The Journey

[Rain of the Night]

Elrithos had quit Vordan and Esredia's side once they had entered Lord Ferin's estate. Oddly enough, he was Rudolf's nephew that he was talking about. It was something that he didn't even know, which is quite odd. He's pretty he would have heard the name before, but he guessed it just never came up before. Not that big of a deal. So, he was presented to his room, although he had yet to see the Lord himself. So, he dropped off all of his combat equipment in there, including armor, weapons, pack and everything. He would wear his more common desert outfit to see the Lord.

Once all done, he asked for one of the servants to bring him to the Lord if he was not busy. He followed up to wherever he was and was left to present himself, like he always does. "It has been sometime, my dear friend. Didn't realize that Rudolf was your uncle."

~~ Again, Lord Farin lifted off his seat in excitement, and much like with his uncle, he sprang forth towards the Desert Elf. "Elrithos!! In the gods names I didn't expect you at all! I'm so happy to see you!"

He ran forward to eagerly shake the Aavikanian's hand."Yes, yes! Rudolf is a brother to my late father. Are you traveling with him? My, he's lucky to have someone so capable! Were you a part of the fight earlier? If so I owe you make thanks, that general was such a worry."

The dwarf was talking a mile a minute with his childish excitement. It took a throat clearing from the female wood elf in the room for Farin to realize his place. "Ah, I'm so sorry! A bit excited."

The dwarf turned to present his other guests to the Desert Elf. "This is Lord Demetrius Elm and Lady Ieowyn Elm. Nobles of the Northern Wood Elves, sorry for my rudeness. Perhaps you know of each other?"

The male elf had already lifted from his seat and approached the two. He extended his hand towards Elrithos. "Yes, but I am afraid I only know you from your more famous namesake. It is not often anymore that I get to be in the presence as someone so renown as the Blazing Wind. It is an honor." ~~

Elrithos was always glad to see the excited glee and joyous of the Lord. Even though to many it seemed immature; to Elrithos, it was a breath of fresh air from all the serious life issues of this continent. They exchanged a firm handshake as he listened to him go on… He wondered what fight he was talking about. What had happened? Did it have to do with the others? Good question that he would love to ask, but instead got interrupted by one of his two other guest clearing their throats. He lifted his head to meet their gaze, still with a smile on his face.

Two Lords of the Northern Elves; would they know of Aaerynn? The answer was most probably yes, since Aaerynn is an exiled. It was something Elrithos could slightly understand in their traditions, but he found them to be harsh and quite unjust. He wouldn't judge though, it wasn't his place.

The male elf approached and presented his hand… Then he said the name. For him, well, he didn't know. So he wasn't going to be too hard on it. He joined his hand with his before speaking. "Please, do not call me Blazing Wind. It's a name I prefer not being reminded of, nor War Dancer. It is a pleasure do meet you. You are both friends of Lord Ferin I would imagine?"

Then, the question he wanted to ask. "I would imagine you would know of Aaerynn?"

~~ "Ah, I am sorry. I did not mean to offend." The elf smiled softly, and bowed his head a bit with his apology. He looked towards Farin after the Desert elf's first question."Yes, Farin's father and I fought together in the war long past. I promised I would watch over his son with his passing."

Farin just grinned. "Demetrius made his own name for himself in the war. My father had great respect for him, and he's always been here in my time of need!"

At the second question though, the elf lost his smile and his eyes hardened. This time it was the female elf who spoke up, yet remained still, seated at the table. "Just as you prefer to not be reminded of a name, Blazing Wind. We prefer not to be reminded of that one."

Farin looked back at Ieowyn with a frown and wrung his hands a bit nervously. Ieowyn however, kept her gaze on Elrithos. "You are a messenger now are you not? An honorable man, I hear, with friends to the south of us. If that person you brought up has caused you trouble, we would apologize for her. But she is not our responsibility any longer. We will however, apologize for the embarrassment she causes as a member of our race."

Demetrius' frown deepened but he remained silent. ~~

"Another one who fought alongside his father. It is an honor to me you too then." Elrithos had regained his smile, even when the noble elf lost his own. The man didn't say a word, as it was Ieowyn who spoke instead. They had not changed, those Northern Elves. He knew how it went with those who were expulsed out of their society. A very, very harsh life indeed.

She continued on explaining her apologies to him in behalf of Aaerynn, to which Elrithos simply shook his head and kept a smile. "No apologies needed. Although she has been quite cold and dry in her interactions with us, she has been a great help and joy to be around… And for someone who hasn't succumbed to her rot yet, she is doing quite fine." He moved towards the table and took a seat, knowing it probably wouldn't offend Lord Ferin if he took a seat before him.

"I mainly associate with the Southern Elves indeed. Lissandra Silvermoon has given me the ropes of how they run their things for the pass hundred years. Great woman…" He turned to Lord Ferin. "You won't believe it, I met the last ancestor of Ysander the Savage. I think your father met him during the war after the Tribes turned on the Dark Emperor."

~~ Farin soon took his own seat, followed by Demetrius. His face lit up though as Elrithos changed the subject."Really!? I had heard that the tribes were wiped out years ago... To think there was a survivor and a relative to Ysander! How strange, yet exciting!"

Demetrius had fallen into a lighter mood as the conversation shifted away from his sister. An eyebrow rose though, at Elrithos' words. "Ysander the Savage and all of the mountain tribe were outstanding warriors. They were terrifying enemies that became powerful and needed allies."

Farin's face lit up further, hoping for a story to come out of this. But Demetrius didn't fall to the Lord's whims. "The curse though...It is sad how they dwindled due to it...How was the descendant's mental state?" ~~

"No, some still live in the mountains still, although most are dead indeed… I haven't seen any since the Lady that joined up in Rudolf's escorts. She holds the strength of Ysander too." He said with a light smile, looking towards both the elves.

"Fighting alongside Ysander was something. The man couldn't back down from a fight or a challenge." That was also true for himself those years ago, but he wasn't going to say so. Already that most humans knew that Ysander the Savage had fougth with the War Dancer in many legends was enough to bare. One of the two elves asked about Esredia's mental state. To that, he laughed lightly.

"She has had a constant source of blood the last three or so years. She is very stable, although she has been out of cities for a little while now. Great warrior too." He said as he laid back onto his chair. "So, Lord Ferin, any good stories to share?"

~~ "Oooh! I didn't know she was in your party!" Farin's eyes lit up with excitement. "Perhaps you or Uncle would be willing to introduce me! I'll have to speak with him later tonight about it..."

Demetrius merely shook his head in amusement. At Elrithos' question though Farin looked at the wood elf for permission before replying, "Nothing of great interest has happened here since your last visit. The most worrisome was a stranger appearing from the next continent, I believe it was Durandal...right?"

The dwarf looked at the wood elf next to him and Demetrius nodded. "He was known as General Rowan, at least that was the only information I could pick up on him. Well that, and his reputation. Apparently he made a career out of killing the magically inclined. He was said to have killed thousands, and was of a great asset to the Durandal army. Farin asked me to come when he showed. I monitored him for the past week or so and he never did anything out of the ordinary."

The wood elf paused, recollecting his thoughts before speaking again. "But after this afternoon, I suppose it is clear now that he was waiting for one individual within your party. A red head. I am afraid I was unable to spectate the fight that broke out. But seemingly through a collective effort of a pair of twins, a pink haired girl, and the red head, Rowan was taken down."

"We were lucky!" Farin interjected, giving a sigh. "If the fight had been any bigger, or any magic was used, I'd have Ellahur and the others breathing down my neck again. I'm grateful that Uncle and you lot were able to come around." ~~

"I would be more than willing to introduce the young lady to you Ferin. She is actually quite a nice lady." Yes, for someone who had a story like she told, she was quite a nice woman. He could see her being so much more violent and reckless, yet she is this sweet young human. It was a relief really, as she could be trouble for a lot of people.

The male elf moved the story to something else entirely… Something quite interesting. Durandal? Wasn't where the young red-head was from? They continued on, saying that there was conflict, a death and the involvement of a few of his comrades. How interesting… He let them continue on, waiting until Lord Ferin was done. He stayed there, quiet a moment. He then looked at the dwarf.

"Well, let me tell you that this group is quite special. The red-haired young man is actually the Prince to the Throne of Durandal, escaped his old life to restart anew. The twins are two Syndareans refugees who are escaping the rituals of their traditions. We have a mercenary from Ellahur who is actually a Maker that has never had his magic removed. We have the exiled wood elf, an exotic lady from somewhere I do not know of, the ancestor of Ysander and this unknown pink-haired girl. Rudolf got lucky, to some degree."

Elrithos purposefully did not include himself in the whole thing as he didn't want his "tittles" to arise. Why would he tell them? Well, Lord Ferin was a good, kind man and could trust him with anything. The two elves, well, they probably want nothing to do with most of them so they wouldn't really bother them. He felt like Lord Ferin would probably love to hear all the stories eventually.

~~ Lord Farin's eyes absolutely lit up at Elrithos' explanation."It's like you're living another amazing story! Like an epic quest! Uncle is certainly lucky!"

"Sounds more like too much trouble." Lady Ieowyn spoke up, looking at the dwarf with an uninterested expression.

Farin gave a bit of a pout. "You just don't have a sense of adventure my lady! What I would give to live in the days filled with excitement and intrigue and battles!"

Demetrius merely shook his head. "You romanticize it too much, Farin. Either way, it seems you have your hands full Elrithos, if you intend to stay with Rudolf." ~~

A simple laugh came from the desert elf as Lord Ferin said 'another' story. The initial story was the war in which he participated in, he guessed. It was quite a quest yes, and he seriously wondered what would come out of it. The two other elves spoke of trouble and baggage they were if he stayed. Now, that, he couldn't deny at all, but he wasn't going to leave them. It would be one of the few chances to see their native land and to help young warriors grow up into real warriors.

His eyes turned to the female elf, a smile still upon his lips. "They may be trouble, but they are good people. They are helping Lord Ferin's Uncle to get to the continent safe and they have the skills to do it. There is very little to be ashamed of with them." He then turned his head to the male elf. "I'm staying with them until the end of their journey, maybe even longer. The young man with the blue hair is a prodigy for battle, but he still has to learn. The red-haired warrior, well, I prefer keeping an eye on him until things go well… It could be quite a story to write about"

~~ "Yes, yes!" Farin agreed with him. "I want to hear all about it when you return Elrithos!"

Demetrius merely smiled softly. "I wish you luck in your travels then. They are lucky to have you as a comrade as well."

He looked to his wife who merely shrugged her delicate shoulders. "I merely hope it does not prove to be more trouble than it is worth." ~~

Elrithos nodded and kept his smile up as he stood. "I will return with all the details you want Lord Ferin. I couldn't leave something like this out of your reach." He started to walk away, although stopped for a moment and turned to the elves.

"I probably don't have any right to ask you this, but I would like for you to consider forgiving Aaerynn. She made a mistake, but I don't think she deserves whatever lifestyle she is getting now. The fact that the Rot still hasn't killed her is an impressive feat and I simply wish to relief her pain."

He looked over to Lord Ferin. "I will take my leave for this day. I promise you I will being the descendent of Ysander someday tomorrow. I don't know if you wish to meet the Maker too… He quite an interesting character, along with the twins."

~~ The elves had hardened a bit at Elrithos mentioning Aaerynn once more. But Farin only grinned wider, as he spoke. "Yes! Please! I'm excited to meet them all! To think a Maker with magic, a relative to Ysander...all of your party seems remarkable! That reminds me...I need to meet up with Uncle tonight! Please stop by again tomorrow Elrithos! I'd love to meet them all."

Farin hopped off his seat, circling around the table and seemingly preparing himself. Demetrius raised an eyebrow, "I hope you do not intend to stay out long. You have a meeting tomorrow you know."

The lord raised his arm and waved it. "Pish posh."

The wood elf shook his head, but gave one last glance to Elrithos, and avoided what the Desert elf had said earlier. Instead, he dismissed him. "Have a good night then, Elrithos." ~~

Elrithos left without saying anything else. He probably wouldn't be able to have Aaerynn forgiven, but he could try at least. Now, it was on to see the city.

 

[Jendori]

Rudolf sighed as he exited Tirian's room with the rest of the injured group. Starting this journey, he really hadn't expected much. An easy job and some easy pay. But it was turning out to be a completely different beast altogether. Ah, well. Things would surely straighten themselves out. Somehow.

The dwarf waddled down a few more halls to see if anyone had come back in yet. Taking everyone out for a drink would be a lot of fun, both to get over recent happenings, and to perk everyone up. Hopefully it would also get Aaerynn to feel better after that horrid family drama. Rudolf finally managed to reach the rooms where he figured they had placed Vordan. The Maker didn't seem to be too shy of alcohol, so hopefully he wouldn't mind tagging along. His head perked up though to see Esredia meandering around the halls. She seemed a bit like a lost child, and the old dwarf couldn't help but laugh and smile.

"Ah, Esredia!" The dwarf called out to her. "You alright dear heart? Come over a moment, I have a question for you."

As he spoke to her, he also reached what he assumed was Vordan's room and eagerly gave a solid knock on the door while he waited for Esredia to approach.

Esredia just loved the place… It was so beautifully crafted and carved! He had seen very little places like these and it was a welcoming change. The woodlands and some parts of the mountains were great and all, but they didn't have these complex and intricate things! The only time she had seen places like these was her time as a slave… In which she did prefer not to remember. Instead, she let the child within just take her around.

She eventually heard the voice of the old dwarf, which brought a great smile to her lips. He was always pleasant to be with! She had known him for so little time, but she felt good being around the cheery dwarf. Walkign forth towards him, she answered back in a broken common language. "Me good! ... Question me?" She was curious, wanting to know what he had to say. Also, she wondered why he knocked at Vordan's door.

From the inside of the room, we could hear some glass smashing onto the ground and some stuff moving around before we heard the door unlock and barely open. Upon seeing Rudolf, he sighed in relief and opened it completely… The inside of the room was a mess. Trinkets, vials, flasks, material was everywhere. The room itself wasn't filthy, but a clusterfuck of things just lying around everywhere. Vordan, with a small smile, took off the cloth that covered half of his face.

"Hey Rudolf. What can I do for ya?"

The dwarf was a bit dumbstruck as he got a peek into Vordan's room. He really made himself at home didn't he? Rudolf shook himself out of it before smiling widely and looking at the two. "Was wondering if you two would like to go out for the night with this old dwarf! Hit up a bar, have a good time, get some drinks in! What do ya say?"

"Drinks…? Yes! Me put light clothe!" She said, very excited to actually go take a few drinks and have some fun. She had already left for her own room without saying another word. Vordan looked at her go away, a brow shot up. Light clothes? He wondered what she meant by that… He guessed it didn't matter really; she would be there anyway so he would see. So, he turned back to Rudolf and nodded.

"I'll come. Just have to get cleaned up a little and put on more proper clothes. I'll be out in a few minutes." He said as he closed the door behind him.

It didn't take long, as Vordan said, to actually come back out, face washed and hands covered in bandages. He was wearing the outfit he wore back in Cromreth; his noble-ish attire. There wasn't going to be any troubles, so Vordan just assumed that all his gear wasn't necessary. He would still bring along his dagger and gauntlet, plus a few vials, just in case. With Vordan was a small bag in his hand. "Alright. Might work on a few things while we're there… Don't worry, nothing magic." He said with a smile… He turned towards the sound of someone walking.

His eyes went wide as he saw who was coming. Esredia, but without anything on her but a red dress… Wasn't that contrast to the weapons, armor and gear. She had a gentle smile as she approached. "Me look good?"

The dwarf whistled and gave two thumbs up. "The most beautiful thing these old eyes have seen in a long time!!! Ahaha, tonight is gonna be good eh?"

He elbowed Vordan in the ribs and waggled his eyebrows. "Alrighty then! You lot can go wait in the first room, the one with the staircase, if that's alright with ya!"

The dwarf then began his waddle, calling out. "I'll go see if anyone else will join us! Vordan, take care of the pretty lady won't you?"

He guffawed a laugh before taking a turn down the hall.

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Rudolf couldn't seem to find Elrithos anywhere, so he landed on the room designated for Lillith. He knocked a bit more politely than he did with Vordan and called out. "Lady Lillith! It's Rudolf, just seeing if you'd like a night out!"

The old dwarf didn't know what to expect. Lillith had been on a pilgrimage, meaning she must be a bit religious. Was drinking allowed in her culture? Ah, well, didn't hurt anyone to ask.

Lillith turned over in her bed, a bit of drool running down the corner of her mouth as the loud yells of a certain dwarf rang out into her room. The exotic beauty rolled out of the bed in nothing more than her undergarments as she opened the door with a smile on her face. "Please, give me a moment to dress and I will join the rest of you. Thank you."

She closed the door after her kind words and returned to the center of the room, pondering what she should wear for a night out? After a long moment of particular thinking the girl threw on a beautiful black dress that fit every curve on her body with sheer perfection. The dress itself was designed with gold inlays that ran down her thighs and ended at the foot. After fiddling with her hair, Lillith took in a deep breath and exited the room where the dwarf had waited so very patiently for her. "How... How do I look?"

The dwarf's eyes nearly bugged out of his head as Lillith first answered the door, said something that the dwarf didn't quite catch before closing it. Rudolf merely stood there, awestruck. He had seen the Gods...no, the ultimate beauty.

The dwarf looked up, tears of happiness filling his eyes. He had been blesed this day! The Gods had granted him a miracle. They had given him the first glance to what heaven was surely like! Rudolf raised his arms to the ceiling in praise, but was promptly interrupted as the door opened once more to reveal Lillith wearing a dress that was surely made exactly to hug those curves.

Rudolf turned red and whistled again. "You're a goddess Lady Lillith! A drop of ethereal beauty to bless the mortal plane!"

He started laughing nervously, his face becoming redder. He was blessed by the gods surely! Surely! "Are you ready to go Lady Lillith? We'll meet the others in the lobby!"

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Aaerynn hadn't changed much in the time after Rudolf had asked her for a drink. She had redone the bandages on her arm once again, with the help of one of Farin's many servants, and then changed her shirt into a nice pastel blue one that matched her eyes. She then washed her hands and face. That was it.

She returned to the staircase and sat down, bringing her knees up and burying her face in them. Aaerynn didn't lift her head even when she began to feel the presence of a few others enter the lobby. She was in too much pain to deal with anyone. She felt ill to the point that the last thing she should probably be doing was going out, but talking to Lord Farin wasn't the only reason why she was putting in the effort. If she didn't spike up her adrenaline or fix her mood, she'd be in a shit ton of trouble. It was bad enough with the rot alone, but with an open injury, the worse her rot took over the more it would crack open.

She should have never bothered. She had already pushed herself too far by visting that grave not too long ago. She was pushing her luck and her recovery skills to the limit. Speaking with Vordan and spending time with the others had let her put it to the back of her mind and forget it, but now it came full force. This sucked.

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Rudolf led Lillith towards the lobby and main room of the royal residence. He couldn't help being excited to see what Aaerynn had done with herself. To think, three beautiful women, a night on the town, alcohol galore!

He was dissapointed to see the wood elf had barely changed at all. "Aaerynn!" He called out to her, his face puffed with dissapointment. "Come on now! It's a night out on the town, the time of your life! And you're dressed with barely any femininity at all! You should learn from example by these two lovely ladies!"

He waved his arms in a showcase format towards Lillith and Esredia. Aaerynn finally picked her head up, her softness and emotions from earlier in the day was wiped from her face. She stood slowly, using the railing as suport before she answered. "I'm going to get drunk, not to get laid." She said it rather bluntly as she walked towards the bottom of the stairs. The wood elf paused though, realizing her callousness. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean any offense." She mumbled a soft apology to the two ladies before reaching her destination and waiting for the dwarf to lead the way.

Rudolf sighed softly, finally realizing the true effect this afternoon had had on the wood elf. He looked to the rest of the party and apologized as well. "Don't worry about the grumpy elf. It's been a rather rough afternoon. But shall we head off then!?"

The dwarf practically frolicked towards the doors, waiting for the guards to open them. He began blabbering about his home town, different spots to visit, where to go for the best food or weapons or ingredients. He began telling stories of his youth until they finally reached a large bar already filled with dwarves, humans and a few orcs alike.

--Vordan had done exactly as Rudolf said, although he was still set back by how the tribes woman was dressed. ? How in the Abyss could she manage to make the red dress fit so… well? Their culture was used to wearing leather and furs to protect from the cold and now, look at her. Vordan didn't dare say a word, but only smiled back to the savage lady. She showed her on genuine, warm smile. What in the damn was happening? Everything he has really ever known in terms of races and their culture seemed to be thrown out the door with all the people he's met.

Eventually though, Rudolf and Lillith were there, and again, Vordan stayed silent at the impressing beauties. She clearly was from somewhere he didn't know, but it didn't matter. She was a fellow traveler and human being. Esredia looked at the two arrivals and couldn't help but have a great smile. "You beau… beau…. Hum… look good." Vordan laughed lightly, but proceeded to follow them back to the main hall where Aaerynn was waiting for them. In all honesty, Vordan would not take sides on what Rudolf said on their arrival. She showed femininity. Ruldolf was just overlooking it because how the two others were dressed… Although her answer back had set him aside. Esredia had looked at her oddly. "Get laid…?"

Vordan explained in her own language what it meant and Esredia didn't seem too impressed. She talked back in kind of a rude manner to Vordan, which made him pale out. He seemed a little… astonished by her words, but said nothing and continued on with the group.

As they were walking along, Esredia came closer to Aaerynn and whispered to her. "No listen small man. You beau… Bea... look good." She said, clearly annoyed by the fact she didn't remember the name.

As they arrived at the bar, Vordan immediately made his way to a table that had some people, pulled out some coins and spoke a few words. The people were clearly happy with the offer and took the coins and left the table completely. Vordan smiled and shook one of their hands. He then turned to the others who were with him. "Got us a table."

Lillith took in the old dwarf's expression with a bit of amazement. She was more than comfortable with her body, and didn't mind the extra attention she may or may not get from the dress she had picked out. She straightened her back and walked with confidence with the dwarf into the main lobby where a few others from the caravan group had already gathered. The wood elf seemed to be in a bit of a mood, waltzing past with a nasty comment, of which was immediately taken back. Lillith shrugged the comment off and proceded forward with the rest of the group, tuning out the dwarf's stories and looking up towards the sky. After a moments stroll, she found herself in a lively bar, with a plethora or races and genders among the group. Lillith felt at home and decided she would treat herself and the rest of the group to a nice night. She walked to the bartender with a pouch of money in her hand as she spoke.

"A keg of your strongest alcohol." She spoke loudly, everyone at the bar table grew silent as the petite female opened the pouch for the dwarf behind the counter. The dwarf opened his mouth wide with awe and shock, responding quickly with a gesture to a large man near the back of the bar, presumably where the stock rested. "Surely one woman can't drink all of this herself!" The dwarf exclaimed, to which Lillith simply pointed to the table Vordan had gotten for them. The man placed the keg in the middle, tapping it appropriately and leaving with silence. Lillith filled everyone's glass with a hearty amount of the blacked liquid and held it up for everyone, as a toast.

"May our night be filled with enjoyment, and may our heads be free of regrets and pain in the morning!" The exotic beauty downed the liquid, feeling its fire throughout her throat, letting out a heavy grunt followed by an immediate smile. "Nothing better than the good stuff. Enjoy, my friends."

--Aaerynn looked up in slight surprise as Esredia came over to her side. She watched as the tribeswoman attempted to make a compliment, struggling a bit at the word beautiful. It made the wood elf raise an eyebrow in curiosity. If she were feeling better, it probably would have made her crack a small smile in amusement. But her face remained neutral. Still, the compliment made her further regret the comment she had made earlier."The pervert of an old dwarf was only teasing. Thank you though."

Since the tribeswoman had made the effort for a compliment, the wood elf supplied her own. "Red looks good on you. It's a nice dress."

Aaerynn gave a slight nod to her and turned silent as they finally approached the bar. They entered inside to see it full of life, a plethora of noise and smells. The wood elf was about to venture forth to snag a seat somewhere, but was again surprised to see Vordan move ahead to a table. She hadn't noticed before, but he was wearing the same outfit during their night out in Cromerth. She was still taken slightly aback by how good he looked all cleaned up. He pulled the look of a noble off well enough, it wasn't too shocking to see the men take the offer of coins and leave the table for them.

Rudolf and Aaerynn sat down, with the dwarf about to raise his arm for some service. But another surprise made its way over as a dwarf plopped a keg down on their table and Lillith began filling mugs. Both elf and bald dwarf looked a bit stunned as the silver haired woman promptly lifted her glass, made a speech and downed the liquid in a few hearty gulps. Rudolf got over his initial shock as he raised his glass and gave a loud, "Here, here!"

He too then chugged down the liquor in record time.

Aaerynn remained a bit stunned. She hadn't really expected that from the exotic looking woman. Lillith had remained practically silent during the stretch of the journey she was a part of. She looked and seemed to be the proper type. But apparently she was full of surprises.

The wood elf only took a sip of the hard brew, wincing slightly at the burn as it made its way down. Wine was much more her thing, but she wasn't going to complain about free alcohol. Her fingers tapped her glass a bit as she contemplated how much she wanted to drink before the lord got there. She still needed to be rational enough to ask for her favor.

Her gaze drifted towards the door, holding there until she felt a stubby elbow dig into her side. She looked to Rudolf, who was already red in the face. "Lighten up Ryn! Fari will come round when he can escape those elves."

The dwarf laughed while Aaerynn grimaced.

"I didn't think the North elves could still be so uptight. Even after all these years...It's funny how close the South and North elves are and yet how differently they act!" The dwarf laughed again.

Aaerynn took another sip before muttering bitterly. "You'd be surprised."

Rudolf could only give her back a few slaps for comfort before he returned his attention to Lillith. "I'm surprised my lady! You must be pretty experienced to pick out this brew! A connoisseur, perhaps? I didn't expect it out of you!"

Esredia and Vordan both took a seat with the others. Esredia had her eyes all around, looking at the place. It wasn't the first time she had been in something of the like, but it was quite rare. She wasn't able to talk to many people so moments became awkward and she would eventually just walk out with whatever she bought. As for the men that tried to get with her, the dismissal was harsh and sometimes bloody. In any case, when she was presented with the alcohol, she looked at it oddly. What was this dark liquid… It wasn't like anything she had seen before.

Vordan too was curious about what was presented to him. He looked at it and listened to the exotic lady speak… She took it down quite well. Vordan raised his mug and then try to down it like the others. It didn't go down as well. After two gulps, Vordan put the mug down and coughed, his face turned in case he spit some out. "By the Creators! How do you drink this? It's so strong…."

Esredia too took it down, but she didn't seem disturbed at all. It went down like water, the taste not too bad. She actually liked it and got herself more."It good!" She exclaimed.

Vordan was dumb struck. He simply couldn't believe it.

Lillith allowed a smile, her face turning red as the second mug of foul liquid entered through her system. How was she able to stand such potent alcohol? Perhaps it was due to all of spiritual training. Or Perhaps it was just of her nature to stand such powerful stuff. No, Lillith was an exotic creature from an island were liquor was something so cherished, it was a daily item. Lillith turned to Vordan, a wide smile on her face as she spoke. "Years of training... years."

Her words came slurred, followed by a hiccup as the blackened liquid began to take its inevitable toll on the slim girls system. The downfall to being so slender and fit, this beautiful drink goes right through you. However, Lillith was a trained individual who understood limits and knew self-control. She poured one more drink, this time only sipping it and allowing her taste buds to fully enjoy what was being thrown at them. Her eyes began to wander around the bar, taking in the sights of each person that had been apart of them.

Lillith topped her glass off and headed towards a nearby table that had been playing a primitive version of cards. With a quick toss of a few golden coins, and she was in. "Deal me..." Lillith staggered into the open seat as the other males snickered to themselves.

Easy money, they thought and so it would be. She lost one hand, and then another. "It seems like this isn't your game pretty lady." One of the men exclaimed, but her eyes narrowed and she downed the foul liquid in two gulps and began playing once more. Everything was quiet... For now.

Aaerynn raised her eyebrows, first at Esredia drinking it like water and exclaiming that it was good, then Lillith's drunken explanation before she ambled off to go gamble. By now the dwarf was simply laughing his ass off, in between chugging back another pint full. The wood elf finally cracked a smile, coming to the realization that this night was surely going to be entertaining, to say the least.

She looked to Vordan, her voice a bit warmer than it was earlier. "If it's your first time drinking Dwarven hard ale, take it slow, or it'll hit you like a rock."

The wood elf looked over to Esredia, wondering just how much the tribeswoman would be able to handle. She was certainly knocking it back like nothing. Lillith obviously wasn't the only one full of surprises. Aaerynn merely took a sip of her own drink, wincing still at the burn.

Years of training? Vordan had a hard time believing such a thing was true. How can years of training make you withstand the strength of this drink? Not only that, but he had yet to understand how Esredia just took it down and LIKE it. This night was going to be quite a special one… He sighed lightly, not paying attention to Lillith playing the game of cards. Instead, he turned to Aaerynn as she spoke of the ale. He laughed and shook his head.

"How can anyone take this fast…" He simply answered back as he brought his small bag go the table. He pulled out a few items, notably a gauntlet, some quartz crystals, a few gems, small chains for necklaces, a pair of leather gloves and a few vials and flasks. "I'd pass for some normal ale really. Might not be able to concentrate with that smell either."

Esredia didn't guzzle down the next mug, although she was drinking it like water. So far, she was enjoying her time. The dwarf was happy, Aaerynn smiling, the exotic lady playing card games. It was amazing! Esredia looked at Rudolf and smiled. "Me win all strength bets! Any man! Make coin!" She laughs.

Hand after hand, the exotic and drunken beauty continued to win all of the men's money. Their faces showed, visibly, their anger and contempt for this female suddenly winning at a 'mans' game. By this point Lillith had downed six glasses of the potent liquid and completely lost herself in the drunken haze. One more hand going to Lillith and the tallest man stood up and flipped the table. "That's it, enough of this nonsense! You're cheating you rotten bitch!"

Lillith stood from her chair with a visible sway, her face redder than an apple. "Ey! I take... Offense to that!" Her words came out slurred as she waggled her finger towards the man, as it was clearly obvious she had no idea where she was or what was doing. The man stepped forward, grabbing her by the dress and lifting her off the ground with a vicious glare in his eyes.

"Let's show this pretty lass what we do to cheaters here in Durngan!" He spoke, with a flare in the other men as the cheered him on. Lillith's face drained, the smile smearing away and a mere frown appearing on her face. With a twist of her neck, she turned towards the band and called out to them, silence clearing the room as she did.

"Ey! String boy... Play something... Catchy!" The band suddenly began playing an upbeat score and Lillith reacted immediately. Her hands came up and broke the mans grip and before he could even react a fist caught his jaw and sent him into the ground. "Ohhhhhhhhh..." She yelled out, and like wildfire the entire bar went up in a fight. The five other men rushed Lillith but she was too squirmy. She swayed and bobbed to the side, avoiding every attack and countering with incredible power. She was a natural drunken master, a vicious one at that. She continued to battle the five men until each and every one of them lay on the ground beaten and bruised.

--Aaerynn took another sip as she watched the Maker bring out his toys, and she finally noticed the bandages on his fingers. Had he injured himself? Already? The wood elf shook her head as she hid a smile behind her glass. He was amusing. Was he ever able to actually relax and not work?

At Vordan's mention of not liking the smell, Aaerynn stood and walked over to the bar. She returned to the table with a tankard, that she placed in front of Vordan. She shifted away his other glass so he wouldn't have to smell it. "Here, normal ale, this should go down easier."

She took a peek at what he was fiddling with before returning to her side of the table. "Don't want you to lose that concentration of yours." She teased him.

Aaerynn looked over to see Rudolf trying to rile up men to face Esredia and she shook her head with mirth. Just as she was about to sit down though, the bar suddenly went silent and all attention turned to the silver haired woman. Aaerynn was left dumbstruck as Lillith called out to the band....and then all hell broke lose.

Gods, they hadn't even been here that long!

There was the shattering of glass as all sorts of men began to tackle each other. Aaerynn had to lift her glass above her head as Rudolf suddenly zoomed by her only to jump off a table and piledrive a group of other dwarves, with a shout of, "LET'S RUMBLE!!"

Fuck. This was definitely not what the wood elf had been expecting coming out tonight. Aaerynn took the safest route and crawled beneath the table they had been sitting at. She held her glass with two hands, attempting to steady and save the liquid within. She hadn't even gotten the chance to finish her first drink!

--The Maker was hard at work, his concentration almost fully into the minute details of the gauntlet and a few gems, inspecting them and playing with them. It was only when the tankard of ale was brought in front of him and the other one moved that he lifted his head. Oh, well, wasn't that a nice gesture. Vordan smiled at Aaerynn. "Ah! Perfect… Thank you. Might not fall to the ground too quickly now." He said, now slowing down a little with his fiddling.

Esredia was all excited to challenge the men around to a test of strength. She could show them was she is really made of! With that said, she had taken down her second mug of the dark ale and stood up to prepare herself… Then, the silence. Even Vordan lifted his head at the eeriness of it. What was happening? Vordan looked towards where the action was coming from. Lillith? What was…

Before he could really do anything, chaos broke loose in the place. Vordan immediately put his things away and dodged a mug heading towards his head."For the Creator's sake!" He screamed, one man charging him. He immediately just pushed him another direction. He loved s good bar brawl once in a while, but that night wasn't the night to do so. It was supposed to be relaxed… And so, he ducked and covered under the table with Aaerynn, sighing."Well… There goes the plans for a relaxing night…"

Esredia was absolutely confused… Why was everyone fighting? She had evaded a fight punches she didn't want to return. What was this chaos? People hurting each other and such. Why? She didn't feel comfortable at all anymore… When someone tried to grab her from behind, she almost snapped. Esredia grabbed one of the arms and basically threw the man over his head and into of group of other men. It came as almost natural, like she didn't want this to happen…

"STTTTOOOOOOOPPPPPP!"

She yelled like Ysander would do before they would charge in with the desert elves on the front against the dark Emperor. She was clearly upset, on the verge of tears. This really wasn't what she wanted to see… Not that night.

--Lillith found herself seated comfortably among the fighting and all of the noise. Her eyes laid themselves on the table in front of her as her mind carelessly fluttered away into an entirely new reality. Suddenly, her mind shot back to reality as Esredia yelled. The bar came to a halt and as if nothing had ever happened, they returned to their seats and continued drinking. Lillith found her self-control, pushing an empty glass to the side and continued her night, dry. The exotic female felt a bout of guilt come over her, taking in Esredia's tear-ridden face. She stood from her chair and staggered forth, swinging her arms around Esredia in a tight embrace. "Forgive me." Was all she spoke to the odd female, her breath reeking of the stout liquor from before.

For one, it Esredia a little bit of comfort seeing people going back to their sets, but she was still quite upset. Why was there a need for violence? Why tonight? Sure, any other night would have been fine, but she felt this night should be a special one. One where she could enjoy her time with her new friends, not make a bloody mess of everything. Tears had started going down her face, about to simply leave the bar, but Lillith approached her and wrap her arms around her… She didn't know what to say at first. The smell of stout wasn't helping the situation, but she was saying sorry. A few more tears came down before she spoke. "Why violent? This good night… Not bad night…"

Vordan had almost jumped at the scream that ripped through the air. It rang for a couple seconds in his ear before he gave Aaeryn an odd look and came back out from under the stable. Everything was back to normal, but Esredia had tears going along her face. Lillith was embracing her and that was the only thing that stood out. What had happened? Vordan took a seat, waiting to see what would unfold.

Lillith felt her mind clear up just enough to give the odd woman a simple explanation. "This is a good night, and to the men here fighting is good. they see it as a release." She spoke, her words still slurred and sluggish to some extent.

Lillith dropped her embrace, returning to her seat and looking over the people once more. They had completely settled and returned to their own little worlds and groups. Still she felt bad about what had happened, even if it was not her fault entirely. Men just get rowdy, especially men and alcohol. Even more so when there is money on the line and their friends are egging them on. "I never got to comment on your dress, Esredia. You're stunning. I'm even a bit jealous of you!"

Aaerynn's ears were still ringing after that scream. It had practically blown out her ears. Gods, that woman had a great pair of lungs on her. She looked at Vordan who gave her an odd look before crawling out from underneath the table. He didn't return, so the wood elf took it as a sign that the coast was clear. She popped out from her hiding place, returning to her seat with her glass still full.

Fuck it, she might as well finish it the way this night was going. Aaerynn sat down and then tossed her drink all the way back. She slammed her glass down with a sigh before wiping her lips. At least it was entertaining enough that she didn't have to focus on her rot.

Rudolf untangled himself from another group of dwarves to help provide damage control. He waddled over to Esredia and took her hand. "Sorry dear heart! Just an old fashioned brawl, it's alright! No one meant to upset you!"

Soon many of the men and dwarves were calling out to the crying woman with apologies. Others came forward with drinks and food, and some offered the arms for an arm wrestle. It was a resounding, "Sorry to make you cry miss!" "Do you need something to drink?" "Want something to eat?" "Hey, how about an arm wrestle! Let's see that strength of yours!"

Rudolf looked up at the tribeswoman and patted her hand. "It's still a good night dear heart! Everyone is sorry to make you cry!"

"Old… fashion… brawl?" She didn't understand what was happening now. People were bringing her food, drinks, apologies. The violence had stopped so quickly and everyone was out of their savage state. Why? How? She felt a little embarrassed as it seemed she had caused this wave of guilt. Vordan, noticing she did not understand what was happening at all stood up to go talk to her…Making some place.

Esredia looked at him and the two exchanged a few words. Vordan laughed a little, which seem to comfort her. After that Vordan raised his arm to tell people to quiet down. "People! Please! She just didn't realize that this was tradition here. She's not from around these parts, so please forgive her. She didn't know." Vordan then left this for Esredia to handle. The situation was going to calm down. He then turned to Aaerynn with a smile, putting his things back onto the table. "This night is going to be so wonderful, am I right?" He said with a teasing smile before he drank some of his ale and proceeded to play with the quartz and gems.

Esredia, now understanding what had happened, refused the drinks and said, as plainly as she could, that it was alright. She then joined back to the table, taking down another mug of the dark ale and pouring herself more. Vordan saw no sign of her getting drunk… How the hell could she handle all that?

