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Serna felt as if her heart was about to leap from her chest and dance across the floor as she felt Tirian's hand envelope her own. It was just so surreal. He tugged her along effortlessly towards a table so they could sit and eat. It was nice. Never in her dreams did Serna imagine living through something like this. Dancing with the boy she liked, holding his hand, dressing up for a party and spending time like this surrounded by happy people and beautiful music. Never ever in her wildest dreams did she imagine living to this type of day. She should have been dead by now, burned alive. Yet here she was in the dwarvish capital with her brother and with someone she adored so deeply. It had to be a dream, but it wasn't. It wasn't.
They sat together and Serna was relieved to see Setna come join them, pointing out which foods were better than others, and informing them that Elrithos had made the party. He was doing well, even after all those injuries and Serna found herself feeling even more relieved. It was a blessed night, a happy night. She hoped everyone would have a good night tonight like she was having, she wished it with all of her heart.
The Syndareans were a little surprised as suddenly Tirian stood and dismissed himself for the moment. The twins granted it, and both watched as the red head sifted through the crowd, and then Setna looked to his sister with an all knowing grin. "So how was your dance?"
Aaerynn took another sip of wine, debating on getting up or not. She couldn't exactly just sit here all night. Her condition was making things difficult for her but she still wanted to enjoy her night, after-all she had made some nice money. The elf stretched and her light eyes glanced over in surprise to see the red headed prince heading her way with a serious look on his face. Aaerynn raised an eyebrow, setting down her glass and raising a hand as a lazy greeting.
~~Tirian had departed from Serna, the bandage on her arm giving him a slight clue as to what the wood-elf was up to. His keen eyes had spotted a similar bandage of Setna as well, the final clue needed for the prince to confront, or rather question the culprit behind the doings. Tirian slid a chair out and quickly placed his body down, ocean orbs meeting those of Aaerynn's. He couldn't help but to smile, his words coming out soft and low. He got straight to the point.
"What're you after exactly. With the twins."
The prince took no time in sitting himself and he held a smile, even as his words were serious. Aaerynn tilted her head slightly with her surprise, she hadn't been expecting that. Her eyes narrowed just slightly at him as she mulled over her words and eventually shook her head, looking to her glass of wine and swirling the contents. "Nothing. It was simply a favor for a favor. Medicine has to be tested and a pair of twins are good subjects."
Her words were surprisingly cool as she looked back at Tirian, and her lips quirked into a slight smile. "What's it to you, exactly? What role are you trying to play?"
"Subjects."
Tirian repeated those words, his brows scrunching together as he held back a small ray of anger that rose in his chest. The elf before him was, if nothing else, an inconsiderate and rather arrogant being. His eyes met hers with a matching intensity. Quick insults danced around his head and tongue for a moment but yet, Tirian sympathized with the lonely elf and instead the prince smiled and held his hand out.
"Care to dance?"
Just as quick as Tirian had sat down, he stood waiting for the beautiful elf to take his hand.
His tone revealed a hint of anger and Aaerynn honestly wondered what about it was so wrong. It was a favor for a favor that the twins themselves agreed to. What role was Tirian trying to play? A teacher? A parent? Or a lover? He was inserting himself into a situation that had nothing to do with him.
If anything she should be thanked, she helped to pick the dress that Serna now wore and had left the red head star struck and stumbling.
But the prince surprised her once more, rising onto his feet and holding out his hand. He asked her to dance but the wood elf raised her hand in refusal. "I'm fine where I am. I am sure your pupil would like another dance instead."
~~Tirian could see the arrogance in her eyes, the twinkle of always thinking she was in the right, always desiring to be graced with gratitude. It was no wonder she was alone. However the prince would simply refuse to leave without a dance.
"I refuse to leave until I get a dance."
Tirian remained standing, his hand still held out to her. He held a look in his eye that matched his words, he wouldn't leave her alone until he got what he wanted. There was a subtle shift in Aaerynn's face, a hint of worry as her hand clenched in her lap where the stained napkin used to be. But then it was gone, and the elven woman rose up from her table and placed her hand within Tirian's. "Alright."
The prince led her to the floor and Aaerynn watched the back of his head a moment, thinking over what he had said, the anger in his face at her words. Her gaze hit the floor and then back up. This was the first time she had encountered him since… that day. Everything had gone completely wrong, and she had wished they had just left her to Ieowyn's whims, but she couldn't ignore that they had helped her.
