Lady Melani's Funeral

From FiranMUX

Anarinuell: The Great Temple of Anarinuell

    A magnificent temple. Large and richly furnished, the temple sports  
    huge pillars of marble moving from one end to the other. The ceiling 
    arches up into an apex, and the very top is absolutely clear - except
    for a small stained glass set image set into the clear glass. Along  
    the walls of the Temple, small altars detailed with the different gods
    and goddesses symbols proceed from one end of the temple to another, 
    small offerings left upon each. The floor is polished marble, and near
    each altar is a richly woven tapestry depicting said Deity, all except
    that of the Lion King. Sunlight streams in through the window set in 
    the ceiling, the stained glass image sending down a softly glowing   
    strand of colors. The light is enough to illuminate every small altar,
    and the braziers near each is left unlit.                            
                                                                         
    OOC: This room has items hanging. Type 'view' to see a list.         
                                                                         

Contents: Fidelia Devlin, a child Savna, a child Orrin, a child Okatik Kelarik Corpse of Melani Rinzik Toddler Maimiti Toddler Lestat Toddler Valeria Alastor Jesika Sren Carina Balinda Toddler Lilah Toddler Phoebe Torianos Arcos Kamnester Zetes Octavian, a child Decimus, a child Arianna, a child Harvinia Taria Judanarius Sarina Tanya Taleena Primo Sharin Thaddia Tioran Kalina Phillida Timandra Arinsana Emma Arika Ildria Marsalos Luna Xamori Yacen Rayna Toddler Samek Toddler Coia Vertia, a child Jola, a child Sabria Karana Alexa Battle Standard of Zutiv Tapestry Battle Standard of Soli Tapestry Battle Standard of Elik Tapestry Battle Standard of Uf Tapestry Battle Standard of Unot Tapestry Battle Standard of Eesha Tapestry Battle Standard of Drik Tapestry Republic Issued Short Bow 46 flint arrows feathers papyrus scroll: Condolence Scroll for Lord Donos 16 Cockatrice Clan Guards Corpse of Savaren .. Shining Light .. Wooden Scroll Case Corpse of Donos Shooting Star mourning bone necklace Eidolon, the owl Tanosa, the owl Corpse of Nydiam 15 Bear Clan Guards 9 raspberry wine a Not On Our Soil Painting wooden trunk: Please Place Weapons Here 1 Republic Guards Obvious exits: The Sacred Path <SP>

Tanya carefully sets down her end of the litters as Sarina does the same and steps back. She then moves to her mother's side and stands there, silently pulling her cloak more tightly around her.

Lucas enters followed by 9 republic guards.

Sarina scowls as an insistent messenger approaches her, and scowls more after he departs. But she doesn't make any reply, instead offering a nod to the assembled Oshtas as she waits to see if she's needed further, or if she should go join the general audience.

A messenger comes up to Taleena, whispering something to her. She gives him an annoyed look, but sends some money off with him anyway. She hadn't started yet, or things would have gotten messy for him likely. Otherwise, the High Priestess of Uf's features, the patron of the Oshta family, are stoic and unreadable. She moves stiffly, back straight, and without any sign of emotion anywhere. At the front of the room, she takes some time to guage whether or not there will be more coming, and seeing some trickle within, she folds her hands before her in as serene a fashion as possible, what with her sister laying dead before her, and sets about waiting.

Kagi comes into the great temple, his hands trying hard to balance some items. He spots Sarina and figures she's the safest of the lot to approach and comes close to her and whispers something to her.

Alastor sits at one of the tables, and sets a few items the group has brought with them down. They're likely intended for the funeral pyre, later. After that, he tries his best to keep the baby from throwing a fit, or at least, too loud of one. With this many children in the audience, the hope of it being perfectly silent is slim. Very slim.

Aeryk enters followed by 2 Cockatrice clan guards.

Lucas moves into the Great Temple and looks about at the crowd before he proceeds further into the room. He's wearing wool in the cold, all of it the blue of mourning. The prince approaches the noble benches and helps himself to a seat.

Banian enters followed by 8 Cockatrice clan guards.

Tanya stares at something for a long moment and then just.. leaves.

Tanya has left.

Harvinia brings up the little Oshtas to a hault near Taria and a little behind her. She's unsure where they should be sitting... or if they should be sitting at all. Her blue eyes drift to Melani thoughtfully and then pull back to her charges sharply.

Sren's eyes cut toward the little group of Srennians, With longing, he eyes them for a LONG time, but with an audible sigh, seats himself in the general public, near Kelarik.

Rodiste is followed by Tarnot.

Taria is exceedingly quiet, moving behind her daughter's bier, her face a painted mask. Literally. Taria has painted her face blue in the ancient traditions, and her eyes peek out from the paint as if searching for her husband. Though, to be sure, she does not know if this would be harder to face looking into the eyes of the father of this child.

Taleena catches Tanya leaving, and lifts a curious brow after her living sister.

Tanya enters followed by 2 Ticanee clan guards and 2 republic guards.

Aeryk pauses by the door to pick up a certain spear from the chest. "Excuse me," he explains to the guards. "I'm leaving this with - Lady Melani." And he promptly puts it safely in his backpack. *Firan*

Slipping in just behind Aeryk, Banian nudges his brother and heads on over towards the noble benches, where he slides into a seat and crinkles his nose slightly as he sits. Quietly, for once.

Jesika brings Maimiti up onto her lap, and whispers something to Valeria. It includes the words, in Ticanee, "wear your boots!" It's a kind of loud whisper. *Ticanee*

Tanya marches back in, carrying something that flutters in her wake and then she sets it down, firmly

Tanya drops the Battle Standard of the Totems Tapestry.

It seems that Torianos has chosen his seat more based on proximity to the front than anything else. The crowd, loud children and all, are mostly ignored as he stares at his wife; only breaking eye contact on occasion to murmur to his children, all of whom are uncharacteristically quiet.

Corpse of Melani has picked up a few items on her way to the bier, perhaps most noticeable at present is the exceptionally large feather which is tucked beneath the mangled arm drawn up against her chest. The feather is positioned well, helping conceal some of the damage which brought about the end of this life.

Sabria is sitting at Uf's table with her children, the toddlers trying to be quiet and the Oshtas join. "My Oshta, the children and I can move if you wish more privacy." *Ticanee*

Thaddia watches Torianos and his kids once they arrive, though her gaze turns respectfully towarsd Melani when she's brought in and settled down. Otherwise, she sits quietly at the noble benches.

Sarina glances over the items Kagi carries, and nods. "Those were probably left for Lady Melani, yes. You can place them on the bier with her when it's time." *Ticanee*

Taleena spies Aeryk and his comments to the guards. "I will note, ---- my sister, Lady Melani, had a great respect for warriors - as she was one herself. I will allow weapons in this chamber tonight as a sign of respect for your skills, especially if you went to war. However, I will warn you, should you decide to cause any violence tonight at all with your weapons, I will personally ask Lady Uf to curse any individual who causes trouble." Her words, while softly spoken, are hard. Her own knife remains at her side, the Golden Spirit of Uf Iron knife. *Firan*

Aeryk inclines his head in deep acknowledgement to Lady Taleena's words, and takes his seat.

Alexa inclines her head to Taleena's words slightly, and remains at her chosen post along the wall.

Kagi nods to the priestess and steps back from Sarina, holding the items for when it's time.

Alastor bounces his young daughter on his lap, which quiets her a little. No weapons on him. Just the baby, and the only weapon she has is the wooden carving that she is even now drooling on.

Gaddineez comes walking into the temple, he is stopped near the entrance and is motioned to remove his weapons and place them in a trunk. "Make sure no one touches them" Gaddineez moves to stand near the back of the room, his eyes finding a few familiar faces *Firan*

Sarina turns to the assembled Oshtas, offering a sad nod, and then moves to join her family in the Srennian benches until needed.

Lucas carries an Elik knife, so he figures he's alright in the temple. He gives a nod to the other nobles at the benches, a deeper one to Luna once he's already seated. His attention then strays toward the front of the temple and the preparations beginning there. And, of course, Melani.

Zhara cutrsies, as to the children beside her, even though they are small. She follows along to the Srennian table, taking a seat.

Taleena takes a moment, after she's spoken, to look around the room, her eyes searching out someone in particular. She frowns a bit when she doesn't find the person she's looking for, and glances at her mother questioningly. "Should I begin, or wait a few moments longer Mother?" She doesn't define why there should be a wait, leaving that part unspoken. *Firan*

Nisa sits somber, all alone at the Solian table, looking all formal and stiff in her new mourning gear. Her hands clasp together lightly on the table, and there is a bottle of something, along with crisps next to her.

Judanarius nods at Tanya quietly as she brings the battle standard of the totems. He turns and takes a seat at the Eeshan table.

Taria says "I would like to wait a few moments more. I know her father would be here -- he could." *Firan*

Okatik notices the 'Totems Banner' for the first time and prowls over to examine in during the delay. "Melani hunts with those great spirits now." He says to his cubs. *Ticanee*

Taleena nods to Taria, then glues her eyes to the door and waits, keeping her hands folded before her.

Banian settles back into his seat at the noble benches after offering nods to the various other nobles gathered around, lips pursing slightly as he looks up in Melani's general direction and stays rather quiet.

Lykaios trails after Okatik along with the other cubs, bringing up the rear, and his pale blue eyes intently study the banner that caught his father's attention. A silent nod answers the words, and the somber boy glances toward the front of the temple for a moment.

Taleena nods to each new person who arrives. The funeral is not yet underway, as they appear to be waiting for stragglers. She continues to keep her eyes glued to the door, once in awhile glancing down at Melani before allowing them to drift back.

Inaya slips into the Temple a little bit late, looking concerned that she may have missed the beginning. She is quite relieved to see that Taleena has not yet begun the service and goes to find a place not too far from the rest of her family.

Timandra mostly sits quietly her fingers moving silently along the holes in her flute as if she had a song in her head waiting to be played. She does the stand up sit down game each time a noble or clan leader passes but, but otherwise remains there a representative from the Temple of Elik. When Balinda comes she smiles at her and seems to relax a little for some odd reason.

Taria at last says, "Our Viceroy is a hard man, but he has a soft heart for his daughter. It was the pain of my life to tell him that the little girl who lit up his life was dead. I think it will take stern stuff for him to come say goodbye to her, and maybe we should start . . ." *Firan*

Tarnot sits quietly, near Rodiste, his hands settled in his lap, every bit the quiet, stoic Hydra Lord.

Gaddineez suddenly gets an Oh Hey look on his face when he sees Drik's standard. And then there is a table set aside for drik, but as Gaddineez is at the way back of the temple he doesnt try to make a scene to make it to the table to sit down

Alexa closes her eyes momentarily at Taria's words, expression of pained sympathy for Melani's father.

Gemma removes her butt-length curly curly platinum wig.

Okatik doesn't miss Gemma sitting at Srenna's table, and gives the amazon a long hard look.

Kassia slips in late herself as she creeps to the noble benches and takes a seat silently.

