Forest Garden - Approximately 5:30 AM
A dark haired man and darker scaled dragon stood outside a grand stable carved out of ancient white oak wood. The morning air that surrounded them was brisk and fresh, welcoming and pleasing to the senses. The drake took in a deep breath, appreciating the purity of the air in that particular part of Illos as he so often did, for he'd been beyond the boundaries of these woods and tasted the foul air of industry and of man. He much preferred the clean, pleasing air so offered by the Sylvis forest. Next to the great drake stood his dearest companion and so-called tamer, as if any man could tame a dragon, and though the title so placed on Merrik's head was inaccurate, Obsidian Nova had grown fond of the term and used it openly and without too deep of thought into its origins or meanings. If the world needed tamers rather than partners, let them have them. No sense trying to correct man, they don't fare well when they no longer know what they once thought they truly knew.
A bright green songbird shattered the dragon's thoughts as it twittered about in front of his face. The young avian clearly didn't know much about dragons lest it'd fly off as fast as it could in fear of becoming a post-breakfast morsel. Luckily Obsidian Nova wasn't hungry, nor did he eat the young of animals. It was crucial to allow the young to grow up, otherwise one might quickly end up with nothing left to hunt. Beyond those reasons, Nova enjoyed the color of the small bird, for it near matched the shade of his soulmate's eyes.
"Hardly, my eyes are a fair bit greener and not quite so lime." Came a familiar voice in the drake's thoughts.
That may be, but it is a beauty nonetheless and I dare-say green is one of my fondest colors. He huffed a bit of black smoke which sent the bird flitting away out of fright, a good sign if it was ever to survive into maturation. Looking around, Nova relaxed his posture a bit and spoke again to the man at his side.
What say we give them 20 more minutes, if they haven't organized themselves by then I'll shoo them out of their stalls myself.
Merrik chuckled at the idea of his beastly dragon prancing through the halls of the stables flapping his wings about like a pheasant as he collected and herded the tamers and dragons out the grand doors.
"As enjoyable as that'd be to watch, I'm sure they'll all be precisely on time. Especially Shirin, being bonded to a solar drake. Byriarti's up the moment the sun hits the meadow each day. We said 6:00, let's give them till 6:00."
The dragon nodded subtly.
As you wish, oh tamer of mine. And he shifted his weight just so, that the man leaning against his side would lose his balance and nearly land himself on the ground, only to look to a dragonly smirk about the culprit's black lips.
Dalaith made sure to go to sleep early so as to wake up with enough energy so as to meet at 6 in the morning, though waking up early didn't exactly mean getting somewhere on time. She was hauled up in her room, trying to finish the last book that had been on her shelf, already done with the rest. She thought that surely she could finish it and make it out to meet Merrik on time, and of course, as always, she was wrong, and had to be unceremoniously shooed out by A'untyr after another lecture as to looking presentable. Dalaith huffed with frustration and walked out the stable with a very plain outfit for the day, simple tan pants with leather
reinforcing binds on the inner legs, and a dark brownish black shirt that was loose fitting on her frame, accompanied by a long tan scarf, as she had quickly learned that wind burns are not the most pleasant to deal with.
Do tell, how is it that you humans ever survive within wind storms? Surely I do not fly much faster than the fastest of storms when I am gliding, and yet you always seem to be injured some way or another over it.
"Unity, don't be ridiculous, we don't have tough hides and scales like dragons, we have soft, very vulnerable skin. If its too windy outside, we normally stay inside to avoid any sort of harm to ourselves."
The gold drake lightly pushed her forwards with his muzzle.
Well then I suggest you adapt to survive, because I am sure that you wont always have the luxury of long sleeves, long pants, and a convenient scarf.
Dalaith lost her balance momentarily, but didn't respond to the taunting voice of her dragon, walking out into the lush meadow, ten minutes till 6. By that point, she was rather upset that A'untyr ushered her out so quickly. She probably could've finished at least another seven to ten pages before coming out. A'untyr growled slightly, though in good spirits and gave her another nudge to keep her focused.
Punctuality is important, and I do believe it is better to arrive early than it is to arrive late.
"Oh shush you hunk of unrefined gold."
Well technically if I were made of gold I-
"I know, I know, the mass of gold is far too heavy and would weigh you down too much, requiring much larger wings and greater muscle mass. I know my chemistry and physics, thank you very much."
Do you now? Well then whats the chemical composition of mana?
"I would know that if you let me keep reading my book..!"
Of course~ you would.
"Just shut up about it.... I-I collected the list that we needed for the trip up to the manor. Very few things were required, just some combs and brushes for the ladies, I personally couldn't find very many scarves or ribbons, and so I think that eventually that will be needed by at least two of the women, and, if possible, more reading material would be nice. I didn't get very many requests from the other tamers, so really I was just going based off of what I foresee being needed within the near future." Dalaith quieted her companion and focused herself as she walked up to stand before the man who had called her, giving off the list she had compiled of supplies that would be needed as they would go off to the Tetra Estate.
As predicted, the shimmering scales of the Solar Dragon could be seen getting closer and closer, the tamer of flaxen hair and hazel eyes trudging softly at the beast's side. Even from a distance, one could see that the woman was grumpy from being awakened by her dragon, and yet she seemed to enjoy the barest of rays that peeked over the tops of the trees. It could even be seen that her long hair, touched ever-so-softly with hints of strawberry red, was flowing in the morning breeze, having yet to be braided by its owner.
Despite the seeming darkness of Shirin's loft, Byriarti had been as punctual as ever, calling her from her dreams at precicely 5:32. How did she know that it was 5:32? Because that blasted sun had once more risen two minutes after the halfway point, and because once more a wonderful dream was crushed by the deep bass voice of the Solar Dragon in her head. She gave a groan, pulling the covers over her face. It wouldn't have been so bad, but ever since Merrik had brought to her attention that she was inadvertantly using her bonded ability, Shirin had scoured any text involving information on the bond and read until it was late at night. And then, instead of falling into a dreamless sleep as she had all those years as a mercenary, she once more dreamed of flying with the sun running a soothing hand across her skin. She didn't know why she dreamed what she did...perhaps it had something to do with the fact that being bonded to Byriarti made her want to be in the sun more often. In fact, she prefered being hot and sweaty over being cool or even cold, now, and her body required less water than she was used to. Instead of water, she thirsted for more sunlight. And it was Byriarti's fault.