"Hey Red..." Her voice picked up, and it held an uncertainty to it, and maybe even some timidness. This was awkward, but it had to be said.
"About the other day...Thank you." She paused, her voice only loud enough for Tirian to hear her. "Your sister...is absolutely terrifying... I don't know what to expect but... Anything is better than what was going on. So...just... thank you."
~~Their dance together had a different feeling than the dance with Serna. Their skin touched in a different way, heat did not rise in his chest nor did his heart flutter uncontrollably. Tirian cared for Aaerynn that much was obvious. However, the feeling between them was much sibling-like. His expression lightened up as they dance on, ears listening to the lull syllables that left the elf's lips. The prince could not help but to chuckle at Aaerynn's comment on his sister. His smile widened and that angry twinkle in his eyes disappeared completely.
"She's a handful, that's for sure. She scares me to the core."
Their dance continued, close and slow as the world seemed to fade away. Their conversation thickened, Tirian's grip on Aaerynn tightening as if he was protecting her from something. He had been too hard on the rotting elf, over something that did not matter much.
"Serna."
His tone lowered, embarrassment lacing the syllables proceeding after the maiden's name had been spoken.
"She means something to me. I'm sorry for confronting you in such a way. You're family, and you won't ever be alone. As far as my sister goes, just stay on her good side. I can handle her."
Handle her? Aaerynn was pretty sure that no one could handle the Ice Queen. The stories around her were numerous, specifically the rumor that she went head to head with the Dark Emperor and lived. Just a few days ago she had easily picked up elven guards by their necks. She was... a force to be reckoned with.
And her brother had loved her.
The thought almost soured her mood and painfully tightened her lungs so instead she focused on the little bit of information Tirian had given to her. Oh? Just something? The wood elf looked up at the prince's face, almost a teasing lilt of a smile on her painted lips. The way the prince had fumbled around with Serna in a dance compared to how he was doing now, proved that the Syndarean girl was more than just a little something. To further prove her point she lead the dance a bit more, forcing the red head to move his feet a bit more gracefully to keep up.
"I think she's more than just something to you." Aaerynn spoke softly, but there was a gentleness to her words. It was kind of nice seeing something like this develop. Uncertain fumbling and cautious shy feelings sprouting between two people that obviously adored the other. It was nostalgic to the wood elf. She glanced up at him, a knowing little smile coming to her lips. "I was sure you were about to fall to your knees and worship her as soon as you saw her in that dress."
Her words were playful, hoping for him to try and defend himself, or open up more.
~~Aaerynn's comments on his dance with Serna sent a rush of embarrassment to the man's core. He had visibly shown his hand while dancing with the beautiful maiden. His eyes averted from the elf's own, attempting to gather himself before his entire body quivered with mortification. His breath slowed as his heart fluttered into his throat, yet the prince couldn't help but to smile at the thought of the Syndarean. Tirian led on in their dance, his steps more elegant and precise, matching the movements of Aaerynn and drawing a small crowd to their presentation of dance. The prince broke the silence, speaking with a wide smile with a low tone for only the gorgeous elf to hear.
"I'd hate to admit but I think you're right. A monster like me needs someone like her. I feel like a kid when I'm around her… The one thing… the one thing that scares me…"
His words suddenly trailed off, smile disappearing to that thousand yard stare with no emotion in those ocean colored orbs. Serna's scream of pain shocking his heart, forcing it to skip a beat. TIrian couldn't bear the thought of losing someone important to him again.
"Losing her. I'd lose myself again. That's something even worse than Auriel's temper."
His eyes moved back to the elf's own blue eyes, a petite smile coming to his lips.
"Auriel is afflicted with the rot. Ever since mother died. She hasn't lost an ounce of strength. That woman… is a monster. She was the one that trained me when I left Durandal. Her speed… so incredible. I couldn't keep up with her even with magic. Auriel is in her own league…"
Aaerynn's eyes widened momentarily as the prince gave in and confessed. His bashfulness was adamant, like a child caught doing something he wasn't supposed to. But that quickly shifted into a stare the wood elf had witnessed only a couple of times, and it still sent a shiver of terror through her. Then, in a simple second it was gone, and Tirian had skirted around the subject by bringing up his sister once more.
The Ice Queen had the rot?
