a brush, with fine bristles, appear behind her back. Meg took it gratefully and forced it through her tangled curls, soon leaving her hair smooth and long. Then she slipped her dress her on, and followed Zebra to the dining room.
Those already present were; Hercules, Torrin, Marlena, and Alcmene and Amphitryon. All were helping themselves to fresh bread and fruit preserves. And to drink; Pomegranate juice. Upon Meg and Zebra's entrance, both young men stood at attention, smiling. "Good afternoon, ladies." The hero greeted cheerfully, but weary. "Care for a late-lunch?" The girls set themselves at the long, glossed, wooden table, opposite the hero and bodyguard/adviser. "So what do we label this kind of meal, between lunch and dinner? Lunner?" Meg teased. "We've all slept late into the day." Herc glanced at Marlena. "All except Marlena, that is." The housekeeper did appear to have dark, swelling circles beneath her eyes. She took a sip of juice. "Sleep can wait until all of my duties are complete." Herc shook his head. "You've done more than enough today, Marlena." "But, sir, I....." "Please", Herc interrupted. "As a favor to me, get some rest." She looked as if she might protest further, but the body can be a harsh master. "Very well, sir. Once you have all finished your meal, that I may clean-up." Herc rose and went to her side. "Don't you fret about it. We'll take care of everything." Marlena nodded. "Thank you." With a slight bow, she exited and headed toward her room. Meg watched in astonishment. Usually the rich and successful thrived on the labor of others. At least, that was what her prejudice caused her to believe. But what the hero had just performed could be interpreted as......benevolent. Who knew? She just realized she was staring. So did Hercules, and he smiled back. Thankfully, before the others could notice their little exchange, in marched the goat-man. The hooves of his animal half clashed against the tiled floor from his apparent irritation. For such a little guy, he sure could create a ruckus. "Kid! Those laps ain't gonna run themselves, ya know!" Herc flinched at every pronounced syllable, like a reprimanded child. "Let's go, let's go!" The goat-man clapped with urgency. His pupil sighed, still worn and frazzled from his earlier expedition. "Coming, Phil." He excused himself from his guests then followed behind his insistent trainer, feet dragging. 'What a slave driver', Meg grimaced to herself. What was the point? 'He seems pretty fit to me........oops!' Then again, she supposed discipline was essential for anyone's gain. After a few moments of eating in silence, Torrin came up with an idea. "I thought that it might be fruitful for us to go into town and purchase a few basic items, since, after all, you'll be residing with us for awhile." Alcmene bowed her head and her husband put a supporting arm about her shoulders. Speaking for them both. "We're not up for it, Torrin." He looked upon his spouse's stricken face, depression setting in. I think we'll just go check on the rest of the troop. I hope they're adjusting." "Will you be alright?" Zebra asked, worried. Alcmene tried to smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "You kids go and enjoy yourselves. We've had a lot on our minds." They soon left, and the remaining party cleared the table.
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Jan 17, 2009 17:47:41 GMT -5
Wow that was good!
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Post by megatude on Jan 24, 2009 19:38:29 GMT -5
Pacing back and forth, with a stern scowl upon his face, Hades waited in his throne room for the news his minions would hold. Dripping wet from the above world weather and singed from their encounter with a lightning bolt, the daemon duo humbly collapsed before their master in a puddle of their own filth. Hades cringed, stepping away from his slaves so not to soil his robes. "So, all went well I presume?" He said casually as he checked for set-in stains. Such a pain, those things. Pain and Panic moaned from fatigue, for all they could mutter for a response. "Excuse me?" Hades waved a hand behind his ear, mockingly, his patience wearing thin. "I didn't catch that." "Mission......." Pain coughed a cloud of smoke from his lungs. "accomplished." "The farm-house is nothing but ash", added Panic. He hesitated his next piece of news. "But.....ev....everyone....survived." He flinched, ready for the usual beating and reprimand from the fireball flame of his master. He cowered behind his larger counter-part. "Good", Hades remarked simply, turning to mammoth game-board. The minions looked at each other, stunned by his calm demeanor. "Aren't you.......upset?" Pain dared to ask. Hades carefully moved a game-piece across the board, contemplating his next move. "No. All is going according to plan. It's just a matter of time." Dumbfounded, Panic proceeded further. "Mind filling us in?" Rolling his eyes at their apparent stupidity, Hades recited his intentions with an air of calm and poise, as if he'd already won Olympus without even trying, though a few sparks escaped from his ever burning top. "If these girls really ARE connected to Jules, Hercules will undoubtedly help them seek him out, as I'm sure he's done before. Eventually, their search will lead them here, drawing them into my boundaries where I am Lord and master, thus more powerful, then I can get them to build my time-trap and send me into the future. And in all the mix, I'll destroy Jerkules in the process. Get it now?" Still confused, never-the-less, they nodded their confirmation. "Good. Then we're all on the same page."