Taleena nods her head to her mother at her words, turning away from watching the door then, to looking at the crowd. "Tonight, we come before the Gods, united as one people, the Firan Republic, to give homage to a great woman, Lady Melani Oshta Elikista." Taleena gives Melani's full name, giving her birthright full credit where credit is due. Her eyes seem to challenge anyone who dares to speak out about that use of names. "She is a woman who believed in and fought for the Republic, and tonight we lay her to rest, sending her to Unot's stars - so that another young warrior may one day claim --- soul, and do great things with it. Life is never an easy thing for anyone, and Melani had her hardships. However, death is also --- easy for those left behind. Today, I, as High Priestess of the order which Melani followed, and my mother, Clan Leader Oshta, invite you all to come forward to speak your last words to Melani, revisit your remembrances of her, and offer any anecdotes and stories that you wish to share - in the spirit of Uf, to take with her as she goes to join others amongst the stars, so that she might share with them the things said." *Firan*

Sarina scoots the children aside slightly to make space for Gemma, then nods once in somber greeting as her sister sits down with the rest of the family. At this point, she's fairly sure people aren't really sitting in any sort of real order, so there's no reason the Whitefeathers can't just take over half the Srennian bench at this point; they're numerous enough that they can probably mob anyone who tries to stop them from sitting together. (Granted, half of them are still only two or three years old, but they're Ticanee; savages can be formidable even as toddlers.)

Taleena watches as people get in line, then beckons Tanya over to her.

Zetes bloody well doesn't get in line. No way he's opening up his mouth in front of this crowd.

Blink. Banian sees everyone starting to form up a line, and slides out of the benches in time to not be the last person. Tanya stands up and moves over to her sister, the live one.

Taria holds back. It seems that she wants to go towards the end, so that if she breaks down, she can run out the back and not miss the funeral. Or some such reasoning.

Sren isn't the last person! Maybe he'll be enough in among random nobles and the like that he won't like, get beheaded or something.

Aeryk slips into line with his usual silence, his forehead clenched with deep concentration.

Rodiste sets his weapons aside after stepping into the Great Temple. He quietly finds a seat at a bench reserved for the nobles with Lord Tarnot at his side. The noble soldier takes a seat, speaking to no one as his shocking blue eyes regard Melani quietly. Occasionally, he'll respond with a nod in greeting to someone. He holds a Warrior Horn in his right hand and stands up and gets in line at the call from Taleena.

Tanya stares at her sister and nods. Out she goes again.

Tanya returns and now she is glaring, never a great sign. She moves over to Taleena and hands her something with a small hiss.

Taleena takes a scroll given to her by her sister, clutching it in her hands. She then looks at Sarina, regarding her sister's dearest friend and bodyguard, and Ticanee Sharanir very carefully. "Should you have anything you wish to burn with Melani, let me know and I shall instruct you on what to do with the item then. It is tradition, for those who are close to someone, to send something off with the dead, things to have them remember us by." With that said, she looks to Sarina, and nods her head. *Firan*

Sarina steps forward when called, looking at the still form before her. "When I was younger," she says finally, "my dream was to be a guard for the Oshta. So when I was first hired as a guard to their household, I admit I was disappointed to be assigned instead to Lady Melani, who I hardly knew. But she had a way of winning you over. She was brave as any of her family -- and as stubborn, sometimes -- and proved herself a skilled warrior several times over, but she was also approachable. And within the year I discovered I had became as much her confidante and advisor as I had a bodyguard. I realized then that I thought of her less as my charge, my duty... and more as my friend." She closes her eyes for a moment, offering a sad smile. "That was her gift, really. What made her unique was that her soul was so open, her heart so generous and giving, that it was nearly impossible for people not to like her. Nearly impossible not to give her your friendship. And I'm glad that I was assigned to her back then, and had time to know her; she brightened my life for all the years I knew her." She opens her eyes once more, and concludes, "Her passing leaves a hole in my life, and those of all who knew her. A hole in two clans. But today, I know that /everyone/ who knows of how she fought in Ellish is proud of her, regardless of clan. And I take comfort in knowing that her soul will shine so brightly in the sky, among the stars she loved." Her voice is a bit hoarse by the end; she seems to have wanted to say more, but has drawn to an end while she can still speak. She nods to Taleena, and then steps away. *Ticanee*

Taleo enters followed by 15 republic guards.

Tanya has already placed on Melani what she is sending with her sister. She watches the line and will rise and speak her own words when she is ready.

Sarina has already placed her own tribute before bringing Melani's body to the temple, so she takes her seat once more, rubbing at her eyes. She got grit in them while speaking. Really. The sharanir is most assuredly not trying to keep from tearing up.

Taleena nods to Sarina, who only /just/ started giving the long line of eulogies for the evening. She spies her father entering the temple, relief coloring her eyes, and nods to him, then looks to the next person who is in line, calling them forward.

Taleena calls Thaddia to come forward.

Thaddia stands when it's her turn, approaching Melani. She holds a spear while she stands beside her sister-in-law's body. More than addressing the room, she addresses Melani directly. "------- a lot of things that I could say. Pretty words that would be easily forgotten and lacking in substance. A performance." She's quiet a moment, solemn expression breaking a bit with a faint, wry quirk of her lips, "But you'd roll your eyes at me, so we should probably skip that. Instead, I'll just say thank you. We fought with each other - no denying that - and we fought together. The latter means more. I hope this spear serves you well, as your spear served you well in freeing Ellish. It's been an honor to fight at your side, Melani. You'll be missed." She looks to Taleena for an indication of where to place the spear. *Firan*

Taleena holds her hand out for the spear Thaddia wishes to give. "I'll put it beside her," she whispers softly. *Firan*

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her Bronze Spear Adorned with a Yellow Rose

Taria says "Thank you, Princess Thaddia." *Firan*

Taleena very carefully takes the spear from Thaddia, and them moves over to place it next to Melani's body. Once that task is complete, she motions for the next to come forward.

Taleena calls Zhara to come forward.

Thaddia nods quietly to Taleena, handing over the spear. A deeper inclination of her head is given to Taria, "Her loss will be felt for a long time, Oshta." That said, she returns to her seat. *Firan*

With so many people waiting to speak words of honor, Zhara comes forward, and opts to be relatively brief. "Princess Melani, or as she'd had me call her, Mellie, was a dear friend of mine. I believe that she was secretly responsible for much of my happiness, as that was the case with many within the Ticanee and Chimeran clans. It certainly was true for my husband, who, while he could not be here today, quite adored his sponsor. She, like all Oshtas, did her duty to her people in every way. But she went beyond that, for us. She sat with me once when I was immoble for weeks on end, after being injured in a riot. She'd sit the furs with me in my Lord Uncle's tavern, and we'd drink whiskey and talk about anything." Zhara pauses a moment for composure. "I could go on and on, but it would be pointless. Anyone, eveyrone in the Republic knows what she meant to us. How brave and unyielding her courage was, right until the very end. I'm honored that my quilt held her until her very last moments. The Anirik family, none more than myself, will forever hold her in our hearts. She could not be more beloved." Zhara calmly repeats this in Firan after she's spoken it in Ticanee. Zhara offers a pouch to Taleena, something plain, but there's a wolf print on the bottom of it, superimposed on a panther's pawprint. Gleaming from the very top of the pouch, one golden strand of hair hints at what the bald priestess might have hidden inside. "None can take her place, or forget her. We could not mourn more deeply her passing, and extend our condolences." She curtsies and moves off.

Taria says "Thank you, Mes Zhara." *Firan*

Taleena takes the pouch within her hands, grasping it a moment, and nodding her head to Zhara. She does not yet put the pouch on Melani - given she looks inside to see if there's anything in there, and notes it's emptiness. She nods her head to that, then looks to the next, calling them forward, leaving her mother to give the official thanks as she does priestly things.

Taleena calls Harvinia to come forward.

Harvinia's poetry

Harvinia detatches herself from her young charges and heads up towards the front. SHe doesn't really look like herself - dressed in a stola, her hair pinned back from her face. She's paler then normal, her eyes a bit... tired.

She clears her throat lightly, "Honestly, I never thought I would have to do this again after Lilana." She tells Melani's still body. "I don't know what to say... you've been there through most of my memory Melani, I don't entirely believe you won't be there for the rest of it... but I wrote something for you." Taking a slow breaths she looks down at the scroll in her hands and reads in a wobbly voice:

    There was laughter
      - I swear it
    It echoed down these halls
    It bounced and skipped and finger painted
    It left muddy finger prints on the floors and walls
    
    
    There was laughter
      - and a little girl
    If I close my eyes its still true
    The echos of a little girl
    That once all of us knew
    
    
    There was laughter
      - Now it's empty
    And even the echos have died
    Like sand settling in a now still pond
    Like the memory of the ocean in the wake of a tide
    
    
    There was laughter
       - Where now there's shadows
    And so vacant are these halls
    Still, silent and barren
    Dust has settled on the floor and faded these walls.
    
    

Finishing Harvinia looks towards Melani, her eyes wetter then they were when she got up. She opens her mouth to say something else but unable to force the sound out she sets down the scroll and turns instead and heads back to the table full of Oshtas.

<OOC> Zhara says, "for the record, not empty. Hence the hair pose."

Harvinia drops the papyrus scroll.

<OOC> Taleena ohs! Sorry!

papyrus scrolls: For Melani has left.

It's Harvinia's poem that gets to Taria and seriously trips up her resolve to be dignified. Sure that the painted mask is not going to hide her emotions, she puts her hands over her face and takes a few deep breaths.

Taleena takes up the scroll that Harvina sets down, with the intention of placing it with with Melani's body. She keeps her face still, the stoicism firmly planted there, but takes a moment, while her back is turned, to compose herself. Once she is ready, she turns and addresses the next person, calling them forward. Will. Not. Cry.

Taleena calls Sabria to come forward.

Stepping up to the front, Sabria carries her youngest son, Wulf in her arms. The baby watches wide eyed to everthing around him, not making a sound. "I am not as eloquent a speaker as some of the others but I will speak from the heart. What I remember most about Lady Melani was she was always willing to listen. Even if I had a concern that I was not sure I could discuss with my then sponsor, I could speak with Lady Melani. She was always kind. It is a loss to the entire republic, not just the two clans she touched with fairness. She will be truely missed and if I could change place with her, I would. However Lord Unot does not accept bargaining no matter how much I may try." She frowns, "I did not wish to see her leave our clan but she had found happiness and a part of her will always live in her children and in our hearts and minds." She looks at the corpse, "Return soon to us, Lady Proxy Melani. The Republic needs you." She then returns over where Jola is keeping the other three children off to the side.

Taria tries to find the words to thank Sabria, but cannot get her voice to work after Harvinia's poem. She just nods.

Taleena nods to Sabria for her words, but as she has nothing to give, Taleena moves on to the next person.

Taleena calls Sharin to come forward.

Sharin steps forward, his hands tight behind his back, face pale as he goes. He comes to the front and gently brushes the Giant Eagle feather Melani has in her hands, a gift that had to come from him. He turns to face the crowd. "Lady Melani was one of my oldest friends; we met when we were children, before our ---------- and before politics. She gave me my first illustration kit, so that I could learn to do something she enjoyed." He offers softly. "Even then I knew she was special. She had a way of making things just feel better, of making you happy simply because she refused to let you be sad. We lost some contact when she married His Honor, and then grew even further apart ----- that." He lets they why go left unsaid. "But shortly before the war we started to reconnect. We spoke, we remembered. And once ----- it struck me how special she was." Tears dab at the corner of Sharin's eyes, and he shakes his head. "--- was a strong warrior, a loving mother, and a caring friend. The night before the last battles we joked about how dangerous we were to have as friends, since all of our friends seemed to die. But there is not a person in the world who would not have gladly suffered our teasing 'danger' to spend time with this wonderful woman, and I will miss her not just as a citizen, or as a soldier...but as a friend lost and then found again." He leans in to gently whisper something to her, and then makes his way down. *Firan*

Taria gives a look to Sharin, an odd look, as if to say that his father was a dangerous friend to have too. Hmmm. Must find out how close he was standing to Melani on the battlefield.

