Post by Soleil on Nov 6, 2008 11:20:39 GMT -5
Terra had arrived in Avalendor a few weeks ago and already things have proven to be busy for her. Being accepted into the cavalry was a dream come true...but the dream couldn't fully come true just yet. She was learning to work with the heavier lances, though proving difficult, but it was the armor they provided that was giving her the biggest issue. It was as though the military never anticipated a female joining the cavalry. She wanted to make sure she had armor that would fit her more properly yet still remain strong and sturdy as the armor of her comrades. She wasn't looking for anything fancy, just something that would make it easier and adapt more to her smaller frame.
This was why she decided to stop by the smithy to ask if she could have armor made, or the old armor mended to fit her better. Anything would really help, and she only hoped she had enough money to pay for it. She couldn't go much longer wearing the old armor, which she currently carried in a sack over her shoulder, or going without it. What if war came to the isle and she wasn't fully prepared?
Opening the door to the shop, Terra peered in before fully stepping inside, "Hello?" she called out, goldish hues wandering about in search of the blacksmith.
The door was opened, heat would hit the woman. Her hearth was blazing and her hammer was coming down hard on the edge of a would be sword, which was almost finished, but glowing orange hot. And as the door opened, Seraphim not paying attention, Murphy would. The large Irish Wolf Hound would bound off her work table, his new place because it was near an opened window, and start growling, curling lip back to show those chompers.
Blinking her eyes from the heat and sweat, his growling did make her take notice. Standing straight, the lithe woman was tall. Her dark hair was tightly wrapped under a white cloth, twisted so none of the strands shown or the cloth would fall into the fire or her way. A worn leather apron was tied about her from shoulder to knee, men's trousers were worn under and men's shirt was as well. She'd shove the item into a bucket and it'd sizzle as she finally left her tools and rounded the anvil towards the woman, Murphy still on edge.
"No need.." And Murphy would stop and look lovable as ever, her voice was soft and warm, freckled cheeks flushed and she glimmered with her efforts, "How can I help you? Are you looking for a decorative tid-bit for a navel officer as well?"
It wasn't meant to be rude, it just seemed these women on this isle were...well, not preparing too much. And not to take offense, but this woman was no where near the Infantry Commander's size, she couldn't be a footman.
The heat, in some ways, was welcoming...but after standing there for a few minutes, Terra would begin to wish she could welcome the chilled air of outside once more. It would not seem to bother her, but with the approach of the growling dog, she took a few steps back, ready to leave the blacksmith shop. Was she afraid? No, even if she figured the animal could rip her apart if it really wanted to...she just didn't want to provoke it more.
Hazel hues lifted from the canine to the woman, a slight cant of her head as it was clear she expected a male blacksmith. In all her days, she had never seen a woman take up such a job...and honestly, it made her grin because she greatly respected it. However, the smile would slowly disappear to be replaced with a slightly confused expression from Seraphim's words. "Tid-bit for a...No." She should her head, having no idea as to what the woman meant. She'd drop the sack from her shoulder to the ground in front of her. "I wanted to ask you...if you're able to mend armor, perhaps make it fit better. You see, I'm in the cavalry, m'lady, and...the armor doesn't seem to be made for women." There was hesitation in her voice, as though waiting to be shot down or questioned for her position. Terra couldn't help it- Whenever she mentioned it to anyone she was always cautious.
Her own wide hazels would blink at the woman as the sack was dropped on her floor. A dark brow rose at the question and she’d shrug, a moment later she was picking up the sack and motioning for the woman to go outside.
She wasn’t throwing her out; she simply wanted some air and light that didn’t flicker so. After the woman exited, her and Murphy would follow. A bucket was set beside the door, full of fresh water, and another on a bench, this one had a ladle. Phim would set down the bag, gently dumping the armor in question out. Her stoic look not changing before she’d reach behind to untie the work smock, pulling it over her head, she’d let out a breath. The men’s work shirt was near plastered to her svelte frame, but fingertips would pinch it, tugging it away from her, though she wore a half shift underneath, she was near improper. The pants were made for a man, tight around her small curves, a bit short for those long legs.
She’d pick up the ladle, it was a nice looking hammered thing, the bowl of the spoon deep and she’d pull a long gulp from it before dipping it back in and holding it for the woman, Murphy was slurping down from his bucket by the door.
“I..am supposing you want metal armor? Or just the fastenings for something lighter? If it is new armor, are you looking for a complete set or just key items?”
She’d finally look up from the jumble at her feet and then to the woman, her arm would come up, wiping sweat from her face finally before her hands started to roll her sleeves up. Finally, someone is doing something practical. Not that she did not want to make pretty ladles, but it was something less … sword like?
She watched the woman and her dog for a long moment as she was being gestured outside. If Seraphim hadn't followed, Terra might've gotten the impression that the blacksmith wouldn't do her this favor. Proven wrong, thankfully, she stood outside, actually glad to be out of that heat. She could only imagine what the other went through, having to constantly be inside the shop.
Terra took little notice as Seraphim began to shed some of her work clothing, and took the water-filled ladle that was offered, taking a few good sips of the cool liquid before handing it back, mouthing a thank you. "I don't need full body armor, no. It has to be metal, or at least strong enough to withstand the blow of a lance..." Terra paused, glancing down to the armor that was spilled on the ground. "I don't know whether it would be easier to reshape this or have new armor completely made." She wasn't blacksmith savvy but she was doing her best to fill the woman in on what needed to be done. She couldn't continue going to practice without armor and the old armor wasn't doing anything to protect her.