Interesting. Aaerynn glanced over the red head. It was obvious he was still young. How old was he again? She supposed it didn't matter. Auriel Demeria was in the first stages of the rot. First couple of years were always the worst, the most painful as your body begins to corrode, demolish itself from the inside. Aaerynn mused over the subject, before her thoughts drifted back to what Tirian feared and mentioned earlier. A subject that made her own rot churn painfully within her chest. Her lungs burned at the thought of it, the memories that she had kept tied and locked away, flickering across the surface.
"In the end, you'll always lose her Red." Aaerynn's voice was a bit raspy, almost weak as she gathered her thoughts while their bodies glided across the dance floor. "I mean look at you. Half human, half elf. You have enough elf in you to reach 200 years, and she will be lucky to make half that. That's only if everything goes your way, of course."
She paused, just saying the words were painful to her. It almost felt like she was talking to her younger self. Aaerynn was staring her own foolishness in the face. "You may be able to escape the rot with the human in you. But you can't escape grief."
The dance required a twirl and the snap was hard as the wood elf was twirled away from the prince, skirts flowing with a flash of pale white thighs before she pulled back in with quick and precise steps, till once more their hands met. This time she looked up at him, blue eyes pensive. "The real question you should be asking yourself is if it's worth it. Is it worth the pain in the end? The grief? That's the real question. You can't fear losing someone, when you are bound to anyway. That's the plight people like us live with. Mortal lives are….fragile and precious."
Aaerynn turned silent, except for a light rumble and cough beneath her breath as she looked down. Her brows knitted together and for a moment she wasn't on a dance floor, matching steps with the Durandal prince. Instead she could smell the soot of fire, the touch of rain, the iron wrenching stench of blood… The wood elf pulled herself from her thoughts. She wasn't recovered enough for this, but she didn't let that stop her though as she looked back up at him. "Shit... I'm not, you know, as articulate or sage-like as the Desert Walker... I've wasted a couple of centuries. But I just...don't think you should fear that. You should just choose if that feeling and that person are worth the risk. Then you fight for it, you know? You have to decide that."
Look at her, suddenly giving advice. She almost felt like the scribbler, perhaps next she would be preaching the importance of sunrises and letting go of mistakes and living life. The wood elf's face almost seemed to warm up with fondness at the thoughts. But then her thoughts returned to that stagnant smell of blood. It was true. It was choosing whether or not something was worth pursuing. Tirian was full of youth and the power of adoration and naiveté, he could do this. But this…feelings like this weren't worth it. She would continue enjoying herself for the moment, but in the end…it didn't matter at all.
Aaerynn skirted around the subject, motioning the conversation back to his sister. "I suppose if your sister has questions about the rot, or needs anything, I can help. I have about 175 years of experience." Her lips tilted into a teasing smile once more.
~~The elf's words pierced deep into the prince's heart, forcing his mind to face the grim reality of the situation at hand. His heart sank deep into his stomach, skipping a beat here and there at the simple thought of Serna no longer being ripped away from his life. She begged the real question for Tirian, was allowing someone close to his heart worth the grief and pain if, in the worst scenario, that person was suddenly taken away. His eyes closed to ponder her wise words for a moment, before he could retort however Aaerynn brought up his sister once more.
"I'd stay away from that topic, she's quite touchy. If I may, what is it with you and Auriel, got the hots for her?"
Tirian teased the wood elf with a warm smile, quickly changing the subject to avoid any further talk of his sister. Their dance continued with graceful steps fit for two agile beings, in their own world.
"Serna is absolutely worth the possible pain and grief. My situation is an unfortunate one, but I won't let the negatives blind the positives. The Syndarean maiden makes me feel human. Hell there's a chance she doesn't feel the same about me, perhaps this is all just a selfish ploy. However, I understand the reality of life, and how it can end in any moment. Trust me, I know that all too well."
Tirian gave the elf a warm smile, changing the subject once more to lighter things.
"You just promise me one thing. Take care of yourself."
Aaerynn made a face, a mix of horror and slight disgust at Tirian's joke about her interest, and she would have made a snappy comeback but he changed the subject. The wood elf instead was surprised by his answer. He was... certainly optimistic. But perhaps that was what he needed. What they needed. She hoped he would think about it more before rushing into anything. Aaerynn was almost…jealous. How nice it must be to be so youthful, so naïve, that one person held so much weight. The wood elf simply hoped that youthful naivete was powerful enough to get them through the problems ahead of them.