~
Yes, well, one day you will thank me. Now up with you! I do not want to miss a single moment! I shall await you outside. Do not be late. Merrik is waiting.~
Sighing, Shirin had dragged herself out of bed and dressed herself in the clothing she had cleaned from her arrival. The new items were nice and soft, but there was a sense of comfort in her own clothing. Once dressed, she combed through her long, flaxen hair, grabbing a leather thong to wind down the length of it, wishing to try a new technique in keeping it in place. But before she had the chance to do anything, Byriarti had once more piped into her head. ~
We are going to be late if you continue with such trivial tasks! Put that armor on and get down here!~ Nearly shrieking her irritation at the impatient beast below her, Shirin threw her armor on, leaving the circlet behind in the chest and packing her comb as well as a couple extra waterskins along her waist. The last touch was to put on her boots and sheath her sword at her hip. Then, she was down the ladder and trudging towards Merrik and Nova.
They arrived at precisely 5:45, leaving Byriarti's punctual record unbroken. Shirin muttered to herself before bowing towards Merrik and greeting both mentors before her. "
Good morrow, Mentors. I see the sun will once more be shining upon us today." Rising to stand straight, she smiled at Merrik softly, her eyes sparkling in the light of the morning sun, before turning and huffing at her dragon, who now sat smugly beside Nova, nodding his head in greeting towards his brother before looking out towards the sun, glad he had missed none of it. Placing herself on the other side of her dragon, Shirin pulled out her comb and began once more combing through the fine strands of hair and braiding them together with expert precision, this time starting at the top and working her way down, adding locks with each time she pulled another into the braid. Once the braid was finished, which took about five minutes, she took a moment to bow to Dalaith, who had arrived with her beautiful Gold, and then began to fold her hair up towards her neck and wrapping it tightly with the leather thong. Perhaps this time, her hair would not be lost to the day.
~
You might as well dream it, my human. You have fine hair that shines in the light of the sun, and it wishes to be free.~
"
So do I...perhaps I should finally cut it."
~
And rid yourself of the one tradition you have held onto since your father died?~
She gave a shrug then. "
Why not?"
~
Because I said so. Your hair stays. Perhaps we can find a way to hold it down better...you shall have to ask Merrik when we have a free moment.~
"
Whatever you say, Byriarti."
Rita woke up with plenty of time to get ready for the trip ahead of him. He was amazed at how much control he could have over himself on occasion, especially considering how much he loved sleep. Reaching out with his connection to the stable below he discovered that Wither was still sleeping away. He smiled slightly. Who would have thought that such a fierce beast would love her beauty sleep? Even as he thought that, he felt Wither's mind begin to stir as it awoke, and his smile grew. Seems she didn't need her beauty sleep after all.
As Wither rumbled deeply as she began her quest ready herself for the day, Rita did the same. He quickly slipped into his typical attire: canvas pants, boots, a leather belt, an undershirt, and a dark green long sleeved shirt with golden embroidered patterns on it. Then, he walked over to his own personal armory to arrange himself for the day. Rita always believed in having the right weapon for the right situation and so he had brought along a cache of his own weapons to store in his room. He picked up his warhammers without a second thought, clasping them in special clasps on the sides of his legs, and then tapped the spiked end of one of the hammers as he contemplated what else to bring. It took him a few moments, but eventually he decided on a single short sword out of a pair, which he sheathed to his back, as well as a few knives and daggers tucked into his belt and boots. It was a bit light for his tastes, now that he had been drafted into an army, but with no combat planned for the day he felt comfortable enough with it. Then, Rita grabbed a random book off the shelf and began to read it in the time he had before he needed to leave. The book was particularly interesting and he would have missed the meeting time had Wither not rather forcefully reminded him of the impending deadline.
Rita and Wither arrived at the meeting place with about 5 minutes to spare, yet it still seemed they were the last ones there. Rita smiled as he approached the group while Wither lowered her head in a respectful greeting.
"Morning! Sorry about being late, I could have sworn I was on time..." Rita looked over the group and as his eyes passed over Shirin they narrowed for an instant before he could control his reaction. His expression almost immediately returned to it's more cheerful state, but mentally he chided himself for displaying an emotion others could see, even if it was directed at Shirin.
The party of two had grown to a party of eight and it was plain to see that the party might not be all of good laughs and fun. Shirin and Rita together was never a good thing and yet at the same time it was the best thing, for them. With the arrival of each of his accompaniments Merrik would lower himself into a gentle bow of greeting, Obsidian Nova doing the same. At the arrival of their last expected pair, Rita and Wither, the dark drake raised a brow and shot a glance at Merrik who was smirking, looking up at the position of the sun.
Having skimmed over the list Dalaith had supplied him with, he found it to be sound, he smiled and thanked the woman for fulfilling her duty. When Shirin spoke of the hopeful weather, he couldn't help but agree, the skies looked in their favour that early morning. When all seemed to be in order for departure, he looked at each of the tamers before him once more and, for a split second, he could have sworn he saw a shift in Rita's apparently cheerful expression. Looking away he was nearing the point of dwelling on it when he dragon stopped him in his thoughts and reminded him it was really Wither they were trusting, and that they should do just that: trust Wither.
Nodding, agreeing with the dragon as usual, Merrik mounted his drake and waited for the others to do the same to their own dragons. When the tamers all sat perched atop their companions he spoke.
"I don't think I have to remind you how long the flight is. We'll arrive at the manor around 10:00, 9:30 if the winds and your abilities to keep up are in our favour." He winked, signalling the playful demeanour about his words as the beast beneath him backed up from the group a bit and thrust the pair into the skies with a powerful down stroke of his wings.
It wasn't long before the meadow was behind them, dipping away over the horizon as the canopy of the vast forest below swallowed up the clearing they called home. The skies were indeed clear and the winds slightly in their favor. It would be a long flight if they chose to soar in solitude, so Merrik struck up a conversation with the group, asking them what they had read about that they found the most interesting or curious.
Dalaith was pleased to have done her job well enough, and then noticed the bow given to her by Shirin, a bow which she curtly returned before awaiting their final addition, Rita. Upon his arrival, Dalaith noticed quite a long moment of Merrik just looking at the man, as well as Obsidian Nova, probably due to their having a private conversation, to which the silver haired woman didn't dare interrupt. The discussion seemed to be finished when it was broke with Merrik nodding and mounting his dragon with a grace that could only come with experience, though it was a grace to be envied, even by the most well trained equestrian. With a slight sigh, Dalaith decided to do the same, and so it had seemed that the other two tamers had come to the same conclusion, they all mounting their dragons of various sizes, colors, and personalities. A reminder as to how long their flight would be soon followed, as well as some light hearted humor on the part of the dark haired man before he took off, A'untyr following close behind without need to be instructed to do so.