Taleena again nods after Sharin, but given the length of the line, continues it moving along.

Taleena calls Inaya to come forward.

Inaya steps forward, with sadness and pain on her face. She takes a deep breath and begins to speak, making sure that her voice is steady and trying to keep her tears from showing, "Today, we face a terrible task and duty. We say goodbye to our dear and beloved Melani to ..my son's wife, my daughter-in-law, mother of my grandchildren. I feared for her safety when I heard that she would be going to war this year, but in her bravery and conviction for what she believed in, she could not remain behind within the walls of this city. She chose to go out and fight and work towards the goal which we have fought and strived for so very many years --even before the founding of the Republic. This courageous and brave young woman said goodbye to her husband and her children, and her parents, and she went off to do her duty to this great Republic. And she did. Even in the midst of tremendous odds, she fought and up until nearly the end, she succeeded. Then, after that last amazingly difficult but successful battle, I heard the dreaded news. She had gone down. She was in the medical tent.. she was dying." Inaya reaches up to dry the tears, then continues, "..those words struck a blow at my heart, because I loved her as a daughter, and I prayed that she would be restored. Prayed that my son would not have to suffer through the same loss that I did when my husband, Vahlon, Torianos' father, died fighting the very same enemy that also cut down our dear Princess ------ in the prime of her life. I prayed that her children ----- be able to know her and to grow up with their mother's love and laughter and care.. but dear gods, it was not to be. Thus, I stand here today to say goodbye to not only my niece and daughter-in-law, but to a brave hero of the Republic, for in her sacrifice, as raw as our pain is, we can say, that what she went to accomplish was accomplished. She was determined and dedicated and she will be missed. Perhaps one day, we will see her soul and spirit shining through the eyes of one of her children. May her memory always remind us of her courage and her joy. She ---- be very much missed." *Firan*

Taria says "Thank you, Princess Inaya." *Firan*

Taleena nods to Inaya, offering her a very brief smile for her kind words, which all too quickly disappears. She turns to the next person.

Taleena calls Torianos to come forward.

A husband's goodbye Torianos moves to his wife's side and kneels next to her pyre, placing his hands on her arm as his eyes try to find hers. The words that come from him are clearly meant for Melani alone and he doesn't seem to care if anyone else hears them or not. "I'm sorry for being the pig-headed man that I am," he starts in a voice that's quietly choked. "Too much of my father in me, I think. Just...know that you made me feel alive. When I was with you, I had no reason to pretend to be anything other than what I am." He closes his eyes for a moment and his chin dips down to his chest before he says anything further. "Very few people see me as just a man but you always did...and weren't afraid to smack me when I needed it." His voice drops off for a moment as he moves a finger to her tattooed lips. "I never knew that I could love a tattoo so much," he remarks quietly. His lips quirk for a moment as he pauses to take another slow breath, clearly having a difficult time keeping a handle on himself. The finger that trails on her lips drops so that he can reach and attempt to gather his children close to him. "Know that you were always special to me, love. I wasn't the only one, even if it felt that way. You walked alongside giants, not covered in their shadows." The kids, for once in their lives, gather without any trouble and the Clan Leader ducks his head down for a moment; obscuring his face. Lilah and Phoebe reach out to try and cling to their mother's hand while Elsabet and Dolan just cling to his chest. A murmured 'momma?' and 'love you' can be heard amidst the beginnings of tears and Torianos leans down to kiss Melani on the lips one last time before standing. He sets Elsabet down long enough to unsling a spear from his backpack and give it to Taleena. The Republic-themed colors catch the light briefly as he scoops Elsa up again and returns to the bench. *Firan*

Torianos drops the a *** Pride In The Firan Republic *** Iron Spear.

Taria cannot bear it. She has to look away. She just can't bear it.

Sarina closes her eyes. She's a sharanir. She's a priestess. She won't cry, dammit.

Taleena does not watch during any moments or showing of weakness. It's not polite, especially not for a medallion holder. She nods her head to Torianos and takes the spear, then leans over to delicately lay it next to Melani, where the other one rests. Once that task is done, she turns to regard the others, and calls the next one forth.

Taleena calls Okatik to come forward.

Okatik leaves his youngest children with his son Lykaios and moves up to speak of Melani. "This Bobcat is told that in this city of stones, people frequently feel... close to one another." The warrior begins, in that softly spoken voice of his. "My heart however is a cold one, not given to feelings." The stoic man with the pale blue eyes explains before continuing, "With Lady Melani however, I experienced a rare sensation when I knew her as a little girl, a desire to hurt those that made her cry." His chin rises slightly in his usual arrogance as he says, "This is uncommon in me." Reaching down into his boot with one of those long-fingernailed hands of his he draws a hunting knife and walks over to Melani's still form, resting it near her. "I will not forget climbing trees and going fishing with you when you were a cub. You are so much stronger than you know and will be missed greatly." And with that, the usually indifferent Bobcat looks to the surviving Oshtas, Taleo, and Torianos at Uf's table and somberly bows his head to the grieving family. *Ticanee*

Okatik drops the Searing Bronze Knife.

Zhara will do anything she can to keep her tears inside at this point. And so she closes her eyes rather than look upon her sponsor as Torianos falls silent and moves away.

Thaddia made it through her mother's words without tears, but during Torianos' time, she ends up surreptitiously wiping her cheeks.

Taleena puts papyrus scrolls: For Melani into small cloth pouch.

Hope, the snipe has arrived.

Taleena drops the Hope, the snipe.

Hope, the snipe has left.

Taria forces a sound through her throat. "Thank you Okatik." *Firan*

Searing Bronze Knife has left.

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her Searing Bronze Knife

Timandra isn't a stoic Ticanee or warrior. She's a moody Eagle-born Elikian and she cries. No, blubs really. Thankfully she thought ahead and brought a linen handkerchief because she's certainly putting it to use now.

Taleena takes up the knife that Okatik settles down, and resettles it closer to her sister, then turns to regard the next person in line, keeping her expression stoic and unreadable, without any showing of emotion. Yet.

Taleena calls Luna to come forward.

Luna stands when she is called forth, regarding Melani's still form without speaking for a moment. Her expression is fiercely brooding, lapsing into meditation as she speaks. "Lady Melani was ever generous, in my experience, and where her duty led, she tried unflaggingly to fulfill it. In the end, she has given herself in sacrifice - the Republic recognizes it, and -- does the Griffon clan. However, I recognize her as more than a sacrifice, for through my husband, she was my sister. And a sister may not forget a sister readily, nor should she." There is silence to follow the words, and she resumes steadily, gaze unmoving from the body. "We will miss her warmth of spirit. I will miss her - as friend, and as blood of my blood. May Unot guide her home... and --- she be never forgotten, not only as heroine, but as a spirit of independence. May her friends remember her, and may her enemies be brought to despair in her honour." She takes a knife, laying it upon the bier with care, then steps back with features again an immobile, marble mask. *Firan*

Luna drops the White and Red Bronze Knife.

Taleena puts White and Red Bronze Knife into small cloth pouch.

Taria says "Thank you, Clan Leader Luna. I hope your people will remember, as Melani wanted them to remember, that she stood beside them to take their city." *Firan*

Not seeing any room close to Melani at the moment, Taleena drops Luna's knife into the small cloth pouch, along with the other tidbits and Zhara's hair. She waits until her mother finishes thanking Luna before calling the next person forth.

Taleena calls Aeryk to come forward.

Aeryk talks about a lost spear

"I am going to tell a story. About a lost spear." Aeryk steps forward, looks down at the weapon lax in his hands, takes a low, steeling breath, and begins. "I did not know Lady Melani well, until we went on a mission together. The - one to obtain iron. I was taken hostage by the bandits early as a bargaining piece, all my weapons taken from me. When I escaped my captors, the battle raged around me, and I empty-handed and vulnerable. It was without a moment's hesitation that the Lady Melani gave her spear to me, and fought on with her sword, which she was not well trained in."

Aeryk pauses, and when he resumes, he repeats, "Not a moment's hesitation. I am certain she was smiling as she did it. As if it were - nothing to do as she did. We fought on together, and she kept fighting with that sword, even as the bandits overwhelmed us. Had she kept her feet instead of me in those last moments, it may have been Lady Melani who returned home in the coma. For she would have defended to the last."

Another pause, this one longer. Aeryk clears his throat. "She was one of the bravest people I have ever known. And certainly among the kindest. She was my friend, Uf knows, for all I did not always know how to react to her. I will . . . miss her terribly. And I leave my spear with her. If it is only a late return of a brave loan." The IstaNydiam looks on the verge of saying more, but instead quiets and holds the spear flat across his palms toward Taleena.

Aeryk drops the Coiled Cockatrice Iron Spear.

Taleena puts papyrus scroll: Melani's Letter into -<< Svelte Blue Small Silk Pouch with White Wolf Beaded Embroidery >>-.

Coiled Cockatrice Iron Spear has left.

Luna bows her head gravely to Taria, but does not speak.

"Thank you Lord Aeryk," Taleo says quietly. "She very much credited you for saving her life. You have a father's gratitude."

Taria says "Thank you for this story, Lord Aeryk. It warms me, --- I did not know." *Firan*

Taleena takes yet another spear meant to be burned with Melani, and sets it aside for now. She nods her head to Aeryk, her expression offering quiet thanks, as she turns to regard the next person.

Taleena calls Marsalos to come forward.

Marsalos is next in line. He regards the bier a moment before speaking directly to it. "Lady Melani, most of what I knew of you I only saw from far away. I only knew through stories of what you were like. I don't have much to say, simply that I remember when you set out from these shores to sail to the Nekhat lands. And I thought to myself 'How blessed her journeys must be, for such bravery as this.' Bravery I then saw again when we journeyed together for several days on what was meant to be a routine mission for the Republic and ended up being the one which brought us back the iron we so desperately needed for Ellish. You made the Republic shine with pride then, and it was not to end there. On the road to Ellish...a fierce spirit, independent and ready to meet the fight head on. I regret that I didn't know you any better, that I can't offer a story of a close talk or a moment where I felt I really knew you. But I am glad to have the memory that I do. Really all I can say is thank you for what you've done. Your sister told us something out at the front that stuck with me, and so I've brought you this to take along with you." He has a wooden quarterstaff with him, wrapped in blue leather the colours of the Ani. Along it, carved sika deer seem to leap along the "water"s edge. "For this long journey. May it be blessed." He steps back from the bier, turning to hand the staff to Taleena.

"Would that I had done it a second time," Aeryk states with a brief glance toward Melani and a nod toward Taleena before facing Taleo and Taria. "Your Honor. Viceroy." And Aeryk withdraws toward the back.

Marsalos drops the Sika Deer and River Wooden Quarterstaff.

Taleena drops the Coiled Cockatrice Iron Spear.