The two continued the dance, turning the simple waltz into a delicate foxtrot, each step meticulous and Aaerynn was surprised Tirian could keep up so well with her after flubbering with the young Serna. But then he asked for a promise and the wood elf looked up at Tirian with a perked eyebrow. Take care of herself? "Of course, I'm the only one who can."
She gave another teasing smile, although her words were a lie. Of course, she'd take care of herself. She'd done it all alone and she'd continue doing so. Til the very end. But it felt like that end was sneaking closer and closer upon her. She was just continuing to lie to herself, make excuses, push herself forward. But it was enough. She just…wanted to make it to the next continent. She just wanted that small little shack, some books, some happiness before she died.
The song came to an end and so did their dance. A few people that had been watching the duo clapped for them, and Aaerynn detangled her hand from the princes. She gave a teasing smirk before ushering him back. "Now give your 'something' a good dance like that."
Tirian seemed to want to speak, but they were soon interrupted by the stopping of music as horns were blared in a riot. All the guests were forced to look up at the stairs as shredded colored paper drifted down across the dance floor.
"Introducing… Lord Farin!" A page shouted and suddenly the dwarven lord appeared followed closely by the clapping of his guests.
The lord held up his hands, and the room turned silent although there was a pleasant buzz in the air. "Thank you everyone for coming to share this night together!" Farin grinned. "As you know I have gathered everyone here to celebrate my Uncle's newest expedition! He has gathered a group of fine individuals who will be traveling to the next continent and I wish for them to enjoy Durngan's kindness and hospitality! So, come, come!"
The crowd seemed to separate to allow everyone to walk ahead to the Lord, motioned forward by an eager Rudolf. Those who remained sitting were still pointed out as the crowd pulled away and dispersed from the distinguished guests. Farin grinned wider and motioned to a chest that had been carried in and placed beside him. "Today I have brought your gifts so that you will always remember your journey to Durngan. The mountain path is a treacherous one filled with unbearable cold before reaching the mighty Desert. We would not be the Durngan that my family has created and built if we did not do our best to help you complete your quest! So come, come on up here! Line up, line up!"
He rapidly made a hand motion to Aaerynn first and the wood elf couldn't help giving an amused smile. But she did as the dwarf motioned, she stepped forward and finally kneeled before him, bowing her head. "You didn't have to do this, Farin."
The dwarf lifted her head so she would look at him. "But of course I did! My precious uncle is leading this expedition, which carries some good friends. Each one of you has something special! I want you all to know Durngan can be considered a home! And what kind of home wouldn't try to help its people, hmm?"
Farin grinned wide and Aaerynn couldn't help being a bit amused. It wasn't just that. It was a bit of a ploy wasn't it? The lord was an addict for new information, for stories and for people, and the wood elf had to admit that the people on this journey were a rare bunch. How often did you see a Syndarean and a Maker in the same room? Farin wanted to meet them all.
Aaerynn was pulled out of her thoughts however as the dwarven man suddenly placed a fur cloak about her shoulders. She touched the fabric in surprise and Farin grinned. "For the mountains. You can keep it or you can trade it in at the trade post before entering the Desert. Either way it will surely be of help to you. This is a goodbye after all isn't it? Uncle says you intend to stay in Thialea, and Imladris is seemingly looking out for you! I think it's best. It's a bout time you grasped onto some happiness! Don't let what happened keep you down."
That was easier said than done, but Aaerynn couldn't help feeling a bit touched. She didn't honestly think that anyone would have the desire to say goodbye to her, never mind present her with a gift as a farewell. "Thank you…Farin, for all of this. I'll have fun."
Farin grinned wide. "Write often, yeah? Now introduce me to your friends!"
Aaerynn made a noise before standing and motioning the line. The twins were the first to pop up, hand in hand as the dwarven lord fawned over them. The wood elf stood off to the side, silently relishing the feeling of the fur as she watched the twins and Farin speak. It took a few not so subtle hand motions to get Setna to bow at the proper time but Aaerynn's red lips tilted to a small smile as furs were wrapped around each twin and they both spread their gratefulness.
She supposed the night wasn't so bad. Her light eyes caught sight of the man she had been looking for earlier. Ah, so the scribbler had made it after all. Where did he sneak in from? Her eyes narrowed a moment. His clothes looked new but his face looked as if it had been dragged through dirt. Strange. The elf thought back to her gift that she had brought for him, perhaps now wasn't the best time. Bemusedly, she couldn't help but think it wouldn't compare to a nice fur from the dwarf lord.