As their garden sanctuary slowly faded away to be consumed in the vast ocean of trees, Dalaith looked back to observe its beauty that it still retained, even from so high above. A testament to the fact that there was still beauty to be found in the world, that not all was lost. A'untyr pestered the woman over how stupid she could be, lecturing her on the way that the earth in itself worked, and, to the best of her ability, she tried to tune him out, focusing on other maters. The wind began to pick up slightly, a tail wind thankfully, but even so, it was wise of the young woman to bring the scarf, she now wrapping it around her neck and up to cover over the lower portion of her face as the wind whipped about her long silvery hair. She had only just finished wrapping herself when Merrik then spoke to keep the flight light and help it not seem so long. Dalaith didn't want to be the first to speak up and trump everyone else, but, as no one had spoken right away, she felt it necessary to speak up.
"Within my studies, I had found quite a bit about the composition of dragon scales and how the different properties that are unique to each dragon species have helped in their survival, such as the golden dragon's scales, being pigmented with actual gold, the only gold that is in their body, having evolved to be used at times as a false trade to lure in hunters or prey. They've also been used as a distraction, to dazzle foes so that they may either escape, or have an advantageous shot at their enemy."
At Rita and Wither's approach, Byriarti smiled and bowed his head in greeting to his sister before turning to look down at Shirin, whose response to the narrowing of Rita's eyes was to look away and pretend she hadn't noticed. The great beast shook his head before lowering his muzzle to huff into her soft flaxen hair. ~
At some point, you will have to confront him again. Just because it has been a couple of weeks since your last moment with him does not mean all is well. Your reaction to him is proof of that.~ Hazel eyes snapped to her beast then, narrowing as her gaze locked with the stormy eyes of Byriarti. Her thoughts swirled with anger as she sent her own words to him silently.
'Do not tell me what to do about him. We will deal with things as far away from each other as possible, and that is it. He is worthless and deems me so as well, so it is just as well to remain separate.'
~
And have an army divided?~
'
It is not divided...it -'
~
It is divided.~
His cool, level-headed thoughts trickled smoothly through her head, calming her and making her visibly relax just in time for Merrik to mount Obsidian Nova. Pulling her gaze from Byriarti's, she went to his shoulder, where he extended his leg, and mounted swiftly. She had gotten better with each passing day at her mounting, already having a grand amount of practice with horses. Perhaps with experience, she would come to be as good as her mentor...then again, perhaps not. The moment she was up, and the others had also mounted their own dragons, Merrik took to the skies, quickly followed by the great Gold and then Byriarti. Once in the air, he took the spot behind and to the right of Obsidian Nova, finding wind easier in this area than in others. Shirin was always blown away by how much fun flying was. How relaxing it was to feel the sun against her skin and the wind in her hair. No matter the chill, Shirin felt warm and safe and happy while riding upon Byriarti's sturdy back.
The small talk was little desired, as flight was something the warrior prefered to do silently, but after Dalaith had spoken, she decided it was best to speak up as well. "
My studies over the past weeks have had everything to do with the bond, particularly bonded abilities. I have been practicing how to control it since you realized I was using it subconsciously. Byriarti has been trying to talk me into using it in small doses to better my shoulder." In response, the great Solar Dragon nodded and gave a huff of sparks. She smiled and patted his gleaming scales. "
I have also been studying magic, as it is my weakest point, and I believe I have finally gotten the flame down enough to where I can call upon it at any time, though sometimes it takes a little longer than others..." She gave a shrug then, smiling slightly towards Merrik before tuning the other voices out and going back to watching the land below fall away as the beat of her dragon's wings kept her steady and serene.
Rita stepped up onto Wither's back without even paying attention, too absorbed in scolding himself for slipping up. He was certain that both Merrik and Shirin had noticed judging by their reactions, and he was none to pleased about letting them see it. As the pair lifted off into the air and into a comfortable flight formation, Wither questioned Rita.
Why does it matter that you hide your dislike for Shirin. I see no harm in letting it be known. She certainly knows it, after all.
Rita sighed slightly at his dragon's question.
"You're in my head already, shouldn't you know? The reason is twofold. First of all, if I display issues with one member of the group it may cause others to look at me with distrust and make it more difficult for me to connect with them. Secondly, if I allow myself to display my dislike for Shirin, it means I've lost control over myself. I could care less about controlling my actual emotions, but I refuse to allow my emotions to affect my actions. That's turned out badly in the past."
The pair sat in silence for a while, watching the ground flow beneath them until eventually Merrik struck up a conversation, asking about everyone's studies. Rita decided to let everyone else share before he spoke up. It seemed Dalaith lived up to her scholarly appearance, talking about things that were rather specific and far from practical. He was sure that the silver haired had studied far more than the specific nature of a gold dragon's scales, so he assumed she simply didn't have the practical filter to determine what in her vast knowledge would be most interesting to those besides herself. When Shirin spoke, he was not surprised to hear what she had been focusing on, her own strengths and weaknesses. Always trust the warrior to focus on themselves. He did smirk a little when he heard about her difficulties with magic, even though he had his own struggles with magic, it seemed he was still more advanced than her in magic, which made it two things he had beaten her at. Wither merely rolled her eyes at Rita's thoughts. His childishness still continued to amaze her.
After the other two had spoken Rita himself shared what he was studying.
"I've mostly been studying the broad overview of the different species of dragons, their strengths and weaknesses, their typical abilities in combat, famous riders of old, and how each species' skills are to best be used in battle. It's all fascinating, to be honest. As for specific interesting tidbits? It amazes me how long the order was established before they found about about dragons like this girl here." Rita gave Wither a friendly pat and she growled playfully in response.
As Merrik listened to each of them speak, he smiled in approval though his expression was withheld from the tamers by his direction in flight. Turning to look over his shoulder slightly, he responded to each of them as they told him of their studies.
To Dalaith he commended her on her interest of the finer details of her drake, explaining that often the tiniest detail can be the downfall of the largest of beasts. It would be wise to know what details need to be protected or kept in mind when faced by an opponent.
To Shirin he expressed his admiration for her in her endeavours of seeking out her weaknesses and striving to strengthen them, just as any good warrior should. She was taking great care in seeking out the potential dangers of her bonded ability and therefore taking the safety of not only herself, but also her bonded drake, into her owns hands to protect and preserve what was most precious. An admirable venture indeed.
And to Rita, he expressed how impressed he was that the man was showing such initiative into learning the history of not only his dragon's breed, but the others as well. He spoke of how such information may seem irrellevant in battle but it was quite the contrary; in a game of magicks and strength of mind, knowledge was an invaluable resource and knowing one's history can help to predict one's future. He urged Rita to continue this exploration and even offered for the man to come study with him a few times a week that Merrik might help him follow his interests and gain access to the materials necessary to quench his intellectual thirst.