Taleena removes Corpse of Melani's Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena puts a *** Pride In The Firan Republic *** Iron Spear into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Coiled Cockatrice Iron Spear has left.

Taleena puts Coiled Cockatrice Iron Spear into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleena puts Sika Deer and River Wooden Quarterstaff into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleena delicately removes Melani's backpack from her when yet another weapon is handed over to Taleena, making it a bit too much for her to carry all at once. She then delicately places all the weapons inside, and sets it off to the side for the moment, intending to use it for storage. She then calls the next person forward.

Taleena calls Arcos to come forward.

Arcos pauses before Melani and offers that astonishingly polite bow of his to her. He looks to the crowd gathered here to pay thier last respects like him, his gaze going to Torianos an air of deep sadness on his hawk-like featuers "I did not know the Princess long, and that is in it's self sad, but during that time she allways treated me and my late wife very kindly, and that's a fact! She never had a bad word to say to us, and allways said hello, she will be ------ by ---- I warrent, more than most folk can fathom, was kind and honest, and brave...And above all she were a good person, and that counts for a lot in anybodies mind, and no mistake...I hope she will return to us quickly, because these lands are a little darker with out her..." He nods as if to himself, and when said and done offers another Arcosian bow to Melani and the greiving family members, an expression of deep sympathy on his his Hawk-like face, before stepping back a few paces and offers to Taleena the gift he has for Melani's final journey before he returns to his place. *Firan*

Arcos drops the Mane of the Howling Wolf Bronze Helmet.

Tioran gets in line.

Taleena nods to Arcos and accepts the helmet on her sister's behalf. She turns to place it next to her sister, and considers thoughtfully the arrangement of items. Very delicately, she removes the tiara she had placed there so long ago, her own given to her sister for this passing, and puts it in the pouch instead, allowing another to take the honor of her sister wearing something they brought for her.

Taria nods to ARcos.

Taleena removes Corpse of Melani's Stunning Wolf Gold Tiara.

Taleena puts Stunning Wolf Gold Tiara into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her Mane of the Howling Wolf Bronze Helmet

Taleena calls Emma to come forward.

Emma steps up to Melani, her hands still fiddling with the strip of leather that resembles a miniature belt. As she looks at the body of her sister-in-law, her dark brows descend and she speaks directly to the corpse. "I regret that I did not get to know you better as a sister, and as a friend," she begins, playing with that thing in her hands all the while. "My life would certainly be brighter if it had more of you in it. I thank you for the things we did share, and will focus on those instead of what could have been had you not fallen so heroically." She swallows dryly, her voice crackling even more than usual. "If this child be a girl, Melani, she will be named for you. If the Oshta blood that courses through her veins renders her even half strong and spirited as it did you, then I am blessed indeed." With a sharp intake of breath, she turns away from Melani and lifts the item within her hand to Taleena. It looks like a collar that might fit upon a spaniel's neck. She offers a brief explanation, "Upon marrying Empyrean, Melani sent me one of her spaniels. An ferocious and aggressive dog, to be sure - strange, coming from someone so cheerful as Melani - and she bit me, right on the shin, as soon as the messenger placed her at my feet. But Dame Daggertooth has always served as a reminder of --- innate passion and ferocity of the Oshtas, and I thank Melani for that first taste of what, exactly, I was getting myself into." With that, she turns and heads back to her seat, offering a deep and respectful bow of her head to Taria, Taleo and Torianos. Her eyes are dry, but her hands tremble as she moves. *Firan*

Sren fidgets. He fidgets a LOT. He shuffles nervously, his eyes unable to stand still. Finally, with words too silent to be heard, he steps from the line of people waiting to give their words to the fallen Oshta-Elikista. He melts swiftly back in to the crowd, clutching his necklace.

Taria looks up sharply at Emma's words about the child being named after Melani. She could not approve more, and that's clear. She actually seems downright shocked that a daughter of Jalil's should please her so.

Taleena very delicately takes the collar offered, and places it next to Melani's body. She gives Emma a look of respectful thanks, then turns to the next person.

Taleena calls Alexa to come forward.

Alexa steps forward, the honor guard armor gleaming with nearly mirror-like brilliance, it has been polished so intently. "I had watched you grow up, m'lady," she says quietly to Melani. She does not elaborate, the inflection of her voice speaking volumes that would be lost in words. She is a mother herself, her life dedicated to protecting the clan's cubs. It is not an easy thing to acknowledge cubs growing up, especially in moments like this. "It... was an honor to take the field of battle with you." She removes a ring from her finger and offers it palm up to Taleena. "I wish to present this to Lady Melani. To honor her service to the Republic." *Firan*

Alexa removes her <> Republic Military Service Silver Ring <>.

Arcos offers one final astonishingly polite and respectfull bow to Taria, he knots his brow as he thinks how unfair it is for a parent to have to attend thier childs funeral. A look of gratitude to Taleena is given for her gesture, before he steps up by Torianos and melds amongst his retinue of guards...

Alexa drops the <> Republic Military Service Silver Ring <>.

Taria nods in acknowledgement to Alexa and the symbolism of her ring.

Taleena nods her head, a touched look on Taleena's features when she accepts the ring. She'd say something, perhaps, but saves her voice, turning to the task of dressing Melani with the ring which Alexa presented her, and very delicately and respectfully slipping it upon her sister's finger, as if this were an every day sort of occurrence for her. Again, she takes time to compose herself - having known Alexa a long, long time, and then when she's ready turns to the next person.

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her <> Republic Military Service Silver Ring <>

Taleena calls Banian to come forward.

Banian has sat rather silent this entire time as the line progressed, metaphorically moving forward as last words are given and items dear to peoples' hearts are laid to rest with Melani. He's moved up in the line until, finally, Alexa has moved on to give her words and leave her ring. Green eyes blink a few times as it's suddenly his turn, and the IstaNydiam gives a little start as if shaking himself out of a little reverie. Banian slides to his feet and flashes a lopsided grin for a moment, catches himself, and returns to something of a somber visage as he takes the steps necessary to stand over Melani at the front of the Great Temple. He speaks in choppy, rather crude Ticanee, though he takes the time to try and pronounce everything as clearly as he can. "Uh, Mel. I couldn't think of anything that you'd like more than me cutting off my hair. I mean, you kicked me in the shin, and that left the biggest mark I got out of the whole battle of Fort Zayes, you know? So, here," he finishes, before pulling his knife out and leaning over to saw at his ear-length hair. Bits and pieces fall, but most of it is collected by one of his guards and pretty soon there's a nice little pile of his hair built up. And a bald Banian. He flashes another grin, putting a hand up to his smooth head. "See? It's a puppy butt head, too. Not lumpy at all. I -told- you." *Ticanee*

Once that's over with, Banian turns and clears his throat a bit, before crinkling his nose and taking a second, this time in quite clear Firan. "There have been a lot of beautiful words today, and I can't do more than agree. We all feel the same. I'll just say. . . that Lady Melani was a real blast to be around. She was the first soldier to take down a war lord after the battle of Fort Zayes had started. She was a real believer in soldier solidarity. She was a real Firan hero, Zin knows I could go on for hours with stories just from the battles this last war season, and I watched her fight bravely to the end. I'm sure we'll all miss her, and I know I shall. It was a real honour to serve with her. She was really awesome. She made me think a lot about responsibities and duties, something I haven't always paid as much attention to, and I should like to think I'll always remember that because of her. And she'd probably want everyone here to shave their heads, too, by the way, in the name of her beloved solidarity," he adds, giving a little shrug of one shoulder and then turning towards Taleena with a vaguely embarassed look. "I wasn't think ahead enough to bring a pouch or anything," he offers, nose crinkling a bit as he takes the mass of hair from his guard and waits for indication of where to place it. *Firan*

Banian cuts Banian's hair to 'shaved'.

Taria is not sure how to feel about Banian's eulogy, but remembers that he lost his father in this war too. "He's grieving deeply, not quite in his right mind. It's alright," she says to Taleo. *Firan*

Taleena nods to Banian, "I'll take it, and place it with the rest." The words are quietly spoken, and strained. It's easier to just do the monotonous task of calling people forward, than actually speaking. She waits for him to hand it over, then calls the next person forward. *Firan*

Okatik tries to keep his children from laughing at the Firan man cutting his hair off. "Their ways are strange." He says softly to his barbarian children. *Ticanee*

Banian hands the pile of hair over after balling it up slightly, inclining his head a touch towards Taleena before making his way back to his seat at the noble benches and sliding into it.

"He'll be a Prince soon," Taleo points out to Taria and adds, "Princess Selene has been rather quiet of late." Every family needs /that/ person!

Taleena very carefully puts the items into the same pouch that carries Zhara's hair.

Taleena calls Balinda to come forward.

Thaddia watches Banian kind of like it was inevitable. Resigned to it, even. She tries to not look like she's been sucking on a lemon.

Balinda puts the toddler she is holding down but when she starts to fuss, picks her up and just holds her while she speaks. "There is so much one can say about Lady Melani. And so much others have said...and will say, it is hard to find something which is ... different. She lived her life richly, grasping it and relishing it. She..had a sense of humor which crept in at odd moments and a way of turning irritating things into something interesting instead of an annoyance." She looks toward Melani and then smiles sadly. "Never will I look at a puppy without remembering her." Her gaze then seeks those present that Melani teased with her comments about puppies. "She loved fiercely and one was lucky if she took them under her protection. She shared herself with others...and enriched their lives. We all feel her absence." She draws a slow breath and then adds. "I don't know what gift can send with you that would have meaning for you ...so will give you my word...that will try to help watch over and serve your family for you so long as it is appropriate to do so." *Firan*

Taria says "Thank you, Dame Balinda. I know she appreciates that." *Firan*

Aeryk watches Banian's performance with, perhaps, more understanding than most of those gathered. He nods to his brother as he retakes his seat.

Torianos doesn't give any indication that he's hearing much that's being said. As Taria and Taleo reply to each person in turn, he just sits silently, occasionally he hugs one of the kidlets reassuringly.

Taleena nods thankfully to Balinda, making sure to acknowledge the woman's words with a gesture at least, before moving on.

Taleena calls Gemma to come forward.

Gemma slides off the Srennian bench with four odd looking Ticanee children. The savage Dame begins to speak, "Lady Melani Oshta-Elikista was one of the bravest women I've ever met in my life, and one of the bravest I'm sure I'll ever meet. She came to war and told me she was told not to fight. But, she also told me she could never order another to put their life on the line when she was not willing to do the same." Gemma runs a hand over her very short hair. "She also shaved her head because she told me she wished to be thought of as a soldier and not just a woman. She was a leader, a mother, a warrioress, and a person that anyone would be blessed to have met. I've known her since we were both children, and she has never changed. She always had a kind word and made me smile no matter how dire the situation. Even ... during her last hours she was joking, and making others laugh around her. It was impossible not to love Melani." She looks up, blinking and her teal eyes go hard, jaw clenching, "She snuck into the last battle. Nobody realized she was there until later. She was not ordered. She followed what she said. She would /not/ make others fight and lose their lives when she was not putting her own on the line." She unclenches her fists and looks to her children. "Never again will I meet a woman as brave as Lady Melani Ostha-Elikista. She will forever be a hero in my heart." She hands a necklace to Taleena or whoever is taking the items to burn, "Lady Melani gave me a 'Howling Wolf' bracelet once. This was made to match it. It should go with her." By the end, the stoic Dame is having a hard time talking and tries to hurry back to her seat.