Meg really didn't want to go, especially since Alcmene and Amphitryon had decided to remain behind, that would guarantee a front-row seat to Zebra and Torrin's flirtatious fun. But what else would she do otherwise? So she reluctantly tagged along. The streets and sidewalks were as congested as they were during their first visit despite the dropping temperature. Still, Meg felt uneasy. Something about the way the wind played against her exposed cheek, causing it to flush, like someone was watching her. They browsed through various shops and stalls in search of whatever essentials they might need. Meg dragged herself along, shoulders hunched, falling farther and farther behind their small pack, her enthusiasm lost since the start of the trip. She overheard Zebra giggling in response to some lame joke Torrin performed. Disgusted, she refrained from sticking her finger in her mouth and gagging behind their backs. She had ultimately been forgotten. Oh what trouble men could stir. Already this one was turning Zebra's brain into jello. She was going to have to talk with her and set her straight. Otherwise she was bound to get hurt. Ami-st the gaggle of arguing and gossiping villagers, a new voice broke into her mind, freezing Meg into place. "I see that you are lost......" It was a creepy, cracking voice, that made Meg shutter, like the sour note when a bow struck the violin strings incorrectly. She looked about, trying to find the being from which it belonged. But nobody was even looking her way, it was almost as if she'd heard the voice within the depths of her mind. She shook her head and prepared to move on, she'd already lost sight of Zebra. "But it is your heart that you must seek......." Now she was getting irritated, automatically clenching her fists. The words bounced off the walls of her brain, echoing into its depths. What was going on? "So quick to anger......Such emotions darken ones judgement......." This had to be a trick. 'Show yourself!' She dared the being that had entered her thoughts. "Come, and you'll find me.......beyond the veil of black...." Turing, Meg saw a shop set into a clay building with as sheer black curtain shutting out the cold. Moving slowly, she reached out a hand and separated the dark sheet, fingers sliding down the smooth fabric. It was very dark inside, only a single candle burned within, bleeding melted wax onto the small table on which it stood. Incense, and the aroma of dizzying fragrances attacked her sinuses as she proceeded deeper inside. As her eyes continued to adjust to the dim light, she could make out a shrouded figure seated before the table. Another chair sat opposite her. "Welcome. Sit." Meg did not. "Who are you? She asked, folding her arms. "What do you want?" "Only to help you heal. Now sit!" From beneath the figure's long sleeve protruded a long ghost-white finger, pointing to the chair. Only to humor the figure, she finally plopped into place. "As to who I am, that is not important." "Fine, but what do you mean......." Meg raised her eyebrow. "'help me heal'?" The figure took her hand. Meg felt her flesh crawl beneath her skin at the figure's touch. "Your heart has been deeply wounded with many scars. It is time to let new flesh taper those wounds." Meg pulled her hand back. "Right......Look, no offense, lady", she assumed the figure was female. "but I don't buy...." "You've done more than your share of speaking! Now there is only room to listen." OK. Someone needed to cut down on the coffee and switch to decaf. "Your heart had been dashed and torn. But it is not too late to dissolve that lingering bitterness." Meg felt offended, thinning her eyes, but the speaker was not yet finished. "If you will allow, your heart can be saved, mended beyond anything you've ever dreamed. But you must forget your pride and live in the present." Meg had heard enough, abruptly standing up. "I only came in here to shut you up, and I only listened this long for kicks. But I'm not having fun anymore. You know what, though? You've given me five minutes of entertainment, and for that...." She retrieved a single Drachma from inside her tunic, Torrin had given her some money in case she found something she liked, and tossed it onto the table, its faces spinning until it fell flat."There's something for your troubles. I'm afraid you've wasted your time. I don't believe in that crystal-ball mumbo jumbo." She spun on her heal and marched toward the exit, only pausing when the figure spoke again: "Love will strike your heart, mark my words. But unless you let go of your past, it will become too great to bear and ultimately destroy you." Overwhelmed with frustration and confusion, Meg turned, if for anything, to tell the old woman off. "Why don't you......!" Her accusing finger hung suspended in the air and her lips remained curled in the form of her last word. It.....she, was gone. Disappeared. Meg returned to the back of the room to investigate. But as she snooped around, looking for any hidden nitch, any secret escape route. Overturning this, uncovering that, running her hand along the clay wall. Nothing. Nada. "What the.....What's the matter with me?" Without hesitation, she rushed outside, sweeping away the curtain in a violent motion. 'Did I imagine the whole thing? My sanity was never tested like this in the 21st century. This place is dangerous to my health.'