Picking up the breastplate from the ground, the ladle was absently let back into the bucket. Fingertips, rough from work, would be smoothing over the dinged and used metal, holding it up to the woman a moment, she’d purse peachy pink lips. Murphy, seeing Seraphim was just fine, had gone back to lounging, but keeping an eye on her.
“I would..mh.. I would be able to re figure this..but, to the point it would be worthless. I could melt it down, use it for new, something that would fit better, perhaps? We of course would add to it, make it stronger..” She’d meander from there, hazel hues flicking over the item in hand, turning it over to check the inside, then the straps, even holding it upside down for a moment, trying to figure how the woman actually worn it, if in battle or play, and had not been serious injured.
“You will need arm and leg plates as well? Greaves?” She set down the large piece to pick up the smaller, checking the joints on it and not looking completely pleased, then she’d look to the woman again, a dark brow raised. “This is on the Kingdom’s bill, correct? Melting this down will save some coin.”
Terra silently watched the blacksmith as she examined the armor. It truly was an art to be able to make and shape things from metal took something more than just strength but creativity as well. She had watched her father forge a sword once and it proved rather interesting.
She grinned lightly to the possibility of getting new armor. It was a relief actually. She nodded in response to her about melting the metal. She couldn't wear the armor, it either wound up falling off her, tilting so much upon her form that much of her flesh was exposed, or it would surely shift if she were ever hit and damage her more than usual.
"Yes, those as well," she added with the mention of arm and leg plates, along with greaves. Anything she could get out of this and that Seraphim was willing to create, she would take with much appreciation When she mentioned pay, her brows furrowed lightly, "I am not sure...but I am willing to pay whatever the cost. More if I could ask you to do this as quickly as you can." She didn't wish to push the woman, and such was clear in her voice, but she was a soldier in the cavalry without armor. She could not completely practice, and god forbid war came tomorrow or within the next few days...she'd be unprepared.
Mhn..everyone was in such a rush..now was the time, not when it was done. But they’d all get their things when it was done. It seemed the grace of God that this woman came when she did, Phim’s slim fingered hand came up to smooth along the white scarf that was tied tight to hide her hair. Hazel eyes fell to the grasses at their feet and she’d purse her lips a moment before nodding lightly, “I have started some lighter, smaller armor for women, just a few pieces, since we have the new Infantry commander, I figured a few more would be behind,” that warm voice slipped off as her mind went to those items and she’d simply turn, not much for small talk, she’d slip back into the smithy and rattle about for a minute or two.
Emerging from the hot house, leaving the door open this time, windows had no glass so that that was not a problem she had to play with right now, the days were longer, warmer, the woman was right, war was nearer and nearer everyday they had good weather. She’d emerge with a few things in those long, strong arms, one item that clearly was a breast and back plate, smaller semi rounded plates as well were in her arms and she’d set the lot on the bench. Each item was not complete, still rough around the edges, hammer marks were clear on the wider areas of metal, though each item had weight, it was not like those the men wore, it seemed a bit thinner too, any well placed blow would puncture the best of armor, and that thought lifted her head.
“Have you chain mail?” Simple question, she was beginning to hold the breastplate up to the woman now, coming close, and the blacksmith was a tall one. She’d hold it up just before her at arms length and then stepped closer, raising a brow for permission to hold it closer to Terra.
Her eyes lightly lit up as she heard the woman had already started some armor, grinning lightly at the mention of Naevah. She respected the commander a lot, first for the fact that she was female and seemed to have struggled to get where she was. It was proving rather difficult for Terra in the cavalry since it was a division that required a lot of strength and sometimes proved hard for a woman. But she was doing her best and trying, wanting to strive and be the best in order to make her father proud...or rather, believe she would have been able to.
She remained where she was, lifting her arms up a bit as Seraphim held the breastplate up against her, seeming to see if it would be a match or not. She'd let the woman do her job and just stand there in silence unless asked a question. Terra could only pray that the armor would fit and that the blacksmith was willing to give them to her as soon as they were finished. "Yes, I have chain mail," she replied. That was the one thing that could be used from what was originally given to her.
"Mhmm.." Bottom lip was bit as she absently set the chest plate down. A hand went to a pocket, pulling out a small loop of yarn. White, nothing impressive, while her arms were up she'd simply lace it about the woman, her head canting some, the tall Smith would let go of that bottom lip and nod some.
"I will have to knock out the chest plate in the ...appropriate places, to allow the chain..The leg plates.." And she'd trail off again, Carrick never minded her half sentences, he would do the same, they were so inside their own heads, no one no one spoke long to the Smith. Soon she'd be kneeling, holding up a leg brace to the front before making a note about length. Too long, a bit to wide in the thigh, she'd have to make a knee joint right..there..
"Not too many problems, nothing that would take too long..do you need anything else? Preference?" Wide hazels would roll up to look at Terra, setting the brace down before slowly rolling back to her feet, a hand absently brushing knees.
Terra stood tall and still, allowing Seraphim to take whatever measurements she needed. She remained silent, just watching the blacksmith do her job until she spoke again and she'd reply, "No, no preference. However you wish to finish this is fine with me." Terra seemed really laid back about this all, mostly because she was grateful the woman was doing this for her, whether it was her 'job' or not to serve her customers. Not to mention she didn't need anything fancy, just needed armor that will hopefully protect her enough during the war. It could be rusted for all she cared, just as long as it worked.