Gemma drops the silver necklace.

Balinda gives a respectful nod then makes her way back to the seat, helping tend to Melani's children and listening to the others speak.

At Gemma's words about Melani shaving her head, Banian's hand sort of unconsciously drifts to his own smooth head for a moment.

Taria says "Thank you, Dame Gemma." *Firan*

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her ~(*~ Wolf-carved ~(*~ Silver necklace

Aeryk turns a low whisper to his brother as his eyes remain on the funeral proceedings.

Taleena nods her head to Gemma, gently clasping the necklace. She very carefully places it around her fallen sister's neck, then turns to address the next person, motioning them forward.

Taleena calls Lucas to come forward.

The prince approaches the front, and Melani's body upon its bier. Turning, Lucas faces the gathered mourners. "I knew very little of Lady Melani aside from the fact that she married my cousin. I came to know her when we departed the Firan lands for the distant and strange lands of the Nekaht. It is on trips like that that one can learn the true nature and character of a person. Separated from our families and our people, surrounded by exotic foreigners and strange customs - that is the time to see what a person is made of. Lady Melani worked as my partner in the negotiations with the Nekaht. She showed her strength and her determination and her devastating intelligence, her ability to understand the nuances of diplomacy and cooperation that sometime evade all of us. That often evade all of us." Lucas pauses to remove a gold cuff from his wrist, wrought in the shape of a crocodile from the Nekaht kingdom. He holds it up and glances at Taleena - probably wanting to leave it to be burned. "Lady Melani fought behind me in the opening battles of the war. Her spear glided over my shoulder to strike relentlessly at a foe that could not bring her down. We slew our foe together, we slew their leaders together. That makes her my sister, and I mourn her loss. This is one of the gifts the Nekaht gave to us in their bazaar. We fought a fire there. And to fire it shall go once more so that her soul can remember that, no matter how far we travel, we always come home." he offers Taria and Taleo a bow, and another is offered toward his cousin Torianos. Setting the Nekaht bracelet down, Lucas returns to his seat.

Lucas removes his Jade Crocodile Gold Cuff.

Lucas drops the gold bracelet.

Taria says "That is quite lovely, Prince Lucas. I hope the Nekaht will not mind." *Firan*

Taleena lifts a brow delicately at Lucas's gift, looking down at the cuff somewhat dubiously, then at Melani. She gives her sister a long, hard look, then decides to dress it on her, whispering quietly to the corpse.

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her Jade Crocodile Gold Cuff

Taleena comes away from the whisper, having slipped the cuff around Melani's arm, giving her an almost comforting sort of look before her expression goes back to one of emotionless stoicism. She calls the next person forth once she turns back to the people again.

Taleena calls Rodiste to come forward.

Rodiste steps forward stiffly; ceremoniously. His flame-red beard protruding out from his chin and those shocking blue eyes moving across the horizon of people in a cursory manner before falling to the pyre itself. The Hydran noble soldier is serious, his eyebrows set in a deep furrow as he bellows and turns back to those congregated, "I met Lady Melani on the delegation to the Nekaht lands." and he stops, thinking about something, there is a faint smile. "Truly a Diplomat of Diplomat's. A /MOST/ interesting 3 months at sea!" and again he stops for a couple of long seconds before continuing with a dutiful and stoic expression once again, "But it was on the battlefield that I owe her a debt; for in our very first battle, I defended her to the bitter end, at which point I nearly fell beneath a horde of cowardly arrows at the end of a long battle. But it was NOT my time and she knew that. Her spear saved me for another day...." and he nods proudly, ".... for a day that I will fall against a fell-warrior worthy of my sword. Not some arrow!" and he looks around at everyone some more, glancing from person to person and looking each of them right in the eye! "For that; eternal gratitude." And thats it; he stops and doesn't enumerate. He doesn't have to. His thanks is genuine if you know his culture. The Hydran Proxy turns back towards Melani and he bows deeply and lowly, his hands coming up to his neck and slipping around a leather string, he removes a battle-horn from his neck. Rodiste holds the position for a couple of seconds and then stands up straight; looking emotionless but dignified. He hands the horn to Taleena, bowing to both her and Torianos. He stands back up and turns now to Taria and Taleo and bows to them, saying as he stands up straight. "Your Honor; Lord Viceroy. I am so very sorry for your lose. Truly. Know that she died with GREAT HONOR. --- have so much to be proud of. ----- Bless." There is an emphatic resonance to Rodiste's voice; it sounds like he means it! *Firan*

Rodiste drops the mwN'Gato Crestedmw Warrior Hornmw.

Zhara looks away from Lucas, that almost feline gaze dropping back down to the tabletop, then lifting to Taleena has she dresses Melani in that cuff. If anything, the Mer Cleanik look makes her seem.. more savage as the priestess stares thoughtfully at what is placed on Melani. There's a flicker of mild surprise, and a tiny smile twitches at the corner of her lips. The look is a satisfied one, though still quite reserved.

Taria says "Thank you, Lord Rodiste." *Firan*

Taleena nods to Rodiste, and carefully handles the horn, considering it for a long moment. She very delicately packs the horn in Melani's backpack, then motions the next person forward.

Taleena puts mwN'Gato Crestedmw Warrior Hornmw into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleena calls Taria to come forward.

A mother's goodbye

Tanya sits beside her parents, letting her mother or father acknowledge the words and sentiments uttered. She watches each person, she might give a slight nod a time or two but other than that, just sits.

Gemma continues to watch from the savage table.

Taria comes forward slowly, each step seeming to be a misery. She puts a hand on Melani's shoulder, then tenderly traces her lips, a mother to a child. "You will notice today that I am not in the colors of mourning today. I come before you wearing the colors of the panther totem, a lost Ticanee tribe that my daughter spent her lifeblood trying to rescue. Her children, Lilah, Phoebe, Elsabet and Dolan are the future of the Panther tribe, and she will live on, through them, to be the pride of our clan. So tonight I honor her life's work in helping to make the Ticanee Clan whole once again.

But I am more than a clan leader giving a eulogy to a dutiful servant of the clan. I am an Oshta who has lost a child, and I just don't know what to burn down or destroy. I am a mother saying farewell to my daughter, and the pain is so enormous I cannot face it. It does not seem real. Not even now. Not even when I saw the ghastly wounds those monsters left in my baby's flesh.

You see, when Melani was a little girl, she did nothing but smile all the time. She was always happy. A bonny girl, who wanted to crawl up into my lap while I worked. A cheerful child who ran to her daddy's arms whenever he visited. I found this very unnerving. I could not imagine that a girl child would have anything to smile about in this life. I supposed it was my fault, for I had conceived her in a moment of love and happiness, rare enough in our times. And I worried she would carry the curse of joy as a weakness throughout her life.

When she had her Rite of Passage, we knew she was to be a Firan Princess, and we warned her against those flames on her lips. But she was determined to do it, determined to carry the flame of the Fire People wherever she want, proudly, on her face. A fire that could never be distinguished. I thought she was foolish.

But she was an Oshta. On the day of what was to be her wedding to Torianos, when the mobs tried to kill the Ticanee, I saw her stiffen her spine and become an Oshta at last. She found her voice, and made one of the bravest, noblest speeches in Firan history. My girl, my bonny girl, found a way to smile through her tears. For love of her clan, for love of the Republic, and for love of Torianos.

I would like to say that things were always easy between us ever after, but such is not the way of the Oshtas. We are hard people who fight, and struggle, and survive. Melani was perhaps a little too joyful to survive. She went to a field far away to fight for the Republic and win Ellish back for us. She went to fields that I bled on long ago, but it should have been me there, not her. I can't forgive myself for that. And I could not forgive those that let her fall. At least not at first.

But then I saw the bodies of the other soldiers. I saw the body of a Prince of this Republic cut down in his prime, the heir to his father's throne. I saw the body of a victorious General, a hero who did what they said could not be done. And I remembered that my brother died in this same war. I thought that the gods perhaps demanded this sacrifice from the royalty of our people, that Melani, an embodiment of joy, blood of my blood, bone of my bone, was the price to be paid. A reminder that joy and war cannot coexist.

She gave her life for Ellish so that others might give their lives to reclaim the Ticanee lands beyond. For though we are victorious, our war is not over.

I am humbled by this, and I will wear mourning clothes for the next year, as will the rest of my clan and no doubt her husband and children. She deserves at least a year's reflection for all the seasons of happiness that she gave to us. There will be statues. There will be honors. There will be yet more tears. For there can be no replacing her as a daughter. No replacing her as a wife. No replacing her as a mother, though I shall surely try.

She was brave. She was beautiful. She was mine. And I pray to Unot that I will see her soul again." Taria leans forward and kisses Melani softly on those flamed lips, and whispers, "Today, you are my favorite child . . . my favorite." *Firan*

<OOC> Taria says, "er, distinguished --> extinguished."

Torianos wakes from his reverie as Taria's name is called and his gaze focuses on her while she speaks. No tears come to his eyes as his aunt speaks, just the stoney haven of someone who, like Taria, has too much to face. "Thank you," he manages in a quiet voice. *Firan*

Taleena nods quietly to her mother's words, keeping her face strictly settled to the task at hand. She looks around her mother, and motions Tanya forward, the next in the long line of people yet to go.

Taleena calls Tanya to come forward.

Sister's goodbye

Tanya stares at her mother and then her sister as her name is called. Moving forward she turns and looks at the people gathered for the funeral, looks but doesn't quite see. There is a sorrow in her eyes that is deep and, while the loss is so fresh, unending. Slowly but clearly words pass her lips. "I am sending to Unot a mother, a soldier, a diplomat, a wife, a friend, a hero, an Oshta. My sister." She pauses for just a moment before she continues. "She went to war for all the reasons anyone one of us went. To bring freedom, to end slavery, -- reclaim a city from the enemy and this she did with a will, a heart, a determination that proclaimed her belief in what she faught for. And there, her life was given for all of that. She fell in the very city that would be taken. And --- did not go lightly or easily."

There is another pause as she looks around the room again, eyes bright and burning. "What can anyone say? Many people battled and died, many watched as loved ones fell and ---- loss is deeply felt by family and friends. Thus it is our turn to again feel ---- sharp stab of pain in knowing that this will be the last time we see Melani. As sharp as the pain when we realized her life was taken and we would never talk to her again. I am told that the pain of such loss will ease... not ever leave, but lessen in severity. I can only hope such a thing is true for the loss now is almost unbearable but to bear it is our burden." She looks down at her hands for a moment, grief weighing like stones piled on her shoulders. But Tanya does not, will not, cry. She will not let tears form and fall for they may never stop once started. A deep breath and she continues.

"I was blessed and honored, by the sister I had, the sister I loved, the sister I knew. I did not even realize how close I was to her, what I had until it was taken from me. There is a hole now that cannot be filled, a part that will forever be dark but there is a part that is just as big and bright because she was my sister, because I learned from her, because she was in my life. And that can't be taken away either. But now, now I have to say goodbye and I say these final words to my sister, Lady Melani Oshta Elikista, the words we said to each other before every ------- the words I whispered when her eyes closed for the last time..." and she turns to look at the body. "I love you." She then steps back, returning to her seat, lips pressed together and expression set. *Firan*

Taleena's face becomes harder at Tanya's words. Hearing family members say goodbye is much more difficult than friends, soldiers and strangers. She takes a few beats, remaining silent, before she motions for Gaddineez to move forward.