Aaerynn could already feel the slight buzz from the hard ale. So when Vordan spoke to her, Aaerynn responded with a smile and tease as well,"Oh, absolutely peachy."

Everything and everyone seemed to calm down for the moment, and the band kicked up again, playing an upbeat tune. Rudolf gave Esredia a nice pat on the back, glad to see that she was doing better. The dwarf then chugged down another glass of ale, before belching.

His face turned even redder as he swayed back and forth to the music. Finally he stood up on his seat, and extended his hand to Lillith. "I must dance! Will the lady accompany me!?"

Aaerynn snorted, and shook her head. It was certainly one thing after the other, wasn't it? But that was when the bar's door open to reveal a small hooded figure. Aaerynn turn to watch as the person lifted off their hood, to reveal Lord Farin. The whole crowd lit up with a cheer of "My Lord!" and "Farin!"

The music turned louder and Aaerynn stood from her seat, "Excuse me."

The wood elf followed the smiling and waving dwarf to the bar counter and finally called out to him. "Farin!"

Farin turned and smiled wide, taking the wood elf's hands. "Aaerynn! I was hoping to run into you tonight! I'm so sorry about this afternoon. If I had known about the tension between your people, I would have warned you first."

Aaerynn shook her head, glad for having some alcohol in her system. She was able to stay somewhat pleasant. "It's not your fault. Don't worry yourself. How is everyone?"

"Good, good!" Farin smiled wide. "You should come around more often Aaerynn. I always enjoy having you! But you know you don't have to butter me up, Uncle said you wanted to ask me something?"

Aaerynn kept a smile on her face, although she felt bad that he could see right through her. "Yes...I was hoping to cash in a favor."

Farin pointed a finger in her face and grinned. "You want to get into the library, right? Haha, that isn't a problem Ryn. I owe you that, I owe you double that after what you were put through today."

Aaerynn's shoulders relaxed with her relief. But she looked over her shoulder, to where Vordan sat still fiddling with his things. "Yes...but it's not just me. I was hoping to bring...my assistant with me."

"Assitant?"

That's where the dwarf hesitated. "I'm alright with just you Aaerynn, but you know how I feel towards strangers. I can't let anything in that library get out."

The wood elf held up her hand, already explaining herself. "I know! Trust me Farin, he's harmless. Look." She turned the dwarf to get a look at Vordan."He's a Maker, totally wrapped up in what he's doing, even in a bar like this. He'll be fine. I'll keep an eye on him, make sure he doesn't take anything worthwhile. You trust me, right?"

The dwarf perked up at the sound of 'Maker' but a frown still filled his face. That man had to be the one Elrithos had mentioned, and although he wanted to meet him...letting him into his most sacred treasure, was a bit worrying. If Ellahur caught whiff that he was housing a Maker who still had magic...and if said Maker got hold of certain information the dwarf was sitting on. Well...he'd certainly be in a lot of trouble.

Aaerynn could see the dwarf thinking it over and she frowned. "Please Farin. I'll be responsible for anything that happens. You can blame it on me. If anyone gets uptight about it, the North Elves will be willing to serve my head on a platter as an excuse."

Farin looked at her for a long moment before finally smiling. "Alright, I hope it doesn't come to that. But....I want another favor!"

Aaerynn blinked as Farin called out to the bartender, and said man began putting shot glasses down on the counter. Farin looked at her with a shit eating grin. "I want you to drink with me and have a good night!"

The wood elf watched as the bartender began pouring some type of noxious blend into the glasses. Well, shit. If it got her and Vordan into the library....why the hell not.

"The wood elf has elected to do Farin's challenge!" The bartender called out, and looked at her. "Here you go little lady. 4 shots of the hardest stuff we got. You must swallow, no spitting, and you gotta keep it down. Ready?"

Aaerynn stood up, and nodded, while Farin squealed childishly. The bartender slammed his hand on the wooden counter, and yelled, "Go!"

Aaerynn took down shot after shot of the putrid stuff. She finally slammed down the final glass and the men around the counter cheered. Farin slapped her back hard as Aaerynn by this point could only wheeze and cough. That had to be the worst fucking thing she ever tasted. But she could certainly feel the effect now...

Her head buzzed and she smiled wide as Farin threw his stubby arm around her and took his own shot. The wood elf actually lit up in laughter. It was a pretty sound that Farin had certainly never heard come out of the usually stoic wood elf before and soon he was laughing too.

Lillith turned to the dwarf who had asked for a dance, a smile on her face as she spoke. "Sure, but first let me get some of that stuff."

Lillith turned to the counter and slammed her hand down onto the bar. Her eyes lit up like a fire as she smiled wickedly. "I accept this challenge. But make it double! And hurry, I have a dance to attend to!"

The bartender smiled pouring out eight shots of foul liquid, to which Lillith poured into one glass and like a man, gulped it down whole. The putrid drink burned her entire system, but she let out a loud woop and turned to Rudolf with a drunken smile and allowed him to carry her to the dance floor. "To life, to prosperity!" She yelled, dancing like a fool in the middle of the bar.

Esredia smiled back to Rudolf as she received a pat on the back. It didn't seem as bad a she intended it to be when the fight happened. Tradition to beat each other in the face? Not any different from when she was just a little one and lived in the mountains with his family. They too had a tradition to fight amongst themselves for the pleasure of it, or to settle conflict. Either way, she understood it now.

Her eyes turned to the Maker who was still strong on playing with gems and… Cutting them? She couldn't understand a thing he was doing, although she wished to know what this was exactly. Vordan, for his part, simply stayed at his task as Aaerynn excused herself. He wanted to make sure everything would be ready for the next day and maybe enjoy the night once these small tasks were done. He was completely oblivious to Esredia watching him since his mind was completely into it.

Esredia eventually got up, leaving the curious man to his work. She was going to fulfill what she said she would do earlier; show off some feats of true strength! And so, she went around, challenging the strongest, toughest men to an arm wrestling. At first, many said there was no way she could, but she insisted and eventually gave him. The surprise came to them as the first one who tried was almost flipped onto his back from the sheer power she put when the arm came down. That's when the strong men were now intent on beating her…

Vordan picked up his head only when he heard the announcement of Aaerynn accepting Lord Ferin's challenge. Vordan looked over to the bar with an amused smile. He could already tell that the drinks looked horrid. He wondered how well she would take it… He watched for a moment, his hands completely stopped. Then, there came her laugh after the drinks. He laughed a little. There was something to counter-act her rot for sure: just enjoying the night while she could. With that, he returned to crafting the gems he had and mixing the bottles he found.

Aaerynn laughed again as she was twirled around by Farin and other men offered her more drinks. Farin had nudged a key into her hand, making the wood elf smile wide before she slipped it into her cleavage, which of course made the dwarf laugh. She politely refused the other men and their offers, and left the Lord to his people as she turned to watch Lillith and Rudolf go at it on the dance floor. How exactly was that woman able to take down eight shots of that awful stuff and still be standing? Aaeryn felt like her head was going to float to the ceiling with just four.

Eventually the wood elf clambered back to her table, and sat directly beside Vordan. She was a little too out of it to register personal space as she lit up and nudged him gently. "Vordan! I got it, I got permission! For you and me!"

She giggled, and was all smiles as she tilted her head and asked, "I should be rewarded! Will you dance with me now? Do you know how to dance? Can you? I can teach you! I use to teach others centuries ago!"

Words spilled out of her mouth without even being thought about. She was happy though, and eager. Her head light with alcohol and success of her personal mission.

Vordan was still crafting away at his gems, getting the hang of it now. He was using a bit of his magic, but was using his tools as a disguise for it. Shaping objects was something natural for Makers, though it was obvious if used as intend. This process was much slower than usual, but no one would suspect a thing. He kept a close eye on the thing until he felt the nudge… And he stench of horrid alcohol. He turned, barely any space between the person and noticed it was Aaerynn… Who seemed to be in a great mood?

"That is gr-" Vordan was about to say great news, but he immediately got cut off by the wood elf wanting a reward. He would offer what she wanted, but he didn't expect it to be dancing. He stopped what he was doing and took another sip of his mug. "Hum… I am quite incompetent, to be honest… Never had time to learn to dance." He said, scratching the back of his head. He put away his things and strapped it to his belt. "… But I guess I can try?"

Esredia, on her part, was having so much fun just destroying the men at arm wrestling. Most stood dumbstruck by the sheer power she had. Some offered drinks, in which she didn't refuse… And it was finally getting to her. Her head was light and she could feel the room spinning a little, but she laughed as she defeated another man. " Yeeessssss! Me wiiiin agaaaaiiinnn!" She exclaimed, people clapping. She stood up and looked around. "Me moooore strong than two men!" She exclaimed, lifting the table in front of her with one hand and almost playing around with it. People seemed amazed by her doings and extremely entertained.

The wood elf absolutely lit up as she took his hand. "Thank you!"

She led him out to the floor, whether he was ready or not. Aaerynn found enough space for them, before she turned to him and smiled. "Here, we'll do something really easy."

The wood elf gently took his left hand and placed it on the curve of her waist. Then she held his right hand up with her own, and placed her free hand on his shoulder. "It's a simple waltz. You have to think of it like a box. You're a man so you lead."

Slowly she eased him into the steps. "Step forward, then to the side. Step back, and then to the side. Just like a box. When you shift to the side, bring your feet together and then take your step. Forward, side, close. Back, side, close."

Aaerynn moved his body gently until she felt he would be ready to try without her lead. She was smiling again. It had been a long time since she had done this. She almost felt bad for not wearing a dress.

Aaerynn had been watching their feet, but now she looked up at him and teased him. "Every man should at least know this, how else do you expect to dance at your wedding?"

----------------

Rudolf shimmied around Lillith still, even though he had begun to sweat, his bald head shining in the light. He laughed a bit as he watched Esredia take down opponent after opponent with her strength, before he turned back to Lillith.

"Is your homeland like this, my lady? I've never seen a woman drink at your caliber! You're able to handle a true dwarven party!" He laughed loudly with his words.

Lillith pranced around, keeping grace in her steps even in the haze of the drunkenness. Rudolf commented on her drinking ability, causing a smile to come across her face. "My people are natural drunks, it is considered our lord's gift to us." Her words came out loud, struggling against the ambient noise of the band and other men present in the bar.

Her eyes shifted to the wood elf and tinkering man who began to dance more formally than the others. She whistled to the best of her ability before yelling out "Cute couple!"

Her eyes shifted back to Rudolf once more and she began to dance wildly yet again. Flailing her arms to the sides and shuffling her feet back and forth. No, Lillith was not the greatest dancer but she sure didn't give a damn who thought what of her. "I'm surprised you haven't tired yourself, fellow dwarf!"She teased, taking the dwarf and spinning him around with a small hint of laughter.

--It took but a second for him to be taken off his chair and towards the floor to dance with the wood elf. Vordan couldn't say no if it made her this happy to actually do it and it would maybe come to use later on, no? Vordan kept an amused smile of his face as he was dragged to a spot where they had some space.

She mentioned something easy, which was a relief. He was quite good with working things with his hands, but his feet, that was a whole other story. He certainly didn't have the footing of the wood elf or the desert elf. Hell, even the red-haired was better than himself. What Vordan didn't see coming was the position they took. A single arm almost around her waist and a hand up holding hers… He has seen this before. Many times too, but never actually participated in those dances.

He was actually a little shy at first, not knowing what to do exactly. The instructions were fairly simple and he did as best as he could, but he wasn't a dancer for sure. It took him few steps more to get the hang of it. "Like a box… right."

He watched his feet for a moment too, until Aaerynn lifted her head and talked about the marriage. That struck a chord with him, immediately brining his attention. He continued on in the steps, almost tripping, a little embarrassed. "My… wedding. Ya right. Like I would ever wed anyone. Who could put up with my things?" He said, then heard the whistling and the yell… It was Lillith talking but too whom? Vordan turned his head to her, and with that simple distraction, trip up on his own foot, falling to the ground and dragging Aaerynn down with him. With a hard thud to the wooden floor, his hands simply Aaerynn's shoulder's up so she wouldn't hit down on him. "Hum… Sorry… I got… Distracted."

Esredia was done with her antics and had proceeded back to their table that was now empty, chugging down another mug. It was truly a great night… And for the first time in a few years, she felt she had friends. She appreciated the people she had joined! She really did. She sat down to calm herself… But her thirst was starting to get to her. She wanted blood… Not badly but she wanted it. She wondered how she would manage while they were in town.

--Aaerynn simply lit up in laughter, it was a sweet sound and the drunk wood elf clumsily got to her feet. "It's alright. You ok?"

She laughed again as she held out a hand to him to help him up. "Come on, let's try again until you get it."

The wood elf continued to smile as she waited for him to sit up and take her hand. Words continued to spill out of her without any prior thought."And you'd be surprised Master Vordan! There's always someone for you, who would love to put up with your things... just depends on where you look. Especially since you're so good looking! Although I'll doubt you'll find someone keeping your head down on your scribbles all day."

She teased him with another light laugh.

-----------

The dwarf spun around with laughter before raising his hand to the air. "I refuse to accept defeat!"

"But first, a drink!" Once the dwarf's head stopped spinning he stumbled back over to the table to fill up another glass of ale. He looked over to Esredia with a wide grin. "Enjoying yourself dear heart? You should come dance with us!"

He waved her over, and also called out to his nephew for a cheer and a dance.

"Yes. Another drink!" Lillith exclaimed as she followed the dwarf, losing all sense of self control. The beauty poured another mug of the keg she had previously purchased, slamming it back into her throat and swallowing the entire glass whole. In an unladylike fashion, she let out a loud burp to which the men around her cheered. Her eyes moved to Rudolf who had extended an invitation to Esredia. Lillith smiled and extended her hand forward to the odd woman. "I would be honored to have this dance with you, fair maiden!"

--"I'm fine." Vordan exclaimed as he accepted her help to get on to his feet… He made sure she didn't do too much of the work, not wanting to pull her down once again in her drunken stature. Dusting himself off, he was about to resume their dancing. She continued on with 'Master Vordan'. Master? He didn't deserve such a title. He wouldn't say anything about it, but he laughed along with her as he took position.

"You're probably right, there is someone out there for everyone… Although, who would want a man missing digits and constantly lost in things? Won't be easy to find!" He laughed once more, trying to remember the footwork properly.

Esredia looked at the others, a smile still lying lazily on her lips. "Me good! Me happy!" She said, then was offered to go dance. She, oddly enough, knew how to dance a few styles. Her master had shown her many ways to do so, although most were provocative and unnecessary right there. She could most definitely improvise with what she knew. So, she took the exotic woman's hand to join her, happily downing her mug once more.

A little later, an interesting figure showed himself. Vordan barely noticed as he almost couldn't believe it. "Oh my… Aaerynn… Look." He simply said as he stopped. Coming through the front door were three individuals. All three had that dark, tanned skin and pointed ears that belonged to the Aavikkanians . One of them was Elrithos, although his clothes were nothing like he typically wore. Vordan was simply amazed to see the difference. The brown haired warrior had a great smile on his face; accompanied by another male and female of his own race, all dressed in those weird clothes.

Elrithos spotted the person he wanted to talk to and walked forth, waving over at Vordan and Aaerynn. He presented himself to the Lord, Rudolf, Lillith and Esredia. He handed the tribe lady a closed waterskin. "Here. I knew you'd crave it tonight. Just be discrete." He then looked at the others. "So, how's the night going?"

Esredia smiled and hugged the desert elf and thanked him before returning to dance with the exotic lady.

At Vordan's words, Aaerynn turned and gasped a bit over-dramatically in surprise. She would have never pictured Elrithos and his kin to come visit a bar. They were usually the dry type, water only. But she smiled and laughed a bit, hoping they would join the party like the rest. The elf stopped her dance with Vordan and looked up at him. "Let's go see who Elrithos brought! We'll pick up the dancing later."

The wood elf gave a teasing smile. "I'll make sure you get it down! Then you can brag that you were taught by a beautiful wood elf!"

She laughed again and was about to lead the mercenary back to their table, but she paused. She stood still for a moment, before looking up at Vordan once again and gently tugging his hand. This time her smile was soft and genuine, although her cheeks were still flushed from the alcohol."Oh and Vordan, I like you. I don't mind your hands or your lost fingers or your scars. And I like how enthused you are with your work. I like watching you and hearing you write. I also like when you show me what you're working on! It's comforting to me, in a weird way I suppose."

She paused her words for a moment, tilting her head with another teasing smile. "So if there's a wood elf that likes you, there must definitely be a decent amount of humans who would like you too. Right? You'll find her...or him. I don't judge!"

Aaerynn merely giggled and proceeded to lead the Maker back to the table. She had really no idea that she had said something so embarrassing. The words had just come and gone without any prior thought or hesitance.

------------

Farin had immediately wormed his way to his uncle's table as soon as he caught sight of Elrithos. The Lord was red in the face, grinning goofily as he raised a mug towards the Desert elves, slopping ale over the side."Elrithos!! Welcome my friend!!"

Rudolf threw an arm over his nephew as he guffawed a laugh. "Have you come to join the party, dear friends? There's ale for all and tons of dancing to be had!! Welcome, welcome...sit, sit! Who have you brought with you?"

Lillith had exhausted her body to its limit, finding herself dozing off in the midst of her dancing. Esredia seemed to find herself another partner as the exotic woman staggered back to her seat, and then immediately falling asleep, snoring loudly with every breath.

--Vordan had a hard time believing that this wood elf was Aaerynn. She was so lively, so carefree of everything that was happening in her life. She was enjoying the moment. It made such a difference and it pleased the Maker in many ways. She was fighting the Rot, she was letting go! With her comment, he laughed along with her. All the bragging rights to have been taught by Aaerynn! It would be a story to tell for sure.

He was going to follow her back to the table, but instead, Vordan got a surprise of his own. He looked down at the elf as she spoke, simple shock filling his face. Was she… confessing to appreciating him that much? Vordan stood there for a moment, listening to her words in his head. She… appreciated his work and what he did. Vordan was left speechless, simply taking in what she had said. She then continued to say that if a wood elf would like him, many other human girls… or guys… would certainly take a liking to him. He believed it, but it wasn't what was crossing his head.

The cure… I found it! Thank you Creators…

As those words where said in his head, he was brought back along to the table with the others. He knew what he had… No, what he wanted to do. It meant going back into some dark magic, but it would all be worth it.

While Esredia kept dancing with another man a little ways away. She was clearly enjoying herself, maybe even a little too much with how close she was to her partner right now… Elrithos, on his part, had a gentle smile on his lips as Rudolf and Lord Ferin spoke. He even laughed along with his two comrades and they all took a seat.

"We won't be staying for too long, I just wanted to see how everyone was doing here before I go see the injured." He said before he turned to his two friends. "The man is Jh'taren, chief of a raiding party in the desert. The lady is my sister, Avisira, priestess of the Sand. I was surprised to see them here… But they had a message for me that I have to deal with…" Elrithos looked at Lillith as she basically passed out and shook his head.

"I'll bring her back to her room. Then I'll deal with whatever the message needs me to deal with. I'll see you around." He said as he went over and lifted the exotic lady off her chair and proceeded to leave. Jh'taren joined him, but Avisira stayed back, waving at his brother. He nodded with a smile and waved back.

She turned to them and offered a gentle smile… When she spoke, her accent was much thicker than Elrithos by some degree. "I'm glad to see Elrithos has good company while traveling. He told me you're all going to the other continent! How exciting that must be!"

Aaerynn sat down beside Vordan and leaned against him, practically resting her head on his shoulder. She was still all smiles and a bit inebriated. But the dwarves were certainly worse than her as they both laughed obnoxiously. They raised their glasses again to the female Desert elf as Rudolf spoke, "Yes, my dear! It's truly an amazing feat! But what is even more amazing is that Elrithos has hidden such a beautiful sister from us!"

Aaerynn found herself laughing, of course the bald dwarf would hit on her, even after hearing she was a priestess. The wood elf looked over to watch Esredia for a moment and snorted a bit in surprise. She gently nudged Vordan to take a look at the tribeswoman really going at it. However, the wood elf suddenly turned stock still as she watched the door and caught sight of her brother coming in.

The bar seemed to light up a bit in laughter as the bartender shouted, "My lord, your baby sitter is here!"

Aaerynn's back turned pin straight as she shifted a bit from Vordan. Her eyes never left the male wood elf as he smiled and waved to the bartender before coming towards their table. He never once even looked at her.

"There you are Farin. I thought I told you not to stay out late. The meeting with your council. Tomorrow morning. You remember?" Demetrius had nonchalantly appeared behind Lord Farin who pouted as he look towards his guardian.

"Jus' one mo...Demmy."

The dwarf attempted what could only be called a 'puppy' look, but the wood elf was unaffected. Demetrius easily picked up the dwarf under his arm. He then smiled a bit to the group, yet his eyes never met Aaerynn's as he spoke, "I am sorry to take him away, but I believe the Lord has had enough for tonight. I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening."

Rudolf waved him off with a laugh. "Thanks for taking care of my nephew so well!"

The male wood elf bowed his head with a slight smile, before carrying the dwarf from the table. As Aaerynn watched him head out the door, she suddenly stood, "Excuse me..."

Then she was gone, rushing out the door to catch up with her brother.

------------

Aaerynn got outside the bar and looked around frantically before she spotted him, and called out, "Demetrius!"

A part of her was beginning to sober up. Enough that the rational side of her brain was panicking. This was a bad idea, a horrid idea and someone should stop her. But the alcohol was still in control as the female wood elf watched her brother stop and turn to her.

"In your drunken state, have you forgotten the rules to your exile?"

The warm tone that he used to speak to the others was gone, and Aaerynn felt herself taken a bit back from it. She proceeded forward though, shaking her head. "That only involves the nobility. You're only noble through marriage alone. A marriage I didn't even know about till today! You don't count... I just want to talk to you. I have questions..."

This was bad. What was she doing!? What was she thinking!? But she couldn't stop herself, she had no filter what so ever. She watched nervously as her brother gently set the drunken dwarf down and finally looked at her. Aaerynn didn't like what she saw.

Demetrius frowned as he spoke, "And has it occurred to you yet that I do not wish to speak to you?"

His tone was sharp, and meant to hurt. Yet it only sparked her anger as she retorted, "How could I tell? You let your wife speak for you!"

"Don't bring my wife into this!"
Demetrius stepped closer to her and Aaerynn bunched her hands into tight fists. Oh no, she wasn't able to stop the words from spilling out of her mouth.

"How can I not? Are you serious Demetrius? You're letting her rule over your own daughter! Do you have any idea how much it will hinder your daughter to not know the common language? It's not just for speaking with humans but with all the other races! Your wife is just like mother!"

Aaerynn lost her breath as her elder brother grabbed the front of her shirt. He switched to Elvish as he angrily replied, "You have no right to even speak of her! It's your fault that she....that she!"

The female wood elf grabbed onto her brother's hand, attempting to dislodge it as she spoke. "You can't force the blame of her death on me! She was long lost to her own rot and grief over our sisters! I had nothing to do with it!"

Demetrius shoved her in his anger. "You just don't get it Aaerynn. You never have! Because you are nothing but the embodiment of selfishness! All you ever cared about was living in your own fairy tale. The love of your life sweeping you off your feet and taking you far, far away. The problem is that this is reality! There is no damned fairy tale in real life. You should have learned that first hand. But no, no matter the warnings, no matter how many times we attempted to steer you in the right direction, no matter that the so called love of your life threw you away, you still decided to betray us. You still have no idea of the consequences to your own actions. Your banishment was a chance at retribution, and yet you continued to be nothing but a conceited, arrogant, empty headed bitch. You have no idea the messes we had to clean up, the apologies we had to make for the sake of the Northern Elves because we had one tart running around, doing whatever she wished!"

Demetrius was breathing heavily after his speech, while Aaerynn stood in stunned silence. "I'm just lucky that your choices didn't ruin me or Lysander. I was lucky enough that my reputation wasn't tarnished because of you. I loved you Aaerynn. I protected you with everything I had but now..."

He took another step forward so that he could lean against her ear as his other hand touched the bandages on her injured arm. "I wish you would do us the favor to succumb and perish."

In a single swipe, Demetrius hand ripped off the bandages. He stepped away from her, his eyes cold before he walked away and picked up the practically unconscious dwarf. Elrithos had made the comment that he should forgive her, but the Desert elf didn't understand the pain that she had caused. His sister has torn his family apart, shamed their name, and continued to do so through her exile. He couldn't forgive her. Ever.

Aaerynn merely stood there in shock, until little by little, tears filled her eyes and spilled down her cheeks. She was so stupid. Why did she do that? She wiped her face, but the tears kept coming. She never cried. She wasn't suppose to cry. Stop, stop, stop. It was fine. He hated her. It was fine. The wood elf felt her skin crack and rivulets of black blood dripped down her forearm and to the ground. Why? Why?

She tried to stop the tears as she reentered the bar. She could hold it in. Just hold it in. Tell Rudolf you'll be heading back and leave. Hold it in, hold it in, hold it in.

The wood elf slowly walked back to the table, holding her injured arm behind her back. Rudolf picked up his head as he exclaimed, "Ryn! Welcome back!"

The wood elf nodded before she spoke, "Mm...I think, I'm going to head..."

The tears began again, uncontrollably. Aaerynn bowed her head, trying to finish her sentence. "I'm gonna...head back."

The dwarf's eyes widened a bit. "Do you need an escort child? You alright?"

Aaerynn shook her head and took a back step. "No! Enjoy your time...I'll see you tomorrow."

The wood elf turned, holding her injured arm as she attempted to get to the door quickly, and not stumble.

Vordan was surprised that Elrithos had a sister all the way out in this city. It was extremely rare for any of the tanned skin elves to come out of their deserts unless being merchants and artisans. Yhey seemed to have been looking for Elrithos specifically if they had a message for him. Vordan wondered what this was, even though it wasn't his business. The messenger receiving a message? How ironic. He turned to Aaerynn who had leaned upon him, smiling and laughing along with the others. It was truly a great night that he'd remember for a long time.

When nudged, he looked towards Esredia and he couldn't help but think that she was going to get it on with him… She certainly seemed to be pushing for it. It would contradict what she had said earlier, but she was under the effect of the alcohol. Maybe she had changed her mind. Nonetheless, he laughed. Then, everything changed in the snap of a second. Aaerynn had stiffened. The room suddenly filled with laughter as the "babysitter" had arrived. Esredia even noticed the change, stopping her dancing. Who was the man who just walked in? He was a good looking fella, that was for sure…

Vordan was about to ask Aaerynn something, but her focus was all on the new guest. Why was she so… stiff? Like her mood changed from cheery to nothingness. Vordan watched as the elven figure was taking the Lord away. Why? It's odd and Vordan wasn't too pleased about it… Aaerynn was enjoying her time until now. He watched her stand up and rushing out… Oh he wanted to run after her, but he felt that was a terrible idea. Who was this elf?

It took him a few seconds before he stood up and also excused himself, but Esredia had come to him and dragged him back to the table. She showed worry too, but she shook her head. "It personal me think. Me see it." She simply said. "Come dance and drink!" She said as she pulled him away from the door. Vordan wanted to press on, but Esredia's grip was too great for him even to try and get away.

-------------------------------------

Avisira stayed and conversed with the Rudolf, interested in his stories and adventures, also quite flattered by his obvious advances. She was drinking nothing but water, but she seemed cheery like the rest of the place. Vordan had eventually given up going out as Esredia wouldn't let him. She too wanted to help her, but she felt there was nothing to be done and that whatever those two elves had, they would be talking about it.

She eventually came back and Esredia let Vordan do whatever he wanted. She was about to go talk to her as clearly, she was in pain. Yet, he didn't have time to say a word before the tears fell and she headed to the door. Vordan wasn't going to let it happen. She couldn't be left alone… Vordan dashed forward, this time Esredia even followed.

Just outside the door though, as Aaerynn stepped out, arms went around her shoulders and the individual brought her against him. He whispered in the elvish tongue to her. "Let it out Aaerynn… I heard the conversation, don't hold your tears back. Just let it out... We'll help you after."

Elrithos…

At first Aaerynn had stiffened as the presence in front of her embraced her and then held her. She took in the smell of the deserts and knew right away that it was Elrithos that had caught her. The wood elf felt more tears burn her eyes as the Desert elf tried to soothe her and told her to let it out.

Aaerynn slowly crumbled in his arms.

She didn't wail nor did she cry out, but she silently buried her face in his shoulder as more and more tears spilled down her cheeks. She was holding her wounded arm tightly to her chest as the skin continued to crack and black blood stained both her shirt and Elrithos' new attire. Aaerynn was a vulnerable and emotional drunken mess, and at this moment she didn't know how to deal with herself.

Rudolf had watched the events unfold and looked over to Avisira, apologizing. "I'm sorry my lovely lady. But it seems I will be turning this night short! Perhaps your brother will let us meet again."

He took her hand and kissed it before bowing. Then he waddled over to his party with a look of concern and sympathy across his face. "Perhaps we shall all head back and get a good night's rest! Hmm?"

Both Vordan and Esredia came out the door a few seconds after, although what they found was quite a surprise… Elrithos was there with Aaerynn in his arms. Where had Lillith gone to? It was clear that he probably had his friend bring her back, but he was gone. Why did he come back? How did he know to be there? Elrithos was a mysterious one indeed, but it would seem whatever he did, Aaerynn had emotionally collapsed into his arms.

The tribe woman and the Maker came closer, just in time to see Rudolf come out. They didn't dare come too close although Elrithos motioned for Vordan to get closer. He whispered to Aaerynn first. "Get some rest and forget his words for now. You did what you had to do…" He then lifted his head to the Maker. "It is better that you do like Rudolf says and call it a night. Get her some new bandages and make sure she relaxes before trying to get some sleep. I'd stay but I have things to attend to still." He slowly let go of Aaerynn, rubbing her shoulder. "Everything will be fine Aaerynn." He said with a small smile before letting Vordan take over, just to make sure she wouldn't fall. Elrithos gave a simple wave before he quickly went back into the streets.

Vordan had to wonder how Elrithos could do it, but he wouldn't question it yet. Instead, he looked down at her arm, oozing the black blood of the Rot."Let's get you wrapped up, alright?"

Aaerynn could only numbly listen to Elrithos' words. Her head was bowed and her face blotchy from crying. The tears seemed to have slowed, but a few more still slipped down her flushed cheeks. Her good hand tightly held her wound, but it wasn't stopping the bleeding that overflowed.

Rudolf waved softly to the Desert elf, and gently tipped his head in thanks before looking up at Aaerynn and Vordan. "Come, let's get back to some warm rooms and comfy beds."

He slowly led the way back.

 

[LastCinder]

Vordan helped Aaerynn walk towards the estate of Lord Ferin, walking along with the others. His eyes kept coming back to the tears streaks on her face and the bleeding of her arm. He didn't know what happened, but it must have put an enormous amount of emotional stress on her to make her react this way. It worried him, as it meant the rot inside her was peeking through… He wished he knew more about it. He only knew what Aaerynn had told him about and nothing more.

As they reached the halls of the estate, Vordan slowly spoke up to Aaerynn after this walk of silence. "Let's go put on some bandages alright? I promise I'll be gentle." He said, trying to make something out of the sour mood.

Aaerynn was completely silent during the walk, but she began to follow Vordan like a little lost lamb. At his mention of bandages, the wood elf slowly picked up her head and nodded. "I'm sorry." She spoke softly, although her voice was raspy.

"There's no need to be sorry Aaerynn…" He simply replied to her as he made his way through the estate and towards his own room. Vordan had some reserves of bandages that were supposed to be for his magic ones, but it would be fine for this specific situation. He didn't want to start looking around for others. So, he opened up his door, now just remembering it was a complete mess. He sighed a moment, clearing the way.

"Sorry for the mess… Didn't expect to go out drinking so soon… So I was working on a few things." He said as he cleared the bed up for her. He then started looking for bandages. "I don't know what happened Aaerynn, but it must have been a lot… I hope you'll be alright."

Aaerynn gingerly sat down on the cleared bed, her head down. Her fingers were pressing into her wound, hoping to stop the skin from cracking any further. She was covered in dark bloody stains now. She was too numb to figure out if the rot was making any further havoc on her body. But thinking of the rot, immediately made her think of Demetrius, and his wish for her to succumb to it.

The wood elf felt a fresh wave of tears come over her as she listened to Vordan. She shook her head slowly, feeling like an uncontrollable ball of emotions and drunkenness. "It was my fault... I'm not a very good person...my brother just expressed that in his own way. That's all."

Vordan lifted his head from his things as she spoke, a little startled by what she just said. She's not a good person? Who in the hell could tell her that? The worst part was that it was from her own family, which disgusted the Maker. How could someone in her own family say they are a bad person? Vordan continued a little longer for the bandages, eventually finding them. He came back to the bed, unrolling the bands.

"How could a family member say you are a bad person? You're a wonderful person with a hard past, which is not uncommon… It's always about the climb back up. Mistakes happen, we move up from there… It insults me to hear that your own brother says such things." As he spoke, he gently brought Aaerynn's arm forward. He shrugged when he saw how bad it was. The thing was pretty bad… He knew how he could help the burn disappear, but it wasn't the time to do so. Instead, he reached for a clean rag to wipe off whatever blood was on her skin… Little did he know, it had become an open wound. Vordan quickly wrapped it and sighed.

"It's getting worse… You're going to need help as soon as you wake up. We can't let this linger much longer." He said.

"Mmm..." Aaerynn nodded in agreement as she wiped her face with the back of free hand, trying not to sloppily smear blood across her face. She watched in silence as Vordan wrapped the bandages around the wound.

Eventually she spoke after what seemed like a long pause. Words spilled out of her again with no hesitation. "We were close when I was very young. He taught me how to fight, to protect myself, and to hunt, whenever he came home from fighting. My mother hated it. She wanted me to marry a noble. Mostly because she had lost two daughters in some events leading into the war, before I was born. So she thought if I became a cultured woman, some noble would pick me up, provide me and my family better protection, and better treatment in case anything like the war happened again. But I didn't do as I was told."

A sad smile slowly formed on her face as she continued staring at her arm."So it's funny, that he was the one to marry a noble. He was also...really hurt and ashamed when he found out what I did. I betrayed his trust, numerous times. Then I was banished, and not long after our mother was consumed by her own rot. I suppose he is right to blame that on me. He has a right to hate me, for what I put him through."

The elf's shoulders had bunched up with emotion as her head dropped and she looked at her lap. "I don't know what I was expecting. I just wanted some recognition... I wanted to hear his voice again, to ask him some things, and to say goodbye. But I guess that's pretty selfish of me to do."

Aaerynn looked up at Vordan, her eyes watery. She rubbed them and looked away again as she apologized, "Sorry. I just keep babbling on."

She laughed a little, but it was sad in tone as she looked down again. "I'm a really blubber with alcohol."

Though to be honest, she couldn't really tell anymore if she was drunk or not. She was just emotionally exhausted, and everything was spilling out of her in waves because she was tired of keeping it all bottled up somewhere deep inside her.

Once Vordan had the arm tightly wrapped up and covered, he actually took a small vial and put some residue of blood into one of them. He'd study it and figure out a way to remove it without killing her. There was no way? Vordan hardly believed it. He knew there was ALWAYS something that could be done. He started moving around a few things before Aaerynn talked, Vordan stopping his actions.

Her story was truly a sad one… He couldn't understand that pain specifically, as he had no brothers or sisters. Only child and both parents accepted him like he was, Maker or not. It was to say that he wished he could say he understood, but he couldn't. Instead, he tried to make sense of it, like he tried with everything else. He couldn't put a smile on his face, not right now. She was suffering. She didn't deserve it.

He shrugged and started working on something while he kept on listening. It was a good distraction for his running mind… She apologized. Vordan shook his head. "I blabber on when I speak of my inventions, so there's really no need to apologize." He said, looking at what he had in hand, a jewel.

"Finding closure and comfort isn't selfish. It's something we need. Security, right? To be honest, your mom's death sounds like her own fault. She gave up. You didn't take her life, she let go of her own. To each their own life. Your brother doesn't seem to agree with it… You may have done something wrong, but we make mistakes. I've made my share of mistakes and I've had people pay for it in my place… But we grow up and we learn."

Vordan continued fiddling as he came over and sat down beside her. "I never understood why elves take so long to accomplish things or move on. You live for hundreds of years. Us humans live short lives, but we make something of it and make sure that whoever is next is ready for it… Basically, the story is simple; live like you want to live. Once you can make yourself happy, you can make others happy."

Aaerynn found a lot of comfort in his words. He helped to strengthen her own beliefs, as well as soothe her insecurities. He always did that, the opposite of what she expected. She wondered silently if he knew the impact he had on her.

He was really the first human to go out of his way for her. He also always seemed to be the one to come or to help when she really needed it. Well, usually. After all, the other humans within their group had proven to be good people as well. Well, maybe not the pink haired one, that girl still left a bitter taste.

Aaerynn tried to center her thoughts from straying too far off topic. Her mind couldn't concentrate well after everything that happened. But she liked Vordan, a lot. She was glad to be in this group, traveling with him. She would soak up what she could from being beside him. Aaerynn was probably putting him too much on a pedestal, but still, even if they split ways at the end of the journey, she would at least have fond memories of the first human that didn't laugh or mock her for her secrets. He was a good person.

The wood elf gently rubbed her newly bandaged arm before she spoke."Thank you for everything..." She paused before continuing to speak,"Elves get caught up in routine and habit. They never leave their comfort zone because they don't have to. So they get caught up in little things, old emotions that are hard to let go of, grudges, the past. They don't have a human's drive. You have such little time that it pushes you to do something great, to let go of past misgivings, generally, and to evolve. It's how you improve. Elves have time, human's have the real spark for life."

Aaerynn looked up at him, her face cleared a bit from the prior sadness but she kept a hand on her injury. "I think I'd rather be human." A small teasing smile returned to her lips.

Vordan finally put a smile on his face as she thanked him. He turned head towards her, still working on whatever he had in his hands. "It's a pleasure to help." He simply said as she then continued about the elves. He knew that elves were very traditional and old fashion. They didn't need to evolve because they had a winning formula, so to speak. So why change it? They weren't adapting to the others, which was a conflict even the people of Ellahur were not too happy to deal with sometimes. Being so close to the forests of the Northern Elves, Ellahur had some obligations to them but damn.