"That's really all I need. Thank you," she spoke again, offering a nod with her thankful words and hinting to a light smirk. "How much will this cost? I'll bring you the money as soon as possible." She appeared to be trying her damnest to be courteous.
A slight nod as she'd finally finish her thoughts and measurements. Quirking a brow at the question of money, not that she wasn't in need of it, who wasn't these days? But she'd let a slow, easy smile mar that stoic face. It lit her up, tan and freckled features took on a more beautiful light.
"I will send the bill to the Queen's military. They cannot expect their people to run around in things that will aid in their death if they want more to fight with them," the response came easy with that warm voice, not that she did not approve of the reasons for battle. It just took time away from other things she had to do. Like build her home and shop front. Murphy would whine a bit, hazel hues glancing behind her to see what he was going on about. There seemed to be nothing, he probably just missed Carrick. Or her attention. Or food. It was most likely food, the dog was hollow!
"I can get this pressed out in a matter of days without interruption, that is. Does this suit you?"
A cant of her head, she watched as the woman's expression changed with that warm smile. Yes, who wasn't in need of money these days? Not that some people were greedy, but you only needed a certain amount to survive normally, yes? At the moment, Terra was quite content with the amount she made simply for the fact that she hardly had reason to spend any of it right now.
Her own, warm smile lifted the corners of her lips into a gentle smirk, offering a nod to the woman's words. Seraphim was right...she really had no right to have to pay, but then there was always the argument of not expecting a female into the cavalry, an argument she never wanted to hear. "I completely agree," she replied, "It sort of worried me that it appeared they expected me to use what was given to me."
A slight arch of a brow, Terra tried to follow Seraphim's gaze to the whining dog, only to look away with a softly amused grin. Her own hazel hues drifted back to the blacksmith and Terra somewhat bowed her head in acknowledgment, "That would be great. Honestly, thank you...I was afraid to wear the old armor for another day." It made her feel like a child trying to wear their father's or mother's clothing...and not to mention it was completely dangerous.
Something had gone unnoticed for quite some time. Just the other day, Naevah spotted the notice upon the board within the military building, from the blacksmith.
"Gregory? Why was I not told of this?" Her eyes narrowed at the big man, though she nearly stood at the same height as he did. Her arms folded over her chest and one hand held out the parchment with Seraphim's note on it. The man squinted and studied the notice, a small sheepish grin forming upon his lips. "Sorry, my lady. I forgot." Naevah shook her head. "I guess you can forget having a sword then once war comes? How well can you fight with your fists? I've seen you in training. You best hope you remember your sword..." The man chuckled softly and shook his head. Naevah tightened her jaw, a more serious expression forming upon her face and she grabbed the collar of the man's shirt, pulling him closer to her face before she yelled at him. "You think it's funny do you? Excellent. You can help me carry all of those damaged weapons piled up in my office all the way to the other side of the isle where Seraphim's post is. And you can laugh the whole way there if you think it is so funny... You won't be laughing once war comes around and your sword is knocked from your hands and in the moment you take to get it back, you get someone else's sword right in your back because you don't know how to fight properly." She shoved the man back and narrowed her eyes at him again. "Go to my office and collect up that pile of weapons. Meet me here in five minutes."
The man's grin faded at her words and a more serious expression showed. At her order, he nodded and scrambled off down the halls to where her office was. Naevah grumbled and nearly cursed out loudly, but stopped herself. She moved into the lounge area nearby and sat at a table, pulling out a parchment and scribbling a list down of the things she could think of at the top of her head. Once she heard the clanging coming in the direction of the spot she had told the guard to meet her at, she stood back up and moved back into the hall, meeting him. "Alright, let's go... And for every word of a complaint you speak on the way, the longer you spend in training later on..."
The man nodded and they were on their way. She had taken up her own collection of weaponry on their way out. She had plans of going to the smithy anyway, but had just by chance caught glimpse of the posting board and saw that Seraphim was requesting orders of any weapons that needed to be made for the divisions. The damn notice had been covered over by others, and she would have to take it upon herself to inform the other commanders of the notice. Hopefully the woman would still accomidate and have time for it. With her own arms full, she walked along in silence, her mood more annoyed now because of the attitude the damn man had given her. She found nothing funny about someone not properly being able to defend themselves.
Finally, they arrived to the village and she found her way towards the smithy, seeing the tall woman, herself, along with Terra standing outside seeming as if they were discussing something. Eyebrows furrowed slightly and she stopped a good distance away, not butting into the privacy of their conversation, but close enough for both to probably see her waiting around with an armful of weapons and a man behind her carrying a whole lot more. She struggled with the bundle in her arms and reached for the parchment she had tucked into her belt. She brought the paper into her mouth to assist in unfolding it. A nod was given to both the women before she cleared her throat and spoke with the deep woman voice she possessed. "Sorry for the interuptions, but I believe I have received a notice far too late and hope it is not too late to answer it..." She picked the letter away from her lips and held it out to show Seraphim that she had just gotten the post that she had ordered to be posted up.
A slow smile was playing with Seraphim’s features as she listened to the woman, indeed, it was probably ill advised for a woman to use a man’s armor, simply because most women were not a man’s build. The day was cooling, but she’d hear the clank a mile away. So did Murphy. The large wolfhound would get up again and lower his head, baring teeth at the clamber. But Phim’s calm hand would simply pat the growly dog’s head and he would just sit and watch like before, this time though, at her hip.