Taleena calls Gaddineez to come forward.

Gaddineez looks a wee bit uncomfortable getting into line with the rest of the people, Gaddineez did not know Melani the way most probably did, but he is here and he is going to speak about the woman he has come to respect over the years. "I am Centurion Gaddineez Ashlai, Griffon Warrior." There is then a bit of a pause "I do not know much about the Ticanee clan or the Oshta family, but it has been my experience over the years that it is a family of hard and strong people, a respective attribute in my opinion and something that is respected in my people's mind" Gaddineez looks towards Melani. "I have competed against Melani in festival events and have competed against her in the Olympics along with Tackleball, she was fast, she was strong and I had to respect that in the woman" Gaddineez takes in a deep breath then. "Melani's Husband..." He looks to Torianos... "...is a man I respect quite a bit, his prowess as a fighter honors me when I get to fight him, and then when I heard of them having a son I was honestly excited by this, the inner strength and the speed of Melani with Clan Leader Torianos's prowess and Physical ability, I was honored to gift the son with a sword I had slain many shamibelians with" Gaddineez shrugs. "So when I seen Melani at Ellish it did not surprise me and it made me feel good to know I would be fighting beside such a woman." Gaddineez nods a couple of times. "Her soul will be a strong one for a young warrioress in the future, I am sure of it" Gaddineez then pulls out an Iron Long sword. "This Long Sword has the scars of battle all over it, I have fought some of the best warriors in Anarinuell with this weapon, and with the honor Melani had in her death, I wish to let her go to the lands beyond with my sword, the matching sword to the one I gifted her son with" Gaddineez then looks up and over to Torianos. "Torianos, let your son know his mother goes to the lands beyond with an identical sword to the one I gifted him with, let him know because of this he will always have her warrior spirit, a strange link between the two of them" Gaddineez looks to Melani once more. "I expect you to return to us so I have some form of competition again, lady, Thank you for all the interesting occasions." Gaddineez drops his eyes then and takes a deep breath before moving away from the front.

Gaddineez removes his Silver Knotwork Iron Long Sword with a Turquoise Crescent Moon.

Taleena nods to Gaddineez and his words, waiting for him to hand over the sword to go with her sister.

Gaddineez drops the Silver Knotwork Iron Long Sword with a Turquoise Crescent Moon.

Taleena puts Silver Knotwork Iron Long Sword with a Turquoise Crescent Moon into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Not seeing a space that the sword can fit on Melani's body, Taleena delicately packs it in the backpack her sister will later be wearing when she sends her off to Unot. She calls the next person forward.

Taleena calls Taleo to come forward.

A father's words

Taleo walks to the front with a heavy heart, his steps not as quick or certain as they often are. He is behind Melani now, facing the temple. "I would like to thank each of you for your kind words. Clan Leader Taria and I are far from the perfect parents, and as much as I'd like to take credit for raising Melani into the fine young woman that you all love, it was her heart alone that touched you all. When Melani was just a baby, she seemed the most vulnerable of all my children. There was Mateo, of course, who was busy breaking things at a very young age. Taleena, she was always studious. Tanya played rough with --- the kids and had no trouble smacking someone around. Empyrean was a smart boy." He looks over toward Melani, "And then there was Melani." He has other children, he does! "She was the most vulnerable out of all my children, with her big heart and trusting nature. Melani touched all of us in her own unique way. Melani, your dad is very proud of you. You're among a rare Terenzik-Oshta, winning the love of so many people, and your sacrifices for the Republic. All the sacrifices that we've heard today, from all those that loved you." Taleo removes a ring from his finger, which he doesn't explain, and he hands it to Taleena for the funeral pyre. Wit that, brushes Melani's forehead with his thumb. "In Unot's sky..." *Firan*

Taleo removes his a ~ An Elusive Mystery Silver Ring ~.

Taleo drops the a ~ An Elusive Mystery Silver Ring ~.

Taleena takes the ring from her father, straightening herself a bit as she does, nodding to him, and then turns to place it delicately upon one of Melani's fingers.

Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her a ~ An Elusive Mystery Silver Ring ~

Taleena turns to regard the next person in line.

Taleena calls Nisa to come forward.

Nisa makes sure Taleo is completely done before taking her turn, simple as it is.

Stepping forward, she offers a brief curtsey to Taleo, before turning sharply and offering one to both Taria and to Torianos. She remains silent, and simply lifts the whiskey bottle to toast, and the takes a drink before corking it once more. She isn't in armor, but she can pretend, so she stands at attention and offers a brisk salute. With that, Nisa hands the whiskey bottle over to Taleena. She will get thirsty after all soaring the skies. And every good soldier drinks whiskey. Lady Proxy Centurian Melani Oshta-Elikista certainly did. A deep curtsey is then given, and she makes her way back to her seat.

Nisa drinks 1 wolfsbend whiskey.

Nisa drops the Exquisite Deep Forest Green Glass Bottle.

Taria embraces Taleo, with her grandbaby's in her arms so that they are smooshed between them in love, and kisses his cheek. Right there in public for all to see.

Taleena quirks a brow at Nisa, but nods her head thankfully to the woman, packing the bottle away in Melani's backpack.

Taleena puts Exquisite Deep Forest Green Glass Bottle into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleo kisses Taria's forehead, and draws her back into the seat, holding on to her with one hand around the shoulder and the other in her lap.

Taleena calls Kalina to come forward.

Kalina's song for Melani

Taking a deep breath, Kalina steps forward, takes a deep, deep curtsey. Then she clasps her hands together, closes her eyes, and starts speaking in the lay of a chant than a song or a poem.

A lady brave, I barely knew,

she came to us to be strong and true.
Married for love amongst hate and fear,
married for truth, for His Honor Torianos, I hear.

She both came and saw and went,
she taught, she learned, she guided:
Ticanee true, Chimeran loved.

Many came to feel her spirit,
many fought beside her;
a prouder woman I never knew;

We should all strive to be like her;
we should all strive to honor her.

A prouder woman I never knew;
My lady Melani Elikista;
we will /never/ forget you.

Giving a silent curtsey to the nobles in the room, Kalina removes anecklace from her neck. "I- Lady Melani died in the front lines of fighting for Ellish back. Many of us today have given representations of this, and I give something as well- this necklace represents part of the falling of Ellish- and M'lady helped with that. Therefore, I feel it is right to give it to her." She hands the necklace over silently with another curtsey, then goes back to her seat.

Kalina removes her --- Gates of Ellish White Gold Necklace ---.

Kalina drops the --- Gates of Ellish White Gold Necklace ---.

--- Gates of Ellish White Gold Necklace --- has left.

Taria says "Thank you, Mes Kalina. That was a lovely song. And you should know that I hate songs--music--revelry of just about any sort. So truly, I am moved." *Firan*

Kalina lets out a deep, deep curtsey at that before she takes her seat.

Taleena nods in thanks to Kalina and takes the necklace, looking to see if there's any place she can dress her sister with it, before calling the next person forward.

Not finding any place, Taleena drops it into whatever container seems best suited.

Taleena puts --- Gates of Ellish White Gold Necklace --- into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleena calls Kagi to come forward.

The boy steps forward when he is called, bowing to the nobles, and his Oshta, before making another bow to Melani. "My friend and I made necklaces, to help guide the soldiers who passed away winning the city of Ellish back from the Shamibelians. We had been getting letters from the front, hearing the stories of brave fighting, and how so many had fallen to the might of the combined armies of the Republic," says Kagi.

"We we worked hard on them, and made a lot of them, and it wasn't until the triemes came back, and brier after brier was brought off those ships that we realized that no, we hadn't made enough - not nearly enough. We could have worked for years and years and years, and still not ever come close to enough. So many had fallen to bring a victory that never has happened before.

"I've heard so many incredible stories of Lady Melani, of her life, of those she's touched, and I hope it pleases the Oshta and Lady Melani's family to accept the gift of the star necklace, to help guide Lady Melani to the hunt with our ancestors and to the arms of Unot. I know it is not for herself; I'm sure she knows what to do and will lead others to where they need to go, where my own father went, where her grandfather went."

The boy's a bit unsure, as he's holding other tokens that were left for Lady Melani, but he places them where the other tokens have been left. "Thank you, Lady Melani, for helping to open the pathway to the old Ticanee lands, that someday I might be able to pick up where you left off, and help free the lands of my ancestors."

You drop the Chimera Unity Iron Dagger.

You drop the Shooting Star mourning bone necklace.

Taleena puts Chimera Unity Iron Dagger into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena puts 6 feathers into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Shooting Star mourning bone necklace has left.

Taleena puts Shooting Star mourning bone necklace into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Timandra gets in line.

One by one, Taleena very carefully packs the items into the backpack that's meant to go with her sister. She nods to the younger boy and then calls the next person forth.

Taleena calls Tioran to come forward.

Kagi returns to his seat near his mother.

Tioran simply moves towards Taleena and gives her a knife "this, knife, was the first weapon I got ever, I got it while I was still a kid, -- is to represent the respect I feel for Lady Melani" then he also gives her a sapphire "this, I mined by myself, it might sound silly but I wanted to give it as a token to represent the honor that was getting to meet her" *Firan*

Tioran drops the sapphire.

Tioran drops the Flaming Bronze Knife.

Taleena nods respectfully, and with a look of thanks, towards Tioran. "I'm sure she would have cherished each," she takes the time to say, where she had not been saying anything at all. "She was thoughtful like that." She then packs the items away with the others, and motions the next person forward. *Firan*

Taleena calls Jesika to come forward.

Taleena puts sapphire into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena puts Flaming Bronze Knife into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

"Lady Melani was a strong woman. An Oshta. She's an inspiration to daughters everywhere - even when people were objecting to her marriage and throwing tantrums, she did what she knew was right. And it turned out good, she had beautiful kids, was the wife of a Clan Leader, but she never really left the Ticanee." Jesika runs a hand through her hair, over her braids, and speaks to Melani directly. Her words are spoken in accented Firan. "I was not lucky enough to get to know you personally, but I want to protect your children, to make sure they grow up knowing how great you were. I'm sure everyone here wants the same." She takes her nieces and nephew by the hands and leads them to Taleena. They present her with dolls to give to Melani. Jala is gnawing on a wood carving, and Jesika hastily wipes it off on a corner of her tunic, then hands it to Taleena too, on behalf of the child. And from Jesika there's a bone necklace, representing each of Melani's children. She then bows to Taleena and leads the kids back to the Srenna table.

Jesika drops the a Pretty Kitty Doll.

Jesika drops the a Howling Wolf Doll.

Jesika drops the a Friendly Little Snake Doll.

Jesika drops the a Ticanee Mother's Bone Necklace.

Taria says "Thank you Mes Jesika." *Firan*

Taleena puts a Pretty Kitty Doll into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena puts a Howling Wolf Doll into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. a Friendly Little Snake Doll has left. a Ticanee Mother's Bone Necklace has left.

Taleena puts a Friendly Little Snake Doll into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena puts a Ticanee Mother's Bone Necklace into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Alastor drops the a Tiny Wood Carving of The Spear Wielding Oshta.