As the flight bore on and the sun crept higher and higher into the open skies the treeline before them broke over the horizon and a clearing pulled into view, shortly followed by the dark silhouette that was the Tetra Manor. It's timeless structure awakening many of Merrik's fondest memories and along with them, the lesser fond ones. The large, beautifully landscaped yard, surrounded by a delicate, yet sturdy, stone wall offered glimpses into the days when he and Terria would weave about the hedges, bushes, and fruit trees while Obsidian Nova leapt from shadow to shadow, appearing and disappearing as he chased the children in a game of tag.
The manor itself bore smooth, light brown stone walls supported and accented by thick pillars of deep, near-black wood, petrified by time and little magick. It's windowsills and door frames were made of the same dark wood and jutting out of the front of the house, lining the second of three floors, was a vast balcony overlooking the garden below. The walkway that pushed out from the front door, eventually leading to the gates of the fenced perimeter split in the center of the garden as it encased a magnificent fountain depicting two nightmare drakes in an intimate dance, crytsal blue water bubbled up from between them, showing a sparkling veil of water over them which collected in terraces below and spilled over to the pool below. The area around the fountain was open and large enough to be used as a landing space for the dragons and their riders without allowing the mishap of a stray tail or wing demolishing the beautiful vegetation.
As Obsidian Nova initiated the descent, the three behind followed. When the black talons of his dragon touched down and collected stability, Merrik slipped down off his drake and awaited the arrival and collection of the rest of the tamers. When they had al dismounted and found their place on the ground he spoke.
"Welcome to the home of my ancestors," he dipped into a slight bow and beckoned to the looming manor behind him.
"Come, you're all welcome here." He led them down the stone walkway to the great double doors while Obsidian Nova split off from the tamers, urging the other dragons to follow him.
These doors are not welcoming for beasts of a dragon's size. Sir and Madam Tetra were kind enough to make some structural changes to the rear of the manor to welcome me into their home as I grew, something that had not been done in the history of this manor, and yet they insisted I always be welcome within the walls of their abode. Sure enough the back wall of the manor held a pair of grand doors fit for the bulk of a dragon. As the drakes approached, Obsidian Nova pressed his shoulder against the heavy doors and pushed them open, revealing a great hall.
On the other end of the house, Merrik too opened the doors to the manor and revealed the other end of the hall. On either side was a beautiful staircase that curved around to meet at the point above the hall and then led off to the second floor of the house. The groups met up in the middle and Merrik excused himself for a brief moment, stepping out into one of the rooms that lined the foyer. When he returned, he looked at the group.
"Shall we begin with the library? Or would you prefer to gather supplies? We've quite some time here before a particular task, so make yourself at home. I shouldn't need to remind you to remain respectful. Your dragons are welcome here, and in another large sunning room just over there, if they so choose. Otherwise they can remain outside as this house wasn't made to accommodate the size of such beings."
To Dalaith, her mentor's comment as to her interests in studying was sufficient to her feeling proud enough of her endeavors, though now A'untyr and the silvery tamer would bicker silently over the point of finishing the
one book. But the slow movement of the sun and the ever shifting scene of trees beneath them served well enough of a distraction after a bit of their bickering. Just a small speck, and then slowly growing to an outline, the imagery of the Tetra Estate was far more than appealing to the eyes, and, to the tired wing and back muscles of the great golden drake. Dalaith was caught within her memories of first meeting Merrik, out in the woods maybe a few miles away from this lovely place. It was funny to her now how she couldn't have noticed the splendid architectural masterpiece, but as she thought back upon it, the trees were so thick that she probably couldn't have even seen for a few yards ahead of her in any direction. The manor's design was one of beauty, matching deep browns of petrified wood to subtler tones of brown and tan in the stones that built up the establishment. After the mansion itself, the woman's eyes fell upon the well manicured gardens and perimeter, then, the walkway that cut through the entire estate, bound by a beautifully crafted fountain by which they landed. A'untyr was thoroughly annoyed by the woman's mental bantering on and on about the place, he having heard of it plenty of times, but he let her carry on, since he had given her plenty of grief with his own words over the journey.
As the great black dragon who had fathered him began to descend, A'yuntyr followed closely behind, landing to the drake's left, his talons digging and scraping along the spaces between the stones in the path. Merrik then dismounted. Dalaith was still admiring the place they had come to, and so, with a heavy and rather pestered sigh, A'untyr grabbed the woman from off of his back and set her down with the other tamers, awaiting instruction of his own while she received hers, and, would most likely forget with how preoccupied she was. Thankfully the instruction to her was simple. All she had to do was follow. And so follow she did, continuing to look about, but slowly regaining her poise and focus. The golden dragon then followed with the rest of his peers around to the back of the establishment, sufficiently convinced that his tamer could handle her own with a task as simple as walking, though he chose to lay outside upon the stone pavers as his mentor entered the house.
Dalaith took a deep breath and calmed herself, letting her emotions and racing mind settle before she took another, more objective look at the manor as she entered it, faintly registering in the back of her mind that Merrik had left to another room. The others were there with her, though, so she was sure that she hadn't missed anything important. The woman jumped slightly, however, when spoken to, not having picked up on the man's return. She calmed her heart and took another deep breath, trying to get over the minor cardiovascular mishap so as to answer.
"I believe it best to begin in the library, as, if we gather supplies now, we may forget them, though we could just leave them in the care of one of the drakes while we continue in our research. I find this more a matter of majority choice of preference." She said this as objectively as she could muster, without letting anything more of her excitement show within anything more than her eyes.
Shirin almost squirmed at Merrik's words of admiration and encouragement, giving a light smile and a blush as she looked towards him briefly before turning her gaze once more to the forest. Ever since the trip to the Silverwood Forest, she had felt a sense of joy when in his presence, and it was a true achievement when he praised her. More and more as the days passed, she had found herself wanting to be near her Mentor. Perhaps this was because he had so much to teach her...or perhaps being around him just made her smile. She could hear Byriarti's chuckle in her thoughts as he shook his head slightly. A small giggle was given to the beast as reaction, and she patted his side before leaning slightly against the back of his neck. Since the day she started flying, it has gotten easier to fly, despite the setback of always having to remain risen from her dragon's back. But resting against the back of his neck was not painful, as she always made sure to keep her head and chest from actually putting pressure on the strands that danced along his spine. Instead, she would feel the tickling sensation run down her back as they brushed against her armor. Now, it gave her a sense of comfort, and she relaxed further into her position upon his back. Time flew by as she let the scenery fly past below and the sun rise higher into the sky. Basking in the warmth and comfort of it was enough for both dragon and rider, and despite a long flight, neither were very tired when the Tetra Estate finally did come into view.