Fingertips would absently tug at the men’s blouse, making sure she was now properly aired out, no clinging sweat shirt problem, and her head was still covered, inky locks properly hidden and twisted with the scarf at the back of her head. Save for the men’s pants that were long enough, but tight in more womanly places, she was decent. Women did not bother her, not these, but the man the Commander had in tow would mean she had to be aware of herself again.
A dark brow lifted at Terra as she reached out and took the Commander’s post, her post, actually. A glance over it and then to the two carrying the weapons and whatnots, she’d motion to a corner of the yard to drop them in for inspection. Some could be saved, she hoped.
“I am sure the pip did not help with the posting,” The Pip being the brat Gregory was teased by, vice versa, “I know you are not involved too much with cavalry, but pass on, any women will need proper armor, not their brother’s pass me downs.” Seraphim would chance a small smirk to the women before moving over to the pile Greg dropped, picking up a short sword and looking it over before moving towards the small anvil she hadn’t moved indoors yet. With a few short, graceful steps, that easy long figure would change. A moment later, the sword was coming down hard on the small anvil, a flat sound of metal against metal and a loud crack, the tang broke and the Smithy was left with just the hilt, the blade on the grass.
She wasn’t unlearned with weapons, that was evident, but she’d turn her head, looking over her shoulder at the Commander, Terra, and Gregory with that dark brow raised again.
That almost childish excitement began to take over again because she knew soon she could fully show how capable she was of being in the cavalry, or hopefully be able to prove such. She was at a complete disadvantage, partially with being female since she did not possess as much upper body strength as the men, but the heavy armor that didn't even fit wasn't helping that situation or allowing her to build up her muscle and strength. But that would soon change and she'd be forever grateful to Seraphim for the new armor.
A turn of her head at the sound of clanging metal, Terra watched as Naevah and the man approached the smithy with an armful of weapons. Giving a nod of acknowledgement to the woman, silence swept over her as she allowed the commander to deal her own business, though a grin crept back onto her lips when Seraphim made that little comment about the cavalry.
Apparently armor wasn't the only problem. Slowly a dark brow lifted in response to watching the sword...well, break. Clearly that was not a good thing, and with the exchange of looks between them all, it looked as though the blacksmith had even more work on her hands, and Terra suddenly felt terrible for asking for help with her armor. "That's...comforting..." she spoke quietly, though might have accidentally spoken louder than she intended.
Naevah watched as the guard threw down the weapons, causing a loud clanging noise as all the weapons hit the ground. Naevah continued to hold onto her own bundle of weapons, not dropping them quite yet. Her eyes shifted to Terra and a simple nod was offered to her before she watched Seraphim break the sword. She tilted her head as eyebrows furrowed, and she fully agreed with the words that Terra spoke out with. Though she showed no expression in that moment. A small sigh escaped her. "Aye... Very comforting indeed. I'm sure some lazy bastard is at fault for the craft of those weapons..." She shook her head, looking a bit annoyed then. War was coming and in all this time that they had, the weapons could have been restored by now. But she was never informed of the damn notice, and though she really should have come, with or without a notice, she had been too busy training that she hadn't even thought of it. "I am sorry to come to you with such short notice with all of these weapons... I'm afraid even more than these are needed to be made. We need about ten more than this, since I am afraid we may have some men without. But also because we will need back-ups should someone's weapon do what you've just displayed for us..." She nodded faintly and then looked down at the weapons in her own arms. "These weapons are my own..." She only carried a couple of swords, an axe a spear and several daggers. "If you could look at these, as well and make sure they are sturdy enough to handle a war, it would be much appreciated, and I will pay you whatever worth is needed for them..."
She carefully placed the weapons down in a separate pile from the one that Gregory had thrown down. Hands were brushed off and she turned to look back to Seraphim. "I will inform the other commanders to come see you with anything they may need, though I do not hope all of this will keep you over-worked..." If Naevah knew how to repair weapons and make them, she would offer to help Seraphim, but she did not, which was why she was coming to her in the first place. She only hoped the woman had assistance for everything.
It was as they said, “Very Comforting.” On one hand, indeed, it proved she’d have more than enough funds coming in for whatever she had her mind to do. Then again, without Colin..or Carrick..Heaven forbid she’d lend her heart out to any more blacksmiths or potential ones, she was left sorely alone. She’d need to start taking on help, but for what? It wasn’t as if she had the time to properly train from beginning to end and for the years it needed. Tossing the hilt down to the broken blade, she’d turn towards them with a slow sigh.
“Unfortunately, I need time, not money,” again, she wasn’t turning down payment, “But fortunately for you, I’ve already started. I’ve also prepared the spear and sword you requested,” with that, she’d hold a finger up for a moments halt and left them to stare at each other, or Murphy, who settled himself to watch dog. Minutes passed, a clanging sounded, and soon she would be passing through her threshold again, wheel barrel before her that was filled with gleaming swords. Though they were plain, they held a distinctive edge. On top was a very fine sword that had a bit more attention than the others. The piece was slender, double edged of course, and at the tang a small round ruby and an “N” were nestled into the metal. Under her arm was the long spear, the tip just as fine, it too had the “N” but no jewel, for spears tended to be thrown away. The metal was melted about a hand length longer, secured about the wooden staff.