She then added the comment that she'd rather be human. Vordan couldn't help but laugh a little. "And I wish I was an elf… I could simply imagine spending years upon years in developing my magic and my knowledge. I can't even start to think the things I could accomplish after hundreds of years. Would be great, but hey, I have about half a century left. I still have plenty of time to do what I can." He said before standing up again, putting the thing in his hand down.

"It's a lot of pain to be human, but you get used to it… The spark of life doesn't only belong to us humans. I mean… Look at you. You tried to break tradition. You've made mistakes. You wanted to life. You have the spark, now you just need to forgive yourself the deeds of your past." He then offered her a hand. "Let's get you to your room; we should rest a little after tonight. What do you say?"

Aaerynn took his hand, and stumbled a bit as she attempted to stand. She was just worn out, physically and mentally. Tonight was an adventure in and of itself. She continued the conversation though, as she leaned her weight a bit against Vordan so she could stand properly. "Perhaps we were born wrong."

She teased a bit, but then tiredly shook her head. "But these things happen for a reason, I guess. If you were an elf you would have never gotten your gift. If I were human, I'm sure I would have died off long ago. I wouldn't have gotten to meet you...or the others. Right?"

She gave a small tired smile and promptly apologized for her stumbling."Sorry...I'm a bit of a mess."

Aaerynn was exhausted and it showed. Vordan did his best to help her up to her feet and let her put her weight on him. She was quite finish for the night, that was for sure. So, he gently started walking towards his door, listening to her comment. Born wrong… Vordan wouldn't say so and Aaerynn only confirmed it. It was true… If he wasn't born a human being in Ellahur, he would have never gotten his gift, never would have met all these people. In fact, he'd be carving stone for royalty by now.

He looked down at her with a gentle smile. "You are right. We probably would have never met any of the people here… It would be a shame really." He simply replied, slowly making their way towards the room that was reserved for the wood elf. "It's been a long night, eventful day, I can't blame you."

Vordan walked slowly so that he didn't push Aaerynn past her capabilities. Vordan knew what he wanted to do now, although, it would be dangerous playing around with the magic again. It was all for a good cause though. Plus, he appreciated Aaerynn and would feel horrible to fail her. He had most of what he needed and he felt that library probably had the last bit of information he needed. They eventually reached her door and Vordan slowly opened it for her and led her to the bed. "There we go…"

"Thank you again... I'm sorry about all this...Really."

She looked at him for a long moment. The wood elf took in his face even though her eyes were bleary and strained from her tears. There was something else she wanted to say to him, but she held her tongue. She was fooling herself again. Being stupid.

At least she had enough control of herself this time. Where was it a few hours prior?

Aaerynn rubbed her bandages before she dismissed him. "I'll see you tomorrow then."

Vordan just laughed when she apologized for her actions of the night again. "Why do you feel so sorry? Does life say sorry when it throws obstacles in your way? No." He said with a teasing smile. "Don't worry; these kinds of things happen a lot more often than you think." He added as he walked towards the door. Yes, this was a rough night, but it was a good enough night for him. Good times, bad times, horrible events and great ones. Exactly like life.

He turned to her, that smile now still on his face. "I'll see ya tomorrow!" He simply exclaimed and he left the room and closed the door behind him. He slowly walked back towards his room, thinking about something. He looked up to the ceiling a moment. "Creators… I hope your listening. I'm not asking for a miracle, but for what I need to perform my own little one. You better be on my side… I've got a heart to fix up now… Maybe even my own too." He said and laughed to himself, walking into his room and grabbing a small piece of wood. He hung in in front of his door and closed it behind him. What it said?

Do not disturb.

Vordan's optimism helped to cheer her up somewhat, but as he left, closing the door behind him, she felt alone. Aaerynn shucked off her boots and laid down on the bed fully clothed. Her eyes took in the design of the ceiling as her thoughts mulled over what had happened.

Eventually the wood elf brought a pillow to her face, and she cried.

------------------------​

Morning brought a hangover.

The wood elf groaned in pain as she woke up. Her head was pounding, and her stomach twisted with a bout of nausea. What the hell happened to her? Aaerynn slowly sat up in bed, catching sight of her stained shirt. She looked up with a confused expression before slowly pulling out a key from between her breasts. Everything began to click into place.

Aaerynn bent over and placed her face in her hands as all the events that happened that night compiled in her head. She groaned again, but this time from embarrassment. Gods, she had made a fool of herself, hadn't she? Saying such embarrassing things to Vordan, the encounter with her brother, crying in front of everyone…How exactly was she supposed to face all of them after that?

She knew she'd do some stupid things while drunk, but she hadn't been expecting that. Gods…

Aaerynn finally looked at her bandaged arm, and sighed. Vordan was right, she needed to take care of this now. The wood elf got up and walked over to her bag. She changed her shirt and pants, and rummaged around for some medicine to deal with her headache. Then she pulled on her boots, packed her satchel with some money and left.

She hurried through Farin's home, not wanting to see anyone at the moment, and took to the streets of Durngan. It took her a good hour to wind through the twisting and curving roads of the city. In all honesty, she didn't know whether or not the healer she wanted to see was even around anymore. It had been too many years to count since the last time she visited, and Aaerynn never really knew what race the woman was. She hid her face behind a mask for the majority of the time. But if anyone could help her with this, it was that woman.

Eventually she found what she was looking for. A small building cramped down a few alleyways. The wood elf looked around before heading up the steps of the stoop and knocking on the door. To her surprise a small girl answered the door, and merely looked up at Aaerynn in complete silence.

The wood elf stared back before asking, "Is Talia here?"

Again the little girl didn't say a word as she opened the door wider and disappeared down the hall. Aaerynn was left to wonder what exactly she was supposed to do, but took it as a sign to enter. She closed the door behind her before walking down the stretch of hallway, into what appeared to be a large back room. The elf caught the smell of tobacco and incense, and her nose scrunched in distaste.

"It's been a long time Aaerynn."

Aaerynn turned around quickly and sure enough, there she was. She was a large woman with a large bust that was barely contained within the robes wrapped across her body. She still wore the same mask, a deer skull, with antlers still protruding from its head, mixed with feathers and locks of hair braided with beads. It looked like she hadn't changed at all. She spoke again, "I thought it was clear last time, that I was unable to clear the rot."

Aaerynn nodded and held out her bandaged arm. "I know. I just need a checkup and a healing. It got caught in the grip of some dark magic. I don't know if it is cursed. But I figured you'd be the best to tell me."

Talia took a long drag from a pipe she had been holding within her hand, and Aaerynn could only assume she was staring at the bandages. Finally the woman spoke, "Payment?"

The wood elf dug through her satchel, procuring a bag of coins that she held out and the large woman snatched it up. "Undress."

The masked woman walked by her and brought out a blanket which she draped over a table. Aaerynn undressed, leaving on only her undergarments as she folded her clothes and was instructed to lay down on the table itself. The elf did as she was told, although it felt as if she was about to be dissected.

Aaerynn had first met the woman when she had gone on a bit of a quest to try and heal the rot through medicinal measures and other physical means. She didn't want to rely on legends or half-baked prophecies of love and selflessness. She had failed obviously, but Talia proved to be the most competent in dealing with elvish rot.

The wood elf winced however, as the larger woman brought out a bowl of tiny needles which she then proceeded to prick into specific spots on the elf's body. Next came three dark and smooth stones. Aaerynn watched as Talia seemed to hesitate, looking at the scar that marked her stomach before placing the stones across it.

"Hold still."

Aaerynn did as she was told, although she couldn't really feel them anyway. It had been a long time since she actually checked out that scar. She supposed she was lucky to feel anything there. A stab wound that was burned and then forced closed. No wonder the woman had hesitated, anyone would hesitate upon seeing that ugly mess. Well, at least it would prove a nice defense against men trying to bed her without her permission. They would just find a nasty surprise. Aaerynn closed her eyes as she frowned bitterly and felt Talia begin to unwind the bandages across her injury.

The wood elf winced as she felt Talia dig her fingertips into the wound, pressing against the blood that still had yet to coagulate. Then there was complete silence.

It felt like it took forever before Talia finally spoke again. "I don't feel a dark presence."

Aaerynn opened her eyes to look over at her. Talia continued to speak. "That does not mean it wasn't there. The Rot is darkness itself. It is like an abyss, I cannot stare into it and distinguish if there is other darkness there. But I do not feel anything out of the ordinary. Your body is in tune with the punishment you put it through. Nothing is wreaking havoc on it besides the Rot itself. Therefore…"

The woman pulled away, and picked up her pipe she had left loiter on a counter. She took a drag before setting it back down. "There was nothing there, or it wasn't as harmful as the rot itself. It could have been absorbed, dissipated… or there never was a curse."

Aaerynn's body tightened up. "In other words, you don't know."

The woman shrugged as she exhaled. "I am merely expressing my opinion. I do not think it is worrisome. What is worrisome though…"

Talia approached and pressed her hands against the stones resting on Aaerynn's stomach. "It has gotten worse here. Your gut…"

Her hand traveled to her ribs and beneath her breasts. "…and to your lungs. It is bad. I imagine when it hurts, you feel the twist of your stomach and the crushing of your chest."

Talia then pointed a fingernail above the elf's heart. "But it has gotten better here. Only spotted, for the most part. The last time you were here, I was worried it would deteriorate on you. But it seems to be fine now." She paused. "However, with your other organs in their shape…I would only say you have half a century left."

The large woman pulled away and moved toward the cabinets bolted across a wall. She opened them, and began pulling down bottles and vials. She continued speaking, "At the same time, the last time you were here, I was sure you would die in only a few months. I was sure the rot had eaten through you. Yet here you are, still alive. How long has it been?"

Aaerynn had been silent, mulling over the information. She looked at the ceiling as she responded. "About 170 years or so…it peaked around 145 or 150…I lost count."

Talia seemed to shake her head. "It is strange. Elves can last awhile with Rot, but they last longer surrounded by family and their kin. They are able to find strength there. You're alone, and you have lasted this long. You are either very lucky, or your body and will is strong. I would hope for the latter, because luck always ends."

The masked woman filled a bowl with some type of brew before coming over to the table. She grabbed Aaerynn's arm, looking it over. "I will stitch it, heal it and purify it. That will keep it closed, and hopefully help if there is truly something there."

Aaerynn nodded solemnly, although she swallowed her spit. Talia watched her for a moment, before pointing to the scar close to her collarbone and again at the one across her stomach. "Those were forced close by magic. I would be careful. Scars on elves mean the rot is rejecting it. The skin will break open if you are not careful."

Again, the wood elf nodded. She had already reached that conclusion herself, but she remained silent as the little girl appeared again. This time however she held a leather strap which she held out to Aaerynn's lips. Talia centered Aaerynn's arm on the table. "The purification process will aggravate the Rot. It will be painful. Bite."

Aaerynn bit down on the leather strap, but her muffled screams could still be heard through the small building and the dark alleyway it was hidden in.

--------------------------​

Serna awoke to the feeling of sun on her face. It was the first time she had woken up by herself, without her brother trying to wake her. The girl groaned, feeling the slight thrum of a headache as she attempted to sit up. She opened her eyes, only to wipe them before he vision became clear. She was in some type of fancy looking room. Where was Setna?

She peeked around until her eyes turned to see a tuft of red hair poking out from underneath the blankets beside her. Carefully, the teenager lifted the blankets, only to see Tirian's sleeping face. The Syndarean squeaked, her cheeks turning red.

Tirian had found peaceful sleep after the events of his half-sister. His body felt comfortable and his mind found nothing at all. The soldier had found his serenity in the midst of all his anguish and pain. A small squeak was all that was needed to break the man from his sleep. His eyes opened with a heavy blur that blocked his vision from clarity. Tirian wiped away the fog and locked eyes with a maroon faced Serna.

"Morning."

Tirian rotated himself around the bed until his bare feet touched the cool fabric of an area rug that had been delicately placed to allow cushion. His body seemed slightly sluggish even after his entire day of rest, yet his outward appearance had damn near healed completely without any trace of scarring. He could be grateful for his mothers genetics for that portion of the healing, at least. His eyes finally turned to Serna after getting out of the bed and stretching for a moment.

"Feeling better?"

The Syndarean girl blinked owlishly for a moment, before the memories of yesterday finally caught up to her. Her eyes widened a bit as she took in Tirian's appearance, bandages and all. She sat up more in the bed, moving closer to him and with a panicky voice she asked, "Are you alright? I-I was so scared yesterday! I thought...I thought y-you were g-going to die!"

Tirian smiled wide for the Syndarean, basking in the worry she had been presenting him.

"Gonna take more than that to kill me. But really. I should be thanking you for saving me"

Tirian maneuvered himself onto the bed once more with his back against the cold wall. His face grew serious in thought as he recalled the fight in its entirety. The whole thing was odd, Rowand appearing out of nowhere. A man who leads the armies of Durandal here on an entirely different continent. His fears were confirmed, his father knew where he was. And even more so what he was capable off. It would only be a matter of time until the top group came looking for him. Tirian turned once more to Serna, a sheepish smile upon his face as he spoke.

"I owe you my life, so thank you."

Serna felt tears fill her eyes as she shook her head but smile for him. "I'm just glad y-you're ok...Is everyone ok-k?"

The girl looked around, reminded that they were left in the room alone. What exactly had happened yesterday? She was pretty sure that Setna had carried her and Miss Lucille was there... Serna rubbed the back of her head, frowning at the dull throb of her headache.

Tirian nodded slowly, noticing she her hand tending to the back of her head, her kickbacks were still settling. He frowned as a small amount of guilt surfaced on his face and even more in his eyes. After a moment of silence, the man spoke with a carefree tone, reassuring the Syndarean next to him.

"Lucille and Setna are fine. Better than us anyway."

"G-Good!" The girl smiled in relief. Everyone was ok, that was the most important thing. Yesterday had felt like a nightmare...thank goodness it hadn't taken anyone. Serna didn't know what she would do if she lost her brother...or Tirian. The Syndarean turned to look at the red head as she kept her hand on her temple. That thought reminded her of the feeling she had gotten. She didn't know how to describe it, but it just felt as if she could feel Tirian's magic going off. That it was the cause of something bad. Serna couldn't help wondering if that was supposed to happen or not.

"So you were able to instinctively sense my magic."

Tirian turned to Serna with a warm smile on his face, trying his best to make their situation light, and stress free.

"How else would you have found me. I'm impressed"

"H-How did you know?" The teenager flushed in surprise, wondering if the red head could see her thoughts. "Is that a good th-thing?"

"It's pretty simple."

The red-head leaned forward as he prepared to explain.

"You've tuned into my vibration, so you know what to sense. In certain circumstances a person can naturally sense deviations in a persons magic flow. So my magic fluctuating and trying to release itself gave off a single that you picked up on."

Tirian stopped, giving the girl a warm smile before continuing.

"Whether or not that is a bad thing is entirely dependent on how you feel. However, it can be an early sign of our souls linking together. But I would not worry about that just yet."

"Eh?" Serna understood part of it, but linking souls? What exactly did that entail? Her mother had always said she was connected to her twin through souls, but to be connected with someone else? She couldn't quite wrap her head around it. But she really wasn't in any place to do so as she winced, feeling her headache get a little worse.

"You should rest more. Don't try to push yourself, it only makes the kickback worse."

Tirian watched the girls face, puzzled and confused as it was. Yet he found himself flushing ever so slightly at her cuteness. Serna... She was just so innocent, too innocent to be in a place like this and in her situation. If she had been born elsewhere perhaps it would have been better for her. However, she has dealt with what life has given her thus far and continues to be innocent and kind. Tirian smiled to himself, taking in a heavy breath before adding anything further to their conversation.

"When you feel better we can go out and enjoy the sights. Okay?"

Serna lit up with a bright smile as she said, "Ok!"

She wanted to feel better soon. Anything to make her forget that yesterday even happened.

"Maybe getting out an walking will make you feel better. You up to it?"

His words came after an extremely long and silent pause. It felt like hours had passed after hearing her sweet voice enter his ears. It wasn't that this silence was odd or uncomfortable, but unwarranted in a way. His eyes looked over to the Syndarean, a smile coming to his face without really any reaction. Just seeing the girl caused him comfort and happiness. These feelings were something had did not have the luxury of enjoying in the recent years, if ever. Tirian took in a sigh, realizing that life was not as bad as he had thought.

"Let's get out. I am tired of being stuck in a room."

"Ok!" The teenager smiled brightly, glad that the red head had brought it up. She really didn't feel like being confined in order to feel better. As the girl proceeded to untangle herself from the blankets, an audible growl came from Serna's stomach.

The Syndarean immediately turned red in embarrasment. "U-Um...maybe we c-could get something to eat?"

Tirian smiled, hearing the loud rumble of the girls stomach.

"Of course. Anything you want, on me!"

Serna giggled as she slowly got to her feet, testing the strength of her legs as she pressed her toes against the floor. Yet she finally stood and smiled, brushing a few fingers through her long hair. "I think we're allowed to go downstairs to the kitchen and g-get something. Right?"

But she paused, realizing that she was out of it when her brother had carried her here. "Do you think there is a k-kitchen?"

Tirian brought his hand to his chin, scratching the bare skin for only a moment until smiling back at the Syndarean.

"Yup. They have all kinds of food. Ready?"

Serna laughed but nodded. "Ready!"

She let Tirian lead the way, and the Syndarean girl was immediately taken by surprise to see the beauty of the building. Everything was intricate and detailed. Portraits decorated the halls and it felt like Serna was walking through a castle she had only ever seen in her dreams. She followed Tirian down a staircase and towards the prevalent smell of food.

They entered what seemed to be a large dining area, where food was spread out among a few tables. Serna's eyes lit up, however, at the sight of her brother who was still stuffing his face.

Setna, for his part, had attempted to fall back to sleep after Lucy had left, yet failed. Eventually he made the choice to go down to the kitchen for some food with the condition to bring some back up to the two injured. Seeing them enter, made him feel a bit bad about leaving them in the first place.

Setna stood up as he saw them, and waved them over. "I'm sorry. I was gonna bring up food later for you guys. Are you ok?"

He looked a bit worriedly at Tirian and then he came over to Serna. Gently he placed a hand on her head, and surveyed her. "Are you alright Serie? Should you be out of bed already? You scared me half to death you know..."

Serna embraced her brother, squeezing him a bit. It was a silent thank you, that the boy quickly returned. When Serna pulled away she gently placed her hand on the bruise that marked half of Setna's face. Setna merely shrugged his shoulders, an action to say that he was fine. Serna nodded before answering his questions. "I'm ok. Just a little headache. I'm hungry though."

She smiled and laughed a bit, which made Setna break into a wide grin. He helped his sister sit down before turning to Tirian. "Are you ok? That man yesterday...he was something else entirely."

Tirian took in the ambient smells of the large dining room, his mouth salivating at the thought of eating everything he possibly could. It probably would not be as good as Serna's cooking but food was food, especially after being out for an entire day. His thoughts were interrupted by the other half of the Syndarean twins. He watched their embrace with patience until Setna turned to Tirian with a question.

"It's to be expected of the man who trained me until I left Durandal. Not only that but he is was, the head general of their armies."

Tirian sat down with grace, stretching his back to a full and proper posture before continuing on with a compliment to the young boy.

"If it wasn't for you I probably wouldn't be here right now. Thank you."

Setna sat and blinked a few moments before he realized that Tirian wasn't conscious when everything went down. The boy shook his head in response as he said, "No, I didn't do anything. Lucille was the one that got you out of there and she made the killing blow. I was more of a distraction than anything else. If there is anyone you should thank its her. We would have all been dead if she wasn't there."

Tirian patted the boy's shoulder with a convincing smile on his face.

"Lighten up. I am sure you did more than just stand around. Give yourself some credit. You did well, just keep living and take it all day by day."

Tirian then slouched into his chair, his hands coming to his stomach followed by a loud roar. It was obvious this man was hunger.

"I need to eat or I might just die!"

Serna giggled before she reached for her own plate and to some of the food spread out along the table. Everyone filled their faces with food in a comfortable silence.
​

-----------------------------​

It was a few hours past noon when Aaerynn found her way back to Farin's home. Her injured arm was held in a cloth sling. It was swollen and numb, wrapped up tightly in bandages to the point that Aaerynn could barely move it. But it had been purged, that was for sure, and the only pain she felt now was the throbbing of the stitching that had been worked in to close it up.

She made her way back to her room, shrugging off the strap to her satchel as she picked up the key she had left behind. A part of her debated whether or not she was in the right mindset to start doing research after this morning. She also didn't feel like presenting herself to Vordan after the humiliating display of her emotions she had put him through last night. But, they didn't have that much time in Durngan and she needed to get started, plus she had promised the Maker. She wouldn't go back on it now.

So the wood elf filled her satchel once more with a few things she needed, slung it over her shoulder and proceeded to Vordan's room. Aaerynn paused however, as she stood in front of a little wood sign that read, 'Do not disturb.'

Had he been working all day? The wood elf frowned as she shifted the sling for her arm. She didn't want to startle him or disrupt him if he was doing something important. The last thing she wanted to do was cause him to lose another finger, simply from taking away his attention. Should she knock? Or call out?

Aaerynn frowned before finally making her decision. "Vordan? Did you want to go to the library now?"

She raised her free hand and gave a simple tap on the door, hoping he heard her and she wasn't disturbing him too much.

​

 

[Dekonic]

Tirian smiled at Serna's giggle, taking in her facial expressions as she did so. Something about her just seemed to strike a chord deep within the warrior. Her nose wrinkling at odd smells, her smile when she laughed and her eyes sparkling in the right lighting. The man shook his head quickly to fend off thoughts he should not be having. He was a warrior, a man meant to kill, maim and murder. And yet, being with this Syndarean on the run seemed to just feel right. Tirian maneuvered his leg not knowing how close the girl's leg was, sliding it across the floor until it touched Serna's leg ever so gently. The warmth caused him to jump, though he did not move the leg and instead continued devouring the food that consistently piled his plate. The man waited patiently until the twins finished their plates as well, his eyes turning to Setna with an impish smile on his face.

"Setna, I would like your permission to take Serna out into the city for the day."

~~Both twins seemed to be startled a bit by the red head's sudden exclamation. Setna blinked, his eyes going a bit wide as he looked over at his sister and then Tirian. For some reason, Lucille's words reverberated in his head. Did he trust him? Setna paused as he looked at Tirian until finally his shoulders relaxed."Uh...sure? I was gonna go see if Elrithos was around anyway. That's fine."

The boy frowned though, as the impact from yesterday flashed through his mind as well. "Just be careful, alright? You both suffered from a lot yesterday. Make sure to come back if your head hurts more Serie."

Serna nodded enthusiastically, and smiled brightly. With everything that had happened the following day, she really didn't get to see Durngan as much as she liked. She looked up happily at Tirian, gently grasping his sleeve to gain his attention. "Thank you!"~~

Tirian watched as Setna seemed to turn apprehensive to his question. The boy's body language screamed uncertainty and even a hint of doubt and caution. His eyes watched as the boy lowered his shoulders and finally agreed. Tirian allowed a wide smile to come his face. Tirian then turned his attention to Serna who seemed to be as happy if not even more happy than himself. The man thought to himself for a moment, taking in the enjoyment of having a day without any fighting, training or killing. Tirian stuck out his hand towards Setna as he stood up with a reassuring posture.

"I'll protect her as if my life depended on it. Promise?"

~~Setna lit up a bit with a laugh, but he took the man's hand. "You don't have to be so formal...But I guess I appreciate it!"

Serna immediately stood and practically ran around the table to hug her brother in thanks. She squeezed him tightly, till the poor teenager let out an 'oof' of pain. "Thank you, thank you Set!"

Shaking his head, Setna merely smiled. He didn't realize how happy such a thing could make his sister. It had been a long time since he had seen her so enthusiastic. He rubbed her back until she let go, smiling still. Setna could only smile back as he said, "Have fun."

The young woman looked up brightly at Tirian, so incredibly happy that he had offered to show her around. "C-Can we go now? Is that ok?"~~

Tirian shook the boy's hand with a firm grip and wide smile before turning to Serna. Her face expressed pure bliss and her tone displayed excited. Tirian stepped to the side with a quick shake of his head, finally waving to Setna as he followed Serna out of the dining hall. Tirian approached the girl's side looking straight ahead as if he was her bodyguard. He had never been with someone like this without any stipulations, it was an odd feeling. Tirian took the situation in stride, casually reaching out and slipping his fingers into Serna's own.

"Gotta make sure you stay close, the streets can be packed at times."

~~As the two left the residence and entered the streets of Durngan, Serna felt her shyness kick in. She had been so excited at the prospect of seeing the city, she hadn't realized that she would be alone with Tirian. It was the first time she would be alone with another man without her brother. She supposed it wasn't that big of a deal, he was her teacher and they trained alone all the time... But this was different.

The teenager kept taking silent glances at the tall red head beside her. She shouldn't be thinking this way. If anything she should be grateful for this opportunity. Tirian was ok. In fact, he looked like he was completely healed. The last time she had seen him...on the ledge above her. He had looked as if he were dead. Blood had covered his face, and he had looked so unnaturally pale as that man had stood above him, blade drawn. Serna had reacted on instinct. She had been angry and petrified. Scared that she couldn't help him, that he was already lost.

Looking down, Serna gently touched her neck. The skin was still raw, and she could tell there was left over bruising. Her brother had tried his best to protect but he too was nearly killed, and she as well. The Syndarean gently moved her hair in front of her, to cover her neck.

She shook her head, looking up with a bright face. She would take today in stride and enjoy all of it! They were alive, and that was what mattered! She would have fun and she'd make sure Tirian did too! She wouldn't take this brand new day of life for granted!

Serna blushed however, as she felt Tirian's fingers brush against her's. She gazed up at him, and smiled before a giggle left her lips. "Y-You don't have to walk so stiffly."~~

Serna's words caught the man off guard, in a way she was right. Tirian had been walking like a stick ever since they had left Setna's vision and yet it was almost too comfortable for him to break the stride. After a bit of cohesion from within his own mind Tirian finally allowed his muscles to relax and settle. His eyes turned to glance at the giggling Syndarean and an instinctual blush came to his cheeks. The duo approached the gathering of people to which Tirian drew in a sigh and led the girl to the right, placing them right in the middle of the market. Tirian stopped suddenly and turned to the Syndarean with a warm smile.

"Wherever you want to go, just pull me along. Okay?"

~~Serna blinked in surprise, before smiling again. She took Tirian's much larger hand in a more comfortable grip, squeezing it gently as she looked around the marketplace with awe. "A-Are you sure? I've never b-been here before. Have you?"

She was still looking around in curiosity. There were so many different types of people here before. She had never really seen anything quite like it. All kinds of different languages were being spoken and yelled as different people tried to advertise their wares. It was amazing.~~

Tirian smiled as he began to feel more comfortable in the girl's presence. She was just too innocent for him to handle, but her question took his mind off the glaring obvious. He waited just a moment, thinking about his times here in Durngan before answering with a light tone in his voice.

"I have. This street is mainly hand-crafted goods. Things like clothing, jewelry and accessories for your hair and what not."

~~She looked up at him with bright eyes. He had obviously said something that interested her. The girl eagerly pulled him along to see what was around. It wasn't just accessories, armor was being sold and weapons. There were carpets and rugs, home wares and wooden crafts. It was a plethora of different things, and the Syndarean young woman took her time viewing everything. She found herself a bit hung up on one table though. It was a side table from clothing wares. An elderly woman was selling hair accessories. There were rolls of different colored ribbons, beautifully decorated hair pins and clasps. It was pretty, and Serna found herself pausing extra-long to take everything in.~~

Tirian stood patiently for the Syndarean to enjoy everything her eyes could take in. It didn't take long for him to notice her infatuation for the hair accessories and he put the pieces together.

"How much for a length of ribbon?"

The elderly lady behind the counter gave Tirian a warm smile before answering with a slight shrill voice.

"Three coins young man."

Tirian smiled as he reached into his pocket and retrieved five golden coins, placing them onto the counter.

"Pick anything you want Serna."

~~Serna turned beat red as she looked up at the man beside her. "Y-You don't have to do that!"

She held her hands up and shook her head, her voice turning a bit high-pitched with her surprise. The old woman behind the counter gave a laugh before saying, "Go on dearie, he's already paid. Pick your favorite!"

Serna looked at the woman before glancing at Tirian. She felt bad. She didn't want him to spend his money on her. Yet, at the same time, she really wanted a ribbon. The Syndarean shyly picked out a white ribbon, and watched as the woman rolled it out, snipped it and handed it to her. "Enjoy!"

Serna's face lit up as she felt the ribbon, it was absolutely beautiful and soft to the touch. She looked up once again to Tirian, but this time had a wide smile on her face and her eyes bright with her happiness. "Thank you!"~~

Tirian gave Serna warm smile, simply nodding his head to her praise and thanks. The market street was bustling to a full capacity with a melting pot of races and genders sightseeing and window shopping. Having a stall right here would be hectic but must make good money, otherwise nothing would be here year round as it always is.

"Is there anything else you'd like to see? The rest of the city is really just bars and such, but I do know a quiet lake we can go to. Just to relax."

~~"Ok! Let's go there." Serna smiled brightly before tying the ribbon into her hair as a makeshift hairband. She gave it a pat, making sure it was tight and blushed softly with happiness. It had been such a long time since she got to do anything with her hair. She missed it.~~

Tirian nodded and took the girls hand to ensure the crowd wouldn't part them away from one another. With a gentle step forward the grounded soldier lead Serna forward through the crowd, doing his best to push past the groups of patrons standing in the middle of what would have been a clear walkway. The gathering of people thinned out the further they walked, which allowed Tirian and Serna to walk side-by-side. He remained silent as their feet padded the group with united thuds that gave a melody of sorts. Tirian stopped for a moment as a paralyzing aroma entered his nose, a bakery in the distance was fixing a batch of sweets.

"Just a quick detour."

Tirian turned towards the smell and followed it to the best of his ability. It didn't take long before the red-head found the source of this magnificent aroma, and entered without any hesitation. In a few minutes Tirian returned to the outdoor world with a large basket filled of an assortment of sweets. Tirian didn't say a word as he just gave Serna wide smile and continued to lead her forward. The streets cleared and the air settled into a piercing silence as a lake grew in the horizon.

"This is where I used to come when I needed peace."

~~Serna giggled after watching Tirian return from a bakeshop with a basket full of sweets. They smelled amazing, but the young woman earnestly followed after the red head as they left the busy markets to what looked to be a lake. It had to be a dip in the earth where water had collected over the years, but it was beautiful nonetheless.

"It's s-so pretty..." Serna sighed a bit at the sight of it. Who knew a place like this could exist so close to a rowdy city? The Syndarean girl ran over to the edge and sat down as she began to pull her boots off. She finally stood in bare feet and lifted her skirts a bit to touch the water with a toe. She laughed as she looked back to Tirian and exclaimed, "It's cold!"~~

Tirian laughed to himself before closing the distance between Serna and himself .The warrior took a seat on the ground and began to stare out across the lake. Small ripples bounced off the edges from Serna disturbing the water's surface from just a few seconds before he sat down.

"It's hard for someone like me to stay grounded."

Tirian spoke in a light tone, continuing his gaze out towards the nothingness in front of him.

"I could've easily turned into my father or ended up dead like my mother. I felt as if I had no purpose just a month ago. But since I've been with this caravan I've filled an emptiness in my heart, a void in my soul. I have grown fond of this group. Fond of having people around me."

His face never moved. His eyes never wandered from their place in the distance. The warrior continued to speak without a cap on his thoughts, the words flowing freely from his mind and mouth.

"I like you Serna. You're important to me in ways I can't express and frankly I don't know why. You're like my mother, I guess is why. Kind and innocent. Never willing or wanting to harm a soul. So hear this."

Tirian finally stood and turned his gaze to the Syndarean.

"As long as I can breathe. As long as I can fight. I will protect you from any and every danger in this world."

~~Serna had paused when Tirian began speaking, she turned to him and listened quietly. She turned red however as he suddenly stood and promised to protect her. The girl stood in a bit of shock, before a beautiful smile filled her face. She exited from the water and walked up to him, her cheeks still flushed. Slowly she reached out and shyly took his hand. She paused for a moment, her head bowed as she let what he said resonate. Finally, she looked up at him. "I...I promise you won't be alone again. You won't become like your father. I promise. A-And I'll protect you too! I'll work hard, so I can help you, and my brother, and the rest of the group."~~

Tirian flushed as the girl took his hand and spoke. A small laugh came from his lips followed by words of his own.

"You still need to work on that stuttering problems you have."

~~"I-I've gotten better!" Serna stamped her foot as she looked up at him with a face that she hoped was serious and aiding to her argument. But her face was still flushed and her eyes wide... she looked more like a child. She deflated a bit, growing a soft smile. "I'll work h-harder."~~

Tirian poked Serna's cheek with a hefty laugh.

"Let's eat these sweets and enjoy the night."

The duo, almost couple ate their sweets in silence. After a long while they finally decided to head back to the residence and call it an evening.

 

[Rain of the Night]

Elrithos' front door of his room had many people at it, all seemingly worried and one of them, the sister of the desert elf, in tears. Near her was Jh'taren who was clearly worried and nervous, joined with Lord Norad rubbing his hands together nervously. They all knew about the rumours circling around about the War Dancer and the Murders in the streets Durngan. Thirteen bodies were found near the Market and it was said there was no witnesses. Lord Norad had the news given by Avisira and had immediately made his way to Lord Ferin's house. Of course, Jh'taren was advised why two healers were brought in.

Inside that door, Elrithos laid on the bed with nothing but a tattered pair of pants. The rest of his cut and scared skin was exposed for the healers to stitch him up. The man was unconscious on the bed and clearly was still in pain even after all the healing offered.

Esredia had tried to enter, but was given a refusal of entry by Jh'taren until the healers had a verdict on his condition. She wasn't filled in on what happened yet, but she knew it would be bad news.

~~ Setna wound his way around the residence, attempting to find Elrithos' room. He had to ask a few servants a couple of times, and still ended up lost. But finally he came across a hallway filled with people. He didn't recognize anyone, except for the tribal woman who had recently joined the party. He approached slowly, taking in Esredia's worried face. He looked to the door before asking her, "What's going on?" ~~

Esredia turned as Setna arrived, surprised to see him there. When she was asked the question, she didn't know how to answer in their language, but she didn't need to. Jh'taren spoke as he held Avisira, the thick accent of the desert people very prominent. "He had an encounter with some people yesterday… People that didn't appreciated him. They had spoken about attacking the Blazing Wind for what he had done… Or even just kill the War Dancer for the pleasure of it. They didn't expect Elrithos to actually attack back so swiftly… He came out injured and unconscious when I dragged him out of the streets. The healers are doing their best to help him."

~~ Setna's eyes widened in shock. Blazing Wind? War Dancer? Were they really talking about Elrithos? He had heard those names before...as fairy tales and a ghost story. They were incentives to act good for his parents and go to bed on time. The War Dancer was described as a monster with blades for arms and control over the winds. The story involved hunting down children in the middle of the night with his piercing red eyes and tanned skin that hid him in the dark. He was supposed to be so fast that as soon as you laid eyes on him, you were dead.

The boy quickly shook his head, now was not the time to be thinking about this. He looked up with wide eyes, his hands figeting nervously with worry and concern. Elrithos was his friend, his teacher. He couldn't stop himself from his voice growing louder in concern. "Is he going to be ok!? Who would do something like that!?"

He ran a hand through his dark hair, trying desperately to think of something to help. ~~

Avisira spoke up this time, to the young man. Her eyes were still watery, but she stood up straight. "Elrithos made enemies during the war too… Some Elven societies in both the North and the South have been angered by some of his decisions. He brought people to victory, but brought a lot of death behind him. Some human cities also lived through that… Others, well, they want to see him dead because he is a legend that should have died in the war… It could be anything really… I just hope he's going to be alright…"

Esredia didn't like what he was hearing. Elrithos was a GOOD legend and a good man. How could someone hate him? He was so nice and generous, without a hint of bad in him. How could he be like that? The door of the room opened, two men walking out and sighing. "He needs rest, but otherwise will be fine… He really is like the legends say, to have taken on those humans and elves all by himself." He simply said as they left. Jh'taren and Avisira went in. Esredia followed, motioning Setna to follow.

Elrithos lay on the bed, his eyes clothed and all the wounds taken care of. He looked in pitiful shape, but he was breathing.

~~ Setna quickly followed after Esredia, but found himself at a loss of words as he came closer to Elrithos. The Desert elf was in rough shape, and the Syndarean boy found his fists tightly clenching with anger. It had been 200 years or so since the war ended. Elrithos didn't deserve this. He was unbelievably kind and understanding. He went out of his way to help a stupid kid like him. The fact that some people would want to kill him just through malice or some stupid rumors... it enraged Setna. The boy quickly looked away, unable to take in the sight of the person he looked up to most, bedridden and suffering.

He stood in tense silence, his anger still rolling off him in waves. He wanted to punch something, but pushed it down. He could wait till he was alone, and take it out through his training... Setna still couldn't understand it though. If anything it was the Syndarean name that should spring this hatred. Elrithos was on the good side. Well, the better side, right? It just...it didn't make sense. Elrithos didn't seem the type at all to be given names like the War Dancer... It just didn't sit right with him. ~~

Esredia was just standing as shocked as Setna was. Elrithos was known by the tribes to be this untouchable warrior who could take on any challenge, take on anything he ever faced. To see the man just lying there, in pain, was almost unbearable to watch. His reputation had been crushed now, although it was still an impressive feat. Esredia took a seat on the ground, a little down from the sight… Jh'taren let Elrithos' sister grab his hand and let her live what she had to live. Avisira was in tears again, seeing his brother in such a state, especially since he hadn't seen him this hurt for years now.

"Av…Avisira…"

A few words slipped out of Elrithos mouth as he opened his eyes. "Don't… cry… I'm… f-fine…" He said, smiling lightly. "Just… a few flesh wounds…" Elrithos, even in pain, seem to not let it drag him down. Esredia was surprised to hear his voice and stood up to see him. Elrithos even tried to sit up, but Jh'taren came and pushed him right back down. "At least stay the day in bed Elrithos… Don't push yourself."