Right away, Shirin could see that the massive yard was perfectly groomed, and she wondered briefly if the Gardeners had been keeping up with this area as well. She supposed it would only make sense, as the little creatures seemed to love sweets, and it was none other than the man who owned the estate that gave them sweets. Her mind swung to the memory of the little Gardener that had taken a liking to her. She had only seen him a couple of times since her first visit to the Silverwood, and every time he would greet her excitedly, making shrill comments in a language she couldn't understand. From then on, she learned to start carrying chocolate in her pocket just in case she ran into the little creature again. A slight smile rose upon her lips as Obsidian Nova initiated their descent, followed closely by Byriarti. As swiftly as the great black dragon landed, so too did the dazzling orange beast. Just before hitting the ground, Byriarti did a swift backwing, giving him a very soft and easy landing, now the expectation of his rider. And once he was on the ground to the right of Nova, he gave a slight bow, low enough for Shirin to leap down from his back, landing gracefully on her feet. The wind had been taxing on her hair, and a few strands had once more come loose, but it was a better braid than the others, so it held better. Shirin gave a pat on her beast's shoulder before turning and following Merrik happily, paying absolutely no attention to Rita. Her eyes took in the aesthetics, and she had trouble wrapping her head around such a place. And to think Merrik lived here.
Briefly, Shirin wondered exactly how the dragons would get in, but her question was easily answered the moment the group entered through the front doors, for right down the hall stood the dragons, Byriarti sending her a quick wink before turning to the sunning room. ~
I am here if you need me. All you must do is whisper my name in your thoughts.~ Grinning to herself, Shirin sent a whisper of a thought back. '
But what if I want to think about my dazzling dragon?'
~
Then watch out, for I might come crashing through whatever room you are in. Hopefully it is not that library.~
Shirin giggled to herself, turning her attention to Merrik then, hazel eyes sparkling with delight. She turned her gaze to Dalaith, nodding in agreement with her words before speaking up. "
I do agree...the library seems our best bet, and we should gather supplies as we head out the door. Of course, Byriarti has already made his way to the sunning room, so we could always leave the supplies with him or Obsidian Nova. It really does not matter to me." She gave a slight bow to Merrik before her eyes began to wander around the room, looking everywhere but at Rita. She wasn't tense yet, but that did not mean she would look at a man who brought out the worst in her.
Merrik's words of praise for Rita's course of study and subsequent offer to study with Merrik surprised Rita considerably, and he felt free to let that show as he stated that he would take Merrik up on that offer. Merrik was a man that Rita was having considerable issues figuring out, which surprised him. Typically, Rita's first impressions were rather accurate, and for the most part, Rita's first impression of his leader still stood. He was a morally upstanding man whose whole life was devoted to his leadership, even as the pressure of it all threatened to consume him, Rita was all the more confident of that. Yet, somehow the man still continued to surprise him, and that bothered Rita to no end. If anything, Merrik was "too good" of a person for him to figure out. Any normal "good" person who had caught Rita in a scam like Merrik had would typically refuse to associate with him anymore, let alone invite him into an small and powerful order where trust was necessary. Yet, Rita had seen no real evidence of Merrik even acknowledging the first time they met. It unnerved him. Furthermore, the man always seemed to be able to elicit a positive response from anyone he talked to. Rita had been around people enough to know that even in a group of only fifteen people, everyone is going to butt heads with at least one other person quite consistently. And yet, Merrik didn't seem to have that issue. Rita wanted to know his tricks.
Eventually, the group spiraled down and landed at the estate and the riders and their dragons separated slightly, with Wither going off to enjoy the sunroom, and as they entered, Rita couldn't help but compare it to his own childhood home. It was nothing similar. Rita's family never had much room to spare, it was a wonder they were even able to get him an education. Comparatively, it seemed that Merrik had been surrounding by nothing but education and culture. Because of his relatively poor existence, Rita had always been forced to find entertainment outside of physical possessions, but unfortunately for him, other people were boring. Oh sure, he had acted like he had enjoyed their pointless games, but he couldn't help but grow bored with them, always wanting to do something which produced an actual end result instead of something which just passed the time. He supposed that's why he had eventually started playing games with people instead of playing people's games, as a method of entertaining his completely bored mind. He couldn't help but wonder if he had been raised in a place like this with plenty of things to occupy his mind that perhaps he might have ended up more like Merrik instead of himself...
Rita drew his thoughts away from the subject as the group was asked what activity they thought would be best to do first. Rita didn't truly have much to add to the conversation, but he added in a sentence of agreement.
"I can't disagree with the logic of the women, so, off to the library?" Rita noticed as they discussed the course of action that Shirin seemed to avoid looking at him and mentally he smirked, feeling satisfied. The less she wanted to do with him, the better.
Clapping his hands together, he smiled at the group.
"Right then, the library it is." He motioned for them to follow but immediately stopped in his tracks. For some unusual reason he felt he was being a terrible host. Part of his mind told him he wasn't here to host them he was here to lead and educate them, but then his mother's voice chimed into his thoughts saying
A man without manners isn't a man at all. Remember to always conduct yourself in a memorable way and you'll find you quickly become one to remember. While Merrik had no use for the second bit of the advice, his mother was right. The flight may have been draining on the tamers, and no matter the terms they were here under, they were here as guests in his family's home.
"I apologize, I've been quite unthoughtful." He walked a short ways down a hall on their left and opened a door motioning to the room within.
"Down here is the lavatory, should anyone wish to freshen up." He strolled back to the group and pointed at a second set of double doors, just visible behind the rails of where the two grand stair cases met and rounded out slightly to form an overlook.
"The library is just through those doors, you're welcome to go ahead without me, I'm going to arrange for some refreshments. We've a long day of studying ahead of us and our minds will tire more quickly than our bodies. Does anyone have any objections to coffee and and whatever food I can scrounge up?"
In the Sun Room down the hall, Obsidian Nova produced what would have seemed to be a humming noise as he vocalized his approval. Merrik was socializing with other humans, and within the walls of the Tetra Manor no less. This was a day to remember. He went back to relaxing in the brightening rays of the sun, relaxing his wings as they soaked up the rays next to the dragons of gold and orange.