“I’ve another wheel barrel full of these,” that warm voice held no pride for the amount she had done, granted, she had many brought with her from Old Avalendor. Setting the barrel down, she’d hold out the spear and pick up the sword. She looked a bit fierce herself with the weapons, but she’d hold them towards their true owner. A bit more prideful look on that bronze and freckled face, chancing a glance at Terra, as if saying, “I will make your items with as much care.”
This was why she decided to stop by the smithy to ask if she could have armor made, or the old armor mended to fit her better. Anything would really help, and she only hoped she had enough money to pay for it. She couldn't go much longer wearing the old armor, which she currently carried in a sack over her shoulder, or going without it. What if war came to the isle and she wasn't fully prepared?
Opening the door to the shop, Terra peered in before fully stepping inside, "Hello?" she called out, goldish hues wandering about in search of the blacksmith.
The door was opened, heat would hit the woman. Her hearth was blazing and her hammer was coming down hard on the edge of a would be sword, which was almost finished, but glowing orange hot. And as the door opened, Seraphim not paying attention, Murphy would. The large Irish Wolf Hound would bound off her work table, his new place because it was near an opened window, and start growling, curling lip back to show those chompers.
Blinking her eyes from the heat and sweat, his growling did make her take notice. Standing straight, the lithe woman was tall. Her dark hair was tightly wrapped under a white cloth, twisted so none of the strands shown or the cloth would fall into the fire or her way. A worn leather apron was tied about her from shoulder to knee, men's trousers were worn under and men's shirt was as well. She'd shove the item into a bucket and it'd sizzle as she finally left her tools and rounded the anvil towards the woman, Murphy still on edge.
"No need.." And Murphy would stop and look lovable as ever, her voice was soft and warm, freckled cheeks flushed and she glimmered with her efforts, "How can I help you? Are you looking for a decorative tid-bit for a navel officer as well?"
It wasn't meant to be rude, it just seemed these women on this isle were...well, not preparing too much. And not to take offense, but this woman was no where near the Infantry Commander's size, she couldn't be a footman.
The heat, in some ways, was welcoming...but after standing there for a few minutes, Terra would begin to wish she could welcome the chilled air of outside once more. It would not seem to bother her, but with the approach of the growling dog, she took a few steps back, ready to leave the blacksmith shop. Was she afraid? No, even if she figured the animal could rip her apart if it really wanted to...she just didn't want to provoke it more.
Hazel hues lifted from the canine to the woman, a slight cant of her head as it was clear she expected a male blacksmith. In all her days, she had never seen a woman take up such a job...and honestly, it made her grin because she greatly respected it. However, the smile would slowly disappear to be replaced with a slightly confused expression from Seraphim's words. "Tid-bit for a...No." She should her head, having no idea as to what the woman meant. She'd drop the sack from her shoulder to the ground in front of her. "I wanted to ask you...if you're able to mend armor, perhaps make it fit better. You see, I'm in the cavalry, m'lady, and...the armor doesn't seem to be made for women." There was hesitation in her voice, as though waiting to be shot down or questioned for her position. Terra couldn't help it- Whenever she mentioned it to anyone she was always cautious.
Her own wide hazels would blink at the woman as the sack was dropped on her floor. A dark brow rose at the question and she’d shrug, a moment later she was picking up the sack and motioning for the woman to go outside.
She wasn’t throwing her out; she simply wanted some air and light that didn’t flicker so. After the woman exited, her and Murphy would follow. A bucket was set beside the door, full of fresh water, and another on a bench, this one had a ladle. Phim would set down the bag, gently dumping the armor in question out. Her stoic look not changing before she’d reach behind to untie the work smock, pulling it over her head, she’d let out a breath. The men’s work shirt was near plastered to her svelte frame, but fingertips would pinch it, tugging it away from her, though she wore a half shift underneath, she was near improper. The pants were made for a man, tight around her small curves, a bit short for those long legs.
She’d pick up the ladle, it was a nice looking hammered thing, the bowl of the spoon deep and she’d pull a long gulp from it before dipping it back in and holding it for the woman, Murphy was slurping down from his bucket by the door.
“I..am supposing you want metal armor? Or just the fastenings for something lighter? If it is new armor, are you looking for a complete set or just key items?”
She’d finally look up from the jumble at her feet and then to the woman, her arm would come up, wiping sweat from her face finally before her hands started to roll her sleeves up. Finally, someone is doing something practical. Not that she did not want to make pretty ladles, but it was something less … sword like?
She watched the woman and her dog for a long moment as she was being gestured outside. If Seraphim hadn't followed, Terra might've gotten the impression that the blacksmith wouldn't do her this favor. Proven wrong, thankfully, she stood outside, actually glad to be out of that heat. She could only imagine what the other went through, having to constantly be inside the shop.
Terra took little notice as Seraphim began to shed some of her work clothing, and took the water-filled ladle that was offered, taking a few good sips of the cool liquid before handing it back, mouthing a thank you. "I don't need full body armor, no. It has to be metal, or at least strong enough to withstand the blow of a lance..." Terra paused, glancing down to the armor that was spilled on the ground. "I don't know whether it would be easier to reshape this or have new armor completely made." She wasn't blacksmith savvy but she was doing her best to fill the woman in on what needed to be done. She couldn't continue going to practice without armor and the old armor wasn't doing anything to protect her.
Picking up the breastplate from the ground, the ladle was absently let back into the bucket. Fingertips, rough from work, would be smoothing over the dinged and used metal, holding it up to the woman a moment, she’d purse peachy pink lips. Murphy, seeing Seraphim was just fine, had gone back to lounging, but keeping an eye on her.