The hooded figure returned to visibility. She reached up and slid the hood from her head, revealing a blue-eyed, fuchsia-skinned beauty. Shrugging from the black robe, entirely, she shook loose her sun-kissed golden curls, that fell below her ankles. She was relieved to finally be rid of that tacky old robe and out of the guise of an old fortune-teller. It just wasn't her color, so last season. "Nobody said my job was easy", the woman sighed, straightening her elegant gown. "I only hope she takes my advice to heart." She raised her arms to the ceiling and spun in a circle, faster and faster, as swirls of wildflowers spiraled about her form. A musical melody sang softly as she faded from sight; Aphrodite. Aphrodite.......
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Jan 27, 2009 1:00:05 GMT -5
Oh that was really good. Giggles and curiosity came from me as I read this piece.
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Post by megatude on Feb 10, 2009 2:31:50 GMT -5
When Meg finally caught up with Zebra and Torrin, they were sorting through a bin of knitted scarves at a merchant's booth. "I really like this one", Zebra announced, holding one up to admire its quality. "What do you think, Meg?" She turned to gain her friend's opinion. "Do you think Alcmene would like it?" Meg blinked, stymied, and a bit perturbed. She hadn't even noticed her absence while she was conversing with that odd-ball fortune-teller! All the gal's attention was focused elsewhere. She had, of course, been too busy oogling over Torrin. This fact heightened Meg's already angered state of mind. But it was no use. Meg just turned her face away, disinterested. "Whatever." Zebra was taken aback by Meg's sudden coldness. It concerned her, then forgotten when Torrin reclaimed her attention. "I think she'll really like it. The color is so striking, just like your eyes." Zebra blushed and lowered her head to hide the increase of the color in her cheeks. It was getting to be too much. Meg almost felt sorry for the two of them. What effect would their inevitable separation have on them, when they finally found Zebra's grandfather and returned home? Oh well. She supposed they would deal with it when the time came. They would get over it in time. "Are we done yet?" Meg whined like a child being forced to endure the most boring activity. Zebra was hesitant. "Well, I was hoping to bring back a few more things for Alcmene and Amphitryon, to try and cheer them up." "But if you'd prefer, Meg, I'd be glad to escort you back to the Villa", offered Torrin, trying to be polite. "No thanks", Meg replied abruptly, not wanting any favors. "That's not necessary, I can find my way back easily enough." 'How could you miss the biggest structure in the area?' "Will you be alright?" Zebra remembered their first run-in with the locals when they first stepped into this foreign time, and shuddered. Meg glanced at her friend with a look that seemed to say; 'Are you kidding? Have you forgotten whom you're talking to?' But at least she was showing concern for her well-being, unlike her earlier display. "I think I can handle it." "At least take this.." Torrin shrugged off a small pendant from around his neck and presented it to Meg. It depicted a lightening bolt striking the clouds; the same matching symbol that was engraved upon Hercules' medallion. "This way, the guards at the gate will allow you access." Meg took it from his palm. "Thanks", she said without feeling. Zebra suddenly felt a twinge of guilt, finally realizing her initial neglect. "Please be careful." She looked so sincere, Meg was just about ready to forgive Zebra, overlook her crazy, feminine whiles. But then she saw her hand reach out to clutch Torrin's, seeking his support, then her jealous feeling boiled back into place. She pivoted on the balls of her toes and grunted dismissively. "Whatever." Then she walked away, separating herself from the blossoming couple.