The twins looked bashful as they headed over to Aaerynn, holding tightly to new cloaks as someone else was ushered forward to meet Farin. Setna rubbed the back of his neck with what seemed to be a shy grin. "Well…that was kind of weird. I didn't expect that at all."
Aaerynn simply gave a small nod and her voice was gentle as she spoke. "Welcome to Durngan."
They sat together and Serna was relieved to see Setna come join them, pointing out which foods were better than others, and informing them that Elrithos had made the party. He was doing well, even after all those injuries and Serna found herself feeling even more relieved. It was a blessed night, a happy night. She hoped everyone would have a good night tonight like she was having, she wished it with all of her heart.
The Syndareans were a little surprised as suddenly Tirian stood and dismissed himself for the moment. The twins granted it, and both watched as the red head sifted through the crowd, and then Setna looked to his sister with an all knowing grin. "So how was your dance?"
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Aaerynn took another sip of wine, debating on getting up or not. She couldn't exactly just sit here all night. Her condition was making things difficult for her but she still wanted to enjoy her night, after-all she had made some nice money. The elf stretched and her light eyes glanced over in surprise to see the red headed prince heading her way with a serious look on his face. Aaerynn raised an eyebrow, setting down her glass and raising a hand as a lazy greeting.
~~Tirian had departed from Serna, the bandage on her arm giving him a slight clue as to what the wood-elf was up to. His keen eyes had spotted a similar bandage of Setna as well, the final clue needed for the prince to confront, or rather question the culprit behind the doings. Tirian slid a chair out and quickly placed his body down, ocean orbs meeting those of Aaerynn's. He couldn't help but to smile, his words coming out soft and low. He got straight to the point.
"What're you after exactly. With the twins."
The prince took no time in sitting himself and he held a smile, even as his words were serious. Aaerynn tilted her head slightly with her surprise, she hadn't been expecting that. Her eyes narrowed just slightly at him as she mulled over her words and eventually shook her head, looking to her glass of wine and swirling the contents. "Nothing. It was simply a favor for a favor. Medicine has to be tested and a pair of twins are good subjects."
Her words were surprisingly cool as she looked back at Tirian, and her lips quirked into a slight smile. "What's it to you, exactly? What role are you trying to play?"
"Subjects."
Tirian repeated those words, his brows scrunching together as he held back a small ray of anger that rose in his chest. The elf before him was, if nothing else, an inconsiderate and rather arrogant being. His eyes met hers with a matching intensity. Quick insults danced around his head and tongue for a moment but yet, Tirian sympathized with the lonely elf and instead the prince smiled and held his hand out.
"Care to dance?"
Just as quick as Tirian had sat down, he stood waiting for the beautiful elf to take his hand.
His tone revealed a hint of anger and Aaerynn honestly wondered what about it was so wrong. It was a favor for a favor that the twins themselves agreed to. What role was Tirian trying to play? A teacher? A parent? Or a lover? He was inserting himself into a situation that had nothing to do with him.
If anything she should be thanked, she helped to pick the dress that Serna now wore and had left the red head star struck and stumbling.
But the prince surprised her once more, rising onto his feet and holding out his hand. He asked her to dance but the wood elf raised her hand in refusal. "I'm fine where I am. I am sure your pupil would like another dance instead."
~~Tirian could see the arrogance in her eyes, the twinkle of always thinking she was in the right, always desiring to be graced with gratitude. It was no wonder she was alone. However the prince would simply refuse to leave without a dance.
"I refuse to leave until I get a dance."
Tirian remained standing, his hand still held out to her. He held a look in his eye that matched his words, he wouldn't leave her alone until he got what he wanted. There was a subtle shift in Aaerynn's face, a hint of worry as her hand clenched in her lap where the stained napkin used to be. But then it was gone, and the elven woman rose up from her table and placed her hand within Tirian's. "Alright."
The prince led her to the floor and Aaerynn watched the back of his head a moment, thinking over what he had said, the anger in his face at her words. Her gaze hit the floor and then back up. This was the first time she had encountered him since… that day. Everything had gone completely wrong, and she had wished they had just left her to Ieowyn's whims, but she couldn't ignore that they had helped her.
"Hey Red..." Her voice picked up, and it held an uncertainty to it, and maybe even some timidness. This was awkward, but it had to be said.
"About the other day...Thank you." She paused, her voice only loud enough for Tirian to hear her. "Your sister...is absolutely terrifying... I don't know what to expect but... Anything is better than what was going on. So...just... thank you."