~~ Setna picked up his head as he heard Elrithos suddenly speak. His eyes were wide as he looked over to him, already trying to sit up. Setna was thankful that the other Desert elf gently pushed him back down. Elrithos really shouldn't push himself in his condition. The Syndarean could only remain still in his silence. His feet planted on the ground, unsure as to what he should do or say. He ended up just standing still, feeling dumb as he watched everyone else. ~~

Elrithos could only sigh what Jh'taren had told him to do, as he had things to do in the city. They were nothing of great importance, but still needed to be done. Avisira simply looked at her brother with tear stained cheeks. She hated to see his brother in this kind of condition. He had fought already; he didn't need to have it come back to his life. She was already skeptic when Elrithos told her about the caravan he was joining and who was in it… But his brother couldn't be stopped.

Elrithos looked over to Lord Norad who stood in silence. Elrithos started to speak in his native tongue to the dwarf whose head popped up. He seemingly asked the Lord for a requested in which he only nodded and answered something back. The dwarf left the room with a sorry look on his face. He looked over to Setna now, branding his smile on his face again. "Setna… You'll train with… Jh'taren today." He simply said as the desert elf looked at Elrithos in surprise. The two exchanged a few words, Jh'taren more curious to why he said so… He eventually nodded. Elrithos was glad he would to that for him. "He'll teach you a few tricks for dealing with multiple people at the same time… He knows what he's doing…" He said. He finally spoke to Esredia, her head springing up in surprise. He again seemed to ask her a favor, which she blinked and nodded. She then exited the room.

~~ Setna found himself biting his bottom lip. He hadn't gone out to find Elrithos in order to train. He really just wanted to talk to him, especially about what had happened the previous day. But...It would be better to just train. He couldn't spill his failings and burden his teacher when Elrithos was obviously still in pain and suffering. Now wasn't the time at all.

The teenager found his gaze drifting over to the Desert elf that Elrithos had volunteered to train him. He would just have to learn what he could. His gaze then drifted back down to the floor. ~~

Elrithos looked at the young man. Setna did not seem to be ready to train that day… It couldn't just be the condition he was in. He hoped that it wasn't so, because he would be losing out on some great help from the leader of raiding parties. It was clear that he needed to talk to him and try to get whatever he had in mind out of there, even if it was just his own condition making him so.

Elrithos looked at his sister and spoke a few words, to which she nodded and looked at Setna for a moment. She was confused, but did not argue back. Both Jh'taren and Avisira left the room. Elrithos laid his eyes on the young man before speaking. "Take a seat… I can see you aren't in the mood… What is happening?" He said simply as he pointed towards the chair that Avisira was seated in.

~~ Setna stiffened up, his head snapping to attention as Elrithos suddenly spoke to him. He watched as everyone else drifted out of the room, and he was told to sit. The teenager looked awkward before cautiously approaching the chair, and slowly sitting, his back pin straight. His head slowly bowed though, and he wrung his hands nervously. He felt bad. Here Elrithos was, in horrible shape, and yet he was looking out for him once more. The boy ran a hand through his sloppy hair before finally looking at the Desert Elf. "It's nothing really. I'm sorry, I feel like an ass, moping around when you're really injured...."

Setna sighed, his body slipping into a slump. "I'm just... I guess I'm finally realizing the difference in levels. I don't know, it's hard to explain. I just have to get more experience. I have to stop hesitating... and I can't be full of myself either... that's all. I'll get over it."

The Syndarean absentmindedly rubbed the bruising across his face. He was struggling to put words to his thoughts. Both Lucille and Tirian told him that he should be happy or proud. He had helped to take down someone far above his level...but he was still absolutely disappointed in his performance. ~~

The desert elf slowly shook his head as the young man initially spoke. "You do not have to be sorry, young man." He said simply, closing his eyes and letting a small breath go. He was weak, but he still had a clear mind. Setna explained something that took Elrithos a moment to think about. There were many things the boy did not understand, but he was young and just needed to learn them. He lifted his hand and pointed to the jug of water. "Could you bring me a mug, please?" He asked.

As he did so or not, Elrithos let out another long breathe before speaking up. "You will learn Setna. One does not acquire experience by snapping their fingers. You have to let time do some work… Not everyone is at the same level, but everyone can fall or take victory. Make mistakes and grow… I started out just like you did."

~~ Setna immediately stood as Elrithos asked for water. He poured him a mug as he listened to the Desert elf. It was comforting to hear that a man of such ability and stature had started the same way and perhaps felt the same at one point too. The teenager returned to his chair and handed Elrithos the mug, carefully, making sure the Desert elf had a hold of it before letting go. "Thanks... I just don't want my mistakes to be my last. But, that's just the way it is right? It's always the chance we take when we engage an opponent. Whoever makes the most mistakes, loses. It's just hard to realize that...I guess."

Setna frowned as he scratched the back of his head. He took in Elrithos' form and his injuries, and his mind returned to the story the other Desert elves had spoken about. "Can I ask you something Elrithos?...Are you really the War Dancer?"

The boy soon realized he had just blurted it out without consent first and he turned stock still, hoping he hadn't upset his teacher. ~~

Elrithos thanked the young man as he grabbed the mug out of Setna's hand. He brought to his lips to drink as the young man expressed his thoughts. Elrithos heard wisdom in his words and to realize such a thing this young would save him. He was glad that he would teach him what he could to let him become the warrior he desires. He reached over to the side table to deposit the drink, right in time to hear the question he had asked… He settled back into the bed and a long sigh escaped his lips. He then looked up to the young man and nodded briefly.

"It was the name I was given by the human kingdoms when I was in the war… It isn't me anymore. Times have changed and I wish I could forget about those times." He replied to him as he slowly lifted himself to sit up and push himself onto the back wall. "I was known to be a ruthless, destructive warrior of death… The stories change from place to place… I'm not that man anymore." He brought up his knees in slight pain, but then sat himself with legs crossed.

"I'm training you so that reason and passion remain on the same level. One cannot surpass the other or things get out of hand. You are lucky to have been brought up more simply than others."

~~ Setna listened, watching as Elrithos was able to pull himself up a bit. To think that someone so kind and understanding had such a ruthless past. A part of him wondered if he should tell him the Syndarean version, where he was turned into a monster that hid under the beds of naughty children. But now probably wasn't the best time.

Elrithos brought up his upbringing and Setna had to agree as he looked down at the floorboards. His mind flashed to Tirian's rage, and Lucille's scars. "Yeah... The Syndareans are completely backwards but I'm thankful I got the upbringing I did. I'm lucky. As I am lucky now to have you as a teacher and to have companions that I can learn a lot from, right?"

Setna finally grinned again as he stood up. "I feel a lot better. I'm sorry I brought all this up when you're injured. But I'm going to train hard, so when you get all healed up, I'll surprise you when we spar again!"

The boy's grin grew a bit in his confidence. But he was glad Elrithos talked to him, just to allow him to sort his thoughts and become centered again. He'd train harder and get better. He needed to stop getting so discouraged and just push through it. ~~

The desert smiled widely as he spoke of their next spar. That was the energy he wanted to see from the young man. Elrithos stretched his arms up, a slight grunt of pain heard as he did so. He was roughed up and knew he wouldn't be able to see Talia that day, so he would rest up so that the darkness doesn't start to take over quite yet. Slowly laying back into the bed, pulling the sheets over himself. He then turned his head to Setna.

"Be ready, my friend. Jh'taren is a pretty strict instructor… But he'll teach you things I have a harder time with…" He closed his eyes, laying his head back with a smile. "… And even if I'm injured, I have a responsibility to teach you. Besides, this isn't in the worst shape I've been. Just ask Lord Ferin what his father told him about my time in this bed. Weeks of recovery." He said, letting himself rest up for the time being.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

"Vordan? Did you want to go to the library now?"

Vordan's eyes rapidly opened as he lifted his head up. Something cut his face as he did so and he grunted, looking down at a sharp edge that was on the gauntlet he was working on. The Maker had fallen asleep at a small desk, having worked all night and morning of his projects. He had little sleep in him and was rather hungry… The bags under his eyes would tell anyone so. He reached for the closes cloth he could find to wipe the blood off his cheek. One more cut, although it was the first time he had one on his face like that.

He got up and turned to the door to answer, still partially asleep. "The library…? Sure… Hum, I just need some food." He spoke lazily. He wasn't in the best shape, but at least he was awake now. He didn't know how much he got done the other night, but he surely seemed to have advanced with everything he had in mind. Good. He gathered his books, ink and feather and put it in a small bag. He reached over to the door, putting on a smile. "I'll grab something from the kitchen first then we'll be all set." He said, yawning and coming out to lock his door before him.

~~ Aaerynn merely raised a single brow as he opened the door and she looked him over. Cut on the cheek. Bags under his eyes. Had he been working all night? He didn't look to be in good shape at all. She would have questioned if he was hungover, but he really didn't drink much last night. So he had to have been working on something. The wood elf frowned as she spoke. "Are you sure? Did you even sleep last night?" ~~

Vordan looked at Aaerynn a moment, still too unaware and tried to really make any sense of time. She had asked a pretty simple question that was actually quite hard to answer. He couldn't remember a damn thing or even when he actually fell asleep. All he could really recall was starting his work than boom, nothing. So he gave her an innocent smile. "I don't remember falling asleep so I couldn't tell you how long I've slept… But I'll be fine. We'll just be reading anyway, no?"

~~ Aaerynn sighed for him. But she turned and began leading Vordan towards the dining area. He was worrisome, that was for sure. The elf looked back at him and teased him, "Well, if you fall asleep in the library, I'm going to leave you there."

She mostly said this because she wasn't allowed to lift anything for a few days, doctor's orders. But at least the Maker would catch up on some sleep, if he fell victim to his exhaustion. ~~

"I won't fall asleep… I have something to wake me up if it ever happens." He simply replied as they made their way to the dining room. He hadn't used any magic lately, other than the simple alterations of objects which had minimal effects on him. His eyes had set on some fruits, which was all he needed for the moment. He simply grabbed the whole basket and took a bite out of an apple.

"There, I'll bring this with me and I'll be fine… Aaerynn, who changed your bandages?" He said as he finally noticed it. He hadn't done it the way he saw it. He then sighed, realizing it was a stupid question. "Nevermind… I'm still tired. I hope the library holds the information I need."

~~ Aaerynn tilted her head as he finally noticed her arm. She looked down at the sling that held it as he then changed his mind about asking her. She remained silent as she turned to lead him towards the library. Something was off with him. He may have gotten some sleep but it obviously wasn't enough. He needed to take care of himself better. But at least he recognized his need to eat. Still, the wood elf glanced at the fruit in his arms, that wasn't enough for him. Maybe later she'd be able to coax him into eating something a bit more filling.

She finally responded to him as they walked down a few sets of long hallways. "It should have what you need and possibly more. If it doesn't, I'd be very surprised. This isn't just Farin's collection, but his father's and his grandfather's."

The duo walked down a long set of curling stairs before they were in view of a set of large wooden double doors. Aaerynn shifted around until she found the key and promptly turned the lock.

As the wood elf pushed open the doors, she sucked in her breath. It was huge. The floor was polished, and the ceiling looked to be that of a cathedral. They were surrounded by looming book cases, practically from floor to ceiling. Aaerynn's eyes locked onto what seemed to be a common area, filled with arm and lounge chairs, surrounding a large fireplace. Aaerynn set her satchel down on a chair before surveying the daunting task before her. She turned her head to Vordan, a look of disbelief still on her face. She gave a small smile as she said, "Shall we get started? ...They have to be organized in some way, right?" ~~

Vordan didn't know what to expect of the Lord's library. Aaerynn seem to say that there's a lot of information there and judging by the size of the estate, it wouldn't be a surprise if the Lord could actually keep all of it. He yawned again as he munched on his apple, slowly waking up for what was to come. He dearly hoped it would hold the information necessary for the success of his projects.

He was presented to a door after walking a few long hallways and it showed a lot of promise. The place had to be big to have those large to cover it up… Even in his lack of sleep, he felt like he would be able to stay there for hours on end. He watched carefully as she unlocked the door, slowly following in behind him… And then froze, eyes wide and jaw dropping. The place was huge! And filled too! "By the Creators…" He simply said as he spun all around himself. The amounts of books… The amount of knowledge that was stored was unimaginable. "Is this place for real…?" He said to himself as he walked forward to drop off his things.

He set his eyes upon Aaerynn as she asked her question. He nodded and looked all around. "Depends if Lord Ferin likes to organize… It seems neat and tidy, so I would imagine everything is at a specific place… Let's start looking!" He said as eh immediately went for the closest bookcase.

~~ Aaerynn was turning more giddy as she took in the shelves and the smell of old books and pages. As Vordan moved to the closest bookcase, Aaerynn decided to move deeper. But she called out to the Maker, "If you find anything about the war, or around the same time period, let me know."

The wood elf then ventured down a few aisles, her light eyes glancing over shelf after shelf. Some books had titles, some didn't, some had leather covers and others used string for bindings. This was going to be harder than she thought. But there had to be some sort of organizational system to it. Just a matter of figuring it out.

She pulled out book after book, scanning the first couple of pages before putting them back. Aaerynn frowned, walking down a few more aisles, until something caught her eye and she nearly squealed with delight. She let out an inhuman noise as she hurried over and plucked a book off its shelf. The seventh classic edition of her favorite poet, original binding, no edits. There was only 15 editions in all of Furus! How the hell did Farin get a copy? She'd been searching for this for decades!

The wood elf eagerly flipped through a couple of pages, a warm smile coming to her full lips. But that smile soon faded away as she realized what she was doing. Focus, focus. This wasn't what she was here for. It was so tantalizing though... Aaerynn hesistated, before slowly placing the book back. Alright, if she could find that, she could definitely find something useful.

The wood elf searched the titles around the book and sure enough it was filled with other poets. Good, so they were grouped together by genre. That was one step in the right direction. Still, there was a lot to search through.

Aaerynn found herself winding deeper in deeper as the books alongside her seemed to grow older and older. ~~

His hand reached for the first book and he only pulled it out about half way. He knew his way around libraries. It was one of his favorite places to be, although he did not look the part of a reader. He was a mercenary by trade and little people would see him going into libraries, but he did and loved it. He knew his way around books and cases, he knew what most were reserved for. It took him seconds to realize what kind of books he was looking at… And the ones closer to the doors were newer, which meant newer info which he didn't want.

He wondered down into the deepest parts of the library instead, quickly shifting through the books. There was a lot about old treaties, how the nations were… He even found one that was quite interesting. A few books had to do with the arrival of the Aavikkanians into the continent. He pulled one out and put on the ground for him to pick up later. He continued on, knowing anything that had to do with magic would probably show up.

Though, before he reached anything that had to do with magic, he found what Aaerynn was looking for. The first steps of the war. Vordan smiled and started to go a little slower. How much time had passed? Vordan didn't even know, but he had found what Aerynn wanted.

"Aaerynn! I think I found the section that has to do with the Dark Emperor and the War!" He shouted in the room, echoing. Vordan went a little before that section… And froze. His eyes went wide out of shock and his hand shook as he took it away from what he was about to pick out. The writing… It was in the language of demons on the binding. He backed away a moment, remembering a book like that that had… Made him a person he simply wasn't. He passed it, going a little further. And there… IT started. Many things about magic! That when he started pulling books out, of all kinds.

~~ Aaerynn had found her way back into creation myths. She stared at a wall of holy texts and their copies. Different stories for different races and ethnicities. The wood elf found herself sliding out a book with Ancient Elvish carved onto the binding. She opened it up to see the scrawling of the first written words of the elvish. Aaerynn frowned as she looked at it. She hadn't studied the ancient language since she was a little girl, but she could probably get something useful out of this. After all, all myths had an inkling of truth hidden within them.

Just as she tucked the book under her arm, she heard the echoed words of Vordan. The wood elf lifted her head and turned around a bit, trying to get a hint as to where his voice was coming from. She double backed, and turned into a few different aisles until she finally caught sight of the taller man. He already had a stack going for him, and she walked over to him, tilting her head slightly to read some of the titles. Her face softened a bit as she asked him, "Found what you were looking for?" ~~

Vordan was quite simply astonished by all the books this dwarf's family had collected over the years. A few of these specific titles had been in Ellahur's libraries but a few about the magic of the Makers had been lost and there it was. To add to that, he had also found books that had to do with his two main projects, going from the art of transmutation, geomancy, creation of golems and artificial creatures, magic of time and a few odder titles… He had been tempted to go to the few that had abyssal writing, but push himself to avoid any of it.

Eventually, Vordan had a pile of about fourteen books when Aaerynn had arrived. Vordan took his attention away from the books and smiled. "Yes, and more so. It's going to take a while to read all of this, but it will get me going on my work." He said before he pointed towards a section a little down the aisle. "The books about history and the war is all around there. I'll go start reading a few of mine." He went over to his books and started carrying them over to the common area, making several trips. This was going to be a long day.

~~ Aaerynn watched the Maker for a moment, carrying books back and forth, before she finally walked over to the section he had pointed out. She spent awhile scanning titles and grabbing a few that seemed interesting, but nothing really caught her attention. None of the titles she picked up were what she was looking for. Why? That event had to have happened. Were her people too ashamed of it? Did no one have the crass to ask?

Eventually the wood elf tried her luck, picking up a few random books before heading back to the common area. She supposed it didn't matter yet. She'd get what she could from the creation myth and the others she picked up, then she'd do some more digging later.

Aaerynn set her books down on a long tea table that had been placed before the chairs, and reached for her satchel. She pulled out her glass vial which held the dried flakes of the substance she had scraped off her dagger. She held it up to the light a moment, surprised still to see that it held its vibrant color. Then she set down the dagger itself, which still had yet to be cleaned. She'd figure this out, there had to be something in this library that could give her some answers.

The wood elf sat before promptly picking up the creation myth. Gods, ancient elvish was such a pain.

-----​

She didn't know how many hours had passed, but she had made it halfway through the hefty text before her eyes got tired. She rubbed them before taking a break to take a peek at Vordan. She was glad she was able to help him in some way. Seeing him surrounded by books and studying, made her...happy. He had found texts that he needed, and it made the wood elf feel better, glad to help him after he helped her. She stared at him for a long while, taking in the comfortable silence, except for the occasional page turning or scratching of notes, until she finally realized what she was doing. She quickly stuck her nose back into her own book, curling up on her chair. ~~

Vordan had settled into his chair quite comfortably for his studies. He had brought all of his note books, knowing that he could have easy access to any information he had slipped. He started which the book that would most likely help him with his second project, so he started with the books of artificial beings and the one of geomancy. They would help build a limb adequately, and then would proceed to the magical energies needed to sustain it harmlessly.

This being said, he was focused on his task and just about nothing else. He was reading through the pages like nothing, skipping what he knew and writing down the new knowledge he had acquired. It was a pleasant time he was living, although his fatigue would eventually get to him as he yawned loudly. He stopped reading a moment, not realizing hours had passed. He lifted his eyes to Aaerynn with a smile. "I'm done… Anymore and I might just sleep here… And I need to finish the projects… " He said as he got up. "Found anything you wanted?"

~~ Aaerynn lifted her head from her text as he spoke. She took in his smile, and responded with a hint of one. "Mmm, a bit. I still have more I want to do."

She shifted into another position in her chair as she turned back to the myth in her hands, yet she spoke to him once more. "If you're leaving, I hope you get some sleep scribbler. Take care of yourself, and get something more filling to eat besides fruit. Alright?" ~~

Vordan had laughed to what she had said. "I'll eat up before I go to sleep… Might die if I don't." He said as he ordered his books and putting away his own. "Good luck with your research there… What the…" He had stopped sorting his things out as he looked at one particular book and picked it up. He hadn't chosen that purple leathered book. What was it doing in the pile? Vordan opened it up to see what the content of it was… And it was a great mistake. As soon as he read the first word, he fell back to the floor, letting go of it.

Vordan backed away from it out of sheer terror, plugging his hears. The voices were starting again in his head… He clutched his head, talking to himself. "No no no! Not again! Please leave me alone!" He said as he backed up against one of the books selves. His eyes shut close and he tried to push it out, to force the voices out of his head. "I don't want to do this again!" This time, he screamed, clearly in panic.

~~ Aaerynn had been watching him, only for her eyes to go wide as he suddenly hit the floor. The wood elf sprang to her feet, first looking at the book that he dropped and then to the shaken man on the ground who was scrambling backwards and panicking. Aaerynn didn't know what just happened and she jumped as Vordan suddenly screamed. What was going on!?

She could only act on instinct. Aaerynn quickly kicked the book as far away from Vordan as she could manage, before rushing over to the man's side. She dropped to her knees beside him, panic filling her chest as he screamed. What could she do!? The wood elf gently placed a hand on his shoulder, trying to soothe him. "Vordan! Can you hear me? Look at me! It's ok!"

He was shaking under her hand, and he still hadn't opened his eyes. Aaerynn felt herself lose her breath as she filled with fear for him. How could she help him? What was going on? The wood elf brought her arm out of her sling, and embraced him tightly. She held him, placing his face to her chest as she tried to calm him down. "Vordan, it's ok. Listen to me, focus on my voice alone. You're ok, you're safe. I won't let anything happen to you. I won't let them take you. I won't let them get you."

Although she had no idea what the 'them' was, she continued to promise him. What was haunting him? Aaerynn held the man tighter to her, feeling him shake in fear and hoping he wouldn't struggle. She needed to calm him down, but how? The wood elf frantically tried to think of something, before starting to sing. She began to hum a soft elvish lullaby and prayer. "Just listen to me. Only listen to me." She whispered softly before continuing to hum the elvish words, hoping to the Gods that it would help. ~~

Vordan was caught back in that world again, within the confines of his own mind. The senses of the real world had been forgotten as he opened his eyes in this cursed place. The voices went getting louder, taunting him, playing with him. They all wanted the same thing, every single one of them. The notes… They wanted the notes, they wanted the project to be done the way he had tried before. Vordans screams within the library echoed as Aaerynn tried to help.

"Leave me alone! I don't have it! I'll never finish it!" He screamed in panic, his entire body trembling. He couldn't feel Aaerynn's embrace, nor could he really feel anything. He was stuck in there until he could break free or let his obsession turn on him. Tears came down his cheeks and he struggled with those voices… Until he heard something odd. It was… singing? Vordan looked around him within his own mind and slowly, the voices died down.

He finally opened his eyes… Aaerynn was holding him and he was free. Vordan almost instinctively wrapped his arms around the wood elf, wanting the comfort. He spoke with a weak, raspy voice. "I-I-I'm… s-sorry…" He finally stopped shaking, although his heart was still racing.

~~ Aaerynn paused in her singing, as she felt Vordan's arms encircle her in an embrace. Then she heard the raspy apology, and it sounded as if the man was in tears or close to it. It broke the wood elf's heart as she held him tighter to her. She rubbed his back soothingly, as she replied. "Shhh... It's alright. You have nothing to be sorry for."

His heart was racing so fast she could practically feel it thrum through his chest and back. Aaerynn instinctively pressed her lips to the top of his head, trying her best to comfort him. She had no idea what happened, and she had no clue as to how she could help him. She was completely inexperienced with this type of thing, but it had horrified her, to see him go down like that, to watch him suffer and scream in fear. All of her own walls came down as she did her best to provide warmth. "You're safe now. I'm here for you, alright?"

She kept speaking, just gentle words and soft promises until he deemed himself ok. But in all honesty, Aaerynn had no idea if he truly was safe or not. ~~

Vordan held on tightly to the wood elf, still shocked and terrorized by the events that had just unfolded. The voices had haunted his dreams many years before, becoming silent the past two. He had managed to completely forget about the dark magic he had manipulated for the sake of his work. Now, they had come back and it wasn't the last he was going to hear about it. The mark would come back and he would have to suffer its effects once more.

Aaerynn's words did little to soothe his soul, but her presence had already silenced the voices for the time being. She didn't have to live the few days he was about to live, not with the demons that were going to be knocking at the door of his mind. They will want to be released. Vordan couldn't let that happen, not again or ever. His cries eventually stopped, his heart slowly regaining a steady pace. For now, it was over. No words left the man for now as he rested his back against the shelving unit behind him.

His eyes finally lifted to Aaerynn, his soul now calm and composed. He couldn't look at her for long, his eyes lowering to the floor. "T-this… is what happens when you play with the dark arts. Old scars rip open…" He said almost in a whisper. "I'll… be fine for now… I need… some rest." He felt like shit now and he needed to get some sleep. He looked over to the book he had opened, could recognize the writing had changed back to what seemed to be the common language, not the abyssal one. Why had that happened? His eyes turned from the book to the other ones, still neatly stacked. No more… not for now.

~~ Aaerynn frowned as the man pulled away, but she let him, watching his face as he leaned his back against the shelf behind him. He looked awful now, shaken and pale. Gone was the liveliness he had exuded that morning, even in his half-awake state. The wood elf watched as he looked away from her and gave her a whispered explanation. Aaerynn's gaze drifted down to the floor, remembering bits and pieces of what he had told her before. His ability to speak the language of demons, and some type of secret project that could involve killing or stealing souls. At that time Vordan had skirted around the subject, and the wood elf had wondered what exactly he was willing to do for the sake of his inventions... Now she was seeing the aftermath.

She understood now why Vordan was the type to cling to each new day, to be thankful for each sunrise. His past wasn't as simple as she originally thought it to be. If he had played with the darkness, he was lucky to still be sane and capable of living a normal life. How long exactly had he been able to escape its grasp?

Aaerynn gently lifted his head, making him look at her. She placed a hand on his cheek, her blue eyes taking in his face, looking him over. Finally she stood, and held out her hand. "Come on, let's get you somewhere more comfortable. Can you stand?" ~~

The mercenary was reluctant to lift his head, fearing what face he would have to face now. Though, he didn't fight and his sorrowful eyes looked into her own… She was clearly worried for him and he didn't wish that. Yes, he had just lived something horrible, but he had to look over it and move on. His gaze followed the elven women as she stood up, offering her hand… And the effects kicked in. The voice started once more, but lasted mere seconds. They were enough though.

You let her die… She'll die too… The rot will take her… You foolish human. You can't save anyone's life, maker.

He trembled again, closing his eyes for a second before reaching over to her hand. "I-I-I can stand…" He said as he took the help. This would be reoccurring often now, right until his soul could be at peace again. Yet, the demon had spoken of a dark subject, one he didn't need to stress over as much as he did. His steps were slow and wobbly, clearly exhausted by everything. "I… I need to go to sleep… I just need some peace and quiet for a moment…"

~~ Aaerynn took control as she slung the Maker's arm over her shoulder and helped to support his weight. If he struggled, which she doubt he would, she would use all the strength she had. She knew the implications of dark magic. For it to suddenly pop up like this, it wasn't going to leave him alone. Perhaps taking him here was a bad idea. Maybe it would have been better if she had snuck out some books to Vordan instead. Something in here had triggered him, and the wood elf felt shitty for it.

She looked up at him as they made it to the doors. "I'm going to take you to my room. It's quieter, and you won't be surrounded by the mess I know is taking over your room. I'll come back to pick up our stuff."

She waited though, to see if he wanted to pick up anything important, then continued. "I have something that might help you tonight if you want it. It's a sedative, so you won't dream. I haven't studied dark arts... but I know when my Rot kicks up, I get awful nightmares. I imagine it's going to do the same to you. If you want it, I have it at least."

Aaerynn turned silent again, at a loss of words again as to how she could help. She probably couldn't, which was upsetting her. But something like this couldn't be healed by physical measures. The wood elf wanted to ask how it had happened, and why he had done whatever he did to play with the dark arts... but it wasn't her place. She had no right to ask. All she could do was do her best to make him feel better, and she would definitely try. She owed him that, at least. ~~

It wasn't too much of a struggle for the man to at least walk in a straight line, with the help of Aaerynn. He had reached a particular level of exhaustion, one which he knew would now be a constant thing until the voices would leave him alone. His eyes were set right in front of him, searching for reality. Every step, he felt like they would talk again, wanting his vial to be more for them to become one with this realm. They knew they had a connection with him there.

Aaerynn had suggested to sleep in her room to be taken away from his mess. Vordan struggled to form words, trying to make sure the voices wouldn't come up… But he eventually managed to say something understandable. "I… I need some things… Some wards and items to keep them away… They're small objects…" He said, making it apparent he was probably a little confused or lost, although he was listening to her.

She went on to suggest sedatives, which he shook his head at. "They make it worse… They play when I'm drugged… They turn my thoughts against me… Just need wards and a flask of holy water. Might stop tonight…" He said. There was always that chance the wards would just remove them from him until he would find another text that would trigger him. So, he simply asked her to bring his notebooks and a FEW books, maybe five, and then move to his room to grab a few things.

~~ Aaerynn nodded as he spoke to her, and she helped him leave the library. The stairs were the worst bit as she had to use her injured arm to help Vordan make it up them. The long halls they had passed earlier were easy though, and they traveled silently through them. Finally they both reached the door to Vordan's room, and Aaerynn waited for him to unlock it before she asked, "Do you want me to get them for you?" ~~

Vordan tried his best to not stumble down the stairs, his energy seemingly draining by the second. They were still trying at him even though the voices were all quiet. They wanted the project to be done, they wanted the vial he was capable of producing. Vordan knew trying to do the project again would bring their attention, he just didn't realize it was going to be so fast.

Once the door opened, Vordan shook his head at her request. "It's alright. I know where they are." He said as he walked carefully into the room, rummaging through a specific pile of things. He pulled a white feather and a few silver and gold coins. He then reached for a rolled up parchment and a flask of clear liquid. The voices rose in his mind again, this time, a lot more aggressive.

She'll die like all the others that joined you. You would want her to suffer like SHE did, would you? Give us what we want and we'll st-

Vordan didn't let it continue as he opened the flask and drank down the holy water… It actually stung in his throat, a little bit of steam escaping his lips. A temporary relief. Vordan coughed and walked back. "Alright… I have what I need."

~~ Aaerynn waited for him, leaning against the doorframe with a worried frown settling across her lips. She watched the steam leave his mouth after swallowing back what had to be holy water. A part of her wondered whether she should bring him to Thalia. Perhaps the healer could help purge him. But the wood elf doubted that it would make much of a difference. This wasn't a curse, this was an after effect of his own tampering.

She reached out to him as he approached and again led him to her own room. Aaerynn opened the door to a much cleaner room than Vordan's. It was practically empty besides her bag in the corner and the furniture. She helped him to the bed, letting him sit on his own. "Any better?" ~~

Vordan nodded to her as he was sat down onto the bed. "For now… The trinkets will give me some peaceful sleep for tonight… Sorry for what you saw… I didn't think it would catch up to me." He said as he laid himself down. He was calm now and he could take the time to think about what just happened. The book had turned into the demonic writing, which meant a presence of darkness was near… Was it still him following him? Had he waited so long for it? He didn't know.

He rested his head and sighed. "If you're going back, just be careful in there, alright?" He said, slowly falling asleep already.

 

[LastCinder]

Aaerynn watched as Vordan fell asleep right after giving his warning. Completely lights out. The wood elf sighed as she approached. "Idiot…take better care of yourself." She murmured softly, yet warmly, before pulling the blankets over his body. She tucked him in and paused as she looked at his face.

She supposed he had finally fallen off the pedestal within her mind. If anything she should feel fear or maybe disgust… possibly anxiety or shame? Dark magic didn't simply target its users' sanity. It would reach out to those connected to him, dragging them down, torturing them to drive its users into calamity. But, Aaerynn did not feel any of these things, because it was Vordan. This man had reached out to her, explained that her mistakes were just that, mistakes. Something to learn by, to take step by step. The wood elf was now viewing the Maker's mistakes, and she couldn't find it in herself to judge him or hate him for it. She couldn't.

Aaerynn caught herself from reaching out to touch his face. She stood there, frozen, as she contemplated what exactly she was doing. Slowly, she backed away until she came into contact with a desk chair and promptly sat.

What was she doing? No, the better question was what had she done? The wood elf looked at her hands, her mind finally catching up to everything that had happened. Not only had she taken care of the Maker, but she had embraced him, sang to him. Why? For the past century, she had hated humans touching her. She would only put up with it, if it were for profit. She hadn't minded the embrace from Serna, because it had shocked her and the girl meant it as a sign of gratitude. But… the wood elf lifted her gaze to stare at Vordan's sleeping form.

She had reached out to Vordan, out of her own inclination. She had held him tightly to her, in an act of comfort…She had even sang to him, something that she had sworn off more than a century ago. Why? If it were anyone else from the party, she would not have done the same, certainly not to the same extreme. She couldn't imagine herself embracing anyone else as she did for him. Why?

Then it slowly began to click. Piece by piece it fit together until Aaerynn looked down at her lap at the sudden realization.

She was growing infatuated with him. Wasn't she?

A bitter smile slowly enveloped Aaerynn's full lips. What a shallow and pitiful creature she was.

The somber wood elf placed her face in her hands. How could she? No, she knew. Vordan was…he was almost exactly what she wanted to be. He held all the traits that attracted her most, the traits that she tried her best to emulate. The bits of humanity that she adored. He was passionate with what he wanted to do, he was full of drive to change things, to do things and create something. It was what had made her fall in love with John. He had been the same with his art, and his desire to write and change the world. Yet the difference was John became entrapped within the comfort of his traditions, the stability of the same old routine…where as Vordan had decided against it. He had chosen his life and was diligent towards it. He had been given his choice, and he had picked the harder road.

When Aaerynn was drunk and confessed that she didn't mind his missing fingers or scars…it was all true. Those reminders left on his skin, were testaments of his work. They were marks of his spirit and his drive to create. The fact that he could go through so much pain, and still continue, made her admire him. It wasn't just that. Vordan was striving to help people. That night in Cromerth, she had expected to be abandoned by him. She was sure he would not come to help her when those Syndarean men threatened to violate her. Yet he had come, and he had fought for her, practically a stranger. He had thrown himself out of a window for her. Even after being injured and dragged to an inn, he had listened to her…and he had made the promise to help her.

She was such a fool. What was she going to do now? She couldn't allow herself to do this, to feel this.

Aaerynn slowly picked up her head to look at the man sleeping in her bed. What was a fool like her going to do?

Maybe, no one needed to know.

Maybe she was as her brother assumed, an embodiment of selfishness. Perhaps, she could enjoy this for the length of the journey. She could enjoy being next to someone she liked and admired. She could find trivial happiness in being close to his presence, in helping him where she could. Then at the end, she could part ways of her own accord. She could watch him leave and never see him again. She did not need reciprocated feelings, or physicality. She did not need the feeling of being wanted. She never did. There was no need to tell anyone. She could hold onto this feeling and bury it with her.

On the new continent, she could make herself a home. Perhaps she could open a medicine shop, and with her earnings she could fill shelves upon shelves of poetry, playwrights, and novels. Then maybe, as the years went by, she would catch wisps of rumors as to a Maker she used to know creating inventions that could change the world of medicine, and do good for many people. She could enjoy that moment of nostalgia before letting the feeling go. Then, when her rot finally took over, she could perish the way she wished. It was a thought that was comforting, and made her feel less lonely. No, it was more of an innocent dream, but it was enough to take her focus.

Aaerynn didn't need another mistake. It would certainly kill her.

Making up her mind, the wood elf finally stood from her chair. She watched Vordan's face for a moment, making sure he was still sleeping peacefully before she slipped out of the room. She had made her decision, now she needed to get back to what she was doing before. On something that actually mattered.

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After Tirian and Serna bid good night, the Syndarean girl returned to the room designated for her and her twin. The girl closed the door to the rather large bedroom and leaned her weight against the door. She was still trying to process the day she just had. A smile lit up her face as she suddenly ran, jumping onto the bed she had claimed. She squealed, letting a happy laugh exit her lips. She kicked her legs in a flurry of excitement and enchantment, her feet leaving her boots at the same time. She rolled onto her back, breathless as she looked at the ceiling. Carefully Serna undid the ribbon she had placed in her hair. She held the white silk up in her hands, above her face. Her dark eyes were wide, a large smile playing across her lips. It was just as beautiful, even in this low light. She played with it, letting the silk ribbon swim through her fingers until she finally brought it to her cheek.

Was this what it was like? To be courted by a boy you like? Her face began to fill with heat, as she rolled over onto her stomach. She played with the ribbon more as she attempted to commit this entire day to memory.

I will protect you from any and every danger in this world.

Serna grabbed a pillow and buried her face in it as she squealed once more. She flopped over onto her back again as she finally lowered the pillow, hugging it tightly to her chest instead. Maybe she was getting ahead of herself. She had never felt this way before though. She felt an over flowing bout of excitement that made her toes tingle and her stomach feel as if it were filled with butterflies. Her face turned red as she looked at the hand that had held onto Tirian's. It felt as though she could still feel them. His hands had been so much larger than her's, and rough, covered in calluses and scars. But she liked them. She liked holding his hand. She liked the way he spoke to her too. She liked the kindness in his smile. She liked his laugh and the way his eyes seemed to light up when he spoke to her. She liked how strong he was, as if he was incapable of being taken down. She liked that he was always eager to help her, no matter what.

She really really liked Tirian. Enough that she felt her heart stutter in her throat and her face turn warm with excitement and feeling. She couldn't wait to see him again tomorrow.

Serna was taken by sudden surprise as the door opened. The girl picked her body up only to see Setna stagger through the doorway. His face was pale and Serna watched silently as her brother closed the door, stumbled to his bed and fell on top of it, face first. He then let out a loud and painful sounding groan. Serna couldn't help the giggle that came as she asked, "Are you alright?"

Setna flopped over like a fish out of water, and he lay there, just breathing. "Man, I thought Elrithos was rough…I was wrong…very, very wrong."

Serna could only let out a little laugh as she looked at him with a bit of confusion. "You didn't train with Elrithos today?"

Her twin shook his head as he groaned, sitting up. He began the struggle of unlacing his boots while he explained it to her. "Elrithos got jumped yesterday. He was injured pretty bad."

Serna's amusement vanished as she let out a shocked gasp and squeezed the pillow she was still holding. "Is he alright? Will he be ok?"

Setna laid his tired and beaten body down again and turned to look over at his sister. "He seems to be doing ok. Healers came to wrap him up. He was able to sit up when I talked to him, which has to be a good sign."

"We should get him flowers."

Setna let out his own laugh at the expense of his twin. "Not everything can be solved by flowers Serie."

He then grunted as a pillow smacked him across the face. He whipped up, arming himself as another pillow whizzed across the room and slapped him.

"It's a nice gesture!" Serna said before shrieking as Setna retaliated, throwing pillows with a quick snap of his wrist.