'Sometimes she can be so predictable!' Meg commented to herself, fuming. 'Other times, she takes me completely by surprise.' All the time Meg had known Zebra she'd been a wallflower. But now, since she'd met 'mister tight-skinned, borin' Torrin', she'd developed a new predatory skill, lying in wait to spring her trap upon her intended prey. 'I guess it just took the right person. Which means he is exactly the 'wrong' person.' No one paid her any mind as she headed for the Villa. A few citizens cast her a curious glance or two. They knew their kind and that she didn't mix with any of them. The younger men took a more serious notice. But, for the most part, she was ultimately ignored, which was how she preferred it. Her notable attitude and the scowl frozen on her face wasn't exactly inviting. A riot of sorts seemed to be taking place as Meg arrived before the massive, golden gates, securing the entrance to the Villa. Turned out, it was just a mob of over-infatuated teenage girls, desperate for the chance to see the city's hottest male bachelor. Meg rolled her eyes. She now regretted not remembering to take the the back way in That Hercules had shown them. But she couldn't recall how to access it. 'Guess that's why it's secret.' She elbowed her way between the screaming adolescents. "S'cuse me. Look out. One side, sister." If she were a football player, such a maneuver would be much easier. Then she shuddered. Maybe football players weren't the best solution to dream-up, since a particular one back home retained only one brain cell. The guard blocking the gates tiredly attempted to shoo away the increasingly hyper crowd. "As I've tried to explain to you, ladies, the resident hero is not in at this time. So there is no point in your continuous efforts to gain access", He yelled over the girlish squeals. Of course their one-track minds wouldn't register this fact, they just continued their illicit screaming. Meg finally weaved her way through to the front, at the annoyance of those surrounding her. She displayed her 'back-stage pass' for the guards inspection. He recognized the young-woman, who could forget the rare color of her lovely eyes? Never-the-less, protocol and routine were required to keep order. He studied the pendant in Meg's possession, to be certain of its genuity. Satisfied, he nodded in confirmation, opened the gate, just slightly enough for her to slip-in alone, and quickly locked it in place behind her. The mass of girls shouted angrily in protest. "Why is SHE allowed in?!" They gripped the gold-plated iron bars of the gate and shook, rattling the barrier at its structure. Continuing up the way, Meg couldn't help feeling slightly smug about getting into an otherwise exclusive facility. It almost made her want to turn and express a rude gesture. But what was the use? It wasn't as if she CHOSE to remain where she was. Oh well, it was temporary: The entire ordeal was temporary. As soon as their situation improved, they would pick-up the search for the missing inventor, and ultimately return to their proper place and time; Home. Home......The word left a hollow echo within Meg's chest. She realized how alone she felt. Zebra had found a distraction to stave the urgency of locating her grandfather, which made Meg accentually more determined to escape.
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Feb 15, 2009 23:10:34 GMT -5
Tell me more! Tell me more!