“I would..mh.. I would be able to re figure this..but, to the point it would be worthless. I could melt it down, use it for new, something that would fit better, perhaps? We of course would add to it, make it stronger..” She’d meander from there, hazel hues flicking over the item in hand, turning it over to check the inside, then the straps, even holding it upside down for a moment, trying to figure how the woman actually worn it, if in battle or play, and had not been serious injured.
“You will need arm and leg plates as well? Greaves?” She set down the large piece to pick up the smaller, checking the joints on it and not looking completely pleased, then she’d look to the woman again, a dark brow raised. “This is on the Kingdom’s bill, correct? Melting this down will save some coin.”
Terra silently watched the blacksmith as she examined the armor. It truly was an art to be able to make and shape things from metal took something more than just strength but creativity as well. She had watched her father forge a sword once and it proved rather interesting.
She grinned lightly to the possibility of getting new armor. It was a relief actually. She nodded in response to her about melting the metal. She couldn't wear the armor, it either wound up falling off her, tilting so much upon her form that much of her flesh was exposed, or it would surely shift if she were ever hit and damage her more than usual.
"Yes, those as well," she added with the mention of arm and leg plates, along with greaves. Anything she could get out of this and that Seraphim was willing to create, she would take with much appreciation When she mentioned pay, her brows furrowed lightly, "I am not sure...but I am willing to pay whatever the cost. More if I could ask you to do this as quickly as you can." She didn't wish to push the woman, and such was clear in her voice, but she was a soldier in the cavalry without armor. She could not completely practice, and god forbid war came tomorrow or within the next few days...she'd be unprepared.
Mhn..everyone was in such a rush..now was the time, not when it was done. But they’d all get their things when it was done. It seemed the grace of God that this woman came when she did, Phim’s slim fingered hand came up to smooth along the white scarf that was tied tight to hide her hair. Hazel eyes fell to the grasses at their feet and she’d purse her lips a moment before nodding lightly, “I have started some lighter, smaller armor for women, just a few pieces, since we have the new Infantry commander, I figured a few more would be behind,” that warm voice slipped off as her mind went to those items and she’d simply turn, not much for small talk, she’d slip back into the smithy and rattle about for a minute or two.
Emerging from the hot house, leaving the door open this time, windows had no glass so that that was not a problem she had to play with right now, the days were longer, warmer, the woman was right, war was nearer and nearer everyday they had good weather. She’d emerge with a few things in those long, strong arms, one item that clearly was a breast and back plate, smaller semi rounded plates as well were in her arms and she’d set the lot on the bench. Each item was not complete, still rough around the edges, hammer marks were clear on the wider areas of metal, though each item had weight, it was not like those the men wore, it seemed a bit thinner too, any well placed blow would puncture the best of armor, and that thought lifted her head.
“Have you chain mail?” Simple question, she was beginning to hold the breastplate up to the woman now, coming close, and the blacksmith was a tall one. She’d hold it up just before her at arms length and then stepped closer, raising a brow for permission to hold it closer to Terra.
Her eyes lightly lit up as she heard the woman had already started some armor, grinning lightly at the mention of Naevah. She respected the commander a lot, first for the fact that she was female and seemed to have struggled to get where she was. It was proving rather difficult for Terra in the cavalry since it was a division that required a lot of strength and sometimes proved hard for a woman. But she was doing her best and trying, wanting to strive and be the best in order to make her father proud...or rather, believe she would have been able to.
She remained where she was, lifting her arms up a bit as Seraphim held the breastplate up against her, seeming to see if it would be a match or not. She'd let the woman do her job and just stand there in silence unless asked a question. Terra could only pray that the armor would fit and that the blacksmith was willing to give them to her as soon as they were finished. "Yes, I have chain mail," she replied. That was the one thing that could be used from what was originally given to her.
"Mhmm.." Bottom lip was bit as she absently set the chest plate down. A hand went to a pocket, pulling out a small loop of yarn. White, nothing impressive, while her arms were up she'd simply lace it about the woman, her head canting some, the tall Smith would let go of that bottom lip and nod some.
"I will have to knock out the chest plate in the ...appropriate places, to allow the chain..The leg plates.." And she'd trail off again, Carrick never minded her half sentences, he would do the same, they were so inside their own heads, no one no one spoke long to the Smith. Soon she'd be kneeling, holding up a leg brace to the front before making a note about length. Too long, a bit to wide in the thigh, she'd have to make a knee joint right..there..
"Not too many problems, nothing that would take too long..do you need anything else? Preference?" Wide hazels would roll up to look at Terra, setting the brace down before slowly rolling back to her feet, a hand absently brushing knees.
Terra stood tall and still, allowing Seraphim to take whatever measurements she needed. She remained silent, just watching the blacksmith do her job until she spoke again and she'd reply, "No, no preference. However you wish to finish this is fine with me." Terra seemed really laid back about this all, mostly because she was grateful the woman was doing this for her, whether it was her 'job' or not to serve her customers. Not to mention she didn't need anything fancy, just needed armor that will hopefully protect her enough during the war. It could be rusted for all she cared, just as long as it worked.
"That's really all I need. Thank you," she spoke again, offering a nod with her thankful words and hinting to a light smirk. "How much will this cost? I'll bring you the money as soon as possible." She appeared to be trying her damnest to be courteous.