Merrik clapped, making Dalaith jump again due to the loud sound that seemed to fill the vast space so well. His smile, though was reassuring enough to calm her as he agreed with the general consensus. With a wave of the arm, he silently called them forward, but then halted them, he thinking for a moment. Dalaith was a little confused, but didn't fuss over it, taking the moment to delve into her own thoughts. She shuddered to think that she would be in a library again, though she remembered that she was there with purpose, and those whom she was with were not defenseless. A'untyr growled slightly, looking off to the treeline as he heard some sort of howling and growling and whimpering. Slowly, the drake got himself up so as to investigate further, finding two small creatures, one, a kujo, laying curled up on the ground, and the other, a firill, standing above it, beating it senselessly with a small staff. It was a rather curious instance that was found, but A'untyr did nothing by means of stopping it, instead, speaking now with his own tamer.
Is it not ridiculous that animals who bear such little power still feel the need to fight? Why is it that not even the animals can get along in peace? He sounded a little on the tired side, though not from the flight. He was tired of watching all of the fighting, and was eager to enter the battle and finish the fights for good.
Dalaith was confused by the statement as it was so sudden, but did reply in turn, mentally.
'Fighting is indeed illogical, but it is also how most beings have been raised. If someone takes what is yours and wont bend to reasoning, you take it back, even if that means a bit of a skirmish. Why is it that you fret about it so suddenly?'
Only the fact that there is a kujo and a firill fighting just outside the manor's reach. Its only so disturbing because they are both rather weak creatures that normally see no need for violence. A brief look around proved that the dragon was alone, and so he laid down in the grass, continuing to watch the fight.
'Kujo..? Firill..? What in the world are those..? Sounds... Kind of like a fruit or some other kind of food to be honest.' chimed in a clueless Dalaith.
I wouldn't concider them food, but a mere morsel that isn't even worthy of being a snack. He eased in his most recent memories, the ones just before the conversation as he watched the duo, giving his silver haired tamer an image of what the two beings looked like.
Dalaith gasped slightly, then blushed a bit, hoping no one heard.
'You break up that fight this instant..! Oh the poor puppy..! I will not have you idly watching as some fox creature abuses the innocent little thing!'
Innocent? I highly doubt it. Rarely do firills ever fight unless something has wronged them greatly. Surly this kujo has done something to warrant the firill's anger.
'Oh you stuck up lizard, go and save the kujo before I-... I-!'
You wouldn't do anything about it but whine at me for the whole time you are here and you know it, and, though your voice is incomprehensibly annoying, I could deal with that. I will not have some stupid kujo following me around like I'm its mother.
'You have such a cold heart... I would care for it if you couldn't bear the thought....'
And you actually think that you would be allowed to take that thing back to the garden? You must be leaving your mind behind for the sake of your stupid human affections for the creature.
The conversation was interrupted by Merrik returning with the offer of refreshments and a bathroom break, to which Dalaith gladly accepted, going to the bathroom and splashing water on her face, just standing there and trying to calm herself and her misplaced anger at her dragon. She knew she probably couldn't take the cute critter back, no matter how she tried...
Despite letting her mind wander, Shirin did not feel surprise or even a frightened sensation when Merrik clapped his hands almost in glee, though she could not say the same to the silver-haired girl next to her. Her gaze flicked to the young woman a moment, taking her in. She was a small girl, reminding Shirin of a young doe - frail and sensitive. And yet, being chosen by a dragon proved that she was not all that she appeared to be. As Merrik moved forward, Shirin stayed behind, letting the rest of the group in front of her so that she can take up the rear. The warrior's nature is to protect, though she highly doubted anything would jump out at them. Perhaps a moth or a spider, but that would be all in this massive house. She didn't even get to move forward when Merrik stopped to think before turning to them and apologizing. The moment he pointed to the lavatory, Dalaith scampered in, appearing to be almost in tears. Seemed her dragon got on her nerves. For a brief moment, Shirin was curious about it, but then she let her thoughts drift away from such trivial things. Her gaze instead wandered towards the double doors Merrik had pointed towards, smiling softly to herself. Perhaps this warrior was not a scholar, but there was still a part of her that liked to read, and some study time in a comfy library should calm her nerves.
Hearing the word coffee, the warrior grimaced, shaking her head. "
I have my water. Thank you for your hospitality. I shall be off to the library, then!" Sending her mentor a brief and somewhat sheepish smile, she began heading towards the doors that housed the library, brushing past Rita with only a slight glance. Her eyes remained alert, her thoughts wandering only to the thoughts of what books she could learn from. Perhaps there would be books on the sword or even something to help her better understand where magic came from. She had to learn it! To get it down so that she could be as good as her mentor. In her heart, that was what the young woman strived for. She wanted to be the ultimate warrior same as Merrik. But more than that, she wanted to find the happiness he seemed to find in everyday tasks. A slow sigh made its way from her lips as she came to the doors and opened them slowly.
That small scholar wanted to leap for joy. The rest of her, however, wanted to sit in a corner and cry. The library was massive - bigger than her entire house five times over! With so many books on so many shelves, Shirin didn't even know where to start. Standing within the threshold a moment, the warrior tried to catch her breath, finding it harder with every breath she tried to take. Why did she come here again? They did not need protecting, nor did they need anything else that she had to give. They needed eyes to research and minds to open to the teachings of thousands of books. This was certainly not a job for Shirin! Rita, perhaps, but not the warrior. Stepping to the side, she took a peek along one of the shelves that ran along the nearest wall, following it all the way down the wall's length. This would have better suited Diari or even Yennefer, but not Shirin.
Turning, she stepped back out of the library and darted towards Merrik, who thankfully had yet to disappear from the entrance, speaking with a shaky voice. "
Mind if I come help prepare the refreshments, Mentor? I do not think I am ready to tackle so many books." She winced at the sound of her own voice, internally scolding herself for showing such weakness to her mentor. She should have thought about the size of the library based on the size of the rest of the house, but alas she had been caught off guard. That would teach her to be more alert next time. At the thought, she could hear Byriarti chuckle.
And there Merrik went again, being much too thoughtful for Rita's liking. However, Rita wasn't one to be offered the gift of free coffee and turn it down.
"Coffee sounds good to me, thank you Merrik." With that, the group began to part ways. Dalaith was the first to split, making a rush for the lavatory. Shirin split next, making a righteous rush for the library, which somewhat surprised Rita, she had never been the scholar. Rita began to head towards the library, but took his time to take a few steps this way or that, looking at different rooms that piqued his interest. Rita hadn't even made it to the library yet when Shirin rushed back out, looking rather unsteady. As she confessed to Merrik that she wasn't quite ready to tackle all those books, Rita couldn't help but smile, amused. It seemed her scholarly ambition had been crushed by Merrik's library, which made him just a little bit more excited to see it.