The pillow war lasted a good hour with invasions of each other's beds, shield blankets were used and artillery came in throw, plush and decorative pillows. Eventually the two collapsed on the floor in a fit of laughter. Setna grinned wide as his sister collected herself after a long fit of giggling. How long had it been since they got to act like kids? They were technically adults but it didn't mean they'd have to give up fun did it? The teenaged boy just wanted one more moment, one more scene of bliss from his sister that got robbed of everything. They were working hard, both of them doing whatever it took to harden and train themselves for the future. But Setna was glad he was still able to make her laugh like she was five again. When they were just silly little kids causing trouble for their mother, only to get a scolding as soon as their father came home.

Setna smiled and gave a pat to his sister's shoulder, "Come on, time for bed."

Serna nodded, picking herself up and began the process of collecting blankets and pillows. Setna paused as he got to his feet and looked over at her. "Hey, do you remember those old stories that mom used to tell us? The War Dancer?"

Serna turned to look at him curiously. She smiled though and nodded with her nostalgia. "Of course, everyone knows about the War Dancer. She used to threaten us with it when we refused to go to bed, or when you wouldn't eat carrots!"

Setna made a face at the mention of carrots but it faded as he thought about Elrithos. He debated telling Serna that the monster they feared when they were little was actually the kind Aavikanian, but left it for another time as he flopped onto his bed for the night.

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~Esredia had done her best to follow the instructions of the desert elf had given her, but she had been lost for a moment. She wasn't used to cities, at least not ones this big. It was a wonder how people could get lost on the roads and in the woods and not within these cities. She scratched her head and stopped in the middle of the street, spinning on herself… Why didn't she ask for something more precise? It was a good question that she wished she had asked herself before leaving. She sighed heavily and asked, as best as she could, for directions. Little did she know, the first person she spoke pointed the way to it. How lucky of her.

Esredia had finally managed to find the alleyway that led to the place Elrithos had spoken about… Although it looked more like a shack than anything. Could it really be the place? Esredia decided to knock anyway, see if she would get an answer. What was her name again? Talia?

It was a little girl that answered, opening the door. She stared silently up at the tribeswoman, and waited.

Esredia had looked down when the door had been opened, blinking. It was a little girl who answered. She was a little confused at first, wondering if she got the wrong place. She knelt down to be at her level, a curious look on her face. Her red eyes were big, her lips parted.

"Are you… Talia?"

The little girl shook her head, and opened the door wider. She motioned once with a wave of the hand for Esredia to come in. Then glanced at the tribeswoman once more before she ran down the hall.

Esredia couldn't be more confused than at that moment. She wasn't the lady she was looking for, but the child motioned her to follow. What was happening? Esredia got back to her feet and followed the little girl in, wondering in what she was walking into. Was this really a place where someone could help Elrithos? She hoped she would get what Elrithos needed.

Esredia would find herself in the backroom which smelled of incense and tobacco. There was a lone table in the center, and the walls were filled with cabinets and counter space. There was one back door, where a masked woman finally appeared. The deer skull hid her face, as the beads in her hair and those attached to the mask clinked together as she walked. The little girl was hiding behind the woman's robed legs, and the woman held a pipe to her lips before exhaling, smoke circling in front of her face. "Why are you here?"

The eyes of the tribe woman wandered the room she had been brought into. She had a bad feeling about the place; she could feel it in her soul. The spirit of Yranda was active and the instinct of the huntress seemed to be pushing her to go away. Esredia wasn't comfortable in this place, but he had to talk to the lady Elrithos spoke about. He twisted and turned on herself, almost hitting the table, before she heard someone. She flinched and immediately turned to the lady who had presented herself. She looked like one of the shamans…

Hesitant, she looked around before speaking in her thick accent. "Hum… El.. Blazing wind sent me… Need help, black wound… Hum… Coins ready? Me not remember exact…. You Talia?" She asked, a little flustered.

Talia took another drag of her pipe, she held it a moment before speaking as the smoke exhaled from her lips. She seemed to get the gist of what Esredia said as she moved towards her cabinets and placed her pipe down."The Blazing Wind was injured with a cursed wound. Too injured to visit, so he sends you."

She began pulling bottles from the shelves, and uncorking them. She poured their liquids into a large bowl before mixing them and adding dashes of physical ingredients. Eventually she poured the mixture into a jar which she corked, and held out to the little girl. The girl walked over to Esredia and held it up to her as Talia explained. "Pour this on the wound, but tell him this will not be enough. I will come tomorrow, and heal it. He can pay then."

Esredia was glad she got the just of it and nodded briefly. "Yes. That." She simply answered as she backed away a little. She didn't know why, but she didn't like her. The spirits inside her soul were agitated, both of them. Why were they acting up like that? She didn't want to stay too long, but she would wait until the woman would give her an answer.

Eventually, the little girl brought a bottle of something to her, which she looked at suspiciously. She didn't know what to think of her, but the little girl was a sweety. So, he nodded to what she said and swiftly made her way out of the building, not wanting to stay a second longer.
​

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It was close to dawn when Elrithos would hear a loud and solemn knock on his door. Then complete and anxious silence.

Elrithos woke from the knock, his eyes opening slowly. He was expecting a visit from many people that morning. It was a question of who was going to be there first. So, he stretched himself out in pain once more as he then stood up and slowly made his way to the door. He unlocked it gently and opened. Elrithos smiled lightly to see the person that had come first.

"Talia… I have not seen you in years." He simply said as he slowly made his way back to the bed and lay down. "Please, come in. The money is on the side table." He simply added as he pointed beside his bed.

The masked woman glided into the room silently, followed by the small child who was holding a bag of things tightly to her chest. Talia loosened her robe a bit to get comfortable, she hated formal spaces. It reeked of greed and gluttony. The woman lit up her pipe as she motioned to the small child, who promptly stuffed Elrithos' payment into the bag she was carrying. "I suppose it has been some years. Usually an elf of your caliber is able to take care of himself. What happened?"

She was already rifling through the bag the child carried, setting things onto a desk as she exhaled a ring of smoke.

Elrithos had almost laughed as he saw Talia loosening her robes. He knew that she didn't like place were wealth and nobility was apparent. One of the few reasons why he had a little extra in there for the hassle of coming to him. He doesn't remember the little girl, but really, he never really remembered anything when he visited her. The sedatives were typically pretty strong to keep Elrithos down during those times, always seeking death.

He looked up to the ceiling as he tried to remember the events. "A group of human and elves attacked me two nights ago. Fifteen of them. Two of them fled when my brother in arm showed up. The rest… well, I don't have to specify their fate. One of them had a blade used by the soldiers of the Dark Emperor. I thought Ellahur had destroyed all of them."

"Strange." Talia didn't look up from what she was doing as she lit a bit of incense and centered it on the desk. Finally she grabbed a bowl, filled with different bottles and ingredients before coming over to Elrithos' side."Show me the wound."

Elrithos did as he was asked and lifted his pants up to his knee. The bloody bandage was slowly removed to show a small gash, nothing that would have been quite deadly… But around it, veins had turned black and the skin was purple.

"I remember them being that vicious." He said softly. "I think it is one of those elven village's habitant that is after me. Heard a total stranger call me "Blazing Wind." About a week back. An elven lady. I think I saw her with those people too… Do you think the cults to the Dark Emperor are up to something?" He asked.

"I cannot say." Talia spoke as she began pressing small needles into a pattern around the wound. After that was done she began uncorking her ingredients and mixing them. "I am no longer a seer of such things. There has always been darkness and lightness. There has always been a cycle. After the death of the Emperor, we received our light. Two hundred years have passed since then. Perhaps the cycle is moving towards darkness once more."

Talia finished her mixing and the trinkets in her hair clinked as she gave him orders. "Lay back, do not speak. It is shallow, the pain should not be overbearing. I will start."

The woman poured a bit of her concoction over the wound, which began to froth and let out steam. Talia then inserted a finger within the gash itself and turned completely silent. After a long moment, the woman seemed to begin to hum, yet it sounded like many voices whispering from the same lips. Slowly Talia lifted her finger, and with it came a black oozing substance. It lifted from the Desert Elf's wound and into her bowl, where it promptly began to bubble and smoke. Talia continued this process until the veins and skin returned to their normal and healthy color.

Talia poured the tainted substance into a jar, and corked it. "It is purified."

She then took out the needles, and waved a hand over the gash, which seemed to coagulate quickly and healthily. She pressed a new bandage against it anyway, but then she paused. Talia turned stock still, she tilted her head to the side, and then she looked up at the ceiling. "Is there a dark arts user residing here?"

Elrithos had almost laughed at her answer… She had changed since the last time he saw her those many years ago. Yet, it also felt like nothing has changed at all. The only difference was last time he came to her was because Ysander and brought him to her after almost dying on the battlefield. Even though Elrithos hated that war, he had made some good friends that would last a lifetime. He had even found a relative of Ysander now, which was a gift all together.

When she gave the orders, Elrithos nodded and had his hands grip the sheets tightly. The pain wasn't going to be overbearing… How many times had he heard that one? Taking a deep breath, he then felt the substance fizzing on his wound, immediately making him squirm. He remembered that this was a very, very unpleasant process. He held back a scream as she pushed in her fingers… This was something he did not miss.

She eventually did what she had to do, but Elrithos was tense. The vile magic was completely removed. Once she removed everything, he relaxed as best as he could… She then popped the question. He lifted his head, wondering what she spoke about.

"There are a couple of magic users in here now, but known that I know manipulate the dark arts… Closest thing would either be Tirian, an elementalist, or Vordan, the Maker. I don't believe they use it." He replied. "Thanks for the help. Your business is always appreciated."

Talia remained still, her head still tilted. "What a dreadful voice..." She muttered, mostly to herself.

She finally brought her attention back to the Desert Elf, and she waved her hand across his injured body. "The healers you received were sub-par at best. But they did enough. The rest of your injuries should heal quickly as long as you rest."

She turned to the little girl and made a hand motion. The girl dug through the bag until she came across a bottle, that she then held out for Elrithos to take. Talia explained it to him. "For residual pain. Should keep you off your feet with no pain until you are healed."

Talia waited for the man to take it before she motioned again to the little girl and began to head to the door. "I hope you do not call on me again for another set of years, Blazing Wind. Take care of yourself, and mention to Ysander's spirit that I bid a hello."

Then she and the girl were gone.
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Aaerynn rubbed her eyes as she came up the stairs and began heading towards her room to visit Vordan. The nightmare she had had last night left her with a painful ache in her gut. She couldn't pinpoint the time at all where she had fallen asleep. It had felt so real...She hadn't expected to wake up in the floor of the library, surrounded by what she was studying.

The wood elf shook her head, trying to forget it. At least she had found something incredibly valuable. She'd go back down after seeing if Vordan was alright.

Aaerynn paused however as she caught sight of...Talia? The larger woman was waiting in front of her door, the silent little girl standing beside her. "Talia?"

The masked woman turned her head to Aaerynn. "Aaerynn...this is normally your designated room. There is a man inside."

The wood elf looked a little flustered at that, as she came closer. Talia suddenly reached out and waved her arm around Aaerynn's head, as the elf spoke, "He was triggered by something demonic. I figured he'd have more peace here to sleep. I considered taking him to you...But I didn't know if you could help him."

Talia brought her hand back, and Aaerynn was surprised to feel slightly better and more awake. Talia turned to the door, before she said, "I can't. He is attached to that world. However, I can certainly silence those irritating voices. Let me in."

Aaerynn blinked in surprise, but thought over what had happened last night. The way Vordan had screamed at something unseen. Her hands bunched up at her sides. Talia may not be able to help completely...but to at least make sure that he could no longer hear the voices haunting him...

Aaerynn knocked on the door once before opening it to take a peek."Vordan? Are you awake?"

Vordan had woken up early enough that morning. The voice wasn't bothering him, the entity seemingly still cast away from the wards. It let the man get the rest he needed, although his stomach had been growling. He did what he could to get out and get things from the kitchen and actually grab a few things from his own room before he returned. That morning, he worked on his projects.

He was at the desk, things neatly organized on it. He was working on a few of the projects he could finish that day. A few of them were easy… Others needed a few more things. At least he would have something done and he didn't need to read any books. So, he was focused down on one of his projects, small tools in his hand, before someone knocked at the door. He lifted his head and stood up, taking but on step before the door opened. It was Aaerynn. He smiled lightly.

"Yes, I'm awake! Just finishing up some things."

Aaerynn's face softened as she opened the door wider upon seeing Vordan standing and looking well. Her chest filled with relief. She had been worried he would be terrorized the moment he awoke. But he looked a lot better, and his voice was a lot stronger compared to the moments before he fell asleep. Her mind resurfaced with her realization from the night before, but it didn't stop her from coming into the room. She would enjoy this feeling for the time that she had it.

Just as the wood elf was about to explain her guest, Aaerynn was nearly knocked aside by the larger woman who immediately came into the room. The beading and trinkets of her hair clacked as she tilted her head this way and that. "Such a racket..."

Talia walked around, diligently followed by the little girl, before stopping to look at what Vordan was using for wards. "Weak."

Aaerynn looked from Talia to Vordan, and attempted an explanation. "This is Talia she's... Mmm.... I don't know the common word. But she was the one to heal my arm and purge it. She has a long history dealing with the after effects of the dark arts, and purifying them. She wants to help."

At least the wood elf hoped that was what Talia was here for. The masked woman finally stopped and took Vordan in as a whole. "You must be the Maker the Blazing Wind spoke about. I have dealt with many of your kind. Your curiosity always gets the best of you. Your friend is not happy that I am here."

He was glad to see that Aaerynn was alright and wasn't being tormented by… him. He knew he could reach out sometimes, like he had done to his old friend. Those were the times he had almost become insane. He was lucky he even came out alive and with his entire mind. He put down the things in his hand and was about to approach her…

The large woman had made her way in the room, which startled the mercenary. Who the hell was she? He took a step back as she came close. He noticed a little girl was following, although she remained silent. He gave Aaerynn a curious look as she then went to his trinkets. Weak was all she said. That had almost insulted him, but it was true they were not the greatest… But it did mean she knew what they were.

He glanced at Aaerynn as she explained. He nodded. "That explains her attitude… She communicates and can hear spirits, demons and other entities, right? Well…" He wasn't going to say anything more. As they both looked at each other… Blazing Wind? Who was that? More people he did not know, but it didn't matter. She continued on and Vordan sighed.

"Of course not. Your kind typically banishes or purges these beings… Although I haven't heard him since last night. The holy water did work… But anyway, why are you here?" He asked, wondering what the lady was up to.

"Holy water only works for so long. A short remedy to a long and persistent problem." Talia clucked her tongue before crossing her arms in front of her large bosom. "I am here to silence it better. It will not be forever. Your attachment to the abyss is strong. They will come again when you are triggered, as Aaerynn said you were last night. But a purged silence will grant you peace of mind for longer, unless you would rather put your faith into little trinkets?"

Vordan was a little suspicious to her actions. She knew a lot, which almost scared him. Just having knowledge of these things typically attracted their attention… Vordan narrowed his eyes on the lady. He closed his eyes and sighed deeply as he took a seat in a chair. "I'll take any help… But they won't stop, not until they get what they want from me. You are right that curiosity takes the best of us, but our zealous passion for creation drives us to do things people would think is horrid…"

He remembered the day it happened. They had all been taken away by his mad drive for peace and quiet. He paid dearly and it stung to his soul forever. The demons were good at reminding him of it… as those thoughts poured, the voices started, but this time, he expected them.

"… I know the only way it make it stop… But I can't let it happen."

Aaerynn frowned as she watched Vordan sink into a chair. Her mind teetered on the memory of Vordan hinting at some of his projects, and how he was attempting to avoid such horrid outcomes. Now she could see that he had come to realize that first hand with his past. Aaerynn slowly approached him, and carefully placed a hand on his shoulder. She was about to say something, but was quickly interrupted.

"Then don't."

Talia had already been shifting through her bag and procuring the things she needed as she spoke. She paused only to light up her pipe once again, and took a drag before she continued speaking. "That is the price you pay for what you have done, or attempted to do. You toyed with forces beyond your control, and now you bear the burden of withholding it. Many makers have done what you did in their own way. Most fell to insanity, others killed themselves to relieve them of the stress. But it never goes away. Even through death it comes back to haunt the living. They will follow you to your grave."

Talia took yet another puff before looking over to Vordan then to Aaerynn."I will provide my services for as long as you wish. And give you better working wards then whatever it is your using now. Before we get started, I must ask, do you trust Aaerynn?"

Aaerynn lifted her eyebrow at the sudden question. What was Talia after? She lifted her hand from Vordan's shoulder and stepped back to look at him. She found herself a bit anxious at the answer, although she attempted not to show it.

Vordan looked up to Aaerynn as she laid a hand onto his shoulder. He looked at her for a moment, Talia eventually just telling him to not do it. Was it that easy? Vordan didn't believe it. There was a way he could get rid of them without losing his sanity, without harming anyone… Did he know this solution? No. But nothing was impossible. Mages of all kinds say there are limits, but there isn't any.

He looked back at the large woman speaking of his ways and those of the Makers. It was true; a lot of people lost themselves… The voices were getting louder and louder. He knew the stories of his brethren. He wasn't going to fall… The lady went on and the last question set him back. He raised a brow as Aaerynn stepped back. What did it have to do with the whole thing? Quite an odd question… He looked at Aaerynn a moment, then back to the large lady.

"I'd give her my life in her hands without hestiation." He simply answered as he stood up. "And you're wrong. One can get rid of the burden. Is it easy? No… But you know what? Not much was deemed possible by Makers, but they invented things that are supposed to be impossible. I'm going to create things people thought impossible, find cures to sicknesses people think cannot be handled… Because I know nothing is impossible. Those who believe it are limited to their own beliefs. I wouldn't have continued making things if I thought it was impossible to accomplish even what is said to be impossible. I'll prove it wrong..."

The only thing he needed? Time. The voices got louder in his head, getting painful as he sat back down. Then, he realized it... The cure to all of it. It took only momenta like these to make Vordan realize what is missing on his projects. He knew what would make it stop.

Talia tilted her head, turning silent as the beads in her hair clacked together. Aaerynn presumed if she hadn't been wearing the mask, she would be holding a curious or maybe shocked expression. The wood elf, on the other hand, was holding back a hint of a smile. Vordan spoke of impossible things. Surely, one human couldn't accomplish all he claimed. Even if his heart was in it, he didn't have the years. She wanted to believe though, she wanted to hope he could do as he says.

Talia though, spoke again, ignoring the outburst altogether. The man could believe whatever delusions he wished. Her entire life she had fixed up men like him, with such grand ideals. Their endings were never clean nor easy."Good. I did not bring straps. She will have to hold you down. Now stand and undress. Once you are done, lay down on the bed. Those voices are making my head ache, as I am sure they are doing to you."

Vordan didn't know if his message have gotten to her, yet, it really didn't matter. Mages like couldn't understand. He had read many times about Makers completely trash other mages because of their lack of faith. Makers had proven, time and time, that the impossible wasn't impossible. The war was proof, as the Ripper had been created and all the weapon versions of them were sent to the battlefield. He knew he would prove them all wrong.

She spoke of not having straps and that Aaerynn needed to hold him down. This seemed to trigger the demon, as the voices died down, but his voice became clear to Talia.

He is mine, witch! Keep your filthy magic away from him! He'll give me the means to come into this world and stay! He's going do it for Aaerynn, regardless of what you can do to me! He needs it to help her and he won't stop until he can!

Vordan was a little taken back from the request though. Undress? What need did she have to have him undress? He didn't want to show his mutilated body… He has still been hesitant to even remove his shirt in front of anyone. Yet, he knew that she could help make the voices go away long enough for him to do his work. He looked over to Aaerynn and then sighed. Slowly, he removed the gauntlet from his arm and followed by completely removing his vest and shirt.

His arms, as Aaerynn had previously seen, were almost completely mutilated from his hands to his shoulders. Burns, cuts, gashes had healed over, most seemingly fresh scars from wounds no older than a few months. Parts of his skin were discolored and even held tints of black. The wounds didn't finish there. His chest and a few, his back almost completely clean. Long, ugly scars covered part of him, two looked specifically nasty. Both seemed to have the width and length of a sword blade. The back had the same kinds of scars, hitting he had probably been ran through with blades more than once.

Vordan wondered if he really needed EVERYTHING off, which he wasn't too appreciative to the idea. So, if he would have to take them off, Talia would surely let him now. He laid down onto the bed and took a deep breath.

"Pants too. If you have undergarments that's fine. Otherwise cover yourself up. I won't go that far."

Talia had ignored the voice for the most part. But she was certainly going to let the wood elf know what the Maker was up to. Now wasn't the time though. She would shut up that ugly voice first. She pulled out her bowl of needles, but excluded the ones she had already used on the Desert Elf. The little girl had turned away from the man, helping Talia pull out the smooth obsidian stones.

Aaerynn for her part, had placed a hand to her lips upon seeing Vordan's chest and back in full. The pain he must have experienced. Most of the scars looked to be of wounds that had to have been almost fatal. Yet here he was still going, still working and still striving forward. She had the urge to touch them, but instead her hand fell to her side. At Talia's exclaimation for him to lose his pants she turned away and looked at the ceiling to give him some modesty. Gods...

Vordan had expected to be completely undressed. Aaerynn and the little girl had turned around to let him do his thing. He detached the rope that held his pants up and quickly tossing them away. He wasn't wearing any undergarments; he would only do so when he had to be in armor. He pulled the sheet from under his legs and covered up to his waist, sighing lightly.

The voice was angered and had completely died down for the moment… Vordan knew it was up to something. It wouldn't shut up unless it had to or was doing something else. "Better hurry, he is up to something…"

Talia approached, setting down her bowl and her ingredients. "They always are..." She muttered mostly to herself before she turned to Aaerynn."Come on, do not act so shy. You work with medicine. You know bodies. I need you to hold him down."

Aaerynn's shoulders raised as if she had been caught doing something she wasn't supposed to. Of course she knew bodies. But this was...different. Aaerynn rubbed her temple, sighing at her childishness before turning and approaching the bed. She kept her gaze on Vordan's face before patting his shoulder, an indication for him to scoot down. Then she crawled onto the bed behind his head. She'd be able to hang over him and hold him down better this way, and keep out of Talia's way. She looked at Vordan's face as Talia began pricking the tiny needles into specific parts of Vordan's body, starting with his feet. Aaerynn attempted a soft tease, hoping to possibly soothe him or herself, as she whispered to Vordan, "I have to say this is the strangest 24 hours I have experienced in a long time."

She finally looked over as Talia moved along with her needles. It felt like it took forever until she finally placed the smooth stones across his stomach and chest. Then everything turned completely silent. Aaerynn felt like she was holding her breath until suddenly Talia moved and poured a concoction of her own making across her hands and then pressed them to the stones. The masked woman looked up at the wood elf, who took it as her cue to hold him down. Aaerynn sat up and pressed her hands down on Vordan's shoulders and close to his collarbone, attempting to not touch any of the needles that were pricked there. She'd move her hands later depending on how his body reacted. But for now she merely looked down at Vordan's face while holding an apologetic face of her own.

"Let's begin then."

The masked woman then began to whisper a chant while pressing down hard on the stones.

Vordan shimmied down the bad to let Aaerynn some space over his head… Vordan was wondering what kind of pain he would be going through if she needed someone to hold him down. This wasn't like what the other shaman had done to him, who simply splashed his body with a thick, disgusting thing. It worked, but it took days to take off the smell. Vordan looked up at the wood elf as she poked a tease at him. He sighed and placed a light smile on his lips.

"Has to be in my top three strangest situations I've been in…" He whispered back. When Talia finally went to place the needles, Vordan barely flinched or reacted. His threshold for pain had become quite high and these points, even if they hit sweet spots, didn't seem to bother him. Although, his mind was now racing… The demon had shut up completely. He was going to do something and he feared that he missed something. He took a single deep breath as he felt the weight being put onto his shoulders.

As soon as she began chanting, Vordan's eyes turned to the table that had his projects and his own gauntlet. He felt his own magic being released, slowly… The demon was manipulating his magic. His own gauntlet moved lightly. Oh shit… He told himself. He was going to go after the only thing that could arm them. He looked back up at Aaerynn.

"Aaerynn... Go grab my gauntlet and put it on. Now!" He said quietly, not wanting to disturb the chanting. He could take whatever was coming, but he wasn't going to let the demon harm them.

Aaerynn looked down at Vordan before looking over at where he had set his things. She watched for a split second as the gauntlet seemed to shift on its own. Quickly and quietly, the wood elf slipped from her position and ran over to it. She had no idea how to equip such a thing but she placed it on her to the best of her ability.

That was when Talia's chanting became entwined with different voices and the stones on Vordan's body seemed to shine, filling with the masked woman's magic. Aaerynn came back over but paused, not entirely sure if having the gauntlet near the Maker would cause something negative to happen. She waited though, fully ready to pounce and hold him down if need be. His body had already seemed to tense up tightly from the magic itself.

Vordan just followed Aaerynn with his eyes as she went for the gauntlet. The demon was still trying to manipulate the Maker's magic and use it as his own to trigger objects around them. Makers had a natural connection to most objects that had magic imprinted in them, so with the right knowledge and manipulation of magic, they could manage odd things. Though, as soon as she had put it on, Vordan sighed of relief.

It lasted no more than a second. As soon as the voices intertwined, Vordan immediately felt a sure of magic just run through his body. His hands turned into fists and you could see his muscles contract to it. This was nothing like the other aid he had received. Vordan gasped for air for a second, but remained still. It was a surprise alright and he did his best to say still. Though, he could start feeling the burning sensation in his lungs. The struggle had started.

Talia had begun her trance. Her magic would force its way into the Maker's body, following the trail of needles that she had intricately placed across his skin. As the magic moved it would cleanse anything of a dark nature, essentially ripping it out. The magic would then stay inside Vordan's body, providing an internal ward against the demon's presence. Eventually that magic would break down bit by bit, taking years to do so. Unless there was an extreme outside stimuli to enhance dark magic.

Aaerynn was trying her best to keep her focus on Vordan, but something was wrong. Her head was beginning to feel fuzzy and the rot in her body gave a sudden lurch that made her feel sick. She looked down to the ground, trying to stop her vision from swimming as her stomach filled with pain that traveled up and made her lungs squeeze. She could feel it. The dark and sinister presence attempting to reach out to the gauntlet she was wearing. Her rot was reacting to it. She could feel her blood start to burn throughout her insides and the scars on her skin ached with her increasing heart rate.

The wood elf remained still and silent however. She was trying her best to hold it and not drop to the floor. But she supposed, rather bitterly, that part of this was a good thing. It gave support to her research last night. She didn't know if that creation myth was to be trusted, that the rot was the purest abyssal substance to maintain itself on the mortal plain, but she couldn't ignore its reaction to being so close to such a presence. There had to be a reason why the Dark Emperor had sought it out...

The pain was, surprisingly, bearable. His mutilated body had hardened itself against pain, even of the magical sort, and it showed. Though, there was no denying; it was still quite painful and it took Vordan everything to not just start taking out the needles. He couldn't remember reading about this anywhere and it almost fascinated him. His eyes closed as the process continued.

The demon, although trying to get to the Rot of the Wood elf, his presence slowly died down, right up to it completely disappeared, the Maker's magic released. Vordan eventually coughed, the steam escaping his lips, then nothing. No more pain, just soreness… Vordan could feel that the dark presence was gone. His eyes opened, now tired, almost exhausted. He couldn't even feel the presence of the dark magic. That was… incredible! Vordan turned his head to Talia, simply amazed. "Your magic… completely purged me… I thought those who talk to spirits didn't have such an extent…"

Vordan looked towards Aaerynn, glad she didn't have to intervene… Although, she didn't look well. "Talia… Could you fill a vial with my blood…" He said. He needed his cleansed blood. It would help him accomplish a lot with his work.

"That is why I am the best." Talia merely said as everything died down and she began plucking out her needles from Vordan's skin. "Eventually my magic will break down. Usually it takes a good long couple of years. But it depends on what you mess with Maker."

She did as he asked though, nicking his skin and filling a vial which she handed to him before closing the wound. She finally picked up her stones and placed everything away. "You'll soon feel more rejuvenated, but I suggest you eat something to refill your body after what it has experienced. Now, as for payment..."

"I got it."

Aaerynn suddenly spoke up as she dismantled the gauntlet from her arm. Her face was pale and her body tense from pain. But she walked over to her bag and pulled out some gold coins, she returned and placed them into Talia's open hand. The wood elf wasn't expecting the masked woman to suddenly slam her other palm into her stomach. Aaerynn doubled over, coughing loudly, black blood dripping from her lips to the floor.

Talia waited for the wood elf to stop coughing before she spoke. "When was the last time you ate? I remember specifically telling you to eat yesterday after attempting the purge on your arm."

Aaerynn remained silent, before she wiped her lips. "I didn't feel like it..." It was a soft whisper.

Talia snorted from beneath her mask. "It does not matter whether you felt like it or not. The rot will do anything to kill you. Even starve you to death by closing off your gut completely. You will eat today."

The large woman finally turned back to Vordan, as her child assistant lifted her bag. "I do not know what you are attempting to do to 'help' Aaerynn. But I can assure you, if you plan on using dark magic, nothing will come of it. It'll destroy you as much as it will kill Aaerynn. You can feel so grand and spout as much nonsense as you wish, but do not drag others into your foolishness when you have no understanding of what it is you are trying to 'help.'"

With that Talia made a hand motion to the little girl and they were then both gone, disappearing out the door and leaving the wood elf and Maker alone.

Aaerynn slowly grabbed hold of a chair, sitting as she continued rubbing her lips. She looked over at Vordan before softly asking, "What was she talking about?"

Vordan took a few deep breaths as the needles were removed from his body, barely feeling any of it. This ritual had really taken a toll on him; his muscles were sore and he was a little light headed now. He didn't feel any pain though, which was a good trade off. He closed his hand around the vial of his own blood, a gentle smile on his face.

Talia mentioned payment and Aaeryn had been quick to say she had it. Vordan had more than enough coins to pay on his own, but he wasn't in the kind of mood to contest. Instead, he looked towards her with a smile, about to thank her and promise her he'd pay her back… What he saw stopped him from doing so as the palm connected with Aaerynn's stomach. Vordan was shocked for a second and then nearly jumped from his bed. His aches left him to slip to his side and just watch what was going on.

"The heck…"

Talia wasn't paying attention to him at all, but she spoke of something interesting. She was the one that purged Aaerynn and helped her, but Aaerynn didn't follow her advice. Vordan stayed quiet to let the two finish. He could just go eat with her now, it wouldn't that big of a deal… But then, she turned to him.

Her words were a harsh reality for the Maker. His eyes narrowed onto the spirit listener, then turned away about halfway through her speech. There was one thing that was true in everything she said; he didn't understand what he was against. Yet, Vordan didn't care. He would figure it out, like he's figured out so many other things. When she left, he slowly sat up, making sure the covers still laid over his bottom half.

The question was asked and he just smiled a little. "I told you, I promised I would help you. You've told me the cure to your Rot, so I just have to work on it…" He was hiding something indeed. What he needed to help her was something to also help himself, but it meant going back into darker subjects to accomplish it. He looked down in front of him. "She's thinks I'm going back into dark magic to complete whatever I need to complete." Vordan looked back up. "How about we get something to eat?"

Aaerynn frowned at his explanation. Talia always spoke with purpose. Something must have tipped the healer off, and Aaerynn just hoped Vordan knew what he was getting into. She didn't have it in her to investigate it further.

The wood elf stood once more as Vordan asked if she wanted to get something to eat. In all honesty, Aaerynn really didn't want to. She felt a bit sick, and with what she just experienced, she needed to go back to her research. She paused though, Talia's words echoing in her head. "I just want to go down to the library and get some things. I'll leave you to dress, and I'll meet you at the dining hall. Is that alright? Are you feeling well enough to walk by yourself?"

Even after what Talia had just suggested, Aaerynn still wanted to get a few things from the library first. It made him smile and even laugh a little. "That's fine, just don't keep me waiting in the dining hall there. Hot food is better." He teased as he looked around for his clothes. Still right near the bed. Better, none of his other items had moved. "I'll be fine to walk… Slowly, but I'll be able. I'll meet you there."

He didn't add anymore for now and let her walk out of the room for him to get dressed and grab his items. He'd be finalizing the mundane task of making the items; he would then need to start implementing the magic. Not the greatest idea for that day to mess with magic again.
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Aaerynn jogged down the stairs to the library. She had left her vial and dagger on the tea table and wanted to pick them up before returning to the dining hall. Plus she was hoping to sneak out a few pages of what she had found last night. Under a few boxes she had unveiled an old journal and stacks of paper acting as a translation to it. The journal had been written in a numbered code, but someone seemed to have gone to extensive lengths to translate as much as they could. The wood elf was a bit skeptical as to the truth and substance of the journal itself and what it claimed, but so far, especially with how her rot had reacted to a demonic presence, it hadn't been wrong. Aaerynn was hoping it would hold all of her answers.

She unlocked the double doors and pushed her way through. Yet she became still, as she looked over at the hearth. Slowly, as her mind registered what had happened, she walked over to where she knew she had set her things. Her vial was gone, as was her dagger. The stack of papers that she had organized and clumped together, were left in an array across the table and on the floor.

Who would have done such a thing? Better yet, who else had permission to enter the library? She knew she had locked it. Could Farin have taken it? It didn't make sense. Why would he bother?

Aaerynn stood in silence, until she finally turned, heading quickly for the dining hall.
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Serna had gotten Setna to wake her up early. Her brother was off for more training and the Syndarean girl was eager to continue her own. She had made a promise to Tirian! She'd become strong and make sure he would never be alone. She'd protect everyone. Plus, she really did want to see the red head as soon as she could.

Serna had tied her new ribbon into her hair with a wide smile before she rushed out and towards the kitchen. She'd get some breakfast for herself and Tirian, then perhaps they'd be able to train some more. The teenager grabbed some fruit and bread, before tearing back up the stairs and to Tirian's room. She eagerly tapped on his door, bouncing slightly with impatience until he opened it.

Tirian had a restful night, sleeping sound in the confines of a secure mountain fortress. A tiny knock coming at the door with just enough audibility to its sound to stir the sleeping man awake. Tirian slid out of the bed with a quick wipe of his eyes and opened the door to a bouncing Serna, wearing the bow and holding a basket of oddities for eating. He gave the girl a simple smile holding out his hand signaling just one second as he closed the door once more to change into his typical outfit of cloak and lightweight armor. Tirian slid his feet and hands into their boots and gloves and returned to the door.

"I am guessing you want to train? Then let's do it."

Serna blushed and grinned wide as he read her mind. She eagerly followed behind the redhead as they settled on a place to train for the day. They both ate their breakfast, and quickly went to work on having Serna practice her skill. She had already done rather well and was progressing enough that she had been able to withstand a barrier shattering. They spent awhile on the girl's ability to form and bend the barriers to her whim, and then the Durandal soldier proceeded to test her endurance and the weight of the barrier's themselves.

As the hours passed, Serna finally fell a bit from her fatigue. She hadn't really pushed herself before, besides the fight. It was a lot more draining than she realized and her stomach made it known as it growled loudly. "Maybe we can stop for lunch?" She looked up at him and laughed a bit.​

 

[Dekonic]

As usual, the dining hall seemed lively with fragrances of food from many cultures represented on the massive dining table that sat perfectly centered in the room. Serna sped off to gather food for herself, while Tirian took things slow and picking out just a few items to indulge in before returning for a select few other dishes. The red-head returned to Serna and sat next to her with a warm smile on his face. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a waving hand. The warrior gave a simple nod to the elf before turning back to his dish for a few slow bites of food, enjoying every ounce of flavor packed into each item. Tirian turned his eyes to Serna, who had a puzzled look upon her face.


"That's Demetrius, the man who found us and gave his medical attention. Also a war hero and a friend of my sister if I recall correctly."

Getting to the dining hall was more of a hassle than he had thought it was going to be. The first couple of steps outside the room were fine, but it became a slow, cautious walk. Whatever the spirit talker had done, it worked a little too well. It was a quiet walk really, and when he came near to the hall, the smell of the food simply washed into his nostrils. It smelled like the heavens and more. With a great smile, he made his way inside, noticing the food first. He didn't even hesitate and went for it, grabbing a plate and simply filling it up to the brim. It was a little heavy, but he needed the food.

Once he had everything he wanted to munch on, he turned to go to a table, noticing the blue haired Syndarean and the Red Haired Prince. He casually walked to them, the food having lifted his spirit up. He made sure he made himself clear on his arrival before sitting down with them.

"Hey there you two. Haven't had time to see you two the past few days. I'll be needing both your help to complete some projects later."

A war hero? A friend to Tirian's sister? Serna tilted her head in contemplation as she looked over to the elves. She was trying her best to remember. She had a few brief and fuzzy memories of what happened after the fight, but that was it. She remembered a voice and someone helping out her brother and Lucille but she couldn't match the face.

She smiled though as suddenly Vordan approached carrying a plate piled with food. "G-Good day Vordan! Y-You need our help?"

Serna's eyebrows raised with her curiosity, but the remark that the group hadn't seen each other for the past couple of days made the girl suddenly sit up with a sudden realization. She frowned as she spoke. "O-Oh! Did you hear th-that Elrithos was injured? Setna said that he got j-jumped. I s-suppose all of us are having a hard time here."

The Syndarean girl kept her frown as she poked at her food. Not only had someone sought out Tirian but even Elrithos was suddenly confronted. Her eyes gazed over at the red head who seemed mostly healed from his fight... but it was still strange.

----------

Aaerynn hustled a bit to the dining area. Hopefully Farin would be there and she could ask about the whereabouts of her things. If not, she'd eat quickly with Vordan and then seek the dwarven lord out.

As she opened the doors to the dining hall, her eyes immediately caught sight of Vordan and the others. She approached slowly, giving a glance over the room for Farin, but instead she stopped mid-step as she caught sight of Ieowyn and Demetrius.

Fuck that.

The wood elf promptly turned on her heel to exit, not willing to even be in the same room as them. Not after everything that had happened. She didn't need another confrontation.

"Oh Aaerynn, I have been waiting for you. Please join us!"