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Post by megatude on Feb 21, 2009 17:05:18 GMT -5
Meg wandered the massive grounds of the estate, driven by boredom. She walked about the terrace, taking-in the lush, well kept greenery. It really was quite beautiful. At the north-end of the grounds, she discovered a training yard of sorts. 'This must be where Wonder-boy learns his trade.' Various weapons and armor littered the lawn. But what stole her attention was a rack of training dummies, which were basically stuffed dolls depicting the imitating faces of hideous monsters, hanging off the ground by a rope. Her fingers and toes flexed with anticipation. It had been some time since she had sparred. Her head whipped to either side, to be sure no one was about. That little Billy Goat would likely be ticked-off if he caught her messing with official training equipment. Then again, why should she care if Phil discovered her on the grounds? Besides, it might actually be quite comical to watch one of his fits, that pudgy little face turning fire-ball red up to his horns while the veins in his forehead pulsed and throbbed with frustration. Meg smiled as she pictured this display in her mind. Then the moment passed and it was onto business. Beginning with some stretches to loosen and elongate her muscles, rolling the tendons in her neck. She crouched into a fighting stance, took a few energizing deep breaths, then unleashed a flurry of attacks. Each move flowed into the next, smooth and flawless. It appeared no experience had lagged from her lack of practice. Fists and feet connected with stuffing, while she danced around her opponent. Soon her breath became heavy and perspiration escaped from her pores. She welcomed these sensations of fatigue. All in all, they strengthened her to continue further. Seeing her weary symptoms as an opponent in itself, one to overcome and surpass. Once she felt satisfied with her work-out, she decided to take a time-out. Taking deep, soothing breaths to calm the rhythm of her heart, she allowed her eyes to wander. While doing so, another object caught her interests, lying on innocently upon the ground. Deciding to investigate, she slowly approached its location. Finally recognizing its form and structure, she found it to be a Bow. A Long Bow, in fact. She bent down and hefted the weapon, testing its weight in her hands. Intrigued, she lifted the bow into firing position, and attempted to pull back the tightened string. To her profound annoyance, the cursed thing wouldn't budge under her strength alone, no matter how hard she strained at its taught resistance. "Ever shot a bow before?" Meg jumped, startled by the sudden presence of another. She felt like a child just being caught raiding the cookie jar, giving her the impulse to hide the object behind her back, silently cursing herself. Her sensai back home would have undoubtedly blown a gasket at her carelessness, not being more alert and aware of her surroundings. She at last turned to face the master of the Villa, himself. He looked embarrassed for startling her without warning. "I...I...I'm sorry, Meg, please forgive my unannounced approach", Hercules hastily apologized. "I just saw you with the bow and wondered if you had any experience wielding one." Meg was somewhat surprised; he hadn't gotten upset at her wondering curiosity. He was still waiting patiently for her answer, content enough just to have the pleasure of gazing upon her beauty. She squirmed, feeling slightly awkward. "Umm...No, actually." She surrendered the weapon into its owners care. "But I've always wanted to." Herc nervously fingered the weapon in his massive hands, hesitant to utter his next words for fear of rejection. "I....umm...I could teach you. That is....if you wanted...t...to." Meg bit her lip, stewing. What harm could it do? "Well, sure. If its not too much of a burden." "Oh no. No, no", Herc insisted. "I'd Lo....I mean, great!" He looked upon his Bow. "But you probably wouldn't want to learn on this one. You see, this is the one I use, it's fitted for my skill and bearing weight." He took a moment to address the problem. Finally, he got an idea and held up a finger. "Hold on." He disappeared into a storage shed of sorts and soon returned with a smaller Re-curve Bow, and a quiver full of arrows with bright colored feathers that sprung from the tail. "Here we go. This should suit you just fine." Meg accepted the weapon. It was much lighter than its predecessor. She experimentally pulled back the string and found that the draw matched her strength. "This was actually my first Bow when first entered hero training", Herc reminisced fondly. Meg had to swallow any prideful feelings she had for having to start her lesson with a child's Bow. "Is that a fact.." She replied dryly. "Yep. I was pretty hopeless before Phil took me on. Well..." He eagerly clapped his hands together. "..shall we begin?"
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Feb 23, 2009 18:50:40 GMT -5
That last part there sounds cute. I am so curious now.