~~Their dance together had a different feeling than the dance with Serna. Their skin touched in a different way, heat did not rise in his chest nor did his heart flutter uncontrollably. Tirian cared for Aaerynn that much was obvious. However, the feeling between them was much sibling-like. His expression lightened up as they dance on, ears listening to the lull syllables that left the elf's lips. The prince could not help but to chuckle at Aaerynn's comment on his sister. His smile widened and that angry twinkle in his eyes disappeared completely.
"She's a handful, that's for sure. She scares me to the core."
Their dance continued, close and slow as the world seemed to fade away. Their conversation thickened, Tirian's grip on Aaerynn tightening as if he was protecting her from something. He had been too hard on the rotting elf, over something that did not matter much.
"Serna."
His tone lowered, embarrassment lacing the syllables proceeding after the maiden's name had been spoken.
"She means something to me. I'm sorry for confronting you in such a way. You're family, and you won't ever be alone. As far as my sister goes, just stay on her good side. I can handle her."
Handle her? Aaerynn was pretty sure that no one could handle the Ice Queen. The stories around her were numerous, specifically the rumor that she went head to head with the Dark Emperor and lived. Just a few days ago she had easily picked up elven guards by their necks. She was... a force to be reckoned with.
And her brother had loved her.
The thought almost soured her mood and painfully tightened her lungs so instead she focused on the little bit of information Tirian had given to her. Oh? Just something? The wood elf looked up at the prince's face, almost a teasing lilt of a smile on her painted lips. The way the prince had fumbled around with Serna in a dance compared to how he was doing now, proved that the Syndarean girl was more than just a little something. To further prove her point she lead the dance a bit more, forcing the red head to move his feet a bit more gracefully to keep up.
"I think she's more than just something to you." Aaerynn spoke softly, but there was a gentleness to her words. It was kind of nice seeing something like this develop. Uncertain fumbling and cautious shy feelings sprouting between two people that obviously adored the other. It was nostalgic to the wood elf. She glanced up at him, a knowing little smile coming to her lips. "I was sure you were about to fall to your knees and worship her as soon as you saw her in that dress."
Her words were playful, hoping for him to try and defend himself, or open up more.
~~Aaerynn's comments on his dance with Serna sent a rush of embarrassment to the man's core. He had visibly shown his hand while dancing with the beautiful maiden. His eyes averted from the elf's own, attempting to gather himself before his entire body quivered with mortification. His breath slowed as his heart fluttered into his throat, yet the prince couldn't help but to smile at the thought of the Syndarean. Tirian led on in their dance, his steps more elegant and precise, matching the movements of Aaerynn and drawing a small crowd to their presentation of dance. The prince broke the silence, speaking with a wide smile with a low tone for only the gorgeous elf to hear.
"I'd hate to admit but I think you're right. A monster like me needs someone like her. I feel like a kid when I'm around her… The one thing… the one thing that scares me…"
His words suddenly trailed off, smile disappearing to that thousand yard stare with no emotion in those ocean colored orbs. Serna's scream of pain shocking his heart, forcing it to skip a beat. TIrian couldn't bear the thought of losing someone important to him again.
"Losing her. I'd lose myself again. That's something even worse than Auriel's temper."
His eyes moved back to the elf's own blue eyes, a petite smile coming to his lips.
"Auriel is afflicted with the rot. Ever since mother died. She hasn't lost an ounce of strength. That woman… is a monster. She was the one that trained me when I left Durandal. Her speed… so incredible. I couldn't keep up with her even with magic. Auriel is in her own league…"
Aaerynn's eyes widened momentarily as the prince gave in and confessed. His bashfulness was adamant, like a child caught doing something he wasn't supposed to. But that quickly shifted into a stare the wood elf had witnessed only a couple of times, and it still sent a shiver of terror through her. Then, in a simple second it was gone, and Tirian had skirted around the subject by bringing up his sister once more.
The Ice Queen had the rot?
Interesting. Aaerynn glanced over the red head. It was obvious he was still young. How old was he again? She supposed it didn't matter. Auriel Demeria was in the first stages of the rot. First couple of years were always the worst, the most painful as your body begins to corrode, demolish itself from the inside. Aaerynn mused over the subject, before her thoughts drifted back to what Tirian feared and mentioned earlier. A subject that made her own rot churn painfully within her chest. Her lungs burned at the thought of it, the memories that she had kept tied and locked away, flickering across the surface.