Aaerynn had turned stock still at the singsong voice that called out to her. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides. A part of her wondered about what Talia said, about how the Rot would do anything to kill her... was it the cause of her shitty luck then? Because this would surely finish her off.

She continued standing there until another voice added to the first in elvish.

"Aaerynn. That is an order, from a noble."

Her brother's voice was practically a bark and Aaerynn finally turned to look at them. Ieowyn sat with a pleasant smile on her face, motioning for her to join them, as Demetrius stood beside her. Aaerynn made a visible grimace before walking towards them. She glanced at her companions once, before focusing back on Ieowyn.

An elvish aid pulled out a chair for her, and the wood elf sat. Aaerynn put on a blank face as she stared at her brother and then to Ieowyn. The elven noble's smile unnerved her, and Aaerynn's eyes narrowed, a frown filling her lips. She wasn't going to fall back into their idiotic game. She wasn't a drunk and vulnerable mess, nor was she surprised anymore. What in the gods' names could they want with her?

Ieowyn's smile was still pleasant as she spoke, idly brushing off invisible dirt from her skirts. "I just wanted to have a light chat. I know my husband said some cruel things to you the other day. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive him. He is a passionate man, as I am sure you know."

Aaerynn tensed at the elvish woman's tone, her fingers digging into her legs as they rested on her lap. What was Ieowyn after? Her gaze lifted to look at her brother's face, yet he still refused to look at her. Aaerynn pulled her attention away to stare at her brother's hand, placed rather obviously on the hilt of his sword. The aids too, she turned her head to glance at them, were armed as well. Was she being threatened?

Vordan's voice broke the man's silence, his eyes turning to the maker and giving a quick nod before returning to his food once more. Serna gave some information in Elrithos to which he began to reply but was stopped in his tracks. Tirian turned his head towards the door as it opened to reveal the wood elf Aaerynn, her expression suddenly changing as she caught sight of her relatives. The air shifted in tension as she reluctantly sat with the others. Tirian's eyes narrowed as the aids and guards moved their hands to their weapons. Tirian shifted in his chair giving himself room enough to jump into the fray if anything else were to happen.

"Vordan, keep your eyes on that table. Something doesn't seem right about this. No action yet, wait for something to happen."

The two of them would be able to help him finish most of his projects, if not all. There were a few changes he needed to do with the items since he discovered a few alternatives with the books. They were minor, but necessary. He would have explained what he needed from them too, but Serna sat up straight for like a salute from a soldier. It stopped him from speaking, letter her explain the situation. To his great surprise, Elrithos had been jumped… which sounded off. Why would anyone hurt HIM? Mighty fine question.

He took a piece of meat and ripped it off the bone with his teeth, eating the big junk. The doors opened and Aaerynn came in. He smiled lightly, waving her over… Then, everything changed. She had looked over to a table and Vordan finally noticed the brother and his wife. Vordan narrowed his eyes towards them and then turned to Aaerynn to see her walk away. He would had convinced her to stay, but it seemed for the best.

Yet again, she wasn't able to walk away it seems. What was happening? She had reluctantly followed his brother back to his table. Why? Why not just walk away? She didn't have to join them! Vordan was a little irritated by the situation, but he noticed the same thing as Tirian. There were weapon on those people. Was it necessary? Either that, or something was going to happen. Tirian warned him and Vordan shook his head.

"Waiting lets them time to do what they want. I have a better idea."

With that, he grabbed his plate and got up, walking all the way over to the table with a smile. He knew what he wanted to do. Was it a great plan? No. But, it could maybe pull Aaerynn out of there. Once he placed his plate down.

"Aaerynn, I thought you were joining me for food this morning. It's a little rude of your part. Hope your friends here don't mind if I join." He said with a wink at the end as he took a seat. He'd been in the mass of the problem, but he would be close.

Serna stiffened in surprise to see what was happening. She watched as Vordan quickly left the table and the Syndarean girl looked to the table of elves and then to Tirian. "What's going on?"

Her eyebrows knitted with concern, a frown coming to her face.

--------------

Aaerynn had stiffened, watching as Ieowyn's eyes turned frigid as Vordan approached. The wood elf looked up to the Maker, slightly relieved but it quickly turned into stress. She wanted to tell him to go back to the others, but she wasn't allowed to speak. Her hands tightened into fists instead.

Ieowyn smiled pleasantly at Vordan, but her green eyes were cold as she spoke. "I apologize for her rudeness. She is not allowed to dismiss the orders of a noble. However, I am afraid I do mind your presence. I must discuss matters of Aaerynn's exilement... private matters, you see. Not made for the curious ears of humans. Return to your little friends, and I give my promise I will release Lady Aaerynn to you soon."

Ieowyn gave a hand motion to express dismissal and Aaerynn's eyes narrowed further. Her exilement? Her body tightened up, and she stared up at her brother. He finally returned her gaze, his eyes just as hard as his wife's.

Tirian attempted to stop the man, but decided against it. The maker didn't seem to have faith in Tirian's battle planning, however this distraction would give the warrior even more time to plan what could happen and how to counter each scenario. Vordan on the other hand, would have to learn on his own the procedures or Elven royalty. The keen man observed Aaerynn and how she did not speak, an odd sight. The wood elf was often quick to speak her mind and this gave Tirian the last tidbit of information he needed for the situation. He'd spent some years among royalty and learned enough to know their cultural procedures and ways. He had also gathered enough information on Aaerynn to place her puzzle together. Tirian sighed to himself as her turned to Serna with an assumption, or rather an attempted explanation.

"This is what I can assume. I can't tell you why but it seems as if Aaerynn was exiled from her homeland. That would explain why she can not speak in the presence of her brother, who is of royal blood. Those who are exiled are forbidden to speak in the presence of royalty, and is punishable by death. If anything happens, do not interfere even in the slightest. Let Vordan and myself handle whatever happens."

Tirian turned suddenly to an icy presence that appeared from behind him.

"Odd to see a human so interested in Elven dining. He'd be careful to speak, or his tongue may be the last thing he eats."

Auriel took a seat next to Tirian, who turned his head back towards the table. His dominant hand shifted to his blade, that he always carried no matter where or when. The sword of his people meant more to him than his own life, and under no circumstances would he allow it to be anywhere other than his side. Tirian eyed over the aids, sizing them up by weight, height and stance. From this analyzing he could tell to some degree if he could best them in a fight. 'The eyes have it.' His father use to say, you could always tell who was wild and who was not. Those with experience of war and fighting always showed it in their eyes. Tirian straightened himself in the chair and scooted back even more as the tension began to grow. Every muscle in the man's body screamed to push forward and cut their tongues out, and their eyes. Tirian couldn't stand the arrogance displayed by the female and the pathetic man next to her that sat there like a shrimp, letting his wife do the talking. Pathetic.

"No sudden movements. Allow the scene to draw itself out. Demetrius isn't stupid enough to slay his kin without cause."

Tirian shook his head in dismay and yet he had to agree. Striking royalty without cause would be detrimental to their reputation and with his problems already, he didn't need to add anymore to that long list.

Vordan reached over to his plate of food to grab an apple and brought it to his lips. He bit into it, looking at the elven lady who was explaining the situation. After the first few words, he had looked away, biting into the apple and looking at Demetrius. The story she gave had amused him greatly, a smile still one his lips. He looked down to his apple he held and then shook his head, putting his elbows on the table. He wasn't about to let that slip so easily, not with what they were doing to her.

"So you want to make her feel worse than what she is now? Is that it? Well, Aaerynn has to eat, her caretaker had said so and she needs to rest somewhere where she wouldn't be put in such an emotional state. And besides…"

Vordan put his apple down and joined his hands together. His eyes became cold just like the two of them, clearly not amused. Even his smile dropped now.

"She is exiled. She has no obligation to any of you. You decided to eject her from your society then you have no power over her. She made her choices, she got her consequences… And you people abuse it. It sickens me. Now, this what is going to happen: Me and her had to meet this morning to eat. She'll be joining me and my "little human friends". We'll be happy, have some laughs and enjoy a good meal. If she wishes to speak to you afterward, then so be it, but I will not let her health go bad because you two want to discuss a hard and stressful subject for her."

Vordan was being bold, quite bold. But he wasn't going to back down. Aaerynn had suffered enough already. And if it was going to be a brawl that needed to happen to make his point, than he would do so. These two knew nothing of her and shouldn't hold any power over her.

Aaerynn watched the Maker as he spoke. She couldn't recall a time when she had seen him so cold. He was an idiot though, he would get himself killed if he wasn't careful. He needed to stop. Someone needed to take him away before Ieowyn could seal his fate. The wood elf's nails dug into her legs, the ability not to speak her mind was both pissing her off and making her anxious.

Ieowyn let out a melodious laugh, her pale hand hiding her lips in a feminine action. She looked towards her husband, her eyes twinkling in mirth as she spoke in elvish. "Do you hear that? A human butchers Elvish law and then orders me around?"

Her green eyes flashed to Vordan once more, a smile on her lips. "You amuse me, so much so, that I will provide you with a bit of an education. So that you won't butt your head into a conversation that you know nothing about."

She leaned forward a bit, her arms crossed on the table. "Banishment is different between humans and elves. You see, humans can banish someone and cut ties with no consequences since it doesn't matter. You all look the same, and majority of you are wicked and sinful seeds. Your bad judgments do not reflect back on your culture, your nation or your namesake when banished. If anything, it is expected. It is the opposite for elves."

This time her eyes glanced to Aaerynn whose face turned hard as the elvish noble smiled. "We elves attempt to maintain our moral standing above all else. So when Lady Aaerynn whored herself out to a human man, you could imagine the backlash. Even worse when she attempted to elope with him, and ended up coming back with a tail between her legs. Normally we execute for such a thing. It is a merciful act, since who else would marry a used she-elf who not only broke a vow of chastity before marriage, but did so with a disgusting and empty headed human. What else could be done? Her reputation was soiled, if anything offing herself would be the safest and honorable route."

Aaerynn's face was surprisingly stoic as she sat through a retelling of all of her sins, which of course was loud enough that even the red head and Syndarean could hear her. But she was internally seething, her hands had bunched up so tightly in her lap that it seemed the bones of her knuckles would break through her skin.

Ieowyn leaned back, inspecting the Maker. "Instead she was opted for banishment. However, with that comes very specific rules that Aaerynn knows very well. Just because she is no longer a part of our society, does not mean she is not a representative of it. Her behavior continues to reflect on wood elves. Certain situations, such as her conning and greed, we are able to clean up. However, other situations lead to harsher consequences. Here, perhaps I will give you a simpler point you may understand... I am quite sure that you are the Maker the Blazing Wind made mention of. I wonder how interested Ellahur would be to find you, a man with his magic still intact and from a Kingdom who is the most rigorous in magic prevention."

Aaerynn picked her head up at that, her body tensing up at the underlying threat to Vordan. Her jaw clenched, grinding her teeth together as Ieowyn's poisonous eyes locked onto her's. The noble glanced away though, looking at Vordan with a callous smile. "But... perhaps you're right Maker. I should give her a choice, shouldn't I?" She turned her head to look at Aaerynn once more. "Well Aaerynn I give you permission to speak, what would you like to do? Have this discussion now, or later?"

She tilted her head so innocently and Aaerynn struggled to hold back her snark. Her body was so tense that it ached. Aaerynn didn't even look at Vordan as she spoke, rather curtly. "Vordan, go back to the others. I can handle this myself."

Tirian stood up, finally hearing enough of the nonsense to put a stop to it himself. Auriel reached out for his shoulder but only met a sharp shock. The queen of ice gave the man a snarling look to which he didn't even notice. Tirian's eyes held a blazing anger as his nose wrinkled and his brows furrowed. The warrior stepped over the two separating tables and stopped behind Aaerynn and the bold maker Vordan. Tirian placed his hands on each of their shoulders letting a cunning smile come to his lips.

"Forgive me, I couldn't help but over hear some of the utter shit you were spewing. But I just had to give my two cents, and I think you'd like to hear this, it does pertain to your loveable trophy husband there."

Tirian lifted a single finger, pointing it at the silent Demetrius. The warrior gave a menacing smile before opening his mouth in elven tongue.

"While you're right, courtship with a being outside your own culture is forbidden and is normally punished by death, explain to me why he, the war hero is still here breathing and without exiled rules as well."

Tirian didn't allow anyone but himself to answer, increasing the tension and giving even more fuel to the flame.

"Tell me you knew, oh great goddess. That Demetrius attempted courtship with one outside his culture. Perhaps you know her by a name. The Ice Queen."

Tirian swallowed down some anger and took in a heavy breath before turning his eyes to Aaerynn. A smile came to his lips. Tirian lifted his hands and crossed his arms in front of him before continuing in common speak.

"You may not want her, and you may see her as filth. Just as I see you and that pathetic "war hero" as filth. Aaerynn has family, and that's a family you don't want to upset. Now, if there's anything you need to say, please do. Otherwise we will be enjoying our dinner together, as a family."

Vordan kept his cold gaze onto the elven woman as she went on to "educate" him on what elven laws were. He had to be honest; he mostly didn't have a clue for what they were, but sure as hell knew what it meant to take off all ties one had to its kingdom. He wasn't ashamed of Ellahur and their procedures. They were taking preventions so no one could abuse of magic ever again. As extreme as it sounded, it still made sense. Exilement wasn't really a thing where he came from, but I was heard of. So how different could it be?

The woman went on, Vordan pushing himself off the table and his back straight into the back rest. She implied that all humans are sinful and wicked, that their consequences never reflected their homeland… Were they stupid? Had they been to the Northern kingdoms? Had they not known the tribes that used to live in these mountains? That was something that most other human beings despised of those Northern elves; their pretentiousness and they assumptions of the human race. They were full of themselves…

Now, she went on about moral standards and from there, Vordan could hardly listen. Again, they put codes, traditions over their families, friends and even their own lives. What do people care? She was exiled from the elven societies, big deal. It wasn't like any of the other races would judge her for it. Hell, she was more fun than any uptight elves that took pride in their own lives and "pureness". They didn't know how to live… They knew how to survive.

Vordan just kept his glare until she mentioned reporting him to Ellahur, to which he was surprised to hear. The Blazing Wind told them? Who the hell was he? He stiffened at the mention of it. There were probably agents in town too… They were everywhere. He couldn't remember if other kingdoms had contracted Ellahur's Hunters or not. Either way, he couldn't attract that attention. The threat was real, although he still felt like he couldn't leave Aaerynn to suffer from their abuse.

Then, the question came. Vordan turned to Aaerynn in hopes that she would just say yes. She didn't need this right now… And yet, when the answer came, he froze. His eyes went wide in disbelief. Why? Vordan was dumbstruck by this… Aaerynn had a chance to get away. She didn't want to be there… Why torture herself? He wanted to say something, but what could he add after this? Vordans hands tightened, not sure of what exactly to say or do… Until he felt a hand on his shoulder. He lifted it, expecting to see one of the aids there to "help" him walk away. Instead, he saw the Red-Haired Prince. Clearly, he wasn't happy either.

Vordan stayed for the time that Tirian spoke… And wow, what a revelation. What most of them realized was even if he didn't speak elven, he could understand it. Not because he knew it… But because of the gift he was wearing for Aaerynn. A simple trinket that would let those who were it understand most, if not all, languages written and spoken. Right now, it was working like a charm.

His eyes went to Aaerynn once more. With a single sigh, he stood up. If here was one thing that he couldn't do; it was very well makes choices for someone else right now. Tirian had given the fire and the excuse to have them get away, but he felt like he couldn't do anything right now. Aaerynn was stuck in the traditions of her own people. It was clear that it was so… So he would only make things worse if he continued. And these halls… They weren't his place. He grabbed his plate and nodded to Tirian, speaking quietly.

"I'm done… I'm not going to deal with this anymore." He said as he went for the door… And at that moment, Esredia had opened the door, wearing the tight fitting red dress. She looked at Vordan as he went along, curious. He didn't seem to be in a good mood… To say, she was only there to pick up some food for Elrithos to eat a little. She turned to the table that Aaerynn and Tirian were at, wondering what was happening.

Aaerynn had lifted her head to look back as Tirian placed a hand on her shoulder. Oh, no. Please just stop. If the two men had just left her alone she could have figured out why in the hells Ieowyn had to speak to her in the first place, and she could have dealt with it. She knew they were trying to stick up for her and defend her, but she didn't need it. If anything, they were making everything worse.

But then Tirian made a sudden declaration. Her brother and the Ice Queen? Her brother and Auriel Demeria? Aaerynn's eyes widened and her neck seemed to make an audible creak as she looked up to her brother. She watched as his face changed, his jaw tensing and his eyes wide. It was true. It had to be true.

Aaerynn suddenly stood so rapidly, her chair fell back and clattered to the ground. She was huffing for air as her rage rose. All those things he said to her when she was drunk! Everything! EVERYTHING!

It was a complete and sudden swift motion as she grabbed hold of her brother's front with one hand and put everything she had into a single punch. It connected hard to his nose with a loud crack, and suddenly Aaerynn was swarmed by aids grabbing hold of her and pulling her away from her sibling. But she could see it, the bright red blood that dripped down his face. If anything, that pissed her off more. "You...HYPOCRITE!" She screamed at him, attempting to tear away from the guards that held her back. Her hands clawed at them in order to try and reach him.

"That shit you spewed at me!" She struggled against the men that held her, pain wracking her core as she kept going. "How dare you! I apologized for my faults. I apologized for what I did! I brought it out in the open so you would know how sorry I felt and faced my punishment!! I felt guilty for putting our family through shame. Now I am just doing my best to live. And you dared to tell me I should die? You!? You have everything I've ever fucking wanted by lying!"

Her anger was uncontrollable, to the point that she didn't know what to say anymore. The amount she suffered, the years of loneliness and pain. The centuries of guilt. She had just wanted to keep living, to keep moving forward. To deal with herself. And yet...he...he knew exactly the way she felt. To fall in love or even court someone outside of their culture, and he had the gall to act as if he was better than her? More honorable than her? As if he had a right to live and she didn't!

Demetrius refused to say anything, mildly wiping his red blood from his nose. Ieowyn gave a sigh, tilting her head back and forth. "How dramatic. At least he courted an elf and nothing came of it. It is far different than laying with a human! But I have had enough of this conversation and rude interruptions."

Aaerynn just wanted to scream. Why now? Why here? She had spent 170 years attempting to avoid them, and now this. She stilled however, as Ieowyn brought our Aaerynn's vial and dagger. "It seems Aaerynn has been quite busy with her research on rot, and the dark arts."

Aaerynn stood stock still, her eyes going wide. Ieowyn looked up at her, green eyes poisonous once more. "My husband and I went to investigate the library after feeling a pulse of dark magic last night. Lo and behold we find Lady Aaerynn's trinkets. Would you like to explain yourself? You know as well as I that the use of dark magic is forbidden across all kingdoms of Furus, more so than any other magic."

Aaerynn turned silent, her arms going limp in the aids' hands that held her. The magic that had sparked Vordan's reaction last night. The demonic pull...they had felt it and worse, they thought she was the cause? Her mind went absolutely blank.

The air got extremely cold as the meticulous clack of heeled boots drew close to the table. The presence of the fiercest and coldest warrior to walk the earth hovered over every person that resided at this table. Auriel Demeria, The Ice Queen, stepped forward with an icy look in her eyes.

"Interesting, that elven royalty has been reduced to no more than common trash. I watch you sit there acting just as a human would. Cold, unforgiving. You act like a hardened warrior, so forgive my intentions."

Auriel unfolded her arms and held them straight out in front of Ieowyn. The elf wasn't one to show secrets, nor was she one to threaten carelessly. She did however, respect Tirian enough to understand how he felt for someone and when she could step up and abuse her own powers.

"Let's make a deal. You leave this exiled elf to my oversight and forget she ever existed. Allow the rot to takes its course and end her life. No more nonsense of trying to end a life that is not your own. And all because your jealousy has taken control. It must be hard hearing from Demetrius, of how he cared for this elf. It must writhe your bones to agony. You can chose this route or, defy me and end up like these two aids."

Auriel snapped her hands back quickly grabbing two aids by the throat and lifting them off their feet. Tirian marveled at her strength and even feared the ferocious beast in her eyes. Auriel held the elven men high off the ground without a single sign of struggle.

"I kill these pathetic excuse of aids. Then I'll rip you limb from limb until you're begging for mercy. Five seconds, Ieowyn of the rats."

Vordan heard the screams of rage from the room… Freezing in place. He turned towards the doors, unsure if he should actually go back. What would he do? Convince people trapped into their own traditions to change? It was pointless, and the saddest part was Aaerynn was sticking to it. Why torture yourself with this and not just let go after such a long time? He couldn't understand, not from her… So he couldn't help the situation. He sighed, walking down the hallway. He thought it would be best and he saw in what kind of condition Elrithos was in instead.

Esredia moved slowly towards the table, seeing Aaerynn enraged. What was happening? She didn't understand who had done what, but someone had hurt someone. Why was there violence in a place where they were all guest of a good person? It made no sense, so she went to the table with food. She was slowly picking items for the desert elf, listening to the stories. She still couldn't understand, but something triggered her instinct. Someone was attacking, threatening the lives of others. Her eyes went wide. Why!? They had done nothing! They were just standing there!

"Let two go! Two innocent!"

She said quite loudly, grabbing a knife from the table, just to make sure. She seemed to be friends with Tirian… But why would this all happen?

Ieowyn's eyes narrowed, her posture stiff and straight. Yet a smile was still curled on her lips. She was not of the feint of heart, in fact she seemed to relish watching her aids being lifted off their feet by the throat. It was Demetrius who broke the tense silence as he placed a hand on his wife's shoulder and spoke,"Ieowyn...Enough."

He was no longer able to look at Aaerynn or Auriel, red blood crusting under his nose. Aaerynn was wide eyed and could only stare at the Ice Queen bargaining for her life. Since when had she shown up and from where? Was she fucking psychotic? The wood elf couldn't help wondering if her fate would be worse in Auriel's hands then it ever could be in that of Ieowyn's.

The Northern Noble finally stood with a soft sigh. "Fine. Aaerynn Lightweld will now be Imladris' responsibility and it will be Imladris who will be held accountable for her. Satisfied?"

She picked up Aaerynn's vial and left her dagger on the table, completely cleaned. "I will be taking this vial. And please know, Ice Queen, that if your people are caught experimenting further with the dark arts, the world will hold you accountable."

With that she turned, making a motion to the rest of her aids. Aaerynn let out the breath she had been holding as she was suddenly dropped by the men who had held her back. Her blue eyes immediately gazed at her brother. But Demetrius' eyes were completely on Auriel before he turned as well and headed off with his wife. Was that it? Just like that? The wood elf wanted to call out to them, to say something further but she remained silent. Instead she picked up her dagger and sheathed it. Pain suddenly wracked her core and she doubled over a moment, only to feel small hands try to support her. Aaerynn looked over to see Serna, whose large dark eyes were watery with fresh tears. "Are you ok?"

"I'm fine." Aaerynn muttered, stil unbelieving that it was over just like that. She looked over at Auriel, slightly speechless.

Auriel smirked, dropping the men as if they were nothing more than paper weights. Auriel let out a small laugh at Ieowyn's threat, a pathetic elf tossing around threats as if her kingdom would ever dare to attack Imladris. Auriel watched Demetrius with could and judgmental eyes as he exited the hall like a dog with his tail between his legs. She paid no attention to Esredia who held a knife towards her. Instead she turned to Aaerynn with an odd smile on her lips.

"I don't think they will be bothering you. Excuse my insults, but your brother really has become a pathetic shell of himself."

Auriel patted the other elf's shoulder before turning and leaving the hall herself. Tirian moved into her place, sitting next to Aaerynn with a warm smile on his face. He placed a solemn hand on her leg, his voice coming out soft and gentle.

"Welcome to the family. Now let's return to our table and eat some food. Okay?"

Tirian stood from the chair, turning to Serna with a slight nod and walked back to their original table and sat down to enjoy his now cold food.

Aaerynn winced at the pat to her shoulder, and watched as the Ice Queen promptly exited. A sickness was developing deep in her gut and her gaze turned to Tirian who offered her food. No, she couldn't. Her stomach turned over and she swallowed her spit, nauseated. She picked up an apple, knowing she should eat, but turned instead to the doors. "Thank you...but I need to be alone... and rest a bit."

The last part was added in a rush and she moved to the doors. She wasn't able to process what had just happened, but her rot surely did. Her insides felt like they were burning and her walk turned into a run as she hurried back to her room.

Serna could only blink, growing concerned for the wood elf. She looked at Esredia for a moment with a weak smile, before returning to Tirian. "I don't understand what happened...Who was that woman? What was the matter?" She shook her head, unable to understand what had just gone down in a matter of minutes.

The day had certainly been ruined, Tirian's mood turning slightly sour at the sight that was before him.

"Don't worry Serna, it's typical politics with spoiled rotten royalty. I'm going to clear my mind, please excuse me."

Tirian stood from his seat and exited the dining area without another word, walking into the distance as his mind ran wild.

 

[Rain of the Night]

Vordan had walked away from the whole ordeal, not sure he could have added anything else to help out. He was wondering the hallways, thinking of what to do, of what to think of all this. It concerned him that Aaerynn had complied with the demands of those who were abusing their position. Why would you obey such low life, cruel people? She was free, in a sense. She was exiled from her own lands and couldn't come back, it should mean that she could do whatever the abyss she desired to do. But, what hurt the most was that she had pushed him away, in a sense. They were all there to help, but she didn't "need" it. She can't continue living like such.

In his wander around the halls, he ended up being in front of Elrithos' door. The mercenary had stopped, considering taking a look on the man who had been jumped. It would allow him to take his mind off of things too. Though, was it a good idea to disturb an injured man? There was only a single way to figure out. He moved forward and knocked lightly on the door. "Hey, Elrithos? Do you mind if I come in?" He asked with a curious tone. He expected to hear someone speak back to him or total silence, but instead, the door opened and the desert elf stood there, a light smile on his face. "Come in."

Vordan passed through the doorway, truly surprised the Aavikkanian was able to stand. He thought his injuries would be more extensive than that. Having a look at him once inside told another story. He seemed to be in pain, yet he held a small smile. "I'm glad you came. It gets lonely here…" He said with a cheery laugh. He made his way to the bed and laid down, taking in a deep breath. "I'm guessing you're doing more than checking up on me."

Vordan walked over to the chair that was there, taking a seat and sighed deeply. Was it really the time to discuss of the matters of the breakfast? It would probably be best if he avoided the subject all together. He looked over to the sand warrior and nodded "Ya, I needed to walk away from something I just didn't want to deal with. The Northern elves are a serious pain in the ass." He said and hoped it was the only thing he had to talk about. He wanted to think of something else.

Elrithos turned to him and shook his head. "Yes they are. Probably the hardest society of elves I had to deal with. The Southern elves also have their own… ways that could be considered crazy, but they are a lot more modest." He said, just as the door opened. Both the men looked up, only to see that Esredia had been back with two plates of food. Her eyes went wide as he looked at the both of them. "Oh. Vordan. You miss danger. Nothing happen. Good end." She said as she brought a plate for the elf. Vordan frowned. Did he really want to know right now? Elrithos had jumped on the occasion, starting to speak in Esredia's native language. "What happened? Did someone get hurt?"

Esredia shook her head and placed her own plate on a small desk. "No, although this Auriel person almost did kill two elves." Elrithos raised a brow, wondering if it was the same Auriel he had heard of. He lifted his head, asking the question that came to mind. "Auriel, the Ice Queen?" Esredia raised her shoulders, not knowing. Vordan was listening to this whole ordeal. Guess it didn't matter to him right now. So, he got up and gave a pat on Esredia's shoulder and a small wave to the sand warrior. "I'll let you two talk that out. Stay safe." He said without uttering another word and got out. He needed to go back to his room and get a few things figured out… He also would need to slip by Aaerynn's room and get his things to work on. This was supposed to be a better day, but it seemed it wouldn't work out like so.

 

[LastCinder]

Serna watched as Tirian left the dining hall. Then she turned to see Esredia pick up her plate of food and leave as well. The Syndarean girl still couldn't wrap her head around what had taken place in such a short amount of time. Aaerynn had seemed to be in trouble, but her family was awful, Tirian and his sister got involved and his sister nearly killed two people because of it! Serna played with the ends of her hair nervously, while she looked around unsure of what she should do with herself. When first coming here, Serna was certain that it would be relaxing and fun. But thus far only bad things continued to happen, from Tirian's fight, to Elrithos getting jumped and now this?

There had to be a way to turn it around!

It was still early, she could still make full use of the day and bring back some happiness! It seemed like further training with Tirian would be held off for now, so that left her one choice!

--------------------​

Setna had been doing laps.

Running always helped to clear his head and allowed him to explore more of this mountain…castle? What actually do you call a home made into a mountain? Either way, the feeling of his feet pushing off the ground, the sound of his ragged breaths, the steady heart beat that thumped in his chest as his arms swung with his motion, all provided a sense of calm. In some ways it allowed him to think about things in a healthier way. It also loosened up his sore muscles, Elrithos' friend had beaten the shit out of him through repetition. He knew it was all for him to get better, and he was, little by little. But it still felt like it wasn't enough. It felt like fate kept sticking logs for him to jump over and his feet kept catching on the same damn branch. He just couldn't go beyond, he couldn't take that next step. Hesitation still haunted him when it shouldn't. He didn't have the leisure to hesitate. Every fight, every battle he needed to be prepared for split second action, split second decisions. He wasn't there yet and it pissed him off. He didn't have time to be a kid anymore. These weren't spars or duels, every encounter was a life or death situation. So why couldn't he get over it?

At his anger, his run became a sprint. Forcing energy to burn and pushing his muscles farther. He felt his thighs tug and his knees jolt. His ankles turned, and his calves warmed as they tensed and then unclenched. His lungs burned for air as he gasped and pushed, forcing his body until he couldn't handle it anymore. The sprint became a run, the run to a jog until finally his feet padded to a slow walk. He doubled over a moment, hands on his knees as he tried to catch his breath. Dark eyes watching his sweat drip from his face to the floor. He eventually stood back up, hands pushing his hair away from his face. He needed a damn haircut soon. Although, staying with dwarves didn't make him feel too badly about it.

"Setna!"

The boy wiped sweat from his forehead, as he looked over in surprise. "Serna? Hey…aren't you training with Tirian today?"

"I want to train with you!" His twin stood in front of him, feet planted and hands clasped. "Tirian is busy… and I want to keep working."

"Uhhh…" Setna stared a bit dumbfounded. Where was this suddenly coming from? He rubbed the back of his head. "I dunno Serie. Tirian knows all about training magic and stuff like that."

He wasn't going to include the fact that it was his sister, aka a girl, and he didn't feel like he could spar and hit her, even for training. He shifted his weight, but the look Serna gave him made him suck his teeth.

Serna wouldn't let him off that easy. "Yes! But you trained with other barrier users! You had to help them in basic training, so help me…please, Set. Just for today! Since Tirian is busy."

Then she gave him The Look, the look to end all looks. Setna tried his best to avert his gaze at anything but her. But he couldn't look away, eventually the male twin sagged his shoulders in defeat. He supposed nothing could go wrong teaching her a little bit. Plus, she was so eager to learn, and Setna wouldn't hold back trying to help her learn how to defend herself, even a little bit.

"Fine… C'mon, let's go find some place outside." Setna let out a groan, before he waved Serna over. The Syndarean girl squealed with her happiness, eagerly following after her brother.

--------------------​

Setna found them some type of clearing close by the castle. It was a patchy little meadow on the side of the large mountain. The boy was half-hoping his sister would be too distracted by the wild flowers growing along the sides, but his hopes were dashed as Serna immediately faced him. Well… so much for that.

The boy settled on teaching her, showed her how the barrier users were taught how to set their feet. How barriers were used not just as a defense but an offense. He picked up a stick, and used it as a mock sword. He showed her the basic principles of dodging and parrying. In all honesty, Setna was mildly impressed by how easily his sister picked it up. She was eager to learn, and happy to do something over and over until she got it right. Perhaps they were even more similar than Setna first speculated. Well it was like their mother said, they were twins after all!

Serna was able to eventually convince Setna into performing a spar. He did it rather weakly, letting his sister set the pace. Eventually it turned quicker as Serna was able to push him to fight harder. One swing was a little too hard though and Serna wasn't able to block it. She hit the ground and Setna's heart stopped in his throat. He threw away the stick and rushed to her side. "Serie! Serie! I'm sorry! I didn't mean to hit that hard!"

The boy's eyes widened however, as a barrier covered fist gently tapped his cheek. It would have been a killing blow, Setna was sure, if it had come at full speed with the barrier intact. The boy stared down at his sister, eyes wide in shock. Serna only gave him a wide grin. "Again!"

Setna let out a breath and rubbed his cheek, before helping his sister to her feet. "Alright, alright. If you want to. Just...be careful with that."

Serna let out a soft laugh, and dusted herself off. "I do! But!" She pointed at her brother. "If I win, you have to do what I say for the rest of the day! Deal?"

Her brother looked back at her with an amused grin. Were they children again? Still, betting was fun. "Deal! But if I win, you have to do what I say for the rest of the day, got it?"

"Got it!" Serna nodded, and readied herself once more.

--------------------
​

Aaerynn was making progress. Upon reaching the room, filled with nausea, she had been lucid enough to realize where she was and to get inside. She stood around for a while, taking notice of the room. This was a pile up reaction, her rot had laid in wait until everything came at her at once. It was creeping up the back of her mind, full of whispers that made the wood elf shiver. She was going to get sick.

By the time her body decided to get sick, she had only vomited once, and at least it had made it into a waste bin. She had collapsed on the floor for a while, her body gone weak and cold as she was overcome by delusions. But she had somehow crawled her way over to the bed and lifted herself onto it. She lay curled in a ball, her back to the door and her body shuddering as all of her body heat went into burning her insides. This was fine. She had managed this before. She could force herself through this. She was not about to die because of a stuck up noble and her vile agenda. How pathetic. How utterly and pitifully pathetic!

What was more shameful was the fact that the sheets smelled of Vordan. The events of the morning seemed so far away now... but now she was overwhelmed by them, lying on the same sheets he did. She was ashamed to find it comforting.

Her feverish eyes opened, her vision blurry as her mind tried to understand where she was. It kept flickering back and forth from the hill in Cromerth, to her home with the northern elves to reality. Her mind swam with memories and old voices. Her body caught in a web of hysteria. She had dealt with this before, it wasn't new. But she was certainly cursing herself for not taking better care of her body.

Her hand clumsily searched for the dagger on her person. She slowly unsheathed it and pulled it towards her. Her eyes tried to focus on it as she brought her fingertip up and pressed it hard against the dagger's tip. The jolt of pain kept her mind focused, silencing the voices that the rot was trying to drag her down in. Yes, she would get through this. Once her riled up emotions ceased, she would force open her lungs and force the rot back. This was nothing.

~Vordan needed to gather his things so he could finish the projects that night, or at least have them completely ready for the following day. It would be crucial that he is in the best mental health he could. His body could suffer whatever was to come from the experiments and trials, but his sanity could only take so much right now. There were so many things happening, so many stories still to be learned… So little time to do it. The man sighed, walking through the halls to get to Aaerynn's chambers. All his trinkets were there and some needed to be tweaked, at least for the shield.

The mercenary stopped in front of the wooden door, going to open it and noticed it was locked… Right, he didn't have the key to the place and Aaerynn probably wasn't around. Vordan brought his hand up, wanting to know if there was someone in there. He knocked lightly before speaking.

"Aaerynn?"

The voice and knock resounded through the room making the wood elf open her eyes. Vordan. Right...She picked up her head, blurry vision trying to focus on the desk at the side of the room. That's right, his things...Fuck. Had she locked it? Fuck.

Aaerynn debated what she should do. It was still likely that he didn't know she was in here. Perhaps he would give up and leave. But that wasn't right of her, he had shit to do and she was sure all of his notebooks were left in here. Fuck it all.

It was a struggle to pick her body up, and she placed her head in shaking hands a moment, trying to center herself. Eventually she tried lifting herself up from the bed, only to have her knees buckle beneath her and she hit the floor hard. Well if he didn't know she was there before, he certainly knew now. Aaerynn cursed under her breath as her body revolted against her and she felt her stomach twist painfully in her gut. The pain though brought a moment of clarity, clearing old voices and she was able to finally get up. C'mon, push through it. Push, push.

He just had to get his stuff, then he'd leave and she'd get through this. Just like that. One step at a time.

She was able to get to the door on shaky legs and she fumbled with the lock with cold hands until she finally opened the door. She stood there rather dumbly, looking like a sick person before she averted her eyes from Vordan and moved out of his way. "Your stuff...is still on the...desk."

~It took a moment before he heard anything coming from inside the room… He was just about leave after a few seconds of not having an answer. It meant he would have to do other things for now… Not that he really wanted to, but he'd have to. The man crossed his arms and sighed, as he figured he'd have to delay it. He was about to turn around and walk away from here, but a loud thud could be heard from inside. He froze, wondering what the hell that was… Was Aaerynn alright? He was still confused and disappointed in earlier that day, but he never knew the outcome of it.

Vordan was about to knock again, but the door opened. Aaerynn had opened and Vordan's heart sank like a stone… He was shocked to see her condition. She was sick, that much was for sure. Vordan slowly stepped in, but stopped in front of Aaerynn. "A-Aaerynn… what happened to you?" He said, extremely concerned about her now. She wasn't well at all, she needed some immediate attention. "Are you okay?!"

Aaerynn's eyes narrowed slightly. His voice grated against her ears before her mind was capable of understanding what he was saying to her. Right, she probably looked like shit. She was not used to someone seeing her like this at all. Aaerynn rubbed her eyes as her vision blurred again. Her voice was raspy as she tried to explain herself. "I'm fine..." She corrected herself as she said, "I will be fine...You came for your things right?... Just get it and go."

Her voice was curt as she finally stared at him again. She had to lean her weight a bit against the door to keep herself standing. She didn't want anyone seeing her like this. It would be better if he just took in her words, got what he needed and left. She regretted even getting up in the first place.

Vordan couldn't believe what he was seeing and hearing… How could she say she is fine?! She was far from it and it hurt him to see her act this way. She needed help and the Rot was going to get to her if she continued this way. Even with what happened before hand, he couldn't let her in this state. She could barely stand up!