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Post by megatude on Mar 7, 2009 22:43:46 GMT -5
Shouldering the quiver of arrows, Hercules led his newly appointed student to the north end of the field. 20 yards from their current position stood a target, outlined in the shape of a monstrous foe. Painted in the center were 5 brightly colored circles, pin-pointing the foe's vitality. Contemplating how to begin, Herc held his bow before him in the required pose, with his legs spread, one foot forward, the other pointed toward his target. "First of all, you must keep your arms straight, but with a slight bend against the grip." He retrieved an arrow from its hold and fit it into place. "There's a tiny nitch, just before the fletching, where you nock the arrow onto the string." He demonstrated so. "You pull back the string till it touches your cheek. Take aim, looking down the length of the arrow, to where the tip rests just above the bull's-eye..." The concentration was obvious on his face, studying the distance between himself and the target. "Then release..." As he thus spoke, the arrow shot from the bow with a distinct twang. Flying straight and true, the arrow hit home upon its intended point.......then blasted through the opposite end. Unable to discern where his arrow may have landed, Herc's face grew hot as he reached back to massage his neck, embarrassed. "Whoops, heh heh. I tend to forget my own strength." Never-the-less, Meg was impressed, quickly snapping her mouth shut. " I can't be sure, but I don't think you'll be able to retrieve that one." "Yeah, you're probably right. OK, now you give it a try." Pressure mounted. Meg was actually nervous she'd make a fool of herself. Luckily, she knew the exact rouse to disguise her apprehension. Her tarty tongue was the perfect defense against nervous jitters. "Alright. But I don't know if I can top that acrobatic move", she teased, stepping forward and copying his stance. Her mind suddenly went blank. Where did the arrow rest again? Mentally struggling, she decided to just wing-it. She fit the arrow where she presumed it went and stretched the bow string back against her cheek. As she released her grip on the string, it snapped across her left arm, the one she left straight along-side the bow, causing her loaded arrow to stray off course into some well-tended shrubbery. It could have been compared with that of a task master's whip. The top layer of skin on her upper arm was left fire-red and raw, a painful result from her miscalculation. The last thing Meg wanted to do was complain, showing weakness. But the nerves in her arm screamed against her will as she tucked it under her elbow. She hissed through her clenched teeth. "Oh no! Are you alright, Meg?" Herc wanted to reach out and comfort her, but held back knowing such a move would prove fatal to any advances he might have. Meg turned her back to him, hiding the anguish sprawled upon her face, tense and strained. "I'm fine." She fought to keep her voice clear and even, taking deep breaths. "I guess I goofed." She laughed unsteadily. "No. It was my fault. If anyone's to blame, it was me." Confused by his confession, Meg faced him again, forgetting her pain. "What are you talking about?" Looking ashamed, the hero's eyes dropped to his feet. "I should have warned you before. Weapons can sometimes inflict injury to the bearer. I'm very sorry. I'm not a very good teacher. Phil is much better suited to the task. Perhaps I could arrange for him to continue your lessons...." His suggestion hung without response for some time while Meg's expression became unreadable. Her mouth trembled and her chest quaked, struggling to contain a powerful, volatile force, building upon itself until it could find escape. Then she burst out with hysterical laughter. The initial best medicine for her rope-like burn. Instead, her stomach cramped in result of her clenching ab muscles, wrapping her arms around her torso and doubling over. Catching the contagious sensation, not really knowing why, Hercules was thrown into fitful giggles. What is it about hearing someone laugh that makes you cackle with them? This was the most Hercules had seem Meg smile, he wanted to share in her joy. "H..him, teach ME?! We'd probably end-up shooting each other!" There was no denying that logic. "He'd be like a deer in headlights!" The concept being foreign to him, Herc was stumped into silence. "Headlights?" Realizing her slip-of-the-tongue, too late, she attempted a major back-petal. Meg scrambled her brain, trying to figure a way to explain through her mistake. "Well, uh, you know how timid and easily frightened deer are, so they would scamper off at fist sight of bright light." Herc's expression remained blank. "Or...I just have no idea what I'm talking about." She coughed out a nervous chuckle. "But all joking aside, you're dong fine. I'd much rather have you show me the ropes than task-master Phil." Herc smiled, taking it as a compliment. Tearing a strip of leather from his chiton, he tied it around Meg's fore-arm. "This should protect you from further injury", he winked. Meg flexed, and stretched her arm. "Thanks. Feels much better." She examined his newly ripped garb. "But what about?....." "Don't worry about that", Herc settled. "Believe me, I've got plenty more where that came from." She accepted his kindness. 'He is a pretty descent person. He'll make some lucky bimbo happy, one day.'
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Post by Herc's_Girl on Mar 8, 2009 2:35:50 GMT -5
That made me crack up! Oh that was just great! If you're not already you should take some sort of creative writing class. I'm certain you'd be really good at it.