Taleena puts a Tiny Wood Carving of The Spear Wielding Oshta into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery.

Taleena calls Rislan to come forward.

          A          ___           This  tiny  carving  of               
         (_)       ,""";\          Clan  Leader Taria,  or               
          H        :^^ :|          the Oshta to her loving               
          H         , :,/          people,  has  been  cut               
          H      ,``    ``-.       out of a  piece of soft               
          H    ,` ,-./-.,-._`-.    wood   and  painted  to               
          H  ,'\,'`-'`-`:  ;__,'   make an  appealing  toy               
          H,' ,'   :    ;,' ,'     for  young  Ticanee  to               
         ( ),'    ,` .  /_.'       learn to love and honor               
          H      : `--'(_)         their noble Oshta.  Her               
          H      ;       |         tiny hand has been made               
          H     :        |         hallow and  fitted with               
          H     |        |         a sharpened, removeable               
          H     |        |         spear  for slaying tiny               
          H     |       ,:         foes and upity  Firans.               
          H     |     ,` :         The figurine  stands on               
          H     |   ,`:__:         it's  own  at  six   or               
          H     | ,`/ \__/         seven  inches in height               
          H     |/  | |  |         and  lacks  much facial               
          H     |  .` |  |         definition,  but is un-               
          H     |  |  |  |         doubtedly   the   Oshta               
     eF!  H  ,-'`  \ ,'  '.        due  to  her  Amazonian               
             '--```` `----`        body and six-pack. Ian.               
                                                                         
    (Best viewed in Courier New on Black. Copyright 2006.)               

Timandra after some deliberation and much sobbing gets up to take her place in line behind her step-nephew.

The prince draws a deep breath and stands, "There is very little that I can at this point about Lady Melani that someone has not already said, better, and more eloquently than I ever could. Lady Melani was the kind of person that if you did not love, you would have to look in the mirror and wonder just what might have hardened your heart to such a stone-like state." Rislan pauses for the briefest of moments and then smiles at a memory, and apparantly decides to share. "Before she married His Honor, she approached me and asked me to teach her how to brawl line an Elianik because... she wanted to knock out Clan Leader Torianos on their wedding night. Naturually, this amused the hell out of me so I agreed to teach her. She was the best student I ever had. Even when I would teach her some gloriously dirty tricks and techniques that where quite inapproprite (in the interests of her self-defense of corse) she also took instruction with a bright smile. Melani had a smile that could make just about any faux pas, any mistep, any mistake 'alright.' That was her great power." Rislan's smile turns to a sober look as he looks to the young lady's body. "My gift, is nothing extravagent.... my favorite weapon, so that my favorite student might remember me, and so that she might keep the recalicitrant souls that twinkle in the night in line."

Rislan removes his Black-Stained Wooden Club with Green Leather Grip.

Taleena tries to take Black-Stained Wooden Club with Green Leather Grip from Rislan but it's too heavy and she has to put it down.

Rislan drops the Black-Stained Wooden Club with Green Leather Grip.

Taleena nods her head ever so slightly at Rislan, her expression softening for him just a touch before going back to its harden stoicism as she accepts the weapon she adds to the collection she's been getting for Melani. She then calls the next person forward, but not before whispering to Rislan.

Taleena calls Timandra to come forward.

Moving forward Timandra lowers her handkerchief and curtsies before Torianos and the Elikistas then the Ostha-Teranzik brood before moving towards the bier. "I wasn't certain of speaking for I went to say my private goodbye already, but sitting here listening to others speak of the wonder that was the lady proxy I thought of something no one else had spoken of. She was brave, honest, she had humour and love for all manner of people, but she also had humility. I first came to know her after the fiasco of the first attempt she made to wed His Honour. Though I had not long been a Chimera myself I tried to make her feel welcome. I was struck by her wish to be accepted for who she was as herself, not just her titles. We all come with many labels. Some we are born with, some we are given. Lady Proxy Melani Oshta-Teranzik-Elikista had more than most. She was a shining example of the seasons that life go through. When she was at last able to wed His Honour she blossomed into a full flower, moving on from the budding rose she had been. Yet she never ceased to try and do more to show her thanks to those who welcomed her when so many would not. That is what I will remember of her as her soul takes a journey into the next season of its life." She curtsies deeply in front of Melani then for Taleena before doing so for Taleo and Taria and the Elikistas as she makes her way back to her seat.

Taria says "Thank you Prince Rislan. Those are kind words." *Firan*

Taleena nods to Timandra at her words, giving her a thankful expression. She turns to regard the seemingly last person in line thus far, and calls them forward.

Taleena calls Karana to come forward.

Karana makes her way up slowly, quietly. "Lady Melani and I often spoke of Peace... the conversations were..." She smiles fondly and nods a touch. "They were what I would expect of one with her spirit. Full of passion, full of fire, she would listen, just talk with me of diplomatic things, of spiritual things, of peaceful things. We didn't always agree, but we never left each other's company without a smile. I am honored by the kindness, the fire, the life she showed me. Lady Melani was a rare woman, and one I shall never forget. The ------- may always claim her, but in my heart, she is the Chimeran Mother, a warrior for our people, a rare breath of fresh air, a champion of peace, in her own way. She might give me a doubtful look about now, but I know it to be truth." She lifts the flute to her lips and places it with the others. "Green for the Republic, for Peace, Red for the Chimerans, for those quiet times when one just needs to sit and be at peace. Thank you, my ----- for your kindness, for your conversation, for your ferocious protection of all ---- people. We will miss you and every day a prayer will go to Unot for your quick return. We cannot be without you for long." She dips her head slightly, then moves back to take her place. *Firan*

Karana drops the Green and Red Flute.

Taria says "Thank you, Karana." *Firan*

Green and Red Flute has left.

Taleena puts Green and Red Flute into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery Taleena removes Corpse of Melani's Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena puts small cloth pouch into Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery. Taleena dresses Corpse of Melani in her Feather on the Wind ::: White Suede Backpack with Silver Embroidery

Once Karana is done speaking, Taleena places the flute into the backpack, as well as a few other items. She then turns and places it next to Melani, taking a deep breath. Everyone has gone. It's her turn. She steels herself and turns toward the people sitting in the Temple.

Inaya drops the gold bracelet.

Inaya hands Taleena a small bracelet that she had intended to give to Melani, but in the emotion of the moment, she forgot, "Can you send this with her, too, please?" *Firan*

Or, Taleena had been about to be ready to speak, and then Inaya steps forward again. She nods her head to Inaya. "Of course, Lady Inaya." She then goes to tuck the bracelet in next to Melani, and tries to steel herself again for speakage.

Taleena drops the gold bracelet.

Taria takes a deep breath, because if Taleena is ready to speak, it means the burning is near, and Taria is not sure she is going to be able to bear it.

Taleena announces, "Taleena moves forward to take her turn to speak, after waiting politely for everyone else to do so. She folds her hands serenely before her, despite the stark stoic expression that has taken shape upon her otherwise stormy complexion. Really, she looks like a grim thunderstorm ready to burst at any particular time.

"My sister, Melani, was many things; a mother, a wife, a friend to many within the city and a confidante. She was raised an Oshta, and later became a Princess. She won the hearts of many in her epic tale of love conquering all. She was brought up to know the difference between courage, and strength, and possessed both of these qualities, which she was quite often overlooked for having for she was not your typical Oshta. She was a happy, largely carefree individual.

She wanted nothing more than to prove she could pull her weight, that she had a use and could be useful. That was her greatest desire, apart from having a family to call her own. She had the ability to profoundly make things better, and have others believe there was light and hope, when there was only darkness and misery. She was extremely protective of her family, and impeccably brave in the face of dire circumstance, even if it meant sometimes that she would be at odds with those she loved the most.

Melani believed in the Republic, that it could be a better place and all of our people could live free. It is a belief that many of the Oshta family keeps to in their hearts. It is for that belief which she fought for when she went to Ellish, even though there were those that did not wish her to fight. My sister, you see, had a crafty way of getting what she wanted, quite often talking people into it by making them think it was their idea to let her do something. Then, she would do what she wanted in the end because she knew it was for the best. In part, due to her efforts, and those of the others who died before her and even those that survived Ellish is now free.

She was a part of that legacy. Let us never forget her, or the others who perished in this fight, the epic battle that returned a city of 40 years lost to us, now regained. It is with her blood, and theirs, that dreams were made, and returned to our people. Let us always remember to carry their accomplishments with us in our hearts, as we continue to move forward with the restoration of Ellish, so that she, and they all can be proud of us and be proud to be one of us when Lady Uf allows our accomplishments drift to them upon the winds, and when Lord Unot returns their souls to us to once more become the heroes that they once were.""

The crowd looks bored and disinterested.

Talikos is just a member of the crowd. Don't hate!

Karana makes a mental note to offer more oratory classes. Before there's mass murder.

Taria nods solemnly to Taleena's speech.

Black-Stained Wooden Club with Green Leather Grip has left. Taleena drops the Black-Stained Wooden Club with Green Leather Grip.

Reading of Melani's last letter Taleena does not look like she is done there, however. She pauses, waits, allows people to reflect. Once she is done, she states, "My sister had a letter that she wrote to her family, before she passed away. It is one that I have not yet read in full - too afraid," yes she's admitting to fear, "of what it says and how it might affect me. However given we are all gathered here today, I am certain she would want nothing more than for me to share it with both family, and friends, ------ and for her to know how much she loved her family." With that, she prepares to read the letter, pulling it from her pouch every so carefully, as if afraid she might tear the papyrus. *Firan*

Thaddia is not just one of the crowd because she listens with interest.

Harvinia whipes at her eye, swollowing hard.

Aeryk folds his hands tight together and inclines his shoulders forward, dead silent in the wake of the grief, his own included.

Taria looks up, interested.

Luna waits, looking thoughtful.

Alexa listens attentively.

Now... this is where things begin to become really, really difficult for Taleena, for it means everything becomes real at once. She visibly steels herself, and takes a deep breath before she begins reading, taking the words of the letter slowly, "This is a letter to my family. I wish everyone could have seen the Republic army working together without any infighting. I know you will be very jealous that I could make my last stand here, but ... don't begrudge me a glorious end. Tanya will be angriest because she didn't think of it first, but she has to get married still and have children and I'm older so I get to do it first. Uncle Donos was ... everything a general should be and I would have followed him anywhere, please tell Aunt Pia she is the wife of maybe the greatest hero ever.

I don't think Torianos can be mad at Uncle Donos for letting me fight, because he didn't let me. He ordered me not to, and I sneaked into the Infantry a few times... because I'm a very bad wife and daughter and maybe in my next life I will be more obedient. But in this one, I felt very strongly about asking people to face the risk if I was not also doing so. It's not Uncle Donos' fault." She pauses there, but prepares to continue onward.

Taria bites her lower lip. Hearing the 'voice' of her daughter in this time is almost too much for her to take. She starts to get up, as if she's going to flee.

Torianos listens to the letter as it's read with a neutral look on his face. Whatever he's feeling seems to have been shoved down deep.

Sharin has heard it once, as he lay there in the medical tent next to her. He hangs his head and sighs, hands folded in his lap.

Taleo grabs Taria's arm just over the wrist, and rises just enough to be over her. He whispers something in her ear.