"In the end, you'll always lose her Red." Aaerynn's voice was a bit raspy, almost weak as she gathered her thoughts while their bodies glided across the dance floor. "I mean look at you. Half human, half elf. You have enough elf in you to reach 200 years, and she will be lucky to make half that. That's only if everything goes your way, of course."
She paused, just saying the words were painful to her. It almost felt like she was talking to her younger self. Aaerynn was staring her own foolishness in the face. "You may be able to escape the rot with the human in you. But you can't escape grief."
The dance required a twirl and the snap was hard as the wood elf was twirled away from the prince, skirts flowing with a flash of pale white thighs before she pulled back in with quick and precise steps, till once more their hands met. This time she looked up at him, blue eyes pensive. "The real question you should be asking yourself is if it's worth it. Is it worth the pain in the end? The grief? That's the real question. You can't fear losing someone, when you are bound to anyway. That's the plight people like us live with. Mortal lives are….fragile and precious."
Aaerynn turned silent, except for a light rumble and cough beneath her breath as she looked down. Her brows knitted together and for a moment she wasn't on a dance floor, matching steps with the Durandal prince. Instead she could smell the soot of fire, the touch of rain, the iron wrenching stench of blood… The wood elf pulled herself from her thoughts. She wasn't recovered enough for this, but she didn't let that stop her though as she looked back up at him. "Shit... I'm not, you know, as articulate or sage-like as the Desert Walker... I've wasted a couple of centuries. But I just...don't think you should fear that. You should just choose if that feeling and that person are worth the risk. Then you fight for it, you know? You have to decide that."
Look at her, suddenly giving advice. She almost felt like the scribbler, perhaps next she would be preaching the importance of sunrises and letting go of mistakes and living life. The wood elf's face almost seemed to warm up with fondness at the thoughts. But then her thoughts returned to that stagnant smell of blood. It was true. It was choosing whether or not something was worth pursuing. Tirian was full of youth and the power of adoration and naiveté, he could do this. But this…feelings like this weren't worth it. She would continue enjoying herself for the moment, but in the end…it didn't matter at all.
Aaerynn skirted around the subject, motioning the conversation back to his sister. "I suppose if your sister has questions about the rot, or needs anything, I can help. I have about 175 years of experience." Her lips tilted into a teasing smile once more.
~~The elf's words pierced deep into the prince's heart, forcing his mind to face the grim reality of the situation at hand. His heart sank deep into his stomach, skipping a beat here and there at the simple thought of Serna no longer being ripped away from his life. She begged the real question for Tirian, was allowing someone close to his heart worth the grief and pain if, in the worst scenario, that person was suddenly taken away. His eyes closed to ponder her wise words for a moment, before he could retort however Aaerynn brought up his sister once more.
"I'd stay away from that topic, she's quite touchy. If I may, what is it with you and Auriel, got the hots for her?"
Tirian teased the wood elf with a warm smile, quickly changing the subject to avoid any further talk of his sister. Their dance continued with graceful steps fit for two agile beings, in their own world.
"Serna is absolutely worth the possible pain and grief. My situation is an unfortunate one, but I won't let the negatives blind the positives. The Syndarean maiden makes me feel human. Hell there's a chance she doesn't feel the same about me, perhaps this is all just a selfish ploy. However, I understand the reality of life, and how it can end in any moment. Trust me, I know that all too well."
Tirian gave the elf a warm smile, changing the subject once more to lighter things.
"You just promise me one thing. Take care of yourself."
Aaerynn made a face, a mix of horror and slight disgust at Tirian's joke about her interest, and she would have made a snappy comeback but he changed the subject. The wood elf instead was surprised by his answer. He was... certainly optimistic. But perhaps that was what he needed. What they needed. She hoped he would think about it more before rushing into anything. Aaerynn was almost…jealous. How nice it must be to be so youthful, so naïve, that one person held so much weight. The wood elf simply hoped that youthful naivete was powerful enough to get them through the problems ahead of them.
The two continued the dance, turning the simple waltz into a delicate foxtrot, each step meticulous and Aaerynn was surprised Tirian could keep up so well with her after flubbering with the young Serna. But then he asked for a promise and the wood elf looked up at Tirian with a perked eyebrow. Take care of herself? "Of course, I'm the only one who can."