Vordan stood in front of her, speechless at first… Then, he manifested the words he wanted to speak. "Aaerynn… How can you say your fine? Look at you! You need help!" He said, as little saddened and concerned.

Aaerynn just groaned mildly with annoyance and pain from trying to stay standing. The wood elf finally moved past him, she reached out only once, placing a hand on his shoulder to use as a support to push off of as she made it to a chair to sit down. She eased herself into it although her legs failed her and she plopped into the seat a bit uncontrollably. Her vision was fading, memories stirring and Aaerynn dug a nail into her cut fingertip. The sharp jolt of pain keeping her mind in reality.

How could she explain it to him so that he would just leave her be? She leaned forward a bit, struggling to find words in her muddled mind. "Vordan...I am used to this. This is nothing compared to what I have suffered before. I have had the Rot for more than half of my life. You are acting as if I am going to die tonight..."

She shook her head and leaned her head back. "I will be fine. I have done this before...lived through this before. I know how to deal with it, and it is nothing...You can't help, so just forget it and go back...to your stuff."

Aaerynn waved a hand at him before laying her arm over her eyes, leaning back against the backrest to the chair. Why did she even open the door? How stupid was she? She knew the sentiment was there, just like it had been when he tried to defend her to her relatives. The problem was, in both circumstances, he did not know what he was up against. Sometimes it was just better if he swallowed it down and moved along. Besides, how could he help? Suddenly sweep her off her feet? If she were of better mind, just the thought of that would have made her snort and maybe smile at its stupidity. But instead it reminded her of her brother's words and she felt her lungs clench painfully.

~It was such a hard sight to behold… Yet, he saw himself in the actions she was taking. In fact, it made him remember when they were still around. Injured beyond belief after having failed to do the initial prototype for his six shot crossbow, he didn't want any help… He just needed to "let it pass". Though the circumstances are very different, the principal remained the same. She didn't want help, couldn't get help, but she stayed alone.

The Maker stood silent as she spoke, even looking away from her when she wanted him to get away. There had to be a cure, right? There had to be more behind it. It was a taint, a curse almost. There were ways around it. Though, in the end… He didn't want to fight like this. She was going down a road that didn't please him, especially not with since the pain was suffered alone. Instead, he simply took a deep breath and walked towards the table, slowly gathering his stuff into a bag.

Once everything was gathered, he put the sac on the ground and reached into his shirt. From it, he removed a necklace; it was a blue colored marble stone with steel spirals going around it. Tiny symbols could be seen on every spiral and the gem seemed to have a very light glow. Vordan placed it on the desk, still not saying a word. With it, there was a small parchment rolled up that he put on it, with "Aaerynn" on it. He then picked up his things and went for the door.

"Good luck."

--------------------​

Upon Vordan leaving, Aaerynn pulled herself back to the bed. She couldn't tell how many hours were passing as she just laid there, waiting for her body to calm itself, like it always did. It was just a long process, a painful flash of memories, sickness, and pain.

A knock resounded from the room and Aaerynn groaned. Was that Vordan again? Did he forget something? The elf had made sure the door was unlocked. "It's open!" She called out, and made a hiss of both annoyance and pain.

The door opened to reveal the twins, with Setna holding what seemed to be multiple bouquets of wild flowers. He looked rather flustered holding them, and his sister stood beside him, smiling happily. "H-Hello! Aaerynn!"

The smile faded as the twins caught sight of the poor state the wood elf was in. Serna rushed forward but then paused. She didn't know anything about sickness or how to help. But she had brought flowers! "A-Are you ok A-Aaerynn?"

The wood elf rubbed her temples in annoyance, as she slowly pulled herself up into a sitting position. Gods, the voice grated on her ears again. "I'm fine." The answer was short and tense.

Serna shifted her weight nervously before looking back at the flowers in Setna's hands. "Um…W-We got you some f-flowers! We hope you feel b-better!"

Aaerynn looked up at that, light blue eyes slowly blinking. She was reminded of one of the first few nights of the caravan. The one where they played horse shoes and Serna gave everyone a flower for helping her brother. The elf looked down at her hands. "Thank…you." It was practically a whisper, but she couldn't refuse the Syndarean girl.

Both of them were too…innocent. They were right on the cusp of adulthood and childhood. They both still had such childish whims. The wood elf ran a hand through her blonde hair, wondering exactly what the fates of these two kids would be. But…Aaerynn couldn't help enjoying their vigor and the way they both perceived life.

At Aaerynn's thank you, Serna lit up and looked at her brother with a cheeky grin that usually adorned his face. "Why don't you set her flowers on her desk!"

The boy gave her an annoyed look, but did as asked. Setna placed one of the bouquets down, but his dark eyes paused on the necklace and note set on the table. It was pretty cool looking. "Hey Aaerynn, where'd you get this?"

The boy held it up for Aaerynn to take a look, and he noticed the rolled parchment. "Oh looks like it has a note?"

Aaerynn blinked at it with bleary eyes and motioned for the boy to hand it over. "Let me see it, I didn't have anything on the desk."

It was probably Vordan's, but she didn't see something like that when she had peeked at his things. Setna brought it over, and placed the necklace in the wood elf's hand. Aaerynn held it to her face. It was a pretty blue gem, held in place by steel wire spirals. The most interesting though, were the symbols engraved upon the steel. What in the world was it?

Setna noticed Aaerynn's confusion and picked up the piece of parchment that rolled off the table. "There's a note with your name on it." He held it out to Aaerynn, but the wood elf put her hand up.

"Can you just read it out? I…my vision isn't that great right now." Aaerynn replied, not even glancing up from observing the stone. Serna hovered around a bit, and looked a bit worried as she glanced to the wood elf and then to her brother.

"Uh…Ok." Setna responded before unrolling the paper. He cleared his throat a moment, and looked it over.

"Aaerynn,

So, I've figured that I'd make something that would help your research and or just read foreign books. The necklace will allow you to understand and read any language this world has to offer. You only need to wear it and it will alter the words in your mind. And before you worry, it was easy to make and without pain. It tricks your mind to put it simply.

Enjoy yourself, take some time to enjoy life. You seem to have been having a hard time. Take care of yourself.

Vordan"

Setna finished and looked up at Aaerynn. The wood elf had frozen up completely. Serna was bursting with excitement though. "How w-wonderful! Who knew S-Sir V-Vordan was capable of something like that! It…It's so pretty too! A r-really nice present, huh Aaerynn?"

The wood elf still hadn't moved, as she stared at the blue stone in her palm. Eventually, her fingers closed around it, and she held it tightly. The elf woman suddenly rose to her feet. "I have to go."

Both twins blinked in cohesion, and watched as the elf headed for the door. The twins briskly followed and Setna called out. "Aaerynn! Should you really be moving already!? You still look sick."

Aaerynn looked back as she headed out the door, and a smile was on her lips. "I have something to do!" Then she was gone.

Setna and Serna stared after her, both of their eyes wide. Setna eventually looked at Serna, shock still on her face. "Was she…did she just smile?"

Serna nodded, a wide smile slowly spreading across her face. Aaerynn was changing for the better! Little by little, and Serna was glad to see such a change in her, compared to when they had gone to Cromerth's cemetery. There was no point dallying on the subject though. "Well…let's finish our deliveries!" The girl took a bouquet from her brother, leaving him the other one. "You could give that to Elrithos! I'm gonna find Tirian!"

Setna sighed and gave an annoyed, "Yes, ma'am."

--------------------
​

Aaerynn ran.

A full out sprint down the hallways of Farin's home. Her lungs were forced open, bursting as she forced her vision to clear and focus. She pushed her battered body to listen to her, to move, to fight. Her mind couldn't quite keep up. It would switch between carpet and grass, from ceilings to blue skies, from the smell of a cavern to the smell of the forest.

She took out a sharp breath as she ran through a memory.

The grass was plush, the summer breeze welcoming and gentle across her face. She lay with her blonde hair strewn about her head. Sunlight dappled her face through the bright green leaves and branches of the tree that she laid under. She could hear the scratching of a quill, and she turned to face her companion. She pulled herself up on her elbows, her skirts crumpling beneath her, flower petals falling from her blonde locks. "What are you writing so fervently?" Her voice held humor and mirth, a soft tease.

The man beside her gave her a toothy grin, the one she had fallen in love with. His voice was soft, gentle. "Do you want to read it?"

She felt him shift, moving close to her. He leaned his weight against her shoulder, his head gently pressed to her's, placing his journal on her lap, opened to an unfinished page. She could smell the grass on him, and the scent of his home, a mix of cinnamon, ink, and animals. But the words on his page looked like gibberish to her. She made a face, not wanting to come out to be a fool in front of him. "That's alright, I don't want to."

But he knew her better than that. He always did. He would see right through her. He knew her to the twitch of a smile or frown. Knew the ways her eyes crinkled with her laugh, or clouded with her anger. So he saw right through her, and he laughed. "You speak the common language fluently, yet you can't read it?"

She puffed her cheeks with embarrassment, taking his laugh for mockery. She clenched her small hands, and thrummed her fists against his chest. Her strikes were gentle, playful, a warning for him to stop. "My mother never thought I needed it! She says it would only cause trouble! And what of you? Do you know Ancient Elvish?"

She began repeating Elvish phrases until her companion stopped and his arms slowly enveloped her. The embrace was warm, his arms sturdy, and his lips at her ear. "Alright, alright. How about this? Let me teach you. We'll be able to spend more time together, and you'll be able to eventually read what I write so fervently about."

Aaerynn jumped down the staircase, the moment of free fall, building adrenaline. Her hair whipped past her face, her heart leaping until her ankles filled with pain as her feet landed. She crouched, before pushing off and heading to the library. She flew down another staircase, and opened the doors to the massive library. The wood elf puffed for air as she looked over the shelves and then moved. She pulled down book after book written in all different languages. She carried them over to the common area, and sat down on a couch.

Breathing deeply, she opened her palm that had clenched the necklace tightly. Carefully, she placed it over her head until it nestled on the skin of her chest. She reached over for a book, and opened it smack dab in the middle. The wood elf watched with wide eyes as the words swirled and then she could read them. Just like that…Just like that.

She was so overcome by emotions, that she laughed. It was the first laugh she had procured without the help of alcohol, for centuries. It rang through the room and her ears. She sprang to her feet and headed off, pulling book after book off the shelves.
It was almost sad.

Perhaps she had lived so long that her life was becoming a cyclical game.

-------------------​

When Lord Farin finally found Aaerynn, she was completely surrounded by books. It almost looked like a fortress, with the elven woman curled up in the middle, eyes rapidly moving across the lines. "Aaerynn?"

The wood elf looked up as her name was called. Her face was filled with life, no longer pale. Her eyes no longer held their dark rings. Her rot was forced back from her pure enthusiasm. She sat up a bit, becoming visible to the searching dwarf lord.

"Ah there you are Aaerynn!" Farin approached rapidly, and suddenly placed a bag of gold coins down in front of the elf. Aaerynn blinked and the lord explained, "I wanted to apologize for what you went through this morning! I assure you Demetrius and Lady Ieowyn are returning to their home today! No more struggles! No more strife! Now, I have here a payment for your suffering and so you can get something nice for the party!"

Aaerynn looked at the stash of coins rather mildly. She wanted to say she didn't need it, but there was no way in all of the abyssal world that she would refuse free money. So she took the bag, weighing it in her hand. "Party?" She finally asked.

"Why yes of course! I cannot have you leave without a farewell party! All of your and Uncle's group have had a nasty time here! It does not represent Durngan at all! From all the fighting and jumping and drama, no more! We shall have a feast! I've given you enough to get you and a few friends something nice to wear! Then we will all party before you must leave to continue on! With gifts, food, mead and dancing!" The dwarf gave a belly laugh after he spoke.

Aaerynn stared at him with a raised eyebrow. Hmm a party where her brother wouldn't suddenly show up by the end? The wood elf supposed she could look forward to something like that. She weighed the money once more in her hand, and looked at the research in front of her. Yes, she knew exactly who and what she'd use this for. "Alright Farin. I'll look forward to it."

The dwarf lit up in a large grin. "I knew you would! Well, I am off my elvish friend to go deliver the news to Uncle and the rest of your friends! Study well!"

The elf's blue eyes followed the dwarf as he waddled away. Suddenly, Aaerynn called out to him, "Hey Farin…think you could get someone down here to give me some food?"

The dwarf laughed and nodded. "But of course, but of course! Just don't spill!"

 

[Dekonic]

"Have you grown soft?"

The voice stopped Tirian in his tracks, the iciness laced within the words snapping his head to the source. Cold orbs stared through the red-head, judging with every second that passed by. Tirian turned his body to face Auriel, then silence took over their surroundings.

"Still bitter I see."

Auriel unfolded her arms and stepped forward only once. Tension caused the air to feel heavy as the two siblings gazed into each other's eyes. Tirian was the first to break the barrier of silence with words of his own, a tone of care and worry laced within his tone.

"Leave the vengeance to me, my blood is not affected by the rot. You will drive yourself to death on this path."

Auriel spit to the side, letting her glare pierce the subtle fog between the two.

"You doubt me, I'm not the careless kid you knew back then. I've got something to fight for. It's no longer a careless battle of vengeance. I've got a family to protect. It's my name that is tarnished and my hometown that has been thrown to the fires. You are the true heir to the Imladris throne. You're a leader, a natural born commander. I'm still a young boy who isn't ready to lead anything. The only thing I know is war, vengeance, slaughtering. I've a long path ahead of me, and lots to learn."

Auriel's gaze softened as his words came out. She began moving forward until her hands were able to reach the younger brother, gently caressing his cheeks.

"You've grown… Mother would be proud of you…"

Her words fell unto Tirian's ears, his face growing a shade of white. His eyes glazed over for a moment before a smile came to his face. Tirian brought his arms up to embrace the superior sibling, a moment of serenity passing between the two of them. Quite similar, were they in their past. Bred for fighting and war, nothing but strife and conflict within their lives both internal and external. Two beats striving to fit into a world they seemingly no longer belong.

"How about one for the old times? I think I can keep up this time."

Auriel pulled back with a hefty laugh before retorting.

"You could never keep up, besides you're still recovering. Get more rest and maybe tomorrow."

Tirian smiled, giving his sibling a small nod.

"If I win you have to come with us."

Auriel shrugged to her brother, giving an uncaring glance to him before turning and walking away. The red-head watched her strides draw her further and further away until her darkened silhouette disappeared into the thinning fog. Tirian turned the opposite direction and disappeared into the fog heading towards the abandoned part of town. His mind was set on something, a bit of closure for himself and the opening of a new chapter of his life. A bit of relief chipped away from the evil within his heart, his eyes looking back towards town, the caravan and its members… his new family. He'd protect them no matter what. Tirian pushed forward through the fog until the clearing where his battle had taken place.

The destruction caught his eyes, sending his feelings into a spiral. He had done most of this damage, yet he didn't remember anything at all. He had to see it for himself, to understand the depth of his strength hidden away under rage and anger. This power that could be controlled, bent to will would give him the edge he needed. Tirian nodded to himself, turning from the rubble and headed back towards the town, a solid goal in mind for himself. There was one person he could ask for help, a wise and kind elf of the sand. Tirian smiled to himself and continued forward until his shadow disappeared into the distance.

 

[Rain of the Night]

Vordan had made his way to his room immediately after he had left the Northern Elf's room. He hadn't diverged to anywhere else, spoke to anyone or even look at anyone. His expression would have revealed a prominent pain that the mercenary did not wish for people to ask about. Even if he could explain it, it wouldn't make it any better, especially since she was probably alone in their, suffering her agony without anyone by her side to help her through the process. It reminded him too much of his younger self, planning all of these times of recovery to suffer in silence… It led to their death… All their death. The painful memories flashed in his mind, making his eyes watery.

He unlocked his door and quickly went in to lock the door behind him. He glanced over at the desk and tossed the bag of unfinished projects to it, not too worried about wrecking its content. He went over to the bed, moving aside a few items and laid down in it, a long, deep sigh escaping from him. The perks and the pains of being stubborn and left alone to fend for yourself for too long were numerous, but this wasn't one of them. Aaerynn would suffer without help, without a shoulder to cry on… nothing. It wasn't the way to go. Yet… What could he do? Why should eh care so much? Well, those reasons were still jumbled, but she needed help. His eyes stayed set on the sealing for the time being, just thinking about what he was to do about everything that was happening and this journey. He threw his hands behind his head… Considering the many options. Oh this was already a long day… How much worst could it be? He closed his eyes and just let the thoughts do the working.

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​

"I'm surprised the Ice Queen is here."

Elrithos had never met this elf before, but she had quite a reputation following her, just like his own. Even the Aavikkanians had storied of her feats, which meant she really had done something formidable in their eyes. The human kingdoms didn't seem to really know of her, except a select few. Regardless, it was to wonder what she was doing around this place. The sand elf had sat up to eat his meal, graciously brought be the tribe woman. She had been nibbling slowly, her eyes nearly to the ground. He had noticed, but thought maybe she didn't want to talk about it yet… But when the conversation had become silent because of her thoughts, he slowly made himself inch to the edge of the bed.

"Esredia. What's wrong?"

The lady lifted her head, a little surprised that he had said that. She looked away a moment, the clear discomfort showing from her eyes and expression. "Hum… Well…" She brought her hands up across her body. "The lady, the Ice Queen… was about to just kill two elves for something so… small. Why? Why would she go after two innocent beings like that! They were not even involved!" She was clearly flustered and concerned about the well-being of other people, which Elrithos admired. She was like her ancestors, always careful for those that did nothing. Elrithos got to his feet, Esredia wanting to put him back down, but didn't act upon it.

"I cannot say why she did it, but the elves you speak of are safe now, right? That's all that should matter." He spoke with his soft, reassuring tone. There no need to keep thinking of such tragic events once they were done. She needed to move forward and enjoy her day. So, he walked over to the door, Esredia getting to her feet. "Elrithos! What ar-" She got interrupted with a light-hearted laugh as he opened the door. "I need to go to the bathhouses. Could you help me get there?" She was surprised of what she got from the elf. The bathouse? Oh! He probably had to go clean himself now, right? She nodded, coming to his side and supported him all the way to where he needed to be. Hopefully, nothing else would happen.

 

[Jendori]

Weary eyes opened to mid-noon light peeking through a slender crack between the fine cloths used as curtains within this room. Lillith rolled to one side before using her hands to push herself into a seated positon atop the bed. Her head felt heavy, her vision blurred with a headache stronger than even the ale of the previous nights' endeavor.

"How embarrassing…"

Her words came with a soft tone, laced with a hint of anguish from the pain of her throbbing head. Pushing past the pain, the exotic woman stood from the kingly bedding and stumbled towards the bathroom in which she could shower with warm water. Lillith closed the heavy stone doer behind her, ensuring it was locked securely before stripping herself of clothes that reeked of alcohol. The water came out in a rush, quickly drenching the female's body with refreshing warmth that cleansed away the regret. Lillith allowed the water to fall down her face for a better portion of an hour before stepping out onto cold stone, grasping a towel to cover her naked body. She took a moment to enjoy the cold stone before changing into a simple white dress, a few religious symbols covering the shoulder area. With her garments pressed neatly, the beauty exited the room and into the streets. Her eyes looked forward towards the distant temple, a day of praying for her sins ahead of her.

 

[LastCinder]

Setna had traveled around holding the bouquet until finally reaching Elrithos' room. He knocked on the door a few times only to be returned by silence. Strange. "Elrithos?" He called out to the Desert Elf, waiting once more for an answer. Nothing.

The teenager looked at the flowers, unwilling to be seen carrying them around any further. It was bad enough that he was the one to arrange them together in the first place, talk about embarrassing. So the boy tried the door, jostling the handle to make a decent enough noise before peeking his head into the room. His eyes widened a bit to see it empty. Strange. Was he alright? With all those injuries it had to be hard to get around. But the Syndarean caught sight of some things Esredia had been handling before. Perhaps she was helping him get around? Setna supposed it wasn't any of his business as he set the flowers down on the bedside table. Would leaving them like that be too weird? Would he even know who they were from? Probably not.

All this fuss for a bunch of flowers.

The teenager scratched the back of his head before glancing towards the desk. He approached and rifled through it, finding some type of writing instrument and a piece of paper. Setna grunted as he held the fragile writing utensil in his hand. Gods, he hadn't actually written anything in years. When was the last time he had received any type of academic schooling? When he was 8 maybe? 10 years ago… This was becoming more frustrating than fighting. Eventually the teenager was able to scribble down something half-legible in his chicken scratch handwriting.

Feel Better –Twins

Good enough right? Short and sweet. Setna sighed, rubbing the back of his head with a hand. Stupid. Oh well, maybe his teacher would appreciate it, right? The boy slipped out of the room, glancing around. As long as he didn't run into Serna he could go for more training. The Syndarean had noticed something interesting as he had sparred with his sister and he wanted to act upon it.

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​

The next morning, Aaerynn woke up with her head planted in a book.

She pulled back, rubbing her face in her hands to try and wake herself up. There was a burning sensation within her lungs which turned into a painful itch in the back of her throat and made her eyes water. The wood elf coughed violently, feeling the taste of rotted wood entering her mouth. Her hand covered her lips as her body spasmed into a coughing fit.

When it finally passed and she was able to breathe once more, Aaerynn pulled her hand away and looked at the dark stain that now marred the pale skin of her palm. It was to be expected. One happy moment wasn't enough to recover the damage done by the past couple of days. It was taking longer for her body to recover anyway, which again was to be expected. She couldn't assume her body would be fine after centuries of abuse. Eventually it wouldn't be able to regenerate any longer. Eventually, one more moment of despair will finish her off entirely.

The wood elf flexed her fingers in and out of a loose fist, before her light eyes looked up to the stacks of books and notes she had been working on. She didn't have time to fret about useless things. She knew what she wanted to do now. She stood, wiping the rotted blood on her hand across her slacks before rifling through the notes she had written. Folding the papers, she stuffed them into her cleavage to hold on to for later. Her fingertips grazed the stone left on the necklace still worn around her neck and she grasped it a moment, feeling its weight, the smoothness of the stone and the curving of the wire that held it in place. It made her feel better, just the same as the habit she had picked up in rubbing her fingertips across the scar tissue near her shoulder. It was soothing.

Light blue eyes glanced to the sack of money left on the tea table and a hand pressed to the notes she had hidden. Yes, she knew what she wanted to do.

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​

The twins had had an unsatisfactory morning following a spoiled night. Serna had not been able to find her red headed teacher throughout the evening and had to give up on handing him the flowers she had made. Setna had not been able to get any more practice in nor had he been able to try out what he had noticed the day prior. So the Syndarean twins looked very much like the undead as they sat at the large wooden table trying to eat breakfast.

Neither had noticed the sharp and distinct sound of heeled boots clacking against the stone floors until Aaerynn made her presence known by sitting right between the two and saying, "We're going shopping."

Setna nearly choked and had to spit out his food both in surprise at her presence and her sudden command. "Hah!?"

The wood elf glanced at him, mildly bemused before she reached out for an apple from the bowl of fruit laid out on the table. "Lord Farin is having a farewell party for the group. This is a noble party, royalty. Everyone is expected to dress formally. The rest of the party have another set of clothes to wear, except the three of us." Aaerynn was leaving Lucy out of her headcount, not really caring, and Tirian probably could use some new clothes as well, but for Gods' sake he was royalty anyway. He was fine either way. Plus, it wouldn't fit in well with the favor she wanted in return with the twins. "So, we're going shopping, my treat."

"A-Are y-you sure Miss Aaerynn? W-we don't want to burden you!" Serna's sweet voice piqued up and Aaerynn glanced at her with a raised eyebrow. Although the Syndarean girl attempted to humbly refuse, her body seemed to bounce lightly at the prospect. She was excited whether or not she wished to display it.

Setna also sputtered a moment, looking put out as he referenced his clothing. "What's wrong with what I've been wearing?"

The boy pulled his shirt away from his body to inspect it and Aaerynn deftly slipped her fingers in the wide hole that had been sliced through it days before. "Yes, wearing a shirt that has begun to expose your chest is highly formal and incredibly professional. The smell will also give you some much needed compliments, I'm sure." The sarcasm was not hard to miss.

Setna's ears turned red in embarrassment as he shifted away in defeat turning back to his food. "I got it, I got it." He waved his hand at the elf and muttered under his breath.

Aaerynn looked back to Serna to address her first comment. "It's fine. I have enough. All I want in return is a favor."

"A favor?" The teenaged boy was back in the conversation, head lifted and dark eyes narrowed.

"Yes, a favor." Responded the cool elf, a slender eyebrow lifting as she looked back at the boy. "It's just something simple. It won't take too long and doesn't require any effort. What do you say?"

If it was something simple, why did Setna feel like he was making a deal with the devil? The boy looked to his sister, and Serna beamed brightly at him, her large dark eyes sparkling like those of a starving puppy begging for food.

"Fine…"

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​

And that is how Setna Roan found himself in a dress shop, half naked, while a bustling man prodded him with measuring tapes and dastardly needles. The Syndarean boy was turned, bent, shifted and used like a manikin as clothes were held against him, draped across him or shoved on him. Eventually the dressmaker found something suitable for him to get, and the teenager was finally set free, pulling on his old clothes like a bat out of hell.

Setna entered the main room to the little shop and loitered by the woman's section, attempting to wait patiently. Instead he finally decided to call out to them. "Are you done yet?"

There was a loud resounding 'No' that made the boy flinch and he backed away. "I'm waiting outside then!"

He couldn't get out of that hell fast enough. The boy jumped down the few steps of the shop before walking over to a bench and plopping his rear down as he looked up at the sky. The city was bustling with people, loud ambient noise interrupting Setna's thoughts and he closed his eyes trying to block it out. What a waste of a good day…

"Syndarean."

That single word sent an ice cold panic through the boy's veins as he shot out of his seat, his hand immediately upon the hilt of his blade as he became face to…mask. A large woman stood in front of him wearing a deer skull for a mask, the antlers wide with a few feathers hanging off them. Her hair clinked, long and braided filled with beads. She merely stood there as Setna's heart raced, his hand tightening on the hilt. But a child suddenly approached, holding out what seemed to be a stack of trimly cut paper with all sorts of symbols drawn upon it. The silent child held it up for Setna to take, but the teenager merely stared at it.

The woman finally spoke. "I am a friend of the Blazing Wind. Take what the child offers you. You will need it."

Setna's eyes widened. Blazing Wind? Did she mean Elrithos? He glanced back at the stack of papers and cautiously picked them up. "Uh…Thank…you? What even are these?"

"You will know in time. Keep them secret. Use them when you feel is right. There is only danger ahead of you, tell your friends to be wary of the mountains." The woman spoke cryptically and Setna looked at the papers in confusion. What did she mean he'd know when to use them?
When he looked up, the woman and the little child were gone. Setna shifted around on his heels, trying to catch a glimpse of the woman's antlers but nothing. How creepy was that? The Syndarean shoved the papers in his pocket. Might as well keep them, he didn't want to piss off a creepy looking woman like that.

The bells to the dress maker's shop chimed and Setna looked back to see his sister and Aaerynn emerge with packages that were immediately handed to him to hold. Great.

-----------------​

The trio searched a few other stores, although it was mostly Aaerynn conducting business. The only store the twins weren't allowed to follow her into seemed to be a store for knick knacks. Setna had questioned it, but his sister immediately shushed him, assuring him that he wouldn't understand. Wouldn't understand what? What was so special about that type of store?

They finally found their way back to the Dwarven Lord's estate and that is where Aaerynn asked for her favor. Blood samples.

What?

Setna had attempted to argue against it, but did he really have a choice? "What do you need our blood for?"

"Medicine." Was Aaerynn's smooth response. "I want to see how it reacts to blood with magic and blood without. It's not every day I happen upon twins as perfect test subjects."

Just the sound of that gave Setna chills. What was with these women being so creepy today? The boy's twin sister had simply followed along like a champ. She let Aaerynn nick the skin of her arm without even a flinch, letting the wood elf fill a small test tube half way with the red blood. Then it was over, Aaerynn patching up the tiny wound before beckoning for Setna to sit.

The teenaged boy was not that comfortable with it. "Will it hurt? It's going to hurt isn't it? I don't want it to hurt. Just do it quickly ok? Like super quick. Don't let me feel it."

He held his arm out childishly, as if hoping to depart it from the rest of his body, his face all screwed up with nervous anticipation. For a moment he thought he saw Aaerynn smile, and nearly laugh at his actions, but it faded just as quickly. "For a boy willing to throw himself at an experienced Desert Elf for practice and training, and get punched around by Tirian, you're acting like quite a child for this sort of thing."

"There's a difference." Setna whined, unwilling to even look at the wood elf as she raised her dagger. "With training I can fight back, and I only get hurt cause of my own mistakes. But this is willingly letting someone hurt me, of course I'm a baby!"

There was a slight snicker, or maybe a snort that left the wood elf, before she finally looked at him. "It's already done. See? Wasn't so bad."

Setna held his arm up in surprise, seeing the small patch of clay like substance Aaerynn always used to help close wounds. "Thanks!"

The blonde woman merely shook her head before rising to her feet, taking her samples. Serna approached her brother's side with a smile and Aaerynn called out to them. "Show up at my door before the party and I will help the two of you get ready. Thank you for today. I have to get started on some things."

"N-No th-thank you!" Serna called out to the wood elf, before she disappeared into the kitchen, leaving the twins alone in the dining room.

 

[Dekonic]

The radiant light from the rising sun burst through the fine fabric layering window panes to a silent room. A red-head stirred from his cove of blankets that surrounded his body like a cocoon. Tomorrow would be the day the caravan would depart Durngan on their journey towards the eastern continent Thialea. Farin, the clever dwarf, somehow snuck a party into the works for the group. Tirian had just obtained the information the previous evening, words traveling through the grapevine between fellow travelers. The man would need a suit, one worth a pouch of golden coin at the very least. That would be the very first item on a long list of things to do before such an elaborate 'going away' party. With that, the Duralean prince hopped out of the enormous bed and hit the stone floor running. Tirian exited his quarters with haste, the metallic plating of his armor clanking together with every powerful step forward. His destination rested at the opposite end of the aristocratic portion of Durngan, a snooty fabric merchant who had the strongest tailoring skills of any living being in the land. Forward faster and faster, each heavy step of the man's feet rocketed his tall frame forth. Five, nay ten minutes elapsed before the prince stood before a beautiful store with a gilded sign reading 'Thursfield Fabrication'. He stepped into the store, quickly meeting the shrill voice of a younger female.

"Yes, yes. What you need?"

Her grammar had been poorer than most common folk, a typical sign of an artisan craftsman who spent their life within the trade of choice. For this young woman it had been the trade of fabric, sewing and everything else within that world. Tirian's body was rushed backwards into a chair that had been leveled perfectly to the sagging stone beneath its' wooden legs. Before he could answer the tiny woman, a length of tape pressed into his crotch. A grunt of surprise escaped the pale lips attached to the prince's face.

"E-excuse me! I need a suit! Something for an elegant party!"

The fondling sensation quickly ceased as the pale midget looked up to her customer, a frown upon her face. The tailor turned on her heels and disappeared to the back of the store. Tick. Tick. Tick. Suddenly the owner appeared with a suit fit for Ares himself. A tunic red as blood, lined with peerless black diamonds. A pair of matching trousers laid behind the beautiful tunic, along with an ice-white shirt with ruffled lace around the collar. Black shoes and white gloves completed the outfit, but could the prince fork up enough coin to satisfy the woman?

"Pricey! For you, cheap. 500."

Tirian swallowed down the mucus in the depths of his throat at the outrageous price. Yet, the coin was worth the look he was going to acquire if even for a single night. The man reached for a pouch, hesitating for a single moment before placing the heavy sack of coin into the woman's hand. The tailor seemed pleased with the weight of the pouch in her hand, quickly shooing the prince out of the store after handing him the collection of elegant garments meant for a king. Tirian exited with outfit in hand, his ocean hued orbs catching a familiar sight. Lucille stood in the street with a smile on her reddened face, colors of red from embarrassment of what she held in her right hand. A dress, strapless and slim to show each and every curve her feminine body held.

"This is awkward…"

Her voice was but a squeak, low and lull as if she had been speaking only to herself. Tirian closed the distance between the two of them, a smile on his face as well.

"Seems like we both have a special someone to impress."

Lucille turned her neck to hide her eyes that shimmered with excitement for a night of happiness and enjoyment. Tirian grabbed the slender woman's arm to usher her forward, back towards their resting place to prepare for their evening out. Silence. Nothing but silence between the two friends, comfortable silence with the sounds of feet padding the stone walkway and crinkling of age-old fabric. Lucille stepped in front of the red-head with a hop in her stride. She was acting rather… normal. A girl happy about doing girly thing, as if the world around them had been without strife and conflict. The sight gave Tirian hope that everyone in the caravan would have some sort of happy end at the finale of their trip. The distance to Farin's castle diminished until the duo entered the large foyer.

"My room, I'll get you looking perfect for tonight."

Lucille let out a giggle as she bounced forward, Tirian followed albeit reluctantly. What was this girl's evil plan? Oh well, at least she would get him prepared without looking like utter… well shit. The red-head followed Lucille until he found himself sitting in front of a giant pane of reflective glass. His hair had been slicked back with some sort of holding ooze. His face had been made-up to look peerless and perfect, a layer of foundation and powdered blush covering his face. After a long while Lucille finally patted the man's back.

"There ya' go. Now get changed while I do myself!"

Lucille ushered the warrior out and slammed the washing room's door in his face. His body turned, facing the outfit that had been previously laid out piece-by-piece to allow quick and painless dressing. Tirian undressed himself, quickly redressing his body with the fine fabric. Everything seemed to fit rather…perfectly. Odd. However the sight of himself in the mirror was appeasing, Lucille had done a wonderful job in dolling him up for the night in. Sounds resonated up the masonry as guests began to arrive in the foyer. Tick, tick. Lucille finally emerged from the locked door revealing her tight fitting dress of a pale pink hue. Each curve of her body defined, her neck covered with a long lace scarf that hung down to her waist. Her hair had been pulled and manipulated into a fluffy bun of pink hair. Her eyes shimmered with anticipation of the prince's answer to her look.

"Wow."

His words expressed his thoughts quite simply, her hand extended forward and the prince took it into his own hand, leading her out of the living quarters and unto the stairs leading to their party. Click. Step. Click. Step. Until the duo who had been arm-in-arm came into sight. The Foyer had somehow been decorated with massive stone tables, carved with patterns of elegant design. Food rested on the table on the far right table while drinks found their place on the opposite end of the room. Guests of all races found themselves dancing sophisticatedly. Tirian turned to his partner in crime with a smile.

"Go find your someone special. I'll be fine."

Lucille nodded to the prince and descended the stairs until her form disappeared into the crowd. Ocean hued orbs scanned the crowds searching for a certain person. Navy hair, slender frame, always smiling. Perhaps she wasn't coming… There! A sound of glee coming near the food table. Serna had been in the arms of her twin, dancing happily. The prince stepped down the stairs and made way towards the Syndarean pair, parting the crowd until he stood in front of Setna and Serna. His hand extended forward.

"Sir Setna, may I have you sister's hand in this dance?"

 

[Rain of the Night]

That sun rose that morning, shining through the skies like a beacon of hope for the one mercenary sitting down upon the rocks. Vordan had actually been able to awaken early that morning, far before the sun even peaked over the horizon. Some much had been done and finished, yet so much had started too. The projects he had been working on for members of the group just needed a few alterations which would require the help of those that are actually going to be using them. A more pressing matter now came though, as this rot was scrapping away at Aaerynn's life. The solutions were there, but what in the bloody Abyss could he really do about it? She wished to suffer alone, to stow away this pain for only herself to bare. It was a destructive route that would consume her, like she had said to him.

Those thoughts haunted his mind that morning, right up until the sun shined upon him. Like every time he would witness the rising of it, a faint smile would creep onto his lips. It was a way to remember that everyday had to be lived; everyday had to be put to good use. Some people didn't seem to comprehend his saying, though most didn't understand how life was truly short. He was sure that even Elrithos and Rudolf understood this. The twins certainly did, having fled their own kingdom, and Tirian was making every day count. Esredia now had something to live for… He wasn't sure about the exotic about the Exotic Lillith yet as he had little time to speak to her yet. Lucille too was someone he has had little interaction with. Maybe he should devote a little more time to them to learn who they are? Certainly something to look forward to.

A long, sorrowful sigh finally let off from the merc, knowing that pressing on this wouldn't make him progress in what he needed to accomplish. It still pained him, angered him even. What he needed to do now was put that energy into something constructive. He leaned back into the rock face, having climbed up to somewhere that could over him a view over the city buildings. It was no disappointment either as there was nothing to obstruct his view. He spent most of his morning just admiring the view and thinking about his plans for that day. He had yet to learn about this magnificent party happening that night for them… His plans were forming without this knowledge.

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Fell Better – Twins

A knock come to the desert elf's door, to which he turned his head around to face. He already had a good idea of who would be knocking at his door during these times. His smile spread on his face as he asked whoever it was to come in. As he would have expected it, the tall, dark haired woman walked into his room. In her hands was a silver platter covered with his breakfast and hers. Elrithos took a seat on the bed, seemingly not in much pain anymore.

"Thank you, Esredia." He said in a soft tone. She gave him a gentle smile as she walked forth and delicately placed the food beside him. "You are welcome, Elrithos. I also bring news. The dwarf lord has invited us to a farewell party for Rudolf and the crew. Seems something you would call… formal?" Of course, the savage lady wouldn't know what it truly means as he time as a slave only made her wear whatever it was she needed to wear and not say a word. The desert warrior's lips parted in surprise as he wouldn't have thought the Farin would throw a party for them. Though, the tanned skinned elf appreciated the lord's gesture. "What a kind man he is. I guess we will need to get something for the occasion. Let's get to the right after food, alright?"

Esredia looked at him with astonishment, feeling odd to be offered to get an outfit for such events. There was a time when his master would just tell her to wear whatever was given to her and not say a word back… As exotic or revealing as they were. The simple thought of those times made the savage woman uneasy. She give s light nod and looked away, flustered. Elrithos grabbed and apple and bit into it, the juices just spilling in his mouth. With a satisfied hum, he laid back onto the bed and took a deep breath. Maybe this day wasn't going to be so bad, especially after what has happened to everyone so far.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
​

Vordan had thought out what he wanted to do for the time being… It wasn't exactly what he had initially planned. His return to the estate of the Lord had brought him news of a party made for the lot Rudolf collected for his journey and he had not expected anything like such for their departure. They had been through so much shit in these parts that really, something like this wasn't pleasing to the merc. What would happen this time? Who would get hurt? Would it turn to a shitfest like it did in the tavern? Who knows… But at least, he could enjoy something he hasn't done in a little while now, something that most would frown upon, but would be really good entertainment for both himself and others.