A slight nod as she'd finally finish her thoughts and measurements. Quirking a brow at the question of money, not that she wasn't in need of it, who wasn't these days? But she'd let a slow, easy smile mar that stoic face. It lit her up, tan and freckled features took on a more beautiful light.
"I will send the bill to the Queen's military. They cannot expect their people to run around in things that will aid in their death if they want more to fight with them," the response came easy with that warm voice, not that she did not approve of the reasons for battle. It just took time away from other things she had to do. Like build her home and shop front. Murphy would whine a bit, hazel hues glancing behind her to see what he was going on about. There seemed to be nothing, he probably just missed Carrick. Or her attention. Or food. It was most likely food, the dog was hollow!
"I can get this pressed out in a matter of days without interruption, that is. Does this suit you?"
A cant of her head, she watched as the woman's expression changed with that warm smile. Yes, who wasn't in need of money these days? Not that some people were greedy, but you only needed a certain amount to survive normally, yes? At the moment, Terra was quite content with the amount she made simply for the fact that she hardly had reason to spend any of it right now.
Her own, warm smile lifted the corners of her lips into a gentle smirk, offering a nod to the woman's words. Seraphim was right...she really had no right to have to pay, but then there was always the argument of not expecting a female into the cavalry, an argument she never wanted to hear. "I completely agree," she replied, "It sort of worried me that it appeared they expected me to use what was given to me."
A slight arch of a brow, Terra tried to follow Seraphim's gaze to the whining dog, only to look away with a softly amused grin. Her own hazel hues drifted back to the blacksmith and Terra somewhat bowed her head in acknowledgment, "That would be great. Honestly, thank you...I was afraid to wear the old armor for another day." It made her feel like a child trying to wear their father's or mother's clothing...and not to mention it was completely dangerous.
Something had gone unnoticed for quite some time. Just the other day, Naevah spotted the notice upon the board within the military building, from the blacksmith.
"Gregory? Why was I not told of this?" Her eyes narrowed at the big man, though she nearly stood at the same height as he did. Her arms folded over her chest and one hand held out the parchment with Seraphim's note on it. The man squinted and studied the notice, a small sheepish grin forming upon his lips. "Sorry, my lady. I forgot." Naevah shook her head. "I guess you can forget having a sword then once war comes? How well can you fight with your fists? I've seen you in training. You best hope you remember your sword..." The man chuckled softly and shook his head. Naevah tightened her jaw, a more serious expression forming upon her face and she grabbed the collar of the man's shirt, pulling him closer to her face before she yelled at him. "You think it's funny do you? Excellent. You can help me carry all of those damaged weapons piled up in my office all the way to the other side of the isle where Seraphim's post is. And you can laugh the whole way there if you think it is so funny... You won't be laughing once war comes around and your sword is knocked from your hands and in the moment you take to get it back, you get someone else's sword right in your back because you don't know how to fight properly." She shoved the man back and narrowed her eyes at him again. "Go to my office and collect up that pile of weapons. Meet me here in five minutes."
The man's grin faded at her words and a more serious expression showed. At her order, he nodded and scrambled off down the halls to where her office was. Naevah grumbled and nearly cursed out loudly, but stopped herself. She moved into the lounge area nearby and sat at a table, pulling out a parchment and scribbling a list down of the things she could think of at the top of her head. Once she heard the clanging coming in the direction of the spot she had told the guard to meet her at, she stood back up and moved back into the hall, meeting him. "Alright, let's go... And for every word of a complaint you speak on the way, the longer you spend in training later on..."
The man nodded and they were on their way. She had taken up her own collection of weaponry on their way out. She had plans of going to the smithy anyway, but had just by chance caught glimpse of the posting board and saw that Seraphim was requesting orders of any weapons that needed to be made for the divisions. The damn notice had been covered over by others, and she would have to take it upon herself to inform the other commanders of the notice. Hopefully the woman would still accomidate and have time for it. With her own arms full, she walked along in silence, her mood more annoyed now because of the attitude the damn man had given her. She found nothing funny about someone not properly being able to defend themselves.
Finally, they arrived to the village and she found her way towards the smithy, seeing the tall woman, herself, along with Terra standing outside seeming as if they were discussing something. Eyebrows furrowed slightly and she stopped a good distance away, not butting into the privacy of their conversation, but close enough for both to probably see her waiting around with an armful of weapons and a man behind her carrying a whole lot more. She struggled with the bundle in her arms and reached for the parchment she had tucked into her belt. She brought the paper into her mouth to assist in unfolding it. A nod was given to both the women before she cleared her throat and spoke with the deep woman voice she possessed. "Sorry for the interuptions, but I believe I have received a notice far too late and hope it is not too late to answer it..." She picked the letter away from her lips and held it out to show Seraphim that she had just gotten the post that she had ordered to be posted up.
A slow smile was playing with Seraphim’s features as she listened to the woman, indeed, it was probably ill advised for a woman to use a man’s armor, simply because most women were not a man’s build. The day was cooling, but she’d hear the clank a mile away. So did Murphy. The large wolfhound would get up again and lower his head, baring teeth at the clamber. But Phim’s calm hand would simply pat the growly dog’s head and he would just sit and watch like before, this time though, at her hip.
Fingertips would absently tug at the men’s blouse, making sure she was now properly aired out, no clinging sweat shirt problem, and her head was still covered, inky locks properly hidden and twisted with the scarf at the back of her head. Save for the men’s pants that were long enough, but tight in more womanly places, she was decent. Women did not bother her, not these, but the man the Commander had in tow would mean she had to be aware of herself again.