She gave another teasing smile, although her words were a lie. Of course, she'd take care of herself. She'd done it all alone and she'd continue doing so. Til the very end. But it felt like that end was sneaking closer and closer upon her. She was just continuing to lie to herself, make excuses, push herself forward. But it was enough. She just…wanted to make it to the next continent. She just wanted that small little shack, some books, some happiness before she died.
The song came to an end and so did their dance. A few people that had been watching the duo clapped for them, and Aaerynn detangled her hand from the princes. She gave a teasing smirk before ushering him back. "Now give your 'something' a good dance like that."
Tirian seemed to want to speak, but they were soon interrupted by the stopping of music as horns were blared in a riot. All the guests were forced to look up at the stairs as shredded colored paper drifted down across the dance floor.
"Introducing… Lord Farin!" A page shouted and suddenly the dwarven lord appeared followed closely by the clapping of his guests.
The lord held up his hands, and the room turned silent although there was a pleasant buzz in the air. "Thank you everyone for coming to share this night together!" Farin grinned. "As you know I have gathered everyone here to celebrate my Uncle's newest expedition! He has gathered a group of fine individuals who will be traveling to the next continent and I wish for them to enjoy Durngan's kindness and hospitality! So, come, come!"
The crowd seemed to separate to allow everyone to walk ahead to the Lord, motioned forward by an eager Rudolf. Those who remained sitting were still pointed out as the crowd pulled away and dispersed from the distinguished guests. Farin grinned wider and motioned to a chest that had been carried in and placed beside him. "Today I have brought your gifts so that you will always remember your journey to Durngan. The mountain path is a treacherous one filled with unbearable cold before reaching the mighty Desert. We would not be the Durngan that my family has created and built if we did not do our best to help you complete your quest! So come, come on up here! Line up, line up!"
He rapidly made a hand motion to Aaerynn first and the wood elf couldn't help giving an amused smile. But she did as the dwarf motioned, she stepped forward and finally kneeled before him, bowing her head. "You didn't have to do this, Farin."
The dwarf lifted her head so she would look at him. "But of course I did! My precious uncle is leading this expedition, which carries some good friends. Each one of you has something special! I want you all to know Durngan can be considered a home! And what kind of home wouldn't try to help its people, hmm?"
Farin grinned wide and Aaerynn couldn't help being a bit amused. It wasn't just that. It was a bit of a ploy wasn't it? The lord was an addict for new information, for stories and for people, and the wood elf had to admit that the people on this journey were a rare bunch. How often did you see a Syndarean and a Maker in the same room? Farin wanted to meet them all.
Aaerynn was pulled out of her thoughts however as the dwarven man suddenly placed a fur cloak about her shoulders. She touched the fabric in surprise and Farin grinned. "For the mountains. You can keep it or you can trade it in at the trade post before entering the Desert. Either way it will surely be of help to you. This is a goodbye after all isn't it? Uncle says you intend to stay in Thialea, and Imladris is seemingly looking out for you! I think it's best. It's a bout time you grasped onto some happiness! Don't let what happened keep you down."
That was easier said than done, but Aaerynn couldn't help feeling a bit touched. She didn't honestly think that anyone would have the desire to say goodbye to her, never mind present her with a gift as a farewell. "Thank you…Farin, for all of this. I'll have fun."
Farin grinned wide. "Write often, yeah? Now introduce me to your friends!"
Aaerynn made a noise before standing and motioning the line. The twins were the first to pop up, hand in hand as the dwarven lord fawned over them. The wood elf stood off to the side, silently relishing the feeling of the fur as she watched the twins and Farin speak. It took a few not so subtle hand motions to get Setna to bow at the proper time but Aaerynn's red lips tilted to a small smile as furs were wrapped around each twin and they both spread their gratefulness.
She supposed the night wasn't so bad. Her light eyes caught sight of the man she had been looking for earlier. Ah, so the scribbler had made it after all. Where did he sneak in from? Her eyes narrowed a moment. His clothes looked new but his face looked as if it had been dragged through dirt. Strange. The elf thought back to her gift that she had brought for him, perhaps now wasn't the best time. Bemusedly, she couldn't help but think it wouldn't compare to a nice fur from the dwarf lord.
The twins looked bashful as they headed over to Aaerynn, holding tightly to new cloaks as someone else was ushered forward to meet Farin. Setna rubbed the back of his neck with what seemed to be a shy grin. "Well…that was kind of weird. I didn't expect that at all."
Aaerynn simply gave a small nod and her voice was gentle as she spoke. "Welcome to Durngan."
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