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Post by megatude on Mar 24, 2009 16:11:12 GMT -5
I really want to.
"Now, let's try this again", Herc said, trying to take-up the role as teacher. "Get into position." Meg posed in what she thought was the correct starting point. "No......wait.......uhh....." Herc's hands flew in confusion, trying to decide how to proceed. He remembered how Phil had physically placed and maneuvered where his arms and legs should stand when preparing to shoot. But he couldn't display that here. Every time he tried to do so, his hands froze in mid-air as if Meg had some protective barrier surrounding her. Besides, this was different; Meg as a girl, a woman if fact. A woman that he happened to be strongly attracted to. Out of the corner of her eye, Meg noticed his personal struggle. She naturally knew she wasn't set-up correctly. So what else could she do in order to learn if she didn't allow his presence into her personal bubble. She sighed in defeat and disgust at her own incompetence. "It's OK." "What?" Closing her eyes, Meg repeated herself. "I said.....it's OK. Go ahead and show me what I'm doing wrong." Figuring that she could always disengage his hold if he got too fresh and tried something. The hero gulped. "Oh, right." He moved in behind Meg and extended his arms to make them parallel with hers. He found it necessary to breath through his mouth, so his senses wouldn't be aroused by the captivating scent of her hair. Meg was very aware of his body present so close to her own, and the play of his firm muscles outlining hers. In response she became very tense and nervous. Herc cleared his throat to focus his mind and swallowed, for his mouth was dry. "Right, well, hold your arm out here......." He raised her arm with his. "then bend out slightly at the elbow." Pushing in the joint. "Now pinch the fletching between your index and middle finger, and slowly pull the back till it rests against your cheek." It was very much like giving her an embrace from behind, and he longed to gather her in his arms and keep her for his own. There was just something about her that drew him in. He didn't know how to act around her, and at the same time, he felt he could be himself when in her company, which made it difficult as he was full of indecision. "Gaze down the point....and release." The arrow shot from its hold like a tightly wound spring. Its flight from bow to target seemed suspended in a slow moving arch as Meg watched in suspense for the end results, her body tense and expectant. A hollow thud could be heard as the arrow-head sunk into the wood, its tail-end quivering from the third circle in. The world returned to its normal rhythm and Meg gasped. She'd hit the target none too far from its center. Feeling a sense of pride, Meg smiled and a child-like glow resounded as she sought praise, turning to her teacher. "Great shot!" Herc cheered. "When I started training with the bow I couldn't even hit the target." This surprised Meg. "Really?" "Oh yeah. I was a total looser as a teenager." The humor disappeared from his face, memories of his tortured childhood from his peers rose to the surface. "I was a nobody until I met Phil and he took me on. He's actually a great trainer, ya know. Sure he can be a bit overbearing....." "That's an understatement", added Meg. The hero's lip twitched from her remark, but this was a serious topic, for his gratitude and admiration of the legendary hero trainer ran deep. "But he's helped shape me into the person I am now. Without his discipline, I would never have the confidence to achieve that which is required of me." Meg tilted her head, curious. "Required? And that would be what, exactly....?" "To become a true hero and fulfill my destiny." Unsure how to interpret such a statement, Meg felt confused. It sounded slightly obsessive. She gave a mental shrug. Everybody needed a hobby, she supposed, no matter how extreme. Raising an eyebrow, she commented, "You seem pretty dedicated to this goal." He nodded. "It's my destiny." Not knowing what to say to Herc's breakthrough dream, Meg returned her focus and energy to the bow. "I see, that's nice." You couldn't say the guy wasn't ambitious. He at least knew where he wanted to be down the road in life. His goals were set. But what did Meg want to do the rest of her life, when her and Zebra eventually returned home? What was there beyond finishing school and earning her academic diploma? She honestly hadn't given it much thought beyond her childhood desire of becoming a secret agent. But, like most dreams of youth, the prospect lost its light as reality hit home plate. Come to think of it, Zebra hadn't really expressed what she sought in the future, either. Though, for the most part, that was obvious; after discovering the identity of her grandfather, it wouldn't be surprising if she became an inventor, or entrepreneur of some sort. So unclear were their future lives, if they lived to fulfill them.
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