First part of it was to find a place that did it, which meant going to a sector of the city where the poorer folk inhabited. Not too hard to find. He stopped in front of a tavern, in a condition most would consider almost rundown… Yet, it would hold the most interesting of people, those that could get him to where he needed to go. He made his entrance into the place and already… He could see the people he needed to talk to. That bunch of men were easily recognizable.

This should be exciting.

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​

Esredia presented herself to the hall only a few moments after the red-haired prince and the pink-haired healer had gone down the stairs. Her hands came to rest on the railing of the balcony that looked over the people who had come for the departure party… The woman set her eyes on all the guests, her nervousness slowly gathering inside her. She was not used to these things, being so much more different than gatherings within taverns or… other more malicious places. She knew that this was for the group she joined, but did she really need to be here? After all, she hasn't been with the team for that long, right? She scanned from left to right, cheeks becoming rosy…

"You are marvelous, Esredia." The voice came from behind her from the one that had accompanied her all day. She turned around slowly, brandishing a shy smile to the desert elf. He set his eyes on the new strapless white dress they were able to pick out that day, the hems of the bottom barely off the ground. Laces were firmly tied on her bar, further defining the athletic curves she had. The raven black hair was neatly brought into a single ponytail. It was an odd contrast to her eyes, but one what who have the curiosity of people rising.

"Thank you, Elrithos… I see you decided not to wear your outfit you picked out. Why?" she was curious why he had bought something that he didn't even wear to the event it was made for. Instead, he was wearing the same desert outfit that had been given to him by his brethren; the loose looking, mismatched clothing. It definitely stood out, just like she did. The man came over and lifted his arm for her to take. She did so, although still wanted the answer to her question.

"Comfort. The outfit was pressing on my wounds, This is loose and it's what us Aavikkanians were during events like these." She nodded gently, no wondering what kind of people these desert dwellers truly were. They had always been allies with the mountain tribes before the war, or so the tales went. Would it be any different than what her story tellers would speak of? Her thoughts were interrupted by the elf as they descended the stairs. "We should find Lord Farin. He's been wanting to meet you this whole time. Then maybe find someone to dance with you." She looked down at her comrade, blinking. "What about you?" She asked, wondering who HE was going to find to dance with. "I'm going to try and find Lillith and offer the lady a dance. She has yet to really know much of anyone, for what I can see. I think it would be a good way to start." He gave this great big smile. She could only smile back and nod as they started looking for the Lord.

Vordan, for his part, had yet to be seen within the estate since he left that morning…

 

[Jendori]

Lillith had woken late on the day of the going away festival, her napping regiment largely distorted from the earlier day of binge drinking. However, enough time remained in the afternoon to prepare herself. The beauty from another land checked the large stone closet, finding a dress she had purchased a day ago in the market, red as blood with lace shoulders exposing enough skin while fitting her slim body. Every curve delicately defined, befitting of someone of her exotic nature. After donning the dress she immediately began the process of pulling her hair up into a tight bun. However time had passed much faster than she had realized, late again! Lillith rushed down from her room as fast as she could, tripping on the stairs and crashing down into the foyer, every pair of eyes finding their way to the clumsy female. That was when her own eyes caught the sight of the desert elf coming her way. Lillith picked herself up quickly, dusting her dress off with a few quick pats before Elrithos could close the distance entirely.

It seemed that wherever Lord Farin was, Elrithos and Esredia just couldn't find him. It should have been easy for them to find the host of the party. He was probably with some people of importance or doing exactly the same as they were. A few had tried to approach the odd duo; a tall black haired, red eyed woman with a shorter darker skin elven man. The two initially refused the invitations. It's not that the two weren't pleased to talk to any of them, simply that Elrithos wished for Esredia to meet the Lord.

Someone had crashed down the stairs, immediately having the elf and the savage turning around in alarm, eyeing the scene… Elrithos immediately had a smile crawl on his lips, seeing the exotic woman on the ground. Esredia was slightly concerned. Though, she instantly remembered hearing Elrithos saying he wanted to dance with her… She turned to his companion and pushed him forward. "Go. Me talk people." She gave a small smile, immediately turning to someone trying to grab her attention.

Elrithos nodded back, appreciating the gesture of the savage woman. He slowly made his way towards the woman who had fallen from the stairs, this little smile on his face. "You know how to make yourself known, Lady Lillith." He added a light hearted laugh. He offered his hand to the exotic lady with a bow. "Would you have this dance with me?" He asked politely, hopefully being able to put this scene aside quickly for her.

A small smile came to the exotic woman's lips as Elrithos gave a laugh. Her hands went to her bun, fixing a few stray hairs. "Yes I suppose I do. Please call me Lillith by the way, no need for such formality."

She was certainly surprised however as suddenly the Desert elf bowed before her and offered his hand and a dance. It made her laugh a bit and she gave a slow nod. "Of course. Thank you."

The foreign woman slid her hand into Elrithos' allowing him to lead her if he wished. "I am afraid I am not very knowledgeable of dances of this continent, so please excuse my clumsy nature."

Her free hand brushed along her dress again, in case of any dirt from her previous tumble. Her gaze came up to rest upon the desert elf once more as she seemed to contemplate something. "Also...I believe it is you I have to thank for bringing me back a few nights ago. Or rather, not exactly you..or... I am sorry, details of that night are rather...unclear."

Elrithos could only give her back a radiant smile as she took his hand, straightening himself up to slowly march to where the people were dancing with one another. The desert elf's hands were strangely soft, probably a product of some hydrating plants as his hands were typically rugged and dry.

She spoke of not knowing any dances of t this continent, to which he nodded quickly. "You need not worry for that, Lillith. I cannot do anything too complex with my injuries anyway…" They faced each other once there, listening in to the music a moment as she spoke. He wanted to get the rhythm it was currently giving. He laughed a little. "You are welcome. It was a friend of mine that brought you back to your room, but all the same." He felt the rhythm out by slowly tapping his feet. "The events of that night do not need to be retold… Tell me." He said as he brought his hand to her waist. "… Do you have any discomfort for dances that are very close and personal? I want to present a dance native of my desert lands." He kept his smile. "When find this kind of entertainment to be for many purposes and the music is reminding me of a slow paced melody of my people."

"Of course not. I would not mind witnessing a dance of your own people. I am not very accustomed to your culture. Aavikanian, yes?" Lillith wasn't quite sure where to rest her hands, simply placing one on the elf's shoulder while the other remained in his hand. Although her feet were light, they too were rather awkward. "Forgive me for any missteps. Not quite as limber without a drink of alcohol, or two."

The exotic woman gave a wink and a smile before waiting for Elrithos to lead. Her prior embarrassment long forgotten.

Elrithos nodded to her. "Yes, Aavikkanians. Most call us the elves of the desert now. Seems Aavikkanian doesn't stick well to human tongues." He chuckled, giving a quick glance to where she had placed her hand. He adjusted it accordingly; he removed the large scarf that covered his neck and the bottom of his face and gave it a quick tie to his waist. He took the position back, though brought the hand of the exotic woman to his neck so she could feel his skin.

"We are typically a little less dressed for this, but human gatherings frown upon it." He laughs a little. He raised a brow to her remark. "If we are going to go into more complex dances, we might want to but a little bit in you then." He winked and proceeded to show her the first few basic steps of the slow dance. In those first steps, one could already tell it was made for people who weren't prude or scared of contact. His on hand were moving up her waist for a more 'intimate' contact, bringing the both of them a lot closer. Their joint hands were doing slow, delicate movements.

Once the bases were done, he moved to showing the entire dance step by step. His instruction almost seemed like an excuse to have her hand run across his body, going from his chest, to his sides, to the back of his head. His own use of his hand seemed just about as worst, also running across her chest, up her neck, like gentle caresses of her skin. He didn't even seem slightly bothered by it and even took the seductive, compassionate look.

"What do you think?" He asked as they went with the rhythm that was presented to them.

When Elrithos had mentioned "close and personal" Lillith had immediately assumed perhaps chest to chest or maybe he would hold her a bit too tightly. What she had not been expecting was the elf seemingly finding excuses to drag her hands across his body as his hands did the same. At first she brushed it off, it was culture right? But it followed a look he gave her, which set her off. Had she been tricked? She certainly did not have enough liquor in her system for this.

Finally it was over, and the exotic woman immediately pulled away. Her shoulders set with her anger. As soon as he asked her opinion, Lilllith responded with a slap across his face, that resounded. "Maybe it is my fault for projecting myself in such a manner that makes you assume I am easy to buy with a drink and a trick. I am not a woman of such sin. I didn't think of you as such a man to use such excuses to violate a woman in such a manner!"

With a flick of a silver strand of hair, the exotic woman turned on her heel and briskly walked away before the desert elf could give her any more excuses.

The moment she pulled away from his grasp, he understood that she might not have appreciated what he had just made her live. Her anger showed, but Elrithos simply stood there for the time that she explained. What she came to mention was something that was taken out of context; maybe he expressed himself in a manner quite unsuitable for the situation. His face did light up in surprise to her reaction, taken aback from this representation of what he was trying to do. Even the moment he tried to explain, the exotic lady had already walked off in anger.

"Lillith…" He said, though didn't shout or yell. It was too late, she had walked off too far away. The same thing happened with Lissandra the first time he asked her to dance in the way of his people. It was at some South Elf festivities and he wished to show her one of the dances of his people. He had chosen poorly that day too and he knew how she enjoyed the red wine of their people. She only forgave him once he brought her to the desert to see that it a part of their culture to entice a non-native of their lands to drink if it loosened them up.

He reached for the scarf tied to his belt and put it back up. It would teach him a lesson in showing how his culture worked and entertained themselves. With a long sigh, he decided that these human or dwarven parties were probably not made for him. The only thing really keeping him here now was the fact it was hosted for him and his friends. He parted to get himself a mug of water. He'd have to not do this kind of thing anymore.

 

[LastCinder]

Setna leaned the back of his head against the wall. His life had become an eternal wait. His shoulders slumped as his body slowly slid down the wall, accompanied by a groan of impatience. It's not like he could really say anything. Aaerynn had been kind enough to take a knife to his overgrown mop of dark hair. She had even slicked it back using some type of substance, and the teenager was pretty sure his hair was now strong enough to slice through something. It looked…better, and at least it was out of his eyes now. Though he hadn't really had a say in it, she came at it whether he wanted it cut or not.

He tapped his foot, giving him something to do as he waited. His calloused fingertips picked at his white and dressy shirt. His pants too, were formal and dark. In other words it was itchy as all hell, and he would never be wearing these again.

Another tired groan left him, followed by a huff. What was taking so long? Gods…How hard was it to put on a dress and go?

Setna's thoughts were answered with the sound of a door opening. His head jerked up, his body leaning forward as he rose to his feet. It was only Aaerynn. At first the boy would have dismissed it and sat back down, having to wait for his sister, but he was left frozen. He had never actually seen the wood elf out of her dark garb of the caravan, and usually she was sweaty like the rest of them. But now…now she kind of looked as if she had stepped out of a painting.

Aaerynn had taken out all the stops. Her dress was elegant and a purple color that seemed to brighten her face and the color of her blond hair. It fit her frame, and the gentle curve of her waist. Her short hair was braided and pulled back, making it seem as if it was longer than it truly was. Her elven face held no imperfection, skin bright and flushed and eyes holding the color of the sky.

For a moment, Setna was sure he had stopped breathing. "Uh…You look…uh…pretty?"

Aaerynn raised an eyebrow before shifting the strap of her bag on her shoulder and giving a slight sound of amusement. Maybe it was a chuckle or a snort, Setna couldn't tell, before she replied, "Thank you, but I think you should hold your applause."

With that she turned and Serna came into sight, a blush across her face and a smile on her lips. Her dress was white except for a colored sash tied around her waist. Her white ribbon held back her bangs while the ends of her long dark hair were curled, just barely. Her face held a glow of softness and she stumbled forward a bit, her skirt swishing with the motion.

Setna found himself grinning. Perhaps the wait was worth it in the end. He hadn't seen his twin look so happy in years. They both shared a look and wide smiles, while the wood elf walked ahead. Aaerynn eventually looked back. "Shall we?"

--------------------​

The grand hall was filled with people. Merchants, travelers, nobility and common folk alike. It was thrumming with sound, music blaring over the conversations. Aaerynn had one hand on the strap of her bag as she surveyed the crowd. Farin sure knew how to start up a party. The twins had already ran ahead of her, entering the throng of people like a pair of over excited children. The wood elf would never admit it, but it was a pleasant sight.

A small smile came to her painted red lips before she moved forward entering the crowd. It was time to make some profit. Parties like these were easy. Cologne to make you smell better, medicine to rise libido, syrups to reduce the pain of hangovers, lotion to soften calloused hands, you name it, Aaerynn had it, and she would sell it.

She ignored the pain churning deep in her chest and the soft cough that left her lips, before she plastered on a selling smile and disappeared amidst the people.

--------------------​

The twins had been urged to perform a dance and they did so with no qualms. Dancing was practically a past time in Syndarean culture, even Setna had no embarrassment showing off a dance linking elbows with his sister. The music closed as well as the dance and the twins laughed together, until an abrupt voice made them turn their heads. Setna grinned, seeing his sister turn red upon the sight of Tirian.

"Of course." Setna answered the red head's question, leading Serna forward by the hand, before transferring it to Tirian's.

He then turned his attention to Serna and gave a wide cheeky grin. "Have fun." He said, his eyes already landing on the buffet table as he left his sister to stutter her way around this.

The Syndarean girl simply turned a brighter red as she glanced up to Tirian, taking in his appearance before shyly glancing away. "G-Good evening! D-Do you have a dance you l-like?" Curse her stutter!

~~Setna released the hand of his twin sister without any fight, a smile crossing his lips as his body distanced itself from Tirian and Serna. Ocean orbs found their way to the Syndarean maiden, her looks in the very moment astonishing, catching the warrior without a breath in his chest. It took a moment for the red-head to gather himself, butterflies fluttering with haste within his stomach, an odd feeling for someone so hardened by war and killing. Perhaps he had begun to grow soft for the maiden, his old habits of animalistic rage ceasing to exist, if only for this lonesome night. Her stuttered words brought him back the reality, his words coming slow with a hint of embarrassment.

"Perhaps a simple dance from my culture. Allow me to lead, Madame."

Tirian's hands quickly embraced the Syndarean, one on her hip and the other laced gently between her own fingers. Heat rushed into his face, a hue of red coloring his pale cheeks as the music picked up to the rhythm of their feet. It was a simple dance, quick steps here and there with a slight twirl near the end of the first string of steps. Their bodies were close, chests touching with a gentle graze of fabric. However it was apparent Tirian was not a great dancer, stumbling here and stepping on Serna's feet there. The rush of red coloring deepened as his words came out low and lull.

"Forgive me, I'm not the best dancer."

Serna felt her heart begin to hammer within her chest as Tirian laid a cautious hand on her hip while the other interlocked with one of her own. Tentatively, she placed a hand upon his shoulder and then he led her. It was a little clumsy, a stumble here and there and the Syndarean was sure the prince stepped on her feet once or twice, but she couldn't feel it at all because she was so unbearably happy.

Were her hands too sweaty? Maybe? Oh no.... Her heart was thudding in her chest and echoing through her throat and head. It was all she could hear. Her face was bright and she honestly wondered if it was the same shade as his hair.

Tirian asked for forgiveness about his dancing and it made Serna finally look up at him. She quickly shook her head and gave a nervous giggle. "N-No...it's f-fine. Y-You...l-look...good t-tonight."

She spoke shyly, stuttering out a whisper as she was twirled and then brought back in. It was like a dream. It didn't feel real.

~~Serna's voice snapped the red-head back to the reality of the situation. It was all too surreal, her hands on him, fingers locked tightly together. It felt as a dream would, as if the feeling was too real. His forehead beaded with sweat as the heat in his cheeks continued to rise. His ocean eyes took in the sight of the fair Syndarean maiden once more, her beautiful complexion erasing anything else from the man's sight. As if Serna had been the only person in the world that mattered and nothing else had been relevant. The thought sent a smile onto Tirian's lips, his steps becoming more graceful as he allowed Serna to lead the dance instead.

"You are beautiful tonight as well Serna, I am the luckiest man in the room to be dancing with a goddess such as yourself."

Serna felt pretty sure that her head was eager to pop off her neck and float to the ceiling at Tirian's compliment. Her eyes glanced to him and then around, then to the floor, back to him and then shyly away. Her lips parted as if to say something, to thank him, but they just as easily closed and the girl simply looked to the floor as her face heated up.

The Syndarean remained silent as the music softly played. She simply enjoyed the flow of the moment, the shifting of their bodies back and forth together. It was as if nothing else existed besides this singular moment. But as the silence continued, Serna was able to grasp just a bit of courage. "It-t...w-was mostly th-thanks to Aaerynn." She beamed a bit as she spoke, her shoulders rising just enough to bounce the curled ends of her dark hair. "It's b-been a l-long time since I-I've gotten to g-go to something like this..."

--------------------​

Aaerynn had found herself a table, the innards of her bag being replaced by gold and other trinkets serving as payment for her medicine. It had only taken a matter of minutes. She sipped on a glass of wine, pleased. Her light eyes found themselves gazing across the crowd looking for a specific face. Not like it matter, no of course not. She huffed into her glass. He was probably still trapped in his room working on something. Surely, someone had bothered him about the party right? Not like it mattered….

The wood elf touched the necklace she was still wearing, her hand clutching the smooth stone, before she set down her glass. It didn't matter whether he showed up or not. It wasn't like she would never see him again. She still had months to be beside the scribbler, as long as he continued the journey, of course.

Aaerynn looked over at the small rectangular box still sticking out from her bag. She'd be able to…apologize… and thank him later. Eventually. Again, not like it mattered! She'd enjoy her time here at least, she didn't need him for that. She didn't need him at all. The wood elf shook her head and picked up her glass, taking a gluttonous gulp. Pathetic. She was pretty pathetic. No, she was becoming a complete and utter child.

Still, as pathetic and childish as it was…it was kind of nice, simply being excited and anxious to see someone's face. It was…a nice feeling. She hadn't been excited to simply see a face in a good century or so, nor had she actually enjoyed being around people. A lot of shit had been piled on her days ago, but things seemed to be looking up, hopefully. No more family issues. Getting the hell out of Furus. Progress with her research. A bag full of cash. Nothing much better than that.

She dragged a finger along her bottom lip as her mind flickered to the other day while she made medicine. She had collapsed only once. It seemed her recovery was taking longer than expected, but it was alright.

Just at the thought of it, her lungs tightened and her body curled into a cough that left her skin clammy and sweating. A hand had come to cover her mouth and as her body seemed to settle itself once more, she pulled it back to see the dark stain.

Gut. Lungs. Half a century. That diagnosis was before the events of her brother and wonderful sister in law. But even if that 50 years was cut in half, 25 years wasn't so bad. Enough time to enjoy what she had left on another continent. Yes. She would enjoy herself for now. She would enjoy the people she was with, at least.

Aaerynn wiped off her hand on a napkin, as her gaze drifted over to Elrithos and Lillith, watching as it ended rather abruptly…. and rather violently. Aaerynn snorted slightly with amusement. Apparently Aavikanian customs were a little too crude for such high society. She tilted her head wondering if this was the same Lillith that had nearly finished a keg of hard ale herself. The wood elf shook her head and took another sip of wine, hoping to drown the taste of rotted blood leftover in her mouth. Eventually her gaze settled upon Tirian and Serna, and Aaerynn had to bite down a smile. They could barely look at each other, embarrassment blooming in both of their faces. It seems her work was done.

"Now this is what I spoke of days before!"

Rudolf's voice was overly loud as Aaerynn turned to look at him. The dwarf was red faced, of course, as he waddled towards her, lifting his arms in a grand gesture. "Lady Ryn, the most beautiful woman in the room!"

Aaerynn quirked an eyebrow with an amused expression. "And just how many women have you given that line to tonight?"

The dwarf gave a toothy grin and guffawed. "Too many, perhaps! Haha! But it is true, Lady Aaerynn. Our caravan is a garden of beautiful flowers and you are the violet iris."

Rudolf sat beside her and kissed the back of her hand and the wood elf's amusement grew. "Oh? And what of the others?" She said with feigned interest.

"Easy!" The old man sat up and laughed, as he looked over the crowd, gesturing to each woman individually. "Serna the white lily. Esredia the mountain rose. Lillith the orchid, and Lucille the plum blossom. A garden of beauties!"

Aaerynn snorted, just barely a laugh as her eyebrows raised. "I believe you have too much time on your hands."

"Mayhaps, mayhaps, but it's good for an old man to revel in beautiful women with the time he's got left." The old dwarf gave the wood elf yet another smile too large for his face. He hobbled onto his feet and turned to her, outstretching his hand. "Come then, let's have us a dance! No point in withering away on the sidelines!"

Aaerynn held a hand up in refusal, while the other remained in her lap, crinkling the stained napkin in her fist. "I'll pass for now. I'd like to revel in a good glass of wine with the time I have left." Her lips quirked into a slight smile before she twirled one of her fingers, a gesture for him to look behind him. She pointed to Esredia who had been flocked a bit with men of all sorts. "I believe a mountain rose needs saving from being plucked."

Rudolf huffed and puffed out his chest, a hand running over his bald head and what was left of his white hair. "You're darn tootin. I'll be back for you later wood elf, don't get too comfortable!"

Aaerynn relaxed, as she watched the old man enter the crowd of people, leaving her be for the time being. Her shoulders sagged and the elf finished her glass of wine, closing her eyes and relishing the melody of an old song she knew.

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Setna was making his rounds, a plate of food in his hand, piled high. He had already stuffed his face when he caught sight of Elrithos with a mug and he called out to him. "YO!"

The teenager made a bee-line for the desert elf, before realizing his mouth was full of food as he tried to speak. He choked a moment, and thumped his fist against his chest to get himself to swallow.

"Sorry…" He coughed and after a few more thumps seemed to be fine. "You doing ok? Your injuries…" The Syndarean seemed surprised to see his teacher already up on his feet…and on a dance floor.

 

[Dekonic]

The maiden's words brought Tirian back to the party, his eyes shimmering with an emotion only described as pure bliss. How long it had been since he'd felt something so quaint, so nice. Rather than slaughtering humans and taking life away the warrior was enjoying a simple dance with another soul that made his body warm. Tirian turned his head to taken in the sight of all the guests dancing and laughing, letting the happiness that filled the air sink into his war-torn body. It was a sensation he hadn't been used to, oh but he certainly could get used to this. Tirian twirled the maiden with a bit more grace this time around before delving deeper in a wonderful conversation.

"Tell me about yourself. We've spent so much time together and yet, I feel I barely know you at all."

~Serna looked up with wide eyes as Tirian asked her about herself. What didn't he know? The girl blinked mildly before she was pulled in towards his body and her face turned redder. "W-What is th-there to say?"

Her brows pulled together with her thoughts, her cheeks puffing lightly as she tried to come up with something. What didn't Tirian know? "Umm... S-Setna is my only s-sibling. I had a m-mother and a f-father. Father w-was a military m-man. A g-general. He was strong and s-stubborn and loud. He was b-brave. I think Setna tries hard to be like him. But he has a lot of Mama in him."

Serna's face turned warm and gentle, filled with fondness as she spoke, even her stutter seemed to calm. "Mama was the opposite of my father. Quiet, soothing and gentle. Yet she could always make father do as she wanted. In the end, he only seemed to listen to her. She had her own type of strength, I think."

By this point, it seemed Serna's mind had taken her far from the party at hand. Her body followed along to the dance but she seemed lost in memory as she spoke. "I was only thirteen when they found out I had inherited father's magic. It was by accident from watching Setna spar with a neighbor boy. He made a cheap shot that I wanted to protect Set from. The magic came on a whim. But I was taken away from Mama and Father and Set. For almost five years I lived in the convent to undertake religious education for the sacrifice..."

"It was lonely, I missed everyone." Sadness had filled the girl's face, a forlorn look that made her pink lips shift into a frown. But another smile slowly crept back as she finally looked up at Tirian. "But Setna always found a way in to visit me. He'd cause a fright to the nuns. They used to call him a rat because he always found a way in no matter how many doors or windows they blocked."

Serna laughed a bit, until she finally realized where she was and how long she had talked. Her face turned red in embarrassment her stutter re-emerging. "S-S-Sorry...I r-r-ambled. B-But..I suppose th-that's really it."~

Tirian listened to the Synadrean's story without distraction, her words the only sound in the party that made it to his ears. She spoke slowly with a slight stutter and yet Tirian understood each emotion being displayed. Serna's story was similar to his own, a military man father and a gentle mother with strength of her own, and yet the compared parents were vastly different. The warrior's father was a madman psychotic power-hungry bastard with nothing more in mind than world domination. Memories of his past flooded over his mind, only for a moment however. Ocean eyes gazed down at Serna, a smile coming to his face.

"People fear magic, fear the stories of the olden days. The evilness caused by one madman hell-bent on controlling everything. They don't see innocence in those who were born with magic, forcing them to believe that was is normally a gift is actually some sort of curse."

Tirian shrugged to himself before finishing his sentence, words a lull whisper to not tip anyone off to their conversation.

"I am who I am, because of that magic. I see it is a gift and I have this gift for a specific purpose."

~The young woman looked back up to Tirian her eyes wide as their conversation turned into gentle whispers back and forth as their bodies swayed together. "A specific purpose?" She asked, her voice lull and soft just like his.~

Tirian shrugged once more, the intent of his words were not quite clarified even in his own mind. It was an odd statement, a reaction of his emotions with no filter. His eyes readjusted onto Serna as he tried to explain himself.

"If nothing else, I am a monster. Able to rend flesh and end lives without remorse or emotion. Is it possible for someone of my abilities to settle down and have family? Without war and strife? Sometimes I feel as if my sole purpose to mutilate my enemies. Yet that isn't what I want. I want peace. Happiness."

His voice quickly trailed off, words stopping suddenly as his face simply went blank, without emotion.

~
Serna's eyes widened further as Tirian spoke. His eyes changed, it was similar to what she had seen before in scarier situations. Dead, hollow, and almost unseeing. The song was coming to an end, and even their bodies stopped. But Serna would not allow him to escape just yet.

The young woman brought up her hands and enclosed his face within her palms. She had to reach up on her toes to do it, but she was able to turn his head to look at her. "You are not a monster." Her words were clear and strong, with no stutter in sight.

"If I am allowed t-to have h-happiness so are y-you." She bit her bottom lip, trying to find her words. "If y-you were born to only be a m-monster, then I was b-born to die as a sacrifice. B-But you d-don't want that for me right? You told me I could choose...So, you can too."

Serna looked up at him and smiled brightly, enjoying the feeling of his smooth cheeks within her hands. She was trying her very best to ignore her rapid heartbeat and the way her chest swelled with warmth at being so close to him. "Y-You're happy now right? You can have happiness. It'll be o-ok. W-We'll both find happiness."~

Serna's words quickly snapped the prince back to the thick of things, a quick mental slap in the face. Her sweet tone was a reminder of how things would be good in the future, a lullaby of syllables entering his ears like a melodic song his mother sung once in a while. Serna was so innocent, so pure and yet she had been tossed into the fray without regard of her own feelings. Entrapped by a culture of religious heretics quelling the gift of magic. Tirian smiled warmly at Serna, the heat of her hands causing a red tint to color his cheeks. It was right then that the warrior made a silent promise to himself that no matter what he would protect Serna and Setna, never again would another soul ever hurt them. The prince's arms quickly embraced the petite waist of the Syndarean maiden, his heart beating rhythmically.

"Thank you Serie."

It was the first time he had ever used the Syndarean's nick name. The words slipping out of his mouth without a filter, happiness the only emotion bursting in his tightening chest.

~Serna felt a blush burst across her pale cheeks as she was enveloped within the man's embrace. He murmured her nickname, and a thank you, and the girl felt as if she would melt into a puddle at his feet. "N-No...p-problem..."

Shyly Serna's pressed her face against the man's chest, feeling the thump of his heartbeat and the warmth of his arms as they tightened around her body. But just as quickly, she realized what they were doing, together, on a dance floor filled with people. Her eyes flew open, and she pulled back slightly, red faced and shy. "Ah...P-Perhaps w-we should get s-something t-to eat then? I'm s-sure Set has f-found the buffet by n-now."

The Syndarean gave a nervous and high pitched giggle. She was shaking with nerves.~

Tirian smiled, a small chuckle coming at the sight of her nervous shaking and giggling. However, at the mention of food the warrior's stomach grumbled loudly. Ocean orbs gazed around the massive crowd, until finding the elegantly carved stone table filled from end-to-end with food of all cultures.

"Let's go get something to eat."

Tirian nodded to himself, quickly grabbing the maiden's hand, applying a gentle pressure as if she was fragile and precious before leading her towards the buffet table.

 

[Jendori]

The exotic woman walked away with fury in her stride and refused to even acknowledge the elf's existence. 'How dare he touch me in such a filthy and vile way.' Her words resonated in the forefront of her mind loud enough to drown out the collective voices of all the patrons of the party. Lillith found an empty table in a closed off corner and took it upon herself to sit. And so she did. Her eyes closed in annoyance as she flashed the recent events in her mind, the way his hands slid across her body as if he had owned her. Disgusting, really. And such a pathetic excuse of "Culture". Lillith tapped her foot furiously, the clicking of her heels matching the beat of her angry heart. The sound of wood scuffing rock forced the angry woman's eyes opened as a pink-haired brat decided to sit with her. Lillith scowled at Lucille trying her best to somehow shoo the pest away. The last thing this lady wanted was unneeded conversation with someone she did not quite care for.

~The party thus far had been a total drag, and a complete failure for Lucille. She'd spent most of the evening totally and completely isolated from anything that breathed or moved. Most of the girl's time had been spent at the food table picking and plucking delicacies here and there, washed down with the finest liquid provided by the Dwarven King himself. Her eyes however found themselves locked on Elrithos and Lillith engaged in a dance filled with risqué and provactive touches. The expression on the exotic female said it all, even before the loud ringing of reddening flesh shot out. She took it upon herself to ensure that Lillith was intact and okay, however Lucille kept her distance for a short while, until Lillith seemed to calm down somewhat. She sat down and took in the raging scowl Lucille had shot her way, and simply paid it no mind with a cocky smile slapped on her face.

"That was a sight. Oh don't mind me, I'm just bored."~

The woman's screechy voice drove her up a wall, as if she had not been angry enough already. Her tapping foot sped up as that cocky smily Lucille had placed on her lips burned fury in the woman's heart. However Lucille would provide much needed venting, girl to girl venting.

"Call me weird, but I truly cannot stand men. With their excuses and constant badgering. Their showboating and constant contests to show who is stronger or smarter."

Lillith ended her quick rant with a quick breath to push silvery strands out of her eyes, readjusting her focus on the dance floor.

~Lucille smiled to herself for a moment, nodding in agreement to what Lillith had spoken so furiously. It was the first time she had seen the exotic girl so fired up and lively, instead of being like a mannequin simply living life away. Lucille leaned in to make their conversation more private.

"They aren't all that bad. Tirian is a sweet person underneath all the rage and war. Setna…"

Her heart skipped at the thought of the blue-haired brickhead.

"Setna is a good guy too. Some people, men, are just that way to make their lives easier or to make themselves feel better."~

Lillith caught the quick stutter after the pink-haired girl mentioned Setna. A small wisp of a smile came to her mouth as her fingers curled together. The bashful Setna and the smug Lucille… They would certainly make an interesting pair. That was for sure.

"Why don't you get find Setna. Instead of playing hard to get and dumb. You certainly deserve something better than wasting away all alone."

~Lucille choked on a piece of rye bread at the words being spoken by her conversing partner. The insinuation that SHE, had a crush on that brick headed boy? Well… She did. Lucille could not help but to smile and she simply nodded to the silver-haired girl.

"You take care. I'll take that advice. Before it's too late."~

Just as quick as the smug girl came she had left, delving into the crowd looking for her something special. Lillith did not need such mortal things, no. She had been just find living herself and fading away alone. It was better that way… No one else would get hurt because of her… Secret…

 

[Rain of the Night]

Elrithos came to rub his cheek where he could still feel the sting of the slap he received from the exotic lady. He should have known better than to bring his traditional dances to a party like this one… Live and learn. He exhaled longingly, expressing his disappointment with himself. He would have spent his time contemplating his mug of water for hours on end, though a few people had approached him to ask some questions to which he answered with a smile.

With his initial disappointment now lessened by the presence of other people, he went back near the dance floor, only to have a young man call out to him. He turned to face Setna, offering a welcoming smile as he joined him. This one seemed to be eating his face out, which wouldn't be that surprising. He seemed to have an appetite for his size. "Good evening, Setna." The man chocked on his food, with provoked a light laughter of the desert elf. "It would be a shame that you died because of food." He brought the mug up to his lips, tasting the divine liquid that was water.

The mention of his injuries brought Elrithos to shake his head. "Do not worry yourself with my injuries. I have recovered enough to be here." He watched towards the dance floor a moment. "I am surprised that none have offered to dance with you, being one of the honorary guests of this party." Elrithos has been offered a few, though wanted to wait a little after the ordeal. "Have you not found anyone to dance with or are you simply not done eating."

~ Setna was glad to see Elrithos was alright and he gave a cheeky grin at his question. "Not done eating, of course and..." The boy made a head nod in the direction of Serna and Tirian. "I may have been born a couple of minutes before her, but that still makes me the older brother."

He gave a bit of a salute and a grin before eventually shrugging his shoulders. "I just want to make sure she's alright. I don't really care about dancing... especially when I can eat instead."

He picked up a piece of bread as he spoke, dark eyes glancing over to his sister before bringing his attention to Elrithos. "But I'm glad to see you up and about! Does the lord of this place always throw parties like this?" ~

Elrithos should have known that this was the reason; looking over her sister and eating. It brought a wide smile as he shook his head to this notion. He was certainly a protective brother, which he could relate to, having many brothers and sisters. Most had passed in the war… but a few still live, along with his mother and father. It's been a long time too since he's returned to his people… A few years at least.

He looked around for the Lord when he mentioned him, not seeing him anywhere. "He is the kind to enjoy his lifetime, so parties like this happen when the occasion shows… I'm surprised the Queen of Ice isn't present." That woman was not so well known by most from the desert, but Elrithos had voyaged enough to hear her story. "Better not sleep too late. We leave during the morning and I'll be taking over from my brother in arms for your training."

~ The boy tilted his head at the mention of an Ice Queen. Was that another name for someone in the war? Hmm.

Setna choked a little though at Elrithos advice and gave another toothy grin of excitement. "Of course! I won't let you down!"

There was an energy now in his body as he bounced on his heels at the prospect of more training. But he caught sight of his sister and Tirian heading off and Setna patted Elrithos' shoulder. He gave another cheeky grin. "Targets are moving. I'll be back! Don't push yourself too hard either." ~

The young man moved on to follow his sister and Tirian, which brought a light smile to the desert warrior. He brought his mug to his lips and finished his drink. Oh how it would be wonderful to have the youth and protective nature of his. He would have had a better time dealing with the war and maybe… He wouldn't have sacrificed so many lives for the sake of victory with the human kingdoms. Such a change that would have been

He was about to head out to maybe get some rest or train, thinking this was a bit much for his condition now, but then got interrupted by someone… Esredia? He presented a hand to him, having escaped the clutches of the men with the help of Rudolf. He gave a large smile.

"Esredia. I thought you would have been taken by now." He spoke softly and took her hand, bringing her to the dance floor. Esredia obviously knew nothing of dancing in pairs, so Elrithos did his best to teach her a customary dance of humans from the North. He wasn't about to do the same mistake twice.

------------------
​

From the balcony opened one of the doors. The way it was done almost seemed like whoever was coming in didn't want to attract too much attention. A head peeked through, one that was probably unbeknown to the whole crowd, even the honored guess. Kinda old, a scruffy beard and a grin on his lips. The older man waved behind him and came in, wearing what seemed to be common bandit clothes, though no weapons were present. Next to come through was a woman, rather young looking, though her scarred face told s story many wouldn't want to know. She too held a large as she was helping someone through the door. The last man to come in was the one honored guess that was missing from Rudolf's crew: Vordan. And boy… did he look trashed.

"Come on, youngster, you're here." Vordan lifted his head, dizzy and most probably drunk. He didn't realize he had already arrived at his destination, having lost track of time explaining to them that he was truly able to fist fight like a champ and that underground fighting was a thing he liked to do. He tried to stand straight, failing. He used the wall for some balance and waved at the both of them. "Well I'll be a damned one! I'm already here!" He winked at the both of them. "Thanks for the help home… Much appreciated."

"Thank you for the entertainment. Haven't seen a brawler of your caliber in years… You might have lost, but you sure gave the champ a run for his coin." The woman chuckled and left with the older man, both quite satisfied of what they had seen that day.

Vordan looked at the stairs with such annoyance… He wouldn't make it down without tumbling to his death. Maybe it was time to try out a new mixture made to cleanse poisons? Ya! More magic into his already failing body! He knew he brought it with him and reached for his belt, wearing his more pristine garments. He was a little dirty, though his clothes looked brand new. He uncorked the thing and slammed it down… The taste was putrid, coughing immediately. Then, taking the bull by the horns, he took the first step onto the stairs.

The initial reaction was not too bad, like a burning sensation in his stomach. Uncomfortable, but definitely working its magic. His vision and balance slowly came back to normal, and by the time he reached the ground floor, his body seemed to be acting normally. "By the Makers… It actually worked." Now, he'd just have to wait and see what the side effects were going to be. Regardless of all that, it was time to enjoy himself! So he went and got himself a mug of water. He wasn't about to start drinking until he knew what this mixture did. His thoughts were still cloudy though… Which was an odd sensation with a sober body… He wondered what that meant. He looked around for anyone he knew, but it was a little crowded to spot anyone of importance. So, he took a seat somewhere and took in a deep breath. "The night is just starting, isn't it?"