As he stepped into the library, it was exactly as impressive as he had thought it was. Row upon row of books spreading out in every direction. He had been in a few libraries in his time, but this one was the nicest one he had ever seen. Even as he marveled at the library, he couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy towards Merrik, being able to grow up with all of these books around, so many things to engage his mind. He couldn't imagine the young Merrik ever being bored as a child, with a massive manor to play in, full of books, and with a dragon companion to grow up with. He was certain now that if he had grown up in Merrik's place, his life would have been so much different. Who knows, if he had been raised in this setting, he might be indistinguishable from Merrik today. But enough with these introspective thoughts, Rita preferred to save the analysis for other people.
But what to do first, now that he was here? There were so many things he could research, books he could look for, but he wasn't quite sure how to prioritize. But even as he was sat there wondering, a sneaking thought crept into his mind which he liked very much. He walked off into the library, on the hunt. He'd want to do this quickly... Being unfamiliar with the library didn't help him, but in a few minutes he had found the books he was looking for: a book discussing the theory of advanced swordfighting and a book on the basics of magic. He set these books on a table near the door he had entered, and then went off to find a book for himself, soon settling on a book about basic combat tactics and maneuvering. Sitting down near the two books he had gathered, Rita began to read his own book. He didn't get very far before his thoughts were interrupted by Wither, who was constantly monitoring him.
I would say that was a sweet thing that you did, but it really wasn't, knowing you.
Rita smiled a bit, feigning innocence just for the sake of annoying his dragon.
I don't know what you're talking about.
Wither snorted, loud enough for the other dragons in the sun room to hear.
Grabbing books for her would generally be considered nice, but you're just doing it to look better in front of the others, I hadn't realized you wanted to impress Merrik so much. Maybe if you had done it for her instead of to look better, you actually would be more like him.
Rita smirked a little and turned back to his book.
Yeah yeah, leave me to read in peace, you overgrown scaly beast. Wither simply rolled her eyes on her end and went back to enjoying the sun.
Merrik looked to the blonde woman offering her assistance, a small smile tugging at his lips. "
I'd like that very much, thankyou." Beckoning towards the end of the hall where the dragons entered he lowered himself into a slight bow. "
Shall we, M'lady?"
He let her take the lead but quickly claimed a place at her side that he might lead her to where the kitchen was located, just down the hall and to the left. The kitchen was vast and open, though did not give off the appearance of a servant's realm, rather a genuine family kitchen. Merrik's mother had insisted her hands prepare each meal served in the home, even for special events. While she often needed help from the maids to man the large vessel of a cooking station, she had made the kitchen her own. The sun room in which the dragons lay was accessible through a large doorway in the far back corner of the kitchen.
When they reached the heart of the room, Merrik began removing fresh loaves of bread, various vegetables and fruits, and other necessary items to prepare sandwiches, juices, and coffee.
His charm caught Shirin off guard a moment, surprising her into a small smile as she nodded and stepped forward. At first, she was a little hesitant, unsure of where she was going, but without a moment to spare, she was lead to the kitchen, feeling grateful that she could do something other than stand flabbergasted in the library.
Though the kitchen wasn't much better. Despite its size, however, it had a certain homey charm to it, and Shirin took a moment to truly take in the sight of it, even noticing the doorway to the sun room only the slight sparkle of Byriarti's scales. Slowly, she took her place beside him, holding out her hands to take some of what he was gathering. "
Do you think we could make fruit bowls? I haven't had any fruit since yesterday when I picked some from one of the trees." A slow smile grew on her lips as she blushed at the comment. How silly to ask for more hospitality. "
Sorry, we don't have to. I just...mean…" With a sigh, she quieted and shook her head at herself before continuing to go back and forth with each load to set it up on the counter. "
What shall we do first? I could start making the sandwiches."
He laughed light-heartedly then, "
You're a guest in my home which means you can have whatever you want Shirin." And he meant it. Moving to a cooler storage space, he withdrew a basket of fruits of all kinds for her and a good pearing knife with it. "
I'll prepare the drinks while you work on the fruit bowls and we'll assemble the sandwiches together. Deal?"
Shirin brightened immediately at his words, bowing humbly to him and taking the fruit and peeling knife, immediately beginning to peel off the skins of the smaller fruits, focusing on apples, pears, and the occasional mango before slicing them and putting them in the bowl on the counter. "
Thank you," she said, filling one of the bowls with various fruits and bringing each of the small bowls to the island counter to be taken out. When three bowls were complete, each filled with a different mixture of fruits, she washed her hands and began preparing the sandwiches. By then, the drinks were done, and Merrik had begun to help out.
Together, they worked in silence, preparing the basic sandwiches with meats and cheeses, and when they were done, they made their way out of the kitchen, arms full of refreshments, and headed back towards the library. Within moments, the fruit bowls, sandwiches, juices, and a pitcher of fresh, steaming coffee were all set out for the group to settle with.
Merrik saw that Rita had settled himself in to the library already, nestled up with a few books at a quiet desk a little ways away. He poured himself a cup of coffee, sweetening it with raw sugar and a bit of cream, and then filled a second cup. Collecting a few sandwiches and a bit of fruit onto a dish, he strolled over to where Rita sat, arms filled with aromatic dishes.
Setting down the second cup of coffee and the plate of foot, he looked down at Rita, glancing at the books he had chosen. "
Finding everything you need? Let me know if you know of a specific subject you'd like to read up on, I'd be more than happy to dig out the best books. You should eat something, we've got a long day of studying ahead of us." Walking back over to the table where the refreshments had been placed, Merrik waited for Dalaith to make her entrance before addressing the three of them.
"
I suppose you're all curious why, exactly, we're here at the manor and what we're supposed to be studying for the next few hours. Well," he said, taking a drink of his warm, dark beverage. "
We're here to do research on the plague. For the past decade I've been working through this library, trying to find something from the past that can hint at what we're dealing with now. While I know we'll not likely find any close to the darkness we face today, I know there have been dark magics and illness mingling about the lands for a millennia or more. I know there are answers here to help us win this war, but I can't comb through the thousands of books on my own. Believe me, I've spent the last 10 years trying."
Picking up a sandwich, he took a bite and chewed as he walked to the north end of the vast room and made his way up a flight of stairs that led him to a second floor just on top the first floor's shelves. From behind the railing that lined the second floor, he motioned to the shelves of books he walked past, finally stopping at the far south end, with only 6 shelves left between him and the second staircase that joined the first two floors and one that led to a third.
"
All the books on the shelves I've just indicated have been searched thoroughly by myself over the years, so we're not starting completely from scratch. As I said, I've uh, been at this a while." He blushed a little as he now noticed just how many books he'd gone through in his last 10 years of life in hopes of unraveling the mysterious darkness he was destined to face one day. Cooling himself a bit, he addressed them once more as he made his way down the stairs on the south end.