A dark brow lifted at Terra as she reached out and took the Commander’s post, her post, actually. A glance over it and then to the two carrying the weapons and whatnots, she’d motion to a corner of the yard to drop them in for inspection. Some could be saved, she hoped.
“I am sure the pip did not help with the posting,” The Pip being the brat Gregory was teased by, vice versa, “I know you are not involved too much with cavalry, but pass on, any women will need proper armor, not their brother’s pass me downs.” Seraphim would chance a small smirk to the women before moving over to the pile Greg dropped, picking up a short sword and looking it over before moving towards the small anvil she hadn’t moved indoors yet. With a few short, graceful steps, that easy long figure would change. A moment later, the sword was coming down hard on the small anvil, a flat sound of metal against metal and a loud crack, the tang broke and the Smithy was left with just the hilt, the blade on the grass.
She wasn’t unlearned with weapons, that was evident, but she’d turn her head, looking over her shoulder at the Commander, Terra, and Gregory with that dark brow raised again.
That almost childish excitement began to take over again because she knew soon she could fully show how capable she was of being in the cavalry, or hopefully be able to prove such. She was at a complete disadvantage, partially with being female since she did not possess as much upper body strength as the men, but the heavy armor that didn't even fit wasn't helping that situation or allowing her to build up her muscle and strength. But that would soon change and she'd be forever grateful to Seraphim for the new armor.
A turn of her head at the sound of clanging metal, Terra watched as Naevah and the man approached the smithy with an armful of weapons. Giving a nod of acknowledgement to the woman, silence swept over her as she allowed the commander to deal her own business, though a grin crept back onto her lips when Seraphim made that little comment about the cavalry.
Apparently armor wasn't the only problem. Slowly a dark brow lifted in response to watching the sword...well, break. Clearly that was not a good thing, and with the exchange of looks between them all, it looked as though the blacksmith had even more work on her hands, and Terra suddenly felt terrible for asking for help with her armor. "That's...comforting..." she spoke quietly, though might have accidentally spoken louder than she intended.
Naevah watched as the guard threw down the weapons, causing a loud clanging noise as all the weapons hit the ground. Naevah continued to hold onto her own bundle of weapons, not dropping them quite yet. Her eyes shifted to Terra and a simple nod was offered to her before she watched Seraphim break the sword. She tilted her head as eyebrows furrowed, and she fully agreed with the words that Terra spoke out with. Though she showed no expression in that moment. A small sigh escaped her. "Aye... Very comforting indeed. I'm sure some lazy bastard is at fault for the craft of those weapons..." She shook her head, looking a bit annoyed then. War was coming and in all this time that they had, the weapons could have been restored by now. But she was never informed of the damn notice, and though she really should have come, with or without a notice, she had been too busy training that she hadn't even thought of it. "I am sorry to come to you with such short notice with all of these weapons... I'm afraid even more than these are needed to be made. We need about ten more than this, since I am afraid we may have some men without. But also because we will need back-ups should someone's weapon do what you've just displayed for us..." She nodded faintly and then looked down at the weapons in her own arms. "These weapons are my own..." She only carried a couple of swords, an axe a spear and several daggers. "If you could look at these, as well and make sure they are sturdy enough to handle a war, it would be much appreciated, and I will pay you whatever worth is needed for them..."
She carefully placed the weapons down in a separate pile from the one that Gregory had thrown down. Hands were brushed off and she turned to look back to Seraphim. "I will inform the other commanders to come see you with anything they may need, though I do not hope all of this will keep you over-worked..." If Naevah knew how to repair weapons and make them, she would offer to help Seraphim, but she did not, which was why she was coming to her in the first place. She only hoped the woman had assistance for everything.
It was as they said, “Very Comforting.” On one hand, indeed, it proved she’d have more than enough funds coming in for whatever she had her mind to do. Then again, without Colin..or Carrick..Heaven forbid she’d lend her heart out to any more blacksmiths or potential ones, she was left sorely alone. She’d need to start taking on help, but for what? It wasn’t as if she had the time to properly train from beginning to end and for the years it needed. Tossing the hilt down to the broken blade, she’d turn towards them with a slow sigh.
“Unfortunately, I need time, not money,” again, she wasn’t turning down payment, “But fortunately for you, I’ve already started. I’ve also prepared the spear and sword you requested,” with that, she’d hold a finger up for a moments halt and left them to stare at each other, or Murphy, who settled himself to watch dog. Minutes passed, a clanging sounded, and soon she would be passing through her threshold again, wheel barrel before her that was filled with gleaming swords. Though they were plain, they held a distinctive edge. On top was a very fine sword that had a bit more attention than the others. The piece was slender, double edged of course, and at the tang a small round ruby and an “N” were nestled into the metal. Under her arm was the long spear, the tip just as fine, it too had the “N” but no jewel, for spears tended to be thrown away. The metal was melted about a hand length longer, secured about the wooden staff.
“I’ve another wheel barrel full of these,” that warm voice held no pride for the amount she had done, granted, she had many brought with her from Old Avalendor. Setting the barrel down, she’d hold out the spear and pick up the sword. She looked a bit fierce herself with the weapons, but she’d hold them towards their true owner. A bit more prideful look on that bronze and freckled face, chancing a glance at Terra, as if saying, “I will make your items with as much care.”