Taleena looks to Sarina at this part, eyeing her curiously, before looking over at Taria, then back to the papyrus, "This part is for momma: Sarina is a liar liar pumpkin eater, and if she tells you it's her fault that I fell, she's lying... whether or not she has any pumpkin with her at the time." She pauses, then adds, "Sarina noted in the margin: I promised her I'd write her words exactly. _Not_ that I'd agree with them." Then, "Melani goes on to say,... and it's not Tanya's fault, she's just very distraught because of the aforementioned jealousy. Don't execute anyone. I forbid it and I don't want my children being known as having the mother who had half the clan executed because she was too dumb to fight --- own attackers and tried to help other people instead. I also want Elsabet and Dolan to come live with you. Elsabet and Dolan Oshta. Torianos can keep Lilah ell Phoebe, and I'm sure he'll have more and less worthy children with whomever bg marries next.

I'm very sorry, Momma. For every word ever said in anger, for anytime I made you sad... I love you very much." She pauses there again, then looks over at her father, as if to indicate the next part is for him. In this moment, in this instance, people can now start to see the pain of her sister's death unfold upon her features; largely in her usually shrewd eyes. *Firan*

Taria starts to pull away from Taleo, but he has her by the wrist like a fishwife, and his grip is like iron. And then she relents, nodding slowly, and sitting down again.

Sarina puts her head on the Srennian table, looking caught between laughter and tears at her friend's words. Oh, how she wanted to blame herself for Melani's fall, and how Melani tricked her by having her promise to write the words exactly... then making her write that.

Zhara seems unsurprised by the words, staring off into the distance, her eyes welling with unshed tears as her breath comes faster, audible really, to those at the Srennian table. There's a knowing look on her face, and her breathing evens out, though it remains rapid. And as it's worked before, Zhara closes her eyes on those tears as if to capture them, to refuse their escape. At the mention of liar liar pumpkin eater, Zhara reaches over to grab Sarina's shoulder, her eyes barely open.

Alexa quirks a faint, sad smile and shakes her head. Making people smile to the end and beyond. She looks upwards and mouths, 'Do not keep her too long, please.'

Taria eyes Sarina, and this pumpkin nonsense.

Okatik glances over towards Torianos, what with the suggested children trading done so publicly.

Taria slowly digests Melani's words. "Who dictated this?" *Firan*

Taria says "I mean, to whom was this dictated? Sarina?" *Firan*

Zhara nods to Taria, "I was tiness, Honorable Oshta." *Ticanee* <OOC> Zhara says, "witness, sorry"

Taleena pauses there, waiting for Taria's question to be answered.

Sarina glances over at Taria quietly, and nods. "Yes; her hand was too badly injured for her to write, so she asked me to take it down. She made me promise to write her words exactly," she explains. "Even the odd ones." *Firan*

Taria seems appeased for the moment, and leans back, willing this to be over.

When Taria seems ready, and when Taleena feels she's ready, she continues on, willing herself to find the strength to keep her voice. She will not cry! No matter what! "Daddy, Don't let Momma execute anyone. Take her to Vahloria to the springs... make sure Elsabet and Dolan go be Oshtas and immediately go live with them. I know the Viceroy can enforce that stuff... and I would rather Torianos be mad at me than leave it to get worked out eventually, when it's too late. Please take time to tell stories to my children. They will love the attention, just like we always did. I love you very much." Stops there as well, not meeting Torianos's eyes as she continues to struggle with the letter. And, clearly, it /is/ a struggle, and some of the stuff written seems a surprise to her.

Torianos seems to say something to his table and then go back to rather impassively watching the remainder of the proceedings. That last comment finally breaks through somewhere and he glances around, almost daring someone to take his kids now.

Taria gasps a bit, and she looks up at Taleena, forgetting they are at a funeral. "Taleena, show some judgment! I don't think she meant that to be read to a funeral." *Firan*

Okatik is... stunned.

Thaddia's gaze goes sharply towards Torianos at the latest bit, but she stays where she is.

Sarina mutters something about not even /liking/ pumpkin, then sits bolt upright at the bit about the children. She'd put the details of the letter out of her mind... tried to let the words just pass through her as she wrote them down, and had clearly forgotten about this.

Aeryk is gripping his hands a bit tighter, but his shoulders are tilted higher up. More alert.

Arcos knots his brow in puzzelment at all this, seemingly banjaxed by what is being related here...And just a little embaressed that private matters are being aired, in front of himself...

Luna listens thoughtfully, gaze going to Torianos and then back to Taleena.

Alexa blinks several times at the letter's words and coughs delicately, covering her mouth politely.

Marsalos does not look at Torianos. He's been watching Taleena, his jaw set, and as they reach that part of the letter he sits quite still, not tensing. Yet.

Torianos passes children over to Balinda and says something quietly to her before returning his gaze to Taleena. Torianos drops the Baby Dolan. Torianos drops the Toddler Elsabet.

Sabria frowns as she hears that part of the letter and hugs her own children close to her.

Sharin watches his Clan Leader, eyes flitting back and forth between him and the Oshtas.

Ildria's eyes flicker from Marsalos' gaze, towards Taleena, then briefly at Torianos, but mainly she seems to watch Taleena with her husband, expression stern but mostly curious.

Taleo holds Taira's hand quite tightly. The part that starts with 'Daddy' has him reacting visibly, though thankfully few could see his face. He doesn't look at Taleena as she reads the words, but rather watches Melani's body. The children shuffling at the bench is being quite properly ignored, Bear men being trained with that propriety!

Alexa closes her eyes for a minute as if in prayer.

Zhara is visibly straining to think, her brow furrowing, eyes narrowed as she stares into the distance. she leans into Sarina, her lips moving, but barely.

Lykaios's intent eyes shift, looking from Melani's body to Torianos before finally lingering puzzledly on stunned Okatik. Rontihas been standing in the back for the last three paragraphs; watching from afar. He then looks down to the doll in his hands and nods to is, but does not utter any words. His good eye starts scanning the area and his brow starts to furrow.

Toddler Lilah has left.

Taria says "Your children should see their mother burned, Torianos." *Firan*

Toddler Phoebe has left.

Taria holds onto her granddaughter, Phoebe, and leans close in the table to speak to Torianos.

Torianos holds up a hand to Balinda and confers quietly with Taria.

Taleena pauses, glacing at her mother, and does have the audacity to blush, though there's no telling what she's thinking at the moment as she gets so griefstrikenly caught upon the letter. "I apologize... this is the first time I'm reading it as well, and I did not think. I forgot myself." She gives Torianos an apologetic look, before looking down and reading and rereading the next part, and then she finally states quietly, even though Ojitar is not there, "Ojitar: I love you." Taleena pauses there, "I cannot say the next part - for they are words about Lady Tia, and Melani had some rather hardpressed feelings toward our brother's wife." There? See? She can show some judgment! Some. She also gives her mother a very apologetic look. r

Taleena then goes on about her other brother, who's not presently here either, "Judanus, you went to the Griffon clan, but you didn't have to leave your family behind. Go visit your mother. And I love you, even if you've been a jerk for a few years. Cut it out." She then grows very, very quiet, silently reading the next part first, and seeming to go over it a few times before she's even ready to speak it. *Firan*

Balinda takes lilah and then looks at Phoebe in Taria's arms and back at Torianos. She says to Torianos in response to his instructions. "I all but Lady Phoebe, Your Honor." She curtsies and slips out, request being followed promptly. *Firan*

Luna's expression does not change, about the words about Judanus. Her guards tense slightly, watching her, but there is no reaction on the stoic Griffon clan leader's face.

Torianos says "Wait please, Dame Balinda." *Firan*

Nisa closes her eyes for a minute as if in prayer.

Sarina tries to remember what comes later in the letter, then looks briefly horrified as Zhara murmurs something, prompting Sarina to remember some of what comes later.

Balinda turns, settling the children against her and comforting them with a swaying motion. She settles back in her seat, glance slipping from face to face.

Sarina glances to Taleena in a sort of frantic 'you may want to stop soon, or at least read ahead' manner. She can't /actually/ stand up and wave her hands in a 'danger' manner, so she just does her best to convey this entirely through facial expression. Gods only know if this is effectively conveyed.

After a few no doubt suspicious whispers from Taleo to Torianos, Taleo turns to Taleena and gives her that 'let's move on' hand motion.

Okatik quietly escourts his youngest children out of the Temple before things get any more crazy.

Taleena very, very quietly, Taleena reads her sister's words to her personally, "Taleena, I wish I had been more like you. You have been a wonderful example of almost all the things a Lady should be: beautiful, smart and honorable." Pauses there, and quirks a brow at some other comment her sister has for her. Taleena smirks wryly, and disgrards it. Moving on. "Mateo, you're the funnest sibling ever. Please teach Dolan to be relaxed about things like you are. Adventures and play and... --- good things like that. You had a bunch of bratty sisters, so you should know how to help him deal with that. Lilah is going to be a terror, though she's really funny even when she's bad." She takes a breath before moving on. And on, "Empyrean, you are very smart and I know you're much more capable than you get credit for. You can't take care of everyone, but you have to make sure that Agray will be a good husband to Tanya. And I love you, Emp. I'm sorry we all grew up and moved out of the nursery." *Firan*

Zhara discreetly shakes her head once at Taleena. Stoic. That should speak volumes to Taleena. Ah, and then she's reading on.

Sarina lets her breath out in relief as Taleena skips That Part, and sinks back on the Srennian bench.

Tanya snorts. Loudly.

Torianos finishes speaking with Taria and Taleo, apparently some agreement was made as he returns his attention to Taleena.

Judanarius grins a small grin. For no apparent reason. He taps his fingers on the table and continues watching his wife attentively.

Arcos stands motionless and silent his Hawk-like gaze never leaving Torianos, that frown of puzzelment still on his brow...Banjaxed...Completely and utterly...

Taleena stops there, reading ahead, and considers. "The rest is advice to my sister regarding her up and coming marriage," she looks to Tanya, "And some requests with regards to how she wishes other items to be distributed." Thusly, she ends the letter reading a bit short, looking at Tanya and Sarina a moment, and perhaps narrowing her eyes a bit - they knew what she was herself getting into! "So... uh... that said... I will now send Melani off to Unot's stars, which she so fondly held close to her heart before --- Ceremony of Souls, so that she can be reunited with family and friends there, and soon be returned to us upon this world." She then stuffs the papyrus back into her pouch, and pulls out a piece of flint. She goes over to the pyre to light it, but before she is able, her eyes widen in surprise, and her hand flits to her stomach. She looks at Melani curiously, then to her stomach, a touch of wonder in her eyes. *Firan*

Balinda drops the Baby Dolan.

Sren slides immediately out of his seat, wending his way toward the front. Taleena supposedly can't see him, so he doesn't bother talking to her. Instead, he VERY quickly lays a necklace on the pyre, whispers quick words to the corpse, and moves to melt back in to the crowds. Don't make a scene, Sren!

Sren removes his Wind Walker Bone necklace.

Taleena takes a moment to let out a deep breath, she smiles at her sister in her own secret sort of way. She removes her hand from her stomach, then does, just then, go to burn the pyre.

Taria watches stoically, waiting for Melani to burn.

Taleena performs the last funeral rites for Corpse of Melani, igniting the body. Flames engulf the remains, glowing embers floating skyward and into the heavens.