"
We've got until late tonight at the manor, but I think we'll call it quits at around 6. After that we can collect what goods we need and relax for a while. God knows our minds will need it by then. We'll have dinner at 6, and I'll prepare us a real lunch at around 2." He looked up at the third floor for a moment before returning his attention to the tamers before him.
"
Well? What say we finish the second floor shelves and then move on to the ones on the ground level? We're looking for any references to dark illnesses, plagues, diseases, necromancy, dark magicks, fallen mages of old, anything…. dark and magical, really." He moved to a desk on the south end of the vast library, near where Rita was sitting, and placed his coffee on it. Turning then, he made his way back upstairs and began collecting books from the 6th shelf from the wall and when his arms were full, he made his way back down to the desk and sat the pile down.
"
Oh, and feel free to keep a book or two for yourselves in a separate pile. Anything from the first floor may leave the library, second floor I'll have to have a look at what it is first. Don't worry about reshelving either, just focus on finding information." He pulled out the chair and sat himself down, taking a long drink from his cup before opening a large, purple bound book with silver engraving on the front and flipped it open, his eyes immediately shooting through the text on the pages.
Rita kept quiet as Merrik went on his long speech discussing what they were here to research. The man had a way of using way too many words all the time. Rita couldn't help but smile at it. Perhaps the man was growing on him. Strange. When Merrik took a moment to go search for books himself, Rita took his own moment to take a sip of the coffee which Merrik had so graciously provided him. Then he turned to look at Shirin. "
I grabbed a few books I thought might interest you, since you seemed to be having issues with the library earlier." His previous ill will towards Shirin was nowhere to be found in his voice or actions, even if it was most prominent in his mind. He then went back to reading his own book on tactics and taking a sip of coffee here and a bite of food there until Merrik came back with a stack of books for research. Then, Rita put away his own book on tactics and picked up one of the books Merrik brought, beginning the long quest for specific knowledge which may or may not actually exist.
Dalaith took as long a time alone as she possibly could, calming her nerves, but she couldn't hold up forever. Merrik had long gone by this point, but it seemed he had yet to return. As Dalaith walked out, she could just barely glimpse Rita sitting in the library, but couldn't see Shirin within. She sighed, assuming the woman had accompanied their commander in the food and drinks preparations. Gathering her strength, Dalaith made her way outside the mansion through the back doors to find A'untyr and give her a piece of her mind. Well... Another piece. As soon as she stepped foot outside, though, her emotions got the better of her again as she saw the abuse the poor kujo was going through. A growl rising deep in her own throat and soon echoing in her dragon's was the only marker of her anger, as her body was just as placid as it was a few moments ago, but as she approached the dueling duo, her mannerisms betrayed her. Despite the cautioning of her dragon, Dalaith snatched up the kujo in her arms and bore her teeth, hissing and growling menacingly at the firill on the ground, backing up slowly. Dalaith didn't really wish any ill will for the critter, but she had to get it to back off, if only slightly, and, once such a task was achieved, she ran back inside, taking the small pup like creature back into the bathroom and quickly washing it in the sink, drying it with a towel before wrapping it up in her scarf to carry as she entered the library once more, finding everyone waiting for her. In shame, she slowly slunk to a corner, listening, but half occupied with the hidden pup in her arms that she was slowly comforting, making sure it wouldn't whine or cause any attention to itself.
A slow breath, once held in, was released, as Dalaith slowly moved up to the second floor of the library and got to what she knew how to do best, study. She unshelved three books, opening one on either of her crossed legs and one in her hand, while occupying the other with comforting her new friend. She flipped through pages upon pages in a fresh skim just to identify any sort of interest in the book according to the search parameters, then, if it qualified, was set aside so she could grab another and continue. When she finally had ten books gathered, she looked through them more meticulously, hoping she wouldn't miss a single word or implementation, though also hoping that Merrik wouldn't notice the little addition that was sitting silently beside her.
As Shirin began placing the platters of sandwiches and fruit on the table beside which Rita sat reading, she noticed a pair of books sitting on the table just above his head. Her eyes narrowed at the top title, The Art of the Sword - Advanced Weaponry & Maneuvers. The title intruiged her, feeling as though it was something she would find to be a good read, but instead of grabbing the book, she took a fruit bowl and stepped towards one of the lower shelves. It was right around this time that Merrik spoke up to the group, finally announcing what they were searching for.
The plague? Dark magic? Illness?
Why was she here again? Her brows furrowing, the warrior watched as Merrik made his way up and continued to speak. Quickly, she followed, munching lightly on a piece of apple, glad she had thought to ask for it. The sweet taste of it filled her mouth with joy, and she couldn't help but smile to herself despite the massive task ahead of her. And when Merrik finally finished, leaving with his comment of taking a couple books back to the Garden, Shirin sighed and took her fruit bowl to a separate corner on the second floor before heading to a section of books that had not been marked off.
By this point, she heard her name called from below, and her gaze flashed to meet Rita's. So those books were for her. Her body tensed at the thought of him trying to make himself look good, but Shirin knew that if she didn't go down and thank him she would look like the bad guy. Damn that man and his incurable wit! Why couldn't he just leave her the hell alone? Sighing, she trotted back down the stairs and grabbed the books from the table, looking at the title of the second book, A Guide to the Basics of Mana. Rita had really paid attention, then. Good for him. A slight smile rose on her lips, a sarcastic gleam appearing in her eyes as she once more looked towards the man beside the table. Bowing her head slightly, she held the books to her chest and whispered low enough to where only he could hear her, "
Please don't do me favors. If you want to make yourself look good, play with someone else." Then, loud enough for the others to hear, she spoke again in a seemingly lighthearted and almost excited voice, despite the fire in her eyes, "
Thank you, Rita. This means a lot!" If he was to play his little charade, she might as well play along. Perhaps then, the others would stop catching up on the tension between them and just leave her the hell alone.
With that, she turned and almost ran back up the stairs, her footwork surprisingly light for someone so built and so heavy. Placing the books beside her fruit bowl to be packed later, she made her way back to an unmarked section of the bookshelves and grabbed as many books as she could carry, which happened to be a stack of ten that was taller than her head. Slowly she walked back to her spot with the hefty books in her arms and slowly placed them on the ground not once making a peep. Then, grabbing the top book, she began to skim. Unfortunately for the warrior, skimming meant reading almost every single word. And by the time Dalaith finally made her way in with the tiny creature in her arms, Shirin didn't even notice. Had she come to find out, the Firill would have surely been picked up as well and cuddled by the soft-hearted warrior. Then again, Shirin already had a tiny companion who loved chocolate. Did she really need much else?
This day was going to be a long one.
